There are many aspects to life in Mineola. Perhaps that is why the village is so interesting. Certainly education is a big part of the community as is village government and business and commerce.

If you have attended any of the various meetings in Mineola, you have witnessed decision-making, important contributions and input made by residents.

There are numerous clubs in Mineola and the surrounding areas, such as the Leisure Club, AARP Chapter, the veterans organizations, as well as the Rotary, to name a few.

You can attend a school board meeting and then a village meeting and see totally different people sitting in the audience, each concerned with an aspect of their community. If you were to attend a chamber meeting, you would probably find yet another group of residents and business people, each concerned with improving their community.

This tells us that there are a lot of different aspects to Mineola, which is something that residents should find beneficial.

There should be one day, however, that all these different groups and organizations and residents with different opinions and views can come together and share in the enjoyment of their community.

That day is May 20, the date of the Annual Mineola Fair. This is an important event since it attempts to bring the community together. It is an opportunity for organizations to learn about each other and for those to learn more about another aspect of their community.

For those who don't usually get involved in community affairs, the fair offers the opportunity to talk to others and to perhaps become involved.

For those who aren't particularly interested in community happenings or are simply too busy, perhaps because of work or family obligations, to get involved, spend some time at the fair. It will be a rare time when you can see the best of Mineola, all at one place at one time.

¬Joe Rizza