Martinez to be honored for Vinnie’s Island
Vincent “Vinnie” Martinez, Sr., a U.S. Navy veteran, will be honored with a commemorative stone and plaque at Vinnie’s Island, a green space he personally transformed over 40 years ago.
The tribute, organized through a collaborative effort between the Glen Cove American Legion Post 76 and the Tribute and Honor Foundation, will recognize Martinez years of dedicated service in beautifying the city of Glen Cove. The Glen Cove City Council unanimously approved the honor on Sept. 24.
Martinez, a recipient of the Tribute and Honor Foundation’s Legacy Award in 2023, served in the Korean War, and has been a dedicated community volunteer for over 50 years.
He transformed a small intersection in Glen Cove in 1984 into what is now known as “Vinnie’s Island.” Vinnie’s. Martinez’ dedication to the community, especially through his love of gardening, has earned him numerous accolades, including Fireman of the Year, the American Legion Certificate of Honor, and most recently, the Legacy Award.
The plaque will read: “In Honor of Vincent ‘Vinnie’ Martinez, Sr. Celebrating 40 Years of Beautifying Glen Cove.
Through his love of gardening, Vinnie has enriched our community, creating a lasting source of beauty and pride for all who pass by. We thank you, Vinnie.”
“Vinnie is a cherished member of our community whose work has touched the lives of countless people in Glen Cove,” Mayor Pam Panzenbeck said. “His contributions over the past 40 years have not only beautified our city but also strengthened the sense of community. I could not be more pleased that the American Legion Post 76 and the Foundation have come together to honor his dedication, providing an opportunity for all of us to reflect on his impact and commitment to our community.”
The commemoration will be funded equally by the Glen Cove American Legion Post 76 and the Tribute and Honor Foundation. Two anonymous donors also stepped forward to underwrite the American Legion’s portion of the expenses, ensuring that the project will be completed at no cost to the city, veterans, or the post.
“We felt it was important to work in tandem with the Glen Cove American Legion Post 76 and have them take the lead in organizing the event,’ said Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, President of the Tribute and Honor Foundation. “We could not be more pleased that this project will be completed at no cost to the city, veterans, or the post.”
Anthony Anzalone, Adjutant of Glen Cove American Legion Post 76, said he knew right away that he wanted to take part in the initiative.
“Vinnie’s commitment to Glen Cove is unmatched, and this tribute is a testament to his service both as a veteran and a community leader,” Anzalone said.
The dedication ceremony will be at Vinnie’s Island, at the intersection of School Street, North Lane, and Brewster Street, on Nov. 9, at 10 a.m.
