In last week's column, I inadvertently neglected to acknowledge Tom Wagner and the Village Music Makers for their participation and customary fine performance at the Chamber of Commerce's 47th annual holiday tree lighting ceremony. They are a key element to this traditional community event and are very much appreciated by the entire Garden City community.

Village offices will close at noon Monday, Dec. 24 and reopen Wednesday, Dec. 26.

The second half of village taxes, which were due and payable on Dec. 1, are normally subject to penalty if payment is not made within a 30-day grace period. This year the grace period ends on Dec. 31 and any payments received after this date will be subject to penalty. Please note that Village Hall closes at noon on Dec. 31 in observance of the New Year holiday. Please return the "second half" bill stub with your payment. For your convenience, correspondence may be placed in the letter slot at the easterly entrance to Village Hall.

The deadline for applications for veterans' tax exemptions is Dec. 31. Applications cannot be accepted after that date.

Village offices will also close at noon on Monday, Dec. 31 in observance of New Year's Day and will reopen on Wednesday, Jan. 2. For your convenience, correspondence for the village may be placed in the "letter" drop slot at the front door.

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage or recycling pickup on Tuesday, Dec. 25 and Tuesday, Jan. 1. Residents scheduled for recycling on Tuesday, Dec. 25 are asked to put their recyclables out on Tuesday, Jan. 8. We are very fortunate in having a vital business community comprised of merchants who are committed to serve us from their shops along Franklin Avenue, Seventh Street and New Hyde Park Road. I urge each of you to continue to patronize these local businesses for the holiday and throughout the year. You will be pleased with their selection and quality as well as their attention to customer service.

At this time of year, there are many opportunities for families, friends and co-workers to get together in the holiday spirit. Please don't make these gatherings a prelude to tragedy. That extra drink - the one for the road - could be the worst decision of your life.

Concerned for the safety of our residents and the motorists passing through the village, the Garden City Police Department has stepped up its enforcement geared to crack down on drunk drivers. Some of these people will be stopped, tested and arrested before they are involved in accidents. If you are apprehended and convicted, you will pay a heavy fine, you may spend time in jail and you will lose your license to drive. The fine and license suspension are mandatory.

Don't push alcoholic beverages on your friends and don't let anyone drive while under the influence of alcohol. Remember, enforcement is strong, penalties are severe and tragedy is too often the result. Your good judgment may save your life or the life of one of the many innocent victims of drunk drivers.