Reflections of an ebbing spring – a budding rose, an early dawn, the lengthening of days – inspire the seniors of the Herricks Leisure Club to delight again in this wondrous season and to relive its magic.
Spring fever infected our members with enthusiasm for club activities and events in recent weeks. An end-of-month trip on March 28 transported us to the realm of “chance” as we visited the Empire Casino in Yonkers.
At our March 29 meeting, a celebrative spirit engulfed us as President John Escobar conducted the observance of the birthdays of 22 members including the auspicious commemoration of the 90th birthday of our Legislative Chairlady Tess Fiorentino. After being gifted by our club with flowers and a unique proclamation, Fiorentino was honored by a congratulatory visit from Mayor Paul Ehrbar. Quite a day for a special lady.
Director Frances Kivatisky also thanked Fiorentino for her dedication to her office and then extended Passover and Easter salutations for the upcoming week.
A subsequent jaunt to the Empire Casino for a day of fun and games occurred on April 18. Our assembly the next day was a most interesting one. Corresponding Secretary Terry Lanese reported on the Alzheimer’s Program which takes place at the community center and was followed by an emotional memoir shared by Fiorentino concerning her brother’s battle with this devastating disease. The 112 members present were moved to donate $317 to this worthy cause.
Remembrance of three anniversaries and 12 birthdays came next with special recognition of the 103rd birthday of Josephine Gleniewicz. The longevity of our group is a testament to active participation in our club and life.
An instructive session on April 26 related data on dementia by our guest Ann Tountas. On May 3 we were treated to a delectable cake decorated for Mother’s Day graciously donated by Martha Harris in observance of that approaching holiday. Superintendent Jack Bierwirth and Business Manager Helen Costigan addressed us concerning the budget vote and the outstanding achievements of the Herricks students.
Our official celebration of Mother’s Day took place on May 10 when we enjoyed a succulent chicken luncheon. Our guest Caroline Carpentieri of Steadfast Companions discussed her organization’s at-home care giving.
A new casino venue was our destination on May 16 when we traveled to the recently-opened Resorts World at Aqueduct. At the next day’s session, Mrs. Kivatisky lauded Marie Rallo and Tess Fiorentino for chairing the Mother’s Day event, Treasurer Jo Arato submitted a concise financial statement and Membership Chairlady Jeanette Kovalsky extolled the benefits of a “smile”. Eight birthdays and 3 anniversaries were celebrated including the 50th anniversary of Louis and Mary Ellen Andriano.
Our club opted to cancel its May 24 meeting in order to participate in the Town of North Hempstead’s Senior Recognition Day at the elegant Chateaubriand which included lunch, remarks by town officials and the presentation of awards. I was proud to represent our club as its honoree this year and was touched by the presence, support and kind words of the 59 members who attended this prestigious event.
Thank you all for truly making my day.
Clearly the active and informed members of the Herricks Leisure Club are inspired to recall the memorable springs that have impacted our past and present lives and provided the magical overture to our summer interlude.
