The Village of Mineola and the Mineola Chamber of Commerce combined efforts on Friday to recognize the community's seniors during the annual Senior Appreciation Day.

The day started at 11 a.m. with a brunch and desserts provided for the seniors. There was also entertainment provided by the Long Island Harmonica Club Band and raffles.

The day once again turned out to be a success as it gave the community the opportunity to pay tribute to its esteemed senior citizens. It also provided neighbors a chance to reminisce and see familiar faces.

Mineola Mayor Jack M. Martins thanked the chamber of commerce for the generous donations and help in serving, the seniors for coming and the village staff for making the day possible.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 17, the Village of Mineola Water Department will be flushing fire hydrants throughout the village. Flushing will continue through Friday, Nov. 4.

The hours of flushing will be approximately 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The purpose of the flushing is to remove any rust particles in the water mains, which are associated with discolored water concerns.

During this period, you may observe discolored water and experience lower than normal water pressure.

As a precaution, the village water department suggests the following:

* refrain from clothes washing during the flushing hours;

* check water for quality afterwards by running the cold water tap;

* store water in containers to have available should you require it during flushing operations;

* you may wish to shut off your refrigerator ice -maker.

The village regrets the inconvenience this may cause. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the water department at 746-0751.

The village is mourning the loss of John Ignaczak, beloved husband of Irene and devoted father of Mark Ignaczak, Laurie Kreuzburg and Jeffrey Ignaczak. Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy secured a grant for $120,000 to make improvements to Station Plaza on the north side of the tracks. For those who are having their streets repaved by the village, Mayor Martins asked residents to have some patience since the projects will ultimately be positive and asked residents not to confront village workers. Resident Bill Plunkett inquired about disaster preparedness the village has in place. Mayor Martins said the village would be scheduling a hearing in the near future to discuss what plan is in place and what residents should do in case of an emergency. The long awaited report from the task force appointed to investigate whether it is feasible for Mineola to have its own police force should be coming within the next few weeks, the mayor reported. American Legion Post #349 Commander Sal Cataldo is organizing with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1305 a Veterans Day ceremony to be held on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at Memorial Park. The ceremony will be held inside village hall in case of rain.