The Garden City News (8/18/23)

No book ban here, but Library resolves issue

BY MEG MORGAN NORRIS

At its monthly meeting on Monday, August 14th, the Garden City Board of Library Trustees resolved an issue which has caused controversies at libraries throughout the country in recent months.

According to library board chairman J. Randolph Colahan, on June 27th the board received a letter, signed with 27 names, which objected to a list of 146 titles that the writers demanded be removed from shelves. It also demanded that the library remove a LBGT Pride Month display. Colahan said 47 of

Great memories have been made for campers and volunteers of the Town of Hempstead’s Camp Anchor Program. Campers have had amazing experiences with volunteers (buddies) which included surfing, singing, field trips, movies, arts and crafts and talent shows. This incredible summer program brought together kids from all over the Town of Hempstead to enjoy the outdoors and form lasting bonds. One of the most important mottos is “To the World you may be one person, But to one person, you may be the World.”

Costs of water remediation pile up as Village reviews bills

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Following up on his inquiry from late spring, Garden City 2nd Deputy Mayor Lawrence Marciano prompt-

ed Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi to provide information about the consulting firm H2M Architects + Engineering and its scope of responsibilities for the

village. A full analysis and report on this is expected to be furnished for the board at a future meeting.

Over several years and

See page 37

the titles are in the Garden City Library’s collection.

In a statement, Colahan quoted the letter as saying, “The promotion of LBGT whatever and gender confusion have no place in an open and public library. We plan to keep these books checked out until the library agrees to remove the inappropriate content from the shelves.... We ask that you immediately take down the pride month signs.”

In response, Colahan said, “At the July 10th meeting, the Library Board addressed these demands. We

See page 36

LV Sands Casino applies for town zoning change

BY MEG MORGAN NORRIS

The Las Vegas Sands Corporation, which has proposed building a casino complex in central Nassau County, has requested approval of a master plan for the 72 acre site that would designate it as an “Integrated Resort District” instead of the current “mixed use” zoning.

The proposal outlines the following new development:

• Two hotels with a total of 1,670 rooms

• 393,726 square foot casino

• 147,929 square feet of dining

• 4,500 seat live performance

venue

• 213,000 feet of meeting space

• 60,000 sq ft public attraction space

• 31,200 sq ft retail space

• Three parking garages

• Additional space for support and utilities

In all, the development would be about 3.7 million square feet.

The application by LV Sands, which was made on August 1st, begins the process for a required environmental review by the Town of Hempstead.

In order to build the casino, LV

See page 37

Photo by Regina Moran

We were glad to see that the Garden City Library Board of Library Trustees was able to come up with a reasonable solution to the question of what to do with sensitive items in its collections for teens and children.

This has become a highly politicized issue in some places, but the GC Library Board took a common sense approach which should satisfy all but the most partisan patrons.

The board is staunchly against censoring materials, but some items are clearly intended for mature audiences. One resident who attended the board meeting on Monday night handed out copies of the pages of one book intended for teens which had very explicit drawings of sexual acts, for example.

Under library policy, when a patron asks for a review of an item, a team of three librarians will review it, and possibly recommend that the item be shelved in the adult collection instead of the children’s or teens’ collections.

This seems like a very reasonable compromise. The material is still available for those who seek it out, but is not put right in front of kids.

The board also, rightly, refused to remove a display about Pride Month, which celebrates LGBT people. To do so would have been to give in to bigotry, and would have tarnished Garden City’s reputation.

Libraries are for everyone: rich, poor, Black, white, straight, gay or trans.

Anonymous Alliance attacks mayor

To the Editor:

While we understand the future of the St. Paul’s Building is a very emotional issue, we do not understand why the anonymous “St Paul’s Alliance” is trying to make it political in their August 10th, 2023 Garden City News ad. The charge that the Mayor and For a Better Garden City (FABGC) are “trying to limit resident participation in this decision” is ludicrous at best. It was FABGC, and its belief in resident participation, after decades of unilateral, unaccountable, single party rule, that has ended the POA days of 200 residents voting in sham elections to our present elections where literally thousands of people vote in the Village BOT election.

Every candidate for FABGC had agreed to follow the results of their proposed resident poll, Mayor Flanagan, Trustee Marchiano, Trustee Chester, Trustee Kelly, Trustee Sullivan and Trustee Torino. (Trustee Torino disavowed his pledge shortly after he was elected in a letter to the GCNews dated August 25th, 2022.)

So, the anonymous, but apparently well-funded, “Alliance”, charge that the Mayor and any of our members want to “limit resident participation” when few in the Village do not know that one of the core principles, and successes, of FABGC has been getting more residents involved in Village Government and voting. FABGC pushed the idea of an “opinion poll” to bring the issue of St Paul’s to a conclusion, and made it part of its platform so the residents could end this 30 years of dithering by the POA/CAP BOTs, the Historical Society and groups like the “Alliance”.

As to timing of the “opinion poll”, if the Mayor picks October 21st, it seems reasonable. There is nothing like setting a date to get all parties to focus on accomplishing their tasks. However, we feel no group, whether the “Alliance” or FDEM, should try to pressure or micromanage the Mayor. The Mayor was popularly elected, appears to be work-

ing over-time in a volunteer position, apparently is using members of our Village staff and BOT members to get realistic numbers where the 38-member Mayor’s Committee failed, and we trust the Mayor to figure out the best date for an “opinion poll” that is already 30 years overdue.

We suggest the anonymous “Alliance” cease it vitriol, its personal attacks on the Mayor, and let our elected officials get on with what the residents voted them into office for. While the anonymous “Alliance” might want to kick the can down the road for another 30 years, we feel the residents have a right to have a decision.

It’s time.

FABGC Executive Committee: Editor’s note: The names of the members of the FABGC Executive Committee are available on its website, www.fabgc. org

Nomenclature

To the Editor:

Note: This Letter is particularly addressed to GC Mayor, Mary Flanagan, GC’s Counsel, Gary Fishberg, also to all GC residents.

As we approach the upcoming, Oct. 21st, ballot to discover how GC residents feel about the fate of the St. Paul’s building, I believe we need answers to some crucial questions. All of them relate to what is meant, defined by, the use of particular words. Over the last several years, many words and phrases have been bandied about by residents, Trustees and others, referring to the decision to preserve the building, demolish it or create a facade.

I believe we MUST all come to an agreement re the precise definition of unambiguous words, phrases and statements. Currently, I believe that, in many cases, there is no agreement or clear understanding of what is meant by what is said in the St. Paul’s debate.

MY LIST:

See page 34

Environmental Board plans monthly presentations

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At its meeting on Wednesday, August 16, the Garden City Environmental Advisory Board led by its co-chairs, Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan and Village Trustee Michele Harrington, proceeded to plan a full slate of monthly meetings involving topics they believe to be of interest to village residents.

The EAB meetings will take place on Wednesdays, traditionally the third Wednesday of every month, beginning at 7:30 p.m. with the hybrid model of in-person and live on Zoom.

The first consideration for the EAB was its participation in upcoming Friday Night Promenades on 7th Street, with three left this season. During the Friday, September 15 Promenade the EAB will promote proper recycling methods and share a new sticker developed to help inform Garden City residents.

Several members of the EAB plan to volunteer some time at that last Promenade to perform community outreach about recycling and share updated information. Articles and posts to the website would accompany the promotions of recycling in the village.

In September the Village Board of Trustees will meet on the second Wednesday, September 13, and the following Wednesday on September 20 the

EAB will engage in a discussion about the state of lead contamination and other updates on water in Garden City.

EAB member Elizabeth Bailey will help coordinate the program with information from new Water Superintendent Stanley Carey, Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni and from prior EAB meeting presentations by her contact Sarah Meyland, associate professor of environmental technology and sustainability at NYIT.

Mayor Carter Flanagan said she regrets that the last presentation Meyland delivered in Garden City was not recorded as a video, and later posted on the village website.

“We had an expert speak about the water and our aquifer and you walked away realizing how important it is for Nassau County to conserve water. It also involves what’s happened in Queens and how close we are to Queens makes you realize the issues,” the mayor noted.

EAB member Larry Quinn said the salt water incursion represents a longterm problem with the aquifer below Garden City.

“As you pull out the fresh water from the sandbar we live on (Long Island) the salt water is coming in. If you live on the North Shore or South Shore a lot of the wells are becoming so salty that you

can’t make use of it. In some locations, instead of getting the salty water from the Magothy aquifer they are digging down to the super-deep one which is called the Lloyd aquifer – at some point we will just run out of water. The problem is that in the summers, water usage goes through the roof!” he said.

Mayor Carter Flanagan said that during the last two years EAB presentations about water occurred right after the village published its annual Water Quality Report, in spring. She said this was a good time to discuss water issues and share water conservation tips as the summer involves heavy sprinkler and garden hose use.

Mayor Carter Flanagan also said the back-to-school timing would be a good period of time for the village to share updates on the water and remind residents about the chance for testing their water for lead contamination.

“We would tie in other water issues with the concentration on lead, including the updates on performance of the village’s AOP (advanced oxidation process) systems at the wells. We (the village) are still paying for tests for lead to go to any resident that requests it. This testing program is being administered through H2M Architects + Engineers, and we could include an overall update on lead contamination numbers and we

also could receive an update on orthophosphate,” she explained.

EAB member Quinn said per New York State’s mandate the lead contamination survey, to count how many houses are impacted by lead pipe service lines, would continue through mid-2024.

The program on September 20 will include reports from Superintendents Carey and Borroni and a representative from water consultants H2M.

The fall EAB programs will include special topics at its October 18, November 15 and December 13 meetings. Noise pollution-detecting cameras and noise levels impacting the village overall were noted as a priority subject to cover. Mayor Carter Flanagan commented that New York City and Westchester County have coordinated a program for investigating excessive noise on area roadways. She explained that this means a person violating noise regulations would not have to be observed in real time by a police officer or patrol car, at the exact time a loud muffler is sending screeching and jarring noise throughout the neighborhood.

“I did check with counsel to see what the next steps Garden City could do would be to pursue (noise-detecting cameras) but he was unaware of any See page 36

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Mint condition 3 bedroom 2.5 bath split on park-like serene property $1,199,000

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Hempstead, 1 bedroom 1 bath condo at Atrium Plaza $387,000 Long Beach 4 Bedroom 3 Bath grand waterfront property on the bay. $1,899,000

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Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

516.547.6003

cciullo@coachrealtors.com

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Adelphi’s graduate doula

Maria Rossi has been taking online classes in Adelphi University’s Master of Social Work program since 2020. The forty-three-year-old Vermont resident recently graduated from the program and subsequently helped institute her learning experiences into a two-tier approach in her hometown.

Rossi, who resides in Washington County Vermont, has combined doula counseling and social work advising into one sphere. A doula is an individual who is trained to offer emotional and physical support to an expecting mother’s during the birthing process.

“I’ve been working in community mental health for over twenty years and as a doula for thirteen years here in Vermont,” said Rossi. “By obtaining my Masters from Adelphi, it has helped me blend this unique model of being a social worker and doula into one, and has helped me to implement and build something I wouldn’t have known how to do.otherwise.”

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In 2014, she opened a mental health center in Washington County, catering to individuals most in need. They included people with an array of social issues from homelessness, addiction

See page 32

Maria Rossi

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most

Congratulations to The Sullivan Group for being named to the 2023 Forbes

“Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list, published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.

The Sullivan Group

Thomas E. Sullivan Managing Director Wealth Management Advisor

516.877.8342 • thomas_sullivan@ml.com

Charles M. Carson Managing Director Wealth Management Advisor

516.877.8229 • charles_m_carson@ml.com

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

1325 Franklin Avenue Suite 400 Garden City, NY 11530

516.877.8242

fa.ml.com/the_sullivan_group

Thomas P. Sullivan, CFP ® Senior Vice President Wealth Management Advisor

516.877.8335 • thomas.sullivan2@ml.com

Matthew R. Sullivan, CIMA® First Vice President Senior Financial Advisor

516.877.8263 • matthew.r.sullivan@ml.com

Christopher M. Walters First Vice President Senior Financial Advisor

516.877.8249 • chris.m.walters@ml.com

Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list, published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022. Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: a measure of each team’s best practices, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and team, and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC. Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S. CIMA® is a registered certification mark of the Investments & Wealth Institute®. For more information about the Institute and the CIMA certification, please visit investmentsandwealth.org. © 2023 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. MAP4960336 | AD-06-23-0957 | 472538PM-1022 | 06/2023

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Garden City Real Estate Market Information

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

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

Mortgage Rates this week from www.nerdwallet.com

85 Brook Street

Date: 8/15/2023

Sold price: $1,426,000

3 beds, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Exp Cape

Annual taxes: $21,921

Lot size: .34 acre

MLS number: 3486269

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

The Buyer’s Team: Elizabeth Breslin, Howard Hanna Coach

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS

220 Nassau Boulevard

Spacious Expanded Cape with beautiful set back on 100x150 property. Over 2800 sq. ft. of interior living space on 3 levels plus large basement. Oversized primary suite with large bath and abundance of closet space. New roof, Anderson windows, in ground sprinklers, large, eat-in kitchen. 2-car attached garage with double wide driveway, patio, and private yard.

17 Meadow Street

Date: 8/8/2023

Date: 8/16/2023

Sold price: $849,000

3 bedrooms, 1 full baths

Architectural Style: Colonial Annual taxes: $16,341

Lot size: .21 acre

MLS number: 3472287

The Seller’s Team: Suzanne Blair, Howard Hanna Coach

The Buyer’s Team: Elise Ronzetti, Howard Hanna Coach

Great opportunity to renovate or expand this 3 BR, 2 bath Colonial. Situated on 60 x 150 property in the desirable estates section of Garden City, this commuters dream is in close proximity to the Merillon Ave LIRR station as well as shops, parks and schools. This is an “as is” purchase, appliances are not being represented.

Sold price: $615,000

3 bedrooms, 1 full bath

Architectural style: Townhouse

Annual Taxes: $7,997

Lot size: .05 acre

MLS number: 3451920

The Seller’s Team: Laura Carroll and Julie Wicher, Compass Greater NY

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

Charming and fully renovated townhouse in Garden City Schools. Updated in past 2 years with gleaming white kitchen with quartz stone counters, stainless steel appliances, updated recessed lighting, raised ceilings, new windows, and freshly painted walls. Full second level bathroom newly renovated. Newly carpeted with hardwoods below. New 35’ Cambridge Paver stone rear yard. Clean storage basement with updated washer and dryer. Great entry or downsize in garden city. Street parking with Garden City permit.

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

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Charming Quogue Home

Girls State Leadership Scholarship Recipient Luncheon

Seated: Jacqueline Eltringham, ALA president; Dot Kraker and Suzanne Dowling, Girls State Committee members.

Standing: Mary Kate Preziosi, corresponding secretary; Donna Armieri, VP/ membership chair; previous Girls State recipients Calli Coors (2018) and Katerina Kephart (2022), and 2023 Girls State recipients Niamh Pfaff and Tara Murphy (and Kathryn Kade, who is not in the photo).

The young women who attended the Empire Girls State Leadership Program, sponsored by the Wm B. Turner American Legion Auxiliary Unit 265, shared the benefits of their experiences of the program. When they convened on Sunday, August 13, these perspective and current unit members engaged with unit officers and the Girls State Committee. These young scholars planned their participation in unit activities for the benefit of needy veterans and their families.

The Scholarship Program instructs young women in their civic responsibilities, government processes, patriotic customs, and the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary. Donations for the perpetuation of this program for Garden City young women in their junior year, may be made at the office of Dr. Lisa Coors, Committee member, at 226 Seventh Street, Suite 101, or a

check may be sent to ALA Unit 265, PO Box 8, Garden City, NY 11530. Extensive presentations to Garden City’s Auxiliary and families of the scholarship recipients are planned for October.

Thanks to Mrs. Jeannette Balantic, GCHS Social Studies Department chair, for assisting the unit with the selection committee. The American Legion Auxiliary is very proud to sponsor this program which is sponsored by units throughout New York State.

Want to JOIN the Legion? If you are a veteran and would like to join the American Legion Wm. B. Turner Post 265, please contact Membership Chairman Jim Michalak at (646) 4380139. If you are a relative of a living or deceased veteran and would like to join the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 265, please contact Unit VP/Membership Chairlady Donna Armieri at (516) 314-4552.

Diamond Sponsor: $10,000 (8 tickets included, podium recognition, acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Platinum Sponsor: $5,000 (4 tickets included, acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Gold Sponsor: $3,000 (2 tickets included, acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Silver Sponsor: $2,000 (Acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Bronze Sponsor: $1,000 (Acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Tickets are $175 per person. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor and/or donate, please visit: https://gcrepf.org/events or mail checks payable to “Garden City Real Estate Professionals Foundation” to Lauren Scarantino, 136 Stratford Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530

For more information about GCRE, please visit https://gcrepf.org

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

Consistently Garden City’s top team.

It’s time. More than 30 years after purchasing the St. Paul’s property, and after many years of committee work and proposals, I am asking the Board of Trustees this week to invite all residents to participate in an important opinion poll on the St. Paul’s Main Building on Saturday, October 21 between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. The poll will be open to all registered voters who are residents of the Village. It will be held at the St. Paul’s Field House. Absentee ballots will be available.

While no one can dispute the immense benefit to the community of the field space acquired in the 1993 purchase, space which is so well used by our community, the St. Paul’s Main Building has been vacant since the day it was purchased in 1993. In 2009, a decision was made to stop heating the building as a cost-saving measure, and in recent years residents have noticed the steady decline in its appearance. With multiple floors failing, the building is no longer in a condition to even offer residents interested in seeing the inside a tour. In response to recent requests, I videotaped the parts of the building I have been in to share what the inside now looks like with residents. I plan to share the videos and current photos on the Garden City Village website. The latest consultant predicted a few bad winters could lead

to the demise of St. Paul’s: “The state that St. Paul’s is in now, un-heated and partially exposed to the elements, will not survive if left as is. Its demise could be accelerated by bad winters, humid summers and within a few years it will begin to collapse as sections of the building already have.”

While there are residents who will be advocating on the topic of what to do with the St. Paul’s Main Building, I am committed to presenting the information we have to residents with absolutely no bias, and a majority of the Board of Trustees is committed to this as well. I ran for elected office as part of a group that saw the importance of open elections and Village leaders listening to residents. I recognize that some are opposed to my efforts to let residents be heard on the topic of St. Paul’s. Their opposition has manifested itself in baseless claims, but I would like to assure you that these actions will not deter me and a majority of the Board of Trustees from delivering what we have promised so many times.

Much thought went into drafting the ballot to make sure that it is fair and that it delivers valuable information to the Board of Trustees to move forward. We recognize as will residents that this is only a first step, and that more work will be needed after

See page 35

Recycling Tip of the Week

Laura Carroll is a licensed real estate salesperson affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

DWI arrest

Upon investigation of a vehicle that stopped and blocked the St. James Street North and John Street intersection on August 9th, Garden City Police arrested the 23-year-old driver for Aggravated DWI (more than .18% blood alcohol content) and obstructing an intersection.

Credit card fraud

On August 9th a victim reported that their credit card information was illegally used to make a fraudulent purchase.

Hit and run

A black vehicle reportedly left the scene after colliding into another vehicle on Clinton Road at Stewart Avenue on August 9th.

No hold up

Garden City Police responded to a Franklin Avenue building on August 9th for a hold-up alarm. They determined the cause to be a system error.

Moped violation

On August 9th a juvenile was cited for the illegal operation of a Moped on Rockaway Avenue and for not wearing an approved helmet. He was released to a family member.

THE OFFICE CAT

Landscaping violations

Two companies were charged with using gas leaf blowers. One company was charged with landscap ing without a permit on August 9th.

Parked car hit

A vehicle reportedly left the scene after colliding into an unoccupied vehicle in an Adelphi University parking lot on August 10th.

Vehicle damaged

A vehicle parked in a Franklin Avenue lot was reported damaged by unknown means on August 10th.

Construction alarm

On August 10th Garden City police and firefighters responded to Stewart School for a fire alarm and determined the cause to be ongoing construction.

Excessive speed

A New Hyde Park Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed on August 10th.

False alarm

The GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence for a fire alarm on August 10th and determined the cause to be a system malfunction.

Suspended license

On August 11th a Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and operating a cell phone while driving. On the same day, a motorist on Clinton Road was charged with the same violations.

Credit card stolen

On August 11th a victim reported that their credit card was stolen at an unknown location and used to make several unauthorized gas purchases.

Jogger followed

GC Police are investigating a report of a male subject in a white vehicle following a female jogger for several minutes on August 11th.

Burnt food

Garden City Police and Firefighters

responded to a residence for a fire alarm on August 11th. They determined the cause to be burnt food.

Gas blower violations

A landscaper on Lefferts Road was charged with using gas leaf blowers on August 11th.

Restaurant alarm

On August 11th the GCFD and GCPD responded to a restaurant for a fire alarm. They determined the cause to be cooking steam.

Revoked license

A Clinton Road truck driver was arrested for driving with a revoked license (DWI-related) and unsecured hazmat containers on August 12th.

Utility fraud

On August 12th a victim reported that he received a bill for a fraudulent utility bill that he did not open or authorize.

False alarm

On August 12th Garden City POlice and Firefighters responded to a residence for a CO alarm; Firefighters determined it was a false alarm.

See page 35

You Deserve An Agent Who Will Do So Much More Than Just Sell Your Home!

M.C.- Garden City

“Suzanne’s enthusiasm and energetic personality are evident the moment you meet her. She has great staging ideas and was available seven days a week to promote the sale of our home. Suzanne sincerely loves what she does and treated our home sale as if it was her own.”

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment & Gift Shop

BY MELISSA JAEGER

We have received many positive comments about the A.T. Stewart Market that we held back in June. People have come into the Shop since then and mentioned how much they enjoyed this outdoor event with local vendors. A number of you have even asked when we’re going to do another one. So … we’ve that’s what we’re going to do! Mark your calendars for Saturday, Sept. 30th. The Market will be held rain or shine 11:00 a.m. –4:00 p.m. on the front lawn of the Garden City Historical Society Museum, located at 109 Eleventh Street. We already have a number of vendors lined up, but I guarantee you that the crowd-pleaser will be the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter Adoption Vehicle! Think about making a grrreat home for some lucky dog, or a purrfect home for a knead-y kitty. In addition, thus far, we have

• Pat Schweitzer Decorative Painted Items

• Christine’s Garden Ornaments

• Hawkgirl Photography

• Laurie Hayslip Jewelry

• Equestrian Gardens (Fall plants)

• Tricia Hughes Vintage Items

• Claire Werner Vintage Items

• Megan Gallagher Antiques

• Cornelia’s Courtyard

“Christmas Comes Early” Sale (around back)

And, of course, the Exchange Shop will be open with our normal great treasures at excellent prices! But you don’t have to wait until then to get some excellent bargains.

I want to remind you of our summer hours. Our Wednesday late night shopping hours have been suspended for the duration of the summer and will resume in September. Also, for the month of August only, we will be closed on Saturdays (Aug. 6th, 13th, 20st, and 27th). By overwhelming demand, we remain open on Mondays!!

If you can’t make it in, please shop online at www.atstewartexchange. org and pick up your purchases at the Exchange. We also post photos and merchandise on The Garden City Historical Society website, the AT Stewart Exchange Facebook and on the AT Stewart Exchange Instagram pages. We sure do get around!

Unfamiliar with the Exchange Consignment Shop? We are housed in The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) Museum on 109 Eleventh Street (in the basement of the build -

ing). All the proceeds from the Shop sales directly benefit TGCHS. In addition to 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.

We accept consignments

Wednesday through Friday, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m, by appointment ONLY. This is done to safeguard customers, consignors, and volunteers. Appointments keep down the numbers of people in the Shop and reduces wait-times to consign. Please call (516) 746-8900 to set up an appointment. Unsure if your items

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

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 of the Museum continues.

The shop is located at 109 Eleventh Street.

Shop Hours: Mon – Fri: 10–4 p.m., (Wednesday until 4 p.m.) For more information, please call (516) 746-8900.

The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter Adoption Vehicle will be at the next A.T. Stewart Market on September 30. Come and meet your next best friend!

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

Fellow Scholarship Committee that helped guide a wonderful applicant to succeeding as a Peace Scholar! Both of these successes are evident of Beverly’s passion to women having more opportunities in various areas and becoming more visible and receiving recognition for their hard-earned achievements.

Rebecca Mukiibi, who had won the scholarship, was selected by Rotary International and was one of 160 recipients worldwide! And Alisha, Beverly’s daughter is now president of her club, is a two-time Paul Harris recipient and will chair the DEI Committee for our Rotary District 7255.

Rotary District Governor-Elect Beverly

R. James, guest speaker, August 22.

Rotary

District

Governor-Elect to

Speak on Rotary Friendship Exchange

Mineola-Garden City Rotary is both privileged and honored to host Rotary District 7255 Governor-Elect Beverly R. James as guest speaker at its lunch meeting next Tuesday, August 22, 12:15 at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant.

Beverly will speak on the Rotary Friendship Exchange which offers Rotarians the opportunity to experience different cultures and build international friendships along with a multitude of other benefits.

Her enormous attribute, enthusiasm about service in general, has Beverly known within her inner circle of family and friends as “Daughter of the World!” Sponsored by her parish priest into the Hempstead-Uniondale Rotary Club 16 years ago, Beverly’s journey and deepening involvement with Rotary have included her service on all of the positions on the club level.

She then went on to become assistant district governor for three years, Peace Fellow Scholarship, 2020–2023 and district conference chair for Immediate Past DG Sonia Saleh.

Beverly is a three-time Paul Harris Fellow recipient (Rotary’s highest honor), and recently returned from a Rotary Friendship Exchange to Sweden and is now an ardent advocate of this program.

Two of Beverly’s greatest sources of pride as a Rotarian are recruiting her daughter, Alisha, to join Rotary, along with the opportunity to chair the Peace

Beverly graduated from Adelphi University with a BSN degree and became a nurse practitioner. But, her entrepreneurial acumen and desire to do it “her way” by giving more time to patients, intrigued her and led to her opening her own home health care business which she ran for 30 years before retiring.

While working full-time, in her spare time, Beverly became a patient advocate and joined Pulse Center for Patient Safety, Education and Advocacy, having served on their board. She established an initiative called “Ask for Your Life” which gave voice and a spotlight on inequities in patient care and safety issues.

Beverly is an active member of the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City and has been a Board member of RotaCare. She is a past member and president of the Uniondale School Board and chaired the District’s Audit Committee when she resided in Uniondale which still holds a treasured place in her heart. Beverly is widowed and is mother to Alisha, Eric and their spouses Donald and Dawn. She is the proud grandmother of Arianna and Anaiya.

To attend the Rotary meeting and hear the talk by this dynamic Rotarian (fee, $35 payable at the door), please email Meg Norris, Club president, at editor@gcnews.com.

Upcoming Speakers & Events

September 12 – Co-fellowship dinner meeting with Floral Park-Bellrose Rotary, Jameson’s Restaurant, Floral Park, 6:30 pm. All are invited. To reserve, email editor@gcnews.com.

October 10 – Lunch meeting, Davenport Press restaurant, 12:15 p.m.

NC DA Ane Donnelly, guest speaker

December 11 -Noon, Garden City Hotel, Rotary Annual Holiday Luncheon featuring performance by the Mineola High School choral Group

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.

editor@gcnews.com

Old World Quality Corp.

Garden City Casino 2023 Presidents Dinner

Old World Quality Corp.

Old World Quality Corp.

Old World Quality Corp.

Renovations, Roofing, Painting, Kitchens, Plumbing, Heating Conditioning, Custom Spaces, much project too OWQC!

741-8226

World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com Valley Ave, Hempstead 11550

Old World Quality Corp.

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp.

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Vinny Muldoon – Owner and Garden City Resident

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Each year in mid-summer, The Garden City Casino hosts its annual Past Presidents and current Board of Governors Dinner. The dinner recognizes the leadership of the former presidents and the efforts of the current Board to maintain the stature and the contributions that The Casino continues to make to the Village of Garden City.

clubs in the United States established in 1895, has a vibrant social calendar and a fabulous tennis program with membership open to all Village residents.

This year’s dinner, hosted by Adrienne Bugey, held in mid-July, was also attended by those members who have contributed their time and energies in coordinating a very active program.

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

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 to full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

WE OFFER:

Custom Homes • Renovations • Extensions

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

The Casino, one of the oldest tennis

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.

Roofing • Painting • Bathrooms • Kitchens • Masonry Mudrooms • Plumbing • Heating Air Conditioning

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Office: (516) 741-8226

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.

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

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

Custom Mill Work • Exterior Spaces • MUCH MORE!

Office: (516) 741-8226

Office: (516) 741-8226

Office: (516) 741-8226

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com 136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

Office: (516) 741-8226

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

There is no project too big or too small for OWQC! Office: (516) 741-8226

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

136 Cherry Valley Ave.,West Hempstead, NY 11550

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

World Quality Corp.

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

Instagram/Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Resident Renovations, Painting, Heating

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small

Drew Wozniak (current president), Pat McNamara, Brent Stranathan, Bill Lockwood, Lou Fasano, Phil Volz, Drew Hult, Pete Gehnrich, Bob Dougherty, Ray Feeney.

Oyster Bay Railroad Museum

The Long Road to 2024

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

Most of the time, I try to keep this column reasonably upbeat. For example, at Thanksgiving I usually do a piece on how fortunate we are to live in America. That column usually tosses in some kind words about the current President, as well as leaders of the opposition party. More generally, I try to respect the ideas of people I disagree with, and even try to find at least some com-

only made very belated efforts to tell his supporters to leave the Capitol after a riot.

So now three Democratic prosecutors have decided to unleash four sets of indictments against Mr. Trump. I don’t have the space to analyze each one. In summary, I think the classified document charges have legal merit, but raise the question of why Hillary Clinton was not prosecuted for this type of offense. The New York hush money indictment is gratuitous, while the Washington and Atlanta indictments involve stretching federal and state statutes on fraud and racketeering to their legal limits, and quite possibly beyond.

To put it mildly, this legal onslaught on the candidate of the opposition party is likely to induce a great deal of cynicism. Law professor Alan Dershowitz, who isn’t a Republican, expresses such a jaundiced view. Mr. Dershowitz predicts that there will be some convictions arising from the indictments. “The whole ‘get Trump’ approach is to get him before the election, and then he wins on appeal."

It also seems to me that Democrats have much to answer for as well here. While strongly encouraging state and local prosecutors to ramp up actions against Mr. Trump, arguably interfering in the 2024 election, they are absolutely unwilling to consider another candidate besides Joe Biden, who has obvious limitations and issues of personal competence.

In addition, Democrats and most of their allies in the media refuse to acknowledge the growing evidence of serious improprieties during Mr. Biden’s days as vice president. These improprieties may not be subject to criminal prosecution, especially with the relevant statutes of limitation being allowed to expire. However, there are increasing indications that as vice president, Mr. Biden played a significant and conscious role in Hunter Biden’s attempt to monetize his father’s vice presidency and foreign policy role.

Hopefully, there will be a few salutary developments between now and November 2024. But at present, this figures to be a long, ugly slog.

FOR SENIORS

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

Chi Kung Exercise and Meditation with Andrea

Please join Andrea Albergo for Chi Kung, which is considered a beautiful, peaceful path for body, mind and spirit. Andrea will show how to create a peaceful body by combining movement, breathing and meditation. This class is geared for seniors or the beginner adult. This seven-week session will begin Thursday, September 14, and will be held at 1 pm at Garden City’s Senior Center. The price for the session is $45.

To register this class, please visit the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave with payment.

Adult Art Class at Cluett Hall

The Garden City’s Department of Recreation and Parks will offer an adult art class this fall. This ten week program will teach the beginner as well as the advanced student the art of painting portraits and landscapes/stilllife in pastel from photographs. Arleen Rueth Urban, the instructor for this program, is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America.

Classes will be held Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. The cost of this program will be $ 140. This class is open to adult residents who reside in the Inc. Village of Garden City. Classes are held in St. Paul’s Cluett Hall beginning Friday,

September 8.

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

To register for this session please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. If you have a password, you may register online at gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

Exercise Schedule at the Senior Center

Our Senior Center is back to a “regular” schedule with many classes to tone, strengthen, and stretch your bodies. These classes are open to Garden City residents ages 60 or older. Here are the classes we offer:

Mondays

Chair Exercise with Felicia at 10 a.m.

Tuesdays

Chair Yoga with Maggie at 11:15 a.m.; Line or Chair Dancing with Felicia at 2:30 p.m.

Wednesdays

Chair Exercise with Felicia at 10 a.m.

Thursdays

Yoga with Maggie at 11:15 a.m.; Chi Kung with Andrea at 1:15 p.m.nominal charge

Fridays

Chair Exercise with Felicia at 10 a.m.; Resistance Bands at 11 a.m.

For further information, please contact the Senior Center at 385-8006.

Seniors Duplicate Bridge Results

The winners of the Monday, August 14, games:

North/South:

1st Place: Ellen Moynahan & Pat Fontaine

2nd Place: Liz Tetro & Joan Kiernan

East/West:

1st Place: Terry Schoenig & Tommie Dodge

2nd Place: Grace Basile & Joan Cowie

PURCHASE

Nassau Girl Scouts honor two Garden City residents

The Kordes K orner

John

Ellis Kordes

Girl Scouts of Nassau County (GSNC) honored Garden City residents Cira Rom and Jacqueline Rovelli at its 2023 Annual Adult Recognitions Award Ceremony and Dinner. The annual event, which was held at Stewart Manor Country Club, recognizes and celebrates the adult volunteers who go above and beyond for their service to Girl Scouts of Nassau County and to their communities. Ms. Rom and Ms. Rovelli were among 100 honorees throughout Nassau County.

“Girl Scouts of Nassau County could not thrive without the hard work, commitment and support of all our community volunteers. Each honoree recognized at our Adult Recognitions Award Ceremony and Dinner has made a significant impact on our organization and help shape the Girl Scout experience for the girls we serve. Thanks to their contributions, we are able to continue building girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place,” said Randell Bynum, the CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County.

Cira Rom was awarded the GSUSA Appreciation Pin for her exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE). Ms. Rom has run the cookie program for her troop for 10 years and runs the cookie program for two other troops. She keeps the Girl Scouts engaged by setting up booth sales and other opportunities for all three troops throughout Girl Scout Cookie Season. She is an advocate for everyone in Girl Scouts and embodies the Girl Scout mission.

Jacqueline Rovelli earned the GSNC Longevity Pin for her longstanding leadership, championing the Girl Scouts in her troop from Daisies all the way through Ambassadors and providing them with a comprehensive Girl Scout experience. Ms. Rovelli has run her daughter’s troop for 12 years and has helped troops throughout Garden City by running events, mentoring other leaders, managing locations for troop meetings and serving as a role model for girls and volunteers throughout the Girl Scout community.

You have probably seen these signs around Garden City over the past year. Now, in a village like ours that has a place called the “Garden City Casino” on Cathedral Avenue and Sixth Street since 1895, you would think whoever came up with these signs would have worded them better. Of course the signs are referring to Nassau County’s plans for a gambling casino complex in Uniondale where the Nassau Coliseum is located. So the word “Nassau” should have appeared on the signs. Also, when does anyone get to say “No” to Nassau County’s plans? We are not going to get a chance to vote on this, are we? So then what was the point of all these signs?

As for me, I am not a fan of gambling in general. I know the County is doing this for the money in tax revenues and what not but I don’t think a gambling casino (and everything that goes along with it) is something a family oriented county like Nassau needs. Interestingly, the word “casino” in the 19th Century meant a large room for entertaining. During the 20th Century, the word became associated with gambling.

Also, how about we’ve had enough of these lawn signs in general. Do we really need to know that your kid plays soccer or what school they go to or what cause you’re supporting? I know it has become a “thing” and seems to be an extension of the Facebook culture where people feel the need to share everything with everybody. The reality is it looks terrible and there’s probably an ordinance prohibiting signage like this. Or there should be.

Jacqueline Doherty

Cira Rom

News from the Garden City Public Library

Monday Movies presented by the Friends of the Garden City Library:

Mondays at 1:30 p.m.

August Movies

8/21 - “Book Club: The Next Chapter”2023 - 108 min

8/28 - “Loving” - 2016 - 123 min

September Programming

September is Back to School, Indian Summer, cooler nights, apple picking time and everything pumpkin time! Fall waits in the wings to usher Summer out. The Adult Services area has been busy booking programs for the fall. Programs for September include:

John Kenrick Presents Angela Lansbury

Thursday, September 14, at 1 p.m.

Large Meeting Room

Angela Lansbury: “Ever Just the Same, Ever a Surprise” - Nominated for an Academy Award at age 18 (but she never received one!) This Britishborn beauty followed a long film career with spectacular triumphs on stage and television. Entertainment Historian John Kenrick returns to review Lansbury’s life and career. We follow her from Gaslight to Mame to Murder She Wrote, with videos of some memorable musical performances from this versatile, unpredictable charmer.

No registration is necessary. For more information contact Reference at (516)742-8405 x 5236 or Email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

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

Cutting the Cable Cord

Thursday, September 21, at 7 p.m.

Large Meeting Room

Join us for Ed Hom’s class on cutting the cable cord. Have you ever thought about dropping your cable/satellite television service? With a high-speed internet service and the right television/ hardware device, you can probably save money by switching to various streaming services. This class will guide you through the various options available that can help you decide if cutting the cable cord is right for you.

**Registration is required and begins on Thursday, August 31 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) or through the Adult Reference Desk.

For more information contact

Reference at (516) 742-8405 x5236 or Email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl. org.

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

TLC Home Exteriors

Saturday, September 23 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Small Meeting Room

Brian Schnee of KL Home Inspection Services LLC will speak about what you should know about your home’s exterior.

Learn the fundamentals of what supports your house, and how cracks in various locations can be a sign of concern.

TOPICS OF DISCUSSION:

• Proper installation of your home’s foundation

• Effects of the frost line

• Framing Connectors

• Issues with Termites

• Load bearing walls vs. Nonload bearing walls

• Signs of a weathering roof

• Proper roof flashing techniques

• Roof Drainage

• Roofing Materials

• Proper roof and roof flashing installations

**Registration is required and begins on Thursday, August 31, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) or through the Adult Reference Desk.

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

Historian John Kordes Presents “The John Lennon Story/Birth of the Beatles”

Sunday, September 24, from 2–4 p.m.

Large Meeting Room

Join historian (and long-time Beatle fan) John Kordes for a viewing of the movie “The John Lennon Story.” This beautifully made film tells the story of their teenage years in Liverpool, and their rise to fame in England before their US debut and worldwide Beatlemania. No registration is required.

For more information contact Reference at (516)742-8405 x 5236 or Email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl. org. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Fall Garden with Pauley Levine (aka The Plant Man)

Wednesday, September 27, from 1–2 p.m.

Large Meeting Room

With the end of summer in view and now that it’s September, Paul Levine, the Plant Man, offers a crash course on early fall gardening.

**Registration is required and begins on Wednesday, September 6, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) or through the Adult Reference Desk.

For more information contact Reference at (516)742-8405 x 5236 or Email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl. org.

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

Return of Mom’s Yoga Night Out with Kimberly Mercadante

Wednesdays at 7PM-8PM

Large Meeting Room

Wednesday, September 27Registration begins on Wednesday, September 6, 2023

• Wednesday, October 4

• Wednesday, October 11

• Wednesday, October 18

• Wednesday, October 25

• Wednesday, November 1

• Wednesday, November 8

• Wednesday, November 15

Do you have grandchildren?

The popular Mom’s Yoga Night Out returns with Kimberly Mercadante! You don’t have to be a mom to join us for these one-hour beginner’s yoga classes!. Please bring your own yoga mat to each class.

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

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

Empire Safety Council - Defensive Driving Saturday, September 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Large Meeting Room

Receive 10% reduction on Automobile/ Liability insurance and qualify for a license point reduction.

Registration in person begins at the Garden City Public Library on Monday, September 3, 2023 for Garden City residents. Those without a Garden City Public Library card can begin registering on Monday, September 11, 2023. Register separately for each person. Space is limited, so check with the Reference Department for availability. Proper ID is required when registering an absent party. Payment of $30 by check made payable to Empire Safety Council is required when signing up.

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

For more information contact Reference at (516)742-8405 x 5236 or Email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

The film “Book Club: The Next Chapter” will be shown at the Garden City Public Library on August 21.

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

Tree Ornaments for Community Service: Apple 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 August ornaments are apples, which will be used to decorate the Tweens and Teens Ornament Tree in September. Registration began August 15 online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Completed ornaments must be returned by Thursday, August 31 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.

Kindness Cards for Community Service

Spread kindness in the community by participating in a special kindness card-making session on Monday, September 6, 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 begins Tuesday, August 29, 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, September 7, at 4 p.m. Registration begins Tuesday, August 29, at 10 a.m. online via Evnetkeeper (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, September 22.

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 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, September 8, at 3:30 p.m. Registration begins Tuesday, August 29, 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.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

The next meeting of the Teen Advisory Board will be held on Tuesday, September 12, at 4 p.m. Registration begins Tuesday, September 5, 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.

Volunteers Needed: LEGO Club

Volunteer to help children grades K–5 during the monthly Children's program LEGO Club! The September session will be held on Tuesday, September 19. The LEGO Club program runs from 4–4:45 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, September 12, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Paint Night

Join us on Wednesday, September 20, at 7 p.m. for Teen Paint Night. This program is for tweens and teens in grades 6–12. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, September 12, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tween Thursdays: Trivia Challenge

Join us for Tween Thursdays and test your trivia knowledge! This program is for tweens in grades 4–7 and is a joint program with the Children’s Department and Young Adult Department. The program will be held Thursday, September 21, at 4 p.m.. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, September 12, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org).

It is Library policy that parents of children under 10 attending a program remain at the Library throughout and meet the child upon completion of the program. Tweens entering grades 6–12 in fall 2023 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 September session will be held on Tuesday, September 26. The Reading Pals program runs from 4PM-4:30PM. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 3:30PM 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, September 19, 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, September 27, 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, September 19, 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 MeetUps! 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 February session will be held Thursday, September 28, at 4 p.m. Registration begins Tuesday, September 19, 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.

Teen gamers enjoy a program at the Library.

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

Teen Crafternoon: Pumpkin Painting for Community Service

Join us on Saturday, September 30 at 3 p.m. for Teen Crafternoon: Pumpkin Painting for Community Service! This program is for tweens and teens in grades 6–12. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, September 19, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Participants will be painting mini pumpkins at the program. In order to earn community service, at least one of the pumpkins the participant paints must be given to the Library to be used for the Library’s Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt that will be held October 16–October 31. Afterward, participants can pick up their pumpkin until November 10. Pumpkins will be held no longer than November 10. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tweens and Teens Summer Art Show

During the month of August, stop by the Library to see the artwork teen volunteers created for the Library’s Tweens and Teens Summer Art Show! The artwork in this exhibition was created by the tweens and teens entering grades 6–12 in fall 2023. The pieces were inspired either by the theme of the Library Summer Reading Program or from the teen’s own imagination for community-service credit. The “Tweens and Teens Summer Art Show” will be on display in the lower-level Gallery through August, so make sure to stop by and see the wonderful artwork the teen volunteers created for the show.

“What’s Cooking at the Library?” Tiny Art Show

Visit the Library in August to view the “What’s Cooking at the Library?” Tiny Art Show, created by teen volunteers entering grades 6–12 in fall 2023. The artwork reflects this year’s Summer Reading Club theme, “What’s Cooking at the Library?” Volunteers created art on mini canvases that were 4” x 4”, which are displayed on small easels outside of the Tweens and Teens Room. The artwork will be on display throughout the month of August, so patrons are encouraged to stop by the Library to see the beautiful artwork created by teen volunteers that is on display.

GCPL Tweens and Teens Best Books 2023 Committee: Volunteers Needed!

The Tweens and Teens Department is looking for tweens and teens in grades 6–12 to volunteer to provide feedback on recently published Young Adult books as part of our Tweens and Teens Best Books 2023 Committee! Eligible books are those published between October 1, 2022 and December 5, 2023, aimed at tweens and teens in grades 6–12, and that the Library owns a physical copy in the Young Adult collection

If interested, please sign-up to join the committee by visiting Garden City Public Library’s website at https://www. gardencitypl.org/tweens-teens-bestbooks-2023-committee/ or for more information, please contact the Young Adult Department at https://www.gardencitypl. org/young-adult-department/contact-theyoung-adult-tweens-teens-department/.

Blood drive at Library on August 23

Donors to receive $10 gift card, box of Girl Scout cookies

New York Blood Services will be holding a blood drive at the Garden City Public Library on Wednesday, August 23, from 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. in the Large Meeting room on the lower level of the Library. Area hospitals are in need of local residents’ help. Each donation can help to save up to three lives.

All donors will receive a voucher for a $10 gift card of their choice (electronically fulfilled) and a box of Girl Scout Cookies.

Appointments are strongly preferred, walk-ins are welcomed only if capacity permits. To schedule an appointment, you can scan the QR code below with your phone and type in Garden City, click on the link below, call 1-800-688-0900 to schedule an appointment or for any medical questions concerning blood donations or visit

the Garden City Public Library website at www.gardencitypl.org.

https://donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/306366

News from the Children’s Room

Crafting with Friends

Wednesday, Aug. 23, at 2:00 p.m.

Children in grades K–5 can come to the Library and make an aquarium. Presented by Mary Maguire and Kathie Wysocki. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library. (Directors include: Mary Alaina Burbage, Evelyn Fasano, Joan Trocchia, Kathie Wysocki and others.)

Registration begins Aug. 15 at 10 a.m.

Fall 2023 Programming

Monthly LEGO Club

Tuesday, Sept. 19, at 4 p.m.

This fun STEM program is for children in grades K–5 only. No registration is necessary. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Craft

Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 10:30 a.m.

Craft for 3 and 4-year-olds. Registration begins Sept. 12 at 10 a.m.

Tween Program

Thursday, Sept. 21 at 4 p.m.

Tween Program grades 4–7 details coming. Registration begins Sept. 12 at 10 a.m.

Sensory Story Time

Saturday, Sept. 23 at 11 a.m.

Join A Time For Kids for a Unique story time for Atypical Learners. Listen to a story, join in movement and music activities, and then explore different materials in bins. Although geared toward families with children who have Special Needs, all families are welcome. Children up through 5th grade are invited to participate. Registration begins Sept. 12 at 10 a.m.

Reading Pals

Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 4:00 p.m.

This fun program is for children ages 4–grade 2. Under librarian supervision, teen volunteers will read to children and then they will do a craft together. Registration begins Sept.19 at 10 a.m.

See Eventkeeper for additional fall programming.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that a Summer Tavern Wine license number 1367364 for cider/ wine/ beer has been applied for by the undersigned to sell cider/ wine/ beer at retail in a Restaurant/Snack Bar under the alcoholic beverage control law at 1 Charles Lindberg Blvd Uniondale NY 11553 for onpremises consumption.

DOVER GOURMET CORP 1 Charles Lindberg Blvd Uniondale NY 11553

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of MCPARTLAND - WILSON CREATIVE ARTS THERAPY, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-04-03. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Georgena Jeanne McPartland-Wilson: 116 Roosevelt St Garden City NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

Too much junk in your house?

One ad can go so far...

Professional development continues during summer months

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Inclusive Fitness 116 LLC . Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-05-24. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Conor J McCartney: 1106 Jericho Tpke New Hyde Park NY 11040. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE

NOTICE that the Board of Commissioners of the Great Neck Park District will conduct a Public Hearing on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 8:00 PM at the Great Neck House 14 Arrandale Avenue, Great Neck NY 11023, under Town Law Section 215.9-a, to consider the proposed annual budget for the District’s fiscal year starting January 1, 2024.

Persons with a disability affecting their participation in the hearing should notify Dorina Bradley, Secretary to the Board, by mail to 5 Beach Road, Great Neck, NY, 11023 or via email at dbradley@greatneckparks.org, in time to permit arrangements to enable their participation.  Copies of the Park District draft Budget will be available after September 1st, 2023 at the Park District Office, 5 Beach Road, Great Neck, NY, 11023

Board of Commissioners

Great Neck Park District

Place

Call

Frank S. Cilluffo, Chairperson

Tina M. Stellato, Treasurer

Vanessa Tamari, Secretary

Garden City Public Schools administrators, teachers and staff have been hard at work this summer working on, among other things, professional development in literacy. The district has been running a literacy professional learning series titled, “Building a Strong Foundation: Integrating Research-Based, HighLeverage Practices to Deliver a Comprehensive Approach to Literacy for All.” The professional learning experience began in spring 2023 and has continued in the summer. Led by Director of Literacy Lauren Kaufman, Assistant Principal of Stewart School Rachel Lindsey, and Assistant Principal of Stratford School Lauren Quezada, K–5 teachers, reading specialists K–12,

and K–5 administrators have actively participated in the course.

Throughout the course, teachers have been engaged and empowered with high-leverage instructional practices that encompass explicit instruction in language comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and reading comprehension skills. Additionally, the comprehensive approach to literacy goes beyond the mechanics of reading, fostering a love of reading and writing across the curriculum.

“Our goal is to empower educators with the tools and practices needed to help students unlock their full potential in literacy,” Kaufman said. “By incorporating research-

ATTENTION STUDENTS!

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

Submissions from students of all ages are welcome!

based strategies and assessment data, teachers will continue to be equipped to engage their students and foster essential reading skills.”

The impact of the course has been profound, with teachers walking away equipped to implement these practices immediately in their classrooms. Garden City will continue running the course in the fall and winter, ensuring ongoing support for teachers as they strive to enhance students’ literacy skills. With Garden City Public Schools’ commitment to excellence in literacy education, students are well on their way to continuing achieving reading success and unlocking their full potential.

Garden City administrators, teachers and staff attended professional development courses in literacy, equipping them to implement new strategies during the school year. Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

August 18, 2023

Granville Island, Vancouver’s Nearby

Getaway, is Cornucopia of Art, Culture

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

I have cleverly arranged for a late flight from Vancouver, so I would have a whole day to continue to explore.

Indigenous Tourism BC which has arranged my itinerary has offered a number of suggestions: rent a bike and riding around the seawall at Stanley Park; visit the Vancouver Art Gallery (750 Hornby St, Vancouver); visit Museum of Vancouver (1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver) to see Indigenous micro-exhibition Spirit Journeys: Walking with Resilience, Wellbeing and Respect; visit Granville Island.

Rick, the Skwachàys Lodge manager, just the evening before, had raved about how much he loves visiting to Granville Island – it has the best public market – and was planning to go himself.

I map out a delightful 3.3 km walk from the hotel to David Lam Park where I hop the cute Aquabus ferry for the few minutes ride to Granville Island. (Aquabus, $6/roundtrip, which also offers a 40-minute ferry ride tour)

As soon as I climb the stairs from the ferry dock, I appreciate why Granville Island very properly boasts of being a “magical escape within a city.” I would add: playful, whimsical, fantastical, a place of endless delight, a non-stop smile.

The charm of Granville Island lies in its unexpected mix of uses which reveal themselves as you simply wander around. People come for the most spectacular public market (open daily 9am-7pm) with 70 purveyors of all

manner of fresh produce and fine foods (some famous, like Lee Donuts, where as Rick tells me to expect, there is a line outside to get in); the Net Loft featuring “offbeat artisan goods” and marvelous boutiques and shops with local creations and imported crafts from Latin America, Asia and Africa like Mondo Company (“Step into our world and discover fairly traded, ethically sourced, handcrafted products from artisans around the globe”, www.mondoandcompany.com); a bustling Artisan District where you see and meet artists at work in their studios and galleries; a children’s district (toy stores!); and performance venues (Ballet BC coming to

Granville Island), plus special events and festivals, all taking over vacated (and for a time decrepit) industrial buildings. There is even a hotel.

Art and music are everywhereeven the cement factory (one of the few industrial uses that remains) has painted “Giants”on its gi-normous silos (painted by Brazilian graffiti artists Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo, known collectively as OSGEMEOS (Portuguese for THETWINS), which was commissioned in 2014 by Vancouver Biennale as part of an open-air museum, and were only expected to be up temporarily. It cost $180,000 and 1400 cans of spray paint and costs $17,000 a year to maintain.

(https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/giants-on-granville-island-silos)

But before Granville Island was a cultural mecca, before it was an urban wasteland, before it was an industrial hub, it was the meeting place for three First Nations summer potlatch.

The xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and S əl ílw ə ta ʔ /Selilwitulh (TsleilWaututh) peoples are indigenous to the area around Vancouver and have lived on these lands for thousands of years...” Chief Janice George, Skwxwú7mesh, writes. “The Salish, the Indigenous people of the area, used a large sand bar (later filled in to become an Industrial Island, then Granville Island), and the surrounding areas for traditional purposes such as hunting, gathering, travel, and everyday living and cultural activities. The resources were so plentiful, the Salish people had a saying, ‘when the tide went out, the table was set,’ meaning that when the tide went out, they could walk with the tide and have enough food for their families.”  As Vancouver was colonized in the 1860s, it became shipping port (there are still the railroad tracks), but as industries shuttered, it descended into a derelict industrial wasteland from 1950-60s. A few artists squirreled away, making art in studios within the Quonset huts.

A historic marker notes that Granville Island was created between 1913 and 1916 when the government of Canada and the newly created federal Vancouver Harbour Commission contracted to pump and dredge over 1 million cubic yards from the bottom

Continued on next page

One of the most photographed scenes in Vancouver: “The Giants” at the cement factory on Granville Island, painted by Brazilian graffiti artists Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo (known as OSGEMEOS). Granville Island, once a gathering place for First Nations peoples, is a mecca for arts and culture © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Granville Island, Vancouver’s Nearby Getaway

Continued from previous page

of False Creek and deposit the material behind pilings ringing several sandbars and First Nation fishing weirs. “Over the next 50 years, heavy industry waxed and waned” on Granville Island. By the early 1960s it had become a squalid, seedy and derelict industrial area.” For the next 10 years, while politicians debated, four entrepreneurs began buying up four buildings which they renovated into “The Creekhouse,” interestingly, retaining the industrial look.

In the 1970s, MP Ron Basford arranged for the Canadian government to buy the land and experiment with public spaces and venues for food, culture, and  artists. Today, Granville Island provides space for 300 businesses employing more than 3,000 people and is “an active public space showcasing Vancouver culture to locals and rest of world,” a marker states.

In the Artisan District, I meet artists Cheryl Hamilton and Michael Vandermere in their enormous, factory-sized studio space, ie creative artworks (her imaginative sculptures lately have been themed about climate change); BC Blacksmith Miran Elbakyan (www. bcblacksmith.com); Benjamin Kikkert who works in hot glass and mixed media sculpture; carver Todd Woffinden; silk weavers (www.silkweavingstudio. com), broommakers Mary and Sarah Schwieger (broomcompany.com). There are also indigenous art galleries.

At my last stop, I find myself in front of a gold plaque identifying this place as the site of renowned artist Bill Reid’s studio, where he created the sculpture that is now at Vancouver Airport.

This is now the Nutter Studio, where glass artisan John Nutter does the etching in glass that many of the indigenous artists design. He even created the glass windows for Young Israel Synagogue in Hillcrest, Queens NY (my old neighbor-

hood!) and seven windows for Atlantic Beach Jewish Center on Long Island (my brother’s neighborhood!) Small world! (www.johnnutterglassstudio.com).

We have a vigorous discussion of art versus craft, the revival of indigenous arts (or is it crafts?) and artists who feel obligated to re-create traditional symbols, images and techniques, versus developing their own style and statement.

Throughout Granville Island, there are homages to its Indigenous origins, and the website offers this statement: CMHC-Granville Island would like to acknowledge that we are located on the traditional territory of the xʷməθkwəyəm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səlílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations.

Check the Granville Island website for events (Sunset Dragonboat and Saturday Dragonboat drop in Sessions!), https://granvilleisland.com/

Skwachàys Lodge, Canada’s

First Aboriginal Art Hotel

Staying at the Skwachàys LodgeCanada’s first Aboriginal Art Hotelenhances my experience in Vancouver with this immersion into local Indigenous art and culture.

Vancouver Native Housing Society (VNHS opened the Skwachàys Lodge, the Urban Aboriginal Fair-Trade Gallery, and the Artists in Residence Program in June 2012, transforming a derelict SRO hotel into a social enterprise consisting of a boutique hotel with a street-level art gallery and on-site housing and studio space for 24 Indigenous artists.

The Artists in Residence Program provides up to three years of affordable housing, 24/7 access to workshops, and opportunities for personal and professional development that help artists develop their craft and move into the next phase of their careers. To date, 110 Indigenous artists have participated in the program.

The Lodge, the Urban Aboriginal

A GREENER VIEW

BY JEFF RUGG

Fair-Trade Gallery and production space are operated as a self-sustaining social enterprise. Artists are paid a fair price for their work (30%-60% of the retail price depending on the artist’s reputation and the cost that is underwritten by the gallery (framing, marketing and promotional expenses).

Skwachàys Lodge goes way beyond living in and supporting art – there are also opportunities for guests to engage in authentic Indigenous cultural experiences

Sweat Lodge Ceremony: Skwachàys has a traditional First Nations Sweat Lodge and offers private  Sweat Lodge Purification Ceremonies lead by a Sweat Lodge Keeper. The  Sweat Lodge, located in the rooftop garden, is a domed structure constructed from inter-woven willow branches symbolizing Mother Nature’s womb. During the ceremony, the Keeper places heated rocks –known as “grandmothers and grandfathers” –to cleanse and purify the participant’s heart, soul and spirit, bringing life balance and connection to Mother Nature.

Traditional Smudge Ceremony:

Skwachàys has an authentic Indigenous Smudge Room on its Raven Level. In a  Smudging Ceremony, sacred plants are burned, surrounding the participants’ body and senses in the aromatic smoke to purify body, spirit and home. Three different kinds of plants are used: cedar bows are burned for cleansing; sage to drive out ill feelings or influences, protecting the place of ceremony; and sweet grass, one of the most sacred plants, is burned to bring in positive influences and energies.

These ceremonies are personal and private, so arrangements must be made in advance. A minimum number of people is required. (For more information and costs, reservations@skwachays. com).

Studio Visits With Artists: Visitors can also arrange studio visits with Indigenous artists in residence.

DIY Compost Saves Money

Instead of spending money to have your yard waste picked up and hauled off to a composting facility and then turning around and buying organic matter for the garden and flower beds, why not just do it yourself? Compost has many sources and many uses. It is mostly decayed organic matter. The most common ingredients are leaves, grass clippings, dead plants and kitchen scraps from fruits and vegetables. Do not use animal products from the kitchen because they decompose slowly and attract pests.

By returning composted organic mat-

ter to the garden, you can improve plant growth. It adds nutrients, loosens clay soil for roots, water and air and improves the soil’s structure. Just as grass benefits from having the nutrients in its clippings recycled back into the lawn, trees also benefit from having their nutrients returned to them. If there are just a few leaves, mow them a few times to break them into small pieces that will filter down to the soil. Larger quantities of leaves can be composted and added back to the tree as mulch.

Keeping your compost pile in a bin will keep the area tidy. A bin can be purchased or made from snow fencing, wire fencing

or concrete blocks. The most important feature of any bin is that air must be able to circulate on all sides. The ability to cover it to keep rain out is also helpful.

Making compost is not very difficult if you follow a few basic principles. First, bacteria and fungi do the work, so they must be added and given the proper conditions to grow. They are added through the incorporation of soil into the pile or by store-bought inoculants.

Any plant material is food for these microorganisms. They use carbon in the food for energy and nitrogen for mak-

Continued on page 5

Artists including jewelers, painters, carvers, sculptors work on projects in the shared  Artist Studio, located in the basement  throughout the year.

The Skwachàys Lodge has a Kayachtn Room  (the Salishan word for “welcome”), a space where the Lodge community can come together to connect, create memories and share a meal – and is where breakfast is served.

“Indigenous culture rests on a communal social structure, one that values living in harmony with one another, as well as with the natural world.”

Skwàchays Lodge 31 W Pender St Vancouver, BC V6B 1R3 604.687.3589,    1 888 998 0797,    info@skwachays.com, https://skwachays.com/

Indigenous Tourism BC

With 204 Indigenous communities and more than 30 Indigenous languages – about one-third of Canada’s First nations population - British Columbia offer extensive authentic Indigenous experiences on reserves, in remote areas and even cities like Vancouver.

The best guide to these experiences is Indigenous British Columbia, a tourism development and promotion organization that connects visitors with Indigenous-owned, operated and staffed lodges, museums, culture centers, restaurants, wineries, hiking (indigenous guide), bear viewing, whale watching, outdoors adventures, wellness and other experiences.

Indigenous Tourism BC offers travel ideas, things to do, places to go, places to stay, and suggested itineraries. Download a trip planning app (https:// www.indigenousbc.com/indigenous-bctrip-planner-app/)

Indigenous Tourism BC, 100 Park Royal S #707, West Vancouver, BC V7T 1A2, 604-921-1070, https://www.indigenousbc.com

© 2023 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com.

Crossword Answers

The talents of a cook, a singer and a florist

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

My friend, Samantha, always dreamed of opening a restaurant featuring breakfast and brunch so six months ago she did just that. She and her contractors spent time renovating an old building and setting up the interior with a bar, tables and seating for 45 people, and a huge kitchen. “Sammie’s Place” has been a hit from the first day. Using social media to advertise, people came from all over. Sandwiches include a chicken salad wrap with a side of chips and chicken cordon bleu, grilled, on a pretzel bun. Brunch is steak, eggs and home fries.

Her brunch special often includes pancakes piled high with fruit. On holidays she offers a lobster dish that people rave about and when lines started forming out the door, Sammie started taking reservations. That way the customers can take their time enjoying their meals, on special occasions or not, and not feel rushed by the people waiting to enter. Six days a week they are open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. That gives Sammie and her employees time to clean up and prepare for the next day.

Looking at her logo on the sign as she pulled out of the parking lot, she smiles seeing her silhouette encircled by the name of the restaurant, Sammie’s Place. She told me she was glad she had become a small business owner, that being her own boss allows her to have some independence and be as creative as she wants to be in the kitchen. And her customers love the results!

Reading a non-fiction book about singer Peter Cetera’s life was interesting because even though I’ve heard his songs so many times I never knew where he was from. This came up recently because my family and I were watching “Good Girls” on Netflix for the second time around and I was sur-

prised when Peter Cetera’s song “The Glory of Love” came on. It reminded me of 1986, the year it came out, and where I was then. At 30 years old, I was in the midst of my PR career working for a corporation in Manhattan. It seems so long ago and in many ways it was. Ronald Reagan was the president. When I saw the movie, “The Karate Kid Part II,” and heard the song, I sat upright in my chair. The lyrics go, “I’ll be the hero you’re dreaming of …”

Peter Cetera songs are great - he was a lead vocalist and the bassist of the rock band “Chicago” from 1967 until 1985 when he launched his solo career - so I decided to read more about his upbringing. Born in Chicago in 1944, Cetera has said that his mother was always singing around the house. Cetera was one of six kids and his mother taught them to sing in harmony while they were doing their chores around the house. His brother, Kenny, also remembers the family harmonizing together while growing up. Because people would give him compliments and say that he was a good singer, at age 11 Cetera realized that he actually had a talent for singing.

Cetera kept enjoying music and at 11 his parents bought him an accordion instead of the guitar he wanted. He calls himself “kind of a polka prodigy” and at 12 Peter Cetera won a local talent competition for his accordion playing. The show was broadcast on the radio the following week. In high school Peter Cetera thought of becoming a singer as a career.

When he was 15, some older students from his high school took him to a club to see a band called the “Rebel Rockers.” Cetera liked the music so much that afterwards he bought an acoustic guitar at Montgomery Ward. He eventually took up the electric bass, and started playing in a band with some

high school friends - a drummer, a guitarist and a saxophone player. Cetera and the guitarist were the lead singers.

Melanie, my old high school friend, worked a few retail jobs before deciding to open her own florist. She always wanted to be her own boss so when a shop that was the perfect size for what she wanted became available, Melanie seized the opportunity to go into business. Designing floral arrangements is what she really wants to do - that and decorating weddings and other celebrations with floral arrangements and potted plants. I’ve noticed that Melanie has a real knack for design and I’m envious of people who can take a plain space and make it look gorgeous. It’s a talent!

When I compliment her, Melanie says that she doesn’t really have a green thumb and she is not a person who spends time gardening outside but she’s got a creative flair. One time Melanie explained that both of her parents are very artsy and she got lucky by inheriting that gene. She likes what she does and it shows.

Her customers have agreed because

Melanie’s florist has done so well that she has hired five full-time employees. Sometimes Melanie packs the van with boxes of floral arrangements for delivery and on other days one of her employees does the deliveries to their happy customers. They are open six days a week - they are closed on Sundays for their day of rest.

When I stopped by her store recently, my favorite was the vase of lilies with carnations and chrysanthemums. It was beautifully arranged and I could see it brightening up a dining room table or sitting on top of a traditional fireplace mantel.

Melanie’s florist holds many beautiful things: baskets of flowers, different types of green potted plants, silk arrangements, botanical soaps, lotions, candles, specialty fruit and snack baskets and more. At the end of the day Melanie is happy about having a job she loves and equally as important, she offers steady employment to some local residents. That all sounds good to me!

BY TOM MARGENAU

For reasons that will become clear at the end of this column, I am updating another column I wrote about four years ago.

I am going to give you a series of names. I would give any reader a hundred bucks if he or she could tell me who they are and what they all have in common. Here are the names. Stanford Ross. William Driver. John Svahn. Martha McSteen. Dorcas Hardy. Gwendolyn King. Shirley Chater. Kenneth Apfel. Michael Astrue. Kilolo Kijakazi.

So who are they? They are 10 of the past 30 commissioners of Social Security. The Commissioner of Social Security is the top spot within the Social Security Administration. He or she is responsible for running one of the largest agencies in the federal government, in charge of maintaining Social Security number and earnings records for nearly every working American, and for paying retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to about 70 million people every month.

Yet, almost no one knows who these people are. Most folks can probably name the FBI director or the head of the CIA. But SSA is one of the many federal agencies whose top dog might as well be named “Underdog.” Who heads the VA? Who is the Commissioner of the IRS? Who runs the Federal Highway Administration? How about the Bureau of Labor Statistics? The heads of these and so many other federal agencies are almost always nameless political appointees. And therein lies a story I’d like to tell.

For part of my career with the SSA, I worked for several Social Security commissioners. Usually in the role of a speechwriter. Sometimes as the agency’s deputy press officer. By no means was I a major player on any commissioner’s staff. But I used to say that “at least I was in the room.” In other words, if the commissioner had a meeting with his or her top staff, I might be sitting in a chair in the corner of the room -- usually taking notes.

So I got to know a lot about the inner workings of the agency. I learned what the head of a big agency like the SSA really does. One of the commissioners I worked for (I won’t name names) was President Ronald Reagan’s pick to head Social Security. And one time, soon after she was appointed, she told me that Reagan told her this: “You really have only one job. Make sure those damn checks go out on time every month!”

But let’s be honest about that. The issuance of Social Security checks is pretty institutionalized. It’s built into the nature of the bureaucracy. Social Security checks have gone out on time every month for about 88 years now. Donald Duck could be the Commissioner of Social Security and the checks still would go out like clockwork each month. After all, commissioners come and go. It’s the dedicated civil servants who have been

with the agency for decades who really keep the place humming along and make sure those checks always go out in a timely manner.

So what the commissioner really does, what the head of any large organization really does, is set the tone for how services will be provided and how staff will be allocated to provide those services.

And for many recent years, the Commissioner of Social Security has had to deal with the problem of ballooning workloads (10,000 baby boomers retiring every day) and dwindling resources.

This is an issue that has always puzzled me. I mean, if any private business was growing by 10,000 new customers every day, they would be hiring lots of new staff to deal with the increased workloads.

But sadly, that’s not the way the public sector works. Because so many Americans keep clamoring for less government ... well, they’re getting it. The SSA’s administrative budget (along with the budgets of most federal agencies) frequently comes under the knife -- leading to severe staff shortages. So there is a reason why you have to wait on hold for a couple hours when you call the SSA’s 800 number. Or why there are huge backlogs in disability claim appeals.

So I’m sure the SSA’s newest commissioner (more about that in a minute) will be looking at these problems and trying to reallocate staff to improve service to the public.

Before I get to the new big boss at the SSA, I must make this point. A long time ago, a chief of staff for one of the Social Security commissioners told me this. “Tom, when a Democrat is president, you will get a good Commissioner of Social Security. When a Republican is president, you will get an ineffective Commissioner of Social Security.” This seemingly biased analysis carried a bit of weight with me because the chief of staff who told me this was himself a Republican political appointee!

His reasoning went like this. For years, Social Security has been known as a favorite of the Democratic party. So if a Democrat is president, and you are a potential Democratic political appointee, you would be pleased and honored to be named the Commissioner of Social Security. Some of the best and brightest people available got the job. On the other hand, if a Republican is president, and you are a potential Republican political appointee, almost the last job you want is to be the head of Social Security. More desirable jobs were filled by the top people, and SSA got someone from near the bottom of the Republican political appointee barrel. (And again, remember, these sentiments were those of a Republican politico.)

Sadly, this proved true when Donald Trump was president. He named as his Commissioner of Social Security a guy

named Andrew Saul. His critics charged that he was previously associated with some right-wing groups that advocated deep cuts in Social Security benefits. And surprise, surprise! His tenure at the agency didn’t go well. According to at least one government report, SSA employee’s job satisfaction declined during his reign -- citing lack of confidence in agency leadership as the main reason.

Now President Joe Biden has nominated Martin O’Malley as the next Social Security Commissioner. As a former mayor of Baltimore and governor of Maryland, at least he comes into the job with some administrative experience running large governmental organiza-

tions. And I’m going to hope that what my former Republican colleague told me is true: because he was appointed by a Democratic president, I hope he will be an effective leader and turn the SSA back into the proud and service-oriented agency it used to be.

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.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Answers on page 2

Expanding Your Home to Stay Where You Are

You’ve been searching high and low for another home to purchase with more space for your growing family and for working remotely. Maybe it’s about your location, better schools, or having your in-laws reside with you to watch your children. Whatever your reasons are, this market has been very stressful for those looking to move. Even for those 1st-time buyers, getting “knocked out of the ballpark” with bidding wars or not being prepared sufficiently enough by not having that all-important piece of paper called, “the commitment letter.” Getting stuck in your current situation, whether it is staying in your current rental or living with parents or in-laws has its pluses and drawbacks. But solutions are hard to come by, as the inventory is at historic lows, and interest rates are causing monthly payments to exceed many budgets. There are no extra dollars to be had to compete with the vast amount of other purchasers that are vying for the same limited number of homes that are for sale.

Those that are already in a home, in a desirable location with excellent schools have an option to consider expanding their footprint and go through the construction process, especially if a room for your job or business is a necessary and mandatory requirement. I get it, it’s not an easy task or decision to make, especially if you don’t want to rent another place and go through that additional expense, while your home is under construction. However, you could consider, staying in your home while construction is underway, as my daughter did, when she purchased her new home in 2022; but locked in her financing in December of 2021. She, her husband, and children lived in one section of their home, while the other part was

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

renovated. It’s not an easy path to take, but it can be accomplished with some concerted effort, stick-to-itiveness, determination, and perseverance. Obviously, it will save you a lot of money and you can see the daily progress as it unfolds showing you all the improvements. As far as inconvenience, there will always be some, but as they say, “no pain, no gain.” The contractor can completely seal off the areas properly, so the dust can be pretty much minimized, as was completed in my daughter’s new home. Interviewing at least 3-5 contractors and getting referrals and recommendations when hiring to make sure that the company you hire will start and finish the job within certain time constraints. Even paying a little extra bonus may incentivize your contractor to complete your renovation sooner or at least in a timelier manner. One issue that I will convey to you is depending on the level of quality and the availability, especially if they are high-end, is to order all your appliances right from the beginning as it took my daughter 16 months, with the delays and supply chain and production issues, to get her Subzero refrigerator.

Another important item to consider is your budget for the upgrades and improvements. Will you be financing or paying outright for the job? You could also consider a HELOC (home equity line of credit). This could be less money depending on your relationship with your lender and/or who you borrow from. This type of financing can be used and interest is only applied when the money is utilized; as you will be

paying your contractor a portion of the total as each step of the work is completed. Start with your bank and check a few others for comparison. You can do a secured loan if you have the necessary funds as this should provide you the lowest rate and cost.

If you work remotely at home then there is an allowable tax deduction equal to a percentage of the total number of rooms being used overall for your business. So if you have 5 rooms and use 1, then you would have a 20% write-off on all the expenses in running your home including your mortgage. However, I would advise you to always speak to your CPA to know the exact extent of your benefits from working at home.

The working environment will never be the same after the Covid19 Pandemic. The hours lost traveling to and from work can now be utilized either by being more productive or adding to your quality family time. I am quite positive that many will no longer have to go to their normal offices anymore. There have been some conflicting studies (WWW. BusinessNewsDaily.com May 26, 2023 and apollotechical.com January 3, 2023) that some say working remotely is more productive than being in an office environment, and some same the opposite. It’s all up to the individual and how they approach their work. But for a majority, studies have shown that the work-life balance increases productivity and enables a healthier lifestyle. So staying put, upgrading, and adding space just might be the solution to not having to move.

A GREENER VIEW

Continued from page 2

ing protein. They grow fastest and break down organic matter quicker when the carbon to nitrogen ratio is about 30:1.

Leaves are naturally about 60:1 and grass clippings are about 19:1. Two bags of grass clippings to one bag of leaves will provide a good nutrient balance for the microbes.

If you have been leaving the clippings on the lawn all year (that’s great), it is OK to use some for the compost.

The best place for the pile is in a shady, well drained, out-of-view (to you and the neighbors) location. The pile must be kept damp like a wrung-out sponge. If the pile

dries out the decomposition slows down, and if it is too soggy fermentation may start.

A compost pile of about five feet by five feet works best. It is large enough to retain the heat generated by decomposition and small enough to allow interior air circulation essential to prevent fermentation and sour odors.

The interior of the pile will reach a temperature of 130 to 170 degrees in about one week. The heat will kill many insect eggs, weed seeds and disease organisms. In two to three weeks the temperature will drop, and the pile will need to be mixed by turning it inside-out. Turning the pile after

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 40 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 in 2022 has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly construction. He will provide you with “free” regular updates of sold and new homes in your town via the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island (MLSLI) or go to https://WWW. Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” `15 minute consultation, as well 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. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and our Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

You can email or snail mail (regular mail) him with your request or ideas, suggestions or interview you for a specific topic and a Q & A for a future column with your name, email and cell number. He will email or call you back and respond to your request ASAP as long as he has your complete name, cell, email and/or full home or business address. Again, for a “FREE” 15 minute consultation, he can also be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.Com to answer any of your questions and concerns in selling, investing, purchasing, or leasing residential or commercial property.

each peak in temperature will speed up the process.

The compost will be ready in two to six months, depending on the temperature and type of organic matter used. Virtually no decay takes place when the temperature is below the 40s. It is ready to use when it is dark brown, uniformly crumbly and has a sweet, earthy smell.

A properly maintained compost pile doesn’t smell bad. If it starts to smell rotten, it is either too wet or not getting enough air circulation. Turning it, mixing in more coarse material such as wood chips and covering it to keep out rain will help. If it is too dry, try cupping the top so

it will gather rainwater. If it is only moist and warm in the middle, it is probably too small. If the pile won’t heat up, add nitrogen from organic fertilizer like bloodmeal, manure or grass clippings.

Composting is an easy and cost-effective method of returning precious organic matter back to your plants and fixing clay soil problems.

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

COPYRIGHT 2023 JEFF RUGG

DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS

DIY Compost Saves Money

Saturn’s Changing Rings

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of Aug. 20-26, 2023

Just about everyone’s favorite planet is back in our evening sky once again. The ringed beauty Saturn reaches its “opposition” point in late August (officially on Aug. 27) when it appears as a fairly bright “star” that rises in the southeast at sunset and remains visible all night.

You shouldn’t have too much trouble spotting this distant world since it’s now easily the brightest object in that part of the heavens. For additional help, keep in mind that the nearly full moon will appear near Saturn on the nights of Aug. 29 and 30.

Not only does a planet’s opposition mean that it lies opposite the sun in our sky, but it also means it’s closest to the Earth. This week, Saturn approaches within only about 814.6 million miles of our planet, and its larger apparent size produces a marvelous view through a telescope.

Even a small instrument with only a magnifying power of 30x or so will show its rings as well as Saturn’s largest and brightest moon, Titan. Of course, viewing through a larger telescope with a higher magnification under good skies will show not only the planet’s rings but also a break within them known as the Cassini division.

Saturn’s rings have been known

for nearly four centuries and, for most of that time, scientists debated their true nature. Today, because of hightech astronomical instrumentation and spacecraft visits, we know that the rings are composed of chunks of ice and dust whirling around the planet at thousands of miles per hour.

A person’s first view of the planet Saturn through a small telescope always elicits a gasp of wonder, as the remarkably three-dimensional ringed world appears suspended against the blackness of space. If you’ve never experienced this magnificent sight, now is the best time to do so, but you might want to wait until later in the evening when the planet is higher in the sky.

It may not appear like it when you see it, but Saturn’s ring system is massive. Its diameter is about 170,000 miles, which means that if it were brought to the Earth, it would fill much of the space between our planet and the moon. Interestingly, however, this ring system is only a few hundred feet thick at most!

Because these rings are tilted to their orbital plane, as Saturn revolves around the sun, we view them from different angles, causing them to take on dramatically different appearances over the years.

Since the rings are tilted at a 26.7-degree angle to the Earth, when Saturn’s poles are tilted towards the sun and Earth, the rings appear “open” at

LOST IN SUBURBIA Burial

at Sea

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

As I plugged my phone into the outlet next to the toilet, I had a fleeting thought that it was sort of an odd place for an outlet. I guessed that the previous owners had installed it there precisely so they could charge their phone and use it while they were doing their business. That was actually the last thought I had before my phone slipped out of my hands and fell directly below the outlet...

Into the toilet.

The good news was the water in the toilet was clean.

The bad news was it was still water. And you’re not supposed to get your phone wet, much less have it do a deepsea submersion in your toilet bowl.

For the lucky few, a wet phone will grudgingly continue to work with maybe a few glitches. But typically when this happens, the phone immediately turns into a gremlin and fries its

own insides.

It’s not pretty.

“Ack!” I yelled and plunged my hand into the toilet bowl to retrieve the phone.

“What’s wrong?” asked my husband. He’s used to hearing me make strange noises in the bathroom, but this one was not in my usual repertoire. I emerged from the bathroom with the phone cradled in a hand towel.

“My phone decided it would be fun to go for a swim,” I said forlornly. “It did a tuck and roll and then flipped into the toilet to its watery death.”

“That’s not good,” he replied. “What did you do to it to drive it to do this?”

“I added the Pokemon Go app.”

“That would do it,” he said.

I shook my head. Whether it was my fault or the phone’s was really irrelevant. The issue now was what to do to try to save it.

“What should I do?” I asked him.

“OK, so first turn off the phone,” he

directed. “Then get a plastic bag, fill it with dry rice and seal the phone inside for 24 hours.”

“You know, they not only say not to get your phone wet, but also not to feed it after midnight,” I replied. “Besides, I don’t think the phone is hungry.”

“It’s not for eating. Theoretically the rice will absorb the water from the phone and dry it out,” he said.

“Have you tried this before?” I wondered.

“Yes.”

And did it work?”

“Never.”

I sighed. It sounded completely ridiculous to me, but I figured I had nothing to lose except a cup of rice and a very expensive cellphone. Thus decided, I wanted to make sure I got it right.

I went to the pantry and stuck my head in, looking for the place where I stockpiled the rice.

“Does the rice need to be long grain?” I yelled.

their widest. The next time this happens will be in 2032.

And because the rings are so thin, when they’re edge-on to us they nearly vanish, leaving only a tiny, faint and nearly featureless yellowish-white disk. Sometimes we can see them as a very thin line crossing the planet. Looking at these paper-thin rings from the side is an advantage to astronomers, though, since it removes their glare and gives us a great opportunity to see the icy moons near the planet. This will happen again in 2025.

Follow Dennis Mammana at facebook/dennismammana.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM

“No.”

“Wild? Basmati? Jasmine?” I wondered.

He sighed. “No, just plain old white rice will do.”

“I don’t have any white,” I yelled again. “Can I use brown?”

Yes.”

I poked my head back out of the pantry. “I only have organic. Is that OK?”

“Sure,” he groaned.

I poured the rice into a baggie and turned to my husband.

“Do you think the phone will be dead after all this?” I wondered.

“No,” he replied. “But I will.”

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

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS

Find Saturn nearing its opposition point this Aug. 29 and 30

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Candidates shall have a bachelor’s degree or higher in Business Management and/or Accounting, and a a minimum of 4 years’ experience in accounting, budget preparation, transactional processing of accounts receivable/payable, and cash management. Candidates must also be proficient in the use of Quickbooks, Microsoft Excel, and Word. Prior experience with a Fire District or other governmental agency is preferred but not required.

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INVITED ESTATE SALES

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Contact Michael Sparacino: michael.sparacino@brosnanlaw.com

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

VACATION RENTAL MATTITUCK

2 Bayfront Homes For Rent

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SERVICES

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JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING

We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship

Thousands of frames to choose from!!

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ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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Carpentry, Moldings, Lighting and More

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SERVICES

HEALTH SERVICES

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Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

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Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323

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PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

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Interior, Exterior, Plaster / Spackle, Light Carpentry, Decorative Moldings & Power Washing.

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CLEANING

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MAGNUM SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC.

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NASSAU & SUFFOLK LOCATIONS 516-457-5585

From page 8

issues, people dealing with depression and traumatic events.

The Washington County Mental Health Services Inc has a variety of services available, including adult services, developmental services and child

mental health support.

Rossi said she received a federal grant several years ago and formed a group of doulas in the community, to help expecting mothers before, during and after the birth of their children.

“The grant helped with making doula support free to expectant moth-

ers in the County. The degree from Adelphi helped even more as it helped me with implementing new programs and enriched my learning on the job.”

Rossi has found so much success in her doula/social work project, that she recently traveled to Ireland to present research at the 18th annual World

Association for Infant Mental Health symposium.

“I came to social work because I have really learned over the years, and I believe this so strongly, that doula work is social work, and that birth work is done best when it’s done in advocacy,” said Rossi.

Professional Services Guide

Teens take practice exams

Teen Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament

Teens take the Digital SAT or PSAT during a Practice Exam conducted by C2 Education. The practice exam was held Tuesday, August 15, at the Library and teens could choose either the practice ACT, PSAT, or SAT to take.

Tweens and Teens Yarn

Group

Teens compete to see who can finish a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle the fastest during the Teen Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament, which was held on Wednesday, August 2, at the Library.

Teens and Tweens Dungeons and Dragons

Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta along with teen volunteers teach teens how to knit and crochet during the program Tweens and Teens Yarn Group, which was held Tuesday, August 15, at the Library. This program is a joint program with the Children’s and Young Adult Departments. The next Tweens and Teens Yarn Group will be held Thursday, September 7, at 4 p.m.

Teens listen to instructions from the Dungeon Master as he leads them on a fantasy adventure during Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons, which was held on Thursday, August 3, at the Library.

Are you a professional?

So here is my list of 10 such ambiguous terms: 1) vote, 2) ballot, 3) poll, 4) opinion poll, 5) referendum, 6) Oct. 21st Village-wide community vote, 7) binding, 8) non-binding, 9) decision, 10) the people have spoken.

MY QUESTIONS:

1) Who will be in charge of the wording of the ballot? Will it ask for a simple yes or no, or contain several follow-up issues. For example, if you voted yes for demolition ... Do you want the result to be a park or simply, as some have suggested, only trees and grass?

2) Will we hire a professional pollster?

3) How will the winner be determined -- a simple majority or a “super majority” of say 60% or higher?

4) Would an overwhelming super majority preclude another vote since, say 70% would be a mandate of the residents and be unlikely to be reversed in one or two additional votes?;

5) What if the vote is very close, say 52-48? Would the losing side demand a re-vote?

6) Can the BOT override the will of the people? I hope not!

7) Are there any NY State laws that dictate what is legal in these matters. And,

8) if there is a vote to approve the issuance of bonds to finance the project, are the rules not at the option of the Trustees and perhaps more binding?

CONCLUSIONS. This is all very com-

plicated for sure. I hope that Mayor Flanagan and Counselor Gary Fishberg can publish answers to the questions I have raised and avoid confusion in the interpretation of the outcome(s) of the Oct. 21st poll -- and any future votes.

George M. Salem

St. Paul’s costs

To the Editor:

There are a number of questions that need to be answered before any referendum.

What are the costs for Plan 1 which is to renovate the building complete?

What are the costs for Plan 2 which is to keep the façade and renovate the inside?

What are the costs for Plan 3 which is to tear it down and possibly build a beautiful park?

What have been the costs of maintaining this money pit for over 30 years?

I have not heard the answers to these questions in my over 50 years in the Village.

In the latest issue of the GC News (8/11/23), George Salem, who for years has written the most articulate and well thought out letters, pointed out over 13 reasons why a referendum this fall is Unrealistic. I would encourage residents, and in particular the Village board members, to study this long list of questions that need to be answered before a referendum is taken.

I urge that a referendum be scheduled for and as part of the Village election in March 2024. In advance of that

referendum and village wide election, there could be presentations to the various property owners associations of all of the three plans (not just 1) and their costs, including plans for the demolition of the old building and plans for a park by former village planner Bill Kuhl.

With such a proposal for village wide election and referendum in March, each of the trustees and candidates running for office can state their position with regard to the three options.

John Pittoni, Esq.

Senior tax freeze

To the Editor:

In today’s world, a vast majority of seniors live longer than in the past. Even if there is only one senior left in the house, he or she very often pays the property taxes calculated by the county every year. It seems seniors are not getting a fair deal!

Something has to give! I don’t think retired people 70 years and older, living on a more or less fixed income, should be in the same pool as the working people.

Seniors should still pay some school and general taxes; however, the base (assessed value of the house) on which the calculated taxes are determined and any other % increases need to be FROZEN. Thus, from that point on, the amount of school and general taxes to be paid should remain the same for the years to come.

As I mentioned in my letter given to Garden City News last week, the hor-

College Notes

Alexandra Michael of Garden City graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations with minors in psychology and law & society with Dean’s List distinctions all semesters. A GPA of 3.6 or above is required for Dean’s List. Alexandra was also the recipient of Cornell’s Daniel Alpern award.

n

SUNY Cortland has announced the graduation of Megan Stabile of Garden City.

Megan earned a bachelor’s degree in communications this spring.

n

Veronica McCann (GCHS 2019) graduated summa cum laude in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Adelphi University. In June, she passed the NCLEX to become a registered nurse. n

James Cashwell of Garden City graduated from Villanova University with a BA in communications and double minors in business and engineer-

ing entrepreneurship. James achieved Deans List honors for spring semester ‘23.

n

Ryan Padala of Garden City has been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2023 semester at Washington University in St. Louis. Ryan is enrolled in the Olin Business School. To qualify for the Dean’s List in the Olin Business School, students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.6 or above and be enrolled in at least 14 graded units.

n

Two Garden City students recently received degrees from the University of Wisconsin at Madison:

Alexa Molloy, a student at the College of Letters and Science. She received a degree in Bachelor of Arts, psychology

Brooke Stabile, School of Business, Bachelor of business Administration, business: Finance, Investment and Banking, business: marketing

n

The following Fairfield University

students from Garden City received Dean’s List Honors for the Spring 2023 semester:

John F. Benenati, Marisa Bommarito, Ashley R. Bremer, Maeve D. Cashin, Meghan E. Dealy, Mary Kate Dolan, Hayley E. Fitzsimons, Lauren R. George, Madison R. George, Renee Gollisz, Michael R. Greene, Andrew G. Hartog, Ava K. Herrera, Antonio U. Magnotta, Margaret K. Manning, Logan C. Morrison, Kathleen A. Mullins, Matthew R. Papazian, Ashley M. Sproul

In order to be placed on the Dean’s List, students must have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours in a semester, have no outstanding or incomplete grades for that semester, and have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or better. n

Julia Fornasar, of Garden City was recently named to the 2023 New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) spring AllAcademic Team for women’s lacrosse.

rendous costs of our school system need to be cut. We can’t afford each of the 124 school districts to run their own show. It is necessary to drastically reduce the overhead of the entire school administration which is totally overblown and out of proportion.

To consolidate and run a more price conscious operation is the only answer! This may then also allow the county to give our seniors fairer treatment!

Heinz Mayer

Cannot be replaced

To the Editor:

I totally concur with Jeannette McLaughlin in her letter of Aug. 11 when she asked why not a year-round community center at St. Paul’s.

Having lived in Garden City since 1967, I have not only attended many meetings about St. Paul’s, but have also witnessed the dilution of our values. Once we lose St. Paul’s we will have lost one of our last historic buildings that adds to the charm and distinction of this village. Instead, we will be identified as just another town with a proliferation of McMansions that was unwilling to spend money to preserve history in a meaningful way. Hopefully, we can think about more than our pocketbooks when voting on St. Paul’s, because once it is gone, it cannot be replaced.

Nancy Poz

The recognition honors sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have maintained a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher.

Fornasar, a rising senior majoring in economics, is a graduate of Garden City Senior High School. n

James Madison University is pleased to announce that the following Garden City students made the Dean’s List for theSpring 2023 semester.

Julia Brown, who is majoring in exploratory.

Alexa Ervolino, who is majoring in health sciences - BS.

Students who earn Dean’s List honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of between 3.5 and 3.899.

From page 16

the poll, regardless of the outcome. To be clear, this poll is to inform us on resident sentiment on preservation of part or all of the St. Paul’s Main Building. It is not about whether we should have a community center or a recreation center. These can be part of any of the options that are being discussed. After we learn the community’s sentiment on preservation, it is my plan to immediately focus on addressing demand for a recreation or community center.

Become a Volunteer Firefighter

Part of the great experience of volunteering is learning new skills using the various tools and equipment firefighters carry in their fleet of apparatus. This month, some of GC’s newest probationary volunteer firefighters learned forcible entry techniques using the Department’s training door prop. Also this month, firefighters trained on aerial ladder operations in the Village, and radiological/nuclear weapons of mass destruction in conjunction with FEMA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security training programs. At the Nassau County Fire Service Academy, volunteers received training on emergency and fire response to incidents involving Compressed Natural Gas NICE buses. The academy training also

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

included strategies and tactics in handling these emergencies. Conceptual plans for the Department’s very own training facility at the old Village Incinerator building are under review. Conceptual plans include new drainage, hydrants, security fencing and access gates. Volunteers respond to hundreds of calls for assistance throughout the year, helping fellow neighbors in their time of need. If interested in volunteering, visit the Department’s Recruitment page, email membership@gcfdny.com or call 516-465-4142.

E-Waste items accepted

The Garden City Municipal Service Yard, located at 2 Cherry Valley Avenue, accepts e-waste products. The following is a list of acceptable items:

• Amplifiers

• Batteries

• Cables

• Cameras

• CD-ROM

• Cell Phones

• Computers & Mice

• Copiers

• CRT Monitors

• CRT Televisions

• DVD Players

• Digital Cameras

• Fax Machines

• Floppy Drives

• Game Systems

• Hard Drives

• Holiday Lights

• Keyboards

• Laptops

• LCD Monitors

• LCD TVs

• Network Equipment

• Plasma TVs

• Power Supplies

• Printers

• Routers

• Scanners

• Servers

• Speakers

• Switches

• Telecom

• VHS Tapes

• Wireless Equipment

Exceptions: No kitchen appliances, Freon units, washers, dryers, blow dryers, electric razors or microwaves.

Blood Drive at Library August 23rd

New York Blood Services will hold a blood drive at the Garden City Public Library on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room on the lower level of the Library. Area hospitals are in need of local residents’ help. Each donation can help to save up to three lives. All donors will receive a voucher for a $10 Gift Card of their choice (electronically fulfilled). Appointments are strongly preferred, walk-ins are welcomed only if capac-

THE OFFICE CAT

cell phone while driving on August 13th.

Underage marijuana

ity permits. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-688-0900 to schedule an appointment or for any medical questions concerning blood donations or visit the Garden City Public Library website at www.gardencitypl.org.

Happening This Week in Garden City

Friday, August 18 - 31

Regular Library hours. Tweens & Teens Art Show at the Library.

Friday, August 18

12:30 p.m. Bobby Menges Memorial Blood Drive. Roosevelt Field Mall North Court.

6:00 p.m. Friday Night Promenade: Nashville Night on Seventh Street

Saturday, August 19

10:00 a.m. Defensive Driving Course at the Library. Registration required.

Sunday, August 20th

2:00 p m Music at the Pool: Country Line Band. Guest fees apply.

Monday, August 21st

1:30 p.m. Monday Movie Matinee: Book Club: The Next Chapter

Tuesday, August 22nd

2:30 p.m. Line or Chair Dancing with Felicia at the Senior Center

Wednesday, August 23rd

1:00 p.m. Blood Drive at the Library. Appointments preferred.

Thursday, August 24th

1:15 p.m. Chi Kung with Andrea at the Senior Center. Nominal charge.

Gas blower tickets

A landscaper was charged with unlawfully using gas leaf blowers on August 12th.

Unlicensed operation

A Brook Street motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and passing a stop sign on August 12th.

Harassment report

Officers investigated a possible harassment incident that occurred at Garden City Plaza on August 12th.

Porch pirate

A male subject was seen on surveillance cameras stealing a package from a Brook Street porch on August 13th.

Damaged power lines

On August 13th the GCFD, GCPD, and the Tree Department responded to Stratford Avenue for a fallen tree limb that damaged power lines and obstructed the roadway. The area was safeguarded until PSEG corrected the condition.

Unlicensed operation

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and using a

No SOS

On August 13th Garden City Police responded to Garden City Plaza for a vehicle SOS activation and determined that all was in order.

Carbon monoxide alarm

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a residence for a CO alarm on August 13th. Firefighters deemed the area clear.

Items purloined

Items were reportedly stolen from a Franklin Avenue gym locker on August 14th.

Lights out

Garden City Police responded to Clinton Road and Stewart Avenue on August 14th for multiple traffic light malfunctions due to a power outage. Officers conducted traffic control until power was restored.

Two false alarms

On August 14th the GCFD and GCPD responded to two fire alarms at a 7th Street building. Firefighters determined both were false alarms.

A youth was cited for possessing and smoking marijuana at the Garden City RR Station and was released to a family member on August 14th.

Faulty battery

On August 14th the GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence for a fire alarm. They determined the cause to be a faulty battery.

Suspended license

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license, unregistered vehicle, and improper plates on August 14th.

Construction alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence for a fire alarm on August 14th. They determined the cause to be ongoing construction.

Excessive speed

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed on August 14th.

Faulty switch

Garden City firefighters assisted a homeowner by disconnecting a stove that had a faulty ignition switch on August 14th..

Workplace altercation

On August 15th Garden City Detectives arrested a 48-year-old man for allegedly throwing a screwdriver at a coworker, almost striking and injuring him. He was charged with attempted assault and criminal possession of a weapon.

Credit fraud

On August 15th a resident’s identity was used to open an unauthorized credit card account which was subsequently used to make several fraudulent purchases.

Alarm error

On August 15th the GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence for a fire alarm. They determined it was sent in error.

Fallen limb

Garden City Police safeguarded a fallen tree limb blocking Edgemere Road on August 15th. Parks personnel responded and cleared the road.

Burnt food

On August 15th the GCFD and GCPD responded to a Franklin Avenue business for a fire alarm and determined the cause to be burnt food.

Environmental Board plans monthly presentations

From page 3

municipality on Long Island doing this so far. We will check with Westchester contacts as there was an article circulated on their efforts to do this. Similar to our research on efforts to curb the gas-powered leaf blowers we will find more information to bring us up to date on implementation of the cameras, and

NYC has also begun to use the cameras,” the mayor said.

The upcoming “noise session” was considered a good topic to include updates on TVASNAC – in the Town of Hempstead, the Town-Village Aircraft Safety & Noise Abatement Committee –as well as general airplane noise issues Long Islanders face.

The EAB was determined to high-

light the process ahead for the Nassau Hub Sands Casino which must include a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) and a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) following public input and reviews. The statements will include studies on the potential negative impacts on the water supply, local traffic, pollution of various kinds.

A November topic was debated for

the use and recycling of cardboard, in anticipation of the holiday season and an increase to the amount of cardboard residents will be handling. The EAB also continued to schedule topics and lead presenters among their group, through to the spring of 2024 with considerations of the student Science Research projects to showcase.

No book ban here, but Library resolves issue

responded by reaffirming the Library policy that we do not ban books and remove signage. The Library Board stands by this policy.”

In spite of the strong feelings on either side of the issue, audience members at the board’s August 14th meeting found common ground and appeared satisfied after the board explained its policy with regard to controversial materials in the children’s and young adult collections.

During the public comment section of the meeting, resident Mary Beth Miranda discussed a recent request that she had made for the library to reconsider a graphic novel, Let’s Talk About It - The Teen’s Guide to Sex, Relationships and Being a Human by Ericka Moen and Matthew Nolan, which had been shelved with books for tweens and young adults.

To illustrate her concerns, Miranda passed out copies of some of the pages of the book, which contained very explicit drawings of characters engaging in sexual acts. Miranda said she appreciated

that the board had listened to an earlier request about another book, and asked that Let’s Talk About it be placed behind the Adult Reference Desk, out of the reach of children.

As part of the meeting’s agenda, the Board clarified its Collection Development Policy and how it decides which books to select or to remove from circulation.

According to the policy, books are removed from circulation for reasons such as low circulation, or damage to the item, but the policy now states, “The Library does not deselect books based on particular beliefs or views. The Library provides materials for various opinions, which can apply to important, complex, and controversial questions. Language, situations or subjects that may be offensive to some community members do not disqualify material whose value is to be judged in its entirety.”

Board Chairman Colahan said that when the Library receives a request to reconsider an item in its collection, the item will be reviewed by a panel of three librarians for possible reclassification.

In the case of Let’s Talk About It, and six other items in the Young Adult section, the librarians recommended that they be reclassified and re-shelved in the adult sections of the library. They would still be available to all, but not part of the collections aimed at younger patrons.

In addition, the library is looking into creating a pilot project of moving books for teens to a separate area, closer to the adult sections of the library.

Library Board member Colleen Foley commented that none of the books will be placed behind the reference desk.

Published author Lee Durfey Lavoie, and illustrator Veronica Agarwal, who were in attendance at the meeting to object to book bans, expressed satisfaction at the board’s resolution.

“Thank you for not putting items behind the reference desk,” said Lavoie.

For her part, Mrs. Miranda said that she appreciated that the board had listened to her concerns and will move the items out of the tweens section.

In other business, the Library Board also discussed changes to its grounds to

improve safety. The Library will be adding several concrete planters between its front doors and the street that will be large enough to stop a vehicle from being driven into the building. It will also replace some outdoor lighting, benches and trees.

At the request of Library Director Marianne Malagon, the library will also ban bicycles and motorized vehicles (except those needed as assistive devices for mobility impaired people). Bikes will not be permitted within 25 feet of the entrance. Malagon said there has been an increase in people bringing bicycles into the library.

Malagon also asked that the Library Board ask the Garden City Fire Department for an opinion about whether the bike rack should be moved further from the Library’s walls. Patrons have been parking electric bikes there, and several members of the board had concerns over possible fires from defective batteries on the e-bikes.

LV Sands Casino applies for town zoning change

From page 1

Sands will need to win one of three gaming licenses from New York State, and also will need support from a local community advisory panel and a state site selection panel.

Earlier this year, the Nassau County Legislature voted 17-1 to lease the property to LV Sands for 99 years.

The Say No To the Casino Civic Association objected to the material in

the town application.

“After disingenuously implying in their talking points that the casino will be small, by emphasizing the gaming floor will be only 10% of it’s footprint, LVS reported in the zoning application that its behemoth casino will be 393,726 sq.ft. - the size of seven football fields - which would make it the second-largest casino in the country. LVS expects annual gambling losses to exceed $2

billion/yr, because the casino footprint will be on a scale not even seen in Las Vegas. And let’s not forget that most of the $2 billion will likely come from Long Islanders, not tourists.” said Rich Catalano of Garden City, after reviewing the LVS document.

“Make no mistake, LVS is hungry to take root in our community to drive as many people as they can to their gaming floor. LVS’ other casinos generate more

than 70% of revenues from gambling. Everything else they propose to buildthe restaurants, spa, hotel rooms, etc - is designed to drive people to the casino floor. And the one they want to build in the Town of Hempstead will be colossal. I expect the elected officials in the Town of Hempstead will reject LVS’ request. Why would our elected officials let LVS move in and prey on their own constituents?” said Lynn Krug of Garden City.

Costs of water remediation pile up as Village reviews bills

From page 1

increasingly during the phasing-in of the village’s water remediation equipment to treat the drinking water supply for emerging contaminants, the firm has provided an array of services ranging from project designs to the replacement of the water tower on Old Country Road.

Administrator Suozzi said he’s received data from the municipal Finance office as well as from H2M, including contractual engagement paperwork (with numbers) from as far back as 2014. Over the nearly 10-year stretch, the four major categories of the firm’s work in Garden City consist of engineering work; the new Village of Garden City water tank project; emerging contaminant (1,4 dioxane) and treatment systems’ management as well as the more recent issues around lead contamination, corrosion control for piping and the sampling and investigations into the water distribution system.

From 2014 to 2023, costs for Garden City related to H2M’s engineering work totaled $1,161,000, according to Administrator Suozzi. The costs for H2M’s services related to the new elevated water tank on Old Country Road totaled $721,154.

For their work involving emerging contaminants’ treatment, the village had a cost of $4.8 million for its water system consultants, H2M, but of that amount roughly $825,000 was directed to other vendors during the emergency (interim) phase, Suozzi told the Board of Trustees at its July 20 meeting.

In 2019, the running cost for H2M’s services related to the emerging contaminants in the water supply started at approximately $360,000. But in 2020, the “most intense work” for the village in procuring and planning for AOP equipment resulted in almost $2 million paid to H2M.

In 2021 that cost resulted in another

$1.5 million due to the consultants.

“With the emerging contaminants, while I am not an expert in this area but based on my conversations with H2M, when New York State identifies a new emerging contaminant they want you to regulate they usually provide a 2 to 3 year window where you can develop the treatments and test them. With the AOP systems we had almost three months, and if it were not for the pandemic, we would have been found to be out-of-compliance in that fourth month. Deferrals were provided to communities that were actively designing and implementing these treatment systems as we were, as long as we maintained and reported on them on a quarterly basis, as information went on our village website consistently. Our deferral for the State regulations ended in May of 2022,” Suozzi said.

To date, for H2M’s work performed in just 2022 and 2023 related to lead contamination, corrosion controls and sampling of village water, their services’ cost for the village to bear totals $503,000.

“Overall, over the 10 years the costs total about $7.2 million for H2M. If you take out the once-in-a-lifetime elevated water tank replacement, and the once-in-a-lifetime emerging contaminants’ work and hopefully the oncein-a-lifetime lead contamination issues, in all the general work we have spent about $116,000 per year for H2M’s services. With Water Superintendent Stan Carey, he and I actually spoke with them through a Webex session, and we discussed which opportunities are specialized to require their chemist or their water personnel, as some tasks require software and not just knowledge. One of the early targets we think we can pull out of this early target is to have some more of the GIS (geographic information systems) through some steps taken in-house, as we have spent approximately $40,000 on this service.

GIS services were identified within our last two village budgets as an area of interest and they have a great future role for us. We actually think the village might have the need for a full time GIS person,” Suozzi reported to the Board. He noted this position might be created for fiscal year 2024-2025.

In the interim while H2M remains at the forefront of contracted engineering services, the village will be working with its Engineering staff to have them gain more GIS skills.

“They’ll come out of Engineering schools with AutoCAD training but GIS is very specialized. We started this data and software use back with the Finance Department as we had to sort our lots between village-owned and Nassau County parcels. One of the consultants we worked with for GIS, Chris Kobos, was with Sidney Bowne AET Group at the time. He then went to work at H2M (now as director of GIS Services) and we followed him there. He has been providing us with this service, but in the longterm we feel it is something the village needs to bring in-house,” Administrator Suozzi shared at the July meeting.

Another example of H2M’s scope of involvement in village engineering-related work, Suozzi spoke about the property next to the new water tank with the parking lot of The Ethical Humanist Society. There was originally a plan for this lot’s resurfacing project, to be completed by the Village of Garden City, to be managed by H2M. The plan has changed and the Department of Public Works will be taking this project in-house, with the coordination of the village’s engineers.

“We are trying to use our own people more on these projects. In the last three years it has been confusing with COVID, the loss of some staff, and we had to work for expediency versus trying to spread the work out among different engineering firms. I am not done with this (reporting and evaluating of

consultant’s workloads) and while there is more to be done it appears that most of their work has been specialized and a graph that I am creating has a hump but then levels off. All the engineering services are in a very steady, smooth line as it has been remaining steady over the years,” Suozzi explained.

Trustee Ed Finneran presented a follow-up question on H2M’s work in Garden City regarding the work on well sites and treatments for emerging contaminants.

“You said the total was in the ballpark of $4.8 million. I believe the village is part of a class action lawsuit in the emerging contaminant area. In the unlikely scenario that there’s a settlement, is there a chance we could benefit from that settlement with an action taken due to some of the damages caused here?” he asked.

Administrator Suozzi confirmed that there are “rumblings” of a settlement in a case with DuPont.

Overall the emerging contaminants in the water supply have cost Garden City between $50 million and $53 million but about 50% of the expenses will be received from the New York State Environmental Facilities’ Corporation (EFC) funds, Suozzi told the Board of Trustees.

“If you look at it in that way, the $4.8 million would be cut to $2.4 million. There was also the Genesco settlement years ago, for contamination at village wells 13 and 14 on the grounds of Garden City Country Club, and Water Superintendent Carey has been discussing it with our environmental attorney David Yudelson. We think the 1,4 dioxane should have been a part of that lawsuit. We are investigating if there’s any possibility of that case being reopened and we would report on it to the Board if and when we reach that point of information,” he explained.

IN MEMORIAM

Thomas Joseph Bradley

Thomas Joseph Bradley passed away peacefully at his home in his sleep on Thursday August 3rd. He was 63 years old.

Thomas was born in Mineola, NY at Nassau Hospital to Margaret and Joseph Bradley on March 12, 1960. He was the older brother to twins, William and Bryan. Thomas was a student of St Thomas the Apostle in West Hempstead and St Agnes of Rockville Centre. He studied at Iona College and Nassau Community College before attending The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY.

Thomas worked in the restaurant industry for many years on Long Island and in ST Thomas, UVI. Until he met the love of his life during a scuba diving trip to Ginne Springs,

Fla. He married Melissa Jenine Urban of Garden City in 1999. Together they celebrate 24 years of love, happiness, and family. Tom was the lucky recipient of a Kidney in 1998 and again in 2015, when his wife, Melissa, found out she was a perfect match.

Thomas was an avid scuba diver who received his PADI Dive Instructor Certification. He and Melissa vacationed 3-4 times a year, scuba diving with best friends Ted and Carla Gutman, of Oceanside, NY.

Tom chose to work in Airline Catering in order to create a better family life. Soon after this, they adopted Emily Anne who became the focal point of their lives. Tom loved to cook and was the Chef at every holiday. The family enjoyed traveling and dining. Tom especially loved taking Emily to Hershey Park for fun and thrills. He was a devoted dad and

husband. Their most recent travels took the family to the Outer Banks, NC with longtime friends the Dalias and the Rosados.

Tom is survived by his wife Melissa, his daughter Emily Anne, his brother William and his brother and sister-in-law Daniel and Diane Kessler. He leaves behind an extended family of cousins and more cousins across the tristate area that recall fond memories of growing up with him. Tom is survived by his 3 best friends, Daniel Slattery, Pete Kazane and Ed Anderson. His two dogs, Bailey and Cooper; 22 Koi Pond fish and one stray 7week old kitten.

Tom will forever be remembered for his humor, his strong work ethic, his cheerful demeanor and his love of family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Kidney Foundation.

IN MEMORIAM

studies on Construction Management and eventually ran his own firm in the UK specializing in Listed Home and Building renovations.

While visiting family in New York City in 2011, Mark and Kathleen met and later married in 2013. Mark left the UK and the couple settled in New York City until 2015 when they moved to Kathleen ’ s childhood home in Garden City. This past February 2023, the couple relocated to Southport, North Carolina to begin building a new home for their retirement in St James Properties.

Mark was the consummate gentleman, kind and warm to all he met. He had a cheeky sense of humor and an easy smile. He enjoyed golf and tennis and reading and an occasional nap. His passing is far too sudden to all his family and friends.

Mark Christopher Alcock

Mark Christopher Alcock

Mark Christopher Alcock passed away suddenly in the early evening of July 26th while playing in a USTA tennis match with his wife Kathleen.

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 and visitation services, and/or any donation requests to editor@gcnews.com, or call our office at 516-294-8900 to inquire.

Mark was born June 29th, 1963 in Surrey, England, the 3rd of 5 children to Derek (deceased) and Carmel Alcock. In school, he focused his

Mark is survived by his wife, Kathleen Murphy Alcock, his mother Carmel Alcock, siblings John (Jane) Alcock, Jane (John) Kelly, Carol (Billy) Alcock Holmes, Helen (Neil) Watson and his stepson, William Simpson. He was a fun brotherin-law to Elizabeth (Dan) Cooke, Helen Marie Sweeney, Kristin (Jon) Murphy H ubschman and Jeanine (Jim - deceased) Murphy. He also leaves behind 17 nieces and nephews both in the US and the UK.

A funeral service is planned for Wednesday, August 23rd at 11am at St Joseph ’ s Roman Catholic Church in Garden Ci ty, New York.

Thomas J. Bradley

IN MEMORIAM

Marco Anthony Ireland

Marco Anthony Ireland, age 54, passed away peacefully at home on July 29 from pancreatic cancer, an illness he faced with unwavering courage. Born on December 1, 1968, Marco lived a life of purpose, humor, and love, leaving an unforgettable imprint on everyone he met.

He was a proud product of the Garden City public school system, where he discovered his passion for sports. Marco played on the lacrosse team and excelled in football, gaining a spot on the all-county team. After high school, Marco attended Johns Hopkins University, earning a degree in Economics and continuing to express his love for football as a defensive lineman on the university field.

A spirit of entrepreneurship marked Marco’s professional life. He worked in New York City for several years, making lifelong friendships through his work and playing recreational softball. He ventured into business, starting Clear Green Partners and later Hone, a marketing firm. His last and favorite professional endeavor was with Eilerson Development Corporation (EDC), where he served in business development.

Surviving Marco are his wife, Rebecca; his children, John, Callie, and Keegan; his loving mother, Catherine Ireland; his sister, Mary Ann; and his two brothers, John and James. Marco’s father, John Ireland, predeceased him.

Marco's legacy will continue to live on through his family, his friends, and the countless lives he touched. His strength, humor, and love have left an indelible mark that will forever be cherished. Marco will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center or the Richmond YMCA.

IN MEMORIAM

Mary Ann Stenard

Mary Ann Stenard died on August 3, 2023, in Garden City where she lived with her daughter and son in law and their three children. She died shortly after joyfully celebrating her 100th birthday. Prior residence was at 99 7th Street in Garden City with her beloved husband Robert Stenard.

Mary Ann was born May 22, 1923 to Lena and John Mirra in Sunnyside Queens. She was the oldest of eight children. She married Peter San Miguel in 1945 and had four children who she raised in Great Neck. After being widowed she married Harry Green and cared for him until his death from cancer in 1974. She married Irving Gruber in 1984 and sadly he passed from cancer. She met Robert Stenard in 1994 and they shared the same zest for life and they lived happily together until his death in 2012.

During her lifetime she was a credit analyst at Canon USA and sold real estate in Florida and Long Island, yet her employment never defined her. She was a dedicated wife and mother, tireles caregiver, a vocal and unapologetic advocate for peace, human rights and those in need and always conducted herself with grace and beauty. A smart, kind and giving person who wanted others to share in whatever she had. She kept her curiosity, desire for fun and never stopped wanting to learn.

She is survived by her children Lauren San Miguel and husband Mark Langley; Peter San Miguel and wife Dawn San

IN MEMORIAM

Patricia (Colahan) Cunningham of Garden City, NY died peacefully on August 13, 2023 at the age of 86. Wife of Robert (deceased), and beloved mother of Robert L. Cunningham, III (Elizabeth), Judith Cunningham, and Eileen Cunningham Feikens (David). Adored grandmother of Andrew Cunningham, Grace Leon (Paul), Mary Cunningham, Julia Feikens, and Jon Feikens. Preceded in death by her sisters, Joan Metzner, Anne Vaughan and Loretta Nagle; and brother, Donald Colahan. She leaves behind many nieces and nephews, all of whom treasured her love, her fun and vivacious spirit, and her commitment to excellence.

Born in Jamaica, NY, on June 17th, 1937, Patricia (Pat) graduated from St. Joseph School, Sacred Heart Academy, and the College of New Rochelle. Following her graduation from college,

she studied for a master’s degree in education at Queens College and taught in elementary schools in Massapequa and Mineola, NY.

Later in life, Pat began a long and distinguished career in academic administration, first in admissions and public relations at The School of the Holy Child, Old Westbury, NY. She went on to hold a variety of roles in the admissions offices of Adelphi University, Hofstra University and Long Island University, C.W. Post.

Pat’s love and commitment to Garden City was reflected in her lifetime of service in numerous capacities. She served on the Garden City League of Mercy Medical Center and as a director of the Garden City Central Property Owners’ Association.

An active and dedicated member of the Parish of St. Joseph, she served alongside her husband Robert in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

program and later with the Ministry of Consolation.

Pat led an active lifestyle. She was the first female lifeguard at the Garden City Pool and played on women’s tennis teams at the Garden City Casino. Her favorite pastimes included entertaining, playing tennis and golf, days at the beach, attending the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic, the NYC Ballet and theater productions, visiting museums, reading, and traveling the world with her husband and their friends.

She was recognized by all as a woman of class and elegance, a loyal friend, a dedicated colleague, and a proud and loving matriarch.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Maryknoll Lay Missioners, P.O. Box 307, Maryknoll, NY 10545 https://mklm.org/support-us/donation-liz-bob-cunningham/

Have you lost someone?

Miguel; Susan Joslyn and husband Lenny Joslyn; Stepdaughter Jean Stenard. She had seven grandchildren David, Todd, Greg, Laura, Michael, Jack and Anna. She had six great grandchildren Dakota, Brooke, Henry, Claire, Ella and Wesley, siblings Geri Amos and John Mirra and sisters in law Marie and Diane Mirra and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband Robert Stenard, daughter Cheryl Maffetore and siblings Joey, Lilly, Michael, Margie and Frankie and siblings in law Joe, Mary, Salvatore, Diana and Artie.

If you would like to post an obituary for a loved one, simply send a short biography of them along 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.

Marco Anthony Ireland

Mary Ann Stenard

Patricia Cunningham

Patricia Cunningham

GC Women’s Tennis Team wins Eastern championship

your jeans at the Promenade

BY REGINA MORAN

Having three tennis clubs in one Village can surely separate friends who love to play together. Laura Crain and her co-captain Cristina Handal decided to put an end to that by creating a 2.5 United States Tennis Association team made up of friends who play at Cherry Valley Country Club, GC Casino and Garden City Country Club. The team beat out all other competi-

tors over the season and represented Long Island at the 2023 USTA Adult League 18 & over 2.5 Women in Schenectady this past weekend. They played and won against teams representing Southern NY, Western NY, Northern NY and NJ to become the Eastern Champions! Next up, they will be going to the National Championship set in Tucson, AZ at the end of September to compete for the title of 2.5 Champions! Good luck ladies!

This Friday night at the Promenade recycle with Madewell and Douglas Elliman. Your jeans are trash, but they don’t have to be. For a limited time, join Madewell at Douglas Elliman, Garden City from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. and you’ll get $50 off a fresh pair of jeans when you bring in your preloved pairs from any brand. They’ll keep them out of landfills by recycling or reselling them, and you’ll scoop up this special offer (that’s a win-win). Get it while you can. Visit https://www.madewell.com/ do-well/recycling.html Can’t make the promenade? Douglas Elliman will be accepting preloved jeans through Wednesday August 23.

Sivan Chapman, Marie Romeo-Gough, Lindsey Rosenberg, Caitlin Sorohan, Elise Chamberlain and Laura Crain.

The Islanders Street Hockey Clinic is Back!

Join us this fall for a 6-week Street Hockey clinic as Garden City Recreation and Parks partners with the NY Islanders to provide this program! This special program introduces children in grades K–5 to the game of hockey in a non-competitive instructional clinic!

This clinic will be held at Community Park’s Hockey rink on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. starting September 13 to October 18. The cost will be $165 per person which will include instruction, an Islanders street hockey stick and gift bag. No skates or equipment is necessary. Space is limited. To register, please go online to https://newyorkislanders.formstack. com/forms/garden_city_recreation_ and_parks_street_hockey

US Sports Institute/Pulse Camps are Back for the Fall

Building upon the enormous success of the US Sports Institute, USA Sport Group has extended its product range to offer, Pulse, as the next level in coaching education. Classes are offered on school holidays for ages 5–11 as well as weekly programs on Saturdays and Sundays for ages 2–5.

Pulse Premier Sports Programs offer elite specialized coaching programs for children of all skill levels. At this Garden City location, we offer a wide range of sports camps in conjunction with the Village of Garden City Recreation & Parks Department. With quality sports programming, highly qualified staff and specialized curriculums, this is certainly the best sports camp in Garden City.

Spaces are limited each week, so register early to avoid disappointment!

To see the offerings or to register, please visit US Sports Institute’s website at www.ussportsinstitute.com.

Chi Kung Exercise and Meditation with Andrea

Please join Andrea Albergo for Chi Kung, which is considered a beautiful, peaceful path for body, mind and spirit. Andrea will show how to create a peaceful body by combining movement, breathing and meditation. This class is geared for seniors or the beginner adult. This seven week session will begin Thursday, September 14, and will be held at 1 p.m. at Garden City’s Senior Center. The price for the session is $45.

To register this class, please visit the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave with payment.

Adult Art Class at Cluett Hall

The Garden City’s Department of Recreation and Parks will offer an adult art class this fall. This ten-week program will teach the beginner as well as the advanced student the art of painting portraits and landscapes/still-life in pastel from photographs. Arleen Rueth Urban, the instructor for this program, is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America.

Classes will be held Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. The cost of this program will be $ 140. This class is open to adult residents who reside in the Inc. Village of Garden City. Classes are held in St. Paul’s Cluett Hall beginning Friday, September 8.

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

own pace and level of expertise.

To register for this session please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. If you have a password, you may register online at gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

Recreation and Parks’ Dance Conservatory Schedule for 2023–24

The Garden City’s Department of Recreation and Parks’ Dance Conservatory Program is pleased to announce the schedule of classes for its upcoming 2023–2024 season! Director Felicia Lovaglio, along with the rest of her staff, are excited to start off another fantastic year. The Dance Conservatory offers classes to Garden City residents aged 3½ years through adult which are non-performance based. Age is determined by the start date of the desired class. The schedule and fees for this year’s youth classes are as follows (all classes are 55 minutes long unless otherwise noted):

Please note: This is the schedule of classes only. Registration will be announced on our website at www.gardencityrecreation.org and in the paper shortly after school begins. No registrations will be taken at this time.

Monday

• 4:00: Ballet/Jazz (K–1)

• 5:00: Contemporary/Jazz (2nd–3rd Grades)

• 6:00: Ballet (4th–5th Grades)

• 7:00: Jazz (6th Grade and Up)

Tuesday

• 12:15: Creative Combo (3.5–5 Years Old)

• 4:00: Ballet/Hip Hop (K–1)

• 5:00: Jazz/Hip Hop (4th & 5th Grades)* (new time)

• 6:00: Jazz/Hip Hop (6th and Up)* (new time)

• 8:00: Adult Dance Combo

Wednesday

• 10:15: Creative Combo (3.5–5 Years Old)

• 6:00: Tap (4th & 5th Grades)

• 7:00: Lyrical (6th Grade and Up)

Thursday

• 12:15: Creative Combo (3.5-5 Years Old)

• 4:00: Ballet/Tap (K–1)

• 5:00: Ballet (2nd & 3rd Grades)

• 6:00: Jazz (4th & 5th Grades)

• 7:00: Jazz (6th Grade and Up)

Friday

• 4:00: Ballet/Hip Hop (K–1)

• 5:00: Ballet/Hip Hop (2nd & 3rd Grades)

• 6:00: Lyrical (4th & 5th Grades)

• 7:00: Ballet (6th Grade and Up)

Saturday

• 10:00: Ballet/Hip Hop (K–1)

• 11:00: Creative Combo (3.5–5 Years Old)

• 2:00: Tap (6th Grade and Up)

• 3:00: High School Jazz

GC Recreation & Parks Presents

Mad Science Summer Camp

Mad Science of Long Island is a company who provides a wonderful learning experience in a camp setting. Residents of the Village of Garden City entering grades 1–5 are encouraged to attend. The topics and details for each camp are listed below.

For any Science Camp, all checks should be made payable to LI Steam Group. To register, please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

FOR ALL WEEKS:

Where: St. Paul’s Center

Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m

Fee: $350, checks only made payable to LI Steam Group

Weekly topics are:

August 21–25

Topic: Crazy Chemworks for Entering Grades 2–5

Participants will learn real lab techniques and safety procedures while using these throughout the week making crazy concoctions and chemical combinations. Glow in the dark,

GC Bombers are undefeated champions

The Garden City Bombers.

The 10U Garden City Bombers are undefeated Champions. The Bombers finished their summer season 8-0 with a whopping 85 runs scored (over 10 runs per game) and only 17 runs against. The team collectively hit for a .446 batting average with a .574 on base percentage.

The season featured two no-hitters with dynamite pitching from Austin Rigano, Luke Ianni, Jack Williams, John Cruickshanks, and John Allabashi. The team did not give up a single run until their 4th game.

The highlight of the season came in the Bombers’ 7th game when the team was losing 6-5 in the bottom on the 5th when Bobby Mangieri came to the plate with the bases loaded and crushed a game winning grand slam. In the same game, John Cruickshanks pitched 3+ scoreless innings, Tristan Keeby hit a homer -

un that landed on the moon, and Jason Mirabella hit two rockets that caused the other coach to check his bat to make sure it was legal (it was).

In another game, Tristan Keeby was brought in to pitch with the bases loaded and one out in the bottom of the last inning in a 7-5 game. He brushed off the pressure by striking out both batters and preserving the Bombers’ winning streak. Bennett Reni led off that game with a rocket single and eventually scored, allowing the team to jump out to an early lead. In the Bombers’ last game, Jack Williams nearly hit for the cycle going 3 for 4 with a single, triple and home run and Anthony York picked up the save while going 2 for 3 with 3 runs scored.

Donald Clavin was a warrior behind the plate all season long, throwing runners out stealing and holding onto balls while getting

run over at the plate for huge outs. Incredible defensive plays were made by John Allabashi, Jason Mirabella, and Bennett Reni. Opposing pitchers could not stop Luke Ianni and Austin Rigano who were seemingly always

on base.

The team’s head coach is Nick Rigano and assistant coaches are Anthony Ianni and Dave Mirabella. On to the fall season.

Let’s go Bombers!

The team enjoys a snack to celebrate its victory.

Celebrating an amazing season: Battlehawks shine bright

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Middle

BY JUNE MICHALAK

As the sun sets on another delightful summer, we gather to celebrate the culmination of an extraordinary journey for our 8U Battlehawks. With smiles, determination, and unwavering team spirit, these young athletes have truly shown us what it means to play the game.

The past few months have witnessed not just baseball matches, but a journey of growth, sportsmanship, and camaraderie. From their first practices to their end of season games, this team of talented kids has managed to capture the hearts of fans, parents, and coaches alike.

Led by their dedicated coaching staff, these young athletes learned not only the fundamentals of baseball but also essential life skills. Through wins and losses, they exemplified the true spirit of sportsmanship, showing respect for their opponents, officials, and each other. Their ability to handle both victory and defeat with grace and humility has truly been inspiring.

One of the most remarkable aspects

of this season has been the teamwork displayed on and off the field. These eight-year-olds learned the value of collaboration, communication, and trust, working together to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. The bond they formed during their practices and games will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, fostering friendships that will continue long after the season ends.

As the season comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the parents and to each player for giving their all and creating a season filled with unforgettable memories. We also applaud the coaches for their commitment to nurturing both skills and values in these young athletes.

While this season might be over, we celebrate a season filled with hard work, laughter, and countless high-fives. As these young athletes hang up their gloves for now, they carry with them the pride of a season well-played and the promise of many more adventures on and off the field. Congratulations to the Batlehawks for a truly remarkable season!

Attention students!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA?

Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity?

We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be seen in our paper!

Sports Events

Portraits

Top row: Coach Callow, Coach Michalak, Coach Acquavito.

row: Michael Sofia, Wyatt Acquavito, Xander Eppler, Emilio Ciaravino, Jack Williamson, Ryan Williamson.

Bottom row: Luke Barnett, Matthew Urban, Ryan Donelan, Grant Michalak, Owen Sampson.

Not pictured: Peter Callow and Finn Allabashi.

Mary Krener Fortune Heaney Peter Kerantzas Lisa Heaney Stephen Ripp Lynn Puccio

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk

Ann Collins Claudia Galvin

Rene Blair Alyson Bremer Christine Cudahy Manager

Patricia Costello Gregory Abruzzo

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Linda Mulrooney

Susan MacDonald

Patricia Dickson

Eileen O’Hara

Geannie Murray