The Central Westbury Civic Association (CWCA) discussed some pressing community issues during its most recent membership meeting, held on Jan. 22.

Mannie Sweat, president of the civic organization, led the discussion, which focused on the following: 1) Burglaries and Robberies, 2) Traffic Violations, 3) Auto Accidents, and 4) Gangs and Youth Issues.

Sweat explained to membership how the CWCA is working to combat these issues. "I get complaints daily via telephone, letters, and visits to my home," he said. "I work very closely with Mr. Dan Whalen, Westbury Building Superintendent, and his team. He processes the complaints, and gets back to me on a regular basis. We agree there is an increase in crime, and additional police for the Westbury Village is urgently needed."

With the CWCA Membership Drive now on, Lois Cobb, vice president and membership chair, then explained the need for greater community awareness and participation. The group is hoping that membership will reach 792.

Ann E. Sweat was also introduced, as the chairperson for the John Burnett Scholarship Fund. This year, two giants in the fields of education and health care will be honored. "Dr. Robert Pinckney and Dr. Faroque A. Khan will be bestowed honors due to them for the community service they rendered to the students of the Westbury School system via the Apprenticeship Program they founded in 1996 at the then-Nassau County Medical Center, as well as other fine contributions," announced a CWCA spokesperson.

The John Burnett Scholarship Fund Tribute will be held on June 15 at the International Buffet, Garden City, from 12 noon to 3:30 p.m. Those who are interested in attending may contact Mr. Sweat at 333-1290 or Ms. Lois Cobb at 333-2009 for tickets. The ticket price is $40 all-inclusive. Program information will be forthcoming.

Also during the meeting, Mr. Sweat wished Mr. Donald Scott, the civic association's Block Captain, a speedy recovery. Mr. Scott recently went to the Nassau County University Medical Center, East Meadow, for emergency treatment of an illness. A fruit basket from The Green Wagon, Oyster Bay, courtesy of the CWCA, awaited him when he arrived. Mr. Scott expressed gratitude for the prayers, good treatment and well wishes he received from his wife, Katherine, NCMC, family and friends. His friends in CWCA certainly also helped him in his recovery.

In addition, Westbury Village Trustee Peter Cavallaro served as guest speaker. He gave a brief update on village projects, including a building project on the Apple Annie site. He said the 98-unit condominium project would be built on this site. He added that it was going to be an aesthetically pleasing building that would bring great credit to Westbury Village. The building is also expected to ease the tax burden to the Westbury tax-paying residents by approximately $100,000 per year.

Mr. Sweat thanked Trustee Cavallaro for attending, and said that he was welcome to come to all CWCA meetings. Mr. Sweat thanked all in attendance, and said he would let them know soon who would be the CWCA guest speaker for February, 2002.