HOLA members Connie Tarian, Pat and Don Elustado with RTCA representatives. HOLA of Garden City, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded five years ago by a group of Garden City women of Hispanic descent. Its mission is to unite Hispanic families within Garden City so that we can preserve the Spanish language and share our unique cultures. Dedicated to making new friends and performing charity work, HOLA of Garden City, Inc. is celebrating its fifth year!

HOLA's Annual Christmas Party was hosted in the lovely home of members Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Chavez on December 9, 2007. As has been our tradition, the magnificent feast was a collaboration of all who attended. Our members had the opportunity to taste food from many different countries, and enjoy the company of old and new friends. The children participated in our gingerbread house-decorating contest, and enjoyed a surprise visit from Santa Claus! All members, young and old, look forward to this yearly event.

On January 19, 2008, HOLA held their Second Annual Fundraiser at the Inn at New Hyde Park. The beneficiary of the event was the Youth Group of the Race Track Chaplaincy of America - N.Y. Division, a non-profit organization that ministers to the personnel on the "Backstretch" of all three N.Y. Racing Associations. In Belmont Race Track alone, there are over two hundred families living inside the track. Our goal at this year's fundraiser was to alleviate some of the needs of the Youth Group of the RTCA at the Belmont Race Track. Our generous guests were more than accommodating as they enjoyed the food, danced to Latin music and enjoyed the Mariachi entertainment provided by the Youth Group. We thank Geannie Murray, Sophia Brivio, Pat Elustado and all members that helped make this event so memorable.

HOLA's president Geannie Murray and husband Michael toasting the wonderful evening with guests. The HOLA Fall 2008 Spanish Class after school program kicked off September 29th. The 10-week session is offered at Stratford School on Mondays (4:00-6:00pm). The next Spanish Class session (Winter 2009) will begin on January 5th. For more information regarding HOLA's Spanish Classes please call (516) 280-0397 or e-mail holagardencity@yahoo.com.

Members Patricia and Joseph Megale enjoying the evening with friends. This year HOLA's calendar is filled with new and exciting events. Save the date... on Saturday, March 14, 2008 at the Garden City Casino HOLA will be holding their Third Annual Fundraiser. This year's cause is one that promises to touch just about everyone. More information to follow.

HOLA's goal is to provide members with social and cultural activities for both adults and children. Monthly breakfasts, holiday parties, family picnics and social dinners give our members an opportunity to form friendships and share traditions. For more information about HOLA of Garden City, Inc. please call (516) 280-0397 or e-mail holagardencity@yahoo.com.

HOLA members Sophia Brivio and Geannie Murray with representatives from the Youth Group of the Race Track Chaplaincy of America - N.Y. Division. Fundraiser Chair Sophia Brivio with husband Robert. HOLA's younger members enjoying time with Santa during the family Christmas Party. Vincent Vaiana and Jordan Murray working on HOLA's annual Gingerbread House contest.