The Garden City News (1/31/25)

S

OUPER B OWL E VENT

The Garden City Association of Girl Scouts, with the help and support of Troop 1609, is hosting the 4th Annual “Souper Bowl” drop off event to benefit the Mary Brennan INN on Sunday, February 2, from 2–5 p.m. at 115 Hampton Road. See page 30 for details.

Trustees approve millions for St. Paul’s abatement

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Despite strong differences of opinion on the final version of the St. Paul’s Survey, the Garden City Board of Trustees did not hesitate to act in unison for approval of the funding for the abatement work necessary for the historic St. Paul’s main building – whether there will ever be an adaptive reuse proj-

ect, community center or even if the building would ultimately be demolished.

The Village Board listened to updates from Superintendent of Building Giuseppe Giovanniello at the January 16th meeting. He shared details from the abatement report completed by firm D & B Engineers and Architects as they finalized the plans and

specifications for all the interior abatement. The report was broken down, floor-by-floor for St. Paul’s abatement needs. In its finding, D & B said that the total cost of the abatement would be approximately $10,770,000. Superintendent Giovanniello said village staff asked that consultants (D & B) take the “most conserva-

See page 51

GC schools to evaluate literacy programs

BY KASSARA MCELROY

At its meeting on January 28th, the Garden City School Board said that the district is moving forward with its plan to hire external literacy consultants to evaluate and improve its student literacy programs.

First discussed during the December 10 student achievement report board meeting, the initiative aims to align literacy practices with New York State Next Generation ELA standards and research-based strategies. The district has partnered with the Capital Area School Development Association (CASDA) and the University at Albany School of Education for a thorough review of its K-6 literacy program.

The evaluation will examine curriculum materials, staffing alignment, and instructional strategies. Consultants will gather insights from teachers, administrators, and parents through focus groups and surveys while analyzing student performance

See page 50

GCHS senior earns spot in Regeneron Finals

Garden City High School student Amy Xiao has made it to the next round. She is one of the 40 students to be named a 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar finalist for her project, “Exploring Citrin as a Therapeutic Target for Cancer Treatment Through a Clinical, Pharmacologic and Metabolic Lens.” She was initially selected as one of the 300 semifinalists from nearly 2,500 initial applicants due to the originality and creativity of her research, her achievement and leadership.

Amy focused on how Citrin’s function can impact cancer

See page 50

to the editor

With the approach of the upcoming village election on Tuesday, March 18th, and with the St. Paul’s survey getting heavy attention, we expect that during the next few weeks we will start receiving a lot more letters to the editor.

While we don’t impose a specific limit on the length of letters, we ask that writers try to be succinct, both because newsprint is expensive, and because readers simply won’t wade through thousands of words. Be like Hemingway, not Tolstoy.

We’ve been asked how we decide which letters start on page 2, the premium spot. Unfortunately, that space is very limited, so we have to make some tough choices. Our primary consideration for choosing which letters go first

is how interesting we think the letter will be to the public. Letters about current controversies go first, especially if they say something new on the topic.

We don’t normally include photos or graphics with letters, although we very occasionally make case-by-case exceptions if the graphic illustrates a point in a way that goes beyond words. (In this week’s issue we have included a graphic on page 36.)

And, finally, our deadline is noon on Wednesdays. While we try to be flexible, in the event that we’re overwhelmed with letters we may have to be strict so we don’t miss our own press deadlines. Time, tide, and press foremen wait for no man.

Trustees respond re: survey To the Editor:

As with every action related to St. Paul’s, the Board of Trustees recently approved survey has resulted in many comments from residents and the editor of this paper. Whether a small step or a crucial decision, the reality is that this topic will never be an easy one, with emotion running high on every side of every argument. It is important, however, for residents to hear all the facts and perspectives, especially from the six elected Trustees who support this survey as a next step.

The survey has three main objectives: to further narrow the resident’s choices on what programs they would like in the building (the choices included in this survey are based directly on resident feedback from the recently completed Recreation Survey); to refine resident’s feedback from the October ’23 poll (which resulted in 61% of the residents favoring some type of preservation); and to get a better sense of the financial appetite residents have for their preference.

There are two main areas where there is disagreement amongst the Trustees - the options for the structure of the building and the way financial preferences are presented. The rationale for the structure options presented in this survey are based on the thenBOT designed October ’23 survey. The resident voting in that poll resulted in 39% of residents voting for demolition, a clear minority. Because of these resident results, we decided that demolition should not be an option or a re-vote, simply because those who favor demolition didn’t like the results. In October ’23 the Board agreed to listen to residents’ votes, and that is what we have done by not including demolition.

Related to the presentation of financial information, the original BCI design gave residents a dollar option of how much they were willing to spend in a tax increase ($250, $500, etc). Their design did not include any information about

an estimated cost for any particular project. While their approach to “backin” to residents’ financial preferences might work when building a new community center, it did not make sense for a project with the potential complexity presented by the St. Paul’s building. Residents told us over and over again that they want to know how much a specific approach might cost – in total and specifically to them. We believe if we only asked residents “how much would you like to spend” (the BCI design) our residents would be very frustrated with not having fuller financial information. So, we decided to go with a different approach and ask about financial preferences, letting residents know ballpark costs for various options as well as estimated tax increases for their specific situation. The financial information in the survey is based on multiple sources and calculated with Village Bond Counsel. There are multiple facets to the financial information shared, and details on this will be shared at upcoming Town Halls, open to all residents. As we noted in the very first sentence of this letter, anything to do with St. Paul’s will bring debate. If we had included demolition as an option, we would have had an equal (if not more) amount of criticism for including a choice that was not the majority opinion in the last poll. As mentioned earlier, we will have Town Halls for residents to learn all they can about the survey, the underpinnings of the information and the work being done. Come to one of those meetings, contact a Trustee and hear all the facts. Most importantly, complete the survey and share your feedback. We believe that together, as a Village, we can figure this out.

Judy Courtney, Village Trustee

Ed Finneran, Village Trustee

Michele Harrington, Village Trustee

Vinny Muldoon, Village Trustee

Jessica Tai, Village Trustee

Bruce Torino, Village Trustee

See page 36

C sponsors

Free Throw Championship

Who’s the best free throw shooter in Garden City? The St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council aims to find out. The Council will once again be hosting a Free Throw Championship for all boys and girls ages 9 to 14 as of January 1, 2025. This free event will be held on Friday night January 31, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00pm at the St. Joseph School Gym, comer of Fourth St. and Franklin Ave.

Contestants will have the opportunity to shoot 15 free throws. For participants aged 9–11, the foul line will be set at 12 feet, while all others will shoot from the 15-foot charity stripe. All girls and boys aged 9–11 will use a 28.5” basketball, while boys aged 12–14 will use a standard men’s size basketball. Basketballs will be awarded to the player who hits the most buckets in each category. The winners advance to the next competition round with the final state championship round taking place at the US Military Academy West Point.

Knight Tony

community diirector of

Save the date: RotaCare Caregivers Ball

RotaCare, a service which provides free healthcare for people in need, will be holding its annual Caregivers Ball on Thursday, April 10, at the Inn at New Hyde Park. The ball will honor Dr. Francis Faustino, chairman of the Department of Family Medicine at NYU Langone, and Tom Crowly, the immediate past district governor of Rotary District 7255.

Founded in 1992 by members of the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club, RotaCare was created to serve the needs of the uninsured on Long Island.  Working with the Mary Brennan Interfaith Nutrition Network in Hempstead,  volunteers recognized that, in addition to food, the medical needs of their clients were not being met adequately by the health care system.

practitioners, nurses, clerical staff and translators volunteered and continue to give selflessly of their time and talent to help uninsured individuals and families receive access to vital health care services. As a result of its integral involvement and benefit to the community, RotaCare Incorporated as a not-forprofit 501(c)3 organization and became  a Rotary District 7250 project.

For more information and to RSVP, email Tony Bennett at te1ux78@gmail. com

The Knights of Columbus Free Throw Challenge has been sponsored annually since 1972, with winners progressing through council, district, county, and state competitions. All contestants on the council level are recognized for their participation in the event.

Through the collaborative efforts of the Rotary Club, local health care professionals, area residents and an initial grant from Grumman Corporation, a   “MASH” team was formed to operate weekly at the INN's soup kitchen.  RotaCare was born.

When more space became necessary, RotaCare moved to the A. Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility in Uniondale in January 2009.  A staff of doctors, nurse

In September of 2022, RotaCare once again expanded its capacities and leased new space at a location in Hempstead. This 4,000 sq ft facility houses an EKG, equipment for nurses to perform more specialized testing and a medical supply room for distribution to patients on-site. Approximately 40 volunteers have the space they need to provide excellent care. Since its inception, RotaCare has been supported by concerned companies, organizations, individuals and grants to sustain its good works and benefits to the community by facilitating free health care to people in need.

To obtain more information about Rotacare, you can go to their website at www.rotacareny.com

How Much Is My Home Worth?

Our Custom Home Value Report provides you with the information you need to get a better idea of what your home might be worth given current market conditions. Your report will supply details on:

Buyer Demand | Statistical Data | Nearby Homes for Sale

Scan the QR code and enter an address to get up to three estimates of your home’s value today.

• Regular updates

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and Garden City Resident Richard Messina

Brother

Bennett,

the St. Joseph - Bishop Baldwin Council, Knights of Columbus.

Dana Eaton Kate Crofton Denise Donlon

Patricia Aprigliano Susan Bashian Andrea Bharucha Suzanne Blair

Breslin Barbara Chmil

Albertson

Maribeth

Pironi

Bill Eckel

Theanne

Wyndham West

$989,000

Nancy Giannone, CBR, CNE, CRS, CMS, ABR

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

516.865.2448

Email: ngiannone@coachrealtors.com

Web:ngiannone.coachrealtors.com

Scout Sunday and Candlemas at the Cathedral of the Incarnation

BY ARLEEN BREEN

This Sunday, February 2, promises to be a busy and joyful day at the Cathedral as we celebrate the Feast of Candlemas with a variety of activities and traditions. The festivities will begin with our Cathedral for Kids Mass at 9:15 a.m., where we will honor the Cathedral’s Scout Troops—Cub Scout Pack 55 (open to boys and girls in kindergarten through 5th grade), Boy Scout Troop 55 (serving boys and girls ages 11 to 18), and Troop 322 (an active and growing group of female Scouts), and BSA Girl’s Troop 322 (an active and growing group of female Scouts). The Cathedral proudly serves as the Charter Organization for these Troops, and this Mass will be a wonderful opportunity to recognize their dedication and involvement.

Following the service, the Scouts will be hosting a Coffee Hour, offering snacks and an opportunity for fellowship while kids can enjoy making colorful and festive candles—a perfect way to celebrate the light of the season.

At 3:00 p.m., join us for Cathedral Connect in the Undercroft, where light refreshments will be served in a welcoming, relaxed environment. This cherished tradition, which returned

to the Cathedral last year, has quickly become a favorite. It’s a wonderful chance to connect with others in the community, share a moment of relaxation, and enjoy each other’s company in a warm, informal setting.

To conclude the day, join us for Evensong at 4:00 p.m. This special service is a highlight of the liturgical calendar, and for the Feast of Candlemas, the Cathedral Choirs will present a beautiful, reflective service of music and prayer. Choral Evensong, a tradition dating back to the 1550s in the Anglican Church (of which the Episcopal Church is a part), is a service primarily sung by the Choir, offering the congregation time for peaceful meditation and reflection. It’s a deeply meaningful service that provides a moment of calm amidst the busy world.

Both Cathedral Connect and Evensong are free and open to all, so whether you are a long-time member or a first-time visitor, we encourage you to attend and experience these special events. The Cathedral is located on Cathedral Avenue and Fifth Street in Garden City. For more information about upcoming events or to learn how you can participate, please visit the Cathedral website at incarnationgc.org/connect/enews.

The full Cathedral Choirs fill the historic church with stunning music.

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 1-3PM

17 BEECH STREET, GARDEN CITY

Welcome to 17 Beech Street, a beautifully updated 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath colonial located in the Country Life Press section of Garden City. The first floor features an entry foyer, spacious living room with woodburning fireplace, formal dining room, large eat-in kitchen, family room and powder room. The upstairs has a primary bedroom with en-suite updated bathroom, 3 additional bedrooms and a full bath. Some highlights of the home include an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, central air conditioning, 3-zone gas heating, hardwood floors, a finished basement with large recreation room, in-ground sprinklers, new driveway and a 2-car detached garage. The oversized backyard with lush landscaping and rear brick patio make it perfect for entertaining. This home has incredible curb appeal and is in close proximity to the LIRR, shopping and restaurants on 7th Street, schools and the park. Don’t miss this one! Asking price $1,295,000

MICHELLE McARDLE, SRES, ASP

#1 agent in the Garden City office 2017 – 2023

Chairman’s Platinum Award Winner 2021 – 2023

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Accredited Staging Professional Senior Real Estate Specialist

Relocation Specialist Cell: 516-306-4134

michelle.mcardle@elliman.com

Know and Love Garden City

TAKEOUT STEALS & DEALS

Please place your order at least 24 hours prior to pickup time

DEAL #1 ($55 +TAX)

2 16” Regular Pizzas, Mixed Green Salad, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

DEAL #2 ($60 +TAX)

2 18” Regular Pizzas, Choice of Dozen Wings OR Spinach/Artichoke Dip, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

DEAL #3 ($75 +TAX)

2 18” Regular Pizzas, Penne alla Vodka, Choice of Dozen Wings OR Spinach/Artichoke Dip, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

DEAL #4 ($155 +TAX)

2 18” Regular Pizzas,1/2 Tray of Chicken Parmigiana, 1/2 Tray of Caesar Salad, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

A LA CARTE ITEMS

1/2 Tray of Assorted Pinwheels w/ a Side of Sauce - $35 +tax 1/2 Tray of Buffalo Wings - $35 +tax

with

or Groupon. CASH prices listed. Prices do not include tax or gratuity. Credit card payment will include 4% service fee. Available for takeout only. No substitutions.

One year anniversary

NYU Langone Health’s Garden City Ambulatory Center celebrated its first anniversary by caring for a half million patients in one year.

Pictured are: Jean-Marie Addeo, senior regional director (center) and from left to right: Cristina Padinha, director of operations; Brianne Ward, senior manager of operations; Stacy Meyerson, director of operations; and Tammy Rosenthal, director of operations. Photo courtesy NYU Langone Health

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 Market Information

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

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS Nassau County Median Sale Price

5 John Street

Date: 01/23/2025

Sold price: $2,750,000

6 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half bath

Architectural Style: Tudor

Property size: .46 acre

Annual taxes: $33,756

MLS number: L3585402

The Seller’s Team: Maureen Lagarde, Compass Greater New York

The Buyer’s Team: Laura Carroll, Compass

Greater NY

This exquisite Grand Tudor on Garden City’s prestigious John Street boasts a spacious 4,300 square feet, featuring 6 bedrooms and 4 full and 2 half bathrooms, all set on a stunning 100x200 manicured lot with a detached two-car garage. The home welcomes you with a breathtaking foyer and bridal staircase, complemented by an elegant dining room, a magnificent living room with a custom fireplace, and a sun-soaked sunroom leading to a stone patio. Its timeless charm is highlighted by stained glass windows and wide plank hardwood floors, making it a truly awe-inspiring residence

Date: 01/29/2025

Sold price: $1,154,000

3 bedrooms, 1 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial

Property size: .09 acres

Annual taxes: $17,146

MLS number: L3586884

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

The Buyer’s Team: Dana Eaton, Howard Hanna Coach Real Estate

This charming Colonial home boasts excellent curb appeal, and is located in the sought-after Estates section. The first floor offers a spacious living room with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and an adjacent den for added comfort. The large formal dining room, perfect for gatherings, opens to a patio and fenced backyard. The kitchen and powder room complete the main level. The second level includes an inviting primary bedroom, two additional bedrooms, and a beautifully updated hall bath. The walk-up attic, equipped with central air, provides versatile bonus space and ample storage. The basement offers generous recreation space, abundant storage, and includes a laundry room and pantry area. Additional features include new central air conditioning and a split system on the first floor, Anderson windows, hardiplank siding, an in-ground sprinkler system, updated electric, outdoor security cameras, brick paver patio and walkways, and a deep, 1-car detached garage. Conveniently located near LIRR, shops, and schools.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Houses featured on this page were sold by various real estate agencies

6 Euston Road

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.

Mark your calendars for Hoops for Hope

It ’ s time to count down to Hoops for Hope! Come cheer the Challengers on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at Garden City High School. Doors open at 3 and tip off is at 3:30. The game is being played in memory of Bobby Menges, a GCHS alum who lost his battle with cancer. All proceeds from the game will be donated to the I’m Not Done Yet Foundation. INDY’s mission is to help adolescent and young adult cancer patients and survivors to live their lives the way they deserve.

Teamwork is what makes this event so great. Students and faculty, along with members of the community all come to cheer on the Challengers. Let’s all do it again!

A suggested donation of $5 includes a coupon for some free 7th Street Tender from Seventh Street Gourmet, 100 Seventh Street, GC. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase for a chance to win great prizes. Family and business sponsorships are available. If interested, please contact Liz Menges at

efmenges131@gmail.com. Questions? Contact Katherine O’Hanlon at 516-760-7868. You won ’ t want to miss this special afternoon!

Bobby Menges

Caitlin Santopietro helps the Challengers dribble down the court.

Songs for a Sunday Afternoon at GC Historical Society

John Kouri and the Hambones will perform at The Garden City Historical Society Museum on March 16.

Back by popular demand … The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) is pleased to present its “Songs for a Sunday Afternoon” musical performance this March 16, just in time for Saint Patrick’s Day! This year, the Historical Society is pleased to feature the sounds of John Kouri and The Hambones.

This program will be dedicated to the memory of Maureen Clancy (1932–2021). She and her husband, Cummin, started Clancy & Clancy Brokerage which has been around for more than 67 years. She was also an extremely active and respected member of the GC commu nity, both in private and professional circles. Maureen was a past president of The Garden City Historical Society and an avid supporter of its music programs. As such, The Garden City Historical Society is dedicating its “Songs for a Sunday Afternoon” March 16th performance to the memory of Maureen.

Be sure to get your tickets (only $40 per person) in the Shop. It is our most popular show and sells out quickly. So be sure to get your tickets early. The performance will be 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. at The TGCHS Museum located at 109 Eleventh Street in Garden City.  Tickets can be purchased in the Exchange (MonFri 10–4; Sat 12–4 and Wed until 6 p.m.).  They are also available online through TGHCS website (thegardencityhistoricalsociety.org) and on EventBrite. Light refreshments will be served after the show.

Kiwanis hosts speaker from Liberian literacy program

President Patrick Curry; speaker from the Gbarnga Lutheran Mission, Roxanne Oellrich, RN; Marc Oellrich; Meagan Byrnes (Tap Room server extraordinaire); and Kiwanians Jim Kumpel and Chris Dundon.

The Garden City Kiwanis hosted a speaker from the Gbarnga Lutheran Mission Project, which provides educational and vocational training in Gbarnga, Liberia.

Garden City resident Roxanne Oellrich spoke about her work as an RN to provide medical treatment to the children in Gbarnga.

GC Kiwanis sponsors two children ($720) to meet their daily needs as they learn to read, write and prepare for a vocation.

Kiwanis International is a worldwide service organization that seeks “To Serve The Children of the World."

To donate: visit www.gbarngamission.org

GC orthodontist to offer healthcare scholarship

Garden City orthodontist Dr. Denise Emma will be offering a $1,000 scholarship to a Garden City High School graduating senior who plans to enter the health profession.

Dr. Emma says she believes the greatest investment one can make to children is for their education, and will be awarding this scholarship to commemorate her dedication to the youth of the community. Application forms can be obtained at Doctoremma.com/in-the-community. To apply you must submit a completed application, senior photo and a signed release form. Mail completed applications to Dr. Denise L. Emma, 70 Seventh Street, Garden City NY 11530 For questions, please call 516-741-7970.

A capella festival raises funds for Alzheimer’s research

The Trills, with over 44.5 million you tube views and 350 million TikTok views, are one of 9 headliners at SingStrong this year.

Professional a cappella groups from around the world will perform with collegiate and HS groups at SingStrong International A cappella Festival at Adelphi University’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) from Friday, January 31, to Sunday, February 2. The 3-day, all-vocal event will consist of five concerts and two days of classes and coaching, all featuring nothing but the human voice.

Audiences will hear pop, jazz, rock, broadway, barbershop, overtone, beatbox and more -all performed a cappella. Groups will use only their voices to perform melodies, and harmonies and to vocally imitate a virtual orchestra of sounds—including vocal drums, vocal trumpet, vocal electric guitar, and vocal synthesizers—all without instruments.

Professional a cappella groups from around the world will perform with collegiate and HS groups at SingStrong International A cappella Festival at Adelphi University’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) from Friday, January 31 to Sunday, February 2. The 3-day, all-vocal event will consist of five concerts and two days of classes and coaching, all featuring nothing but the human voice.

Audiences will hear pop, jazz, rock, broadway, barbershop, overtone, beat-

box and more—all performed a cappella. Groups will use only their voices to perform melodies, and harmonies and to vocally imitate a virtual orchestra of sounds—including vocal drums, vocal trumpet, vocal electric guitar, and vocal synthesizers —all without instruments.

Event profits support charity, with a silent auction to benefit the fight against Alzheimer’s with its partners Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. Ticket and merchandise proceeds will support music programs with a special focus on singing and a cappella music with SingStrong Inc., a Public Charity.

Individual Tickets start at $35. Or save with an All Access Weekend Pass at $100, a Class Pass for $60 or a Combo Pass for $75: tickets and complete info at SingStrong.org.

Adelphi is a co-sponsor of SingStrong International A cappella Festival. Information is available at the Lucia and Steven N. Fischer Box Office at 516-8774000 or boxoffice@adelphi.edu. Regular office hours are Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 6 p.m. and the box office is also open two hours before most scheduled performances. Ticket sales and additional information are available.

The Colombos-Dooley Team

Sputnick and the AI Challenge

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

In October 1957, when I was very young, I heard and read about the launch of  Sputnik, the Soviet satellite that was the first artificial body to orbit the earth. The Sputnik  launch came as a surprise to many Americans, who assumed that our country was technologically the most advanced on earth and could not believe that the Soviets, with whom we were locked in a tense Cold War, would be the first country in space.  I remember being sufficiently alarmed about all the talk by adults of Sputnik that I asked my mother about whether we were stronger than the Russians.  She told me that it was now a tossup between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Of course, the Sputnik story ended up with a pretty happy ending for the United States. American education focused  more on science and technology.  The United States launched its own series of orbital satellites called Explorer, starting in January 1958.  And while the United States sent astronauts and the Soviets sent cosmonauts on space missions, it was the United States who succeeded in sending a man to the moon in 1969.

This week, more than 67 years after Sputnik, there have been a number of comparisons between the launch of the Soviet  craft and the current release by a Chinese company, DeepSeek, of its R1 artificial intelligence (AI) technology.  While apparently not using many advanced chips, the company claims (with some outside support) that its model is particularly good at problem solving, performing at the level of Open AI’s o1 reasoning model, but at a fraction of the cost.

According to The Wall Street Journal, DeepSeek apparently  cuts down on the enormous data processing  and information gathering needed to train an AI model,  and instead  focuses more on the time and power to answer a question when it is asked.

The sudden rise of DeepSeek is seen as a blow to American dominance of the AI industry and the widely held belief in markets that the rise of an American led

AI industry will lead to a new cycle of huge gains in productivity growth.  An American company, Nvidia, maker of very high quality chips, has been a leader in this boom in the AI industry, and has racked up rapid growth and huge profits, as have a number of other American high tech giants. Now, however, with the rise of a company that appears not to need the highest level of chip technology to produce excellent results, there is a sense that the AI industry may be transforming from one clearly dominated by a few United States  enterprises.

In any event, is there a valid comparison between the Sputnik launch and the rise of DeepSeek? I tend to think that the jury is out.

One facial difference is that American entities like Nvidia and the Chinese DeepSeek are all at least ostensibly private companies, while the United States and Soviet space programs were clearly government controlled. In this case, it might or might not matter to national prosperity, if the Nvidia business model  involving sophisticated chips were replaced by another model, especially if other American companies were to take up the slack.

But perhaps more fundamental, we need many more answers about DeepSeek.   As Jim Geraghty of National Review points out, DeepSeek is claiming that it got up and running within two months and for less that $5.5 million, while Google and Open AI needed years and hundreds of millions to build their model, with Open AI burning through billions of dollars.  The DeepSeek claims certainly need to be verified.

Second, there is a very open question about DeepState’s ability to acquire Nvidia chips, either through loopholes in United States export regulations, or outright smuggling.

In sum, the new  DeepSeek could be a transformational development like the Sputnik.  On the other hand, let’s be sure to kick the tires  before we get unduly worried.

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!

A Valentine Bingo Extravaganza

Garden City Recreation and Parks presents A Valentine Bingo Extravaganza on Friday, February 14. Enjoy special treats while playing Bingo and a chance to win great prizes! Wear something red!

Where: Senior Center.

Time: 2 p.m.

Cost: $5.

Space is limited. To register, please visit the front desk at the Senior Center.

Fighting Arthritis with Physical Therapy

Friday, January 31

Sarah Girgis from STM Physical Therapy will be at the Senior Center at 1:15 to explain what arthritis is, what causes it to become worse, and how to fight back against it with physical therapy. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations are required, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or by calling (516) 385-8006.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Among Seniors

Tuesday, February 4

Mary Aguilar, MSW and outreach specialist, will be at the Senior Center to give a presentation about mental health and substance use among older adults. We will explore what mental health is, what substance abuse vs misuse is, break down the stigma, and learn healthy coping skills. Reservations are required. Please stop by the Senior Center front desk or by calling (516) 385-8006.

Free Lavender Workshop

Free workshop, Monday, February 3rd at the Senior Center, with Marina

Horan from Lavender Works. Learn about the history of lavender while you make a roll on perfume and enjoy a short, relaxing meditation.  Register at the Senior Center front desk, or by calling (516) 385-8006.

Chair Yoga

New chair yoga schedule for Tania at the senior center. Beginning Friday, January 10, she is adding an additional Chair Yoga Class at 11:30–12:30, as well as a Meditation Class at 12:30–1:00. This is in addition to her Tuesday 9:45–10:45 Chair Yoga class.

Trip to West Point

Tuesday, June 10

Trip to West Point for a tour and lunch at the Thayer Hotel. Tuesday, June 10, charter bus leaves from across the street from the Senior Center at 8:00 a.m., and it will depart West Point to return home at 3:00. To register visit the Senior Center, $153.00 check made payable to “Amazing Destinations”.

Save the Dates for Future Trips:

Sunday May 4: “Fiddler On the Roof” (Argyle Theatre)

Sunday, June 8: “Legally Blonde” (Madison Theatre at Molloy University) Sunday, August 3: “The Music Man” (Argyle Theatre)

Chess 4 Community

Join us for Chess 4 Community’s Play and Learn at the Senior Center, every other Friday 3:00–4:00 beginning December 6. The dates for January are January 10 and January 24. All ages and levels are welcome. No registration is required, just stop by and play!

Senior Center Lunch Group

Join our Senior Center Lunch Group at 12:30-3:30 on Wednesdays, or, if you miss your pool friends, join the Garden City Pool Chat Group at the center, on Thursdays beginning at 1:00-3:30. For both groups, coffee and tea will be served, just bring your lunch and chat!!

Monday Night

Duplicate Bridge Results

The winners of the Monday, January 27, games: North / South:

1st Place: Claire Burns and Joan Kiernan East / West:

1st Place: Maria Buffa and Mary Gallagher

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our Garden City office at 516-294-8900 for more information.

Old World Quality Corp.

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

Some may wonder why water notices are being sent out to residents after the Village has invested so much money in the AOP water treatment at our Village wells. Our annual water report and the February and October 2024 EAB presentations on water quality in the Village demonstrate the success of this investment.

As I said at the last BOT meeting, I credit prior Village trustees for quickly acting upon learning of emerging contaminants and the lowering of allowable limits due to health concerns.

As Mr. Stan Carey stated at the January 16, 2025 meeting, “The Village of Garden City is ahead of most other water suppliers. We’ve invested over $50 million to meet all the newly promulgated drinking water standards. It was a very, very heavy lift for Village staff to get these online. At the present time I am happy to say all our water meets or exceeds drinking water standards.”

So why are so many residents getting alarming notices about lead in drinking water?  The issue facing residents now is what happens to the water after it leaves the Village water main in the street and travels through the service line to your home. Those service lines are the responsibility of the homeowner, and the service lines are for the most part on residents’ property.

Over the last few years, it has become clear that the Village has many homes with aging lead service lines. A lead service line inventory is now available on our Village website and this inventory identifies homes with lead service lines as well as homes with service lines within the Village with unknown material.

The Village continues to provide free lead testing, and this testing is now being handled by Village staff rather than by our water consultants. To get your free lead test please pick up the bottles and instructions at Village Hall on the second floor. The Village continues to waive road opening permit fees for lead service line replacements.

Hopefully, this answers some questions resident have about our Village water. Please visit the Water Department page on our website for more information.

be made in the form of certified check or money order, until the Tax Lien Sale of March 14, 2025. Cash is also accepted. The Business Office is open from 8:30am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday if a receipt is requested, or if cash is the method of payment. Acceptance of personal checks will resume on June 1, 2025 for the new 2025/2026 tax year. Online Village tax payments are available through the Village website Bill Payment Center only until February 20, 2025, and will resume on June 1, 2025 for the new 2025/2026 tax year. Additional fees may apply.

Valentines for Vets

Assemblyman Ed Ra is collecting Valentine cards/messages and personal care items for local veterans at the Long Island State Veterans Home and the Northport VA. Suggested items include toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, soap, adult coloring books and crayons, magnifying glasses or sheets, white boards and thin dry erase markers and new clothing items, including sweatshirts, sweatpants and undershirts. Donations will be collected through February 7 at his District office located at 825 East Gate Blvd. in Garden City.

Budget Work Sessions

The Board of Trustees will conduct work sessions to review the Tentative 2025-26 Operating and Capital Budgets in person in the Village Hall Board Room and via Zoom beginning March 19, 2025, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Here is the full schedule: Work Session I – Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Work Session II – Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Work Session III – Thursday, March 27, 2025

Kids Pickleball Program at St.

Paul’s Garden City Recreation will offer a Pickleball program for kids beginning March 4 through May 1. It will be 90 minutes of play on all four courts in the Field House with a basic intro to the game and rules. The cost is $100 for eight sessions. Equipment will be provided. A minimum of eight and a maximum of 24 sign ups is needed to run the program per day.

Happening in Garden City

Late Village Tax Payment Update

As of February 3, 2025 Village tax payments made by check must

Friday, January 31st 11:30 a.m. Chair Yoga with Tania at the Senior Center

See page 52

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

Bank scam warning

On January 22, a victim received a phone call from someone claiming to be a representative from his bank. The victim later realized it was a scam when the information he provided to the caller was later used to make unauthorized transactions against his account.

Gas leak response

Garden City Firefighters and Police responded to Whitehall Boulevard on January 22 for reports of a natural gas odor. Upon investigation, firefighters detected an apparent leak and notified National Grid.

Overweight truck charges

A truck driver on Clinton Road was charged on January 22 with multiple overweight violations.

Excessive speed

On January 22, a motorist on Stewart Avenue was charged with excessive speed, unsafe lane usage, and driving an unregistered vehicle.

Drug disposal efforts

Thirty-five pounds of drugs collected through the Department’s Drug Take Back Program were officially disposed of on January 22.

False alarms

Officers and firefighters responded on January 22 to a fire alarm caused by burnt food, as well as another alarm triggered by a faulty detector.

Porch package theft

A male suspect stole a package from a Tanners Pond Road porch on January 23 before fleeing in a gray four-door sedan.

Fire alarm investigations

On January 23, firefighters and police officers responded to two fire alarms set in error and two additional alarms later determined to be system malfunctions.

CO alarm at Adelphi

Firefighters and police officers responded to a carbon monoxide alarm at Adelphi University on January 23. After an investigation, firefighters determined the area was safe.

Truck violations

Three truck drivers were charged on January 23 for driving in non-commercial vehicle zones within the Village.

Bank panic alarm

On January 23, officers responded to a bank panic alarm, which was determined to have been set in error.

Carbon monoxide incident

Firefighters detected carbon monoxide on January 23 at a residence where a CO alarm had gone off. The source was a malfunctioning boiler, which was shut down, and the home was ventilated. No injuries were reported.

License plate violations

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on January 23 with altered license plates, an unregistered auto, and an uninsured auto.

Smoke condition

On January 23, firefighters responded to a smoke condition at a 7th Street building. The issue was traced to a defective HVAC belt, and the building was rendered safe.

Gas odor

On January 24, firefighters investigated a natural gas odor on Whitehall Boulevard and determined the area to be safe.

Multiple fire alarms

Firefighters and officers responded on January 24 to various fire alarms, including those caused by contractors, burnt food, a water line break, and vaping.

Bail scam attempt

A resident received a call on January 24 from someone posing as a public defender, claiming that their son had been arrested and needed bail money. Officers determined it was a scam and prevented the transaction, resulting in no financial loss.

Overweight truck charge

On January 24, a Clinton Road truck operator was charged with driving an overweight vehicle.

Prohibited zone violation

A truck driver on St. James Street South was charged on January 24 for driving in a prohibited zone and operating out of class.

Aggressive driving violations

A Hilton Avenue motorist was charged on January 24 with excessive speed and unsafe lane usage.

Open door investigation

Officers responded on January 24 to a residential alarm and found an open door. Upon investigation, all appeared to be in order.

Unsafe driving

On January 24, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation, unsafe lane use, and unsafe

speed.

Track work mistaken for fire

On January 25, officers and firefighters responded to a report of a possible fire on Railroad Avenue. The cause was determined to be track workers clearing the train bed.

Suspended license

A Washington Avenue motorist was charged on January 25 with driving with a suspended license, a suspended registration, and defective lights.

Incense sets off alarm

Firefighters and officers responded to a church fire alarm on January 25, which was triggered by burning incense.

Speed and license violations

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on January 25 with driving with a suspended license and unsafe speed.

False residential alarm

On January 25, officers and firefighters responded to a residence for a fire alarm that was activated in error.

Registration violations

Two Stewart Avenue motorists were charged on January 25 with driving with suspended registrations and other violations.

Multiple traffic charges

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on January 26 with driving with a suspended registration, unlicensed operation, and excessive speed.

Fire alarms investigated

On January 26, firefighters and officers responded to three fire alarms: one caused by oven smoke, one by a faulty detector, and one set in error.

Cellphone use while driving

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on January 26 with using a cellphone while driving and having a suspended registration.

Parking garage sprinkler break

Officers responded on January 26 to a business alarm and found the cause to be a sprinkler line break in the parking garage. The building engineer isolated the break and secured

Quick

Remote

Trusted

Trusted

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

GC Chamber of Commerce President Reports

Last Tuesday, January 28, MineolaGarden City Rotary welcomed back to its January 28 breakfast meeting at the Carle Place Diner, Garden City Chamber of Commerce President John Wilton. Chamber President Wilton spoke of the ins/outs/ups & downs of Garden City’s business districts. Our Club is fortunate to have John provide for us these occasional updates on the on-going changes within the business community.

Indeed, John reported an influx of nail salons – two new ones added to the mix on Franklin Avenue. In joking about this influx, John advised that the ladies will need to grow new fingers and toes in order to accommodate the sum of 11 Village nail salons.

John said that following a long wait, one of the newest establishments is the East Rock Coffee at 653 Franklin Ave., east side near the LIRR tracks. (See writeup/photo within this issue.) Surprisingly, 51 new businesses have opened over the course of the past year John reported. He emphasized that a strong vibrant business districts like Garden City’s have a strong effect on Garden City’s real estate values.

John noted new ruling s that prevent vape shops or the like opening within our business districts (Franklin

Avenue, Seventh Street and New Hyde Park Road). He also said that new, first time ever meetings are taking place to include various businesses and representatives from the Village Board of Trustees to develop a new synergy.

Relative to the Chambers membership In the NC Council of Chambers, John reminded that the Garden City Chamber is regarded as the “benchmark” chamber in Nassau County, on Long Island and possibly in New York State. While John is in the commercial real estate business, he said in his function as Chamber president, he spends 32-35 hours each week on Chamber business and receives approximately 216 phone inquiries plus around 140 emails each month.

Prior to his position as Chamber president, John had served on the Chamber Board of Director for several decades, also serving as longtime chairman of the Chamber’s chairman of the Business Professional Retail Group. He is known to be catalyst and hand-on organizer of countless village events, which he reviewed along with businesses activities including the current “Chamber Connects” networking meetings. All in attendance agreed that John Wilton possesses the pulse of the Village

Diana O’Neill, Rotary President; Rotarian Dr. Ben Cohen; John Wilton, President, Garden City Chamber of Commerce; Jennifer Ferrara-Poupis, past president and Althea Robinson, Rotary Publicity/Speakers chair, pictured with toiletry items to benefit MOMMA’S HOUSE, Rotary’s January service project.

of Garden City. In fact, he is called upon for a bi-weekly report at Village Board of Trustees meetings.

At last Tuesday’s meeting, members and guests supported January’s service project commemorating Rotary’s 100th anniversary by donating a huge supply of toilet articles to benefit MOMMA’S HOUSE, a non-profit which provides housing and support services for young mothers and their children. The service for February will be a collection of cleaning products to benefit General Needs, an organization which supports our veterans.

Rotary to Host NC Legislator John Giuffre as Guest speaker on Feb. 25 Mineola-Garden City Rotary will welcome John Giuffre. Nassau County Legislator, District 8, as guest speaker at its lunch meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 12:15 at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant.

All are invited. To register, please visit mineolagardencityrotaryclub@ gmail.com. Fee, $40 payable at the door. Stay tuned for news of February 11 speaker

Althea Robion with Rotarian Randy Colohan, 2024 Community Service Award honoree and Diane Marmann, past Rotary president and Assistant DG pictured with toiletries to benefit MOMMA’S HOUSE.

WHAT DOES ‘HEALTH SYSTEM’ EVEN MEAN? IT MEANS A BIG DIFFERENCE FOR YOUR HEALTH.

A health system is more than a doctor. In our case, it’s 320+ locations with the exact same high standard of care. It’s integrated medical teams that achieve the best patient outcomes. It’s leading the charge in medical discoveries. It’s the lowest mortality rates in the nation. It’s being named #1 for quality care in the U.S. Our health system has the best doctors, and the best doctors are just the beginning.

Better health starts with a better health system.

Science comes to life for Stratford third graders

On Jan. 8, the first group of third graders at Stratford School in Garden City participated in the third grade science fair by sharing their presentations, posters and findings with their peers, teachers and family members. The science fair aims to increase interest in STEM fields, encourage investigations based on student interests and enhance the science curriculum by exploring real-life problems and solutions through scientific inquiry.

Students were taught the basics of the scientific method including observing, making hypotheses, experimenting and drawing conclusions. They learned how to follow these steps to answer questions and solve prob-

lems. After the lessons, students completed their projects at home on their own, with little or no help from their parents.

“The students are naturally curious and have questions every day about the world and how things work,” said Amanda Leggett, third grade teacher at Stratford. “This experience provides opportunities for success, fosters a positive attitude toward science and builds confidence in students of all abilities.”

The next round of the third grade science fair was on Jan. 16 during the school day and at night.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

ATTENTION STUDENTS!

We invite you to send details of your academic achievements, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be featured in our paper!

Submissions from students of all ages are welcome!

The science fair encouraged the children to investigate their interests.

Students used the scientific method in their projects.

Stratford third graders participated in the science fair.

East Rock Coffee welcomed with ribbon cutting

BY RIKKI MASSAND

One of Long Island’s newest and most trendy breakfast, brunch, ‘coffee and cocktails’ cafes is located in the heart of Garden City, on Franklin Avenue just north of the LIRR tracks: East Rock Coffee restaurant, at 653 Franklin Avenue, within the village’s popular Seventh Street/Franklin ‘T-zone’ shopping and dining district.

On Thursday afternoon, January 16th members of the Garden City Village Board of Trustees including Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan joined Town of Hempstead Councilman (and village resident) Tom Muscarella, Nassau County Legislator John Giuffre, the Garden City Chamber of Commerce and locals in the Welcoming Club for a “grand opening” ribbon-cutting ceremony and celebration with the family that owns East Rock Coffee - Andy and Sherly Dorant, and their staff.

Mr. Dorant is a native of Trinidad. When he was 13, he came to the U.S. with his family. His life as a restaurateur with 32 North in Valley Stream, and in 2020 his first East Rock Coffee restaurant location opened in Island Park.

The first East Rock Coffee shop was established in Island Park, but Dorant planned the expansion into Garden City for a long while before opening late last year. He said he’s been enamored with the Village of Garden City as both a market for their cafe location and as a thriving community with destination restaurants and other businesses in the downtown of Franklin Avenue and Seventh Street.

In an interview, Dorant said the class, quality and design of the com-

Officials and civic leaders at the January 16th ribbon cutting for East Rock Coffee included Town of Hempstead Councilman and village resident Thomas Muscarella, John Wilton of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce, Althea Robinson of the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club and co-chair of the Civic Beautification Committee, Village Trustee Jessica Tai celebrating the Dorant family (center) -- Sherly, owner Andy Dorant and his son Andy Jr. -- as well as Garden City Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan, Nassau County Legislator John Giuffre and Village Trustee Bruce Torino (right).

munity overall have really appealed to him.

“I was driving through here some years ago, and I just loved seeing the town. I love the way Garden City looks – I am obsessed with this town and the area. There’s no other place like Garden City with all the beautiful homes and businesses here, and the fact that

for stores/restaurants there are two entrances – one in front, one in back –you do not see the businesses operating like that elsewhere. At night there are bright lights and the streetscape view. So I decided to get our location here –when the property came up, I jumped on it right away. It was the perfect opportunity to make it happen and I knew we could make the space here work,” Dorant explained.

The owner’s creativity crafted the interior design at East Rock Coffee shop. The walls inside feature a floral pattern he picked out on Etsy, and the “piano key” white and black design mixes nicely with the green and gold prints.

Executive Chef Perry Fogg, who lives in West Hempstead, spoke about the exquisite brunch menu making waves on Instagram and all over the web, including their “berry and brie” sandwich, Tres Leches French toast, Stracciatella toast and popular crab cakes.

“The concept is to be a brunch restaurant as a multifaceted cafe. We’re serving breakfast-based food done a little-bit upscale – the higher end of what you can imagine for comfort food, but not so off brand that it’s unapproachable. Our long term is to keep ramping it up and continue creating dishes that make people excited. The menu and our following can grow with us to understand what we’re striving for here,” he explained.

Fogg said the team behind East Rock Coffee, starting with the Dorant fami-

ly, has started to let its vision come to life. He believes in following the adage, “slow and steady wins the race.”

“It’s easy to go all-out in the beginning but if you can’t captivate the audience and teach them what you are trying to do and what your goals are, the customers and followers won’t stick,” he shared.

Andy Dorant said one of the keys for East Rock Coffee’s business model/ menu was to consider the need for classic, basic breakfast items served fresh in the downtown of Garden City, to add things he knew the customers already loved.

“People LOVE breakfast. If you look at IHOP that is all they really do, and how many are there? I had to have Perry to incorporate simple breakfast dishes – omelets, bacon, sausage, bagels, and eggs made in any style. The town is missing just those regular breakfast meals served fresh, and we of course added the special dishes and brunch concept. We take it to a different level for people to enjoy breakfast/brunches here and so many come in and they take pictures of all our Instagrammable food and drinks,” he explained. Their Instagram handle is @eastrockcoffeeshop.

Another goal East Rock Coffee shop has stayed true to is having their dishes at a reasonable cost, so customers can enjoy the value and portions they get when they come in.

See page 38

Inside East Rock Coffee at 653 Franklin Avenue and moments before their January 16th ribbon-cutting ceremony, Andy Dorant Jr. (left) stood with Sherly Dorant; his father, Andy Dorant; Nassau County Legislator John Giuffre (in back of Mr. Dorant), Village of Garden City Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan and the executive chef at East Rock Coffee, Perry Fogg.

Girl Scouts’ “Souper Bowl Challenge” to tackle hunger

Troop 1322 - 3rd Annual “Souper Bowl” in 2024.

Imagine if everyone watching the big game gave just one food item to help local neighbors in need. Don't sit on the sidelines... Join the Garden City Association of Girl Scouts and help tackle hunger!

The Garden City Association of Girl Scouts, with the help and support of Troop 1609, is hosting the 4th Annual “Souper Bowl” drop off event to benefit the Mary Brennan INN on Sunday, February 2, from 2–5 p.m. at 115 Hampton Road.

Community members are encour-

aged to tackle hunger by dropping off any of the suggested items. Suggested Souper Bowl collection items: Canned or dry soups, canned meat, canned tuna and salmon, peanut butter, jelly (no glass), canned stews and chili, canned pasta, canned vegetables, canned fruit, hot and cold cereals, rice, cake mixes, pancake mix, syrup, powdered milk, packaged pasta, juice boxes, canned juices, canned beans, spam, canned gravy, granola bars, or any non-perishable items.

National Art League’s Members Exhibit 2025

“The Fall Review” by Barbara Leichter “A Restful Spot in the Garden” by Nancy Wernersbach

Barnes Gallery located at 2 Nassau Blvd. Garden City,  will be hosting an annual artist’s event showcasing over 80 pieces of artwork by the artists from the National Art League.

The show is on display starting Thursday January 2, through Saturday February 22. Work can be viewed Tuesday–Saturdays from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. The Artists’ Opening reception is open to the public and is scheduled for Saturday, February 1, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. Live music for this event by Tim Siciliano. For more information, please call 516-538-4503.

Artwork is an assortment of both representational and abstract work and in all mediums: watercolors, oil, acrylic, sculpture, assemblage, collages, pastels and drawings.

The National Art League is a non-profit organization of artists, students and those interested in the arts of drawing, paintings and sculpture. We provide workshops, art exhibitions, demonstrations and art instructions for members and the community. For more information, log on to our website, www.nationalartleague.org

Save the Dates!

Grab your calendar to mark down these important upcoming dates across the school district. You can keep an eye on the PTA website and the GCUFSD website “Events” page for even more detail on what’s happening across all seven schools.

• Jan 21–Jan 31 - Kindergarten Registration by Appointment

• Jan 31 – Middle School GC Cares-a-thon

• Feb 4 – SEPTA General Membership Meeting , 10 a.m.

• Feb 12 – All Schools PTA Meeting, 7:30 p.m.

PTA Reflections Nassau Regional Finalists 2024–25

Congratulations to the students who participated in the district PTA Reflections contest, went on to the Nassau region level and are Nassau Region Finalists!

Locust School: Leia Curtin (Dance Choreography)

Stewart School: Willow Griffing (Visual Arts)

Stratford School:  Olivia Ding (Visual Arts); Aria Noble (Dance Choreography); Oliver Clark (Music Composition); Emilie Cheng (Film Production)

Middle School: Natalie Yu (Visual Arts); Katie Zhao (Visual Arts); Hannah Cianciotto (Music Composition)

High School:  Sarah Phinney (Literature); Sarah Phinney (Music Composition)

Cares-a-Thon is Coming — Make a Difference

The annual GC Middle School Cares-a-Thon event is coming up on Friday, January 31 — and there are ways EVERY family can help make a difference! Several of the event activities include donation elements, with easy opportunities to contribute to worthy causes while you're doing New Year's clean-outs at home. These include:

• Canned & non-perishable food drive for RockCanRoll - Peanut butter (plastic containers), jams (plastic containers), canned meat and fish (chicken, tuna, salmon, etc.), hearty soups, tofu, macaroni & cheese boxes, coffee & tea, canned fruits & vegetables, evaporated & powdered milk, Parmalat, Gatorade, infant formula, baby food, Pediacare, canned beans, non-perishable sweets, breakfast cereal bars, granola bars, snack bars, dried fruits, nuts, healthy cereals, pasta & rice, oatmeal, flour, canned sauces, condiments, applesauce, baking mixes, paper towels, pet foods, personal items (deodorant, soaps, shampoos, toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, creams and lotions, diapers, wipes, tampons, sanitary pads, depends, etc)

• Pasta & pasta sauce collec-

Garden City PTA News

tion for The Nest at NCC

• Gift card collection for hospitalized young adults at NYU Langone (gift cards of $10–$25 allowing teens to purchase fun or entertaining gear to improve morale during hospital stays). Gift cards should be to stores that will deliver items to the hospital directly (e.g., Amazon, Target, Barnes & Noble, etc. No food gift cards)

• Pet Supply Collection for North Shore Animal League (New items only): Towels, blankets, rubber toys for dogs and cats, puppy and kitten formula or food (unopened), reptile supplies

Military Collection Drive for 423rd MP Co.: Deodorant, feminine products, baby wipes, soap, shampoo, q-tips, sunflower seeds, beef jerky, candy, letters of support

• Toiletry Drive for PFY Community Pantry: Soap, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, chapstick, lotion, etc.

Middle School students are able to sign up to attend the Cares-a-Thon which will have different stations for philanthropic activities and donation boxes. Contact middleschool@gardencitypta.org for more information.  Don’t have a MS student attending this year’s event? You can still support the

cause! Just leave your donations in the drop-off bin outside the MS during school hours. Label all items with Dr. Greenwald’s name and note that it is for GC Cares-a-Thon (gift cards should not be dropped in bin). Thank you for helping us show how much GC Cares!

Raffle Donations Needed for the Annual PTA Dinner!

The Garden City PTA will hold our Annual Fundraising Dinner on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the Garden City Hotel. By participating in the dinner, every educator, parent, and member of our school community can ensure that our students' futures are brighter than ever!

We are looking for donations of exciting raffle baskets ($250+ value) and enticing silent auction items ($500+ value) to help make the evening a success! If you would like to show your support of the PTA and this event, please consider joining together with your family, friends, neighbors or club and donate a raffle basket or silent auction item. If you have a connection to sports tickets, concert venues, vacation properties or experiences, please consider donating as these make very exciting prizes. Donated items will be on display at the dinner and listed in the evening's program. Email dinnerdonations@gar-

dencitypta.org if you plan to donate or have any questions. Please help us make a difference!

PARP Author Visit

Kindergarteners at the primary schools had a great time with children’s author Darren Sardelli this month!  The kids were all smiles and giggles as he recited some of his favorite riddles and poems.  Many thanks to our PARP Committee and district staff for making this event a success.  Stay tuned for more fun PARP events this year!

Your Membership Matters!

Please take a minute today to visit www.gardencitypta.org to rejoin for the new 2024–25 school year. While there, click the “Get Involved” tab to see the many volunteer opportunities with the PTA overall, and with your child’s specific schools. We can’t wait to work with you this year!

Let’s Connect @GardenCityPTA

Website: www.gardencitypta.org

To Get Real Time InformationTurn on Notifications

Facebook: Facebook.com/ GardenCityPTA

Instagram: Instagram.com/ GardenCityPTA

Twitter: Twitter.com/ GardenCityPTA

The PARP author visit to read poetry at the primary schools.

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

The film “Music and Lyrics” will be screened at the Garden City Public Library on February 3.

Monday Movies

Monday Movies presented by the Friends of the Garden City Library at 1:30 p.m.: February 2025

2/3/25: “Music & Lyrics” - 104 min., 2007

2/10/25: “Mamma Mia” - 109 min., 2008

2/17/25: President’s Day- No Movie

2/24/25: “The Man Who Knew Too Much” - 120 min., 1955

Programs

Below is our schedule for Adult Services. More programs and information will be available soon.

Mah-Jongg Thursday, February 13, 2025 Saturday, February 22, 2025 (New!) Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Large Meeting Room

To register, please go to  www.gardencitypl.org/calendar.   For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

Chairobics and Strength with Debbie Kryzminski

Wednesdays, February 5, February 12, February 19, February 26 (Please note this has been changed. New Date:  March 5), 12 p.m.–1 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Debbie Kryzminski from Fitness Figures, NY, Inc. will be teaching

The book “An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s” by Doris Kearns Goodwin will be discussed on Tuesday, February 4.

“Chairobics and Strength.” This program covers strength training, balance, coordination, aerobics and flexibility.Most of the exercises are performed seated in a chair. Equipment will be provided. Feel free to bring your own free weights, if you are comfortable using them. Have water available, wear clothing that you can comfortably move in and be ready to have fun!  This is a six-week session; a separate registration is required for each class. To register, please go to  www.gardencitypl.org/calendar or call the Reference desk at (516)7428405 x 5236.

This program is funded  by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Book Discussion

Tuesday, February 4, from 7–8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join us for a book discussion on An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s by Doris Kearns Goodwin, one of America’s most beloved historians who artfully weaves together biography, memoir, and history. She takes you along on the emotional journey she and her husband, Richard (Dick) Goodwin embarked upon in the last years of his life.

Dick and Doris Goodwin were married for forty-two years and married to American history even longer. In his twenties, Dick was one of

The book “Eight Habits of Love” will be discussed at the Garden City Public Library on Thursday, February 6.

the brilliant young men of John F. Kennedy’s New Frontier. In his thirties he both named and helped design Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society and was a speechwriter and close advisor to Robert Kennedy. Doris Kearns was a twenty-four-year-old graduate student when selected as a White House Fellow. She worked directly for Lyndon Johnson and later assisted on his memoir. Over the years, with humor, anger, frustration, and in the end, a growing understanding, Dick and Doris had argued over the achievements and failings of the leaders they served and observed, debating the progress and unfinished promises of the country they both loved.

The Goodwins’ last great adventure involved finally opening the more than 300boxes of letters, diaries, documents, and memorabilia that Dick had saved for more than 50years. They soon realized they had before them an unparalleled personal time capsule of the 1960s, illuminating public and private moments of a decade when individuals were powered by the conviction they could make a difference; a time, like today, marked by struggles for racial and economic justice, a time when lines were drawn and loyalties tested.

Their expedition gave Dick’s last years renewed purpose and determination. It gave Doris the opportunity to connect and reconnect with participants and witnesses of pivotal

moments of the 1960s. And it gave them both an opportunity to make fresh assessments of the central figures of the time—John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., Robert Kennedy, Eugene McCarthy, and especially Lyndon Johnson, who greatly impacted both their lives. The voyage of remembrance brought unexpected discoveries, forgiveness, and the renewal of old dreams, reviving the hope that the youth of today will carry forward this unfinished love story with America.

To register, please go to  www. gardencitypl.org/calendar or call the Reference desk at (516)742-8405 x 5236.

Constance Hallinan Lagan Presents  A Valentine’s Gift: “The Eight Habits of Love” Thursday, February 6, from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Utilizing Ed Bacon’s thought-provoking book “The Eight Habits of Love” as inspiration, this lecture focuses on developing a lifestyle defined by an open heart and an open mind. Such a lifestyle enriches one’s personal existence while blessing the universe with peace and goodwill.  Topics covered include the eight habits of love: generosity, stillness, truth, candor, play, forgiveness, compassion, and community.

To register please go to www. gardencitypl.org/calendar or call the Reference desk at (516) 742-8405 x 5236.

This program is funded  by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Jackie Gleason will be the topic of a talk at the Garden City Library on February 11.

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

Defensive Driving Course with Empire Safety Council

Saturday, February 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join us on Saturday, February 8, 2025,  10 a.m.–4 p.m. for a Defensive Driving Course with the Empire Safety Council. Receive 10% reduction on automobile/liability insurance and qualify for a license point reduction. Register In person at the Garden City Public Library. Space is limited, so check with the Reference Department for availability. Register separately for each person. Proper ID is required when registering an absentee party. You must bring a $33 check made payable to Empire Safety Council and current Library card with you to register. Bring your valid New York State driver ’ s license and a pen to class.

John Kenrick Presents Jackie Gleason: “How Sweet It Is” Tuesday, February 11,

from 2–3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

John Kenrick is back and will be discussing Jackie Gleason! Born to poverty, this Brooklyn native rose to fame on stage and immortality on television. What inspired Gleason to create “ The Honeymooners ” ? And did he really refuse to rehearse those hilarious episodes? A multimedia celebration of the career and stormy personal life of “The Great One.”

Yoga with Kimberly Tuesdays. February 11, February 18, March 4, March 11, March 18, March 25, April 1, April 8

7 p.m.–8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Kimberly Mercadante is back with her popular Yoga Series! Join her for a Yoga Class for beginners and more. All are welcome! This is a series of eight classes continuing through April.. To register, please register online at gardencitypl.org.   For additional information contact

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

This program is funded  by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

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 for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Participants were excited to enjoy the activities.

Adults with Developmental Disabilities colored pictures and also made beaded bracelets during Crafts and Games for Adults with Developmental Disabilities, which was held on Thursday, January 23, at the Library. Crafts and Games will be held again on Thursday, February 6, at 11 a.m. Registration is required online at https://www.gardencitypl.org/calendar/. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

The crafts program for adults with developmental disabilities was funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Stay informed about your community with a weekly subscription to our newspapers.

With current events, announcements, restaurant reviews, puzzles, and much more, there’s always something for everybody to enjoy!

It’s What’s Happening for Young Adults through the Library

Learn About Safe Babysitting at the Intro to Safe Babysitting Workshop

Join us for this Babysitting Workshop program, Intro to Safe Babysitting, on Saturday, February 1, at 3 p.m. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. 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 online at https://www. gardencitypl.org/calendar/. 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.

Upcoming and Ongoing Library Programs for Tweens and Teens

These programs are for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 unless otherwise noted. Registration is

required for these programs.

Teens who complete an online survey after specific programs can receive community service for participating. These programs have been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Registration is live online at https:// forms.gle/jx3hFv5Kjw15hSje6 for the following programs:

• Ongoing until Friday, February 28: Tweens and Teens Winter Reading Club (Grades 6–12)

Registration is live online at https:// forms.gle/y7qMcRdhQvPe34rTA for the following programs:

• Saturday, February 1, at 3 p.m.: Intro to Safe Babysitting Workshop (Grades 6–12)

• Monday, February 3, at 3:30 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime Adventure Volunteers (Grades 9–12)

Registration is live online at https:// forms.gle/fMSu9SNq4WZLjRMu6 for the following programs:

Valentine hearts at the Garden City Public Library

Can you guess how many Valentine hearts are in this jar at the Garden City Public library? Stop by the library before Valentines Day and take a guess, you might win a prize! The valentine jar is on the Friends of the GCPL book sale shelves (behind the circulation desk).  You can write your guess on the form provided.

The number of valentine hearts in the jar – and the winner – will be announced on Thursday, February 13 at 4:00.  We hope to see you there!

For information on the Garden City Public Library, or the Friends of the Library, please see gardencitypl.org

How many hearts are in the jar?

GC Public Library Board to

meet

There will be a regular meeting of the Board of Library Trustees on Monday, February 10, at 7:30 p.m. in the large meeting room on the lower level.

Further details will be posted when available on the Library’s website, www.gardencitypl.org.

• Tuesday, February 4, at 4 p.m.: Teen Advisory Board (Grades 6-12)

• Tuesday, February 4, at 7 p.m.: Teen Paint Night (Grades 6-12)

• Thursday, February 6, at 4 p.m.: Tweens and Teens Yarn Group (Grades 4-12)

• Friday, February 7, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Gamers (Grades 6–12)

• Saturday, February 8, at 3 p.m.: Teen STEAM Workshop: Edible Slime with Chris Buchman (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Monday, February 3, at 10 a.m. online at https://www.gardencitypl.org/ calendar/ for the following program:

• Monday, February 3–Friday, February 7: Bookmarks for Community Service, Week Five (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, February 4, at 10 a.m. online at https://www.gardencitypl.org/ calendar/ for the following programs:

• Tuesday, February 11, at 3:30 p.m.: LEGO Club Volunteering (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, February 13, at 4 p.m.: Teen Creative Hour (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, February 13, at 7 p.m.: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

Ongoing Take-Home Community Service Opportunities

Looking to volunteer? Check out some of our ongoing take-home community service opportunities for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. Please check at the Library for more information on each of these opportunities; all volunteer projects should be submitted at the Library with a Volunteer Form, which can be found outside the Tweens and Teens Room.

• Ongoing: Kindness Cards for Community ServiceNo registration required. Up to 10 cards can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

• Ongoing to Friday, February 28: Winter Stories for Community Service.

• January 6 to Monday, May 5, 2025: Around the World Recipe Cards for Community Service.

News from the Children’s Room

On Monday, February 3, at 4 p.m. the Girl Scouts will be returning for an Inclusive Storytime and craft.

Upcoming February Library Programs for Children

These programs are for children ages birth through Grade 5. Registration is required. Due to continuing technical issues with Eventkeeper, please visit https://www.gardencitypl.org/calendar to view our Event Calendar. Links are available on this webpage to our new temporary program registration forms as well as a printable calendar for January 2025.

• Saturday, February 1, at 10:00 a.m. (first session) and 11:00 a.m. (second session): A Time For Kids, A Family Sensory Storytime

• Monday, February 3, at 10:30 a.m.: Pop-Up Storytime (Birth–5, Not in Kindergarten

• Monday, February 3, at 4:00 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime

(Grades 2–5)

• Wednesday, February 5, at 10:00 a.m.: DUPLO Lego

• Wednesday, February 5, at 4:00 p.m.: STEAM Club (Grades K–2)

• Thursday, February 6, at 4:00 p.m.: Tween Yarn Group

• Thursday, February 6, at 6:00 p.m.: Tiny Song Birds

• Saturday, February 8, at 1:30 p.m.: Edible Slime With Science Teacher Chris Buchman (Grades 3–5)

• Monday, February 10, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Tuesday, February 11, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose Storytime (Birth to 17 Months, Non-Walkers)

• Tuesday, February 11, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime (3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, February 11, at

On Saturday, February 1, at 10:00 a.m. (first session) and 11:00 a.m. (second session), A Time For Kids will be returning to the Garden City Library for a Family Sensory Storytime and craft. This program is funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

4:00 p.m.: Lego Club (Grades K–5)

• Wednesday, February 12, at 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Craft (3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, February 12, at 4:00 p.m.: STEAM Club for Grades K–2

• Tuesday, February 18, at 11:00 a.m.: Movie - “Quest for Camelot” (Grades K–5)

• Wednesday, February 19, at 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Craft (3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday February 19, at 1:00 p.m.: Craft for Grades K–5

• Friday, February 21, at 10:00 a.m.: Chess4Community

• Monday, February 24, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Tuesday, February 25, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose Storytime

(Birth to 17 Months, Non-Walkers)

• Tuesday, February 25, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime (3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, February 26, at 10:30 a.m.: DUPLO Lego

• Wednesday, February 26, at 4:00 p.m.: STEAM Club for Grades K–2

Unattended Child Policy

It is Library policy that all children under age 11 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.

From page 36

Village debt service

To the Editor:

It is difficult to grasp the size of the St Paul’s building, both in square footage, and the debt load that the six AlliancePOA trustees are looking to add to the Village debt service.  I’m hoping a simple graph will help illustrate the magnitude of the issue for the residents.

Using the published Debt Service from the Village for years 2015 to 2024, adding estimates for the Western Firehouse and the Fire Training Center, you have a rough number for the Village Debt Service 2025-26.

Adding the three individual options from the upcoming Alliance-POA Trustee’s survey (so-called because they are ignoring the professional firm BCI’s advice) to that number will give you an idea of the amount of debt this project will add to the Village Debt Service. Even the least expensive alternative, the “Muldoon Mothballing”, almost triples our debt.

Couple of points:

• The estimates for the Western Fire House and the Training Center came from a BOT member.

• I’ve used a 4% yield on a 15 year bond.

• At approximately $100,000,000 in debt is where we have traditionally been told our Triple AAA credit rating will come under review for possible Downgrades lead to higher interest rate expenses and may impact the size and timing of other important projects

• The “ballpark” estimates being used in the survey were seemingly produced by a single Trustee. To date, I am unaware of any backup data put forth for the residents that would normally be produced BEFORE providing such figures, despite multiple residents requesting it at BOT meetings.  These would include the names and companies of the “hundreds of individuals” consulted from big “New York City companies” that were claimed to have been spoken to, which of them had toured the building, if any, the data inputs used, and the specific percentages applied for contin-

St. Paul’s: NOT just 500 tiny rooms

To the Editor:

In recent months, I continue to read comments stating that the interior of the St. Paul’s main building consists of some 500, unusable, “tiny dorm rooms”. This is blatantly false. From the basement through the main, second, third, fourth, and even one area on the small 5th floor there are numerous large rooms that can serve a myriad of community needs, some of which are exemplified and shown “as-examples” on the plans posted in the links shown below. Most of these comments, posted in

$200,000,000

$180,000,000

$160,000,000

$140,000,000

$120,000,000

$100,000,000

$80,000,000

$60,000,000

$40,000,000

$20,000,000

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

Village Debt Service

(Does not include Enterprise Funds -ie Water, Pool, etc)

gencies, soft costs, and other variables.

• Residents need to decide if a doubling, tripling or quadrupling of our debt service is worth the use they will achieve and to what extent it hurt Garden City’s reputation as a fiscally conservative run Village and how that will affect our real estate values.

• Will these levels of debt “crowdout” further and necessary funding of critical projects for decades to come; water, maintaining our pool and

Garden City News editorials and on social media (primarily Facebook’s Garden City chat areas), are beginning to gain traction, as misinformation and rumors often do. However, all one needs to do, to see the truth, is to look at the architectural floor plans that exist on the Village website or on the St. Paul’s Alliance website. Further, if one reviews the Thornton Tomasetti / Beyer, Blinder, Belle report (The Centre at St. Paul’s; 2017-2018) or the Einhorn, Yaffee, Prescott plans (2002, “St. Pauls’ Academy”), and they will see that many large rooms, of all sizes, exist within the building. These plans show rooms of 13’

parks, restoration of the abandoned Western Fire House, additional police should Sands Casino pass, buying The Cathedral property developmental rights should they move forward on rental apartments, etc.

Everyone is entitled to their own view of what we should do with the St Paul’s building. Unfortunately, this AlliancePOA BOT is only allowing the residents limited choices.  I hope this graph might help residents understand the financial

x 16’, 14’ x 18’, 19’ x 24’, 22’ x 24’, 18’ x 20’, 21’ x 51’, 20’ x 22’, 45’ x 41’, 42’,x 62’, and 35’ x 63’ for example. The key point here is that this building is highly adaptable to 90% of the recreational and community needs of our constituent groups.

While small dorm rooms do exist, those rooms are easy to enlarge by removing non-bearing walls between the rooms and creating spaces of varying sizes for various purposes. Proposals for space utilization are shown on the floor plans as posted on the GC Village website.

It should also be noted that in the summer of 2024, our current consul-

implications of the limited options this BOT has allowed the residents to consider, and some of the surrounding issues. Donald MacLeod PS I am more than willing to admit, and correct, should I have any data wrong. I have however, vetted the data with several residents I believe are conversant in the issues around St Paul’s and financing issues.

tant, Brandstetter-Carroll, Inc. coordinated a resident survey and conducted a detailed inventory of our recreational facilities and programs. Their findings were presented to the public on 9/23/2024. At that presentation, they noted that “nearly all of the community needs that were discovered on the survey would fit nicely within the existing space at St. Paul’s”.

For information on St. Paul’s floor plans, showing the extent of usable space, visit the Village of Garden City website: See the architectural drawings A-100; A-101; A-102, A-103, A-104, and A-105 each pointing to specific floors;

basement through five. (Yes, there is a 5th floor group of offices that could easily convert to one large space measuring 63’ x 35’ with the removal of a few non-bearing walls!!).

Link to Village plans: https://www. gardencityny.net/449/Prior-ProposalsFor-St-Pauls-Main-Buildi

Link to the same floor plans showing potential uses and room sizes on St. Paul’s Alliance website: https://stpaulsalliance.org/engineering-2/

Additional floor plans of St. Paul’s are available on the Jan. 16th BOT “agenda” on pages 47-55. These recent drawings were provided by the abatement engineering firm of D&B Engineers and Architects. https://www.gardencityny. net/AgendaCenter

Robert Vassalotti

Bogus St. Paul’s math

To the Editor:

In October 2023, Garden City Village residents voted in a non-binding opinion poll, regarding St. Paul’s main building. The vote: 62% in favor of full, or partial, preservation, and 38% for demolition of the building replacing it with a town park and/or a smaller recreation center.

Many observers--residents and trustees--quickly concluded that 100% of the 100,000 square foot, 150 yr.-old, dilapidated building, should be saved and repurposed with activities to be chosen at a later date. In other words, saving the building was the clear “winner” and demolition the “loser.” The purpose of this Letter is to state, unequivocally, that this conclusion is absolutely INCORRECT and BOGUS. Some observers may state that other writers agree with us. However, in recent days preservationists have continued to perpetuate the “wrong” “wrong” mathematics which I will explain below.

The October 2023 ballot was intended to give the voter a choice of one out of three uses: preservation, facadism or demolition. Unfortunately, it was not possible to make that choice because, on the ballot, there was only a choice for two: 1) preservation, full and partial, or 2) full demolition. YES! Three choices, but only space to vote for one of two. It is reasonable to assume that some voters were not aware of the ambiguity of the preservation choices. And crucially, at the end of the voting it was impossible to determine how many votes there were for each of the two parts of preservation. Therefore the 62% of the vote for preservation was OVERSTATED. By how much? We do not know. For analysis I assumed that 33% of preservation belongs to facadism. The math thus says that instead of 62% for full preservation, the theoretical split would be one-third of 62% or roughly 20% for facade, 42% for full preservation and, importantly, 38% for demolition. See table below. Thus we conclude that none of the three

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

choices had a majority of the total vote. The table below summarizes the discussion above which shows n winner -with a near dead-heat among demolition vs. full preservation, at approximately 40%.

Full Preservation

Original New*

62% 42%

Facade 0% 20%

Demoliton 38% 38%

*Our hypothetical estimate

Perhaps the upcoming all-households survey, due in a few weeks, will clarify the bogus, useless, 2023 opinion poll. Mayor Carter Flanagan, and a few other Trustees, have agreed with the flaws and bias of that poll. And I implore residents and Trustees to cease referring to it as a reliable tool for determining the true preferences of Garden City’s population.

The designers of the Poll did a poor job--accidentally or intentionally. Finally, the opinion of the present eight Board of Trustees is, solidly, 6-2, in favor of full preservation.

And, in my view, the outcome of the March 2025 annual Trustees election is unlikely to alter this majority.

George M. Salem

Survey dismisses 39% of residents

To the Editor:

When we introduce the topic of research to kids (as young as pre-k, kindergarten, grammar school) we teach how results can’t be thrown out or dismissed just because they don’t correlate with results we want. Around the same age, we also introduce SEL (Social Emotional Learning), which touches on such concepts as listening for multi-perspective and learning to compromise. And again around the same age (nursery, pre-k) we teach how 39% of “the pie” holds significance to 100% and can’t just be ignored.

Oh my. Village monies were spent on a survey that entirely dismissed 39% of village residents’ views? And there are attempts to ignore the Mayor and one Trustee who called this out as violation of basic research protocols, ethics, …? Yikes. Definitely in the Twilight Zone, entering a new dimension. That said, when the final vote does come around again (this vote won’t count because it’ll too easily be proven worthless) there’s the hypothesis that those who originally voted “facade preservation” will now vote “demolish” because they’ve just been pushed too far.

Georgena Wilson, MSEd/ MBA

Village debt and St. Paul’s

To the Editor:

Several months ago, I met with Irene Woo and Trustees Finnegan and Harrington.  I had voiced my concern that there was no long-term plan for

managing and forecasting the Village bonded debt.  I left that meeting feeling that I had made my point and that the above people would be working on this project.  I have never seen any plans.

The information below does not include debt incurred by the Water Department. That debt is not paid with tax dollars.  It is paid through your water bill.

At June 1st 2015 the bond balance was 11.8 million with interest rates of 1.55 to 2.0%

We bonded 9.7 million in fiscal 2024 and the budget for fiscal 2025 calls for bonding 11.3 million.  That is a total of 21 million.  The projected bond balance on May 31, 2025, is 39.9 million   That is an increase of 28.1 million dollars.   Now we are looking at interest rates from 4% to 5%.  This does not include any debt for St. Paul’s.

I would like to think that the Trustees will review this situation before they add 100 million to this debt burden.

I have also asked the above people to provide me with an analysis of the interest rate and calculations used in the survey. They have ignored three requests.  Transparency.???

Bob Wolff

Question as to survey response

To the Editor:

This letter was sent to Trustee Courtney who serves as the liaison between the BOT and BCI. All Trustees were copied.

During recent BOT meetings, you and other Trustees repeatedly emphasized that: “There is the ability for the respondent to state THEY (caps are mine) do not want the village to do any of these projects and that they do not want to spend any money and they do not choose any of these options. The ability to express the opinion and to state THEY do not want to spend any money is presented multiple times as residents can fill out the survey”. (Trustee Courtney at p. 40, last week’s GCN).

The Trustees have repeatedly stated there was a way (particularly question #8) for those favoring demo and/ or facade to also express their opinions. Therefore, because this BOT has eliminated the ability to check a single box for the demolition or facade concept, unlike the other limited choices ( Q. # 4, 5, 6) that you are giving the residents, it is imperative that this Board provide specific directions with the survey TO ALL RESIDENTS detailing exactly how a resident may make her or his voice heard if wanting demolition or facade to be pursued.

As you and other Trustees have frequently reminded residents, this Board removed both demolition and facade (which were on Mayor Carter Flanagan’s Poll) from the survey. As you know BCI and both the Mayor and

the Deputy Mayor favored their inclusion as affirmative choices. Saying residents have a real voice and demonstrating it are not the same thing. 22,000 residents await your positive response in addressing this concern.

S. G.

Gorray

If you missed the deadline?

To the Editor:

If you missed the January 21st deadline for emailing your anti-casino environmental concerns: no worries! We can always email our elected officials, so if you missed the deadline, or you want to send another email - - you can do that at any time. You can visit our website at www.nocasinonassau.org for a handy cc list of recipients.

For those of you who already sent emails, thank you so much! We estimate that close to 2,000 casino opponents sent emails. Let’s keep them coming!

Monica Kiely Richard Catalano

Thank you

To the Editor:

The overwhelming generosity of the people of Garden City, helped provide joy to children in need through Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts this season. Across the U.S., the Samaritan’s Purse project collected 10.5 million shoebox gifts in 2024. Combined with those collected from partnering countries in 2024, the ministry is now sending over 11.9 million shoebox gifts to children worldwide.

Shoebox packers brought joy and hope to children around the world through fun, full, personalized gifts. For many children, this is the first gift they have ever received. Each shoebox gift is a tangible expression of God’s love, given to children in need around the world. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 232 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories.

Across the region, shoebox packers often shop for deals on shoebox items throughout the year, and many serve at a deeper level by becoming a yearround volunteer. Information about ways area participants can get involved year-round can also be found at samaritanspurse.org/occ.

Although local Garden City drop-off locations for shoebox gifts are closed until Nov. 17 – 24, 2025, anyone can still be a part of this life-changing project by conveniently packing a shoebox gift online in just a few simple clicks at samaritanspurse.org/buildonline.

These simple gifts, packed with love, remind children around the world that they are loved and not forgotten.

GreenLee Smith, Samaritan’s Purse

Lunar New Year celebrated in Garden City and worldwide

BY AMANAT D JAIN, GARDEN CITY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT

Every year, millions of people worldwide celebrate Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival. This holiday marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and is one of the most essential celebrations in Chinese culture. This year, it was celebrated on January 29th.

Unlike the Western New Year, which follows the solar calendar, the Lunar New Year follows the lunar calendar. The date changes each year but usually falls between late January and mid-February. Each year is represented by one of the twelve zodiac animals, which are believed to influence personality traits and fortunes.

Lunar New Year has been celebrated for over 4,000 years and is deeply rooted in Chinese history and mythology. According to legend, the holiday began to protect villages from a mythical beast called Nian, who would terrorize people at the start of each new year. Over time, people discovered that loud noises, bright lights, and red scared Nian away, leading to many of the traditions we still see today.

The holiday is a time for family

reunions, feasting, and honoring ancestors. One of the biggest traditions is the reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve, where families gather to share a meal featuring symbolic dishes. Some common foods include dumplings, representing wealth and prosperity, and fish, symbolizing abundance and a good year ahead. Spring rolls signify a fresh start and good fortune, and tangyuan (sweet rice balls) represent family togetherness. People also wear new clothes, often in red, as this color symbolizes good luck and wards off evil spirits.

Children receive red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money from their elders as a gesture of blessing and prosperity. Other major traditions include setting off fireworks, watching the famous Spring Festival Gala on TV, and attending lion and dragon dances, which bring good luck for the coming year.

While Lunar New Year is rooted in Chinese culture, its themes of family, renewal, and good fortune are universal. Whether you celebrate with a traditional feast, wear red for luck, or simply enjoy a day off from school, the Lunar New Year is a time for everyone to come together in joy and hope for a prosperous year.

East Rock Coffee welcomed with ribbon cutting

From page 28

East Rock Coffee is unique to have a full-service liquor bar to serve with its coffee and coffee shop concoctions. Dorant is thankful that so many great reviews appear on social media, and along with the drinks and dishes “customers get a memorable experience as well.”

“At the restaurant I am making sure we are dedicated to giving our customers the best service and hospitality. For me as an owner, in every restaurant I open, I am going through it, observing and reacting as a customer would and not the owner – because I want people to feel the same way I like to feel when I go out to eat. Whenever we saw a few negative reviews posted, I jumped to address them right away because I will not let anything slide by. I remain really hands-on with all my restaurants to keep our quality and service at the top,” he said.

Mr. Dorant said the name “East Rock” comes from his personal life and journey. He is currently completing a book project to share his incredible stories.

His wife, Shirly Dorant, said the social media buzz for East Rock Coffee has been huge. She made sure to spread her thanks and appreciation for everyone who has left a review, taken pic-

tures and posted content inside. Mrs. Dorant is enthused by the influencers and customers who have shown the world what great dishes and drinks are being served up on Franklin Avenue.

At the grand opening/ribbon-cutting event, Village of Garden City Trustee Bruce Torino told the News that East Rock Coffee is ‘hopping’ and appears to be an excellent addition to the village. He was eager to check out their menu, and noted there are a lot of “diverse beverages to select from.”

“The interesting thing about Garden City is that we draw in the best of everything, with a lot of diversity of restaurants for whatever palate may strike you. The village has the ability to attract people from other areas to keep the spirit alive in our downtown. Being that I reside on Ninth Street, I am thankful for being able to walk around and enjoy all the great cuisine!,” he said.

After last Thursday’s ribbon-cutting, Trustee Jessica Tai spoke about her experiences dining at East Rock Coffee over the past several months and the buzz that’s been going around social media for the new business in town.

She called East Rock Coffee a “gorgeous, elegant place with a wonderful upbeat atmosphere.”

“We are so fortunate to have another beautiful spot in Garden City for friends, couples and families to come

Immediately following the ribbon-cutting , John Wilton of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce stood with Sherly and Andy Dorant, owners of East Rock Coffee, and Town of Hempstead Councilman Thomas Muscarella, Nassau County Legislator John Giuffre, and Garden City Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan. Standing behind his parents is Andy Dorant Jr., and to the right is Garden City’s Steve Ilardi behind Councilman Muscarella.

together and enjoy great coffee, drinks and delicious offerings. The staff here are always friendly and welcoming. The

village warmly welcomes East Rock Coffee shop to Garden City, and we wish them great success!” Trustee Tai said.

Celebration of Chinese New Year by Garden City residents Kathy and Charles Ruhle with their children William and Louis, and the children’s grandparents.

Celebrating the season at Garden Manor Nursery School

Mrs. Catterson’s class poses in front of the Christmas Tree of Kindness and Caring.

As always, the Christmas season is filled with much excitement, joy and anticipation. In addition to the fun and educational activities planned by their teachers, students learned Christmas songs, made Christmas crafts and special gifts for family members. They also decorated the Christmas trees in their classrooms, read Christmas stories, dazzled their families with a Christmas performance and even had a special visit from Santa! So many fun and excit-

ing activities, and what a memorable time for the students, staff and families.

Garden Manor has a very special tradition during the Christmas season. The school Christmas tree is very unique. It is known as the Christmas Tree of Kindness and Caring and it is not decorated with ornaments but with new socks, hats, gloves and scarves donated by the generous Garden Manor Nursery School families and staff as well as the parishioners from Christ Episcopal

Merry Christmas!

Church, a Chapel of the Cathedral of the Incarnation. The tree was overflowing this year and not a branch was left bare! These items were boxed up and donated to the Inn in Hempstead just in time for the cold winter months and will help many people in need.

Garden Manor Nursery School at Christ Episcopal Church, Chapel of

Telling Santa he’s 3 years old!

About to hit a milestone?

the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is located at 33 Jefferson St, Garden City. Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is currently open with Toddler (2 year old) and Pre-School (3 year old) class options available. If you’d like to learn more about our school please visit our website at www.gmns.org. Tours available upon request.

A Christmas craft.

Share your life accomplishments with your neighbors! Put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper. It's free of charge for subscribers! Email editor@gcnews.com

Santa visits Garden Manor.

DAR photo exhibit reception a hit

Carla Hall D’Ambra, Regent of Col. Aaron Ogden Chapter NSDAR, praised the success of the Chapter's Photo display at the Garden City Library at the celebratory reception held at the library on January 25. The photo exhibit, which ran through January, featured large black and white photos of Colonial and Revolutionary era buildings.

The photos were the work of Garden City photographer Thomas Cupolo, who also develops his own work. Historic

buildings from Long Island and Tappan NY were featured. Mr. Cupolo’s wife Gen is a recent new member of the NSDAR.

Many library patrons took time and viewed the photos, which were hung in the Lower Gallery of the Garden City Library. The day of the reception was well supported by local DAR members and the event drew at least one patron who expressed interest in becoming a DAR member herself.

Louise Rider and Arlene Kister

Deborah McCauley, Peg Tillotson, Gen Cupolo

Louise Rider and Janice Derr

Janice Derr, Thomas Cupolo, Gen Cupolo, Celia Peterson, Leslie Dimmling

Deborah McCauley, Peg Tillotson, Gen CupoloDeborah McCauley and Heather Zawislak

Spanish Sprouts looking forward to more exciting lessons

Buttons, playdough, stamps, stickers... all about shapes.

GISSELA PRECIADO AND DIANA MACCHIO, SPANISH SPROUTS GC

What can we say more than how incredibly proud we are of our Spanish Sprouts? Our young learners in the Garden City community have truly blossomed this semester! They have been exceptional in following directions in Spanish, actively listening, and most importantly, becoming enthusiastic participants in their language journey. Watching them have fun while confidently repeating new words, trying out sounds, and constructing meaningful phrases has been a joy for us as educators. Even more thrilling is hearing them engage in small conversations with each other—all in Spanish!

Our approach at Spanish Sprouts has always been to make learning Spanish both educational and enjoyable. We carefully select motivating and engaging topics to introduce vocabulary in a natural and meaningful way. These topics serve as the foundation for learning new words and verbs, which the children then practice in various activities. By incorporating interactive projects and playful lessons, we ensure that our Sprouts are learning organically through context and use.One highlight of our curriculum has been the cultural overview of Spanish-speaking countries around the world. The children have

Sea animal and playing with water.

expanded their knowledge by discovering how unique and diverse each country is, even though they share a common language. This cultural exploration has been eye-opening and has sparked curiosity in our students about the richness of the Spanish-speaking world.

The positive experience this semester has left the children eager to continue learning. Their enthusiasm and engagement have been inspiring, and

The kids learned facts about some Spanish-speaking countries.

we are excited to continue this language journey with them. We look forward to more fun and learning in the next season of Spanish Sprouts, starting on February 3rd.

Registrations are open now! For your young ones to join us for the upcom-

Attention students!

ing season, visit our Instagram page @spanishsproutsgc, or send an email to spanishsproutsgc@gmail.com. Let’s keep growing together as we cultivate a love for the Spanish language and culture in our community!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA? Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity? We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be seen in our paper!

Días de la semana...Big hit!

Friday, January 31,

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Devi’s Sacred Journeys LLC / DBADevi’s Soul Creations. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/31/2024. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to UNITED STATES CORPORATION AGENTS, INC.: 7014 13TH AVENUE SUITE 202 BROOKLYN NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Too much junk in your house?

Too much junk in your house?

Place an ad for it in our classifieds section! Call 516.294.8900 for more details.

Place an ad for it in our classifieds section! Call 516-294-8900 for more details.

NASSAU COUNTY BIDS

Sealed bids MUST be RECEIVED BY & 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 EST THURS, FEBRUARY 20, 2025 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following:

DIRECTIONAL DRILLING 2025 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: Garden City, Inc. Village of Catherine Reynolds Purchasing Agent

Dated: 01/31/25

NASSAU

COUNTY PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF

TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 18th, 2025, will sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 13th, 2025 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per six-month period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/526/County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 18th day of February 2025 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/527/Annual-Tax-Lien-Sale

A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 06th, 2025 Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audio-tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.

Dated: January 23, 2025

TERMS OF SALE

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, NewYork

Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts. However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County's Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser's rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser's right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act(FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et.seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation(FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed. The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien. The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its agencies, assumes no responsibility for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk.

The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.

Furthermore, as to the bidding,

1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.

Dated: January 23, 2025 THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, New York

Subscribe to our newspaper by calling 516-294-8900,

WPOA seeks Student Ambassadors

Attention high school students who are sophomores or juniors this 2024 to 2025 school year!

The Western Property Owners Association (WPOA) is offering the opportunity for high school students to serve as “Student Ambassadors” to the WPOA. The WPOA is a civic organization, whose purpose is to advocate for the interests of residents in the Western Section of Garden City. The Student Ambassador Program is designed to introduce high school students to Village Government through attendance at Village meetings, participation in WPOA meetings, and the development and coordination of a community

service project.

Qualifications for candidates include the following:

• Be a resident of Garden City whose parent(s) or guardian(s) are members of a POA;

• Preferred, but not required, resident of the Western section of Garden City;

• Be available for Village meetings and WPOA meetings and special events, such as the West’s annual Tree Lighting;

• Have an interest in learning about and participating in local government.

Student Ambassador responsibilities

are as follows:

• Attend WPOA meetings (a schedule will be provided);

• Attend one or two monthly Village government meetings (Village Trustees, Traffic, Environmental/ Zoning, Recreation, etc.), School Board or Library Board meetings, and report back to the WPOA on issues discussed. Dates and agendas for Village government meetings can be found on the Village website at http://www.gardencityny.net/

• Completion of the Ambassador’s agreed service project;

• Delivery of a report to the WPOA at the end of the Ambassador’s

LEGAL NOTICES

term outlining his/her accomplishments and thoughts on ways to further improve the program.

Interested students may fill out the application on the WPOA website at https://www.gcwpoa.com or email it to WPOA Schools Director Anna Surrett at anna.mistretta@gmail. com.  Following submission of an application, representatives of the WPOA will contact applicants before the selection of Ambassadors is made.

Those interested should submit a Student Ambassador application as soon as possible as meetings will begin soon!

Landmark Anne Frank The Exhibition in NYC Personalizes Holocaust As Never Before

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

It is surreal, extraordinarily intimate, overwhelmingly emotional to find yourself standing in Anne Frank’s tiny room exactly as she had lived in it, in secret hiding for two years, just before she was taken away by Nazis to the concentration camp where she died just a few months before she would have been saved.

There are the photos she clipped from newspapers to put on her wall, to preserve some connection to a normal life, her life before the Nazis took over Germany, then invaded the Netherlands, where her family had sought refuge. You see the plaid-cloth covered diary she began to write the day she received it, on her 13th birthday, who she sometimes wrote to as “Dear Kitty” and treated as her closest friend and confidant, revealing things her father later admitted he never knew about his daughter despite being close and living in such constant proximity.

As you stand in this space, the tiny bedroom where she sat at this desk to write, you hear her words, “When I write, I can shake off my cares, my sorrow... my spirits soar.... But will I ever be able to write something great? Will I ever be able to be a journalist or writer? Oh, I hope so.” And then, “Writing allows me to record everything – thoughts, ideals, fantasies.”

This is the remarkable Anne Frank The Exhibition, opening at the Center for Jewish History in New York City on January 27, coin-

Standing in Anne Frank’s tiny room in The Annex where she and her family hid from the Nazis for two years, personalizes the Holocaust. This immersion into a full-scale re-creation of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is part of a landmark “Anne Frank The Exhibition,” now on view at the Center for Jewish History in New York City © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

ciding with International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp where one million Jews were exterminated.

For the first time, visitors outside of Amsterdam will be able to experience the Anne Frank House, one of the most visited historical sites in Europe, but in a very different way: whereas in Amsterdam, the rooms are empty as they were after the Nazis left it, here, visitors are immersed in a full-scale re-creation of the complete Annex, furnished as it would have been when Anne and her family and four other Jews spent two years hiding to evade Nazi capture.

You see the pictures clipped from newspapers she put on her wall – a semblance of normalcy of a teenager. You hear her words from her diary as you walk through those rooms.

But there is another important difference: before and after you roam through this meticulously re-created Annex, you are immersed in her life and the lives of millions of others as you see the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, how the Holocaust was set into motion and what it was like to live with such terror– giving a broader context and meaning to Anne Frank’s story, resonating with chilling effect today.

Created in partnership between the Anne Frank House and the Center

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

for Jewish History, this astonishing, Anne Frank: The Exhibition kicks off the Center‘s 25th anniversary season.

“We are absolutely thrilled to partner with the Anne Frank House on this landmark exhibition,” said Dr. Gavriel Rosenfeld, President of the Center for Jewish History. “As we approach the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz in January, Anne Frank’s story becomes more urgent than ever. In a time of rising antisemitism, her diary serves as both a warning and a call to action, reminding us of the devastating impact of hatred. This exhibition challenges us to confront these dangers head-on and honor the memory of those lost in the Holocaust.”

“When students learn to identify hate, learn to confront with empathy, critical thinking, they will champion justice and equality,” Ronald Leopold, the director of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, said at the press preview. “An exhibition like this serves as powerful reminder of the importance of confronting hate through education and understanding.

“Anne Frank’s story is known to many but what you will experience at this exhibition goes beyond her tragic fate. The exhibition hopefully will also offer a deeper, multifaceted view of who Anne Frank was- not just a victim of the Holocaust, but just a girl, a teenager, a writer, and an enduring symbol of resilience and strength.”

The Anne Frank House was established in 1957 in cooperation with Otto Frank, Anne Frank’s father, as an independent nonprofit January 31, 2025

Continued on next page

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Landmark Anne Frank The Exhibition in NYC Personalizes Holocaust As Never Before

organization entrusted with the preservation of the Annex and bringing Anne’s life story to world audiences in order to serve as a place for teaching and learning about the Holocaust. Each year, the Anne Frank House, welcomes 1.2 million visitors, but many are turned away (you have to reserve tickets weeks, even months in advance), and requires visitors to come to Amsterdam.

“This exhibition is not just about the past,” Leopold said at a press preview. “It is important to learn about the past, but more important to learn from the past. That is the educational mission Anne’s father, the only one of the 8 Jews in hiding at the Annex who survived, gave us when Anne Frank House opened to the public in 1960.”

Leopold held up two photos, side by side. One is easily recognizable: Anne Frank. Next to her on the page is a photo a boy no one has heard of. He was born June 12, 1929, the same day as Anne, lived one block from where she lived, a 3 minute walk. Their paths might have crossed - we don’t know. We know everything about this little girl, Anne Frank, we think, but there is no one in the world today who knows anything about this young boy except for his name, David Spanyeur, his date of birth, address and when and where he was murdered, on February 12, 1943 in Auschwitz.”

“If we bring Anne Frank to New York, and we go to remember her on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we also bring, David Spanyeur to New York, and remember him, as we will remember 1.5 million Jewish children’s lives cut short by human beings for the single reason they were Jewish. This is the message we try to bring, that goes beyond Anne Frank.”

Philanthropic support has made it possible for the Anne Frank House to subsidize visits for students from New York City public schools and all Title 1 public schools throughout the United States. A special curriculum has been created for distribution to 500,000 children, and there is a 28-minute film at the center that is geared to school children.

So far, tens of thousands of already purchased tickets in advance of the opening; 150 schools have already scheduled visits from as far as California.

A Normal Teenager

There is so much that is astonishing about this exhibit – certainly being able to stand in this exact, full-scale re-creation of Anne Frank’s secret hiding place furnished as if they had just left, before the Nazis stripped everything out. Indeed, that is how you experience The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, totally empty. (The people from Anne Frank House in Amsterdam remarked how strange it was to see the rooms they know so well as empty, now furnished. “But we have the original diary, you have a facsimile!”) Also, it is what the exhibit is wrapped around with –the context surrounding Anne Frank’s experience and the experience of the 6 million Jews, including 1.5 million children exterminated in the Holocaust.

The exhibit features some 100 artifacts – some rarely if ever viewed in public - including an extraordinary exhibit of the family’s personal effects from their comfortable life in Frankfurt where Otto was a banker, before the Nazis and the Holocaust – even their china, a wooden desk from 1796, and Anne’s first photo album (1929-1942). You see family photos and photos of a normal life, a playful child with a fetching smile. There is even a video of a wedding couple leaving their apartment building that happened to capture Anne peering out from a second-story window.

This exhibit wraps Anne Frank’s personal story with context: the rise of Hitler, democratically elected Chancellor, and the Nazi domination of Germany, the invasion of the Netherlands, France and Belgium, and the implementation of the Final Solution - systemic genocide of Jews, known as the Holocaust.

We walk through the bookcase, and are in the hiding place in the Annex.

Throughout the exhibit, you have an audio guide that you can activate, but here, in the hiding place, is where what you hear is most affecting – not just the description of the place and what their

lives were like for the two years they hid away, but Anne’s own words from her diary.

“When I write, I can shake off my cares, my sorrow... my spirits soar.... But will I ever be able to write something great? Will I ever be able to be a journalist or writer? Oh, I hope so.” And then, “Writing allows me to record everything – thoughts, ideals, fantasies.”

In the next part of the exhibit, you see how the Holocaust unfolded - photos of Jews pulled from their homes, crowded into the streets and loaded onto cattle cars, deported to labor, concentration and death camps. You see soldiers shooting masses of Jews in pits dug by the victims themselves.

This room has a glass floor over a map of Europe with red flags denoting where the death camps and places of genocide were and hear names recited. As you come to the end, most affecting of all, is a projection of the 1935 photo of Anne Frank in her kindergarten class of 32 students, of whom 15 were Jews, which you saw in the first gallery. As you hear their names ticked off, one by one these adorable, innocent faces are disappeared from the photo and you hear their age when their lives were snuffed out: 12, 13, 14, 15. Only 5 of the 15 survived – by going into hiding or escaping. Anne was 15.

The next part follows Otto’s improbable journey from the camp when it was liberated in January 1945. Otto was the only one to survive of the eight who hid in the Annex, though he had yet to learn the fate of his family. All of his worldly possession fit into a tiny canvas bag the size of a book.

You actually see a video of Miep Gies, one of the Dutch citizens who hid and protected the Franks in the Annex (she lived to 100 years old), relating how she went into it after the Nazis ransacked it and found Anne’s diary and notebooks, keeping them safe because she knew how important her writing was to her. She re-creates how she reached into her desk and presented Otto with Anne’s volumes.

In an interview, Otto related that at first it was difficult for him to read

Waste Not

BY CHARLYN FARGO

With the cost of food rising, it’s more important than ever to waste less of the food we purchase. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as much as 40% of our food supply ends up in the trash or compost bin. More than a third of that stems from wasteful kitchen habits, says the USDA.

We all are guilty of buying food that

just hangs out in our refrigerator and we end up throwing it away: overripe bananas, broccoli stems, moldy cheese, even milk sometimes. Or maybe it ends up there because we purchased too much or didn’t end up eating the leftovers like we planned. It takes up space in landfills, not to mention the money we threw away. The average American (myself included) ends up spending $1,300 a year on food that ends up in the trash.

the diary because of his grief, but when he started reading, he couldn’t stop. To honor her wishes of becoming a published writer, he set out to find a publisher – you see his letters and the replies from editors.

You see the first edition of “Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl” which includes a forward by Eleanor Roosevelt – which has been translated into 70 languages, selling 35 million copies, and made into a play and movie (winning Shelly Winter’s an Oscar for her performance as Auguste van Pels).

The exhibition is designed for children (ages 10 and older) and adults. All general admission tickets include the exhibition audio guide. Plan to spend two hours.

Educational visits to the exhibition, as well as Individual and Family ticket purchases, can be scheduled by visiting AnneFrankExhibit.org.

Anne Frank The Exhibition is a limited engagement, scheduled to close on April 30, 2025. For a list of upcoming programs, visit https://www.cjh.org/. Genealogy, Holocaust Records at the Center

The Center for Jewish History also has Geneology Research Center, with genealogists on hand who can help you trace your family’s history, has formed a new-multiyear partnership with Ancestry® to open the Ancestry Research & Reflection Room, a new space and initiative to collect, preserve and share family histories of Jewish communities worldwide. These records can be searched for free at a newly opened Ancestry Research & Reflection Room at the center.

Center for Jewish History 15 West 16th Street, New York, 212.294.8301, cjh. org, info@cjh.org.

© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

The good news is we can make a change by adopting a few simple habits in the kitchen.

No. 1: Freeze overripe bananas or use them in banana bread or a smoothie along with leftover berries.

No. 2: Toss leftover spaghetti or macaroni noodles into a soup. Repurpose meatballs into a sandwich.

Continued on page 5

February: Celebrating Black History Month

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

With February being Black History Month, I am citing Zora Neale Hurston for her creativity as a writer and her impact on society. Hurston was born on January 7, 1891, in Notasulga, Alabama. She was one of eight children born to John and Lucy Ann Potts Hurston. Her father, a Baptist preacher and sharecropper, later became a carpenter. Her mother was a schoolteacher.

When she was three, the Hurston family moved to Eatonville, Florida. Hurston often called Eatonville “home” because she was so young when she moved there. Sometimes she claimed it as her birthplace. A few years later, her father was elected as mayor of the town in 1897.

As an adult, Hurston often used Eatonville as a setting in her stories because it was a small town, a place where African Americans could live as they wanted. Eatonville is considered to be the first all-black community in the U.S. it was incorporated in 1887.

In 1901, some northern schoolteachers visited Eatonville and gave Hurston several books that opened her mind to literature. She was grateful for being given this exposure to various types of literature.

Hurston lived the rest of her childhood in Eatonville and described the experience of growing up there in her 1928 essay, “How It Feels To Be Colored Me.” In honor of Zora Neale Huston, Eatonville holds an annual “Zora! Festival.”

In 1928, Hurston graduated from Barnard College in NYC with a degree in anthropology where she trained under pioneering scientist Franz Boas. With Boas’ help, she got a fellowship that allowed her to return to Florida to collect folklore that would later be incorporated into her novels “Mules and Men” and “Tell My Horse.”

Hurston wrote short stories, journalistic, cinematic and nonfiction work. She collaborated with Langston Hughes on the 1931 play “Mule Bone.” Hurston’s work was unique in that it combined literature with anthropology, incorporating indigenous dialects to tell stories of people in the Caribbean and rural Florida.

Hurston’s work is important because it provides an important voice for African American women of her day. An author, anthropologist and folklorist/ storyteller, Hurston’s work is important because it provides an important voice for African American women who lived at that time. Many people remember Hurston as the author of “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” a novel published in 1937.

In 1942, when her autobiography, “Dust Tracks on a Road,” was published,

Hurston received the fame that had escaped her for so long. That year, she was profiled in Who’s Who in America, Current Biography and Twentieth Century Authors.

“Their Eyes Were Watching God” went out of print a few years after its publication and Hurston was a relatively unknown writer by readers for nearly 30 years. She died in Miami in 1960. It was author Alice Walker who rediscovered Zora Neale Hurston’s works. Walker was born in Eatonton, Georgia, a rural farming town, in 1944. She graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in Yonkers, N.Y., in 1965 and several years later she returned to the South. Alice Walker is famous for becoming the first African-American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1982 for her novel “The Color Purple.”

It was a few years after Hurston’s death that Walker read “Their Eyes Were Watching God.” She read and reread her novels and felt that Hurston had an important voice in American literature, especially women’s American literature. Walker’s feeling was that she felt as if she knew Zora Neale Hurston personally.

In fact of Hurston’s novel, “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” Alice Walker has said that “it speaks to me as no novel, past or present, has ever done.”

Determined to research Zora Neale Hurston’s life and work, in 1973 she traveled to Eatonville, where Hurston was raised, and briefly posed as the author’s niece to scout for information. She searched for Hurston’s unmarked grave and found it in a cemetery in Fort Pierce, Florida. She also spoke to many people along the way who had known Hurston.

Walker had been prompted to look into Hurston’s life while she was conducting research for her own short story and came across Hurston’s folk stories.

Alice Walker has said that she found Zora Neale Hurston’s embrace of black culture and language to be an inspiration. “I realized that unless I came out with everything I had supporting her, there was every chance that she would slip back into obscurity,” Walker said.

In the essay “In Search of Zora Neale

Hurston” which was first published in “Ms.” magazine in 1975 and later titled “Looking for Zora,” Alice Walker explored Eatonville, which had such an impact on Hurston, and came to understand how the town had influenced Hurston’s works.

Zora Neale Hurston’s ethnographic research made her a pioneer writer of “folk fiction” about African Americans in the South.

Hurston described the town and also the characters based on so many of the people she had known - her classmates, shops owners, church members, etc. Having been influenced by a tradition of storytelling and expressive, colorful speech with plenty of descriptions, Zora Neale Hurston lets that language come to life in her stories.

Alice Walker has said that Zora Neale Hurston and other great African American women writers helped pave

the way for authors and poets who came after them such as Toni Morrison, Paule Marshall, Gloria Naylor, Toni Cade Bambara, Ntozake Shange, Audre Lorde and herself.

Hurston believed that authentic characters were created by weaving information she gathered into her fiction. She believed that her mission was to capture the true voices and experiences of the people she was writing about.

A commemorative stamp was created in Hurston’s honor.

Of writing, Hurston has said, “The force of somewhere in space which commands you to write in the first place, gives you no choice. You take up the pen when you are told and write what is commanded.”

Zora Neale Hurston has noted, “Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose.”

BY TOM MARGENAU

Answering Questions From Widows

I hope there is nothing in the air that is causing old goats like me to keel over. For some reason, I’ve been getting a lot of questions from widows lately. Here are some of them.

Q: I am 90 years old and getting widow’s benefits from my first husband who died a long time ago. I also have my own Social Security, but I’m not getting it because my widow’s benefits pay more. I married another man about two years ago. He is 83. His Social Security is smaller than even my own Social Security. Assuming I die before he does, I want him to be able to get widower’s benefits on my account. Do I have to switch to my own so he’ll get mine when I die?

A: No, you don’t have to do that. In fact, it is likely that you are already getting your own benefits, at least on the Social Security Administration’s books. That’s because they usually pay your own benefit first and then supplement with any additional widow’s benefits you are due. For example, let’s say your own benefit is $2,000 per month and your widow’s rate is $3,800 per month. You are getting a monthly check of $3,800, but on the SSA books, you are getting $2,000 from your account and $1,800 from your deceased husband’s account.

Q: I am 70 years old, and I am working part time. But throughout our 40-year marriage, I was a stay-athome mom for much of the time. My husband, who was a lawyer, died four years ago. I get widow’s benefits and not my own. But every year, I get a letter telling me my own retirement benefit went up. But my check never increases. Can you explain this?

A: As I said in the prior answer, I’m sure that on the SSA’s books, you are getting your own small Social Security benefit that is supplemented with higher widow’s benefits. So as you work, your own benefit gradually increases every year. But it will probably never reach the point where it exceeds your widow’s rate, and that’s why nothing changes.

Here’s an example. Let’s say your own Social Security retirement benefit is $800 per month and your widow’s benefit is $3,400 per month. So on the SSA’s books, you are getting your own $800, and you are getting $2,600 in widow’s benefits to take you up to his $3,400 level.

And now let’s say your earnings increase your own retirement benefit to $830 per month. That means on paper, your widow’s supplement goes down to $2,570 because you are still due a total of $3,400 per month.

Q: My husband and I are both in our late 70s. We were both real estate agents most of our lives. I’m still in the business. Because of poor health, my husband isn’t. My Social Security is $2,990. He gets $2,540. If he dies,

what will I get in widow’s benefits?

A: I’m sorry, but you won’t get anything -- other than the small one-time death benefit of $255. When you are potentially due two benefits, you only get the one that pays the higher rate, unless you are due your own benefit, in which case you get that one supplemented up to the higher benefit. Your own benefit is more than your potential widow’s benefit. So that’s all you’ll get.

On the other hand, if you should die first, he would get $450 in widower’s benefits to take his $2,540 retirement rate up to your $2,990 level.

Q: My husband and I both took our Social Security at 62. We are now in our 80s. My husband’s benefit is much higher than mine. If he dies first, will I start getting what he was getting at the time of death?

A: In your situation, you’ll actually get a little bit more. Because your husband took benefits at 62, that means he is getting a reduced retirement benefit that equals 75% of his full retirement age rate. But there is a law that says a woman of your age is guaranteed a widow’s rate of 82% of her husband’s full rate. So you’ll get that extra 7% added to your widow’s benefits after he dies.

Q: I am about to turn 62. I’m thinking of retiring. My husband died 10 years ago, and I never remarried. I called Social Security, and they said I must now choose between his benefit or my own, and that once I make that choice, I’m locked out of the other benefit. But your book says something about a “widow’s option.”

A: What you were told by the Social Security rep is absolutely wrong. Let me make this very clear: Widows and widowers have the option of taking reduced benefits on one record and later switching to higher benefits on another record.

This would actually seem to contradict a rule I’ve mentioned many times in this column, the “deemed filing rule.” That rule says that when you are filing for one Social Security benefit, you are automatically filing for any and all other benefits you are due. It almost always comes into play for spousal benefits where the other spouse is still living. In other words, if your husband were still alive, you could not file for spousal benefits on his record at age 62 and later switch to higher benefits on your own account.

But that rule goes out the window for widows and widowers. You could file for reduced retirement benefits now and then at full retirement age, switch to full widow’s benefits. Or, depending on the amounts involved, it might be to your advantage to file for reduced widow’s benefits now and at full retirement age, switch to 100% of your own benefit. Or you could even wait until 70 and at that age, switch to 130% of your retirement benefit.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the

answers. One is called “Social 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 2025 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The value of Realtor designations when buying, selling

When a homeowner or purchaser is seriously contemplating selling or buying, the last thing on their mind is the designations an agent has earned. The main reason is that 99.9% of consumers know very little, if anything, about the meaning and ramifications of the most crucial and critical benefits of Realtor designations. Moreover, there are major components of effort, discipline, and sacrifice of a Broker’s valuable time in earning those higher prestigious designations. Lastly, consumers may not truly know, realize, or understand the amount of dedication and perseverance required to take those courses to stay current with the ever-changing real estate field. We constantly and consistently need to achieve and gain the advanced, priceless, and invaluable education necessary for those looking to hire a true top-producing Realtor.

I think there are times when those in the top 10% are taken for granted for their passion in their business. We must be disciplined daily, make concerted efforts, and be constantly active and responsible to our clientele. This is an absolute requirement without any option. It is demanded of us in the upper echelon of Realtors to provide “top-notch service, before, during, and after the sale” to stay at peak performance in our profession and career.

For example, there are approximately 7.2 million individuals in real estate globally. However, only a few million can designate and call themselves Realtors who belong to an organized association like an MLS. Of those approximately 7.2 million in real estate, only 4,190 have a Certified International Property Specialist designation (CIPS), of which I am included

Continued from page 2

No. 3: Organize your refrigerator and freezer by “first in, first out” dates. Put the oldest foods in front where you’re more likely to grab them and the newer ones toward the back.

No. 4: Keep a running list of what’s in your freezer either on your computer or on a dry-erase board. Date and label each package so you know what’s in each package.

No. 5: You can freeze hard cheeses such as Parmesan, and you can freeze yogurt, milk and even whipped cream into ice cube trays to pop into a smoothie or hot cocoa. Bread can be frozen as well; just

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

and was established in 1953. We can provide all clients with expert guidance in consulting and transacting business within the U.S. and its 50 states, dealing with all the varied cultures and customs, and internationally. We have been recognized as a Realtor who has taken, trained, and passed the necessary six courses, each a full 8-hour day, including contract law, project management, ethical sourcing, and supplier relationship management. This prestigious accomplishment has elevated those with the designation to higher and superior stature in advanced education, adding to our expansive knowledge beyond 99.9% of all agents worldwide. One earns 100 continuing education credits. One must pass the final exam with at least a grade of 80. There is another designation that I attained back in 2004 called The Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI), which I believe is what I call my master’s degree in Real Estate. There are 15 required courses, of which one has a choice of 5 elective courses, each a full day of comprehensive and advanced curriculums. This puts us in a very esteemed and exclusive group. This education provides advanced training in business skills, risk management, ethics, professional practice, real estate technology, marketing, and negotiations. Also included are proper ways of dealing with clients openly and transparently, disclosing all the required information, all the proper and required forms, learning to be a superior and advanced listener, learn-

ing the proper questions to ask sellers, investors, purchasers, renters, and leasees of residential and commercial properties, inspections, construction, and many other pertinent details that are needed to be a truly professional Realtor. When you pass the final exam with at least a 75, you will achieve this designation and receive 60 continuing education credits.

There is one more designation that I hold dear to my heart, especially having to deal with the severe climate change that is occurring all around the globe, especially here in the U.S. with the insane and destructive, costly wildfires that have devasted California and that are still present and occurring. It is the National Association of Realtors “Green” designation. It is a 2-day curriculum of 8 hours each day with 16 continuing education credits. The curriculum included sustainable building practices, marketing, and rating systems such as LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, which my son has attained and earned that specific designation as a Lead Certified Project Manager in NYC for Google.) IFGIVCT (ifgict.org) and Energy Star are other parts of the Green course structure that one must engage in. One needs to pass the final exam with at least an 80.

So when hiring a Broker, Associate Broker, or salesperson, it would be prudent to ascertain their level of education and earned designations in the real estate sector. This will determine if they have the necessary credentials, knowledge, and expertise via their edu-

NUTRITION NEWS

Waste Not

thaw it in the same package you froze it in.

No. 6: Store your herbs, celery and asparagus cut-end down in a glass of water in the refrigerator to keep them crisp and last longer.

No. 7: Before your citrus goes bad, juice it, then add it to a marinade or salad dressing or freeze it.

No. 8: Homemade vegetable soup is a great way to use up those extra bits and pieces of vegetables in the crisper: broccoli (stems too), cauliflower (leaves too) and corn, wilted kale and spinach, leftover winter squash, wrinkly carrots, potatoes -- all can be added.

No. 9: If you prefer roasting your veggies, cut them in equal parts, drizzle with

olive oil and balsamic vinegar and your favorite spices, and place on a parchment-covered cookie sheet in a 450 F oven for 20 minutes. Roasting brings out the flavors.

No. 10: Plan your menus before you go to the grocery store. That way you’ll buy what you need rather than making impulse purchases.

Q and A

Q: Is it a good idea to use a salt substitute instead of salt?

A: Compared with regular salt intake, using a salt substitute was associated with better outcomes for stroke prevention and quality-adjusted life years gained, according to a new data from the Salt Substitute

cation to promote and market your most valuable asset, your home, townhouse, condo, or coop, that the typical homeowner has locally and throughout the U.S.

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.

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 or email: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate.com

and Stroke Study. The study, published in the journal Circulation, looked at more than 20,000 adults living in rural China who had had a prior stroke. The rate of stroke was 14% lower with use of a salt substitute in the cohort of adults who had a prior stroke or uncontrolled high blood pressure. That’s pretty convincing. At least some of the time, it might be wise to switch to a salt substitute.

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. COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

Clearing Up the Confusion Around Date Labels on Packaged Foods

BY MARY HUNT

No doubt, you’ve noticed that some food products come with dates and codes printed on them. And who isn’t noticing this more now as food costs are skyrocketing?

Do those codes and dates mean the item must be consumed by that date or just sold by that date?

What about canned or packaged goods that show only a date like “2.01.25”? Does that mean you could end up in the emergency room if you consume it a month later in March?

And then there are other food products that don’t seem to have any date at all -- at least we sure can’t find any reference to one. Confusing, isn’t it?

While most food processors date and code their products and decide what their codes mean, it is the Food and Drug Administration that mandates dating, which is surprisingly limited.

Under federal law, only infant formula and baby food are required to have product dating. Everything else is voluntary on the part of food manufacturers and processors.

Meat, poultry and egg products fall under the Food Safety and Inspection Service, and dates may be voluntarily created as long as they are truthful and not misleading.

Phrases like “Best Before,” “Better if Used Before” or “Best if Used By” tell you how long the product will retain its best flavor and highest quality. You will find these phrases on products such as baked goods, cereals, snacks and some canned

BY JEFF RUGG

For the past two weeks, I have been writing about the All-America Selections winners. The AAS program trials the plants at test gardens all over the country, and judges rate the plants all during the growing season. The Green Thumb Awards program winners have been announced, so let us talk about them today. Winners of the 2025 Green ThumbAwards were chosen by two groups. There are People’s Choice Awards voted on by the public and Professional Choice Awards voted on by horticulture experts at the National Garden Bureau. I am a member of the NGB, but I did not vote this year. There are six categories and one winner in each.

The winning products were selected based on their uniqueness, technological innovation, ability to solve a gardening problem or provide a gardening opportunity, and potential appeal to gardeners. The awards are sponsored by the National Garden Bureau, a nonprofit organization that exists to educate and inspire

foods. The food is still safe to eat after this date but may have changed somewhat in taste or texture.

Perplexed? Unsure? Open it! Give it the smell test and a good visual test. I can attest to the fact that a can of nonfat evaporated milk that is three years past its

“Best By” date will not smell sour. But it may be golden in color (think school bus) and curiously separated, leaving liquid on top and chunky solids beneath. Get the picture? “Expiration,” “Use By” or “Use Before” are phrases that appear on yogurt, eggs and other foods that require refrigeration. Other dating terms are guidelines, but these usually mean what they say. If you haven’t used the product by this date, toss it out.

“Guaranteed fresh.” This date is often used for perishable baked goods. Beyond this date, freshness is no longer guaranteed, although the product may still be edible and easily refreshed with a few minutes in a hot oven.

Some products bear a “pack date,” in-

home gardeners.

dicating when it was packaged, although this date is often encrypted so that only manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers can read it.

The “Sell By” date is usually found on highly perishable foods such as meat, milk and bread. This date guides store clerks who handle the rotation of shelf stock so they know which item to sell first. This date is determined to allow time for the product to be stored and used at home. The product is still safe and wholesome past this date if handled properly until spoilage is evident -- when it looks more like a science fair project than tonight’s dinner.

For example, milk will usually be good for at least a week beyond its “Sell By” date if properly refrigerated. Meat that has reached its “Sell By” date should be either consumed or frozen within 24 hours.

The pack date on some products, such as eggs, is shown by a 3-digit Julian date (001 through 365) found on the short side

of the carton. Jan. 1 is number 001, and Dec. 31 is number 365, ignoring leap year. Eggs are safe to be consumed four to five weeks beyond that date, as long as

A GREENER VIEW

Green Thumb Awards

Let’s start with the houseplant category since the same plant was picked by both sets of judges. Prismacolor Orange you Gorgeous is a Proven Winner brand climbing philodendron that has leaves with citrus-inspired colors. The 10-inchlong triangular leaves emerge a mottled bright orange color then slowly fade to a marbled gold and green. Leaf petioles, midribs and margins remain orange. I grow the Prismacolor Sun Red, and it is incredible. The leaves of these philodendrons start one color and fade into green after a few weeks. When the plant is actively growing, there are several colors of leaves on the plants. They are easy to grow in normal indoor conditions; just be careful to not give them too much light, which can burn the new leaves.

In the annuals category, the public chose Calibrachoa Abstract Lemon Cherry. As the name suggests, the flowers are splashed in both red and yellow. Calibrachoas are short-lived evergreen perennials related to petunias native to dry areas in South America. They make great

they are kept refrigerated.

The point in all of this is that the fresher your food, the better it is. And for the most part, processors want to assure customers that their products will remain at peak quality for certain periods of time because they want to keep your business -- and having a good reputation for freshness goes a long way toward making that happen.

Here’s the bottom line: Use your common sense. Practice diligence when purchasing, storing and using up food. And never stop looking for reasonable ways to make food last longer and stretch further.

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 “DebtProof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

plants in containers and hanging baskets.

The professionals chose Cosmos Sea Shells Red in the annuals category. Each tubular petal surrounding the daisy-shaped flower head is light pink on the outside and dark pink on the inside. They make a great cut flower.

The public chose the Butterfly Bush Little Rockstars Red as their perennial winner. The flowers last all season. The plants are hardy in zones 5-9. The pros picked Hellebore JWLS Endless because the white flowers are held above the leaves and are pointed upward instead of the typical hellebore flower growing under the leaves. It blooms before just about any other plant in the garden, and it is also hardy in zones 5-9.

The public chose Broccoli Purple Magic F1, which is the first purple broccoli in the world, as their vegetable winner. In addition to the normal healthiness of broccoli, it is also high in anthocyanin. The pros chose the Basil Everleaf Lemon. It gets its name from the bright lemon flavor and the fact that it takes up to two months longer to bloom than regular basil.

You can’t go wrong choosing a hydrangea in the shrub category. The public liked the Hydrangea FlowerFull Smooth because it has two to three times more flowers that are borne on sturdy stems that don’t flop over. The pros picked the only seedless, sterile, noninvasive burning bush (Euonymus alatus) on the market. This is a game-changing plant as it allows people to have the red fall color without the plant becoming invasive. Both sets of judges chose the same item in the gardening tool category. Crescent Too Circular Positive planters are made with UBQ(tm), a climate-positive material upcycled from landfill waste. With TruDrop Flex Self-Watering Containers and Emma Planters, these products promote a circular economy, promoting sustainable consumption while minimizing waste. To find out more about these winners, go to the National Garden Bureau website at ngb.org and click on the New Plants tab. Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@ greenerview.com.

COPYRIGHT 2025 JEFF RUGG

DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS.COM

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of February 2-8, 2025

I hope you got a chance to see the moon nuzzled up to Venus on Feb. 1, and perhaps even checked out the pair through binoculars. Now, with the moon gone from the scene, it’s a great opportunity to check out Venus with a small telescope.

My first view of Venus through a scope came some 60 years ago. I was just a young teen and had received a telescope for Christmas. I was so excited I could barely sleep, so one morning before dawn I stumbled out of bed and took it out to the backyard. There in the eastern sky shone a brilliant “star” I had never seen before.

Upon aiming the scope toward this celestial beacon and focusing the optics, I was stunned. In my eyepiece appeared a white glowing orb shaped like a crescent. I recall rubbing my eyes and searching the sky while saying to myself, “What’s going on? I don’t see the moon anywhere! What am I looking at?”

It took a few weeks before I realized I had been viewing the planet Venus!

I now wonder if Galileo had the same reaction when seeing Venus for the first time with his telescope. He was the first to note that this planet displayed phases

The Changing Face of Venus

like the moon. He also realized that this meant Venus must orbit the sun -- not the Earth, as Aristotle and the Catholic Church at the time insisted.

It was quite a revolutionary discovery by Galileo and, on a smaller, more personal level, by me. It’s a sight I’ll never forget, and I still love to aim a telescope toward this beautiful planet.

Right now is a great time to do so. Venus is rounding the sun in our direction. Over the next month or so, as sunlight falls more onto its back side than the front, the planet will show a thinner and thinner crescent.

Not only that, but Venus will also appear to grow as it approaches the Earth. Check out the attached illustration, and you’ll see what I mean.

On Feb. 2, Venus will lie some 47.2 million miles from us and will show a thick crescent. By the 23rd the crescent will have thinned noticeably, and the planet will be only about 34.3 million miles away.

After this, the planet will drop lower in the dusk sky and will become quite difficult to see against the glow of dusk. But if you could see it during March, it will lie well under 30 million miles away, with a crescent that appears razor thin.

Over the next couple of weeks, it will pass nearly in front of the sun and

emerge on the other side. This means that instead of setting after the sun, it will set before it -- and will also rise before it in the morning.

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

There are a lot of things my husband does well. Shopping, however, is not his forte. This I learned after I sent him to the drugstore to get me some Anbesol for my canker sore, and he came home with Anusol, a product for hemorrhoids.

“It was an honest mistake,” he admitted.

“Yes, I can see how you might have been confused,” I said. “One product goes in your mouth, the other goes on your ...”

“I get the point,” he interrupted. In his defense, I have to admit I spend a lot more time in the drugstore and grocery store than he does, and therefore I’m much more familiar with the names and uses of all the products out there than he is. And, in all fairness, there are things that he knows that I am clueless about. Whereas he is fluent in hardware-ese, I can’t tell the difference between a wrench and a pair of pliers. I know if I were set loose in Home Depot

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

By late March and early April, you should begin to see its brilliant glow in the dawn sky. If you’d like to have a look at that time, you’ll enjoy the same marvelous view I got some six decades ago.

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Shopping With the Supermarket King

with instructions to buy some caulk, I’d probably wander aimlessly for hours until I was found curled up in the fetal position, mumbling to myself in the drywall aisle.

Of course, I think it’s great that he even offers to go out and get some of these things when we need them. But much as I appreciate the help, when he offers, I have to pause, wondering what will actually be in the bag when he returns from the shopping trip.

“Give me a very detailed list,” he said one night, “and I’ll get exactly what you want.”

“I don’t make lists,” I explained. “I just know what we need, and I get it. It’s the same every week.”

“If you want me to get the right stuff, write it down.”

So I did. I wrote down everything I could think of in what brand and what size and what color, and it took so long that I realized I could probably have gone to the supermarket and back twice in the time it took me to make a husband-proof shopping list.

Still, I reminded myself that I appreciate the help, and with fingers and toes crossed, I sent him off on his shopping adventure.

“Enjoy your free time,” he told me on his way out. “Go take a bubble bath.”

A half-hour went by. Then an hour. There were five things on the list.

Then the phone rang. I got out of the tub.

“OK, I think I have everything,” he said. “One question. I found the detergent, but there are, like, seven different kinds,” he said a little less confidently. “Do you want regular, Fresh Air, Free and Clear, Rainshower, Linen or Morning Bloom?”

“It doesn’t matter,” I said. “Fresh Air, I guess.”

“OK,” he said before hanging up.

I got back in the tub. The phone rang. I got out of the tub.

“You said you want the 64-ounce size, but if you get two 32-ounce sizes, the second one is half off.”

“That’s fine,” I said OK,” he said before hanging up.

I got back in the tub. The phone rang. I got out of the tub.

“I have another question,” he said. “Aaauuugghhhhh,” I yelled as I dripped bubbles on the floor. “I don’t care! Just get whatever you want.”

Half an hour later, he walked in the door.

“I got everything you wrote down and some things that weren’t on the list,” he said with a sly smile. I groaned, thinking about the 10 boxes of Mallomars that were probably in the bag.

From behind his back, he handed me some fashion magazines and a bouquet of flowers.

I gave him a hug and smiled sheepishly. “So ... do you need anything at the hardware store tomorrow?”

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 2025 CREATORS.COM

Now is a great time to view Venus as it rounds the sun in Earth’s direction.

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LEGAL ASSISTANT P/T

Western Nassau law office seeks a part-time Legal Assistant (10-20hr/week) to assist with estates, trusts, elder law, and real estate. Perfect for organized individuals seeking legal experience or a flexible, intellectually stimulating role. Please submit your resume, cover letter, and salary requirements via email: trusts.elderlaw@gmail.com

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Available Compassionate and experienced Caregiver interested in Companionship and Home Health Assistance for seniors. Excellent references. Please call: 516-406-6812 or 516-523-0697

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Confront the common cold with this beloved seasonal staple

Chicken Barley Soup with Vegetables

Everyone knows there’s no cure for the common cold. Though colds can strike at any time, cold season tends to occur when the weather cools down and people spend more time indoors. Inside viruses can circulate and spread more easily, thus leading to elevated rates of infection.

Though there might be no cure for the common cold, that does not mean people are helpless against it. Many people have their own remedies to help them manage and potentially shorten the duration of a cold, and chicken soup features prominently in those antidotes. Whether cold season is kicking into high gear or people are confronting the common cold at other times of year, they can incorporate this recipe for “Chicken Barley Soup with Vegetables courtesy of Lines+Angles into their cold remedy routines.

Makes 6 servings

8 cups chicken stock

4 cups water

1 teaspoon marjoram

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 medium onion, sliced

1 cup carrots, sliced

2 cups cooked chicken breasts, diced

1 russet potato, peeled and cubed

1 cup broccoli, chopped

1⁄2 cup barley

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

1) In a large pot, combine chicken stock, water, marjoram, rosemary, and parsley. Simmer for 15 minutes.

2) Add onion, carrots, cooked

chicken, potato, broccoli, and barley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer over low heat for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve.

IN MEMORIAM

James P. O'Keefe

James Patrick O’Keefe, better known to those who loved him as Jim, Dad, or PopPop, was born to eternal life on January 15, 2025. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Patricia; siblings, Frank (Theresa), Sr. Ann Maura, and Rita (James). Jim was a loving father to Maureen (Bob), James Jr. (Olga), Thomas (Lorraine), and Peter (Amy); a cherished PopPop to Meaghan, Bobby, Mary Kate (Connor), Caileen, Erin, Ryann, Christopher, and Timothy; a dear brother to Catherine (Charlie); and brother-in-law to Jane (Robert), and Peggy (Teddy).

Jim was born in Brooklyn on March 22, 1937 to Catherine and Francis O’Keefe. It was in Brooklyn where he would meet his bride, Pat, and where they would start their family. They moved to Pine Street in Garden City in 1966, where they raised their family and were active members of their

community, most notably St. Joseph's Parish. Jim was steadfast in his devotion to serving others. His service was exemplified by his years of training in the US National Guard, where he reached the rank of Major. A man led by his Catholic faith, he was active in Parish life, serving as the director of the religious education program, the RENEW program for adults, Pre Cana, and Marriage Encounter.

Jim was a skilled electrician and lifetime member of Local 3 IBEW, where he served as a foreman overseeing large jobs throughout New York City. To many, Jim’s time as an electrician could be considered a successful career, but to those who knew him in retirement, it was just preparation for what was to come. He spent the decades following his retirement constantly serving as a foreman and leader in all parts of life: among his family, friends, Church, and community. His family will remember Jim overseeing household projects,

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teaching as he directed and leading by example. Friends will remember his devotion to others and countless acts of service. He continued to be active in sharing his faith with others, working as a Eucharistic Minister, as moderator of the “That Man is You” program, and most recently as President of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Corpus Christi Parish in Mineola, where he provided aid and support to many local families and individuals.

Jim’s faith was unwavering and he shared it with family, friends, and anyone he encountered. He was generous, loving, and hardworking. He shared his knowledge, wisdom, and experiences with his children and grandchildren, and played a very important role in all of their lives. His legacy will be his faith, his family, and his service for others.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

We’re looking for writers in our community to compose ar ticles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even pieces of fiction. We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section.

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Attach article and any photos (1MB), along with your name and contact info.

• Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words. • Each writer will be reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

James Patrick O’Keefe

IN MEMORIAM

John Francis McGowan, of Garden City passed away peacefully on January 25, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on June 8,1967 and raised in Garden City, John attended St. Joseph’s School and Chaminade High School. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in history. While attending Vanderbilt, he became involved with the rugby club and formed a lifelong love for the sport which he recently passed on to his son.

John worked in the finance industry in New York City for most of his career, except for the two years that he spent in Los Angeles pursuing an earlier dream of becoming a comedian and screenwriter. Although he never pursued comedy professionally, he had a wry sense of humor and was quick to quote a Seinfeld episode. His kids would often say he was the originator of the bad dad jokes.

John was an active member of the New York Athletic Club in New York City where he remained a member for over 30 years. Here he rekindled his passion for rugby, playing on the NYAC team and traveling with the team overseas on tour. He always said his love for rugby was not only for the sport but more the lifelong friendships and camaraderie he enjoyed.

In addition to rugby, John also was an avid runner, completing 10 New York City Marathons and multiple triathlons including the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon on his 40th birthday. He loved helping others and spent his summers during college working as a lifeguard at Point Lookout He also served his community as a Volunteer at the Garden City Fire Department.

A loving son, brother, husband, and father, he was most proud of his children and their accomplishments.

John is survived by his wife of 23 years, Kirstin, their children Reese

John Francis McGowan

and Brett, and his mother Regina, all from Garden City, his sister Jean (Ken) Trippe, her children Kenny and Johnny of Devon, PA in addition to numerous cousins. He is preceded in death by his father John McGowan.

A Visitation will take place at Fairchild Sons Funeral Home, 1201 Franklin Ave., Garden City, NY, on Friday, January 31 from 4-8pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on February 1st, 9:30 am St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 130 Fifth Street, Garden City, NY.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation, 31 St James Ave #365, Boston, MA 02116, https://netrf.org

IN MEMORIAM

George Edward Bennett, Jr.

George Edward Bennett Jr. passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at the age of 82. He was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1942 to the late George and Ruth Bennett. He grew up in Ridgewood, Queens until 1955, when his parents purchased their first home and moved the family to Garden City. George, always a proud New Yorker, chose to spend the majority of his adult life in Garden City as well.

George is survived by his loving daughter, Tiffany Dodge and her husband Peter Dodge, his grandsons, Tyler and Matthew Jester and his brothers Richard Bennett and Michael Bennett.

He graduated from Adelphi University in 1964 with a degree in Accounting. George enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1966. He was stationed in Quantico, Virginia where he served as a Sergeant until being honorably discharged in 1968. George made a career in accounting and finance but found satisfaction and joy out of working more creatively with his hands, whether it be restoring an old wooden boat, remodeling a house or cultivating a garden. He loved the sea and was an avid fisherman. He was a man of few words and a seemingly tough exterior but underneath that shell was a brilliant, compassionate man with a warm loving heart. He will be missed.

IN MEMORIAM

Laura Hastings

Laura Hastings, 60, of Garden City, passed away on Saturday, January 18, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born in Queens in 1964 and raised in North Merrick, Laura was a proud alumna of Maria Regina High School (1982). She graduated from Yale University in 1986, with a B.A. in American Studies. She received a J.D. from Brooklyn Law School in 1989, graduating as valedictorian. Thereafter, she clerked for Hon. Thomas C. Platt, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, before practicing as a commercial litigator at Morrison & Foerster and Duker & Barrett in New York City.

Laura was a resident of Garden City for nearly three decades. During that time, she dedicated herself to educational matters. For ten years, she was a member of the Garden City Board of Education. Before that, she served as the President of the Garden City Nursery School.

She was also a life-long athlete. At Maria Regina, she was CHSAA champion in the 800 meters. At Yale, she was a member of the Varsity Track Team. In later life, she took up tennis and was an active participant in the tennis programs at the Garden City Casino, the Cherry Valley Club, and the Bubble.

Laura is survived by her husband of 32 years, Brad O’Neill, as well as their daughters, Katie and Emily O’Neill. She died peacefully surrounded by her immediate family,

as well as her sister, Maryanne, and brothers, Andy and John. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A visitation was held at Fairchild & Sons on Wednesday, January 22nd. A funeral was held at St Anne’s Church on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in her honor to the Alzheimer’s Association. May she rest in peace.

Donation Link: https://act.alz. org/site/TR/Events/Tributes-Alz heimersChampions?pxfid=935048&fr_id=1060&pg=fund

Have you lost someone?

If you would like to post an obituary for a loved one, simply send a short biography of them with (if desired) their photo, details of their funeral/visitation services, and/or any donation requests to editor@gcnews.com, or call our office at 516-294-8900 to inquire.

Laura Hastings with daughters Katie and Emily.

Guest artist visits GCHS Jazz Ensemble

Guest artist and world-renowned trumpeter, composer, and educator

Tito Carrillo visited Garden City High School on Jan. 17 to work with the Jazz Ensemble students. Mr. Carrillo taught the students about improvisation, rhythmic patterns, and the energy and mood created when making music. He explained how to view each improvisational solo as a blank canvas that reveals what the musician is feeling in the moment, and shared advice about blending new sounds and ideas.

Mr. Carrillo taught the students about the clave — a percussion instrument that signifies the tempo and rhythmic pattern of a piece — and explained how it is the backbone in Afro-Cuban music and salsa. He played the clave while the students performed individually to alter the rhythmic energies of their solos and layer these together, creating new patterns.

Students asked questions about Mr. Carrillo ’ s past performances, his favorite parts of teaching, and what inspired him to become involved with music education. Mr. Carrillo shared what he likes about teaching music compared to performing and explained the neurological effects

associated with playing and improvising.

“Mr. Carrillo was one of the best jazz pedagogues I've ever seen work with students,” said band teacher Mr. Dan DellaMonica. “His approach

was personalized and addressed each student’s individual needs. Mr. Carrillo spoke about how learning music is a continuous journey of discovery, while emphasizing that the process of improvement never ends. His insightful guidance left a lasting impact on the Garden City High School Jazz Ensemble students, and I believe he helped them grow as both musicians and performers.”

Tito Carrillo worked with a percussion student on rhythm.

Tito Carrillo conducted the Garden City High School Jazz Ensemble.

Tito Carrillo with the Garden City High School Jazz Ensemble and band director Daniel DellaMonica.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

GC students selected for 2025 All-County Festival

The Garden City music department is proud to share that nearly 70 Garden City musicians were selected to participate in this year’s AllCounty Music Festival, sponsored by the Nassau Music Educators Association.

Band, chorus and orchestra students were selected as AllCounty musicians in recognition of their 2024 NYSSMA solo performances. These 70 students represented Garden City Schools at the Division I West and Division II-V All-County Music Festival held at the Tilles Center for Performing Arts at Long Island University’s C.W. Post Campus throughout the month of January.

Congratulations to the following students:

From Stewart School and Stratford Avenue School: Henry Bilello, Luke Ellis, Gianluca Fusco, Owen Ma, Kai Martin, Annalee Miller, Rhys Murphy, Olivia Owens, Julia Terzulli, Emily Varisano, Ella Viskovich, Oliver Wu and Priscilla Yang; from Garden City Middle School: Aidan Amodeo,

Sabrina Bilello, Martina Cantalupo, Olivia Coiro, Benjamin Donaghy, Grace Gibson, Grace Immordino, Ava McClure, Jack McKeon, Lila Minarcik, Erin Na, Emmett Owens, Braden Parker, Grace Pospisil, Ava Rufrano and Roger Wang; and from Garden City High School: Haley Baschnagel, William Bremer, Shea Burns, Caroline Carey, Samuel Chan, Rebecca Chau, Neil Curtis, William Egan, Julia Forelli, Tessa Frascogna, Clare Gardner, Emmran Ishtiaque, Carolyn Kade, Charles Leune, Eton Lu, Lilith Mangal, Ella Marchan, Annika Margolies, Maximilian Mariacher, Alexa Marshall, Ava Milone, Genevieve Mohan, Sarah Phinney, Susanna Phinney, Alessandra Pinto, Madeline Power, Audrey Pressior, Emily Pulver, Emily Racich, Samantha Racich, Arya Rad, Ryan Schmidt, Amelia Scianablo, Juan Stanek, Olivia Vendetti, Julia Wang, Caroline Weber, Hunter Wong, Ethan Wu and Amy Xiao.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

Do you

Garden City chorus students performed at the All-County Music Festival.

Garden City band students performed at the All-County Music Festival.

Garden City band students performed at the All-County Music Festival.

The

GC schools to evaluate literacy programs

data from state and local assessments. Additionally, they will assess professional development programs and conduct classroom observations to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

The evaluation team includes literacy specialists Meg Rooney, an expert in early childhood education and literacy standards; Timothy Bakus, a curriculum design and professional development specialist; and Dr. Donna Scanlon, a literacy researcher and published author. Administrators noted that this team has successfully conducted similar reviews in other Nassau County school districts.

One community member raised concerns about the selection of Dr. Scanlon, questioning her qualifications and suggesting that university-affiliated consultants might reinforce outdated literacy approaches rather than advancing New York State’s structured literacy mandates. In response, the board acknowledged that no consultant is without limitations but assured the community that all candidates were thoroughly vetted.

They also expressed openness to further discussion.

Addressing literacy concerns

District leaders responded to concerns circulating on social media regarding literacy instruction and student performance on state assessments.

Superintendent Dr. Kusum Sinha encouraged parents to revisit the student achievement report presentation, posted online, for a detailed overview of the district’s action plan. She urged parents to engage directly with teachers for the most comprehensive understanding of their child’s individual progress. School principals are also available to address concerns and provide further insights into the district’s literacy initiatives.

Board observations

Board Trustee Kristen Pappas recently conducted walkthroughs of Garden City schools, gaining first hand insight into classroom instruction. Observations included whole-class and small-group lessons in phonics, literacy, and mathematics.

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Students participated in decoding multisyllabic words, sound drills, and interactive writing exercises using graphic organizers. Teachers facilitated dynamic text-based discussions and incorporated manipulatives such as base ten blocks to reinforce math learning.

“Overall, classrooms demonstrated strong student engagement, effective instructional strategies, and seamless transitions between activities,” she told the rest of the board and community.

Class sizes, regionalization & updates

Class sizes, particularly at the middle school level, remain a key concern for Garden City families. Administrators reaffirmed their commitment to reducing class sizes next year and are actively working to allocate budget resources to support this initiative. They also emphasized the importance of community participation in upcoming budget discussions, with the first session set for February 25, as funding decisions will directly affect the feasibility of class size reductions.

A parent voiced disappointment that

her daughter’s class still has 33 students, despite ongoing discussions since September. While she acknowledged the board’s commitment to reducing class sizes next year, she expressed a desire for more immediate action. The board responded that class size concerns remain a priority in their budget discussions but indicated that changes for the current year are unlikely.

Another community member inquired about the regionalization lawsuit. Administrators confirmed that it has formally notified the State Education Department of its decision to opt out of regionalization and received confirmation of its exemption. While other districts are pursuing legal action to challenge the mandate, the board stated that joining the lawsuit is unnecessary at this time but remains open to reassessing the situation if needed in the future.

The next Board of Education public work and special session is scheduled for Tuesday, February 11, followed by the first budget meeting on Tuesday, February 25. Both meetings will begin at 8:15 p.m. at Garden City High School.

GCHS senior earns spot in Regeneron Finals

From page 1

patient outcome, be blocked and affect cancer cell metabolism. She began her project by analyzing cancer patient data and Citrin mutations through AI-based structural modeling and found loss of Citrin function to correlate with better patient outcome. She searched for molecules, specifically on-the-market drugs, capable of blocking Citrin function and performed a large-scale virtual docking of FDA-approved drugs to her Citrin model. Amy used CRISPR to “cut” Citrin’s gene out of colon cancer cells and examine the metabolic impacts of Citrin targeting and discovered that Citrin targeting impacted multiple metabolic pathways and likely depleted these cells of cytosolic aspartate—an essential nutrient for cancer cells.

“I’m extremely honored to be named a finalist,” said Amy. “It’s very validating to have my work recognized. I can’t wait to meet the other finalists in March!”

Amy will compete alongside the other finalists for over $1.8 million in awards during a weeklong competition in Washington, D.C., taking place March 6–12, 2025.

Garden City High School student Amy Xiao. Photo courtesy of the Garden City School District

Trustees approve millions for St. Paul’s abatement

From page 1

tive approach” for a large-scale project because there is no program for the eventual use of St. Paul’s or the property.

“Not having a program to follow there, they went to a conservative approach…if the Board decides to go in a different direction with demolition of a few areas of St. Paul’s then that would have to be adhered to and investigated before there could be more numbers (costs) generated for it. I’ve performed my own analysis involving the square footage, to compare with their estimates as well,” Giovanniello said.

Documents were shared with the Board, and with trustees’ approval on January 16th the process will be moving towards the competitive public bidding stage.

The superintendent noted, “We will place the abatement project on New York State Contract Reporter and perform reference checks on potential

vendors/contractors, and hopefully we receive respectable bids for that work.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon, who is an experienced construction professional, shared with the Board, and the public, that the conservative approach “from a cost perspective” for St. Paul’s would be for pursuing a solution where interior demolition of some parts of the structure would be completed alongside with abatement work.

“That would include installing temporary lighting, electrical and other utilities as we have no water, gas, or electricity inside St. Paul’s currently. It’s all been disconnected. The trick here will be our process of sending this out to bid to all these reputable firms, which we’re preparing to do, but we have already gotten a lot of opinions and views from top industry professionals – a majority of whom work in New York City including work on 50-story buildings. St. Paul’s abatement is a piece of cake to them. But given this great advice and consultation, we have

gotten a lot of great ideas on bringing down the cost Mr. Giovanniello has stated,” Trustee Muldoon explained.

He went on to share that a projected cost of $10 million or $11 million would include about $3.5 million for “ancillary costs and projected rebuilding parts of the building” which are unrelated to the actual performance of abatement inside St. Paul’s.

The total includes a performance bond amount and “general allowance” in case the work runs over budget, Muldoon said.

“That would just shore up the building so that it is safe to work inside, and rebuild parts of the structure to ensure that the building is sound….Another $5.2 million, approximately, is the actual cost for the abatement on their side. But we have already received some preliminary quotes from contractors –not the official bids on a project, which we’re going to do – but the quotes are lower than the bid we have today. It does look like we’d get some better pric-

ing than we have today because that is projected on the higher side.”

Another potential cost for the abatement work is a possible hiring of someone dedicated to managing and overseeing the project. The initial quote the village received on this was $800,000 and Trustee Muldoon said that amount is much too high.

The Board heard Muldoon state that the village is working with information that is “real and honest” because everyone is dedicated to finding the best and lowest price for work that has to be done at St. Paul’s.

“Like everything we’re trying to do at St. Paul’s, the aim is to find the best possible deal for the taxpayers sitting in this room, at home over Zoom and across Garden City if we go ahead and the residents want to do a project at St. Paul’s…and that will be true for EVERY process with this construction project. That is how construction works, it’s called value engineering,” he said.

Photos from the Village Archives

Second St. Gas Manufactuing Plant

A view facing north to the gas manufacuring plant on the south side of Second St. and west of Franklin Ave. in 1937. Second St. is at top with the back of #12 Hamilton Place [built 1936] at upper left. Although named the “Hempstead – Intersection Street” plant, the Garden City Village line bisected the buildings/tanks complex, with an entrance on Second St., shown to the left of the chimney. Intersection St., center right, the vacant area below the gas storage tanks, and the buildings lower right are in Hempstead. The West Hempstead LIRR branch, diagonally in center, was used to furnish coal for its conversion to gas. Coal piles are at upper right.

The plant existed from c1904 until it was closed in 1958 after a pipeline from the South was completed to provide natural gas for the area. Remediation of the ground contamination caused by the operation of the plant was started in 1999 by Keyspan [now National Grid], successor to last operator Long Island Lighting Co [LILCO], and was finally completed in 2017. If acquired by the Village, the 7+ acre parcel would make a major addition to the small nearby Hilton Park and possibly be a trade for the St. Paul’s building parkland. Archives identifier: aer38

From page 22

12:35 p.m. Meditation Class at the Senior Center

Saturday, February 1st

3:00 p.m. Intro To Safe Babysitting Workshop a the Library. Must register.

Sunday, February 2nd

9:30 a.m. Pickleball at the St. Paul’s Field House. Nominal fee.

3:00 p.m. Family Fun time for Garden City families at the St. Paul’s Field House

Monday, February 3rd

1:30 p.m. Monday Movie Matinée: Music & Lyrics at the Library

THE OFFICE CAT

7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball in the St. Paul’s Field House. Nominal fee.

Tuesday, February 4th

4:00 p.m. Teen Advisory Board meeting at the Library. Must register.

7:00 p.m. Teen Paint Night at the Library. Must register.

7:00 p.m. Book Discussion: An Unfinished Love Story by Doris Kearns Goodwin at the Library. Must register.

Wednesday, February 5th

12:00 p.m. “Chairobics and Strength” at the Library. Must register.

6:00 p.m. Planning Commission meeting at Village Hall

7:30 p.m. Adult Basketball at the

Field House. Nominal fee.

Thursday, February 6th

7:30 p.m. Adult Volleyball in the St. Paul’s Field House. Nominal fee.

7:30 p.m. Board of Trustees meeting at Village Hall and via Zoom Saturday, February 8th

10:00 a.m. Defensive Driving Course at the Library. Must register.

3:00 p.m. Edible Slime with Science Teacher Chris Buchman at the Library! Must register.

Monday, February 10th

7:30 p.m. Library Board of Trustees meeting at the Library

Tuesday, February 11th

6:30 p.m. Zoning Board of Appeals meeting at Village Hall

7:00 p.m. Yoga with Kimberly Mercadante at the Library. Must register.

Wednesday, February 12th

7:30 p.m. Environmental Advisory Board meeting at Village Hall and via Zoom

Thursday, February 13th

6:00 p.m. Traffic Commission meeting at Village Hall and via Zoom

Friday, February 14th

2:00 p.m. Valentine BINGO at the Senior Center. $5. Must register at the front desk.

the area.

Misplaced vehicle

On January 26, officers investigated a missing vehicle in Parking Field 7S and later found it parked in a nearby lot.

Walgreens theft

On January 27, a male subject allegedly stole multiple items from Walgreens.

Dog reunited with family

An officer responded to Colonial Drive on January 27 for a found dog. After canvassing the area, the officer successfully reunited the dog with its owner.

Unsafe driving

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on January 27 with unlicensed operation and unsafe speed.

Burnt food

On January 27, firefighters and police officers responded to a business fire alarm triggered by burnt food.

Building alarm check

Officers responded to a building alarm on January 27 and found an open door. After an investigation, all appeared to be in order.

Multiple license violations

Two Stewart Avenue motorists were charged on January 27 with driving with suspended licenses and unsafe speed.

DWI-related arrest

On January 28, police arrested a 7th Street motorist for allegedly driving with a license revoked due to DWI.

Burnt food alarm

Do

Firefighters and police officers responded to a fire alarm at a West Street building on January 28. The cause was determined to be burnt food.

Truck violations

A Clinton Road truck driver was charged on January 28 with multiple overweight violations and defective tires.

Wall collapse and injuries

Officers responded on January 28 to a Commercial Avenue building after a partial exterior wall collapse. Two workers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a hospital. The Building Department was notified and responded to the scene.

Traffic violations

A Rockaway Avenue driver was charged on January 28 with driving with a suspended license and impeding

traffic.

Fallen power lines

Officers assisted firefighters on January 28 with a report of fallen power lines on Harvard Street.

Suspended registration

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on January 28 with driving with a suspended registration and excessive speed.

CO alarm investigation

On January 28, firefighters responded to a carbon monoxide alarm at a residence and determined it was a system malfunction.

Multiple driving violations

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on January 28 with driving with a suspended license, defective lighting, and an uninsured vehicle.

From page 23

THE OFFICE CAT

Adult Evening Programs at the Field House

The Recreation Adult Programs in the Field House begin on Wednesday, October 16 according to the following schedule:

Mondays - Mens’ Basketball - 7:30–10 p.m.

Wednesdays - Mens’ Basketball -   7:30–10 p.m.

Thursdays - Adult Volleyball - 7:30 –10 p.m.

These programs are open to residents of the Inc. Village of Garden City who have graduated high school OR adults who can show proof of graduating Garden City high school (diploma, student ID card). A picture ID is required to sign in to any program.  For further information, please contact the Recreation Office at 465-4075.

A fee schedule will be place for any resident adult interested in participating in Adult Activities in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse.  The fee schedule is as follows:

10 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 10 visits, $50

5 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 5 visits,  $25

A participant may also “pay as you go” but payment will only be accepted by check or credit card only, NO CASH ACCEPTED. “Pay as you go” prices will be $6.  Passes may be purchased at the fieldhouse when arriving for your sport.

Please note - A resident participant may bring in 1 non- resident guest. This rule will be strictly enforced.  These guest must arrive and leave with the resident.  There are no passes for nonresidents.  The daily fee for the non-resident guest is $8.

To purchase one of the passes, please fill out the attached application and mail to or visit the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. You will also be able to purchase a pass from our St. Paul’s staff.  All payments must be made by either a check made payable to the “Inc. Village of Garden City” or credit card only, no cash will be accepted.

St. Paul’s Fieldhouse Adult Pickleball Program

Pickleball began again in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse on Tuesday, September 17.  This program is open to Garden City residents only, Tuesdays through Fridays, 9:30 to noon.

Each session will consist of open play with everyone attending round robining in to play.  If you attend the first session you must pay again to stay for the second session.  There will be no reserving of courts for individual play.  A monitor will be available for any person wishing to learn the game.  The fee schedule to attend is as follows:

10 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 10 visits, $50

5 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 5 visits,  $ 25

A participant may also “pay as you go”. “Pay as you go” prices will be $6.

To purchase one of the passes, please visit the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. You will also be able to purchase a pass from our St. Paul’s staff at the time of attendance.  Check or credit card payment is preferred.

Indoor

Track Hours at Cluett Hall

Mondays:  1 p.m.–8 p.m.

Tuesdays:  9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 5 p.m.–9 p.m.

Wednesdays:  9 a.m.–12 p.m.; 1 p.m.–4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Thursdays:  9 a.m.–12 p.m. and  1 p.m.–8 p.m.

Fridays:  9 a.m.–12 p.m.; 2 p.m.–4 p.m. and 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Saturdays:  1 p.m.–5 p.m.

*Walk at your own risk

**Hours are subject to change*

Stay Up to Date On All Things Recreation!

Follow our new Instagram and Facebook “GardenCityRecreation” for all Recreation content! Any questions regarding programs or facilities can be directed to our new Recreation email, GCRec@gardencityny.net .

Family Fun Times on Sundays

On Sunday afternoons beginning January 5, St. Paul’s Field House will be open for “Family Fun” for Village of Garden City families.   This open time provides the opportunity for families to enjoy various gym activities in an indoor environment.   The gym will be available for use from 2:45 to 4:45 p.m. each Sunday until March 9.

This time is designated for family time only.   No organized practices or workouts will be allowed.   Although there will be staff to monitor activity, this is not a drop off program.   We ask that all elementary and middle school aged children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian.   For the safety of our users, sports involving paddle, stick, or bat equipment will not be allowed.

Garden City Recreation Children’s Tennis Lessons, Winter 2024–25

The Garden City Department of Recreation and Parks is pleased to announce the start of the WINTER children’s tennis program. Registration is ongoing and classes begin on Monday, January 13. All classes are held at the Community Park indoor tennis center and are available to Garden City residents’ ages 4 through 16 years old.

How to register:

• In person at the Recreation Office (108 Rockaway Ave). The recreation office is open M – F from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can download a registration form at our website: gar-

dencityrecreation.org.

• By Mail: Mail in your registration form and check to the Recreation Office.

• Register online at www. gcreconline.gardencityny.net .You need a password to register online.  If you do not have a password please go to the Recreation office, with proof of residency, to receive one.

If paying by check, please make check payable to Inc. Village of Garden City

If paying by credit card please use: Mastercard, Visa or Discover. We do not accept American Express at this time.

For more information, call the Recreation Office at 516 465-4075

***Non-resident children who attend Garden City Public Schools can register for tennis lessons beginning December 11.   Registration must be done by mail or in person at the Recreation Office. Those who would like to register for our tennis program must prove they attend one of the Garden City Public Schools.  Proof must accompany registration.  An additional $50 fee will pertain to anyone in this category.  Make checks payable to the “Inc. Village of Garden City”

Adult Art Class at Cluett Hall

The Garden City’s Department of Recreation and Parks will offer an adult art class this winter.  This tenweek program will teach the beginner as well as the advanced student the art of painting portraits and landscapes/ still-life 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 $ 140. 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, February 7.

The first lesson includes a portrait and landscape demonstration. At that time, a supply list is provided.  Demonstrations will be available as needed throughout the program.  Each student will receive the individual attention required as they move at their own pace and level of expertise.

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.

USA Sport Group and Pulse Sports are Gearing Up for Summer!

USA Sports Group, a longtime partner of the Recreation and Parks Department of the Village of Garden City, will be running Summer Camps from children ages 5–12.  It will be a multi-sport program with an adapt-

ed curriculum running from June through August.  For more information, please go to PULSECAMPS.COM

Nassau Haven Park Kids Spring Golf Clinic Programs

Designed for all ages and abilities, our enrichment curriculum follows a 5-level progressive skill development so that students can set goals to achieve and progress at their own pace. Our low student-to-coach ratio allows for individualized attention— meeting each student where they are in their journey & progression.

Islanders Street Hockey

The NY Islanders Street Hockey program is open for registration. Please visit newyorkislanders.com/ streethockey to register.

Pioneer Sports February Break Multi-sport Camp and Volleyball Clinic

Pioneer Sports will have a February break Multi-sports camp here at St. Paul’s. the program will run Monday to Friday (2/17–2/21) from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Please visit https://pioneersports.leagueapps.com/camps/ to register and for more information.

Volleyball Clinic: Tuesdays, March 4 to April 8, 6:30–7:30 p.m. This program is a learn and play clinic for grades 3–5 at the St. Paul’s Fieldhouse. The cost of the program is $150 per child.

Kids Pickleball Program at St. Paul’s

GC Rec is announcing a Pickleball program for the kids from March 4 through May 1.  It will be 90 minutes of play on all four courts in the field house with a basic intro to the game and rules. We will provide the equipment, and the cost is $100 for 8 sessions.  We will need a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 24 sign ups to run the program per day.

Adult Winter Tennis Lessons

Attention: Tennis Players – Are you looking to improve your game or just to get some exercise during the long winter months? Why not join our Adult Tennis Lesson Winter Program. All ability levels offered!  Registration form and more information is available on the gardencityrecreation.org website (under upcoming programs).

The deadline for signing up has been extended to February 4. Lessons will begin the week of Monday, February 10.

You must be a resident of the Inc. Village of Garden City to register.

Program Fee: $295 per course (10 sessions)

Either drop off or mail your application along with your check (made payable to the Inc. Village of Garden City) at the Recreation Office located at 108 Rockaway Avenue or the Community Park Tennis Center.

GC Grapplers excel at the Golden Eagle Tournament

The GC Grapplers youth wrestling team demonstrated exceptional talent and determination this past weekend at the prestigious “Golden Eagle” Warzone format tournament, held in Bethpage on Sunday. This tournament, the largest youth wrestling event to date on Long Island, attracted a remarkable 358 youth wrestlers representing 44 different towns and clubs. Among the competitors, 18 youth wrestlers from Garden City, marking a record number of GC Grappler participants for a single tournament in the program’s history, stepped onto the mats with several making their tournament debut for the season.

After a grueling day of competition, the GC Grapplers achieved an impressive 8th place finish out of 44 teams, a testament to their hard work and skill. The scoring system for the tournament was based on the total points earned by the top 10

wrestlers from each club, highlighting the depth of talent across the participating teams.

Throughout the event, the 18 GC Grapplers collectively amassed an impressive total of 41 victories. The wrestlers making their tournament debuts this season include Caleb Howald, who won all 3 of his matches on the day. Walker Schwab (3 wins), Sully Flannery (3 wins), Mike Dunn (2 wins), and John LoPiccolo (2 wins). The remarkable preparedness, toughness, and resilience displayed by these young athletes made their debut performances (all of which achieved multiple wins on the afternoon) a point of pride for the Garden City community.

The coaching staff on the day, comprised of Coaches Jay and Kirk, along with GC High School assistant head coach Mike and the “Legend”, GC Middle School Head Coach “ Murph ” , provided invaluable

Owen Sampson shakes his opponent’s hand to start the match.

Keegan Fitzpatrick, Powers Dell’Olio and Nate Kong are all smiles with Coach Kirk after a long day.

Gianiel Galarza goes chest to chest for a pin!

John LoPiccolo flashes the guns after victory.

Caleb Howald begins his tournament wrestling career!

Sully Flannery gets his hand raised for the first time this season.

Will Schrafel puts on his red ankle band to get his day started.

Luke Linchitz wins his third match of the day.

GC Grapplers excel at the Golden Eagle Tournament

instruction and support throughout the day. Their commitment to fostering a fun yet competitive atmosphere played a crucial role in the team’s achievements.

Among the other competitors, Keegan Fitzpatrick continued his impressive winning streak, achieving another 4 victories and maintaining an undefeated record for the day. Sean Taylor also had a standout tournament, celebrating his first win of the season and finishing undefeated on the day with 3 victories. Additional grapplers who excelled

included Gianiel Galarza (3 wins), Owen Sampson (3 wins), Eli Kong (3 wins), Charlie Linchitz (3 wins), Luke Linchitz (3 wins), and Will Schrafel (2 wins). Finally, Reed Daily, Powers Dell’Olio, Luca Erigo, Nate Kong and Quinn Dell’Olio scored wins after facing some of the toughest competition of the season.

The 41 wins recorded by the GC Grapplers marked the highest GC total in the Warzone format this season, underscoring the competitive nature of the tournament. The Warzone format, continually adjusts

(based on systematic rankings) and pairs wrestlers against opponents of similar skill levels, adding an extra layer of challenge as an individual wrestler continues to win. This achievement reflects the high-quality, twice-weekly, training provided by Coach Jones and his staff at the Garden City High School wrestling room.

Looking ahead, February will herald the start of the "major" tournament season, beginning with the NY-USA Nassau and Long Island Youth Wrestling Championships in

Bayshore, NY. Several GC Grapplers, including newcomers, former participants, prior All County finalists (Eli Kong, Nate Kong, Powers Dell’Olio, and Caiden Moskowitz) and prior champions including Owen Sampson (Nassau) and Keegan Fitzpatrick (Long Island) are expected to compete. The community is encouraged to rally behind these young athletes as they strive for championship titles along with All County and All Island honors in the upcoming competitions.

Eli Kong gets his hand raised for the third time of the day!

Luca Erigo sizes up his opponent.

Reed Daily starts the day off win a key win!

Sean Taylor gets his first victory of the season.

GCHS Boys Varsity Basketball moves to 15-1

Garden City played solid defense and had balanced scoring in their last non-conference game against a strong Hempstead team winning 83-69. Scorers were Campbell 15, Costa 12, N. Lau 11, Sarkis 11, Bremer 10, VanBlenis 10, Ruckh 9 and Kenny 5.

Next up GC was at New Hyde Park. With three minutes left in the half, GC

was only up 26-24 but Noah Lau was cooking all game leading all scorers with 15 points and numerous assists. The team pulled away with a 72-44 victory.

Chris Sarkis scored 13, Ryan Campbell 12, and Ryan Kenny 10. Bremer, Ruckh, VanBlenis, Quinn and Cooke also contributed to the scoring.

On Monday, January 27, the team

was home vs Division. After a close first half, the team picked it up in the third quarter led by Chris Sarkis’ offense and defense. Sarkis led all scorers with 19, including five 3 pointers. Noah Lau scored 18, VanBlenis 10, and Campbell 7. Costa, Ruckh and Kenny also added to the scoring in the 66-55 victory.

Remaining Games:

1/30 at Glen Cove High School7:00 p.m.

2/3: HOME vs Carey - 6:45 p.m.

2/7: HOME vs Sewanhaka - 6:45 p.m.

2/10 at Roosevelt High School5:00 p.m.

Strong Hands Are The Key To A Longer, Healthier Life

BY AHMED AHMED

Imagine reaching for a jar, only to realize you can’t twist the lid…

You’re frustrated and wish someone was there to help you.

Now, what if, instead, you didn’t need anyone to get your meal prepared…

And you felt confident and independent.

This is entirely possible by strengthening your grip!

Here’s the thing…

Grip strength is more than your ability to hold on to an object…

It’s also surprisingly powerful at revealing insights about your health.

One study from the UK conclud-

ed that older adults with the weakest grip strength are 72% more likely to develop dementia compared to those with the strongest grip.

Another study from 2021 found that older women with better grip strength had a lower risk of falling.

If you have a stronger grip, you likely have more overall strength, which means you’re better able to catch yourself if you start to fall!

But that’s not all…

Ahmed Ahmed

A 2022 study linked stronger grip strength to better cognitive function and lower rates of depression and anx-

iety.

Now, here’s a little known fact about grip strength…

Your grip strength can tell you if your body needs to rest.

Yup, it’s true…

If your grip is about 10% or more weak than usualwhich you can test using a tool called a hand dynamometer…

It’s a good indicator that your body needs to recover.

This simple check can help you avoid overdoing it and stay energized for the activities you love!

But how do you improve your grip?

Exercise the muscles of your fingers, hands, and forearms.

Stronger hands mean you can protect yourself from falls by grabbing a railing…

Avoiding discomfort in your wrists, shoulders, and elbows…

And doing everyday tasks around the house while staying independent.

So start working on it today!

Remember exercise is key to lifelong strength and independence. Try these tips today!Ahmed Ahmed is the owner of Lotus Fitness. Contact him at (646)415-2349 or ahmed@lotusfitnessny. com https://lotusfitnessny.com/

Senior Patrick VanBlenis

Sophomore Noah Lau

Senior Ryan Campbell

Senior Chris Sarkis

Boys Varsity Fencing triumphs against Hewlett HS

After a few tough meets the Boys Varsity Fencing team beat Hewlett High School at a home Meet on Tuesday night going 16-11.

With a strong start, Garden City was 6-3 after the first round. Wins were provided by saber Captain Matteo Schettino and épée Keathan Ho, with double wins from foil Henry Conlon, épée captain Ronan Comerford and épée Justin Rivera. New to the team, saber Matthew Isobe-Russell earned an exciting two wins. By the end of the second round Garden City was 12-6. By round three

Saber Colin Chan succeeded in sweeping his bouts, giving the team a triumphant and final win for the night.

Captain and foil Trey Plastaras also swept his bouts on Tuesday evening, bringing him to an incredible 100 High School career wins and exceeding them in the same evening to 101.

The team looks forward to their last meet of the season on Wednesday January 29 and the Nassau County Individual Championships which will be held at Garden City High School on Saturday, February 1.

This is a great opportunity for middle schoolers in the district or high schoolers looking for a winter sport to check out Fencing so they can join the team next year. Come to the High School Saturday morning and. . . . .  Let’s Go!

Matthew Isobe-Russell with 2 wins for the team.

Épée Brendan Kennedy on the strip.

Colin Chan seals the deal for the team.

Épée Justin Rivera goes for a point.

Trey Plastaras on the attack.

GC Wrestling records first dual meet playoff win since 2017

Last week, the GC Trojans wrestlers earned their first Nassau County Dual Meet Playoff win since 2017 with a convincing 59-9 rout over Herricks. In the next round, GC (seeded 13th) hung tough with 4th seeded Oceanside before eventually falling by a score of 39-25. With team competition complete for the year, the Trojans finished with an impressive 14-4 mark overall, and a 5-1 record in conference action.

In the matchup with Herricks, the meet began at 160 lbs with junior Gabe Cohen putting up a dominating 21-6 technical fall. Next, senior Jack Cicione (170 lbs) followed suit with an equally impressive 19-3 technical fall. However, Herricks fought back with wins at 190 lbs and 215 lbs to even the match at 9-9 before the

Trojans proceeded to string together a series of nine wins en route to a convincing team victory. Among those wins was an exciting third period pin by sophomore Eric Chen (124 lbs) against a tough Herricks opponent.

After the big Herricks win, the boys had a short break in their home gym before facing a talented squad from Oceanside. GC kept it close early thanks to wins by junior Zach Olson (285 lbs) and freshman Ryan Bolzelli (101 lbs), but from there the Sailors began to pull away and eventually left no doubt as to the outcome. Other winners for Garden City were junior Anthony Pica (138 lbs), Cohen (152 lbs), and sophomore Matteo Ingrassia (160 lbs). With the win, Oceanside advanced to be

among the final eight teams vying for the County Championship.

In other recent action, several boys competed in the New Rochelle Shoreline Classic. Olson (285 lbs) was the lone champion for the Trojans. Bozelli (101 lbs) finished in 5th place, while freshman Connor Ahearn (108 lbs) and sophomore Matteo Ingrassia (152 lbs) both came in 6th. Others earning at least one win on the day were Luke Agrippina, Jack Cicione, Angelo Cupani, Bennett Griffin, and Michael Polizotto.

Finally, earlier this month GC picked up two dual meet wins -a thrilling 34-33 win over Mepham on Senior Night at GCHS for Jack Cicione, Bennett Griffin, Nicholas Griffin, Joe Lippens, and Walker Scricca; and an easy 69-6 victory over

Great Neck North. Against Mepham the Trojans won 7 matches with the difference ultimately coming courtesy of a forfeit victory for Olson to secure the team triumph. Then a few nights later, the boys traveled to GNN and won 12 of 13 matches with several backups picking up more varsity experience.

The team is now preparing for the Section 8 Individual Qualifying Tournament on February 8 at Oceanside HS. The wrestlers will be competing to earn the right to appear at the Nassau County Championships on February 15 at Hofstra University. Good luck boys and congratulations to junior Anthony Pica who joins Cohen, N. Griffin, and Olson as a captain for the 2024-25 Garden City High School wrestling team.

Jack Cicione looking for the upper hand versus his MacArthur opponent.

Bennett Griffin fighting to improve his position in the consolation bracket at New Rochelle.

Luke Agrippina pinning an opponent at the New Rochelle Shoreline Classic.

The 2024–25 GCHS Wrestling seniors with parents and coaches. Photo by Ed Rotondo

Vin Lattuca working to secure a takedown against a North Babylon wrestler.

Calling all runners for “Runner in Red 5K”

Members of “Team Breidgeen,” a past winner of the Team Category at the Runner in Red 5K, show spirit for a good cause and signal it’s time to sign up for this year’s event. Lead sponsors are Hilton Capital Management and Katten. Register for the Runner in Red 5K on March 15 at Eisenhower Park at RunnerinRed.com.

Want to help cure for lung cancer –and keep fit?

Step to the starting line for the “Runner in Red 5K!” Registration is now open for the fifth annual Runner in Red 5K Race/Walk on March 15 at 9am at Eisenhower with leadership support by Hilton Capital Management.

Other supporters include Katten, Family and Children’s Association, CIM Group and All Round Foods. Northwell Health Cancer Institute provides information in the fight against lung cancer.

The Runner in Red 5K Race/Walk, which has tripled in size since its introduction in 2021, draws its name from a Boston Marathon mystery novel, Runner in Red, by Garden City author Tom Murphy. The event raises funds to cure lung cancer in memory of Barb Murphy, Tom’s wife, a marathon runner who passed away from non-smoker’s lung cancer in 2013.

Barb fought the disease valiantly for six years and was a tireless advocate to create awareness so, “No one else gets this.” She was also an advocate for promoting fitness after diagnosis to remain vital and engaged in life. That’s a pro action theme central to the Runner in Red campaign, which also offers a workshop series to help teens tap their resiliency strengths from sports to meet the challenges of adolescence.

The run/walk has attracted many teams over the years, including a Garden City team that has taken home the team trophy, “Team Breidgeen,” captained by Tim Mulvihill and a legion of family and friends. So enlist your friends and create a team!

To learn more about the Runner in Red Foundation’s efforts to cure lung cancer and register for the race, visit RunnerinRed.com.

Town offers safe boating classes

Boating season may be several months away, but with a New York State law now in effect that requires all operators to be certified in safe boating, Supervisor Don Clavin and the Hempstead Town Board are offering safe boating classes starting in February. As boating is one of Hempstead Town’s most enjoyable pastimes, Supervisor Clavin and Town Board colleagues want to ensure that all residents remain safe and prepared while setting sail.

The first course of 2025 — for ages 10–18 years — will be held in two sessions: Saturday, February 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday, February 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Department of Conservation and Waterways (1401 Lido Boulevard, Point Lookout). Participants must attend both sessions to receive their boating safety certificate. The classes are led by the Town’s Bay Constables.

“Teaching the next generation how to operate a boat is a rite of passage for many

Long Island families, and we in America’s largest township want to ensure that local mariners practice safe boating,” said Supervisor Clavin. “Learning at a young age will give future seafarers greater experience and knowledge of their watercraft and the local waterways, creating a safer environment for everyone. We encourage all young residents to sign up for the Town’s upcoming safe boating course.”

The New York State law governing these new boating safety requirements is known as Brianna’s Law, named after 11-year-old Long Island resident Brianna Lieneck, who was killed in a boating accident in 2005.

Additional safe boating courses for youth and adults will be announced in the near future. To register for an upcoming Boater Safety Class, please call the Bay Constables at (516) 897-4100. Residents who are already certified but cannot locate their card can obtain new documentation at https://www.ilostmycard.com/ records?state_cd=NY&cert_type=Boating

Mary Krener Fortune Heaney Lisa Heaney

Lynn Puccio Cheryl Trimboli Scott Wallace

Arthur Anderson Jessica Brantuk Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Rene Blair

Christine Cudahy Manager

Linda Mulrooney

O’Hara Diane Piscopo

Daureen Hausser

Aimee Escher

Patrick Gibbons

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Susan MacDonald Brigid Marmorowski Patricia Dickson

Lichtman

Garden City, NY

Wyndham West, #PH2 Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# L3579709. $2,500,000.

Wyndham East, #908 Garden City, NY

1.5-bath. MLS# L3549856. $685,000.

Wyndham West, #M8 Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# L3585126. $4,500/mo.

Wyndham East, #M17

Garden City, NY

2.5-bath. MLS# L3588293. $1,560,000.

RENTAL

Garden City, NY

3-bath. MLS# 805421. $8,500/mo.

Marianne Imperial

Alesya Busel