Garden City News 06-14-2024

Sports leaders, Rec. Comm discuss fields

BY RIKKI MASSAND

The Village’s Board of Commissioners of Recreational & Cultural Affairs (Rec. Commission) met at the St. Paul’s Activity Center last Thursday evening, May 30, at the same time the New York Rangers were playing the Florida Panthers in a pivotal Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. While the NHL contest at Madison Square Garden featured physical skirmishes and premium on-ice entertainment, the first topic raised by guests at the Rec. Commission meeting—conveying heavy concerns over the state of Garden City’s athletic playing fields at St. Paul’s and the overarching need for more synthetic turf fields—filled the small conference room with energy, intrigue, and dramatic dialogue, emblematic of the competitive spirit shared among the village’s community sports enthusiasts.

Members of the public at the May 30 Rec. Commission meeting included Kevin Hegarty, the founder and president of Tradition Lacrosse; Garden City Thunder Football coach and former GC Rams Lacrosse coach. Seated next to him was Tim Haniffy, director of Thunder Football. A third sports organization representative, Chris Jenders from the Garden City Centennials, also attended the meeting.

In his opening statements to the Rec. Commission, Hegarty offered firepower on the issues observed by sports league participants with teams playing their games on the St. Paul’s fields.

The natural grass playing fields’ conditions on the land surrounding St.

See page 34

CELEBRATING 70 YEARS

Garden City Community Church Nursery School recently celebrated its 70th year in service. Above, children sang “America the Beautiful” during its Memorial Day Parade. See page 16

Consultant updates BOT on recreation survey

BY RIKKI MASSAND

By next week, two thousand Garden City households will receive five-page Recreation Department surveys asking for their opinions on the current state and future of village recreational facilities and programs. The survey asks respondents to note the local village parks they visit, state their choices for Recreation and Parks’ facilities or program needs, and provide input on their levels of satisfaction with Garden City’s recreational and municipal program facilities. The neighborhood parks, Garden City Community Park, and St. Paul’s fields (but not the historic main building) are included as venues for residents to weigh in on. The village has noted that all Garden City residents will be receiving a second, separate survey solely about the future use of the St. Paul’s building, which will be generated in the coming months.

The process of identifying recreational, sports, arts, and social needs and interests involves collecting a minimum of 400 surveys from residents. This initiative kicked off in May with a Recreation Open House and listening session held at the Garden City Casino.

The Village Board of Trustees was presented with updates and information on the survey plans by John Bucher of Brandstetter Carroll Inc. During the Board’s June 6 meeting over Zoom, Bucher and board members discussed the methodology of surveying village residents.

The current state of Garden City’s recreation surveys, as mailings to residences are underway, is collectively known as the “Evaluate” and “Engage” phases. BCI states that these phases are being done simultaneously. Bucher commented that this entails “benchmarking with other agencies/municipalities” and performing a level of service analysis on the village’s Recreation Department. Part of the “Evaluate” phase involves reviewing previous studies related to village parks and examining community and population trends.

BCI’s “Engage” phase has been the bulk of its work for Garden City to date. It is anchored by a “2-phase statisti-

See page 42

In the last few weeks, and also in this issue, a few letter writers have mentioned a “poll” that we have done on our website, www.gcnews.com, which asked about options for St. Paul’s.

We’d just like to make it clear that the “polls” we’ve done are in no way scientific and were really done for information and entertainment. The sample sizes were usually very small, and while the software only allowed one response per account, it would actually be trivial for someone to get around that restriction and vote multiple times.

We started using that piece of our software just as a fun way to engage readers, and often the questions were a bit silly (such as asking about favorite Halloween candy).

(Unfortunately, the part of the software that was supposed to refresh the question each week kept malfunctioning, and since there weren’t very many responses most weeks, we ultimately removed the feature from the website.)

While one may consider the responses to our St. Paul’s use question, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t represent the views of all residents. The only way to do that is to run a properly designed survey which reaches out to all portions of the village, and asks questions in a neutral manner.

While there may be legitimate complaints about the opinion poll last October, we caution readers not to take our online poll as anything more than an interesting data point.

Pre-decided changes?

To the Editor:

I made the following comments at the June 6, 2024 BOT meeting. Sadly this meeting was not well attended which is a common occurrence.

Full disclosure - I am a FABGC supporter and an active member of Say No to The Casino (https://www. nocasinonassau.org) but I’m first and foremost a Garden City resident who just wants what’s best for our village.

I agreed with many of the promises that the new board made during their campaign, especially about transparency.  I recall Trustee Courtney noting that board votes often seemed “perfunctory” as though the decisions were already made with the residents being given no chance to weigh in, and I agree with her.

So I hope you will understand my concern that the new majority has already made some key changes that seemed pretty pre-decided to me and to other residents.

The appointment of Trustee Torino to the Legal Committee for examplethis wasn’t even on the agenda.  It was added during the meeting and it was passed despite the Mayor and Deputy Mayor’s objections. Regardless of which side you were on, this was a controversial move, and the public was given no opportunity to consider it.

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Licensed RE Salesperson

laura.baymack@compass.com

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Stephen Baymack

Licensed Associate RE Broker

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I’ve served in village government and I know first-hand that the New York Open Meetings Law (the sunshine law) and other processes can be cumbersome and can slow things down - but that’s why they exist.  They prevent governments from rushing things through before citizens even know what’s happening.  Nassau County got forced to start the process over on the Sands Casino lease because they failed to follow process, and that’s a good thing!

Even if such rules didn’t exist, if citizens think that all decisions have been made before the board even meets, trust goes out the window. I asked the BOT how they will ensure, going forward, that they will, as promised, be listening

to all voices and honor the will of the people - and not just a vocal few on any side - and follow the statutes of the Open Meeting Law as they approach some of the very consequential decisions that lie ahead.  (Note: my question received no response.)

Thomas Jefferson said “the government you elect is the government you deserve”.  I encourage all residents to attend meetings, get involved, stay informed, and at election time make an informed vote.

Lynn Krug

Residents voted for preservation To the Editor:

On October 21, 2024 Garden City residents voted, in an opinion poll, to preserve St. Paul’s; 61% who checked off “preservation” to 39% who selected “demolition”, a 22% margin.  Recently, at BOT meetings and in letters in the Garden City News, a few residents are calling into question the validity of the voting results. They ask, “is 61% to 39% enough of a margin to move forward with preservation and re-use of St. Paul’s as a recreational and community center?” These comments are  absurd. 61% sure is a sound margin!! 4,339 residents turned out in good faith to cast their votes and 2,635 choose the box marked: “preservation”. Trying to manipulate the voting results through various mathematical formulas is just a joke to put forth to the public. Those responsible for this know who they are and are often the loudest, yet most negative, voices in this newspaper, especially when it comes to the topic of St. Paul’s.  It so happens, that many of those loud voices simply don’t like the fact that the vote to demolish St. Paul’s was soundly defeated, once again. How many more times do we need to keep “deciding”? News alert, WE DECIDED” to “preserve” St. Paul’s in October and in other opinion polls in years prior. By the way, should we call into question the result of our current mayor’s election results? Mayor Flanagan was

See page 50

Achievements, concerns and goodbyes at final schools meeting

BY KASSARA MCELROY

The Garden City Board of Education spent its final meeting of the 2023-2024 school year celebrating its students and educators’ achievements, listening to the community’s concerns, and saying some difficult goodbyes.

Achievements

Twenty-two athletes from the district and 150 students, fans and faculty participated in the Empire State Games, representing the largest turnout in the district’s 15-year history of participation.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha shared,”The Empire State Games is one of the most special days for us in our district where our special education and regular education students really partner up with all of our staff. It’s one of the best ways to celebrate our community.”

Eduardo Ramirez, director of physical education, health education, and athletics for Garden City Schools, then received the Nancy Maher Maxwell Award. Named after the former head of Pupil Personnel Services, this award recognizes individuals who excel in supporting special education students.

Garden City SEPTA praised Ramirez. “Challenger athletes are now prominently featured on GC Athletics social media, and their games are actively

promoted to encourage fan attendance. Your energetic approach to Challenger Basketball, including music and personalized commentary, has personalized the experience for each player and highlighted their strengths. Your efforts have provided new avenues for our students to be integrated and included within their district and community. Thank you for your dedication and creativity in making this possible.”

The meeting also acknowledged the academic excellence of two students, Elaine Wang and Kathryn Sheil, who were named U.S. Presidential Scholars. Each year, up to 161 students are named U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the Nation’s highest honors for high school students. The Scholars represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in young people.

District Updates

In response to a letter posted in the Garden City News regarding reading, Dr Sinha shared, “ I’d like to host a town hall in July, September or both and have asked the literacy committee to look at some of the issues raised. And any parents with concerns about their child’s progress, please meet with their teachers and principals. We have rich data on every single student.”

All data presentations are posted online, including the student achieve-

Advice Matters.

ment report.

The superintendent reported on the progress of recommendations from a special education advisory committee, following concerns brought up at past board meetings,noting ongoing work and accessibility of information also available on the district’s website.

The treasurer’s report for April 2024 showed a closing cash balance of $42,595,255.

Community Concerns

The community had questions about the district’s approach to certain programs, citing a lack of scientific evidence and poor student proficiency results. They noted that many states and New York City have abandoned programs still in use in Garden City.

Other attendees expressed reservations about the district’s MTSS plan, citing confusion around its implementation and effectiveness. They emphasized the need for clearer criteria and more accountability in the plan.

One parent raised concerns about accessibility of inappropriate content on students’ Chromebooks. After detailing a number of dangerous scenarios, the parent said, “If you’re playing catchup, then no part of this is safe.”

President Sileo assured the community that these issues would be addressed and solutions discussed at

future meetings.

Goodbyes (For Now)

The board paid tribute to Christine Kenney, a beloved teacher at Homestead for nearly 25 years, highlighting her profound impact on students, the district, and the community.

“Our entire school community is forever changed for the better. You will never be forgotten,” said administrators, echoed through a number of quotes shared by colleagues, parents, and students alike.

And given this was the final board meeting of the 2023-2024 school year, it was also the conclusion of its Vice President Tom Pinou’s 13-year tenure.

President Sileo commended Pinou, stating, “It’s not easy what he’s done for 13 years. It’s a big commitment, a lot of time. Tom advocates for parents and students more than anyone I’ve ever met. Unfortunately we’re losing that voice, but the rest of us hope to carry that on. We have learned from the best.”

Pinou said, “I consider you all lifelong friends. Thank you for everything you all taught me too. You’ll still see me out there in the audience from time to time!”

A reorganizational meeting, that will also address follow-ups on the points discussed in this meeting, is scheduled for July 1st, 2024.

the award.

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Welcome to this beautifully renovated and expanded colonial situated on generous 60’ x 150’ property in the desirable Estates Section offering the perfect blend of sophistication and modern functionality. This home boasts a 2-story sunlit entry foyer, stunning white oak floors, 9-foot ceilings on the first level

creating a sense of spaciousness, and an open concept living area with a gourmet custom kitchen with quartz countertops, opening to a family room. In addition, the first level features a spacious living room, a formal dining room which is serviced by a butler’s pantry with custom cabinetry, and a half bath. The second floor offers a primary bedroom suite with a large walk-in closet and a luxurious spa-style bath. The expansive outdoor space with mature plantings provides a private retreat that makes entertaining a delight. Features include new Andersen windows, new 200 amp electrical service, central air conditioning, a Navien combi boiler, new roof, new gutters, new siding, new blue stone front entry, new paver patio, in-ground sprinklers, and a 2-car detached garage. Make this stunning state-of-the-art fully renovated colonial your new home. Offered at $2,390,000

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Not Pictured: William Breslin, Michael Fedor, Robert McMahon, Tara Rice

Theanne Ricci Laura Rich Elise Ronzetti John H Russo Angela Linda Simbus Patricia Savella Vivian Tener Mary Weille Sharon Redmond Cathleen Fennessy Whelan

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William Grimes promoted to Detective Lieutenant

German is for Everyone at: German American School

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan administered the oath of office to newly promoted Detective Lieutenant William Grimes during a brief ceremony at Village Hall on Thursday, June 6.

Det. Lt. Grimes began his career with the Garden City Police Department in 1989. He was promoted to Patrol Sergeant in 2005 and Detective Sergeant in 2017.

“I have worked with Detective Lieutenant Grimes during his whole career and you will never find a better officer or leader,” Commissioner Jackson said.

In addition to his normal supervisory

functions overseeing the Department’s Detective Unit, Det. Lt. Grimes now oversees the Department and the Village’s Security Infrastructure Programs and manages the new License Plate Reader Project.

He serves as the liaison to the School District and assisted them in developing their Security Operational Plans, which included gaining access to their camera and keyless entry systems. Further, he serves as the Department’s intelligence officer and attends weekly countywide intel, counter-terrorism and school threat analysis meetings.

School district seeks audit committee members

The Garden City School District is actively seeking two dedicated community residents to serve on the district’s audit committee. This volunteer position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the financial oversight and integrity of the school district.

The selected members will serve a six-year term, beginning with the 2024-25 school year. The audit committee plays a crucial role in ensuring the district's financial transparency and accountability, providing valuable insights and

recommendations on financial matters. Interested individuals are invited to submit their resumes to Dana DiCapua, Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance, at DiCapuaD@gcufsd. net. This is an excellent opportunity for community members with a background in auditing, accounting, finance or a related field to make a meaningful impact on the financial stewardship of Garden City Schools. The deadline for submissions is Monday, July 15.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan, Detective Lieutenant William Grimes, Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson and Trustee Bruce Torino, liaison to the Police Department and appointed Commissioner.

The Belmont Festival has moved, but we are still here!

We cordially invite all our past, current and future clients, customers and friends to join us for our ninth annual Client Appreciation Event at Garden City’s

Patriotic

Kicko to Summer!

Friday, June 14th 5:30-7:30pm Rain or Shine

Swing by our o ce at 116 Seventh Street and enjoy a fun evening with great company, food and libations.

CPOA Annual Meeting set for June 18th

The Garden City Central Property Owner’s Association ((CPOA) Board of Directors will hold its annual meeting on Tuesday, June 18. One of the objectives of this meeting will be to elect directors and officers for the upcoming year.

Any person interested in joining our Board can send an email to gccpoa.ny@ gmail.com indicating their interest.

Regular business will also be conducted including but not limited to approval of the treasurer’s report, approval of minutes, speakers if any, all reports from committees, discussion of any old and/or new business.

Please contact the CPOA with any questions at gccpoa.ny@gmail.com

Members are defined as follows: member means any person who is over the age of 18 holding title to any real property in Garden in City Central, Section, or owning shares in a residential cooperative corporation, and

Garden city, Central, Section, or any person over 18, who maintains his/her residence in the Garden city Central Section.

Use this QR code to join the CPOA and pay annual dues. Your support is greatly appreciated. See what the CPOA is doing for you on gccpoa.org

Get Results!

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our Garden City office at 294-8900 for more information.

GCHS junior to attend prestigious writing retreat

Keira Regan, a junior from Garden City High School, has been awarded a full scholarship to attend the prestigious Alice Hoffman Young Writers Retreat at Adelphi University. This intensive workshop, running from July 15-19, 2024, offers high school juniors and seniors the unique opportunity to work closely with accomplished writers and artists.

Keira's acceptance into this program comes under the guidance of her dedicated English teacher, Amy Regis. Ms. Regis's support and mentorship have been instrumental in Keira's success, helping her hone her writing skills and encouraging her literary pursuits.

The Alice Hoffman Young Writers Retreat provides an invaluable experience for young writers to immerse themselves in creative writing, benefiting from the expertise of Adelphi faculty, accomplished writers, artists and English education graduate students. All admitted students receive a full program scholarship, covering tuition, fees and materials.

Class of '73 makes donations to local organizations

Last year marked the 50th anniversary of the graduation of the Garden City High School Class of 1973.

A well-attended reunion was held at the Nassau County Bar Association where old friendships were renewed and new friendships were forged. Even those classmates who could not attend in person took part in the festivities over a teleconference link.

“Once the reunion was over,” commented Larry Nedelka, one of the reunion committee leaders, “we began conversations regarding a class gift in honor of this occasion.”

The committee looked at several conventional gift ideas, as well as some new items.

“We came to the conclusion that items like a bench, a tree, a plaque would have limited or no significant impact,” continued Nedelka, “so we agreed to use the money in an unconventional and positive way, yet still had a connection to our class. We decided to pay it forward”

The Garden City High School Class of 1973 is honored to announce its dona-

tions to the following local organizations:

The Garden City Historical Society. This organization keeps the history of our village alive for future residents.

Mary Frost Mahoney, from the class, as the Society’s Secretary, is a very active member of preserving our past for the future. https://www. thegardencityhistoricalsociety.org/

The Andy Foundation. Jill Sackman Palmeri, a member of the class, established the fund years ago in honor of her son upon his passing from injuries sustained in an accident. As an organization that ‘pays it forward,’ the Andy Foundation can proudly report having distributed more than one million dollars in assistance to children in need. http://theandyfoundation.org/

Mollie’s Fund. Mollie Biggane, niece of classmate Dennis Biggane, succumbed from skin cancer at age 20. Since 2001, Mollie’s Fund has been on a crusade to educate people about skin cancer and its prevention. They have reached over one million people during that time. https://molliesfund.org/

Calling all College students!

Have an outstanding GPA, honor-roll, internship? Let us know about your transcending achievements then show your family, friends & neighbors! E-mail your most prized achievements, along with your name and contact info to: Editor Meg Norris - Editor@GCnews.com

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Assorted Sausages/ Hot Dogs Fresh Prepared Sides/Cold Salads

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Garden City High School junior Keira Regan will attend the Alice Hoffman Young Writers Retreat at Adelphi University on full scholarship.

Photo courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

63 Magnolia Avenue

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

The information about the homes and the photos were obtained through the Multiple Listing Services of Long Island. The homes presented were selected based solely on the fact that they were recently sold.

Mortgage Rates this week from www.nerdwallet.com 30-year

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS

Date: 06/05/2024

Sold price: $1,925,000

5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half bath

Architectural Style: Tudor

Property size: .26

Annual taxes: $21,371

MLS number: 3534858

The Seller’s Team: Lisa Heaney, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Ann M. Pizaro, Signature Premier Properties

Situated on an idyllic block, this stunning 5-bedroom, 3.55-bath Tudor is beautifully appointed on a gracious 75x150 property. The 1st floor has a great flow and layout that includes a large living room with wood burning fireplace, modern chef’s kitchen and dining room area, a bright, sun-filled office, and new powder room. The family room is exceptional, and boasts a beautiful gas fireplace plus builtin cabinetry with a mini bar. 9ft. ceilings and custom lighting are found throughout this main level. In addition, there is a desirable 1st fl. en suite with a new bath. Upstairs, the primary suite includes a double closet, walk-in closet, and new bath. 3 additional bedrooms, 2nd fl. laundry, and another hall bath are also on this floor. A generous lower level proudly displays a large recreation area, new, full-sized gym area, and powder room. The impressive backyard is a true highlight, completely fenced, wonderfully private, and meticulously landscaped. Complete with a lush turf lawn, it also features a putting green, outdoor kitchen, and multiple seating areas. The whole house renovation was completed in 2022 and includes the family room addition, new custom kitchen and bathrooms, new plumbing and heating system, hot water heater, and electrical work. The double-wide driveway is substantial, and deep enough to host multiple cars. Over 3,000 sq. ft. including lower level. Low taxes!!

191 Rockaway Avenue

Date: 06/12/2024 Sold price: $2,000,000

4 bedrooms, 5 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Split level

Property size: .49

Annual taxes: $26,476 MLS number: 3545394

The Seller’s Team: Patrick McCooey and Alexander Oliveri, Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Dennis Arango, John Savoretti Realty

Welcome to 191 Rockaway Ave. This stunning multi-level home, fully renovated less than 10 years ago, has it all. Set on a half acre lot, it features 4 bedrooms and 5.5 luxuriously updated bathrooms. Upon entering the home you are greeted by a grand two story entry foyer which leads to an oversized living room with gas fireplace, further warming this bright comfortable room. Entertain your family and guests in style in the banquet sized dining room. Prepare gourmet meals in a true chef’s kitchen with high end appliances, bespoke cabinetry and granite counter tops. While cooking or eating, enjoy breath taking views of the rear yard and golf course through the rear floor to ceiling windows. Lazy summer days are a pleasure with an in ground pool, spa and tranquil koi pond. The lower level of this spectacular home boasts a large and comfortable family room with a wood burning fireplace and room for everyone on game day or movie night. For the avid swimmer there is also an indoor lap pool for year round swimming and fun. The property is meticulously landscaped and has an elegant circular driveway with a waterfall An oversized attached two car garage completes this impressive offering. This is the perfect home for entertaining, relaxing and living in all seasons and in close proximity to all Garden City has to offer.

29 Tremont Street

Date: 6/04/2024

Sold price: $1,799,999

4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural style: Dutch Colonial Property size: .22

Annual taxes: $27,168/MLS number: 3530132

The Seller’s Team: Nancy Giannone, Howard Hanna Coach

The Buyer’s Team: Julie Whicher, Compass Greater NY

Welcome to a world of elegance and comfort in this magnificent dutch colonial home. With 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, and an array of luxurious features, this home is a testament to classic design and modern convenience. The heart of this home is undoubtedly the gourmet chef’s kitchen, complete with a sprawling center island. Whether you’re preparing an intimate family dinner or hosting a grand soiree, this kitchen will meet your every culinary need. It seamlessly opens to the family room with gas fireplace, making it an ideal space for entertaining and creating lasting memories. The formal dining room and living room with wood-burning FP provide the perfect backdrops for entertaining. Enjoy the convenience of a dedicated office space, ensuring productivity and privacy. The custom mudroom adds practicality to your daily routine, keeping your home organized and clutter-free. The primary bedroom offers a sanctuary of serenity

coffee, or simply basking in the sun, your yard offers a serene escape. Make this your forever home and experience the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.

Houses featured on this page were sold by various real

1183 Roosevelt Way | Westbury

Women’s Health Care of Garden City committed to personalized care

By John L. Gomes, MD

John L. Gomes, MD, founded Women’s Health Care of Garden City in 1995. It has remained an independent private practice, providing personalized obstetrical and gynecological services.

He employs the technical advances of conventional medicine with an integrative approach to navigate women through difficult pregnancies into the menopausal years. He treats a wide variety of OB/GYN conditions and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care.

All tests are conveniently done on the premises, and a dedicated, compassionate staff is on call 24/7.

He is committed to excellence in patient communication, education and support, as many patients come with anxiety associated with past experiences and future concerns.

Dr. Gomes received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, and his Doctor of Medicine from Columbia University.

He is both Board Certified and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Women’s Health Care of Garden City is located at 1000 Franklin Avenue, Suite 200, Garden City.

Library Board special meeting

There will be a Special Meeting of the Board of Library Trustees on Monday, June 17, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. in the Library’s large

ed on the lower level.

Photos from the Village Archives

A selection from the extensive Village Archives located in the Stewart Room at the Library. Others can be seen at www.NYHeritage.org - click on Organizations, G, and Garden City Public Library.

The second home of the Garden City Public Library, relocated in 19xx from a house at the east end of Seventh St. to the Garden City Company building just northeast of the Garden City RR station. This building was built after the Manager’s Office, located nearby, was destroyed by fire in January 1912. It was demolished after the present Library building was constructed in 1973. Archives identifier: pblb01

Save on your water bill this summer

Estimated summer savings on your water bill by doing one simple step: Reduce the sprinkler zone run times by just ten percent!

*Minimum billing for 100 - 2000 cu/ft.

Pre K celebrates graduation

The Universal Pre-K class recently celebrated its graduation! Pictured, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sinha with teacher Paul Savvinidis and graduates Catherine Burns and Rosalie Mondillo. Also in attendance was Mrs. Nan McLaughlin and Board of Education Vice President Mr. Pinou. UPK is in its second year in Garden City, and just received funding to expand the program.

We bring a unique perspective to the table, blending traditional values with modern expertise. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, we are dedicated to providing personalized service tailored to your needs. When you choose our Mother/Son team, you gain a partner who truly understands the importance of long-term success and building a legacy for generations to come.

Garden City real estate, reimagined.

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RE Salesperson

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Kerry Flynn

RE Salesperson

Laura Carroll Team

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Menoudakos Team

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GC Community Church Nursery finishes 70th year

The GC Community Church Nursery School recently completed its 70th year. The school provides children with a quality educational program which inspires them to create, discover and achieve; fosters self-awareness and self-esteem; teaches them to treat others with gentleness, respect, compassion and generosity; and prepares them for advancement to the next level of learning.

Classrooms are set up to encourage free exploration, with a wide variety of materials and activities that are fun and interactive, and experiences that

stimulate all of their senses.  Programs are offered for 2, 3 & 4 year olds.

The school has strived over the years to create an environment that is supportive of the "work" of children; a place that offers a loving, nurturing environment indoors and out!  Community Church Nursery School is a special place for young children and their families.

For more information or to schedule a tour, Email Cathie McCullough, Director - gcccnursery@gmail.com or call (516)746-1756.  Or visit us at www. gcccnurseryschool.com

PreK classes got to ride on a school bus for an end of the year field trip.

Pajama Day is always fun!

Having fun outside on the school’s beautiful playground.

A place where friendships are made.

Uncle Carmine’s farm animals came for a visit.

Singing America the Beautiful at the Memorial Day Parade

$1,499,000 | 4 BD | 2 BA

Rarely encountered yet highly sought-after, this 100x100 beautifully landscaped property sits nestled in the heart of the coveted Western Section. The expanded cape residence boasts over 2,400 square feet of living space, featuring a luxurious first-floor primary bedroom complete with a renovated marble bathroom and walk-in shower. Covered porch, driveway for up to four cars, along with a mudroom. Intricate millwork, a chef’s kitchen with professional-grade appliances, a great room boasting radiant flooring. Rear yard with outdoor kitchen. Living room with a gas fireplace, and beautiful built-in surrounds. Upstairs are three generously proportioned bedrooms, renovated marble bathroom featuring a soaking tub and separate walk-in shower. The fully finished basement offers a wine cellar, laundry room, and updated utilities throughout. Nearby to Stewart Manor train station, shopping, Edgemere Park, and many other amenities.

Laura Carroll

Licensed RE Salesperson

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M: 917.370.5354

FOR SENIORS fyi

Garden City’s Senior Center is open. Please visit the Senior Center Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for further information on activities and events!

Trip to see "Bye Bye Birdie"

Trip to La Famiglia Restaurant and the Argyle Theatre in Babylon (on the NEW Recreation bus) to see “Bye Bye Birdie”. Sunday, August 25th, NEW Recreation Bus leaves at 10:45, lunch is at noon, show is at 2:00. Cost: $63 check made payable to “The Argyle Theatre” for show, $50 cash for lunch, both paid simultaneously, at the Senior Center front desk. Deadline, July 26th.

Movie

“The Out of Towners” with Jack Lemmon and Sandy Dennis, 1:00 Tuesday, June 25thth, at the Senior Center. Register by calling the Senior Center front desk (516) 385-8006.

Live music

Live music with tenor Jonathan

Goodman, Professor from Adelphi University. Wednesday, June 19th 11:0012:00 at the Senior Center. Register by calling the Senior Center front desk (516) 385-8006.

Chess 4 Community

New monthly program, Play and Learn, open to all levels and ages, beginner to more experienced players. Fridays, April 26, June 28, July 26 and August 30, from 3–4 p.m.

Crainiosacral PT Workshop

Dr. Anjali Apte, D.P.T. will present a workshop for seniors on Craniosacral PT. It will cover the following topics:

• What is Crainosacral Therapy?

• What conditions can it treat?

• Breathing exercises and posture training

• Mindfulness

Lunch will be provided. Call 516-3858006 to enroll. Limited to 35 people.

For more information please see www.contemporaryrehab.com

Seniors Bridge Winners

The winners of the Monday , June 10, 2024 duplicate bridge games: North / South: 1st place: Pat Fontaine and Athena

Philippides/Mickey Norton     East / West: 1st place: Carrie Flapan and Dian Kendrick

THI

S WEEK AT ROTARY

Extended Report on Crayon Initiative:

How to Collect & Transport Used Crayons

Last Tuesday, June 11, Rotarians were amazed to learn more about the Lions Club Crayon Initiative project from guest speaker, Paula Umbreiko, member of the Jericho Brookville Lions Club. Paula also serves as Council Chair for the Lions of New York State and Bermuda.

As reported in last week’s column, the Crayon Initiative helps both the environment and hospitalized children by collecting used crayons.  Crayon Initiative keeps the crayons out of landfills where they are not biodegradable, thus helping the environment while also benefiting hospitalized children.

The collected used crayons are sent to Crayon Initiative in California where they are remanufactured into larger three-sided crayons.  They are then distributed to children’s hospitals in all 50 states.  Since the crayons are larger and three sided, they are easier to grip and won’t roll off the hospital trays.

The goal, said Paula, is to reduce the volume of crayons that end up in landfills by hundreds of thousands of pounds annually; while also increasing by tens of thousands, the number of hospitalized children Crayon Initiative supplies with remanufactured crayons.

A couple of readers have asked how and where they can donate used crayons.  Paula Umbreiko amazed Rotarians and guests with the report that Staples stores across the country not only col-

lect the crayons but ship them on to Crayon Initiative, so you can drop them at the checkout at any Staples store. Paula also said that if any local organization, school, library or the like would like to put out a collection box, Lions would pick them up.  If you can help, reach Paula at pumreiko@gmail. com.

Scholarship Recipients to be Awarded at

Luncheon on June 25

At Minela-Garden City’s next luncheon program on Tuesday, June 25, 12:15 at the Davenport Press restaurant, 70 Main Street, Mineola, Rotary scholarship recipients from both Garden City and Mineola High Schools will receive the 2024 “Maureen Clancy Memorial Scholarship Award” for their high marks in community service.  Graduating seniors Niamh Pfaff is the recipient from Garden City and Kirpa Kaur is the recipient from Mineola.

Also to be awarded the 2024 “Althea Robinson Excellence in Business Education Scholarship Award” by the Garden City Foundation, will be Kevin Byrnes, Garden City High School graduating senior who has excelled in the area of business.

Parents of all three scholarship winners have been invited to attend as guests of Rotary.  If you would also like to attend to honor these remarkable college bound students and to enjoy a great Davenport lunch (fee, $40 payable at the door), to reserve, please email Mineola-Garden City Club Co-President Meg Norris at editor@gcnews.com.

Rotarian Althea Robinson; Co-Club Preisdent Diana O’Neill; Lion Paula Umbreiko, guest speaker; Co-Club President Meg Norris; and Past Club President Joanne Meyer-Jendras.

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment and Gift Shop

BY MELISSA JAEGER

Father’s Day and BBQs …  Dear old Dad, always gets the short shrift …  Did you know that Father’s Day is the fourth most popular grilling day? 49% of grill owners break out the cue to prepare a celebratory meal.  Why is that? On Father’s Day, dads want to spend time with their family enjoying their favorite activities, at the ballpark, local car shows, music festivals or playing a round of golf.

Since the Middle Ages, Europeans have celebrated Father’s Day on March 19th as Saint Joseph's Day to honor the influence of fathers in society.  In the United States, Father's Day was the brainchild of Sonora Smart Dodd in 1910 who was proud of her father who single-handedly raised her and her six siblings.  After hearing a church sermon about the newly established Mother's Day, Sonora felt that fatherhood should be recognized as well.  She approached the Spokane Ministerial Alliance and suggested her own father's birthday of June 5, 1910, as the day of honor for fathers. The Alliance chose the third Sunday in June instead. It was not until President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation in 1966 declaring the third Sunday of June as Father's Day.  In 1972, President Nixon established a permanent national observance of Father's Day. Of course, Father’s Day should be celebrated every day!

To help you find a little something for dear old Dad, we have interesting items at the Exchange. To put you in the mood for the inevitable barbecues, why not pick up some fun paper BBQ placemats. Make sure to check out our selection of fun & funky socks, tee time coasters, beer steins, pillows with fisher and dad designs, Best Dad and Golfer mugs, leather cigar tubes, and much more.

Or stop by the AT Stewart Exchange Market -- tomorrow! It will be held (rain or shine) 11:00-4:00 at 109 Eleventh street, on the front lawn of The Garden City Historical Society Museum. Once again, the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion will be participating, encouraging people to become members, and handing out poppies. The perennial favorite -- The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter – is coming with its adoption vehicle! Donate your used (but clean) towels, sheets, and blankets to the shelter so they can keep the animals

warm. I am so pleased with the group of other vendors we have lined up. They include:

• Hawkgirl Photography – Kelli Westfal has been enthusiastic about landscape and nature photography since her dad gave her a Nikon camera more than 35 years ago.

• Christine’s Garden Ornaments – hand-crafted ornaments made from vintage crystal and china.

• Lexi Costello – makes découpage clam shells.

• Diamond Jewelers – Diane Whalen has wonderful sterling and gold pieces.

• Banana Bread Baking Co –Lenore Rust makes cuties which you really must try!

• The Local Batch – Carol Khairallah makes locally milled and organic chocolate cookies.

• Rob DeMarco’s Wood Gifts – hand-carved pens, cutting boards and charcuterie boards. Excellent for Father’s Day gifts

• Eva Vitale will be selling her canvases to support cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering.

• Margaret O’Rourke – makes jewelry in sterling and has matted photographs (taken by her).

• Several vendors with vintage items (furniture, tabletop, jewelry) –Claire Werner and Tricia Hughes.

• Gay Anne Abram -- Dressmaker with hand-made doll clothes.

Our latest addition is Face Painting!!  Garden City High School art students will be painting, so you know they’re bound to be great! What fun! So, bring your kids! (or, like me, channel your inner kid) “Cornelia’s Courtyard Sale” will be going on in the courtyard, where you’re sure to find excellent bargains.

Once again, we are coupling the Market with a Food Drive to benefit The INN, NOW thru June 14th. Please bring in non-perishable food items to help your less fortunate neighbors.

About Us:

The Exchange Consignment Shop is housed in The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) Museum on 109 Eleventh Street (at the rear of the yellow Victorian house).

All the proceeds from the Shop sales directly benefit TGCHS.

Shop 24/7 online at atstewartexchange.org and pick up your purchases at the Exchange.

Follow and Like Us on the AT

Stewart Exchange Facebook and on the AT Stewart Exchange Instagram pages. We sure do get around!

Consigning:

Our best sellers – jewelry (costume and fine), lamps, mirrors, and crystal (Waterford, Baccarat, Tiffany)

We take/accept silver, pocketbooks, fine china, furniture, artwork, and collectibles. All items are in new or nearly new condition.

Consignments are done Wednesday through Friday 11 am – 2 pm by appointment ONLY. Appointments keep down the numbers of people in the Shop and reduce wait-times to consign.

Please call (516)746-8900 to set up an appointment.

Unsure if your items are appropriate to consign? Email photos to store@ atstewartexchange.org and be sure to include sizing info. You will generally receive a response the same day.

Can I Donate?

Yes! We love donations! Please do not leave donated items outside the shop when we are closed. We want your items, but we do not want them to get ruined, especially during inclement weather. Email us at store@atstewartexchange.org and I will work with you to arrange a drop-off time. I check the email every day, even when we’re closed.

Remember:  all the profits from the Consignment Shop support the maintenance and upkeep of TGCHS Museum. Thanks to your generous support, work on the outside façade of the Museum is almost complete.

The shop is located at 109 Eleventh Street. Shop hours: Monday - Friday 10 am – 4 pm; Wednesday until 6 pm; Saturday 12 noon -4 pm. For more information please call (516) 746-8900.

Find lots of great gifts for dad at the A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment and Gift Shop.

The Mad Professors Make Music

All ages are welcome to enjoy 60s & 70s Classical Rock & Roll music including hits from the Beatles, Rolling Stones, David Bowie and Elton

Join us on Wednesday, June 19th at 7pm at the GC Library. This is a free night of entertainment sponsored by the Friends of the GC Library. Bring your family and friends for an exciting evening!

Camp Invention returns to Garden City this summer

Camp Invention, a nationally recognized, nonprofit summer enrichment camp program, is coming to Stewart School from June 27-July 2.

A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Camp Invention challenges children in grades K-6 to tap into their natural curiosity and use their creativity to solve problems. Through hands-on activities, Camp Invention promotes STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) learning; builds confidence, leadership, perseverance and resourcefulness; and encourages entrepreneurship — all in a fun and engaging environment.

Each year, the program features a new curriculum inspired by some of our nation’s most world-changing inventors — the National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees. This year’s Illuminate program encourages children to be confident in their ideas and explore their innovativeness though hands-on experiences including:

• Let’s Glow: Creativity radiates as campers explore the science of light through illuminating inventions and the genetic code of glowing animals

• Prototyping Studio: Children star as contestants on a game show where they mold, shape and transform their ideas into amazing inventions

• In the Game: As campers create their own light-up game board, they team up to tackle athletics, design, business and invention

• Operation: HydroDrop: Children

Camp Invention will be returning to Garden City this summer.

John.

PLATINUM Curvebreakers

Denise L. Emma, DDS

Elizabeth Kitsos Pediatric Dentistry I'm

Old World Quality Corp.

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

The beautiful treelined streets of our Village and well maintained and landscaped homes are part of what residents love about our community, and they make Garden City one of the most desirable communities on Long Island. As the Village moves forward with repaving roadways, the topic of what can be costly sidewalk repairs has been raised by residents at the last Board meeting, as it was last year. I would like to take this opportunity to give an overview of our long-standing policy on sidewalk repairs.

owner on notice that it needs to be repaired.

• When the Police Department notifies us of a sidewalk that is possibly in need of repair; if they encounter it in the course of doing their job, e.g., taking a report for a trip and fall.

What is the policy for Village maintained sidewalks?

I hope sharing some of these general points regarding sidewalk repairs will help residents in understanding that getting a notice to repair your sidewalk is not something that is done arbitrarily or unfairly. Our present sidewalk policy allows residents the alternative of negotiating a price with a private contractor or, in certain instances, joining forces with their neighbors in order to obtain a group rate.

How do we determine which sidewalks need to be repaired?

• A Civil Engineer determines which sidewalks are in need of repair.

• The Village policy for determining a tripping hazard for a defective sidewalk flag follows the standard set by the 2010 Department of Justice ADA Guidelines, which is 1⁄4” vertical rise maximum. If a sidewalk is raised greater than 1⁄4” it is in violation.

• Other reasons a sidewalk flag can be cited as defective are: it is broken, cracked, deteriorating, flaking/ peeling, high, low, an unapproved repair was made, settlement, spalling, tree roots lifting sidewalk, joint openings are greater than 1⁄2”, flag is not to line and grade, etc.

When do residents receive notices to repair sidewalks?

• When we are paving a road, we will cite any sidewalk that needs to be repaired based on the above standards. We do not automatically repair all sidewalks just because we are paving the road.

• If your street address is not on the road we are paving, but your property abuts the road we are paving (such as a corner property), you can still be cited for repairs.

• When we receive written notice from a resident or business alerting us to a sidewalk that might be in need of repair, we will inspect it, and if deemed necessary, we will put the

• Sidewalks maintained by the Village are handled in the same way as any sidewalk in the Village is handled. If we are paving a road that contains Village-maintained sidewalks, we will evaluate our sidewalks and repair as necessary.

Timing of Repairs and Option to use Private Contractor

It is necessary to repair or replace a defective sidewalk and/or driveway apron and/or drop curb for safety reasons and to reduce the likelihood of lawsuits against you, as a property owner, and against the Village, at large. It is for these reasons the Board of Trustees adopted a resolution which provides that property owners are required to build, replace or repair a defective or damaged sidewalk abutting their property within 30 days from the date of the Notice. (Village Code Chapter 178, Article IX, §178-17 through §178-21.1) If you choose to hire a private contractor to make the improvements, it will be necessary for the contractor to provide insurance and secure a permit from the Village’s Department of Public Works within 30 days of the Notice. The permit fee will be waived, however, a deposit will be collected. After all work has been completed and the acceptable restoration performed, the Village will return the deposit to the contractor listed on the permit.

If you choose to use the Village Contractor, all work performed by the Village Contractor will be billed as soon as the work is done and carries a one-year warranty, starting from the installation date.

In order to maintain the one-year warranty and to ensure the quality of work, the Village only offers replacement of the entire defective flag. If you choose to utilize an alternative repair method, the repairs must be made by a private contractor who will include the repair materials and methods that will be used in their permit application. If work is done by a private contractor without obtain-

See page 54

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

Fraudulent activity

Garden City Police are investigating a June 5th report of fraudulent activity against a victim’s bank and social security accounts.

Packages stolen

Packages delivered to the front steps of a Huntington Road residence were reported stolen on June 5th.

Landscaping tickets

On June 5th three landscapers were charged with illegally using gas leaf blowers.

Suspended registration

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and unregistered vehicle on June 5th.

Brush fire

Garden City Police and Firefighters extinguished a brush fire on the tracks of the Garden City Railroad Station on June 5th.

Unregistered

A 7th Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and unregistered vehicle on June 5th.

Bad checks

Upon investigation, Detectives arrested a 39-year-old male for allegedly issuing multiple fraudulent checks totaling $35,000 to a business as payment for services. He was charged with two counts of Issuing a Bad Check.

House hit

On June 6th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a residence where a vehicle backing out of a driveway veered into the house causing damage to the front porch area. Medics treated the driver for minor injuries at the scene.

Suspended license

A Kingsbury Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and passing a stop sign on June 6th.

False alarms

The GCFD and GCPD responded to four fire calls where the alarms were set in error on June 6th.

Excessive speed

On June 6th a Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with excessive speed in a school zone and passing a stop sign.

Carbon monoxide alarm

On June 6th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a residential CO alarm. Upon determining the cause was a stove issue, Firefighters

corrected the condition and ventilated the home. No injuries were reported.

Trespassing arrest

Upon investigation of a suspicious person in the vicinity of Old Country Road on June 7th, Garden City Police arrested a 26-year-male for allegedly trespassing on two Maria Lane properties and one Birch Lane property.

Aggressive driving

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with multiple aggressive driver violations on June 7th.

Shower alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residential fire alarm on June 7th, but determined that it was activated by shower steam.

Unregistered vehicle

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and unregistered vehicle on June 7th.

Unlicensed operation

On June 7th a Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed.

Malfunction

The GCFD and GCPD responded to a commercial fire alarm and determined the cause to be a system malfunction on June 7th.

Fraudulent transfers

Garden City Police are investigating a June 8th report of multiple fraudulent transfers from a victim’s bank account.

Faulty battery

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a residential fire alarm on June 8th and determined the cause to be a faulty battery.

Damaged manhole cover

On June 8th Garden City Police and Water Department personnel responded to North Avenue and Whitehall Boulevard to safeguard a damaged manhole cover and sewer drain.

Gas leak

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a Ring Road restaurant for a gas leak on June 8th. Upon confirmation of a leak, firefighters corrected the condition and ventilated the building. No injuries were reported.

Water main replacement

Police personnel provided traffic assistance to the Water Department

on June 9th for a water main replacement project at the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Stewart Avenue.

Excessive speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed on June 9th.

Hit and run

On June 9th a vehicle reportedly left the scene of a two-car traffic accident on Old Country Road.

Identity theft

On June 9th Garden City Police investigated a report by a victim that their identity was reportedly stolen and used to open an unauthorized Comcast account.

Illegal exhaust

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and an illegal exhaust system on June 9th.

Road rage, with knife

Garden City Police detectives are

investigating a June 10th report of a road rage incident on Stewart Avenue in which a male subject in a grey SUV reportedly waved a knife at a female victim.

Bank fraud

On June 10th a resident reported that their identity was stolen and used to make multiple fraudulent transactions against his financial accounts.

Suspended license

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed on June 10th.

Vehicle damaged

A vehicle was damaged by unknown means while parked in a private Franklin Avenue garage on June 10th.

Suspended registration

On June 10th a 7th Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration.

Burnt food

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a residential fire alarm and determined the cause to be burnt food.

See page 54

John Ellis Kordes

PhotograPhy history

“Where were you in ‘62?” That’s the famous line from the advertising for the great George Lucas 1973 film “American Graffiti.”

This archival photo was actually taken from a color slide shot in April 1964. It was taken on Seventh Street standing in front of the original Leo’s

looking NW across the street.

On the right is the G.C. Garage (built in 1907) which was a Gulf station in those days. In the center is a house originally part of the Garden City Garage but had various businesses in it over the decades. This included a Realtor, a TV repair shop and a

travel agency to name a few. The building at the very far left is Bell’s 5 & 10 with the Grand Union Supermarket to its left outside the photo. Today, all of that is the Key Food Supermarket.

For you “gear heads” out there, check out all those early sixties cars!

EPOA awards scholarship to GCHS senior

The Eastern Property Owners’ Association has awarded a $1000 scholarship to Garden City High School senior, James Nagler.  As in prior years, the EPOA focused its scholarship search on college bound seniors residing in the East who demonstrated outstanding records of community service.  This year, the EPOA scholarship committee had many deserving applicants.

James Nagler’s community service has been outstanding!  The major recipient of his efforts is a local nonprofit educational organization, KidOYO.   James has devoted over 500 hours teaching computer science to students of all levels, providing feedback on coding challenges as well as writing courses and lessons.  He was the first high school mentor in KidOYO since only college computer science majors were accepted as mentors previously.  James helped to grow the library of coding languages available on the site by teaching a new coding language, Swift, and creating a new software, Xcode.  He created 7 courses with over 25 lessons.  Providing low cost computer science and coding education to those with fewer resources was James’ primary motivation for

his incredible efforts and dedication.  James has stated that encouraging anyone willing to learn is the most valuable resource he can give!

James has also been involved in community service through volunteering with Camp Invention, a STEM summer camp in the Garden City School District and as a Garden City Library volunteer. At Garden City High School, James was a member of the elite Wind Ensemble and the Chamber Orchestra where he received All State and All County honors. The Varsity Boys Tennis Team was the recipient of his talents and where he was given the Sportsmanship Award.  The Copilot Drone Club of which he was the founder and mentor helps to engage prospective students in drone flying through a competition for local schools. James is the valedictorian of his class and will be attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the fall.  The EPOA is proud and pleased to honor James’ superlative efforts. It congratulates him and all the outstanding applicants as they graduate from high school. The EPOA feels fortunate to have these committed students contribute to the Garden City community!

INTERNATIONAL NIGHTS LAKESIDE THEATRE

6/16 ...... Indian American Night ............. 6:00 - 8:30 pm

6/26 ...... Greek American Night .............. 7:00 - 9:30 pm

6/29 ...... Chinese American Night .......... 6:00 - 8:30 pm

6/30 ...... Israeli American Night ............. 6:00 - 8:30 pm

7/1 ........ German American Night ........... 7:00 - 9:30 pm

7/19 ...... Creole American Night ............. 7:00 - 9:30 pm

7/21 ...... Bangladeshi American Night ... 6:00 - 8:30 pm

7/22 ...... Italian American Night ............. 7:00 - 9:00 pm

7/28 ...... Korean American Night ............ 6:00 - 8:30 pm

8/5 ........ Irish American Night ................ 7:00 - 9:30 pm

8/18 ...... Pakistani American Night ........ 4:00 - 8:00 pm

8/19 ...... Ukrainian American Night ....... 7:00 - 9:30 pm

9/8 ...... Turkish American Night ............. 6:00 - 7:30 pm

9/29 ...... Latino American Night ............ 2:00 - 9:00 pm

Bring Blankets or Chairs

EISENHOWER PARK

LAKESIDE THEATRE

& Stewart Avenues | East Meadow | 516-572-0200

Susanne M. Ferris

Susanne Miller Ferris of Geneva, IL, Glen Allen, VA and Garden City,  died on June 1, 2024, with her son Bob at her side.  Susanne was born on July 17, 1940, to Edward and Juanita Miller of Kilbuck, OH.  Susanne thrived in her small hometown with her older brother Ted.

Susanne attended The Ohio State University, where she met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Ferris at the Newman Club.  She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education and went on to earn her Master of Education from the University of Pittsburg. Susanne was also a certified speech pathologist.

Susanne and Bob were married on June 8, 1963, in Killbuck, OH.

Susanne’s teaching career started at St. Joseph’s School for the Deaf in New York City.  After a couple of years in New York City she and Bob moved to Miami, FL for Bob’s job with the airlines.  After four years, they returned to New York, to Garden City. This is where Susanne continued her role as mom to Mary-Theresa and Bobby. Soon after moving to GC Anne arrived.

Susanne was a substitute teacher, but once the kids were older, she taught Pre-K full time at St. Anne’s Catholic School.  These were her favorite 17 years of teaching.  She appreciated the

IN MEMORIAM

supportive and loving families of her students. And most of all cherished the life-long friendships she formed with her colleagues.

Susanne and Bob had 38 beautiful years together until Bob’s sudden death on September 11, 2001, in the World Trade Center attacks.  Susanne missed Bob every day until her death but relied on her unwavering faith and her family to keep going.

Susanne moved to Glen Allen, VA and joined St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church and then moved to Geneva, IL in 2021, joining St. Peter Catholic Church.  Both moves brought her closer to family.  Susanne adored her eight grandchildren and could be found sitting on the sidelines at every sporting event, volunteering in classrooms and attending grandparent days, school concerts, award ceremonies and graduations.

In earlier years Susanne was regularly active in her community – Brownie and Girl Scout leader, Republican Committee member, chair of the annual parish party, fundraising for the local hospital and so much more.  Later years brought welcome committees, out-reach committees and library duty.

Susanne was an avid bridge and Bunko player.  Rummikub was a favorite with her grandchildren.  She was always reading a book and had one

in queue.  Her love of crocheting and needlepoint passed down to her granddaughters.

Susanne enjoyed time with her friends over the years– at the GC Pool, trips to the Biltmore, fall foliage tours, trips to Florida, England and Greece with her NY gal pals and lunches and dinners with so many special friends, including the Sassy Seven in Geneva.  Wii-Bowling and daily exercise class kept her busy. She treasured and was blessed by each and every friendship.

Susanne’s faith was always central to her life.  She loved being active in all of her parishes.  Her favorite activities included being a Eucharistic Minister, ministering to nursing home residents, the Prayer Shawl Ministry, the Appalachian Twinning Ministry, Bereavement Committee, as well as attending and helping with retreats.

Most importantly, Susanne was truly an instrument of God. She brought a sense of peace and comfort to everyone she met. She always had a kind word to offer and stepped in to help whenever she could.  Susanne never complained and prayed for those she knew were in need.  She lived her faith, loved her children and grandchildren and cherished her friends.  She was special.  She is loved. She will be missed!

Susanne is survived by her children, Dr. Mary-Theresa Ferris Phillips (Robert) of Charlotte, NC, Dr. Robert E. Ferris (Meghan) of Potomac, MD and Anne Ferris Smith (Derran) of Campton Hills, IL; grandchildren Alexandra Phillips, Miller Phillips, Kaitlin Smith, Maggie Smith, Bobby Ferris, Brody Smith, Genny Ferris and Catherine Ferris.

She is also survived by her brother,

Dr. Edward Miller (Kathy), brother-inlaw Edward Ferris (Kay), sisters-inlaw Mary Ellen Geyer (Richard) and Bernadette Mason (Richard) and many wonderful nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Her dear cousin, Tony Miller (Lynn) also survives her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert J. Ferris, her parents, Edward J. and Jaunita Miller and her brothers-in-law, Richard L. Ferris and Charles Ferris and sister-inlaw, L. Joyce Ferris.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to: The St. Luke Foundation for Haiti, 8980 SW 56th Street, Miami, FL 33165 US or The St. Michael the Archangel Catholic ChurchAppalachian Twinning Ministry, 4491 Springfield Road | Glen Allen, VA | 23060

IN MEMORIAM

Ernest “Tim” L. Hester Jr. June 28, 1939 - April 16, 2024

Tim Hester, a lifelong resident of Garden City, passed away on April 16th after a valiant health battle.

Loving only child to Ernest L. Hester Sr. and Helena Wilhelmina Plath Hester, adoring husband of 59 years to Barbara Ann Banks Hester, wonderful father to Peter (Molly), Jennifer (Kenneth Mangano), and Aimee (Paul Escher), ever caring and present grandfather (“Pop”) to Ava, Lily, Mia, Will and Dean (Hester), Suzanne and Matthew (Mangano), Katherine, Brooke and Mark (Escher).

Always the gentleman, generous beyond measure, brilliant with an impeccable wit and an easy grace. Tim was loved by all whose paths he crossed.

A celebration of Tim’s wonderful life will be held on Saturday June 29th at 10am at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, 50 Cathedral Ave, Garden City.

Susanne M. Ferris

Ernest “Tim” L. Hester Jr.

The Seasons at East Northport condominiums are the perfect choice for those 55 and better who want to downsize without sacrificing luxury or comfort. Pre-construction pricing starting at $695,000, low real-estate taxes starting at $9,515, and multiple floor plans combined with a maintenance-free lifestyle make The Seasons an ideal choice. Discover the excitement of a fresh new start while staying close to the people and places you love.

Happy Father’s Day

Dad, thank you for your love, your strength, your example. Most of all, thank you for saying yes… To My Life.

The Moment of Conception begins forever in a man the sacred role of being a father.

God Bless All Fathers

• To the world you are one person, but to your child you are the world.

• Blessed is the man who hears a gentle voice call him father.

• Jesus answered and said to them, “ Amen, amen, I say to you, a son cannot do anything on his own, but only what he sees his father doing; for what he does, his son will do also.” John 5:19

• “A good father will leave his imprint on his daughter for the rest of her life.” Dr. James Dobson

• The best thing a man can do is to give good example to his wife and children.

Fathers, we have a special admiration for you, and we join in the celebration of fatherhood on this wonderful day – thanking all fathers for their love, sacrifice, and dedication to their children. From the moment of conception, you protect the most precious gift of all – the gift of life for your child.

Russ & IMO Mary Agnello

Paul & Margaret Albonetti

ILMO George & ILMO Rita Alexander

ILMO Michael Alliegro

The Amato Family

ILMO H. Arthur Anderson, Jr.

H. Arthur Anderson III

ILMO Harry Anderson

The Anziano-Ducey Families

Robert & Mari Auricchio

ILMO Dr. & Mrs. Bartol & Mary Matanic

Beth & Tony Bennett

Margaret & Tommy Blair

T & Tasha Blair

Timmy & Nathalie Blair

Jim & Diane Brady

ILMO Edward & Mary Brennan

Diana & Chris Buffa & Family

ILMO Addison James Burke, MD

James Burke

Katherine Burke

Mary Burke

John Byrne

Ciro & Rose Cangialosi

Giuseppina Rose Cangialosi

Joseph Cangialosi

Peter Cangialosi

Maryanne & ILMO Michael Cassano

Janet Churik & Family

Joseph Donald Colahan

ILMO Don Connors

Carol Cook

Jim Corrigan

Rev. Prasanna W. Costa

Sally Coyne

The Creeron Family

Robert L. Cunningham

John & Anne De Luca

Alexander De Marchena

Hector & Debra de Marchena

John M. Delany

ILMO Robert Di Pasquale

Leslie Dimmling & Family

Sheila M. Dollard

David & Anne Donnelly

Margherita C. Dougherty

Robert L. Dougherty

ILMO Rev. Paul G. Driscoll

Maryellen & Doug Drogalis & Family

Jacqueline & Roger Eltringham

ILMO Donald Emery

Sidney & Kathleen Eng

Elizabeth Erdos

Michael J. Falco

Vicki & Joe Ferrara

Helen (Burke) & John Fischbeck

Suzanne & Michael Fischetti

Gale & William Flaherty

ILMO Thomas & Dorothy Flaherty

ILMO Michael & Kathleen Folan

Maria & Michael Franco

The Fraser Family

ILMO the Gilsenan & McGrath Families

The Graham Family

Ken & Melanie Graham & Family

Rita & Gregory Greco

ILMO Bert Haggerty

Eileen Haggerty

ILMO Warren & Viola Hampton

Regina & Victor Harte

Mrs. Marie Hartmann

Christopher & Josephine Hassett

Danial & Karen Hassett

Frank & Muriel Hassett

Michael & Martiza Hassett

Peter Hassett

Stephen Hassett

Thomas & Mary Hassett

Trevor & Jean Hassett

William J. Havron

The Heinzelmann Family

Leslie & Charles Hickson

Kathleen M. & John C. Higdon

Hildebrand & Gabay Family

Amy & John Keane

MaryAnn & Josh Keffer & Family

Jennifer, John & Abigail Kibble

Patty Knap

Carianne Kokiadis

ILMO Marvin Koslow

Ann Kutch

Audrey Lavin

Alicia, Annemarie & ILMO Frank Levano

Janet & ILMO Steve Levano & Family

Lorraine & Joe Levano & Family

Steven & Michelle Levano-Loy

Jim & Jean Madelmayer

Stacy Madelmayer & Brandon DeStasio

Thomas & Susan Madelmayer

Carla Marco

Eva Mariani

John Mariani Sr.

John & Janet Mastanduono

John & Lynn McCabe

Paul & Adrienne McDougal

Kevin L. McGerty

Michael & Linda McGuire & Sons

Kristin McKenna

Maria & Jack McKenna

ILMO Francis J. Meyer

Mary Beth & Pat Miranda

ILMO Nathan & Phyllis Mistretta

Rose Lys Mombeleur

Geri Moratti & Family

Hikmete Morina

Laura Mulligan

Mary & Hugh J. Mullin

The Children of Vincent Murphy ILM

John & ILMO Jeanne Nason

Marie Negron

The Nigro Family

Margaret Noonan & Family

David & Loretta Nugent

Aja Nwaeke & Family

Rev. Hilary Nwajagu

Ann & Art O’Brien

Brendan O’Brien

Kevin & ILMO Ann O’Brien

Mike & Magdalena O’Brien & Family

Patrick O’Brien

Stephen & Charlotte O’Brien & Family

Tom & Mary O’Brien & Family

This Tribute to Fathers is made possible through generous donations from parishioners of St. Joseph’s and St. Anne’s Churches, members of the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council No. 15809 and area residents who recognize the most sacred and important role of fathers in cooperating with God’s Divine Plan to nurture and protect all children born and pre-born.

ILMO William & ILMO Mary Rita O’Brien

ILMO Donald & Peggy O’Sullivan

Michael & Cathy O’Sullivan & Family

Karen & Tim Palagonia

Ann Paulson

Byron & Cecily Peeples

Concetta Pernice

Josephine Pernice

The Persico Family

ILMO Sam & Ann Petruzzelli

Grace Preziosi

Mary Kate Preziosi

Ann Quinlan

Catherine & Sean Quinn

Marianne & Larry Quinn

Kenneth E. & ILMO Arline Richter

Althea Robinson

Tom & Jean Rollauer

John Russo

Thomas & Kathleen Ryan

The Salvatico Family

The Saunders Family

Michael J. & Evelyn A. Schwantner

Mary, Jimmy & ILMO Jack Searson

Caitlin, Will, Evelyn & Margot Sheridan

Anna Maria Sirianni

Frances R. Skinner

Barbara Stay

Rosalia Suarez

Rev. Msgr. James P. Swiader

The Tener Family

Craig & Jeannie Tigh

Peter & Kathryn Tomao

Brian & Veronica Tracey

Helen Mary M. Tyszka

Carol & Tom Vallely

Regina & Giancarlo Villanella

Rosemary & John Villanella

Robert & Geralyn Walters

ILMO Charles Ward

Marta & Marty Waters

ILMO Reynold Whiting, Jr.

Brenda Wydler

Henry & Kathie Wysocki

IN MEMORIAM

Margaret Loretta Mullooly

On Wednesday, June 5, 2024, Margaret Loretta Mullooly (nee Bligh), a loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend passed away, with family by her side at her home at 93 years of age. Margaret, also known by her friends as Peggy, spent her entire adult life in Garden City,  raising her family. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, James E. Mullooly.

Born on March 30, 1931, in Floral Park, Peggy attended Our Lady of Victory elementary school, The Mary Louis Academy, and University of Mount Saint Vincent. She graduated in 1953, where she made lifelong friends and was an active alum till the very end. She spoke glowingly of her time in school, even the daily commutes to and from the Bronx! She studied English, was president of her class, and created many lifelong friendships with “the Mounties!"…including the future President of the Philippines (Cory Aquino). Whilst having an eye and zeal for design and business, opportunities in those fields were limited, thus, she briefly taught 2nd grade before staying home to raise her six children.

In 1975, she opened a retail business, Miniature Manor, a dollhouse store, that she operated for 40 years, retiring the business in 2015. Miniature Manor was a charming retail presence in the Village of Garden City and was well known in the miniature enthusiast world. Peggy had many steady, loyal clients who traveled from great distances to shop there. Peggy’s passion for miniatures extended to the community where she hosted school outings and donated dollhouses to various charitable organizations.

Peggy was an active member of the Church of St. Joseph, faithfully attending daily Mass. She worked at Bloomingdales being one of the founding employees when the store first opened on Franklin Avenue in Garden City.

An avid bridge player, Peggy also enjoyed bowling, traveling, collecting antiques, reading, and was a fierce Scrabble player, regularly achieving scores over 300 points. Her Jeopardy skills were top notch…that would lead to her children sometimes intentionally lowering the volume to try to gain an edge!

Ever the optimist, Peggy/Mom never had a cross word to say about anyone, "If you don’t have something nice to say…. don't say it at all." In the direst of circumstances, she would naturally gravitate toward the positive. "How fortunate am I…. are we!" The strength of those messages, from a sometimes 90 lb. woman, were delivered with the force of General Patton and were to be obeyed. Margaret was the oldest daughter

Margaret Loretta Mullooly

of the late Loretta and William Bligh of Garden City. She will be greatly missed by four sisters: Regina Purcell, Lorraine McNally, Janet Curtin, and Lois MacDonald. She was so proud and impressed by each of her siblings.

Peggy is survived by her six children and their spouses, Margy and Bob Hannan, Barbara and Kevin Walsh, Laura and Paul Giacini, Jim and Patti Mullooly, Claire and Gene Preston, Tommy and Happy Mullooly. Also surviving are 17 grandchildren that she loved engaging, toasting, and hearing of their latest exploits: Bill (and Lindsy) Hannan, Dennis (and Hillary) Hannan, Kerry (and Andrew) Cauchi, Amanda (and Kevin) Rice, Sam (and Claire) Walsh, Ben, and Quinn Walsh, Erin and Ryan Giacini, Christopher, Sarah, and Colin Mullooly, Geoffrey (and Liz Krug) Preston, and Haley Preston, Caroline, Ava, and Jack Mullooly. Peggy had 8 delightful great grandchildren that lived nearby and lit up her day: Garrett, Patrick, and Reese Hannan, Lyla, Millie, and Clara Hannan, Luke and Teagan Cauchi.

A visitation was held on Sunday, June 9 at Fairchild Funeral Home, Garden City. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, June 10, at Saint Joseph Church in Garden City.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the University of Mount Saint Vincent, 6301 Riverdale Ave., Riverdale, NY 10471.

The Belmont Stakes at Saratoga

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

I recognize that not everyone is that interested in horse racing, but the running of the Belmont Stakes last week at upstate Saratoga Race Course intersects with a number of political, social and sports topics. Here are a few thoughts about the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga.

Most people know at least a little about the Triple Crown, a series of races for three year old thoroughbreds that consists of the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness and the Belmont Stakes. For a 37 year period from 1978, when Affirmed prevailed, until 2015, when American Pharaoh won, no horse was able to sweep the Triple Crown. Justify was able to accomplish the feat in 2018.

The biggest obstacle to Triple Crown success has been the final race of the series, the Belmont Stakes, aptly named “The Test of the Champion”, which is conducted over a grueling mile and a half distance, which almost none of the runners have ever run previously, and which they are quite unlikely to ever encounter again. In contrast, the Kentucky Derby is run at amile and a quarter and the Preakness at 1 3/16 miles. The other factor making the Belmont so difficult is that it is the last of a series of three races in five weeks. For whatever reason, modern thoroughbreds do not typically run that frequently.

In any event, Belmont Park on Long Island, where the Belmont Stakes is normally run, is undergoing a major renovation, and a decision was made to transfer the Belmont Stakes in 2024 and 2025 to Saratoga. Basically, the renovation at Belmont Park will build a much smaller grandstand to reflect the much lower track attendance at Belmont Park in recent years during any day other than Belmont Stakes Day; temporary seating will be added for the Stakes, and the track infield will be opened for seating. While racing has had its ups and downs in recent years, some of this decline in attendance was simply the product of people betting off track, including through online accounts, rather

than actually putting their money through the teller windows at the track. Aqueduct Racetrack will be closed after the renovation

One major issue with this temporary transfer to Saratoga was that there is no practical way to run a mile and a half at Saratoga without a significant renovation of that track, and a decision was made to run the race at a mile and a quarter.

Basically, as Saratoga is currently configured, you would have to begin a mile and a half race on a turn, which would likely create a bias in favor of horses with the inside post positions. Of course, if the same horse had won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness, and was then vying for the Triple Crown, there would have been a major controversy about the legitimacy of a victory in the shortened Belmont Stakes. A horse winning all three races would inevitably be subject to criticism for not winning at the mile and a half distance that the other Triple Crown winners endured. Indeed, this potential issue is somewhat reminiscent of the 1961 controversy surrounding Roger Maris breaking the homer record in 162 games

More or less fortuitously, however, there was no Triple Crown possibility at Saratoga this year, as different horses won the Kentucky Derby (Mystik Dan) and the Preakness (Seize the Grey).

Belmont Stakes Day at Saratoga was conducted before a large and enthusiastic crowd and the New York Racing Association generally did a good job in the transition from Belmont Park.  However, one other reason the day was successful was something that didn’t happen -- horses  breaking down.

Somewhat belatedly, the racing industry is taking animal welfare more seriously, with a new regulator, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, new rules limiting permissible drugs and a heightened commitment to postretirement horse aftercare. Horse racing has a long and storied history, but its leaders must be sensitive to public concerns.

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June 14,

Sports leaders, Recreation Commission discuss fields

From page 1

Paul’s have continued to be the prevailing concern for village youth sports organizations. The leagues/teams visit other Nassau County venues and report that, in comparison, the St. Paul’s fields lack quality. Some questions were raised about the lack of chemical treatment on St. Paul’s fields over recent years due to the commitment made to the all-organic, no-pesticide program for the protection of children’s health and safety. Blake shared that the fifth year of this initiative for St. Paul’s has seen a break from that full no-pesticide program. The EAB and mayor participated in a discussion prior to the application of a pre-emergent pesticide, and the program includes adding on a post-emergent chemical to the fields.

The effectiveness of the current chemical uses was also questioned and Blake offered a scientific breakdown of the analysis and inspections of all of the playing fields, with conditions improving steadily and reports being compiled for horticultural evaluation.

Mr. Blake explained that the first only-organic applications on the fields at St. Paul’s were spread in 2020, following discussions in 2017 and 2018 on Rec. “going green” for its fields and healthy alternatives concerning on-field chemical use and the impact on the village groundwater supply.

The use of pre-emergent and post-emergent chemicals on the St. Paul’s fields this year was determined as a necessary step well ahead of the spring sports season. New Village Arborist Joe Umana spoke about the grass conditions and addressing weeds at his inaugural Rec. Commission meeting back on February 28.

Rec. Commission member Bill Garry pointed out that a drastic change from organic treatments of the St. Paul’s fields to non-organic (pesticides) would see more than a few comments from village residents.

“If you’re going to change from all organic to non-organic, more than a few of us here know from experience that it would not be a very pleasant event for you guys or for us. It’s more than a handful of people who will notice and as some Commission members have seen, there is an audience in Garden City that will not be for the full non-organic plan,” he said.

He advised the residents and sports group representatives who were at the meeting that the real issue on these fields stems from “capacity.” In the fall, the Recreation and Parks Department plans to remove the baseball field at the north end of the St. Paul’s grounds.

Future Use Would Impact Fields

n elephant in the room—right outside the meeting room’s front window— was noted by lifelong village resident and Superintendent of the Recreation

Department Paul Blake. He mentioned the uncertainty over what will eventually be decided for a future community center project at the site of the historic, 1880s-built St. Paul’s main building. The survey program outlined over recent weeks by Blake, Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan, other village trustees, and the consultants Brandstetter Carroll Inc. was stated as a key for both the future interests in more recreational and athletic facilities, including turf playing fields, and for what needs to be developed at and around the St. Paul’s campus, which is designated parkland.

Garry also noted the schedule of closures for some of the fields and the potential for sodding to rejuvenate the battered grounds.

“We could create a budget item to spend X on sod in the worn areas, to fill on a regular basis, and there are things that could be done if we want to bring fields back online in less time and to supplement the condition of the turf as we have done selectively. There can be added expense to create more playability on the fields we have – though that does not address capacity in and of itself,” he said.

Hegarty said the way to really increase capacity was to increase the number of village turf athletic fields. To that, Mr. Blake replied, “Absolutely.”

Field Conditions Discussion

Jumping in on the May 30 discussion with fervor was the newly sworn-in Village Trustee Vinny Muldoon, elected in March 2024 and freshly appointed as Village Board liaison to the Rec. Commission. Muldoon looked over at Superintendent Blake and the resident commenters from under his black baseball cap, and during the field conditions discussion, he offered insights as the most influential voice in the room.

Unlike the Rec. Commission, he looked at the larger picture as one of eight residents (trustees) that will vote on future village budgets and agenda items, particularly for any financial expenditures to enhance municipal Recreation and Parks.

School District Collaboration?

The three members of the public later insisted that the village Rec. make strides to work with the Garden City Board of Education and GC school district administration to come up with a way to include another field project, but the answers to Muldoon’s inquiry were unanimous among the guests—the Stewart School field (owned and operated by the district) should house one new field. The village should create another at the northern stretch of the St. Paul’s fields, the residents present told the Rec. Commission.

Preliminary feedback received by consulting firm Brandstetter Carroll Inc. regarding the development of a Recreation and Parks Master Plan

indicates high interest and hopes that Garden City will both improve the surface conditions of its St. Paul’s fields and build/construct additional synthetic turf fields there and elsewhere. Stewart School or Stewart Field in Garden City’s east section was noted as the preferred location, but a considerable amount of coordination and planning involving the school district and residents on Raymond Court could mean a more beleaguered process than any other sites that Recreation and the village trustees would have under their purview.

Mr. Garry commented, “There is no relationship between the village Rec. Commission/village government and the Garden City School District in terms of utilization of the public schools’ fields.” Hegarty responded that the Rec. Department works with the district often because the schools’ teams utilize Village of Garden City fields through Rec. bookings.

Superintendent Blake suggested that he and Trustee Muldoon coordinate a discussion with the school district administration, including Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha, to relay Hegarty’s idea about field usage and also for a turf field project behind Stewart School, based on the stated community interest. “There is a new group in charge of the district fields, and they have sounded like they will be more amenable to making school fields available,” Blake said.

Muldoon considered the sentiments he heard, and he asked the men sharing their comments to think of where the real need is and the appropriate place would be in Garden City to locate and build a brand-new, state-of-the-art synthetic turf playing field. This discussion took a turn into the consideration of the real need of the sports community holding their many games in Garden City as most suited for the use of not one but two brand-new turf fields.

“The first thing is to get the information. You guys instruct and organize all the young kids in town and are involved in what I used to do about 25 years ago –now my kids are all grown up and have graduated from college. It’s important to know your families’ needs and talk with the other sports groups – soccer, football, lacrosse and baseball for field use. You see these fields firsthand and the scenario of what we’re missing, what is good and bad and what we will need. I do think our Rec. staff have inherited a lot of stuff that was not well-managed in the past, though there were good intentions behind them,” Muldoon said.

He commented on the poor field conditions of St. Paul’s playing fields following his walkthrough earlier in May. “It’s a poor reflection of our village. But you move beyond that and say, ‘let’s fix it!’”

The commission discussion got into

questions Hegarty and colleagues raised about potential village field usage, but Trustee Muldoon summarized the effort as becoming more diligent about “systems in place.”

“The next big thing is we need at least one, possibly two, quality turf fields whether they will be dedicated to lacrosse, soccer or any sports,” he said.

Hegarty’s immediate response was to question if the next new synthetic turf field would have lights for nighttime play. He told the Rec. Commission, “one field with lights is like having four fields.”

Trustee Muldoon asked Mr. Blake about the potential for hiring a specialist (consultant) to evaluate and recommend the course of action for the fields at St. Paul’s. Muldoon said while the fields are very important, that is only one aspect of what the Rec. and Parks’ staff must handle on a daily basis for Garden City. He compared the potential for a shift in operations on field maintenance and improvement to hiring subcontractors within his construction and design business so there can be a laser focus on the job at hand while the in-house resources are deployed for managing multiple other tasks.

When Hegarty asked Mr. Blake why the St. Paul’s grass does not hold up and the fields at Community Park, which are also treated with the all-organic formula (used exclusively over the last two years), do appear sturdy and better, Blake referenced the problem as “a use issue.”

Another comment offered by Rec. Commission members was about the natural grass at the Community Park baseball field only having three outfielders running on it and getting on top of the grass sparingly, compared with soccer and lacrosse at St. Paul’s.

More facts shared

“During my previous tenure as head of Recreation & Parks (in the early 2000s) we did a lot of soil sampling and we sent our samples up to the Cornell University Cooperative Extension. One of the things they noted was that the soil mix at St. Paul’s was a typical Long Island mix of sandy loam and hardpan, however the hardpan percentage was much higher here than in most other areas of Long Island. For whatever reason these particular fields have more deadpan soil and they are harder to infiltrate – one thing that was suggested is that we do more and more deep tining on the St. Paul’s fields.”

He added that the Rec. Department plans to use the rental deep-tiner machine again this year, but for next year the department’s capital budget will include, for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the purchase of a brand-new deep-tining machine “so we can get out there and tine the field regularly to get it a little softer and try to make it more amenable

See page 49

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It's What's Happening for Young Adults Through the Library

An Important Note

Regarding Photography and Recording for all Young Adult Programs

Garden City Public Library Recording Policy, Section IV:

The Library may take photos, videos, and audio recordings at the Library and during Library events to use in its publicity materials and on its website and social media sites. The Library reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the Library building and grounds. These photographs, videos, and audio recordings may be copied, displayed, televised, and published (including on any Library web site or social media site). Any individual that does not wish the Library to use a photograph or video of them or their child should inform a Library staff member prior to or while such photographs or videos are being taken. [Adopted: June 13, 2022]

Adventure

Begins at Your

Library”Tweens and Teens

Summer Reading Club: Register Now! Registration is underway for the Tweens and Teens “Adventure Begins at Your Library” Summer Reading Club! This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 only. Tweens and teens can register online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Registrants can pick up their Summer Reading Club bags in the Tweens and Teens Room while supplies last.

Once you sign-up, you can submit raffle entries for each book you read at the Library or online through our website (www.gardencitypl.org). Tweens and teens who submit one raffle entry will have a chance to win one of this year’s raffle prizes and will also be automatically invited to the End-of-Summer Tweens and Teens Ice Cream and Pizza Party on Wednesday, August 14. All books must be at the appropriate reading level and be read and reviewed between June 10 and August 14. Registration is ongoing until Wednesday, August 14. Raffle entries must be submitted no later than Wednesday, August 14. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, August 14 at the End-of-Summer Tweens and Teens Ice Cream and Pizza Party. You do not have to be present to win. This year’s raffle prizes include:

• Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine

• $50 Amazon Gift Card

• Seventh Street Gift Card Lunch Package worth $75 (3 $25 gift cards to Burger Spot, Guac Shop, and Garden City Pizza)

• Seventh Street Gift Card Dessert Package worth $75 (3 $25 gift cards to

Dunkin, Starbucks, and TCBY)

• Airpods

• $50 Sephora Gift Card

The more books you read and the more reviews you enter, the more chances you have to win! Plus those who register for this year’s Summer Reading Club will automatically be entered into our weekly Gift Card Grab Bag Raffle!

Attend a program! Anytime you attend a program between June 10 and August 14, you will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card! The more programs you attend, the more chances you have of winning!

Winners will have until Friday, September 13 to pick up their prizes. Prizes will not be held past September 13.

If you have any questions, email Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl.org/ young-adult-department/contact-theyoung-adult-tweens-teens-department/.

Adventure Begins at Your Library

Creative Arts Contest

Get creative this summer by entering our Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest! There will be two categories for the Contest: Writing and Art. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 can participate and submit to both categories. Multiple submissions are allowed. There will be multiple winners for each category, with prizes being Amazon gift cards. Participants’ work can also be submitted for community service to the Library’s Tweens and Teens Art Gallery show in August 2024. Participants can use the “Adventure” theme as a source of inspiration for the contest, but are not required to follow the theme.

Submissions will be accepted in person at the Library beginning Monday, June 10. The deadline to submit is Friday, August 2. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, August 14 at the End of Summer Tweens and Teens Ice Cream and Pizza Party. You do not have to be present to win. Entries should be created between June 10-August 2. Entries can be submitted online via our website (www.gardencitypl.org) or in person in the Tweens and Teens Room. Each in-person entry must include the Contest Submission Form, which can be picked up at the Library. Winners will have until Friday, September 13 to pick up their prizes. Prizes will not be held past September 13.

We might share your artwork or writing on our Facebook and/or Instagram pages:

Facebook: facebook.com/

GCPLTweensTeens

Instagram: instagram.com/

GCPLTweensTeens

If you have any questions, email Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl.org/ young-adult-department/contact-theyoung-adult-tweens-teens-department/.

Tweens and Teens Summer Art Show for Community Service

Earn community service by submitting artwork for the Garden City Public Library’s Tweens and Teens Summer Art Show in the Library’s Lower Level Gallery during the month of August 2024.Artwork must be created between Monday, June 10 and Friday, July 26. Volunteers can submit up to three pieces of art. Submissions are due Friday, July 26. Submissions can include artwork created at the Library during a Library program. Volunteers must return their artwork with a volunteer form, which can be found at the Library, in order to receive community service credit. Volunteers do not have to submit all three pieces of art at once and should do an additional form for artwork they submit at a later date.

Volunteers will receive two hours for each piece they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. The artwork will be displayed until the end of August. Afterward, participants can pick up their artwork until September 13. Artwork will be held no longer than September 13.

Artwork included in the show can be submitted toward this year’s Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest!

Tween Drama Club

This summer, the Garden City Children’s Department and Young Adult Department are excited to introduce an all-new Tween Drama Club! Performers will work on a variety of short scenes, which will then be performed on stage at the Library on Monday, July 29 at 7PM. This program is for tweens entering Grades 4-7 in Fall 2024. Registration is required online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). The Tween Drama Club will have rehearsals the following Tuesdays in the summer from 1:30PM-2:30PM:

• June 25

• July 2

• July 9

• July 16

• July 23

Once you are signed-up, you are automatically registered for all rehearsals. Performers do not have to attend every rehearsal, but are encouraged to attend as many as they are able. Performers are also encouraged to practice at home. Performers will be asked to arrive at 6PM on Monday, July 29, the day of the show.

Performers can choose to memorize their lines or perform “script in hand.” In the event of an absence the day of the show, other participants may be asked to fill in with “script in hand.” Performers are required to provide their own costuming, but will not have any specific requirements on the costumes they choose to wear.

Don’t love to act, but want to get involved? Tweens can also join if they want to help with Stage Crew!

Tweens entering Grades 6 and 7 who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card. It is Library policy that parents of children under 10 attending a program remain at the Library throughout and meet the child upon completion of the program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Bookmarks for Community Service

Earn community service by creating bookmarks for Garden City Public Library patrons! Each volunteer will receive 10 bookmarks to color, decorate, and write positive or library/book themed messages. These bookmarks will be available for patrons at the Library to take to brighten their day. Bookmarks will be available for patrons of all ages.

To participate, please register online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org).

Volunteers can register once each week for eight weeks as follows:

Registration Week One: Monday, June 24 at 10AM to Friday, June 28 at 4PM.

Registration Week Two: Monday, July 1 at 10AM to Friday, July 5 at 4PM

Registration Week Three: Monday, July 8 at 10AM to Friday, July 12 at 4PM

Registration Week Four: Monday, July 15 at 10AM to Friday, July 19 at 4PM

Registration Week Five: Monday, July 13 at 10AM to Friday, July 17 at 4PM

Registration Week Six: Monday, July 29 at 10AM to Friday, August 2 at 4PM

Registration Week Seven: Monday, August 5 at 10AM to Friday, August 9 at 4PM

Registration Week Eight: Monday, August 12 at 10AM to Friday, August 16 at 4PM

Bookmarks should be returned no later than Friday, August 30. Registrants will be asked to pick up their bookmarks at the Library in order to participate in this community service program.

It's What's Happening for Young Adults Through the Library

Volunteers must return 10 completed bookmarks in order to receive community service. Volunteers will receive two hours for every 10 bookmarks they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

“Adventure Begins at Your Library”

Tiny Art Show for Community Service

Earn community service by painting a mini canvas at home for the Garden City Public Library’s “Adventure Begins at Your Library” Tiny Art Show Project! Registration begins Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability.

Each volunteer will receive one mini canvas to decorate at home. Supplies must be picked up at and returned to the Library. Volunteers’ artwork can be inspired by the Summer Reading Club “Adventure” theme, but doesn’t have to relate to the theme. Volunteers’ mini canvas will be used in the Library’s “Adventure Begins at Your Library” Tiny Art Show to help promote this year’s Summer Reading Club.

Mini Canvases are due back no later than Thursday, July 11, 2024. Volunteers are also welcome to use additional supplies that they have at home. Volunteers will receive two hours for participating in this project, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. The mini canvases will be displayed until the end of August. Afterward, participants can pick up their mini canvases until September 13. Mini Canvases will be held no longer than September 13.

Artwork included in the display can be submitted toward this year’s Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest! This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Final Exam Study Hall

Studying for final exams? Then join us for our Final Exam Study Hall on Tuesday, June 18 at 4PM-5PM. Students are welcome to stop by the lower level of the Library. We will have chairs and tables set-up for students to study. Snacks and beverages will be provided for students studying. This program is for students in Grades 6-12 studying for final exams. Registration is required and can be done online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Registration begins Tuesday, June 11 at 10AM. Space is limited so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program.This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Intro to Safe Babysitting

Join us for this Babysitting Workshop program, Intro to Safe Babysitting, on Tuesday, June 27 at 4PM. This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024. We will be using the Intro to Safe Babysitting curriculum from Safe Sitter® as well as a presentation on food allergies a Girl Scout created for her Gold Award. Registrants must bring a doll to practice diapering. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, June 18 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

VolunTeen Artists: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service

Make Friendship Bracelets for friends and Library patrons during VolunTeen Artists: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service, which will be held on Tuesday, June 25 at 4PM at the Library. Inspired by the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, create Friendship Bracelets to trade and give to friends and for the Library to give to patrons. At least one bracelet you make must be used for the Library to give out to patrons in order to earn community service. This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, June 18 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tweens and Teens Summer Reading

Kick-Off Ice Cream Social

Kick-off this year’s Summer Reading Club with our Tweens and Teens Summer Reading Kick-Off Ice Cream Social! We will have tabletop games, video games, karaoke, and more! This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 only and will be held Wednesday, July 26 at 7PM. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, June 18 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tweens and Teens

Dungeons

and Dragons

Join us for Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons and learn how

to play the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons and Dragons by participating in one of our monthly Dungeons and Dragons Meet-Ups! Beginners are welcome! Each meet-up will feature a new self-contained, one-shot adventure and players will be assigned premade characters to play. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) to participate in this program. The June session will be held Thursday, June 27 at 4PM. Registration begins Tuesday, June 18 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper. Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Crafternoon: Patriotic Fleece Tied Pillow Craft

Create your own American Flag pillow for the Fourth of July during Teen Crafternoon: Patriotic Fleece Tied Pillow! This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 only and will be held Monday, July 1 at 4PM. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, June 25 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) at 10AM. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card!  This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

The next meeting of the Teen Advisory Board will be held on Tuesday, July 2 at 4PM. Registration begins Tuesday, June 25 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). The meeting is for Tweens and Teens in Grades 6-12. If you are interested in helping to come up with programming ideas, volunteer ideas, or social media outreach ideas for Tweens and Teens in Grades 6-12, consider joining the Teen Advisory Board. Online applications are available at https://www.gardencitypl.org/teen-advisory-board-application/  Applicants should be in Grades 6-12. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card!

Teen Movie Night: Back to the Future

Enjoy snacks as we watch Back to the Future during Teen Movie Night! Teen Movie Night will be held Wednesday, July 3 at 6PM. This movie is rated PG. This program is for tweens and teens

entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2023 only. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, June 25 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card! This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Volunteers Needed:

Preschool DUPLO LEGO Club

Volunteer to help children ages 1 1/2 - 5 (not in Kindergarten) during the monthly Children’s program Preschool DUPLO LEGO Program! The summer session will be held on Monday, July 8. The Preschool DUPLO LEGO program runs from 2PM-3:30M. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 1:30PM to help set-up before the start of the program and stay after to help clean up until 3PM. Volunteers must be in Grades 6-12 only. Registration to volunteer begins Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card!  This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Crafternoon: DIY Canvas Backpacks

Design your own drawstring backpack using fabric markers, acrylic paint pens, sharpies, and acrylic paint during Teen Crafternoon: DIY Canvas Backpacks! This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 only and will be held Monday, July 8 at 4PM. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card!  This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Creative Writing Workshop

Join us for a Teen Creative Writing Workshop on Thursday, July 9 at 4PM. Get challenged with writing prompts See page 38

Teen Calming Corner created at GC Library

The Garden City Public Library Tweens and Teens Department was awarded a $1100 grant by Nassau Library System from the NYS “Love Your Library” fund in order to establish a Teen Calming Corner in the Tweens and Teens Room. The corner was set up in the Tweens and Teens Room in May, which is also National Mental Health Awareness Month, and is open for the use of tweens and teens in Grades 6-12.

As per the information session for the grant: “A calm down corner is a designated space in a home or classroom with the sole intent of being a safe space for a child to go when they feel their emotions are running too high

and they need to regain their emotional and physical control….A calm down corner kit can include items such as stress balls, fidget toys, sensory toys, noise-canceling headphones, calming music, books, and coloring sheets. It can also include visual aids such as a timer or visual schedule to help students manage their time in the calm down corner.”

Two pilot Teen Calming Corners were established in 2023, one at Hicksville Library and one at Port Washington Library. In 2024, Garden City, along with an additional five other libraries in Nassau County, was awarded the grant to create a Teen Calming Corner at the Library.

Items included in the Teen Calming Corner are bean bag chairs, sensory and fidget toys, fidget textured strips, weighted blankets, coloring pages, origami, moving sand art, expandable ball and rubik’s cube, marble maze mats, coping cards, an organizer, mindfulness breathing kitty and puppy, a worry shredder, potted plants, noise-reducing earmuffs, and LED lighting, such as fairy lights or an artificial bonsai tree with LED lights.

The Library also included a selection of books from the Young Adult collection focused on mindfulness and mental

The corner includes calming activities such as coloring pages, origami, fidget toys and books about mindfulness.

health for tweens and teens to browse.

As per the requirements of the grant, the funds from the grant must be used specifically for a calming corner that is exclusively for the teens in the community.

The Tweens and Teens Department at the Garden City Public Library hopes

that the establishment of this Teen Calming Corner will indicate to teens in the community that the Library is a place that cares about their mental well-being and is also a welcoming place for neurodivergent teens and teens with special needs.

It's What's Happening for Young Adults Through the Library

From page 37

and activities, and even get inspired to write something for this year’s Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest! This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 only. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Paint Night

Join us on Wednesday, July 10 at 7PM for Teen Paint Night. This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 only. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). Participants can submit their artwork to our Tweens and Teens Summer Art Show in August in order to earn community service and also can submit it toward this year’s Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest. Afterward, participants can

pick up their art until September 13.

Artwork will be held no longer than September 13. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card! This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Volunteers Needed: Reading Pals

Volunteer to read to and then do a craft with children ages PreK-Grade 2 during the program Reading Pals! The summer session will be held on Thursday, July 11. The Reading Pals program runs from 1:30PM-2:30PM. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 1PM to review the material before the start of the program and stay until 2:30PM to help clean up. Volunteers must be in Grades 6-12 only. Registration to volunteer begins Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this program will be

entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card! This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tween Thursdays: Flower Pot Craft

Join us for Tween Thursdays and paint your own flower pot during Tween Thursdays: Flower Garden Craft! Participants will paint their plastic flower pots using acrylic paint and will also plant seeds in their pot to grow their own flowers. This program is for tweens in Grades 4-7 and is a joint program with the Children’s and Young Adult Departments. The program will be held Thursday, July 11 at 4PM. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, July 2 at 10AM online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. It is Library policy that parents of children under 10 attending a program remain at the Library throughout and meet the child upon completion of the program. Tweens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 who attend this

program will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble Gift Card! This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tweens and Teens Best Books Committee 2024

Earn community service by reading and reviewing recently published Young Adult books throughout the year and help the Tweens and Teens Department create the Best Books lists for 2024! Volunteers should be in Grades 6-12. Volunteers will be asked to read new books aimed at Grades 6-12 and published between January 1, 2023 and December 6, 2024. Volunteers will then fill out a feedback form, which includes a 300-word review. Volunteers can use the Library’s monthly reading lists beginning in January 2024 to help get ideas on what to read!

To access the feedback form and earn community service credit, scan the QR code on the flier which can be found outside the Tweens and Teens Room. You can also access the feedback form by going to https://forms. gle/Wy6HqY69envMHjHd8.

Bean bag chairs in the new calming corner.

News From the Garden City Public Library

Monday Movies

Monday Movies presented by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library @ 1:30PM. June  2024

June 17: Father of the Bride, 1991, 105 Minutes Summer  Programs

Get Ready for The Adult’s Summer Reading Club! June 10-August 10, 2024

Adventure Begins at Your Library!

Join Us for our 2024 Adult  Travel Around Summer Reading Club!  What kind of adventure will you have this summer?  Are you jetting to Europe?  Sailing to the Bahamas?  Going zip lining in the rainforest?  Staying home and hanging around the Garden City Pool?  Maybe your adventure can come from the library in the form of an adventure book?

Register on Eventkeeper at www.gardencitypl.org for the Adult Summer Reading Club.  Be sure to come to the Reference Desk and you will receive a complimentary bag filled with fun things.

Each time you read a book, we ask that you fill out a review card (provided in your bag). Return it to the Reference Desk for a chance to win a prize.  The more you read, the better chance you have to win a prize.  If you are taking a trip this summer, be sure to send us a postcard!  This postcard will also count towards a chance to win a prize.  Send postcards to:  Garden City Public Library, 60 Seventh Street, Garden City, NY  11530:  Attention: Adult Reference Department.   Please be sure to include your name.  At the end of the summer, we will select postcards and review cards randomly and award prizes!

For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org

Let the Summer begin!

Summer Reading Book Discussion

Tuesday, July 16 from 7 - 8 PM in the Small Meeting Room

Join us for a book discussion on the book All that Is Mine I Carry With Me by William Landay - a mystery that delves into thought-provoking themes such as family, loyalty, grief, secrets and the fragility of relationships.

Registration is required on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) and books are available at the Reference Desk.

For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org.

Museum Pass Information

Print From Home for some passes!

Through the generosity of the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, the Library offers free passes to select museums and cultural institutions. You can make a reservation to borrow a Museum Pass from one of the member institutions in our Museum Pass Program.

Some museum passes are now available to print from home.  If you do not have access to a printer, the library will be happy to print the pass for you. These passes will be good for one day only.

Please note that not all museums participate. Passes for the following museums still need to be picked up at the Library: 9/11 Memorial & Museum, NYC (2 adults & 2 children); Empire Pass, Long Island Children’s Museum, Garden City (2 adults & 2 children); MoMA

(the Museum of Modern Art), NYC (5 visitors) and Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage.

The following Library Museum Pass rules remain in effect.

• Museum passes are available only to Garden City Public Library cardholders in good standing who have signed the Museum Pass User Agreement. Museum passes may be reserved in advance and must be checked out by an adult (18 years and older) family member.

• Reservations will be taken up to one month in advance of the desired date, subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be done in person at the Reference Desk or over the phone at 516-742-8405 x5236.

Additional rules and information are available at the library.

Crafts & Games Programs for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Friday, July 12 from 11AM-12PM Tuesday, August 6 from 7 - 8 PM

Small Meeting Room

Each session will feature a different craft, game or activity.  The activity will be determined closer to the date of each event.  Day Habs & Special Needs Groups are welcome with prior registration.   Individuals can also register to participate.

Registration is required on Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org).

If you would like your Special Needs group to participate, please register for only ONE of the five dates listed above.  You can register for an additional date if there is still room one week prior to the start of that program.  When registering please indicate the name of your Day Hab, how many special needs adults will be attending, and how many caregivers will also be attending.

If you are registering as an individual not associated with a Day Hab or Special Needs group, you can register for all five sessions!

This Program has been  funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Chris Buchman  Presents Easy Gardening with Grow Pots

Saturday, June 22 from noon to 1 PM in the Large  Meeting Room

Join Chris Buchman to learn easy gardening tips and tricks with grow bags.  This is a hands-on demonstration and you will be receiving your own grow bag and a plant to bring home.

Registration is required online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) or call the Reference Desk at (516)742-8405 x5236.

This Program has been  funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Chess4Community: Play & Learn!

10 - 11AM in the 1st Floor Reference Area

Friday, June 28

Friday, July 26

Friday, August 30

Chess4Community is launching engaging chess sessions designed to bring together players from diverse ages and skill levels. Participants will be thoughtfully paired based on their playing experience, ensuring a balanced and competitive environment. Throughout these sessions, players will face off against equally matched opponents and receive valuable instruction,

offering tailored advice and teaching new strategies and skills.

Registration is required.  You must register separately for each session you want to attend. Registration is online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org).

Please note that registration ends two days before each program.

Important information regarding photographs, videos and audio recordings at Library programs.

Garden City Public Library Recording Policy, Section IV:

The Library may take photos, videos, and audio recordings at the Library and during Library events to use in its publicity materials and on its website and social media sites. The Library reserves the right to document its services and the public’s use of the Library building and grounds. These photographs, videos, and audio recordings may be copied, displayed, televised, and published (including on any Library web site or social media site). Any individual that does not wish the Library to use a photograph or video of them or their child should inform a Library staff member prior to or while such photographs or videos are being taken. [Adopted: June 13, 2022]

News From the Children's Room

Summer 2024 Programming Adventure Begins At Your Library

Art

Contest

Children entering Grades 4 and 5 can get creative this summer by entering our Creative Art Contest! There will be two categories for the Contest: Writing and Art. Participants’ work should relate to the “Adventure Begins at Your Library” theme. Only children entering Grades 4 and 5 in Fall 2024 can participate. Only one submission per category is allowed. Entries should be created between June 10 - August 2 and should be submitted in person in the Children’s Room and must include the Contest Submission Form, which can be picked up at theLibrary. There will be one winner for each category,    with prizes Amazon Gift Cards. The winners will be announced on Wednesday August 14 at the Summer Reading Club Finale. You do not have to be present to win. Winners will have until Friday September 13, to pick up their prizes. Prizes will not be held past September 13. We might share your artwork or writing on our Facebook Page:

Registration continues through Monday, August 12th.

Adventure Begins At Your Library The Travelers Grades K-5

Sign-up with a Library Card on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) and become A Traveler! Once you signup, come to the Library and get your Summer Reading Club bag (while supplies last) filled with treats and activity sheets explaining how you can earn up to 2 prizes. You can also start to drop off book review cards for each book you read, so you can be part of our Grand Prize Raffle. There will be one grand raffle for children entering Grades K-2 (in Fall 2024) and one for children entering Grades 3-5 (in Fall 2024). Children entering Grades K-5 in Fall 2024 who submit one raffle entry will have a chance to win a raffle prize. But the more you read and the more review cards you submit, the better your chance of winning! All books must be at the appropriate reading level and reviewed between June 10 and August 12. Registration is ongoing until Monday, August 12.

Registration continues through Monday, August 12th.

Adventure Begins At Your Library

The Little Explorers

Sign-up with a Library Card on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) and become A Little Explorer! Once you sign-up, come to the Library and get your Summer Reading Club bag (while supplies last) filled with treats

and activity sheets explaining how you can earn up to 2 prizes. Registrants can also start Monday, June 10 to drop off book review cards for each book you read, or is read to them, so they can be part of our Grand Prize Raffle. There will be one grand raffle prize for ages 2-5 (not entering kindergarten in Fall 2024). Preschool age children who submit one raffle entry will have a chance to win a raffle prize. But the more books read or are read-to, and the more review cards you submit, the better your chance of winning! All books must be at the  appropriate reading level and reviewed between June 10 and August 12. Registration is ongoing until  Registration continues through Monday, August 12th.

Craft for 3 and 4 Year

Olds

Wednesday, June 26 At 10:30 AM

Children ages 3 and 4 and their adult caregiver will come and do a simple craft with a Librarian. This is a 30-minute program. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of thePublic Library.

Registration begins June 18 at 10:00 AM

Grades K-5 BINGO

Wednesday, June 26 at 4:00 PM

Children in grades K-5 in Fall 2024 can celebrate the start of their summer by coming to the Library to play BINGO and maybe winning a small prize. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Public Library.

in Fall 2024) and their caregivers. Join a Librarian and make a patriotic craft together. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins June 25 at 10 AM

Patriotic Craft

Grades K-2

Wednesday, July 3 at 1:30 PM

This 45-minute program is for children entering Grades K-2 in Fall 2024.  Join a Librarian and make a patriotic craft together. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden CityLibrary.

Registration begins June 25 at 10 AM

Patriotic Craft Grades 3-5

Wednesday, July 3 at 2:30 PM

This 45-minute program is for children entering Grades 3-5 in Fall 2024. Join a Librarian and make a patriotic craft together. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program  has been funded by the Friends of the Garden CityLibrary.

Registration begins June 25, 10:00 AM

Preschool Duplo LEGO

Monday, July 8 at 2 PM

Registration begins July 2 at 10:00 AM

Puffy Paint and Rainbow Science Grades K-2

Wednesday, July 10 at 1:30 PM

Children entering Grades K-2 can join Science Teacher Chris Buchman in his program “Puffy Paint and Rainbow Science.” Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) with a library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Library. It is Library policy that parents of children under 10 attending a program remain at the library throughout and meet the child upon completion of the program.

Registration begins July 2, 10:00 AM

Puffy Paint and Rainbow ScienceGrades 3-5

Wednesday, July 10 at 2:30 PM

Registration begins  June 18 10:00 AM

Family Movie

Monday, July 1 at 7 pm

Children ages 4 through fifth grade (in Fall 2024) can come to the Library and enjoy the classic adventure movie Shrek. No registration is required. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. It is Library policy that parents of children under 10 attending a program remain at the Library throughout and meet the child upon completion of the program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Patriotic Craft

Preschool

Wednesday, July 3 at 10:30 AM

This 45-minute program is for children ages 2-5 (not entering Kindergarten

This 30-minute  STEAM free-play program is for children ages 1 ½-5 (not yetin kindergarten) and their caregivers. Librarians will put out Duplo LEGO Bricks and children, along with their caregivers and Teen Volunteers, will play, create and build. No registration required. Seating is on a firstcome, first served basis. This program is sponsored by the Friends of Garden City Library.

Art Of The Storybook

Wednesday, July 10 at 11 am

Children ages 2-5 (not entering kindergarten in Fall 2024) and their adult caregivers can join Miss Elizabeth from Matters of the Heart for this fun and creative STEM program. Preschool readiness is the focus as she will read to the children a classic story and then the children will create a piece of art based on the book. After the individual pieces, the children collaborate on a large piece of paper at the wall focusing on the process instead of the product. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program.

This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden CityLibrary.

Children entering Grades 3-5 can join Science Teacher Chris Buchman in his program “Puffy Paint and Rainbow Science.” Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Library. It is Library policy that parents of children under 10 attending a program remain at the library throughout and meet the child upon completion of the program.

Registration begins July 2, 10:00 AM

Reading Pals

Thursday, July 11 at 1:30 PM

This fun 30-minute program is for children ages 4 to entering Second Grade in Fall 2024. Under Librarian supervision, Teens will read to the children and then  they do a craft together. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program.This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Library. It is Library policy that parents of children under 10 attending a program remain at the library throughout and meet the child upon completion of the program.

Registration begins July 2, 10:00 AM

Family BINGO

Monday, July 8 at 7:00 PM

Have some family fun playing BINGO and maybe win a small prize! This program is for children ages 4-fifth grade and their families. Up to three family members (one must be an adult) can participate. Online registration

News From the Children's Room

on Eventkeeper with a Library Card (www.gardencitypl.org) is required. Only one family member registers.This program has been funded by the Friends of  the Garden City Library.

Registration begins July 2, 10:00 AM

Tiny Songbirds

Tuesday July, 16 at 11:00 AM

This fun and educational live music program is for Children ages birth5 (not entering Kindergarten in Fall 2024) and their adult caregivers. Tiny Songbirds  programmers engage children in the music making process and provide guided movement and dance. Online registration on Eventkeeper with a Library card (www.gardencitypl. org) is required.You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program.This program has been funded by  the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins July 2 10:00 AM

A Time For Kids

Wednesday July, 17 at 10:30 AM

Children ages 2-5 (not entering kindergarten in Fall 2024) and their caregivers can join A Time for Kids for a fun, interactive Music, Movement and Art program. The theme is sailboats and children will do a theme-related craft.

Online registration on Eventkeeper with a Library card (www.gardencitypl. org) is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins July 9, 10:00 AM

Crafting With Friends

Wednesday July, 17 at 1:30 PM

Children in Grades K-3 can join Mary Maguire and make a Fish Kite. Online registration on Eventkeeper with a Library card (www.gardencitypl. org) is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins July 9, 10:00 AM

Crafting With Friends

Wednesday July, 17 at 2:30 PM

Children in Grades 4-7 can join Mary Maguire and make a pop-up book. Online registration on Eventkeeper with a Library card (www.gardencitypl. org) is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the

Garden CityLibrary.

Registration begins July 9, 10:00 AM LEGO Club

Monday, July 22 at 1:30 PM

This fun STEAM program is for children entering Grades K-5 only. Come with old old friends, meet new friends and have fun building whatever your imagination dreams up. No registration necessary. Seating is on a firstcome, first served  basis. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Tweens and Teen Yarn Group

Wednesday, July 23 at 4:00 PM

Tweens and Teens in Grades 4-12 can learn how to knit or crochet during our Tweens and Teens yarn group! Participants will be able to take home knitting needles or crochet hooks to continue working on their projects but must return the knitting needles or crochet hooks they are using by August 2nd. Tweens and teens who know how to knit or crochet can volunteer at this program! Please contact Laura Guinta at laurag@gardencitypl.org if you are interested in volunteering.

Registration begins July 16  AM

Long Island Music Aardvarks

Wednesday, July 24 at 11:00 AM

This fun music and movement program is for children ages birth-5 (not in Kindergarten) and their caregivers. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins July 16, at 10:00 AM

Children Ice Cream Social Grades K-5

Wednesday, July 24 at 2:30 PM

Children entering Grades K-5 in Fall 2024 can mingle and make new friends while enjoying ice cream with a choice of toppings. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins July 16, at 10:00 AM

Play Hooray Babies

Wednesday, July 31 at 10:30 AM

This fun program is for babies ages birth-18 months, and an adult caregiv-

Are you a professional?

Our Professional Guide is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

er. Enjoy movement and music and meet Molly Mouse! Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) with a Library card is required. A separate registration is required for each child you wish to attend this program. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins July 23 10:00 AM

Design A Wooden Surfboard

Wednesday, July 31 at 4:00 PM

Children entering Grades K-5 in Fall 2024 can join this program and design paint and personalize a wooden surfboard with Party Art Studio! Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend this program.This program is sponsored by the Friends of the GardenCity Library.

Registration begins July 23 10:00 AM

Mother Goose Storytime

This fun 30-minute storytime is for children ages birth-2 and their caregivers. Join a Librarian and enjoy stories, music and rhymes and books. No Registration is required. First Come - First Served.

*****No Storytimes On July 16*****

Tuesday June 25 at 10:30 AM

Tuesday July 2 at 10:30 AM

Tuesday July 9 at 10:30 AM

Tuesday July 23 at 10:30 AM

Tuesday July 30 at 10:30 AM

Tuesday Aug. 6 at 10:30 AM

Preschool Storytime

This 30-minute program is for children ages 2-5 (not in kindergarten) and their caregivers. Join a Librarian and enjoy stories, music and movement. No Registration is required. First ComeFirst Served.

Tuesday June 25 at 11:30 AM

Tuesday July 2 at 11:30 AM

Tuesday July 9 at 11:30 AM

Tuesday July 23 at 11:30 AM

Tuesday July 30 at 11:30 AM

Tuesday Aug. 6 at 11:30 AM

Registration for the Summer Read to me Club (Little Explorers) and Summer Reading Club (The Travelers) begins Monday June 10 at 10:00 AM. Additional Summer Programming Details Coming Soon.

Library Policy

It is Library policy that all children under age ten must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the Library. Also, if the young child is attending a Library program, we require the parent or designated responsible person to remain in the Library throughout the program and meet the child upon completion of the program.

Each program requires a separate registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org).

A separate registration is required for each child you wish to attend these programs.

Please do not register additional children in the comment box as they are not counted by Eventkeeper, and there may not be sufficient room or materials for participants.

Blood

drive at GC Library

Blood Emergency: Urgent Need for Donors!

The New York Blood Center will hold a blood drive at the Garden City Public Library on Monday, June 24, at 1 -  7 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room on the lower level of the Library. The Center recently announced an emergency blood shortage as the region's area hospitals currently only have a two-day blood supply. Each donation can help to save up to three lives.

Appointments are strongly preferred, walk-ins are welcomed only if capacity permits. Donors will receive a pair of Mets tickets (electronically fulfilled) AND a free Mets t-shirt!! To schedule an appointment, you can scan the QR code below with your phone and type in Garden City, visit https:// donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/ drive_schedule/312654 or call 1-800-688-

0900 to schedule an appointment or for any medical questions concerning blood donations or visit the Garden City Public Library website at www.gardencitypl. org.

Consultant updates BOT on recreation survey

cally valid survey” as well as meetings with stakeholder groups and general open house meetings where residents’ feedback is noted and detailed discussions can occur.

Benchmark Analysis Coming

Trustee Judy Courtney raised questions about the firm’s work in performing a benchmark analysis, essentially comparing Garden City Recreation & Parks’ facilities and program offerings with similar suburban residential markets in Northeast states. Bucher noted that the demographics comparisons were expanded to include states beyond the immediate tri-state area of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Data gathered will include comparisons to recreation agencies in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania of similar size to Garden City Recreation & Parks.

The purpose of this benchmark analysis was explained as evaluating “where the village stands in comparison to potential peers” offering municipal recreational and parkland facilities. BCI acquires data on comparable municipalities from the National Parks and Recreation Association, which has data on parks and recreation agencies across the United States. The association’s survey data includes the types of programs offered, operating budgets, types of facilities and recreation features, staff numbers, and parkland (including total acreage and number of parks).

Bucher commented that the data on individual Recreation & Parks agencies also details their capital expenditures and revenues.

“The National Parks and Recreation Association has the agencies broken down by size of the jurisdictions they serve and the states they are in. We pull cities/municipalities from your state and surrounding states that are within a size range similar to your village. With Garden City’s comparable data we are looking at agencies servicing between approximately 25,000 to 50,000. There were 30 Rec./Parks agencies were able to pull from New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. We had to extend the criteria to more states to make sure we had enough agencies to have the data for comparison. Depending on the items we look at the averages or the medians to evaluate with Garden City numbers,” he said.

Fluctuations in the income levels of Garden City were mentioned as a potential indicator of the expectations for levels of service and in identifying facility needs that would differentiate the village from some places that appear as part of the benchmark analysis.

Survey Collection Process

The list of 2,000 households in Garden City set to receive the Recreational needs and interest survey via regular

mail was developed by a random computer-generated sampling, as obtained from the firm administering both the survey mailings and online survey disbursement and response for the village: ETC Institute.

The details and data being gathered will be funneled and followed up on during BCI’s “Envision” phase, ultimately leading to the development of a Garden City Recreation Master Plan, with the “Plan” phase.

BCI met with 11 village-based stakeholder groups, involving about 50 people over its two-day visit to Garden City on May 13 and 14. The May 14 Open House event at the Garden City Casino attracted 140 residents who were asked questions and provided information, including the geography of their homes. BCI reports that a healthy mix of residents from all parts of the village attended the event.

Gauging Facilities Interests

As of June 6, BCI reported receiving 279 Recreation surveys from Garden City residents. During the May 14 Open House, residents filled out and handed in 63 printed surveys, while another 216 followed up by completing the online (shorter) survey submissions. The link to the online Recreation survey was also emailed to everyone who signed in at the Open House and will remain open for respondents until the random sampling total of 400 survey responses is reached.

The random sampling (2,000 village households) Recreation surveys will be mailed during the week of June 17 to 21.

From the Open House on May 14, BCI presented results of questions asked about Garden City recreational facilities. The question “What Features are Most Important to You?” yielded the following answers: 15% of attendees recommend more indoor recreational facilities/spaces; 14% are interested in additional arts and theater spaces; 11% have a high interest in more athletic fields being constructed (including multipurpose synthetic turf fields); 10% want more passive green spaces and natural areas; 8% would like more pickleball courts; 7% want more event spaces under the Recreational facilities (municipal) umbrella; 5% are interested in more community gardens, and another 5% want more village tennis court facilities. Four percent of attendees at the May 14 Open House indicated a need for a dog park or multiple dog parks, while another 4% see a need for more village playgrounds. Other smaller percentages and answers were noted for the Board in BCI’s presentation last week.

The next three most popular parts of village activity centers and recreational facilities were the playing courts for tennis, paddle, and pickleball, followed by the Garden City Public Library and the village’s senior center on Golf Club Lane.

On the same write-in response form as the question on existing facilities, BCI accepted residents’ comments on what they would like to see improved. Topping the list was the condition of village athletic fields, particularly the fields at St. Paul’s, as well as the need for additional turf fields and a village dog park. Bucher noted that some responses indicated support for more walking and bike trails, the construction of a new community center, and more Garden City Public Library programs. He also noted the expected response for more pickleball courts.

At the Board’s June 6 meeting, Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan spoke about the shift from the original Recreation surveys, which asked residents about both recreational facilities and program needs, as well as St. Paul’s, including “attachments to the building and willingness to fund a project, and programs and/or facilities people would like to see in that particular building.”

Because St. Paul’s is a multi-layered discussion involving, but not exclusive to, recreational components, the separate St. Paul’s survey is being developed and will go out in the mail to every Garden City residence.

“We made a decision early on to separate out when we reviewed the draft survey, it was a lot and could become confusing to residents to put it all in one survey. St. Paul’s is such an important issue to the village that everyone will want to receive a copy of the forthcoming St. Paul’s survey. The Rec. survey is being conducted with the random sampling (to be mailed) and online surveys in order to achieve statistically-valid data,” she said.

Following a question by Trustee Bruce Torino, Village Administrator Ralph V. Suozzi outlined the deliverables expected of the Brandstetter Carroll Inc. team. He recently held a phone call to clarify the documents that will support the research and data collection taking place now. The consultants are developing two reports for the Board of Trustees and village officials: a Parks & Recreation Needs Analysis Report and a Community Engagement Report following the “Engage” phase.

Bucher explained the reasoning for the limitation, noting that the more scientific information would come from ETC Institute, which has a formula for the minimum response pool size based on the number of households in Garden City.

BCI has outlined the number of responding surveys needed to achieve “a 95% level of confidence” in the Recreation survey data.

“When it comes to doing statistically-valid surveys and knowing that your sample should represent the population that you’re trying to study, you need to get a certain number of responses in order to know that the data is representative. There has been a lot of research done over many years to determine what percentage of that population you need to have those surveys returned from to have certain levels of confidence. Based on ETC’s level of experience they have a good idea of what the response rate typically is on surveys – to know they need to get back 400 surveys, they typically need to send out 2,000 surveys,” Bucher explained.

Upcoming engagement with BCI back visiting the village for the weekend of June 14 through 16th was noted in the Mayor’s Column in the June 7, 2024 edition of The Garden City News.

Upcoming engagement with BCI, which will visit the village for the weekend of June 14 through 16, was noted in the Mayor’s Column in the June 7, 2024 edition of The Garden City News.

The mayor noted, “On Friday, June 14, the BCI group will attend a Flag Day Luncheon at the Garden City Senior Center beginning at 12 p.m. BCI will be in attendance for part of the luncheon and will then be available to meet with our seniors after the luncheon concludes.”

“Later that evening (June 14), BCI will attend the Patriotic Kick Off to Summer Festival on Seventh Street. The following day, Saturday, June 15, BCI will visit the Garden City Pool, which will be open from 12 noon to 8 p.m. Pool members will have the opportunity to speak to the BCI team while enjoying their afternoon at the pool.”

Bucher advised that the information and data collected on recreational interests from the upcoming weekend’s engagement activities, with more questions being posed to residents, will be added to the totals presented from the May 14 Open House.

Leading the list of what residents like about “Existing Recreational Facilities and Opportunities” were the village’s “awesome playgrounds,” followed closely by the Garden City Pool, noted as “an excellent venue for people of all ages.”

Trustee Michele Harrington asked Bucher to clarify some expectations of BCI’s work to collect data from the bottom number of 400 “representative” households of Garden City. She inquired about scenarios where the response total from the 2,000 surveys mailed out exceeds 400, and if responses beyond the 400 benchmark would be considered.

About to hit a milestone?

Share your life accomplishments with your neighbors! Put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper, (and it's free of charge for subscribers!) Email editor@gcnews.com From page 1

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH

CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005CF1, -against-

COLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 22, 2017, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH

CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005CF1 is the Plaintiff and COLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s).  I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on June 25, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 162 MEADOW ST, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530; and the following tax map identification:  34-546-32 & 39.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 000801/2015. Mark Ricciardi, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on May 9, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.  The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MAY 9, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,110,000 TO FINANCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS TO VARIOUS PARKING LOTS IN THE VILLAGE, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $1,110,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the construction of improvements to various parking lots in the Village, at the estimated maximum cost of $1,110,000.

The period of usefulness is ten (10) years.

The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $1,110,000.

A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on May 9, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.  The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk

BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MAY 9, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $3,300,000 TO FINANCE THE REPLACEMENT OF WATER MAINS ON CLINTON ROAD FROM OSBORNE ROAD TO OLD COUNTRY ROAD, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $3,300,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the replacement of water mains on Clinton Road from Osborne Road to Old Country Road, at the estimated maximum cost of $3,300,000. The period of usefulness is forty (40) years. The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $3,300,000.

A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on May 9, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.  The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk

BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MAY 9, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $900,000 TO FINANCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF HVAC IMPROVEMENTS AT THE WATER WORKS BUILDING, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $900,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the construction of HVAC improvements at the Water Works building, at the estimated maximum cost of $900,000. The period of usefulness is ten (10) years.

The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $900,000.

A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on May 9, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.  The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution. Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MAY 9, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $2,780,000 TO FINANCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS TO VARIOUS ROADS IN THE VILLAGE, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $2,780,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the construction of improvements to various roads in the Village, at the estimated maximum cost of $2,780,000. The period of usefulness is fifteen (15) years. The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $2,780,000. A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

NASSAU

COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on May 9, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.  The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MAY 9, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,550,000 TO FINANCE THE ACQUISITION OF DPW VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $1,550,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the acquisition of DPW vehicles and equipment, at the estimated maximum cost of $1,550,000.

The period of usefulness is fifteen (15) years.

The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $1,550,000.

A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

NASSAU

COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on May 9, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.  The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MAY 9, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $505,000 TO FINANCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS TO CURBS AND SIDEWALKS IN THE VILLAGE, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $505,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the construction of improvements to curbs and sidewalks in the Village, at the estimated maximum cost of $505,000. The period of usefulness is ten (10) years.

The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $505,000.

A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on May 9, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.  The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MAY 9, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,130,000 TO FINANCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS TO THE STREET LIGHTING SYSTEM, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $1,130,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the construction of improvements to the street lighting system, at the estimated maximum cost of $1,130,000.

The period of usefulness is thirty (30) years.

The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $1,130,000.

A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

NASSAU COUNTY BIDS

Sealed bids MUST be RECEIVED BY AND DELIVERED TO: PURCHASING DIVISION

Inc. Village of Garden City 351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, UNTIL 11:00 AM EDT

THURSDAY, JULY 11, 2024 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following: 2024-25 STREETLIGHT POLES, LUMINAIRES, & ACCESSORIES

Specifications, Form of Bid, and other information may be obtained from the office of the Purchasing Division at the above address or you may download the bid specifications from the New York State Contract Reporter website at the following web address: https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/ contracts.cfm

This bid specification will be listed under the Agency Name of:

Inc. Village of Garden City Catherine Reynolds Purchasing Agent Dated:6/14/24

Get money in your pockets with our Professional Guide!

Call 516-294-8900 to find out how to advertise your services in our paper!

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Me Tay Co LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/25/2024. Office location: Nassau. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Eric D Tran: 514 Hempstead Turnpike STE 101, West Hempstead, NY 11552. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Library Books at the Pool

The Friends of the GC Library are pleased to continue the long held GC tradition of the GC Library Pool Books. Residents are welcome to read and enjoy these books at no charge and to pass them along to others. No library card is required, though having a library card is always a great idea!

Look for the sign, below, in the entryway and the adult section of the pool. The books in the entryway are of general interest for all age groups (children, young adults and adults) while the books in the adult section cater to adult readers.

For more information on the Friends of the GC Library, please see the library website at gardencitypl.org

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516-294-8900

June 14, 2024

Coast to Coast, Canada’s Heritage, Culture, Wilderness Beckon Ecotourists in Summer

Experiences that Celebrate Indigenous Cultures, in British Columbia

June is  National Indigenous History Month  in Canada, culminating in  National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, but all summer long, British Columbia offers any number of ways to experience histories, traditions and values of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Indigenous tourism encourages visitors to understand and respect different perspectives of the world, and to experience histories, traditions, and values in an authentic and unfiltered way.

British Columbia has the greatest diversity of Indigenous cultures in Canada: of the 12 unique Indigenous language families in the country, seven are located exclusively in BC. Together, there are 204 unique Indigenous communities in BC. Here are 11 ways to engage in Indigenous experiences in British Columbia this summer.

Indigenous tour operators lead visitors into their traditional territory, providing a new perspective of local wildlife, plants, and waters:

Guided nature adventures led by the local Nation – Explore Ahousaht territory with Ahous Adventures, which is owned by a nation that has stewarded the lands and waters of Vancouver Island since time immemorial. The popular hot springs tour cruises the coast and inlets of Clayoquot Sound, with

guides pointing out wildlife along the way. Once onshore, guests take a 30-minute walk via wooden boardwalk through old-growth rainforest, leading to the healing mineral waters of the hot springs. Throughout the journey, guides will discuss the history and cultural significance of Hot Springs Cove, a site that has been used for centuries by the Ahousat Nation for medicinal and spiritual benefits. Dates: Tours are available throughout summer and beyond.

Cruise an Island Archipelago – Sidney Whale Watching, serving Sidney (just 30 minutes from Victoria, BC) and the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island, is owned and operated by the Tsawout First Nation, with whale-watching

experiences taking place on the traditional territories of the W̱SÁNE Nation. The three-hour whale watching tour cruises through the Gulf Island Archipelago, winding past orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles hunting for salmon. Sidney Whale Watching has a 95% whale-sighting rate throughout the year; if guests don’t spot a whale, they are welcome to join another tour free of charge, anytime. Dates:  Whale-watching tours take place daily between March and October.

Take a cultural tour in a 35” canoe – Takaya Tours, based in Whey-ah-wichen, or Cates Park, in North Vancouver, leads guests through the territory of the TsleilWaututh Nation. Guests can pad-

dle the protected waters of Indian Arm in replica ocean-going canoes, while guides share songs and stories of ancient villages. There’s also an option to add a rainforest walking tour to your paddling adventure. Dates: The Cates Park location is open between May and September for guided tours, as well as rentals of kayak, surf-skis, and stand-up paddleboards.

BC Tourism Industry Awards Best Indigenous Tourism Operator Winner 2024 – Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours, which stewards the grizzly bear population in Bute Inlet—the ancestral home of the Homalco Nation—welcomes visitors to discover the area’s longstanding cultural and historical significance. The company’s fullday bear-watching and cultural tour leads guests to viewing areas that showcase grizzlies feeding on spawning salmon, along with plenty of opportunities to whale watch and bird watch. Guests can also wander through Aupe, an uninhabited Homalco village site. Dates: Tours are offered between August and October.

2023 Yelp Travelers Choice – Sea Wolf Adventures, which leads tours in the Broughton Archipelago and the Great Bear Rainforest, on Musgamakw Dzawada’enuxw Nation territory, combines cultural experiences with grizzly- and whale-watching safaris. The Grizzly Bears of the Wild tour connects guests with the iconic grizzly inhabitants of the Great Bear Rainforest, with bonus viewings of Pacific white-sided dol-

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A group with Takaya Tours, rowing a traditional First Nations canoe in Deep Cove (Photo: Destination BC/Hubert Kang)

EDITED BY KAREN RUBIN

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Coast to Coast, Canada’s Heritage, Culture, Wilderness Beckon Ecotourists in Summer

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phins, eagles, orcas, and other wildlife. The full-day tour departs from Port McNeill, and includes Indigenous interpretations of local landscapes, as well as stories about the Musgamakw Dzawada’enuxw People. Dates: Tours run from May 31 through October.

Try Plant Medicine Lemonade –  Opened in February 2024,  The Ancestor Café in Fort Langley brings traditional Indigenous nourishment to locals and visitors while supporting Indigenous food sovereignty. The eatery is owned by Chef Sarah Meconse Mierau, a member of the Sayisi Dene Nation. On the menu: bison and elk Bannock tacos, handcrafted plant-medicine jams and lattes, and other delicacies made with traditional Indigenous ingredients. Beyond the food, the café features a fairtrade gallery displaying works by local Indigenous artists and brands.

Indigenous-owned and operated accommodation providers welcome visitors to experience warm hospitality alongside stories and culture—all with a deep-rooted respect for nature:

Gorge Harbour Marina Resort –One of the most desirable cruising destinations in BC – Located at the edge of Desolation Sound, on Klahoose Nation land, Gorge Harbour Marina Resort offers an idyllic home base to explore the sound, Cortes Island, and the Discovery Islands. The resort offers a multitude of overnight options, including a rustic lodge, a cottage, two self-contained trailers, 21 full-service RV sites, six glamping domes, and six tent sites. Summer activities span live music on the waterfront, yoga at the harbour, family movie nights, as well as whale-watching tours offered between May 1 and October 15.

Nemiah Valley Lodge – Off-grid & highly requested  – Open year round,  Nemiah Valley Lodge is located in the Chilcotin region, on Tŝilhqot’in Nation land. Here, guests are immersed in the food, history and traditions of the Xeni Gwet’in community through local events, cultural experiences, and wildlife viewing. All-inclusive packages include lodge activities such as lakeside yoga and meditation, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, an archery.

Tsawaak RV Resort – A 2024 Indigenous Tourism Award Winner – Whether you’re seeking a cozy wilderness cabin or a place to park your RV,  Tsawaak RV Resort— located in Tofino, on Tla-o-qui-aht Nation land—offers a tranquil space for rest and rejuvenation. Guests can choose

from 34 RV sites and 13 longhouse-style cedar cabins—all situated close to Mackenzie Beach and a 30-minute walk from town. The central amenities building offers laundry facilities and vending machines, while the visitor center houses an art gallery and retail shop. The resort provides easy access to Tofino’s most popular adventures, including surfing, hot springs, and hiking.

Spirit Bear Lodge – Located in the largest, temperate coastal rainforest in the world – Wildlife viewing and cultural experiences take centre stage at  Spirit Bear Lodge, located in Klemtu, on Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation land. The lodge’s all-inclusive adventures are anchored by visits to cultural sites of the Kitasoo Xai’xai People, who have lived for thousands of years in the Great Bear Rainforest—the largest temperate coastal rainforest in the world. Guests can search for the elusive Spirit bear, watch grizzlies roam lush estuaries, see whales and other marine life, and explore the remnants of ancient villages.  Open from August to October, with limited reservations available.

For more information on authentic Indigenous experiences in British Columbia visit www.indigenousbc.com

Nova Scotia Hosts Worldwide Celebration of Acadian Heritage

This August 10-18,  Nova Scotia will host the  Congrés mondial acadien  (CMA), a worldwide celebration that takes place every five years and brings together the Acadian diaspora from around the world for musical events, culinary and cultural attractions and family gatherings. Several major outdoor concerts featuring noted Acadian artists are scheduled, including Canada’s National Acadian Day on August 15. From the brightly painted houses of Yarmouth and picturesque views of seaside villages like Belliveau Cove and Pointede-l’Eglise, visitors will find vivid reminders of the French settlers who first claimed Nova Scotia as their home in the early 1600s. The CMA reunites and welcomes communities, families, and visitors to the province to honor Acadian history and to commemorate the thousands displaced in 1755 when the Acadian people were expelled from the province by the British for not taking a vow of loyalty to King George III. (https://cma2024.ca/en/).

Throughout the summer, there are important Acadian historic sites to visit in Nova Scotia: Grand Pré National Historic Site: Open from May 17 to October 14, the  Grand Pré National Historic Site is

a powerful way to discover the history of l’Acadie (a historical Acadian village in Nova Scotia settled from 1682 to 1755), its people and its culture. The location is a monument that unites the Acadian people, and for many, it is the heart of their ancestral homeland. Guided tours lead visitors through the center of this Acadian settlement and where they can learn about the history of the mass deportation of the Acadians, “Le Grand Derangement,” that began in 1755. This tragic event continues to shape the vibrant culture of modernday Acadians across the globe. Tours are available in July and August.

Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse: Explore the oldest Acadian region still inhabited by descendants of its founder in  Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Founded in 1653 by Sieur Philippe Mius-d’Entremont, the village is a breathtaking, 17-acre space overlooking Pubnico Harbour. Attractions include historical buildings and original 19th century wooden homes like Duon House and Maximin d’Entremont House, a lighthouse and local cemetery, nature trails with natural fauna and flora indigenous to the area, and opportunities to learn about the historic Acadian fishing and farming traditions.

Rendez-vous de la Baie Visitor Centre: Open year-round and located on the campus of Université SainteAnne in Clare,  Rendez-vous de la Baie Visitor Centre is an Acadian cultural and interpretive center. Attractions include an artist-run gallery, a souvenir boutique, a 263-seat performance theatre, and an outdoor performance area. Travelers can experience the interpretive center and museum which delve into the Acadian peoples’ history through multimedia displays of music and language with free guided tours available. The venue is also a trailhead for a three-mile network of walking trails leading to the breathtaking Nova Scotian coast (guided walking tours available).

More information: Nova Scotia, www.novascotia.com

Summer is a 5 Sensory Season in Newfoundland and Labrador

From the rolling waves lapping off the coastline to the colorful clotheslines dancing in the ocean breeze,  Newfoundland and Labrador is home to the slow way of life that heighten all the senses. Experience the first sunrise in North America, witness the migration of whale species and taste food foraged from land and sea.

Sea of Whales Adventures: Just

off the Bonavista Peninsula, travelers will be humbled by the spectacle of whale species like humpbacks, sperm, orcas, feeding, migrating, and playing on  Sea of Whales Adventures whale watching boat tours (3-hour whale watching tours daily, May 15-Oct. 14, 2-hour tours daily, June 15-Sept. 3.

Preserving the Dark Sky: Terra Nova National Park, the first designated Dark Sky Preserve in the province, allows travelers to gaze into the cosmos untouched by light pollution. The most popular viewing locations include Sandy Pond, Ochre Hill, Blue Hill and Visitor Centre. New in 2024, UNESCO World Heritage Site Gros Morne National Park is applying to the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for designation as a Dark Sky Preserve, offering visitors even more unaltered space to bask in the celestial views.  Wild Island Kitchen: Open year round,  Wild Island Kitchen offers travelers the chance to dine aside breathtaking seascapes listening to the crashing waves while wild and sustainably caught seafood is cooked over an open fire (email  experiencetwillingate@gmail. com; pre-booking is required).

Grates Cove Seaweed Baths: In the northernmost part of Newfoundland and Labrador, weary travelers can soak in a seaweed bath at  Grates Cave Co.

More information: Newfoundland and Labrador, www.newfoundlandlabrador. com

© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

All about this Father’s Day holiday

Father’s Day is on June 16 this year and in honor of that I am focusing on country singer Brad Paisley. Bradley Douglas Paisley was born October 28, 1972, in Glen Dale, West Virginia. He is the only child of Douglas Paisley, who worked for the West Virginia Department of Transportation, and Sandra Jean Paisley, who was a teacher.

His maternal grandfather, Warren Jarvis, gave him his first guitar, a Sears Danelectro Silvertone, for Christmas when he was eight years old and taught him how to play it. Paisley says his love of country music was born then and there.

In third grade, he performed for the first time in public by singing in his church. Initially, they were just going to have him play the song on the guitar with the choir singing in the background but then the adults heard him sing the song and said, “forget the choir, let’s just have Brad do the whole thing.” He became popular at parties and events in Glen Dale. He later said that “Pretty soon, I was performing at every Christmas party and Mother’s Day event. The neat thing about a small town is that when you want to be an artist, by golly, they’ll make you one.”

When Paisley was 12, he caught the attention of the program director of a radio station in Wheeling, W.V., who invited him to perform on “Jamboree USA,” the station’s long-running live country music program. He was a regular on the show for eight years.

At age 13, Paisley wrote his first song, “Born on Christmas Day,” which later appeared on his album titled “Brad Paisley Christmas.” He had been taking lessons with local guitarist Clarence “Hank” Goddard. Then Goddard and Paisley formed a band called “Brad Paisley and the C-Notes” with two of Paisley’s friends.

Brad Paisley graduated from John Marshall High School in Glen Dale,

W.V., in 1991 and attended West Liberty State College for two years. In 1993 Paisley moved to Nashville because he loved country music and to attend Belmont University where he pursued music business. He obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the Mike Curb School of Music Business in 1995. After graduating from college Paisley worked as a songwriter in Nashville before releasing his debut record, “Who Needs Pictures,” in 1999.

In 2000, the Academy of Country Music named Brad Paisley the year’s Best New Male Vocalist. Over the years Paisley has won many awards including three GRAMMYs, two American Music Awards, 14 Country Music Association Awards and 15 Academy of Country Music Awards. A member of the Grand Ole Opry since 2001, Paisley has written 21 of his 24 #1 hit songs and in 2008 he became the first artist to achieve 10 consecutive Billboard Country Airplay #1 singles.

Paisley saw his future wife, Kimberly Williams, on the big screen playing Annie Banks in the movie, “Father of the Bride” and “Father of the Bride II.” Ten years later Paisley asked her to be in his music video and they started dating.

In 2003 Paisley and Kimberly Williams married in a ceremony at Pepperdine University in Los Angeles. They have two sons, William “Huck” Huckleberry, who was born in 2007 and was named after the famous fictional character of Mark Twain, and their second son, Jasper Warren, born in 2009 in honor of Paisley’s grandfather, Warren Jarvis, a World War II veteran who bought Paisley his first guitar when the country music singer was a boy. Kimberly and Brad Paisley built a log home in Franklin, Tennessee, where they raise their family.

During his time at Belmont University, Paisley benefitted from a scholarship supported by Vince Gill and has long been committed to “paying it forward” by establishing the

Brad Paisley Endowed Scholarship. Established in 2012, it provides financial assistance to a deserving student with demonstrated need who is studying in the Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business.

About fatherhood Brad Paisley has said:

“Before Huck arrived, I thought, ‘I’m a free spirit - how am I going to give that up?’ I confided in my preacher, who told me, ‘You won’t even remember what you gave up - it will be that inconsequential.’ He’s right. The first time you come home and your son sees you and laughs, you forget.”

“I’m able to be home and present in a way that I haven’t been, so that part is nice. The fires in the fireplace and everybody sitting around, that’s pretty great. I don’t want to look back on this when I’ve complained for years about not having time for certain things, like fishing with my kids and hiking in the woods. We’re trying to do that as much as we can.”

“You feel like what you’ve done up until now is to prepare yourself for this,

and that starts to be a memory that you associate with your kids. So, I can see how eventually, I won’t be able to remember who I was before, because it does change you. It’s already changed me a little bit, and it’ll change me more with every heart attack they give me!”

About working in Nashville and becoming a country music success Paisley has said:

“Okay, this is what I want … I want to be a recording artist, I want some headphones, a tour bus, and I want to live in Williamson County, Tennessee. And, I think I made it! You see people who move here all the time and get the cart before the horse. This isn’t a forgiving place like Glen Dale. I was young and wanted to sing, and everybody was happy about that. I became the best in Glen Dale. When you come to Nashville you might not be the best … you may be good … but chances are you are not the best. This town is crazy with the amount of talent here.”

I wish all the dads out there a very Happy Father’s Day!

BY TOM MARGENAU

Flipping Benefits Usually Not Possible

Women who have a smaller Social Security benefit than their husbands have frequently asked me if they can take their own reduced retirement benefit at 62 and then at full retirement age, switch to a full spousal benefit from their husband.

The answer is almost always no. But that is assuming the husband is already getting his own Social Security at the time the wife reaches age 62. And in that scenario, Social Security’s “deemed filing rule” says a wife must file for both her own benefits and any spousal benefits she might be due at the same time.

But there are situations where a wife can take reduced retirement benefits on her record and then later switch to higher benefits on her husband’s account. This almost always happens when the husband files for benefits years after the wife files for her own.

Conversely, other women ask me if they can take reduced spousal benefits at 62 and at 67, switch to their full retirement age benefit. The answer to that question is always no. Here are some questions and answers that deal with those issues.

Q: I am 62 and retired. My full retirement age benefit will be $2,100. But if I take benefits now, I’d get about $1,500. My husband is already getting his Social Security that he started a few months ago when he was 67. He gets $3,800. Can I take spousal benefits now and let mine grow until 67 or even 70? I think I’d be due about a third of his now, or around $1,200.

A: No, you can’t do that. The deemed filing rule mentioned above says when you sign up for one Social Security benefit, you must file for any and all benefits you are due at the same time. In other words, if you want to take benefits at 62, you must file for your own Social Security. You said at 62, you’d be due about $1,500 on your own record. And that is more than the $1,200 you’d be due in reduced spousal benefits. So, the only claim you would be filing now would be your own retirement claim. And FYI: If your husband dies before you do, you could, at that point, file for higher widow’s benefits.

Q: My husband is 67 years old. He was going to wait until 70 to file for his Social Security, but he changed his mind and decided to file now. He’s already submitted his application. I am 62. My husband’s benefit is about three times higher than mine. Can I start my own reduced benefit now and then when I turn full retirement age, switch to 50% of his?

A: No. Again, that deemed filing rule says you must file for your own benefit and whatever spousal benefits you might be due at the same time.

Q: My wife is about to turn 62. I am 61. She is eligible for a small Social Security check on her own record. And she wants to file for those benefits now. But I think she is wrong. If she takes her reduced retirement check now, she won’t be able to get half of mine later on. So I think she should wait six years until I turn 67, when I plan to sign up for my much higher Social Security benefit. Then she will get half of my benefit. So, am I right? Or is my wife right?

A: I think your wife is right. And before I explain why, I must point out that the deemed filing rule doesn’t apply because at the time your wife would file, you wouldn’t be getting benefits yet.

I’ll explain why your wife might be right with examples. You didn’t give me any benefit amounts, so I will make up some numbers. Let’s say your wife’s full retirement age benefit rate is $1,000. Filing at age 62, she would get 70% of that, or $700 per month. Furthermore, let’s say your full retirement age benefit at 67 will be $2,800.

We’ll follow your advice first. That would mean your wife does nothing now. In six years, when you turn 67, you will start getting $2,800 per month. Then your wife would file for spousal benefits, and she would get 50% of your benefit, or $1,400 per month. (Actually, she would be paid her own $1,000 retirement check, and then she would get $400 in spousal benefits to take her up to the $1,400 spousal rate.)

And now look at what your wife wants to do. She wants to file for her benefits now, meaning she would start getting $700 per month right away. Then in six years, when you turn 67 and file for your benefits, she still could file for spousal benefits. The reduction she took in her own retirement checks would carry over to her spousal rate. Here is roughly how they would figure out what she would be due: They would take her FRA benefit rate of $1,000 and subtract that from one-half of your FRA rate of $2,800, or $1,400. So, $1,400 minus $1,000 leaves $400. And that would become her spousal benefit that would be added to her reduced retirement rate. She would start getting $1,100 per month in total benefits after you turned 67. ($700 plus $400 equals $1,100.)

Now let’s compare the two scenarios. In your option, your wife would get an extra $300 per month in benefits starting six years from now. ($1,400 is $300 more than $1,100.)

But, if you go with your option, which again means your wife doesn’t file for any Social Security benefits until you turn 67, she would be throwing away the $700 per month retirement check she would have been due beginning now, when she is 62. Over the next six years, she would lose $50,400 in Social Securi-

ty benefits just to get that extra $300 per month when you are 67. It would take her 168 months to make up that loss. In other words, your wife would be in her late 70s before she would come out ahead in your scenario.

Q: I am 62. My husband is 57. I was a homemaker most of my life and have no Social Security record. Is it true I won’t get any of his Social Security until he starts drawing benefits himself?

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Renovate and expand, or build new?

You’ve been in your current home for longer than you anticipated. Your family is growing and you need more space and potentially more tax deductions to reduce your taxable income. You need to decide to either expand or increase the footprint of your home and increase the living space; or find another home to renovate or a piece of land to build a new home upon. Staying put and doing the necessary expansion and upgrade to increase the size of your home is possible, but at what cost? Finding a piece of land in your local area just might be feasible if you are residing in Suffolk County, but somewhat doubtful within Nassau County. Lastly, finding a reasonably priced house in the area with prices being at the highest in history is not as desirable or simple as you might have thought. So what do you do when the options are not as possible or probable as you had anticipated? Also, considering the increased interest rates, do I have enough equity to take a second mortgage out to do the required renovation? So you are in a stressful quandary as to what path to pursue. Should you focus on expanding your current home? You have to take into account that this could become a real major project and an inconvenience. You will need to decide to either stay in one part of your home and seal the space to avoid the dust created while the other section is being renovated; or move out and rent another home at what cost until the work is completed.

You now have to ascertain how to engage and hire an interior designer, contractor and architect to redesign your home to suit your specific needs and wants, as your age in place. Do I consider a recommendation from family and friends, and/or go online and search out reviews of those who are currently or previously used their con-

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

tractors to see how satisfied they are/were with their services? Should you apply for all the permits and try to save money or instruct your contractor or architect to take on the job? How involved do I want or need to be in the renovation and upgrade? My daughter went through this project a while back and was almost 100% ensconced in her renovation and was hands-on from picking out the materials to the major redesign of her kitchen, bathrooms and owner’s suite and en suite bathroom w/ washer and dryer. Will you consider purchasing and installing solar panels to save money for the short and long term, reducing your carbon footprint and add a very valuable asset and benefit to your home? Timewise, it took her over 8 months to complete the job and waited almost 1.5 years for her commercial sub-zero refrigerator; and this was when supply chain shortages were still occurring and it was all about being patient in the waiting game of completing all the construction. The end result was anything but a remarkable and a spectacular renovation and superb job that was well done.

desirable plan come to fruition and that you will be completely satisfied with the end result. You may make changes along the way, so this must be a consideration and incorporate in the initial planning to make sure you have some flexibility within your project. When using an architect in conjunction with your desired contractor, this must be a consideration and discussed before hand to incorporate the possibility of changes within your budget for your upgrade and renovation. It’s a rarity that anyone stays exactly within their initial budget. However, the more you plan and price everything in advance, so you know the price of your materials, and the most costly commodity, your labor, the better the opportunity of staying as close to within your initial budget as you possibly can.

increased appreciation in your home by spending your money in a wise and pragmatic fashion will add to your family’s enjoyment and happiness for years to come.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/ Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 42+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned designations as a Graduate of the Realtor Institute (G.R.I.) and also as a Certified International Property Specialist (C.I.P.S.) and has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geo-thermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).

He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

A: You made the same mistake my wife did. You married a younger man! And yes, it is true that you can’t collect on his Social Security account until he signs up for his own benefits.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “So-

As I have previously conveyed in past columns that our current housing inventory is at historic 50 year low. Competing to purchase another home is more challenging than just expanding and renovating your current home. However, many would prefer not to take this path, but would rather find another home to renovate and/or knock down to build new from scratch. This consideration has to be carefully planned, throughout and fine tuned whereby the t’s have to be crossed and I’s dotted to make sure that your

As your project begins and progresses, changes can and many times will occur; but make sure you have the funds for some options, so it will simplify those changes in advance of actually implementing them. You need to think outside the normal box and be cognizant of the changes that might be on your wish list and that you may want as your renovation proceeds. Your decisions to renovate your current residence or buy another home will be predicated on your current income and not based on future income. Staying grounded as to what is affordable and realistic in your expectations. Don’t go overboard unless you have the money or cushion of available funds to do so. Planning is crucial and critical to come to a successful and happy outcome that you will be ecstatic with to enjoy for years to come. Building

He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” no obligation 15 minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289.

Save his My New Electronic signature/Bio/Reviews to save to your contacts: https://onetapconnect.com/turnkeyrealestate-philraices

cial Security -- Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY JEFF RUGG

Q: A few weeks ago, I bought a columbine plant that had pretty red flowers. The plant tag said that the blooming time was May and June. The flowers lasted only a few days. We aren’t even halfway through the time the tag said they will bloom. Was this short blooming time because I just planted it, because it is a young plant or because of some other problem?

A: A lot of flowers only last a single day, such as hibiscus, or maybe a few days if the weather is cool. We even name some plants based on this characteristic, such as daylilies. Some flowers last only until they are pollinated, which could be one day or a week. Flowers can be arranged on the stem in several ways. We commonly think of single flowers, such as a single-stem rose, but many flowers are compound. Flower heads of a few to thousands of flowers grow next to each other and may look like a single flower, with each

The

A GREENER VIEW

Columbine Flowers

flower called a floret. The aster, daisy and sunflower families plus many other families have flower heads. The individual flowers in a compound flower head may start producing seeds as they are pollinated and are not officially blooming anymore, but the whole head still looks like it is blooming for a longer time.

Most plants have a structure of flower parts called the inflorescence. The pedicle is the stem that attaches an individual flower to the plant stem. It can be short or long and can arrange the flowers into round or flat-topped clusters. Some inflorescences cause the stem to stop with flowers at the end and are determinate, and some have flowers continuing to arrive over time and are indeterminate.

Examples of inflorescences are corymbs, cymes, panicles, racemes, spadices, spikes and umbels. There are compound versions of these and other kinds of inflorescences. Knowing which inflorescence is which is important when you are trying to identify plants.

Each individual flower in one of these structures may last a day or longer. The overall effect is that the plant is blooming from the time the first flower opens until the last flower in the inflorescence finishes blooming.

If a columbine is planted from seeds in the spring, it will not bloom. If the seeds are planted in the late summer or early fall, they will probably bloom the following spring. If the plant is purchased in a pot in the spring, it will probably bloom in the spring.

A single columbine plant will produce flowers on a multibranched panicle over several weeks. From the first to last flower, it will bloom for about a month. The plant tag is designed to give you the range of months during which the plant will bloom. It will not bloom for the entire range. In fact, if you are in the southern states, columbines may begin blooming in April. And, if you are in a high Rocky Mountain valley, they may not bloom until August.

If you pinch off the flowers as they begin to fade, the plant may produce a

few more flowers for a longer blooming season. On the other hand, many columbine species are short-lived perennials that stay in the garden for many years because they produce seeds that continually replace the plant. Pinching off fading flowers will reduce the amount of seeds produced.

Keep your plant healthy and it will grow larger. It will have more flowers over a longer time than it did this year. Be careful when you read plant tags as they may not mean what you think they do.

Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@ greenerview.com. .

COPYRIGHT 2024 JEFF RUGG

DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS

Ultimate Guide to the Care and Cleaning of a Glass Cooktop

BY MARY HUNT

When it comes to kitchen appliances, nothing says modern and sleek like a beautiful, new, electric, smooth-top ceramic or glass cooktop. It’s a financial investment that deserves the utmost maintenance and care.

While a smooth-top beats a coil-element cooktop in the style department, it requires a different kind of proactive care to keep it looking good while preventing discoloration and scratching.

With smooth-top cooktops, it’s all about prevention. If you think of your cooktop as a delicate possession that requires your protection, you’ll be way ahead of the game. That means being well aware of what not to do.

What to Avoid

Do not use cast iron or stone cookware on a smooth-top cooktop or range. Period. The bottom of these types of cookware can be rough, even gritty to the touch. Any movement on that cooktop can leave permanent scratches.

Do not drag heavy pots on the cook-

top; lift and transfer to another area of the cooktop to reduce the risk of scratching.

Never allow abrasive cleaners, free Scotch-Brite sponges (the blue nonscratch version is OK) or metal pads near the cooktop.

Do not allow spills to linger. When boiling or cooking with sugary substances, take care not to spill these on a smooth-top cooktop. A sugar substance can discolor the cooktop, leaving yellowish areas that are impossible to remove. Clean up such spills quickly.

Never stand on top of the cooktop to reach something high up. Never place anything heavy on a smooth-top cooktop, even temporarily.

Do not place stirring utensils on a warm cooktop while you cook. Food on these utensils can mark or burn the cooktop, leaving a mess that needs more time to clean.

Do not place glass bakeware (from the oven) to cool on a smooth-top cooktop. Place these items on a counter to cool.

How to Clean

Here’s the rule: If you wouldn’t use it to clean your eyeglasses, don’t use it on your smooth top. Always reach for a soft sponge or cloth and a cream cleaning solution.

-- Bar Keepers Friend now makes a cooktop cleaner (about $8 for a 13-ounce bottle) that gets rave reviews from manufacturers and smooth-top owners. Another highly recommended option is Cerama Bryte Cooktop Cleaner (about $10

for 28 ounces).

-- Homemade cream cleaner. Make a paste of 50/50 baking soda and Blue Dawn dishwashing liquid. Stir until smooth. Using a non-scratch sponge, work this cream in circles over the entire cooktop. When you’re done, rinse with a wet towel followed by a microfiber cloth to polish the glass surface.

-- Homemade heavy-duty smooth-top cleaner. This is for tough spots and any stuck-on food that spilled while cooking. Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup white vinegar in a spray bottle. Add 10 drops of lemon essential oil. Shake well. Once the cooktop has cooled, sprinkle baking soda directly on the tough spots. Spray the baking soda with the vinegar mixture. Wait until the baking soda stops fizzing and wipe clean with a very soft cloth or sponge, using the texture of the powder to scour off the grease. This will not scratch the surface. Repeat as needed until you’ve taken care of any tough spots.

-- Remove discoloration. The natural oils and acids in food cooked on the stovetop can leave behind dark or light stains on the surface. Restoring discoloration from a ceramic cooktop involves proper cleaning. Follow these steps to get your cooktop back to looking new.

Apply a cream ceramic cooktop cleaner (see above) once the area cools. Rub using a soft scrubbing pad made for this purpose (the Cerama Bryte Ceramic Cooktop Cleaner Kit comes with five

cleaning pads), rubbing deep into the stain. The abrasive nature of a scrubbing pad that has been designed specifically for a glass cooktop helps release the stain to remove stubborn discoloration. Wipe the area with a wet paper towel or microfiber cloth.

-- Remove scratches. It’s best to never allow your cooktop to get scratched. Still, if you have scratches you cannot live with, you may be ready to bring out the big guns. An automotive scratch remover (you won’t find anything better than Meguiar’s Ultimate Compound) is designed to remove scratches to a clearcoat, glasslike finish. Follow the instructions on the label or apply the automotive scratch-removing compound with a soft cloth, and buff the scratch gently. Allow the scratch remover to dry, then wipe off the compound with a dry cloth.

You can find more information on the resources mentioned above at EverydayCheapskate.com/cooktop.

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/ contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.” COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

SCREENER

‘The Fall Guy’: Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt in a Fast-Talking Action-Com

BY KURT LODER

What’s your favorite movie stunt?

Mine -- well, one of them -- takes place in the intricate opening sequence of 1984’s “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom.” It’s the scene in which Indy and his companion, the shrieky nightclub singer Willie Scott (Kate Capshaw), are making a frantic exit from a club owned by Shanghai crime lord Lao Che. Lacking any other means of egress, they’re compelled to leap out a window (accompanied by a gigantic bronze gong), and the stunt is launched. Falling toward a narrow alley, Indy and Willie rip through a series of canvas awnings -- four in all -- before bouncing over onto a fifth one on the other side of the street, from which they drop into the back seat of a just-arrived Duesenberg convertible driven by a little kid called Short Round (Ke Huy Quan). He advises them to hold on to their potatoes.

This sequence, which lasts about 35 seconds, is an unforgettable demonstration of great pictorial design and stunt execution. It shows director Steven Spielberg operating at the peak of his gifts, and two top-rank stunt artists -- the celebrated Vic Armstrong and his similarly expert wife, Wendy Leech -- embodying the director’s vision. But Armstrong and Leech, as eagerly sought as their services were at the time

(they also appeared in various “Superman,” “Star Wars” and Bond films), are as often as not noted in IMDb cast lists as -- and I quote -- “uncredited.”

A movement has been building for years now to give stunt artists their due. After all, what would action movies be without them? (They’d be radio.) Now comes a fond nod to these undervalued craftspeople in director David Leitch’s new movie, “The Fall Guy,” which has the distinction of being both an orgy of top-tier stunt work and a sweet, fasttalking romcom. If this unusual combination doesn’t quite jell, well, there are worse things clogging the multiplexes at the moment.

The picture is loosely based on an ‘80s TV series that starred Lee Majors (who makes a cameo in this film) as a stuntman who moonlights as a bounty hunter. Here, Ryan Gosling is the stunt guy, Colt Seavers, but there’s no moonlighting involved. Colt is returning to the movie business after a long layoff recuperating from a stunt-related back injury. He’s summoned by producer Gail Meyer (Hannah Waddingham) to Sydney, Australia, where his ex-girlfriend, cinematographer Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), whom he ghosted after being sidelined, is making her first movie as a director. It’s a sci-fi action feature called “Metalstorm,” and it stars the egotistical Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-John-

‘Furiosa:

BY KURT LODER

George Miller’s last “Mad Max” movie, the 2015 “Fury Road,” was such a titanic achievement -- an action classic that all but ran you over -- that you wondered if he could ever possibly top it. Now, with the new prequel “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” we have the answer. And the answer is: possibly, but not right now.

“Furiosa” is a top-flight action film -- from the shot designs to the hell-onwheels stunt work to the awesome, hammers-of-doom score by Tom Holkenborg, it definitely does its job. There are problems, though, and since “Furiosa” is half an hour longer than “Fury Road,” we have time to notice them.

First, the two stars -- Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth, both highly appealing performers -- are miscast. In playing the title character -- a younger edition of Charlize Theron’s Imperator Furiosa in the previous film -- Taylor-Joy hasn’t been given enough dialogue to create a full performance (her character is an old-school, strong-andsilent type); and her peculiar, serpentine beauty -- a considerable artistic asset -- is muted by the slick of automotive facial grime through which her big brown eyes peer out.

Hemsworth has a different prob-

son), with whom Colt has long been teamed as a stunt double. Colt quickly finds himself back in harness, being set on fire, slammed against boulders and strapped into stunt cars doing “cannon rolls” down a beach. (One of these tricky maneuvers, pulled off by production stuntman Logan Holladay, set a new Guinness World Record of eight-and-ahalf flips.)

Unfortunately, Jody, still angry at Colt about their awkward breakup, isn’t happy that he’s been hired to work on the film. Complicating matters, her star, Ryder, has mysteriously disappeared. Colt, of course, is soon assigned to find him.

The heartbeat of the movie is the spirited, quippy chemistry between Blunt and Gosling, who are a classic screwball

couple. (It’s puzzling that some of their zingiest interactions were left in the trailer and never made it into the picture itself.)

Then there’s all the action: Given the director, it’s unsurprisingly top-notch. Leitch, a producer and co-director in the “John Wick” franchise and a longtime stunt double for Brad Pitt, spares no effort (or, presumably, expense) in burning through pyro, staging space-alien beach battles and calling in helicopters to juice up the spectacle. But if the movie feels a little too long (at 126 minutes), it’s because the action eventually overwhelms the perfectly crafted romance. It’s kind of heartbreaking, actually.

Kurt Loder is the film critic for Reason Online.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS

A Mad Max Saga’: Wasteland Re-Revisited

lem. Having honed his comic charm with over a decade of playing Thor in the Marvel movies, he is here asked to take two conflicting approaches to his character, a bike-gang leader called Dementus. This loud, beardy fellow is ostensibly the villain of the story; but in this harsh world, as incarnated by Hemsworth, he’s too light and goofy to project much menace. (“I’ve been waiting for someone worthy of me,” he tells a lucky lady.) And just when you begin to hope the actor will take this guy all the way to the fun side, Dementus suddenly demonstrates a taste for human “blood sausage.”

The movie is also slow to get going. It begins in the Green Place -- the Edenic sanctuary to which Charlize Theron was attempting to return in “Fury Road” (only to ultimately learn it had been destroyed). Here we get the backstory. As a little girl, some 45 years after the societal collapse that turned the outside world into a wasteland (or the Wasteland, as it’s officially styled), Furiosa lived in the Green Place with the Vuvalini, or “Many Mothers,” among them her own rifle-packing mom (Charlee Fraser). One day we see her being captured by young Dementus’ bandit horde and are unsurprised when very terrible things start to happen almost immediately.

Dementus keeps little Furiosa around (in a cage), hoping to learn more about her verdant homeland, which he would like very much to invade and despoil. Eventually, envisioning the creation of a brave new Wasteland in which he might play an exalted role, Dementus pays a visit to a fortress with which we’re already familiar from the last picture -- the Citadel, home of the battle-blond warlord Immortan Joe (Lachy Hulme) and his pasty-faced army of fanatical War Boys. (Around in here, Alyla Browne, the actor who has been ably playing the young Furiosa, steps out and is replaced, with wonderful subtlety, by Taylor-Joy, who proceeds to kick many butts.)

At age 79, Miller, who has also made excellent movies about talking pigs and dancing penguins, remains a virtuoso of cinematic action. And all his Wasteland trademarks are here: the roaring bike swarms, the incessant pyrotechnics, along with a few new tricks. There’s been some carping about the arrival of CGI in Miller’s world, starting with “Fury Road.” I don’t think this is a tremendously big deal, but computerization does alter the nature of the Mad Max gestalt -- the original thrill of these movies was a function of watching fearless stuntmen racing around in mutant dune buggies and risking their lives for real.

What’s also missed this time out is an actual Max figure, like the one played by Tom Hardy in “Fury Road.” There’s another amiable mope in that mode here -- a character called Praetorian Jack, played by Tom Burke -- but he’s so mild of manner that he barely registers, especially as a possible love match for Furiosa. And while Taylor-Joy is never anything other than fine in the title role, it’s hard not to think back to Charlize Theron’s strong take on the character, and her ability to convey the woman’s grit and sorrow with little more than her weary face and battered physique. (Speaking of which, high five to Taylor-Joy for the electrifying scene in which she does frantic battle while hanging upside down on the underside of a speeding truck.) (High five to the camera op, too, I guess.)

The “Mad Max” franchise may be showing its age a bit -- the first film came out 45 years ago. That’s a lot of screaming choppers, rampaging leather boys and endless, red-desert vistas. Somebody might want to check the gas, but as long as Miller stays on the job, any future sequels (the next one’s already in the works) are unlikely to go entirely unwatched.

Kurt Loder is the film critic for Reason Online.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS

“

The Vacant Space Revival Program

Unoccupied business spaces are an opportunity to help bring vitality to downtown areas. For George Karatzas, owner of James Cress Florist, staying downtown was a priority, but costs were prohibitive. Then George applied for our Vacant Space Revival Program, which has provided $2,462 in bill credits to help offset his overhead.* And Smithtown continues to have a business that brings warmth and charm to the area. It’s a beautiful thing to see come together—just like George’s floral arrangements.

—George Karatzas, James Cress Florist, Smithtown — Smithtown *Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Help! Need Cheap Pest Control, Leather Seats Are

Hopelessly Stained, Best Upright Vacuum on

BY MARY HUNT

Dear Cheapskate: Once each quarter, we have our house and property professionally treated for pests. The results have been excellent, and we no longer have the problem with bugs that we had before. Do you know of a homemade or store-bought solution that we can use instead of paying quarterly? The payment is quite high, and although I was able to negotiate to lower the fee, I know that’s just temporary. I am afraid if we don’t continually have our house treated, we may end up with an infestation again. -- Gloria, email

Dear Gloria: Pest control performed by a professional service is costly because these companies are licensed to use chemicals that are toxic and restricted for consumer use. The professionals know how and where to apply the chemicals in a way that doesn’t put you and pets in harm’s way.

There are do-it-yourself options for minor issues like ants and aphids, but it sounds to me as if you have bigger problems that warrant the services of a professional.

Instead of trying to do this yourself, I suggest you shop around to find the most cost-effective service possible, and let your current provider know that you

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Many of us have had loved ones debilitated by dementia. My father-in-law suffered for eight years; my uncle had it as well. Many of us worry we might have it later in life. We know there are many things that can be done to help prevent it. The MIND diet, which is a blend of the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet and emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and less red meat (along with lower-sodium foods), has been found to help. In addition, physical activity is key. Now, you can add a good night’s sleep to your routine.

You may not think sleep has anything to do with your memory or lack thereof, but a new study found that getting only six or fewer hours of sleep a night was associated with a 30% higher likelihood of being diagnosed with dementia nearly

are doing so. If you find a lower bid, your company may be willing to match that number to keep you as a loyal customer. Also, consider service every four months or twice a year. That might do the trick as a maintenance option and cut your costs.

Dear Cheapskate: Last summer, heat from the sun caused the red lettering from a plastic shopping bag to melt onto the grey leather, front passenger seat in my car. I have been unable to remove the stain and hope you may have a solution. -- Toni

Dear Toni: Because this was a grocery bag, the ink is undoubtedly considered “food grade” because it comes into contact with edibles, so it should be easy to remove. Provided your previous attempts to remove it have not seriously changed its properties, Bickmore Bick 4 Leather Cleaner and Conditioner should remove that stain and, at the same time, condition the leather. While you’re at it, you should clean all the leather interior.

I have used the product for super challenging situations, and for me it has performed well. Available on Amazon, the reviews are fantastic. Read them before you spend $20 on this cleaner. I’m confident it will be money well spent to make sure the stain is removed and your car retains its resale value.

Dear Cheapskate: I just have to say thank you! I recently purchased the

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional vacuum that you have written about -- even though I have a good vacuum and am trying to minimize my possessions. Oh my! I have been vacuuming for a week straight and am still getting dirt out of my family room carpeting. What’s more, it even feels like new carpeting under our feet. Not to mention this machine is also beautiful -- white and silver! This is just indicative of the numerous ways your wisdom and insight have blessed me and my family. Hope I get to see you in person again sometime (I was in the audience when you spoke in Naperville, Illinois, several years ago). -- Nancy

Dear Nancy: Yours is the 19th message I’ve received just this week from readers who are also ecstatic over their Shark vacuums. I know the feeling. I get it every time I put my Sharky to work. I have moved from being embarrassed by what he gets out of the carpet to feeling kinda self-righteous, knowing that finally my carpeting is really clean. Now it’s easy to keep it that way. I try to stay on top of even the smallest spot so it doesn’t become a stain, using the commercial spot treatment Carpet Aid. By the way, there are dozens of models of Shark vacuums out there! My best advice: Make sure when you purchase that

NUTRITION NEWS

Sleep and Dementia

three decades later.

Researchers in Britain conducted an observational study using sleep data from surveys filled out six times by nearly 8,000 individuals between 1985 and 2016. By the end of the study, 521 people had been diagnosed with dementia at an average age of 77. Participants started the study when they were around age 50.

The tricky part is dementia is known o disrupt sleep patterns. So, was insufficient sleep a contributing cause or an effect of dementia? Researchers felt that by starting the study at age 50, it was less likely pre-dementia brain changes had begun.

Before you crawl into bed early, note that observational studies often lack sufficient data to prove a cause-and-effect relationship, meaning the study doesn’t establish that better sleep prevents de-

mentia. We all know that many factors can contribute to the development of dementia.

The bottom line is a good night’s sleep is important. Adequate sleep along with a healthy diet and regular physical activity have all been associated with delaying the onset or slowing the progression of dementia. That’s reason enough to make sure you get eight hours a night.

Q

and A

Q: How much water do I need to drink?

A: For years, the answer was eight 8-ounce glasses a day. But research finds the correct amount is tied to your weight. New recommendations suggest you need to drink half your body weight in ounces of water. For a 150-pound person, that means 75 ounces or just over nine 8-ounce glasses. Your water needs

Earth

you see these words in the specific model name: Shark, Navigator, Lift-Away and Professional. Now you have what I consider the best upright vacuum that will give you lots of options, including attachments you will need and a canister that “lifts away” to easily vacuum steps on a staircase. I have put together more information along with links and resources for the items mentioned above at EverydayCheapskate.com/carpet.

It was great to hear from you and to recall that evening in Naperville. When I walked to the podium, I was shocked nearly to tears to see my college music professor, Fr. Wilbur David Ellsworth, and his wife, Jean, sitting front and center. I had not seen them since graduation day. Knowing you were there as well makes that memory extra special.

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/ contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “Debt-Proof Living.” COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

are also dependent on how hot it is outside and your activity level. Other liquids -- and foods such as watermelon and broth-based soups -- can count toward the total as well. Because everyone’s fluid needs vary, the most important thing is to listen to your body and honor your thirst. A simple way to tell if you’re getting enough water is to check the color of your pee. If it’s pale yellow, like the color of lemonade, you’re good. Anything darker and you probably need to drink another glass of water.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois, and the current president of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD. . COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

STARGAZERS

A Huge Strawberry Moon

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of June 16-22, 2024

Summer has arrived! Or at least it will on Thursday, June 20.

Around noon on that day, the sun will reach the year’s highest point in the mid-day sky and begin its gradual trek southward until it reaches its lowest point on Dec. 21. The actual summer solstice occurs on Thursday at 4:51 p.m. EDT (1:51 p.m. PDT). For skywatchers in the southern hemisphere, of course, everything is reversed, so they’ll see the sun at its lowest, marking their first day of winter.

Once the sun sets this week, you’ll see a very bright moon. On Friday, June 21, the full moon will rise in the southeast just as the sun sets in the northwest. Every full moon of the year has a name given to it by Native Americans; the June full moon is known as the “Strawberry moon,” many think because it has a pink hue but, folks, if you ever see a pink moon ... well, I don’t know what to tell you!

No, it’s known as the “Strawberry moon” because strawberries are in season and ready for harvest in June.

So, while the moon won’t appear pink (or even red), it can appear quite orange as it rises over the horizon. That distinctive orange color originates from the Earth’s atmosphere. If you recall from your elementary school days, the moon reflects sunlight to our eyes, and the white sunlight is composed of all colors of the spectrum squeezed together to give the appearance of white light.

When the moon is low in the sky, its light is passing through about six times more air than when it’s overhead. This thick, dust-filled air scatters the bluish light from the moon’s spectrum and leaves only warmer colors such as yellow, orange and red to shine through. The more particulate matter (such as dust, smog or volcanic ash) in the air, the deeper orange the

moon will appear.

Once the Earth rotates enough for the moon to appear higher in the sky, however, its light will pass through less atmosphere, and the moon will appear a more “normal,” yellowish-white color.

If you watch the moon rise around sunset on the 21st, you’ll also notice how immense it appears. If you believe the atmosphere somehow acts like a lens and magnifies the moon, you’re in good company, because it was Alexandrian mathematician and astronomer Claudius Ptolemy who first suggested it. Unfortunately, this is as wrong now as it was two millennia ago!

No, believe it or not, the moon’s apparently large

size originates not from the atmosphere but from right between our ears. That’s right, it’s a weird optical illusion created by our brains!

To demonstrate this “moon illusion”, make a loose fist and hold it up to your eye. Now view the rising, “large” moon through it, using your fist to block out all but the moon itself. The moon will appear to shrink. Now try blinking your eyes back and forth, looking through -- then around -- your loose fist, and watch as the moon grows and shrinks!

Any way we look at it, it’s quite an illusion!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Up Sheet’s Creek Without a Paddle

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

Back in the day, when I was younger, I would wake up in the morning and, for the most part, look like I had gotten a good night’s sleep. Not the mornings in my early 20s when I was hung over, of course. Or the mornings in my 30s after being up all night with my kids. Or the mornings in my 40s after waiting up all night for my kids to come home. But I’m sure there were some mornings when I didn’t look like I’d been hit by an ice cream truck, dragged for a mile while the tinny music drowned out my screams, then attacked by a pack of rabid badgers. Actually, it was less like I’d been hit by a truck and more like I’d been driven over by one, because every morning there seemed to be tire tracks across my face that wouldn’t go away until about lunchtime. My nightly tire tracks had become so prevalent that my

husband started calling me, in the most loving way possible, Mrs. Bedsheet Face. Of course, I had no control over what happened to my face when I slept. I’m naturally a devoted back sleeper, but in recent years I’ve had to switch to sleeping on my side, because if I slept on my back I snored (another surprising joy of turning 50). And apparently, when I slept on my side, I engaged in a bout of extreme championship wrestling with my pillow all night trying to get comfortable, and the pillow usually won. The next morning, I would have so many lines and crevices across my face that I looked like a longitudinal map. This was an interesting look for a globe. For a woman in her 50s ... not so much.

I understand wrinkles, saggy knees, gray hairs, and chin hairs are all part of the aging process, and I am willing to let them all do as they may (except the chin hairs, of course). But this bedsheet-face

thing was not something I was going to take, er, lying down. When people start asking you if you got that long scar down your face from your days as a pirate, you know something needs to be done.

I grabbed my laptop and googled “bedsheet face.” I got nothing. There were plenty of articles about bedbugs -- fortunately not a problem I had. Then there was another one about how to get rid of bedsheet wrinkles. But they meant wrinkles on your sheets, not wrinkles on your face from the sheets. Then there were a few more essays about the challenge of making a bed. I would think if you couldn’t figure out that the sheet with the elastic at the corners goes over the mattress, you have bigger problems than dealing with your bedmaking skills.

So now I knew how to get rid of bedbugs, smooth out bed wrinkles and

make a bed, but I still had the dreaded bedsheet-face dilemma.

I scrolled a little further and finally found an article. Could it be that someone else out there suffered from the same sleep-induced, tire-track-face dilemma that I did? Was I not alone in my quest for a smooth-faced sleep experience? Eager to rid myself of this blight on my appearance, I clicked on the link for the article “How do I get rid of sheet wrinkles on my face?”

Their advice?

Sleep on your back.

Tracy Beckerman is the author of the Amazon Bestseller, “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,” available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online! You can visit her at www. tracybeckerman.com.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

You can catch a glimpse of a bigger-looking moon around sunset on the 21st.

© 2008 Dennis Mammana

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When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jackanimal healthcare for cats, dogs, & horses. At Tractor Supply (www.happyjackinc.com)

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTO FOR SALE

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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY FOR SALE

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STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

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Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates. com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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Tryouts for GC Pool’s Summer Swim Team

Calling all GC swimmers!

Tryouts for the Garden City Pool’s summer swim team will be held June 10–14, from 6–8 p.m. The team is open to all GC Pool members ages 6–16 as of June 1, 2024.

At tryouts, prospective athletes will demonstrate their knowledge of all four strokes and their ability to swim multiple laps in the deep end. It is only nec-

essary to attend ONE night of tryouts. Swimmers ages 6–10 should arrive by 5:45 p.m.; swimmers ages 11–16 should arrive by 6:45 p.m. If you have specific questions about tryouts, please contact Coach Andrew at gardencityswimteam@gmail.com.

For more information about our swim team program at the GC Pool, visit  www.gardencityswimming.com.

Troop 1322 members earn Girl Scout Gold Award

Four members of Garden City Girl Scout Troop 1322 were among those honored by Girl Scouts of Nassau County at the Gold Award Ceremony on June 10th at Hofstra University.  The Girl Scouts Gold Award is the highest award in Girl Scouts of the United States.  Only 5.4% of eligible Girl Scouts successfully earn the Gold Award.  Through pursuing this award, Girl Scouts change the world by tackling issues they are passionate about to drive lasting change in their communities and beyond while they learn essential skills that will prepare them for all aspects of life.

Grace Dennis: “Book Buddies”Grace’s project helped strengthen literacy skills and foster a love of reading in children by running book clubs and creating literacy kits with fun and engaging activities.

Abigail Jesberger: “Memories Bring Back Memories” - Abby raised awareness about Alzheimer’s Disease and how pictures of one’s past could trigger memories in Alzheimer’s patients. She created memory books which included pictures of movies, music, TV shows and fads from the 1960s through the 1980s and donated them to the Long Island Alzheimer’s and Dementia Center.

Maddie O’Brien: “Coping With Pet Loss Through Artistic Expression”Maddie created an online resource for people to learn about pet loss and help them work through their grief by connecting with others in similar situations. She also constructed a memorial garden at a local nature preserve where people can use artistic expression to create a memento of their lost pet.

“Your Vote, Your Voice” - Simone’s project was to improve voting rates amongst young people and educate high schoolers on their civic duty. She created posters, pamphlets, and a website with information on the voting laws in all 50 states, and distributed them across town halls,

libraries, and high schools. She also created a branch of the Junior State of America organization at her high school to ensure the continuation of her project.

Congratulations on earning the Gold Award!

Sports leaders, Recreation Commission discuss fields

From page 34

to receiving water and chemicals.”

Outside Help for Fields?

Trustee Muldoon shared his idea of the village speaking with managers at the Garden City country clubs, where golf courses are pristine and have excellent maintenance protocols. During the monthly Board of Trustees’ Meet and Greet event on May 29, Muldoon spoke with Cherry Valley Country Club Superintendent Chris Caporicci and suggested that he help the village consider solutions for the St. Paul’s fields.

“It is going to take years – when I grew up on a farm in Ireland it was simple to have the grounds well-maintained. We alternated the paddocks each year so you don’t kill all the grass and nutrients. It’s the same way here, and we are going to have to stage treatments year-by-year and work our way around the fields. We take away areas to manage them and capacity will be stressful but we manage without those areas. If we do this, we need a true professional and true professional organization working with us. Everything costs money but if you want quality and good things you do have to spend a little bit more money,” Muldoon explained on May 30. He asked Blake if the village would be better off hiring a company to

take care of the fields at St. Paul’s exclusively, and if that would allow the Rec. and Parks staff to focus on the other fields and parks in Garden City.

Blake’s perspective is that the seeding and thatching of the fields is simple labor that employees already accomplish. “I don’t know you would get anything better by going with a contractor when we have a crew of four people here working on the fields 90% of the time. I do not know that a contractor would take better care of village fields than our own salaried employees,” he said.

Another concern Blake relayed was pushback from the CSEA (union) due to privatization of services that could impact current employees and their roles.

The immediate plan they devised was a concentrated goal on checking the turf field potential for the St. Paul’s campus, and contractor The LandTek Group was going to be consulted to consider what areas would be best suited for turf.

Enhancing the current grass fields is also a goal the village has coordinated. Trustee Muldoon reported that Caporicci shared insight on field maintenance that nothing is more important than consistency in timing of applications, even for a fully-organic program. According to Muldoon, the organic was

not discounted as a method to treat fields, but other matters like sprinkler and grass cutting should also be coordinated with skill and precision.

“Chris said the timing and amount must run like clockwork – if the treatment is always Tuesdays at 10 a.m, then stick with exactly Tuesday at 10 a.m. We then need to have a complete system in place for which fields are taken offline and for how long. Every week and every month should be well planned-out – I need us to make sure we will have great grass, and then we will be maintaining that great grass every week, making sure we are feeding and fertilizing it,” he told the Rec. Commission and meeting attendees.

The parents/sports group representatives, led by Hegarty, also questioned the Rec. Commission and department staff on rentals of the fields to non-Garden City sports organizations. Upon hearing this, Trustee Muldoon shared his thoughts that any Garden City child and youth sports group should have access and priority for the use of village athletic fields over non-residents.

“If you have any other areas that Rec. is renting out that are making a few bucks, okay, but it is every little bit of wear and tear on the fields that makes an impression on the fields,” Muldoon commented.

Assistant Superintendent of Garden City Recreation & Parks Andrew Hill commented on the maintenance and improvements at the St. Paul’s athletic playing fields, but he was assertive in making sure those at the Commission meeting understood there was no money-grab for Recreation revenues based on field rentals at the expense of reserving time and good conditions for Garden City athletic groups using them.

“It is not a money-driven thing with rentals because we have so many rental groups that we turn down. We’ve had direct competition to GC Centennials that tell us their roster of 20 kids includes 14 that are Garden City kids, but we turned them down to rent the field. We have lacrosse people reaching out to us and asking for fields but we understand the situation we are in. There are clinics we give off-field spaces to run their clinics and then we can revisit the agreement – Yellowjackets is not using St. Paul’s but they have six days rented at Stewart Field, from a pre-existing agreement,” Hill said.

He clarified that there’s a 20-by-15foot square for USA Sports Group to accommodate 28 kids that are all Garden City residents.

Simone Oustatcher:

Troop 1322 members: Abby Jesberger, Simone Oustatcher, Grace Dennis, Maddie O’Brien

Friday, June 14, 2024 The

elected by a margin of 52% to 48% with far fewer overall voters (2577 voters). Of course, this result shouldn’t be questioned, so why question how to proceed on St. Paul’s, when 61% of the residents want preservation? We also know that the October 21st ballot was artfully contrived and manipulated by the mayor to confuse the average voter and to allow for ongoing, time-wasting debate long after the poll was taken. This ballot was designed to allow the mayor and her naysayers to continue to pursue demolition or demolition through facadism. However, most voters are not fooled by this effort. If you remove all of the confusing paragraphs and pre-election handouts that were infused into the voting process, people basically selected one of the two boxes at the bottom of the ballot that clearly indicated: Preservation or demolition…….. Preservation dominated the vote. So now it is time to proceed with adaptive re-use of this grand and historic building that can be effectively used for a myriad of purposes that we all know we need to support the various community activities that we have and want to add to our Village. These are known community uses that have been debated, surveyed, and basically decided upon over the years. But once again, the Mayor and her 5-member committee are wasting more time and more money with a new firm (Brandstetter / Carroll – “BCI”) to survey our residents at a costly sum of $174,000. To do what? To find out what we already know; that there are many GREAT ways to use this building and that the time to act is now. So, stop wasting valuable time Mayor Flanagan, let’s move forward with the preservation plan: Modernize the existing building’s infrastructure bringing it up to code and restore the historic aspects of this building for all residents to use and enjoy. As a reminder to all, this building is on the National Register of Historic Places. I know that I am on the right side of history when I want to restore this building for all of us to enjoy. Let’s not be fooled by “the tactics of a few”, who are attempting to complicate and tangle the path forward on preservation and re-use.

Robert Vassalotti

We need facts, not spin!

To the Editor:

The President of the Garden City Historical Society asked last week,  “Why do we need another “uses” survey?” when “60%+ of residents want preservation and to eventually make good use of the building”? He asks why do we not “begin immediately to address the infrastructure needs of the St Paul’s building?” (https://www.gcnews.com/ articles/alice-in-wonderland-moment/)   Maybe the advocates of “Saving Every Brick”,  ie) the Historical Society,

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

the Alliance and certain BOT members, need a reminder of what the Opinion Poll read.  The wording of the Preservation selection in the Opinion Poll was crystal clear: “Proposal 1” Preservation (Partial or Full)”. This included both “stabilization of all floors and finishing a portion of the interior space for public use” (Save Every Brick as preferred by the Historical Society and the Alliance) AND “to preserve the front of the Building as seen from Stewart Avenue (Facadism) and allow a new building to be constructed behind it”.  The second part of Proposal 1 seems to be repeatedly forgotten by the Save Every Brick supporters.  So the President of the Historical Society’s plea to “begin immediately to address the infrastructure needs of the St Paul’s building” only makes sense if you ignore that saving the façade with a modern sports/theatre facility behind the building was part of Proposal 1.  In fact, one of the great attractions of facadism, is not just saving a beautiful architecturally unique building front that many admire as they drive by every day, (I personally would save the front row of rooms as well for a community center) but to create a new facility behind it, with modern infrastructure and a flexible layout, rather than trying to repair the insides of a century plus year old building with its 500 room layout.

The confusion created by the Opinion Poll, combining two unrelated choices:  Saving Every Brick and saving the Façade with a new sports/theatre facility behind it, make it clear the Opinion Poll, the work of 8 Trustees, has done more harm than good.  It has provided no clarity on what the residents prefer, despite those that claim they have a mandate for a full renovation. The only thing the Opinion Poll tells us about “Preservation” is that 61% of the voters would consider saving between between 1% and 100% of the building. There was, and is, no mandate for saving the entire building, despite what the Alliance and Historical Society’s claim.  Even the single choice, “Proposal 2” Demolition, which received 39% of the votes  is not telling, as it seems likely to include a large number of voters that support saving the façade, but refused to pick Proposal 1 that included “Adaptive Re-Use” because of fear of the “money pit” phenomena that is commonly associated with the rehabilitation of dilapidated interiors.

In fact, the only recent quantitative data that the Village has regarding the relative preference of residents for Saving Every Brick vs. Facadism with a new building behind it, is the Garden City News Poll of Oct 21st, 2023, which indicated the residents preferred Facadism over Saving Every Brick by more than 2 to 1. (https://www.gcnews. com/pollsarchive/)

So it would be best if everyone stops

misinterpreting, unintentionally or otherwise, the results of a deeply flawed Opinion Poll and acknowledge that spending a hundred thousand dollars or so for a professional firm to get unbiased data, when we are looking at a capital investment of potentially more than “$125,000,000 conservatively”,  is just good business practice.  Let’s wait for the residents to be able to express their preferences thru a professional, unbiased firm, Brandstetter Caroll, Inc., and acknowledge what we all know, that many volunteers in the village are too emotionally vested in the St Paul’s issue to provide accurate and unbiased information. The opinion of the best architect or engineer or project manager in the world, no matter how strong a resume, is worthless if their biases outweigh their professional judgment.

Donald MacLeod

A St Paul’s Advocate for Reasonable Compromise (SPARC)

Reflect willingness to pay

To the Editor:

Local government should be the most responsive and engaged of the various levels of representation.  Local elections should reflect actual outcomes generated by their representatives.  Unfortunately, elections have become less about ideas and policies and more about personalities and distractions.  Garden City experienced this very phenomenon in the 2024 Village election, when disparate groups with vastly different interests came together to oppose a common enemy.

Rather than focusing on quality of life, education, and taxes, somehow the 2024 campaign became a referendum not so much on policies and programs, but over petty grievances and social media rudeness.

The alliance of aggrieved POA leaders (who aggressively sought to return to BOT power after three years of FABGC majorities) and St. Paul’s preservationists (who spent lots of money on glossy pre-election mailers and fullpage ads) actively engaged online and at the polls.

Unfortunately, the 2,000 or so voters who banded together to oust the FABGCbacked trustees may have opened a Pandora’s Box of massive financial obligations on the 7,000 tax-paying households in the Village by empowering a small cadre of ardent “full preservationists” who may ultimately seek $150M-$200M of capital spending (across multiple phases) for a full renovation of the St. Paul’s building.

In other words, residents could be burdened with the debt service on an additional $20,000-$30,000 per household in local government debt—not for additional parkland or greenspace and not for access to more sports and recreation facilities—so that the 1880-

era construction envelope of a former parochial school could be restored for some unspecified community uses to the liking of the Historical Society and St. Paul’s Alliance leaders.  Should a rumored “senior citizen exemption” be passed, the burden on everybody else would be even larger on working parents.

While the vast majority of Garden City residents has no connection with the St. Paul’s school, nor have they ever entered the largely dilapidated interior that has been deteriorating for more than 30 years, they generally appreciate the exterior appearance of the building from afar.  Perhaps, that explains the 61%-39% opinion poll result in the fall of 2023 favoring partial or full restoration over demolition.  That said, the non-binding opinion poll should never be viewed as carte blanche to recklessly undertake a complete renovation on a deteriorating (and asbestos & moldfilled) 140-year-old building, particularly without credible and widely agreed upon cost estimates.

The flawed opinion poll, which lumped together a range of renovation options vs. demolition, was tantamount to asking customers seated in a restaurant whether they would like food (any food) or not, without providing a price list; then charging them for the most expensive options.

As a point of reference, the Garden City News’ October 21, 2023 readers’ poll reflected that partial renovation/facade outpaced full renovation by nearly 2 to 1.

John Ellis Kordes recently wrote that when the diocese sold St. Paul’s to Garden City, church leaders characterized the building as “Garden City’s problem” now.  If a purpose-built 1880s parochial school could not be made to succeed in its specified mission, what kind of rose-colored glasses are necessary to presume that plethora of small rooms that have been subjected to untold environmental impacts over the years would be perfectly recast as a community center in 2024 or 2030 or 2040?

The very groups of ardent “full preservationists” who anticipated an adverse outcome in the opinion polls— even calling the exercise a rigged election favoring demolition—are now pressuring the newly elected POA/CAP trustees to support full renovation, albeit in multiple phases.  They seek to have the BOT renounce any changes to the 1880s-era footprint and envelope.  Although 2022 and 2023 presentations by the leaders of the St. Paul’s Alliance offered estimates on a handful of potential alternatives, there were significant disagreements and controversies surrounding the assumptions, with the resignations and withdrawals of various Mayor’s committee members who vehemently contested the financial figures.

The emotional caterwauling and backbiting of various committee members and Trustees have been highly divisive and counterproductive.

It would seem reasonable, necessary, and mandatory to have a comprehensive reflection of Village residents’ priorities on the future of St. Paul’s and what it could mean to their taxes / implicit financial obligations associated with any renovation/repurposing project.  Consider that a $150M-$200M all-in price tag for a full renovation of the facility would represent approximately 2x-3x annual Village spending.

If the Board of Trustees TRULY wants to reflect the various campaign promises of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and inputs from all Garden City residents, it should first have a single question survey issued to each Garden City household (perhaps with the Village tax levy): How much in additional total tax debt would your household be willing to pay (over time) to fund renovations at St. Paul’s: NONE / $0-$5K / $5K-$10K / $10K-$20K / $20K-$30K / UNLIMITED.

The results would certainly represent a greater cross-section of the village than the 3,000 total voters who participated in the last election.  More importantly, the range of responses and average (mean or median) level of financial commitment endorsed would be the most instructive and representative data to reflect resident priorities and willingness to endure ongoing tax increases to pursue an entirely optional project that had languished for more than 30 years of inaction.  From a budgeting and planning perspective, there would be no better way of sizing the potential renovation and narrowing down options as part of the project.

Margaret Thatcher succinctly chided big government spending, thusly: “The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people’s money.”  It is the Board of Trustees’ fiduciary and sworn duty to represent the broad cross section of residents they represent, not just the small cohort of ardent preservationists who aim to spend other people’s money lavishly.

James Kumpel

Enough is enough

To the Editor:

The residents of the Village of Garden City voted to Save St. Paul’s. Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan and the prior BOT have hired a firm to further explore options, not taking demolition off the table. Those two facts do not line up. Here is a summary of how we have arrived here, and what residents can do about it.

1) September 2023: Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan disclosed authorship of the Opinion Poll with partial assistance from some 2023 Trustees. Residents clarified that ‘Preservation’ meant maintaining the current footprint of

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

St. Paul’s building; Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan and trustees refused to entertain questions from residents.

2) March 2024: Mayor Flanagan and the previous BOT engaged a Kentuckybased company, BCI, for $174,000 to ascertain residents’ desires for recreation and St. Paul’s. This firm has not worked on historical buildings or in New York before. 3) Former Mayor Cosmo Veneziale’s St. Paul’s committee and ongoing St. Paul’s Alliance dedicated over two years to soliciting residents’ preferences for a Community Center at St. Paul’s at no cost to taxpayers. These groups include but are not limited to experts in the financial, engineering, and architecture fields who specialize in the Tristate area and have worked on historical projects.

3)  Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan’s decision to delay the initiation of a community center at St. Paul’s for another year while BCI gathers responses to questions already addressed by resident experts over the past two years. We expect the Mayor to be fiscally prudent. Between the opinion poll, advertising for the St. Paul’s campaign, and BCI, costs have risen to over $200,000. And what do we have now? Nothing.

What residents can do:

1)New process at the beginning of each BOT meeting: Residents get one minute to speak to any topic if you can’t stay for the meeting.

2)Have the BOT hear your voice.

William Alisse

Father’s Day Tribute

To the Editor:

Fatherhood’s Most Sacred and Important Role Deserves A Father’s Day Tribute.

In today’s issue of The Garden City News, readers can view a beautiful, twopage, centerfold Father’s Day Tribute intended to express our sincere gratitude for every father in his most sacred and important role of giving the precious gift of life to his child.

We recognize the special love that a father has for his child, and we join as a community to commend each and every father for having the room in his heart to cooperate with God’s Divine Plan to provide for and to protect children, born and pre-born. This year marks the eleventh consecutive year that Garden City residents have sponsored a Father’s Day Tribute.

Among the thousands of readers of The Garden City News who will view today’s Father’s Day Tribute, there likely will be fathers whose expectant mothers may be facing difficult pregnancies. For them there is a confidential and caring professional agency that will provide life-affirming support to mothers and fathers in need. Women First Pregnancy Options in Hempstead (call 516-408-6300 or visit https://womenfirstpregnancyoptions.org/) offers

confidential assistance with a pregnancy and information about alternatives to abortion.

For women who have experienced an abortion and may be seeking healing and confidential counseling, the wonderfully gentle Sisters of Life in Manhattan offer a caring program for post-abortive women. They hold Days of Prayer and Healing for Women.  For information, visit http://www.sistersoflife.org/hopeand-healing-after-abortion, or call the Sisters of Life at 866-575-0075, or email them at hopeandhealing@sistersoflife. org.

For fathers who may be grieving over a lost, aborted child and are in need of confidential and healing counseling, they need not feel alone. There is help for them as well. More and more men are coming forward for healing, and through their personal testimonies, are reaching out to others so that they too may receive the forgiveness and mercy of God. The “Hope and Healing AfterAbortion” Ministry in Westchester, NY hosts Entering Canaan Men’s Days of Prayer and Healing for men. Their contact details are: 877-586-4621 and lumina@postabortionhelp.org.

For couples having difficulty conceiving a child, the Gianna Center for Women’s Health and Fertility, located at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, 1000 Montauk Highway, West Islip, NY 11795, offers a highly regarded and successful infertility program that provides specialized obstetrical and gynecological care to women, while honoring both their dignity and the sanctity of human life. The Gianna Center’s skilled staff, headed by Dr. Paul Carpentier, MD, CFCMC, helps couples diagnose and treat underlying causes of infertility to help them conceive naturally. The Gianna Center can be reached at 631-376-3232 and https:// www.chsli.org/gianna-center .

Please share this letter (and the Tribute) with anyone who is either experiencing an unplanned pregnancy; is carrying the pain and sorrow of losing a child to abortion; or is seeking assistance to overcome infertility. Help is just a phone call away.

God bless all fathers.

The Church of St. Joseph Knights of Columbus,

St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council No. 15809

Looking great

To the Editor:

Saturday, my wife and I shopped and had lunch along 7th Street / Franklin Ave. I want to thank the Mayor and BOT for sprucing-up the business district. The streets were clean, sidewalk pavers looked great; many flowers planted and blooming; nice benches for us old-timers to relax; and we even saw a sidewalk garbage container being hand-cleaned. Hopefully, residents and visitors will support our local businesses. One small suggestion......reduce the speed on Franklin Ave.

Gordon Keit

Eagle Scout project

To the Editor:

My name is John Sievers, and I’m a Life Scout in Troop 243 at St. Joseph’s Parish in Garden City. I’m working on my Eagle project to help the Garden City Bird Sanctuary by building habitats for native pollinators. The goal of my project is to address the decline of pollinators by creating suitable habitats and encouraging pollination. My project involves creating insect sanctuaries as part of a Pollinator Pathway, which in turn helps our local ecosystem in Garden City.

If you would like to donate to my Eagle Scout Project, please send a check payable to Troop 243 to John Sievers, 105 6th Street, Garden City, NY 11530. Your donation is tax-deductible. Thank you for your support.

John Sievers

Enjoyable experience

To the Editor:

On Saturday June 1st, I had the pleasure of being a guest of my granddaughters at the Garden City Recreation Department Annual Dance Recital. The hard work and dedication of all teachers, students and stage crew was evident. The show was well rehearsed and each performance exhibited creativity and talent. This recital could not have gone on without the support and guidance of Director Felicia Lovaglio. Thank you all for a very enjoyable experience! Pam Dellacorte

Garden City Recreation and Parks News

Chess Wizards Summer Camp

Garden City Recreation and Parks has again partnered with the very popular “Chess Wizards” to offer after school programs for Garden City children ages 5 through 12 who want to learn the game of chess!

Chess Wizards is a fun way to have kids experience the excitement of chess. Kids will play in mini tournaments, have interactive lessons with chess pros and play cool chess variants like bug house. It is proven that chess enhances cognitive development in children, improves both verbal and mathematical skills, and increases all levels of academic performance! Playing chess stimulates the mind and helps children strengthen skills such as focusing, visualizing goals, abstract thinking, and forming concrete opinions.

Instructors (who are called “Wizards”) provide all the materials necessary for your child to participate in the class and no additional purchase is required to attend. All students will receive a trophy, puzzle folder and wizards t-shirt. Come join the fun!!!

This camp will be offered:

• August 5 – 9 from 9 am to noon OR Noon to 3 pm

• August 19-23 from 9 am to noon OR Noon to 3 pm

Classes will be held in St. Paul’s Cottages.

The cost of each 5 day, 3 hour camp is $225.

Your child may register for a full day and bring lunch at a cost of $325.

To register for this program please visit the Chess Wizards website at www. chesswizards.com.

Adult Art Class Continuation

The Garden City’s Department of Recreation and Parks will offer a spring continuation adult art class.  This four class program will teach the beginner as well as the advanced student the art of painting portraits and landscapes/stilllife in pastel from photographs.  Arleen Rueth Urban, the instructor for this program, is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America.

Classes will be held Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. The cost of this program will be $ 50. This class is open to adult residents who reside in the Inc. Village of Garden City.  Classes are held in St. Paul’s Cluett Hall beginning Friday, May 31st.

To register for this session please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. If you have a password, you may register online at gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

Incrediflix Filmaking Camps for Ages 7-13

Incrediflix is back! This very popular film making camp guides children through the aspects of this great hobby. Children will work in age-appropriate

groups to create and make their own short film. Topics are listed below. Lunch supervision is included for any child who would like to stay for both sessions of that week’s camp. All flix will be professionally edited and will be downloadable within a month after camp ends.

Where: Cottage 110 (next to the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave.)

Cost: $205 for each ½ day session, or  $385 if you register for both sessions in the same week, bring your lunch, stay for two classes.

Our topics are:

Week of July 8- 11

Animation Flix

9:00 to 12:00pm

In this fast-paced class, you’ll create up to four new stop motion movies using different medium each day! Animate cars, film with green screen, and new for 2024 you create a 2D Mario movie, and more! *$35 Production fee included in the price of the camp. Flix emailed within a month after camp ends.

Action Stop Motion Flix

1:00 to 4:00 pm

Use stop motion tricks to create fires, explosions, and even floods as your characters battle it out or work together to save the day in the action packed stop motion class. You will work in small groups to storyboard, create the action and film these exciting movies.

Animation & Action Stop Motion Flix- FULL DAY

9:00am- 4:00pm

Join us for the full day combo for a discount plus free lunch supervision!

Please see both half day descriptions. Bring snacks, lunch, and drink. *$70 Production fee is included in the price for the camp. Flix emailed within a month after camp ends.

Week of August 5 – August 8

Live Action Flix

9:00 am to Noon

Discover your filmmaking talents!

You don’t have to be an actor to take part, as we’ll guide you through the Hollywood process to create, direct, film, act, and more. You won’t just make an incredible movie, you’ll have the skills to make your own movies with friends.

Lego Flix  1:00 to 4:00 pm

Bring Lego worlds to life! We provide Legos. You provide your imagination. Work in groups to create a Lego set with Lego characters for a stop-motion movie you’ll storyboard, shoot, and add voiceover too. *$35 Production fee included in the price of the camp. Flix emailed within a month after camp ends.

Live Action & Lego FlixFULL DAY

9:00am- 4:00pm

Join us for the full day combo for a discount plus free lunch supervision!

Please see both half day descriptions. Bring snacks, lunch, and drink. *$70

Production fee is included in the price for the camp. Flix emailed within a month after camp ends.

To register, please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. Checks only please, made payable to Incrediflix.

Gear Up for a Fun Filled Summer at the Garden City Pool

Garden City Recreation and Parks is thrilled for another exciting summer at the Garden City Pool! We are now accepting pool applications at the Recreation office at 108 Rockaway Ave. Applications can be found at the Rec Office or online at www.gardencityrecreation.org.

Get a Jump on the Summer with USA Sport Group

US Sports and Garden City Recreation have again joined up to run our very popular summer sports programs at Community Park and St. Paul’s.  Weekly summer programs include soccer, multisport, flag football, field hockey, lacrosse, and golf. They also offer Parent and Me classes as well as 3 to 5 year old squirt programs!

These programs are open to Village residents ages 2 to 11 years.  To see what is offered and to register, please visit US Sports website at www.usasportgroup. com and look for Garden City.

The Upcycle Academy Summer Camp  SUMMER 2024 NEW!!

The Upcycle Academy - FASHION CAMP Do you have a passion for fashion? Do you like being creative? How about having FUN with friends while you make something AWESOME!!

Join The Upcycle Academy for our Fashion Camp this Summer. In this very special enrichment camp, we guide you through the design process for creating your very own upcycled designs. Our camps are both educational & FUN. Sketch your ideas. Shop the Upcycle Shop. DIY - Design It Yourself!

All upcycling materials and recycled apparel are provided (bring your own if you want to make it extra special).

Brought to you by fashion industry professionals, fashion university educators & current fashion university students. We teach all things fashion … ColorFashion Illustration - Silhouette /  Shape / Proportion - Trend Spotting ConceptDesign - Upcycling - Sustainability in Fashion - Styling and more! Share your designs on the last day of camp in the lookbook photoshoot and fashion show especially for friends and family.

All upcycle materials and recycled apparel provided. Keep your designs at the end of camp! July 8 - August 9th 5 one week sessions offered. MondayFriday 9am - 12pm Age 8 - 14 Fee $345

Lil Athletes Core 4 Summer Camp

Lil Athletes will be running a 3-day

multi-sport camp featuring our “Core 4” sports Soccer, Baseball, Lacrosse, and Football. July 1-3rd: $120 for the 3 days 9am-12pm (Ages 3-5). Children will learn specific sports skills in a fun and engaging environment. Each day children will rotate through different sports stations as well as participating in fun obstacle course play. All children must bring a drink and snack (no peanuts of any kind please).

LI Steam Group Camps for Summer 2024

Garden City Recreation and Parks is excited to have LI Steam Group back for another fun filled summer of camps! The Summer 2024 schedule is as follows: July 8 - July 12 9 AM to 12 PM Motion Madness Science and engineering go hand-inhand as our campers discover what machines and nature have in common. Campers will build various structures like bridges and domes, and run a crazy obstacle course with the help of simple machines. Learn the Fun-damental Forces that affect motion. Check out motion on the Molecular level and see how motion pictures work. (For children entering grades 1-5).

12 PM to 1 PM Lunchtime Care Optional lunchtime supervision for campers looking to stay for the PM camp.

1 PM to 4 PM Crayola® Legends & Lore Unleashing Creativity Through Myths and Mystery From sea creatures of the deep to phoenixes in the sky, every society has its legends and lore. We’ll tell their stories through paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. These legends may inspire awe, curiosity, or surprise, but they all inspire our imaginations! Kids experiment with different art techniques using Crayola® supplies to bring their ideas to life. Each camp day is all about designing a one-ofa-kind mythical creature. (For children entering grades 1-6)

July 15 - July 19

9 AM to 12 PM Flight Academy Birds, kites, planes, and rockets! If it flies Mad Science Camp covers it! Investigate the science of aerodynamics. All week long, campers will build various flying machines, explore space and apply Newton’s Laws of motion as we take daily flights of discovery! Learn about natural fliers and build your own Mad Science Model Rocket! (For children entering grades 1-5)

12 PM to 1 PM Lunchtime Care Optional lunchtime supervision for campers looking to stay for the PM camp.

1 PM to 4 PM Brixology Using LEGO® bricks, kids build a different engineering-themed project in each class. They explore different engineering fields, including mechanical, structural, aerospace, nautical, and bioengineering. They use critical thinking,

Garden City Recreation and Parks News

and creative problem-solving to test and improve their creations. (For children entering grades 2-6).

July 22 - July 26

9 AM to 12 PM NASA Academy of Future Space Explorers Discover the frontiers of space with this handson camp! Campers explore our Earth’s atmosphere to the outer reaches of our solar system! Comets, planets, stars and more are all waiting to be discovered. Learn about the four forces of flight, the challenges of space travel, and participate in a rocket launch! (For children entering grades 1-5)

12 PM to 1 PM Lunchtime Care

Optional lunchtime supervision for campers looking to stay for the PM camp.

1 PM to 4 PM Crayola® Artist’s Passport Travel The World Through Art Embark on an around-the-world cultural adventure - explore far-off places and learn about the people who live there, from the Americas to the Ivory Coast, from the cosmopolitan to the countryside. Experiment with Crayola® products, while trying art techniques developed by local artists and artisans. Make a different masterpiece each day, including a dot art canvas, a mini-Pakistani bus, a mud art painting on fabric, and an imperial Russian egg! Bring the unique creations home and build a globally inspired art gallery. (For children entering grades 1-6)

July 29 - August 2

9 AM to 12 PM Detective Science

This program features fun-filled, handson, secret agent-themed science activities that allow kids to play detective, sharpen their surveillance skills, and crack encrypted messages. Kids become super sleuths! (For children entering grades 2-6)

August 5 - August 9

9 AM to 12 PM  Robot Engineers

Join us for a week of fun with amazing robots! In this robot-centered camp, children will learn about the uses of robots in our world, discover the science of circuits and how robots use their components to explore and react to what is around them. Use your skills to build your very own working robot that you will take home at the end of the week! (For children entering grades 3-6)

12 PM to 1 PM  Lunchtime Care

Optional lunchtime supervision for campers looking to stay for the PM

camp.

1 PM to 4 PM Crayola® Wild World Wildlife and Habitat Conservation

Kids explore the wonder of the animal kingdom and discover nature in a way that inspires empathy, curiosity, and creativity. They learn about many different animals and how wildlife conservationists are working to protect species around the globe. They experiment with art techniques and use Crayola® art materials to create frog paintings, ink-diffusion jellyfish, polar bear sculptures, and more! (For children entering grades 1-6)

August 12 - August 16

9 AM to 12 PM Bots Lab Explore the fields of robotics in this amazing hands-on camp. This will be a unique camp experience for the young robot builders! Campers take home awesome daily science projects. Throughout the week, they will complete a robot that they’ll keep! (For children entering grades 2-5)

12 PM to 1 PM Lunchtime Care

Optional lunchtime supervision for campers looking to stay for the PM camp.

1 PM to 4 PM Brixology Using LEGO® bricks, kids build a different engineering-themed project in each class. They explore different engineering fields, including mechanical, structural, aerospace, nautical, and bioengineering. They use critical thinking, and creative problem-solving to test and improve their creations. (For children entering grades 2-6)

August 19 - August 23

9 AM to 12 PM Advanced Robotics A robotics camp for the accomplished robot builder! Campers will build their own Robotic Arm throughout the week and take it home at the end of camp! The building of this robot is rather involved, so previous experience and fine motor skills are recommended. (For children entering grades 3-6)

12 PM to 1 PM Lunchtime Care

Optional lunchtime supervision for campers looking to stay for the PM camp.

1 PM to 4 PM Crayola® World of Design Think it! Draw it! Make it!

This camp that takes kids on a journey to the edges of their imagination – and beyond! They learn about Mars, the rainforest, and cities of the future, and get engaged in the creative design

process to solve real-world problems. Each camp day focuses on a specific field of design, and our young architects, illustrators and graphic designers develop their ideas from concept, to sketch, to finished product. They bring their concepts to life by experimenting with Crayola® products, and exploring art techniques like sculpting, storyboarding, mixed media, and collage. Combining art, design, fun active games, and inspiring themes from around the world, this camp is designed to inspire! (For children entering grades 1-6)

August 26 - August 30

9 AM to 12 PM Ready to Robot Explore the fields of robotics in this amazing hands-on camp. This will be a unique camp experience for the young robot builders! Campers take home awesome daily science projects. Throughout the week, they will complete a robot that they’ll keep! (For children entering grades 2-5)

2024 Garden City Pool

Membership Applications are now available at gardencityrecreation.org

Go to gardencityrecreation.org for a pool brochure and an application. We’re getting ready for you…are you getting ready for us! Don’t Miss Out!  Join today!

Pool Season 2024 Highlights include:

• Wacky Inflatable Night: August 10th, beginning at Members and guests are allowed to bring in inflatable floats for  one  special night in the big pool.    Poolside DJ by Musicflex

• Arts and Crafts for the Kids: Wednesdays at 10:30am in Snack Bar Area, Begins July 3rd

• B-I-N-G-O: Bingo for prizes and lots of fun in the picnic area on Thursdays at 2pm beginning July 11th.

• Party Under the Stars Night: Saturday, July 27th with live Music from  the  “Audio Replay” Band.  Poolside bar, delicious specialty foods and traditional B  B  Q fare  for purchase  at reasonable Fun begins at 5:30pm.

• Senior Citizen Days: Monday, July 8 and Monday. August 5th Pool opens at 10am for senior pool members.  Music by Johnny Whimple.  Snack bar specials.

• Movie Nights : featuring first run family entertainment films

• Jester Jim Juggling show: July 14th at 2pm,

• Magic of Amore: July 21st  at 1pm

• Middle School Night: Monday, July 22 at 7:30pm

• See the SPLASH brochure for the full details of the 2024 season, available for download at gardencityrecreation. org

Youth Baseball Camp at Community Park

Recreation and Parks will again conduct a Summer Baseball Camp for boys and girls that are residents of the Village of Garden City and entering 1st through 5th grades in September. This instructional program is offered for boys and girls entering 1st through 5th grades. The camp will focus on individual skill development, and the importance of playing together as a team. Youngsters in each age category will be divided into appropriate skill levels and will receive group instruction.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Baseball Glove, Sneakers or Rubber Cleats

When: Week of July 22 – 25

Where: Community Park’s Baseball Fields

Time: 9 – 11:30 a.m.

Fee: $ 130

To register, please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue or, if you have a password you can register online at www.gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

Recreation’s Youth Basketball Camp

The Garden City Recreation Department will be conducting a Youth Basketball Camp for boys and girls entering 1st through 5th grades in September who are residents of the Inc. Village of Garden City. Come join us and learn what it takes to pass, dribble and shoot in this camp. The purpose of this program is to provide instruction in self-improvement, basketball fundamentals, team play, group cooperation, and most important of all, FUN!

When: Monday July 8 - Thursday, July 11

Where: St. Paul’s Field House

Time: 9 -11:00 a.m.

Fee: $ 130 each week

To register, please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue or, if you have a password you can register online at www.gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

From page 25

Alarm set in error

On June 10t Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a residential fire alarm and determined it was set in error.

Wallet stolen

A wallet was reported stolen from a vehicle parked on Cathedral Avenue on June 11th.

From page 24

ing a permit, the Village reserves the right to replace the entire defective flag and bill the property owner accordingly.

The Village has waived all permit fees and administrative fees for sidewalk repairs done by private contractors, though a deposit is collected from the contractor and returned upon completion of work.

Brandstetter Carroll back in town

Brandstetter Carroll will be back in town this weekend to provide residents an opportunity to share their thoughts, opinions and suggestions with the team. Let us know your ideas for our Recreation Master Plan and share suggestions for St. Paul’s uses.

• Friday, June 14, the BCI group will attend the Flag Day Luncheon at the Senior Center beginning at 12 p.m. BCI will be in attendance for part of the Luncheon and will then be available to meet with our Seniors after the Luncheon concludes.

• Friday, June 14, the BCI group will attend the Patriotic Kick-Off to Summer Festival on Seventh Street between 5-9 p.m. Look for their table at the event.

• Saturday, June 15, the BCI group will visit the Garden City Pool, which will be open from 12 noon to 8 p.m. Pool members will have the opportunity to speak to the team.

Groundwater Sampling

ERM Consulting & Engineering, Inc. will continue groundwater sampling activities within Garden City for one week, beginning Monday, June 17. Two ERM employees will be gauging and sampling existing groundwater monitoring wells within residential areas of Garden City. They will be using personal vehicles. They will be wearing fluorescent yellow safety vests for traffic visibility. ERM has been conducting an extensive groundwater investigation within the Village as part of a Remedial Design/Monitoring related to the 150 Fulton Avenue Superfund Site in Garden City Park. This investigation has included the installation and maintenance of numerous groundwater mon-

THE OFFICE CAT

Alarm errors

GCFD and GCPD responded to two locations for fire alarms that were set in error on June 11th.

No helmet

On June 11th a Clinton Road motorcyclist was charged with unlicensed operation and not wearing a helmet.

Truck charges

A Clinton Road truck driver was charged with overweight operation and defective tires on June 11th.

Burnt food

GCFD and GCPD responded to a 7th Street building for a fire alarm that was activated by burnt food on June 11th.

Excessive speed

On June 11th a Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a

THE MAYOR’S UPDATE

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

itoring wells within residential areas of Garden City. This work has also included ERM’s authorized access to other groundwater monitoring wells within the area that are under the jurisdiction of the Nassau County Department of Public Works.

Detective Lieutenant William Grimes

I administered the oath of office to newly promoted Detective Lieutenant William Grimes during a brief ceremony at Village Hall Thursday, June 7, 2024. Det. Lt. Grimes began his career with the Garden City Police Department in 1989. He was promoted to Patrol Sergeant in 2005 and Detective Sergeant in 2017. In addition to his normal supervisory functions overseeing the Department’s Detective Unit, Det. Lt. Grimes now oversees the Department and the Village’s Security Infrastructure Programs and manages the new License Plate Reader Project. He serves as the liaison to the School District and assisted them in developing their Security Operational Plans, which included gaining access to their camera and keyless entry systems. Further, he serves as the Department’s intelligence officer and attends weekly countywide intel, counter-terrorism, and school threat analysis meetings.

Girl Scout Gold Award Recipients

I had the honor of attending a Gold Award ceremony June 7 hosted by the Garden City Association of Girl Scouts at Garden City Middle School to acknowledge Girl Scouts who have achieved Girl Scouts’ highest honor. Congratulations to the following Gold Award recipients:

• Kiera O’Leary

• Carrie Schneider

• Aileen Sullivan

• Eva Vitale

• Grace Dennis

• Abigail Jesberger

• Madeline O’Brien

• Simone Oustatcher

• Natalia Gargiulo

• Juliana Rom

• Clara O’Reilly

• Aaralyn Poligadu

The ceremony also acknowledged younger Girl Scouts who received

their Silver and Bronze Awards, and Adult Volunteers who received Adult Recognition Awards.

Water Grants

Treasurer Irene Woo advised the Board that the Village has applied for $25.7 million in grant monies for the various water well AOP treatment projects taking place around the Village. The Village has 10 wells and six different well sites. The ongoing AOP treatment has cost the Village $55 million to date. We have received $12.2 million in grant funding or approximately 50 percent of what we’ve applied for and are expected to receive additional grant monies in a month or so.

May GCFD Activity

Chief James Taunton reported that during the month of May the Fire Department responded to the following service calls:

• 93 fire alarms

• 11 general alarms

• 1 extrication

• 2 mutual aids

Police Department Grant

The Garden City Police Department has received a $465,000 grant from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). The grant will fund software and equipment, such as license plate readers, unmanned aerial vehicles, software applications and public safety equipment, to further advance

suspended license and excessive speed.

Faulty battery

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residential carbon monoxide alarm and determined the cause to be a faulty battery.

Rear window damaged

The rear window to a vehicle parked on Wellington Road was found damaged on June 11th.

the safety infrastructure of the Village of Garden City.

Happening in Garden City

Friday, June 14th

5:00-9:00 p.m. Patriotic Kick-off to Summer Festival on 7th Street Saturday, June 15th

12:00 p.m. Garden City Pool Open House. Guest fees apply. Sunday, June 16th

12:00 p.m. Garden City Pool Open House. Guest fees apply. Monday, June 17th

1:30 p.m. Movie Matinee: Father of the Bride at the Library Tuesday, June 18th

4:00 p.m. Final Exam Study Hall at the Library. Must register.

6:30 p.m. Zoning Board of Appeals meeting at Village Hall Thursday, June 20th

7:30 p.m. Board of Trustees meeting at Village Hall and via Zoom Monday, June 24th

1:00-7:00 p.m. Blood Drive at the Library. Call 1-800-933-BLOOD to make an appointment.

4:00 p.m. Intro To Safe Babysitting at the Library. Must register. Tuesday, June 25th

1:00 p.m. Movie: The Out of Towners at the Senior Center. Register by calling 516-385-8006.

6:30 p.m. Architectural Design Review Board meeting at Village Hall

End of Year Festivities at Garden City Nursery School

The Pre-K students at the Garden City Nursery School celebrated their graduation on Wednesday, June 5th.

On Wednesday, June 5th, Garden City Nursery School celebrated its Pre K graduation ceremony. Families were invited to celebrate their kindergarten bound children with a joyful and musical afternoon. The children performed songs, were recognized with "fun facts" by their peers, and received a diploma for their play-based learning achievements this past year.

One of the most special and unique aspects of Garden City Nursery School is its cherished community, and the profound bonds families and students form during their years here. The school is excited to celebrate these bonds by welcoming back graduating high school seniors, alumni of the GCNS class of 2011, for a reunion photo on June 19th from 6 - 7 pm. It is also very proud of the class of 2016 alumni- 50% of our Garden City residents from this class

were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society on June 6th at the Garden City Middle School. Congratulations to the alumni on their achievements!

Though the school year has ended, the school is are gearing up for lots of summer fun with the GCNS Summer Program, running from June 10th through August 2nd. The summer days will include indoor and outdoor activities, such as arts and crafts, music, water play, nature study, and more. The summer program is a wonderful offering for local residents. While the school is at full capacity for this summer, it does have some spots available for the upcoming school year in the Nursery and Pre-K programs, starting in September.  Please contact us at office@gcns.org or (516) 481-7765 to secure your spot today!

Bike safety rodeo at Garden City Middle School

Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) pictured with participants of his Bike Rodeo on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Garden City Middle School, sponsored by the Garden City PTA and facilitated in cooperation with the New York Coalition for Transportation Safety.

On Saturday, June 1, Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) hosted a Bike Rodeo at Garden City Middle School for children ranging from kindergarten through fifth grade. Sponsored by the Garden City Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and facilitated in cooperation with the New York Coalition for Transportation Safety, the event featured bicycle inspections, helmet fit-checks and skill-building activities where participants practiced riding techniques such as hand signals, lookbacks and braking.

“Every year, this event is a great opportunity to give our youth the knowledge and tools to bike safely. It’s wonderful to see the kids learn and gain confidence in their biking abilities. Events like these not only teach essential safety skills but also promote healthy, active lifestyles. I’m grateful to all who came out to participate, the Garden City PTA and the New York Coalition for Transportation Safety for their support in making this event a success,” said Ra.

Garden City Rams in Long Ireland Lacrosse Tournament

2033’s taking a well deserved break

2031’s win the “shirt”

2032’s - Champs!!

A fun day of Garden City Rams lacrosse had by all!

Garden City Rams, not just a game… a tradition.

2030’s win the “T-Shirt”!

GC athletes shine at Games for Physically Challenged

Mitchel Field was the stage for an inspiring display of determination and athleticism as it hosted the Games for the Physically Challenged on May 31. Garden City Public School proudly brought 33 athletes to compete in various track and field events, showcasing their incredible talents and resilience.

The district's commitment to supporting its students was evident, with approximately 60 Garden City High School Best Buddies and nine elementary classes present to cheer on their peers. Their enthusiasm and encouragement created an electrifying atmosphere, motivating the athletes to deliver their best performances.

The day's events were tailored to highlight the unique abilities and strengths of the participants. From sprints to long jumps, each competition was a testament to the athletes' hard work and dedication.

The success of the event was measured not only by the medals and acco-

lades earned but also by the smiles, high-fives, and sense of accomplishment shared among the athletes and their supporters. Best Buddies played an integral role, offering assistance, friendship, and unwavering support, which further enriched the experience for everyone involved.

Teachers, aides, administrators and community members also attended, adding to the day's significance. Their presence underscored the importance of school community involvement and support in fostering an inclusive environment where all athletes can thrive.

Garden City Public School's athletes left Mitchel Field with cherished memories of their achievements and the knowledge that they are celebrated and supported by their entire community. Special thanks to Seventh Street Gourmet for donating heroes and to SEPTA for providing the tent and T-shirts, ensuring a comfortable and unified experience for all participants.

More than 100 athletes and student supporters from Garden City Schools attended the Games for the Physically Challenged on May 31. Photo courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

14,

Boys Lacrosse players honored at All-County Awards Dinner

Members of the Garden City Boys Lacrosse team were celebrated at the Nassau County Coaches Association's 48th Annual Awards Dinner, held Tuesday at Crest Hollow Country Club. Ten Trojans received accolades:

2024 All-County:  Luke Casscadden, Denis Fargione, Matthew Kephart, Charlie Koester, Carson Kraus, Andrew Ottmanelli and Owen Wuchte. Blake Cascadden and Dan Medjid received Honorable Mention All-County  Blake Cascadden and Dan Medjid. Unsung Hero:  Cooper Kraus.

All of these players also earned 2024 Academic All-Conference honors. Additionally, Denis Fargione, Carson Kraus, and Matt Kephart were named 2024 Nassau County Academic AllAmericans, each achieving GPAs over 3.7.

Special Recognitions: Andrew Ottmanelli received 2024 Nassau County Honorable-Mention All-American and Matt Kephart was named 2024 Nassau County All-American and Defenseman of the Year

Congratulations to all the players on their awards and an outstanding season. Go Trojans!

Last call for field hockey registration

Calling all rising third grade girls! The Long Island Field Hockey Association (LIFHA) is registering players for the 2024 season. LIFHA is a learning league for players in third–sixth grade, currently in its 21st year. Games are scheduled to be played on Sundays in the fall against other clubs from Nassau & Suffolk Counties, both home and away, beginning September 15 and running through the end of October.

Join the fun! Garden City girls can send registration through June 21.  The

registration form can be found on the website, www.lifha.com. Print it out to send with payment to the address below. A USAFH membership is also required for insurance purposes. Print out a copy of proof of membership from the website; www.teamusa.org. (The proof must show the player will be current through November 2024.)  Drop off or mail these three items to: Diana Mitchell, 170 Sackville Road, Garden City, NY 11530. Any questions, please email Dianawmitchell@aol.com.

All-County Dinner Honorees

U19 Garden City Bobcats win LI Cup

In a hard-fought game, the U19 Bobcats won the Long Island Cup in their last GC Centennials game. After an expert cross by Holden Herrera, Kyle Watson had a perfect shot to sink the ball into the net, giving the Bobcats a 1-0 lead which they defended for the victory!  The team (mostly be heading to college in the fall)  has been playing together since their Stratford/Stewart/ St. Anne’s days.

The Bobcats have previously won their division and have made it to the LI Cup finals but this, their final game, was the first Long Island Cup victory for the team. A great way to finish their GC Centennials careers!

The team is comprised predominantly of graduating seniors (Garden City High School, Chaminade and Regis); Ryan Arlotta, Brendan Bohn, Danny Brennan, Jack Brock, Jack Caldera, Emmet Duffy, Joe Fontanetta, Holden Herrera, Phineas Olcott, Jack McCarthy, Max McCarthy, Martin Morgan, Vikram Sohal, Michael Sullivan, Patrick Sullivan, John Uhoda, James Ullrich, Peter Vorillas, Kyle Watson and Artemios Carris (a junior).

A special shout out to the coaches who dedicated their time and effort to this team, Matt Uhoda and Mark Morgan (and historically Doug Bohn, Donna Fontanetta and John McCarthy.)

Rain Barrel Pickup Day

Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin (left) assisted the Liu family of Garden City as they picked up a Town of Hempstead rain barrel on June 1 at Fireman’s Field in Merrick. This initiative by the Town is promoting water conservation and educating residents on the benefits of rainwater harvesting. Residents can purchase rain barrels at a discounted rate, making it easier for homeowners to assist the Town in its environmental sustainability efforts. For more information about the Town’s rain barrel program, please visit https://hempstead.compostersale.com/

The U19 Bobcats

Hempstead, NY 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3555182. $650,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 5-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3548213. $1,725,000.

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3551133. $549,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3554523. $1,468,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 4-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3551229. $1,498,000.

W Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3514919. $1,625,000.

Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3554026. $1,595,000.

City, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3518438. $265,000.

Happy Father's day!

Rockville Centre, NY 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath. MLS# 3531818. $1,520,000.

Mary Krener

Heaney Lisa Heaney

Lynn Puccio

Cheryl Trimboli Scott Wallace Julia Mastromauro Rosado

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Rene Blair

Christine Cudahy Manager

Patricia Costello

Linda Mulrooney Eileen O’Hara Diane Piscopo

Daureen Hausser

Stephanie Marchan Scan here

Aimee Escher

Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 4-bath. MLS# 3528687. $1,775,000.

Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 4.55-bath. MLS# 3547140. $1,995,000.

Wyndham West, #606 Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3539008. $895,000.

Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3549663. $3,700/mo.

Kathleen McCarthy

Patrick Gibbons

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Susan MacDonald Brigid Marmorowski

Patricia Dickson

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3520156. $449,000.

Kathleen Lichtman

Joe Scianablo

Garden

Wyndham West, #314 Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3558610. $6,999/mo. RENTAL

Wyndham West, #322