The Parks Division of the Department of Public Works has pruned the honey locust trees in the center of Parking Field 7S to reduce the stress on these mature trees during the construction phases of this project. The Village Arborist has determined that four of these trees are in severe decline and will have to be removed. They will be replaced this fall.

Drainage structures have been delivered to the village and the construction began this past Monday, July 31. Work will progress from west to east within the parking field.

In recent weeks our village has been hit by several thunder/lightning storms, a few of which have been severe. Our office would like to remind our residents to not get complacent in keeping your family safe during these storms.

During a thunderstorm, each flash of cloud-to-ground lightening is a potential killer. Many injuries caused by lightning happen during recreational and work-related outdoor activities. If you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance, seek safe shelter immediately. Safe shelters include a house, large building or car. Avoid open spaces and do not use trees or other small buildings in open areas as shelters. If you are involved in a recreational activity and are asked to leave the open space, please do so immediately.

It is wonderful to see so many Garden City residents as well as visitors to our village enjoying alfresco dining on New Hyde Park Road, Franklin Avenue and Seventh Street. The village piloted alfresco dining in the summer of 1996. The Chamber of Commerce supported outdoor dining as a strategy to encourage shopping in Garden City. They asked the village to change its code to allow outdoor dining by permit, which the village did on May 15, 1997. For the past 10 seasons, the number of businesses providing this feature continues to grow. This year, there are over 25 businesses who have permits. There is no doubt that alfresco dining is an overwhelming success. I encourage residents to come early and combine shopping with dining outside at their favorite place. The hours of permitted lawn watering is between 5 and 10 a.m. and 6 and 10 p.m.

This week's program (at the Village Gazebo, located on the Village Green) will feature The Village Music Makers - Big Band sounds.

The program will begin at 7:15 and admission is free. Please bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a very pleasant evening. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be held at the Cultural and Performing Arts Center at Cluett Hall at St. Paul's School. Please contact the Recreation Program Line (742-5888) with questions pertaining to the concert.