During the past week or so, residents may have observed the LIRR diesel trains with bin containers transversing the freight spur off the Hempstead Branch. By way of explanation, the railroad is continuing with its concrete tie program on the Hempstead Branch from Jamaica to Queens Village. Concrete ties, new stone bases and rails are being installed in conjunction with the program. The concrete ties, with 40-50 years useful lives, replace the wooden ties which have a five-year life. The trains use the freight spur so as not to interfere with commuter trains. During the evening hours of the next weekend, LIRR crews will be working along the Main Line west of Merillon Avenue to replace switching mechanisms. They have been reminded to be respectful of the contiguous residential areas. The Village will celebrate Arbor Day on Wednesday, April 25 at 10 a.m. at the Central Railroad Station located at Sixth Street on the south side of the Village-owned park area. I look forward to joining the members of the Civic Beautification Committee and classes from Locust School who will assist the Village Arborist, Michael Didyk, in planting a beautiful Red Sunset Maple.

A sign that spring is here is that The Men's Association of the Garden City High School is presenting its Annual Sports Fair on the Warren King Field at the Garden City High School starting at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 28. Families are encouraged to attend the daylong event and enjoy some of the community spirit which makes our Village the great place that it is.

Please mark your calendar and plan to attend.

Special thanks to Dr. Gerald Corva and representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, Police, Special Police and Department of Public Works for making the Easter Parade the success that it was. It was most gratifying to see all of the smiles on the faces of all those in attendance.