The Garden City News (11/15/24) by Litmor Publishing

LONG ISLAND CHAMPIONS

The Garden City High School Field Hockey team will be heading to the state championships after winning the Long Island Championship. See page 54

Report: Turf fields pose health risks

BY RIKKI MASSAND

School board outraged over state’s regionalization plans

BY KASSARA MCELROY

The Garden City Board of Education held a special session on Tuesday, November 12th to address the New York State Education Department’s (NYSED) push for regionalization—a controversial initiative that has sparked concerns over local autonomy and the future of district operations.

Understanding regionalization

The NYSED’s new regionalization plan, introduced as

an emergency regulation in September, aims to promote equity and operational efficiency across school districts. Under this plan, districts are at minimum required to complete a “Strengths and Needs” survey to gauge readiness for potential collaborations. There is a quick-turn, early-December deadline for districts to complete.

Board President Joseph Sileo questioned the survey’s extensive scope of data collec-

See page 29

St. Paul’s survey approval postponed, again

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Following the fall sports season, residents observed poor conditions at the St. Paul’s grass fields, a frequent issue raised by youth sports organizers and the Recreation Department.

Trustee Michele Harrington, EAB co-chair, noted that the topic of expanding turf fields has come up in Board of Trustees and Recreation

The Garden City Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) meeting on Wednesday, November 13th featured two presentations with valuable information and insights into health and public safety concerns on several village playing fields. The topics included Garden City’s pesticide-free field treatment protocol, the first in Nassau County, and the potential dangers of synthetic turf fields.

Commission meetings, driven by the deteriorating grass fields and increased demand for playing surfaces.

Jordan Christensen, Program Coordinator for the Farmingdale-based Citizens Campaign for the Environment, presented “Health and Environmental Impacts of Artificial Turf and PFAS Chemicals, and How We Can Protect Our Community.”

See page 44

At the Garden City Village Board meeting on November 7, consultant John Bucher, a senior planner from Brandstetter Carroll Inc. (BCI), presented updates on finalizing a survey for residents to gather input on the historic St. Paul’s building and its potential for community use. However, the board postponed approval of the survey, with six trustees voting to delay, and only Mayor

Carter Flanagan and Deputy Mayor Bruce Chester supporting immediate action.

The Board of Trustees hit another wall with its discussion of finalizing the St. Paul’s Survey, as concerns were aired later in the evening. Following a motion from Trustee Ed Finneran to postpone the vote to approve the St. Paul’s Survey contents, the Board voted to push the process back again, with six trustees voting for the

See page 51

The Guide to Garden City

In this week’s issue we are pleased to present our annual Guide to Garden City, a compendium of useful information about living in Garden City. It is printed in a booklet size, with more durable paper and cover so that it can be kept for reference throughout the year. We hope you enjoy it.

The Guide is a large project for us, and we hope that we have gotten everything in it right. However if we haven’t, or if there is information you would like to see in future issues, please drop us a line at editor@gcnews.com. We take all suggestions!

As we do each year when we publish the Guide, we distribute this issue of the

paper to all addresses in the zip code. So if you are not a subscriber, consider this issue and the Guide our gift to you.

Each week our pages are filled with news about the community and its activities. If you are not a subscriber, we hope you consider supporting us as we provide a space for all things Garden City. To subscribe you can: go online to www.gcnews.com or use the handy coupon below, or call our office at 516294-8900 to get started.

While we’re plugging subscriptions, we also have to thank our many advertisers who also support this newspaper. Their ads are invaluable and we urge our readers to support them too.

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

End of resident driven process

To the Editor:

St. Paul’s, as a building, is a very unique architecture that I love looking at as I drive through the Village or play on the fields and it makes me feel a really special connection to Garden City history. However, St. Paul’s as an issue of deciding what to do with the building causes animosity amongst neighbors and monopolizes way too much of the time and energy of over 30 years of BOTs and Village staff.

I joined Mayor Flanagan’s St Paul’s advisory committee because I was convinced it would be different than previous attempts. I joined because this committee all agreed that they would check their personal views for St. Paul’s at the door and seek only to figure out how to break through the emotions about the St. Paul’s building to finally solve the St. Paul’s issue for the Village. We set to work on being process-oriented and we identified a process that would go back to basics and bring residents along the entire way. We concluded that data would help cut through the emotion, and ultimately that a plan built on data from residents would be able to persist through Board of Trustee turnover which is absolutely critical for a project of that magnitude. We determined that data independently gathered about recreation needs and separately gathered about what residents cherish about St. Paul’s building and their collective budget for saving part or all of the building would drive the Village’s true needs and wants. We wanted to professionally assess needs and wants for the Village, not just imagine uses for the St. Paul’s building as had been done before. We didn’t even want to assume that St. Paul’s needed uses in order to save part or all of the building and maybe residents cherish it enough to save it without uses. We just wanted to find a project that had the best chance of successful execution and now that we’ve learned that no new recreation facility has support of more than half

the households in Garden City, to have a successful project, it’s as important as ever to know how residents feel about St. Paul’s and what they’d spend independent of uses.

A majority of Trustees that are now on the board do not wish to follow through with that process. It’s not clear whether they all agree on what the process should be, but it is clear that they don’t wish to get unbiased data from Village residents to drive a project at St. Paul’s before proceeding with their plan. At least some seem to want to come up with a plan for the building and then sell the plan to residents and let them vote, just as many Boards and St. Paul’s committees have done before. They have indefinitely deferred the professional survey of BCI, a nationally renowned firm, and they have formed another St. Paul’s committee, spearheaded by a Trustee in the home construction field.

So it’s time to end my role on the Mayor’s advisory committee and those Trustees and the new committee can proceed with selling their ideas to the Village for saving the building.

Appealing to the advocates’ and pushing forward with recycled ideas to save the building, I believe, will fail to gain the support of the majority of residents and withstand Board of Trustee turnover the way that a project driven by residents with data might, but the Village desperately needs to resolve the St Paul’s issue, so I truly hope I’m wrong. Unfortunately, trying to resolve the issue the same way 30+ years of past committees and Boards tried, doesn’t inspire confidence.

John Cantwell Committee Member, Mayor’s Advisory Committee on St. Paul’s Survey squabble

To the Editor:

For the most part the Nov. 7 BOT meeting turned out to be an another exercise in futility. At first our expert

GC Real Estate Professionals raise funds at Fall Gala

On Friday, November 1, the Garden City Real Estate Professionals Foundation (GCRE) held its annual Fall Gala, Cocktails for a Cause at the Cherry Valley Club, Garden City, NY, where over 300 attendees gathered to Honor Robert and Tara Griffith and raise money for the International Association for Spelling as Communication (I-ASC) www.i-asc. org

Joseph Farkas, President and Founding Trustee of GCRE welcomed the enthusiastic crowd of supporters to the GALA and thanked them for their enormous efforts in helping raise money to garner awareness for an innovative therapy implemented by the I-ASC that is changing the lives of thousands of non-speaking autistic people. He noted the staggering statistic that one in every thirty-six children is now touched by autism and non-speaking people are some of the most impacted. He recognized the significant efforts of Tara and Robert Griffith, the evening’s Honorees for their work in making the evening a huge success and stated “they are one of Garden City’s most generous and philanthropic couples”. Mr. Farkas continued to highlight the

See page 18

From left: Joseph A. Farkas, GCRE Founding Trustee and President, Elizabeth Vosseller, Executive Director and Founder, I-ASC, Robert Griffith, GCRE GALA Honoree, Lauren Scarantino, GCRE Trustee and Co-Chairperson Charitable Events Committee, John Griffith, Diane Collins, Frank Liantonio, GCRE Trustee, Vice President and Co-Chairperson Charitable Events Committee, Michelle Farkas, Liam Griffith and Tiffany Rufrano, GCRE Executive Committee Member

Advice Matters.

Matters.

Advice Matters.

Meet The George Group at Morgan Stanley

Meet T he George Group at Morgan Stanley Named to Forbes’ Best-InState Wealth Management Teams list for 2023-2024

Meet T he George Group at Morgan Stanley

Named to Forbes’ Best-InState Wealth Management Teams list for 2023-2024

Meet T he George Group at Morgan Stanley Named to Forbes’ Best-InState Wealth Management Teams list for 2023-2024

Named to Forbes’ Best-InState Wealth Management Teams list for 2023-2024

Garden City, NY 11530 516-683-3282 raymond.george@morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/ the-george-group

Raymond George CRPC® Managing Director, Wealth Management Senior Portfolio Management Director Financial Advisor 1200 Franklin Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 516-683-3282 raymond.george@morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/ the-george-group

Meet The George Group at Morgan Stanley Named to Forbes’ Best-InState Wealth Management Teams list for 2023-2024 The

advisor.morganstanley.com/ the-george-group

the-george-group

Franklin Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 516-683-3282 raymond.george@morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/ the-george-group

or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney.

The George Group: (LtoR)

code. Raymond George CRPC® Managing Director, Wealth Management enior Portfolio Management Director Financial Advisor 1200 Franklin Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 516-683-3282 raymond.george@morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/ the-george-group

The George Group: (LtoR) Back - Vivian Gioia, Senior Client Associate; David Lazaros CFP®, Vice President, Financial Advisor; Amy Curley, Vice President, Portfolio Management Associate; Front - Cody George CDFA®, Senior Portfolio Manager, Financial Advisor; Raymond George CRPC®, Managing Director, Wealth Management, Financial Advisor; Taylor George, Financial Planning Specialist, Financial Advisor

- Vivian Gioia, Senior Client Associate; David Lazaros CFP®, Vice

CFP Board owns the marks CFP® in the U.S.

Source: Forbes.com (2023-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award. © 2024 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

The use of the CDFA® designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney.

Forbes.com (2023-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.

Source: Forbes.com (2023-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.

licensed attorney. Source: Forbes.com (2023-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.

CFP Board owns the marks CFP® in the U.S. The use of the CDFA® designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. Source: Forbes.com (2023-2024). Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.

Home Happens Here

This majestic brick Georgian Colonial on 2+ beautifully landscaped acres is a masterpiece of opulent design and luxury living. This sophisticated home is located in the most desired private location “on the hill” with breath-taking sunsets and rolling golf course views. Offering 10,000+ square feet of luxurious living space, this manor includes seven bedrooms, six full baths, and three powder rooms. Every detail was thoughtfully selected and quality crafted, from the tile, carpeting, and inlaid wood floors to the exquisite ceiling trim work and three ornate fireplaces. New price $5,925,000

Dana Eaton Kate Crofton Denise Donlon

Patricia Aprigliano Susan Bashian Andrea Bharucha Suzanne Blair Liz Breslin Barbara Chmil

Deirdre Albertson

Arlene Conigliaro Roberta Clark Colleen Ciullo

Cheryl Adams McAuliffe

Maribeth Quinn

Sean R. McCoyd Jayne McGratty Armstrong Roseanne McMahon Barbara Moore

Patricia O'Grady Julie O’Neill

Rita Paiewonsky Louisa Pironi Jill Palmeri

Tony Leondis

Bill Eckel

Sharon Redmond

Anny Ko

Theanne Ricci

GCPD: Public Safety Toolkit

SUBMITTED BY THE GARDEN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Garden City Police Department would like to inform residents of our Public Safety Toolkit, which includes:

• Overnight Parking

• Vacation Watch

• Keyholder

• At-Risk Residents

• Bike Management

• Pet Management

• Citizen Reporting

These tools are centrally located at https://www.frontlinepss.com/gardencity, which includes descriptions of each tool and a user-friendly method of input.

These simple-to-use tools are intended to assist with the partnership that we share with residents, guests, business owners, and commuters alike.

We invite you to bookmark this website on your phone and/or computer and take advantage of these tools.

Advice for what matters most, when

Please read the pop-up screens that may be introduced when you enter a module. They will contain pertinent information to assist with your entry. To avoid any confusion, please be aware that the Pet Management tool does NOT replace the requirement for your pet to have a license with the Village. Please contact Village Hall for your pet licenses and thereafter enter your pet information in the Pet Management tool to assist the PD if your pet is Lost or Found.

Similarly, the Keyholder tool does not replace the need for all residents and businesses to complete an Alarm Registration with the Village as per Village Code 52-2. You can find a fillable Alarm Registration form on the Department website.

Please call the Garden City Police Department Front Desk at 516.465.4100 if you have questions about any of our tools or visit the Garden City Police Department website at https:// gardencitypolice.net/ for many other valuable resources.

to The Sullivan Group for being named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2024 list, published on January 9, 2024. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2023.

GC Friends, DAR join forces for women veterans

Thanksgiving 2024

Longtime Garden City friends Leslie Dimmling, Paula Calame and Evelyn Fasano, with the crocheted baby blankets destined for new moms at Northport VA Hospital.

Some good friends from Garden City and the Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter NSDAR, Carla Hall D’Ambra Regent, joined forces recently to help celebrate the new babies of women veterans at Northport VA Hospital.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is a community service organization. Recently, NSDAR member Arlene FairhurstKister, Chapter DAR Service for Veterans Chair, informed the Garden City based group that she had received a request from Northport VA Hospital. New baby items were to be gifted to the 45 or so women veterans who give birth there each year. In addition to a gift bag containing needed baby items like diapers, wipes and bath wash, the staff hoped to provide each new mom with a new hand knit or crocheted baby blanket. A handmade blanket, the staff said, unlike a store-bought blanket, would be something the new moms would appreciate “like an heirloom.” While the DAR

chapter members gladly donated many of the requested items, few blankets were donated.

Chapter member Leslie Dimmling related the story to her friend Evelyn Fasano, who had supported DAR projects in the past. Both wanted to help, but neither knew how to crochet. Enter their mutual friend, Paula Calame. Paula is experienced in crochet, having made many handcrafted items for her two grandchildren. She offered to teach both of the women . Thus it came about that the trio spent several hours together one afternoon in a painstaking effort to learn the craft. The fruit of their many hours of work were new cro cheted blankets for the Northport VA hospital’s veteran moms. More blankets are still to come!!

e APPETIZERS f

Stuffed Mushrooms (8 pcs)

Mini Crab Cakes (12 pcs)

Mini Beef Wellington (8 pcs)

e PLATTERS f

Lg Jumbo Shrimp • Sm Shrimp Fruit • Antipasta • Assorted Cheese

e SoupS/Gravy/Sauce/Stockf (PER QUART, FEEDS 3–4)

Butternut Squash w/Apple

Cranberry Compote (Pint feeds 3–4)

Turkey/Beef Gravy

Turkey/Chicken Stock

e SIDESf

The following available in quarter, third and half trays

Quarter feeds 3–4ppl ~ Third: 5–6ppl ~ Half: 8–9ppl

The three Garden City women, who have been friends for more than 25 years, were happy to tackle this “hands on” project to help our women veterans celebrate the birth of their new citizen!

Herb Stuffing • Sage Sausage Stuffing • String Beans Almondine • Mashed Potatoes

Creamed Spinach • Brussel Sprouts w/Bacon Roasted Carrots

e MAIN f

Fresh Organic Turkeys • Oven Ready/Brined

Roasted Turkey Carved • Trimmed & Tied Boneless Breast

Cooked Boneless Turkey Breast • Bone-In Turkey Breast

e DESSERT f

Apple Pie (10”) • Pumpkin Pie (10”)

Cranberry Orange Loaf • Pumpkin Walnut Loaf

Hours: Mon-Sat, 9am–5pm • Sun, 9am–3pm

Knights plan “Keep Christ in Christmas” message

St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Knights of Columbus Council’s Deputy Grand Knight, Stephen Hassett, Past Grand Knight Hector de Marchena, Council Chaplain Rev. Prasanna W. Costa, and Grand Knight Joseph Levano display a large, poster copy of one of the Council’s Keep Christ in Christmas messages which appeared in The Garden City News in 2021.

The St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Knights of Columbus Council is now making final preparations for their 6th annual Keep Christ in Christmas campaign, the message of which is slated to appear in the December 13th issue of The Garden City News. The Keep Christ in Christmas message features a beautiful nativity scene with baby Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary and His foster father, St. Joseph. Accompanying the nativity scene is a list of hundreds of names of village residents and friends who cherish Christmas and who wish to proclaim the spiritual meaning of Christmas.

Grand Knight Levano explained the purpose of the Keep Christ in Christmas message. “For too long, the words ‘Merry Christmas’ have been banned at schools, businesses, and department stores. Instead, we repeatedly hear ‘Happy Holidays’ intended to encompass all the political correctness of the season. The true meaning of Christmas is mostly ignored in endless news stories about ‘Black Friday’ sales, ‘Christmas-themed’ movies that rarely display a Nativity scene, and appalling legal challenges to Nativity displays by anti-Christian groups.”

Past Grand Knight, Hector de Marchena, noted, “[that] in response to the secularization of Christmas, the Council will publicly proclaim the true meaning of Christmas – the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, Our Savior, the Light of the World. We will place in The Garden City News a colorful, twopage, pull-out, Keep Christ in Christmas tribute that will include a list of Garden City and area-residents’ names who feel as we do. Last year, more than 400 parishioners, friends, and neighbors added their names to this Christmas message.”

To view last year’s, Keep Christ in Christmas message in The Garden City News, visit: https://issuu.com/litmorpublishingcorp/docs/gc_12_15_23 and scroll to pages 32 and 33.

Readers who wish to join the growing list of participants for this year’s Keep Christ in Christmas message, can mail their names with a small donation to cover the cost ($20 per name) to: Mr. Robert Walters, 45 Mulberry Ave., Garden City, NY 11530. All donations are tax deductible. Checks are payable to: Knights of Columbus Council #15809. The deadline for receiving names and donations is Monday, November 25.

Get results!

Sponsor a Family for Thanksgiving

The Sponsor a Family Committee invites you to participate in its annual food initiative. The 2023 food drive was incredibly successful thanks to all our sponsors! The Thanksgiving 2024 format will mirror last year’s with donations of gift cards which are evenly distributed to each receiving parish.

The goal remains the same: aiding our neighbors at Our Lady of Loretto in Hempstead and Queen of the Most Holy Rosary in Roosevelt who are especially challenged by today’s high cost of living, particularly food.

• Returning sponsors, simply drop off your donation, [see below], the committee will record all donations.

• New sponsors, let us know if you would like to sponsor a family of 4, 6, or 8. Contact: saf5thstreet@gmail.com

• Purchase Stop and Shop gift

Sirianni, Parish Social Ministry, 120 Fifth Street, Garden City 11530 or St. Joseph’s Rectory, 130 Fifth Street, Garden City 11530 by November 11.

• All cards are kept in a secure location and delivered to the receiv ing parishes by the Sponsor a Family Committee.

The following dollar amounts are rec ommended for gift cards based on family size; of course, all contributions are grate fully accepted. The committee is happy to combine donations to fulfill a family goal.

Family of 4: $150

Family of 6: $175

Family of 8: $200

Do you have grandchildren?

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

Dining in e Aviary

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 1-3PM

HAMILTON PLACE, GARDEN CITY

Welcome to 5 Hamilton Place, a beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath split located on park-like property in the Central section of Garden City. This home offers almost 2,000 interior square feet of living space and perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The first floor features a spacious living room, formal dining room and eat-in kitchen. The lower level has a family room with large window overlooking the backyard and access to the garage. The upstairs has a primary bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 additional bedrooms and a full bath. Some highlights of the home include hardwood floors, a woodburning fireplace, 2-zone gas heat and a 2-car attached garage. The private backyard with lush landscaping and rear enclosed porch make it perfect for entertaining. This home has incredible curb appeal and in close proximity to the LIRR, shoping, restaurants, schools and the park. Don’t miss this one! Asking price $999,999

MICHELLE McARDLE, SRES, ASP #1 agent in the Garden City office 2017 – 2023 Chairman’s Platinum Award Winner 2021 – 2023 Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Thanksgiving Dinner Packages

Turkeys Full Cooked

and

Oven Ready

$299 + tax (Serves 10–15 people)

• 16–18 lb Fresh, Antibiotic Free, Cooked Turkey

• 1/2 Tray Traditional Stuffing with OR without Sausage Meat

• 1/2 Tray of String Beans, Mixed Vegetables, OR String Bean Casserole

• 1/2 Tray of White Mashed Potato OR Sweet Mashed Potato w/ Marshmallows

• Choice of Apple, Pumpkin, or Pecan Pie • Homemade Turkey Gravy

• Homemade Cranberry Sauce

$429 + tax (Serves 15–20 people)

• 22–24 lb Fresh, Antibiotic Free, Cooked Turkey

• Full Tray Traditional Stuffing with OR without Sausage Meat

• Full Tray of String Beans, Mixed Vegetables, OR String Bean Casserole

• Full Tray of White Mashed Potato OR Sweet Mashed Potato w/ Marshmallows

• Choice of Two Pies (Apple, Pumpkin, or Pecan) • Homemade Turkey Gravy

• Homemade Cranberry Sauce

ADDITIONS: +Extra Pies ($16 each) • +Turkey Carving ($15 each)

Orders must be placed by Monday, 11/25/24. Pickup is on Thanksgiving morning, 8–10 a.m. or any day requested. Not combinable with coupons or discounts.

FRESH TURKEY

Amish Grade A Turkey ($3.59/lb) • Bell & Evan’s Fresh Turkey ($5.49/lb)

Boneless Turkey Breast($10.99/lb) • Bone-In Turkey Breast($6.89/lb)

Stuffed Turkey Breast (Apple Cornbread) ($12.99/lb) Turkey Gravy (Quart) ($9.95 ea) • Turkey Carving ($15)

COOKED OR OVEN READY TURKEY A LA CARTE

(Includes Gravy.Additional Carving: $15)

8–10 Ppl (12–14 lb.) ($109) • 12–15 Ppl (16–18 lb.) ($139) 16–20 Ppl (22–24 lb.) ($179) • Cooked Boneless Turkey Breast: 8–12 People (5–6 lb.) ($69)

BUTCHER FAVORITES

Honey Glazed Spiral Ham ($10.99/lb) • Filet Mignon, 1/2 or Whole ($24.99/lb)

Filet Mignon, Trimmed ($37.99/lb) • Prime Rib Roast ($34.99/lb)

Bone-In Leg of Lamb ($9.99/lb) • Rack of Lamb, Whole Rack ($23.99/lb) Crown Roast Pork ($10.89/lb) • Stuffed Pork Roast ($7.89/lb)

TRIMMINGS

Stuffing with Sausage ($50/$85) • White Mashed Potato ($50/$85)

Sweet Mashed Potato w/ Marshmallows ($50/$85) • String Bean Casserole ($50/$85)

Brussels Sprouts and Pancetta ($55/$90) • String Beans w/ Garlic and Oil ($50/$85) Homemade Cranberry Sauce Quart ($9.95) • Apple, Pumpkin or Pecan Pie ($16)

(516) 775-8666 • PLACE YOUR ORDERS EARLY! 104 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor, NY 11530 For full menu, visit www.PellegriniPrimeMeats.com

President Trump, Again

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

So Donald J. Trump will return to the White House as our nation's 47th President.

This result was not particularly surprising, even though the polls before the election were extremely tight. The fundamentals basically favored Mr. Trump. By overwhelming majorities, respondents in every survey believed that the country was on the wrong track. There was deep dissatisfaction on inflation, immigration, and crime and public disorder. Not surprisingly, voters turned against the incumbent party, the Democrats. In the end, Mr. Trump won the popular vote and swept all seven battleground states. Republicans captured the Senate and appear to have retained their House majority. Republicans also made strong inroads among Hispanic voters and improved their position with African-Americans.

Mr. Trump's opponent, Vice President Kamala Harris, did a few things well. The Democratic convention in Chicago was well orchestrated, and Ms. Harris delivered an effective acceptance speech. She was able to gain support among many voters, particularly women, on the abortion issue. She clearly won her debate with Mr. Trump, exhibiting a coherent grasp of numerous issues. She raised a great amount of campaign funds.

Ms. Harris, however, was never able to overcome the problem of being the vice president under the unpopular Biden Administration at a time when most Americans were dissatisfied. In perhaps the pivotal moment of the campaign, Ms. Harris could not seem to explain to a friendly interviewer what changes she would make from the current administration. Ms. Harris also made few attempts to explain why she now renounced a number of left-wing positions she previously took.

You also wonder if Ms. Harris was hurt by the strange transition from Mr. Biden after his transparently disastrous debate with Mr. Trump in late June. As the vice president, did Ms. Harris ever realize until then that Mr. Biden was slipping and, if so, why didn't she take any action on this information?

In addition to being extremely light

on specific proposals for the next four years beyond vague stances in favor of freedom or the politics of joy, Ms. Harris may have hurt herself in the waning days of the campaign by going completely negative on Mr. Trump. While there is certainly no shortage of legitimate issues involving Mr. Trump's conduct and deportment and the seeming chaos that marked portions of his first term, Ms. Harris instead went over the top and adopted the ugly and unfounded narrative that Mr. Trump is a fascist. It is unlikely this did her any net good at a time when voters were looking to her for solutions to important current problems.

With a few exceptions, Mr. Trump was able to wage a solid race. The Republican convention effectively highlighted the GOP's issues. Mr. Trump's acceptance speech was far too long, but he had an excuse because it was delivered only a few days after he survived an assassination attempt. Mr. Trump spoke to large and enthusiastic rallies throughout. Even though outspent in the election, he managed to outsource vote gathering operations while keeping his effective commercials on the air. Mr. Trump had strong surrogates in Elon Musk, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Vivek Ramaswamy and Tulsi Gabbard. His vice presidential pick, JD Vance, proved to be a very articulate defender of Mr. Trump, even in hostile interviews, as well as a good debater.

On the negative side, Mr. Trump’s debate performance was poor (he seemed completely unprepared) and his campaign certainly should have picked a more suitable comedian at Madison Square Garden.

Mr. Trump so far has done a solid job of assembling his governing team, but there are obviously many questions. On immigration, you would hope that Mr. Trump, rather than initiating mass roundups, will focus on deporting criminals and people who have ignored deportation orders. You would hope that Mr. Trump’s tariffs will be well focused rather than creating an new source of inflation. But the electorate has given Mr. Trump a mandate and we are certainly about to embark in a new direction.

Let your voice be heard!

Is there an issue in your community you want to discuss? Want to respond to something you saw in our paper?

Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention! Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!

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

Loan Term Interest Rate APR

30-year fixed 6.802% 6.880%

15-year fixed 5.935%

220 Nassau Blvd.

Date: 11/01/2024

Sold price: $2,250,000

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial

Property size: .21

Annual taxes: $16,536

MLS number: 3554115

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

The Buyer’s Team: Jay Nociforo, EXIT Realty Premier

Welcome to this beautiful fully renovated and expanded bedroom colonial situated on a generous 60’ x 150’ property in the desirable Estates Section offering the perfect blend of sophistication and modern functionality. This home boasts a 2-story sunlit entry foyer, stunning white oak floors, 9-foot ceilings on the first level creating a sense of spaciousness, and an open concept living area with a gourmet custom kitchen with quartz countertops, large kitchen island and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, opening to a family room with a contemporary fireplace. In addition, the first level features a spacious living room, a formal dining room with a tray ceiling which is serviced by a butler’s pantry with custom cabinetry and a wine refrigerator, and a new half bath completes this level. The second floor offers a primary bedroomht suite with a generously sized 7’ x 12’ walk-in closet and a luxurious spa-style bathroom with a soaking tub, separate shower, and double vanity with marble countertops, a second bedroom with a walk-in closet and modern en-suite bathroom, 2 additional bedrooms, and a new spacious hall bath. The finished basement features a large 12’ x 35’ room with an 8-foot ceiling and an egress window, a laundry room, utilities, and an abundant amount of storage space. The expansive outdoor space with mature plantings provides a private retreat that makes entertaining a delight. Additional features include new Andersen windows, new 200 amp electrical service, central air conditioning, new roof, new gutters, new siding, new blue stone front entry and back entry steps, new paver patio, in-ground sprinklers, and a 2 car detached garage with new automatic garage doors, new siding, and a new roof. The location puts you minutes away from Merillon Avenue LIRR station making commuting a breeze. Conveniently located close to shops, parks, and schools.

Prospect Ave

Date: 11/12/2024

Sold price: $1,700,000 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial Prop. size: .36 acres

Annual taxes: $23,978

MLS number: 3577900

The Seller’s Team: Michelle F Mcardle

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

The Buyer’s Team: Stephen and Laura Baymack, Compßass Greater NY

Welcome to 40 Prospect Avenue, a beautifully updated 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath center hall brick colonial located in the Eastern section of Garden City. This meticulously maintained home offers 2,800 interior square feet of living space and offers a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. The first floor features at gracious entry foyer, spacious living room with gas fireplace, formal dining room, large eat-in kitchen, study, family room and powder room. The upstairs has a primary bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 3 additional bedrooms and a full bath and separate guest quarters with a private bedroom and full bath. Some highlights of the home include updated kitchen and bathrooms, central air conditioning and central heating, in-ground sprinklers, 2-zone heat, cedar closet, finished basement and a 2-car attached garage. Step outside into your personal oasis... the backyard beckons with an in-ground heated pool, complemented with an expansive patio area complete with a covered dining area and barbecue space. This exceptional residence is conveniently located a short distance from the LIRR, shopping, restaurants, schools and the park.

78 Garden Street

Date: 11/05/2024

Sold price: $1,275,000

4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Split Level

Property Size: .33

Annual taxes: $18,715

MLS number: 3574819

The Seller’s Team: Maryanne DiCicco, Howard Hanna Coach

The Buyer’s Team: Guarav Kerney, RE/MAX Luxe

Deceivingly Large Front to Back Split Level in Lovely Garden City. Living Room w/ brick gas fireplace and beautiful cathedral vaulted ceilings. New Eat in Kitchen Quartz countertops w/side by side Sub-Zero frig & freezer and disposal. Family Room has a brick gas fireplace .Enormous rooms and plenty of storage space. Hardwood Floors throughout first & second levels. Extra Room for Guest or office. Whole house water filtration reverse osmosis system is a huge plus. Two Car garage and sprinkler system. All this on 1/3 acre parklike grounds.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

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.

FOR SENIORS fyi

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

Christmas Sing-a-Long

Christmas Sing-a-Long with George Salem, come and enjoy the music of the season. This free event will take place on Thursday, December 12, 2:00–3:30, at the Senior Center.

Senior Dance Performance Group

Senior Dance Performance Group, beginning Wednesday, October 30, at the Senior Center, for dancers aged 60 and up, from 11:15–12:00. Cost $84 for 14 weeks. Register online beginning 10/9,

or in person at the Senior Center, or at the Recreation Office.

AAA Representative to Visit

Alice from AAA will be at the Senior Center from 11:00–1:00 on the following Mondays: November 18 and December 16, to talk about the services they offer, including travel, DMV services, Insurance, Discounts and much more!

Garden City Pool Chat Group

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

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

2024 COCKTAILS FOR A CAUSE

GC Real Estate Professionals raise funds at Fall Gala

From page 3

year-round work of the GCRE Board of Tristees and its 72-Members and noted some of the many charities GCRE supports annually including Charlie’s Champions Foundation, Mollies Fund Foundation and the I’m Not Done Yet Foundation to name just a few .

Mr. Farkas personally recognized members of the GCRE Board including Frank Liantonio, Trustee, Vice President and Co-Chairperson of the Charitable Events Committee, Lauren Scarantino, Trustee and Co-Chairperson of the Charitable Events Committee, Gary Rufrano, Trustee and Treasurer, Salvatore Ciaravino, Trustee, Secretary and Chairperson of the Membership Committee, Tiffany Rufrano, Executive Committee Member, Brad Wolk, Executive Committee Member and Linda O’Connor, Charitable Events Committee Member.

The program continued by introducing Robert Griffith who highlighted his family’s personal experiences with autism and their journey to discover I-ASC and the direct impact I-ASC has had on them. Robert warmly introduced Eliabeth Vosseller, Executive Director and Founder of I-ASC who traveled from Herndon, Virgina to attend the Gala and discussed how Spelling to Communicate empowers

non-speakers to overcome communication barriers posed by traditional oral communication by pointing to letters on a board as an alternate means of communication. The innovative method promotes synchrony between cognitive and motor systems and through repeated practice, new neural pathways become myelinated. By teaching the motor skills necessary to point on a letterboard positioned in front of them, non-speakers improve motor planning and control, enabling them to communicate their thoughts and ideas quickly and accurately.

GCRE Board Members and the Griffith Family presented Ms. Vosseller with a check in the amount of $160,000 to expand research, awareness and further promote I-ASC’s highly impactful therapy throughout Long Island and the greater New York metropolitan area. For more information on the Garden City Real Estate Professionals Foundation (GCRE) go to www.gcrepf.org or contact Joe Farkas (jfarkas@metropolitanra.com) to see how you can become a Member, donate to important causes impacting the lives of Garden City residents or inquire on how to nominate an Honoree for the 2025 Gala. For more information on the International Association for Spelling as Communication, go to www.I-ASC. org

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

Tara and Robert Griffith, GCRE Gala honorees.

What Does the Future of Social Security Mean for Your Retirement?

Social Security remains a critical component of most American’s retirement plans and questions persist around its long-term solvency. While the number of Social Security beneficiaries is expected to continuously grow over the next decade, payments into the program via payroll taxes are likely to slow. This dynamic is creating anxiety for many about whether they can rely on Social Security to help fund their retirement. It can be beneficial to explore the role that Social Security may have in your retirement and how to best prepare if there are meaningful changes to the program.

The future of Social Security. If you have been following financial news, you may have heard industry pundits commenting on the solvency of Social Security and its ability to pay full benefits over time. Indeed, Social Security is currently paying out more than it is taking in, which many view as problematic. In May of this year, the Social Security and Medicare Trustees released their annual report, which predicts that by 2033 assets of the program will be depleted. It is expected that in 2033, the Social Security’s Old-Age and Survivors

Insurance (OASI) fund will only take in 79% of tax revenue needed for benefit payments. As a result, payments under the program could be reduced by 21%1. It’s widely expected that Congress may act to shore up the program before this happens, however there are no guarantees. Planning ahead can help shield your retirement income, should Social Security be unable to fully meet its obligations.

Determine the role Social Security has in your retirement plan. It is important to understand where Social Security fits into your retirement plan. For many retirees, Social Security benefits provide key supplemental income because the program alone will not provide enough income to cover all essential and desired lifestyle expenses. Additionally, each individual’s benefits will vary depending on their lifetime earnings and the age at which they begin taking distributions. If future payments are adjusted lower to make up for the deficit of flows coming into the fund when you retire, it may be wise to plan on utilizing other means for retirement income. Take some time to determine your desired lifestyle during

1- Ameriprise Financial: “Did You Know...” May 8, 2024. Compiled by Russell T. Price, Chief Economist

retirement and the associated costs, so you can craft a Social Security plan that aligns with your retirement goals.

Work with a financial advisor to adapt your retirement plan. A financial advisor can help determine the optimal payment plan for Social Security in your retirement. The age at which you begin taking distributions and where these distributions fit into the whole of your retirement plan is unique to you. An advisor can assist you in evaluating the variables that may impact the time at which you begin collecting benefits such as your health and life expectancy. With careful financial planning you can consider a variety of income producing investments that may contribute to your retirement security.

How Social Security programs morph and change in future is largely outside of your control, so plan for what you can. It is never too soon to work with a financial advisor to plot various scenarios for retirement based on factors that are unique to you. Ultimately, knowing you’re prepared can help you feel more confident about retirement.

Magic begins at the Holiday Market on December 6

If you’ve attended The Historical Society’s Holiday Market Benefit Preview Cocktail Party in the past, you know it’s all about merry and bright!

This year, as in holidays past, you’ll enjoy first dibs shopping at the curated selection of artisan and oneof-a-kind jewelry, women’s fashion, personal and home accessories, children’s clothing and gifts, delicious sweets, fine collectibles. There are holiday ornaments to deck every hall and surface. And exquisitely crafted wreaths, mini-trees; centerpieces — every one a unique work of art — in vintage containers, Limoges china, silver vessels — from the Historical Society’s artist in residence, Diane Geyer. Prices start at $50.

You’ll sip festive cocktails from an open bar and will be plied with lavish hors d’oeuvres created and served by Prime Fine Catering. The auctions and raffles — the best in Garden City — are mouth-watering.

Every event ticket purchased gets entered to win a valuable door prize!

A special treat and the perfect gift for all the foodies you know and love: Cathy Coluccio Fazzolari, owner of Brooklyn’s legendary D. Coluccio & Sons Italian Specialty Store, will be autographing her new book, “The Italian Daughter’s Kitchen”. Starting December 6, you can purchase the cookbook, and tickets to “a Calabrese community-style food & wine gathering, celebrating family connections”, on January 25, at The Historical Society.

“The Italian Daughter’s Cookbook” cover.

A vintage silver plated gravy boat and saucer with with winterberries, pine with flock-ing, gilded pine cones.

Holiday Market cocktail party tickets are $75 pp: https:// TGCHSBenefitPrevewCocktailParty. eventbrite.com, or at The A.T. Stewart Exchange shop, in the Historical Society, 109 Eleventh Street. Remember, every event ticket purchased is entered to win a valuable door prize!

All to raise the funds to build a new handicap lift, to make the 1872 Historical Society museum building, and Garden City’s rich history, accessible for all.

A vintage porcelain vase with poinsettias and rose hips, framed by blue spruce.

See what's happening at your library!

From classes to lectures and concerts to movie screenings, there's never a dull day at your local library!

Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, all for free or cheap!

Large centerpiece with velvet pointsettias with crystal ornament centers, frosted baby pinecones, holly berries, set off by a plaid silk ribbon that pulls the design together.

Large candle centerpiece with snowdipped pine cones, blue spruce, eucaliptis, holly berries and holly leaves.

Diane Geyer, displaying some of her exquisite holiday decorations.

Old World Quality Corp.

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

Regrettably, the present BOT has voted to indefinitely postpone the release of the St Paul’s survey. I sincerely apologize to all who have been following and were looking forward to a new professional approach to a St. Paul’s project that could have identified a project at St. Paul’s with community support - something that has eluded Village leaders for decades.

The team of professionals from BCI worked incredibly hard and with perseverance and patience to find a survey that would provide data sufficient to identify a project. It was my hope that with this survey we would learn what you, the residents of our Village, really want and will pay for. BCI’s recommendation and the rationale for their recommendations were summarized 13 minutes and 56 seconds into last week’s BOT meeting, which can be viewed on the St. Paul’s page of the Village website (https://www. gardencityny.net/291/Path-to-a-StPauls-Master-Plan-in-2024). Resident comments were heard beginning at 02:02, and a lengthy Trustee discussion with further comments from BCI begins at 02:25.

Trustee Chester and I were the only members of the Board who supported moving forward with Version 12 of this professional survey at the meeting. We were also the only two members of the Board of Trustees to vote for a resolution put forth at the June 20th meeting pledging a community-driven approach to finding a solution for St. Paul’s relying on statistically valid data. So, we find ourselves back in the same spot we have been in for decades. It was a sad night for our Village.

I am focused now on what the best path forward is, working with a new board with different ideas on the best approach. I will work hard to make sure the excellent work on the Recreation Master Plan continues, as we can all agree on how important the Recreation and Parks Department is to making our Village such a special community.

More Detail on Impasse

ply do not have price ranges to provide. The survey they are recommending instead asks residents the maximum annual tax increase residents would support for the different options. This would allow them to create a budget which would be a factor in picking the program. They explained that in order to get price ranges to share you need to have a program for the inside of the building, and the surveying work they have undertaken on our behalf is to learn what should be part of that program. While they do not recommend price ranges at all, BCI went on to explain that if the BOT really wanted to do that, they would need to come up with a hypothetical program and then have a professional company price that program in the different construction project types (full preservation, partial preservation and façadism). This way residents would be comparing apples to apples.

Police Review Safety Measures

The impasse on Version 12 hinged largely on a desire expressed by several Trustees to provide price ranges for the different options included in the survey. The consultants explained that they do not recommend this be done because we sim-

At the request of the Board of Trustees, the Garden City Police Department conducted a review of the courtyard and alley area located in the southeast portion of Parking Field 7N. This area is private property that is open to the public and was the recent site of suspicious activity and is often frequented by youths, particularly on Friday evenings. The Police Department inspected the area with the Village’s camera consultant and reviewed the possibility of adding cameras and license plate readers on Village property that will help monitor the courtyard and the adjacent driveway from 7th Street. The Community Policing Officer also contacted a representative of the property owner to discuss security issues in this area and was advised that the company is currently reviewing plans to improve the lighting and camera coverage for the courtyard and alley as well as trimming their trees to enhance visibility. In an effort to improve safety conditions in other nearby areas that are often associated with youth activity, the Police Department is reviewing the possibility of placing additional lights and cameras in the Village grassy areas adjacent to the northeast section of Parking Field 7N and the southeast section of Parking Field 8.

See page 45

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

Forged check investigation

On November 6, officers investigated a report of a forged check being cashed against a victim’s checking account.

Sparking power line

Officers assisted firefighters who responded to a report of sparking power lines on Old Country Road on November 6. PSEG was notified.

Excessive speed

Two Clinton Road motorists were charged on November 6 with driving with suspended registrations and excessive speed.

Trespass on work site

A subject allegedly trespassed inside a secured work site on County Seat Drive and defecated inside a storage container on November 6.

Improper plates

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and improper plates on November 6.

False fire alarms

On November 6, GCFD and GCPD responded to three locations for fire alarms that were set in error.

Water leak alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence on November 6 for a fire alarm activated by a water leak.

Vehicle damaged in garage

A vehicle was reportedly damaged while parked in a Franklin Avenue garage on November 6.

Theft on Locust Street

Three male subjects entered a Locust Street property on November 7 and stole eight bags of clothing left out for a charity pick-up. They fled the scene in a 4-door red sedan.

Traffic charges

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on November 7 with unlicensed operation, suspended registration, and excessive speed.

False alarms

On November 7, firefighters and officers responded to four locations for fire alarms that were set in error.

Clinton Road traffic stop

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on November 7 with unlicensed operation, suspended registration, and improper plates.

Hit-and-run

A witness observed a grey Hyundai leave the scene on November 7 after it struck another vehicle in Garden City

Plaza.

Truck tickets

A truck driver on 11th Street was charged with out-ofclass operation and passing a red traffic light on November 7.

Vehicle damaged

A vehicle was damaged by unknown means while parked in Parking Field #8 on November 7.

Traffic light malfunctions

Officers responded to multiple traffic light malfunctions on Hilton Avenue on November 7 as a result of a power outage.

Theft at Kings Market

A male subject reportedly entered Kings Market and stole multiple laundry items on November 8.

Unsafe speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and unsafe speed on November 8.

CO alarm response

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence on November 8 for a carbon monoxide alarm activated by a faulty detector.

Suspended registration

A South Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and passing a Stop sign on November 8.

Hit-and-run on Stewart

A white sedan reportedly left the scene after striking another vehicle on Stewart Avenue on November 8.

Child restraint violation

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on November 8 with driving with a suspended registration and a child not properly restrained.

Panic alarm activation

Officers responded to a residence for a panic alarm that was activated in error on November 8.

Suspended license, registration

A Washington Avenue motorist was charged on November 8 with driving with a suspended license and a suspended registration.

Suspended license

An 11th Street motorist was charged on November 8 with driving with a suspended license and improper turn.

False fire alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence on November 8 for a fire alarm that was activated in error.

Multiple false alarms

On November 9, GCFD and GCPD responded to five locations for fire alarms that were activated in error.

Unregistered auto

A South Avenue motorist was charged on November 9 with unlicensed operation, passing a Stop sign, and unregistered auto.

Suspended license

An 11th Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and passing a red traffic light on November 9.

Small can fire

Officers assisted firefighters who extinguished a small can fire on Hilton Avenue on November 9.

Excessive speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on November 9 with excessive speed, uninsured auto, and inoperable lights.

Smoke from wildfires

On November 9, GCFD and GCPD responded to Rockaway Avenue for a smoke condition. Firefighters determined the apparent cause to be smoke emanating from the New Jersey wildfires.

Petit larceny arrest

Officers arrested an 18-year-old male in Parking Field 7S on November 10 for Petit Larceny after allegedly stealing multiple items from Key Food. Upon further investigation, he was also charged with an outstanding Nassau County warrant for Robbery and Grand Larceny.

Public urination

Officers issued an appearance ticket to a male subject on Clinton Road for allegedly urinating in public on November 10.

Graffiti removed

Officers removed graffiti from a

See page 45

Garden City auditor earns recognition

The New York State Municipal Finance Officers has qualified Village Auditor Adam Lipke, CPA, to become a Credentialed Municipal Finance Officer (CMFO). This designation is a declaration that Mr. Lipke is proficient in his position and has demonstrated mastery skills.

The Finance Department welcomed Mr. Lipke nearly six years ago; he has served as Auditor for the past three years. In addition to his responsibilities in performing various accounting functions, he was instrumental in assisting with the implementation of the new Tax Billings & Assessments system.

“He has done a phenomenal job. He audits every single payment to our vendors and has found numerous billing errors, which resulted in savings to the Village,” Village Treasurer Irene Woo said. “He audits payroll, is involved in all independent audits, is proficient in accounting, and works closely on the budget. He is an amazing employee.”

Local duo performs 25th show

Trustee Michele Beach Harrington, commissioner of Finance & Audit, Village Auditor Adam Lipke, Village Treasurer Irene Woo and Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan.

Local musicians Melted Ed and Cousin Dan will perform their 25th show of the year at Prost Grill and Garten on Friday, November 15, at 8 p.m. The duo will perform three sets of punk folk music and will feature songs from their newly released CD, “Ten Dogs.”

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GCPD officer promoted to sergeant

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan administered the oath of office to Police Sergeant Anthony Sansone, a 17-year veteran of the Garden City Police Department, during a promotion ceremony at Village Hall November 7, 2024.

Sgt. Sansone served two years in the NYPD before coming to Garden City. He graduated Nassau Community College and joined the NYPD in 2005, serving in the 73rd and 102nd Precincts. He joined the ranks of the Garden City Police Department in April 2007, where he was assigned to the Patrol and Traffic Divisions. As a traffic officer, he was adept at enforcing aggressive driving laws. In addition, he is certified in Truck Safety and DMV Inspections.

“He is the first officer I hired. This is an honor for me to promote him to Sergeant,” Commissioner Kenneth Jackson said.

Sgt. Sansone has also trained new recruits as a field training officer.

“Sergeant Sansone can impart his vast experience onto our younger officers,” Commission Jackson added.

Sgt. Sansone resides in Nassau County with his wife, Paige, a first responder and EMT with NYU Langone, and their children.

Small Businessperson of the Year

congratulated Melissa Cunha of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce as she was named Small Businessperson of the Year during the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce Breakfast on October 25, 2024 at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. Also attending were members of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce; Nassau County Legislator John Giuffre; New York State Assemblyman Ed Ra; New York State Senator Patricia Canzoneri Fitzpatrick; and Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce President Frank Camarano, Jr.

Hempstead Town Councilman Tom Muscarella (left), Town Clerk Kate Murray (second left) and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll (ourth right)

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan, Sergeant Anthony Sansone, his wife, Paige, Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson and Trustee and Police Department Liaison Bruce Torino during a brief ceremony at Village Hall on November 7.

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We’re proud to have attained some of the nation’s highest success rates for treating heart rhythm disorders, coronary artery disease, valve disease, heart failure, and congenital heart disease. From prevention to diagnosis to recovery, patients can expect the highest standard of care across our system.

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Captain Luis Ocasio and Major Silvia Machado-Ocasio, commanding officer of the Salvation Army’s Hempstead Corps and Community Center, to speak next Tueday, November 19.

Mineola-Garden City Rotary Serves the Community and Far Beyond

The Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club is one of the 35,000 Rotary Clubs throughout the world, all adhering to the motto “Service Above Self.

The largest service organization in the world, each club pursues various services in accordance with the needs of their particular districts.

With the mission to provide service to others, promote integrity and advance world understanding, Over the years,

Volunteer Rotarians and Boy Scouts to ring the bell to benefit the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Project on Saturday, December 7 in front of the Key Food Supermarket.

Mineola-Gaden City Rotary has continued to serve the needs of our local communities and well beyond. We continue to welcome membership to individuals representing businesses, corporations, schools, houses of worship and Mineola and Garden City residents as well.

and assist with facial development. Spot Pal promotes nasal breathing, which allows you to breathe in

facilitate speech production and assist with facial development. Spot Pal promotes nasal breathing, which allows you to breathe in filtered and humidified air. As a result, this can help to treat sleep-disordered breathing.

and humidified air. As a result, this can help to treat sleep-disordered breathing.

With the aim to accommodate everyone, lunch Meetings are held on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays throughout the year at Mineola’s Davenport Press Restaurant along with intermittent breakfasts at the Carle Place Diner, where members and guests are welcomed who are unable to break away at lunchtime.

We host note- worthy speakers from a cross-section of the professions, government, local businesses, professional services, healthcare providers and community-based organizations.

Our signature project is the 32-year RotaCare program which our Club initiated in 1992. RotaCare provides free medical care for those who are uninsured and in most need. Additional services include the Gift of Life program which provides life-saving cardiac surgery for children around the world.

For some 40 years, Rotary volunteers have assisted the Salvation Army in its efforts by ringing the bell for its red kettle project during the holiday season. Countless food, clothing, and school supply drives are held to vari-

ous charitable organizations throughout the year. Please see our account of Rotary’s latest food drive to benefit the Mary Brennan INN Soup Kitchen last Tuesday on page 46 within this issue.

For detailed information about the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club, and its many services, please refer to Rotary’s ad on page xx and to the community service pages within the Guide to Garden City publication inserted with this issue of The Garden City News.

Next Breakfast Meeting is Tuesday, November 19

Join us at our breakfast meeting next Tuesday, 8 a.m. at the Carle Place Diner, 151 Old Country when we will host as guest speakers Major Silvia Machado-Ocasio and Captain Luis Ocasio of the Salvation Army’s Hempstead Corps and Community Center. We also announce that Rotary will be ringing

The bell for the Salvation Army on December 7, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. in front of the Key Food Market on Seventh Street.

Fee for the breakfast meeting is $20 for a breakfast of choice, payable at the door. All are welcome! To reserve, please email mineolagardencityrotaryclub.org by Monday, November 18.

School board outraged over state’s regionalization plans

tion, raising concerns about privacy and redundancy. Administrators shared that the state is seeking a wide range of information, including student records, exam results, AP course/elective offerings, attendance statistics and enrollment figures. “They already have access to a lot of this information, it’s like we’re organizing for them,” administrators said.

Concerns Over Local Control, Funding

Despite NYSED’s assurances that further participation in regionalization activities is voluntary and that there will be “no forced mergers or reorganizations,” the plan has raised red flags among local school boards. The Garden City board voiced frustrations over the rapid timeline and vague guidelines, warning of potential risks to local control, budget allocations, and district identity.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sinha noted that while Garden City already collaborates with nearby districts on transportation, curriculum and other initiatives, the state’s plan seems to enforce a “one size fits all” approach. This sentiment was echoed by Trustees Elizabeth Gaffney and William O’Donohue, who expressed skepticism

about the benefits of regionalization for districts like Garden City, which already have established partnerships. “We have those neighboring district relationships. I don’t see a huge benefit to us,” they remarked.

One of the board’s top grievances was the exclusion of New York City schools from the regionalization mandate. Sileo criticized this, highlighting the disparity in resources between urban and suburban districts. “It seems odd that NYC, with all its resources, is exempt,” Sileo noted, questioning why suburban districts in Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties are being targeted to shoulder changes.

O’Donohue was outspoken in his opposition, describing the initiative as a “big government power grab.” Drawing from his experience in law enforcement, he warned that centralizing control could erode the effectiveness of local governance. “This feels like a broadbrush attempt to strip away our local decision-making,” he said.

Call to Action for Community

The board has already partnered with the Long Island Board Coalition to draft and sign a letter to state officials, which is available for the public to review on the district’s website.

Trustees also encouraged residents

to get in touch with local officials. To support, Dr. Sinha and her team will develop a template letter for those interested in voicing their concerns. This resource will also be made available on the website, making it easier for community members to get involved, even if they have limited time to dedicate to this.

Sileo raised some concluding concerns about how this plan could reshape the effectiveness of future board meetings. “There’s no mention of the BOE,

which suggests to me that local control isn’t being prioritized. We could end up reporting to BOCES,” he explained. “You’re still welcome to attend these meetings, but you’ll be dealing with a more bureaucratic system. I might be stating the obvious, but we all pay a lot in taxes, and I don’t see this as anything other than a negative for our district.”

The next regular session of the board of education meeting will take place on Monday, November 25, at 8:15 pm at high school.

Garden City Association of Girl Scouts Election Day event

The Garden City Association of Girl Scouts hosted its annual Election Day event on Tuesday, November 5, at the Recreation Department Cottages. Over fifty Girl Scouts participated and learned about the election process. The Nassau County Girl Scouts Traveling Trefoil engaged the girls in a lesson on voting. The Scouts learned how elections work and had an opportunity to vote and learn the results. The Traveling Trefoil is a mobile Girl Scouts of Nassau County initiative aimed at supporting young women by traveling to different

communities in Nassau County to provide different activities and Girl Scout experiences.

The event also included a community service activity. All Girl Scouts were encouraged to donate gently used shoes for Soles4Souls. Soles4Souls collects gently used shoes that are donated to developing countries, providing jobs and opportunities to help break the cycle of poverty. The Garden City Association of Girl Scouts collected 234 pairs of shoes!

Learning about the voting process.

Girl Scouts prep boxes for Soles4Souls.

Garden City Girl Scouts participating in the Election Day event.

Annette Albanese

Annette Albanese (Vogel), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on Thursday, November 7, 2024, in her home surrounded by family. Born in New York on November 1, 1929, Annette was the daughter of loving parents Charles Vogel and Anna Vogel (Gasser).

Annette was a devoted wife to her beloved husband of 62 years, Anthony Albanese, and a caring and nurturing mother to her four children: Debbie Klein (Irwin dec. 2024), Toni Albanese (dec. 2022) (Larry Weinstein), Russell Albanese (Marilyn) and Elena D'Agostino (Richard). She was also the proud and adoring grandmother of 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren whose lives she touched deeply with love, wisdom, and kindness.

Annette lived a full and vibrant life. While raising her four children, she was active in school, religious and community organizations and provided invaluable support to her husband and his

IN MEMORIAM

real estate development business. She also enjoyed a wide range of hobbies and passions including golf and tennis, and she loved the mental challenge of games such as bridge, mahjong, and word games with friends and family. She spent many hours creating beautiful needlepoint pieces, gardening and reading. She was also known to play the piano for family holiday sing-alongs. Annette was deeply engaged with current events and enjoyed thoughtful discussions with family and friends.

A woman who lived life to the fullest, Annette enjoyed traveling and created many special memories with her family. She and Anthony often took family ski vacations, celebrated milestone anniversaries on memorable trips, often with all children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed golf vacations with family and friends. Annette had a true spirit of adventure, taking tours and exploring new destinations, always eager to discover something new. Some of the most cherished memories with her include a spa vacation with her daughters and

granddaughters and a trip to Montauk with her sons and grandsons. These vacations, spent alongside her entire family, were a testament to her love for bringing everyone together and creating lasting bonds.

Annette's love for cooking was deeply tied to her love for family. Her kitchen was the heart of her home and her house was often filled with the comforting scents of delicious food. She cherished trying new recipes and sharing her culinary creations. Annette learned authentic Italian recipes at an early age from Anthony’s mother, Lena Albanese, and she nurtured a cherished tradition of family dinners, where togetherness and love were always the main ingredients. Her signature dish, Lasagna Bolognese, was a family favorite and the highlight of many gatherings that were shared with laughter, love, and good conversation.

A woman of faith, Annette was a dedicated member of her church community, and her devotion to others was evident in all she did. She began each day with prayer, a practice that ground-

ed her and reflected her deep spiritual connection. Annette and Anthony also welcomed and cherished the integration of other religions and sexual orientations into their family, embracing diversity with open hearts and minds. Her kindness, grace, and strength of character will be remembered by all who knew her, as well as her unwavering commitment to fostering love, acceptance, and understanding in every aspect of her life.

Annette's family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with loved ones who have gone before her, and she will continue to live on in our hearts. She will be dearly missed, yet her legacy of love and devotion will never be forgotten. Her last words are those we should all live by: “It’s all about love.”

The funeral service for Annette was held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 13 at the Church of Saint Anne in Garden City.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made in Annette's memory to Saint Anne's Ministries for Children.

Stephanie Bello

IN MEMORIAM

Noreen (Leddy) Bishar

Noreen (Leddy) Bishar, a beloved member of the Garden City community, passed away on November 9, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her devoted family in her final moments. Born in 1950 to James and Evelyn Leddy, Noreen was a proud graduate of St. Vincent's Nursing School in Manhattan, earning her RN degree in 1972. For over five decades, she dedicated her life to caring for others, working tirelessly on patient floors, in emergency rooms, and most recently at the Breast Cancer Clinic at Nassau University Medical Center, where she supported those in greatest need with unwavering kindness.

Noreen's true passion, however, was her family. She was the cherished wife of John for 52 years, and is survived by her three daughters and sons in law: Kimberly and Gregg Hession, Kelly and Bill Donohue, and Lauren and Stephan Brossard. She was most proud of her role as the adored “Maw Maw” to her ten grandchildren - Connor, Kacey, and Liam Hession; Paige, Parker, Emmett, and Bailey Donohue; Kingsley, Xavier, and Sebastian Brossard who were the lights of her life.

Noreen’s family also included her brother Jim who recently passed away leaving behind his wife Trudi and Noreen's two nieces, Courtney and Dana and their families.

Noreen’s capacity for compassion and connection knew no limits, creating a family that stretched far beyond traditional boundaries. Her lifelong

friend and fellow St. Vincent’s graduate, Eileen Cappiello, was as close as a sister. Eileen, her late husband Ray, their children, and grandchildren were woven into the fabric of Noreen's life as were so many of her cherished friends.

Noreen leaves behind an indelible mark on all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the entire Garden City community.

A wake will be held at Fairchild Funeral Home in Garden City on Monday, November 18 from 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 19 at the Church of St. Joseph at 9:45 a.m., with a celebration of Noreen’s life to take place immediately following the mass. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Noreen Bishar can be made to the Good Shepherd Hospice Foundation via: www.chsli.org/good-shepherd-hospice or by mailing a check to: Good Shepherd Hospice Foundation, 110 Bi-County Blvd., Suite 114, Farmingdale, NY 11735

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Ordering a weekly subscription right to your doorstep will also save you more money than buying an individual paper.

The Kordes K orner

John Ellis Kordes

PhotograPhy

I took this photograph at the Garden City Hotel in July 2008. The occasion was the Koslow 50th Wedding Anniversary. The man on the left is Mr. Koslow. He and his wife lived on Eleventh Street up on “the hill” in Garden City. If I remember right, he was the CEO of Bristol Myers Squibb. The man on the right is Darryl Strawberry the all-star outfielder for the NY Mets back in the 1980s. Why was he there?

Well, Mr. Koslow’s son, Kip, was some kind of sports agent as I recall. He was friends with Darryl Strawberry and Darryl graciously stopped by for the event to wish the Koslows a happy anniversary. I am a huge Mets fan and when Kip introduced Darryl to me I was shocked at just how big he was. When we shook hands my normal size hand disappeared in his huge grip. I remember watching him on TV in his glory days and he would swing a bat like it was a toothpick. A quick flick of his wrists and he would send the ball 450 feet at the old Shea Stadium.

Unfortunately, a cocaine addiction marred his baseball career along with his famous pitcher teammate Dwight Gooden. This was a huge problem in Major League Baseball back in the 1980s. However, we’ll always remember them both on the 1986 World Champion New York Mets. The Mets have not won the World Series since then.

Have you lost someone?

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

Noreen Bishar

Frances A. DeAngelo with her husband, Frank

Frances A. DeAngelo

Frances A. DeAngelo, born on July 25, 1942, in Astoria, New York, passed

IN MEMORIAM

away peacefully, on November 11, 2024. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend, whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

Frances married the love of her life, Frank P. DeAngelo, on June 16, 1962 in Astoria. Their union was filled with love and commitment. Soon after they relocated to Garden City, where Fran and Frank raised their two sons, Frank S. DeAngelo (wife Kate), and Anthony N. DeAngelo (partner Jeanne).

Frances soon became an active member of the Garden City community, attending mass weekly at St Joseph’s, playing bridge at the Garden City Casino, as well as organizing numerous social events. Family was central to Frances's life, and her love shaped each of her children and grandchildren, instilling values of kindness and resilience.

Frances was a loving grandmother to 7 grandchildren, Jenna (husband Greg), Tara (husband Reed), Colin, Drew, Anthony (A.J), Grace and Faith. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Barbara Sabino, who

resides in Ocala, Florida. Their bond was strong, speaking almost every day and was enriched by countless memories they shared over the years.

Frances is remembered for her generous spirit, and unwavering support of those she loved. She had a talent for making everyone feel special and included, often bringing together family and friends for celebrations that showcased her loving heart. As we celebrate her life, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy of love, compassion, and strength will continue to live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Visitation will take place on Friday day November 15th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fairchild Sons Funeral Home in Garden City. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday November 16th at 9:45 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Garden City.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association. (act.alz. org) She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

IN MEMORIAM

Marilyn Ruth Bostrom

Marilyn Ruth Bostrom, 91, passed away peacefully in her home November 7. She was a lifelong resident of Garden City and a member of the Garden City Community Church. She is survived by her two nephews, Walter and William, and their spouses Kristin and Heather. She also had several grand-nephews and nieces, including Patrick, Kenny, Michael, Jillian, Harrison, Pierce, and Harper.

Marilyn was a graduate of Garden City High School. She attended Skidmore College and Hofstra University, and taught Spanish for 30 years at Freeport High School.

She enjoyed her summers in Lake Winnepesaukee, New Hampshire, and her favorite activities included sewing and needlepoint. She also had a fondness for her dogs, especially Nikki. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. There was a service for her at Fairchild Sons Funeral Home Wednesday, November 13 .

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ASPCA.

Have you lost someone? 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.

people prefer traditional funeral services. Others prefer cremation. Some want an elaborate ceremony. Then there are others who don’t want any ceremony at all. When it comes to funerals, there are as many options as there are people, and we take pride in being able to say we offer them all.

Cathedral programs invite all members of the family

BY ARLEEN BREEN

This holiday season, the Episcopal Cathedral of the Incarnation invites you to celebrate time-honored traditions and make new memories at Garden City’s oldest community of faith.

Our programs for children and youth are booming, and newcomers are always welcome. Sunday morning classes incorporate lessons from the bible, Christian tradition, and the natural world to deepen children’s spiritual lives and develop their expressions of faith. Cathedral Choristers carry on the tradition of the Cathedral choirs of England, learning to to sing with confidence, skill and strong vocal technique. The Cathedral Youth Group completes a service project every month, and the year is punctuated by special events and family retreats.

The Cathedral has a dedicated space for our Pet Ministry, welcoming dogs and their two-legged companions to play and socialize. Additionally, they are invited every fall to our Pawtoberfest event benefitting Last Hope Animal Rescue for the Feast of St. Francis.

Longstanding traditions include the spooky Tales from the Cathedral Crypt in late October, the annual Christmas Eve Pageant (auditions this year are this Sunday Nov. 17, at 10am), and the biggest Easter Egg Hunt anyone can imagine!

The Cathedral Music Program is committed to a rich liturgical and

musical tradition. In addition to the weekly Choral Mass, and the monthly Evensong Service – there are concerts from international orchestras, local college ensembles, piano concerts and on Nov. 24th a Hymn Festival conducted by renowned composer and conductor Simon Lole – a regular musical director and organist on BBC Radio 4’s and BBC TV. Registration and details about the event can be found on our website at incarnationgc.org/connect/e-news/.

The Cathedral is the Charter Organization sponsoring Cub Scout Pack 55, BSA Troop 55, and BSA Girl Troop 322. Cathedral Cub Scout Pack 55 is open to all boys and girls in kindergarten–5th grade. BSA Troop 55 scouts range in age from 11 to 18 years old. We currently have 48 active scouts. Troop 322 has an active and growing group of female Scouts. Scouts BSA is for children between the ages of 10 and not yet 18 years of age.

Wherever you are in your journey of faith, you are invited to find a spiritual home at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, where there is always a seat at God’s table.

Tours of the Cathedral are available with an appointment at Cathedral@ IncarnationGC.org with a docent knowledgeable about the history, art and architecture of the beautiful space.

For more information about upcoming events or to learn how you can participate, please visit the Cathedral website at incarnationgc.org

Cathedral Choristers

Cathedral Youth Group enjoys fellowship and service.

Simon Lole, conductor and composer to conduct Hymn Festival on Nov. 24.

If you live in a free country, thank a veteran

Veterans, members of the Auxiliary, Mayor and Board of Trustees and local political representatives joined together to show their appreciation to all veterans.

On Monday, November 11th, Frank Tauches, Commander of the William Bradford Turner Post, welcomed everyone to the event. On Veterans Day, we honor all veterans, living and deceased. He led a prayer stating, ‘We want to give thanks and honor to all our veterans who we celebrate today. Thank you for the freedom that we get to experience today because of their selfless service. May they be blessed in health, longevity and peace, we pray, amen’.

Jim Brady, Peter Egan and Douglas Hard were the guest speakers at the ‘Meet The Veteran’ program. They each shared their very interesting experiences during their years of service. Commander Tauches also recognized other veterans including Richard Ryder, Jim Michalak,

Peter Egan showed the audience the helmets his unit used many years ago.

Walter Gross, Domenick Romano, and Robert Martin who also gave insights into their military activities.

At 11 a.m. the Post sponsored the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Village Memorial Plaza on 7th Street outside the library. Commander Tauches led the ceremony near the memorials which are dedicated to those who had served in previous wars.

The GCMS 8th grade students created cards thanking veterans for their service. Many thanks to teachers Stacey DeCillis, Susanna Sheehan and Alison Vitucci for organizing this program. Teens in the GC Library also created cards to recognize and honor veterans. Cards were mailed to veterans in the Post, Northport VA Hospital and the Long Island State Veterans Home

11th hour.

in Stony Brook. The Friends of the Garden City library offered a generous donation of military books and bestsellers for veterans and their families.

Auxiliary President Jacqueline Eltringham said, ‘This is a glorious morning! Such heartfelt presentations were made by the veterans at our ‘Meet The Veteran’ session. Our children sang and signed a moving patriotic tribute. Commander Tauches conducted a fine service and the weather is beautiful. I am grateful to all local officials and citizens who are fully engaged in the spirit of the day.”

all the veterans who gave their lives for their country.

Commander Tauches thanked the Ladies Auxiliary for their overwhelming support over the years including supporting the Ward they adopted at Northport VA Hospital and providing running shoes to Marine enlistees preparing for Boot Camp, the Kiwanis Club for their continued support in the Memorial Day Parade and ceremony, the Village Board, Staff and members of the Police, Fire and Recreation Departments, the GC Library and the Garden City Schools for their continued recognition and support of Veterans.

Members of the American Legion Auxiliary (left to right) Donna Armieri, Gail McLoughlin, Denise Carman, Suzanne Dowling, Felicia Lovaglio, Anita Frey, Marilyn Blauert, Frances Mingoia, and Helen Mary Tzszka,

Commander Tauches led a prayer for

Domenick Romano rang the bell at the

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan thanked Commander Tauches for this ceremony honoring veterans and said that our love for our veterans and our country unites us.

If

you live in a free country, thank a veteran

Veterans Jim Michalak, US Navy; Richard Ryder & Jim Brady, US Army; Walter Gross, US Air Force; Peter Egan & Domenick Romano, US Army; Douglas Hard, US Navy & Merchant Marine; Robert Martin, US Army; and Frank Tauches, Commander of the Post, US Marines.

Veterans Day cards were created by teens at the GC Library and the 8th grade students at GCMS. Military books and bestsellers were donated by the Friends of the GC Library to all who attended.

Angelina, James, Marco, James (and younger brother Liam), Henry, Zachary, Matthew, Leni, Maisie and Paul, PreK students at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, sang and signed in American Sign Language, “God Bless America.”

Eliana Stier, GCHS, played TAPS Commander Tauches thanked to the FD, PD and Recreation Departments.

GCMS 8th grade students wrote cards thanking veterans for their service to our country.

News from the Garden City Public Library

The film “Mystic Pizza” will be screened on Monday, November 18.

Monday Movies

Monday Movies presented by the Friends of the Garden City Library at 1:30 p.m.: November 2024

11/18/24: “Mystic Pizza” (1988); 104 Mins

11/25/24: No Movie

December 2024

12/2/24: “When Harry Met Sally” (2001); 96 Mins.

12/09/24: “You’ve Got Mail” (1998); 116 Mins.

12/16/24: “The Holdovers” (2023); 133 Mins.

Programs

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

Mah-Jongg (Register for each one separately)

Thursday, December 5; Thursday, December 19, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Large Meeting Room

Players will be required to bring their own games and registration will be required on Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). For additional information contact Adult Services at (516) 742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

Yoga with Kimberly

In the Large Meeting Room from 7 p.m.–8 p.m. Tuesday, November 19, December 3, December 10, December 17

Kimberly Mercadante is back with

Learn mah jongg at the Garden City Public Library

her popular Yoga Series! Join her for a yoga class for beginners and more. All are welcome! This is a series of eight classes to be held on Tuesday evenings starting October 8, and continuing through December. A separate registration is required for each class.

Beginning October 1, you can register online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) or call the Reference desk at (516) 742-8405 x 5236.

Defensive Driving Course with Empire Safety Council

Friday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join us on Friday, November 15, 2024, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., for a Defensive Driving Course with the Empire Safety Council. Receive 10% reduction on automobile/ liability insurance and qualify for a license point reduction. Registration in person at the Garden City Public Library begins on Monday, November 4, 2024. Space is limited, so check with the Reference Department for availability. Register separately for each person. Proper ID is required when registering an absentee party. You must bring a $33

check made payable to Empire Safety Council and current Library card with you to register. Bring your valid New York State driver’s license and a pen to class.

Encore Presentation:

John Ellis Kordes Presents the 30th Anniversary of the Documentary Film “A.T. Stewart’s Garden City”

Saturday, November 16, from 1–3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join historian John Ellis Kordes as he celebrates the 30th anniversary of his epic documentary film about the history of Garden City with an encore presentation. This is another chance to experience “A.T. Stewart’s Garden City”!

Museum Pass Information

Print From Home for Some Passes!

Through the generosity of the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, the Library offers free passes to select museums and cultural institutions. You can make a reservation to borrow a Museum Pass from one of the member institutions in our Museum Pass Program. Some museum passes are now available to print from home. If you do not

have access to a printer, the library will be happy to print the pass for you. These passes will be good for one day only.

Please note that not all museums participate. Passes for the following museums still need to be picked up at the Library: 9/11 Memorial & Museum, NYC (2 adults & 2 children); Empire Pass, Long Island Children’s Museum, Garden City (2 adults & 2 children); MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art), NYC (5 visitors) and Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage.

The following Library Museum Pass rules remain in effect.

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

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

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

Sign-Up is Underway for Star Wars Day on November 23, 2024!

Join us for Star Wars Day on November 23! This all-day event will feature programs for all ages, including a Star Wars themed Scavenger Hunt, puzzles, trivia, and screenings of Star Wars films.

Registration is required online at https://www.gardencitypl.org/calendar/ for some of the Star Wars programming. Please do a separate registration for all those attending from your family when you register. Registration is underway for the following Star Wars events for Grades 6–12:

• 10:30 a.m.: Build a LEGO Spaceship Volunteers (Grades 6–12, registration required): Volunteer to help children from ages 4–Grade 5 build space ships out of LEGO to display in the Children’s Room.

• 12:30 p.m.: Star Wars Video Games on Nintendo Switch (Grades 6–12, registration required): Play i themed games like “LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga” and “Star Wars: The Heritage Pack” featuring 7 classic Star Wars games with friends on the Library’s Nintendo Switch consoles!

• 1 p.m.: Build a LEGO Spaceship Volunteers (Grades 6–12, registration required): Volunteer to help children from ages 4–Grade 5 build space ships out of LEGO to display in the Children’s Room.

• 1:30 p.m.: BB8 Cupcakes with the Baking Coach (Grades 6–12, registration required): Decorate cupcakes to look like BB8 with the Baking Coach!

• 2:30 p.m.: Jedi Training with Saber Guild: Endor Temple (Grade 3–Grade 7, registration required): Learn how to use the force and a lightsaber from the Lucasfilm-recognized, combat choreography and charity costuming group!

• 3 p.m.: Grogu Robotics (Grades 6–12, registration required): Learn the basics of robotics, featuring an animatronic Grogu built from scratch!

Plus teens looking for community service opportunities can either sign up to help with the Children's Department’s Build a LEGO Spaceship programs, or email laurag@gardencitypl.org for other ways they can volunteer and help out during the day.

Upcoming November Library Programs for Tweens and Teens

These programs are for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 unless otherwise noted. Registration is required for these programs. Patrons can register online at https://www.gardencitypl.org/calendar/.

Teens who complete an online sur-

Star Wars Day will take place at the Garden City Public Library on November 23.

vey after specific programs can receive community service for participating. These programs have been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Registration begins Tuesday, November 12, at 10 a.m. online at https:// forms.gle/w6nDQG3vydGiuzQy8 for the following programs:

• Tuesday, November 12–Thursday, November 21: Ornaments for Community Service.

• Tuesday, November 19 at 3:30 p.m.: LEGO Club Volunteering

• Thursday, November 21 at 4 p.m.: Dungeons and Dragons

• Friday, November at 22 at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Gamers

• Saturday, November 23 at 10:30 a.m.: Build a LEGO Ship Volunteers

• Saturday, November 23 at 12:30 p.m.: Star Wars Video Games

• Saturday, November 23 at 1 p.m.: Build a LEGO Ship Volunteers

• Saturday, November 23 at 1:30 p.m.: BB8 Cupcakes with the Baking Coach

• Saturday, November 23 at 2:30 p.m.: Jedi Training. For Tweens in Grades 3–7

• Saturday, November 23 at 3 p.m.: Grogu Robotics

Registration begins Tuesday, November 19, at 10 a.m. online at https://forms.gle/35n4aXcTsJdPisVL6 for the following programs:

• Monday, November 25, at 4 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: DIY Model Magic Air Dry Clay

• Monday, December 2 at

3:30 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime Adventure Volunteering (Grades 9–12)

Ongoing Take-Home

Community Service Opportunities

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

• Ongoing: Kindness Cards for Community Service - No registration required. Up to 10 cards can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

• Now until Monday, December 2: Holiday Recipe Cards for Community Service - No registration required. Up to five recipe cards can be submitted per volunteer.

On Thursday, November 7, teen volunteers made bracelets during Friendship Bracelets for Community Service at the Library. Inspired by the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 made bracelets to give to friends and for the Library to give to patrons as a way to spread kindness in the community. This program will be held again on Thursday, December 5 at 7 p.m. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

News from the Children’s Room

Upcoming November Library Programs for Children

These programs are for children ages birth through Grade 5. Registration is required. Due to continuing technical issues with Eventkeeper, please visit https://www.gardencitypl.org/calendar to view our Event Calendar. Links are available on this webpage to our new temporary program registration forms as well as a printable calendar for the months November and December 2024.

These programs are for children ages biThese programs are for children ages birth through Grade 5. Registration is required. Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) for availability. Check our website for updates!

• Saturday, November 16, at 10:00 a.m.: Play Hooray Babies

• Monday, November 18, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime

• Tuesday, November 19, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose Storytime

• Tuesday, November 19, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime

• Tuesday, November 19, at 4:00 p.m.: LEGO Club Grades K–5

• Wednesday November 20, at 10:30 a.m.: DUPLO LEGO

• Wednesday November 20, at 4:00 p.m.: STEAM Club for First

Graders

• Thursday, November 21, at 7:00 p.m.: Pajama Storytime

• Monday, November 25, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime

• Saturday, November 30, at 12:00 p.m.: Tiny Songbirds

• Saturday, December 7, at 12:30 p.m.: Grow Crystals With Science Teacher Chris Buchman

• Tuesday, December 10, at 4:00 p.m.: LEGO Club, Grades K–5

• Wednesday, December 11, at 10:30 a.m.: DUPLO LEGO

• Thursday, December 12, at 4:00 p.m.: Tween Yarn Group

• Saturday, December 14, at 12:30 p.m.: Baking Coach Polar Bear Cupcakes Preschool

• Saturday, December 14, at 1:45 p.m.: Baking Coach Polar Bear Cupcakes Grades K–5

Unattended Child Policy

It is Library policy that all children under age 11 must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the Library. Also, if the young child is attending a Library program, we require the parent or designated responsible person to remain in the Library throughout the program and meet the child upon completion of the program.

The STEAM Club for First Graders will meet on Wednesday, November 20, at 4 p.m.

financial person, Irene Woo, gave an outstanding comprehensive evaluation of the state of the VGC financial status and declared we retain the coveted Moodys’ Triple A bond rating (42min.1hr 12min). But alas things went south thereafter. The Board discussed the 12th draft, yes the 12th, iteration of what is called the St. Paul’s Survey. Part of the problem is that the independent company BCI views their task as to evaluate the recreational needs of the Village and then determine thru various means how the St Paul’s building fits into satisfying any of those needs. That seems right, doesn’t it.( see GCN p1 article at p. 55). However, many members of the Board pursue the obsessive, square peg/round hole approach that it is of greatest importance to save the building and figure it out from there forgetting that the Game of Thrones like Cluett Hall and the Field house must be part of the plan now, not an afterthought. But now swimming pools anyone and where? are part of the discourse? Only last week Trustee Muldoon was pushing his pool in the St Paul’s basement while he removed the 1st and 2nd floors to have a high ceiling. (work session 1hr 43-44min. ) At this meeting, Trustee Torino dismisses the pool at the school idea as ridiculous, saying there will never be a pool in the St Paul’s building. Doesn’t it seems like a pool at St. Paul’s would work if demolition or facade was chosen? No wonder we are on the 12th draft of the poll with the Trustees refusing to use the BCI survey questions, feeling they all know better than the professional firm we hired.

During the BOT meeting the Mayor said that some thought demolition had been “litigated” out of any further part of the St. Paul’s discussion. ( 2 hr 10-15 min.). The Mayor denied she thought that way. It would be a logical to think one or more of the 3 lawyer Board members came up with that phrase. Does the “some” include Board members given none of that the 5 Board members remaining from last year, ever defended Village Counsel’s opinion voiced during the Oct. Village presentations that the conservancy 30 year conduit debt term was not feasible (Frank McDonough attacked Village counsel on Oct, 8 calling him a dentist trying to do brain surgery). No doubt residents going to the Poll may have been confused on that issue. Moreover, before the Oct. 21 Poll no Board member ever spoke out that the senior tax exemption proposed by Trustee Torino at the Oct. 8 POA meeting (moderated by now Trustee Courtney and attended by Trustee Finneran) was bogus. No Trustee or candidate disavowed the exemption in the 2024 election. It was not until this summer, when resident Bob Wolff asked the Mayor about the valid-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

ity of the exemption, that she declared, upon prior advice of Village counsel, that it was illegal! And it appears candidates Muldoon, Courtney or Tai never inquired whether it was legal or not. A fake exemption before a poll was made up- misleading our seniors, pure and simple. Seniors went to vote at the poll under false assumption that they could go scot free on paying for any St. Paul’s project! Remember, Trustees Harrington, Finneran and Torino for a time were part of the 36 member St Paul’s Committee/Alliance which mislead the residents before the poll.

Now the word litigated surfaces, perhaps to get demolition entirely off the BCI survey? Note: Of the 5 Board members remaining on the Board 3 are lawyers any of whom would be more inclined to use a word like litigate than other folk. Two are professed save the brick advocates That the Mayor did admit there are some persons being, so misguided or intentionally going to such lengths to use a word “litigated” in describing whether demolition had a place in the St. Paul’s debate. That word, litigated, has a powerful connotation, meaning there was a legal dispute that was resolved. Look up the definition yourself! Litigation never happened, any implication that this matter was litigated is false.

Plus Trustee Torino has expressed disdain for including any question at all in the survey except those pertaining to filling the building. ( min. 54 of work session).Trustee Finneran has staunchly advocated that demolition be excluded from the Poll. So Trustee Finneran’s pledge, along with Trustee Muldoon’s pledge to “listen to the residents”, only applies if they can limit residents choices to the ones Trustee Finneran and Muldoon prefer. During the past Town Halls that occurred, Trustee Torino remarked that demolition would just result in a pile of dirt. (sort of a complementary statement to the false claims by the Alliance that the demolition process would close the St Paul’s fields for “two years.. (that myth was entirely dismissed by Westerman Construction in its presentation to the Village last Oct.).

All this yet many Trustees persist that demolition should not be part of the discussion and the old poll controls. Obviously, any whisper campaign that demolition was litigated out of the conversation would have a chilling effect on participation for those who had voted for demolition or didn’t vote at the Poll. During the discourse Trustee Muldoon suggested that the Poll be forgotten but didn’t it get us into the predicament we now find ourselves? At the work session BCI noted that the Poll result could well have meant Demo getting 40% got more votes than either full or partial preservation which got possibly a 30/30 split! So one of the

preservation choices should then be voted off the St. Paul’s debate island, not demolition. But that wouldn’t support Trustee Muldoon’s personal preferences. He commented at the work session that only a “few old residents” favor demolition. Well the flawed Poll got votes by my wife and me and over 1700 others casting ballots for demolition. Trustee Muldoon’s less than scientific appraisal - he has spoken to “thousands of residents” and concludes most prefer adaptive reuse. Why have polls or surveys? we can just trust Trustee Muldoon’s anecdotal evidence as the most expensive contractor in the village that his clients represent the “average Resident”?. (But don’t we all gravitate towards like minded people).

Partial preservation also took hits from Trustees Muldoon, Harrington and Chester. Their collective misapprehensions include Trustee Muldoon suggesting that anyone googling facade would quickly learned that it is not a suitable solution for St. PAULS . Well I took up the Trustee challenge. A fast Google reveals that St Monica Church in Jamaica Queens, a free standing building that has a 1856 facade. (Look north when you are on a westbound train about 1 minute before Jamaica station). At the work session BCI stated facade should absolutely be considered (session 1 hr. 47-49 min.). So it is the more price efficient and flexible- getting as many uses in as possible vs. adaptive reuse (plan for 30% use of building at $60.4M-Poll Fact sheet). Look at the Poll fact sheet, it states facade cost as $43.2M plus the cost of a new community center, let’s size at 50,000 sq ft. at a cost $400 per sq. ft, pretty large, adding $25M totaling approx. $68m. You get lots of flexible space, much lower O & M than any reuse concept while getting a historical look- the bricks from the disassembled part of the building could clad the new structure if residents wanted that to keep the historic look throughout.

It remains unclear if and when the Board will resume discussion of the content of the survey and hopefully be cognizant of the fact the Village residents are paying for the services of BCI as experts, BCI works for the Village, not the Board! Abandonment of a fair survey and the remainder of the course of BCI tasks and events, faithfully and contractually agreed to by the Board,

would be a travesty.

S.G. Gorray

Inflation, Taxes, and Private Equity

To the Editor:

Recently on a trip to the supermarket I searched for a container of orange juice and was unable to find the usual 56-ounce item that has been on a grocery item list for years. In its place was a 46-ounce item at a much higher price, $4.19 versus $3.50. Now bear with me this price increase translates to 19.7% when you calculate the per ounce cost.

I decided to research this phenomenon to try and understand why a consumer product staple would make this quantum leap in price when demand for orange juice is declining.

After researching the subject, I learned that three years ago the producer of this well-known brand sold a 30 % interest to a private equity subsidiary of a foreign company. Now it does not take much to deduce that the cost of this sale must be recovered. Yes, higher prices for this consumer staple are the result of this transaction. Taking the next step in the world of private equity investment, the concept is to find entities that hold potential for high return, make a purchase and then sell the entity at a profit.

But here is the rub. Inflation as we know is defined as too much money chasing too few goods. When the prohibitive cost of entry inhibits new competitors, you effectively can create an atmosphere where price competition is negligible or nonexistent, ergo too few goods produced.

Voila producers are now in command of routinely raising prices. What must be considered in the analytical process is the demand side of the equation. Consumers are logical spenders; they balance incoming and outgoing basis at a microscopic level. They either do without or seek lower cost alternatives given the relative inability to offset higher prices with increased income.

On a final note, private equity investors have enjoyed favorable taxation under the byzantine rules of the IRS for years. To regain some semblance of equity in the tax code a change in the definition of capital gains is necessary. This would go a long way to balance the equation of too much money chasing too few goods.

Matthew R. Cody

Troop 1414 hosts first annual Trunk or Treat

A beautiful and interactive camping scene created by Brownie Troop

Under the warm glow of a setting Autumn sun, a new Garden City tradition was born! Girl Scout Troop 1414 would like to thank everyone who helped make the first annual Trunk or Treat and Costume “BOOtique” event an overwhelming success.

A heartfelt thank you to the trunk volunteers- the trunks were gorgeous!!! Incredibly creative, detailed, imaginative and FUN!! Themes ranged from The Addams Family, Beetlejuice, and El Creepy Carnival to Frozen, Trolls, Sweet Shop and Camping - plus many more! One was better than the next.

The event could not have happened without all the hard work and dedication of the girls and families of Troop 1414! They deserve an enormous shout out for the hours upon hours spent collecting, sorting, packaging and labeling new and like new costumes for this event. Thank you for pouring yourselves into making the first annual Trunk or Treat an event to remember.

No-one could ask for a better group of girl scouts and families!

Thank you to all who donated costumes!! Over 1,000 were collected- wow!! We are fortunate to belong to such a

generous and giving community. The Costume BOOtique was appreciated by all and remaining costumes (hundreds) were donated to the Mary Brennan Inn post-event to help those less fortunate have a Happy Halloween.

The event was supported and spon-

sored by some truly wonderful individuals and organizations. Music and entertainment was provided by DJ Katie Hanson, materials on anti-bullying were distributed from Northwell Health, a generator was lent by Trilex Construction to power DJ Katie’s beats,

Ms. Kasel looks like a sweet shop princess in her colorful trunk.

Kellan Mastaglio is one happy skeleton dancing the night away.

Audra Klie and Liv Mastaglio from Cadet Troop 1414 working the sign-in table surround by friends.

1415.

Troop 1414 hosts first annual Trunk or Treat

Pantano's supplied coffee and the best hot chocolate I’ve ever tasted and the GC Girl Scout Association provided free Kona Ices for all GC Girl Scouts. A special thank you is owed to the GC School District for allowing us to use the Middle School parking lot as our venuethis was the first time an event was held

in the parking lot! The Troop received so much glowing feedback about the location they'll be booking it again for next year's event.

Save the date for the weekend before Halloween 2025!

Happy Holidays, Garden City!!

Brownie Troop 1250 and their “Trolls Band Together” trunk.

Oceane LaGarde, Grace Pollio, Caitlin O'Brien and Ava Martin in front of the Addams Family trunk.

Troop 1414’s Catherine Donovan, Sarah Shohdy and Hazel Hajart take a break from their stations to enjoy the event.

EAB Tip of the Week

Take “Charge” of Your Battery Disposal

Here are some tips provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on battery recycling and handling. These tips have been revised to include Garden City-specific information.

Today, batteries are everywhere and power almost everything. Many contain toxic metals that can be released into the environment when improperly disposed. Therefore, it’s important to know about the different types of batteries and how to manage them post-use. Remember, batteries do not go in home recycling bins when they are no longer usable. In New York, there are different options available for the safe and environmentally responsible management of end-of-life batteries depending on which category they fall under:

Single-use batteries (examples: alkaline, zinc-carbon, button-cell, coin, lithium (Li))—should not be treated as rubbish. They may be accepted for recycling at retail locations on a voluntary basis. Use the Call to Recycle website (https://www.call2recycle.org/locator) to find drop-off locations, making sure to check the box for “primary” batteries. They can also be taken to the Town of Hempstead STOP collection.

Rechargeable batteries (examples: Li-ion, Ni-Cd, Ni-MH)—should not be treated as rubbish. Under the NYS Rechargeable Battery Law, covered rechargeable batteries or battery packs weighing <25 lbs., can be returned to any retail location that sells rechargeable batteries or rechargeable battery containing products for recycling at no cost to the consumer. Visit the Call2RecycleLocator website www. call2recycle.org/locator for acceptance locations. They can also be taken to the Town of Hempstead STOP collection.

Lead-acid automotive batteries— should not be treated as rubbish. Under the NYS Lead-acid Battery Recycling Law, retailers and distributors of lead-acid batteries must accept, free of charge, up to two used batteries per month from any individual, regardless of whether or not the individual purchases a new lead-acid battery. They can also be taken to the Town of Hempstead STOP collection .

Note: not only is bringing your used batteries for recycling the “right” thing to do, but it is actually illegal to dispose of rechargeable batteries, including automotive batteries, in the trash.

Over time, batteries in a landfill corrode and decay, resulting in the leaking of contaminants into the water and soil which causes harm to humans and the environment.

Recycle Right NY assists DEC in its

outreach efforts to help ensure batteries are recycled or disposed of properly. You can find more resources and related information about batteries on the Recycle Right New York website (https://recyclerightny.org) website.

A helpful feature is the Recyclopedia (https://recyclerightny.org/statewide-recyclopedia)—a guide that provides reduction, reuse, and recycling instructions for many common household items.

Other Battery-related Considerations

Storage—when storing rechargeable batteries for battery powered tools and other battery powered equipment like lawn mowers and leaf blowers, you can help the rechargeable batteries maintain proper function by storing them at room temperature in a dry area away from direct sunlight. It is also helpful to avoid storing these types of batteries in areas subject to freezing temperatures or extreme heat.

Damaged or defective batteries—pose a unique hazard and fire risk. It is recommended to treat them as Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and drop them off at a local HHW event or facility authorized to manage them, although retail locations in New York should be equipped to handle them as well.

Embedded rechargeable batteries— products with embedded rechargeable batteries that cannot be removed or are not easily removable, should not be returned to retail locations. To recycle these items, call the village yard at 516465-4031 to arrange for an e-waste pickup or take the items to the village yard and place them in the e-waste container which is on the right as soon as you enter the yard.

Battery Chargers—should not go in the trash or recycling bins. Certain auto parts retailers or electronic waste recycling facilities may accept them on a voluntary basis.

Report: Turf fields’ risks

From page 1

She emphasized the importance of water quality on Long Island, which relies on a sole-source aquifer.

“A big reason water quality and protection have become such a major issue is because we’re living on a sole-source aquifer, our only source of drinking water. One of the big contaminants we’ve been seeing in water wells in Garden City and across the island have been PFAS chemicals,” Christensen said.

PFOA and PFOS are possible human carcinogens. PFAS chemicals have been linked to reproductive effects, developmental effects, increased risks of some cancers, immune system impacts, hormonal impacts, and increased cholesterol levels and risk of obesity.

As part of her presentation, Christensen said interns created a map of the over 200 existing artificial turf fields now on Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk). Her discussion with the EAB this week focused on turf’s relationship to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). They are a group of 9,000 “forever chemicals” used in industrial processes and in many consumer products, and they do not break down easily in the environment. PFAS can be used in the chemical manufacturing process that creates turf field material, added to the polymer mixture.

“According to the CDC, PFAS are present in the bloodstream of 98% of American adults. There are communities around the country that have never tested for PFAS and we’re also at a point where different types of PFAS are being discovered regularly….We have a very good picture of what these chemicals do but there is still a lot of learning to do about PFAS since we are just catching up with the decades of contamination,” she told the EAB and residents gathered at Village Hall.

Christensen said artificial turf is made of three layers: the infill (usually crumb rubber, polyethylene, polypropylene and/or nylon), the fibers and the shock pad. She explained that human health impacts of PFAS exposure through artificial turf are presently understudied, however there is the potential for PFAS exposure through inhalation, ingestion and dermal (skin) routes.

She told the EAB that in 2019, Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) conducted testing on artificial turf and found that the blades (made of plastic) and backing contained PFAS. And when rain occurs at an artificial turf field, PFAS can leach through the water and enter the environment as runoff – contaminating soil and water resources.

Artificial turf is impervious meaning rain can’t penetrate the ground. Turf also flattens and compacts the soil it sits atop. With turf on a field, increased

stormwater runoff will carry PFAS, toxic chemicals and other pollutants into ground and surface waters.

Christensen presented a slide noting that in Woodridge, CT the PFAS levels in waters nearby a new artificial turf field’s location increased significantly just two months after it was installed.

Christensen pushed back on the proliferation of turf fields everywhere, and said science should present a reason to stop the constant community investments in this material.

“As we make important progress to remove PFAS from our drinking water, it does not make sense to continue using more PFAS and to allow more contamination to occur. All of the approved treatments for drinking water have been effective, and the EPA’s new enforceable standards for contamination were released this year – four parts per trillion (ppt) for the two most common PFAS, and an additional 10 ppt for a few of the other most common PFAS, as well as a cumulative impact. We’re all exposed to multiple exposures of PFAS at low levels, so you want to consider those cumulatively over time and not say certain amounts are safe – you’re really going over the thresholdAnd it is not just the PFAS in turf, it’s the VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and other chemicals,” Christensen noted.

The higher costs of installing and replacing an artificial turf field also provided context for the Village of Garden City, as discussions abound on the need for additional turf playing surfaces in village parks. Christensen said shared the example of a presentation by a Michigan State University certified sports turf manager, regarding the maintenance costs: The typical annual maintenance cost for an artificial turf field is between $13,720 and $39,220 while the annual maintenance cost of a natural grass field ranges from $8,133 to $48,960.

For any new project installation, a turf field could cost between $850,000 to over $1 million, while for a natural grass field the expense would be between $250,000 and $600,000.

Christensen said artificial turf fields need to be replaced every eight to ten years, at the same cost of the initial installation, depending on the vendor, size, etc. Meanwhile a natural grass field replacement would cost between $18,000 and $44,000. She noted that artificial turf fields have a typical lifespan of eight to 10 years, yet many companies claim that these fields can last over 25 years. Moreover, she explained to the EAB that artificial turf surfaces are extremely difficult and expensive to recycle.

“The industry claims include turf’s long lifespan, lower maintenance costs, recyclability, reduced water use (since it never needs to be watered) and use of

See page 48

From page 22

October Police Activity

During the month of October, the Garden City Police Department responded to 2,252 service calls, including:

• 82 case investigations

• 29 arrests

• 154 medical calls

• 104 auto accidents

• 1,344 traffic tickets

• 2,162 parking tickets

• 4 appearance tickets

• 15 vehicle impounds

Toll House

The Toll House renovation project is 90 percent complete and is expected to be completed by the end of November. The project kicked off in September. The scope of work includes a full roof removal and install; painting of the building’s exterior and interior, window caulking, column restoration, new carpeting, LED lights and more.

Recreation Department is Hiring

We are looking for anyone 16 years or

From page 23

Stop sign and a light pole on Rockaway Avenue on November 10.

Multiple traffic charges

A County Seat Drive motorist was charged on November 10 with unlicensed operation, speeding, and unsafe lane usage.

Gas leak assistance

Officers assisted firefighters who rendered a residence safe after detecting a natural gas leak on November 10.

Suspended documents

A 7th Street motorist was charged on November 10 with driving with a suspended license, a suspended registration, and uninsured auto.

Power disruption

Officers notified PSEG of a power disruption issue on Tremont Street on November 10.

Activated in error

On November 10, GCFD and GCPD responded to four locations for fire alarms that were activated in error.

DWI arrest

Officers arrested a 22-year-old male on Stewart Avenue for alleged DWI, driving the wrong way on a one-way roadway, and an open alcoholic container in the vehicle on November 11.

Trespassing arrest

THE MAYOR’S UPDATE

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

older to hire for our programs. We have an after-school program that would involve playing organized games with children, led by one of the Recreational Leaders. The program runs December 3 - February 13, on Tuesday, Wednesday and/or Thursdays from 3:30-6:00 p.m. You can do one or all days. In the summer, we also have a summer program that runs at the five Village parks. We have arts and crafts and sports all day. If either of those sound like something you may be interested in, contact sceballos@gardencityny.net, or visit the Cottages at 108 Rockaway Avenue for an interest form.

Sanitation Collection:

Thanksgiving Week

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage pickup on Thursday, November 28, 2024. The Holiday Week Collection Schedule will be as follows: Garbage

Western Half of Village (West of Rockaway Avenue): Monday and Friday Eastern Half of Village (East of

Rockaway Avenue): Tuesday and Saturday

Rubbish

Wednesday, November 27 Recycling

Residents scheduled for recycling on Thursday, November 28th, are asked to put their recyclables out on Thursday, December 5th.

New Pool Playground

The Board of Trustees has approved the purchase of new playground equipment for the Garden City Pool, including a play unit for ages 2-5, play unit for ages 5-12, demolition and disposal of old equipment, installation of new equipment, installation of new synthetic turf safety surface, and freight. Total cost of the project is $246,962.08. While this project is identified in the Pool account, Trustees have approved use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to pay for the purchase. The existing playground equipment served patrons well for the least 25 years.

Happening in Garden City

THE OFFICE CAT

A 27-year-old male was arrested on November 2 for allegedly trespassing on a Meadow Street residential property without permission. The arrest was recorded on November 11.

Package thefts

Two packages were reported stolen from a Wilson Street driveway on November 11.

Overweight vehicle

A Nassau Boulevard truck driver was charged with operating an overweight vehicle on November 11.

Bank scam incident

A victim states he received a call on November 11 from someone claiming to be from his bank who advised there was fraud activity on his account. The victim provided the caller with his debit card number and Social Security number. It was later determined to be a scam when the victim discovered funds were removed from his accounts.

Traffic charges

Two Clinton Road motorists were charged with driving with suspended registrations and uninsured vehicles on November 11.

Veterans Day traffic details

Officers were assigned to traffic and safety details for the 7th Street Veterans Day ceremony on November 11.

Unlicensed operation

A Nassau Boulevard truck driver was charged on November 11 with unlicensed operation and disregarding a traffic sign.

Vehicle damaged

A vehicle was reportedly damaged while parked in Parking Field 7N on November 11.

Road hazard removal

An officer removed construction metal from the roadway on 11th Street on November 11.

Overweight vehicle on 7th Street

A 7th Street truck driver was charged with operating an overweight vehicle on November 11.

Fire alarm at Adelphi

On November 11, GCFD and GCPD responded to Adelphi University for a fire alarm activated by a dehumidifier.

CO alarm response

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence for a carbon monoxide alarm activated by a construction worker using a saw on November 12.

Truck strikes train trestle

A truck struck the Chestnut Street train trestle on November 12, and the driver was charged with disregarding bridge clearance signs.

Hit-and-run on Franklin

A tan 4-door sedan reportedly left the

Monday, November 18th

1:30 p.m. Movie Matinée: Mystic Pizza at the Library

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

Tuesday, November 19th

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

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

Wednesday, November 20th

7:30 p.m. Men’s Basketball for residents at Field House. Nominal fee.

Thursday, November 21st

7:30 p.m. Adult Volleyball for residents at the Field House. Nominal fee.

6:00 p.m. Traffic Commission Meeting at Village Hall and via zoom

7:30 p.m. Board of Trustees Meeting at Village Hall and via Zoom

Thursday, December 12th

2:00 p.m. Christmas Sing-A-Long with George Salem at the Senior Center

Wednesday, December 18th

11:00 a.m. Trip to Old Westbury Gardens for a Christmas Cream Tea and Tour. $22.50.” Make a reservation at the Senior Center by November 22.

scene after colliding into another vehicle on Franklin Avenue on November 12.

Excessive speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on November 12 with unlicensed operation, excessive speed, and tailgating.

Check forgery investigation

Detectives are investigating a report that a forged $3,000 check was cashed against a victim’s bank account on November 12.

Overweight truck

A Nassau Boulevard truck operator was charged with driving an overweight vehicle on November 12.

Unlicensed operation

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with unlicensed operation, suspended registration, and unsafe lane change on November 12.

Gas leak assistance

Officers assisted firefighters who responded to a residence for a gas leak on November 12. Firefighters disconnected a leaking line and ventilated the home.

Multiple charges

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on November 12 with unlicensed operation, suspended registration, and uninsured auto.

Rotary food drive benefits INN soup kitchen

Last Saturday, November 5, the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club held a major food drive to benefit the mission of the 41-year-old Mary Brennan INN Soup Kitchen. Over the years, The INN has grown to become the largest private social service agency of its kind on Long Island.

Thirteen Rotary volunteers turned out both in front, and at the back entrance of Bileddo’s Key Food Market in the heart of Seventh Street Garden City, to collect non-perishable food items to benefit the efforts of the INN. Three hundred and one food items were collected from generous Garden City shoppers — 32 huge bags of food, all weighing 292 pounds.

The Mission of the INN as a not-forprofit volunteer-based organization, is to provide a broad variety of essential services to assist those challenged by hunger, homelessness and profound poverty. Its single principle – that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect.

Mineola-Garden City Rotary thanks Rotary volunteers: Bob Bonagura, Elena and Randy Colahan, Diane Marmann, Peter Marchall, Meg Norris, Tina O’Keefe,

Jean Kelly, chief executive officer of the INN (right) gives a hug of thanks to Diana O'Neill, Club president and food drive co-organizer.

Althea Robinson and especially organizers Joanne Meyer-Jendras and Diana O’Neill, Club president. Rotary is also grateful to the management of Bileddo’s Key Food market for assisting Rotary toward this major effort.

Lynn Maimone Kosalka and Diane Marmann show thermometer indicating number of pounds as food is collected.

Bob Bonagura, Rotary District Governor Beverly James and Peter Marshall.

Diana O’Neill, club president and Food Drive organizer; Randy Clahan, Jim Brady, Althea Robinson, Meg Norris, Club VP, and Joanne Meyer-Jendras, food drive organizer.

District Governor Beverly James, Katherine Perrera and Club President Diana O’Neill, organizer.

GC Titans secure back-to-back wins

GC (9U) Titans: Anthony Farina, Luke Linchitz, Patrick Mitthauer, Colin Thomas, Christian Bentley, Timmy Berroya, Christopher Wyremski, Leo Auad, Alexander Virzera, James Kelly, Declan Ring, Henry Ceriello, Jack Boettcher with coaches Dan Berroya and Steve Ring.

Linchitz (10) congratulates Patrick Mitthauer (99) on his hat trick after scoring his third goal of the game.

The GC Titans (9U) are on a roll since securing their first league win on 10/19, going 3-0-1 in their last four games.

The last two weeks saw incredible teamwork by the Titans, who have been expertly applying the skills they've learned in practice to their in-game situations. Smart passes, heads-up play and nonstop hustle by all.

On 11/2 vs Carle Place, the third place team in the division, the Titans won 4-2 with goals scored by Declan Ring, Patrick Mitthauer (2) and

Christian Bentley (his first of the season!) Excellent goal tending by Luke Linchitz and Leo Auad.

Last week, the Titans won 4-1 with goals scored by Patrick Mitthauer (3) and Alexander Virzera. Luke Linchitz and Declan Ring were in goal.

Incredible defense and offensive play all around contributed to both wins.

The Titans close out their fall season this weekend, Saturday November 16, at Merrick/South Merrick PAL Strikers. Go Titans!

Jack Boettcher (7) and Henry Ceriello (3) defend their side of the field.

Luke

Goalie Luke Linchitz

The Titans rush goalie Declan Ring to celebrate their 4-1 win!

Timmy Berroya (15) takes the ball down the field.

Alexander Virzera (17) beats the defender on his way to score a goal.

Declan Ring (11) with a great defensive move.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of COMWIN LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/03/2024. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Michael Comiskey: 55 Magnolia Ave, Garden City, NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Subscribe to our newspaper by calling 516-294-8900, or visit issuu.com and search for Litmor Publishing to find digital editions of each issue.

NASSAU COUNTY BIDS

RECEIVED BY AND DELIVERED TO: PURCHASING DIVISION

Inc. Village of Garden City 351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, UNTIL 11:00 AM EST WEDNESDAY, NOV 27 2024 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following: WATER STORAGE TANK IMPROVEMENTS

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

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

Inc. Village of Garden City

Catherine Reynolds Purchasing Agent

Dated:11/15/24

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005CF1, -againstCOLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 22, 2017, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005CF1 is the Plaintiff and COLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on November 26, 2024 at 2:00PM, premises known as 162 MEADOW ST, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530; and the following tax map identification: 34-546-32 & 39.

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

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

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

VILLA INCORPORADA DE GARDEN CITY

LEGAL NOTICE/AVISO LEGAL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 15104, Subdivision (3) (a) of the Election Law, the following offices and the terms thereof are to be filled at the General Village Election to be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Por medio de este aviso se da de conformidad con la Sección 15-104, Subdivisión (3) (a) de la Ley Electoral, los siguientes puestos y sus términos para ocupar el cargo en las Elecciones Generales de la villa, llevándose a cabo el martes 18 de marzo de 2025.

Title of Office Term

Mayor

Years

Trustee Two Years

Village Justice Four Years

Título de la Oficina Plazo de Alcalde Dos Años

Fideicomisario Dos Años

Juez de Aldea Cuatro Años

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk Secretaria de la Villa Dated: November 12, 2024 Garden City, New York Fecha: 12 de Noviembre de 2024, Garden City, New York

Too much junk in your house?

The new approach to balance training that changes everything

BY AHMED AHMED

Did you know a recent study concluded that your ability to balance on one leg is a key factor in determining how you’re aging?

Yup, it’s true!

The connection between balance and holding onto your independence as you age is as clear as day.

This is because having unshakeable balance sinks the likelihood of falling and breaking a bone so that you can have the utmost confidence doing physical tasks like climbing up the stairs.

Now, let’s talk about the worst (and most common) advice I hear when it comes to balance training…

And that is that you need to build more core strength.

Here’s the thing…

If you were building a skyscraper, would you feel safer with a rock-solid foundation rooted into the ground or by focusing on strengthening the middle of the building?

Now let’s get into the science of balance…

When you’re on one leg, your foot is getting sensory inputs from the ground that

travels all the way up to your brain…

At that point your brain needs to come up with an accurate solution for a complex problem.

That is, it needs to keep your center of mass over your base of support!

In this case, your base of support is the balancing foot on the ground.

While your center of mass is an invisible point in your body where your weight is in perfect balance and typically it’s close to where most of your mass is stored…

So for some people, but not always, that’s somewhere between their waist and their hips.

Now to solve this balance issue, your brain regulates tension production between muscles in your feet and to a lesser degree, your hips.

The number one evidence based tactic to improve your balance is to strengthen the muscles of your feet.

Ahmed Ahmed is the owner of Lotus Fitness. Contact him at (646)415-2349 or ahmed@lotusfitnessny.com https://lotusfitnessny.com/

Report: Turf fields pose health risks

From page 44

non-toxic materials. Artificial turf uses crumb rubber (made of ground tires) as infill. The turf industry is moving away from the use of crumb rubber, however many fields are still installed with infill material,” Christensen said.

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

The EAB showed interest in the example of Boston’s ban on new artificial turf fields. EAB member Dr. Kelly Smith asked Christensen about the advocacy methods among Boston communities to bring about the

full ban on future turf fields.

“It was with a lot of community groups and outreach, as injuries due to athletic turf was huge. A lot of moms’ groups came forth and said they didn’t know before the fields went in but they did not want their kids to play on those fields in the future. I think it came from a ‘grassroots effort’ and some of the major knee injuries and torn ACL’s by athletes moved that ban along,” Christensen noted.

Ahmed Ahmed

Travel Companies Get Into the Spirit with Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals

BY KAREN RUBIN

Travel companies across the spectrum – tours, hotels and resorts, cruises - get into the swing of Black Friday/Cyber Monday with extra special discounts on bookings. Here is just a sampling, but you can contact any travel company on your bucket list to see what they are offering:

Xanterra Travel Collection®, an award-winning globally diversified travel company, is presenting its annual “Thankful for Travel Sale,” Nov. 18-Dec. 2 with money-saving deals on national park stays, yacht-style cruises, a historic train ride to the Grand Canyon, walking and biking tours, and legendary resorts. Xanterra Travel Collection® owns or operates the lodges in Yellowstone National Park, Zion National Park, Glacier National Park, and Grand Canyon, South Rim; Windstar Cruises, the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, The Oasis at Death Valley, Holiday Vacations, Country Walkers, and VBT Bicycling Vacations. The affiliated legendary Five-Star, Five-Diamond Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, and the longestrunning Five-Star award-winning Sea Island resort in Georgia are also participating in the sale (www. xanterra.com/thankful).

Highlights include:

National Parks

• The Oasis at Death Valley –Save 30% on hotel stays at the renovated and historic

Xanterra Travel Collection is offering its “Thankful for Travel Sale” with savings on tours, resorts and national park stays such as at Yellowstone National Park, where in-park lodging frequently book up © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

AAA Four Diamond Inn at Death Valley and the familyfriendly Ranch at Death Valley, including cozy cottages, spring-fed pools, and the world’s lowest-elevation golf course. Valid for select overnight stays between December 3, 2024 and February 13, 2025.

• Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel – Save 30% on roundtrip train tickets on an enter taining journey in fully restored historic train cars to the Grand Canyon’s fabled South Rim when booking a two-night package for select travel dates between January 1, 2025 and March 9, 2025.

ing at Maswik Lodge, Kachina Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, and Bright Angel Lodge, and 20% at El Tovar Hotel for stays between December 3, 2024 and March 9, 2025. All lodges are in the Historic Grand Canyon Village within walking distance of the rim of the Grand Canyon, Lookout Studio and Hopi House. Take advantage of the secret season at Grand Canyon, South Rim and enjoy the park without the crowds.

on overnight stays inside the park at Zion Lodge in December 2024.

• Cedar Creek Lodge, at the gateway to Glacier National Park – Save 30% on rooms for select dates between December 3, 2024 and April 30, 2025.

• Yellowstone National Park –Save 30% on select room types this winter, spring, and summer at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Old Faithful Snow Lodge, and Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Enjoy winter savings on rooms at Mammoth Hot Springs for stays between December 15, 2024 and March 2, 2025, and Old Faithful Snow Lodge from December 16, 2024, through March 1, 2025. Save this spring at Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel on stays between April 25, 2025, and May 8, 2025. Save this summer at Lake Yellowstone Hotel on stays between July 2 2025, and August 28, 2025.

Luxury Hotels

• The Broadmoor – The longer you stay at one of the three allinclusive Wilderness Experience properties, the more you save Explore The Ranch at Emerald Valley, Cloud Camp, or Fly Fishing Camp. Book one night and receive 10% off, book two nights and receive 15% off, book three or more nights and receive 20% off for select dates during the 2025 season. • Sea Island – Enjoy 35% off room reservations at The Cloister and The Lodge for stays between January and May and September through December 2025. November 15, 2024

• Grand Canyon, South Rim – Save 30% on in-park lodg-

• The Grand Hotel at The Grand Canyon – Save 30% at the only AAA Three-Diamond hotel near the Grand Canyon in Tusayan (just one mile from the South Rim entrance) on select dates between December 3, 2024,and March 20, 2025.

• Zion National Park – Save 30%

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

Continued on next page

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Travel Companies Get Into the Spirit with Black Friday/Cyber Monday

Continued from previous page

Guided Travel/Tours/Cruising

• VBT Bicycling Vacations – Save $200 on a 2025 Biking Vacation through Burgundy, France: Burgundy Wine Region & Dijon Guided bicycling vacation.

• Country Walkers)– Save $200 on any 2025 departure of a Genoa & Cinque Terre Self-Guided Walking vacation.

• Holiday Vacations – Explore down under on the Grand Australia & New Zealand tour departing March 11, 2025. Save $400 per person to discover the great southern land.

• Windstar Cruises – Select one on your upcoming cruise: free pre- or post-cruise hotel nights, OR up to $1,000 Onboard Credit, OR Premium Suite guests may select a free upgrade to an All-Inclusive Fare featuring Wi-Fi, unlimited beer, wine & cocktails, and all gratuities. PLUS, enjoy reduced deposits of just $300 per guest.

For a complete list of offers visit www. xanterra.com/thankful.

Tours and Cruises

G Adventures is in the midst of its biggest Cyber Sale of the year. From now through December 3, save up to 30% on 400+ adventures across every continent on the planet, with travel by April 30, 2025, and up to 10% on select trips departing between May 1 and August 31, 2025. These include Vietnam and Cambodia; Costa Rica Quest; Kenya Camping Safari; and Galapagos Island Hopping (gadventures.com) Hike, bike or (speed) walk to grab up to 20% off more than 1,500 select tour departures in 2025 with small group adventure specialist, Explore Worldwide. Tours destinations include Italy, Portugal,

and Japan plus a select number of Polar Cruises. Travelers can choose from these select trips and book online starting Friday, November 22 through Tuesday, December 3, for travel between February 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Discount is off the tour land-only price, excludes flights and extras excursions. Deals can also be combined with loyalty member discounts though restrictions apply. The landing page will go live on November 22 here These small group tours, average 12 people, are great for solo travelers – 71% of Explore’s North American travelers go solo!

CIE Tours is offering four full weeks of sales with 15% off guided tours to all destinations – Ireland, Britain, Scotland, Iceland, and newly-launched tours to Spain – for a savings of up to $1,750 per couple.. The first booking window begins Nov. 11-24 including trips like seven-day Scottish & Irish Sampler. The second booking window Monday, Nov. 25=Dec. 7 on a new set of inclusive guided tours added to the mix like Evergreen Ireland North. No blackout dates. Offer valid for travel all of 2025 based on tour availability. Offers also include CIE Tours AllIn Inclusive Advantage including hotels transportation, all admissions and most meals are included in the up-front price. Note: offer is land-only, not inclusive of flights.

Cruiselines offering Black Friday/ Cyber Monday deals include: Holland America (https://www.hollandamerica. com/en/us/cruise-deals/black-fridaysale); Celebrity Cruises (https://www. celebritycruises.com/cruise-packages/ vacation-packages); Norwegian Cruise Line (https://www.ncl.com/cruisedeals); Royal Caribbean (https://www. royalcaribbean.com/cruise-deals/ black-friday); MSC Cruises (https:// www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise-deals/ black-friday-cyber-monday); Carnival Cruise Line (https://www.carnival.com/

Slow Cooker Safety

cruise-deals/black-friday-cyber-monday) Dream Yacht, which makes it easy to enjoy a sailing vacation with the option to book a skipper to sail the boat and even a hostess to help prepare meals on board is offering 20% off its Abacos Dream Special Edition sailing departing on March 1 or March 8 2025 if booked between Nov. 29-Dec. 2. Travelers can book online at www.DreamYacht.com or call +1.855.650.8902

Global Hotel/Resort Deals Borgo San Vincenzo, Montepulciano, Italy, is a reimagined 18th-century borgo named for the patron saint of winemaking, offering wine-driven experiences. Located in the heart of Montepulciano, Italy, in the prestigious Vino Nobile vineyards, a 10-minute drive from the center of the medieval town and a 30-minute drive from UNESCO-protected vistas at Val d’Orcia, Tuscany’s newest award-winning luxury boutique hotel, Borgo San Vincenzo is offering the Suite Escape to Montepulciano special a holiday getaway and truffle season: stay 4 nights and pay for 3 valid for stays from Nov. 1, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025. Rates include daily complimentary breakfast for two, complimentary bicycle use, taxes and fees. Book Nov. 28-Dec. 2 to take advantage two specials: the Escape to Tuscany provides 4+ nights in Tuscany at a 20% discount on all suites in any season, daily breakfast for two, complimentary e-bike rental for two, and €100 euros ($106) food & beverage credit. Bookings need to be paid in full at the time of booking and are non-refundable but they are transferrable and giftable. The ultra-luxe Sangiovese by Air, Land, and Trail package: 5 nights in the luxurious Imperial Suite for two people, daily breakfast for two, a helicopter visit to Montalcino with two wine tastings, a guided e-Bike tour of Montepulciano with two tastings and a light lunch, and a private driver to taste in Chianti Classico, for €10,500 euros ($11,370) for two people,

with a 50% non-refundable deposit due upon booking (and remaining 50% due upon checkout). The package is transferrable and giftable. (https://borgosanvincenzo.com/offers/)

Cayo Espanto, Belize: Located three miles off the coast of San Pedro, Belize, Cayo Espanto is a private island resort of seven villas total, helipad, and private yacht. Get airfare credit (up to $750 per person) with a seven night stay booked this Black Friday through Cyber Monday, Nov. 29-Dec. 2, online at a privateisland.com

Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya: Nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya, in a private, luxury community, Fairmont Mayakoba is a newly renovated AAA Five Diamond resort set on 45 acres and surrounded by a lush mangrove forest intersected by water canals. This Black Friday, book the ultimate all-inclusive getaway with 30% off stays from Dec. 6, 2024 through June 30, 2025.

Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos, Autograph Collection, is offering a 25% discount on a 4-night stay, booked between Nov 22, 2024, and Jan. 20, 2025, using promo code HOL. Marriott Bonvoy members can also take advantage of additional discounts. Reminiscent of a seaside village, with 11 acres overlooking the Sea of Cortez, the sprawling property includes a centralized building that spreads out to 32 unique villas with 270 rooms and suites, six restaurants, five bars, five swimming pools, a spa and a fitness center. HDM additionally offers a Kids’ Club, and a 1,670 square foot convention center (one of the largest in Los Cabos). Reserve at www.marriott.com/ sjdhm

BY CHARLYN FARGO

This is the time we dust off the slow cooker and bring it center stage. It’s perfect for those long-cooking stews and soups that make coming home from work a delight, knowing that dinner is ready. Use your slow cooker to make an overnight oatmeal, dip or even layered lasagna.

For most of us multitaskers, a slow cooker is a dream come true: Plan a meal and have it ready when you walk in the door. But there are some important food safety rules to remember when using a slow cooker. Here are some tips from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

-- Start with a clean space. Make sure the cooker, utensils and work area are clean. Start by washing your hands.

-- Keep perishable foods refrigerated as long as possible. Take them out and then add them to the slow cooker.

-- Prepare meat and vegetables separately. If you prep meat and vegetables beforehand, store them separately in your fridge in order to avoid cross-contamination.

-- Always defrost meat or poultry before putting it in the slow cooker. Defrosting will ensure your food cooks all the way through to the safe internal temperature. Defrost in the refrigerator, never at room temperature.

-- Pay attention to temperature. It is important to make sure your slow cooker reaches a bacteria-killing temperature. Start your slow cooker on the highest setting for the first hour and then switch it to “low” for longer cooking. However, it is still safe to cook foods on low the entire time -- for example, if you are leaving for work. Just make sure your food reaches the proper internal temperature.

-- Make sure your foods fit. The slow cooker should be half to two-thirds full to ensure your food cooks thoroughly. If there’s too much in the slow cooker, then the food won’t cook properly.

Continued on page 5

Peppercorns” – Saving Hicksville’s First Firehouse - Continued

BY GARY BENNETT

In my last article addressing Hicksville’s Old Firehouse I briefly mentioned Julie Ugarte and her grassroots movement to save the building from losing its historic treasures to developers and renovators. Well, since the announcement of the restaurants closing, she and her supporters have gained a considerable amount of support from local residents for her efforts to have the historically significant Old “Peppercorns” Hicksville Firehouse registered as an historic landmark with the Town of Oyster Bay. The online petition now has some 2600 signatories and the movement has even acquired the direct assistance and dedication of the local fire department historian and recently elected Water District Chairman Karl Schweitzer in full dedication to the cause. I have scheduled an interview with WDC Karl Schweitzer for later in the month of October and readers can look forward to that in a future issue.

On Facebook recently, Julie announced in local Hicksville groups, namely the “Hicksville Community Events Page”, that she and Schweitzer had scheduled a presentation to the seven members of the Town’s Department of Planning and Development board on Wednesday October 23rd. A second presentation will be called that the public may attend to be announced at a later date. Since submitting the application the Old Firehouse’s address at 25 East Marie Street was put on hold with the new owners being blocked from demolishing or renovating the site to prevent destruction of anything historically significant such as the firepole holes or the woodwork. However the new owners are not prevented from painting the interior. In my most recent interview with her when I inquired about paint cans being visible from the outside, she told me that “they’re allowed to paint… not happy about it”. She continued that District Chairman

Karl Schweitzer “really wants to get the building returned to them [the Hicksville Fire Department] for a museum.” Since her September 12th update, she and Schweitzer have made considerable progress for their presentation with Schweitzer starting a “gofundme” to restore the Hicksville FD’s 1948 Firetruck for display at this speculative new museum as well as locating and preserving a number of other FD documents and other material for their initial presentation in late October some of which Julie shared with me for this and future articles during our interview. Some of these photographs I am now sharing with you, our readers. The first is a photograph of the Hicksville Fire Department crew stationed at the old firehouse some time before the building was relocated by horse across the street to its current location in the mid 1930’s at 25 East Marie Street. Other photos included were a black and white image of the firehouse in 1925, and excitingly a photograph of some of the preserved original woodwork and the original fireholes(?) which once housed the old firepoles as seen in the image.

In the image provided an example of the historically significant original parts of the building is shown, in this case is the original elaborate moldings

as well as the hole(s) once housed the firehouse’s original “Fire Poles” which are the slide poles firefighters once slid down for quick access to the ground floor. While some might assume much of the historic architecture was lost during past renovations, much of the interior has been preserved behind the walls and ceilings, most of which is still there. Ugarte and others have expressed concerns that these original features may be at risk of damage by any unauthorized and unpermitted renovation during the waiting period before their presentation to the Town in late October.

In other interviews Ugarte addressed that in the 1930’s the old firehouse was moved by horse and ropes across the street to its current location to save and preserve the building for future generations. So the precedent for the building HAS been preservation since 1936, at least. Not only that but, according to Julie Ugarte, there is support from much of the Hicksville Fire Department who was also be attending the presentation on the 23rd in uniform. Later in the interview Julie Ugarte mentioned some of her background that she was willing to share, “I have lived here for my entire 53 years and want to preserve Hicksville’s history as much as we can.” I asked if she knew what the new owners had in mind for the building should the town side against historic preservation. She said she did not know for sure but she did mention she originally heard from those she asked that the plan was for an Indian restaurant however lately according to those same individuals who were not named the hearsay rumor is now that it is planned to be an “Indian

night club”. While hearsay, it should be noted that given the building is across the street from the firehouse, a night club here specifically might not be the best of ideas.

In addition to the uniform, there are a number of documents and photographs as part of the initial presentation by Ugarte and Schweitzer. If I were to speculate there should be a number of other artifacts as well. One of the images shown to me was the photograph of a Hicksville Fire Department crew stationed at the old firehouse speculated to be before the building was relocated by horse across the street to its current location in the mid 1930’s possibly 1927. Other photographs shared with me include one of the 1920 Ladies’ Auxiliary, the firehouse showing its truck fleet in 1918 with doors opened, and various other photographs between 1906 and 1940.

Looking at some of these old photographs is something, and I addressed this in my last article on the subject. For example in the bottom left corner of the first photograph I am showing here we have the Old “Peppercorns” Hicksville Firehouse with doors fully opened taken sometime before 1936 based on the nearby building also seen in other pre-1937 photographs. Today these doors have been bricked in and you can still see the outline of them in the brickwork today, the middle door was repurposed into the Peppercorns foyer entrance when the building was made into a restaurant. There is looking at history through photographs but the thought provoking impact of being able to actually touch it is another; to know that 100 years ago that wall had an old firetruck rolling out to put out a fire somewhere crewed by a small group in the old attire of the day. It really is something that must be preserved. While Ugarte and Schweitzer have certainly convinced myself and other town residents, the question remains can they convince the seven board members of the Town’s Department of Planning and Development? We’ll just have to wait and see…

For those that haven’t yet signed Ugarte’s petition but wish to sign it, the petition can be found on change. org under the search phrase “Declare Peppercorns of Hicksville a Historic Landmark”.

The firefighters posing before their original firehouse.

BY TOM MARGENAU

Readers are always asking me to explain various Social Security rules and regulations. But sometimes they want more. They want to see something official -- something in “black and white.” In other words, they want me to give them a legal reference.

I sort of know where they are coming from. Frequently, they have heard one thing from a friend or from a supposed trusted source, such as a financial advisor or a Social Security representative. And then they read something different in my column or one of my books. I understand their confusion.

So why should they trust me? Well, I’e been doing this Social Security stuff for more that 50 years now; most of the program’s rules and regulations are just burned into my brain. I will occasionally need to check something out in the Social Security Administration’s “program operations manual system,” which is the primary resource guide for all Social Security Administration employees. POMS takes all of the Social Security laws and turns them into practical instructions for carrying out those laws. Frankly, I haven’t looked at the actual laws for many years now.

Still, I understand that more than a few people would like to see something in writing. Because of the high volume of emails I get, I simply don’t have the time to look everything up for every person who demands to see it in black and white. But if you want to do your own research, I have some bits of advice.

First, I strongly recommend you start out looking in the “Social Security Handbook.” The Handbook is a much shorter version of the POMS. If you printed out the entire POMS, it would fill about 20 big three-ring binders. (I know this for a fact because when I worked for the SSA before an electronic version of POMS came along, I had those 20 binders in a bookshelf behind my desk.)

Anyway, the Social Security Handbook is only about 700 pages and fills just one book on my desk. You can find a pdf version at www.socialsecurity.gov. If you’re an old-fashioned guy like me, you can get a hard copy of the book at any bookseller, such as Amazon.

And since I mentioned Amazon, allow me to shamelessly plug my book. It’s an Amazon bestseller and is called “Social Security -- Simple and Smart.” It’s a collection of factsheets I have written for my readers over the years. These factsheets explain almost every facet of the Social Security program. It’s much shorter and simpler than the Social Security Handbook, and it is WAY easier to understand than the POMS. And it is so much more convenient to find what you are looking for in my book than to wade through all the Social Security laws.

Having plugged my book, I totally

Seeing It in Black and White

understand that it’s not good enough for some people. They want to see the actual rules and regulations. And it you are not satisfied with the Social Security Handbook, you are going to have to delve into the thousands and thousands of pages of POMS.

You can find POMS online at www. socialsecurity.gov. Scroll down to the bottom of the homepage and click on “Research and policy.” On the page that pops up, scroll down until you see a link labeled “Program Rules,” and click on it. Once there, you will see four links. You will want to open the link labeled “Employee Operating Instructions.” Then click on “Program Operations Manual System -- POMS.” When you open it up, you will see the Table of Contents, which is divided into topics such as “Retirement and Survivors Insurance” and “Disability Insurance” and “Health Insurance” and so on.

And then all I can say is “good luck!” I’ve been using POMS for more than half a century now, and to be honest, I still have trouble finding exactly what I am looking for.

And for those of you who aren’t satisfied with my book, the Social Security Handbook or POMS, if you insist on seeing the actual law -- well, then, I wish you even more luck. In my 50 years of working on Social Security issues, I think I’ve tried to find an actual law reference only once or twice. But if you really want to, you can find the laws by following the same links I mentioned above for POMS. Once you click on “Program Rules,” you will find tabs for “The Law,” “The Regulations” and “The Rulings.”

I am not a lawyer, and I certainly am no expert on these matters, but I think in a nutshell, the “Law” is the law. The “Regulations” are subsets of the law. The “Rulings” are subsets of the regulations. And POMS turns all that legal mumbo jumbo into something at least sort of readable. (And to reiterate, my book turns all of that into something very readable and easy to understand.)

Having given you all these instructions for wading through the SSA website to find various laws and rules and regulations, I’ve found that a simple Google search can work just as well. Hint: Always start out your search with the words “Social Security.” For example, say you wanted information on the 10-year duration of marriage rule that applies to a divorced husband or wife trying to get benefits on an ex-spouse’s Social Security record. When you do the Google search, don’t just type in “10-year marriage rule”; make sure you type in “Social Security 10-year marriage rule.” Lots of helpful links will pop up. But if you want a specific POMS reference, then add POMS to your search.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your

Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon. com or other book outlets. Or you can send

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Losing our middle class and home ownership

The elections and all those commercials bombarding us 24/7 are finally over. Life will continue once again, or will it? We’re exhausted, some aggravated, depressed, and some happy and ecstatic with the results. Now we are ready for a vacation. However, one thing that hasn’t changed is that we still all need a place to live. There are 3 choices, owning, renting or if lucky, staying with family. There are so many more people renting than ever before. They are not able to purchase a home, condo or coop due to financial constraints, cost of living and the severe lack of available choices.

How has real estate been effected by the diminishing middle class in the U.S.? The middle class, once the economic stronghold of an epic majority of American adults, has gradually contracted in the past five decades. The share of adults who reside in middle-class households fell from 61% in 1971 to 50% in 2021, according to a new Pew Research Center analysis of government data. However, the statistics also show that the upper end of income families increased from 14-21% during the same period; but the lower income strata of the population increased from 25-29%. So approximately 2/3 of families increased their incomes and 1/3 fell behind.

Based on a 3 person household, the upper income bracket catapulted in 1970 from $130,008 to $219,572 in 2020. This was an increase of 69%. The middle class incomes went from $59,934 in 1970 to $90,131 in 2020, an increase of 50%. More importantly, the percentage of middle class families has plunged from 61% to 50% since 1970. However, the lower income segment went from $20,604 in 1970 to $29,963 and increase of only 45%. Here is a link that will provide more detailed insight as to what has been occuring: https://www.pewresearch. org/short-reads/2022/04/20/how-the-

american-middle-classhas-changed-in-the-pastfive-decades/

Continued from page 2

-- Cut up your meat. Large chunks of meat may take too long to cook all the way through. Cut meat into smaller pieces before adding it to the slow cooker.

-- Keep the lid on. It is important to retain the heat when making a slow cooker meal, so avoid taking off the lid. Only remove the lid to stir or check for doneness.

-- Use a food thermometer. The only way to know for sure that your food is safe to eat is with a food thermometer.

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

More indepth information, analysis and key trends on the state of the middle class from 1970-2023 can be found on the Pew Research site: https:// www.pewresearch. org/race-and-ethnicity/2024/05/31/the-stateof-the-american-middle-class/

Consider the cost of housing since 1970, the nominal home price growth has been 1,881.8% and the real median home price growth is close to 200%. In short, homes have nearly tripled in price.

In comparison, the total return of the S&P 500 during the same time period was 17,811.95% or 2,585.29% when considering inflation.

Additional statistics can be found through this link:

https://www.fool.com/money/ mortgages/articles/this-is-how-homeprices-have-changed-in-the-last-50years/https://www.fool.com/money/ mortgages/articles/this-is-how-homeprices-have-changed-in-the-last-50years/

One must consider how inflation, increases in the money supply, lack of inventory, buyer demand, the once in a lifetime Pandemic, and previously the historically low interest rates (now much higher), student loans, etc. have had a huge impact on the price of homeownership. Many of these variables have never before happened simultaneously, so there is no past blueprint to compare with.

Moreover as inflation had increased, the dollar lost its’ value over time, and the cost of purchasing goods and services increased. There may not be an inventory bubble as there was in 2008, but it surely appears that currently

we have a housing price bubble. The real issue and dilemma that is upon us, is when will prices stabilize or decrease in the future?

Salaries and wages have not kept pace with our inflation. Moreover, the middle class segment of our population is losing ground as has been noted. The opportunity of homeownership has become a distant and potentially impossible dream for a vast number of families and individuals. What will happen to our housing market if there are far fewer purchasers and a continued loss of the middle class in the future with a possible increasing supply; or will builders produce even less new construction? Will low cost housing be an impossible task and goal to undertake w/o government financial assistance? It’s a basic supply/demand scenario.

Here is more detailed information from the Federal Finance Housing Agency detailing statistics over the last 50 years: https://www.fhfa.gov/data/ hpi

Although Jerome Powell, our Fed Chair lowered the Fed rate 25 basis points (1/4 point), it probably will not have any effect on lowering mortgage rates. In fact, from what I have read, mortgage rates might keep increasing as they’ve done since the last ½% decrease of the Fed rate the other month.

One thing is for sure, if the U.S. government continues to increase their spending leading to higher deficits instead of reducing it, mortgage rates will not come down.

From extensive research and reading, the continued loss of the middle class family and individuals will hurt our housing market. Only the upper class earners and cash heavy corpora-

tions will be buying housing creating even greater competition. History has shown that when you continue to lose your middle class the solid foundation of a society decays. It will turn into the haves and have nots! This creates an untenable situation for the government and its population. However, with all the negatives that may occur, I am still optimistic about the future as long as there are common sense ideas and solutions that will solve the degradation of our middle class.

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

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

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

Use a food thermometer to make sure the food has reached the proper internal temperature.

-- Store leftovers in shallow containers and refrigerate within two hours. One of the best parts of a slow cooker meal is the leftovers.

Q and A

Q: I know we’re supposed to eat less salt, but what are the effects of eating too much salt?

A: High levels of sodium can lead to

high blood pressure, heart disease and even possible stroke. The recommended limit for sodium intake is 2,300 milligrams per day for people 14 years and older. Some 90% of adult Americans consume about 3,400 milligrams per day, according to the Food and Drug Administration. To cut back, try eating less deli meat, pizza, burritos and tacos; also try using no-salt seasoning blends, no-salt-added canned foods and cutting back on chips and pretzels.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian

with SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois, and the current president of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD. To find out more about Charlyn Fargo and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

BY MARY HUNT

Got a question? Lots of readers do, and chances are pretty good their questions just might be your questions too. At the very least, you may find these answers to be somewhat educational, if not entertaining!

Dear Cheapskate: I have a big problem and have told my daughters and their daughters that I am going to accept your advice to solve it. I have only one asset of significant value: a ring given to me many years ago by my mother. All of them want it when I die. This has caused a huge argument. I know there will be hard feelings no matter who I decide will receive this ring in my will. I had the ring appraised and it is of significant value. Thank you for helping me before time runs out. -- Dorothy

Dear Dorothy: The way I see this, you have two choices: 1) Leave the ring to your first-born, which is a kind of traditional way that heirlooms are passed down to the next generation, or 2) Sell the ring now and divide the proceeds equally among your heirs. If I were you, I would go with option #2. I predict that once they hear your decision, there will be a sudden change of attitude to preclude you carrying through with a sale.

Dear Cheapskate: The rust in our city water leaves an unsightly brown

Three Daughters and a Ring

buildup in my bathroom sink made of vitreous china. I have tried homemade remedies and store-bought products, but nothing has worked in completely ridding the unsightly stains. Can you recommend something that will help make my sink look new again? -- Diane

Dear Diane: Bar Keepers Friend, available in the household cleanser aisle of most supermarkets and discount stores, will remove those stains without harming the enamel coating on porcelain, known as vitreous china. The active ingredient in Bar Keepers Friend is oxalic acid, an organic acid that works as a bleach and rust remover. I think you will be amazed by the ability of BKF to remove these stains! As always, it is vitally important that you test any product in an inconspicuous place first to make sure it will not be damaged before proceeding.

Dear Cheapskate: I need a dark spot corrector for the face. There are so many products out there (most of which are quite costly) that, if they worked, might be worth it. However, I have yet to find anything that works! -- Nellie

Dear Nellie: I have a homemade remedy that’s super inexpensive and very effective for most people. But it requires daily diligence. Ready to commit to doing this for six weeks? Great! Blend one onion in a blender until it is well pureed.

Mix the blended onion with a cup of apple cider vinegar (no substitutes, please). Mix well, then pour this through a small sieve and place the liquid into a small container that has a lid.

To use: Dip a cotton ball into this potent concoction and dab onto the brown spots. Leave the mixture on the spot for about 30 minutes. Continue doing this daily (or twice daily if you can manage and want a faster result) for about six weeks to see improvements.

Dear Cheapskate: My children love the apple slices available prepackaged at the grocery store. I really appreciate the convenience, but I hate the price tag. I would love to prepare the slices at home myself for a fraction of the cost; however, I’m at a loss for the ingredient that keeps the apple slices from turning brown before their time. Any suggestions? -- Michelle P., email

Dear Michelle: Citric acid is the best way to keep apple slices from turning brown. An easy way to accomplish this is to create a citric acid bath -- one gallon of cold water into which you have dissolved a package of unsweetened lemon Kool-Aid -- the cheapest source of citric acid! Dip the apple slices in this bath, then place them in zip-type plastic bags. Remember, this trick will only slow the browning process, not eliminate it.

Mary invites you to visit her at Every-

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

My Newly Discovered, Super Helpful Household Tips

BY MARY HUNT

Having lived and breathed time- and money-saving tips for over three decades now, I thought I knew it all. I cannot fathom how many thousands of tips and tricks my readers have shared together with all I’ve discovered on my own (borne out of desperation or just plain frugality). So far, I’ve learned enough to fill three hefty published books (“Tiptionary,” “Tiptionary 2,” “Cheaper, Better, Faster”) with clever tips and DIY solutions. Could it be I’ve only scratched the surface? I think so, given what I’ve learned recently.

DOUBLE DUTY FOR TOILET CLEANER

It’s not like I’d never heard of it, but I’d routinely dismissed the idea. Common sense, you know. Gel toilet bowl cleaner to clean grout? Not long ago, I decided to test to prove this was nothing but a wacky idea. Surprise! It actually works. The gel glides out in a perfect little line, like it was born to be a grout warrior. Here’s the drill: Apply the gel (Clorox Clinging Bleach Gel is a good choice) on the grimy grout, let it sit there for five minutes, then grab an old toothbrush -- or whatever scrubby tool you’ve got lying around -and get to work. You won’t be scrubbing

till your arm falls off. Only a little elbow grease, and voila! Your grout will look like new.

RENEWAL FOR STALE CRACKERS

Ever pull out a box of crackers only to find they’ve gone stale and less than crisp? Don’t toss ‘em just yet! Here’s a trick I’ve come to swear by: After baking

something and while the oven is still hot, even though you’ve turned it off, spread the sad, stale crackers on a cookie sheet and pop them into the oven. Don’t turn

the oven back on; just shut the door and walk away. By the time the oven cools, the crackers will come out crisp and snappy, like they just rolled off the assembly line. No magic, no waste and no more soggy saltines. Pretty slick!

THAT FRESH SMELL OF NOTHING

Got a closet that smells like it’s auditioning for a role in “The Haunted Attic”? Here’s a quick fix: Grab a little organza or mesh bag -- something with holes so it can breathe -- and toss in a few sticks of chalkboard chalk. Hang it on one of your hangers, and let the magic happen. The chalk soaks up moisture like a pro, keeping things dry and fresh. No more musty, mystery smells lurking in your closet, just dry clothes that smell the way they’re supposed to. Hint: A challenging situation will work best with several of these chalk bags.

DIY MULTIPURPOSE CLEANER

Some homemade cleaners pull off stunts that store-bought stuff only dreams of -- and this little miracle cleaner is one of them. All you need is baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, and suddenly you’re a stain-fighting wizard. Got yellow armpit stains on your favorite

white shirt? Gone. Baked-on crud welded to your cookie sheets? No match for this magic combo. Here’s the routine: Pour some baking soda in a small bowl. Add enough fresh (it can lose its power after six months, or sooner if not stored closed in a dry, dark place) hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Seriously, it works on all sorts of stubborn messes that just won’t quit. And the best part? It’s cheap, easy and already sitting in your cupboard. Who needs fancy labels and chemical fumes when you’ve got baking soda and peroxide ready to do the dirty work?

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

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of November 17-23, 2024

How many planets are there in our solar system? Nine? Eight? Twelve? Hundreds?

I know many will insist there are nine, with Pluto as the ninth planet, but remember that in 2006 Pluto was reclassified as a dwarf planet, and that left us with eight official planets. Keep in mind, however, that the definition of the word “planet” is still somewhat unsettled, so even that answer may not be correct.

It wasn’t always that way, however. A couple hundred years ago, every astronomer and schoolchild knew the answer. There were six planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn, five of which wandered the starry heaven from night to night. And those are the only planets known since the dawn of time.

That’s why in 1781 the world was stunned when musical composer and amateur astronomer William Herschel found a seventh world. It was soon named Uranus (pronounced YOU-rahnus) in honor of Ouranos, the father of the Titans and grandfather of Jupiter in Greek mythology.

What’s curious about Uranus is that no one had found it earlier, as the planet is sometimes bright enough to see with the unaided eye. And right now is just one of those times.

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

“Hey, look at that,” said my husband, staring out the window. “There are people doing yoga on the roof of that building.” We were on the 20th floor of a building in New York City, having a romantic dinner at a chic restaurant known for its great food and beautiful views.

“What are they doing?” he wondered aloud. “Oh. Oh no!”

“What? What is it?” I asked, straining to see.

“Um. I think they’re taking off their clothes.”

I jumped up from my banquette and ran to the wall of windows. There, in plain sight on the roof of the next building several floors below us, were 16 people on yoga mats, doing downward dogs in their birthday suits.

“Ewww. Naked people doing yoga,” I squealed.

“Not just naked people: ugly naked

STARGAZERS

Uranus at Opposition

Uranus reaches its opposition -- the point in its orbit where it lies closest to Earth -- on Saturday, Nov. 16, and for the next week or so will rise in the east shortly after sunset.

Finding Uranus takes some patience, but it’s not too tough since it now appears just south of the Pleiades (aka Seven Sisters), the shimmering star cluster you’ll easily spot low in the eastern sky after dark.

To search for the planet, first use binoculars to find the Pleiades. This in itself is worth enjoying, as its bluish-white stars sparkle like diamonds on black velvet. If you can tear yourself away from this sight, swing your binoculars about one field of view to the right.

Identifying which “star” there is Uranus, though, might be a challenge. I suggest comparing the star pattern you see in your binoculars with that in the illustration provided, and you might be able to figure out which one is the planet.

Uranus has a slight bluish-green tint, and once you find it, try searching for it with your eyes alone. If you have excellent vision and a clear, very dark rural sky far from city light pollution, you may be surprised by how easy this is!

What puzzles me is that, if we can see Uranus with the unaided eye, why hadn’t the ancients found it? And if they had, how might that have changed our culture? After all, the five visible plan-

ets (along with the sun and moon) lent importance to the number “seven,” and we see it everywhere. There are seven rungs of perfection, seven emblems of the Buddha, the seven gates of Thebes, seven wonders; even seven days of the week!

So it’s only natural to wonder how things might be different if the ancients knew of

eight -- instead of seven -- significant bodies that traveled across the heavens. It’s really quite surprising that they didn’t. Just a little mystery to ponder while stargazing this week!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Moon Over Manhattan

people,” our waiter clarified.

It was indeed a spectacle. But apparently I, the suburbanite, was the only one surprised by the events out the window. True, it was an unseasonably warm evening. But all around me, diners kept dining, drinkers kept drinking and no one seemed to notice or care that right outside was an X-rated display of group exercise.

Honestly, I didn’t know which was more shocking; the people doing naked yoga outside, or the people not paying any attention inside. Unfortunately, I was paying attention and having a hard time focusing on my lovely goat cheese and frisee salad and the lovely company of my lovely husband, while 16 not-solovely-looking people Saluted the Sun with a full moon.

Obviously, it wasn’t the yoga part of this display that was troubling me.

My husband does yoga, and my sister-in-law teaches yoga, so although I myself am not a yoga-phile, I have had

some firsthand experience with people doing yoga. I am also not unfamiliar with themed yoga. I’ve read about such yoga options as yoga for couples, yoga for babies, and even something called doga, for people who want to do their downward dogs with their labradoodles. There are the food yoga classes, such as yoga with chocolate, and yoga with wine, as well as the popular yoga with pizza.

There are classes that combine yoga with gymnastics, yoga with aerobics and even yoga with belly dancing. There are probably yoga classes for people who love “Star Wars” (yoga with Yoda) and people who like their yoga with fruit on the bottom (yoga with yogurt). There are so many variations on the yoga theme that I’m sure if I were to search the internet, I would certainly find naked yoga -- maybe even naked yoga with dogs. However, just because you can do it doesn’t mean you should, especially on a rooftop in New York

City and certainly not within view of someone who wants to keep her appetite intact.

Knowing this was a pricey dinner, I tried to keep my eyes on my plate and enjoy the rest of the meal. But ultimately, we decided to skip dessert and go for coffee someplace else, preferably on a lower floor. Then, as we were on our way out, we ran into a friend who was on his way in.

“Are you having dinner here?” asked my husband.

“Yes,” said the friend. “We heard the food is great and the view is terrific.”

“True,” I replied. “But you might not want to do both at the same time.”

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.

Uranus, the third-largest planet in our solar system, is sometimes visible with the unaided eye

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Make this side dish the star on Thanksgiving

Stuffin’ Muffins

Food is foremost on the minds of Thanksgiving guests. While food is a big deal on just about every holiday, the meal really takes center stage on Thanksgiving.

Although turkey can be a delicious main course, many Thanksgiving diners might admit they anticipate the side dishes more than the turkey. Potatoes, soups, salads and dinner rolls are all competing for space on the Thanksgiving table and can be equally tasty. However, perhaps no side dish is more synonymous with Thanksgiving than stuffing.

Though stuffing is sometimes cooked inside the turkey, while others prefer to prepare it in a casserole dish. There’s no shortage of ways to prepare stuffing, and adventurous types might enjoy this recipe for “Stuffin’ Muffins” courtesy of “Lord Honey Traditional Southern Recipes With a Country Bling Twist” (Pelican Publishing) by Chef Jason Smith. In this recipe, stuffing is baked in muffin tins for the perfect portion you can sink your teeth right into. Makes 1 dozen

1 pound breakfast sausage

2 medium onions, diced

2 cups diced fresh baby portobello mushrooms

1⁄2 cup butter

8 cups crumbled cornbread Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1) Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter a 12-hole muffin tin.

2) In a large skillet, crumble the sausage and cook until halfway done. Add the onions, mushrooms and butter. Cook until tender.

1 tablespoon dried rubbed sage

1 teaspoon onion powder

1⁄2 cup shaved or grated parmesan cheese

2 eggs

1 1⁄4 cups chicken or veggie broth or stock

3) In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and the sausage mixture. Add salt and pepper.

4) Add the sage, onion powder, parmesan cheese, eggs, and broth. Mix with hands until all ingredients are moist but hold together.

5) Using a 3-ounce ice cream scoop, place 12 balls into the prepared muffin tin and pat tops flat. Bake for 30 minutes.

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St. Paul’s survey approval postponed, again

From page 1

postponement and two trustees – Mayor Carter Flanagan and Deputy Mayor Bruce Chester – in favor of proceeding with finalizing the survey.

Use, Programs and Cost

Trustee Bruce Torino raised concerns about the survey’s clarity, particularly regarding space and cost requirements for potential programs at St. Paul’s. He advocated for questions focused on “Use, Programs, and Cost.”

“We have a situation where we have the ability to identify, as the survey draft does, particular future uses. The question is, how much space would programs take? When you put a use into the building, you envision how much of St. Paul’s you would need to accommodate the programs? Then you outline the numbers of square feet, and costs associated with that amount of square feet. Then you can develop your range. The current survey draft confounds this very simple process by asking residents for their ‘affinities’ and I do not know what on earth an affinity has anything to do with it……We as a Board are obligated to decide on (survey content) and I for one will not vote in favor of a survey unless it meets the criteria of being useful, answering questions and is ‘agreed on’ by all the Board members that it’s our best effort,” Torino said.

BCI’s survey aims to inform a construction budget for St. Paul’s by identifying resident preferences for activities and facilities, which could guide the village in budgeting and prioritizing renovations. Bucher explained that the survey results would also help shape financing strategies, allowing the village to proceed with only affordable projects and minimizing tax increases.

He explained, “If we know that, it would set parameters for that budget and then we use the other information to prioritize what type of construction project people want, what type of uses, activities and facilities they’ll want in there so if we can’t afford everything, the village would go from the prioritized list to put in the most important things and take out the least important things to finance something the village can afford, and then wind up with a package the community will vote on that we’re pretty confident will pass because of our listening to what people have to say about what they’d like to see at St. Paul’s, what type of construction and how much they are willing to pay.”

Mayor Flanagan emphasized the importance of providing residents with cost estimates for different project options, reflecting on discussions with BCI from the October 28 work session. The current survey draft, now in its 12th version, was made public at the

meeting and on the village website.

Bucher, who lives in Louisville, Kentucky, said BCI was hired by the Village of Garden City to complete a Recreation and Parks Master Plan, to “look at all the different facilities and parks in the community, the programs and the operations. BCI is charged with coming up with a set of recommendations for the village to improve its facilities and programs, including potentially adding new facilities, programs and improving operations.

“We are also tasked with developing a St. Paul’s Use Plan which would hopefully help implement some of the pieces of that Recreation and Parks Master Plan. We want to find out what people would like to see, and what type of a construction project there people would potentially support because at some point in time the project would need to go out to a village-wide vote to support a potential tax increase for a bond the village would have to take out to do the project. We want to know which type of projects people would vote to support, and also get an idea of how much people would be willing to pay for those types of projects. We understand there’s been a lot of conversations about what types of construction projects could happen on the building and we know people might support only one type, some might support two, or none. We want

to figure out what they will support and at what level of a corresponding tax increase,” he noted.

The mayor said Garden City has never approached St. Paul’s “in this way” and she believes BCI’s work has given the community a chance for a successful project. She commented on the reason why the St. Paul’s Survey had to be fine-tuned to include ranges for project costs.

“We have all the different types of projects to ask residents about their support, and there was a request to provide a price range for Preservation, Facadism or Partial Preservation,” the mayor said.

Ballpark numbers

Trustee Vinny Muldoon said the main issue on developing the survey, though it was in its 12th iteration, was that the content and the pricing evaluation of projects with the corresponding local (municipal) tax increases for residents was and is not fully investigated. He suggested “ballpark” figures for potential projects what their tax implications would be. He said the village residents should be presented with as accurate information as possible to reflect tax increases the village can afford, and support for a project that will not bury Garden City in debt.

See page 52

St. Paul’s survey approval postponed, again

From page 51

“Ballpark numbers are guidelines, that’s all they are – nobody will go back and look. But guidelines can’t be off by 100 percent or 50 percent. I firmly believe we should give people ‘ballparks’ on the survey and further down the road, percentages versus fixed amounts of money that any residents are willing to pay. If you want to spend no money, $200 or $400 then that’s each resident’s choice, and they get to put that down on the survey. They will indicate to us how strongly they feel and how much money they think they can afford based on their budget. I believe people will be honest and respond with what they can afford with their preferences for St. Paul’s…I firmly believe that we as a Board are going to try and do what we feel is in the best interests of the village, and the majority of people would support a project. We’re attempting to simplify things as opposed to complicating things,” Muldoon said.

Frustration about discord

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan was visibly frustrated by the discord about the survey’s readiness.

“We have come this far, and I’d like to follow the advice from our professionals. There is nobody on the Board who has any experience doing Recreational Planning and on Surveying. As far as cost estimates, Trustee Muldoon, we went down this road before. I worked with Westerman Co. to figure out the cost estimate they came up with, and I think a lot of us are aware of what happened in the last round and how very wrong it went when people started to put cost estimates on projects that were clearly being used to sway the village in a certain direction – that is exactly how it would look. If you want to say you think you know what’s best then the Board needs to be honest with people and say we’re not doing this survey and we have a vision – that’s a different approach and I am not criticizing it, but we need to be honest here,” she explained.

The mayor commented that the October 21, 2023 St. Paul’s Opinion Poll in which 61% of voters were in favor of full or partial preservation of St. Paul’s, has been “much discussed and criticized” but was done by a Board of Trustees that worked collaboratively, trying to get to a solution that would have enough support to be approved by the community.

“I stand by it being a good decision at that time, and it gave us the opportunity to hire professionals (BCI) and to have support for the process we’re in the middle of right now. I don’t think we had the support beforehand. I will say, you can’t

compare the draft survey as a professional work product to the Opinion Poll as it’s a different level. We’re doing it the right way from the start,” she said.

Trustee Torino responded that the October 2023 Opinion Poll was drafted by the mayor and put forward over his objections at the Board meetings and via communication prior to that, and Trustee Finneran was also seeking a further review of the questions and polling date just over a year ago.

“Since we’ve had as many problems with the Opinion Poll, we are now facing a conundrum. If it offered a simple set of solutions and a simple poll we would not have all the questions about demolition and making St. Paul’s into a park,” he commented.

Mayor Carter Flanagan noted that she did not “write” last year’s Opinion Poll but she compiled its contents. “It was a collaborative effort from a majority of the Board of Trustees,” she said.

At the start of the meeting she thanked Bucher for the overview of the consultants’ process and planning for Garden City’s Recreation and Parks Master Plan and the eventual St. Paul’s Use Plan.

“It really articulates why we came to BCI, involving this experience you have had in getting communities to a successful bond vote. We (the Board of Trustees) are now faced with version 12 of the St. Paul’s Survey, and we’ve been working on this since May. I think everybody knows that at one point this summer we split the projects to go out separately with a Recreational Survey that went to a sampling of residents, and we waited on the St. Paul’s Survey to let the Recreation results inform this one,” the mayor said.

The information requested by a majority of the Board now involves outlining costs for different potential uses and programs for St. Paul’s. Trustee Finneran, in his comments, was optimistic about a process moving smoothly for this evaluation, and hoped the St. Paul’s Survey can soon include that important material – in time for the Board to approve it at one of its upcoming meetings, before 2024 ends.

Contrary to the recent months where just one regular board meeting has taken place, this November has two meetings on the calendar – a return to the biweekly sequence. The Board meets next on Thursday, November 21st at 7:30 pm. News on BCI’s progress and updates for developing the survey is expected.

Photos from the Village Archives

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

Comments/questions: email Historian@gardencityny.net

Doubleday Powerhouse

In 1929 the Doubleday Company that occupied the building at 501 Franklin Ave. opposite Fifth St. constructed a bulding on the north side of Chestnut St. [then called Sixth St.] as a powerhouse for their printing operations. Shown is a photo from c1937 showing the back of the building, with its tall chimney, from the Post Office side of Franklin Ave. It was connected to an annex of the main building by a pedestrian tunnel under Chestnut St. Next to the building was an underground 20,000-gallon oil tank for fuel supply. In 1946 the building was converted to additional office space including an office for Mr. Doubleday. When the Doubleday Company left in 1991 the building was acquired by the Medical Center, diagonally across Franklin Ave., and is now known as 601 Franklin Ave. Archives identifier: str37

Thunder Diez 10s: Moms vs

sons

It was a “Friday Night Lights” to remember, as the Diez 10s took on a surprise team in a friendly game of flag football - their moms!

Each side had two chances to score, and they did, with the scrimmage ultimately ending in a tie.

It was a perfect way to end the bye week practice and get the team hyped up for round one of the playoffs!

This weekend, come cheer on the Thunder Diez 10s as they take on the Franklin Square Warriors - Sunday, November 17, 10:30 a.m. at Rath Park. Go Thunder!

Diez 10s moms QB Nicole Diez takes the snap.

Diez 10s moms huddle with Coach Melendez and Coach Dean to go over their next assignment.

Diez 10s moms Maura Moylan (10) and Tara Ormond square up on defense against their sons Owen Moylan (10) and Ryan Ormond (89)

Diez 10s moms with their cheer squad before the big game!

Nicholas Diez (12) does his best to evade Diez 10s moms Jennie Virzera, Maria Pepicelli, Jaime Melendez, and Andressa Lopes.

Diez 10s mom Kieran Gallogly avoids the flag pull by her son Jackson (44) and throws an incredible pass for a TD!

Diez 10s moms and sons meet up for the coin toss.

Diez 10s mom Katie Sampson catches a great pass for the touchdown!

GCHS Field Hockey wins Long Island Championship

Last season, Manhasset defeated Garden City in both regular season games, and a confident Manhasset squad entered the Nassau County Championship Game looking to sweep the Trojans. The Trojans mantra was “beat ‘em went it counts,” and Garden City won 1-0. This season the tables were turned, Garden City defeated Manhasset in both regular season games, and Manhasset adopted the sports idiom, “it’s tough to beat a team three times.” That idiom proved to be true, it’s hard to beat a team three times, but not impossible. An athletic Manhasset team fought hard and forced a Sudden Victory Overtime period in the County Championship. With only two minutes remaining in the Sudden Victory Overtime period, the powerful captain Arci Haffner blasted a penalty corner that deflected off the stick of a Manhasset defender and as the ball hung in mid- air, Grace Brantuk slammed it past the goalkeeper.Garden City wins the County Championship 1-0.

Captains Mitchell, Rogler, Clavin, Marino, O'Hanlon, and Haffner with the trophy.

Emmie Goettelmann sealing the victory!

Captain Maddie Mitchell and defenders guarding the goal.

The Garden City HS Field Hockey team

And we're off to States!

GCHS Field Hockey wins Long Island Championship

In the Class B Long Island Championship, Garden City faced a confident Harborfields team having just come off a 5-1 Suffolk County Championship win over Miller Place. Harborfields hoped to continue to capitalize on their penalty corners as was the case against Miller Place. A skilled Harborfields squad thought they had Garden City right where they wanted

them, having been awarded 4 penalty corners in the first 5 minutes of play. The difference, Garden City smothered Harborfields; successfully defending all 4 penalty corners. After a scoreless first half, Grace Brantuck inserts a penalty corner to Arci Haffner, who passes to Emily Racich, Emily eludes two defenders and pushes the ball forward to captain Hayden Rogler, who crosses

to Emerson Goettelman for the goal, Garden City takes a 1-0 lead. After a controversial Garden City penalty on a Harborfields penalty corner attempt, Harborfields scores, 1-1. With the teams tied late in the 4th quarter, Garden City’s athleticism and stick skills overwhelms Harborfields, Kitty Clavin intercepts a Harborfields pass and sends the ball back into the circle creating a Garden

City penalty corner. During the penalty corner attempt, Cat Suau out maneuvers two defenders and crosses the ball to Emerson Goettelman who scores her second and winning goal. The 2-1 victory punches Garden City’s ticket to the State Playoffs. Hey Red!

Garden City Welcoming Club News

Upcoming Events

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

The Welcoming Club is excited to have the Big Man himself back in town for a family Santa Brunch! This fun and festive event will take place on Saturday, December 14, from 9 –11 a.m. Guests will enjoy a buffet-style breakfast, DJ, photo booth, raffles, and pictures with Santa! Don’t wait, tickets go fast! For more information, please visit our website!

Sip & Shop at Madison’s Niche

The Welcoming Club invites you to an exclusive Sip & Shop event at Madison’s Niche on Thursday, November 21, from 6 – 8 p.m.. This stylish evening will be filled with champagne and a discount on your entire purchase for club members (some exclusions apply). Show your support for our local Madison’s Niche store by shopping in good company. Bring friends — the more the merrier and the more discount we will receive (up to 20%)! A champagne tasting table, courtesy of Garden City Wines & Liquor, will offer glasses of champagne available for purchase with the option to buy the full bottle as well.

December Craft: Holiday Ornament Workshop

Celebrate the holiday season with a creative twist at our Holiday Ornament Workshop! Decorate beautiful holiday ornaments using creative techniques such as: glitter, paint pouring, decoupage and more! Whether you're looking to add a personal touch to your tree or create gifts for others, you'll have fun experimenting with different techniques. Join us for an evening of crafting, creativity and holiday cheer! Join us Wednesday, December 4, at 8 p.m.

at Let’s Craft. To RSVP, please email gccraftclub@gmail.com.

Follow Us!

Facebook: The Welcoming Club of Garden City Instagram: @gcwelcomingclub

Join A Group Book Club

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

Craft Club

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

Supper Club

Bring your significant others out for this one! This is a great way to make new friends as a couple. You will be paired up with 3–4 other couples to set up a rotation of dinner events. Host your new friends at home or head

out to try local restaurants. Please email GCSupper@gmail.com for more information.

Bunco

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

Toddler Activities

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

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

Garden City Turkey Trot marks 47th Year

It’s Turkey Trot time of year again! The Garden City Turkey Trot, Long Island’s largest Thanksgiving Day road race, will mark its 47th anniversary on Thursday, November 28, 2024 in Garden City!

The Race attracts runners from all over Long Island and beyond, including multi-generational families that have made the event a special part of their holiday. The Garden City Turkey Trot will once again benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the Muscular Dystrophy Association and The INN. Don’t forget to bring non-perishable food to the Race for the Food Drive for The INN!

November 27, 2024 at St. Paul’s from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. or on race day Thursday, November 28, 2024 beginning at 8:00 a.m.

The Turkey Trot consists of three races: the Challenger Division Race for courageous special needs athletes (8:30 a.m.), a 1.4 mile Fun Run (9:30 a.m.) and a challenging 5 Mile Race (10:00 a.m.). All three races start and finish in front of St. Paul’s on Stewart Avenue. Pick up your race bib and race T-shirt on Wednesday night, Thanksgiving Eve, November 27, 2024 at St. Paul’s between 6:00 and 8:30 p.m. Don’t forget about the delicious $5 pasta dishes from race sponsor La Bottega – proceeds go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Foods Trucks and plenty of good and

fun food and drink will be available for free and for purchase. A team from Recovry PT will be on site with tables for pre-race stretching and post-race massages, free of charge.

Important to note: There is no Race Day parking at St. Paul’s. Roads leading to St. Paul’s close early so plan ahead.

The 2023 race drew more than 7,000 runners and thousands of spectators and volunteers. The Garden City Turkey Trot is much more than a race. It is a well-established family tradition for so many in the community and beyond. Hundreds of volunteers - young and old alike - lend a hand and help make the race a success year after year.

Girls Soccer ends season as County Champions

The Garden City Girls Varsity Soccer season came to an end in the Long Island Championship last week, but It was not for a lack of effort. The scoreless game went into double overtime and was unfortunately decided in West Islip’s favor in penalty kicks.

All thirteen players who stepped on the field (Forwards- Ellie Andersen, Meaghan Lynch, LeeLee Gaffney, Sydney Rhein and Sienna Castellano. Midfielders- Chloe Benik, Kathryn Monaco and Sophie Rhein. Defenders- Tori Ottomanelli, Deanna Prisco, Brianna Ciccone and Madsie Patrickakos. Goalie- Marissa Patrissi) should be proud of their performance. Playing 110 minutes of soccer is not an easy task, especially against a very physical West Islip team. The GC girls literally battled from start to finish and left it all on the field, unfortunately it just wasn’t their day. Sometimes in soccer, the better team doesn’t always win.

The Trojans had a remarkable season and should be commended for their grit, their heart, their class, their sportsman-

ship, their bravery, their leadership, and for bringing the entire community together. A very special thank you to all of our Trojan fans who filled the stands cheering for our team all season long, the girls varsity soccer players heard you all loud and clear!

Good luck to our seniors. All nine of you will leave behind a legacy that the entire town is proud of. Thank you for your leadership on and off the field. You have become role models to all of the little soccer players in town and that is what we are the most proud of. Thank you for setting a great example, thank you for always including everyone, and thank you for an exciting, fun filled season that we all will never forget. To the juniors and underclassmen, hopefully the seniors have paved the way for you all to make it to states next year. We will all be cheering you on next fall. A huge thank you to head coach Scott McAuley, assistant coach Tori Flaherty, our athletic trainer Anthony Navarro, and our amazing athletic director Ed Ramirez. The team would not have made it this far

Seniors Elizabeth Staub, Brynn Reilly, Tori Ottomanelli, Kathryn Monaco, Sophie Rhein, Kate Connolly, Chloe Benik, Meaghan Lynch, Ellie Andersen. Photo by Ed Rotondo

The GC girls celebrating with their Nassau County Championship plaque after beating South Side HS.

Juniors Ciara Hegarty, Katie Horn, LeeLee Gaffney, Marissa Patrissi, Deanna Prisco, Brianna Ciccone, Nora Donahue, Liana Kelly and Sadie Gordon.

Photo by Ed Rotondo.

Goalie Marissa Patrissi and defender Brianna Ciccone celebrating an amazing season with a final record of 15-2-4.

The best moment of our season. Beating South Side HS for the third time this season and being crowned the number one team in Nassau County. Photo by Ed Rotondo

Girls Soccer ends season as County Champions

A highlight of the season: Amelia Scianablo (middle) being congratulated by her teammates after her beautiful rendition of the national anthem at the playoff game.

without all of your hard work, guidance, and tremendous support.

We are all very proud of the accomplishments the GC girls had this season. For the first time ever, the Trojans were crowned Power Conference Champions, and for the first time since 2016 the GC Girls Varsity Soccer team earned the title of Class AA Nassau County Champions, an incredible legacy to leave. Please continue to support and follow @gcgirlsvsoccer on Instagram.

Girl Scout Troop 1437 Bridging Ceremony

Troop 1437 Bridging Ceremony

On Sunday, October 20, Girl Scout Troop 1437 bridged from Cadettes to Seniors. This bridging ceremony took place at Old Westbury Gardens. It was a beautiful Fall Day as the girls all crossed over the bridge behind the lake to become Senior Girl Scouts. A Bridging Ceremony is a special Girl Scout Tradition that honors girls' achievements throughout their years and celebrates their crossing the bridge to the next Girl Scout level.

This troop has been together since kindergarten and have accomplished many things. Together they earned their Bronze award as a troop.

The following girls earned their Silver Award this past June-

• Emily Dombrowski - Project Type 1 Diabetes Awareness

• Riya Motwani- Project Saving Lives with Allergy Awareness

• Alice Oustatcher- Project Plant a Tree

• Congratulations to our most recent Silver Award Recipient who will receive her award this upcoming June at the annual awards ceremony, Gracie Corrigan. Gracie’s Silver Award is entitled Project Sun Safety Awareness.

The girls are all looking forward to a fun year ahead together as a troop.

Thunder Linchitz 7s season recap

What a ride it has been for the Thunder Linchitz 7s! All the boys started as one 7-year old team at the beginning of August. Three weeks later, the two teams were formed and kids were assigned a head coach. While the first chapter of this story may not have ended the way the team would have liked, success can be measured more in smiles more than wins and losses. There will be four more chapters for these boys to write in the future.

Sunday marked the end of the regular season for the Linchitz boys. The team traveled up to Bayville to take on the 6-1 Oyster Bay-Bayville Generals. The Linchitz boys held their own in this tough battle, but it just wasn’t their day. The team finished the season with a very respectful 4-4 record, but more importantly gained a love of the game.

This highly successful season

couldn’t have happened without a great coaching staff to lead the boys. Led by head coach Mike Linchitz and assistant coaches Patrick Fruzzetti, Steve Ogullukian, Chris Saselu, and Michael Daly, the staff pushed the boys to be better each and every day. The patience they showed throughout the season was incredible. The coaches stressed all season “Rule #2: Respect your teammates”, that the game is as much about character as it is about talent. That being a good teammates is more important than wins and losses. That can only happen if they have great leadership and to that we say thank you, coaches. You have earned our respect as well.

This is not the end but just the beginning. Congrats, Linchitz 7s players, and coaches on a fun and exciting season. We can’t wait for next year!

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!

The Linchitz 7s offense gets to work.

Reed Daily gets past the Generals’ defense.

The Linchitz 7s and their coaches.

One of the highlights of the year was the Thunder 7s’ Trunk or Treat with Gallucci 7s team!

GCHS Boys Soccer: Still perfect at 21

The Boys Varsity Soccer team continued its epic season with another tight 1-0 victory over Tappan Zee to capture the Southeast Regional Championship. The victory moves the #1 ranked team in the State, and #6 in the Country, into the final four for the Class AA NY State Championship. The semifinal match against Goshen Central will be played on Saturday morning in Middletown.

The Trojans moved their record to 21-0, including sixteen shutout wins, to go back to the State semifinals for the first time since 2017, seeking their first State title in school history. Coach Paul Cutter has prepared the team for the long run, starting with summer training in July, through a dominating regular season and a perfect five game streak in the playoffs.

Garden City has won each of their five playoff matches without giving up a goal. As Cutter has said, the back four are tough to break down, keeper Ian Pupke has stepped up when called upon and the team’s ability to control time of possession have all added up to the school record sixteen clean sheets. Quite an accomplishment at any level of play.

The game against Tappan Zee played out to the typical script for the Trojans, a heavy edge in time of possession and more chances to get on the scoresheet. The roadblock for GC was the stellar play of Tappan Zee keeper Nico Waldenhauser, who came up with nine saves on the game,

keeping GC off the board until only eighteen minutes remained in the game.

The break for the Trojans came as Dylan Fisher made an outside run to join the offense and received a perfect through ball from senior captain Connor Griffin. Fisher ran into the ball and drove a low shot past the keeper and inside the far post for what became the game winner. GC’s defense did the rest, and the boys earned their trip to States. shutting down any chance for Tappan Zee to get an equalizer.

The game on Saturday is scheduled for 8:30, check out @GCTrojanNation for a link to the live feed.

Photos

by Bob DeGaetano

goal was disallowed.

Keeper Ian Pupke goes up high to swat the corner kick away.

NYS Regional Champion: Garden City Boys Varsity Soccer team

Justin Woodbine’s

Dylan Fisher watches his winning shot evade the diving keeper.

Girls Swim and Dive team celebrates end of season

The Girls Garden City Varsity Swimming & Diving team held their annual celebratory banquet on the evening of Saturday, November 9, at the Cherry Valley Country Club. The event was filled with cheer, celebration, and fun, featuring an exchange of gifts, creative paper plate awards,

a highlight video, delicious food, and plenty of dancing. It’s a cherished tradition for parents, family members, Coach Anne Sullivan, and the student-athletes to come together to celebrate the team’s accomplishments. Team 2024 members are:

7th Grade: Brooke Follete;

Brigid Ryan; Claire

8th Grade: Grace Daily; Lia Diez; Julia Harty; Charlotte Kohner; Campbell Olcott; Maggie Rogers; Maya Setiadi

9th Grade: Sophie Bayduss; Letao Tao

10th Grade: Madelyn Gebhard; Amanat Jain; Abby Meyer; Juliet Stampfel

11th Grade: Isabella Davi; Alexandra DiBlasi; Sophie Lippens (captain); Kayla Setiadi.

12th Grade: Kaitlyn Connor; Kaitlyn Gebhard; and Silvana Newcomb (captain)

Sports Events

Coach Anne Sullivan remarked at the banquet “The team is very young, with an influx of talent from the 7th and 8th grades, which is a great foundation for the future of this team.” Despite their youth, the girls placed 3rd in the 12-team Division Championship, finishing behind strong squads from Bellmore-Merrick and Herricks. Several athletes earned all-division honors in both the 200-yard and 400yard freestyle relays, as well as in the individual 500-yard freestyle and 100yard butterfly events.

At last week’s County Championship, the team members who had achieved qualifying times participated in seven individual events with 3 swimmers making finals in the 200 freestyle, 1 swimmer making finals in

the 200 Individual medley, 3 swimmers making finals in the 500 freestyle and 3 relay teams made finals. In the preliminarys, 12 of the 17 swims were best times. The team amassed an impressive 172 points and finished 9th out of the 30 competing teams.

Thanks to their strong performances throughout the season, and especially at the Division and County Championships, two swimmers earned all-county honors for their respective events as well as qualified to the Section VIII team at the State Championships in Rochester, NY. Madeline Gebhard will compete in the 200-yard and 500-yard freestyle events, while Charlotte Kohner will swim in the 500-yard freestyle and 100-yard butterfly. We wish both Garden City swimmers as well as the Section VIII team great success at this important event.

Garden City should know that with a solid foundation of young talent, the continued support of parents, the leadership and dedication of Coach Anne Sullivan, and the unwavering commitment of the swimmers, the Garden City Girls Varsity Swimming and Diving team is poised to reach new heights in the future. The Garden City community can be proud of this resilient and hardworking group as they continue to rise to every challenge. Go GC.

The team celebrates at its end of year banquet.

The team after the Division Championship at the Nassau County Aquatic Center.

Caitlin O’Mullan;

Wiechmann

Grapplers Youth Wrestling registration now open

Join the 70+ kid GC Grapplers Youth Wrestling Club! Registration is now live for the 2024-2025 season of the GC Grapplers youth wrestling club, welcoming Garden City residents in Grades K-8, regardless of skill level— from beginners to advanced wrestlers. The program emphasizes fundamental wrestling techniques while promoting physical fitness, sportsmanship, and discipline in a safe, enjoyable, and competitive setting.

Our mission is to foster a winning culture for the GC Trojans wrestling program and to instill lifelong qualities such as confidence, mental toughness, and perseverance in our athletes. Leading the program is the new GCHS Varsity wrestling coach, Stephen Jones, who previously transformed the Hewlett program into a top contender in Nassau County. Steve is a former Nassau County champion from Long Beach High School who brings with him years of experience as both a wrestler and coach. He will be joined by a team of highly qualified local coaches. Additional details regarding the competition schedule will follow for registrants in November. We are also aiming to host dual meet style events with neighboring Long Island towns throughout the year in partnership with the GC Trojans varsity wrestling team.

Location: GCHS Wrestling Room

Schedule and Costs:

Junior (K–1): Tuesday & Wednesdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. / $280

Recreational (2nd-5th Grade) : Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 6:30–8 p.m. / $320

Competitive (3rd–8th Grade): Tuesdays, 6:30–8 p.m.; Thursdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m. / $375

Competitive (Flex) (7th & 8th Grade Only): Tuesdays, 6:30–8 p.m.; Thursdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m. through mid-January / $200

Grades 6–8: Register for the Competitive group regardless of skill or experience level. Flex pricing is provided for Grades 7–8 because Middle School season starts mid-January.

Grades 3–5: Register for the Competitive group if you are a return wrestler (at least one season of experience), prioritize wrestling as your primary winter sport, intend to attend two practices per week, and plan to compete

in one or more weekend tournaments. All first-time wrestlers in Grades 3–5 should register for the Recreational program.

Grade 2: Register for Recreational group only (including return wrestlers).

Grades K–1: Register for Junior group only.

Recreational and Competitive groups will practice together on Tuesdays. There may be opportunities for transition to the Competitive group as the season progresses upon coach recommendation (at prorated costs). Wrestlers in all registration tiers (Competitive, Recreational, and Junior) can participate in weekend tournaments, though not required.

Registration Deadline:

November 22, 2024.

Registrants will receive an email with payment options and additional program details (program starts shortly after Thanksgiving)

To sign up, visit the GC Grapplers Instagram page (@gc_grapplers) for the online registration form. Alternatively: Please follow the below steps to register:

Step 1: Create / Renew USA Wrestling Membership ($46 fee).

Visit: https://www.usawmembership.com/register. USAW Membership ID is a required field for the online registration form. Please affiliate your athlete’s USAW Membership with the GC Grapplers Club.

Step 2: Complete online registration form.

Visit: https://forms.gle/4zWrtuYGYvF2zruq9.

Step 3: Submit payment corresponding to your registration tier (see below for more detail).

Payment options: (1) ONLINE: Zelle - search recipient by email gcgrapplers@gmail.com (Friends of Garden City Wrestling, Corp.) (2) CHECK: Made payable to Friends of G.C. Wrestling. All payments must be submitted at or before your wrestler’s first practice.

All registration fees include coaching, an official GC Grapplers shirt, and shorts. Wrestling shoes are required but not included.

Eligibility: Open to boys and girls (Garden City residents only) in Grades K-8, with no prior experience necessary.

For questions or to request a direct link to the registration form, email GCgrapplers@gmail.com.

Get the scoop on what’s happening in your community every week! Contact us today 516.294.8900 or visit us online www.gcnews.com

and

City, NY 4-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3586859. $899,000.

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3581188. $1,748,000.

Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3586884. $1,099,000.

City, NY 5-bedroom, 3.55-bath. MLS# 3575933. $2,888,000.

Wyndham West, #PH2 Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3579709. $2,500,000.

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3588293. $1,560,000.

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 4.55-bath. MLS# 3563014. $3,299,000.

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3565195. $1,647,625.

5-bedroom, 4.5-bath.

Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3563277. $1,688,000.

NY 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3561270. $1,468,000.

We need your help collecting coats for those less fortunate in our local communities Please drop off new or genlty used coats between November 1st - 30th at any of our offices