Leaving the lazy, hazy summer days behind, we beckoned our seniors back to the fold at our first meeting on Sept. 12. Our newly-elected President Lillian Ciesluk raised the gavel in welcome and the board invited us to join in the ventures to come. A most informative session ensued in which we received data on the enhanced STAR and senior exemption programs from our board members as well as enlightening comments from Herricks business manager Helen Costigan, and a contingent of elected officials.
Director Frances Kivatisky introduced Nassau County Legislator Wayne Wink who spoke on the Silver Alert Plan and Councilman Tom Dwyer who presented us with our annual town grant. Rounding out our roster of guest speakers were Water Commissioner Howard Abbondondello and Commissioner Kim Galante accompanied by her adorable baby Riley.
Our meeting Sept. 19 meeting was no less active. President Ciesluk conducted a dual celebration of August and September birthdays and anniversaries including six anniversaries of between 52 and 65 years. Our guest Howard Weitzman, candidate for comptroller, advised us to challenge our assessments. Flu shots were then administered by Mike from Rite-Aid.
A full schedule continued at our next get-together on Sept. 26. After a comprehensive financial report submitted by Treasurer Jo Arato, a most interesting trio of guests counseled us on current concerns.
Town Clerk Leslie Gross took note of the unveiling of a new statue at Roslyn Pond, Town Councilman Angelo Ferrara related news on the Roslyn Country Club problems and Town Councilwoman Dina De Giorgio spoke of building department issues.
Our club is proud of a membership that remains active in community affairs. On Sept. 28, I was honored for just such an endeavor by being named “Woman of Distinction” by state Assemblyman Ed Ra. Local officials such as Nassau County Legislator Rich Nicolello, Nassau County Clerk Maureen O’Connell and Town Councilman Angelo Ferrara presented me with proclamations at this civically-focused ceremony.
After our Oct. 2 visit to Empire Casino, our Oct. 3 assembly featured guest speakers, including county Executive Ed Mangano and Williston Park Mayor Paul Ehrbar. We also welcomed comments from Town Clerk Leslie Gross and Town Councilman Ferrara.
On Oct. 10, Vice President Jo Jozef presided over our meeting. Corresponding Secretary Terry Lanese sadly noted that long-time member Letty Kubic had passed away. An engaging event followed which honored two anniversaries and nine birthdays, including the 90th birthday of Clara Morelli for whom brother Bud Taverna composed an outstanding congratulatory proclamation.
Our outing to the Pompei Restaurant took place on Oct. 17, to commemorate our club’s 38th anniversary. We reveled in opulent dining, dancing and camaraderie extraordinaire.
Indeed, the Herricks Leisure Club affords our members an active, informed and entertained lifestyle in this golden autumn of our lives.
