It is a priority of my administration to see to it that we provide the best possible services for all segments of our constituency. With that in mind, I am happy to announce the continuation of a very popular beach program for senior citizens. This program, under the direction of the town's Department of Senior Enrichment, provides hours of leisure-time activities during the hot summer months for our town's senior residents.

Town government is constantly seeking more ways to serve our senior population, and we have succeeded in creating a wide spectrum of events, activities and services. These include entertainment, transportation, health screenings, mammography, senior care, home aides, and support groups, referral services and many special functions. These are available to our senior residents all year round.

The Summer Beach Program is special, and it is one of our most popular events. Now in its 33rd year, this year's program will begin on Monday, June 26, and run for 10 weeks through Friday, Sept. 1. The program takes place each day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Town Park, Lido Beach.

Many of the regular favorite activities will be offered each weekday along with some new features, such as stress reduction and memory enhancement, telling one's story, nature study, specialty needlework and others.

Weekly and special projects will include woodcarving, leathercraft, and macrame. Other popular activities include painting, photography, dancing, physical fitness, swimming, aquatics, shuffleboard, bocci, horseshoes, movies, entertainment, and lots of surprises. Blood pressure screening will be provided each day and social workers will be available at the information and referral desk.

The Annual Summer Beach Program for seniors is open to all residents of the Town of Hempstead who are age 60 and over. Seniors who drive their own cars may attend any and every weekday, and they may park for free at Lido Beach from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Others who prefer town-provided free bus transportation may obtain a pass to be used at designated pick-up stations on appointed days of the week.

It is suggested that seniors bring their lunch from home, but an expanded snack bar will be available for the purchase of food and beverages. The swimming pool at the adjacent Sands Town Park will be open to the seniors all day. The Atlantic Ocean and the beach at Lido are there to enjoy as well.

I urge all seniors to take advantage of this special summer beach program. For more information, a schedule of events, or to arrange for parking or bus transportation, call the Department of Senior Enrichment at 485-8100. You may also want to call to find out about the many activities available to you as a resident of the Town of Hempstead.