The Garden City Police Department commenced a Cell Phone Donation Program in January of 2002. This program was initiated to help collect cell phones so they can be used for victims of domestic violence as well as senior citizens. Prior to our donation program, calls about donations were referred to the New York City Police Department Program. Due to the amount of calls that we received, we began accepting these phones rather than referring the caller to New York City. We began to spread the word through the community, local civic groups and Adelphi University that we were accepting cell phones.

To this date our department has collected more than 380 cell phones and more than 450 various cell phone accessories. We have donated these phones and accessories to "Victims of Domestic Violence" of the Nassau County District Attorney Domestic Violence Bureau and to "Lifeline for Seniors Project" for the Town of Hempstead.

The village's solicitation law prohibits all unwanted commercial solicitations and distributions on all private residential property in the village and prohibits non-commercial solicitations and distributions on private property to the extent desired by the resident. This law was designed to protect residents from unwanted invasions of their privacy.

Any resident requesting not to be solicited should complete a "Notice of Objection" form at Garden City Village Hall.

I have recently received inquiries from several residents asking how they can donate a bench, tree, shrub, etc. to the incorporated village as a lasting memorial to a friend or family member. Prior to answering this question, I want to thank the many residents who have made contributions toward the purchase and installation of trees, benches, etc. They have been located throughout the village and have been enjoyed by residents and visitors to our beautiful community.

Those interested in making a donation of a bench or tree may do so by contacting the village administrator's office at Garden City Village Hall (465-4051). The current price of a bench is $707 and depending on the species of the tree, the cost is $275.

Thank you for your generosity and for adding attractive accessories to our community.

Working under a special permit from the village, food establishments on Seventh Street, New Hyde Park Road and Franklin Avenue will be placing tables and chairs outside their shops and restaurants for your convenience and enjoyment. Please stop by to let the merchants know that you appreciate their efforts and enjoy the many fine tastes of Garden City. Daylight Savings Time began Sunday, April 2. Residents are reminded that clocks should be set one hour ahead.