I want to encourage families throughout the county to remember that our parks and museums are often at their best during the fall and winter months. And during the Thanksgiving Day recess and beyond, what better way to keep the kids busy than by enjoying the wonderful resources in our own backyards?

That is why Nassau County is offering its first-ever Family Holiday Passport, which provides unlimited entrance to all county-operated museums from Nov. 18 to Dec. 30.

In what can be a particularly busy and stressful time for families, a walk through the Old Bethpage Restoration Village or a visit to the Battle of the Dinosaurs at the Sands Point Preserve might be just the thing during the holidays. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to indoor sports and educational exhibits. Plan your entire week around Nassau County's parks, museums and preserves.

Nassau County has some of the finest museums in the country, including the African-American Museum, Chelsea Mansion, Garvies Point Museum, Cedarmere and Tackapusha Museum and Preserve, and the Holiday Passport includes each one. I can't think of a better way to spend a weekend with the family than touring some of the most historic and fascinating places in our own neighborhoods.

The cost of the Passport is $25 for a family of five and is open to residents and non-residents alike. It can be purchased at various county facilities and are available now. Don't be left with a house full of children asking, "What is there to do?"

Visit Nassau County's website at www.nassaucountyny.gov for more detailed information about what's going on in Nassau's parks and museums or call 572-0200.