The Garden City News (4/19/24)

Garden City Scouts BSA Troop 322 recently camped at Resica Falls Scout Reservation. While there,the scouts worked on a service project to help maintain the camp. See page 59.

Enhanced recreation facilities, capital projects detailed in budget

BY RIKKI MASSAND

The Village of Garden City’s Recreation Department budget for 2024-25, totaling $5.758 million in expenses, was approved along with the village budget at the April 1 Board of Trustees reorganization meeting.

At the Board’s final budget work session, held Thursday March 28, Superintendent of the Recreation & Parks Department Paul Blake shared information on the purchases of equipment planned as capital projects, as well as the facilities needs that will be addressed in the coming years.

The Rec. budget for 202425 increases 5% (going up to $5.758 million) with $3.829 million in salary-related expenses.

There are 44 full-time village Recreation and Parks Department employees, and another 44 part-time employees budgeted within the department. Of the 44 full-timers, 37 of them work in the craft-related fields and just seven work on the administrative side.

See page 53

BOE opposes state proposal on faith based affordable housing

BY KASSARA MCELROY

At its meeting on April 16th, the Garden City Board of Education announced it will oppose a bill before the New York State Legislature which would allow religious entities to develop affordable housing on their properties, in some cases overriding local zoning laws.

The Board plans to write a letter of opposition to bill, citing overcrowded classrooms and stretched-thin funds as top concerns.

Board of Education Vice President Tom Pinou spoke on behalf of the board and local coalition about opposition to the act.

“We’re part of a Coalition alongside various districts in our area about Manhasset, Jericho, Oyster Bay, and over ten others. One of our collective concerns is related to the NYS faith-based affordable housing act that is being pushed on all communities, known as Assembly Bill A8386 and Senate Bill S7791.”

Some advocates say it is a needed solution to the housing crunch, but the Board added, “It seems the NYS school board is also opposing

See page 53

Speed humps, intersections topics at Traffic Comm

BY RIKKI MASSAND

The Village of Garden City’s Traffic Commission, at its meeting held in late March, discussed the addition of intersection markings at Cherry Valley Avenue and Ninth Street. A request from resident Chris Lau proposed the on-roadway markings, “Do Not Block Intersection” and/or painted lines forming a grid box. The Traffic Commission is seeking ways to reduce congestion in the area.

Diagrams of the various roadway marking options indicating “Do Not Block” and a grid were submitted by DPW Superintendent Borroni to the Commission for review. Trustee Kelly spoke about the box being at the lower end of Ninth Street at Cherry Valley Avenue. Trustee Ed Finneran said he liked the concept of an “X” instead of the large, “empty box” diagram. The consensus was the longer box, with an

See page 54

In this week’s mailbag we received several letters defending the Chamber of Commerce’s role in the village.

For decades, the Chamber has had its headquarters in the historic Toll Lodge building at the eastern end of Seventh Street. Although former mayor Cosmo Veneziale stated in a recent letter to the editor that the Chamber used to pay $1000 a month in rent, that point has been disputed by the current and two past executive directors of the Chamber, who say the Chamber paid between $450 and $565 a month.

While these rents are discounted from market commercial property rates, it should not be forgotten that the Chamber is a non-profit entity that provides a lot of programs for

the community, such as operating the Promenades, the Easter Car Parade, the Fall Homecoming Festival, and holiday tree lighting events both on Seventh Street and New Hyde Park Road.

In addition, the Chamber serves as a point of contact for prospective residents and businesses who might want to make Garden City their home.

A healthy business sector is important for both the quality of life in the Village and for stabilizing property taxes. The new Village Board should meet with Chamber leaders and try to resolve this impasse.

Garden City’s businesses and residents are in a symbiotic relationship - what is good for one is good for the other.

unpaid volunteers. The Garden City Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer organization. Much like other chambers, for the past 40 years, the Garden City Chamber of Commerce has had a paid executive director and an administrative assistant. These positions for the past three years have remained vacant, at our chamber.

We would like to underscore that the Garden City Chamber of Commerce (hereinafter “GCCC”) holds no contention with the village’s agreements involving the Garden City Historical Society and the Garden City Casino. These referenced relationships serve to illustrate the bonds between the village and its tax-paying residents. As the GCCC, we are also actively seeking to continue to achieve such harmonious synergy with the village.

The GCCC encourages Garden City homeowners and Village officials to observe the struggling commercial districts in and around Nassau County. By doing so, the GCCC prompts readers to reflect on the vital role we play in enhancing property values and nurturing a sense of pride in local businesses, commercial property ownership, and the residential sector within our village.

The GCCC has a rich history of steadfastly supporting and fostering pride of ownership in both local business and commercial property ownership. Throughout the years, our efforts have included organizing and funding events such as the Belmont Stakes, 14 Friday Night Promenades for 9 years, Christmas Tree lightings, Networking Events, Garden City Connect, Easter Car Parade/ Car Show, New Business Ribbon Cuttings, Business Seminars, voter/residents’ informational events,

Seventh Street/ New Hyde Park Holiday Street Lighting and Window Decorating Competitions, Fall Homecoming Festival, and the Pineapple Ball.

Additionally, the GCCC is the point of contact for hundreds of phone calls and emails inquiring about all aspects of village and village life. As an example, the recent sentiment of a vape shop opening garnered a significant community response in opposition to the said response. The GCCC worked collaboratively with The Village in reaching an amicable agreement with the property owner and tenant to facilitate this not happening.

We respectfully submit our mission at the GCCC not only benefits local businesses and commercial property owners, but also enhances the lives of the Garden City residents and their property values.

In response to our former mayor’s letter of 4/12, the GCCC suggests that we arrange a meeting with Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan and the Village Trustees to revisit our shared history and address any misconceptions. Perhaps we can reach an amicable agreement with the village on the use of the Toll Lodge, if one is possible.

In closing, the GCCC is dedicated to playing our role in furthering the growth of our remarkable village. It is with this commitment in mind that the GCCC Executive Board and Board of Directors present this letter. We are considered the benchmark Chamber of Commerce by the Nassau Council of Chambers, which represents the 42 Chambers in Nassau County. Our stated mission is to continue in this role.

The Executive Board

The Board of Directors

John E. Wilton, President Garden City Chamber of Commerce

Setting the record straight

To the Editor:

In regards to former Mayor Cosmo Veneziale’s letter. “Toll Lodge Facts” appearing in last week’s issue:  I would See page 42

A.T. Stewart Classic: Golf for a good cause

There are so many reasons to attend and sponsor The Garden City Historical Society’s 4th Annual A.T. Stewart Golf Classic.  It’s Monday, May 13, at the historic 1916 Cherry Valley Club, and has been hailed as “A great day of golf and entertainment!” by attendees.

Participants enjoy 18 holes of golf on a superbly conditioned course, including brunch and refreshments.  Everyone enjoys cocktails, barbecue and music, along with valuable raffles, trips and other auction prizes, guaranteeing an enjoyable day from beginning to end.   Reservations and more information:  https://2024atstewartcup. eventbrite.com/

The Historical Society, housed in an original 1872 Apostle house, is focussed on community engagement and enrichment.  The Golf Classic raises money for our Student Art Program and Contest, which last year had over 500 entires from grades K–12 , and exhibits curated from our archives collection, etc.  As

the most logical advocate for Historic Preservation, we are an outspoken proponent for the priceless historic significance of Garden City.

New this year:

• Win a Luxury Vehicle 2-year lease, valued at $25,000+, provided by sponsor Jaguar Land Rover Long Island.

• Compete with a PGA pro on hole #5 to win a Fantasy Golf Trip for two to Pebble Beach, Whistling Straights, or Bandon Dunes worth $5000, from sponsor Charity Golf International, Inc.

• A female Golf Pro from sponsor Backswing Golf will be on hole #13 for a “closest to the pin” competition for prizes and to kick all the guys’ butts!

• Prizes for a hole-in-one on par 3 holes - $1200 Cuater by Travis Mathew Premium Performance Gear. A one year supply of golf balls from Bridgestone Golf.  $900 Revo Sunglasses, all donated by sponsor Jaguar Land Rover Long Island.

Sponsors’ products and services will be showcased to thousands of the most upscale consumers, through social media and database marketing, PR and partnership recognition at all our events — and through the usage of our 1872 museum building to hold your event.

• The Golf Genius online scoring system will promote sponsors’ messages, logos during play and in prominent signage and video presentations during the cocktails and BBQ. Onsite product placement also available.

• Team, Event, Cup and Course Sponsorships - as well as custom sponsorships created to meet your marketing goals - offer corporate and individual sponsors an ideal venue to entertain business associates.

Reservations and more information:  https://2024atstewartcup.eventbrite. com/ or contact Francine Ryan, francine.ryan@tgchs.org

A.T. Stewart invites you to have a great time golfing for a good cause on May 13.

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!

Experience Luxury Living 3 Bedroom Wyndham

Upscale living with this beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 full bath simplex unit nestled within the prestigious Wyndham development. Boasting full amenities, valet parking and a 24-hour concierge, this residence offers the epitome of convenience and luxury

•Valet parking with two designated garage spots.

•Indoor heated saltwater pool, locker room, spa, and state-of -the-art workout health club.

•Outdoor entertainment with a BBQ area, tranquil walking paths, and meticulously landscaped grounds featuring a picturesque pond.

•Breathtaking panoramic views encompassing the Garden City Golf Club, Middle School, Cathedral, and beyond.

•2113 square feet of living space with additional south west view balcony with unobstructed sunlight.

•Eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a convenient pantry area.

•Marble baths, in-unit washer/dryer, ample storage space and a separate storage unit. Offered at $1,750,000

Impeccably Maintained Move-In Ready Cape Cod Home, 4 Bed, 2 Bath

$1,039,000

Welcome to your new home sweet home! This pristine 4-bedroom Capecod home offers comfort, convenience, and timeless charm. Step into the welcoming entry foyer and experience the warmth and comfort that awaits you in this meticulously maintained home. The cozy living room featuring a wood-burning fireplace, is perfect for gathering around on chilly evenings. Adjacent is the formal dining room, offering an elegant space for hosting intimate dinners or festive gatherings, seamlessly leading to the functional and immaculate kitchen. The updated bathrooms add a touch of modern comfort, while the full basement provides ample storage and a convenient laundry area. Outside, relax in the serene screened-in patio area, nestled between the garage and home, or enjoy the yard space off the kitchen for outdoor activities and relaxation. Conveniently located close to shopping and LIRR this home is one you won’t want to miss!

Call for a private appointment

516-865-2448

Nancy Giannone

Licensed RE Salesperson, CBR

Mobile: 516.865.2448

ngiannone@coachrealtors.com

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

Jen Sullivan

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Founding Agent of Long Island Member of the Luxury Division

jennifer.sullivan@compass.com

M: 516.361.7190

Andy Foundation Yard Sale supports three causes

On Saturday May 11, The Andy Foundation will host its annual Yard Sale at St. Paul’s Field House in Garden City. The sale will raise funds for three deserving recipients.

This year’s sale aims to support 11-year-old Jacob, who is in need of a service dog, trained for epilepsy alerting.  The Andy Foundation will be providing funds to cover the cost of training the puppy, allaying some of the financial pressure on Jacob’s family. Everyone knows how expensive a furry friend can be!

The second group selected is The Long Beach Waterfront Warriors. This grassroots non-profit brings soldiers and their families to Long Beach for a week long  summer retreat.  The soldiers are adjusting to life altering events and the vacation gives them a stress free week. This summer they will be hosting military members and 30 of

their children.

Third, the Andy Foundation is happy to support a local non profit Enriching Special Adults, which supports and sponsors inclusive events to give this population a community to participate in.

The Yard Sale will feature a wide array of donated items, including furniture, electronics, jewelry, art, sports and much more!   The Andy Foundation encourages everyone to join in this philanthropic endeavor, whether by donating items for the sale, volunteering your time and of course stopping by to shop!

The sale will take place at St. Paul’s Field House on Saturday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The donation drop off date is Friday May 10, from 9–4.

For more information please contact us at : Info@ theandyfoundation.org or call us at 516-739-1717

Board Of Education Town Hall on April 30

The Property Owners’ Associations (POA’s) are hosting a Town-Hall Meeting featuring Board of Education (BOE) candidates on Tuesday,  April 30.  Residents will hear from two BOE candidates, Carl Oliveri and Kristen Pappas, who are running for the BOE at-large position being vacated by Tom Pinou. The meeting will start at 7:30 p.m. at the Senior Center on Golf

Club Lane.  All residents are welcome. Joe Sileo will be running unopposed for re-election as BOE President.

The POAs encourage all residents to meet the Board of Education Trustee candidates and vote in the general election on May 21.  Voting will be held at the Garden City High School gym and votes will determine the BOE trustees and the school budget.

The Andy Foundation Yard Sale will take place on Saturday, May 11.

Girl Scouts remember the military

Gold Award Mentor Joanne Meyer Jendras, ALA Membership Chair Donna Armieri, Brownie Dakota Beltran, Girl Scout Kiera O' Leary and ALA President Jacqueline Eltringham.

Garden City Girl Scout Troops marked the end of another successful cookie drive in March that included sending cookies to military personnel. This year, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 265 purchased cookies through Brownie Dakota Beltran and prospective Gold Award Girl Scout Kiera O’Leary. Dakota and Kiera also showed their appreciation of our armed forces by their participation in Post 265’s Veterans Day tributes on Veterans Day

2023.

Joanne Meyer Jendras, Girl Scout Gold Award Mentor and Jacqueline Eltringham, ALA Unit 265 President, worked cooperatively to see the joint project come to fruition.

ALA Unit 265 supports the work of Girl Scouts in Garden City under the fine direction of Mrs. Meyer Jendras and all the leaders of Girl Scout troops, especially in their work to support veterans.

American Legion hosts leadership programs

On Wednesday, March 6, veterans of Post 265 and members of Auxiliary Unit 265 conducted an informational session about the Boys State and Girls State Leadership Programs.  Parents and prospective High School juniors who reside in the GC School District were invited to attend.

These programs are part of a statewide legion effort to educate young adults regarding local, state and federal government processes. They also encourage patriotism and provide an opportunity for students to meet and engage with other students from other

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.

regions in New York State.

Both the Post and the Auxiliary work closely in cooperation with local high schools to interview and determine eligible candidates. Post Commander Frank Tauches and American Legion President Jacqueline Eltringham gave detailed presentations to the parents and students about how to apply to the programs. The process customarily is initiated in the fall semester of the student’s junior year.  Interested students should speak to their social studies teachers.

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

119 Tullamore Road

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 7.173% 7.255%

15-year fixed 6.349% 6.487%

5/1 ARM 6.734% 7.752%

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS

Date: 4/10/2024

Sold price: $1,570,000

3 beds, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial

Property size: .15 acres

Annual taxes: $22,552

MLS number: 3534743

The Seller’s Team: Jennifer Sullivan, Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Jennifer Keschner, Signature

Premier Properties

This beautiful Brick Center Hall Colonial located in the sought after Estates section features 3 large bedrooms and 2.5 baths on a 60 x 110 beautifully landscaped property. This home is the perfect blend of timeless and fresh design. The main level features a welcoming entry foyer, formal dining room with built-ins and wainscoting, a spacious and sun-lit living room with new gas fireplace and recessed lighting, a renovated powder room, a white eat in kitchen with high end appliances and peninsula for extra seating which flows into the family room with new French doors that lead out to brick patio and private backyard with new fence. Upstairs, discover the beautiful primary bedroom suite, complete with 2 closets and en suite bathroom with shower. Two additional spacious bedrooms and full hallway bath complete the 2nd level. Other highlights include: walk up attic, partially finished basement with walk out egress, 2 car detached garage, beautiful hardwood floors throughout, new plantation shutters and blinds, new gas boiler, CAC and close proximity to parks, LIRR and Stratford School. This truly is a picture-perfect home!

17 Franklin Court

Date: 4/4/2024

Sold price: $1,025,000

2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural style: Townhomes

Property size: .06 acres

Annual taxes: $16,714

MLS number: 3533184

The Seller’s Team: Mary Weille, Cheryl Adams McAulliffe, Howard Hanna Coach

The Buyer’s Team: Jill Palmeri, Howard Hanna Coach

Welcome to “The Mews”, considered one of Garden City’s architectural gems, these townhomes were built to evoke picturesque English Cotswold cottages. This charming center court Tudor-style townhouse is complete with slate roof, leaded glass windows, hardwood floors, CAC and private stone walled garden with slate patio. Foyer w/double coat closet, open living room/dining room w/large sliders to the rear yard & patio, eat-in-kitchen + a sitting area w/fireplace, skylight & sliders to the patio & 1/2 bath all on the 1st floor. The 2nd floor offers an oversize primary bedroom w/2 walk-in closets & ensuite bath, bedroom #2 & hall bath. There is a full, walk-up staircase to the finished 3rd floor. The basement is unfinished and houses the laundry and utilities.

134 Pine Street

Date: 4/16/2024

Sold price: $999,999

4 bedrooms, 1 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial

Property size: .14 acres

Annual taxes: $15,356

MLS number: 3534507

The Seller’s Team: Adrienne McDougal, Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Zaheer Khanzada, ALUX Realty

This center-hall colonial sits on a 6000-square-foot property in the middle of a quiet tree-lined street. The house features hardwood floors, a spacious living room and dining room, a kitchen overlooking the den/family room, and a convenient half bath. The first floor provides a seamless flow for everyday living and entertaining. On the second level, you’ll find a sizeable primary bedroom, three additional well-proportioned bedrooms, and a full hall bathroom. This home has a large full basement, which includes laundry and storage. Beyond the property, the location is convenient to neighborhood parks, primary schools, the LIRR, and downtown Garden City. With its ideal location, this home provides the perfect foundation to incorporate modern amenities and create the home of your dreams.

New physical therapy office opens its doors in Village

BY GARY SIMEONE

A new physical therapy office with a focus on the patient experience has recently opened its doors in Garden City. Spear Physical Therapy, located at 1050 Franklin Avenue, opened its doors on March 11.

Tim Caputo, clinical director at Spear PT, said that the new clinic offers an array of therapeutic treatments, including general orthopedics for both pediatric and geriatric population and to athletes of all ages.

“Our goal is to have our patients improve dramatically from the start of their treatment, from coming into the office hobbled or on Crutches, to completing their treatment and out moving around and running pain-free,” said Caputo. “What makes our clinic different is that we focus solely on the patient experience and that we pride ourselves on the customer service aspect of the business.”

Caputo, who received his doctorate in physical therapy at Stony Brook University, said that he became involved with Spear PT living and working in Manhattan in 2020.

“Spear puts a real emphasis on patient values and support and a priority on leadership which is something that’s very important to me. As an athlete myself I saw how they were very

supportive to their patients care and wellbeing, from the initial therapy sessions to the end of treatment goals.”

Caputo was born and raised in Huntington and was a star player on his high school soccer team. After completing high school, he played Division I baseball at the University of Rhode Island.

At thirty one years old, Caputo is an avid golfer, surfer and tennis player. He knows the importance of physical therapy and its benefits after playing sports all of his life.

“I know how hard sports can be on the body, particularly after playing for multiple years and through the aging process,” said Caputo. “After getting badly hurt playing soccer in high school I became very interested in the field of physical therapy.”

One of the more important features of the clinic is that they have state-licensed direct access for physical therapy. This means that a patient is allowed ten sessions at a clinic without a referral or script from a physician.

Caputo is the clinical director and sole physical therapist on staff at the clinic.

To find more information on Spear Physical Therapy and its multiple locations throughout New York and New Jersey visit www.spearcenter.com

Spruce planting to commemorate Arbor Day

The Board of Trustees has declared Friday, April 26, 2024 as Arbor Day in Garden City. Recreation and Parks Department crew members will join Trustees and members of the Civic Beautification Committee and  Recreation Commission at 2:00 p.m. on the Village Green to celebrate Arbor Day by planting a Norway spruce, not far from a river birch planted during last year’s celebration.

Paul Blake, chairman of the Board of Commissioners of Cultural and Recreational Affairs, said this species was chosen “because the original evergreen that we used to illuminate at Christmas was lost a few years ago. The new tree will eventually grow into the

size and shape that can be used for the Christmas lighting.”

More than 200 new trees have already been planted, and an additional 65 trees will be planted this spring as part of the Village’s robust planting program. This is the 33rd year the Arbor Day Foundation has designated Garden City a ‘Tree City.”

Originated by J. Sterling Morton on April 10, 1872, an estimated 1 million trees were planted in Nebraska in recognition of Arbor Day. Several years later, President Theodore Roosevelt issued an Arbor Day proclamation to the school children of the United States about the importance of trees and forestry lessons being taught in U.S. schools.

Waldorf students raise funds for charities

The Waldorf School of Garden City sixth grade class, led by Ms. Ericka Conlon, recently raised $1,100. During their Business Math block, students held a bake sale to learn first-hand about running a business. As a class, they decided to use this money to help others. They researched various charities and decided on: $100 to Posh Pet Rescue, $250 to Women for Women International, $300 to True Colors United, and $450 to Long Island Cares and Smile Farms. Many life lessons were learned from this experience.

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.

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.

Claudia Galvin

Associate Real Estate Broker

Gold Circle of Excellence

claudiagalvin@danielgale.com

c.516.972.8389

Matthew Minardi

Real Estate Salesperson

Gold Circle of Excellence

matthewminardi@danielgale.com

c.516.456.3091

Garden City Office 102 7th Street, Garden City, NY 516.248.6655 | danielgale.com

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:

GARDEN CITY, NY 11530

144 Kensington Road

5 BR | 2.5 BA | $1,799,000 | Taxes $26,000 Lot Size 120x100

Open House: Saturday, April 20 th 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Step into the charm of 144 Kensington Road, a unique colonial with a Victorian flair nestled in the heart of the estates. This home boasts 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a 2 car garage with walk-up storage and an expansive property (12,000 sf). With this location and property size, this gem is a rare find. Don’t miss the opportunity to restore this home into a stunning showcase! Visit us at the open house, or call for a private showing.

Cathy Anatra

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

M: 516.476.7825 | O: 516.408.2331

catherine.anatra@compass.com

182 Seventh Street, Garden City, NY 11530

Broadway legend to perform at Adelphi PAC

Tony Award-winner Betty Buckley brings her magical voice to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Saturday, May 11. Buckley, who is joined by multi-Grammy nominated musical director and pianist Christian Jacob, closes out the Adelphi PAC 2024 spring season with this special evening.

Buckley will share an inspiring and emotionally compelling mix of stories and songs from the world of pop/ rock, standards, musical theater, and Americana.

The talented actress, singer and storyteller has released 18 solo albums including her 2022 tribute to Stephen Sondheim. She was recently given the American Songbook Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Buckley has appeared in numerous films and TV shows. Most recently, she can be seen on TV in a recurring role on “Law & Order: SVU” and she co-stars in the recently-released Blumhouse Productions & Lionsgate film “Imaginary.”

Betty Buckley’s performance will take place at Adelphi’s PAC at 8 p.m.

Tony Award-winner Betty Buckley

Tickets start at $50, with discounts available to seniors, students, alumni and employees. 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.

Monday Night Bridge Results

The winners of the Monday, April 8, bridge games:

North/South:

1st Place: Pat Fontaine & Ellen Moynahan

2nd Place: Grace Basile and Joan Cowie

East/West:

1st Place: Dian Kendrick & Carrrie Flapan

2nd Place: Tommie Dodge & Terry Schoenig

The winners of the Monday, April 15, bridge games:

North/South:

1st Place: Grace Basile and Joan Cowie

2nd Place: Liz Tetro and Carol Cook

East/West:

1st Place: Tommie Dodge and Terry Schoenig

2nd Place: Rudy Kaiser and George Salem

Reminder - there will be a Board Meeting on Monday, April 22, at 6 p.m.   Please attend.

Photo courtesy Adelphi University

GARDEN CITY

12 First Street

5 BD | 2 BA | 2 HB | $1,639,000 OPEN

PM

This 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom colonial located on the prestigious numbered streets sits on a 0.46 acre lot. Circular driveway and attached 2 car garage make this home easily accessible and welcoming to guests. The oversized living room, sun drenched dining room, 4 season sunroom, eat in kitchen, powder room, an office with a separate entrance and enormous family room completes the first level of this must see home.

Upstairs you will find a spacious primary bedroom with bathroom and 4 additional generous bedrooms with large closets and one full bath. The pool-sized backyard* offers a patio and private landscaping which make this property one that invites gatherings and entertaining. Full basement is convenient and clean with laundry, storage and plenty of play space. Finish this home with your personal touches and explore the endless possibilities. Call/text for more information or to schedule a private showing.

Aly Bremer

The Laura Carroll Team

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

aly.bremer@compass.com

M: 516.680.8004

Laura Carroll

The Laura Carroll Team

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

laura.carroll@compass.com

M: 917.370.5354

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment and Gift Shop

BY MELISSA JAEGER

Earth Day is April 22nd. Many forget that the goal of the original Earth Day was simple – to create a public awareness about air and water pollution.  Twenty million Americans – 10% of the U.S. population at the time – were inspired on that day!  A lot has changed since that first Earth Day on April 22 in 1970, starting with the creation of the Environmental Protection agency, and the enactment of far-reaching environmental legislation in later years. Perhaps the most important outcome of Earth Day was the realization that individuals can effect change, most noticeably as consumers. What we choose to spend our money on can make a difference in what and how it is produced.

What does that have to do with the Exchange?  We are an excellent example of recycling and re-purposing.  Every time you bring things to donate or consign, these are items that don’t end up in a landfill or, worse yet, being incinerated.  Many of our customers re-purpose older or vintage items they buy at the Exchange and give them new life.  Take the example of a bed tray (the kind used to serve breakfast in bed).  One customer re-fashioned it as a laptop tray for her daughter, using the side “pockets” to hold paper, pencils and drawing tools.  (thanks to Luisa for sharing her story).

How about taking an old stereo cabinet and re-purposing it as a liquor cabinet?

One of our customers collects older pieces of fine china and depression and carnival glass and has turned it into a business fashioning these pieces into beautiful and unique bird feeders and garden stakes.  Her business is called “Christine’s Garden Stakes.”

You may have read in previous articles that we are planning to have an A.T. Stewart Market on Saturday, June 15th.  Christine’s Garden Ornaments will be one of our vendors! The Market will be 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on the front lawn of The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) Museum with approximately 12 vendors. Stay tuned for more 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)

• Kelli Westfall of Hawkgirl Photography with her photographs and photograph notecards

• 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!!

AND, the Exchange will have a “Cornelia’s Courtyard Sale” where you’re sure to find some excellent bargains – cut glass, fine china, furniture, jewelry and much, much more.

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

• 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.

• 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.

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.

Bring your cocktails up a notch with these sterling silver mint julep spoos from the A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment and Gift Shop.

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

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 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

Opportunity knocks! This charming 3 bedroom, 1 bath Colonial offers a lovely living room, formal dining room leading to an eat-in-kitchen that looks out to the very generous property! Ready for your personal touch, this fixer upper is perfect for those with a vision to transform it into their dream home! Near to shopping, transportation and schools. Some additional amenities include; IGS, gas stove, above ground oil heat, detached one car garage. Home is being sold as is. Don’t miss out on this chance to own a piece of potential in a prime location!

Offered at $649,999

Suzanne Blair, CBR, CNE Licensed RE Salesperson

Mobile: 516-238-0260

sblair@coachrealtors.com

Plant sale, car wash to raise funds at GC Community Church

The Garden City Community Church will hold its annual plant sale on May 11.

BY MELVA VICTORINO

The Garden City Community Church (GCCC) will be holding its annual plant sale and car wash event on Saturday, May 11th from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 (Noon) rain or shine  to support its youth mission trip to Knoxville, Tennessee.  Each year,  the youth of the GCCC take a week away from their summer vacations to travel to another part of the country, and serve a community in need.  This summer will be no different.  From July 14 –20, forty youth and adult leaders will travel to Knoxville, working in part -

nership with Next Step Ministries. The youth will have the opportunity to work on construction projects and experience some relational ministries by helping to rebuild the life of single moms with children who live in poverty.

To accomplish this ministry, the youth are having their annual plant sale and car wash.  There will be  a large variety of beautiful plants, including begonias, bounce and New Guinea impatiens, dahlias, geraniums, lantana, Gerber daisies, petunias, mandevilla, hibiscus, mixed

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, 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.

potted plants, and baskets and much more. Come hungry to enjoy the delicious and delectable home baked goodies that will be available to enjoy while choosing the plants or to take home. All will surely head home with beautiful flowers for your garden and something special for Mother's Day too! GCCC  is looking forward to seeing you!

The Garden City Community Church 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. It is located at 245 Stewart Avenue between Whitehall Blvd. and Kensington Road. For more information, email  churchoffice@thegccc.org or call (516) 7461700. You may also visit our website, www.theGCCC.org.

CPOA to hold monthly meeting on April 30

The Central Property Owners’ Association (CPOA) invites all residents of the Central Section to attend its monthly meeting on Tuesday, April 30, at 7:00 p.m. at the Senior Center on Golf Club Lane. The meeting will be held in the small conference room adjacent to the lounge.

The CPOA will hear monthly committee and Board reports (BOT, Board of Education, Library, Traffic, Environmental) as well as the opportunity for residents to raise issues that interest them.

Immediately following, at 7:30, the four Property Owner Associations will host a Townhall Meeting featuring two BOE candidates: Carl Oliveri and Kristen Pappas. The Townhall will be held in the Senior Center large conference room. The school budget and BOE trustee votes will be on May 21.

Please see our website gccpoa.org for ongoing information.

About to hit a milestone?

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

Members of the Garden City Community Church Youth Group will wash cars to raise funds for the group's mission trip to Knoxville, Tennessee.

The things you love doing are more than just passions. They’re what make you “you.” This is why at The Bristal, our expert team members dedicate their time, attention, and energy to creating customized social activities that ensure each resident continues being the unique person they are. And, in the process, create the one-of-a-kind community we are, too.

See for yourself. Explore all of our locations in the tri-state area. thebristal.com

Old World Quality Corp.

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

Garden City is blooming! The warm days are finally here and with that comes the summer ritual of outdoor dining in the Village, a topic of some recent debate. While there are a lot of residents who remain enthusiastic about it, others have raised concerns. The elected officials are listening and we’ve examined the Village Code on outdoor dining.

What have we learned? Many of the accommodations made during the pandemic and since the pandemic ended are inconsistent with the 1997 code. Now is a great time to find out exactly what the rules should be to preserve the visual appeal and cleanliness of our Village while supporting a very popular outdoor dining scene.

Trustee Judy Courtney will be working with other trustees to fully evaluate outdoor dining and develop a plan to have a new code written before the 2025 season.

Therefore, this year we will allow outdoor dining by local businesses consistent with the outdoor dining practices they employed last summer, though such practices may not comply with the current Village code. Permits will be granted through the last Sunday in November 2024 at which time you will be provided with an update. At this time any hanging/ strung lights currently on Village owned trees must be removed.

emergency. MTA PD will be on site for this closure. There will be no train service on the Hempstead branch between Floral Park and Hempstead as the Long Island Rail Road perform bridge repair work on the trestle over Edgemere Road. Due to the suspension of train service, the LIRR will provide bus service between Floral Park and Hempstead station in both directions. There will be no bus service at Country Life Press Station due to the height of the Chestnut Road bridge. Please see a full list of schedule changes here. This work is weather dependent, dates are subject to change to take advantage of favorable conditions.

Arbor Day Tree Planting

The Board of Trustees declared Friday, April 26, 2024 as Arbor Day in Garden City. Recreation and Parks Department crew members will join Trustees and members of the Civic Beautification Committee and Recreation Commission at 2:00 p.m. to celebrate Arbor Day by planting a Norway Spruce on the Village Green, not far from a River Birch planted during last year’s celebration.

Spring Planting Program

project too big or too small for OWQC!

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

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Office: (516) 741-8226

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp Custom

Office: (516) 741-8226

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

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

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

LIRR Bridge Repair WorkEdgemere Road

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.

Email:

Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

This weekend and next, the Long Island Rail Road will be replacing old timbers underneath the Edgemere Road train trestle in both directions. This repair work will create road closures. Edgemere Road, from Stewart Avenue to Yale Street, will be closed to vehicular traffic this weekend and next, from each Friday at approximately 9:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m. Monday morning (April 19-22 and April 26-29). On the north side of the bridge, the road closure will begin at Stewart Avenue/Clinch Avenue and Edgemere Road. The road will be open to local traffic on the north side. On the south side of the bridge, the road closure will begin at Yale Street and Edgemere Road. Scaffolding will be erected to maintain safe pedestrian flow on either sidewalk beneath the bridge. The LIRR has made provisions for first responders to use Edgemere Road in the event of an

It’s an exciting time here in Garden City as the days get longer and spring has finally arrived! Buds are swelling, the trees are blossoming and planting season has begun. The first delivery of trees has made its way to the Village. Any resident who would like a tree planted in front of their home is encouraged to call the Recreation and Parks Office at 516-465-4075. Upon receiving your request for a new tree you will be added to a list for review. When the Department reviews an area for planting, specifically species selection, a few conditions are considered: the width of the lawn strip in which the tree will be planted; proximity to any utilities and hardscape surfaces; and options best suited to match the existing tree population in a given area. Taking all of this into account personnel is also mindful of not planting in a monoculture style but rather have a diverse plant pallet. This will help ensure protection against invasive pests that may make their way into landscapes. There is some common misconception that once a tree is removed a new one is automatically planted.

See page 44

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

Drug arrest

A vehicle was stopped on Franklin Avenue on April 10th for driving erratically with the two occupants fighting. Upon investigation, the driver was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance (Cocaine) and multiple lane usage violations.

Hit and run

A red van reportedly left the scene after striking another vehicle on Cathedral Avenue at Stewart Avenue on April 10th.

Suspended registration

A 7th Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and uninsured operation on April 10th.

Burnt food

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a residence for a fire alarm on April 10th. They determined the cause to be burnt food.

Overweight truck

On April 10th a Stewart Avenue truck driver was charged with driving an overweight vehicle without a highway use tax permit.

Unregistered vehicle

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and unregistered vehicle on April 10th.

Grand larceny

A 49-year-old lawyer was arrested on April 11th for failing to pay for a house closing after allegedly taking the clients’ money. He was charged with Grand Larceny.

Damaged door

On April 11th Garden City Police investigated a report of a damaged office door inside a Franklin Avenue building.

No commercial vehicles

A Clinton Road truck driver was charged with unregistered auto and driving in a “No Commercial Vehicle Zone.” on April 11th.

School bus hit and run

A school bus reportedly left the scene after striking a NICE bus in the vicinity of Clinton Road and Stewart Avenue on April 11th.

Unlicensed operation

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and speeding in the vicinity of Poplar Street on April 11th.

while parked on the Adelphi University campus.

Excessive speed

Vehicle damaged

On April 11th a vehicle was reportedly damaged by unknown means

THE OFFICE CAT

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with excessive speed and using a cell phone while driving on April 11th.

False alarms

On April 11th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to three locations for fire calls and determined they were set in error.

Suspended registration

A 7th Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration, improper U-turn, and failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk on April 11th.

Sparking transformer

On April 12th Garden City Police assisted firefighters when they responded to Dartmouth Street for a sparking transformer. PSEG was notified.

Failure to yield

A 7th Street motorist was charged with making an improper U-turn and failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk on April 12th.

Alarm errors

On April 12th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to two locations for fire alarms but determined they were set in error.

Suspended license

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and burning marijuana in a moving vehicle on April 12th.

Excessive speed

On April 12th a Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed in a school zone.

Stolen packages

Packages were reported stolen from a Franklin Avenue FedEx dropoff box on April 12th.

Power outage

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a power outage on Rockaway Avenue on April 13th, which resulted in nearby alarm activations.

System malfunction

The GCFD and GCPD responded to a Franklin Avenue building on April 13th for a fire alarm and determined it was a system malfunction.

Unlicensed operation

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed on April 13th.

Lights out

Garden City Police responded to traffic signal light malfunctions on Nassau Boulevard and Cathedral Avenue on April 13th.

Suspended license

On April 13th a 7th Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and uninsured operation. On the same day, a Franklin Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license, a suspended registration, and unsafe turn.

Unregistered moped

A juvenile was cited for driving an unregistered and uninsured moped on Poplar Street on April 14th.

Alarm error

On April 14th the GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence for a fire

alarm and determined it was set in error.

Suspended license

A Meadow Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and a suspended registration on April 14th.

Impeding traffic

On April 14th a 7th Street motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and impeding traffic.

Bus crash

Garden City Police responded to an auto accident between a bus and a sedan on Rockaway Avenue and 1st Street on April 15th. Two adults in the bus and one adult and two teenagers in the sedan were taken to a hospital for assorted injuries. The driver of the sedan was charged with improper license plates, unregistered vehicle, uninsured vehicle, and two children under 16 not wearing seat belts. There were no children on the bus.

Excessive speed

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed in a school zone on April 15th.

See page 44

Rotary’s Gift of Life:

“A Crusade of the Heart”

Mineola-Garden City Rotary extends an invitation to join Rotary at its lunch meeting next Tuesday,

April 23, 12:15 at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant.  We will be pleased to welcome as guest speaker, Robbie Donno, a founder of The Gift of Life, one of Rotary’s most dynamic and heart-warming services.  Its mantra: “a crusade of the heart.”

Gift of Life was initiated 44 years ago by Rotarian Robbie Donno, a member of the Manhasset Rotary Club.  The Gift of Life program provides life-saving cardiac surgery for children around the world who otherwise

The Salvation Army Nassau County 41st Annual Benefit Concert 41st Annual Benefit Concert

Wednesday, May 1st, 2024 @7pm Cathedral of the Incarnation

50 Cathedral Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

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:

“It’s an incredible story!  Gift of Life is currently awaiting a case from Uganda that will be our celebratory 50,000th child operated on since we started it in Manhasset Rotary in 1975,” Robbie said, noting that Mineola-Garden City Rotary played a key role in the beginning stages.

Robbie was quick to acknowledge such Rotarians as Bill and Peggy Rowe, Chuck Pacidfico, Joe Frey, Tom Gelsdorf and others that were so important in keeping the focus on helping the children in such dire need from developing countries around the

Due to the cumulative efforts of so many great volunteers, sponsoring local Rotary Clubs and volunteer medical staff, 50,000 life-saving operations have taken place around the world with our local Rotary Clubs having sponsored surgeries at St. Francis

Gift of Life founder Robbie Donno is a graduate of La Salle Military Academy in Oakdale, Long Island and obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pa. where he me his wife Barbara.  They have two children, Jacqueline and Matthew and two grandchildren, Emma and James.

Robbie had been a principal of Donno Company, Inc. from 1970 to 1997. He served as vice president of Eastern Waste of New York from 1997-

1999 and is now a principal at Lemcor, Inc. of Newark NJ.  A leader in the solid waste industry for over 50 years, Robbie has received many awards for his leadership in the industry and for his philanthropic endeavors to which he now dedicates his time.

Best known for his efforts providing heart surgery to children around the world, Robbie had joined Manhasset Rotary in 1971 and became its president in 1975. That was the year Robbie and the Manhasset Rotarians started the Gift of Life Program by bringing 5-year old Grace Agwaru from Uganda to St. Francis Hospital for life saving heart surgery.  This year Gift of Life will provide surgery for over 5,000 children and has saved the lives of 50,000 children from 80 different countries since its inception in 1975 –amazing!

To hear Robbie Donnie’ report and enjoy a great Davenport Press lunch (fee, $40 payable at the door), please email Meg Norris, Club co-president, at editor@gcnews.com.

Founding Member of  “Say No to the Casino” Reports

On Tuesday, April 9, Monica Keily, a founder of the “Say No to the Casino” group provided a comprehensive report on the deleterious effects on the proposed casino at the eastern border of Garden City and surrounding areas.

Monica fielded questions from Rotary members and guests and distributed sheets of talking points which included 10 reasons why a casino does not belong at the hub.  All in attendance agreed wholeheartedly with the cause and efforts of the “Say no to the Casino” group.

From left: Monica Keily, guest speaker, Meg Norris, Rotary Club co-president, and Althea Robinson, Speakers Bureau/Publicity chairperson.

From left: 1976 Gift of Life recipient Robinah, her grandson Tillison, Robbie Donno and Robinah’s daughter in law Margaret.

The hawk is back

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

www.oldwestbury.edu

FOR SENIORS fyi

Garden City’s Senior Center is open.

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

Downsizing and Estate Planning

Downsizing and Estate Planning (Trusts) Seminar/Brunch with Erin Fleischmann from Douglas Elliman, Thursday May 2, at 10:45. Reservations required, space is limited. Register by calling the Senior Center front desk, (516) 385-8006.

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

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.

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.

One of Garden City’s Red Tail Hawks has returned. Above, the hawk has a snack on Brook Street.

Photo by Christopher Corriss

The Art of Sacred Symbols at the Cathedral

The Dean’s Forum is always engaging, lively and inspiring!

BY MO. KATE SALISBURY

Every Sunday, the Cathedral of the Incarnation offers presentations and conversations to support adults in their journey of faith. Cathedral members and neighbors from the wider community are always invited.

This spring, a series of conversa-

tions will be offered that pick up on the theme of sacred symbols and imagery. Facilitators include local Cathedral clergy and faith leaders from around the world.

On April 14th, the Rev. Deacon Doug Mohrmann, PhD, drew upon his experience as a seminary professor to offer

broad discussion of symbology: the art of expression of symbols.

This week, in the spirit of Earth Day, we learn about the role of the natural world in sacred architecture and landscapes, as evolutionary biologist Eric Morgan leads a tour for children and adults of the various plant species incor-

porated into the Cathedral grounds.

The Rev. Canon Mark Kowalewski, Vicar of Incarnation Chapel, Carle Place, and author of Traveling Home: Tracking Your Way through the Spiritual Wilderness, explores the newly restored Emmaus Panel on the Cathedral’s high altar on April 28.

On May 5th, Bishop Philip Wright, 14th Bishop of the Diocese of Belize, reflects on the rich tradition of Anglican Church of the West Indies. And, on May 12th, the Rev. John Dear, author of the newly published Gospel of Peace, highlights exemplary peacemakers and movements throughout history that have embodied the nonviolence of Jesus.

Neighbors and friends of all religious traditions are invited to the Dean’s Forum, which is free of charge. We begin at 10am with coffee and refreshments. Presentations are held in the Mercer Library from 10:15–11 a.m.

As always, developmentally appropriate children’s’ programming will take place at the same time as the Dean’s Forum.

The Cathedral serves as a House of Prayer for Long Island. All are welcome here! Please feel warmly invited to join us. Visit incarnationgc.org for more information.

Spring planting program has begun

It’s an exciting time here in Garden City as the days get longer and spring has finally arrived! Buds are swelling,  trees are blossoming and planting season has begun. The first delivery of trees has made its way to the Village.

“I am incredibly excited to be a part of this Village at such a momentous time,” Village Arborist Joseph Umana said.

Any resident who would like a tree planted in front of their home is encouraged to call the Recreation and Parks Office at 516-465-4075. Upon receiving your request for a new tree you will be added to a list for review. When the Department reviews an area for planting, specifically species selection, a few conditions must be considered: the width of the lawn strip in which the tree will be planted; proximity to any utilities and hardscape surfaces; and options best suited to match the existing tree population in a given area. Taking all of this into account, personnel is also mindful of not planting in a monoculture style but rather have a diverse plant pallet. This will help ensure protection against invasive pests that may make their way into landscapes.

There is some common misconception that once a tree is removed a new one is automatically planted. The Village has moved away from this process because some residents do not wish to have a tree planted in front of their homes.

“As always, we are here to help our residents and make this Village better, brighter and more beautiful,’ Mr. Umana added.

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

The first delivery of trees has made its way to the Village.

The spring planting program has begun: Recreation and Parks Department crew members Tom Gordon, Mike Anderson and Christian Smith-Maslauskas plant a Street Keeper Honey Locust in front of a resident’s home.

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The Kordes K orner

John Ellis Kordes

I’ve lived in Garden City my whole life and have always felt fortunate to have been raised here. My father, John L. Kordes, had a business at 937 Franklin Avenue for 50 years (Arista Furs) from 1950-2000. My two older sisters and I all graduated from Garden City High School. Garden City was always a special place for us and my work over the decades shows my devotion to Garden City.

However, there has been an unmistakable change in the character, civility and overall feel here recently. I attribute that mostly to the St. Paul’s situation. So much misguided energy and divisiveness over this building. St. Paul’s has been like a growing cancer in this village. A toxicity that has permeated this newspaper, social media and village government. If I have to choose between St. Paul’s and Garden City’s “health” - I’ll choose Garden City every time. Garden City’s recent elections featured new political parties as it has in recent years. Before that, for one hundred years after we incorporated in 1919, the Community Agreement allowed for four property owners associations to determine eight trustees, one of which was mayor. The mayor would rotate every two years from one section to another. It was a unique form of government that worked well - most of the time (no system is perfect). Now, we are in uncharted waters and I believe the 30 year St. Paul’s situation is the main reason we are where we are.

Getting these political glossy post cards in the mail this year with the usual political platitudes was discouraging. I mean they say a lot of things but actually don’t say anything - political double talk. They want us to know they are in favor of honesty, integrity, openness, inclusiveness, etc... I mean, who isn’t? It reminded me of kids running for student council.

Also, the use of the image of a pineapple as if it is our official logo has to stop. A piece of fruit does not represent our village. I know it has a long international history as a symbol of welcomeness and hospitality etc... but the official symbol of our village is a lion from the Stewart family coat of arms. I was stunned that no one running to represent our village used our village flag pictured here. It’s ironic that the ones claiming to want to preserve our village’s heritage and traditions are the ones replacing it with a piece of fruit.

You know, just because someone volunteers their time to serve doesn’t mean they are necessarily competent (or even nice). That is a concept a lot of people don’t understand. Whether it’s in Village government or in one of the many organizations

PhotograPhy history

and boards in Garden City, some people do more harm than good when they volunteer (yet, they convince themselves otherwise). I have had the misfortune of having to deal with a few of these people over the years as a photographer and as an historian. It’s not pleasant. You wish they would just go away. In some cases they have and no longer live here. They could be arrogant and ignorant at the same time. That is a very dangerous combination.

A lot of the people pushing for the preservation of the decomposing St. Paul’s building at this point are living in a bubble (not the usual one but their own “special” one). An echo chamber where they only talk to naive zealots who think like they do. They seem to be unaware of the demographic and attitude changes in this village over the last 30 years and, in this economy, the hardships a young family endures financially. These families don’t care about a 140 year old decomposing building in the middle of our village. They came here for the schools and the quality of life Garden City provides. That’s why the recent (non-binding?) opinion poll had only 25% of eligible voters participating. Of that 25%, 15% voted to keep the building and 10% voted to remove it and 75% didn’t care enough about the building to even vote. So, 85% of eligible Garden City voters did not cast a vote to keep this building. So, what does that tell you? I think the “silent majority” has spoken.

The apathy, today, so many have towards the St. Paul’s building can be explained by the “itcabes”. What’s an “itcabe”? Well, it can be this or it can be that. From the time the St. Paul’s School closed in the spring of 1991 and continuing after the Village purchased the building and property in 1993 there have been “itcabes”... It can be part of Adelphi University, it can be a corporate headquarters, it can be a new public library, it can be a new village hall, it can be a new high school, it can be a hotel, it can be an assisted living facility, it can be a museum and art center, it can be a new private school, it can be an indoor sports facility, it can be an apartment building, it can be a community center, it can be a hockey rink and so on. All of these ideas were floated and I may have left out a few. So, over 30 years of “itcabes” have led us nowhere. Always trying to fit the square peg into the round hole. It’s exhausting.

You may not know this, that from the time the St. Paul’s School building opened in 1883 it was an unmanageable building. It was way too big for what was needed. The Episcopal Diocese always struggled with the costs involved in maintaining a building of this size (over 500 rooms). The headmasters

and Bishops often clashed over the subject. When the school closed in the spring of 1991, it had more to do with the cost of maintaining the building than the costs involved with the school. That was with the building in good shape not the hideous mess it is now. With that in mind, why on earth would Garden City taxpayers want to pay for an open ended never ending money pit for something we don’t need?

Also, well over 50 trustees (and endless committees) have come and gone since Garden City acquired the building in 1993 with poor results (to say the least). Why then should we trust the current crop of trustees to be any different? We can’t - no matter how “well meaning” they may be.

It can’t just be “if only we raise taxes, if only we form more committees, hire more consultants, elect new trustees and, of course, it will all be “affordable.” Garden City residents have been beyond patient for over 30 years with this nonsense. Enough is enough! Common sense has to prevail at some point. It would have been nice to have repurposed the building back in the 1990s. However, in the year 2024 to double down on it now will only continue to divide this village and that breaks my heart.

Remember, I was there when all of this started (I was the St. Paul’s School photographer in its last years). I was in the forefront of wanting this village to purchase the land and the historic building. There was so much hope and promise back then that a use would be found for the building (with outside money - not the taxpayers). I assisted the village in so many ways to market the idea to the residents. Well, the open land went to good use but the handling of the historic St. Paul’s building has been a colossal failure.

There are many reasons I changed my mind about the St. Paul’s building in recent years. I would now like to see it removed while perhaps retaining the clock tower. When you stop and think that people born in Garden City in the spring of 1991, when St. Paul’s closed, are 33 years old and now having children of their own. These babies are entering the world just as their parents did - in Garden City with the empty decaying St. Paul’s building still there...

Folks, this is sick! A healthy, functional village doesn’t do things like this. As a photographer, I am all over Long Island and when I tell people I am from Garden City they inevitably ask me about “that building”. They say, “What is Garden City doing with that ?” What answer can I give after 30 years that isn’t embarrassing?

The State of the Race

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

With my trip to Italy in the rear view mirror, here are some thoughts on the current state of the Presidential race.

The popular vote polling has tightened up a bit in favor of President Biden, with the New York Times/ Siena poll last week showing a rather representative 46% for Mr. Trump and 45% for Mr. Biden. According to the Real Clear Politics averages, Mr. Trump's lead is down to 0.2 percent, in comparison to his high water mark of 4.3 percent in January.

For what it’s worth, the betting markets, also reported at Real Clear Politics, have moved slightly toward President Biden, who, at this writing, has a less than one percentage probability advantage over Mr. Trump.

On the other hand, supporters of Mr. Trump can point to the former President's continuing polling lead in most of the key swing states, including states won by Mr. Biden in 2020 and by Mr. Trump in 2016, with Pennsylvania the only swing state favoring Mr. Biden. The election will eventually be decided in the electoral college, so these state leads are meaningful. Another factor marginally favoring Mr. Trump at least at this point is that he frequently does a little better, both in national and state polls, when additional candidates like Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, are added to the mix.

Both Mr. Trump and Mr. Biden, who each remain unpopular with the majority of voters, face immediate challenges and uncertainty.

For Mr. Trump, this is the opening week of the so-called hush money trial in Manhattan revolving around payments to Stormy Daniels that were not recorded correctly on the books of Mr. Trump's company. Because the statute of limitations has run on a corporate misreporting charge, the prosecutor, Alvin Bragg, has decided to treat this matter as a felony on the theory that the payments constituted a violation of the federal election law.

Although Mr. Bragg's case seems like a stretch, he has the advantage

of a highly Democratic jury pool and a seemingly favorable judge. Almost anything can happen here, from an acquittal to a hung jury to a conviction, which may or may not come with jail time. The other imponderable is how seriously the public would take a conviction on this type of charge. This may well be the only criminal prosecution that Mr. Trump faces before the election, especially with the Supreme Court casting some doubt this week on some of the charges in the Washington indictment.

While Mr. Biden is pretty much in the clear on investigations, with a threatened impeachment not likely to happen, his route to reelection remains quite challenging.

Beyond the basic question of Mr. Biden’s age and competence, he presides over a deeply unhappy country.  For example, the most recent New York Times/Siena poll had 26 percent of the country believing that the United States is going in the right direction, with 65 percent saying it is going on the wrong path.

While the failure of the Biden administration to secure the border, and resultant influx of migrants to major cities is part of the problem, the economy is probably the most important cause of the sour mood.  Unfortunately for the President, the major economic concern, rising inflation, does not seem to be easing much lately and it seems less likely that the Federal Reserve Bank  will be lowering interest rates anytime soon.  This could easily hamper prospects for economic growth, and works substantial hardship for voters trying to handle mortgage payments, or even to pay off a credit card balance.  Yes, the President probably has an advantage with the abortion issue, but that may not be enough.

In sum, most likely this race is going to go down to the wire, just as the 2016 and 2020 elections did. I might prefer to be in Mr. Trump’s shoes based on the state polling and the importance of economic issues, but this is a very wide open race.

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

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.

Kindness Cards for Community Service

Spread kindness in the community by participating in a special kindness card-making session on Wednesday, May 1, at 6 p.m.! Use art supplies to create cards featuring positive, uplifting messages, and then bring them home to hand out and help brighten someone's day! Participants will earn community service by participating in this program. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. Registration is required and 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.

Tweens and Teens Yarn Group

Tweens and Teens in Grades 4–12 can learn how to knit or crochet during our Tweens and Teens Yarn Group that will be held on Thursday, May 2, at 4 p.m.  Registration is required and begins Tuesday, April 23, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Participants will be able to take home knitting needles or crochet hooks to continue working on their

projects, but must return the knitting needles or crochet hooks they are using by Friday, May 17.

Tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 who know how to knit or crochet can volunteer at this program! Please contact Laura Giunta at laurag@gardencitypl. org if you are interested in volunteering. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can also receive community service for participating in this program.

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

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

The next meeting of the Teen Advisory Board will be held on Tuesday, May 7, at 4 p.m. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, April 30, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). The meeting is for tweens and Teens in Grades 6–12. If you are interested in helping to come up with programming ideas, volunteer ideas, or social media outreach ideas for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12, consider joining the Teen Advisory Board. Online applications are available at https://www.gardencitypl.org/teen-advisory-board-application/  Applicants should be in Grades 6–12.

Teen Crafternoon: Perler Bead Art

Join us on Saturday, May 11, at 3 p.m. for Teen Crafternoon: Perler Bead Art! Make keychains, magnets, pins, ornaments, and more. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6-12. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, April 30, 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 Gamers

Kick off the weekend with our Teen Gamers program! We will have our Nintendo Switch consoles for teens to use as well as tabletop board games and Magic: The Gathering cards for teens to play with. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 and will be held Friday, May 17, at 3:30 p.m. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, May 7, at 10 a.m. 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.

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

May session will be held on Tuesday, May 14. 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, May 7, 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.

Tree Ornaments for Community Service: Shell Ornaments

Earn community service by painting ornaments for the Garden City Public Library’s Tweens and Teens Department’s Ornament Tree! Each volunteer will receive three ornaments and a set of paint pens to decorate their ornaments at home. Paint pens must be returned to the Library. These ornaments will be used to decorate our new ornament tree each month!

For the month of May ornaments are shells, which will be used to decorate the Tweens and Teens Ornament Tree in June. Registration begins Tuesday, May 21, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Completed ornaments must be returned by Thursday, May 30 to the Library.

Registrants will be asked to pick up their ornaments at the Library in order to participate in this community service program. Volunteers must return three decorated ornaments and their set of paint pens in order to receive community service. Volunteers will receive two hours for every three ornaments they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Volunteers Needed: Preschool DUPLO LEGO Club Volunteer to help children ages 1 1/2 – 5 (not in kindergarten) during the monthly Children’s program Preschool DUPLO LEGO Program! The May session will be held on Tuesday, May 21. The Preschool DUPLO LEGO program runs from 4 p.m.–4:30 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 p.m. Volunteers must be in Grades 6–12 only. Registration to volunteer begins Tuesday, May 14, 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.

VolunTeen Artists

Are you artistic? Then join us on Wednesday, May 22, at 6 p.m. for our VolunTeen Artists program and work on art projects for the Library! Participants will earn community service by participating in this program. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. Registration begins Tuesday, May 14, 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.

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 May session will be held Thursday, May 21, at 4 p.m. Registration begins Tuesday, May 21, at 10 a.m. 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.

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-tweens-reading-clubprizes/

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

Continued on page 34

News from the Garden City Public Library

The film “Crossing Delancy” will be screened at the Garden City Public Library on Monday, April 22.

Monday Movies

Monday Movies presented by the

Friends of the Garden City Library at 1:30 p.m.:

April 2024

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

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

The 2024 Long Island Reads

Pick for 2024 is ….

“Better Living Through Birding: Notes from a Black Man in the Natural World” by Christian Cooper

The Garden City Public Library will be holding a Book Discussion on May 9, 2024, at 10 a.m. in the small meeting room.  Registration is required on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org).  Books are available to check out in the Adult Reference area.

Cooper tells the story of his extraordinary life leading up to the now infamous incident in Central Park and shows how a life spent looking up at the birds prepared him, in the most uncanny ways, to be a gay, Black man in America today.  From sharpened senses that work just as well at a protest as in a park to what a bird like the common grackle can teach about self-acceptance, “Better Living Through Birding” exults in the pleasure of a life in pursuit of the natural world and invites you to discover them yourself.

April/May 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.

Smarter Social Security: Strategies to Optimize Spousal & Survivor Benefits with Daniel Mazola, CFA, CPA. Tuesday, May 7 from 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. in the Small Meeting Room

Thinking of retiring?  This program will provide a broad overview of the Social Security retirement program while examining in detail spousal benefits and ways to optimize them.

Registration begins online on  Monday, April 29, 2024 at Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org).

Contact Adult Services (516)742-8405 ext. 5236.

Amazing Library Book Sale on May 4–5

From bestselling novels, to art books, to children’s books and everything in between, you’ll find them all at the Garden City Public Library Spring Book Sale. But that’s not all! Enticing baskets will be auctioned off in a “silent auction.” Proceeds will support programs at the library sponsored by the Friends of Garden City Library. The sale will be held two days:

Saturday, May 4:

• From 9:30–4:00, you will be able to buy wonderful gently used and some new books.

• Silent Auction bids on baskets can be made.

Sunday, May 5:

• From 1:00-3:00 book bargains

continue.

• Silent auction basket bids close 3:00 Sunday, winners announced shortly afterwards.

All proceeds will be used by the Friends of the Garden City Library to support programs at the Garden City Public Library for children, young adults and adults, as well as the very popular Museum Passes and Monday Movie Matinees. The Friends of the Library is a volunteer organization that welcomes volunteers – please see the Friends tab, Membership, on the library website gardencitypl.org. The library is located at 60 Seventh St, Garden City, NY.

See what's happening at your library!

From classes to lectures and concerts to movie screenings, there's never a dull day at your local library! Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, all for free or cheap!

The book sale will include silent auction baskets, such as this “Harry Potter Basket” (left) and “Reach for the Beach” basket (right).

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

Continued from page 32

• $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/contact-the-young-adulttweens-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.

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.

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 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 Drop-Off 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.

News from the Children’s Room

Spring 2024 Programming

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 2, 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 is ongoing.

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 birth12 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.

GCHS students honored at science, engineering fair

Garden City High School juniors, Amy Hong Xiao and Mannat Jain with their awards at the New York State Science and Engineering Fair.

Science research students from Garden City High School showcased their exceptional talent and innovation at the New York State Science & Engineering Fair, held at the New York Hall of Science. The students, selected through a rigorous process based on video submissions, competed in the prestigious “lightning round” alongside schools from across Westchester, the five boroughs and Long Island.

Junior Amy Hong Xiao presented a groundbreaking project in the category of biochemistry, utilizing AI-based methods to determine the structural features of a protein associated with cancer survival rates. Amy’s project, which identified FDA-approved drugs for novel cancer treatment pathways, earned her the esteemed title of Best in Fair and an invitation to the International Science & Engineering Fair in Los Angeles. Amy will represent Garden City High School among the world’s best projects at ISEF.

Additionally, junior Mannat Jain was honored with The U.S. Agency for

International Development Science Champion Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates Mannat’s innovative project aimed at providing a low-cost, AI-based method to improve survival rates in infants with lung or other organ abnormalities, particularly in developing countries. Mannat’s project, developed with skills from the classroom and the Columbia University Science Honors Program, earned him a second place Grand Award at NYSSEF in the category of computational biology.

“Garden City High School is incredibly proud of Amy and Mannat for their outstanding achievements at NYSSEF,” said Dr. Steven Gordon, science research teacher at Garden City High School. “Their dedication, creativity and commitment to scientific inquiry exemplify the excellence we strive for in our science research program. We congratulate them on their well-deserved recognition and wish them the best of luck at the International Science & Engineering Fair.”

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

Annual DAR Luncheon a huge success

The Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, held their popular Annual Philanthropic Luncheon at the beautiful Westbury Manor on April 5 th. More than 60 people gathered under sunny skies for the event called “ America the Beautiful ” chaired by Regent Carla Hall D ’ Ambra.

The Chapter ’ s honored guest, Sgt. Evelyn Kandel, was keynote speaker for the luncheon. Sgt. Kandel served stateside as a Marine during the Korean Conflict. She spoke about her time in the service and the changes which have occurred in the military since. In addition she shared her experiences as a teacher, artist, and finally as Nassau County ’ s Poet Laureate from 2019 to 2022. She graciously favored the luncheon guests with a reading of one of her poems.

Following Sgt. Kandel ’ s presentation, Registrar Heather Zawislak, presented a  Chapter check for $1500 to Jeff Cohen, Unit Commander of

the 6th NY Independent Battery. The check is for the restoration and repair of a Civil War era cannon the group uses for educational purposes at reenactments, living histories and school programs. The cannon was present at the Battle of Gettysburg, and its repair is in line with DAR commitment to  historic preservation. Mr. Cohen expressed his thanks, and spoke about the use of the cannon, capable of shooting a cannonball as far as a mile!

In addition, Commemorative Events Chair Leslie Dimmling presented the Chapter ’ s popular annual reading of Longfellow ’ s “ Ride of Paul Revere. ” This memorialized the 249th anniversary of the patriot ’ s April 18, 1775, ride.

Corresponding Secretary Janice Derr gave a brief history of the song “ America the Beautiful. ”

The ladies greatly enjoyed this annual event, choosing to ignore the morning ’ s  highly unusual and thankfully brief  earthquake!

Col Aaron Ogden Registrar Heather Zawislak with Miss Evelyn Zawislak.

Col Aaron Ogden Treasurer Dori Lombard serves as a Luncheon Committe Chair.

Col Gilbert Potter Chapter members Karen Ranzie, Vicki Lisa, and Kelli Bianco with Chapter Regent Carla Hall D’Ambra and Chapter Chaplain Leslie Dimmling.

Former Nassau County Poet Laureate Speaker Evelyn Kandel.

North Riding Chapter Regent Betsey Pascucci with Col Aaron Ogden Historian Arlene Kister.

Speaker Evelyn Kandel with Past District Director Dr. Joan Graham Nathan.

GCMS presents “Grease” to sold out crowds

The Garden City Middle School Music Box Players performed “Grease-School Edition” to four packed audiences on Thursday, March 14, at 7 p.m., Friday, March 15, at 7 p.m., and Saturday, March 16, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.  Talent ran deep as two separate casts performed two shows each to sold-out crowds over the St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

The process began in November with auditions for singing, acting, and dancing. Rehearsals took place from November through March.  The dedication of cast, crew and faculty was clear from the moment the actors took the stage until the final bow.  Mrs. Kristen Aguilo was director, producer, and backstage director, Mrs. Nancy Menges was the vocal director, Mr. John Paul Camilleri was the technical director, and Mrs. Lynnette Skrivanek was the choreographer. Together, they led the amazing cast and crew to entertaining musical theater performances that had the

audiences singing along.

“Grease: School Version” is based on the wildly popular movie and Broadway musical version of Grease.   The story follows the lives and romance of  students from Rydell High in 1959 centered around the love story of rebel Danny Zuko and goody-two-shoes Sandy Dombrowski.

Tensions arise as the cliques of the T-Birds and Pink Ladies buck against the newfound romance, which threatens to disrupt the status quo.  Hilarious banter between Pink Ladies (Rizzo, Marty, Frenchy, and Jan) and the T-Birds (Kenickie, Doody, Roger, and Sonny) had the audiences laughing and cheering.   Lively popular songs with intricate dance numbers, like “Think Pink”, “Summer Nights”, “Greased Lightning” “Look at Me, I’m Sandra Dee”, “We Go Together”, and “ You’re the One that I Want” kept the crowd jumping out of their seats to sing along. The dance numbers were juxtaposed to solos that pulled at

Friday night cast: Miss School Spirit Patty Simcox (Sabriye Geller) joins up with nerdy Eugene (Anastasios Pourakis) at the prom.

Saturday night cast: “Greased Lightning” with the T-Birds -- Danny (Aidan Amodeo), Kenickie, (William Sim), Doody (Thomas Buccella), Roger (William Gaffney) , and Sonny (Matthew Stanislawski).

Saturday night cast: Rydell High Cheerleaders led by Patty Simcox (Reese Smith).

Friday night cast: The Pink Ladies meeting Sandy at school for the first time and Rizzo is less than enthused: Jan (Alyssa Obioma), Marty (Abigail Loeven), Sandy (Sofia Klocek), Rizzo (Alexandra Butvick), and Marty (Ava Wolk).

Saturday night cast: The opening number featuring the Pink Ladies kicked off the exciting show. Frenchy (Charlotte Bilello), Marty (Naya Lele), Jan (Caroline Ciullo), and Rizzo (Delaney McNaboe) belted out “Think Pink”!

Friday night cast: Marty (Ava Wolk) belts out “Freddy My Love” during the infamous sleepover scene while her fellow Pink Ladies sing along

GCMS presents “Grease” to sold out crowds

the heartstrings like Sandy’s “Hopelessly Devoted”, Danny’s “Sandy”, Marty’s “Freddy, My Love, and Rizzo’s “There are Worse Things I Could Do.”

The cast and crew rounded out the weekend with a celebration at St. Paul’s

Friday night cast: Sandy (Sofia Klocek) sings the infamous “Hopelessly Devoted to You.”

Cluett Hall on Sunday, March 17, complete with pizza, karaoke, and an ice cream truck.  Keep an eye out in Spring 2025 for the next rendition of the Music Box Players.  What amazing theater production will they put on next?

Saturday night cast: Teen Angel (Ryan Chalupa) layers on the charm during “Beauty School Dropout..”

Saturday

Friday night cast: T-Birds and Pink Ladies along with the amazing ensemble in “We Go Together”. T-Birds: Kenickie (Cormac Smith), Roger (Caleb Stimmler), Doody (Dermot Smith), Sonny (Preston Kline), Danny (Matteo DiLoreto); Pink Ladies: Rizzo (Alexandra Butvick), Marty (Ava Wolk), Frenchy (Abigail Loeven), and Jan (Alyssa Obioma).

Saturday night cast:: Rizzo gives Sandy a hard time for being wimpy when Frenchy offers to pierce her ears during the Pink Ladies Sleepover. Frenchy (Charlotte Bilello), Sandy (Aydan Eschmann), Rizzo (Delaney McNaboe), Marty (Naya Lele), and Jan (Charlotte Ciullo).

Friday night cast: Teen Angel (Gracie Corrigan) sings “Beauty School Dropout” to Frenchy (Abigail Loeven) with the amazing Angel Choir back-up singers.

Saturday night cast: Danny Zuko (Aidan Amodeo) and Sandy Dombrowski (Aydan Eschmann) closing out the show with the crowd pleasing, “You’re the One that I Want.”

night cast: Sandy (Aydan Eschmann) and Danny (Aidan Amodeo) at the drive-in.

Garden City Girl Scout Silver Award Showcase

On Sunday, April 7, Girl Scout Cadette Troop #1437 held a Silver Award Showcase at the Garden City Recreation Center. The Girl Scout Silver Award is one of the highest awards in Girl Scouting, and entails girls addressing an issue in their community and taking action to implement a sustainable solu-

tion. Several girls from the troop presented their projects to the community:

Emily Dombrowski’s project, “What Is Type 1 Diabetes”, clarifies the myths and educates the community on a chronic autoimmune disease that is becoming more common.

Sofia Klocek’s project, “Recognizing

the Unrecognized”, shows children that not all heroes wear capes. Sofia is creating a book that highlights local good-doing heroes in education.

Riya Motwani’s project, "Save Lives with Allergy Awareness", educates people on the signs of someone having an allergic reaction, and knowing what to do to help. Riya is making this information available in Garden City and local businesses where food is served.

Alice Oustatcher’s project, “Project Plant a Tree”, is focused on raising awareness about the importance of protecting and conserving trees in the community.

Alice Oustatcher with her project, “Project Plant a Tree.”

Emily Dombrowski with her project, “What Is Type 1 Diabetes.”

Sofia Klocek with her project, “Recognizing the Unrecognized.”

Riya Motwani with her project, “Save Lives with Allergy Awareness.”

GCHS Latin students excel in national exams

German honor society visits Plattdeutsch Home

Garden City High School is proud to announce the outstanding achievements of its Latin students in the 2023 National Roman Civilization and National Classical Etymology Exams. Demonstrating their dedication and scholarly prowess, GCHS students excelled in these rigorous examinations, earning accolades at both intermediate and advanced levels.

In the National Roman Civilization exam, 24 GCHS students showcased their knowledge and expertise. Among them, juniors Kaitlin Cook and Emily Cook secured silver medals in the advanced exam, while senior Elizabeth Rosado merited a bronze medal. Sophomore Olivia Allsbrook distinguished herself by clinching one of the 56 gold medals awarded nationwide in the intermediate examination. Sophomores Kayla Cherney and Brendan Wilde earned bronze medals, along with freshman Teresa Gregory.

Simultaneously, 26 GCHS students participated in the National Classical Etymology Exam, exploring the origins of words and language. Notably, junior

Jeffrey Li garnered a gold medal in the advanced level category, despite being a non-Latinist entrant. Additionally, junior Kaitlin Cook and senior Elizabeth Rosado earned gold medals, with junior Angela Yu securing a silver medal, and juniors Annika Margolies and Emily Cook earning bronze medals. In the intermediate level examination, Latin 1 students Annemarie McCarthy and Kaitlyn McDonald, alongside sophomore Brendan Wilde, received silver medals, while freshman Madeleine Walsh and Latin 2 sophomores Sarah Pogozelski and Gabriella Tromba were awarded bronze medals.

These achievements highlight the exceptional dedication and academic prowess of GCHS Latin students. The exams, organized by the National Junior Classical League, were supported by the GCHS Latin Club and Latin Honor Societies, underscoring their commitment to fostering excellence in classical studies among students.

On Thursday, April 11, the German Honor Society visited Plattdeutsche Home Society. They spoke to residents in German who immigrated from German speaking countries. The students had an extraordinary learning experience about what their life was like immigrating to the United States. They also got to learn about what their past professions were and how they made a living for themselves in the United States. Some of the residents even sang some German songs for the students. The students also got to share with the residents what they will be doing after graduation. The students and residents made a great connection with each other. This is the continuation of a great friendship between the students and the residents.

From left: National Classical Etymology Exam winners Jeffrey Li, Emily Cook, Brendan Wilde, Kaitlin Cook, Annika Margolies, Gabriella Tromba, Angela Yu, Annemarie McCarthy and Kaitlyn McDonald. Not pictured: Elizabeth Rosado, Sarah Pogozelski and Madeleine Walsh.

From left: National Roman Civilization Exam winners Emily Cook, Kaitlin Cook, Olivia Allsbrook, Kayla Cherney, Brendan Wilde. Not pictured: Teresa Gregory and Elizabeth Rosado.

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

From page 2

like to set the record straight.

Mayor Veneziale’s report that “the Chamber paid the Village the $1,000 rent established in 1988 up until the pandemic wherein the Board of Trustees reduced the rent to $434.40 per month.”

When I left the Chamber as executive director in August of 2015, having held that position since 1973, and had been involved in the setup and renovation of the Toll Lodge, the monthly rent was about $450.  When the last executive director left approximately two years ago, the rent was reported to be $500plus - an extension of the lease which had been negotiated with the then Village counsel in November of 2015.

Prior to that, the Chamber had paid monthly rent to the Village in the amount of $350 for several years with minimal raises in increments up until the extension of the lease in 2015.  I know for sure, never – ever, did the Chamber pay $1,000 rent, to be proven by examination of Village records as well as those held within the files of the Toll Lodge.

Althea Robinson

Toll House misrepresentations

To the Editor:

In last week’s letters to the editor FABGC’s hand picked former Mayor Cosmo Veneziale wrote a distorted picture of Garden City Chamber finances and issues related to the Toll House.

On finances Veneziale states the Chamber income in 2019 was $369,706. That is correct but what is not stated is the Chamber expenses for that same year. Expenses for 15 weeks of promenades, the Belmont festival,  Homecoming parade and fair, Easter car parade, Christmas tree lighting ceremony,  networking events, ribbon cuttings for new businesses, Pineapple Ball, luncheons with prominent speakers, and salary expenses.

So the former Mayor cites income but fails to include expenses. The Chamber was required to pay NO taxes for any year. The Chamber is a 501(c) (6)  organization which is not organized for profit.

As to the canard about $1000 rent for the Toll House, none of Veneziale’s facts are correct. After checking with former long-time executive director Althea Robinson  I can state that a no time did the Chamber ever pay $1000 rent. Veneziale said the Chamber paid $1000 per month in rent up until it was reduced due to the pandemic. Again false. In 2015 village attorney Peter Bee and I negotiated an extension of the lease at $565 per month for 5 years.

On December 1, 2020 the Board of Trustees reduced the rent to $100 per month, in light of the pandemic. Then in April,2022 (now with Mayor Veneziale) the Board imposed a new rent of $1000 per month retroactively to January

2022. This was done with no prior discussion with the Chamber. The motion to enact this was approved without any interaction with the Chamber. Unable to afford the newly imposed rent, the village changed the locks at the Toll House and told the Chamber that they would need an escort to enter the premise. Since that time 2 1/2 years ago the building has remained vacant.

Veneziale states that the village spent $30,000 to $35,000 a year to support the Chamber for police, fire and sanitation. So out of a $65 million dollar budget the village thought $35,000 a year was too much to give our residents the opportunity to enjoy all the events the Chamber runs every year for the families of Garden City.

Finally former Mayor Veneziale was the most anti-business mayor in memory.

Dennis Donnelly,  Former Executive Director of the G.C. Chamber

Truth about the Chamber

To the Editor: The former Mayor’s recollection of facts is not as accurate as he would have us believe. Though, I suppose we are all capable of remembering things differently.

The Chamber is a non-profit organization. Its Directors are a group of business owners and residents who support our business community and, in doing so, support the Village. We get no profit or fame for the many hours and thousands of dollars a year we each contribute to the cause. Our President is John Wilton and we are lucky to have him. Why the former Mayor speaks, and to some of us has acted, as if the Chamber is the enemy is odd to us.

For many years the Chamber paid the Village a license fee for use of the Toll House until the Pandemic made it impossible. The pandemic came and the businesses who supported the Chamber closed, some permanently and some temporarily. All of us were dramatically challenged during this time. Since our revenue was dependent on the success of the business community, it became impossible to pay the license fee to the Village for the Toll House. The former Mayor is free to question how the Chamber allocates its limited resources. And, like the former Mayor suggests, perhaps one could argue that we paid employees too long. But many of us in the business community paid our employees longer than the former Mayor might have recommended. The Chamber continued to pay two employees who were working each day to help our businesses stay open and positive during the pandemic, just as the former Mayor did with Village employees.

The former Mayor should also be clear that like the Casino and the Historical Society to which he referred,

the Chamber was required to maintain the Toll House as part of its agreement with the Village, and it has always done so. We can debate whether the Village telling the Chamber of Commerce to vacate the Toll House was proper, but one day, the doors were locked to the Chamber without notice. The building has been vacant ever since.

The former Mayor’s description of the Chamber finances is also deceptive. He mentions the Chamber revenues without mentioning expenses, attempting to give the impression that it is flush with cash. For instance, the Chamber did raise some pretty good revenue from the events it ran. But, why not include all our expenses in your letter?  It would have reflected better upon you. It would be like me saying that the Village government is flush with money by only mentioning its tax revenue.

Finally, please stop referring to the Chamber’s “profit”. We do not have a “profit.” Like the Village government, we raise money and we spend money with the sole objective of making the Community a better, happier place. The Village does not have “profit” and neither do we. The former Mayor may not like the promenades or the street fair or the Easter Parade. But there are many residents who enjoy these events and will miss them when and if they are gone. The police and sanitation and fire department presence at events is not for the Chamber. It’s for the public who attend the events. For a Village that spends millions of dollars on studying a building few of us have ever been in, it should have some money to support parents and children who enjoy themselves at Chamber events.

Many of us can continue to be involved with the Chamber of Commerce because we have people like John Wilton who works tirelessly to help make our business community and our Village a better place.

Kevin M. Walsh

Chamber Director and Resident

A look at the Chamber

To the Editor:

I hope this bit of history enlightens our citizens about the GC Chamber of Commerce.

The mission statement prepared in 1926 by the Garden City Chamber of Commerce stated, “Dedicated to the cooperative efforts of the businesses and residential community toward the preservation of quality, character and vitality of business in the incorporated Village of Garden City.”  Since then, the Garden City Chamber of Commerce has expanded beyond its initial mission statement.

Prior to the pandemic, the GC Chamber was a thriving organization that helped make Garden City the stella community that it is.  For the sake of good order, allow me to list the many

events and programs sponsored by the Chamber:

Belmont Festival, Adopt a Lamppost, Homecoming, Holiday Window Display, Fall Festival, Pineapple Ball, Summer Promenades, Taste of Garden City, Chow Down with the Chamber, Easter Car Parade, Chamber Luncheons, Professional Networking Breakfasts, Village Tree Lighting, GC Chamber Golf Outing.

The above were just the many events sponsored by the Chamber.  The Chamber also provided guidance and input on a plethora of salient issues facing the village.  They include: Rezoning Seventh Street, Introduced Website for Village, Enlarging the parking lots, Meeting with other Chambers, Approving repaving in specific areas, Bus service for Adelphi, Website training for members, Attended all Board Meetings, Working with the Village on the Streetscape, Art contests for children, Working with the Village on traffic issues, Beautification of the Village, Working with the Village to ease business regulations.

As a result of the pandemic, many of the events and services have been severely curtailed.  We used to meet monthly at the Garden City Hotel for our monthly meetings.  We had a paid Executive Director and Assistant Director.  The makeup of the board consisted of diversified and dedicated citizens representing a myriad of businesses which provided a well rounded group.  I understand today meetings are held only when necessary and by a small number of committed citizens.

My letter was prompted by last week’s article regarding the toll house.  The Toll house used to be the headquarters for our Executive Director and Assistant Director.  Committee meetings would also meet there.  I could never understand why the Chamber had to pay rent since we were comprised of non paid directors who put in countless hours for the exclusive benefit of our citizens and merchants.  The Garden City Chamber of Commerce was the envy of other Chambers on Long Island.  I realize returning to our former statue may not be possible, but as a former Vice President of the Chamber, I would like to see some of our past activities revived. Lastly, since the GC Chamber of Commerce was created as a benefit for all our citizens and merchants, wouldn’t it make sense to include it in the village budget as a line item like many other costs in the budget?  By doing so, it will be possible to bring back some of the  events and activities enjoyed by our citizens.

John Appelt

Interior is irreplaceable

To the Editor:

As the regional advocate for historic preservation on Long Island,

Preservation Long Island (PLI) is writing in support of the preservation and adaptive reuse of St. Paul’s School. PLI included St. Paul’s on our 2010 Endangered Historic Places list and we will continue to work with community groups to advocate for this significant building.

I am greatly concerned regarding the potential approach of facadism at St. Paul’s School in Garden City. There is overwhelming support to save the exterior of this remarkable building, which is a critical first step. However, as lovely as the shell of the building is, to empty and completely modernize its interior would be to remove the heart and the soul of the building.

Facadism should only be considered as a last-resort preservation method. It involves retaining only the external facade of a historic building while demolishing or significantly altering its interior. This practice, although sometimes necessary in extreme cases of interior damage or alteration, is incompatible with the historical significance and integrity of St. Paul’s School.

Roberta Gratz, in her book “Cities Back from the Edge,” underscores that historic preservation should encompass more than just the exterior of a structure. When we reduce historic buildings to mere facades, we risk eroding the essence of our cities’ historical continuity and authenticity. The interiors of these buildings hold narratives that are vital in conveying their history and making them relevant and authentic spaces for the future.

Facadism removes the significance of a building from its social and environmental contexts. It results in wasteful practices, overlooking the embodied energy of a building before it nears the end of its functional life. By removing features uniquely tied to a property’s history and stripping away the context that allows one to understand or appreciate a historic building, its significance is diminished. While a historic facade combined with a modern interior may seem forward-thinking, inappropriate renovations can have unintended consequences for the overall value of the building. Historic interiors possess enduring appeal and quality that transcend passing architectural trends and remain relevant over time.

The interior of St. Paul’s School is an irreplaceable asset.

The National Park Service’s Preservation Brief No. 18 highlights the importance of interior spaces in defining a building’s historic character. St. Paul’s rooms, stained glass windows, oak trim, intricate ironwork, and tilework contribute to the school’s authenticity and should be safeguarded with the utmost priority.

The historic interior at St. Paul’s School in Garden City is comprised of invaluable assets that should not be

removed. These are materials that, due to cost and lack of skilled craftspeople, could not be replicated today. For instance, St. George’s Hall in Liverpool, England, boasts the largest Minton floor in the world, comprising 30,000 tiles. The floor is so valuable that it is kept protected under a wooden cover and only unveiled occasionally, with admission charged at £20 per person— highlighting the cultural and historical value attributed to such intricate craftsmanship. The original cost of 3,000 pounds  in 1860s, would be the equivalent of 250,000 pounds today—although the true cost of replicating would be in the millions. The interior of St. Paul’s includes many finishes, including Minton floors, that are just as significant.

There are countless examples of buildings that have been renovated while retaining the soul of the historic structure. Thoughtful modern improvements and amenities that highlight and respect the historic interior spaces can be incorporated by experienced professionals into a community center that will be the gem of Garden City. At the time of its construction, St. Paul’s School used only the best craftsmanship and materials available. Its value has only increased with time and would be impossible to replicate. Garden City residents deserve the best, and that requires a thoughtful restoration of St. Paul’s that both safeguards and celebrates the interior and exterior of this historic landmark.

Tara

Cubie

Preservation

Director, Preservation Long Island St Paul’s issues arise

To the Editor:

So not a word was said by anyone about St Paul’s throughout the debut session of the newly constituted Board. A few questions then arise.

Background: At an informal Meet & Greet last August the Mayor endorsed the two choice non-binding poll ballot  “stacked against demolition.” No one on that Board ever took ownership over authoring the ballot. The Board seemed more interested in steering the residents than getting resident feedback on any details at all which could have truly informed the Board.  Whether one wanted to save the whole building or a part- such as a facade with a community center, those votes went in the undifferentiated  “preserve”  bucket. Whether one voted to preserve or demolish the school structure both choices included that the Board would evaluate not just the future of the school building but also consider what to do with Cluett Hall and the Field house. This made sense because all three fall within the purview of the St. Paul’s School’s future. But the language of the ballot was not just complicated; it was somewhat puzzling

based upon numerous resident responses and remarks about it So the poll yielded an underwhelming vote of 25% of eligible voters (4,500 out of 17,000+ eligible) with 61% of those voting for an undefined preservation option. Note: The Village flyer Fact Sheet mailed only a few days before the poll date, stated, with an asterisk, in fine print at the very bottom of the page that special legislation could yield an option to get 30 year debt financing but omitted that alienation would be a legal prerequisite to be done by the Village.

Given the above it was no surprise that preservation got more votes because the ballot stacked the poll favoring it where the result of demolition was merely grass and trees (although a park or new community center could eventually be further studied if demolition was the chosen option) while preservation got specifically costed selections for both renovation and  facade.

The Present:  As of today there has never been any amplification of what impact the evaluation of Cluett and the Fieldhouse would have on the fate of the school structure. This poll, in which there were two combined preservation selections and which was characterized as a non-binding directional poll, seems to have morphed into simply a quest  for a community center to be housed within all or part of the existing school structure. By whom and when was that decided? Could it not be Cluett Hall or a new center behind a facade or one erected after demolition according to the ballot regardless of how one voted? No wonder many voiced dissatisfaction about the poll.

The Mayor announced a master plan last January, is it still in effect now that there are three new Trustees? That plan has effected the needed removal and storage of the stained glass windows and skylights from the structure and an Advisory Committee was appointed that so far has reported on community centers located in other communities. Significantly, none of these eight other centers have parkland restrictions and many of which are not controlled or operated by the municipality; and none of them are confronted with the costly possible need to repurpose a 140 year old, 125,000 sq. ft. building in poor condition.

The Mayor’s plan also included the retention of an independent group, in this case Brandsetter, Carroll was chosen to perform four tasks pertaining to investigation of potential uses. Abatement, a necessary component of any future project, was part of the plan too but that now seems to be up in the air. (No allocation is in the 2024-25 budget).

The latest and most understandable news is that at the March 23rd Advisory Committee meeting its members and Mayor in dialogue at minute 47:25 thru

min 50 indicated that the quest for uses is independent from a precise fit with the school structure. The 61% poll vote for preservation was a steering device to further investigate, not a decision maker. This is reasonable because the poll could mean that demo got 39% and repurposing and facade one or both got less than that. Moreover, the only quantitative poll was the GCN poll done the week after the poll which yielded a 2 to 1 result in favor of Facade over the Renovation choice between “Full Phased Renovation and “Saving the Facade”.  This is surprising because no group advocated facade which along with demolition was trashed by Committee members and Alliance supporters on the fallacious basis that it would close Village fields for months and promoted wildly elevated costs for facade to $175m. Such misrepresentations were dismissed by cost estimator, Westerman Construction. Haven’t Villagers had enough of misinterpretations and misinformation from the Alliance and its supporters to give it any credence that the “meaning” of the poll mandates full preservation?

The plan is predicated upon offering a project that has the financial support of the residents. What does that mean?

Does this mean a “save the building” cost must have 15 year debt term based on the unchallenged opinions of the Village counsel given last October and the more recent opinion set forth by the 75 attorney firm of Ruskin, Moscou & Faltischek last month?  Or does the last minute blitz of Alliance letters and ads just before the election (deja vu what happened just before the poll), which has never provided  legal or financial opinions by any independent analysts supporting  a 30 year, no alienation needed plan, hold sway over any current Board member?

This is not a question of whether a possible conservancy is legally permissible, the point is that it is not feasible and appropriate for the Village to pursue. Did folks voting in the poll understand that the 30 year reference to financing referred to the Village itself obtaining such a debt period by special legislation which requires alienation- the elimination of the precious Parkland designation?

It now time for the new Board to acknowledge this so there is no false equivalency between legally backed opinions and facts presented by the Village and unsupported claims by the Alliance that have plagued  discussions about St. Pauls for months, if not years?

I look forward to hearing from the Board on this subject.

S. G. Gorray

An unsung hero

There are so many unsung heroes in See page 44

From page 43

Friday, April 19, 2024

this town but I’d like to add one more name to that list: Joe Agolia, the IT genius at the library.

My husband and I sought his help --unfortunately shortly before he was due to go home. We were clueless and frantic and although what we asked him was not in his usual bag of tricks, he VERY patiently worked through the complicated issues and solved our problem. I hope he went home feeling as pleased with himself as we were pleased with him.

Thank you, Joe Agolia. We really appreciated your help more than my mere words can say.

Barbara

and Dennis Bengels Blakeman’s Militia

To the Editor:

On April 8th I attended a rally at the Nassau County Legislature to protest Mr. Blakeman’s ill-conceived plan to create an armed militia. Not only does this not solve any problems past or present, it threatens to create more problems.

I attended the April 16 Legislative meeting and once again I asked the Legislature to intervene because real problems and challenges to our county are going unaddressed while our County Executive proposes solutions to problems that we don’t have!

Mr. Blakeman used Hurricane Sandy as an example of the kind of emergency that might require activating the militia. I remember Hurricane Sandy very well - we had no power for two weeks and I don’t at all recall that we needed more people with guns to help in the recovery. We really needed more people with boats, more people with food and water and housing, more people with water pumps and bucket trucks

to restore power. Why then does Mr. Blakeman’s proposal center on more people with weapons? Is this just another shot fired in the culture war that Mr. Blakeman seems so comfortable fighting?

I’d like to quote Kim Keiserman, a candidate for New York State Senate who said this about the militia proposal: “I think he’s really out of step with the culture of Nassau County, and that’s why the legislators haven’t heard any positive feedback about this idea. It’s really out of step. It’s not governing, it’s performance.” This proposed militia is unnecessary and dangerous. Deputizing gun owning citizens for undefined situations that Blakeman deems as emergencies, frankly scares the hell out of me. I would like to know what his real intentions are since there is no legitimate real need for a militia.

We have an excellent county police force. We have the New York State Police. We have our village and local police departments. We have the NYS National guard! Nassau is already among the safest counties in the country, so where is this dire need for General Blakeman’s Army?

Meanwhile, he’s failed to deal with the many issues that he promised to fix during his campaign - tax assessments being just one. And he continues to waste our tax dollars on lawsuits and the flyers he sends out. And once again I reminded this legislative body that they do have a way to deal with this:

New York State Law Article 4, section 154, paragraph (d) provides for the removal of the county executive “for failure to perform the duties of his office in an honorable, competent and reasonably efficient manner.”

Lynn Krug

THE OFFICE CAT

From page 23

On April 16th, upon investigation of a suspicious person reported to be in the vicinity of Franklin Avenue and 2nd Street, Garden City Police observed a man allegedly committing a lewd act in public view. He was charged with Public Lewdness.

Revoked license

On April 16th Garden City Police arrested a Rockaway Avenue motorist for driving with three DWI-related license revocations, a license suspension, and failure to wear a seatbelt.

Oven fire

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a 4th Street residence on April 16th. Firefighters who had extin-

guished a small oven fire.

Open door

On April 16th Garden City Police investigated a report of an open residential door. They determined it was left open by family members.

Burnt food

The GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence on April 16th for a fire alarm but determined the cause to be burnt food.

Unlicensed operation

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed on April 16th. Another Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and passing a red traffic light.

Doris M. Reeder

Doris M. Reeder, aged 84, peacefully passed away on April 2, 2024, in Carle Place,  following an extended illness. She was born on October 9, 1938, in Brooklyn, to Karen Carney. Doris began her career at City Service after graduating from Flushing High School, ultimately retiring from S&B Machine Works in 2015.

She was the cherished spouse of the late Benjamin “Ben” H. Reeder, Jr., and a loving mother to Glenn Reeder of Carle Place and Jennifer Reeder (Pat) of Carle Place. Doris was preceded in death by her son, Benjamin “Ben”, daughter, Gwen, sister, Joan (Walter), and brother, Frederick “Fred” (Vera). Surviving her are her daughter-in-law, Carmen of Hialeah, FL, nephew, David of Mt. Airy, MD, and Robert (Kelly) and their children, Cassandra and Madison of Harrisburg, PA.

Doris was a passionate gardener, who spent her spring days tending to her yard or her many indoor plants during winter. When she was able, she took joy in riding her bicycle and would often have one of her children along for the ride in the rear passenger seat. A connoisseur of chocolate ice cream, she had a special fondness for milk floats, which she frequently whipped up using

Doris M. Reeder

her kitchen blender. Her family said her memory endures as that of an incredibly kind woman who surmounted numerous challenges with unwavering grace. Despite her trials, she never harbored bitterness or resentment, emerging from them with remarkable resilience and without a trace of cynicism. They said they will cherish the memories and moments shared and will forever remember the love and joy she brought into their lives.

THE MAYOR’S UPDATE

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

From page 22

The Village has moved away from this process because some residents do not wish to have a tree planted in front of their homes.

Natl. Prescription Drug Take Back Day

The Garden City Police Department will participate in the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27, 2024, between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The collection center is at Garden City Police Department Headquarters, 349 Stewart Avenue. This event provides an opportunity for everyone to safely discard unwanted, unused, and expired medications. According to the DEA, too often unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That’s dangerous and often tragic. That’s why it was great to see thousands of folks from across the country clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in – safely and anonymously – a record amount of prescription drugs. The Garden City Police Department also advises that they accept unused, expired, and unwanted medications every day if someone cannot turn them in on April 27, 2024. Police

Commissioner Kenneth Jackson states, “The Garden City Police Department and Drug Take Back Program helps reduce drug abuse and overdoses. It allows for the safe disposal of drugs instead of flushing, burying, or throwing them out in the garbage, which poses significant environmental and health risks.”

Happening in Garden City

Monday, April 22nd 1:30 p.m. Movie Matinée: Crossing Delancy at the Library

Tuesday, April 23rd 11:15 a.m. Chair Yoga at the Senior Center 6:30 p.m. Architectural Design Review Board Meeting at Village Hall

Friday, April 26

2:00 p.m. Arbor Day Celebration on the Village Green

Saturday, April 27th 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Prescription Drug Take Back Day at Police Headquarters, 349 Stewart Avenue

Thursday, May 2nd 10:45 a.m. Downsizing and Estate Planning Seminar/Brunch at the Senior Center. Must register; space is limited. Call (516) 385-8006.

Michael Kenny

On Wednesday, April 10, 2024, Michael Kenny, age 52, passed away in the arms of his loving wife of almost 22 years, Deirdre Kenny. Together they have two beautiful children, Ryan (17) and Charlotte (14). Mike bravely fought Glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer for almost 21 months. His family believes it was his love for Deirdre, Ryan, and Charlotte that helped him fight for so long against this dreadful disease. Throughout his battle, he inspired his community of Garden City. With Mike as their inspiration, his family raised over $40,000 for brain cancer research with their #Kennystrong initiative.

Mike was born on January 11, 1972 in Queens to John and Kathleen Kenny. He was the youngest of three siblings; he is survived by his sister, Linda Kenny-Kelly and brother, John Kenny. Mike is survived by his loving nieces and nephews, John, Katelin, James; all children of his siblings, and Danielle, Nicole, Andrew, Robbie and Allie; nieces and nephews on his wife, Deirdre’s side.

Mike grew up in Hollis, NY and attended High School at Archbishop Molloy High School. He then went on to study accounting at St. John’s University, earning an accounting degree and soon after his CPA license. Mike worked in public accounting for RSM McGladrey and then went on to work for Merrill Lynch as part of the Corporate Controller’s group. For eight years, Mike worked at Goldman Sachs where he was a Vice President in Finance. In 2009, Mike joined the team at Willowridge Partners and became a Managing Director. Willowridge was one of his greatest professional success stories and he will be missed by his team there.

Personally, Mike enjoyed nothing more than supporting his two children in all their pursuits. Both active athletes, Mike was at every game -- often early to help Ryan and Charlotte warm up. He was the dad in the stands that cheered equally as loud for his kids as every other player on the team. A former high school track team member, Mike maintained a commitment to working out throughout his adult life. Since 2014, Mike was an avid regular at the 5 am classes at Garden City CrossFit. He even worked out the day before his second brain surgery! His Crossfit crew became a family to Mike, as did the families on the sidelines of all his kids’ games!

Throughout his life, Mike was known for his kindness and generosity. He was the neighbor who supported every cause with a donationeven giving $20 for a cup of lemonade

when the kids on the block would set up shop. He was the first to pitch in when help was needed - bringing pop up tents to every baseball game and volunteering to host many team parties!

In 2012, Mike and his family moved to Garden City, and it soon became apparent it was the best decision they ever made. Mike always said his home was his paradise and he loved nothing more than sharing a meal with Deirdre, Ryan, and Charlotte. The family often enjoyed watching movies and TV together. It was in these simple moments that we truly felt love, comfort and security with Mike.

Mike’s 20-month long battle against Glioblastoma was a roller coaster ride of highs and lows. Even though his family knew this cancer was aggressive and terminal, Mike remained hopeful and steadfast in his belief in God. He found comfort in prayer and never once asked, “Why me?” For the last few months, Mike’s disease affected his mobility and he was unable to leave the house. That is when the friends and family who loved him showed up in big ways. Often a crowd of visitors would sit with Mike, and always bring him a coffee -- his favorite!

Together with Deirdre, Mike shared his journey with others through social media. It was their hope that others could learn to see what was truly important in life: time spent with loved ones, living life with a grateful heart, and showing up for one another. Together we all became #Kennystrong and will continue to honor Mike in the future.

IN MEMORIAM

Kristine Kriesle Harder

December 17,1928 - April 8, 2024

Kristine passed away peacefully in Garden City on April 8th, 2024, the same date as her husband, Frank, three years earlier. She was 95 years old.

Kristine grew up in Tell City, Indiana, as the youngest child of Ruth and Jack Kriesle. She was cheerleader and majorette at Tell City High School.

She attended Purdue University where she was a member and President of Pi Beta Phi Sorority and the prestigious Gold Pepper Club. She majored in Home Economics and met her husband, Frank, in the Spring of their junior year. They were married on September 16,1950, and began an epic 71 years of marriage. Their love story was enduring and a true partnership in devotion.

Kristine was truly a modern and accomplished woman. Her energy was boundless and she was known for rarely sitting still. She was a founding partner in The Pear Tree Shoppe which was a storied institution in Garden City for over 40 years and later operated her own store, The Garden Bench. Kristine started The Twigs which is a branch of the Nassau Hospital Auxiliary (now NYU Langone) and chairwoman of the first Golden Goose shopping bazaar. She also enjoyed her time as a docent at Old Westbury Gardens.

She was passionate about preservation and The Garden City Historical Society. She was 80 years young when she started the Consignment Shop at the AT Stewart House as a way to raise funds for causes such as Save St. Paul’s. Her contributions to her community are immeasurable and she left an indelible mark on her beloved Garden City. She was honored as Person of the Year by the Garden City Chamber of Commerce.

Kristine will be remembered for her impeccable taste and style. Her lovely home was often on tour. She

Kristine K. Harder

had a fabulous sense of occasion and she entertained often and beautifully. Her parties were magnificent and often included a rendition of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” She enjoyed traveling with Frank, her family and many friends.

She relished time with her extended family -- her grandchildren and great-grandchildren have fond memories of spending time with their Mimi/Grammy. In her later years, she enjoyed spending time with her sisters in Sanibel, Florida.

Kristine is survived by her children Laura (Tom), Hank (Kathy), Peggy (Don), Bill (Andrea) and Linann, twelve grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

She will be missed by all and is now reunited with her beloved husband, Frank.

The memorial service will be Thursday, May 9th, at 11:00 a.m. at the Garden City Community Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Garden City Historical Society, 109 Eleventh Street, Garden City, New York 11530.

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.

Michael Kenny

LEGAL NOTICES

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on March 7, 2024, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed.

The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk

BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED MARCH 7, 2024, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $700,000 TO FINANCE THE PERMANENT INSTALLATION OF ORTHOPHOSPHATE TREATMENT AT VILLAGE WELL SITES, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $700,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the permanent installation of orthophosphate treatment at Village well sites, at the estimated maximum cost of $700,000. The period of usefulness is forty (40) years. The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $700,000.

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

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April 19, 2024

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

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Day 6 Lutzelbourg to Niderviller

On Day 6 our European Waterways luxury hotel barge, Panache, cruises from Lutzelbourg to Niderviller where the cruise ends, during which we experience some of the most dramatic cruising – thrilling even considering how calm and restful the slow cruising on the canal is - of the trip.

I set out on the bike along the towpath but come to a fork and am confused which way to go, so return to the Panache. It’s a good thing I did return to the boat because the bike path would have taken me away from the boat.

Indeed, the canal takes a turn and we get our first view of an astonishing sight: the Arzviller boat elevator that will carry Panache 45 meters up a mountainside in mere minutes.

Captain Brian excites us with the image of a “boat guillotine”. But before we have the experience (we have to wait our turn), we tie up and walk a short distance to Cristal Lehrer (Cristallerie Lehrer) glass-blowing factory where we get to see demonstrations of the craftsmanship involved.

In 1920, there would have been 1500 glass workers in this area. One of the workers was Charles Lehrer. Decades later, his son, Bruno Lehrer, founded this glassworks.

We get to observe from an amphitheater as glassblowers heat the molten glass to 1700 degrees Celsius; use different oxides to create the

drama isn’t over.

Coming out of the boat elevator, we cruise a bit further until we come to an enormous tunnel, just exactly the width of the boat, cut through the Vosges mountains.

It is unbelievably exciting to go through – I don’t even go down for lunch, which is served by candlelight – until we get through the tunnel, some 30 minutes later.

But that is not all, because we will soon come to a second tunnel that takes 20 minutes to get through.

different colors and shape them into a range of items.

In the cutting and etching room, a craftsman named Bruno shows us how he cuts shapes into a glass, etches images like a swan or a bird, changing the wheel for a different cut and then engraves my name in the glass, which he gives me as a gift. He tells me he has worked in this factory with his father from when he was 14 years old; now 86, the master craftsman is here every day demonstrating his skill. (It occurs to me later whether this is Bruno Lehrer, himself?)

Arzviller Boat elevator

An engineering feat when it was installed in 1969, and still the only one of its kind in Europe, before the Arzviller boat elevator was constructed in 1969, it took boats an

entire day to navigate the 17 locks over four kilometers to ascend the 146 feet in altitude. Before the Arzviller boat elevator, only one barge a day could pass through, but today, as many as 39 can make the trip each day.

Now back on the Panache, it is our turn to go through the “boat guillotine” – really the black door that comes down to seal the carriage, like a bathtub, into which our boat floats, to be carried, like an elevator, up the hill. Two counterweights, weighing 450 tons each, powered by two winches, lift or lower barges safely up and down the hill at a 22-degree angle. It takes four minutes for us to be lifted to the top, where the door rises and we continue our journey on the Canal de la Marne au Rhin.

What an experience, but the

In between the tunnels, I go down for lunch which is also an event –fennel and anchovies salad; orange duck with couscous, and selection of cheese. White wine from Alsace, Gewurztramine 2020, a vegan, “vin biologique” wine “Evidence” (named to reflect “the respect we have for biodiversity in our vineyards as “evidenced” by the return of game birds to our land, which has inspired this label”).

And yet, there are still more astonishments to unfold on this day, our last full day of the cruise.

We are driven to Sarrebourg, a classic, historic French town.

A Monumental Chagall

The astonishing highlight in Sarrebourg comes at the Chapelle des Cordeliers. Built in 1265 by Franciscans, the church was used for barracks during the French Revolution; in 1870, during the German Annexation, the church was used for worship for German soldiers. From 1927, the History and Archeology Society converted the chapel to a museum. But by 1970, the building, near ruin, was demolished,

Continued on next page

European Waterways’ luxury hotel barge, Panache, gets ready to go through the “boat guillotine” on its way into the Arzviller boat elevator © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

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

Continued from previous page

leaving only the choir of the chapel and an open space where a wall should have stood.

The Mayor of Sarrebourg at the time, Pierre Messmer, a former Prime Minister of France, entreated his friend, the world-famous artist Marc Chagall to create stained glass windows that would close the empty space. Chagall agreed to do it as a gift to the town. It took Chagall six months, from December 1973-Febuary 1974, to produce a series of six sketches for what became his largest stained glass window, 12 meters high by 7 ½ meters wide. Chagall died in 1985 at the age of 98 after creating one more stained glass work, but never saw “The Peace” installed. (https://www. sarrebourg.fr/parcours-chagall/chapelle-des-cordeliers/)

“For me a stained glass window is a transparent partition between my heart and the heart of the world. Stained glass has to be serious and passionate. It is something elevating and exhilarating. It has to live through the perception of light,” Chagall wrote.

La Paix (“The Peace”) puts Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden at the center, surrounded by a multitude of Biblical and religious symbols and sub-

jects, as well as secular images that give a nod to the Alsace-Lorraine, our guide, Philippe Zugmeyer, explains, showing us Chagall’s sketches which we can compare to the finished work. “The face of Eve is very bright, white, brightest image. They are smiling, showing love. Look closely and you will see the face of girl from Lorraine – identified by the regional headdress she wears.”

He points us to the Prophet Isaiah in green, an important symbol for Chagall, of reconciliation of all creatures. There are the lamb, cow, bear, snake, lion. There is King David with a harp. Jacob’s ladder. Jesus on a donkey heralded by people smiling and cheering. Jesus giving his Sermon on the Mount. Jesus on the cross. There is a baby to symbolize maternity (not nativity, he notes). Moses with two beams of light emitting from his head.

I never expected to see anything like this on this day.

From here we walk a short distance to the affiliated  Musée du pays de Sarrebourg (Museum of Sarrebourg and its surroundings). Created in 1905, it was originally only an archaeological museum. Today, it is a modern building that includes a space dedicated to Marc Chagall, tapestries and an exhibition

of earthenware and porcelain from the Niderviller manufacture. The museum also exhibits local collections of porcelain and ancient Roman artifacts.

Gala Captain’s Dinner

This is our last evening onboard The Panache, and while each meal has been the ultimate in fine dining, tonight’s Captain’s Dinner when Captain Brian heads the table, has the feeling of a gala with formal table setting – white tablecloth, red cloth napkins, candlelight.

The meal features peas and wasabi tartlet; Jerusalem artichoke; lobster tail piquillos; chocolate with truffle, cheeses. The wine is Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots (2018) from Albert Bichot, founded in 1831and still family-owned, and a Pino Noir Grand Cru from Burgundy (2014)

In the course of our six-day cruise, I calculate we sampled 36 cheeses –about half of all the controlled French cheeses - and 40 wines.

We see gorgeous scenery, to be sure, but the barge experience is about doing, being present, the camaraderie. And so there are sentimental farewells when we depart – the seven days we have spent together feeling like a long time and as no time at all.

The next morning, we are driven

back to Strasbourg – 45 minutes to cover the distance we have traveled in six days cruising (and biking). I have enough time to continue to explore Strasbourg before I take the TGV train to Paris.

The 12-passenger luxury hotel barge Panache cruises the Alsace & Lorraine in summer and autumn;  Holland in the Spring, when the flowers are in full bloom, and Champagne in May & June (Champagne itineraries typically include Brie cheese tastings, a tour of the Cathedral at Reims, Epernay and of course, tastings at renowned champagne houses).

One of the largest providers of all-inclusive luxury hotel barging in Europe, European Waterways, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, is launching its newest, ultra deluxe vessel, the eight-passenger  Kir Royale this May.

Contact European Waterways, 877879-8808, www.europeanwaterways.com.

See more photos at goingplacesfarandnear.com.

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

Total Solar Eclipse Above Long Lake, in New York’s Adirondacks is Stellar

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE - GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

That effortless, magical golf swing

At my retirement party a few years ago I got a few gifts from my co-workers that have come in handy on these retirement days. They were given to me after the food and festivities of the retirement party were over. I’d had a special guest speaker then I said a few words of thanks and in short order I was being handed a fishing rod, a golf club and a beautiful set of earrings commemorating my time on the job.

A few other gifts were presented and I have enjoyed each and every one. The hand-written cards of thanks for helping people at work were appreciated, too, but the fishing rod and golf club have a way of standing out in my mind.

My co-workers had heard that I wanted to go fishing - something I’d never gotten to do during my working years. And the golf club Joanie gave me, a putter not a driver, reminded me of so many times my relatives and I went miniature golfing at Nunley’s in Baldwin.

Was Joanie implying that I should stick to miniature golf rather than set up some tee times with three other people and embark with our bags of clubs on an 18-hole golf course? Asking her that later as we walked to our cars, we laughed about the implication and I told Joanie how I would fare on a great big beautifully manicured golf course.

She said I’d be good at it since I’m so interested in golfing and I added that I’d never really made time for it before. You’ve really got to allow at least four hours to play a solid round of golf and I was always running here and there taking care of chores.

My first leisurely, enjoyable round of golf wouldn’t happen for a few more months because I retired at the end of the year just as winter was beginning. Soon the cold temperatures and snow would arrive on Long Island so I was saving my fishing rod and golf club for spring when Long Island would thaw out and my friends and I could set some realistic tee times.

That summer I got a part-time job even though I had retired. I’ve never been one to sit still, I think retires

should have a schedule and I believe that working helps keep older people mentally sharp. I also scheduled some time for meeting friends for coffee once a month at our favorite specialty coffee house.

Since my work is part-time - not fulltime which I’d done for 41 years - I had time to exercise whether it was taking long walks or playing pickleball once a week. By building it into my schedule I found myself saying, “Yes, I can do this” as opposed to making excuses and getting comfortable on the couch watching my favorite Netflix movies.

Doing jigsaw puzzles in the cold weather is a good way to challenge myself but now that the warmer weather is here I’m excited about golfing once again. Amy, Linda, Jane and I formed a foursome and we’ve stuck with it. I joined their group three years ago when they needed a fourth golfer and I was looking to join a group. They were used to the duffer’s routine but I was new at it so I set out very determinedly to look and act like a golfer.

Early in spring I wore slacks, a blouse and a jacket to hit a golf ball all over an 18-hole course. As the days grew warmer I wore lighter clothes - a polo shirt and skorts to hit that little white golf ball around the course.

A golf cap or visor is a must when the sun is looking right at me - and the glare of the sun can throw me off my game. I prefer lace-up spikeless golf shoes on the course. They help keep my balance and hence, my concentration. I’m no women’s golf fashionista but dressing for the weather is important. Golf gloves help me grip the club comfortably and a comfortable golfer may end up being a good golfer.

Now that we play regularly, I have my golfing routine down pat. Amy, Linda, Jane and I like to play on Wednesdays. Meeting at the golf course we take out two golf carts, load our bags onto the carts and head out. Early birds, we like to start playing when the morning sun is out and the birds are singing. Sometimes we run into other golfers and converse with them. At other times we’re on our own and that’s okay.

Afterwards we have our “tea time”

or lunch. We’ve worked up appetites and by then we’ve had our fill of golf clubs and motorized golf carts.

I’ve known for years that golf is a game of numbers - each hole has a par, for example - and I aim for a low score in golf not a high one. In terms of hitting the ball, I prefer driving the golf ball to putting but to each their own. My golf score isn’t super low but I’m enjoying the game. And communing with nature. Some of my other friends like playing bridge on Wednesdays but I’d rather be out on the golf course admiring nature and hoping to hear the sweet sounds of birds singing.

I like the look of a beautifully manicured golf course. The sand that’s raked so well it looks pure. I enjoy seeing the ponds spaced out so well - and hope that my golf ball doesn’t land in the drink. That would be embarrassing but then Amy, Linda and Jane know that I’m still a “newbie.”

A hole in one on any golf course would be fun but it’s not mandatory. Sure I’d like to be able to brag to my sister, Michelle, that I got a hole in one because she hit a hole in one at a golf

course on Hilton Head Island, S.C. a few years ago. She said later that she was so relaxed swinging the club that it magically just seemed to go in. “That’s a wonder to behold,” I told Michelle when I saw her and we both agreed that indeed, it was, indeed.

Crossword Answers

BY TOM MARGENAU

Divorced Man’s Guide to Social Security

Over the 27 years I’ve been writing this column, I have probably written a hundred columns directed at divorced women. But after answering emails from men who had questions about benefits for divorcees, it dawned on me that I’ve never written a column for divorced men. Today, I’ll make up for that.

I should point out that I will be concentrating on the benefits a husband’s ex-wife can get on his Social Security account -and what effects those benefits have on his own Social Security or on benefits due a subsequent wife. Why? Because those are the kinds of questions I get from men.

I will briefly cover what benefits a divorced man might be due on his ex-wife’s Social Security record. But frankly, that rarely happens. As I recently pointed out, because women traditionally have earned less than men, and because women take time off from their careers to raise children, there are millions of women getting benefits off a husband’s or ex-husband’s Social Security account. But there are only a handful of men getting spousal benefits from a wife’s record.

Let me first explain how a divorced woman qualifies for benefits from her ex. First of all, she’s got to be old enough, which means at least age 60 for divorced widows and at least age 62 for an ex-wife whose husband is still alive. Second, her marriage to the ex must have lasted at least 10 years. Third, she can’t be currently married. (If she remarried after the divorce, but that second marriage ended and she is unmarried now, she’s potentially eligible for benefits from the first ex.) And fourth, she can’t be due higher benefits on her own Social Security account. There are other qualifying conditions, but these are the main ones.

And if you are that rare divorced man whose ex-wife consistently made more money than you, meaning she is due a higher Social Security benefit than you are, then the eligibility rules for divorced women explained above would also apply to you. In other words, the same rules that apply to divorced and financially dependent wives and widows also apply to divorced and financially dependent husbands and widowers.

But as I said, men very rarely qualify for these kinds of benefits. And that’s why a divorced man’s interest in rules for divorcees almost always have to do with how his ex might qualify for divorced spousal benefits and how it affects his own benefits. Here are some sample questions.

Q: My first wife and I were married for 30 years before getting divorced five years ago. I have remarried. My ex hasn’t. She is 62 years old. My current wife is 45. I am 65 and not yet drawing Social Security. My ex says she is going to file against my Social Security. Can she do that without my permission?

A: Your ex-wife does not need your permission to file for divorced wife’s benefits

on your record. If the law says she’s due benefits, she’ll get them no matter what you say. So if she is not currently working, she’ll be due benefits on your record unless her own retirement benefit pays her a higher rate. And by the way, your ex can file for benefits on your account even if you haven’t filed yourself.

Q: My wife and I are about to turn 67. We are thinking of filing for Social Security. My wife’s own benefit is so small that I’m sure she will get higher benefits on my record. But I was married once before, and my ex-wife is already getting divorced wife’s benefits on my account. Is that going to reduce what my current wife will be due on my record?

A: No, it won’t. Any benefits paid to an ex-spouse are just “add-on” benefits. They don’t take anything away from what you are due or what your current wife will be due on your record.

Q: I am 76 years old. I waited until I was 70 to file for Social Security. The primary reason I did this is so my wife will get the highest widow’s benefits possible when I die. But I just learned that my first wife, to whom I was married for 20 years, is going to get half of my benefits upon my death. And my current wife will have to settle for the other half. This doesn’t seem fair.

A: Well, it might not be fair if it were true. But it’s not true. When you die, your current wife will get 100% of your benefit -- assuming she is over her full retirement age when you die. And assuming your ex hasn’t remarried and is over her full retirement age and isn’t due higher benefits on her own record, she also will get the 100% widow’s rate. As explained above, any benefits paid to your ex do not offset any benefits due your current wife.

Q: I can’t believe my ex-wife is getting my Social Security. When we divorced in 2018, I very specifically added a clause to the divorce decree stating that my soon-to-be ex-wife would not be able to get any of my Social Security. And yet now I learned she’s telling her friends she is getting benefits on my account. I’m going to call my lawyer to stop this!

A: You can call your lawyer if you want. But you aren’t going to stop this. That clause you added to your divorce decree isn’t worth the paper it’s printed on. Federal law overrides anything you or your lawyer might scribble onto your divorce papers. And if that law says your ex is due spousal benefits on your account, she’s going to get them.

Q: I’ve been married and divorced five times. Is each of my ex-wives going to get some of my Social Security? No wonder the system is going broke!

A: Actually, it’s pretty uncommon for more than one ex to get benefits on your account. Why? Because the only way all your ex-wives would collect on your record is if they all have remained unmarried and if all of them have never worked.

Or to put that another way: All your exes who have remarried and all your exes who have worked and will get their own Social Security won’t be collecting divorced spousal benefits from you.

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.

Answers on page 3

I have dealt with literally thousands of buyer and seller clients over the last 42+ years, listening to their specific, “needs and wants” in finding a purchaser for their homes and buyers in their search for their “next place to call home.” The one common denominator was the location, location, and most importantly the school district. Even for those downsizing or who were empty nesters, the majority weren’t concerned or gave any thought about schools being of any importance. I conveyed to them that the better the schools, the more stable the prices and potentially greater resale value. I have found and truly understand the importance of an excellent above-average education; the accompanying school curriculum is a defining characteristic that most parents desire for their children.

However, sometimes there are limitations to what people and families can afford in purchasing their desired towns; they need to settle for the most optimum location, based on their financial qualifications. The greatest obstacle is the lack of adequate funding from Albany. The towns that need it the most don’t always get sufficient funding to attract better-quality teachers. it comes down to paying sufficient remuneration to those educators to live a good life and existence.

Unfortunately, Albany may sometimes not understand or see how important those monies are in the quality of education for those towns that have the greatest need compared to most other school districts. Teachers need to make a living as the 2nd most crucial entity in a child’s life. One might argue or not think about what a true lifestyle for a teacher might be; and that sometimes is too much to focus on as other less important things are on the agenda. Nothing is as crucial and critical as an education with quality teachers. However, unfortunately, family income and budgets become the problems in attaining a proper education.

Location, location, school district

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

Today, we no longer have a conjugal nuclear family structure compared to years ago. We have more single-family units in history; the mothers have to not only earn a living, to survive but also take the role of the missing dad model in keeping a stable and healthy environment. In my eyes, even though, the mothers are doing an amazing job; this deficiency of a father figure is what is many times, lacking, as the basis of a stronger family unit; creating and leading to a quality, caring, and solid lifestyle in bringing one’s children up in. But then again, there are those independent, divorced, widowed women who do quite a commendable, admirable, and praiseworthy job providing the immense effort, discipline, and sacrifice of time in doing what is needed to provide a quality and grounded environment with the necessary and proper guidance for their kids.

and begins in December. Jump in feet first, and take advantage of these grant programs. If you need any assistance, feel free to reach out to me.

Some can have a home and a lifestyle together if one will apply and sacrifice the necessary and required time and effort; to earn while learning how to start a side hustle in conjunction with your job; or an additional stream of income as an adjunct to your current business. This can and will enable you to accomplish greater earnings; if you have a burning desire and passion to improve your position in life, so you can and will attain your home and lifestyle. Real estate might be your vehicle in getting there. Interested? Then call me for a confidential interview and learn how to rid yourself of those invisible job handcuffs and potentially consult your way to the top of the food chain and never look back.

you must send your answers to Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com with your legal 1st and last name, cell, and email by midnight on 4/15/24.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker 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).

Did you know that grants are available for first-time homebuyers and lower-income individuals and families yearly through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). A Realtor’s job should be to assist and guide those who require funding by pointing out those programs, from HUD.COM or USA.GOV.

One must go online and fill out an application to be considered. The last time I checked, the grant provided was $50,000 in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. One must get on that list in December of each year (March 6th was the last day to submit your application) as a first-time homebuyer and potentially striking gold in consideration of that “free” money. You must reside in that home for 10 years otherwise the grant must be repaid.

Since a majority of people that I have spoken to are not at all aware of these grant programs; one must apply as soon as the grant program is funded

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

P.S. Have you entered our contest yet? Time is ticking! Whoever provides the correct answer in how many interest rate reductions or possible increases plus the total percentage reduced or increased in 2024, will be the winner. Your reward will be a dinner with my wife and I and a special surprise bonus! The contest was going to end on 4/15/24, but due to my column coming out on Thursday April 18th, we will extend our contest until Sunday, April 21st as the final entry date at Midnight. The final drawing will be on 12/28/24. We thank the multitude of participants who have already entered and this will be a very exciting contest to determine what Jerome Powell, the Fed Chair’s course of action will be during 2024. The first correct complete answer picked will be the winner! To be qualified,

Save my New digital business card with/Videos,Virtual and Drone Tours/ photos/Bio/Reviews to your cell, PC or Laptop contacts: https://onetapconnect. com/turnkeyrealestate-philraices Are you still using your passé paper card? Do still use a rotary dial phone, of course not. So get on board in 2024 and order your digital card by scrolling all the way down to the bottom and click on the link, “Get your Connect Card.”

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

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

BY MARY HUNT

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

When You’re Stuck and Can’t Get Going

A question I receive nearly every day goes something like this: I’m ready to get started taking back control of my finances. But how do I get started? It’s like I’m stuck.

Don’t think you are alone if you find yourself wanting to do all the steps at once. But that could be a big mistake. In the same way when building a house you wouldn’t pour the foundation, raise the walls and put on the roof all at the same

time, with your money makeover, you need to take things one step at a time.

First you need to lay the foundation. I call this initial step “tracking.” You cannot manage what you cannot measure.

Tracking means to write down exactly where every penny goes. If you bring home $793.42 this week, next week you should be able to account for every single cent. Where did that money go?

I suggest that you track on a daily basis. Every morning start with a fresh sheet of paper. Throughout the day, as you spend any amount of money, write it down. How much did you spend and what did you spend it for? Do this for at least 30 days (longer may be necessary if you are really in a financial fog). Ideally both you and your partner should keep record.

At the end of a month pull out all of those daily records. Categorize your spending. You will begin to see patterns. Perhaps you spend $3.49 a day on lattes. Of course there are no right or wrong answers here. But you might want to point

out to yourself that if you keep this up for a year, you will shell out $1,273 on coffee drinks. Apply this multiplication to all of your spending categories. Where are things really out of line? Can you see why you are spending more than you earn?

How much of your spending was done with cash? Debit cards? Checkbook? Credit cards? What might you have done differently to come out with a more favorable end?

It is not going to take the assessment of a professional financial planner to point out problems in your spending. You will see that instinctively. Putting things in black and white has a way of clearing the fog.

You may find this to be the activity that keeps you going in the right direction month after month. Some people find they need to do this for the rest of their lives as a normal part of their personal finance management. It can’t hurt.

Cutting expenses in every way possible is the next logical step. The goal is to get your outgo to be less than your income by trimming expenses. The best way to

trim is to do a little bit in every area. Little things really add up when it comes to trimming just as they do when it comes to foolish and unaccounted spending.

Just think: If you had your lattes just three days a week rather than seven, you would trim more than $700 from your annual spending. It takes time, but little by little you will be amazed how well you can do.

OK, there’s your jumpstart. I would love to know how this is working for you.

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

6 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Wardrobe Without Spending a Dime

BY MARY HUNT

Could your wardrobe use a long overdue boost? Maybe you’re eyeing a career move, aiming to project a more polished image at work or simply looking to raise the bar when it comes to school drop-offs and PTA meetings.

Perhaps you’re diving back into the dating scene or could just use a little pickme-up. Sure, some might shrug off the ideas that follow, and that’s OK; not every piece here fits every puzzle. Yet, like it or not, the ways we present ourselves to the world influences how the world treats us.

We can debate fairness, preach about inner beauty or claim immunity to superficial judgments, but reality often has its own script, advises Daisy Luther, author of the website The Frugalite. The good news? You don’t need a shopping spree to refine your style. In fact, you can elevate your look using what’s already hanging in your closet.

What follows are timely tips Daisy offers to help us present a polished appearance to the world using the clothing we already have.

No. 1: Get rid of things that do not look good on you.

You don’t need to hang onto every piece of clothing you’ve accumulated over the years. In today’s world of social media and TV showcases, overflowing closets might seem like the pinnacle of prosperity. But let’s be real here -- less clutter means more clarity and peace of mind. Embrace the truth that most of us wear only 20% of the clothes we own. Everything else is clutter, taking up space. Sell, donate, do whatever it takes to move things out. Can’t bring yourself to com-

pletely part with them? Stash them away for “someday.” (If you do this, remove them from your day-to-day wardrobe so you aren’t tempted to wear them.)

No. 2: Mend your clothing.

Got some clothes in need of a little TLC? Let’s talk maintenance because, let’s face it, neglected garments just scream sloppy. From droopy hems to loose threads, unraveled seams and missing buttons, these are all fixable faux pas that can transform your look from disheveled to dapper in a snap.

A frugal habit of our friend Daisy is to toss things that require mending in a basket beside where she sits to watch television. The basket contains a thorough sewing kit. “Whenever I sit down to watch television,” says Daisy, “I pick up something that needs fixing and do my mending while watching some Netflix.”

No. 3: Iron or steam your clothing.

When it comes to making your existing clothes presentable, there’s nothing quite like a good, old-fashioned press to take them up a notch. Here are a couple of budget-friendly tricks that can breathe new life into your wardrobe:

-- Hang your desired outfit in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam works wonders in relaxing wrinkles.

-- Toss the garment into the dryer along with a damp washcloth. Just make sure to use a cloth from the same color family to avoid any contrasting lint mishaps on your ensemble.

No. 4: Maintain your shoes.

Footwear are the unsung heroes of any outfit. Nothing kills a look faster than scuffed, dirty or worn-out footwear, shouting neglect. The good news? It’s of-

ten an easy fix. Sometimes, all your shoes need is a good scrub or polish to regain their charm.

If you’re dealing with high-quality shoes showing signs of wear and tear, it might be worth a trip to a local shoe repair. While I wouldn’t splurge on repairs for cheaper shoes that can easily be replaced, I’d gladly invest in restoring those pricey gems from days gone by. No. 5: Create outfits from what you have.

Now that your clothes are looking sharp, well-kept and crease-free, it’s time to curate some stylish and sophisticated outfits. As a frequent traveler, Daisy swears by the versatility of a capsule wardrobe, ensuring everything mixes and matches seamlessly.

Spread out your everyday bottoms on the bed, and keep your tops neatly hung in the closet. Next, pair each bottom with various tops to find winning combinations. Don’t hesitate to try them on for a firsthand look. You might consider organizing your outfits by hanging them together for quick and easy dressing. Keeping a wardrobe notebook handy can also help track your favorite combinations.

If you’re seeking some fashion inspiration, hop onto Pinterest and explore the type of outfit you have in mind. You’ll discover a plethora of ideas to spark your creativity and help you assemble stunning looks from your existing wardrobe.

No. 6: Use a lint roller.

For the love of all things lovely and stylish, use a lint roller before you leave the house! It’s a quick step that takes just a few seconds but helps you to look crisp and clean. This isn’t just important if you have pets. All of us encounter various

selves to clothing. It’s not a good look and something that is so easily rectified.

Clothing is not optional, but spending a lot of money on it is. Upgrading the clothing you have is an efficient way to carry out what mothers everywhere have advised for decades. When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you do good!

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.”

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of April 21-27, 2024

We’ve got another full moon this week.

Seems like we just had one last month, doesn’t it? And the month before that. Well, this is not a coincidence. The moon orbits the Earth with a period of about one month and, therefore, sunlight shining on it from different angles throughout the month produces the shapes we know as phases.

In fact, this lunar cycle gives rise to the calendar division we know as a month (or “moonth” if you prefer) and was developed into a lunar calendar by ancient sky watchers. Even today, the lunar calendar is in use to mark holy days by Muslim and Jewish communities around the world, and the Chinese still use it for festive occasions.

When the moon lies opposite the sun in our sky, its visible face is illuminated fully by sunlight, and we call it a “full” moon. And since the moon rotates on its axis with nearly the same period as the moon’s orbit, we always see the same dark gray features on the lunar surface that form massive plains of solidified magma called “mare” (MAH-ray). This is helpful when trying to understand the seemingly confusing behavior of our cosmic neighbor.

Occasionally, I receive notes from observant sky watchers asking why the full moon appears upside down when it’s setting in the west at sunrise. It’s not that complicated, and you can see this for yourself this week.

On the evening of Tuesday, April 23, go outdoors around sunset, and if the sky is clear, keep watch toward the east-southeastern horizon. It won’t be long before you spot the full moon rising. Yes, it looks larger than normal (it’s a powerful optical illusion created in your brain) and yes, it appears redder than normal (this is caused by dust particles in the atmosphere

As the Moon Turns...

scattering out shorter wavelength light).

But forget all that for the moment. Look at its features -- the gray markings from which one can imagine the face of the “man in the moon.” They seem to trace out a large “C” on the lunar disk, with the open part of the “C” appearing on the right side.

A few hours later, after the Earth has turned a quarter of the way around, go out and look at the moon again and notice the pattern traced by the lunar mare. It still forms the letter “C,” but the open end now appears more toward the lower right side!

By sunrise, the full moon will be setting in the western sky, and you may (or may not) be surprised to see the open area of the letter “C” now appearing at the

When Yaks Attack

bottom of the moon.

So what’s going on here? Nothing unusual, really. Hang a photo of the moon on your wall and stand in front of it. If you tilt your head to the left, then straight up and down and then to the right, you’ll see how the orientation of the moon appears to change in response.

This is quite similar to what happens as our Earth rotates. Check it out. It’s simply the moon changing its orientation as we view it differently throughout the night.

BY: TRACY BECKERMAN

I was sitting at my desk writing, with my trusty dog lying on the floor by my side, when suddenly I heard this sound like someone was letting the air out of a tire. It went on for about five seconds and then stopped. I looked around the room to see if there was a gas leak or something ... and that’s when I smelled it. It was like a cross between a toxic waste dump and a festering swamp. It was so bad my eyes began to cloud over and my eyebrows started to fall out of their follicles. That’s when I realized it WAS a gas leak. But it wasn’t a gas leak from the pipes. It was a gas leak from the dog. I looked down at him and saw that he hadn’t moved a muscle, hadn’t even twitched. I had to wonder, how could something that noxious escape from his nether regions and not sear the hair off his tail?

Fortunately, because of the pandemic, I still had some face masks handy, and I put one on before my nose hairs got singed and I lost all sense of smell, although right then, that would not have been a bad thing.

Meanwhile, I couldn’t figure out what had caused him to pass gas that was a veritable weapon of mass destruction. And then I remembered I had ordered a bone for him online that was made of yak milk. The yak, of course, is not an animal we would generally run into here, so yak milk is not widely available. This is probably because no one wants to get close enough to a yak to milk it. But the online pet store I ordered from said yak milk bones are easily digestible and great for big chewers like my dog. It said nothing about the fact that while yak milk bones might be easily digestible, they have a residual effect that results in flatulence

that could flatten a World Wrestling Entertainment champion.

Naturally, I would feel bad if my dog were physically distressed by the Yak Yucks, as I decided to call them. But he seemed completely unfazed by his nuclear butt emissions. It occurred to me that a dog that liked to roll in dead things in the yard probably wouldn’t care if he made my house smell like a bog. However, I would feel guilty if he wiped out the entire planet with his gas, which was a distinct possibility considering how it was affecting me.

I decided I needed to consult with my veterinarian before things got worse, and by worse, I mean caused the paint to peel off my walls and the tile to buckle on my floors. She said if he had no symptoms other than gas, it was OK to give the dog some Gas-X to remedy the gas leak.

Later, when my husband got home,

the dog’s gas had dissipated, but the house still smelled a little like a men’s locker room after the Super Bowl.

“What’s that smell?” he said, pinching his nose.

“We had a gas leak,” I said.

“Did you call the gas company?” he asked.

“Something like that,” I replied.

“What did they say?”

“Shut off the main valve,” I said. “And don’t give the dog any more yak.”

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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We’re looking for writers in our community to compose articles 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. Love to write?

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GCPD: National Drug Takeback Day

The Garden City Police Department will participate in the Drug Enforcement Agency ’ s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27, 2024, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The collection center is at Garden City Police Department Headquarters, 349 Stewart Avenue, Garden City. This event provides an opportunity for everyone to safely discard unwanted, unused, and expired medications.

According to the DEA, too often,

unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That ’ s dangerous and often tragic. That ’ s why it was great to see thousands of folks from across the country clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in — safely and anonymously — a record amount of prescription drugs.

The Garden City Police Department also advises that they accept unused, expired, and unwanted medications every day if someone cannot turn them in on April 27, 2024.

Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson states, “ The Garden City Police Department and Drug Take Back Program helps reduce drug abuse and overdoses. It allows for

the safe disposal of drugs instead of flushing, burying, or throwing them out in the garbage, which poses significant environmental and health risks. ”

Enhanced recreation facilities, capital projects detailed in budget

From page 1

The number of part-time employees hits its crest in summer months – about 80 part-timers will work at the Garden City Pool in summer, and another 35 are hired for increased parks maintenance, tasks, and responsibilities. Pool lifeguards represent a key set of Garden City Rec.’s seasonal hires.

Salary-related expenses rise with scheduled step increases plus the New York State-set minimum wage, up to $16 per hour, which adds to costs across the board.

“We have to compete in the workplace for our staff members, while trying to keep up with some of the larger municipalities and what they are paying,” Blake told the trustees.

The ‘Other Expenses’ budget line for Recreation and Parks includes costs of equipment, special program services, uniforms, printing, postage and stationary. At the budget work session, Mr. Blake explained

The annual revenues of the Recreation and Parks Department are expected to rise in FY 2024-25, as the forecast budget for the current fiscal year has revenues projected at $553,000.

The estimate for more revenues comes from anticipated increases in fees collected for recreational programs, as well as fees for ‘other field rentals.’ Other facility rentals, the snack bar at Community Park and the renovated miniature golf course, ready for a full 2024 season, will also contribute to rev-

enues.

Coinciding with the arrival of springtime sports seasons, Superintendent Blake announced that Garden City Recreation no longer rents out fields at the St. Paul’s complex to outside soccer and lacrosse groups that used the fields on weekends, as a concentrated effort to improve the conditions of the popular, village-owned natural grass playing fields.

“We have made a commitment to rent to our local groups and not to rent to outside groups unless it’s a really off hour that none of the local groups want. In an effort to increase the quality of the turf at St. Paul’s, we are no longer renting those fields to lacrosse and soccer tournaments that used to play there on weekends during the summer. It may be just five days’ long but it counts as five days to benefit the fields from not being used,” Mr. Blake explained.

Capital projects planned

The capital projects outlook for the Recreation and Parks Department involves $402,000 of funding remaining for 11 current village projects. In the current fiscal year budget, $1.21 million was allocated to these projects, with the actual expenses, year-to-date as of March, at $574,000. Another $221,000 has been encumbered for the projects, with the largest component being $172,000 towards the facilities at St. Paul’s.

Capital projects under Rec. and Parks include installations of safety playground surfaces in the village’s neighborhood parks. For the year-to-

date cost, $198,000 was estimated with the approved budget calling for $211,000 in expenses; another $13,000 is in the remaining project budget. Blake noted that surfaces at Tullamore and Hemlock parks are on the schedule but Hemlock is the priority for the coming 12 months due to its current condition.

An increase to the budgeted money for Garden City’s tree management (trees on the village’s local streets and in parks) is filed within the a Rec. and Parks capital account, as the funding for tree replacement rose from $75,000 to $100,000.

Mr. Blake told the trustees, “we are planting more trees than ever though tree costs have increased slightly, and we want to make sure we have that properly funded.”

The tree management program’s fiscal year budget included $158,000 with the year-to-date expense of $97,000 as of March, with another $46,000 remaining in the budget.

Another capital project has been celebrated in the village – the renovations of the miniature golf course at Community Park, which was highlighted with its soft reopening last fall, and the full season expected this year. The budget included $149,000 in capital, with the year-to-date actual cost of $116,000 and another $9,000 encumbered. Of the $24,000 remaining as the budgeted figure, Blake said most of that funding will probably be returned into village surplus. He adds that there could only be a few small draws left on the capital

account to pay for some landscaping items on the course.

A park playground shade structure was installed last year at the St. Paul’s playground, protecting equipment and children playing there from harsh sun and hotter surfaces. The Rec. Department expects to install a structure at the Nassau Haven Park playground in FY 2024-25, as Blake shared that this playground has no substantial shade trees around it.

The expense in the capital projects account is covered by $81,000, but according to Blake the shade structure project’s final cost should be closer to $60,000.

Athletic court renovations were budgeted at $120,000 for the fiscal year, with year-to-date actual costs of $56,000 and another $64,000 remaining on the capital project account. Tennis courts have been renovated at four village parks and the next one up will be Grove Park’s courts. “Once that project is complete we will be in good shape and won’t have to address the courts for several years,” Mr. Blake advised the board.

Funding is allocated in the capital projects account for the St. Paul’s Recreational facility, and expenses were previously drawn for some of the prior stabilization and repair work on the historic 1880s main building. As presented there is $299,000 in the budget and the actual year-to-date expense of $103,000. Another $172,000 has been encumbered, with $24,000 remaining in the capital project account.

BOE opposes state proposal on faith based affordable housing

From page 1

this, likely because these bills, if enacted, would have a devastating effect on local control, bypass multiple layers of decision making and most definitely negatively affect our school community. Our letter will be coming soon.”

The Board then shifted its focus onto the proposed 2024-25 school year budget. The proposal, which has been adopted by the Board of Education, totals $133,987,366, a budget-to-budget increase of $3,704,875 and a maximum allowable tax levy increase of 2.54%.

This budget, if met with the community’s support during the May election, will be used at the district-wide level to continue to fuel curriculum and data work into 2025, be used on the integration of computer science and digital fluency standards and support the implementation of our new assistant superintendent for curriculum’s Entry Plan. Information about the budget can be found on the Garden City Public Schools website under Board of Education Presentations.

A representative from the Executive

Committee of Garden City’s PTA spoke up for the organization about how it feels about the proposed budget.

“We understand that there are many challenges in preparing and submitting something like this for inspection and approval via public vote. It must uphold our communities high expectations for quality public education while maintaining the board’s commitment to not exceed the allowable tax levy. Well, this year the budget does just that.”

She continued, “It is at once fiscally conservative and academically ambitious, with a focus on students at its core. It promises exciting instructional enhancements for all students K-12. The Executive Committee strongly supports this budget, and urges all community members to vote yes in May.”

In addition to the budget, the election of two Trustees will also be on the ballot on May 21. A newsletter will be sent to the community in the coming weeks with more details.

Garden City Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha provided a handful of additional updates,

including that Garden City has been named by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) as “Best Community for Music Education’’ for the 13th year in a row. Sinha also shared the news of the official ribbon cutting of Stratford School’s new courtyard. Chess boards made it into the final design, a request that came directly from students.

Progress is being made on hard-tofill physical therapy roles. Dr. Sinha shared that SEPTA recommended the District tap the Keep Moving Forward agency located in Garden City for help with makeup and service and support.

“This will take place both in our buildings and at their local facility. A letter will come out in the coming weeks with more detail,” she said.

The CSEA Union President, now a

very familiar face at these board meetings, returned to the mic to advocate for fair contracts. “My comments speak to the matters at hand at this meeting. We understand the challenges the Board faces when planning and presenting the proposed budget and are convinced providing our members with a fair contract will surely fit into the budget of the GC school district. Communication during negotiations like these is vital. During this time, all of our members continue to work. Our hope is that talks will resume in the near future and we’ll be able to achieve an equitable solution.”

The next Garden City Board of Education meeting will take place Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at the Garden City High School. It will begin at 8:15 p.m.

Speed humps, intersections topics at Traffic Comm

From page 1

‘X’ not being “too unattractive” at the intersection.

Trustee Kelly added that there will be ‘Do Not Block the Box’ signs up on both sides of Ninth Street, and signage on Cherry Valley Avenue will be added so the traffic can keep the intersection clear.

New traffic signals for Franklin/Stewart

A discussion for adding a traffic light device at Franklin Avenue and Stewart Avenue involves signage for ‘No Right Turn on Red.’ The Commission, at its March 21 meeting, reviewed a concept plan to add a low traffic signal for two locations – southwest corner of the intersection, near Nassau Financial Federal Credit Union, and another right in the center island of Stewart, facing the east (traffic heading west on Stewart).

Because the proposal involves installation of a traffic signal, the final approval would need to come from Nassau County. DPW Superintendent Borroni said if just one signal were to be installed it should be the one facing the westbound traffic, at the island on Stewart. He said this would be more likely to be pushed through by Nassau County Traffic Engineering. He will be sending the county Department of Public Works both concepts, for their decision on the low signal location for Stewart and Franklin.

There would also need to be a new pole put up to install the low signal on, which Borroni spoke about and noted that it would be the County’s responsibility/task and not the village’s. Trustee Kelly replied that the suggestion from the Garden City Traffic Commission would be going forward to the county, with regular follow-up from Borroni planned for future meetings.

Speed Humps on Magnolia

A proposal to install traffic-calming speed humps on all or parts of Magnolia Avenue had been deferred in December

2023, with traffic consulting engineers working with village Public Works.

In January the Traffic Commission approved the all-way stop signs and Police Commissioner Jackson was set to survey the stops, helping reach a determination on the potential for speed humps. DPW Superintendent Borroni was instructed to contact residents who created a petition to help slow down traffic on Magnolia.

The village received a concept plan for speed humps, and on March 21 Borroni asked if the Commission would like to deploy the temporary speed humps, “to see how people like them before we do the permanent humps.”

Trustee Kelly noted that the stretch of road does not qualify for permanent humps, “in terms of speed and the volume of traffic.” He asked if the concept involved from Chestnut to Garden Street in the village’s east, and Borroni noted it would actually be for all of Magnolia, from St. James Street south down to Meadow Street. Kelly asserted that there was opposition to having the humps in place between Chestnut and St. James Street.

DPW Superintendent Borroni was instructed to reach out to residents of the east and advise the options for both temporary and permanent speed humps, “to see the response.”

For another agenda item, Linden Street resident Halvor Adams had requested removal of the ”temporary” two-hour parking signs, which were installed during the 2014 closing of the parking garage at 1 Old Country Road, as there is no longer an issue.

DPW Superintendent Borroni advised the Commission that Mr. Adams requested the signs in front of just his house be removed. He said his concern was that enforcement of parking in that stretch can become an issue. He would like the village to follow its policy for removal of the signage, and said if 75% of people living on that block were to approach the municipality

about this, “we will take it out.” Borroni was instructed to share the information with Adams, in case a neighborhood petition to the Traffic Commission asking to remove the signs can be achieved.

With regards to two 2-hour parking signs up on Manor Road, the Commission considered their replacement with ‘No Stopping’ signs between New Hyde Park Road to Monroe Street, on the south side of Manor. The item had been deferred since the November 2023 Traffic Commission meeting. Superintendent Borroni has yet to contact additional residents of that part of town to have input on the proposed change.

Intersection humps on Clinton Road

Intersection humps for Clinton Road are an old item from 2018 that remains on the village’s Traffic Commission agenda for updates.

At the March meeting, village officials considered follow-up from DPW Superintendent Borroni, one full year after he brought the item up in emails with Harold Lutz, the Nassau County Department of Public Works director of Traffic Engineering. The county’s attorney was reviewing design plans in fall 2023, but plans for installation of speed humps on Clinton had been scheduled for summer 2024.

Borroni said he and Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi spoke with Nassau County DPW Commissioner Ken Arnold via phone on Thursday, March 21, and they’re now “getting ready to work on the IMA (Inter-Municipal Agreement)” between the village and the county.

With a focus on Nassau Boulevard, the proposed addition of left-turn signals southbound and westbound at Stewart Avenue was shared with director Lutz from Nassau County DPW, in order to have uniform left-turn signals for all routes of the intersection. Trustee Kelly commented that left-turn signals on every side of the intersection “makes a lot of sense.”

A study by the county ensued, and left-turn arrows for the other two directions of the intersection had been approved, but no time frame for their installation had been given to the village.

DPW Superintendent Borroni said no further communication on the subject had been received as of the March 21 meeting. He will continue to seek information on the time frame of installing the dedicated left-turn signals.

The village also presented the addition of a grid box for Nassau and Stewart, but that request was denied by the county.

In addition, the County has approved a left-turn signal for installation at northbound Franklin Avenue at Seventh Street, “to relieve traffic congestion and enhance pedestrian safety in crosswalks” of the village’s ‘T-zone’ business district. The installation of the left-turn arrow was similarly approved by Nassau County without a timetable for its project completion.

New members for Traffic Commission

Three of the trustees who served on the Traffic Commission in 2023-24 are no longer on the Village Board, including its two-year chairperson, former Trustee Charles Kelly, and former trustees Lawrence Marciano and Michael Sullivan.

As appointed at the April 1 reorganization meeting, new members on the Traffic Commission include Trustee Michele Harrington and newly swornin Trustees Vincent Muldoon and Judy Courtney. Trustee Ed Finneran is the only trustee who will continue on the Commission for a second year in 20242025, and he takes over from Kelly as its chairperson.

Police Commissioner Jackson and DPW Superintendent Borroni will also return to their respective roles.

The Garden City Traffic Commission’s next meeting will be on Thursday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m.

GCHS Girls Lacrosse is back on the road

On the road — yes! Late game — yes! Rain — yes! Wind and fog — yes! League victory — yes!

Garden City Varsity Girls lacrosse was back on the road Thursday, April 9th for an away league game at Long Beach High School. When the fog settled, the scoreboard read 12-4.

The recipe for success started with a goal from junior Kyle Finnell, draw control from senior captain Kendal Morris, an interception from junior defender Ellie Anderson and lockdown defense from senior captain Mabel Overbeck. The consistent draw control from the team, led to junior midfielders Tori Ottomanelli and Kyle Finnell as well as sophomores Ashley Clark and Averie Smith, all adding goals early on. Senior Emily Romeo digging up ground balls, with defensive stops by junior Brynn Reilly added to the Lady Trojans perseverance. Sophomores Deanna Prisco and Regan Baker each added a goal to the tally despite the howling wind and rain. Freshman Grace Brantuk had a pair of goals with junior Kyle Finnell ending the game with 3 more goals and the scoreboard reading 12-4. Both senior captain Niamh Pfaff and junior Kate Connolly minded the net keeping the Trojans in the lead all game. The team win put their league record at 2-0.

The Garden City Girls opened the week with their first loss of the season against the number one nationally ranked, Darien Blue Wave. The first

quarter ended in a 2-2 tie, with goals coming from Tori Ottomanelli and Averie Smith. Ottomanelli opened the scoring with an assist from Kathryn Monaco. Senior Maureen Arendt then fed Smith for a mandown Trojans goal. GC faced a tough Darien run and finished the first half in a deficit. A slow start to the second half had the Trojans down. The march back began with a free position snipe from Kyle Finnell and another from Tori Ottomanelli to cut the Darien lead and make the score 8-4 in the fourth quarter. A late surge from the Trojans led to a diving goal

for Kendal Morris, alongside goals from Kathryn Monaco and Maureen Arendt. Tori Ottomanelli completed her hattrick by adding another unassisted goal in the fourth.

Vicious defense by Mabel Overbeck, Emily Romeo, Ellie Anderson, Meaghan Lynch, Brynn Reilly and Brooke Hopkins supported the late fight back, alongside support from goalie Niamh Pfaff. However, Darien held possession of the ball for almost all of the remaining 4 minutes of the game, leaving GC without opportunity. GC fell to the wave 9-10. The team played

a tight game to one of the nation’s finest teams, landing GC with a 6th national ranking in the girls high school lacrosse team rankings. The Trojans look to learn from the loss as they begin an important week of league match ups. Garden City will take on the Manhasset Indian’s this Saturday, April 20, in the much anticipated Woodstick Classic. The GC Girls Varsity Team will play at 4 p.m. at Manhasset High School. Please come out to support Garden City Girls Lacrosse. Go GC!

Senior Tara Hollis is locked in for a defensive stance on the road.

Sophomore Katie Horn on the draw with support from sophomore Regan Backer.

Junior Kyle Finnell taking the ball to the net.

Garden City Girls Varsity Lacrosse Team postgame meal with Darien Varsity Squad.

Pre K Girls

The

Team 1 - Purple Butterflies

Matilda Fonseca

Leia Curtain

Team 2 - Grasshoppers

Charlotte Sabino

Lizzy Wright

Team 3 - Pink Roses

Sienna Gold

Emily Hughes

Team 4

The Whole Team

Team 5

Audrey Lam

Rosalie Mondillo

Team 6

Olivia Finneran

Poppy McGoldrick

Team 7 - Purple Butterflies

Amelia Bowen

Madeleine Deehan

Team 8

The Whole Team

Pre K Boys

Team 3:

Cooper Reilly

Lucas Bacon

Dean Cerqueira

Green Team:

Mason Makharadze

Oliver John

Luke Diez

Dylan Hurd

Cucumber Pickle

Hulks:

Bobby Kassel

Soccer Players of the Week

Red Cheetah Fireballs: Hunter Moody

Conor Bruesch

GC Tigers: Nate Mitthauer

Gary Wall

Robby Philippou

Seamus Connelly

Blue Blazers: Paul Triccirico

Antonio Medina

Giovanni Belton

Dylan Sabo

Blue Cookie Monsters:

Kai Noble

Thomas Kunz

Colin Sessa

Christopher Sofia

Noah Yehia

Matthew Hook

Sharks:

Gavin Short

Brendan Schopper

Brooks Bolanos

JD Ferrari

Kindergarten Girls

Team 1

Betty Leggett

Jiniya Doshi

Team 2

The Whole Team

Team 3

Riley Overby

Brooke Burgmeier

Team 4

The Whole Team

Team 5

The Whole Team

Team 6

Priya Bankewitz

Julia Urban

Mila Simone

Team 7

Chloe Comeaux

Demo Pujdak

Team 8

The Whole Team

Kindergarten Boys

Red Team 1:

Vincent Ferraro

Marco Messina

Orange Team 2:

Grady Meskell

Albie Nicdao

Dark Green Team 3:

Jacob Murray

Carter Ng

Klller Whales:

Nicholas Themelis

Luke Comunale

Green Sharks: Liam Rivera

Yellow Team 6:

Killian Ganas

Blue Team 7:

Boaz Kil

Jack Lehmann

Grey Cheetah Sharks:

Jackson Hooper

Shane Reilly

1st Grade Boys

Team Iyer

Matthew Coratti

Christian Trapani

Team Schrubbe

Reed Daily

William Pellish

John Taylor

The Reds

William Dounis

Boreas Zhong

Green Dragons

PJ Fruzzetti

Matthew Marchese

Blue Devils

Jake Antico

Jay Kapela

Orange Crush

Charlie Dolan

Grady Fowler

Team Zelaya

Charlie Kunz

Matteo Leschinski

Maroon Rockets

Luca O’Driscoll

Quinn Smith

2nd & 3rd Grade Girls

Team Groarke

Maeve Burns

Ashley Cardi

Claire Caporaso

Team Crain Whole Team

Team Munnelly

Rylynn Munnelly

Reagan Quinn

Emmarie Leake

Team Oei

Kylie Janish

Reilly Maher

Team Mormile

Liliana Rizzo

Maellie Pierre-Louis

Maeve Keele

Team Harrison

Brady Anne Allabashi

Ava Dapolito

Team Servino

Lily Imbriano

Ann Beecroft

Team Blake

Coco Blake

Emma Finley

Kelsey Southard

Team Doggendorf

Claire Nguyen

Maryn Terzulli.

Team Parlanti

Whole Team

2nd & 3rd Grade Boys

Team 1

Luke Ferrari

Brody Butler

Team 2

The Whole Team

Team 3

The Whole Team

Team 4

Luke Dillon

Gianni Panagiotou

Conor Short

Team 5

The Whole Team

Team 6

The Whole Team

Team 7

The Whole Team

Team 8

Alex Vasquez

Alex Masterson

Battlehawks enjoy first win of season in exciting game

The team is all smiles following its first win!

With the weather Sunday afternoon finally feeling like a spring day, the Garden City Battlehawks (9U) baseball team took the field for their first game of the season. The opponent, the Wantagh Hawks, were equally excited to get their season started.

Wantagh jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead in the top of the first off starting pitching Emilio Ciaravino, who finished strong striking out two batters in his one inning. The Battlehawks offense was not to be denied, however, as they jumped on the Wantagh starting pitcher in the first with seven runs, six of those runs coming with two outs. Leo Nero got the Battlehawks on the board with a double scoring Grant Michalak. Leo would eventually score following a stolen base and an error by the Hawks. Following walks by Jackson Weber, Luke Barnett and Matt Urban, Emilio Ciaravino would give the Battlehawks their first lead of the game with a two run single to make it 4-3.

The hit parade did not end there as Peter Callow doubled to right scoring two more and extending the Battlehawks lead to 6-3. Tim Wagner would complete the scoring by getting a single to make it 7-3. The scoring on this day was far from over, after Wantagh scored twice in the top of the second the Battlehawks responded with a triple by Michalak,

a run scoring single by Nero and a two run inside the park home run by Luca Trapani. The game was a back and forth affair with Wantagh taking a 13-11 lead in the fourth, but the scrappy Battlehawks wouldn’t go away, scoring at least one run in every inning and eventually tying the score at 13 in the fifth.

However, Wantagh scored four runs in the top of the sixth putting the Battlehawks backs against the wall. However, as the team had done all day long, it showed its resiliency. In the bottom of the sixth, Jack Doyle got the scoring started with a single to left scoring Callow and Ciaravino. Wyatt Acquavito singled home Wagner and Michalak grounded into a fielders choice to score Doyle to even the score at 17.

With the bases loaded and two outs, Jackson Weber walked scoring Reid Brunner and giving the Battlehawks their first win of the season. The coaches were proud of the way the boys fought back all game. Wantagh did not make it easy on the Battlehawks pitchers, Ciaravino, Michalak, Weber, Barnett and Wagner, but all five were pitching in their first travel game of the year and battled hard.

The Battlehawks are back on the field Saturday, 5 p.m. at Community Park against Warrior Nation. Come cheer on the boys as they go for their second win of the season.

Luke Barnett pitches in relief.

Grant Michalak looking to get one of his three strike outs over two innings.

Timmy Wagner celebrates the walk off win with his teammates, Matthew Urban, Jackson Weber, Emilio Ciaravino, Reid Brunner and Peter Callow.

GC for a Cure comes to an end on May 4

The Garden City Teachers’ Association started “GC for a Cure” 15 years ago.  During that time, they have raised over $300,000 for charities such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, The Ronald McDonald House Charities (NY Metro), Kids Need More, The Michele White Scholarship Fund and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

The race has been a well-attended, fun community event.  Please join this last race by running, walking, making a

donation or buying raffle tickets on the day of the event – Saturday, May 4.

To register or make a donation,  go to www.gcforacure.com.  Bib pick-up and registration will be at the Garden City High School Cafeteria on Friday  May 3, from 5–7 p.m. and on race day May 4, from 7:15–8:30 a.m.  La Bottega will be selling $4 pasta meals on May 3.  Raffle tickets will be available on both days. Face painting and music by Mr. DJ Entertainment! Come join the fun!

The 2022 5K!

5K runners in 2016!

Melissa Pashayan and students at the 2015 race!

The 2017 5K

The 2018 volunteers.

BSA Scout Troop 322 goes camping

The scouts examine some of the local fauna at the camp.

Garden City Scouts BSA Troop 322 traveled to Resica Falls Scout Reservation in the Pocono Mountains the weekend of April 12–14.  The trip was designed to welcome new members who crossed over from Cub Scout Pack 55 in March.  The experienced Scouts helped their new troop members learn Scouting skills ranging from building a fire, to safely using hatchets and saws, and caring for different types of rope.

These skills will help the new girls get ready for an action-packed calendar of scouting adventures including rock climbing, horseback riding and white water rafting.  In May, Troop 322 will lead the flag ceremony to open the GC for a Cure 5K, holding a plant sale, and hiking in Harriman State Park.  In July, the troop will return to Pennsylvania's Camp Minsi.  At Camp Minsi, the girls will work on merit badges in first aid,

Troop 322 scouts worked on a service

citizenship, aquatics and much more.

At Resica Falls, the troop also participated in a service project to restore a drainage stream that had become blocked with fallen leaves and rocks over the winter.  The project helped to preserve Resica Falls for years to come.  The girls were excited to find salamanders in the stream and to see the water flowing freely after their hard work.

Troop 322 is chartered by the Cathedral of the Incarnation and welcomes girls currently in fifth grade and up.

LIFHA Field Hockey registration

Calling all rising third grade girls! The Long Island Field Hockey Association (LIFHA) is registering players for the 2024 season. LIFHA is a learning league for players in third–sixth grade, currently in its 21st year. Games are scheduled to be played on Sundays in the fall against other clubs from Nassau & Suffolk Counties, both home and away, beginning September 15 and running through the end of October.

Join the fun! Garden City girls can send registration through June 21.  The

registration form can be found on the website, www.lifha.com. Print it out to send with payment to the address below. A USAFH membership is also required for insurance purposes. Print out a copy of proof of membership from the website; www.teamusa.org. (The proof must show the player will be current through November 2024.)  Drop off or mail these three items to: Diana Mitchell, 170 Sackville Road, Garden City, NY 11530. Any questions, please email Dianawmitchell@aol.com.

project at Resica Falls Scout Reservation to restore a drainage stream.

Garden City Lacrosse 2nd Grade Hard Hat League

competition

City 2nd

program.  The boys participate in a weekly “in-house” league consisting of five teams, with games held at Stewart Field.  Dubbed the Hard Hat League, the initiative draws inspiration from the book “The Hard Hat: 21 Ways to Be a Great Teammate.”  This book pays tribute to

game.

George epitomized the ideal teammate, known for his hard work, competitiveness, compassion, and leadership on and off the field.  In honor of his legacy, a player from each team is awarded the Hard Hat after every game, a symbol of George’s outstanding virtues.

Declan Walker (Cannons #9) gets a shot off against the Archers.

Ryder Schwalb (Whipsnakes #13) and Leo Herrera (Atlas #10) battle for a groundball.

Waterdogs are all smiles after a great practice.

Week 2 Hard Hat Winners: Jack Wenk - Waterdogs, Liam Calderone - Cannons, Ben Matteni - Whipsnakes, Justin Wenzel - Atlas, Johnny Coelen - Archers

Alex Masterson (Cannons #7) clears the ball.

Jack Chiara with his Hard Hat after a great goalie performance in Week 1.

This past Sunday marked the second week of

for the Garden

grade boys’ lacrosse

George Boiardi, a Cornell lacrosse player whose life ended tragically during a

GC teens compete in sailing regatta

“Team Lunatic Fringe” competed in the Antigua and Barbuda Hamptons Challenge Regatta winning what is widely considered to be the East Coast’s largest amateur sailing prize—an all-expense paid trip for six to Antigua Sailing Week 2024 commencing on April 26.

The crew is made up of two families—three adults and five teens (including Breckin and Everett Lehnert, students at GCMS and GCHS, respectively) that sail competitively on Eastern Long Island.

Team LF is a multi-generational, family racing team consisting of brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, and some great friends. The adults have been sailing together for 30+ years and the younger crew have been friends since birth. The crew members are representing the Long Island sailing community via two different organizations: Peconic Bay Sailing Association, and Old Cove Yacht Club. Best of luck, Team Lunatic Fringe. Sail fast!

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Team Lunatic Fringe.

Pictured: Everett Lehnert (second from right); Breckin Lehnert (third from right).

GCHS 10th grader Everett Lehnert (second from left) and GCMS 8th grader Breckin Lehnert (second from right).

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 Recreation and Parks. This special pro-

gram 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.

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!!

Do you have a passion for fashion? Do you like being creative? How about having FUN with friends while you make something AWESOME!!

Join the Upcycle Academy for our Fashion Camp this summer. In this very special enrichment camp, we guide you through the design process for creating your very own upcycled designs. Our camps are both educational & FUN. Sketch your ideas. Shop the Upcycle Shop. DIY - Design It Yourself!

All upcycling materials and recycled apparel are provided (bring your own if you want to make it extra special). Brought to you by fashion industry professionals, fashion university educators & current fashion university students. We teach all things fashion … ColorFashion Illustration - Silhouette /  Shape

/ Proportion - Trend Spotting ConceptDesign - Upcycling - Sustainability in Fashion - Styling and more! Share your designs on the last day of camp in the lookbook photoshoot and fashion show especially for friends and family.

All upcycle materials and recycled apparel provided. Keep your designs at the end of camp!

July 8 - August 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

Community Garden Is Back!

We are thrilled to have the Community Garden back this spring!

Do you have any interest in gardening but don't have enough green space at home? We have you covered! Plots are available at the Rec Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. There is no charge for the plots but space is extremely limited. Call the Recreation Office at 516-465-4075 to register. Once you have secured a plot, planting may begin Monday, April 22, 2024.

Islanders clinch playoff position

Coach Patrick Roy at a recent practice at the Northwell Ice Center

BY TONY SENA

The New York Islanders earlier this week defeated the New Jersey Devils and gained a spot in this years Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Islanders finished the season strong and had a six game winning streak going into a pivotal game last Saturday at Madison Square Garden against the Rangers. That game featured a penalty shot, an exciting overtime and then a shootout to decide the contest. Team captain Anders Lee commented that "this was a deserved point that we needed to keep our unde-

Centennials Travel Soccer coach applications

The GC Centennials are now accepting head coach applications for their new U9 travel soccer teams (2016 birth year) that will play in the 2024–25 season.  If you have any questions or would like to receive an application, email gccentennialsoccer@gmail.com.  Applications are due by April 30.

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feated streak going."

The regular season comes to a close this week and the Islanders will be closely watching the final standings to see who their first round opponent will be. Playoff hockey is one of the most exciting sports to watch and every game has incredible action and high intensity. Coach Patrick Roy brought that high energy with him when he was announced as the new head coach in January and now the team gets their chance in these upcoming playoffs. Let’s Go Islanders!

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Mary Krener

Fortune Heaney Lisa Heaney

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Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Rene Blair

Christine Cudahy Manager

Patricia Costello

Linda Mulrooney Eileen O’Hara

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