As I write this column, my last as your mayor, I want to thank you all and tell you what a privilege and honor it has been to serve. I would be remiss if I didn't take this opportunity to thank the many individuals and organizations which have been so supportive during my tenure.

While there is enormous personal satisfaction and challenge that come with the tenure on the Village Board of Trustees, there are an equal number of sacrifices that one's family must endure. My wife, Valerie, and my son, Phillip, have always been my strongest supports (and at times my most ardent critics) and I thank them for sharing me with the village during these nine years and for the sacrifices that they have made.

Each day we are beneficiaries of the efforts of a dedicated cadre of village employees who are committed to provide myriad vital municipal services to us. The quality and efficient delivery of these services is the product of the leadership of our village administrator and extraordinary executive staff and village counsel. I thank each and every one and their families.

During my tenure on the board, I had the pleasure to vote with four mayors and 14 trustees. Each brought special skills, talents and perspectives with them. I learned a great deal from each of them and feel that our collective efforts have made our village a better place because of our efforts.

This common thread in the fabric of our village is volunteerism. Nowhere is this so well demonstrated than through the four property owners' associations and the chamber of commerce. Through their collective efforts, Garden City is maintained as truly a special place.

Special thanks are also due to two former mayors who continue to give freely of their time and talents. I speak of Brian Deveney who has chaired the mayor's committee on St. Paul's for the past six years and Richard Benack for his work as chairman of the mayor's committee on the postal district. They have achieved a great deal and are truly role models for all who serve and will serve this village.

Your new board of trustees, under the capable leadership of Mayor Robert Lewis will serve this village well. I pledge my support and wish our newest trustees, Jon Segerdahl and Peter Negri the very best.

Again, thank you for the privilege to serve you.