Rob Alvey reads the listing of memorial trees donated in 2009 The Second Annual Winterfest Celebration at the Garden City Bird Sanctuary brought a good number of neighbors and friends to the community nature preserve on Saturday January 10. Hot chocolate and hot cider were certainly needed on the cold twilight, but there was a lot of warmth and good cheer as the evergreens were decorated, bird feeders filled, and listing of memorial tree recipients was read. The Board of Directors, including Rob Alvey, John Cronin, June Fay, Tim Martens, Laura Napoli, Stephanie Bird, Gina DeBold, Alexis Alvey, and Marty Lenahan designated 2 volunteers for special recognition: Tom Elustondo - a Garden City High School Senior who has functioned as Student Director and liaison with the High School HOPE Environmental Club; and Jeanette Chu, who volunteered so hard with the benefit lawn sale and vegetable garden during the year and is now a new GCBS Director.

Participants at the Bird Sanctuary’s Winterfest 2010 The Directors had Winterfest sweatshirts provided by John Cronin, and all attendees were given green bead necklaces. The event culminated with a Candle-lighting Ceremony in which the “Great Telling” was read. Just as some Native Americans have a ceremony that describes the history of their tribe, the Directors tell the story of the GCBS and Winterfest itself. Thanks to John Cronin and Boston Market of Valley Stream for donating chicken, turkey, and fixin’s for a post Winterfest get-together. The Bird Sanctuary, opposite 181 Tanners Pond Road, will re-open in Mid March on weekends and is gearing up for its 15th Anniversary in June!

Kevin LaPlatney and Alexis Alvey share a cup of hot chocolate at Winterfest
GCBS Directors warming up after Winterfest.