The Glen Cove Senior Citizen Center held a special celebratory luncheon on Friday, Sept. 23, at which director Carol Waldman, representing the senior community, bestowed honors and donations on Glen Cove's first responders: the fire department, police department and EMS. Second Assistant Fire Chief Tony Tripp, and ex-Chief Mike Maher represented Glen Cove's Volunteer Fire Department, Deputy Chief Bruce Early and PO Patrick Wright were there from the GCPD, and EMT Tony Jimenez was on hand to accept the accolades for Glen Cove EMS.

Ms. Waldman praised the first responders for "keeping us safe every day" adding, "You are truly a blessing for us and I am honored to give to each organization a citation and a donation, for all you do."

Ray Pierce, accompanied by Judy Imerti at the piano, opened the ceremony with his rendition of The Star Spangled Banner, during which he was joined by a number of voices. After the presentation, Mr. Pierce sang You'll Never Walk Alone in tribute to Glen Cove's Best.

Additionally, Mayor Mary Ann Holzkamp was present to accept a monetary donation from the seniors to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. The seniors raised a significant amount of money through fundraising efforts, and that amount will be matched by an individual who wishes to remain anonymous, and then be sent to the Salvation Army and Red Cross.