By Andrew Hackmack
Ferrara said his first goal is to increase the membership of the historical society. Additionally, he wants to get more historical markers installed around Valley Stream denoting important sites and events.
"The history of Valley Stream is just so unbelievable," Ferrara said. "It is interesting and exciting and people should know."
With the 80th anniversary of the opening of Curtiss Airfield this year, Ferrara has been working diligently to mark the occasion. The now-defunct airfield has been replaced by the Green Acres Mall, however some of the old airplane hangars are still standing and being used by private businesses. Ferrara has approached the Town of Hempstead about having a historical marker placed in front of Home Depot, which was built on the site of two demolished hangars.
Ferrara also mentioned the Duck Plane, which was used to rescue at least 40 flyers during World War II. It was built at Columbia Aircraft in Valley Stream. "In doing my research on Curtiss Field," Ferrara said, "I came across so many wonderful things."
He lives nearby the Pagan-Fletcher Restoration, which is maintained by the village and operated by the historical society. Ferrara is also a 20-year member of the Valley Stream Civilian Patrol and currently serves as vice president of that organization. He has been with the historical society for two years and takes over the presidency from Marge Chvatal.
Ed Fare, chairman of the historical society's board of trustees, swore Ferrara in as the new president. "Guy is a fresh voice," Fare said. "He's gotten really active and interested in the last two years. I'm looking forward to the new leadership and I think he'll do a great job."
The Historical Society has about 200 members, Fare said. He is encouraged that Ferrara will help make the group even stronger. "When so many organizations have no members and are disbanding," Fare said, "we're holding our own."
