On behalf of the residents at Birchwood Court (also known as Garden Plaza), I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mayor John Colbert, the Mineola Fire Department, Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps., Nassau County American Red Cross and Nassau County Police Department for their excellent service during the fire in Building #5 on Monday, March 5.

In addition, we would like to thank:

* All the residents of Buildings #3 and #5 for opening up their homes to those in need;

* Donald Einsidler, property manager and co-principal of Einsidler Management, for coordinating the efforts of various service companies.

* Our Board of Directors, who provided assistance wherever needed. After our residents returned to Building #5, the board went door-to-door to ensure everyone was resting comfortably.

* Edward Shneyder, our superintendent, who provided assistance to everyone.

* Steve Robinson and Wayne Zimmerman, two of our security guards from Virgin Security who came from their homes to see what they could do.

While this was an unfortunate event, it was heartwarming to see everyone coming together.

Florence Grappone

President

Birchwood Court Owners, Inc.

Board of Directors