In partnership with Operation Dry Water, the Stepping Stones Lighthouse Restoration Project is holding a square dance on Sunday, Nov. 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Clinton G. Martin Park Community Center, 1601 Marcus Ave., New Hyde Park.
Operation Dry Water, which supports boating-under-the-influence awareness, is a much-needed organization in our waters, and they have agreed to help the Stepping Stones Lighthouse Restoration Project, which is raising funds to help save the lighthouse. Built in 1875 to mark a dangerous boulder reef that extends less than a mile from Steppingstone Park, the light is necessary to enable safe navigation into and out of New York Harbor.
The lighthouse is currently in disrepair, and if it cannot be fixed soon, it will be demolished and a metal navigational beacon will replace it. The area will lose an architecturally beautiful structure and a romantic link to days gone by. Schoolchildren have already become involved with the effort, making wonderful models of the lighthouse and saving their spare change. They are eager to visit the lighthouse in a safe condition. It is hoped that once repairs are completed, boats will be able to take visitors to a museum at the lighthouse.
So, even if you think you can’t dance, come anyway. If you are an avid square dancer or just want to learn, join in. Tickets are $20, paid in advance, and $30 at the door. Light refreshments will be served. To purchase tickets, go to www.greatneckhistorical.org.
