The Garden City News (4/12/24)

The Garden City Fire Department will be holding a recruitment Open House on Saturday, April 13th at Fire Headquarters. Come and see how you can help your community. See page 20 for details.

GC Schools population expected to rise over next five years

BY KASSARA MCELROY

A demographer from Western Suffolk BOCES told the Garden City Board of Education that the school district’s enrollment will gradually rise over the next five years, as younger families move into the district. The presentation was made during the April 9th meeting of the Board.

Garden City’s bi-annual demographic and enrollment study consisted of district demographic research, primarily covering birth rates all the way from the national to district levels, housing turnover, population trends, enrollment fluctuations.

What BOCES found was

that while district enrollment fluctuated it has overall remained stable between 2013-2023, with a gain of 20 students during that time.

However, the current enrollment of 3,941 students represents a gain of 119 students when compared to the low enrollment of 3,822 students

See page 36

Village crews to maintain downtown landscaping

Work had been done by outside vendor

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the annual organizational meeting of the Garden City Board of Trustees, held Monday, April 1 at Village Hall, the Board of Trustees approved the award of a bid for a one-year contract for grounds maintenance and landscaping with a new vendor – BrightView Landscapes of Smithtown – for a total of $216,859.

Garden City Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Paul Blake told the trustees that the contract will reduce the amount of landscaping labor that is done by outside vendors, as village employees will be assigned to maintain the landscaping in the Seventh Street and Franklin Avenue business district.

Blake said a four-person crew from his department will take control of routine landscaping work and will help with additional beautification efforts to help make the village’s downtown more attractive and vibrant.

Blake’s report to the village trustees included comments on the municipally-owned green spaces throughout the village including

See page 37

Library, village projects to upgrade technology

BY RIKKI MASSAND

As the Garden City Village Board of Trustees deliberated on the 2024-25 budget in late March, Village Administrator Ralph V. Suozzi shared notes on the increased headcount in the Administration budget and the sharing of resources to upgrade the Library’s information technology infrastructure.

The Board listened at its budget work session on Wednesday March 20, as Administrator Suozzi described the cost centers included within the Administration Budget accounts: the Board of Trustees expenses, the Village Justice, Administrative and Village Clerk’s Office staff and equipment, Personnel/HR, and Central Data Processing (referred to as IT), Publicity and the Village Historian.

The overall Administration budget of $2.115 million decreased 4%

See page 36

Photo courtesy Garden City Fire Department

The Garden City Fire Department will be holding its Open House this Saturday at Fire Headquarters. The Open House will have a focus on recruiting new members and will include tours of the station and apparatus. Current members will be on hand to discuss the requirements and rewards of joining. (See page 20 for information on the Open House.)

Volunteer firefighting is one of the oldest forms of community service in the United States, as residents banded together to fight fires even from the earliest days of our nation.

In addition to fighting active fires, members of the Fire Department also provide invaluable services by educating residents about fire risks; by doing

safety inspections and by responding to various alarms throughout the village. The GCFD needs your help!

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Also in this week’s issue is a letter requesting that the Board of Trustees bring back the Friday Promenades this summer.

While there were some issues with the behavior of some attendees at Promenades last year, we hope the Board continues to hold them again this year. Last year groups of older teens gathered and became rowdy to the point of causing injury, so safety has to be improved. But we hate to think that a relatively small group of people can ruin a nice tradition that almost everyone enjoyed.

Today where everything is so costly due to inflation and the overall  general increase in prices, the Promenade was the best entertainment around. The Promenade was created for the benefit of its citizens ranging from young families to senior citizens.  In addition, neighbors, friends and classmates also had a chance to get together.  Our merchants also benefited handsomely.  It was obvious by the number of people attending the Promenades it was very successful.  Let’s hope our Board of Trustees acquiesces to the “will of the people.”

John Appelt Salem’s Mudslide

To the Editor:

In response to local pundit Mr. Salem, who says a lot but risks nothing. Obviously GC residents like myself voted across the board Row A.

I must commend George, yes that is called a “Certified Muldoon Landslide” in political circles. Thankfully, there was no attempted coup at our town Hall to disenfranchise the huge fan base of 7,725 CAP voters.

According to his feckless missive, the traits of an ideal trustee were to be a lawyer, investment or business executive with a history of volunteerism. Despite our duly elected officials’ supposed lack of  these powdered credentials, this oracle’s prophesy declares Mr. Muldoon and his amazing Technicolor Coat-tail trustees, along with  support from his stellar Rolodex fan base will  bring positive contributions and loving care to our Village.

There are two kinds of people in this world, those who do the work and those who take credit. Try to be in the first group, there is less competition there.

Patrick A. O’Rourke

Toll Lodge Facts

To the Editor:

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce was not “unceremoniously locked” out of the Toll Lodge as stated by Chamber of Commerce President John Wilton in the April 4, 2024 Garden City News article entitled “Village to move forward with Toll Lodge renovations.”

Mr. Wilton failed to provide several important facts regarding the license agreement between the Village and Chamber of Commerce.

The Village owns the Toll Lodge via a transfer of ownership approved by the then Garden City Board of Trustees in December of 1988, wherein a license fee (rent) of $1,000 per month was charged to the Chamber of Commerce excluding utilities. The license agreement was for office space for use by the Chamber of Commerce and for maintaining the history of the Vanderbilt Motor Parkway. The $1,000 per month rental rate was calculated to be $17.14 per square foot based on a gross floor area of 700 square feet.

The Chamber of Commerce paid the Village the $1,000 monthly rent established in 1988 up until the pandemic wherein the Board of Trustees reduced the rent to $434.40 per month. On 1 December 2020, the Board of Trustees further reduced the rent to $100 per month for reasons related to the Covid pandemic. The Chamber of Commerce has not paid the $1,000 per month rent or utilities per the new license agreement unanimously approved by the Board of Trustees at the April 4, 2022 BOT meeting.

Tax returns obtained by the Village for 2019 and 2020 showed total revenues were $369,706 and $135,328 respectively with salaries paid out at approximately $107,000 each year for 2019 and 2020. Salaries were not reduced when Covid hit in 2020. The Chamber profit and loss statement for 2021 indicated income from the Promenades was $86,533, $16,260 for the Street Fair and $8,666

See page 52

GC girl honored by Town Board for heroism

The Town of Hempstead Town Board recognized Angelina Rose Balestrieri the April 9th Town Board meeting for her heroic actions after a serious car accident.

On December 3, Kenneth, his wife, Stefanie, and two of their three children; namely, Matthew, 6 years old, and daughter, Angelina, 11 years of age, (Joseph was not in the car) were involved in a serious car accident at the intersection of Garden Street and Magnolia Street in Garden City.

A Chevy Suburban, traveling at approximately 55 mph, went through a stop sign, hitting Kenneth’s car on the driver’s side.  The car was pushed 200 feet and turned over on the passenger’s side. Both Angelina and Matthew were hanging sideways, but she was able to unbuckle her seat belt, freeing her to get Matthew out of his seat belt.  The neighbors at the scene of the accident assisted in removing them from the rear windshield by breaking the glass. She then proceeded to push Matthew through the broken window and crawled out. This was done with her having sustained a laceration of the head.  She later received

three staples to close the wound. Matthew was not injured, but sustained glass fragments on his body.  Neighbors took the children in their home to protect them because they were not certain of the condition of parents Kenneth and Stefanie.  Angelina used her iPhone for a neighbor to Facetime her grandmothers.   The neighbor kept the children until the ambulances arrived.  When the children arrived at the hospital, Angelina gave a detailed account of the accident, provided telephone numbers, addresses, and answered all the questions posed by the nurses in the emergency room. The nurses were impressed by the mature manner in which Angelina handled the situation. She maintained composure and was trying to calm her brother, Matthew, who was crying.

Kenneth was gravely ill and was administered five  pints of blood at the accident site.  He required three surgeries within a two to three week period  and was confined to a hospital bed and wheelchair for six weeks.  Stefanie also received life-threatening injuries in the accident.

The Town of Hempstead Town Board recognized Garden City 11 year-old Angelina Rose Balestrierid for her heroic actions after a serious car accident.

Stately 5br, 4.5ba Colonial in Estates section, 0.34-acre lot. Exceptional opportunity! $2,350,000

Renovated (2022) Col 111x100 lot Grand entry, high ceilings, chef’s kit, spacious den, 4 lrg br, 2.5 ba, luxurious primary ste. $1,925,000

New construction Colonial in Estates Section, 4 BR, 3.5 bath. $2,390,000 Not Pictured: William Breslin, Michael Fedor, Robert McMahon, Tara Rice Tara Iori

Open House Sat. & Sun., April 13th & 14th 1-3pm, 206 Brompton Rd. Estates 5 br, 2 bath Cape Cod. Low taxes. $1,189,000

NEW TO MARKET

171 Brixton Road Open House

Saturday & Sunday April 13th & 14th 1-3pm

Welcome to this magnificent 5 bedroom all-brick center hall colonial nestled in the prestigious estate section on a private 80x100 lot. Enter through a gracious foyer to discover over 3000 square feet of living space starting with a welcoming foyer leading to a formal living room with a wood-burning fireplace and a spacious formal dining room. The heart of the home, a generously proportioned eat-in kitchen, provides the perfect backdrop for culinary delights. The first floor continues to impress with a sizable family room featuring another inviting wood-burning fireplace, a convenient wet bar for effortless entertaining, a private office space for productivity, a full bath for added convenience, and a laundry area. A spacious second floor boasts a primary en-suite with a walk-in closet and an additional closet, four additional bedrooms, and a hall full bath. Step outside to the beautifully manicured outdoor space which includes a brick patio just perfect for hosting summer garden parties and barbeques. Completing the exterior is an all-brick two car detached garage. Close proximity to parks, schools, shopping, and two LIRR train lines. Award-winning Garden City School District.

Offered at $1,649,000

Barbara Chmil

Licensed RE Salesperson

Mobile: 516.524.7087

bchmil@coachrealtors.com

Are you thinking of selling your home?

Let Jen Sullivan Guide you. Whether you are downsizing, or searching for your dream home, allow Jen’s experience, passion, and results to work for you. Reach out any time. 516.361.7190

jennifer.sullivan@compass.com

M: 516.361.7190

GC attorney charged with grand larceny

Garden City attorney Daniel Boldi, 49, was charged with Grand Larceny on April 10t for allegedly stealing more than $700,000 from two victims in connection with real estate transactions from 2023.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly said, “This defendant allegedly deceived victims he worked with during real estate transactions. He’s alleged to have stolen proceeds of their property sales and money earmarked to pay off a mortgage. Incredibly, one couple continues to pay the mortgage for a home they no longer own because of this defendant’s alleged embezzlement. Our investigation involving Boldi is ongoing, and NCDA has received multiple complaints from other individuals who have reported being victimized by Boldi. If you have reason to believe you were victimized by Daniel Boldi and have not yet filed a complaint, please contact the Criminal Complaint Unit at 516-571-3505.”

DA Donnelly said according to the charges, the defendant was an attorney experienced in real estate transactions

who owned and operated his law firm, Boldi Law Group, P.C.  On October 31, 2023, a couple worked with Boldi on the closing of the sale of their home in East Meadow. The defendant acted as the settlement agent/bank attorney for the mortgage broker used in connection with the transaction.

Jen

Daniel Boldi

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

111 Cherry Valley Ave Unit 422

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

The information about the homes and the photos were obtained through the Multiple Listing Services of Long Island. The homes presented were selected based solely on the fact that they were recently sold. Mortgage Rates this week from www.nerdwallet.com 30-year fixed 6.936% 7.020%

fixed 6.164% 6.303% 5/1 ARM 6.962% 7.829%

Date: 4/4/2024

Sold price: $1,625,000

3 bedrooms, 3 full baths

Architectural style: Condominium

Monthly charges: $2,303

Annual taxes: $17,3684

MLS number: 3495141

The Seller’s Team: Mary O. Krener, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Barbara Chmil, Howard Hanna Coach

Desirable, with a major renovation done by the present owners, this 3 Bedroom-3 Full Bath residence is sparkling and spacioius. The front door opens to a Grand Entry Foyer with a deep hall closet. The Living Room and Dining Room combination with exquisite recently installed hardwood floors offers plenty of space for relaxing or entertaining and leads onto the south-facing balcony. An open-concept kitchen with a quartz island that flows seamlessly into a glistening kitchen with quartz countertops + sparkling tile throughout. There is a desk in the bay window that can easily be changed out for a dining table, if you prefer. Top-quality stainlesssteel appliances, a large floor to ceiling pantry closet and washer/dryer are conveniently located here. The primary bedroom has beautiful western views with amazing closets and an updated ensuite bathroom. Another full-sized primary bedroom with ensuite bath is on the opposite end of the unit with great closets, as well. A 3rd bedroom with 2 large closets utilizes a full hall bath across from it. This room could also be used as a home office or den, if you wish. There are two parking spaces with the sale. A deeded parking space is included with the sale of this condo. A second space is assigned for $318.73. Also included is a lower level locked storage area for the owner’s use. Of course, all amenities are included: Concierge, Valet Parking, 24-hour security, Indoor Pool, Clubhouse, Gym, Beautifully landscaped BBQ area, for example, are some examples of daily entitlement of residence. This home has been designed and well-maintained by the present owners for carefree living.

140 Euston Road

Date: 4/9/2024

Sold price: $2,075,000 6 beds, 3 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial Property size: .28 acres

Annual taxes: $29,313

MLS number: 3528609

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

The Buyer’s Team: Catherine Anatra, Compass Greater NY

This timeless Center Hall Colonial is situated on a captivating 120x100 property in the heart of the desirable Estates section, and boasts over 3,100 sq.ft. of living space on 3 levels. First floor layout includes a grand living room with fireplace, banquet-sized formal dining room, and spacious chef’s kitchen equipped with high end appliances. A powder room, and a sun-filled family room with cozy fireplace complete this inviting space. The second floor offers a large primary suite, 3 additional bedrooms, and a full bath. The third floor features 2 additional bedrooms and another full bath, providing flexible living space. The expansive, landscaped backyard is adorned with a large patio and multiple seating areas. Ideal for gatherings or quiet relaxation, this outdoor haven adds another layer of charm to this must-see home.

82 Washington Ave

Date: 4/5/2024

Sold price: $999,999

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Split Level

Property size: .46 acres

Annual taxes: $25,029

MLS number: 3464915

The Seller’s Team: Marshall W. Meyers, Laffey Real Estate

The Buyer’s Team: Zaheer Khanzada, ALUX Realty

Three bedroom, two and a half bath split-level near everything in Garden City! Bring your checkbook and your vision, as this property is looking for the kind of updates that you want to make that will transform this property into your forever dream home! Formal dining room with butler’s pantry, spacious kitchen, hardwood floors and lots of sunshine! There is a wood-burning fireplace in the living room. This property has over 2300 square feet and plenty of storage... and backyard space that is large enough for the biggest of barbecues. Located in one of Garden City’s serene neighborhoods, yet close to all major thoroughfares and shopping centers. The two-car garage and private driveway offer plenty of parking space for the vehicles.

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.

GC Historical Society offers scholarships

The Garden City Historical Society's Stewart Fund Scholarship in Memory of The Cathedral Schools of St. Mary's and St. Paul's is once again pleased to announce its yearly $2500 scholarship to a graduating high school senior.

Candidates must show outstanding scholarship, evidence of volunteerism, and be able to describe the role that preservation plays in our community. Interested seniors can obtain an application from the High School Guidance Department.

Finance Dept. budget increases due to higher employee costs

BY RIKKI MASSAND

During the second of three budget work sessions last month, Village of Garden City Treasurer Irene Woo presented an update to the Board of Trustees on the $1.4 million budget for the Finance Department. The budget includes a 10% increase from this year.

The Finance Department includes 12 full-time positions. For the majority of the last year the department operated with three open positions, and as those vacancies have been filled, increased costs were budgeted. At the work session held on Wednesday, March 20, Woo said the department anticipates full staffing throughout FY 2024-25.

One account clerk was transferred from payroll services to the Finance Department. Woo notes that this position also increases the salary-related account of the Finance Department.

The Finance Department’s budget line for Maintenance of Software includes maintenance costs for the vil-

lage’s general ledger; budgeting, tax billing and assessments, dog licenses, parking permits and check printing systems as functions of Finance.

The department’s budget for Third Party Services is set to decrease 23%, or $62,000 less. The services include audit firms hired to check on the village’s fiscal performance and records’ control.

The Village of Garden City received over $750,000 of federal funds, as well as more than $750,000 in CHIPS (Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program) funding related to road paving repairs. This meant Garden City was subject to a New York State Department of Transportation audit last year.

“In addition, because the village self-administers the Deferred Compensation plan rather than utilizing New York State’s plan, we are are also required to undergo an annual audit on the plan as well – we engage

See page 53

Board approves expenses for water system projects

BY RIKKI MASSAND

On Monday April 1, the Garden City Village Board approved an agreement to engage water system consultants H2M Architects and Engineers of Melville to assist with technical expertise in completing an application for the village to receive a federal grant to help with Lead Service Line (LSL) replacement throughout town. The Board approved payment of $12,600.

Prior to the Board’s approval, Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni advised the trustees of the work H2M would do, in assisting Garden City with preparation of the grant application, to ultimately secure the federal grant.

“This grant requires the submission of an Intended Use Plan, along with an engineering report,” he said.

Water Works HVAC Project Approved

The April 1 meeting agenda included creation of a new capital project –HVAC renovation at the village’s Water Works Building (on Eleventh Street). Superintendent Borroni shared details with the trustees, prior to their approval of the bid for $696,130 from low bidder Eastern Industrial Services of New York, a company based in Bohemia.

Borroni explained that at the Water Works’ facility the existing boiler is old and not functioning properly, and must

be replaced.

“The new system to be installed is a VRF heat pump system, along with natural gas heaters for the equipment base. Once the project is completed energy savings will be calculated and a rebate from PSEG will be sought. There were eight total bids received on this project, which ranged from (the low bid by Eastern Industrial Services at $696,130) up to $1.2 million,” he said.

In her report, Village Treasurer Irene Woo detailed the Bond Resolution of $900,000 for the Water Works HVAC improvements capital project, as provided by the village’s bond counsel.

Trustee Ed Finneran asked if the HVAC system at the Water Works has experienced “a total breakdown.”

Borroni confirmed that while the project was stated as HVAC renovation, the system will be replaced.

Borroni said the work includes fully removing the boiler system in-place including removal of steam lines, radiators, and installing the new VRF, energy-efficient system along with natural gas heaters for each equipment base.”

Trustee Vincent Muldoon, participating at his first Board meeting, shared his interest in the review of vendors, noting that Garden City has an obligation to operate under New York State law for the selection of the lowest

See page 37

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.

Jennifer

Kathy

516.987.4886

Catherine

Lauren

Julie

Karen Guendjoian Lic. RE Salesperson Principal Agent M: 516.578.8395

Stephen Baymack Lic. Assoc. RE Broker Principal Agent M: 516.216.0244

Laura Baymack Lic. RE Salesperson Principal Agent M: 516.537.3050

Laura Carroll Lic. RE Salesperson Founding Agent M: 917.370.5354

Maureen Lagarde Lic. RE Salesperson Founding Agent M: 516.850.7812

Alexandra Parisi Lic. Assoc. RE Broker Founding Agent M: 516.427.6878

Athena Menoudakos Lic. RE Salesperson Founding Agent M: 516.316.4955

Patrick M. McCooey Lic. Assoc. RE Broker Founding Agent M: 516.236.4287

Alexander G. Olivieri Lic. RE Salesperson Founding Agent M: 516.306.7738

Salvatore Sica Lic. Assoc. RE Broker Principal Agent M: 347.922.8947

Chelsea Costello Lic. RE Salesperson The Laura Carroll Team M: 516.509.7961

Kerry Flynn Lic. RE Salesperson The Laura Carroll Team M: 914.772.6169

Mairéad Garry Lic. RE Salesperson McCooey Olivieri Team M: 516.375.8434

Denice Giacometti Lic. RE Salesperson McCooey Olivieri Team M: 516.398.7468

Susan Gillin Lic. RE Salesperson The Jen Sullivan Team M: 516.655.5662

Christina Hirschfield Lic. RE Salesperson The Laura Carroll Team M: 516.805.0703

Adrienne McDougal Lic. RE Salesperson The Laura Carroll Team M: 516.662.3872

Ryan Mullins Lic. RE Salesperson The Jen Sullivan Team M: 516.359.6339

Whicher Lic. RE Salesperson The Laura Carroll Team M: 516.698.3975

Daniel Niebler Lic. RE Salesperson The Baymack Team M: 516.592.0976

Sullivan Lic. RE Salesperson Founding Agent M: 516.361.7190

Anatra Lic. RE Salesperson Athena Menoudakos Team M: 516.476.7825

Canner Lic. RE Salesperson The Laura Carroll Team M: 516.650.7474

Thornton Lic. RE Salesperson Principal Agent M:

OPEN HOUSE

225 Brixton Road

$1,049,000 | 4 BD | 2 BA

Friday, April 12th 5-7 PM | Sunday, April 13th 1-3 PM

Perfectly situated cape style home nearby to Merillon Avenue Train Station, open green space, high school, and shopping. Make this home your own on 80x100 hedged property with extensive possibilities. Low taxes. First floor 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath, upstairs 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath. Basement with egress staircase to exterior.

New to Market | 4 BD | 2 BA | $1,195,000

109 Poplar Street, Garden City

Open House | Saturday, 4/13 & Sunday, 4/14 | 12–2 PM

Prepare to be impressed with this beautiful custom built Center Hall Cape featuring four bedrooms, two full baths and a wonderful layout with options for a master bedroom on both the main level or upstairs. This home has everything to offer for comfortable, relaxing and sophisticated living. The main level features an entry foyer, a sunny and spacious living room with wood-burning fireplace, a dining area which is open to the eat-in-kitchen with access to the most charming 17 'x10' screened porch overlooking the large and private backyard. A home office/den, master bedroom and full bathroom complete this level. Upstairs, there is a brand-new bathroom and two more spacious bedrooms with great closets. Additional highlights include: hardwood floors throughout, full basement with large rec room, laundry & utility room and loads of storage, detached 1.5 car garage, long driveway for plenty of parking, new CAC, new oil tank, in-ground sprinklers, security alarm and close proximity to neighborhood park and school. Low taxes and a beautiful location make this an amazing opportunity!

Jen Sullivan

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Founding Agent of Compass Garden City

Member of Luxury Division

jennifer.sullivan@compass.com

M: 516.361.7190

The Welcoming Club of Garden City

Upcoming Events

Toy & Clothing Swap!

Join us and get a jumpstart on your spring cleaning at the Spring Cleaning Swap Event!  Participants can exchange clothing and/or toys for new ones using a ticketing system.  Enjoy light refreshments while revamping your closet or toy collection!

When: April 14 from 12 – 2 p.m.

Where: 9 Kilburn Road

When you bring your items to this event, you will receive tickets which will be given based on item size.  Tickets can then be used in exchange for items you wish to take home with you.  If you would like to participate, please drop off your items on APRIL 13TH between 12 – 2 p.m. OR you can bring up to FIVE items on the day of the swap event.  If swapping clothing, please make sure all items are in like-new condition and clean.

If you would like to register for this event, please email GCladiesnight@gmail. com for more information and registration tickets.

Ladies’ Spring Fling!

Please join us for our Spring Fling at Sparrow on May 6 at 8 p.m.  Tickets are on sale now!  Attendees will enjoy delicious appetizers, craft cocktails, enticing raffles, and the company of many fabulous friends!  This event is the perfect way to celebrate spring in style, all while supporting the P.E.A.C.E. Afterschool Program.  For tickets and more information, please visit our website.  We hope to see you there!

Spring Craft Club

Join us for a night of crafting that is sure to put you in the spirit of spring!  The Craft Club will be hosting the next craft night on May 2 at 7 p.m.  Attendees will be creating a beautiful cascading floral arrangement for their front door.  To RSVP and receive meeting details, please contact gccraftclub@gmail.com.

Calling All Sponsors!

The Welcoming Club of Garden City is actively seeking local businesses, merchants, and individuals to sponsor the 2023–2024 season. Sponsorships start at $550 for the year and are a great way to promote your business across the Welcoming Club of Garden City social media channels and at our exciting events planned throughout the year. Sponsorship donations are tax deductible and 100% of the sponsorship fee goes directly to this year’s chosen charity, P.E.A.C.E Afterschool Program. For more information, please email Philanthropic Chair Lindsay Weber at GCPhilanthropic@ gmail.com.

Follow Us!

Facebook: The Welcoming Club of Garden City

Instagram: @gcwelcomingclub

Join A Group Book Club

Enjoy a good book amongst friends. The book club meets every 6 weeks to discuss the page-turner of choice. For upcoming book club events, please email WelcomingClubBookClub@gmail.com.

Craft Club

The Craft Club is a great way to meet with friends and get crafty. No experience necessary. We meet every few months to create a seasonal craft. If you are interested in joining, please email GCCraftClub@ gmail.com.

Supper Club

Bring your significant others out for this one! This is a great way to make new friends as a couple. You will be paired up with 3-4 other couples to set up a rotation of dinner events. Host your new friends at home or head out to try local restaurants. Please email GCSupper@gmail.com for more information.

Bunco

This simple dice game is usually played in a group of 12. It is a great way to meet people and make new friends. The game is easy to learn and fun to play. If you are interested, please contact WelcomingClubBunco@ gmail.com.

Toddler Activities

A great way for you and your little ones to make new friends. Activities include stroller walks each week around our beautiful village and a visit to the park. We also set up playgroups with kids of similar age. Please email welcomingclubtoddleractivities@gmail.com for more information.

Come join the fun and make a difference! We invite you to join the club! For just $50 a year, you will have access to lots of great events and many fun members-only clubs and events. Complete the easy online membership form today at www.thegardencitywelcomingclub.org in the “Join” section of the website. While you are there, browse the site for lots of great information about the club.

GC student awarded study trip to Germany

Sarah Phinney, a student at Garden City High School, has been awarded an all-expense-paid summer study trip to Germany.

Sarah was selected as a national winner after scoring in the 99th percentile on the Level 2024 National German Exam for High School Students sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG). Over 13,500 students participated in the program. After qualifying with a high score on the National German Exam, she submitted responses to several short essay questions in German and in English and was then interviewed by a committee comprised of high school teachers and college professors of German.

Sarah is one of 37 outstanding German students selected from across the US to receive the award. The study trip includes round-trip air transportation to Germany from a US airport, a homestay in a host family, and excursions to places of cultural and historical significance. The study trip, now in its 63rd year, is made possible through a grant from the Federal Republic of Germany.

“This year’s prize winners are some of the finest students in the US,” said Michael Shaughnessy, executive director of the AATG. “The prize is a

great reward for excellence in learning German—and the best way to better get to know a fascinating language and culture through firsthand experiences living with a German family and attending school.”

Sarah and the other winners will travel to Germany this summer. She is a student of Susanne Rupes, German teacher at Garden City High School.

GCPD to participate in “No Empty Chair” program

From April 15 through April 19, the Garden City Police Department will be participating in the No Empty Chair Program sponsored by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.  This educational and enforcement campaign aims to raise awareness among teen drivers regarding the potential dangers of driving in the hope that there are no empty chairs at high school graduations or proms this year.

During this initiative, officers will be enforcing the New York State Graduated Driver Licensing Law

(GDL) as well as other driving law violations such as speeding in school zones, seatbelt use, child restraint use, cell phone and texting use, passing school buses, underage drinking, and impaired driving.

Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson advises that the Department’s Youth and Community Policing Officers will be visiting the High School to conduct driver safety outreach to local students during this campaign and throughout the prom and graduation season.

Sarah Phinney

Stephen Baymack

The Baymack Team

Licensed Associate RE Broker stephen.baymack@compass.com

M: 516.216.0244

Laura Baymack

The Baymack Team

Licensed RE Salesperson laura.baymack@compass.com

M: 516.537.3050

This beautiful colonial perfectly situated mid-block on a quiet tree lined street in the Western Section of Garden City provides an abundant amount of living and entertaining space. The home has been renovated and meticulously maintained throughout and boasts five spacious bedrooms and four full bathrooms. The full finished basement provides an expansive amount of recreation space including a gym and movie theater area and the 80'x100' lot provides a generous sized backyard with a paver patio that is perfect for entertaining. The location, size and overall condition make this a truly exceptional value and the perfect place to call home!

GCFD to hold volunteer recruitment Open House on April 13

This Saturday, the Garden City Fire Department will open its doors so residents can learn how they can serve their volunteer fire department.  Like most volunteer fire departments, the Garden City Fire Department looks to the community to bolster its ranks so it can continue to provide the optimum level of protection for its residents. Please drop in and learn about the volunteer opportunities we offer. Becoming a volunteer firefighter is one of the highest forms of community service. You can be a part of more than 100 years of historic service to our Village.

As part of RecruitNY Weekend, the fire department will open its doors on Saturday, April 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will take place at Garden City Fire Headquarters, 347 Stewart Ave (West Side of Village Hall).  The department will join hundreds of other volunteer fire departments across New York to raise public awareness regarding the need for volunteers and to highlight the rewards of being a member of a volunteer fire department.

The event will include tours of the station, an apparatus showcase, allow visitors

to try on gear, demonstrate firefighting activities, provide information, and address questions on becoming a member. These activities give visitors a taste of what it means to be in the fire service. Volunteer firefighters will also be on hand to discuss the requirements and rewards of joining.

High school students welcome too! The department’s junior firefighters will also be on hand to discuss the rewards of joining the high school level program that introduces the students to firefighting and fire safety.

“We welcome the community to join us during RecruitNY Weekend,” said Chief Matthew Pearn. He continued, “This is an excellent opportunity for people to meet their local volunteer firefighters and learn more about the fire service. We are always looking for new members, and it is our hope that after meeting us, more people will be interested in becoming part of our family.”

The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is committed to assisting New York’s 1,700-plus volunteer departments connect with their commu-

nities and have sufficient members to protect them properly. Established in 2011, RecruitNY is an undertaking of FASNY.

For more information, visit www.gcfdny.com/recruitment, email membership@

516-465-4142.

Firefighters use Res-Q Jacks to stabilize overturned vehicle.

GCFD 1932 Antique Ford fire engine.

Volunteer firefighters conduct fire safety education at Hemlock school.

Volunteer firefighters D. Byrne, T. Rivera, L. Rivera and Lt. J. Philipas at Headquarters.

Firefighters at Veteran's Day ceremony at Rainbow Place war monument.

gcfdny.com, or call us via our non-emergency membership phone number at

The event will take place rain or shine.

Photos courtesy Garden City Fire Department

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment and Gift Shop

Get your table into spring with some new tableware and decorations.

BY MELISSA JAEGER

Happy National Volunteer Month!  The concept first originated in Canada during WWII (in 1943) to show appreciation for and honor the women who volunteered and helped the soldiers during and after the war. By 1974 the concept grew into a National Volunteer Week in the U.S. and in 1991 President Bush declared the month to be an official celebration. The idea was and is to raise awareness about the important part that volunteers play all over the world, while encouraging more people to get involved. Not only does it do good for the community, it’s also good for your health. Studies show that it reduces blood pressure and improves mental health. Helping others can have the effect of a serotonin-like boost, making the volunteers feel better about themselves. Those who volunteer their time tend to feel more connected with their community.

Just ask the 36 ladies – and one gentleman – who volunteer every week at the A.T. Stewart Exchange if all this is true. Working three hours a week makes them happier individuals. They do feel more connected and not so isolated. Even during covid when we were all on lockdown, there was the shared community looking out for and helping their fellow volunteers. It’s something to look forward to every week, a chance to socialize with fellow volunteers, customers and consignors. And it makes them – and me – feel that we are doing something useful,

still very high, places like The INN play such a vital role in less fortunate communities. Even your smallest gesture can help to put a decent meal on the table.

About Us:

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

• All the proceeds from the Shop sales directly benefit TGCHS.

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

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

Consigning:

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

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

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

Can I Donate?

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

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

and good for our community. Afterall, the proceeds of our sales in the shop benefit The Garden City Historical Society maintain and preserve the 1872 Museum. And for this I thank them all for their service and their dedication.

Save the Date!  Our annual June Market has been set for Saturday, June 15th. Stay tuned for details, but just to tease you … we already have

• The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter is bringing their furry friends for adoption!

• Pat Schweitzer and her hand-painted items

• Christine Rossidis and her Garden Ornaments (made from upcycled vintage china and crystal)

• Rob DeMarco and his handcarved wooden items

• Carol Khairallah, Local Batch, organic cookies

• Lenore Rust, Banana Bread Baking Company

• Diane Whalen, Diamond Jewelers

• Claire Werner with her vintage items

• Tricia Hughes with her vintage collectibles

• and there are more to come!!

Once again, we will couple the June Market with a Food Drive to benefit The INN, NOW thru June 14th. Please bring in your non-perishable food items to help your needy neighbors. With food prices

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

• Consignments are done Wednesday through Friday 11:00 a.m. –2:00 p.m. by appointment ONLY. Appointments keep down the numbers of people in the Shop and reduce waittimes to consign.

The shop is located at 109 Eleventh Street.

Shop Hours: Mon – Fri: 10–4 p.m., (Wednesday until 6 p.m.) Saturday 12 noon–4 p.m.

For more information, please call (516) 746-8900.

Over 400 cars participate in annual Easter Car Parade

Over 400 cars joined the parade.

The cars gathered in Parking Field 9E before the parade.

Final GC For a Cure Walk/Run on May 4

This year’s annual “GC For A Cure,” sponsored by The Garden City Teachers’ Association (GCTA), will be held on May 4. Organizers have announced that this will be the final GC For A Cure Walk/Run.

The 5K and 1 Mile Run/Walk will start at 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., respectively. All proceeds will benefit Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Kids Need More,

Over 400 cars participated in the Garden City Chamber of Commerce's annual Easter Car Parade on Sunday, March 31st.

Cars from four states as well as those from Nassau, Suffolk and Queens gath-

Ronald McDonald House Charities NY Metro, and the Michele White Scholarship Fund. Register today!

Please help make this last “GC For A Cure” the best yet!

For more information about the event, to make a monetary donation, donate a raffle basket, become a sponsor or to register to walk/run, please visit www.GCFORACURE. com or contact Kerry Calvert at gcforacure@gmail.com.

ered in Parking Field 9E before parading down Franklin Avenue and Seventh Street. 42 car clubs also sent representatives. Viewers saw antique cars, classic cars and one-of-a-kind vehicles.

The Easter Car Parade included fire trucks.

The parade also included "one of a kind" vehicles.

Breast cancer support group on Zoom

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Program is forming a new online support group for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer within the past 18 months. The group, which is free, will provide the opportunity for people to meet with others, and receive support. Sessions will be held on Thursdays from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. on Zoom for 6 weeks from May 2 through June 6. For more information and to register, call Nina Foley,

LMSW at (516) 877-4315.

The Adelphi New York Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program offers emotional support and resources to people with and/or concerned about breast cancer. To reach the Hotline, which is staffed by volunteers who are breast cancer survivors, call 800-877-8077 or online at breast-cancer.adelphi.edu.

STEP INTO AN EASIER WAY OF LIVING AT THE SEASONS

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Old World Quality Corp.

Old World Quality Corp.

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Custom

We are on the path towards a community project at St Paul’s! Brandstetter Carroll spent Wednesday afternoon touring our Village recreation facilities and meeting with Paul Blake and Ralph Suozzi. A comprehensive needs assessment has begun, and soon you will all be hearing about how we’ll need residents’ involvement to assess the Village’s parks, recreation and cultural needs and define a project at St. Paul’s that would have widespread community support and can be executed. Your elected leaders will need to hear from you because the answer to a successful project is dependent on fully understanding what you the residents will support. Bill Kavan of the St Paul’s committee hits this home in a short video posted on the St Paul’s page of our Village website. Thank you to all the groups who met with Bill. He is sharing the contacts and input with the experts at Brandstetter Carroll so they can carry this forward for us!

to Brixton Road

• Flower Drive - East Drive to Clinton Road

American Law & Order Award

Road Paving Schedule

The William Bradford Turner American Legion Post hosted its annual Law and Order Night earlier this month. The ceremony recognizes outstanding contributions to the community by members of the Fire and Police Departments. This year’s recipient is Firefighter Christopher Moscatiello, who has exemplified the true spirit of service. He has sacrificed countless hours away from his loved ones, responding to emergencies at a moment’s notice. Beyond his bravery, Firefighter Moscatiello’s commitment to service is demonstrated with the numerous committees he serves on within the Department, including Standard Operating Guidelines, the Blood Drive Committee and The Uniform Committee, of which he is chairman. We thank Firefighter Moscatiello for his dedicated service to this community.

Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Office: (516) 741-8226

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp Custom

Office: (516) 741-8226

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Email:

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp Custom

Office: (516) 741-8226

Email:

Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

The Village is trying to maintain a 25-year paving program in which all Village roads will have been paved within 20 years. It is important to note that this schedule is budget driven. For each street within the Village, there are many variables that determine which roads are completed and chosen over other roads, according to Public Works Superintendent John Borroni. “It is not strictly a timing decision. Put simply, it is a function of the condition of the existing road, traffic loading, and how the road was originally constructed,” he said. For each street on this road paving list, the time frame is within this year and any remaining roads will be completed in the Spring of the following calendar year (all within the same fiscal year). The following roads have been approved for paving in 2024-25:

• Garden Street - Saint James St. to Grove Street

• 10th Street - Hilton Avenue to Franklin Avenue

Email:

Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

• Kilburn Road - Dead End to North Avenue

• Edgemere Road - Stewart Avenue to Village Line

• Kensington Road - Merillon Avenue to Main Avenue

• Brixton Road - Merillon Avenue to Main Avenue

• Main Avenue - Kensington Road

Business District Grounds Maintenance

The Village has awarded a grounds maintenance contract to BrightView Landscape Services, to care for green space in the Village, including the mall on Stewart Avenue and the park at the end of Grove Street, areas the Parks and Recreation Department used to care for approximately eight years ago. BrightView currently maintains the Garden City Hotel and Wyndham properties. The commercial landscape company replaces Con-Kel. According to Recreation Commissioner Paul Blake, the Parks & Recreation Department is taking back the Central section with a four-man crew who will be “cutting, pruning, mulching, picking up trash and keeping the area clean five days a week.” Further, Maintenance Supervisor Tom Gordon, a long time Village resident, will be Mr. Blake’s eyes and ears when he can’t be in the field, tracking BrightView’s performance to ensure they are meeting all contract responsibilities. Trustee Vinny Muldoon, who was appointed liaison to the Business District, was happy to hear the Central districtapproximately 39 acres, will be in the Village’s control once again. “Let’s really take it up a notch and make

See page 44

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

Suspicious suitcase

Upon investigation of a suspicious suitcase left on Stewart Avenue, on April 3rd, police determined the item was rubbish.

Overweight truck

A Clinton Road truck driver was charged with driving a vehicle that was 35,000 pounds overweight and had an improperly secured roll-off container on April 3rd.

Open door

On April 3rd Garden City Police responded to a residential alarm, found an open door, and deemed everything was in order upon inspection.

Excessive speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed on April 3rd.

Lights out

Garden City Police responded to a traffic light outage at the intersection of Hilton Avenue and 2nd Street on April 3rd.

Aggressive driving

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with aggressive driving (speeding, tailgating, and unsafe lane use) on April 4th.

Scofflaw impounded

A vehicle declared a Village Court Scofflaw due to unpaid tickets was impounded from Parking Field 11 on April 4th.

Items removed from vehicle

Items were reported stolen from a vehicle parked at a Meadow Street residence on April 4th. On the same night, Two vehicles on Willow Street were rummaged through with no reported loss.

Failure to yield

On April 4th a Cherry Valley motorist was charged with failure to yield to a pedestrian in a school crosswalk.

Drug arrest

On April 4th, after investigating a driver who made and illegal turn from Franklin Avenue into Parking Field 7S, Garden City Police arrested a 43-year-old male for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance (Cocaine), Aggravated Unlicensed Operation due to two DWI related license revocations, and illegal turn.

Earthquake

All Garden City Police officers inspected their posts after an earthquake struck the Village on April 5th, and all appeared to be in order.

Unlicensed operation

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and unlicensed operation on April 5th.

False alarms

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to three locations for fire alarms that were determined to have been set in error on April 5th.

Failure to obey

THE OFFICE CAT

On April 5th a Cherry Valley Avenue motorist was charged with excessive speed and failure to obey a Police Officer’s directions to stop.

DWI arrest

While patrolling Nassau Boulevard on April 6th, an Garden City Police officer stopped a vehicle for multiple lane violations, resulting in the arrest of the 47-year-old female driver for DWI, Unsafe Lane Usage, and unlicensed operation.

Dumpster fire

Garden City Police officers assisted firefighters who extinguished a dumpster fire on Old Country Road on April 6th. The fire was possibly caused by combustible building products placed in the dumpster.

Little League Parade

Police personnel were assigned to traffic and safety details for the Little League parade and ceremony on April 6th.

Oven smoke

On April 6th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a restaurant for a fire alarm and determined the cause to be oven smoke.

Stolen car recovered

On April 7th a Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license, improper license plates, and an uninsured vehicle. The vehicle was also determined to have been reported stolen from Philadelphia.

Alarm errors

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to three fire alarm calls on April 7th and determined they were all set in error.

Camera disabled?

On April 7th Garden City Police investigated a report of tape being placed over a ring camera on Kildare Road.

Excessive speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed on April 7th.

Identity theft

On April 7th a victim reported that their identity was stolen and used to open unauthorized bank and credit card accounts.

Unlicensed operation

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and four youth passenger seatbelt violations on April 7th.

If a pole falls...

Officers removed a fallen old utility pole that fell on Rockaway Avenue on April 7th.

Carbon monoxide incident

On April 8th a Franklin Avenue store employee advised a GCPD officer his building’s carbon monoxide alarm was ringing. Upon notification, Firefighters responded, detected high levels of CO, and determined the

source of the leak to be a faulty HVAC system. The building was vented, and the employees were allowed back in the store when CO levels returned to normal. There were no reported injuries.

Packages stolen

On April 8th packages were reported stolen from a 5th Street porch and a Poplar Street porch.

No permit

A company was charged with landscaping without a permit on Cathedral Avenue on April 8th.

Vehicle damaged

A vehicle was reportedly damaged by unknown means while parked in Parking Field 7N on April 8th.

Suspended license

On April 8th a Second Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and unregistered vehicle.

Unusual event

Security cameras captured an unknown person walking in a Wyatt Road rear yard at approximately 3:15 a.m. on April 8th.

See page 44

Forum with Kimberly Pauley at GC Community Church

BY MELVA VICTORINO

On Sunday, April 14th at 11:45 a.m., Kimberly Pauley will share about herself and her ministry in the monthly Sunday forum in the parlor at the Garden City Community Church (GCCC.) Kimberly is a member of the Council of Trustees of GCCC. She is an avid gardener and finds delight cultivating the soil, planting the seeds, and harvesting the vegetables which were donated to the food pantry. Kimberly shares her passion with the youth and their parents. She invites folks of help till the soil, clear the weeds, and take care of the garden during the planting season. Last Sunday, April 7th, the middle school group of GCCC did a beautiful job of planting with Kimberly the first seeds for the spring harvest.

What more could go hand in hand with growing vegetables than cooking with them. Kimberly is very good in culinary art, a skill she generously shares with GCCC by organizing the fall apple baking for the yearly Americana Fair. Her pies and quiches are so delectable that they sold as they came out of the ovens. Kimberly will be hosting the forum refreshment this week, so join us after the service to sample her delicious food. All are invited to attend.

The Garden City Community Church

The

Concert 41st Annual Benefit Concert

All net proceeds from the Concert go directly to support youth services in Nassau County. Help is provided through recreational sports, tutoring, musical instruction, character building clubs, summer day camps, and overnight camping.

For tickets and sponsorship levels contact Major Soo Kim at 845-213-8707 or scan the QR code below:

is part of the United Church of Christ. It is an Open and Affirming congregation that welcomes people of all ages, races, gender identities, and sexual orientations to participate in the life of our community. We are located at 245 Stewart Avenue between Whitehall Blvd. and Kensington Road. For more information, email churchoffice@thegccc.org or call (516) 746-1700. And as previously mentioned, you may also visit our website, www.theGCCC.org.

Baubles, Bangles and Bags charity event on April 18

The Village of Garden City has so many wonderful people, businesses and non-profits and next Thursday, April 18, will be an event combining all of these.

Life’s WORC, a non-profit of over 50+ years, whose mission is to provide services that facilitate an independent and productive life experience for individuals with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities and autism, will enjoy a Sip & Shop event at Baubles, Bangles & Bags, hosted by its owner, Garden City’s own Jane Hildreth Okeeffe and Kirsten Ernst.

The event will be from 11 a.m.–6 p.m. and 7 p.m.–9 p.m. and 20% of the proceeds from BBB will be donated to

Life’s WORC.

Three Garden City vendors will also graciously be at the event.

• Maggie Landrum, class of 1999, and owner of Mollies Monkie

• Loraine Zigna and Jan Raskoff Peterson, both owners of Arbonne health, skin and beauty products

Please come by to shop for all things chic and fun to wear this spring and summer, enjoy a beverage, say hello to friends and neighbors, and support local businesses and help Life’s WORC support the individuals they care for each day.

Baubles, Bangles & Bags is located at: 289 Nassau Blvd. S, Garden City.

Attention students!

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!

Kimberly Pauley

OWN YOUR FUTURE OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, April 20, 2024 9:00 a.m. - noon

When you dream big, anything can happen.

From our intentionally small classes to the skills of our excellent faculty, everything we offer is geared to enrich your experience and prepare you to pursue your own big dream. With nearly 60 undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, education, and the arts and sciences, we provide a solid educational foundation so you have the confidence in your own abilities to succeed at whatever you choose to undertake — to own your future.

Contact us:

For more information or to make reservations, contact: (516) 876-3200, enroll@oldwestbury.edu

Garden City PTA News

Check Your Raffle Tickets!

Did you attend the PTA Annual Fundraising Dinner but had to leave before the winning raffle basket numbers were pulled? You have until May 1 to claim any winning tickets! Check the winning numbers of unclaimed baskets below. If you’re a winner, just email a photo of your winning ticket to dinner@gardencitypta.org by May 1. Good luck!

• Basket 43: 0871856

• Basket 62: 0872714

• Basket 63: 0872715

• Basket 76: 0872596

• Basket 77: 0871918

• Basket 80: 0871155

• Basket 81: 0871948

• Basket 103: 0871005

• Basket 110: 0871325

Last Day to Order School Supplies in Our PTA Fundraiser!

Orders close on Friday, April 12, for the PTA’s annual school supply fundraiser for students entering grades K-8 in Fall 2024. The school supply boxes are:

• Teacher selected and approved!

• Convenient! Get every item your child needs quickly and easily

• Organized! Supplies come in one easy-to-store box

Most importantly, 100% of proceeds support the children in all of our schools! To order, check out the informational flier at gardencitypta.org/school-supplies. Then visit https://site.educationalproducts.com/ and use school ID GAR054 (3 Letters/ 3 Numbers). All ordered kits will be picked up at the Middle School on Saturday, June 1.

Spring Sportswear Sale is Underway

The PTA’s annual spring sportswear fundraiser is now open, with great new styles available for adults and kids alike.

Check out the full range of new styles at https://gcptas24.itemorder.com/ and place your orders before the store closes on April 26! All orders will be picked up at the Middle School on Saturday, June 1, unless “ship to home” is selected for delivery. Thank you for your support of this great GC Spirit fundraiser!

Mark Your Calendars

Grab your calendar to mark down these important upcoming dates & deadlines from 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.

• April 17 – MS PTA Meeting via Zoom (check email for link)

• April 18 – Joint Elementary PTA Meeting via Zoom (check email for link)

• April 22–26 – Spring Break, Schools Closed

• April 26 – Spring Sportswear Fundraiser ends

Your Membership Matters!

Please take a minute today to visit www. gardencitypta.org to rejoin for the 2023–24 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

Estates POA to meet on April 17

www.oldwestbury.edu

The Estates Property Owners’ Association (Estates POA) will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, April 17, at 7:30 p.m. at the Garden City Senior Center located at 6 Golf Club Lane.  All members of the Estates POA are encouraged to attend the meeting as well as any resident of the Estates section who is interested in becoming a member and getting involved.  Topics to be discussed will include an update on the Village developments, the proposed casino at the Nassau

Coliseum, and information about the upcoming election for trustees to the Board of Education.  Village Trustee Michele Harrington will be present to provide an update on Village matters.  Board of Education candidate Carl Olivero will also be in attendance to speak about his candidacy for trustee and to answer questions.

To learn more about the Estates POA and become a member, visit our website at www.gcestates.org.

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More Italy Adventures

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

Last week’s column was written aboard an airplane flight to Italy, at the beginning of a trip to a family wedding just outside Siena.

For a relatively small city, Siena has a number of great sites and places of interest, particularly near the Duomo located at the city ’s cathedral. The church was mostly constructed in the 13th century in a Roman Gothic style markedly different from most of the other cathedrals of Europe, and boasts numerous works of arts by great masters. Siena was at the height of its power and influence when the cathedral was built and a massive expansion was scheduled. Unfortunately, this never happened because of the devastating Black Plague of the 14th century. Still, it is a magnificent edifice.

As for the wedding, it was held on the grounds of a former castle with massive gardens and wisteria in bloom. There was a garden party at the site the day before the wedding and the day itself featured excellent camaraderie, great food and a beautiful ceremony on a spectacular spring day.

In any event, this week’s column is written on the return airplane flight from Italy. I hope I can be forgiven yet another travelogue rather than the usual fare of political and social commentary. The customary stuff will reappear next week.

After the wedding, there was an excursion to Venice. I have been to Italy on a number of prior occasions, but I was always a little hesitant to go to Venice because I had heard that the city has become something of a tourist trap. However, after spending three days there, I have to say that the visit was well worth it.

Venice is constructed on a group of 126 islands separated by open water and canals. What strikes the relatively casual visitor is both the city’s overall beauty and the almost complete dependence on water

transportation to get around.

You can rather easily arrive in Venice by air or rail from cities in Italy or abroad, and once you get to Venice you can walk around the city (472 bridges link parts of Venice to each other). However, there are virtually no cars, buses or land taxis.

Once you get beyond a mile or two of walking or if you want to visit any of the outlying islands (definitely worth doing), you pretty much have to rely on vaporettos, regularly scheduled ferries on scheduled routes, or on much more expensive water taxis. Water transportation is even a primary method of getting to Marco Polo Airport, which serves the area. Yes, I know I’m leaving out the city’s famous gondolas, a romantic but not practical mode of transport. The vaporetto service is pretty good, although you have to get used to the different routes and schedules. The boats can be crowded, although it’s very pleasant to sit near the front outside.

For centuries, Venice was a leading political and commercial power as well as an important center of art and music. Some of the major attractions in the city center around St. Mark’s Basilica and the huge square surrounding it and the extremely ornate Palace of the Doges, the seat of government and residence of the rulers of Venice. The city has many museums, many historic or featuring centuries old paintings, but also the Peggy Guggenheim collection of 20th century art. There are also excellent restaurants in all price ranges.

As for Venice being a tourist trap, there were certainly visitors from all over and the place is not inexpensive. But, at least in April, I didn’t see examples of overcrowding, bogus attractions or obvious price gouging. If you haven’t been to Venice, give it a try.

“Runner in Red” explores link between women’s running, health

Tom Murphy, author of the Boston Marathon novel, “Runner in Red,” and Eileen O’Donnell, director of the Northwell Health Cancer Institute, gave a presentation April 9 to seventy-five attendees at “Runner in Red Women’s History” night hosted by Garden City Library. The event explored how women’s running history can provide inspiration for women today to enhance their health and the health of their families. Full details at RunnerinRed.com.

On April 9, the Garden City Library hosted the “Runner in Red Women’s Running History” night, an event to do three things based on the history of women’s running covered in the Boston Marathon novel, “Runner in Red,” by Tom Murphy, who gave the presentation.

First, the event explored the history of women’s running and identified “grit” of the early women runners that allowed them to break the gender barrier at the Boston Marathon in the 1960s and 70s and pave the way for women to run today.

Second, the seventy-five attendees discussed “resiliency strengths” women today can gain from their participation in running and sports.

The project is part of the Runner in Red Foundation’s effort to support a cure for lung cancer in memory of Barb Murphy, a marathon runner and Tom’s wife. Barb, who passed away from non-smoker’s lung cancer in 2013. Barb was a tireless advocate for health awareness and pro action.

Recruitment for the event was led by Diana Mitchell and the Garden City chapter of the Women’s Charity League, a group the promotes the pro action of mothers and daughters in performing community service together.

Attendees were give free copies of the “Runner in Red” novel, compliments of a sponsorship by Hilton Capital Management.

Full details on the project and cause at RunnerinRed.com.

Third, Eileen O’Donnell, director of the Northwell Health Cancer Institute, showcased resources that can be added to create a plan for lifelong health women can apply for them and their families on the “run” through life.

The Kordes K orner

John Ellis Kordes

PhotograPhy history

I took this photo recently of the statue at the SE corner of Clinton Road and Old Country Road. For those of you who don’t know, that is Ben Franklin. You probably have noticed this statue as it has been there, a few feet over the Garden City border, for over sixty years. However, do you know why it’s there?

You see, the large building located behind the statue was once the “Franklin National Bank” with a bright yellow sign at the top of the building (today it is “Charles Schwab”). The bank was founded in Franklin Square in 1926. During the 1920s every small town had its own bank. The Garden City Bank was located on Hilton Avenue in 1923. It eventually became Long Island Trust on 7th Street. However, the Franklin Square bank succeeded in ways other banks didn’t after it opened on Hempstead Turnpike.

By the 1940s, the bank had become a nationally known leader in the banking industry. It was the first bank in the nation to operate its own parking lot with walk-up service. The bank became a huge part of the community in Franklin Square and surroundings. Between 1934 and 1970 this bank financed one quarter of all houses built in Nassau County including the post-war housing boom. By the late 1950s, the bank changed its name to the “Franklin National Bank of Long Island.” In 1960, they moved their headquarters to the new large building at the entrance to Roosevelt Field Mall along Old Country Road. It’s at this time they erected this statue of Ben Franklin which had become the symbol of the bank. By 1968, the bank had 37 branches on Long Island and 24 more branches in New York City. It was the 18th largest bank in the country at this point.

In 1970, the chairman of the bank (who had guided it since the late 1930s) was pushed out by the board of directors. Eventually, the bank fell into the hands of an Italian banker who was a major player in the Vatican bank scandals. He ended up looting the Franklin National Bank of millions of dollars. It didn’t take long and on October 8, 1974 the Franklin National Bank closed its doors. It was the largest bank failure in American history up to that time. Its offices reopened as the European American Bank (EAB) which had purchased the remains of the Franklin National Bank. All that is left, that this once great bank ever existed, is this statue.

(Thanks to Franklin Square historian Paul van Wie for the above information.)

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!

Butterfly Memory Cafe

Tuesday, April 30, 12:30 p.m.

Butterfly Memory Café for persons with mild to moderate cognitive impairment and their caregivers. RSVP to Hannah, (631) 647-7622

Movie: “Moonstruck”

Tuesday, April 16, 1:00 p.m.

At the Senior Center. Register by calling the Senior Center front desk

This story should serve as a reminder of what can happen when people who are corrupt or incompetent or those with “misguided ideals” (or any combination thereof) get hold of a bank... or a village... or a city... or even a country. What took generations to build up can disappear seemingly overnight.

(516) 385-8006.

The Story of the Beach Boys

Thursday, April 18, 1:00 p.m.

Historian John Ellie Kordes presents “The Story of the Beach Boys”. Thursday, April 18, 1:00–3:00, at the Senior Center. Stop by the Senior Center front desk or call for reservations (516) 385-8006.

Trip to Nassau County Museum of Art and Lunch

Friday, April 12

Trip to the Nassau County Museum of Art, and lunch at Mim’s.

Bus leaves at 11:15, tour at noon $20 check made payable to the “Nassau County Museum of Art”, lunch at 1:30, $40.00 cash. Register at the Senior Center front desk by April 5.

Trip to Molloy University to See “Sweet Charity” Sunday, June 2

Trip to Molloy University to see Sweet Charity. Tickets are $53, make checks payable to “Molloy University”. Register at the Senior Center front desk by May 2.

Chess 4 Community New monthly program, Play and

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

Yoga Classes

Time for Senior Center Yoga is as follows–

Chair Yoga: Tuesday at 11:15, Friday at 11:45,

Mat Yoga: Thursday at 11:15.

Registration is necessary, by stopping by the front desk, or calling the Senior Center (516) 385-8006. Space is limited.

Greater Nassau Chorus to perform at Adelphi PAC

The internationally award-winning Greater Nassau Chorus returns to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Saturday, May 4.

The internationally award-winning Greater Nassau Chorus returns to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Saturday, May 4. The women’s barbershop will perform a repertoire of contemporary music, show tunes, and popular favorites.

The Greater Nassau Chorus has been bringing four-part a cappella music to Long Island and beyond since the 1960s.

The performance of the Greater Nassau Chorus will take place at Adelphi’s PAC at 4 p.m. Livestream access is available for

those unable to attend in person.

Tickets are $35, with discounts available to seniors, students, alumni and employees. Livestream access is $20. For more information call the Lucia and Steven N. Fischer Box Office at 516-877-4000 or email boxoffice@adelphi.edu. Regular box office hours are Wednesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and the box office is also open two hours before all ticketed performances. Ticket sales and additional information are available online.

Adelphi Symphony Orchestra to perform on April 19

The talented students, alumni, faculty, and staff of the Adelphi Symphony Orchestra will present an evening of classical and contemporary music at the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Friday, April 19. The performance, under the direction of conductor Stefano Miceli, will feature vocal soloists from Adelphi’s graduating Class of 2024.

The repertoire for this performance will include arias from Mozart’s “Cosi fan tutte” and “The Marriage of Figaro,” as well as the “Allelujah” from his “Exsultate Jubilate.” Graduating senior sopranos Lara Campanella, Mallory Clark, and Joy DelGiorno will be the featured soloists in these works. The orchestra will also perform Haydn’s Symphony No.

45 in F-sharp Minor, also known as the Farewell Symphony.

The performance of the Adelphi Symphony Orchestra will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the Adelphi PAC Concert Hall. Livestream access is available for those unable to attend in person.

Tickets are $30, with discounts available to seniors, students, alumni and employees. Livestream access is $20. For more information call the Lucia and Steven N. Fischer Box Office at 516-877-4000 or email boxoffice@adelphi.edu. Regular box office hours are Wednesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and the box office is also open two hours before all ticketed performances. Ticket sales and additional information are available online.

GC Schools recognized for music education program

Garden City Schools has been recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education in the nation for the 20232024 school year by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation. This is the 13th time that Garden City has received this prestigious award which honors districts and schools that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to providing high-quality music education as part of a well-rounded education.

The designation as one of the Best Communities for Music Education acknowledges the exceptional efforts of teachers, administrators, parents, students and community leaders who have prioritized music education within the district. By fostering a supportive environment and ensuring access to music education opportunities, Garden City Schools has enriched

the educational experience of its students.

"We are incredibly proud of this recognition, which reflects our unwavering dedication to music education," said Amanda Hauser, coordinator of music and the arts for Garden City Schools. "This achievement is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our music department, as well as the ongoing support of our entire school community."

Love to write?

The Best Communities for Music Education award program celebrates the achievements of 975 school districts across the nation that have demonstrated a high level of commitment to music education. It highlights the importance of music as an integral part of a comprehensive education and recognizes the positive impact it has on students' academic and personal development.

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

The Adelphi Sympony Orchestra Photo courtesy Adelphi University/Jocelyn Cortez Photography

Adelphi announces Larson Legacy Concert Series performers

Celebrating the next generation of musical theater creators at the alma mater of Jonathan Larson (creator of the musical “RENT”), Adelphi University has announced Daniel Henri Emond, Veronica Mansour and Larry Owens as the latest participants in the Larson Legacy Concert Series, beginning April 27.

Since 2015, the Larson Legacy Concert Series at the Adelphi’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) has showcased talented artists to help nurture and support the next generation of musical theater creators to carry on the legacy of Jonathan Larson, who graduated from Adelph in 1982. For several years after he graduated, Adelphi was able to bring Jonathan back to work on projects with students. Upon his passing, members of the Adelphi community were instrumental (along with Jonathan’s family and friends) in setting up the Jonathan Larson Foundation to support musical theater creators.

The concerts range from cabaret-style concert presentations of songs from various musicals in development to full-length showcases of a single work-in-progress. Past participants in the series have included Pulitzer Prize winner Michael R. Jackson (“A Strange Loop,” “White Girl In Danger,”

“Teeth”), Tony nominee Max Vernon (“K-Pop,” “The View Upstairs”), Zoe Sarnak (MCC Theatre’s upcoming “The Lonely Few”), and over a dozen more talented creators.

“Jonathan Larson’s deep history with Adelphi has made a lasting impact on our community forever,” said Executive Director of the Adelphi PAC, Blyth Daylong. “We are pleased to continue to honor him through the Larson Legacy Concert Series, a chance for the next generation of artists to shine at his alma mater. I’m looking forward to welcoming Daniel, Veronica and Larry to the place that helped nurture Jonathan’s talent and share their work with a new audience.”

Daniel Henri Emond is a singer, musician, composer and recording artist. His rock opera “Kill The Whale” began as a concept album in 2015 and will be released as a double LP by Gotta Groove Records in April along with a series of concerts at Joe’s Pub. Elmond is the recipient of a 2023 Queens Arts Fund Grant, a 2023 New York Foundation for the Arts grant and a 2023 Jonathan Larson Grant.

Veronica Mansour is a composer, lyricist and artist. Dreamworks Theatricals recently commissioned her to write the music and lyrics for “How

To Train Your Dragon The Musical Jr.” as part of their Emerging Writers Program. Other musicals in development include “Lighthouse” and “The Dark Lady.” In addition to her work as a writer, Mansour is also an accomplished cellist and vocalist. She is a 2024 Richard Rogers Award winner and a recipient of a 2023 Jonathan Larson Grant.

Larry Owens is an award-winning artist across theater, television, film, music and comedy. He is the author of “The American Football Musical,” a satire of “The Blind Side”-esque sports/white savior films; “The Talk Show”, about an evil female talk show host (also his directorial debut at the Tribeca Film Festival under the title “The Gag” starring Sherie Rene Scott); “Five Sisters,” a play about gendered succession written in verse and AAVE. Owens has more than 20 television and film credits since his breakout role as Usher in the Pulitzer-Prize-winning Off-Broadway production of “A Strange Loop” including “Abbott Elementary, A24’s “Problemista,” “Search Party” and more. In addition to being a Drama Desk, Lucille Lortel and Obie Award winner, Owens is also a recipient of a 2023 Jonathan Larson Grant. The Larson Legacy Concerts will

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

take place as follows:

• Larry Owens - Saturday, April 27, 2024

• Daniel Henri EmondSaturday, September 14, 2024

• Veronica Mansour - Saturday, January 25, 2025

All performances will occur in the Olmsted Theatre (where Jonathan Larson performed while he was a student at Adelphi) of the Adelphi PAC. These concerts will also be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.

Tickets for Larry Owens are currently on sale (tickets for Daniel Henri Edmond and Veronica Mansour will go on sale at a later date) for $25, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and Adelphi employees. Livestream tickets are $15. For more information call the Lucia and Steven N. Fischer Box Office at 516-8774000 or email boxoffice@adelphi.edu. Regular box office hours are Wednesday through Friday from Noon until 5 p.m. and the box office is also open two hours before ticketed events. Ticket sales and additional information are also available online at adelphi.edu/pac.

Daniel Henri Emond

Larry Owens Photo courtesy Adelphi University / Callum Walker Hutchinson

Veronica Mansour

GC orthodontist teaches “Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles”

Garden City orthodontist Dr. Denise Emma recently went visited several Garden City schools to discuss dental health with the children. She discussed  the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene habits from an early age. Dr. Emma went over which snacks were healthy snacks with a game of  “Thumbs up” for healthy snacks & “Thumbs down” for unhealthy snacks, which the children loved.

Dr. Emma and the children all had a fun-filled day learning healthy habits for healthy smiles.

The children played a "thumbs up, thumbs down" game about snack foods. Dr. Emma showed different choices for breakfast cereals.

Garden City orthodontist Dr. Denise Emma visited local schools to demonstrate the importance of oral health habits.

Library, village projects to upgrade technology

From page 1

from the prior budget, resulting from “less reliance on third-party IT consultant services from our big tech partner, SourcePass, reduced to 12-hours per week of an on-site resource which allows for savings of $57,600. In addition we eliminated the blocks of time which amounted to approximately $35,000 in prior years’ expenses,” Suozzi told the Board.

The former consultants to the village Total Technology Solutions now operate as a subsidiary of SourcePass.

The primary reasons for increased costs are salary-related expenses, going up from $1.249 million this year to $1.283 million in the 2024-25 budget, as well as the Maintenance of Software budget line.

Administrator Suozzi described the software needs as system wide, the Village of Garden City changed platforms from Microsoft Office 365 to a new version which includes enhanced cybersecurity features, “that will isolate our Microsoft network products from the outside world to prevent any hacking from occurring.”

The expiration of the village’s software licenses also increased the Maintenance of Software increase, but that will not be a recurring cost to the programs’ five-year renewals, Suozzi said.

The increase of one headcount in Administration is for an Info Tech Aide II to work alongside the village’s senior IT Specialist Ryan Sheehan, as the

new hire will work alongside him and provide full coverage for the village’s business hours on weekdays. Sheehan arrives very early in mornings to assist in Garden City Police tech needs and reporting. The new person’s schedule will overlap his shift.

In addition the IT hire will work with the library staff for their needs.

“For a number of years I’ve encouraged the GCPL to develop a consulting relationship with a big IT partner as the village has successfully done for the last five years. The Board of Trustees recently approved a resolution allowing the library to hire SourcePass for the remainder of the fiscal year (through May 31) and the Library Budget includes funding for a full year of the IT support – but as part of village budgeting strategy I’ve asked the library to offset 20% of this cost, for the employee to work at GCPL one day every week to have them learn and assist on both network environments, and to provide backup for both Ryan Sheehan and GCPL’s Computer Systems Librarian Joe Agolia who has been the library’s sole IT resource,” Suozzi explained.

A major task the new hire will be an integral part of is the migration of GCPL’s network infrastructure to “parallel the modernization and changes we have already performed throughout the village networks.” The GCPL system includes connectivity and levels of integration with the Nassau Library System (NLS) network and resources.

The village’s Administration budget includes 13 full-time positions, with

the increase of one headcount from the 2023-24 budget. In September 2023, the budget was modified to include a Village Justice Court clerk and the transfer out of a principal account clerk (serving as a payroll processing job) from Administration into the Finance Department’s budget. After a question from Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan comparing the increased headcount to that of the 2023-24 budget, Administrator Suozzi said that the total is only a ‘net gain of one.’

He explained to the trustees, “our payroll function is being segregated from the HR function in our Administration division, effective from the start of the next fiscal year on June 1, at the recommendations of the village’s two independent auditors and at the direction of the Finance & Audit Committee. We’ve already transferred the person to Finance.”

Mayor Carter Flanagan reviewed the budget and said setting aside the principal account clerk shifted into Finance, there was a spot added a year ago with the court clerk (for the current fiscal year) and another for the Info Tech Aide II was added for 2024-2025.

Benefits and taxes for the Administration expense budget were not presented at the March 20 budget work session, but Suozzi noted the costs at approximately $595,000.

Suozzi also presented details of the Administration’s capital projects including the $259,000 Village Hall Computer Room renovation project, which had updated design specs due to

overhead pipes.

Noted in the capital projects’ data, $230,000 is remaining on the Computer Room renovation as only $29,000 has been encumbered for design spec work.

Suozzi estimated that the design work should be completed by about mid-May, and it will take about six to nine months for the construction, wiring and network fittings.

Administrator Suozzi commented that the improvements to the village’s network have been worthwhile so far and the old wiring has been rectified and secured.

The $125,000 budgeted capital amount for the coming year will go towards two to three new file servers which are at the end of their useful lives and need to be upgraded.

For the five-year Administration capital projects outlook, a $100,000 lump sum was allocated for the Digital Scanning project in FY 2025-2026. Suozzi said it would be a placeholder for the project, and the digital scanning was not proposed for other budget years’ in the five-year outlook with the newly adopted budget. He suggested there wouldn’t need to be a five-year capital funding plan for that project.

“As you know we must keep permanent digital records, so we are scanning files – the scanning is one part of it and the second part involves verification of files and data. For records we need to keep for up to six years, those are not being scanned” Suozzi noted.

GC Schools population expected to rise over next five years

From page 1

in 2016.

District enrollment is forecast to increase in the next five years, with an expected gain of 112 students. Small losses are projected in the primary, intermediate and middle grades. Significant gains are projected in the high school grades.

Resident population within the district is expected to grow slowly, however, increased levels of housing turnover are expected to continue to bring younger families with children into the district.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha expressed her gratitude to the BOCES team. “These findings are always so helpful for planning and budgeting purposes. We look forward to working together again next time.”

Information technology budget

Also during the meeting, the Board heard presentations from district staff about the budget for next year, beginning with information technology The district plans to update cybersecurity

infrastructure, ensure preparedness for NYS computer-based testing, implement new IT-centric standards and courses, and more. The full list is available on the district site.

Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) will use the funds to prioritize the execution of Special Education Advisory Committee recommendations, along with the development and refinement of proactive supports in the areas of speech, language and motor development and employ the DESSA screening tool. This will help pinpoint intervention across buildings as part of the MTSS process. The team will also develop a long term plan for hard to fill OT/ PT positions and support the incoming assistant director of PPS in acclimating to our community, its culture and programs through the development of a structured entry plan.

Impacts from the demographic study were most noticeable when it comes to staffing changes. The district is looking to add art, English, math, music, science, social studies full-time employees based on increased enrollment num-

bers. Other changes: a new literacy coach, K ICT section, and middle and high school electives, along with support for K-5 science and the reconfiguration of the sixth grade to allow for increased academic instructional time.

“Are there plans to hire a part-time or full-time resource room teacher? I know you guys said you were going to have some plan for that. If not, does that mean the ICT teachers will be leaving during electives?” one mother in the audience asked.

Dr. Sinha said at this time the district has been able to handle this internally

without the need for budget increases, and that this is not the case for ICT teachers next year.

Another attendee asked, “If Garden City faces state funding cuts, do you have a backup plan?”

Administrators said nothing in negotiations suggests that the final inactive budget is less than the governor proposed budget. “It has never happened,” a team member added.

The next board meeting on April 16 will cover budget adoption, followed by a hearing on May 14 and vote on May 21.

Village crews to maintain downtown landscaping

From page 1

the center mall along Stewart Avenue, the end of Grove Street Park and other small areas which were once under the care of the Recreation and Parks Department.

“The decision was made about eight years ago to contract some of the work out, and to reduce the size of the Parks Department through retirements and attrition. This year we took the Central section out of the bid so that the BrightView Landscapes company will maintain the village’s East, West and Estates sections…the four-man village crew will be in our Central section five days a week, trimming, cutting grass, pruning and mulching the shrubs and beds, taking care of flowers and picking up trash, and keeping the area clean,” he told the board.

Change in landscaping companies

Deputy Mayor Bruce Chester inquired if the previous landscaping contractor, Con-Kel Landscaping Inc., was no longer providing its services to Garden City, and Blake confirmed that they had completed their contract with the village. Con-Kel’s contract included responsibilities over public green spaces, hedges, shrubs and vegetation throughout all four sections of the village. Nonetheless, Con-Kel was the only other vendor vying for Garden City’s

public areas’ maintenance contract, and their bid was significantly higher than BrightView Landscapes’ figure, by about $26,000.

Blake explained that the Rec. Department and village administration checked references for BrightView Landscapes, and they are said to do a “wonderful job” of grounds maintenance at The Wyndham East Condominiums and at the Garden City Hotel.

“We have assurances that they’ll provide the same excellent services to the village and we of course will be tracking them very closely…I am confident we will get a good job out of the contractor and I KNOW we are going to get a good job done by our Parks Department crew,” Blake said.

Trustee Vincent Muldoon asked for more details on the oversight, and Mr. Blake noted that longtime village resident and Parks Department Supervisor Tom Gordon shadowed the Con-Kel Landscaping crews, covering items on their prior contract, and the job their crews performed was significantly better during summer 2023 as a result of his diligence and coordination. Blake called Gordon his “eyes and ears for when he can’t leave the Recreation office.”

Additional discussion on the situations involving Con-Kel’s maintenance work in Garden City was shared during the board meeting but Trustee Muldoon

was enthused to hear about the progress and village crews working on the Central section, and he offered to help as often as he can with keeping an eye on the conditions around town.

“I’m really looking forward to working with you guys and to doing everything we can to really take it up a notch and make our village beautiful again, especially in the Central section. I am delighted you guys are taking that back up. It’s about doing anything we can for the village with flowers, beds, maintenance and just overall attention to detail,” he said.

Service providers’ prices rise

In stating the key contractual items for BrightView Landscapes, Superintendent Blake added that there were 83 views of the contract for Garden City’s maintenance of three of the four village sections on the New York State Contract Reporter website (the official website of NYS procurement site for bid opportunities higher than $50,000).

One of his comments to the trustees was that the prices from landscaping maintenance firms have risen, as the Recreation and Parks Department estimated approximately $200,000.

“Bids came in a little above that; we are told the reasons are increases in the costs of minimum wage and the increased costs of gas and oil, as well as increased insurance costs. Con-Kel com-

pleted its previous contract with the village as their last month was November 2023. They were the only other bidder and the cost was substantially higher,” Blake said.

Enforcement of maintenance

One contractual clause for 2024 is that all papers and trash MUST be picked up (by the contractor’s workers) prior to grass/shrubs/hedge cutting, and if papers and trash are cut they MUST be cleaned up immediately by the crew.

“It is NOT ACCEPTABLE to have a clean-up crew after the cutting is done and having trash scattered all over due to the grass maintenance,” Blake told the Commission.

Blake shared with the Commission a thought on achieving a balance to best serve the needs of the community, both with maintenance of its flora and environment and with the beautification efforts.

“There are areas that just need more work and frankly the (Seventh Street/ Franklin Avenue) district needs a lot of attention to just keep it clean daily. We discussed this at our village department heads meeting and the Civic Beautification Committee, with the Chamber, has been discussing this with us. The topic of stepping it up in the Central was a focus – this is what people see when they think of Garden City,” he commented.

Board approves expenses for water system projects

From page 13

responsible bidder. He stated a need for careful evaluation of the bids received for all capital projects.

Muldoon commented, “The $700,000 seems like a lot of money but in today’s day and age it may not be. The papers we received reflect the lower four bids, and the other three were a bit over $800,000 – it always scares me when I see a low bid that is substantially less than the other three bids. I want to make sure we’re getting the job done right and not just pursuing the lowest price.”

Trustee Muldoon also asked the DPW superintendent if the HVAC project will involve all-new duct work with central air conditioning and heating at the Water Works. Borroni said there isn’t duct work involved for a new VRF system but the entire building would be addressed.

“There are just the two main lines that come into the system installed for units on the wall. This is nothing like the standard HVAC systems in most buildings, but there is light duct work for installing the natural gas heaters at the equipment base,” Superintendent Borroni explained.

He told Trustee Muldoon the village staff makes sure to examine the numbers on bids received “very closely”

including checking on the references from companies/contractors.

“We had no reason to disqualify this vendor, and generally speaking the range of bids on the project was fairly tight,” he noted.

Funding for the new Water Works’ HVAC capital project is subject to a permissive referendum. The resolution approved on April 1 shall take effect 30 days after its adoption, as noted on the meeting agenda.

Water tank evaluation, well work

The Board of Trustees also covered items pertaining to the remediation of the municipal water supply system, and the AOP (advanced oxidation process) treatment equipment installed at village wells. More contractual engagement/ agreements for H2M’s consulting engineers and services were included on the March 21 agenda.

The Board approved the H2M’s proposal to furnish a Present Condition Evaluation (PCE) on an emergency basis for the groundwater storage tank (GST) at 49 Plaza Road – Plant No. 9 at Edgemere Park.

The approval includes a lump-sum fee of $34,800 for H2M. A PCE will inform specs to assist in the water tank rehabilitation and leak repair.

DPW Superintendent Borroni shared information on the expense with the trustees:

“This is for H2M to investigate and identify a leak inside the Well 9 ground storage tank. The proposal includes interior powerwashing to inspect the entire tank interior.”

The Board also ratified a proposal from H2M to provide additional construction observation for the reconditioning project at Village Well No. 15 (at Hilton Park) to remediate elevated levels of iron in the raw water, for a cost of $23,500. Funding for their consulting services on the project is available in the Air Stripping Tower and Treatment account for Wells 15 and 16.

Borroni said the additional inspection work was required to ensure that the contractor working on Well 15 “properly air-surged, chemically-treated and bailed out the well.”

Trustee Ed Finneran had a question about the elevated levels of iron, if the iron presence was due to some event or if there were concerns about iron in Garden City’s water supply “more broadly.” That is not the case, as further info came from Water Department Superintendent Stanley Carey, who joined the meeting on Zoom. He explained that iron is not a pri-

mary drinking water standard; it is categorized as a “secondary standard” because it does not pose any adverse health effects.

Carey notes that the iron detected would never reach the municipality’s drinking water supply – the village has protocols in place.

“Wells 15 and 16 at Hilton Park have historically had high iron levels, but we have the iron treatment removal plant there that gets the numbers down to acceptable levels. Well 15 in particular has been recorded higher than normal and that’s why we had to treat it with air sparging and an environmentally-friendly chemical. That creates the need for additional services by H2M,” Carey noted. He adds that iron in water supplies is only regulated “for aesthetic reasons.”

With a separate cost allocation, a proposal from L.K. McLean Associates of Brookhaven, for $15,200, presented their professional studies to “further investigate a supplemental option to the alternate (work) for the Meadow Street Drainage improvement project at College Place. The project could enhance a stormwater drainage solution – through increased storage capacity and level of protection – for Meadow Street during times of flooding risks.

Firefighters and bunnies at Garden Manor Nursery School

The month of March was a busy and fun one at Garden Manor Nursery School. Two exciting events stand out. Students were treated to a visit from a New York City firefighter and a real life “Easter” bunny.

During the month of March, the Pre-School students at Garden Manor Nursery School learned all about community helpers and the jobs they do to keep us safe. As a special treat, a

school parent, who is a New York City firefighter, came to visit the Pre School students. Mr. Gentile brought his equipment and taught the students all about the job of a firefighter as well as fire safety. Students were able to ask questions and see the equipment up close and even try on some items! We are so grateful to Mr. Gentile for sharing his time with our students and thank him and all our “community helpers” for all

they do to keep our neighborhoods and families safe.

As students prepared for the start of spring, they learned about all things spring, including bunnies. Since Easter was right around the corner as well, the students were treated to a visit from a furry friend - could this be the real Easter Bunny? Many wondered! They got to pet him and see a real life bunny up close. What a treat!

Garden Manor Nursery School at Christ Episcopal Church, a Chapel of The Cathedral of the Incarnation is located at 33 Jefferson St. in Garden City. We are currently accepting registrations for the 2024-2025 school year. If you’d like to learn more about theschool please visit  www.GMNS.org. Tours are available by appointment.

So excited! Thumbs up!

A future firefighter.

Pre-school students and Mr. Gentile.

We love the bunny!

IN MEMORIAM

Anne Kilbourn Caretto

Anne Kilbourn Caretto, 95, a longtime resident of Garden City, and later Glastonbury, CT, went to her eternal reward on April 2, 2024 after a period of declining health.  She was preceded in death by her husbands, Austin Kilbourn and Albert Caretto; her parents George and Elizabeth Williams McGrath; and her brothers John and Gregory McGrath. She was the proud mother of Mary Kilbourn, Timothy Kilbourn, Anne Bonington and Elizabeth Graham and their spouses, grandmother of 9 and

great-grandmother of 11. She leaves an extraordinarily powerful example of a purposeful life.

In an age where many confuse the ephemeral with the lasting, the trivial with the important, and the mundane with the sacred, hers was in many respects a profoundly countercultural life that hewed to the simpler, straightforward values of an earlier day: she believed in faith, family, children, living modestly and treating others with respect. Her Catholic faith was extremely important to her, and she loved gardening.

She followed her mother and grandmother to Smith College, graduating with the Class of 1950. While there she formed friendships that lasted her entire life. She met her future husband Austin at Yale, and their joyful bond lasted over fifty years. At age 80 she married Al, a high school classmate, and began a new chapter of her life in Pittsburgh. A lifelong early childhood teacher, hundreds of children began their education with her at schools on Long Island. Her legacy, above all, lies in the power of her example and the moral center of gravity she sought to instill in her family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, April 27 at 11 am at the Church of the Incarnation in Wethersfield, CT. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the Interfaith Nutrition Network,  211 Fulton Avenue, Hempstead, NY 11550.

IN MEMORIAM

Jeremiah P. Mather

Jeremiah Pliny Mather was born on November 19th, 1960, and died on January 3rd, 2024, age 63, in Port St. Lucie, Florida.  Jerry grew up in Garden City and lived there for 50 years.  He was the 6th of 10 children of Rachel Roser Mather and Walter Strong Mather.  Jerry is survived by eight siblings:   Melissa, Walter, Rebecca, Nancy, Nathaniel, Abby, Tim, and Daisy; much-loved nieces, nephews, cousins, and an aunt; and many wonderful life-long Garden City friends.  He was predeceased by his parents and a baby brother.

Jerry graduated from Garden City High School in 1978.  After many years of perseverance, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Adelphi University and a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition from New York Institute of Technology in Old Westbury.   These achievements were especially challenging because Jerry was simultaneously working his physically demanding landscaping job while going to school at night.   Jerry ran the landscaping business for almost 30 years, first with a partner and then on his own.  He was well liked by his customers, who appreciated his hard work and good service, and who were grateful that he did not use toxic chemicals on their lawns.  Many of his loyal customers stayed with him for years.

Jerry was always athletic.  In his youth he played baseball in the Garden City Little League, was on the high school wrestling team, and rode dirt bikes.   He loved to play tennis, swim at the beach and at the Garden City Pool, play Frisbee, do yoga, ride his bicycle, ski, lift weights, and participate in half-marathons and mini triathlons.  His favorite activity of all was playing soccer with his friends at St Mary’s or St Paul’s fields.   Jerry was never happier than at holiday time, when friends would come in from out of town to reunite for a game at the soccer fields (or when his friends came to 121 Brixton Road to hang out in the garage attic).

Jeremiah P. Mather

eating organic foods, and using magnets, reflexology, and other unconventional therapies to promote and maintain good health.  He pursued his interest in the use of medicinal herbs all the way to the Northeast School of Botanical Medicine, where he attended classes and seminars.   His knowledge in this area had a positive influence on family and friends with health issues or who had an interest in using non-traditional medicines.  Many people were helped by following Jerry’s advice, and through him lived better, healthier lives.

In his early 40’s Jerry scaled back his landscaping business to pursue a career in neurophysiology.  He became a Registered Electroencephalography Technologist (R. EEG T.), which eventually led him to travel around the United States for his work.  He was a hard worker, never missed a shift, and was highly regarded by coworkers because of his expertise and work ethic.

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.

He was an avid reader and looked forward to his birthday and Christmas when he received new books, always well chosen by his mother, with whom he shared a passion for science fiction and dystopian novels.   He read the JP Whitney car parts catalogue, periodicals about herbal medicine and organic gardening, William Least Heat Moon, and novels by Thomas Mann and Herman Hesse.  He was also a huge fan of classic rock and heavy metal music and enjoyed going to concerts.

Alternative medicine and health care were supremely important to Jerry, and he was well known for taking numerous dietary supplements,

Jerry had a strong faith in God, and during the last year of his life was an active member of his church in Florida.  He frequently did the readings during the services, attended Bible study, and was much loved by the congregation.

Of all his many achievements, Jerry would say that the love of his friends was the greatest.

Jerry’s remains are buried next to his mother in the Roser family plot at the Green Cemetery in Glastonbury, Connecticut.

For more information about Jerry, go to www.forevermissed.com/Jeremiah-Pliny-Mather.

If you or someone who know is suicidal, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Anne Kilbourn Caretto

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

Chick Incubation Project: The Chicks Have Hatched!

The Library’s Annual Chick Incubation program returned this year!

The eggs arrived on Tuesday, March 19, and hatched beginning Monday, April 8 and into the morning of Tuesday, April 9. Eight chicks hatched, for a 100% hatch rate this year! The following names were pulled from our Name the Chick contest:

• Vivienne, submitted by Lyla Cerrone, Grade 7

• Sunny, submitted by Sophia Grace Cambi, Grade 5

• James, submitted by Elizabeth James, Kindergarten

• Chicklette, submitted by Carina Iezzi

• Popcorn, submitted by Amelia Wunsch, Grade 3

• Velociraptor, submitted by Ruby Fitzgerald, Nursery School

• Bingo, submitted by by Sarah Mundia, Grade 6

• Eclipse, submitted by Madeline Bright

Thanks to all the patrons who submitted names for the Library’s chicks. 590 names were submitted!

The Library will have the chicks through Monday, April 15, and patrons can visit them this weekend. Eggs were picked up from Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY and chicks will be returned back to Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY.

Vote for This Year’s Tweens and Teens Summer Reading Club Prizes

This year’s Tweens and Teens Summer Reading Club Prizes will be decided by the tweens and teens! Submit your vote either in person by visiting the Library or online by visiting our website at https://www.gardencitypl.org/vote-for-teens-tweensreading-club-prizes/

To vote you must be entering Grades 6-12 in Fall 2024 and are asked to only fill out one ballot. The nominees, as chosen by the Library’s Teen Advisory Board, are as follows:

• $50 Sephora Gift Card

• $50 Amazon Gift Card

• $50 Target Gift Card

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

• Seventh Street Gift Card Dessert Package worth $75 (3 $25 gift cards to Dunkin, Starbucks, and TCBY)

• $50 AMC GIft Card

• Portable Bluetooth Speaker

• $50 Dick’s Sporting Goods Gift Card

• Airpods

• $50 Barnes & Noble Gift Card

• Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker

• $60 Spotify Gift Card

Voting will be held through April 30. Each teen can select up to 5 of the 12 nominees on his/her/their ballot. The nominees with the most votes will be this year’s Summer Reading Club Prizes, so make sure to get your vote in at the Library. Contact Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl. org/young-adult-department/contactthe-young-adult-tweens-teens-department/ if you have any questions.

Egg Scavenger Hunt

This year, patrons can participate in an Egg Scavenger Hunt in the Library! Search the Library for painted eggs, painted by teen volunteers! Patrons can participate in the scavenger hunt anytime they visit the Library until April 30. When you successfully complete the Scavenger Hunt, you can submit your completed entry to be entered into a raffle to win a $50 Amazon gift card. Only one entry per person. There will be only one winner. Patrons of all ages can participate! The Scavenger Hunt sheets to participate are available at the Library. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Crafternoon: Tie Dye with Chris Buchman

Join us on Saturday, April 13 at 3PM for Teen Crafternoon: Tie Dye with Science Teacher Chris Buchman! Teens can get creative while learning some science! Each registrant will be given a baseball cap to tie dye. Registrants may also bring in white cotton items from home to tie dye. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6-12 only. Registration began Tuesday, April 2, online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Volunteers Needed: Reading Pals

Volunteer to read to and then do a craft with children ages PreK–Grade 2 during the program Reading Pals! The April session will be held on Tuesday, April 16. The Reading Pals program runs from 4 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 3:30 p.m. to review the material before the start of the program and stay until 5 p.m. to help clean up. Volunteers must be in Grades 6–12 only. Registration to volunteer begins Tuesday, April 9, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org).

Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. This program has been

funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Paint Night

Join us on Wednesday, April 17, at 7 p.m. for Teen Paint Night. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6-12. Registration is required and began Tuesday, April 9, = online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tweens and Teens

Dungeons and Dragons

Join us for Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons and learn how to play the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons and Dragons by participating in one of our monthly Dungeons and Dragons Meet-Ups! Beginners are welcome! Each meet-up will feature a new self-contained, one-shot adventure and players will be assigned premade characters to play. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) to participate in this program. The March session will be held Thursday, April 18, at 4 p.m. Registration began Tuesday, April 9, online via Eventkeeper. Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Chess4Community: Play and Learn

Join us for Chess4Community: Play and Learn on Friday, April 26, 2024, 10 a.m.–11 a.m. All ages and levels are welcome. Registration is required. You must register for each session you want to attend. Register online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org). Space is limited, so please check Eventkeeper for availability.

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

Can’t make it on March 29? This program will run once a month from 10 a.m.–11 a.m. on the following dates:

• June 28, 2024

• July 26, 2024

• August 30, 2024

Registration is required for all sessions. You must register for each session you want to attend. Register online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). Please note registration ends two days prior for each session.

Friendship Bracelets for Community Service

Make Friendship Bracelets for friends and Library patrons during Friendship Bracelets for Community Service, which will be held on Monday, April 29, at 4 p.m. at the Library. Inspired by the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, create Friendship Bracelets to trade and give to friends and for the Library to give to patrons. At least one bracelet you make must be used for the Library to give out to patrons in order to earn community service. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, April 23, online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Volunteers Needed: LEGO Club Volunteer to help children Grades K-5 during the monthly Children's program LEGO Club! The April session will be held on Tuesday, April 30. The LEGO Club program runs from 4 p.m.–4:45 p.m. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 3:30 p.m. to help set-up before the start of the program and stay after to help clean up until 5:15 p.m. Volunteers must be in Grades 6–12 only. Registration to volunteer begins Tuesday, April 23, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Poetry for Community Service

Tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 can earn community service by writing poetry for the Tweens & Teens Department National Poetry Month Display in April! Beginning Monday, March 4, volunteers can write and submit poems. Each volunteer can submit up to five poems and volunteers must use a different shape for each poem they submit. Volunteers’ poems will be displayed as they are submitted outside the Tweens and Teens Room throughout the months of March, April, and May.

Volunteers must come to the Library to pick up a volunteer form and shapes to write their poem on. Shapes to write poems on and the volunteer form can be found inside the Tweens & Teens Room at the Library. If supplies are low, please check back another day for more

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

supplies.

Volunteers must use the shapes provided by the Library to write their poem on and must cut out their shape before submitting their poem. Poems should be legible and written in large enough print and with a dark pen, sharpie, marker, etc so they can be read from a distance. Volunteers can also decorate their shape. All poems should be original work.

Volunteers must return a volunteer form with their poems; volunteers do not have to submit all five poems at once and should do an additional form for poems they submit at a later date. Poems will be accepted until April 30. Please return poems and volunteer forms to the Community Service DropOff Box on the metal cabinet in the Tweens and Teens Room.

Volunteers will receive one hour for every poem they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department.

If you have questions, please contact the Tweens and Teens Department at: https://www.gardencitypl.org/youngadult-department/contact-the-youngadult-tweens-teens-department/.

Tweens and Teens Best Books Committee 2024

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

To access the feedback form and earn community service credit, scan

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

Tweens and Teens Around the World Recipe Cards for Community Service

Earn community service by participating in the Library's Tweens & Teens Department Around the World Recipe Card Community Service Project! Each volunteer can submit up to five recipe cards representing their cultural heritage. Recipe cards and volunteer forms can be found at the Library. Volunteers’ recipe cards will be available for other patrons to browse in the Tweens and Teens Room at the Library.

Volunteers must use the recipe cards provided by the Library to write their recipes on. Volunteers must have previously made the dish they are submitting a recipe for and must include a review of the recipe in the form of coloring in stars on the recipe card (a recipe can receive up to five stars). Recipes should be legible and written as neatly as possible. All volunteers should cite the source in which they found the recipe on their recipe card (a source can be a cookbook or website, but can also be a family member or neighbor). Volunteers must return a volunteer form with their recipe cards; volunteers do not have to submit all five recipe cards at once and should do an additional form for recipes they submit at a later date.

Recipes will be accepted until May 2, 2024. Please return completed recipe cards and the volunteer form to the Community Service DropOff Box on the metal cabinet in the Tweens & Teens Room. Volunteers will receive one hour for every recipe they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens & Teens Department.

Call us at 294-8900 to place an ad in our classifieds. We’ll help you be seen by thousands of local readers!

News from the Garden City Public Library

The film "The Untouchables" will be screened at the Garden City Public LIbrary on Monday, April 15.

Monday Movies

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

April 2024

4/15: “Untouchables” - 1987, 119 minutes

4/22: “Crossing Delancey” -  1980, 97 minutes

4/29: “The Intern” - 2015, 121 minutes

April Programs

Chess4Community: Play & Learn!

Fridays from 10–11 a.m. in the First Floor Reference Area

Friday, April 26

Friday, June 28

Friday, July 26

Friday, August 30

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

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

two days before each program.

Crafts & Games Programs for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

Small Meeting Room

Wednesday, May 15, from 7 p.m.–8 p.m.

Saturday,  June 1, from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Friday, July 12, from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, from 7 p.m.–8 p.m.

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

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

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

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

Program is sponsored by The Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Empire Safety Council Defensive Driving   Saturday, April 13, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Receive 10% reduction on automobile/liability insurance and qualify for a licensed point reduction!

Registration is required.  Garden City Public Library cardholders can register in person at the Reference desk beginning  Those without a GCPL card can register beginning Friday, March 22, 2024.  A separate registration is required for each person and proper ID is needed when registering an absentee party.

Checks should be made payable to Empire Safety Council in the amount of  $33.

Bring your valid New York State driver’s license and a pen to class.

Contact Reference Desk - (516)7428405 x 5236 or email: Speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org.

News from the Children’s Room

Spring 2024 Programming

Reading Pals

Tuesday, April 16, at 4:00 p.m.

This fun 30-minute program is for children ages 4–second grade. Under Librarian supervision, Teen Volunteers read to the children and then they do a craft together. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the  Garden City Library.

Registration is ongoing.

Craft for 3 and 4 Year Olds

Wednesday, April 17, at 10:30 a.m.

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

Registration is ongoing.

Crafting With Friends

Saturday, April  20, at 10:00 a.m.

Children ages 2–5 (not yet in kindergarten) and their caregivers can join Mary Maguire and make a Very Hungry Caterpillar Craft. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish

to attend this program.This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration is ongoing.

Crafting With Friends

Saturday, April  20, at 11:15 a.m.

Children in Grades K–5 can join Mary Maguire and make a Painted Butterfly Origami Craft. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration is ongoing.

LEGO Club Tuesday, April 30, at 4 p.m.

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

Play Hooray Babies   Thursday, May, at 1:00 p.m.

This fun program is for babies ages birth-18 months, and an adult caregiver. Enjoy movement and music and meet Molly Mouse! Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City

Library.

Registration begins April 16, at 10:00 a.m.

Reading Pals

Tuesday, May 14, at 4:00 p.m.

This fun 30-minute program is for children ages 4-Second Grade. UnderLibrarian supervision, Teen volunteers read to the children and then they do a craft together. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins May 7, at 10:00 a.m.

Jump For Joy Babies

Saturday, May 18, at 1:30 p.m.

Jump for Joy with Joyce Oddo! This fun movement and music program is 45 minutes and is for children ages birth-12 months, and their adult  caregivers. Online registration on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) with a Library card is required. You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Registration begins May 7, at 10:00 a.m.

Preschool Duplo LEGO

Tuesday, May  21, at 4:00 p.m. This 30-minute  STEAM free-play

program is for children ages 1 ½-5 (not yet in kindergarten) and their caregivers. Librarians will put out Duplo LEGO

Bricks and children, along with their caregivers and teen volunteers, will play, create and build. No registration required. Seating is on a first-come, first served basis. This program is sponsored by the Friends of Garden CityLibrary.

Library Policy

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

More programming information for the winter and spring coming soon.

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

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

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

There are Peeps in the library!  How many do you think are in the jar? Stop by the library before April 26 and take a guess, you might win a prize! The Peeps 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 Peeps in the jar — and the winner — will be announced on Friday, April 26, in front of the Friends’ Book Sale shelves at 4:00.

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

Library staff participates at Adelphi Writers & Readers Festival

Librarian Kristen Sweeney, Library Chairman (and Adelphi alumni) Randy Colahan, and Library Director Marianne Malagon.

Readers and writers came together for two days of everything literary at a festival at Adelphi University last weekend, Friday, April 5, and Saturday, April 6.

Garden City Public Library enlisted its support to the event as a sponsor, and helped provide representatives from Garden City and other Nassau public libraries to enhance the festival with readers’ advisory and information about local libraries' services. Among those in attendance for the Garden City Public Library

were Library Board Chairman Randy Colahan, Library Director Marianne Malagon, Assistant Library Director  Ralph Guiteau and Librarian Kristen Sweeney.

The free celebration of storytelling, literature and the power of the written word featured best-selling author and Adelphi alumna Alice Hoffman, who inspired and founded the event. Hoffman is the author of more than 40 books, including “ Practical Magic, ” “ The Dovekeepers ” and “Aquamarine.”

Nassau libraries sent representatives to support the festival with readers’ advisory and information about local libraries' services. Pictured (from left) are Jan Heinlein (Nassau Library System), Ralph Guiteau (Garden City, Assistant Library Director), Erika Wadsworth (Locust Valley Library).

These Garden City and Nassau Library representatives, along with students, teachers, emerging writers and the local Garden City community and beyond, had a chance to meet bestselling authors Victor LaValle, Adriana Trigiani, Ann Leary, Mona Awad, Ada Calhoun, Liana Finck, Lauren Grodstein, Charles Leerhsen, Lisa Belkin, Julie Klam, Kim Coleman Foote, Laura Zigman; discover their next favorite writer; and get an inside look at the art of writing and the business of publishing.

Let your voice be heard!

Is there an issue in your community you want to discuss?

Want to respond to something you saw in our paper?

Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention!

Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!

Adelphi’s Olmsted Theatre filled with festival goers listening to the Keynote.

Opening Keynote featured speakers Adriana Trigiani and Alice Hoffman and moderator Laura Zigman.

GC attorney charged with grand larceny

From page 8

Donnelly said that upon receipt of the loan funds from the home buyer’s mortgage company, Boldi was to distribute $309,367 to the couple’s mortgage lender to pay off the remainder of the mortgage on the East Meadow home.

The District Attorney said Boldi allegedly falsely told the couple that the wire transfer from the buyer’s lender had not been posted to his escrow account, and the funds were not available at the time of the closing. Based upon the defendant’s alleged false representation that the funds had not been posted yet, the parties agreed to a “dry closing,” and the deed to the home was held in escrow, said DA Donnelly.

Days later, on November 2, 2023, Boldi allegedly provided the couple with a fraudulent copy of what he purported to be a wire request for the mortgage payoff amount, as proof that the funds had been sent to the couple’s mortgage company. As a result, the deed was released, and the sale was completed. However, the wire transfer to the couple’s mortgage company was never performed.

From page 25

Burnt food

On April 8th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to Adelphi University for a fire alarm and determined the cause to be burnt food.

Another CO incident

On April 9th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a Franklin Avenue store and detected moderate carbon monoxide

To date, the mortgage payoff funds have never been provided to the lender, and the couple has been forced to continue making mortgage payments on a home they no longer own.

In another transaction, the District Attorney said that on November 14, 2023, Boldi represented a buyer in the purchase of a property in Valley Stream and had an associate handle the closing at his law office in Garden City. During

the closing, the defendant allegedly told his associate that the closing would have to proceed as a dry closing because the payment from the buyer’s lender, approximately $422,000, had not cleared the escrow account. Thus, a dry closing was conducted.

On November 17, 2023, Boldi allegedly provided the victim/seller with a check for $379,493, which bounced. Soon after, the title and broker commission checks that were allegedly drafted by the defendant also bounced. To date, the defendant has not released the money that was sent by the buyer’s lender, said DA Donnelly.

According to bank records, the funds from both transactions were allegedly spent on various other expenses unrelated to the victims’ transac-

THE OFFICE CAT

levels, which were apparently due to an HVAC issue. The area was rendered safe, and no injuries were reported.

Excessive speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed on April 9th.

False alarms

On April 9th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to three locations

for fire alarms that were determined to have been set in error.

Overweight, bad brakes

On April 9th a Stewart Avenue truck driver was charged with driving an overweight vehicle with defective brakes.

Gate malfunction

Garden City Police responded to a railroad gate malfunction at the Nassau Boulevard RR station on April 9th.

THE MAYOR’S UPDATE

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

From page 24

our Village beautiful again, especially in the Central section. I’m delighted you’re taking that back up,” he said.

Water Main Installation

The Village of Garden City is having a new water main installed on Clinton Road, from Meadow Street to Commercial Avenue. The new water main will improve the flow of water for residents and business owners, as well as reduce maintenance costs associated with the old main, which is estimated to be more than 75 years old. Work began April 8 and will continue for approximately two months. Traffic lanes on Clinton Road are reduced to one way each direction

during the course of the work between Meadow Street and Commercial Avenue. The project is expected to be substantially completed by the second week of June.

No Empty Chair Program

April 15-19, the Garden City Police Department will be participating in the No Empty Chair Program sponsored by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. This educational and enforcement campaign aims to raise awareness among teen drivers regarding the potential dangers of driving in the hope that there are no empty chairs at high school graduations or proms this year. During this initiative, Officers will be enforcing

tions, including a $687,264 payment to sellers in a separate dry closing.

Boldi surrendered to NCDA Detective Investigators on April 10th. He was arraigned before Judge Jaclene Agazarian on two counts of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (a C felony). He was ordered to surrender his passport and released on his own recognizance. If convicted, Boldi faces a maximum of up to five to 15 years in prison. He is due back in court on April 25.

If you believe you may have been victimized by Daniel Boldi, and have not yet filed a complaint, please contact the Nassau County District Attorney’s Criminal Complaint Unit at 516-571-3505.

Power line fires

On April 9th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to two calls for power line fires on Brompton Road.

Unsafe speed

A Stewart Avenue motorcyclist was charged with unlicensed operation, unsafe speed, and not wearing a helmet on April 9th.

the New York State Graduated Driver Licensing Law (GDL) as well as other driving law violations such as speeding in school zones, seatbelt use, child restraint use, cell phone and texting use, passing school buses, underage drinking, and impaired driving. Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson advises that the Department’s Youth and Community Policing Officers will be visiting the High School to conduct driver safety outreach to local students during this campaign and throughout the prom and graduation season.

Happening in Garden City

Saturday, April 13th 10:00 a.m. GCFD

Recruitment Open House at Fire Headquarters

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

Monday, April 15th 1:30 p.m. Movie Matinée: The Untouchables at the Library

7:00 p.m. Family Bingo at the Library. Must register.

Tuesday, April 16th 6:30 p.m. Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting at Village Hall

Wednesday, April 17th 7:00 p.m. Teen Paint Night at the Library for Grades 6-12. Must register.

Thursday, April 18th 7:30 p.m. Board of Trustees Meeting at Village Hall and via Zoom

December 11, 2019

undersigned Referee

sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 24, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1033 Tulsa Street, Uniondale, NY 11553.  All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Uniondale (not incorporated) in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 50 Block Y Lots 234 and 271.  Approximate amount of judgment $478,976.09 plus interest and costs.  Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 605833/2019. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the

LEGAL NOTICES

and Findings by the Village of Garden City (the “Village”) pursuant to Eminent Domain Procedure Law of the State of New York (“EDPL”) Section 204 in connection with the proposed acquisition by eminent domain of 126+ X 25  foot parcels, Lot A and Lot B, on Meadow Street in the Village, which are an extension of College Place, and are identified by the following tax map numbers (the “Property”), for the Meadow Street Drainage Improvement Project. This proposed acquisition by condemnation of the Property is referred to hereinafter as the “Project.”:

Lot Village of Garden City Tax Map Number

A     Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 52, Lot A

B     Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 53, Lot B

The Project involves the acquisition by eminent domain of the Property to install a drainage system to address flooding on Meadow Street between College Place and Tremont Street in the Village. Acquisition of the Property will include acquisition of land, buildings, and improvements, if any, situated thereon, and all other property interests of any kind or nature.

Pursuant to Section 204 of the EDPL, the Village held a public hearing at Village Hall, located at 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530, on February 8, 2024, to consider the Project. A notice of the meeting was published in the Garden City News on January 19, 2024 and January 26, 2024, and in Newsday each day from January 22, 2024 through January 26, 2024. A copy of the Notice was also posted at various public locations throughout the Village. A search was made for assessment record billing owners, but none could be located.

At the hearing: Village Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan described the Project, and that the Property that the Village is seeking to acquire will be used for the Meadow Street Improvement Project, in order to install a drainage system. Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi spoke in detail about the flooding and the cause of the flooding, which is a result of a drainage problem emanating from the Long Island Expressway and down through the Village into Hempstead Lake Village Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni also spoke the potential timing of the Meadow Street Improvement Project. Village residents, including individuals who reside next to the Property, spoke and asked questions about the impact of the Project and the Meadow Street Drainage Improvement Project. There was discussion of the flooding problem on Meadow Street, including comments from residents who spoke about the severity of flooding during storms.

The record of the hearing was closed on February 8, 2024. All testimony has been reviewed, made part of the record, and afforded full consideration. No written comments were received.

At its meeting on March 21, 2024, the Village Board of Trustees, consistent with its obligations under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”), adopted a Resolution which classified the Project as “Unlisted” under SEQRA, determined that there were no other involved agencies, and determined that the Project will not have any significant adverse impacts on the environment. The Village’s SEQRA determination and findings, along with a copy of the Environmental Assessment Form (“EAF”) are incorporated herein by reference. In the EAF prepared in connection with the proposed condemnation, no moderate to large environmental impacts were identified by the Village.

FINDINGS

Pursuant to EDPL § 204 and having given due consideration to the complete hearing record, which includes, among other things, all testimony and all documents submitted or made available, and all public comments, the Village makes the following findings concerning the Project:

1.    The Public Use, Benefit, or Purpose to be Served by the Project (EDPL § 204 (B)(1)).  Pursuant to EDPL § 204 (B)(1), the Village concludes that the Project will serve a legitimate public purpose. The Project will permit the Village to acquire the land on which the Village will proceed with the Meadow Street Improvement Project, which involves the installation of a drainage system to address flooding on Meadow Street between College Place and Tremont Street in the Village. Addressing the flooding that occurs in this area will contribute to the safety, general welfare, and convenience for residents and the general public, and will also reduce the potential of property damage from flooding.

2.    Location of Real Property and Reasons for Selection of that Location (EDPL § 204 (B)(2)). Pursuant to EDPL § 204 (B)(2), the Village concludes that the Property is appropriate location for the Project because the land the Village seeks to acquire has been determined to be a location where the flooding on Meadow Street occurs, and where a drainage system can be installed to alleviate this flooding. Alternative locations were discussed but were determined to be too costly or involved actions impacting neighboring municipalities to which those municipalities would not agree.

3.    General Effect of Real Property Acquisition on the Environment (EDPL §204 (B)(3)). Pursuant to EDPL § 204 (B)(3), the Village concludes that the general effect of the Project on the Environment will be negligible. The Project involves the acquisition of property for the Meadow Street Improvement Project, specifically, a drainage system to be installed underground to address flooding on Meadow Street between College Place and Tremont Street in the Village.

4.    General Effect of the proposed Acquisitions on the Residents of the Locality (EDPL § 204 (B)(3)). Pursuant to EDPL § 204 (B)(3), the Village concludes that the general effect of the Project on the residents of the locality will be overwhelmingly positive. The drainage system to be installed on the Property the Village seeks to acquire will address flooding issues that impact the residents of Meadow Street and surrounding areas, making travel safer for residents, first responders, and municipal workers, as well as reducing potential property damage, and providing a safer environment during inclement weather.

5.    Other Relevant Factors (EDPL § 204 (B)(4)). Pursuant to EDPL § 204 (B)(4), the Village considered other factors raised at the public hearing. Oral comments were received regarding the following topics: (a) the timing of the Project and the Meadow Street Improvement Project; (b) the maintenance of the Property once the Project and the Meadow Street Improvement Project are complete; (c) retention of vegetation and aesthetics once the Project and the Meadow Street Improvement Project are complete; (d) noise that will be caused by the Meadow Street Improvement Project, after the acquisition of the Property is complete. All comments have been given careful, extensive, and due consideration by the Village Board of Trustees. No written comments were received.

DETERMINATION

Based on due consideration of the record and the foregoing findings, it is determined that the Village should exercise its power of eminent domain to acquire the above-described Property in order to promote and permit the purposes of the Project to be achieved.

Copies of this Determination and Findings by the Village are available and will be forwarded without cost and upon request, by writing to the Village Clerk at: Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530, kgalanek@gardencityny.net.

ATTENTION: ANY PERSON WHO WISHES TO SEEK JUDICIAL REVIEW OF THIS DETERMINATION AND FINDINGS, OR WHO CLAIMS TO BE AGGRIEVED BY SUCH DETERMINATION AND FINDINGS AND WHO WISHES TO CHALLENGE SAME, MUST DO SO, IF AT ALL, (1) BY DULY COMMENCING A LEGAL PROCEEDING IN THE APPELLATE DIVISION, SECOND DEPARTMENT, SUPREME COURT, STATE OF NEW YORK, 45 MONROE PLACE, BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11201, NO LATER THAN MAY 20, 2024, OTHERWISE SUCH CHALLENGE OR JUDICIAL REVIEW MAY BE TIME-BARRED, AND (2) BY DULY SERVING A DEMAND UPON THE VILLAGE TO FILE THE RECORD UNDERLYING THE DETERMINATION AND FINDINGS. THE APPELLATE DIVISION MAY CONSIDER THE PUBLIC USE, BENEFIT OR PURPOSE TO BE SERVED BY THE PROPOSED ACQUISITION AND OTHER MATTERS SET FORTH IN EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEDURE LAW 207. UNDER SECTIONS 207 AND 208 OF THE EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEDURE LAW, THE EXCLUSIVE VENUE FOR ANY CHALLENGE TO THIS DETERMINATION AND FINDINGS IS THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED APPELLATE DIVISION, ANYONE WISHING TO CHALLENGE THIS DETERMINATION AND FINDINGS IS ADVISED TO CONSULT AN ATTORNEY PROMPTLY.

April 12, 2024

European Waterways Alsace-Lorraine Canal Cruise:

3 Musketeers Intrigue in Saverne, Lalique in Lutzelbourg

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Day 4 Waltenheim-sur-Zorn to Saverne

On this fourth day of European Waterways’ seven-day canal cruise through France’s Alsace-Lorraine, Panache cruises to the enchanting town of Saverne, which boasts a history that dates back 2,000 years to GalloRoman times. We will moor right in the town at the foot of the Château de Rohan, a palace built for a Cardinal that is so grand, it is known as the “Versailles of Alsace.”

Captain Brian tells me that I can bike up to lock 32 and the boat should be there around 2 pm. I do my calculation: Locks 42-41 are 4 km apart; locks 37-36 are 4 km (we will be there around lunchtime) while it will take the boat four hours to get to 37.

The biking on the towpath alongside the canal takes me passed some of the prettiest pastoral scenes on the route (especially between locks 39 to 37, from Lupstein to Dettwiller). I think I get in 20 miles riding all the way to Saverne and doubling back to lock 36 to get back on the boat for lunch.

Lunch features French beans with aioli; crayfish with risotto – superb. The white wine is Sancerre La Ferriere 2021 (coincidentally, the book I am reading that day mentioned the same wine!) and the red wine-Sancerre La Louisonne (2016), a Pinot Noir from the Loire Valley.

We continue our onboard discovery of French cheeses with BrillatSavarin, a soft-ripened triple cream cow’s milk cheese; Mimolette, a cow’s milk cheese, is a French version of

European Waterways’ Panache cruises on the Marne-Rhin Canal through Saverne, passed the formidable Chateau Rohan on the way to Lutzelbourg © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Edam with a distinctive orange color that was developed for King XIV in the 18th C.

At 3:30 pm, Captain Brian takes us on a delightful walking tour of Saverne, pointing out exquisite architecture – and here, I really appreciate the difference between wandering around and having someone who can point out the interesting details.

We come to a statue of the city’s emblem, the Unicorn, just in front of the Chateau Rohan,

Here, Brian attempts to relay in abbreviated form the “Mystery of Necklace,” This was a colossal scandal involving “the most expensive necklace of the Middle Ages, most beautiful, with the biggest diamonds in the world” that in today’s money would have been worth $15 million, helped bring down Marie Antoinette for her perceived excess and lead, ulti-

mately, to her execution in the French Revolution. At the heart of the scandal was Cardinal de Rohan who built this opulent palace. (The true events are even more dramatic than Alexandre Dumas’ “Three Musketeers”.)

We walk to a 14th century cloister (now the tourism office), a stunning example of Gothic architecture with a garden where medicinal herbs were cultivated; it is ringed by a portico and impressive 17th century frescoes which tell of a trial.

We walk to the Hotel de Ville – the city hall – a stunning historic building, manifests the mix of culture: a Germanic balcony and a French balcony.

It is adjacent to the oldest and most ornate building still standing, Taverne Katz. Built in 1605 by Henri Katz, the Receiver General of the Bishopric, its beautiful façade of sculpted timber

is a superb example of the German Renaissance style. Today, it is a popular restaurant. (Taverne Katz, 80 Grand’Rue 67700 Saverne, +33 (0)3 88 71 16 56, https://www.tavernekatz. com/en/restaurant).

Befitting wealthy property, it is also very close to the Church Notre Dame, built in the 12-15th centuries, with Romanesque arch and a Gothic interior. Remarkably, the Chapel has the original 15th century stained glass; the rest has stained glass from the 19th century.

We walk next to the Château des Rohan, overlooking the Marne-Rhine Canal that we have been cruising. Historically the residence of the bishops of Strasbourg, it was rebuilt by Cardinal de Rohan in 1779 in neoclassical style with magnificent gardens and a 140-meter-long façade made of Vosges sandstone (like the NotreDame of Strasbourg).

The palace today houses the city museum. Founded in 1858, the museum exhibits art from the churches and castle of Saverne, a large archeological collection of Roman and Celtic artifacts from the excavation of the Marne-Rhine Canal, the collection of 20th century and ethnological art donated by Louise Weiss, and a fascinating exhibit about Weiss, a feminist, suffragist, journalist, politician and diplomat’ life and times.

I walk back to the boat just before 6 pm, arriving as a trio comes on board, to regale us with French (“C’est si bon”) and gypsy jazz. Fabulous.

The joy from the music carries over into dinner: trout with a tomato crumble; cod with tapioca and black garlic; a scrumptious dessert of straw-

Continued on next page

European Waterways Alsace-Lorraine Canal Cruise

Continued from previous page

berry with elderflower (that Chef Leo picked from his own garden that day). Every dish is so imaginative, distinctive, and magnificently presented.

The white wine is Grand Cru (meaning it has the best soil) Alsatian Reisling, House of August; the red a Grand Vin d’Alsace, Pino Noir (2012). The cheeses include a cousin to Brie; Abondance, a semi-firm cow’s milk cheese from HauteSavoie,; and Bleu de Gex, a creamy, semisoft blue cheese.

Day 5 Saverne to Lutzelbourg

Leaving Saverne, we go through the most dramatic and highest lock of all – it must be 30 feet high. I watch this feat, then hop off with the bike to ride along the Marne-Rhine Canal to Lutzelbourg.

I return to the boat, just in time to see Chef Leo give us a cooking demonstration of the passionfruit crème brulee he is making in response to Sue’s request. It is so much fun to watch his preparation –Captain Brian pitches in, too.

Lunch features asparagus and cream; beef with cheesy mash potatoes (vegetarian option salmon) and the passionfruit crème brulee (parfait!). The wines are an Alsatian Riesling, Lieu Dit Burg, and an Alsace Pinot Noir (2018), Famille Hugel.

After lunch, we are driven to the Lalique Museum

Lalique Museum

Situated in the picturesque village of Wingen-sur-Moder, Lalique Museum celebrates the work of the jewelry designer and glassmaker, Rene Lalique.

Lalique founded his workshop here in 1921. Throughout his lifetime, Lalique crafted jewelry, medals, perfume bottles, vases, chandeliers and glass, and we swoon seeing the collection of more than 650 of Lalique’s most stunning creations, which incorporate enamel, precious stones, and glass, gloriously displayed, with fascinating video projections and huge photographs to tell the story of the Lalique dynasty.

The hallmark of Rene Lalique’s jewelry design was its exquisite precision

and tiny detail in the insects, fauna, flowers– you can see the wind fluttering the flower petals, every feather on a bird, a hair comb in the Japanese style has a rising sun.

“All were his ideas, his designs. He designed every piece and could name to whom sold. Renee Lalique was a control freak – he never slept more than 3 hours.”

He was on the forefront of the Art Nouveau movement but was regarded as too modern, too eccentric for Catholic sensibility, she tells us. “Too modern for Cartier. But this became the fashion.” Rene Lalique drew his inspiration from Egypt, from Japan, from the Middle Ages, but gave these inspirations a totally new expression, his own stamp.

He became famous after winning a gold medal at the 1900 Exposition, a celebration of modernism in which electricity in Paris and the first subway were unveiled, attended by some 50 million visitors.

Rene was as brilliant a businessman as he was an artist, inventor and entrepreneur, pioneering branding, marketing, merchandising techniques. “Every perfumer demanded a new bottle, a special stopper.”

He created a joint advertising/marketing campaign with the perfumer, Molinar. “He created demand for the next collection, for perfume, then for toilet water.”

For the 1925 Exposition, he created a17-meter high glass fountain that looked

A GREENER VIEW

Gypsum

BY JEFF RUGG

Question: I recently moved to a new home, and I thought the lawn looked like it needed some help, so I went to the store for some gypsum. Where I used to live, gypsum was added to the lawns all the time. I was told that in my new region, no one adds gypsum, but some people add limestone. What are gypsum and limestone used for?

What can I do to make my lawn look better?

Answer: Gypsum is calcium sulfate, and limestone is calcium carbonate. There is a huge difference between the two and what they could do in your soil. Both break

down into their components. The calcium portion in each one could add calcium to the soil if it is deficient in calcium, which the majority of soils in North America are not deficient in. Have your soil tested to see if it is deficient before adding either one for the calcium.

In the presence of free hydrogen ions, the carbonate portion of limestone breaks down to carbon dioxide and water. Both leave the soil, and when the water, leaves it takes the hydrogen from the soil, causing the soil pH to increase. Limestone is used to raise pH in soils that have been found to be too acidic to grow a specific crop. Again, get a soil pH test before adding limestone.

like stone during the day but was lighted at night. .

After three generations of Lalique had led the company and with no heirs to inherit, Rene’s granddaughter, MarieClaude Lalique, sold the company in 1994 to the Pochet Group; it was acquired in 2008 by Arts et Fragrance, a Swiss group owned by Silvio Denz. (Marie-Claude Lalique died in 2003.)

The museum, which was conceived in 2000 and opened in 2011, is housed in an old glass factory that dates from 1750, producing flat glass for windows, that closed in 1868.

The delightful tour finishes with a marvelous video showing production in today’s factory. There is also a wonderful shop.

Musee Lalique, 40 rue du Hochberg, Wingen-sur-Moder, phone +33 3 88 89 08 14, https://www.musee-lalique.com/en/ Le Petite Pierre

From here, we drive to the hilltop town of La Petite Pierre where there is a 15th century castle. It is late in the afternoon (the setting sun makes for gorgeous colors), and the village looks absolutely vacant, abandoned – almost like a movie set. We walk the ramparts of the castle.

Back in Lutzelbourg, we drive up to the top of a rocky promontory, 322 meters high, that overlooks the Zorn valley, the town, the canal and the Panache to walk among the ruins of the Château du Lutzelbourg. Built by Pierre de Lutzelbourg in the 11th century, the cas-

tle was destroyed in 1523. The ruins we visit are more interesting that the intact structures - especially in the late afternoon light.

Dinner on the Panache starts with John Dory, a fish served like cerviche, with mint and horseradish in a “veil” gelatin and black lemon, Chef Leo shows us the dried black lemon he uses – it comes from Iran where it is dried for month and presents a smoky, lemon flavor. It is sensational. The entrée is a perfectly prepared lamb with truffle and cauliflower with amazing, rich flavors that burst (monkfish is the option for vegetarians)

The wines are a Beaune Premier Cru Basion, 2017 Domaine Chanson Chardonnay, and Gasies Margaux 2014 Bordeaux. The cheeses tonight include Tomme de Brebis, a Basque-style cheese half cow, half sheep milk; a Munster from Alsace and Bleu d’Auvergne. The dessert is a phenomenal blueberry tart with white chocolate mousse.

Chef Leo sits down to chat with us after the meal. The 28-year old is spending his first season on the barge hotel. “I’m always trying new stuff. On the barge, I am free to try. Every week I have new ‘guinea pigs.’ I always try to improve myself in the kitchen. It’s best to learn on my own.”

I think we really lucked out on this European Waterways barge hotel canal cruise.

The next morning, we wake to an atmospheric fog, and as the Panache cruises and I cycle away enroute to Niderviller where the cruise will end, we get a last view of the tops of the ruins of Chateau de Lutzelbourg.

European Waterways, 1-877-879-8808, www.europeanwaterways.com

Next: European Waterways Alsace-Lorraine Canal Cruise: A Boat Guillotine, Two Tunnels and a Chagall

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

Crossword Answers

The sulfate portion of the gypsum does not interact with the soil and so does not change the soil pH. Sulfates are used by plants to get the sulfur they need. Just like the pure calcium, most soils have enough sulfur, and it is rarely a limiting factor in plant growth.

Elemental sulfur added to soil to lower pH is combined with water and oxygen by bacteria to create sulfuric acid, which can lower soil pH. The two types of sulfur are not the same.

So, if the sulfate, carbonate and calcium are not beneficial, why add them to soil? In some western states, the soil has

Continued on page 5

Lovely pastoral landscapes along the bike path from Waltenheim-sur-Zorn to Saverne © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Celebrating this beautiful season of Spring

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

The calendar doesn’t have to tell me - when I hear the lobbing of a tennis ball back and forth on a neighbor’s court down the road I know it’s spring. When I smell the freshly cut grass of my lawn, I also know it’s spring. And when I uncover my grill and place some shish kebobs on it for dinner, I really know it’s spring. Here are some other things I like about spring.

Egg Salad Sandwiches

One sure sign of spring has arrived is when I start looking forward to eating some egg salad sandwiches. I never seem to think of them in the fall and winter months but once spring rolls around, egg salad sandwiches are on my mind. Homemade egg salad sandwiches are the best. After boiling several eggs and letting them cool, I add the mayonnaise plus some sprinkles of salt and pepper, some shredded onion and carrots, some paprika and I stir it all around. The shredded onion and carrot are optional but I think it gives my sandwiches a certain je ne sais quoi as the French people say. Scooping the egg salad onto two slices of rye bread, I add some pieces of green leafy lettuce. Occasionally I’ll toast the two slices of rye bread, add the egg salad and enjoy. My relatives and I often pack a picnic lunch on a spring day that is warm and sunny. Bringing along some iced tea, the chilled sandwiches and dessert, we head outside to enjoy the food, the company and the weather. The history of egg salad sandwiches? One of the earliest known printed recipes for egg salad sandwiches was published in the 1896 edition of The Boston CookingSchool Cook Book written by Fannie Farmer. That was a long time ago but at home, we always enjoy eating egg salad sandwiches.

Those Precious Baby Birds

My friend, Nancy, told me about showing her toddler son, Matt, a nest of baby sparrows. One day in late spring she was holding Matt when, looking out the window in their kitchen in northern Connecticut, she saw the baby spar-

rows. Holding up Matt, Nancy showed him how the mama sparrow was feeding her baby sparrows. The sparrows were all neatly tucked into her hanging basket off the back porch. The babies looked so small Nancy said and so fragile but still they seemed so animated. They couldn’t wait to be fed and they looked so comfortably at home in their nest. Matt was excited about seeing the baby sparrows being fed so every day before she started to prepare lunch for Matt and herself, she would pick him up and show him the birds’ activities. Nancy’s kitchen faced south so the nest seemed illuminated by the sunlight. Looking up information about sparrows, Nancy discovered that from the time the babies are born, the parent sparrows stay with them for five weeks to feed and protect them. When their kids learn to fly, adult sparrows leave the nest. To this day Matt still loves watching sparrows. He calls them a delight to behold because he is fascinated by nature. At age 30, Matt is all grown up now but some things stay the same. He is drawn to sparrows of all sizes, shapes and sounds but most of all he is drawn to the newborn sparrows who look up to their mothers for food. Late spring is a magical time filled with wonders and surprises.

Those Bow Tie Cookies

My friend, Brenda, and I got the idea to make some bow tie cookies. She’d made them the week before for her family and they were a big hit. We chose one rainy April day last year when I was watching my nephew, Timothy, 4, and my niece, Erin, 5. Staying indoors because of the weather was a good idea and a creative project with delicious results would be great. Brenda came over and Timmy and Erin helped me pull out the large mixing bowl, the spatula and spoons. Pulling out her instructions, Brenda told me we needed flour, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, eggs, butter and powdered sugar for dusting. The honey to be drizzled was also optional. As we followed the directions step by step, I told the kids the bow tie cookies would turn out great.

Looking at me quizzically, Timmy said he had one question. He asked why they were called bow ties. He said he had worn a bow tie to his Aunt Debbie’s wedding a couple of weeks prior and it wasn’t any type of food. We laughed at that and I explained that when they emerge from the oven, they look just like bow ties. You don’t even have to use your imagination that much, they do indeed look a lot like bow ties.

Removing the trays of hot cookies from the oven, I let them cool for 20 minutes. When we tasted them, each person said they were delicious. “It’s too much deliciousness,” I said and Timmy tried to imitate me by saying the word “deliciousness” but it was too big a word for him so he stumbled over it and we all had a good laugh. I told them a bit of trivia - did they know the #1 rated cookie in the U.S. is the chocolate chip cookie but on that day we wanted to do something different - we wanted to make some bow tie cookies. Looking out the window in my living room,

Timmy and Erin saw that the tulips had sprouted and so did the daffodils. They both clapped their hands, excited to see the colorful flowers although it was still raining. Reminding them that “April showers bring May flowers,” we enjoyed eating some of the bow tie cookies and settled down on the living room couch to watch a movie.

Author Ruth Stout once said, “I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden.”

How Many Stars for Social Security Service?

BY TOM MARGENAU

I’ve been writing this column for about 27 years. And more than a few times, I took my former agency, the Social Security Administration, to task for sometimes falling down on the job. That’s because I frequently hear from readers complaining about misinformation they received from Social Security representatives or about service issues -- mostly long wait times when they call the agency’s 800 number.

I sometimes wonder if this is the “squeaky wheel syndrome”: You have a car with four wheels and you only pay attention to the squeaky one, even though the other three are just fine. Likewise, when it comes to the service we get from any public-facing agency, I think people are much more likely to write and complain about bad service than they are to offer accolades praising good service. That’s just human nature, I guess.

But some emails I received recently bucked that trend. I’m going to share some snippets praising the SSA for good service. Here are three of them:

“I just got my first Social Security check. And I want you to know that the entire process went smoothly and like clockwork. My claim was processed in a matter of weeks and my check showed up in my bank account when they said it would. I couldn’t be happier!”

“I had some Social Security issues that I thought were complicated. But I called the 800 number and even though I waited on hold for about 20 minutes, the phone rep I eventually talked to was very helpful and answered all my questions. She was very thorough and professional.”

“I recently filed my Social Security claim online. The entire process was very simple and straightforward and I finished in less than an hour. It couldn’t possibly have been simpler.”

Those and other recent emails in a similar vein got me to thinking. Some long-time readers may remember a customer service survey I conducted several years ago. Back then, just as today, I was getting lots of emails from readers critical of SSA’s services or of the allegedly bad advice they were getting from the agency’s representatives. And I’d occasionally get an email with good things to say about the SSA. As I said, I guessed that I was more likely to hear gripes than accolades.

I decided to test my theory by surveying my readers. I got hundreds of responses. Long story short: The vast majority -- almost 90% -- of respondents said they were happy and satisfied with the service they got from SSA.

That was the good news for the SSA and its employees. But there was another side to that coin, according to the responses. The SSA’s front-line employees did routine work very well. And fortu-

nately, most of us have rather routine experiences with Social Security. We turn 62 or full retirement age and want to file for retirement benefits, and that’s that.

But if your Social Security situation is not quite routine, then, sadly, SSA reps sometimes fall down on the job. Those cases often involve situations where someone might be eligible for benefits on two different accounts. For example, if a woman wants to file for widow’s benefits, her options may not be fully explained to her. (Those options could include filing for reduced widow’s benefits first and then switching to higher retirement benefits at a later date. Or the other way around -- filing for reduced retirement benefits first and switching to full widow’s benefits at full retirement age.)

And I think a lot of this lack of expertise has to do with training. When I started working for the SSA in 1973, I went to a highly intensive three-month class that was taught by very skilled trainers -- front-line supervisory people who had been with the agency for decades and who had seen it all. And they passed all this knowledge on to us young neophytes -- comprehensive facts and information that carried us through our careers. But regrettably, that’s not the way things work anymore. Today, I’ve been told that new SSA hires get about six weeks of mostly online training. In my opinion, that’s just not the way to teach raw recruits about all the complicated Social Security rules and regulations.

Also, I will say this. When I worked for the SSA, we were totally focused on one-to-one customer service, usually conducted in a local Social Security office. But that has gone the way of full-service gas stations or doctors making house calls. It is all so 1900s. In the 21st century, the focus is on the internet and other forms of electronic communication. The SSA, like so much of the customer-service world, has opted to try to take care of people online instead of in person. From an efficiency standpoint, especially given the staffing cutbacks the agency has had to endure, that might make sense. But from the standpoint of someone trying to deal with the oftentimes complex Social Security rules and regulations, it can have its drawbacks.

Anyway, I don’t want to keep guessing at what I think is happening. So I’m going to take another survey of my readers. I’d like to know about your experiences with the Social Security Administration. And to keep things simple, let’s use a star system. Think of it like a Yelp or Google review. Give one star for poor service and five stars for good service -or two, three or four stars for something in between.

If you want, you can include a little commentary. Otherwise, just send me an email with between one and five stars. Send them to me at thomas.margenau@ comcast.net. I’ll publish the findings in

another column in the not-too-distant future.

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.

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Pros and cons of the new property disclosure law

For those Realtors, who have not yet signed up for the Property Condition Disclosure Statement presentation by our LIBOR attorney, then they should sign up ASAP! Most consumers and homeowners aren’t aware of the new revised and updated law which can greatly impact their sale and sale price. Lastly, some know about the new Property Condition Disclosure Statement Law that was enacted, (replacing the original 2002 law) recently passed in the NYS Legislature. Governor Hochul signed it into law on 9/22/23. It became effective on 3/20/24, and situations have been radically altered for Realtors, sellers, and buyers; but favoring buyers considerably more.

The old law said that if a seller did not fill out the 48 questionnaire form on the previous Property Condition Disclosure Statement, (as most attorneys told them not to), they would have to pay $500 at the closing. This didn’t protect them against future lawsuits by the purchaser due to defects in their home; especially since the disclosure wasn’t completed. What’s now changed is that if your home wasn’t in a fully executed contract, (e.g. signed by the purchaser and seller) by that latter date, then the new and updated law now obligated all sellers of residential properties in NYS to fill out the new 55 question form; 7 new questions were added concerning flood hazard issues.

Moreover, this was mandatory and had to be completed and provided to the seller or buyer’s attorney before emailing the contract. Although, there is some time spent by the seller to meticulously and carefully complete the PCDS; the bonus and icing on the cake enabled them to earn and keep the $500. The seller is no longer responsible for paying the additional monies at their closing. However, previously, not filling out the PCDS form was the only reason by law that a seller had to pay the $500 at the closing.

More importantly, most attorneys had advised their sellers, not to fill out the form, and pay the $500, so they wouldn’t open themselves up to potential lawsuits. Personally and profes-

Continued from page 2

a naturally high amount of sodium. These soils are sometimes called sodic soils, and they are often hard, poorly drained and easily compacted. Sodium attached to soil particles sticks the soil together, preventing pores that would allow air and water to penetrate the soil. Gypsum added to the soil breaks down, and the calcium binds to the sodium. If water is added and it can drain away, the calcium will remove the

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

sionally, I thought it was not the best approach for the seller if they were candid, upfront, and transparent with properly answering the PCDS. Furthermore, I also believe that most attorneys didn’t want to have to represent and deal with any after-thefact and subsequent lawsuits against their former clients related to those non-completed PCDS.

So hiring a home inspector might be your best, safest, and most prudent investment if your home is 20 years or older; to know and understand what issues there are in your home and fix and repair them, as well as decrease the opportunity for a purchaser in reducing their offer as well as avoiding any potential lawsuits in the future.

of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 42+ of 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).

What judge or jury would consider convicting a seller, if they had been truthful and forthright in their efforts to answer all the questions, paying the $500? More importantly, if a lawsuit were to commence, I would surmise that the buyer and his or her lawyer would have to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the seller had purposely and intentionally hid facts about defects in and around their home. The bottom line is that the sellers are paid $500 per hour, as savings when filling out the mandatory and required form; which generally takes no more than 1 hour or less to complete.

However, there are 14 exceptions to the rule in certain specific situations and they are as follows:

∙Court transfer order by a probate court in dealing with the administration of a decedent’s estate.

∙Transfer under a writ of execution.

∙Transfer by a trustee in bankruptcy or debtor in possession.

∙A transfer as a result of exercising the power of eminent domain.

∙A transfer due to a decree for a specific performance contract or agreement by 2 or more persons.

However, since I have a certain limit of words in my weekly column, there are 9 additional exceptions to the new law, which you can ascertain and find at casetext.com under the N.Y.

Real Prop. Law § 463.

The new law protects the sometimes unwary purchaser from a few sellers who just might be hiding some serious issues or possibly might not even know what defects might be in their home.

sodium, allowing the soil particles to separate so the soil can breathe.

The description of sodic soils as hard, poorly drained and compacted also describes the clay soil many of us have in our yards. It would be great if we could just spread on gypsum and let it separate the soil for us. Unfortunately, if the clay soil doesn’t have sodium in it, the gypsum won’t be beneficial. If you have clay soil, sandy soil or just about any other “bad”

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P.S. Have you entered his contest yet? Whoever provides the correct answer in how many interest rate reductions or possible increases plus the total percentage reduced or increased will be the winner. Your reward will be a dinner with Phil and his wife and a special surprise bonus that the winner will be ecstatic about! The contest was going to end on 3/15/24, but due to the overall fabulous response and request for more time, we have extended our contest until 4/15/24 at Midnight, as the absolute final date to provide the additional time for all to enter as the final drawing will be on 12/28/24. Email your answers to: HouseBroker1@gmail.com. One answer per email.

Hoping you and your Family, Friends, and Business associates have a Healthier, Safer, Happier and more Lucrative 2024!

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker

soil, adding composted organic matter will make it a better soil.

Chemically, it is very hard to change soil structure or soil pH, but organic matter can do both. It is best if the organic matter is tilled into the soil, but even adding it on top will slowly provide benefits. Even a soil’s fertility is better with organic matter than with fertilizers.

If your lawn is not looking its best, take some pictures and cut a Rubik’s cube-

He will gladly provide you with 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, HOA, Condo or Coop.

He will also deliver to you “free” regular updates of what is currently available, under contract (pending), 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 with no obligations” or “strings attached” a 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market again, without any “obligations” or “strings” attached whatsoever! call Philip A. Raices @ our Global ”find me/follow me” Mobile: 1-(888) 355-1385 or email him: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate. Com

Browse and search for your “Next Place to Call Home” our updated and newly revised site: https://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com

Want his monthly Real Estate/ Business newsletter and bi-monthly “American LifeStyle” magazine delivered to you absolutely “FREE” W/O any Obligations or “Strings attached?” Email or text your full name, email and mobile to be included on his list of 129,000+ satisfied subscribers locally, domestically and internationally.

sized block out of a couple of locations and take them to your local extension office. The master gardeners who maintain their help desk can give you the best local impartial advice you can get anywhere. E-mail

Top 5 Brilliant Hacks to Kickstart Your Vegetable Garden

BY: MARY HUNT

As you might imagine, I grew up with more than a few adults greeting me with, “Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow?” followed by a big smile or, more often, laughter. It was embarrassing, but probably not for the reason you assume. I didn’t know how to answer that question! I didn’t know what “contrary” meant, I didn’t have a garden, and I worried I was supposed to.

I did know to respect adults and speak politely when spoken to. But no one ever told me the right answer to the question I heard over and over again.

Today, I have good news and the best response: My seeds have germinated, sprouts are growing to seedlings, outdoor hardening has begun, and I anticipate full planting within weeks. Things are looking good for a successful harvest starting mid-summer.

Growing a garden that pumps out tasty vegetables doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are many simple ways to have a lush, bountiful garden without emptying your wallet. Whether it’s recycling stuff, mixing up your own soil boosters or scoring cheap seeds and starter plants, I’ve got you covered with a few of my best gardening hacks, tips and tricks to save cash while honing your gardening skills.

BORROW AND SHARE TOOLS

If you’re new to gardening, rather than pouring money into a bunch of gardening tools you’re not sure you’ll ever use again, let friends and neighbors know what you’re up to. Chances are good they’ll have items you can borrow. And don’t be surprised if you receive a few

gifts of tools others want to get rid of. It’s worth a shot and will keep your costs down to the bare minimum as you set out to see if gardening is an activity you enjoy and find success in. With some experience under your belt, you’ll be better positioned to decide the tools you need to own. And when that time comes? Shop garage sales, thrift stores and Facebook Marketplace.

FORGET SEEDLINGS

It’s tempting! Those pony packs and endless trays of seedling “starts” in the garden center are all planted, sprouted, thriving, adorable and ready to hit the ground. You could have your garden planted before dinner. And you’ll pay dearly if you choose to go that route. They’re not cheap! What’s better? DIY.

SEED-STARTING

It’s easy to grow your own starter seedlings. Walk away from the pony packs and head to the rack of seed packets. Look at all the choices. You’ll have to wait a bit to get your garden thriving, but I can tell you that nurturing plants from germination to maturity is such a rewarding experience. It allows you to witness the entire growth process firsthand.

Make sure you read the necessary information on the back of the seed packets. Don’t know your zone? Check this color-coded plant hardiness zone map of the United States at www.brecks.com/ zone_finder to find which hardiness zone you live in. At that site, you’ll be able to type in your ZIP code to find your exact zone.

You will need some seed-starting soil, but that’s all -- don’t buy starting kits or special containers. Get creative with what

you have at home. Egg cartons, toilet paper rolls, yogurt cups, paper coffee cups and fast-food containers can be repurposed into seed-starting containers. Just be sure to poke drainage holes in the bottom, then fill the containers with the soil.

GREENHOUSE FROM THE SALAD BAR

The next time you enjoy a salad bar lunch, don’t toss out the plastic clamshell container! Instead, give it a second life as a mini-greenhouse for spring seed-starting. After cleaning the container, add airflow by punching small holes in the top with the tip of scissors, a knife or an awl and hammer.

Fill the bottom half with potting mix or your preferred seed-starting soil, then plant your seeds according to seed packet instructions. Water lightly, close the lid, and place in a sunny spot. Watch as your seeds sprout in this cool little greenhouse, which traps warmth and moisture while letting in sunlight.

MOVING SEEDLINGS OUTDOORS

After the last frost in your area (garden.org/apps/frost-dates/) and two weeks before outdoor planting, gradually introduce your seedlings to weather conditions in their future garden home. Begin by placing them outside for a few hours in the afternoon shade, shielded from wind. Return them indoors before nighttime temperatures decrease.

Each day, extend their outdoor visit gradually and expose them to increasing amounts of direct sunlight. By the end of the two weeks, unless freezing temperatures are expected, the seedlings can remain outdoors in a sunny location until

NUTRITION NEWS

Food for Thought

you’re prepared to transplant them into the garden.

Known as “hardening,” this process removes the shock of climate change for these baby seedlings by introducing their eventual climate conditions gradually. This gives plants the best chance for maturity and your successful harvest.

MORE GARDENING HACKS

You can find 18 more of my favorite gardening hacks, tips and tricks at EverydayCheapskate.com/gardenhacks. Come visit; we can share stories!

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 2024 CREATORS.COM

BY CHARLYN FARGO

What we eat really makes a difference in how we feel and our quality of life.

Just this week, I came across three different studies looking at food and health, from the impact of omega-3s to strawberries to beet juice.

A study in Nature Communications found that people who had greater levels of omega-3 fatty acids -- specifically, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (doco-

sahexaenoic acid) -- had a 13% lower risk for all-cause mortality, as well as a lower risk for death due to cancer, cardiovascular disease and other causes combined, compared with those with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, herring, oysters, sardines, anchovies, flax and chia seeds, walnuts and soybeans. There are plenty to choose from.

A second study in the journal Nutrients found that adults with obesity and high low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol levels who had a serving of freezedried strawberry supplements every day for four weeks experienced reductions in serum insulin and insulin resistance, compared with controls. A serving of the freeze-dried strawberries was equal to 2.5 servings of fresh or frozen strawberries, if you prefer your strawberries that way. And then there’s beetroot juice. Re-

search has shown that beetroot juice could help combat inflammation and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making the juice both heart- and gut-friendly. Beetroot juice also has antioxidants -- particularly betalains -- that could aid in preventing cancer, and it may also help athletes by improving their lung function, boosting their energy and workout stamina, and strengthening their muscle contractions. The new study was published in the May issue of Redox Biology and found that drinking beet juice was associated with a change in the bacteria in saliva, indicative of improved cardiovascular health. It also resulted in a lower number of bacteria that tend to promote inflammation.

I’m not advocating only drinking beet juice or just eating salmon or strawberries. All foods can fit into a healthy eating pattern. What’s important is that

your plate contains heart-healthy, immune-boosting foods such as these. We all need variety on our plates. If we fill our plate with foods high in nutrients, there won’t be room for the empty-calorie foods that don’t offer our bodies the nutrients we need for good health. It’s a choice we make every time we go through the drive-thru or sit down to a home-cooked meal. The studies should give us food for thought that every bite counts.

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

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Coming Soon to a Sky Near You... a New Star!

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of April 14-20, 2024

Last week, I wrote about the springtime constellation Corona Borealis, the northern crown, and encouraged you to go out to find it. I hope you’ve done so, because sometime this spring or summer it will get a new star. Well, not really a “new” star, but certainly one that few alive today have ever seen.

The star is called T Corona Borealis -- aka the “Blaze Star” -- and it will change the appearance of this constellation for a few days.

Such a new star appearing out of nowhere is not common, of course, but it does happen occasionally. Ancient sky watchers called such a phenomenon a “nova” -- a word that comes from the Latin “novus,” meaning new. As it turns out, however, a nova is anything but new.

Back when I was a kid first learning about all things celestial, astronomers defined a nova as a dying star. It had nearly exhausted its nuclear fuel before blasting into space much of its atmosphere and settling back into a small, degenerate stellar corpse known as a white dwarf. (I know this because I just checked one of my favorite childhood books from 1958 -- yes, I’ve kept them all!)

Today, however, we believe that a

nova originates from two stars orbiting one another. One is a tiny and dying white dwarf star and the other a red giant star with a bloated atmosphere. As hydrogen from the red giant is sucked in by the nearby white dwarf’s intense gravitational pull, it accumulates and heats up on the surface until it triggers a runaway thermonuclear explosion.

Such blasts can cause a star to become tens of thousands of times brighter for a short time, and if the star is near enough, it might just appear as a new star in our night sky.

Astronomers now know that some of these novae can explode more than once. T CrB (in astronomers’ shorthand) is just such a star and is classified as a “recurrent” nova. Its eruptions have been documented as far back as October 1217 by the abbot of the Ursberg Abbey in what is now known as Germany. Its last appearance came in 1946.

Stars like T CrB are rare; in our Milky Way galaxy of hundreds of billions of stars, we know of only about 10. So, if and when it erupts, just about every telescope on this planet and in space will be aimed in its direction. That’s because such novae are thought to eject into space elements critical to the formation of life, such as carbon, nitrogen and oxygen, and watching the process unfold with modern instrumentation has astronomers giddy with

excitement.

Those of us without powerful telescopes will not be left out of the excitement, however. T CrB may become as bright as the constellation’s main star Alphecca and easily visible to the unaided eye for a few days, before fading back into the darkness from which it came, building up explosive hydrogen

for its next eruption, possibly around the beginning of the 22nd century.

In the meantime, keep your eyes on Corona Borealis; I’d hate for you to miss this truly once-in-a-lifetime sight!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Who Turned Out the Lights?

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

When the time came to get new eyeglasses, I decided I was ready for an upgrade. The optician told me I could get transition lenses that would turn dark when I was in the sun, so instead of having a regular pair of eyeglasses and a second pair of prescription sunglasses, I’d have one pair that would do everything. If I could just get them to cook dinner, they’d be perfect.

They were wonderful in concept, but when they arrived and I took them out for a spin, I realized they didn’t just get dark, they got really, really dark, and they stayed that way for a good five minutes after I got back inside. This left me looking like a celebrity trying to avoid the paparazzi, an extremely tired lemur or Ray Charles. The biggest issue, though, was that whenever

I went inside, I was blind as a bat. This is actually a pretty strange comparison, considering bats are nocturnal and able to find their way around in the dark just fine. Unfortunately, I do not have any echolocation abilities like a bat to help guide me around dark corners. This meant I spent a lot of time walking into walls until the lenses faded.

Being a mother had somewhat prepped me for this experience, having had to stumble around in the dark for years, answering my kids’ calls for help dealing with monsters under the bed in the middle of the night. But back then, my vision had been sharp, and I acclimated pretty quickly to the light changes. These days, though, there was nothing sharp about me except an acute sense of smell, which does not serve one well when one has a dog with gas issues. But that’s another column.

In the meantime, I tried to decide if a few bumps on my forehead were worth the convenience of not having to switch glasses every time I went in and out throughout my day.

Wondering if there were perhaps a compromise, I stopped by the optician and asked if there was anything he could do to help with the issue before I ended up accidentally walking into a men’s room, getting locked in a meat freezer or trapped in an indoor snake enclosure.

“We can’t really speed up the time it takes for the lenses to go back to normal,” said the technician. “But you could take the glasses off when you enter a building for a few minutes until they readjust.”

“But I need the glasses to see,” I said.

“Yeah, I could see how that would be a problem,” he replied. “Get it? SEE how that would be a problem?” He laughed.

I shook my head. I needed an optician, but somehow I’d ended up with Jerry Seinfeld.

When I got home, I bumped into my front door and then greeted a coat I thought was my husband.

“Hey, honey, guess what?” I heard my husband say from another part of the room. “I decided to get transition lenses in my glasses, too. How do you like yours?”

“They’re great,” I said. “Just make sure you get the package that includes concussion insurance.”

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.

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Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven. Oh, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

Oh Star of the Sea, help me herein and show me here you are my Mother.

Oh Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power.

Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee (say three times).

Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (say three times).

Amen. This prayer is never known to fail and is to be said for 3 consecutive days.

In Gratitude (M.T.F.)

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From page 2

for special events. Membership dues included additional income of $18,597.

What does it cost the Village to support the Chamber of Commerce, a non-governmental agency? The Village expends police, fire and sanitation costs to support the events the Chamber profits from. The Village incurred costs in the range of $30,000 to $35,000 per year. Given the aforementioned income and taxpayer costs, the Village should not need to subsidize the Chamber of

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Commerce. As Mayor, I recommended the fee (rent) be at least the $1,000 per month in accordance with the original 1988 license agreement. The Board of Trustees correctly exercised their fiduciary responsibility in the unanimous approval of the new license agreement.

Subsequent meetings in 2022 with representatives of the Chamber of Commerce with myself and the Mayor’s Business Development Committee proved fruitless since the Chamber of Commerce refused to pay the license fees. Mr. Wilton conflates the license

agreement between the Village and the Garden City Casino as well as the Garden City Historical Society. Neither the Casino or Historical Society pay a license fee (rent). However, the Casino and Historical Society are required to maintain their facilities at their cost whereas the Village maintains the Toll Lodge. Moreover, the Casino and Historical Society do not have events requiring overtime Village sanitation and police services.

Now, the Village is planning to spend thousands of dollars to restore and

repair the Toll Lodge including a new historically accurate roof and hopefully with fire safety upgrades. Mr. Wilton claims the Village action was unfair and specifically stated that I remained adamant regarding payment of the license fees. What is truly unfair, is not owning up to the requirements of an agreement approved by the Board of Trustees and claiming hardship when the records show years of profit including costs subsidized by the taxpayers.

Former Mayor Cosmo Veneziale

GC Library distributes viewing glasses, hosts eclipse party

Nearly 90 residents gathered on the Garden City Library’s front lawn April 8 to catch a glimpse of history as a total solar eclipse became visible across a band covering parts of North America, including right here in Garden City. The drop-in viewing program was free for patrons.

Over the four days prior, the Library gave out

more than 1,400 solar eclipse glasses to Garden City Library cardholders. The Library initially ordered 200, then 200 more, and added another 1,000 glasses on Friday! Staff also provided additional surplus glasses not needed on the last day to assist with the Library’s Drop-In Viewing Program held Monday afternoon, 2-4:30 p.m.

Over the four days prior, the Library gave out more than 1,400 solar eclipse glasses to

cardholders.

Finance Dept. budget increases due to higher employee costs

From page 13

independent auditors to perform that audit as well,” Woo told the Board of Trustees.

Third Party Services also include the services of the village’s fiscal advisory firm to work on continuing disclosures’ reporting, required under SEC rules, that are done on outstanding village bonds. The Finance Department also provides budgeted funds for the village assessor, who is a consultant to Garden City. He is paid under Third Party Services.

Another expense for that account is the engagement of an actuarial firm that performs required financial disclosures regarding OPEB funding (Other Post-Employment Healthcare Benefits).

An existing project for ‘Finance Tax & Assessments’ under the Capital Projects budget for the Finance Department includes an $118,000 cost, with $48,000 the actual year-to-date expense as of late March. Another $52,000 has been encumbered. The budgeted project

line includes costs of enhancing and streamlining Garden City’s Tax Billing & Assessment system.

The project is in its final stages before completion, and the project’s remaining budget is $18,000. It is anticipated that the project will be done for the start of budget year 2024-25 on June 1.

Woo told the Board of Trustees, “This is a very critical software system for the village because it is used to bill out our tax revenues – the major component of all revenues for the municipality. It also contains all the assessments for every property in the village.”

The Data Processing - Finance capital project line includes $33,000 in funds that went towards upgrades to computer systems. The success in upgrading the village’s Water Utility billing (including resident’s water bills) were borne from the upgraded program. The next potential system upgrade Woo presented is for village payroll, with the employee transferred into her department during the current fiscal year. She

outlined a plan for improving efficiency and the process through new software investments from the capital project funds.

The only future capital project budgeted for Finance with the newly-approved budget involves $250,000 to potentially upgrade the General Ledger software system in the 2027-2028 budget year.

Higher benefits costs for Village

In mid-March Treasurer Woo also reported on the Village of Garden City’s municipal budget inclusion of Unallocated Expenses and Revenues. This account covers the benefits and taxes across village departments. The new budget includes an increase of 2% – from $34.052 million, up to $34.660 million. This represents roughly 49% of Garden City’s $70.2 million budget which was approved by the trustees on April 1.

The higher amount is also a 1% increase from the village’s present-year Forecast Unallocated Expense amount

of $34.452 million. This is mostly due to higher benefits and taxes with higher healthcare costs as well as an increase in Garden City’s debt service.

“We budget for health and dental insurance, the village’s costs of New York State retirement/pensions, as well as Social Security taxes. For all General Fund village employees the total for benefits and taxes amounts to about $16.514 million of the overall budget,” Woo said, explaining how the amount rose higher than the modified 2023-2024 budget amount of $16.399 million this fiscal year.

The village’s Debt Service for 20242025, the annual principal and interest payments due on existing municipal bonds, total approximately $4.294 million – an increase of 11%, or $439,000, more than the 2023-2024 forecast budget amount of $3.856 million. Woo said the village has tried to keep the budgeted Debt Service amount to $4 million per year.

Nearly 90 residents gathered on the Garden City Library’s front lawn April 8 to catch a glimpse of history as a total solar eclipse became visible across a band covering parts of North America.

Garden City Library

GCHS seniors recognized at art exhibition

Senior artists Emily Nori and Samantha Kaczynski, representing Garden City High School, showcased their exceptional talent at the Steinberg Museum of Art at LIU Post. Their artwork was featured in the esteemed “Advanced Visions Exhibition,” which highlighted the creative endeavors of select students from across Long Island enrolled in Advanced Placement art programs.

Emily and Samantha seized the

unique opportunity to present their artwork at the exhibition, where it was evaluated by LIU’s distinguished art department. Emily Nori was awarded honorable mention for her outstanding artistic achievement during the ceremony.

The Advanced Visions Exhibition serves as a platform for young artists to display their creativity and skill, offering valuable recognition and feedback from professionals in the field.

Drawing by Samantha Kaczynski.

Drawing by Emily Nori.

Pre K Girls

Team 1 - Purple

Butterflies

Isabella Lanza

Team 2

Charlotte Eng

Savina Braxton

Team 3 - Pink Roses

Liliana Manginello

Mariella Calma

Team 4

The Whole Team

Team 5

Hanna Abdelfatah

Catherine Burns

Team 6

Emerson Breslin

Caroline Kortsep

Team 7 - Light Purple

Grace Cook

Stella Javian

Team 8

Coco Bossi

Ella Lisagar

Kindergarten girls

Team 1

Liliana McAuliffe

Maggie Hoey

Soccer Players of the Week

Team 2

Mia Forlenza

Vivienne Hampel

Team 5 Whole team

Team 6

Camilla Gavazzi

Emerson Pepicelli

Ava Armeri

Team 7

Meghan Chan

Stella Scroggins

Kindergarten Boys

Red Team 1:

Rikhil Doshi

Nico Santamaria Blanco

Orange Team 2: Bennett Sambus

Dark Green Team 3: Gianni Impennato; Ryan Chiara

Klller Whales: Donovan Wills

Andrew Jansen

Green Sharks: Cooper Faranda

Yellow Team 6:

Henry Chamberlain

Grey Cheetah Sharks:

James Pryor

Henry McGlynn

1st grade girls

Blue Waves:

Zoey Zonneveldt

Elle Bossi

Cotton Candy Cuties::

Lola Javian

Hailey Kruk

Grey Jaguars:

Luna Alvarez

Shannon Soper.

Pinkie Pies:

Gabrielle Bacon

Briseis Bolanos

Audrey Calcagni

Purple Unicorns:

Claire Berbari

Andie Bernstein

Teal Dolphins:

Caroline Chalupa

Ava Joelson

Sophie Loesch

Team Minarcik: Whole Team

Team Power: Whole Team

1st Grade Boys

Team Iyer

Tristan Bilello

Luca Giuzio

Team Schrubbe

Matthew Connors

Max Flecker

Gavin Manna

The Reds

Zachary Gulotta

Nicholas Mackiewicz

Green Dragons

Hunter Marshall

Patrick Rynkar

Blue Devils

Conor DeBusschere

Finn Reilly

Orange Crush

Ryan Boyle

Owen Hage

Charlie Haunss

Team Zelaya

Andrew Bassi

Brady Madden

Red Rockets

Carmine Adimando

Benjamin Roland

2nd and 3rd Grade Girls

Team Groarke

Gabby Philippou

Emma McDermott

Sophie Gong

Team Crain

Penny Gunther

Kayleigh Bell

Sehej Sohal

Team Munnelly

Isla Yehiva

Avery Titterton

Selena Woodward

Team Oei

Caroline Oei

Grace Schrafel

Olivia Strom

Team Mormile

Catherine Houston

Angelina Shalhoub

Alina Ragonese

Team Harrison

Emma Eng

Mary Crowley

Team Servino

Olivia Vukovic

Brynn Oppedisano

Team Blake

Cristina Sikiric

Darcy Kall

Kyriaki Hosken

Team Doggendorf

Emma Matura

Ava Campon

Team Parlanti Whole Team

Boys 2nd/3rd grade

Team 1

Matthew Inman

Connor Maciaszek

Team 2

George Vertullo

Anson Wu

Team 4

Patrick Davis

Patrick Mitthauer

Liam Ryan

Team 7

Eddie Ali

Anthony Constantino

Dominic Donovan

Team 8

Jackson Kennedy

Sebastian Messina

A team that’s like family.

The U9 GC Galaxy continued their successful spring season with a 3-2 win over Connetquot in their first ever LI Cup game. The girls scored two first half goals to take a 2-0 lead and they never

GC Galaxy advance in Long Island Cup Estates POA announces 2024 scholarships

The Property Owners’ Association of the Garden City Estates (Estates POA) announces that it will be awarding 2024 Yuter-Newman Estates POA Scholarships and that the application is now available.

This merit-based scholarship will be awarded to one or more 12th grade students (from any public or private high school) that reside in the Garden City Estates section. The applicants must be accepted to, and planning to attend,

looked back. As always, the win was a total team effort. The Galaxy continue the spring regular season with their next match against Oyster Bay.

EPOA to offer scholarships to seniors

a four-year college full-time in the fall.

The selection of the winners will be by the Estates POA Scholarship Committee and will be based on academic excellence and the level of involvement in local civic causes and community service. To download an application, visit the POA’s website at www.gcestates. org/scholarships. Applications must be received by Tuesday, April 30, 2024 to be eligible.

It is with pleasure that the Eastern Property Owners’ Association announces that it will once again award a $1000 scholarship for 2024 to a graduating high school senior who resides in the Eastern section.

The candidates, or their family, must be dues paying members of the EPOA.  They must be currently attending public or private high school and plan to attend college full time in the fall.  The focus of this scholarship is community service.

Candidates need to submit an application which can be accessed from the EPOA website at www.gcepoa.org or obtained from the Garden City High School Guidance Department.  Should you have a question, you can call Barbara Garry at 516-248-1486.

All interested, eligible seniors are encouraged to apply.  The deadline for applications is April 12, 2024.

Do you have grandchildren?

Enter our “World’s Most Beautiful Grandchildren” contest! Just send in your grandchildren’s photos and a brief description of the child (or children) along with your name and address to editor@gcnews.com

Taylor is off to the races!

Addison attracting some defense.

Islanders fight for playoff position

Islanders at a team practice this week.

BY TONY SENA

The New York Islanders have gained significant momentum during the past two weeks in their quest to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs. With the combination of some excellent goaltending and defensive play in front of their net, the Islanders have moved up in the standings and are now in an excellent position to make the playoffs. The team has also had some clutch goal scoring to help in their recent winning streak. Head Coach Patrick Roy in speaking with the media at the Northwell Ice

Center said, “we have to keep up the solid play and be totally focused on every shift.”

The Islanders have some big games this week including two crucial games against their cross town rivals, the New York Rangers. The game on Saturday April 13th will be at Madison Square Garden. Captain Anders Lee said that “we’re looking forward to keeping up this solid momentum we've built over the past few weeks.” The Islanders worked hard in practice all week and are ready for these big upcoming games. Let’s Go Islanders!

Garden City Kiwanis Club announces scholarship

The Garden City Kiwanis Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now available for the 2024 Kiwanis Service Scholarship. The scholarship is open to any high school senior residing in the Garden City School District and is awarded in recognition of a student’s commitment to community service.

Applications have been provided to the Guidance Department of Garden City High School and to many of the private high schools in the vicinity. Interested students should contact their guidance department. The application may also be obtained by emailing Carole Russo at cartaxpro@ aol.com. The deadline for submitting an application is April 16, 2024.

Did you know? A recent study of housing market trends over the past several years found the best week to put your home on the market is April 14-20!

If you are thinking of taking advantage of this peak homebuying season, we can advise you on best practices to get your home ready for sale.

Garden City Girls Varsity Lacrosse team off

Garden City High School Girls Varsity Lacrosse clinched another win on the road in chilly Port Washington Friday evening. The game opened with a slow start and the first quarter ending in a 1-1 tie, with the Garden City tally coming from an assist by junior Tori Ottomanelli to senior Maureen Arendt finding the back of the net.

With the temperature staying low, a blinding sun entered in the second quarter and heated up the GC offense. Junior Kyle Finnell took some of that heat to the cage and tallied two goals, one neatly assisted by Maureen Arendt. Then Finnell reciprocated and found Arendt, who once again found the back of the net, giving Garden City a 4-1 advantage. Effective draw work from Kendal Morris and Mabel Overbeck kept the ball out of Port Washington’s sticks and continued to position GC for key offensive opportunities.

By the end of the half, the Lady Trojans pulled ahead by a score of 8-1, as the sun set on the Viking’s comeback hopes. A free position goal by freshman Grace Brantuk and a third by Maureen Arendt in the first half of play, added to the GC momentum. Arendt finished with a total of 5 points in Friday’s contest, adding another goal later in the game as well.

With senior Niamh Pfaff in Goal, seniors Emily Romeo and Mabel Overbeck along with juniors Ellie Anderson, Meaghan Lynch, Brynn Reilly, and Brooke Hopkins, GC demonstrated an allied defensive unit that continued to force turnovers and win ground balls throughout the game.

Friday night lights continued in the third quarter with a free position goal from Elizabeth Gaffney and strong control from Regan Backer. With 8 different goal scorers throughout the game, including sophomores Averie Smith, Katie Horn, Deanna Prisco and Ashley Clark, the Lady Trojans had no problem keeping the scoreboard clicking. The relentless attack of senior Molly Nicholas and junior Ava

Borzilleri and midfield control of sophomore Ciara Hegarty and Katie Horn kept the team powering forward for the win. Junior Kate Connolly logged a couple of nifty saves between the pipes with sophomore Kate Scuderi, juniors Kitty Clavin, Emerson Goettelmann, Makaela Morris, Elizabeth Staub, and Senior Tara Hollis locked in with night vision. The bitter cold contest ended with final digits on the scoreboard showing 13-4 in favor of Garden City.

The Lady Trojans opened up their home league schedule against the Syosset Braves on Monday, April 8 after both teams successfully navigated their afternoon activities flirting with the path of totality. Due to the late start, the squad was ironically fighting against non-eclipse related darkness in a back and forth battle that saw a gritty first half end in an 8-8 tie. The Lady Trojans returned to the field with a renewed focus and brought some twilight fireworks as GC fans also brought their energetic cheer to the second half. The GC defense held Syosset to one goal in the second half, while racking up 9 of their own to pull away by an impressive 17-9 margin win. The Trojans never took their foot off the gas in the second half. Kyle Finnell found the path of tally with 5 assists and 2 goals. Maureen Arendt’s 6 points, 4 assists and 2 goals, also proved difficult to eclipse. Hat tricks from Kendal Morris, Averie Smith and Kathryn Monaco added to the impressive offensive surge in the second half.

Ashley Clark added a goal to the board and Tori Ottomanelli’s imposing four goals powered the team’s selfless play. With their overall record of 5 wins and no losses, the Garden City Lady Trojans continue to impress as they eagerly await their new kits and an upcoming match with Long Beach by the sea. Hopefully there will be warmer weather on the horizon.

Please come and cheer on the Garden City Girls Varsity Lacrosse team on Monday, April 15, at 4:00 p.m. for their sec-

to a 5-0 start

ond home game against Darien High School. Connecticut’s highly rated varsity Blue Wave squad will be traveling to Garden City for a great match up. We

hope the community will come out to support the Lady Trojans on their home turf. GO GC!!!!

GC junior Elizabeth Staub and sophomore Kate Scuderi at Port Washington’s Friday night vision.

Lights on - Sophomores Ciara Hegarty and Regan Backer ready to drive with junior Emerson Goettelmann and Regan Backer.

Junior Catherine Clavin stride for stride defending against Port Washington's attack.

Garden City Girls Varsity Lacrosse team off to a 5-0 start

Sponsorship

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• Signage/Banner Displayed on Warren King Field

Junior Kate Connolly eyes on ball.

Defensive zone clear from senior keeper Niamh Pfaff with senior Mabel Overbeck, Kendal Morris, Emily Romeo and junior Kathryn Monaco ready to receive.

Sun shining down on freshman Grace Brantuk leading the charge with senior Kendal Morris and junior Ellie Anderson on the trail.

GC Boys Lacrosse triumphs over Ward Melville on Military Appreciation Day

The Garden City Varsity Boys Lacrosse team.

Following two losses on the road, this past sunny Saturday afternoon, amidst the cheers of dedicated fans and the solemn remembrance of military service, the Garden City Boys Lacrosse team delivered a stellar performance, defeating Ward Melville with a decisive 9-3 victory. The occasion, marked as Military Appreciation Day, added an extra layer of significance to an already intense matchup, as players and spectators alike paid tribute to the sacrifices of servicemen and women.

The scoring was distributed across multiple players, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility. Anthony Asaro,

Michael Berkery, Tommy Esposito, Charlie Koester, Carson Kraus, Cooper Kraus, Dan Mejdid, Andrew Ottomanelli, Brayden Robertiello and Ben Smith all made significant contributions on the offensive end, each leaving their mark on the scoreboard. Whether it was a goal, an assist, or a crucial play, every member of the team played a vital role in securing the victory.

Defensively, Garden City was equally impressive, stifling Ward Melville’s offensive efforts and limiting their scoring opportunities. Matt Kephart’s steady presence provided a solid foundation

for the team’s defensive efforts, instilling confidence in his fellow defenders: Aidan Considine, Charlie Meringolo, Andrew Denglar, Owen Wuchte, Delan Wuchte, Blake Casscadden and Luke LeSuer. Goalkeeper Denis Fargione stood tall between the pipes, turning away shots with confidence and posting an impressive save percentage of 77%.

In the crucial battle at the faceoff X, Luke Cascadden and Brayden Robertiello showcased their skills, winning key possessions and maintaining possession for Garden City. Their dom-

inance in the faceoff battle allowed the team to control possession and dictate the flow of the game, ultimately tilting the scales in their favor.

As the final whistle blew, the Garden City Boys Lacrosse team celebrated a well-deserved victory, capping off an unforgettable day of lacrosse and honoring the military. Their performance was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence, serving as an inspiration to their fans and supporters.

The Woodstick Classic: A historic lacrosse rivalry set to thrill

The Woodstick Classic, the pinnacle of high school lacrosse rivalries, is set to reignite next week, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1935. The 140th edition of this storied matchup will

see Manhasset and Garden City once again clash on the lacrosse field. With Manhasset leading the series 76-63. This rivalry between perennial power houses transcends mere competition; it embodies the essence of lacrosse. The Woodstick Classic schedule promises a full day of thrilling lacrosse action. Kicking off with JV Girls at 10:00 a.m., followed by JV Boys at 12:00 p.m., the excitement builds throughout the day, with the Varsity Girls at 4 p.m., culminating in the Varsity Boys’ matchup at 7:00 p.m. With every game, the intensity rises, setting the stage for an unforgettable spectacle.

Adding to the excitement this year is Garden City’s initiative

to “black out”the stands. As fans, athletes, and administrators gear up for the Woodstick Classic, they ’ re encouraged to deck themselves out in GC Woodstick Classic 2024 attire. By dressing in solidarity, they aim to showcase the strength and unity of the Garden City community.

The annual Woodstick Classic is more than just a lacrosse game; it ’ s a celebration of tradition, rivalry, and community spirit. As the countdown to April 20 begins, anticipation builds, promising yet another chapter in the illustrious history of this iconic matchup. So mark your calendars, order your GC Woodstick Classic gear, and get ready to witness lacrosse history in the making.

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A military honor guard displayed the colors.

"Black out" the stands at the Woodstick Classic by wearing one of these special shirts. T-shirts and hoodies can be ordered at the QR code.

Thunder Youth Football registration

The 2023 Thunder 7s began their football careers last season and are looking forward to another successful season as Thunder 8s. Who is ready to work hard, make new friends and become this year’s Thunder 7s?

Registration for the 2024 Garden City Thunder season is now open. Please visit www.GCThunder.com for online registration. Thunder Football is open to boys ages 7–11 (next year’s 2nd through 6th grade) who live in Garden City and want to compete against other towns in Nassau County. The teams are coached by volunteers who teach the boys the fundamentals of football, sportsmanship and how to be good teammates. Registration ends May 15.

Are you a professional?

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

Recreation Pickleball News

Beginning the week of January 7, Recreation and Parks will add a Friday night and a Sunday morning session of pickleball.

• Friday Nights- 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. beginning January 19

• Sundays – 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. beginning January 7

The above session will run through the end of March and then be evaluated for participation.

We will continue to run pickleball from 9:30 to noon, Tuesdays through Fridays.

All sessions will be open to residents only and will allow continuous round robin use during that session.  No group may reserve a court and play on their own. The cost per session will be $6.00 daily or with a pass, $5.

Get a Jump on the Summer with USA Support Group

US Sports and Garden City Recreation have again joined up to run our very popular summer sports programs at Community Park and St. Paul’s.  Weekly summer programs include soccer, multisport, flag football, field hockey, lacrosse, and golf. They also offer Parent and Me classes as well as 3 to 5 year old squirt programs!

These programs are open to Village residents ages 2 to 11 years.  To see what is offered and to register, please visit US Sports website at www.usasportgroup. com and look for Garden City.

Lacrosse Clinic Presented by Pioneer Sports

Join us this Spring for a six-week Lacrosse Clinic sponsored by Pioneer Sports in partnership with Garden City

GARDEN CITY RECREATION AND PARK NEWS

Recreation and Parks. This special program introduces girls and boys, kindergarten through fifth grade, to the game of lacrosse in a non-competitive, instructional clinic.  *Please bring your own lacrosse stick*

This clinic will be held on Tuesdays on St. Paul’s Fields from April 16 through June 4 according to the following schedule:

Grades K–5  from 6 –7:00 p.m

The cost of this program will be $150, Space is limited.  Register online for this program at www.playpioneersports. com.

No registrations will be taken at the Recreation Office.

Garden City Recreation Children’s Tennis Lessons – Spring 2024

The Garden City Department of Recreation and Parks is pleased to announce the start of the SPRING children’s tennis program. Registration is ongoing and classes begin on Monday, April 1. 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 8:30am to 4:30pm. You can download a registration form at our website: gardencityrecreation.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 April 15th.   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 Adult Tennis Lessons

Registration for Spring adult tennis lessons will begin on Monday, April 1st. Please fill out the interest form and return it to the Recreation Office by Friday, April 12. The Recreation Office is located at 108 Rockaway Ave. Applications can be found on our website Gardencityrecreation.org.

The Upcycle Academy Summer Camp  SUMMER 2024 NEW!!

The Upcycle Academy - FASHION CAMP Do you have a passion for fashion? Do you like being creative? How about having FUN with friends while you make something AWESOME!!

Join the Upcycle Academy for our Fashion Camp this summer. In this very special enrichment camp, we guide you through the design process for creating your very own upcycled designs. Our

Attention students!

camps are both educational & FUN. Sketch your ideas. Shop the Upcycle Shop. DIY - Design It Yourself!

All upcycling materials and recycled apparel are provided (bring your own if you want to make it extra special). Brought to you by fashion industry professionals, fashion university educators & current fashion university students. We teach all things fashion … ColorFashion Illustration - Silhouette /  Shape / Proportion - Trend Spotting ConceptDesign - Upcycling - Sustainability in Fashion - Styling and more! Share your designs on the last day of camp in the lookbook photoshoot and fashion show especially for friends and family.

All upcycle materials and recycled apparel provided. Keep your designs at the end of camp!

July 8 - August 9, 5 one-week sessions offered. Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. –12 p.m. Age 8 - 14 Fee: $345

Howard "HoJo" Johnson Baseball Clinic

Garden City Recreation and Parks invites you to join us on Saturday, May 11, 5–7:30 p.m., to meet, listen, and play ball with 2x former World Series Champion, 2x All Star, 2x Silver Slugger, NY Mets Hall of Famer and NY Mets legend Howard “HoJo” Johnson. Each child will receive 2.5 hours of baseball fun and an auto picture by HoJo. This program is open to boys and girls grades K–8 at Community Park Field 4. You can register online or drop a check off to the rec office at 108 Rockaway Ave. Checks should be made out to Pioneer Sports.

https://pioneersports.leagueapps. com/events/4192319-2024-howard-hojojohnson-clinic-grades-k---8th-co-ed

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!

Youth Board to collect sports equipment this weekend

Garden City students and members of the Long Island Volunteer Center Youth Advisory Board, who coordinated the gently-used sports equipment drive at St. Paul’s this weekend (from left), Matt Kneafsey, DJ McDonough, Caileigh McDonough, Lizzy Hagopian, and Ciara Hegarty

The newly formed Youth Advisory Board of the Garden City-based Long Island Volunteer Center (an affiliate of Points of Light) will be collecting gently-used sports equipment this weekend at St. Paul’s.  A bin will be placed under the over-hang adjacent to the entrance to St. Paul’s on Saturday April 13 and Sunday April 14.  All items will be donated to Game Changers New York which supplies the equipment to highneed communities across Long Island.  Game Changers works “to provide equitable access in youth sports and physical activity, by supporting children to achieve their greatest potential, on the field and in life.”

This is the first service project planned by the Youth Advisory Board in conjunction with Good Deeds Day on April 14 sponsored by Points of Light.  Good Deeds Day is a global movement

of people who are dedicated to “doing good.”  Since 2007, millions of people and thousands of organizations from 110 countries unite annually to volunteer as change makers who desire living in a better world by taking impactful action.

LIVC Executive Director and Garden City resident Diana O’Neill said “Every person has the power to create positive change in their community.  We couldn’t be more proud of these fine Garden City youth who are committed to helping the Long Island Volunteer Center expand meaningful youth programming while taking action to be the hands-on helpers.  They truly lead by example.”  At a recent board meeting, Ms. O’Neill also acknowledged Parent Advisor Robin McDonough for her assistance in updating the LIVC youth opportunities list and for her help guiding the planning and coordination of service projects.

Do you have a ser vice to adver tise?

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 516-294-8900 for rates and information.

Looking for a Trusted Real Estate Advisor and Community Expert?

Let Maureen guide you with all of your real estate needs!

“Maureen is an excellent realtor! She staged and sold my home very quickly. She is extremely knowledgeable, very responsive, super friendly and confident. I would highly recommend her and only use her going forward for any realty needs! Her negotiation skills are way above par. I was very indecisive and ready to quickly accept an offer — she was confident in her decisions and sold my house for more then I thought possible. I also love the way she came in and staged my house — it looked amazing!”

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Sports Events Portraits

Mary Krener

Fortune Heaney Lisa Heaney

Lynn Puccio Cheryl Trimboli Scott Wallace

Julia Mastromauro Rosado

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Rene Blair

Christine Cudahy Manager

Patricia Costello

Linda Mulrooney Eileen O’Hara

Diane Piscopo

Daureen Hausser

Kathleen McCarthy

Patrick Gibbons

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Susan MacDonald

Brigid Marmorowski

Patricia Dickson

Kathleen Lichtman

Garden

Rockville