Over a year ago the Floral Park Historical Society was formed, with Village Historian Walter Gosden taking the leadership. The society suggested that May be proclaimed Floral Park History Month since it is in the springtime that we are reminded of John Lewis Childs, the founder of our village, and his love of flowers and trees.

The village in cooperation with the Historical Society, is planning to install a historical marker at the site where the home of John Lewis Childs once stood. The unveiling will be during Spirit Weekend in September.

Be sure to stop to view the society's local history display this month in the showcases at the entrance to the library.

Keeping Floral Park's history alive has always been valued within our community. The idea of creating an oasis of beauty and peaceful tranquility in recognition of the heritage of the village was first conceived by Mayor Al Coppola. He envisioned a gazebo in the park across from the Village Hall with a magnificent array of flowers and shrubs as a nostalgic reflection of bygone days. Unfortunately due to the economy during his administration a beautification project of this nature could not be funded through the village budget.

Four years ago a very industrious group of residents organized a non-profit committee and set out to develop Heritage Park. The triangular park at Verbena and Floral Blvd. has been transformed by the installation of numerous commemorative bricks, lampposts, benches, plaques, plantings and a charming gazebo. All are visible signs of dedication and zeal of the Heritage Park Committee with officers Nancy McLoughlin and Sunta Redvanly leading the way. Their oversight and fund-raising efforts have made the difference.

In May the final touches will be the flowers expected to be in full bloom in time for a public dedication ceremony and the unveiling of the park's new sign on Saturday, May 19, at 10 a.m. Refreshments will be served so come and take your first stroll down the brick pathways, read the familiar family names inscribed on the bricks and enjoy the view from inside the romantic gazebo. Applications for bricks will continue to be available at Village Hall. Heritage Park will be forever yours.

Arbor Month in Floral Park came to a close as National Arbor Day, April 27, was celebrated with the planting of an ornamental tree at Centennial Gardens by the Girls Scouts of Floral Park. In addition tree appreciation posters, book marks and books were distributed to school and village libraries. Voting for the Floral Park Tree took place during the month of April. Hundreds of ballots were collected from schools, the library, Village Hall and the Public Works Building. The official Floral Park Tree, the Maple Tree, was announced at the Arbor Day Celebration held at Centennial Gardens.

In appreciation for the public service former Trustee Lucille Guardala gave to the village, a dinner in her honor will be held on May 11 at Koenig's Restaurant at 7 p.m. During her years as a trustee, she served with Mayors Tom Hayden, Frank Lauria, Al Coppola and Steve Corbett. She was deputy mayor during the last administration.

Lucille had several department assignments over sixteen years including recreation, library, fire and police. During her tenure there were many positive changes in the Village. Her dedication and commitment to the residents of the Village has enhanced the quality of life we enjoy now in 2001. For information and reservations call 326-6400.

Tiger Cubs from Pack 678 left their den with their Den Mother Joan Toreno to visit Village Hall so they could earn a "Know Your Community" patch. The tour with the young Tiger Cubs, donned in their orange paw print T-shirts, was a highlight of my day.

They looked quite comfortable sitting in the Village Board chairs at the dais in the courtroom. While they enjoyed testing the microphones, the fire department truck room was more exciting for them.

The annual village mailing containing the pool membership application form and recreation booklet has been expanded, in liu of another "Village Items," to include information about local activities and groups such as the civic associations, Chamber of Commerce, Friends of the Library, and Spirit Weekend. Volunteers wanting to help with collating May 3 - May 8, days or evenings at Village Hall, please call 326-6300 for the time schedule. Remember "many hands make light work" so bring a buddy along. Donuts and coffee will be served.

Over the past few years several planters were placed on Jericho Turnpike and Covert Avenue. Unfortunately they have attracted litter, garbage and cigarette butts. Thanks to the Beautification Committee, the planters will soon display evergreen plants for greenery year round and petunias for color during the warmer months. Hopefully this helps encourage pedestrians to use the trash cans. Let's keep our sidewalks, planters and tree bases free of litter.

Even if you don't have a green thumb you can help with plantings or a watering task. Call Lucille Zimmer for details at 352-0399.