Franklin D. Roosevelt, in his first inaugural speech, said that the "Only thing we have to fear is fear itself." I have been thinking about that quote and how true it is for us living in Glen Cove. Our fears are begetting fears. Our fear of moving to a new beginning is making us myopic.

I have lived in Glen Cove for more than 45 years, in the same house on the same street. I love Glen Cove, but I must admit that today I am beginning to feel less comfortable with my life partner - the City of Glen Cove. People look at the plans for the new waterfront development and right away raise red flags. What are they afraid of - more traffic? Yes, I fear that more traffic will bring more congestion - but I also am hopeful that there will be new solutions to ease the problem. I cannot let a little traffic stand in the way of progress.

What I fear is that the City of Glen Cove is stagnating. We have an opportunity for smart growth - to create a waterfront playground that will incorporate residential, business and cultural venues - peppered with great parkland, surrounded by clean water and slips to dock recreational boats. This plan promises to bring new business to Glen Cove. To me it seems to be the only sensible way to revive our city.

The Avalon has just built another complex. Their first endeavor was a success. Do I like it? - No! Is it needed? - yes! Glen Cove needs to attract new residents to bring new life to the city. However, these residents at present are not contributing to city life because there is no life in our city. With a new waterfront, connected to the downtown, I think everything will change. New revenue streams will be added to Glen Cove's budget. The developers have publicly stated that they will support enhancing the fire department and help move it if necessary - and then create a park area where the fire department now stands. The proposed waterfront developers, Glen Isle Partners, are local people. Yes, we recognize that they are not doing this project for nothing. However, they, too, have a vested interest - they, too, are part of the North Shore community.

What do we have to lose - except perhaps our debt? For me, as an elder resident not afraid of change, I would like to see this project move forward. I want property values to rise in Glen Cove and not spiral downward. If I decide to sell my house, I want to know that I will get top dollar for it. The City of Glen Cove must become a community that young people want to move to - a city with a future; a city in which they want to raise their families and develop a strong school district. That is what I see Glen Isle giving our community.

Connie Fisher