In nearby Old Westbury Gardens the upcoming weeks will feature a variety of activities in the holiday decorated Westbury House.

Examples of some of the festivities are:

Saturday, December 8 : The Westbury House opens to the public at 11 a.m. The St. Margaret's Bell Choir will perform when it opens followed at noon by the Festival Choir of the Church of St. Rocco.

The afternoon activities include the Nassau Mid-Island Barbershop Quartet at 1 p.m. and the String Ensemble at 2 p.m.

Sunday, December 9 : The Kende sisters will perform an afternoon of classical music which commences at 1 p.m.

The Kende sisters, Alexis, violin; Crista, viola/piano; and Daniella, cello, have appeared on numerous TV and radio programs. There is an admission fee to the House and Gardens. If you would like more information please call 333-0048 or visit their website at www.oldwestburygardens.org

The Board of Zoning and Appeals of the Village of Mineola will hold a public hearing on Thursday, Dec. 20, at 8 p.m. at the Village Hall, 155 Washington Avenue, Mineola New York regarding the following applications:

64 and 68 Cottage Place

Application for variance to install 8'-0" bay window when foundation encroaches into the required front yard minimum setback contrary to Article I, Section 30.62 A.1 of the Incorporated Village of Mineola Municipal Code.

133 Pilgrim Street

Application for variance to extend fence from side of house, on corner lots no rear yard fence shall extend nearer the street than sideline of dwelling contrary to Chapter 30, Section 30.61B, of the Incorporated Village of Mineola Municipal Code.

Plans and specifications are on file in the office of the Village Clerk and may be seen during office hours by all interested persons. All those wishing to be heard at these hearings will be given such opportunity.

One of the most enjoyable parts of the holidays is spending time with family and friends, enjoying special meals and tempting treats. Although these times are wonderful, overindulgence with food can lead to an uncomfortable, lethargic feeling, and leaving one feeling unwell. However, there are ways to eat healthy while still enjoying the tasteful treats of the season. Seniors can learn these ways by attending a free Health Update lecture sponsored by Winthrop-University Hospital, "Healthy Holiday Eating: Quick and Easy Meals" on Wednesday, December 12. The program will begin with registration and blood pressure checks at 1:15 p.m., followed by the program at 1:45. It will be held at the Mineola Community Center, located at 155 Washington Avenue in Mineola.

Arlene Stein, MS, RD, registered dietician at Winthrop, will discuss the importance of nutrition and provide tips on avoiding the pitfalls of overeating. She will also offer a few quick and easy holiday recipes. The lecture will be followed by a question and answer period.

Admission is free. For information and to make a reservation, please call 663-3916.

The Thanksgiving table was set. All the guests had arrived and it was time to dine. When all were seated there was one empty chair. The eyes of all scanned the room to determine who was missing. All appeared to be accounted for.

Mother, after several minutes, spoke. The "Empty Chair" was a reminder for all of the loss that so many families had suffered as a result of the attacks on Sept. 11. Of course, we should be thankful for our family and friends and the many gifts we share but we should always remember those in whose homes the "Empty Chair" is not symbolic but respectfully a reality."

If you know a family that is in need as a result of Sept. 11 please contact my office at 746-0919.

You may qualify for a research study of an investigational medication if you...

* Are 18 years of age or older

* Have at least a six-month history of Crohn's Disease

* Have failed prior treatment for Crohn's Disease

Winthrop- University Hospital Clinical Trials Center is conducting an Investigational Medication Research Study for Crohn's Disease. Qualified participants will receive study-related medication and supplies at no cost. Participants will be reimbursed for their time and travel expenses.

For more information, please call 663-9582 or e-mail clinicaltrials@winthrop.org