www.gardencityny.net

By Barbara K. Miller

I was pleased to be invited by Governor Pataki to attend a ribbon cutting of the new headquarters of Life's WORC (Working Organization for Retarded Children and Adults) at 1501 Franklin Avenue along with Senators Hannon and Balboni and Assemblywoman Maureen O'Connell and Assemblyman Thomas Alfano along with WORC's founder Vicki Schneps, President Rick Del Mastro and Executive Director Peter Smergut. WORC is a private, not-for-profit organization providing comprehensive, quality care to individuals with mental retardation, developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury; it operates under the auspices of the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. WORC operates 26 group homes and four non-residential programs throughout Queens, Nassau and Suffolk counties, maintaining individuals close to their families and friends. WORC's renovation of 1501 Franklin Avenue is absolutely spectacular. The ribbon cutting was well attended by consumers and their families as well as President Gerry Unger and Executive Director Althea Robinson of the Chamber of Commerce. We wish them the best in their new headquarters in Garden City and thank them for the very special work they do.

A very thoughtful resident brought two issues to my attention, which I thought I would share with you. She encouraged residents to trim the bottom part of their trees that hang over the sidewalks as it makes it difficult to walk. I agree with her and add to her observation that branches that hang over the sidewalks also obstruct Stop signs and other types of caution signs. This resident noted that this was especially apparent along Stratford Avenue but I have noticed it all over the village. As mentioned in previous columns it is the homeowner's responsibility to care for their own trees as well as those planted by the village in front of their property.

Another concern voiced was in regard to residents who walk/run in the street. I certainly encourage everyone to walk as much as they can but it must be done safely by following the protocol of walking/running. It was noted by this resident that quite often when residents walk and/or run, especially two or three abreast in the middle of the street, cars then have to drive in the other lane to avoid them, which is dangerous in itself. It was also noted that most residents walk or run in the same direction of the traffic, i.e., their backs facing the traffic, which is even more dangerous. From my days of running six miles a day with my husband, I recall that the rule is that if you run in the street that you should face the traffic, just the opposite of the biking regulation. I also caution those who wish to run or walk at night to please wear some form of "reflective" clothing that can be viewed from the front and the back.

I thank this resident for bringing these matters to my attention and hope that residents recognize the "safety" spirit of this message.