Last week I received a letter from the United States Postal Service with regard to the large number of letter carriers that have been injured as the result of ice and snow. Additionally, Newsday stated in its Jan. 22 article, "Stand (and Slip) and Delivery," that "about 30 Long Island carriers have fallen on the ice. They've suffered everything from dislocated elbows to concussions and torn ligaments."

Recognizing how difficult it is to remove snow and ice when there has been an extended number of days below zero temperatures, I would be remiss if I didn't take this opportunity to remind residents of the importance of shoveling the snow within 24 hours of the snowfall - not only for the letter carriers but for your fellow neighbors.

At this time I would like to ask all residents to make an effort to clear a walkway for the school children. Many school children have been having difficulty getting to and from their bus stops. If you have a bus stop on your corner, please be kind enough to clear the snow and ice.

If you are unable to shovel snow or are going to be away, make arrangements to have the snow cleared from your sidewalk. One source of assistance is to contact PAVES to obtain the help of our village youth who are looking for employment (248-0390). Please remember that you are responsible to shovel your walk within 24 hours after the storm. The police department will enforce this.

I am pleased to report that the recreation department is developing a new program called "Hearts 'N Parks" to begin this month, National Heart Month. "Hearts 'N Parks" is a national, community based program that encourages people of all ages to increase their activity and follow a heart healthy eating plan. It is supported by The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the National Recreation and Parks Association. Please watch this newspaper for the recreation department's article explaining this exciting program.

Garden City's Tree Management Program is used as a model by many universities. Under our program, village street and park trees are inspected annually. Those trees that are in questionable condition are monitored during both the growing and dormant seasons and, if necessary, treatment is performed. Only when in the judgment of our trained arborist, Michael Didyk, that a tree is dead, dying or hazardous, is it marked for removal.

Residents who wish to have a street tree planted by the village are encouraged to write to the director of Public Works, Robert J. Mangan, with their request prior to Feb. 20. We will make every effort to accommodate your request.

Village offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 16, for President's Day. For your convenience, correspondence for the village may be placed in the "Letter" drop slot at the front door.

There will be no garbage or recycling pickup on Presidents' Day. Those scheduled for recycling pickup on Monday, Feb. 16 are asked to put their recyclables out on Monday, Feb. 23.