By John P. Colbert

The Annual Tree Lighting will be held on Dec. 8 at 6 p.m. at the Community Center, 155 Washington Avenue. The highlights of the evening will be the caroling and the visit by Santa.

Please join us after the tree lighting for hot cocoa and cookies. Santa will be giving treats to all the children. These festivities will be from 6 to 9 p.m.

The Village of Mineola Planning Board will meet on Monday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall, 155 Washington Avenue regarding the following:

230 Grant Avenue: Application for a variance to maintain a two family dwelling with insufficient lot area; maintain a two story front addition with insufficient front yard set back and to construct a front portico.

404 First Street: Application for a variance to maintain a fence that extends past the face of the building closest to the street.

264 Old Country Road: Application for a variance to construct a one-story building with insufficient parking and side yard.

Dr. Paul J. Sorell III will lead a discussion about the latest treatments for acute and chronic low back pain. Learn about the many causes of back pain and how to prevent it.

The presentation will be on Wednesday, Dec. 13, at the Mineola Community Center, 155 Washington Avenue.

Blood Pressure Checks and Registration is between 1:15 - 1:45 p.m. with the program starting immediately thereafter until approximately 3:15 p.m.

Last week 164 trees were planted throughout our Village. The two varieties were Chanticleer Pear (60) and Hedge Maples (104).

Fresh Christmas trees can contain mold and pollen. When you take your tree home, it is suggested that you lightly spray it to remove the pollen and mold. You should also monitor the water reservoir to make sure that mold doesn't grow in the water.

The shopping malls are crowded with shoppers and the media reports of how much the "average" shopper will spend this holiday season.

There are those that will have at best, a modest holiday. We are collecting winter coats for distribution to those in need at the Village Hall, 155 Washington Avenue.

Helpful Telephone Numbers
Fire Department Emergency	742-3300
Fire Department Non-Emergency	747-5860
Auxiliary Police	746-2448
Ambulance Emergency	742-3300
Ambulance Non-Emergency	248-0141
Mineola Memorial Library	746-8488
Water/Sewer Department	746-0751
Third Precinct	573-6300
Police Emergency	911

The Internet has a wealth of holiday websites. One that might be of interest is: www.gingerbreadlane.com. You can obtain information regarding: Tips on How to Build a House, Gingerbread and Icing Recipes, Favorite Candy for Decorating.