Town Honors Liz Bailey, Bird Sanctuary Vice President

Elizabeth Bailey of Garden City was among 12 Long Islanders the Town of Hempstead recognized during its 17th annual "Make A Difference" awards ceremony Nov. 12.

The Town received hundreds of nominations for the award. Supervisor Kate Murray said each honoree, recognized with a medal and certificate, had an inspiring story of courage, volunteerism and philanthropy.

Bailey currently serves as vice president of the Garden City Bird Sanctuary.

"With all due respect, this honoree is for the 'birds!' A champion of the environment and a protector of this great big earth we live upon, Elizabeth Bailey is a brilliant influence on both the ecology and the community," Murray said.

"Elizabeth has seen many of her educational and environmental projects take flight. Following an impressive 30-year career at the Tennessee Valley Authority in Muscle Shoals, Alabama working on assorted air quality issues, Elizabeth has flown home to Garden City."

After initially volunteering at one of the sanctuary's benefit lawn sales, Bailey became more active with the non-profit organization and was elected a director in 2011, according to Robert Alvey, Garden City Bird Sanctuary founder and president emeritus.

"She has been an enthusiastic and dedicated volunteer and enjoys learning more about the birds and wildlife," he said. "Her spirit is inspirational and we are pleased to see her recognized by the Town of Hempstead as a woman who makes a difference."

Bailey, also an accomplished organist, often plays music during memorial tree dedication ceremonies at the sanctuary. She has lead Girl Scout troops on nature walks, oversees planting activities and coordinates extensively with Adelphi University and the Village of Garden City, Alvey said.

“Every year we gather to honor the unsung heroes who strive to improve their communities and help their fellow citizens,” Murray said. “You will not find these people in the tabloids or on television. In fact, these honorees could be one of your neighbors, co-workers, or even a local landscaper with a green thumb and a heart of gold.”