Letters To The Editor

Misquoted

To the Editor:

In your April 8th issue of the Garden City News, an article, "Residents Protest Hub Plan" by Stephanie Mariel Petrellese, discussed an April 5th public meeting concerning the redevelopment of the Nassau County Hub. In this article Margarita Gagliardi, of STV, was misquoted, leaving the impression that STV was responsible for an initial study conducted for the LIRR Freight Privatization EIS. We would like to set the record straight. STV was never involved with any element of the EIS for the privatization of the LIRR freight operation referred to by the Garden City resident. STV is currently completing the Major Investment Study for the Nassau Hub, the first step in the Federal Transit Administration's New Starts Process. The EIS process has not been initiated for the Nassau Hub project; this is expected in the Fall 2005. Therefore, STV is not currently involved in the Nassau HUB (D)EIS. Margarita Gagliardi's original statement was that the firm that ultimately prepares the (D)EIS when it is initiated, should strive for accuracy and, as is STV practice, undertake an extensive public outreach process where information is shared with the public.

We would appreciate a correction to that article.

Thank you.

Jill Bonamusa

Manager, Corporate

Communications STV

Thank you,

Coach Kiffel

To the Editor:

The Village of Garden City is very fortunate to have so many excellent volunteer coaches - men and women - who devote countless hours to working with our youth in a positive way. One of those coaches who stands out is John Kiffel.

On behalf of all the parents and players on the GCAA Shock 5th grade girls basketball team, I would like to thank coach John Kiffel for his great work during the 2004-2005 season.

In a seemingly unending season that stretched from November to April, that featured dozens of practices, scrimmages and games, John always brought his passion for the game of basketball and his positive energy toward coaching kids.

He encouraged the girls to work hard and to play together and was always cognizant of equal playing time and about being good sports on and off the court.

Our team was fortunate to have won the Super League championship this season in what can only be described as a team victory. All 12 girls played a major role and can feel proud of the trophies they took home Tuesday night.

Even more important, coach Kiffel was able to create a fun and rewarding atmosphere for the girls, an experience they will remember in years to come.

Sincerely,

Ken Ryan

Valuable Option

To the Editor:

It seems like many parents value the option of a half-day kindergarten program based on recent letters to this newspaper. I would like to highlight that St. Joseph School has a wonderful kindergarten program which offers parents the choice of a half or a full day. My daughter Nora is registered for kindergarten at St. Joseph's for next year and I am considering sending her for half-days - although I know she is looking forward to bringing a lunch box to school like her older brother and sister also at St. Joseph's. Lunch boxes aside, I am reassured knowing that at St. Joseph's my husband and I are able to make the choice that is right for our child.

Beth Bennett

Bravo, Bravissimo - Roma!!

To The Editor:

Thank you so much for receiving so many visitors at one time. Who could have predicted the hordes of worshippers who came? You welcome them, took care of them with little time for preparation. You treated them with courtesy and dignity.

You can be proud of the reverence and attention to detail you gave in preparation for the parting of our beloved Pope, never forgetting the populace, but including them wherever possible. Particularly moving was the gesture where the casket was turned to the people to final farewell.

NOBLE ROMANS - you have rightfully earned our thanks and respect. My only wish is that I could have been there with all of you.

Violet L. Reina