Herricks Leisure Club moves into new season

Dorothy Daly

Once again, the seniors of the Herricks Leisure Club have forged through the volatile vibes of February and the wild winds and whims of March and now breech the gates of spring.  We also recall our Club’s memorable events and activities that engaged and encouraged us through an arduous winter.

An eclectic “flea market” attracted the attention of our bargain hunters on Jan. 24 and Jan. 31, we were focused on the drama students of the Center Street School who presented a delightful version of the Pinocchio story.  A “munch fest” of  bagels and cream cheese procured by Mary Carotenuto followed.

At our Feb. 7 meeting, Corresponding Secretary Terry Lanese recited a doleful litany of member’s illnesses and injuries – winter’s unfortunate legacy.  However, a happier turn of events occurred at our next gathering which took place on Valentine’s Day.  Helene Picchiello decorated our dais for the occasion and apple turnovers were generously donated by Martha Harris to accompany our ice cream treats.  We also celebrated 2 anniversaries and 14 birthdays including the 104th of Anton Pramberger who sadly passed away shortly after reaching that milestone.

Twenty members of our group attended an enchanting Valentine’s luncheon held at the Harbor Links Clubhouse and sponsored by the Town of North Hempstead to honor couples married at least 50 years.  A festive and romantic Valentine’s Day for all!

The next week’s meeting continued the joyful mode when our Director Frances Kivatisky introduced our guest, Mentalist Steve Sussman, a performer of mind-boggling feats.

Yonkers was our destination on Feb.  20 for a day of amusement at the Empire Casino.  Another most interesting guest vied for our attention at our assembly on Feb. 28.  Ronald Baumbach, author of “The Last Walk on Our Block”, elicited fond memories of bygone days in Williston Park.  Mayor Paul Ehrbar stopped by to listen to this heart-warming story.

Weather related problems canceled our meeting of March 7 but we thoroughly enjoyed a trip to the Milleridge Inn for a savory lunch and the Westbury Theatre for a rousing St. Patrick’s show on March 12.

Our meeting of March 14 was informative as well as a continuing celebration of St. Patrick’’s Day.   Hilda Escobar furnished an update of Project Independence, Dorothy Daly, stepping in for Marianne Virgilio, offered an Irish blessing and David Monfort, adorned with a green beret, regaled us with Irish humor.  Our guest Assemblywoman Maureen O’Connell submitted data on deeds and scams.  A traditional catered Celtic feast of corned beef and cabbage, deftfully arranged by Tess Fiorentino and Marie Rallo, rounded out this convivial occasion.

St. Joseph was given his due at our next get-together on March 21 when we were served the delicious pastries that bear his name.  President John Escobar announced the remembrance of 22 March birthdays.  We welcomed our guest speakers Marion Rizzo and Gary Zimmermann of Syl-Lee Antiques who presented an instructive program on heirlooms and artifacts.  Each member was given an estimated value of one of their personal “treasures” resulting in some surprising revelations.  The Board then extended best wishes for Easter and Passover.

After the holiday recess, another edifying session took place on April 4.  In a welcome second visit, the fifth grade students of the Center Street Drama Club exhibited an animated Circus Extravaganza which included juggling acts, levitation and delightful interaction with our seniors.

A trip to Mount Airy Resort on April 10 afforded us a captivating Casino experience as well as a storm-ravaged bus ride home.

Our April 11 gathering highlighted a report from S. Gupta of the Smart Brain Company which demonstrated the use of the modern abacus in combating memory loss.  We also mourned the passing of long-time constituent Bill Clark.

It is evident that the Herrick’s Leisure Club keeps our members informed, productive and involved as we release our winter woes and breech the gates of another magnificent spring.


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