I was dismayed to read a letter to the editor in the Oct. 12 issue which accused the Mayor of Great Neck Plaza of attempting to improve the economy of the village by placing educational displays in empty storefronts.
I am assuming that Mr. Glickman, author of the letter, is referring to the large historical pictures which were provided free of charge by the Great Neck Historical Society, and had been displayed, until recently, in the storefront vacated by Marel Gifts at 32 Middle Neck Road.
As the store has just been rented, the pictures have recently been removed – and we are actively looking for other vacant storefronts whose owners will permit us to display historical pictures. We currently have pictures in only one other window near the Village Green.
The Great Neck Historical Society feels that these pictures of Great Neck in the early 1900s are far more interesting and esthetic than the empty store windows or the recent trend toward brown paper.
Unfortunately, some of the landlords of these vacant stores feel that the presence of the pictures may mask the fact that the store is for rent – and, of course they should take note that the pictures certainly did not hinder the rental of the former Marel site.
We welcome contact from any landlords who would like to participate in our Historic Photo Program. We can be reached at greatneckhistorical@gmail.com.
Alice Kasten
President
Great Neck Historical Society
