The Garden City News (11/22/24) by Litmor Publishing

NY STATE CHAMPIONS

The Garden City boys varsity soccer team captured the first ever State Championship title in school history with a dominating performance over the past weekend. See pages 58-59

GCPD Commissioner: Safety initiative includes lights, cameras

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the Village Board of Trustees’ meeting held on Thursday, November 7th, Garden City Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson presented a report on a proactive safety initiative aimed at curbing incidents of

rowdy behavior and suspicious activities in a few locations around the Seventh Street/ Franklin Avenue business district.

The plan focuses on enhancing public safety in Garden City’s shopping and dining hub. A recent police study reviewed several locations, including

alleyways between Seventh Street, to Village Parking Field 7N – directly behind Dunkin Donuts, just east of the Key Food rear entrance, and the little path behind Pure Barre, between J. McLoughlin Clothing and Coquette. Jackson collaborated with

See page 44

EAB member reviews

Village’s Safe Fields Initiative

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the November 13 meeting of Garden City’s Environmental Advisory Board (EAB), members highlighted ongoing efforts to maintain safe, sustainable public recreation areas despite pressure to lift the village’s ban on chemical treatments for athletic fields, particularly at St. Paul’s. The discussion examined quality-of-life concerns, including parents’ worries about children’s exposure to pesticides, alongside challenges faced by sports groups using worn and uneven fields.

The Village of Garden City’s pesticide-free field treatment protocol was the first in Nassau County, initiated between 2016 and 2020.

EAB member Dr. Kelly Smith has been a leading advocate for the initiative, which began nearly a decade ago. Smith, along with resident Colleen Ciullo, launched the “Go Green with Kelly & Colleen” series of articles in the Garden City News to raise awareness about the dangers of chemical treatments. Their efforts ultimately led the Village Board of Trustees to adopt an all-organic treatment policy.

“I was really proud of Garden City as we were the first municipality in the Town

of Hempstead and in Nassau County to move towards a safer and healthier field treatment program, by promising to eliminate the use of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides on our village playing fields,” Smith said. Immediately preceding Dr. Smith’s report, Program Coordinator Jordan Christensen from the Citizens Campaign for the Environment gave a presentation on “Health and Environmental Impacts of Artificial Turf and PFAS Chemicals, and How We Can Protect Our Community.”

Christensen’s insights complemented Smith’s updates on the ongoing Safe & Healthy Fields initiative, which faces pushback from some youth sports groups advocating for limited pesticide use. This year, Garden City applied a pre-emergent chemical for crabgrass control for the first time in over four years, but only in areas under renovation.

Smith expressed gratitude for the presentation, and thanked Christensen for explaining the PFAS in artificial turf as it relates to health and safety for all field users.

At an EAB meeting in September, the recently-retired former Superintendent of

See page 36

As this is our last issue before Thanksgiving, we’d like to wish our readers a Happy Thanksgiving.

As we gather with our families at this holiday season, it’s important to take a moment to appreciate the good things in our lives: warm comfortable homes, good food on the table, family and friends to enjoy. It’s also important to remember those who don’t have those good things, and to help out as best we can.

Garden City residents are very generous of their time and money, and we salute them. For example, in just a few hours a recent food drive sponsored by the Mineola Garden City Rotary Club collected hundreds of pounds of food to be donated to The INN soup kitchen.

It was pretty amazing that the large majority of the people entering Key Food on a Tuesday morning stopped to drop off items to help others.

And there are many groups around town, from those for teens to those for adults, who help others every day. To those people we say thank you - you are true embodiments of the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Early Deadline

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, our deadline for next week’s issue will be one day early. Please submit all news items by noon on Tuesday.

Deadlines for classified ads are noon on Monday; deadlines for display ads are noon on Tuesday.

Opposed to mayor’s views

To the Editor:

The six undersigned members of the BOT are diametrically opposed to Mayor Flanagan’s views on the upcoming St. Paul’s survey expressed in last week’s “Mayor’s Update.” In the column she writes of her “regret[ ]…[that] the present BOT voted to indefinitely postpone the release of the St Paul’s survey” and “apologize[d] to all who [had] been following and looking forward to a new professional approach” to the drafting of a Village wide survey on the Main Building.

Firstly… as to the postponement, the most recent draft was provided to the Board just days before the Nov. 7 meeting and needed additional refinement and reconsideration of seminal issues. When Trustee Finneran requested a postponement of the vote, he adopted the word “indefinitely” not to signify the issue would be “back burnered” but to give the BOT additional time to finalize the draft.

Importantly, in our collective desire to develop a fair, open and unbiased survey throughout the process, a subset of the undersigned, along with others more in tune with the Mayor’s views, engaged in weeks and weeks of conversation with our consultant BCI, Inc. Thereafter, as BCI provided updated drafts, we continually exchanged views on critical issues, proposed survey questions and intently listened to their advice.

Secondly… we have always been and remain committed to a “professional approach” in drafting the survey, especially considering that the drafting of last year’s Opinion Poll was a bit torturous. Admittedly, the undersigned have not hesitated to question BCI’s rationale on issues and prospective questionsbut such scrutiny was inevitable as the St. Paul’s issue has always been hotly debated, flummoxed many, many BOT’s, been the subject of several special committee’s, numerous ideas for development, cost estimates and even

Yes! Y

I want to subscribe to

litigation.

In sum, we expect to have a completed unbiased and straight forward survey ready for a vote at our December meeting, which subsequently, will be mailed to every household in the Village. We look forward to your participation.

Trustee Judy Courtney

Trustee Ed Finneran

Trustee Michele Beach Harrington

Trustee Vinny Muldoon

Trustee Jessica Tai

Trustee Bruce Torino

New St. Paul’s Advisory Committee To the Editor:

In late October, it was announced that a new St. Paul’s committee was being established. Officially titled...”Garden City St. Paul’s Board of Trustees Advisory Committee” ...it apparently replaces the existing MAYOR’S Advisory Committee, consisting of five GC residents. The new group, now with about 15 members--is still recruiting. It is headed by Trustee Vinny Muldoon and co-chaired by Bob Catell and Frank Tauches.

I am writing today’s letter to urge Trustee Muldoon to help residents to get to know each constituent of his committee. I have lived in Garden City for more than 40 years and have been active in Village politics. Yet I only recognize the names of a few of the new members. Are they all Village residents? I urge the Committee leaders to disclose details of the resumes of the group. Specifically, what are the skills and knowledge which qualify them for this huge important project. This transparency would allow Garden City residents to gain confidence in the effectiveness of the group. I suggest a Town Hall where all members of the group tell us about their careers and qualifications to materially contribute to the deliberations of the group. Trustee Muldoon has stated that the Committee will be meeting well into 2025 and work in concert with our Board of Trustees, Village Officers and inputs from thetwo BCI Consultant surSee page 48

Hearing on environmental impacts of casino Dec. 9th

BY RICHARD CATALANO

The Nassau County Legislature has released the Draft Environmental Impact Study that addresses the many environmental impacts of the Las Vegas Sands casino proposed at the site of the Nassau Coliseum. A public hearing will be held on Monday, December 9th at 5:00 PM at 1550 Franklin Avenue in Mineola (County Legislature Building). It is critically important for Garden City residents to attend this hearing and voice their opposition to the proposed casino given the many harmful impacts to our community. If you are not able to attend, you can email your comments until January 6, 2025 to sandscomments@ nassaucountyny.gov

Based on the scoping document, the DEIS will address the impacts on traffic (including multiple intersections in Garden City such as Clinton & Stewart and three intersections on Meadow Street), water resources, air quality from 23,000+ daily visitors, problem gambling and many other impacts.

The report is over 15,000 pages long and will be available on the County website. Hard copies will be available at the Garden City Library.

Please visit www.nocasinonassau.org to learn more about the proposed casino and how you can get involved. The website will also have a link to view the DEIS once it is posted to the County website. The Say NO to the Casino Civic Association plans to prepare a summary of the findings after reviewing the report and will share this summary on the website. To join the Say NO mailing list and sign an opposition letter to the NYS Gaming Commission, visit - Stand UP to Sands and Say NO to the Casino

Advice Matters.

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

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

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

Raymond George CRPC® Managing Director, Wealth Management Senior Portfolio Management Director Financial Advisor

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

How Much Is My Home Worth?

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

CFP Board owns the marks CFP® in the U.S. The use of the CDFA® designation does not permit the rendering of

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.

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

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

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

more information on award methodology and criteria, scan QR code.

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

For more information on award methodology and criteria, scan QR code.

Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a

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.

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.

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

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.

For more information on award methodology and criteria, scan QR

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.

more information on award methodology and criteria, scan

Architectural rendering of the proposed Sands Casino.

Image provided by Sands Corp.

Home Happens Here

Feautured Home

Charming Newly Renovated Colonial

Welcome to this newly renovated Colonial home. Filled with modern amenities, this home retains its most charming characteristics. The inviting living room features a wood burning fireplace and refinished inlay bordered wood floors. The formal dining room offers ample space for dining and entertaining. The family room is furnished with hardwood floors and new Andersen windows. The updated yet classic kitchen, combines the charm of a farm sink with the style and ease of stainless-steel Bosch appliances and quartz countertops.

The primary bedroom features an oversized closet with custom organizers to maximize space and storage. The enlarged hall bath incorporates a double vanity and linen closet. Two additional bedrooms offer versatility for bedrooms, nursery or home office. All renovations were done by Old World Quality.

Amenities include: new doors and lighting, new HVAC system, 200 amp electric, IGS, whole house water filtration system, low taxes.

Offered at $1,100,000

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

Luxury Living On The hiLL 314 Feet of Stunning Golf Course Views

Experience the grandeur of this majestic brick Georgian Colonial, perfectly situated on 2+ beautifully landscaped acres in the most sought-after location “on the hill.” Offering over 10,000 sq ft of luxurious living space, this estate features 7 bedrooms, 6 full baths, and 3 powder rooms. Every detail has been meticulously crafted, from inlaid wood floors to intricate ceiling trim and three ornate fireplaces.

Enter through a breathtaking two-story foyer with a circular staircase that sets the tone for the home’s elegance. The main level includes a stunning family room adorned with rich woodwork, built-ins, and a coffered ceiling. A formal dining room and a sophisticated living room with expansive golf course views provide perfect settings for entertaining. The gourmet kitchen boasts a large center island and an inviting breakfast room. The north wing includes the lavish primary en-suite with dual full baths, three walk-in closets, an additional en-suite bedroom, a gym, laundry/mud room, and a two-car garage. The south wing features two powder rooms, a serene family room, a back staircase, and an additional two-car garage.

Upstairs, you’ll find two en-suite bedrooms, three additional bedrooms, a full hall bath, and generous storage space. The basement offers a second laundry room, ample storage, and endless possibilities. Outside, relax by the 60x20 heated in-ground pool or entertain on the expansive blue-stone patio with breathtaking views.

Just twenty miles from Manhattan and minutes from golf courses, schools, shopping, dining, and parks, this estate is a true masterpiece of luxury living.

Offered at $5,925,000

Hymn Festival at Cathedral this Sunday

BY LARRY TREMSKY

Join us for a program featuring “Great Hymns of the Faith” conducted by the renowned composer and conductor Simon Lole on Sunday, November 24th at 4:00 pm. For over 30 years Simon worked as a professional church musician, including time at Croydon Minster and St Mary’s Collegiate Church in Warwick, culminating in the positions of Organist and Director of Music at both Sheffield and then Salisbury Cathedrals. Simon now leads a varied freelance career. He is very active both as a composer and as a choral director. He has been a regular Musical Director and organ -

ist for BBC Radio 4’s “Daily Service”, and is one of BBC TV’s “Songs of Praise” main conductors and arrangers. Simon is the Music Producer for BBC 2’s “Carols from King’s and Easter from King’s”. He also directs the music for ITV’s annual Christmas Carol Broadcast. Featured will be hymns from across the entire Anglican Communion, accompanied by organ, brass and timpani, piano and bass, led the Cathedral Choir, with the entire congregation taking part.

Registration for this event (strongly recommended) is available at the Cathedral website, incarnationgc. org/connect/e-news

Simon Lole, conductor

The Full Cathedral Choir

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

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

4 Coventry Place

Date: 10/30/2024

Sold price: $1,700,000 5 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Architectural Style: Expanded Ranch

Property Size: .46

Annual taxes: $28,110

MLS number: 3528687

The Seller’s Team: Kathleen Lucchesi, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Julie Wicher, Compass Greater NY Very special listing. A+ Garden City location. Beautiful 1950 custom built expanded ranch home with 3100 square feet of ideal living space is on fabulous just shy 1/2 ACRE (100x200) lot (WITH ROOM FOR A POOL) located on gorgeous and beloved Coventry Place. Abundant space in this expansive 3100 square foot home The generous entry foyer leads to oversized living room with wood burning fireplace overlooking outdoor bluestone courtyard, and formal sunlit dining room.The large modern eat in kitchen has center island and offers generous eat in dining area overlooking stunning back yard oasis and large adjacent three season room. The mudroom/first floor laundry room is ideally convenient and offers entrance to side yard and driveway. Full hall bathroom and guest room/office with entry to two car garage complete this wing of the home.The North Wing of the home includes a lovely den with built in cabinetry, beautiful master en-suite bedroom with large bathroom and custom- built walk in closet, three additional bedrooms and two additional full bathrooms. Basement offers recreational space and mechanicals. Truly special home with endless design possibilities or ready to enjoy as is. Very unique opportunity here to have it all. Other amenities include premiere location, central air conditioning, central vac, IGS, very reasonable taxes .Don’t miss this wonderful home. Truly a rare listing that doesn’t come around often!

105 Wyatt Road

Date: 11/12/2024 Sold price: $1,184,000 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half bath Architectural Style: Colonial

The Seller’s Team: Dana Eaton, Howard Hanna Coach

The Buyer’s Team: Parsa Samii and Traci Clinton, Compass Greater NY

This charming Colonial home, situated in the heart of the Mott Section, effortlessly combines classic elegance with contemporary updates. The expansive living room, featuring a fireplace with oak mantle, flows smoothly into a 210 square foot heated sunroom that overlooks a tranquil, private garden. Ideal for entertaining, the formal dining room and updated kitchen provide ample space for gatherings, while a convenient powder room completes the main level. On the second floor, you’ll find three generously sized bedrooms. The updated hall bath includes both a shower and tub, with the added potential to create an ensuite bath. The home includes beautiful hardwood floors throughout, a finished basement for extra living space, and a serene backyard enclosed by privacy hedges. Square footage, inclusive of sunroom, 1746 sf. Additional amenities include lawn sprinklers and a 1-car attached garage, making this residence a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. . *Successful tax grievance of 13.34% takes effect for 2025/26.

Date: 11/15/2024

Sold price: $976,000 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Architectural Style: Cape

Property size: .14

Annual taxes: $17,968

MLS number: 3573218

The Seller’s Team: Stephen and Laura Baymack, Compass Greater NY

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

This charming Cape style home is perfectly situated on a quiet tree lined street in the Western Section of Garden City. The home features a spacious living room that flows nicely into the dining room. An eat-in kitchen, a bedroom, a full bathroom, and an additional bedroom or home office complete this level. The second floor boasts 2 generously sized bedrooms that are serviced by a full bathroom. The basement offers a sizable recreation room and an abundant amount of storage space. The home is conveniently located near the school, park, shopping and 2 Long Island Railroad stations. A great opportunity to own a home in a renowned school district with all of the amenities Garden City has to offer!

WPOA Tree Lighting on December 6

The Western Property Owners Association will be hosting its annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, December 6, at 6 p.m. in the park at the southern end of New Hyde Park Road Business District. Look for more details next week.

NEW

HOURS

Friday, December 6th

7 - 9:30pm

Benefit Preview Cocktail Party

Tickets $75

Festive cocktails & lavish hors d’oeuvres

1st dibs to shop our luxe Holiday Market of local Artisans & Brands

Purchase Tickets Until December 6th using QR code below Or at The A.T. Stewart Exchange

All profits go towards supporting our educational, cultural and entertainment programs

Saturday, December 7th

11am - 4pm

Holiday Village & Market

Admission is Free!

Our Fabulous Market Has the Perfect Gifts for Everyone: Art. Children’s clothes & toys

Fashions. Fine, faux & vintage jewelry Food & wine

Heirloom-quality wreaths

House & garden & personal accessories

Sumptuous sweets

Desirable raffles & auctions to bid on Sponsorship Inquiries?

169 Weyford Terrace, Garden City

3 BD | 2 BA | $1,350,000

OPEN HOUSE: Sat Nov 23rd & Sun Nov 24th from 1 PM-3 PM

Perfectly situated mid-block, this fully renovated split level home located in Garden City’s Estate Section leaves nothing to be desired. With gleaming hardwood floors throughout, this bright and spacious gem offers 3 beds and 2 baths. Its newly built kitchen leads to the bright and spacious living room & dining room with custom built-ins and stunning picture windows. This property is perfect for entertaining with an oversized family room/ home theater, sprawling fenced-in backyard with gorgeous patio, and well-manicured green space. Plus, it has a surplus of fantastic amenities like… audiophile grade whole house audio system, radiant heat, whole house water filtration, professional grade high speed internet, full Ring camera hardwired security system, sprinklers and much more. Near LIRR Merillon Avenue Station, Parks and Schools. LOW TAXES!!!

Maureen Lagarde

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Founding Agent - Compass Garden City M: 516.850.7812

maureen.lagarde@compass.com 182 7th St, Garden City NY 11530

Maureen Lagarde

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.

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

The Salvation Army’s Myriad Services — Who Knew?

Yes, most everyone is familiar with the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Program. Folks who will be shopping at Kings Market on Franklin Ave. on Saturday December 7, will find volunteer Rotarians and Boy Scouts from Troop 243 ringing the bell to solicit donations to support the Army’s Red Kettle effort dedicated to the Army’s mantra, “doing the most good for men, women and children who need it most.”

Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club has counted the Red Kettle Program as one of its services for more than 40 years with our longest Club member, Bob Schoelle spearheading the program each year. This year our Community Service Award honoree, Randy Colahan is stepping up to give Bob a hand in this major project.

The Salvation Army of Greater New York serves more than 600,000 New Yorkers each year with more than 140 community and social service programs. The Army also provides Thanksgiving and Christmas assistance in addition to serving food pantries, emergency rent programs and medical expenses for people in need throughout Nassau County.

At Rotary’s breakfast meeting last week on November 19, at the Carle Place Diner, 16 Rotarians and guests were pleased to host Major Silvia Machado-Ocasio, Commanding Officer, along with Captain Luis Ocasio, of the Salvation Army’s Hempstead Corps and Community Center of Nassau County.

We also heard from Stephen Ditmer, the Army’s Donor Coordinator who supports 38 different community centers throughout the region and who will provide some musical entertainment behind Kings as we ring the bell on December 7 when Rotary looks forward to the generosity of Kings shoppers. To support the Red Kettle program.

The Ocasios told of promotions to secure donations to support Thanksgiving baskets for 200 families along with the Angel Tree holiday gift program for up to 350 participants. The annual bell ringing traditionally secures $63,000 for this area and the need keeps rising. So many dedicated efforts to “Do the Most Good,” the Salvation Army’s mantra. (Who knew?)

RotaCare Launches Giving Tuesday for the 2024 Holidays

As many folks know, The MineolaGarden City Rotary Club launched RotaCare in 1992 with the mission to provide free health care for the uninsured and for those in most need.

The need keeps rising for medications for individuals unable to afford them, plus medical supplies for diabetes testing, strep throat screenings and flu vaccinations; add to these needs equipment to maintain a tracking system that ensures ongoing patient care.

Please help to donate toward these critical services. RotaCare’s aim is to raise $50,000 by December 31st. Please see the article on page 20 or for more information or visit www. RotaCareny.org.

Front row: Meg Norris, Club vice president; Althea Robinson, publicity chair; Captain Luis Ocasio of the Salvation Army.

Back row: Diana O’Neill, Club president; Major Silvia Ocasio and Stephen Ditmer of the Salvation Army.

Rotacare launches Giving Tuesday campaign

As the holiday season nears, RotaCare is calling on the community to join its annual Giving Tuesday campaign, In Every Gift, There’s Hope — Giving to Those Who Need It Most, on December 3rd. This special day aims to raise funds to help support the medically uninsured and underserved individuals in Nassau County, where the need for healthcare resources continues to grow, especially in the county’s most economically challenged neighborhoods.

While RotaCare has made significant strides in facilitating essential healthcare, the demand keeps rising. Donations from this campaign will go toward helping to provide:

• Medications for individuals unable to afford them

• Medical supplies for diabetes testing, strep throat screenings, and flu vaccinations

• Equipment to maintain a tracking system that ensures ongoing patient care

RotaCare aims to raise $50,000 by December 31 to help facilitate these critical services, which rely entirely on community generosity. Every donation, no matter the size, can help make a difference. Donations can be made by scanning the QR code or visiting www. RotaCareny.org.

Danielle Diaz - Licensed Medical Aesthetician Ariel Greenberg - Registered Nurse, BSN NP-S

Rotary to present Community Service Awards at Holiday Dinner

Paul A. Pereira, mayor, Incorporated Village of Mineola, Community Service Award co-honoree.

The Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club cordially extends to all an invitation to join members and guests as Rotary kicks off the 2024 Holiday Season with an elegant cocktail buffet dinner on Wednesday evening, December 18, 6p.m. at the all new festively decorated Stewart Manor Country Club, 51 Salisbury Avenue, Stewart Manor. The evening will begin with a cocktail hour to include open bar along with a special performance by the renowned Garden City High School Chamber Orchestra. A sumptuous buffet dinner will follow along with the awards at 7 p.m. Raffle chances on an array of prizes will be available throughout the evening

Guests may look forward to a spectacular evening of good cheer, fellowship and networking opportunities as they gather to celebrate and to honor co-honorees J. Randolph (Randy) Colahan, chairman of the Board of

J. Randolph (Randy) Colahan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Garden City Public Library, Community Service Award co-honoree.

Trustees and president of the Garden City Public Library, and Paul A. Pereira, Mayor of the Inc. Village of Mineola. Both Randy and Paul have earned this prestigious honor by living up to Rotary’s principles by the examples they set in their everyday lives within their communities and beyond.

Randy Colahan is a lifelong resident of Garden City. A graduate of Garden City High School, Randy went on to earn an AB Degree from Duke University and MBA degree from in Corporate Finance from Adelphi University.

Randy had served as Library Trustee since 2002 and as chairperson and president of the Board of Trustees since 2007, having been recognized as the Board’s driving force. His other leadership positions include service as former president of the Garden City Centennial Soccer Club from which he was the recipient of the Past President

Award, the Fiftieth Anniversary Award and The Tim Kevil Award. In past years, Randy had completed the NYC Marathon and for many years participated in the Swim Across America program.

Randy has coached numerous intramural and travel soccer teams. He had served in numerous positions and as president of the Estates Property Owners’ Association and also served as a director on the Original Turkey Trot Race Committee and as a director of the Men’s Association (TMA). Randy also served on the Adelphi President’s Advisory Council, the Duke University Admission Committee and on several GCHS Class of 1970 Reunion Committees.

Professionally, Randy has held management, sales and ownership positions in the printing and graphics art industry for more than 50 years having received numerous industry awards. Randy serves as a proud member of the Board, Kiwanis Club of Garden City and as an active member of the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club. He is a member of the Cherry Valley Club, The Union Club in NYC and is a lifelong member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in NYC.

Randy and his wife Elena have three daughters: Kathryn, Elizabeth and Claire. They enjoy spending time with their six treasured grandchildren.

Paul Pereira was born in Veiros Portugal. He immigrated with his family to the United States in l977. A 47-year resident of Mineola, Paul graduated from Mineola High School (MHS) in 1989 when as a graduating senior, he had deservedly received the MineolaGarden City Rotary Club’s Scholarship Award.

While in high school, Paul was a four-year member of the wrestling and

soccer teams and was also involved in student government and the Student Service Center.

An athlete, even outside of school, Paul played MAA soccer and PAL roller hockey. After high school Paul’s studies continued at Adelphi University from which he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in History followed by a Master’s degree in History from Queens College. He also holds a Certification in School Administration from the College of St. Rose. During his MHS teaching career, Paul had coached the soccer program for more than 20 years and had been acknowledged as having led the successful boys varsity soccer program to become the winningest soccer coach in school history.

A dedicated 26-year member of the Long Island Portuguese Lions Club, Paul served as treasurer and had received the organization’s highest honor and was awarded the Order of Merit medal in recognition of his service to the community along with the promotion of the Portuguese language and culture in the United States. Having previously served as a village trustee, Paul was elected to the position of mayor of Mineola in March of 2002.

Paul, his wife Diana, and their children, Andrew, Sofia and Ana, look forward to calling Mineola home for many years to come.

Advance reservations with payments to the event are required. No tickets will be sold at the door. All proceeds will benefit RotaCare and Rotary’s numerous charitable works. For more information, or to purchase event tickets, advance raffle tickets or to purchase tribute ads for the program, please call Diana O’Neill, Club president, at 516-699-7289; or email: mineolagardencityrotayclub@gmail.com.

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 cards for either a family of 4, 6, or 8

• Place cards in an envelope with your name and the family size included on the front

• Mail or deliver the cards to Anna 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 receiving parishes by the Sponsor a Family

Attention students!

Committee.

The following dollar amounts are recommended for gift cards based on family size; of course, all contributions are gratefully 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

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!

Whodunit? GCHS presents “Clue: High School Edition”

Garden City High School proudly presents “Clue: High School Edition!”

Inspired by the classic Hasbro board game and the famous 1985 Paramount movie, “Clue” is a hilarious blend of comedy and murder mystery. The story begins in a secluded mansion where six mysterious guests gather for a dinner party filled with secrets, threats and blackmail. When their host is suddenly found dead, everyone becomes

a suspect. This comedy whodunit will have both die-hard “Clue” fans and new viewers laughing as they try to solve the mystery of “who” did it, “where” and “with what?”

Performances will be on Thursday, Nov. 21, at 4 p.m. and Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22 and 23, at 7 p.m. Tickets can only be purchased online on BookTix.

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!

selection

gifts! Including: Fontanini nativity figures, lawn decorations, interior Christmas decors, Christmas keepsake gifts, jewelry and MUCH more!

German class learns about “Martins Tag”

The sixth graders learned about the history of “Martins Tag.”

Butler, Esq.);

the

of the United States Trustee, Southern District of New York, 201 Varick Street, Suite 1006, New York, New York 10014 (Attn: Greg Zipes, Esq. and Shara Cornell, Esq.);

iii. counsel to the Committee, Pachulski Stang Ziehl & Jones LLP 780 Third Avenue, 34th Floor, New York, New York 10017 (Attn: James I. Stang, Esq., Karen B. Dine, Esq., and Brittany M. Michael, Esq.); and

iv. all other parties in interest that have filed requests for notice pursuant to Bankruptcy Rule 2002 in the Debtor’s chapter 11 case.

The German sixth grade class learned about “Martins Tag “ in Germany. They read about the history of the day and learned songs traditionally sung on that day. Yet, their favorite part was creating traditional German “Martins Tag” lanterns. Martin of Tours was born in the 4th century and started out as a

Roman soldier. Many legends surround his life, but the most famous tale tells how he cut his cloak in half to share it with a beggar who was dying of the cold. He is a friend of the children and the poor. The class enjoyed making the lanterns.

The kids learned the history and songs of the day.

OF PLAN OF REORGANIZATION, AND (III) RELATED MATTERS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. On November 6, 2024 the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Bankruptcy Court”) entered an order in the above-captioned chapter 11 cases [Docket No. 3376] (the “Disclosure Statement Order”): (a) approving the Disclosure Statement for Plan of Reorganization Proposed by The Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre, New York and Additional Debtors [Docket No. 3375] (together with all schedules and exhibits thereto, and as may be modified, amended, or supplemented from time to time, the “Disclosure Statement”); (b) establishing the Record Date, Voting Deadline, and other related dates in connection with confirmation of the Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization for The Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre, New York and Additional Debtors [Docket No. 3354] (together with all schedules and exhibits thereto, and as may be modified, amended, or supplemented from time to time, the “Plan”); and (c) approving procedures for soliciting, receiving, and tabulating votes on the Plan and for filing objections to the Plan (the “Solicitation Procedures”); and (d) approving the form and manner of notice and other related documents as they relate to the Debtor.

2. A hearing to consider the confirmation of the Plan (the “Confirmation Hearing”) will be held before the Honorable Martin Glenn, Chief United States Bankruptcy Judge for the Southern District of New York, in a courtroom to be determined, at the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York located at One Bowling Green, New York, New York 10004 (the “Bankruptcy Court”) on December 3, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. (prevailing Eastern Time).

3. Pursuant to the Disclosure Statement Order, for a vote to accept or reject the Plan to be counted, a Ballot must be completed and returned in accordance with the instructions provided on the Ballot so that it is received by November 26, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. (prevailing Eastern Time).

4. In connection with confirmation of the Plan, the Debtor and Additional Debtors are seeking approval of certain releases, including releases of certain nondebtor entities, that will become effective and binding on the Effective Date in accordance with the terms of the Plan and the Confirmation Order. These releases are described in detail in the Disclosure Statement.

5. The Plan proposes establishing the Trust to resolve all Abuse Claims against the Debtor and Additional Debtors. Persons and entities with Abuse Claims will be forever barred from asserting their Claims against the Debtor, Additional Debtors or other parties specified in the Plan. If the Plan is approved by the Bankruptcy Court, all current and future holders of Abuse Claims against the Debtor and Additional Debtors can request and receive money only from the Trust. You should read the Plan and Disclosure Statement carefully for details about how the Plan, if approved, will affect your rights.

6. Responses and objections, if any, to the confirmation of the Plan must: (a) be in writing; (b) conform to the Bankruptcy Rules and Local Rules; (c) state the name, address, telephone number and email address of the objecting party and the amount and nature of the claim of such party; (d) state with particularity the basis and nature of any objection to the Plan, including the evidentiary support thereof, and, if practicable, a proposed modification to the Plan that would resolve such objection; and (e) be filed with the Bankruptcy Court, together with proof of service, and served so as to be

OBJECTIONS NOT TIMELY FILED AND SERVED STRICTLY AS PRESCRIBED HEREIN MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED BY THE BANKRUPTCY COURT AND MAY BE DEEMED OVERRULED WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE.

7. For purposes of filing pleadings in these cases, the address of the Court is One Bowling Green, New York, New York 10004-1408. Attorneys may also file pleadings on the Bankruptcy Court’s Document Filing System (ECF) by completing and submitting the Electronic Filing Registration Form, available at http://www.nysb.uscourts.gov

8. Please be advised that the Confirmation Hearing may be adjourned or continued from time to time by the Bankruptcy Court, the Debtor, or the Additional Debtors without further notice other than as indicated in any notice or agenda of matters scheduled for a particular hearing that is filed with the Bankruptcy Court. If the Confirmation Hearing is continued, the Debtor and Additional Debtors will post the new date and time of the Confirmation Hearing at https://dm.epiq11.com/drvc. The Plan may be modified, if necessary, prior to, during, or as a result of the Confirmation Hearing, without further notice to creditors or other parties in interest, unless such notice is required by the Bankruptcy Code, Bankruptcy Rules, or other applicable law.

9. Copies of the Disclosure Statement, Plan, and Disclosure Statement Order are available for review free-of-charge on the website maintained by the Debtor’s claims, noticing, and solicitation agent, Epiq Corporate Restructuring, LLC (the “Voting Agent”), at https://dm.epiq11.com/drvc. Copies of the Disclosure Statement and Plan are also available upon request by contacting the Voting Agent by (a) calling (888) 490-0633 (Toll-Free) or +1 (503) 520-4459 (International), (b) emailing RCDRockvilleInfo@epiqglobal.com, (c) writing to: The Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre, New York, c/o Epiq Ballot Processing Center, P.O. Box 4422, Beaverton, OR 97076-4422, or (d) submitting an inquiry on the Voting Agent’s website at https://dm.epiq11.com/drvc. Please note that the Voting Agent is not authorized to, and will not, provide legal advice to you. If you need legal advice, please consult with your attorney.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS WITH RESPECT TO YOUR RIGHTS UNDER THE PLAN OR ABOUT ANYTHING STATED HEREIN OR IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE VOTING AGENT VIA ONE OF THE METHODS SPECIFIED ABOVE. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE VOTING AGENT MAY NOT PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE. IF YOU NEED LEGAL ADVICE, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR ATTORNEY.

Dated: November 6, 2024, New York, New York, /s/ Corinne Ball Corinne Ball, Todd Geremia, Benjamin Rosenblum, Andrew Butler, JONES DAY, 250 Vesey Street, New York, NY 10281-1047, Telephone: (212) 326-3939, Facsimile: (212) 755-7306, Email: cball@jonesday.com, trgeremia@jonesday.com, brosenblum@jonesday.com, abutler@ jonesday.com, Counsel for the Debtor and Debtor in Possession

1 The Debtor in this chapter 11 case is The Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre, New York, the last four digits of its federal tax identification number are 7437, and its mailing address is P.O. Box 9023, Rockville Centre, NY 11571-9023. Certain Additional Debtors, as defined in the Disclosure Statement, are co-proponents of the Debtor’s chapter 11 plan and anticipate filing chapter 11 cases of their own and seeking joint administration with this chapter 11 case.

2 Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Plan.

Everyone enjoyed the creative exercise.

Showing off their traditional lanterns.

Old World Quality Corp.

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

If you missed Nassau County DPW’s presentation on design plans for the Merillon/Rockaway intersection, it can be viewed on the Village website [https://www. gardencityny.net/263/ Traffic-Commission]. The presentation, made at Village Hall on November 14, details the plans which include the addition of two traffic lights and traffic calming improvements to address speeding on Rockaway Avenue. The plans were well received by residents who attended the presentation, including those in attendance whose homes are most impacted by the changes. County Legislator John Giuffre attended the meeting and plans to work closely to make sure this roadway improvement will be implemented with an anticipated completion date in 2026. He assured residents that the project is in the budget.

Review Act (SEQRA) process, a necessary step in Las Vegas Sands’ quest for a casino license at the Nassau Hub. The County Legislature is expected to release the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) this week. The County will hold a special public hearing Monday, December 9, at 5:00 p.m. at 1550 Franklin Avenue. For more information residents can visit www. nocasinonassau.org.

Treasurer’s Report

I am grateful that the County is addressing this important intersection navigated by so many new drivers every year attending Garden City High School. The plans go a long way to improve both pedestrian safety and vehicle safety, and it is great to see the community embracing this change. If residents have any input, now is the best time to be heard, and emails can be sent to jborroni@gardencityny.net.

Thank You

Thank you to the Long Island Chapter of the 42nd Division Association for conducting its annual Veterans Day observance and wreath placement on Saturday, November 9 at the 42nd Rainbow Division Monument. Myself and members of the Board were honored to attend the moving ceremony. Many thanks to William Bradford Turner American Legion Post 265 for conducting its Veterans Day ceremony. Prior to the start of the ceremony, the Ladies Auxiliary of William Bradford Turner Post 465 held its “Meet a Veteran” event at the Library. Residents young and old alike had an opportunity to hear stories from their neighbors who have served in past military conflicts.

Public Hearing on Proposed Casino December 9th

As you know, Nassau County is currently in the Environmental Review Process, formally known as the State Environmental Quality

Irene Woo, CPA, CMFO presented the Treasurer’s Report during the November 7 Board of Trustees meeting. For the 2023-24 fiscal year, the General Fund Revenues was overall favorable to the budget by $2.1 million mainly due to Community Benefit Fund reimbursements, state and federal aid for the St. Paul’s roof repair, NYSERDA LED street lighting and DOT grants, insurance recoveries, higher CHIPS funding and more. On the expenditure side, the General Fund had favorable variances within departments mostly due to lower salaries, benefits and taxes as a result of open or unfilled positions, and less part-timers hired, unused contingency ($597,000) and lower than anticipated expenditures in legal fees ($177k), snow removal costs ($174k), contractual services ($446k) and maintenance of software ($216k).

Public Safety Toolkit

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-touse 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. Please read the pop-up screens that may be intro-

See page 40

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

Carjacking arrests

On November 13, Federal Agents, with assistance from the Garden City and Nassau County Police Departments, arrested two individuals allegedly connected to multiple carjacking incidents, including one on Brook Street that occurred on March 19, 2023.

DWI license revoked

A 52-year-old man was arrested on Washington Avenue on November 13 for allegedly driving with a license that had been revoked due to DWI.

Faulty fire alarms

Firefighters and police responded on November 13 to locations where fire alarms were triggered by a faulty detector and cooking smoke.

Driving during prohibited hours

On Clinton Road on November 13, a truck driver was charged with driving during prohibited hours and running a red light, according to police.

Damaged windshield

On November 13, officers investigated a report of a man allegedly damaging a car’s windshield in a parking field on Ring Road.

Multiple suspensions

A Clinton Road motorist faced multiple charges on November 13, including driving with a suspended license, suspended registration, and an uninsured vehicle.

Hit-and-run on Boylston Street

On November 13, a white utility truck reportedly fled the scene after striking and damaging a parked car on Boylston Street.

Damaged vehicle

On November 14, a vehicle in Nassau County Parking Field 14 was reportedly damaged by unknown means.

Suspended and uninsured

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on November 14 with driving a vehicle that had a suspended license, suspended registration, and no insurance.

Overweight trucks

Two truck operators on Clinton Road were charged with operating overweight vehicles on November 14.

Unregistered vehicle

On November 14, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation, unregistered auto, uninsured auto, and uninspected auto.

Adelphi fire alarm

On November 14, GCFD and GCPD

responded to Adelphi University after burnt food activated a fire alarm.

Unsafe driving

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged on November 14 with driving with a suspended license, speed ing excessively, and unsafe lane usage.

Animal cruelty arrest

On November 15, officers arrested a 23-year-old man who allegedly punched his dog multiple times and placed it in the trunk of a car without food or water. He was charged with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, and the dog was taken to a local shelter.

Drug and theft charges

A 34-year-old man was arrested on November 15 on Meadow Street for allegedly stealing a bicycle and possessing crack cocaine. He was charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Traffic violations

On November 15, a truck driver was charged on St. James Street South with driving in a no-truck zone and having defective brakes.

Graffiti found

Graffiti was discovered on November 15 on the exterior door of the Hemlock Park Recreation Office.

False bank alarm

Officers responded to a bank alarm on November 15 but determined it was triggered in error.

Fire alarm at a restaurant

On November 15, construction work triggered a fire alarm at a local restaurant, prompting a response from GCFD and GCPD.

Clinton Road charges

A motorist on Clinton Road faced charges on November 15 for unlicensed operation and excessive speed.

Smoke alarm error

On November 15, GCFD and GCPD determined that a residential fire alarm was set off in error.

Unsecured truck load

A Clinton Road truck driver was charged on November 15 with operating a vehicle with an unsecured load.

Smell of smoke

On November 15, firefighters determined that a residential report of smoke on Clinton Road was unfound-

ed.

Multiple violations

On November 15, a Washington Avenue motorist was charged with having a suspended registration and defective equipment.

November 3 accident arrest

Detectives arrested a 22-year-old man on November 15 for allegedly fleeing the scene of a Clinton Road accident on November 3.

Apartment alarm malfunction

On November 15, GCFD and GCPD responded to a fire alarm malfunction at a Stewart Avenue apartment complex.

Found dog returned

On November 16, officers reunited a lost dog with its owners on Westbury Road using the Department’s chip reader.

Suspended and speeding

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged on November 16 with driving

with a suspended license and excessive speed.

Check fraud

A stolen check was reportedly altered and cashed by an unknown person, as reported on November 16.

Clinton Road violations

Two Clinton Road motorists faced charges on November 16 for driving with suspended registrations and other offenses.

Brush fire extinguished

On November 16, firefighters extinguished a brush fire near the railroad tracks by Hilton Avenue with officers assisting.

Multiple charges

A motorist on Stewart Avenue faced several charges on November 16, including driving with a suspended registration and uninsured auto.

Residential check

On November 16, officers inspected a residence with an open door and determined everything was in order.

Registration violation

On November 16, a New Hyde Park

See page 40

Stewart School honors veterans with assembly, luncheon

Veteran and former Stewart School teacher Ed Muller gave students high fives as he entered the auditorium to a standing ovation.

veteran had their bio read including information about their time in the military and work after. Veterans stood while their information was read.

Garden City’s Stewart School honored veterans on Nov. 7 with a special Veterans Day assembly, classroom visits and a luncheon. The day began strong as students welcomed veterans with a standing ovation while they entered the auditorium and took their seats on stage. Fourth grade students led everyone with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the second graders singing patriotic songs, such as “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”

The bios of all 21 veterans in attendance — each related to a current Stewart School student of staff member — were shared, highlighting their service and lives after the military. Fifth grade students from Ms. Trotta’s class read letters of appreciation expressing gratitude for the veterans’ loyalty, selflessness and

bravery. To conclude the ceremony, all students rose and sang “God Bless the U.S.A.,” and a slideshow played with each class saying thank you.

After the assembly, veterans returned to fifth grade classrooms for conversations with the students about their time in the military. Students asked questions about their experiences, favorite parts of serving and lessons learned during their service. The day ended with a luncheon for the veterans and their families.

Among the honored veterans were current or former Stewart School teachers and faculty members, including Ed Muller, who served in the army from 1945-1947 before teaching physical education at Stewart for nearly 40 years.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

Fifth grade students read words of appreciation and thank you notes to the veterans.

Each

Veterans visited classrooms following the assembly for questions from the students.

All Stewart School students sang “God Bless the U.S.A.” to the veterans.

Irish tenor to perform at Adelphi PAC

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas through the eyes and voice of one of Ireland’s most celebrated talents. Emmy nominee Michael Londra, the acclaimed Irish tenor known for his role in “Riverdance” on Broadway and his hit PBS series “Ireland with Michael”, is set to bring the magic of Christmas from Ireland to the Adelphi Performing Arts Center stage on Saturday, December 7. Londra will be joined by the finest in Irish traditional musicians and world-class Irish dancers for an evening of songs and stories of an Irish Christmas.

Audiences can expect an enchanting evening filled with traditional Irish carols, Gaelic renditions of beloved Christmas songs, and captivating stories from Londra’s youth. The show “Michael Londra’s Celtic Yuletide,” will also showcase the vibrant sounds of a new Ireland, featuring the popular carol “Beyond the Star” composed by Londra himself. With his band by his side, Londra will create a joyous atmosphere that will undoubtedly get the entire family into the holiday spirit.

The festive event will begin at 7:30 p.m. at Adelphi PAC’s Concert Hall. Tickets start at $45, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees.

The Poole Family Broadway Series at the Adelphi PAC is generously sponsored by Mary Jane and Thomas Poole.

Irish tenor Michael Londra joins worldclass Irish musicians and dancers for a Christmas show at Adelphi PAC

For more information call the Lucia and Steven N. Fischer Box Office at 516877-4000 or email boxoffice@adelphi.edu.

Regular box office hours are Wednesday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and the box office is also open two hours before all ticketed performances. Ticket sales and additional information are available online.

Early morning lifeguards needed

Adelphi University is looking for Nassau County certified lifeguards for early mornings three days a week. This is a great opportunity for older adults or high school and local college students looking for some part time work nearby. The hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 5:45 a.m.–7:30 a.m. Pay is

about $30/session. The program is the GC High School swim team practices ,which are currently being held in the Adelphi pool. Current Nassau County LG cert is required.

Anyone interested can contact Shaun Rutherford, associate director of recreation here, at srutherford@adelphi.edu.

Garden City PTA News

Important Dates:

• Stewart PTA Family Fun Turkey Trot - 11/25

• Early Dismissal - 11/27

• Schools Closed - 11/28 &11/29

7th Grade Party

GCMS 7th graders made quite a splash at the 7th grade party last week! Thank you to all of the parents who generously donated items and/ or their time, as well as the PTA representatives who worked tirelessly on making this event a success with GCMS staff!

Career Resources Committee

The new GC PTA Career Resources Committee organized their first event “Financial Literacy for Teenagers” and it was a great success! There were about 50 high school students who attended and received valuable information about W4s, direct deposit, withholding & FICA, understanding a paycheck, a basic understanding of taxes, credit score, and saving/investing. Thank you to the committee for this extremely helpful presentation!

Sportswear Committee

Volunteers Needed!

The Sportswear Committee is looking for volunteers to help at various events! Please reach out to sportswear@ gardencitypta.org if you would like to get involved in the PTA on your own time!

Join/Renew Your PTA Membership Today!

There is still time to join the Garden City PTA for the 2024-25 school year! Joining is easy. Visit gardencitypta.org and choose your membership option - just one membership covers all of your children in all

seven schools through June 2025. Annual Sponsorship Applications Now Available! Email sponsorships@gardencitypta. org.

Let’s Connect @GardenCityPTA

Website: www.gardencitypta.org

To Get Real Time InformationTurn on Notifications

Facebook: Facebook.com/ GardenCityPTA

Instagram: Instagram.com/ GardenCityPTA Twitter: Twitter.com/

Around 50 high school students attended the GCPTA Career Resource Committee’s recent Financial Literacy for Teenagers seminar, where they learned all about taxes and how to file them, paychecks, saving and investing money, and much more.

Ready for the party!

The 7th grade party had an "Under the Sea" theme.

GC Centennials Alumni Soccer Game

Come on down and catch up with Friends of Soccer at the annual GC Centennials Alumni Soccer Game on Saturday, November 30, at Garden City High School. Kickoff is at 12:30 p.m. but arrive early to stretch! If you can’t play, come anyway to enjoy the festivities!

All men and women are invited to come on down. Will be fun to catch up and talk about the past memories. Enjoy talking to some of this year’s Garden City High School Senior Boys, who won the first New York State

Soccer Championship in GC history, as well as the 2024 Nassau County Girls Soccer Championship Team.

Commemorative shirts will be provided to the first 90 players, courtesy GC Centennials. The club will also provide food at Doc O’Grady’s immediately following the games.

Suggested donation of $20 to help the Girls and Boys Team Training. Venmo @jimmy-connolly-70051. Any questions, please email gcreferees@gmail.com

GC postmaster: Ship it early for holidays

BY SYLVESTER ‘SLY’ CLARK, POSTMASTER, GARDEN CITY POST OFFICE

As the Postmaster of Garden City Post Office, I want to assure you that the U.S. Postal Service is primed and ready to deliver exceptional service during the 2024 holiday rush. Thanks to the substantial progress USPS has made under the Delivering for America plan — a $40 billion investment aimed at revitalizing the national postal network — our operational, transportation and delivery processes have never been more finely tuned.

My dedicated team and I are fully prepared to handle the peak holiday season surge once again.

As you and your family prepare for the holidays, it’s always a good idea to Ship It Early! We encourage everyone to send their holiday mail and packages well in advance to ensure they reach their destinations on time, but we understand that sometimes cards or

packages are sent last minute.

This year, our recommended sendby dates for expected holiday delivery within the continental U.S. before Dec. 25 are:

• Dec. 18: USPS Ground Advantage service; First Class Mail service

• Dec. 19: Priority Mail service

• Dec. 21: Priority Mail Express service

For a complete list of recommended holiday mailing and shipping dates, please visit www.usps.com/holidayshippingdates. And remember: the earlier you send, the better — Ship it Early!

We are honored and grateful for your trust in the U.S. Postal Service. Your postal team at the Garden City Post Office is proud to be the most affordable, reliable way to send cheer this holiday season, and we’re ready to deliver exceptional service during the holidays and beyond.

If you’re looking to sell something, place an ad in our Classifieds section! Call 516-294-8000 for rates and details.

Are you a professional?

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

News from the Garden City Public Library

Monday Movies

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

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, December 3, December 10, December 17

Kimberly Mercadante is back with her popular Yoga Series! Join her for a yoga class for beginners and more. All are welcome! This is a series of eight classes 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.

Hidden Gems: A Title Swap Book Discussion Wednesday, December 4, from 2 – 3 p.m. in the Small Meeting Room

Join the Adult Services Librarians for Hidden Gems: A Title Swap Book Discussion. Share what you've been reading recently and learn about the newest hits and old titles that you may have missed. Garden City Public Librarians will lead this discussion.

Participants who don’t have a chance to read a book before the program are still encouraged to join to get book recommendations for future reads.

**Registration is required. To register, please go to www.gardencitypl.

org/calendar or call the Reference desk at (516)742-8405 x 5236.

Easy Tie-Dye for Adults Saturday, December 7, from 11 a.m. to noon in the Large Meeting Room

Peace, Love and Woodstock! Chris Buchman will show us an easy version of how to do tie-dye on T-shirts and socks. You will need to bring your own cotton T-shirt. Socks will be provided. Join us as we take a journey back to the 1960s! Registration is required beginning on Tuesday, November 26. 2024 at 10 a.m.

Contact Adult Services - 516742-8405 ext. 5236 or email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org

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

Holiday Lights 2

with Susan & Art Zuckerman Tuesday, December 10, from 2–3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join Art & Susan Zuckerman, seasoned lecturers, as they take us on a virtual tour of the holiday sights & sounds of the city — now with additional sights!

No registration is required. Contact Adult Services - 516-742-8405 ext. 5236 or email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org

Sports Lecture with Les Wolff Saturday, December 14, from 1 – 3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Les Wolff is a trusted name in the hobby of sports, having established relationships with many of the greatest names in sports over the years like Mickey Mantle and Muhammad Ali. A hobby pioneer, Les was the first to conduct a sports auction via the phone and fax and live (before the internet became widely available). His company name was Sports Auctions of New York. That was in the late 1980s and unlike many other dealers who ’ ve come and gone since, he's still around, providing exceptional service. He revolutionized the business with auctions being the first. He is one of the country ’ s main suppliers to the card companies for vintage and rare autographs.

As a guest speaker, he will be talking about how to properly collect, invest, protect and preserve memorabilia, which is a slide show presentation. After each presentation he will look at your collectibles and give you a free evaluation. He will tell you stories of his friendships and experiences with some of the superstars of

Learn to play mah jongg at the Garden City Public Library.

Les Wolff will give a lecture on collecting sports memoribilia.

sports, celebrities and presidents. Registration is required, and space is limited. To register, please go to www.gardencitypl.org/calendar or call the Reference desk at (516)742-8405 x 5236 or email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org

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

Rhonda Kay and the Backstage Trio Sunday, December 15, from 2 – 3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join us as we welcome back Rhonda Kay and her band — The Backstage Trio. Enjoy an afternoon of music as they perform some holiday selections as well as beautiful jazz standards, and songs from the American songbook.

No registration is required, how -

The film "When Harry Met

will be screened at the Garden City Public Library on December 2.

ever space is limited. Contact Adult Services - 516742-8405 ext. 5236 or email: Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org

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

Museum Pass Information

Print From Home for Some Passes! Through the generosity of the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, the Library offers free passes to select museums and cultural institutions. You can make a reservation to borrow a Museum Pass from one of the member institutions in our Museum Pass Program.

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News from the Children’s Room

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

Upcoming November–December 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 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 23, All Day: Star Wars

• 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

News from the Garden City Public Library

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.

Tween Tuesday met November 12 with the Whaling Museum to make seashell ornaments. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

• 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.

GC Library hours for Thanksgiving week

The Garden City Public Library will observe the following hours during the week of Thanksgiving:

• Wednesday, November 27: Open 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

• Thursday, November 28: Thanksgiving Holiday, Closed

• Friday, November 29: Open 9:30 – 5:00 p.m.

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

Join Us for Star Wars Day on November 23!

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 Lucasfilmrecognized, 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

Star Wars Day will be held on Saturday, November 23.

these programs. Patrons can register online at https://www.gardencitypl. org/calendar/.

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

Registration is live online at https://forms.gle/w6nDQG3vydGiuzQy8 for the following programs:

• 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 is live 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)

Registration begins Tuesday, November 26, at 10 a.m. online at https://forms.gle/fTMs3K8vsSTKGfpQA for the following programs:

Teens and parents learned about the college admissions process at the program "Jumpstart College Admissions in Today's Challenging Environment!" featuring presenter Michael Binder. This program was held on Wednesday, November 6 at the Library and was for 9th, 10th and 11th grade students and parents. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

• Tuesday, 12/3/24 at 4 p.m.: Teen Advisory Board MeetingApply online to be a member here: https://www.gardencitypl.org/ teen-advisory-board-application/

• Thursday, 12/5/24 at 7 p.m.: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service

• Saturday, 12/7/24 at 3 p.m.: Teen STEAM Workshop: Growing Crystals with Chris Buchman

Registration begins Tuesday, December 3, at 10:00 a.m. online at https://forms.gle/8y7eFFszgKgi86kLA for the following programs:

• Monday, December 9, at 4:00 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: Perler

Bead Art (Grades 6–12)

• Tuesday, December 10, at 3:30 p.m.: LEGO Club Volunteering (Grades 6–12)

• Tuesday, December 10, at 7:00 p.m.: Teen Paint Night (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, December 11, at 4:00 p.m.: Tweens and Teens Yarn Group (Grades 4–12)

• Saturday, December 14, at 3:00 p.m.: Penguin Heart Cupcakes (Grades 6–12)

Ongoing Take-Home Community Service Opportunities Looking to volunteer? Check out

The Kordes K orner

John Ellis Kordes

PhotograPhy history

With all the early aviation on Long Island in the first half of the 20th Century there were bound to be crashes. Actually, there were quite a few but luckily the island was still thinly populated in the first few decades of the 20th Century. This crash took place on June 28, 1929 in the early morning at Hicks Nursery on Jericho Turnpike in Old Westbury. Hicks Nursery dates back at that location to the 1850s and is still there today. Of the two pilots in the plane, one died. They were trying to break an endurance record in the air but ran out of gas. The record was set by an Army plane called “The Question Mark”. Thus, this plane was called “The Answer”.

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

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 ServiceNo registration required. Up to five

GCHS publishes second edition of alumni art newsletter

The cover of the second edition of the Garden City High School’s alumni art newsletter.

recipe cards can be submitted per volunteer.

Jumpstart College Admissions in Today’s Challenging Environment!" featuring presenter Michael Binder Teens and parents learned about the college admissions process at the program "Jumpstart College Admissions in Today's Challenging Environment!" featuring presenter Michael Binder. This program was held on Wednesday, November 6 at the Library and was for 9th, 10th and 11th grade students and parents. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

On Nov. 4, the Garden City High School art department released the second edition of its alumni newsletter, dedicated to celebrating the success and creative journeys of Garden City alumni. The issue highlights how former students are making an impact throughout both the arts and other specialties.

The newsletter centers around

alumni success stories across various fields, spotlights on the former students’ personal and professional creative achievements, and ways to stay connected with the GCHS art community.

The newsletter, which was designed by Ms. Holz ’ s Media Art II, can be found here: https://issuu. com/gchsart/docs/final_design_aan

Photo courtesy of the Garden City School District

Mr. Trump Moves Forward

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

President-elect Donald J Trump is moving at a rapid pace as he prepares to take power.

Some of this movement has been symbolic. Mr. Trump has already begun to place his stamp on public events, including by appearing with an entourage at the UFC fights last weekend at Madison Square Garden and then a couple of days later watching with Elon Musk the latest SpaceX rocket launch. He has spent considerable time with Mr. Musk at Mara-Lago. Argentinean president and free market advocate Javier Milei also spent some time in Mar-a-Lago.

But the biggest sign of a more intense desire by Mr. Trump to hit the ground running on January 20 has been the rapid pace of appointments. In the last few days, Mr. Trump, in addition to asking Mr. Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to form an informal Department of Government Expenditures to oversee potential cuts in the federal budget, has announced a series of cabinet appointments, some controversial, some not.

On the noncontroversial side are appointments like Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida senator Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, North Dakota governor Doug Burgum for Secretary of the Interior and businessman Howard Lutnick for Secretary of Commerce. However, more controversial appointments include military advocate and Fox News commentator Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services, and especially Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz for Attorney General.

Mr. Gaetz, in particular, is likely to face a firestorm of opposition when his nomination is brought to the Senate for confirmation, based on his lack of legal experience, his conduct as a member of the House (he recently engineered the ouster of Speaker Kevin McCarthy) and perhaps most important, serious personal allegations, which he strongly denies. Mr. Trump seems all in on the Gaetz nomination and has even talked about bypassing Senate confirmation by using a dubious recess

appointment method.

The recent frenetic pace by Mr. Trump is no doubt grounded on a strong desire to avoid what Mr. Trump perceives happened to him eight years ago. In Mr. Trump's view, much of his first term was overshadowed by a false narrative promoted by the media and certain "deep state" actors in the law enforcement and intelligence communities, that his election was the product of collusion between his campaign and Russian operatives. To combat any repetition, Mr. Trump feels the need to put strong loyalists like Matt Gaetz in sensitive positions.

At least in the view of Team Trump, much of this collusion story was fueled by the release of an unverified (and indeed mostly false) dossier about Mr. Trump's activities in Russia and the use of the dossier as the basis for FISA warrants against Mr. Trump's campaign. In addition, Mr. Trump's first national security adviser, Michael Flynn, ended up being indicted for making false statements about conversations to a Russian official, amid allegations by Trump loyalists that the charges were orchestrated by the outgoing Obama Administration. (Mr. Flynn was eventually pardoned by Mr. Trump.)

The Russia collusion allegations remained in the news for more than two years after Mr. Trump was inaugurated. A special counsel, Robert Mueller, was appointed on May 17, 2017, but Mr. Mueller's final report, which cleared Mr. Trump of the collusion allegations, did not arrive until March 22, 2019.

This time, Mr. Trump is likely making a major effort to avoid being sidetracked, and this is understandable. On the other hand, the President-elect needs to use a little discretion here. Mr. Trump would do well to work with the Senate, which his party controls and let the Senate do its job of advice and consent to nominations, which requires release of all relevant information. If, for example, Mr. Gaetz isn't confirmed, there are other suitable candidates out there. Mr. Trump is basically off to a good start, but he will need to pick his battles.

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!

Workshop: Anti-aging Made Simple Free workshop, the “Single Most Potent Anti-Aging Tool Made Simple”, with Ahmed from Lotus Fitness. December 10, at 11:30 at the Senior Center. Learn how to feel younger, boost your energy, and upgrade your mobility, strength and balance. Register by calling (516) 385-8006.

Antiques Seminar

December 3, at 12:00 at the Senior Center

A real estate seminar/luncheon presented by Adrienne McDougal from Compass Realty along with Tracy Jordan from Invited Sales. Bring your treasures for an “Antique Roadshow” like segment, and learn about the wonderful services they offer including, Compass Concierge to assist with staging and selling your home. No jewelry items, please. Register by calling (516) 385-8006.

Christmas Film: “Elf”

Come join us for the movie “Elf” to kick off the Christmas season, Tuesday, December 17, at 1:30. Register by calling (516) 385-8006.

Christmas Sing-a-Long with George Salem Come and enjoy the music of the season. This free event will take place on Thursday, December 12th 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: October 21, November 18th, 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!!

Seniors Bridge Results

The winners of the Monday, November 18, duplicate bridge games: North / South:

First Place: Joan Kiernan and Claire Burns

Second Place: Athena Philippides and Carol Cook

East/West:

First Place: Rudy Kaiser and George Salem

Second Place: Dian Kendrick and Carrie Flapan

Thanksgiving week sanitation schedule

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage pickup on Thursday, November 28.

The Holiday Week Collection Schedule will be as follows: Western half of the village (west of Rockaway Avenue): GarbageMonday and Friday; Rubbish - Wednesday, November 27. Eastern half of the village (east of Rockaway Avenue): GarbageTuesday and Saturday; Rubbish - Wednesday, November 27.

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

Hemlock School celebrates Veterans Day

Hemlock School students listened to Joseph Scianablo while he explained the different branches of the military.

Garden City’s Hemlock School welcomed four veterans on Nov. 6 to celebrate and appreciate their selfless work defending the country. The veterans in attendance—John Chiara, Gregory Pryor, Joseph Scianablo and Patty Strube— were the parents and grandparents of students in the audience during the school’s annual Veterans Day Assembly.

The assembly began with an expla-

nation of the military’s branches and the importance of their work led by Principal Melanie Odone. She continued by giving the students suggestions of ways they can thank veterans in their lives, such as through thank you notes and letters.

John Chiara, one of the veterans in attendance, shared the three most important lessons he learned while serving in the Army with the students.

Joseph Scianablo explained the importance of working together to Hemlock students.

students with their parents and grandparents who are veterans.

“Always be a good listener to directions, always be on time and always listen to everyone around you,” he said.

Joseph Scianablo, who served in the Marines, explained the importance of working together. “The military is one big team that works collectively with the other branches,” he shared, “and we succeed because we work together.”

Scianablo also highlighted how practicing an activity repeatedly allows one to

get better and encouraged the students to always do their homework and work on their skills to improve.

Following the assembly, the veterans returned to their students’ classrooms to speak more in depth about their experiences in the military, and to answer any questions the students had.

Attention students!

John Chiara explained the importance of listening to others to Hemlock students.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

Hemlock

The

EAB member reviews Village’s Safe Fields Initiative

Recreation and Parks Paul Blake highlighted progress of the all-organic treatments at village fields. Blake told the EAB that crabgrass is not great for athletic fields because that tends to be wide, flat, and hard; it grows nearly parallel to the ground, meaning there is no cushioning effect like with turf grass which stands up like carpet fibers.

The pre-emergent chemical’s active ingredient is prodiamine, which has low toxicity but it doesn’t dissolve well in water. The product was only applied on areas that had been closed for renovations. He said a staging plan to close some parts of St. Paul’s fields, one-byone, remained in effect.

Dr. Smith said she’s taken photos of the fields at St. Paul’s from her own children’s sports games. She then looked back at the most memorable of them, which was a key factor for her taking up the cause to spearhead the Safe Fields initiative years ago.

Smith’s advocacy stems from a personal experience in 2016, when she noticed pesticide warning signs at Tullamore Park during her daughter’s softball game.

“When we arrived at that park I felt like we were in an episode of the Twilight Zone because the park was packed with families and there were these signs all over the place. The screenshot of the photo noted that it was taken at about 5:56 pm, and on the yellow sign it notes that the application was at 6:55 am that morning. It stated ‘Do Not Remove this Sign for 24 hours’ yet the softball game was on, kids were playing on fields and playing basketball and I observed mothers, families and babies there. I felt horrified and pulled my kids off the grounds…But since then, I know Garden City made great efforts to increase the signage when pesticides were used and I think that incident was an oversight, but I do think it highlighted how casual we are about these really toxic substances,” Smith explained.

Why should chemicals be eliminated?

Data that Smith reviewed at the EAB meeting, from 2019, included a look at the U.S.’s ban on about 21 pesticides in contrast to other major countries across the globe. In the European Union 195 types of pesticides are banned.

Denmark has banned 141 types of pesticides; Brazil banned 133.

Smith noted that approximately onethird of the annual pesticide use in the United States – which is over 300 million pounds from 85 different pesticides – are from the pesticides that are currently banned in Europe.

“Historically the U.S. is not very proactive at banning harmful chemicals. We know this in the beauty industry and we see it with pesticides too. The pesticides banned in other countries have harmful impacts,” she said.

Some of the potential harms of pesticides explained are especially important for families with younger children, who are not as far off the ground (where pesticides are applied) due to their height/ size.

“Children are also tactile if they drop anything and then put their hands to their face and mouth. You can’t wash a child’s hands efficiently when you are at a playground or park so they are more likely to ingest the materials than someone older, and also it’s the inhalation. Children are also smaller, and their bodies are more susceptible to the harmful impacts of chemicals because the amount taken in would have a more significant impact than in an adult,” Smith said.

The Safe & Healthy Fields initiative she described was rooted in community support among parents in Garden City who learned about the dangers of chemicals used on fields and playing surfaces.

Another key factor discussed was the overuse of the St. Paul’s fields and how that contributes to the poor surface conditions.

Dr. Smith said, “At the time (20172018) Rec. Superintendent Kevin Ocker was supportive of the Safe Fields mea-

sure, for everywhere in the village except for St. Paul’s – it was just too big to tackle and too utilized, but Kevin was very up-to-date and he knew about management techniques we would need to implement.”

“He was a wonderful asset to launching these programs and he said Safe & Healthy Fields would be utilized for the community fields – Grove, Tullamore, Edgemere, etc. Once the pandemic hit and St. Paul’s fields were actually shut down, they offered to increase the organics use to include St. Paul’s as it was already out of commission. That is how the St. Paul’s fields were brought into the Safe & Healthy Fields program,” she said.

Maintenance focuses on safety

Smith presented a “reality check” of the field conditions she observed with a picture taken at Tullamore Park back when the village’s treatments were permitting “full pesticide usage.”

“Oftentimes I hear, ‘the field conditions are so awful’... .But I don’t know if that’s totally true. It’s not like we had these exceptionally pristine, lush fields and now we don’t. The fields then, in 2016 to 2020, were certainly playable but I think many have a false concept of what they were like when the village was using pesticides and herbicides and what they would be again on the fields if they are simply implemented back,” she shared.

Some of the research about negative health impacts from pesticides, herbicides and fungicides, with the issues discussed at the EAB meeting last week, include increasing risks for diabetes, cancer, infertility, neurodegenerative disease and obesity.

“There’s also a link to autism and some birth defects as well as respiratory diseases,” Dr. Smith noted.

What was discussed and implemented with Mr. Ocker, and his successor Superintendent Blake, was the use of the Cornell University Sports Field Management Plan for the pesticide-free maintenance of village fields.

This method is mandated for all public school grounds in the state.

“Essentially the goal of the project is to create long-rooted and very dense grasses. It’s crowding out the potential for weeds, and creating a lush turf that is great for athletics and play. The reality is that it takes time and it isn’t an immediate fix. The process takes about five years with really great fidelity, and we know Garden City Recreation and Parks has made a lot of efforts to support this – they’ve purchased high-quality organic materials and consulted with the Cornell Cooperative Extension. They’ve also educated the staff working on the grounds and I commend the village for this effort – I hope they do continue,” Smith shared.

One of the other success stories of a pesticide-free maintenance program for local green spaces that she highlighted is an article linked in Smith’s PowerPoint titled, “An Organic Campus for Over 20 Years: the Secrets of Maintaining Adelphi’s Green Campus Arboretum” by Amy Wagner.

Another resource presented was the Washington, D.C.-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization Beyond Pesticides which highlights communities that have gone pesticide-free with a Google Maps function on its website, and also lists multiple environmental initiatives, programs and resources.

“The trend is growing. As people become more educated and aware, they want this for their communities and their families. Garden City is on the right path. I’m very grateful for the work that’s been done, and for the community engagement around this issue for the protection of children’s health and environmental health this coincides with. It speaks to the values the community has and we’re grateful to be living in a place where we can make positive changes,” Smith explained.

For next steps, she envisions “articulating success” with outreach for more community members and explaining the positives observed through monitoring the fields’ improvement on organic treatments.

Fun fall at Garden Manor Nursery School

What does the inside of a pumpkin feel like?

Fall is in full swing and the students at Garden Manor are having a blast. They have been learning about all things fall, including the life cycle of a pumpkin.

Happy fall!

Learning about the life cycle of a pumpkin.

Students enjoyed investigating pumpkins. They even got to see and feel the inside of one and taste the seeds! Collecting colorful leaves and observing all the different sizes, shapes and colors they come in is another favorite activity. However, the highlight of October was the annual Halloween parade where the students were able to showcase their costumes to family and friends before they sang some Halloween songs for their audience. We look forward to the upcoming holiday season and all the learning and festivities that lie ahead.

Garden Manor Nursery School at Christ Episcopal Church, a Chapel of

the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is located on Jefferson Street in Garden City. Registration is now open for next school year. If you are interested in learning more about our school please visit our website at www.gmns.org. Tours available upon request.

Halloween parade

GCHS Band finishes season at national championships

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

Church of St. Anne

Facing south across Salisbury Ave. to the new Church of St. Anne, which was being constructed in March 1930 between Adams St. and Roosevelt St. Services were first held there on 1 June 1930. They had previously been held in a house on First St. [now Argyle Rd.] between Chester Ave. and Salisbury Ave. in Stewart Manor. The rectory was at 70 Adams St. This church building existed until 1964, when a new building opened on Dartmouth St. east of New Hyde Park Rd. to complement the school which had been built there in 1951. Archives identifier: GAR_001241

On Nov. 9, Garden City High School's marching band performed for the U.S. Bands Division IIIA National Championship at the J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

This year’s ensemble, which is the largest the district has seen in over a decade, earned a score of 85.1 and came in ninth place overall. The group also received fifth for visuals and fourth for color guard. Despite the cold, the band performed during the 9 p.m. time slot.

“Everyone's growth and dedication, especially our seniors who

started their marching band journey remotely, has been inspiring to see,” said Mr. Dan DellaMonica, marching band director. “Ending our season at the U.S. Bands National Championship so successfully was a huge accomplishment and we’re so grateful for this unforgettable year.”

Though a bittersweet night for the seniors, the band’s final performance of the season and ongoing success are reflections of the students’ dedication and willingness to push themselves.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

Garden City High School color guard members.

Members of the Garden City High School marching band and color guard after their performance.

The Garden City High School marching band and color guard.

GCPD: Holiday Season Safety Tips

As the holiday season approaches, the Garden City Police Department emphasizes the importance of safety and awareness amidst the festive hustle and bustle. While this time of year is meant for celebration and joy, it is also a period when individuals can become more vulnerable to theft and holiday-related crimes. To ensure that the community enjoys a safe, happy, and peaceful holiday season, the Garden City Police Department offers the following safety tips:

Driving:

• If you must shop at night, park in a well-lit area and lock your vehicle. Also, close all windows.

• Avoid parking next to large vehicles, vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.

• Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.

• Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

• Avoid leaving packages or valuables inside your vehicle where they can be seen by potential thieves.

• When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.

• Do not approach your car alone if suspicious people are in the area.

• Do not roll down your window if a stranger approaches; talk through the glass or drive away.

Home:

• Ensure all doors and windows are locked when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.

• Ensure alarm and video surveillance systems are in good working order.

• When leaving home for extended periods, ask a neighbor or family member to watch your house.

• Have someone pick up your newspapers, and mail. In addition, have packages delivered to an alternate address where someone is available to receive them or arrange for pick-up of packages at a depot.

• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on automatic timers.

• Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

• Gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

• Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.

• Ensure all doors, especially patio doors, are alarmed and have additional locking devices. There is a recent trend in Nassau County in which suspects attempt to enter a residence during the overnight hours to obtain keys for vehicles parked in the driveway.

Leaving Home:

• Plan your trip carefully and avoid getting lost by knowing the routes you will be taking.

• Tell someone when and where you are going and what time

• Ensure pocketbooks, bags, and keys are NOT visible through windows, doors, etc.

you expect to return home.

• When leaving home, leave interior and exterior lights on, and if equipped, activate your alarm system and surveillance systems. Be aware of anyone watching or following you when you leave.

• Ensure your car has a full gas tank, and keep your doors locked and windows closed.

• Do not post that you are going on vacation on social media sites.

• Ensure your surveillance systems are on and notification alerts, if equipped, are activated.

Automated Teller Machine (ATM)

• When using an ATM at night, choose locations that are well-lit and secure.

• Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone standing near you.

• Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

Shopping:

• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. At night, shop with a friend or family member.

• Dress casually and comfortably; avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

• If possible, avoid carrying a purse or wallet. They are easy targets for thieves in crowded areas.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; pay for purchases with a credit card or debit card when possible.

• Keep cash in your front pocket.

• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen, or misused.

• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

• Avoid overloading yourself with packages, and stay alert at all times.

• Be sure to locate your keys before going to your car.

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason.

• Beware of persons attempting to distract you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

• If you have a key chain or fob with a panic button, be prepared to use it if you feel threatened.

• When leaving the shopping center, ensure that no one is following you.

• Call 911 when followed and drive directly to a police station or area where people are present.

• Leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter or family member if possible.

• Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.

• Teach your children to go to a store clerk or security officer if they become separated from you.

• Ensure your children know their full name, address, and telephone number.

• Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.

• Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone an d should never be left alone in the car.

From page 24

duced 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.

Reminder: Flag Drop Box

Garden City Fire Department

Ex-Chief Larry Nedelka donated a flag collection box to the American Legion on behalf of his late parents. Frank and Joan Nedelka were once very active members of the Legion, having served as Commander and Auxiliary president respectively. The box is located next to the Gazebo on 7th Street. There is anoth-

From page 25

Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and unregistered auto.

Improper plates

A Cathedral Avenue motorist was charged on November 16 with unlicensed operation, unregistered vehicle, and improper license plates.

Package theft attempt

On November 17, an officer observed a man attempting to steal packages from a Meadow Street residence. The suspect fled the scene on foot, and an ongoing investigation is underway.

Excessive speed

A Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and excessive speed on November 17.

Unsafe turn

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged on November 17 with driving with a suspended registration and making an unsafe turn.

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

er flag drop box located in the Garden City Library lobby as well. Residents and businesses are reminded that they have several places to properly dispose of tattered and worn American flags.

Garden City Turkey Trot

Long Island’s largest Thanksgiving Day road race will mark its 47th anniversary Thanksgiving Day in Garden City. Registration for the annual Garden City Turkey Trot, a longstanding community tradition, is underway at www. gcturkeytrot.com. The Turkey Trot consists of three races: the Challenger Division Race for special needs athletes, a 1.4 mile Fun Run and a 5 Mile Race. 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, at St. Paul’s between 6:00 and 8:30 p.m.

Happy Thanksgiving

I want to wish all our Village staff and residents a Happy Thanksgiving! A special Thanksgiving wish to the many residents who volunteer their time and expertise to make Garden City a great place to live.

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.

Happening in Garden City

Tuesday, November 26th

6:30 p.m. Architectural Design Review Board meeting at Village Hall

Thursday, November 28th

8:30 a.m. Turkey Trot beginning and ending at St. Paul’s. Must register.

Monday, December 2nd

1:30 p.m. Movie Matinée: When Harry Met Sally at the Library

Tuesday, December 3rd

12:00 p.m. real estate seminar/luncheon courtesy of Compass Realty, with Tracy Jordan from Invited Sales at the Senior Center. Must register by calling 516-385-8006.

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

Wednesday, December 4th

6:00 p.m. Planning Commission

meeting at Village Hall

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

Thursday, December 5th

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

Sunday, December 8th

3:30 p.m. Village Christmas Tree Lighting and Hanukkah Festival of Lights on the Village Green

Monday, December 9th

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

Tuesday, December 10th

11:30 a.m. Lotus Fitness workshop at the Senior Center.

2:00 p.m. Holiday lights lecture with Art and Susan Zuckerman at the Library

Thursday, December 12th

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

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

Saturday, December 14th

1:00 p.m. sports lecture with Les Wolff at the Library. Must register. Sunday, December 15th

2:00 p.m. Rhonda Kay and the Backstage Trio perform at the Library

Tuesday, December 17th

1:30 p.m. A Day at the Movies: Elf at the Senior Center. Register by calling 516-385-8006.

Harassment arrest

Garden City Detectives arrested a 42-year-old man on November 18 for allegedly making multiple threatening phone calls to a business. He was charged with Aggravated Harassment.

Fraud investigation

On November 18, a person reported unauthorized account transfers after discussing banking issues with someone falsely claiming to be a bank representative.

Adelphi fire alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded on November 18 to Adelphi University, where burnt food activated a fire alarm.

Graffiti found

Officers discovered graffiti on November 18 along St. James Street South on poles, signs, and trees.

School zone speeding

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged on November 18 with speeding in a school zone and running a stop sign at Merillon Avenue.

Overpass collision

On November 18, a van struck an overpass on Chestnut Street. The driver, transported for facial injuries, was charged with disobeying bridge clearance signs.

Bank alarm error

On November 18, officers responded to a bank alarm and found all was in order.

Downed power lines

Officers safeguarded the area on November 18 after power lines fell on New Hyde Park Road until PSEG arrived.

Terroristic threat arrest

On November 19, a 41-year-old man was arrested on Tremont Street for allegedly making a threatening phone call to shoot up a medical office on Franklin Avenue.

Store theft arrest

A 61-year-old man was arrested on Hilton Avenue on November 19 for allegedly stealing multiple items from a 7th Street store. He was charged with Petit Larceny.

Overweight vehicle

On November 19, a New Hyde Park Road truck operator was charged with driving an overweight vehicle.

Stolen scooter report

Officers responded on November 19 to Adelphi University for a report of a stolen electric scooter.

Hit-and-run

A Honda Civic reportedly fled the scene of a two-vehicle accident on Ring Road on November 19.

Fire alarm at business

Burnt food triggered a fire alarm at a Franklin Avenue business on November 19, prompting a response from GCFD and GCPD.

Graffiti in restroom

Parks employees found graffiti on November 19 inside the men’s restroom at St. Paul’s.

Defective brakes

On November 19, a New Hyde Park Road truck operator was charged with driving with defective brakes.

This misconception is keeping you from overcoming lower back pain

BY AHMED AHMED

By 2050, an estimated 843 million people will suffer from lower back pain…

It is already the leading cause of disability worldwide!

Moreover, a 2023 study suggested the population at the highest risk are older adults.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve experienced life-changing lower back pain…

Ahmed Ahmed

It was as frustrating as having an unwanted guest dictating my life.

Now here’s the thing…

Your spine has 33 bones that harmoniously work together but only 5 make up your lower back!

Your bones, together with your muscles and nervous system, direct how your back moves…

And when you strengthen your muscles, you transform the way you move…

Which can remove or reduce your pain.

But how do you do that?

A common misconception is that the best way is to strengthen your core muscles!

But often exercising your core when you have back pain is a painful experience…

Which means you may want to avoid it.

So what can you do?

The first step is understanding that your body is an intertwined system.

For example, you have muscles in your body that span two or more joints.

Those include some arm and leg muscles that directly move your spine.

A meta-study ( a study of studies) looked at 7 different studies...

It determined that hip strengthening exercises improved participants lower back pain and disability.

Which means their ability to perform activities of daily living skyrocketed.

The truth is, any exercise that uses muscles along your spine will protect and strengthen it...

Which will ignite your journey to becoming more confident when moving your back.

So, if core exercises don’t feel good...

Try exercises for the four areas below 1) Hips- strengthen muscles right above or below your lower back to protect it.

2) Mid back.

3) Upper back.

4) Neck.

Ahmed Ahmed is the owner of Lotus Fitness. Contact him at (646)4152349 or ahmed@lotusfitnessny. com https://lotusfitnessny.com/

As the holiday season approaches, we invite our Garden City neighbors to join us on campus for festive events and performances.

Annual Winter Lighting Ceremony

Monday, December 2 at 6 p.m.

Adelphi University Flagpole Lawn Enjoy festive treats and witness the campus transform into a winter wonderland. This event is free and open to the public; no tickets are required. And, if you can’t join us on December 2, please stop by campus during the month of December to take a stroll and enjoy the holiday lights.

The Adelphi Performing Arts Center

Holiday Performance

Michael Londra’s Celtic Yuletide Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Acclaimed Irish tenor Michael Londra will put you in the holiday spirit with an evening of traditional, heartwarming Irish carols and Gaelic versions of Christmas songs as well as Celtic songs of a new Ireland, including his own popular carol “Beyond the

Star.”

Get tickets: adelphi.edu/PAC

Donate to the Panther Pantry Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. University Center Room 123

Adelphi accepts donations of non-perishable food options year-round to support Adelphi’s students in need.

College of Professional and Continuing Studies

Adelphi’s College of Professional and Continuing Studies is offering two exciting opportunities: Our Online Allied Health Certification programs prepare students for entry-level, in-demand positions in healthcare in six months or less. No prior knowledge is needed and you can start any time. And our Online Technology Bootcamps offer you the knowledge, skills and industry certifications needed to begin or advance your career in Cyber Security, Data Analytics or Cloud Systems Administration--in as little as 10 months. Apply now for January start dates.

Community members enjoying Adelphi’s Winter Lighting Ceremony event

Photo courtesy Adelphi University

Celebrate Holiday Traditions at LI Children's Museum

Theater Premiere, Special Events & Bonus Play Days

December finds Long Island Children’s Museum in full celebration mode as we explore holiday traditions, premiere a new production in the LICM Theater, enjoy the return of Snowflake Sock Skating and ring in the new year in out-of-this-world style.

LICM is adding two Bonus Mondays to its public hours to provide families with more play days in December. The Museum will be open on Monday, December 23 and December 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

December 2024 Program Calendar

Special Event - Jolly Jamboree Saturday, December 7 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Get ready to celebrate the season at LICM’s inaugural Jolly Jamboree! Join us for a festive night featuring roaming costume characters, including “Santa and Friends.” Dive into holiday-themed activities, glide with Elsa and Olaf on our sock skating rink and showcase your joyful moves at the Winter Wonderland dance party, complete with live DJ entertainment. Don’t miss out on this magical experience!

All ages. Fee: $16/person ($14 for Museum members).

Special Event - Countdown to 12! –Out of this World 2025 Tuesday, December 31 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Celebrate the New Year in the style of New York’s famous Times Square festivities! This year’s event is sure to be “Out of This World!” as we prepare for the arrival of the “Moon to Mars” exhibit (opening January 18, 2025). The day will be filled with fun space-themed activities, three ball drops, live DJ entertainment and confetti-filled dance parties. All activities are drop-in and run from 11 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., while supplies last.

Ball drops will happen at noon, 2 and 4 p.m.

All ages. Event price: $20/ per person (includes admission, all activities and personal confetti popper for every family member. (Free for Museum members).

December in the LICM Theater

The Snowy Day and Other Stories by Ezra Jack Keats By Jerome Hairston based on the stories by Ezra

Jack Keats

Thursday, December 5, 12 and 19 at 10:15 a.m. and noon

Friday, December 6, 13 and 20 at 10:15 a.m. and noon sensory

Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 15 at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, December 10 and 17 at 10:15 a.m. and noon

Wednesday, December 11 and 18 at 10:15 a.m. and noon

Saturday, December 21, Thursday, December 26, Saturday, December 28 through Monday, December 30 at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Friday, December 27 at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. (Evening show is Sensory Sensitive Performance)

Join us in the LICM Theater to experience the wonder of a fresh snowfall, the delight of whistling for the first time, and the awe in finding a special treasure. In this childhood adventure, Ezra Jack Keats’ books come to life, featuring live actors and shadow puppets telling the stories of The Snowy Day, Goggles!, Whistle for Willie, and A Letter to Amy.

Tip: Leave time to visit the Snowflake Sock Skating exhibit before or after your performance.

Presented with permission of Plays for New Audiences, and Children’s Theatre Company-Minneapolis.

Ages: 4 and up. Fee: $11 with museum admission ($9 Members), $15 Theater only.

Splish Splash Animal Bath

Sunday, December 8 from 1:30 to 2 p.m.

Join us in the Yellow Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM's animals. Join our Animal Educator to observe animal bath time.

All ages. Free with Museum admission.

Snowy Day Snowflakes

Tuesday to Friday from 2:30 to 4 p.m. (excludes December 23-31)

Snowflakes come in many different shapes and no two are the same. Come make your own unique paper snowflake to bring home. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

All ages. Free with Museum admission.

AdvoKids: December Holidays

Saturday, December 7 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

During this AdvoKids program visitors will learn about the many holidays that are celebrated during December and will then create a colorful paper candle – a common fixture in December holidays. This is a drop-in program.

Ages: 4 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Glowing Gingerbread House

Sunday, December 8 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Come make a cozy light up gingerbread house craft to bring the warmth of the season to your home. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Las Posadas Poinsettias Saturday, December 14 from noon to 2 p.m.

Join us in celebrating Las Posadas. Las Posadas are a popular tradition in Mexico and parts of Latin America. Come learn about the story of La flor de Nochebuena and the significance of poinsettias during this holiday season and make your own paper flower pinwheels to take home. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Let’s Skate

Sunday, December 15 from 1 to 3 p.m.

New York is one of the best places to enjoy outdoor and pond skating. Come make your own winter wonderland scene complete with a moving skater. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Spotlight Shadow Puppets Saturday, December 21 from noon to 2 p.m.

It’s National Flashlight Day and we have a bright idea. Come design your own finger puppet and take home a mini flashlight so you can perform a shadow puppet show. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Christmas Jingle Bell Ornaments

Sunday, December 22 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Jingle bells have long been associated with Christmas, but do you know why? Come by and make a personalized jingle bell ornament to ring in the holiday season and learn all about its symbolism.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Playful Penguins

Monday, December 23, Thursday, December 26, Monday, December 30, Thursday, January 2 and Friday, January 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, December 24 from 10 a.m. to noon

Waddle over to the Green Studio to create your own personalized penguin pal craft. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep. Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Snowy Scenes

Monday, December 23 and Tuesday, December 24 from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, December 26, Monday, December 30, Thursday, January 2 and Friday, January 3 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Frost is in the air and a snowy day is on the way! Join us in the Purple Studio to add your magic touch to the walls of our Snowy Day themed room and help illustrate our collaborative story! All ages. Free with Museum admission.

Celebrate Kwanzaa Friday, December 27 at 1 p.m.

Celebrate Kwanzaa at LICM! Kwanzaa is a week-long holiday that celebrates African American culture and heritage. Join the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority to learn about the rich traditions and meaning behind Kwanzaa while you create a mkeke and ear of corn, festive symbols of this holiday. Ages: 5 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Snowman Sensory Balls

Saturday, December 28 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Come make your own squeezable, stretchable, squishy sensory ball snowman friend. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep. Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

Happy Hanukkah Sunday, December 29 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Come get ready for Hanukkah by learning all about dreidels. Learn about the game’s history and rules and then decorate your own dreidel to take home. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. It takes approximately 10 minutes and is yours to keep.

Ages: 3 and up. Free with Museum admission.

STEM Explorers: Ring in the New Year! Monday, December 30 from noon to 2 p.m.

Get ready to ring in the New Year with the Green Teens! Explore New Year’s traditions through a different lens with your STEM Explorers. STEM Explorers, powered by Green Teens is made possible with the support of National Grid.

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.

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Notice is hereby given that bids for the following will be received at the Garden City Union Free School District, 56 Cathedral Avenue, Garden City, NY until 10:30 am Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at which time and place bids will be opened and read aloud.

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION CONTRACT 2024-2025

Copies of the specifications and instructions may be obtained at the aforesaid Business Office between the hours of 8:30 am through 3:30 pm, MondayFriday up to the time of the bid opening.

Dana DiCapua

Asst. Supt for Business & Finance

Garden City Union Free School District Let our Service Directory help you find the right company for the job!

GCPD Commissioner: Safety initiative

From page 1

his community policing officer, Detective Lt. Grimes, Detective Hennessy, and Trustee Bruce Torino to address ongoing issues in these areas. He proposed several measures, including adding brighter lights and more security cameras to deter criminal activity and gatherings of teenagers.

The Police Commissioner’s first recommended action is to have the village install more and brighter lights to deter any types of criminal activities and rowdy gatherings of teenagers or ‘tween’ children.

“The courtyard there consists of multiple pavers and some benches, and the lights that are there are ambient; they are not very strong lights and not adequate. While there are some cameras there, there definitely is a need for more because the ones up do not accurately cover the area. And there’s also a very substantial tree cover – the trees’ coverage is very large and causes a negative effect on lights and cameras.,” Jackson explained.

Since the courtyard is privately owned, Jackson reported that GCPD is working with property owners, who are planning camera upgrades and lighting improvements. One village-owned camera captures the courtyard, but its placement and low lighting reduce its effectiveness.

Commissioner Jackson, Lt. Grimes and a vendor also took a closer look at that corridor behind stores, and considered

options for camera placements.

The village’s Department of Public Works helped determine that lights of stores in that vicinity go off shortly after midnight, and the property owner will be having an electrician reset the timer.

“We have implemented the concept of crime prevention through environmental design – to design the property in such a way that it reduces the possibility of crime. Det. Hennessy spoke with the property owner about increased lighting and the cameras, and it comes down to anything they can do to illuminate the area, which would be better,” Jackson noted.

Another idea he suggested is installation of a new license plate reader (LPR) device in the driveway heading from Seventh Street to the back of Key Food and Dunkin, parking lot 7N.

“What we’re thinking about for the village is that we do have a pole north of the courtyard, and we can place a camera there. That camera would probably provide adequate coverage but we’d probably like the commercial property owner to trim the trees down some. We’d also like to put in the LPR on the driveway portion, as sometimes – especially the weekend nights – we’ve observed suspicious vehicles coming through to the parking lot. This would help GCPD of what’s going in and out of the lot. Additional lighting on the village’s poles is probably not an option at this time because of

the location, that would probably impact the street (sidewalk paths) and traffic. We feel that some changes would have positive results,” he said.

Jackson, Detective Lt. Grimes and Trustee Bruce Torino spoke with the vendor who visited with the GCPD about providing quotes for products and installations as the commissioner outlined. They also decided to go a little further up and check out the greenspaces just south of CVS, and north of Nassau Financial Federal Credit Union (on the west side of Franklin Avenue/ either side of Stewart Avenue). Jackson says a few times there have been suspicious activities and teens congregating in those locations.

“The youth crowds seem to veer that way, and we found that when we put the extra (bright) lights there last year and this year, it was really effective in those two areas. We feel that because those passive areas belong to the village (municipal properties) we can add the lighting and cameras there and it would be effective. We’ve asked the vendor to review specs and give us the pricing on it,” he explained.

Trustee Torino commended the police for their proactive efforts, noting that addressing safety concerns now will better prepare the village for the busier summer months. Torino referenced Friday evening gatherings of teenagers on Seventh Street, which led to the cancellation of summer Friday

Promenades this year in favor of smaller family events.

“So residents are aware, the ability to be proactive and understand your environment so you’re able to address situations before they arise is a hallmark of this police department! We believe that by addressing the situation now and understanding what we can do to better our police enforcement now – as we hit winter – when we reach the summer we’ll be in a better position,” Torino noted.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan thanked Commissioner Jackson and GCPD members for their efforts. She also thanked Trustee Torino for being involved and providing valued insight.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon also commended the GCPD under Commissioner Jackson’s leadership for the particular focus on Friday evenings, “doing a great job of keeping the village safe.” After Village Treasurer Irene Woo presented a snapshot of finances for the fiscal year, Muldoon referenced one of the points she made about the overtime incurred. He said much of the GCPD overtime was allocated from time officers spent in the Seventh Street/Franklin Avenue corridor on those summer Friday nights.

“You guys (GCPD) are beyond impressive in making sure everything is kept under order, with the situation of many teenagers gathering. Great job all around, guys!” Muldoon commented.

November 15, 2024

Travel Companies Offer Biggest Savings of Year: More Black

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Take advantage of the biggest sales on travel of the year to gift your family, friends and yourself. Here are more Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Travel Tuesday deals:

Club Med, a pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, is offering its best discount of the year with its Black Friday sale, Nov. 19-Dec. 2, offering travelers up to 50% off winter, spring and summer getaways across its 70 all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada. The deal includes up to $500 Instant Savings and free stays for kids under 4. Whether chasing Caribbean vibes at the luxurious Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda or mountain highs at Club Med Québec, your next adventure is in reach.

Additionally, the Black Friday sale extends to international resorts with up to $770 instant savings at Club Med favorites like the Exclusive Collection (5-star) Alpine ski resort Club Med Val d’Isere and the newly-renovated Club Med Gregolimano in Greece. Perks also include: Kids under 4 stay free; lift passes; and group ski and snowboard lessons for all levels, available for ages 4 and up.

North America Resorts: Enjoy 50% off, plus up to $500 Instant Savings per person/week when booking one of Club Med’s North American all-inclusive resorts, booked Nov. 19-Dec. 2 for travel Dec. 7, 2024 to June 27, 2025. Resorts include Club Med Punta Cana, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Club Med Cancún, Club Med Ixtapa, Club Med Québec Charlevoix, Club Med Turkoise, Club Med Columbus,

Friday/Cyber

Monday Deals

villas and one- and two-bedroom beachfront bungalows, all equipped with private pools, modern amenities. Book a five-night stay Nov. 19-Dec. 4 and receive a $500 resort credit per stay through December 25, 2025.

Sonesta Resorts St. Maarten: Book Nov. 29-Dec. 6 for a minimum two-night stay through Dec. 19, 2025 for 50% off standard room rates at the family friendly Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa and adults-only Sonesta Ocean Point Resort. (Use the code BLACKFRIDAY at checkout.)

Club Med La Caravelle, Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek.

International Resorts: Get up to $770 Instant Savings per person/week when booking one of Club Med’s international sun and mountain resorts booked Nov. 19-Dec. 2 for travel from Nov. 24, 2024-May 30, 2025.

Book: https://www.clubmed.us/o/ black-friday

Caribbean Hotels & Resorts

This year for Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday 2024, some 26 Saint Lucia resorts are offering discounts and perks up to 76% off. Deals include discounts on room rates, upgrades, resort credits, spa discounts and more. Options include family-focused hotels, luxury resorts, eco-hotels, wellness properties, villas, global brands and locally-owned boutique hotels. The offers can be found

at www.stlucia.org/en/offers-blackfriday-cyber-monday-2024

Alexandra Resort , Providenciales, Turks & Caicos: is an all-suite, all-inclusive resort located on world-renowned Grace Bay Beach. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 for stays from through December 25, 2025 for $200 resort credit per stay. Guests have access to sister-resort Blue Haven amenities. Its sister resort, Blue Haven Resort, is one of the newest and most private all-inclusive resorts in Turks and Caicos, accessible by a 1.5 hour flight from Miami. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 to save 10% and receive a $300 resort credit on travel through December 25, 2025. Guests have full access to both properties via regular shuttles.

Ambergris Cay, Turks & Caicos is a luxury private island resort with

Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas, features 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges with celebrity chef culinary masterpieces, including Fish by José Andrés, Nobu by Nobu Matsuhisa, and Paranza by Michael White, Aquaventure, one of the world’s largest waterparks, and a premier shopping destination. Book Nov. 27-Dec. 6 for 20-30% savings on travel Jan. 2-June 30, plus $150 Resort Credit for stays of 4+ nights Mexico Hotels & Resort Deals TAFER Hotels & Resorts luxury oceanfront properties in Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos, Mexico are offering up to 45% off and up to $400 resort credit for all-inclusive stays booked Nov. 29-Dec. 15, as well as complimentary one-way airport transportation and free all-inclusive stays for children. Guests staying at the adults’ only Hotel Mousai Puerto Vallarta and Hotel Mousai Cancun will also receive a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival (www.taferresorts.com)

Casa Kimberly, Puerto Vallarta, the former love nest of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton turned nine-suite

Continued on next page

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda: Club Med is among the many hotel and travel companies offering Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Travel Tuesday deals (photo courtesy Club Med).

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

More Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals

Continued from previous page

boutique luxury hotel in Puerto Vallarta is offering the rare chance to get 50% off its magnificent suites for stays December 1, 2024-May 31, 2025 booked Nov. 29-Dec. 2. Use code CYBERCK.

International Hotels & Resort Deals

Corendon Hotels & Resorts, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Travelers who are part of the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program save up to 25% and non-members save up to 15% for bookings Nov. 26-Dec. 3 on stays from Dec. 1, 2024 and Jan. 20, 2025 booked directly on corendonhotels.com. The hotels include: The College Hotel, Autograph Collection, a five-star property is set in a historic building that once served as a school offering an intimate 40-room retreat in the heart of downtown Amsterdam,walking distance of popular museums, convenient public transportation, and elevated shopping. Corendon Amsterdam NewWest, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, a suburban gem in a vibrant area of Amsterdam, where guests can enjoy the largest hotel spa in The Netherlands as well as the exclusive 737 Suite, a bedroom housing a Boeing 737 cockpit alongside a king bed, living room, and kitchen. Corendon Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, conveniently located near Amsterdam’s largest international airport, featuringrooftop bar and restaurant, on-site movie theater, spa and unique amenities like a retired, full-size Boeing 747 that guests can tour.

Savings in the USA

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, which will celebrate its 45th anniversary in 2025,features awardwinning dining destinations, Drums of

the Pacific Luau, stargazing with a NASA Ambassador where guests can see 80 out of the 88 constellations, Maui’s only oceanfront, 15,000-square-foot luxury spa and fitness center, wildlife tours with penguins and birds, is offering up to 45% off minimum 5-night stays Jan. 1-Sept. 30, 2025, booked Nov. 28-Dec. 3 (use code BF2024).

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, SC: Book by Dec. 3 for stays through Mar. 31, 2025 for savings. Sonesta Travel Pass Members can save up to 30% with the promo code CYBER, while non-members can enjoy up to 20% off by using codes EXHCCYBER, BKCYBER or PLCYBER. In addition, take 15% off at the resort’s bar by applying the CYBER code.

National Hotel Miami Beach, in South Beach’s celebrated Art Deco neighborhood, offers guests an adults-only oceanfront experience with cinematic elegance, award-winning culinary, and the area’s longest infinity pool. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 for 30% off best available rate with minimum stay of 4 nights, for stays Nov. 19, 2024-Sept. 30, 2025.

Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key, the largest resort in the Florida Keys, offers an ultimate coastal experience with Calm Waters Spa, adventure-filled group snorkeling excursions, fishing charters. Book Nov. 19-Dec. 4 to save up to 40%: Prepaid and Non-Refundable or up to 30% with a one-night deposit and flexible 14-day cancellation.

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, South Walton, Florida, with exclusive beachfront access, is offering rates from $198.40/night for two or more nights booked from Nov. 29-Dec. 1 for stays through April 30, 2025 (use code BF), or 25% discounted stay for two or more nights plus daily breakfast for two,

booked Dec. 2-3 for stays through April 30, 2025 (use code CM0). Book by phone, 888-519-0048.

Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa, New Hampshire, a timeless retreat on the National Register of Historic Places which completed a multimillion dollar renovation, offers a luxury fourseason escape within its expansive 1,700 acres set amid the picturesque peaks of NH’s legendary White Mountains. Features include Tower Spa, a historic nine-hole golf course where you can have a llama be the caddy, and working farm with educational programming and animal encounters. Book on the website, mountainviewgrand.com, Nov. 22-Dec. 3 for 40% off stays through 2025.

Antrim Streamside , Catskills features 250 acres of hiking trails and opportunities for yoga, wellness activities, wine and spirits tastings, and private chef-led cooking classes. Book Nov. 29-Dec. 8 using promo code FRIDAY30 to save 30% off threenight minimum stays, Jan 2-May 31, 2025, plus complimentary wine tasting kit with sommelier’s tasting guide and savory accompaniments.

Massanutten Resort, Massanutten, VA, winter mountain getaway offers ice skating, snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding, an indoor WaterPark. Save 25% off one-bedroom condo booked by Dec. 2 for travel from Jan. 2-Mar.31, 2025 (use promo code MASSiveDeal24).

Trilith Guesthouse, Fayetteville, GA, which opened this year, is at the main entrance of the Town at Trilith, a European-inspired community adjacent to Trilith Studios, the second largest film and television studio in North America. Book Nov. 26-Dec. 3 for 25% off advance purchase for visits from Nov. 26, 2024

Holiday Season Begins on Long Island

With Opening of LuminoCity

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES

SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

There’s a singing chocolate ice cream cone. A chocolate covered strawberry ballerina. Cakey and the Fairy. Not to mention an Ice Palace with penguins, polar bears, seals. A Giant Christmas Tree and of course, Santa in a Sleigh –all created in lights. The holiday season has begun on Long Island with the opening of this year’s LuminoCity Lights Festival at Eisenhower Park, on view through January 5.

An annual holiday event since 2019, each year the theme changes. This year’s theme, “Sweet Dreams,” is featured in 50 attractions as you walk the winding paths through a truly enchanted forest.

You wander through different scenes and settings with different themes. What is so impressive is the creativi-

through Sept. 30, 2025 (Promo code: 7YM). Purchase a $100 gift card for a $25 bonus card that can be redeemed at the hotel’s outlets Jan. 1-May 31, 2025.

Art of Living Retreat Center, Boone, NC, a serene and rejuvenating wellness experience in the Blue Ridge Mountains. 90 minutes from Ashville is offering 25% off Signature Retreats (Happiness, Stepping Into Silence, Breathwork & Meditation) and R+R Retreats for stays from January through March 2025, booked Nov. 22-Dec. 3 with code BLACKFRIDAY2024

Hotel booking site HotelSlash is offering a free lifetime membership (membership is normally $29.95 per year) along with a 7% discount on top of their already low rates. Bookable from Nov. 28Dec.. 3. Use promo code BLACKFRIDAY. Visit https://www.hotelslash.com/ Cruise Offers

Cruisecritic.com is showing Black Friday luxury cruise offers with special rates, free air, upgrades and perks that can be booked through Cruise Specialists: Regent Seven Seas Cruises: up to 40% off fare and $1,000 shipboard credit on 2025 and 2026 cruises booked by Nov. 30. Oceania Cruises: up to 25% bonus savings on 200 voyages booked by Dec. 4. Viking: free air and $25 deposits on 2025 and 2026 cruises booked by Nov. 30. Silversea: up to $6000 cruise savings on 550 cruises plus reduced deposits, booked by Dec. 2. Seabourn: 2-category veranda suite upgrade plus reduced deposits on select 2025-2026 cruises booked by Dec. 3. Cunard: up to $400 onboard credit plus gratuities on 400 voyages booked by Jan 6. Book through Cruise Specialists, cruisespecialists.com, 888-994-6134.

Lights Festival

ty and the artistry, the delicate precision and the exquisite quality and scale.

There are nearly life-size deer, giraffes, lambs, then in another scene, wooly mammoths, saber tooth tigers, reindeer, and in another, cartoonish fantastical, fanciful and whimsical creatures.

You walk through arches, portals, tunnels of light. You walk through the mouth of a giant hungry caterpillar whose eyelids open and close; another is a pergola of candy canes. You come upon a train going through a tunnel made of fairy lights (“It’s not about the destination. It’s about the journey,” a note reads.) It’s like finding yourself in a 3-D storybook.

There are hot air balloons, and holiday symbols of candy canes, snowmen, enormous Christmas trees, Santa on a sleigh – all in fairy lights.

And my favorite - which I purposely left for a dramatic climax to my walk (there are several ways to go) - an

entire Ice Palace with penguins, polar bear, seals, and a moving winged horse (Pegasus) where I overhear a kid say, “Oh my god, this is the coolest thing in the world!”

A highlight are the lantern art characters and creatures created from winning drawings of children as young as 6 years old, in collaboration with the Long Island Children’s Museum, where you see their actual drawing and how it has been manifested in stunning lifesize lantern art light sculpture.

This is the second year of the festival’s collaboration with the Long Island’s Children’s Museum – last year, the festival creator, Chen, also collaborated with the Long Island Children’s Museum on themed drawings of Long island’s marine life that were brought to life in these lanterns (the museum will be opening a Long Island Marine Life

Continued on page 5

Quark Expeditions’ Explorers Black Friday Sale on through Dec.2, provides savings up to 50% on select polar voyages: Contact your travel agent or quarkexpeditions.com, 888-908-4833, https://www. quarkexpeditions.com/offer/black-friday

Crossword Answers

All of the great fun things about Thanksgiving

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

My niece, Shannon, and my nephew, Jason, are cousins and they live in the same town. Last year their kids were in an elementary school play before Thanksgiving and they told us aunts and uncles about how her daughter, Olivia, who’s 7, and his son, Max, 6, were dressed in their costumes as Pilgrims and stood on the stage along with several other kids. Their next-door neighbor and friend, Tyler, who’s 7, played Massasoit.

The teachers directed the play from their chairs and the audience loved the performance. They later told the friends and family of the kids that each year the play is a great way for the youngsters to learn how the very first Thanksgiving feast in New England was held in 1621 and why so many Americans still celebrate it each year. The Pilgrims sacrificed a lot to leave England for America.

The play was a big hit and helped put the audience in the holiday mood. Thanksgiving was two days later and each family had their plans set for a meal with relatives and friends.

It was Plymouth, Massachusetts, Gov. William Bradford who decided to organize a feast to celebrate the harvest and invited a group of Native American allies which included the Wampanoag chief Massasoit.

Massasoit was born in about 1590. In 1620 the Pilgrims arrived from England and started Plymouth Colony. By that time Massasoit was a chief. In 1621 he visited Plymouth. He was friendly to the Pilgrims and signed a peace treaty with them. He encouraged his people to show the colonists how to farm, fish, and hunt. To thank Massasoit, the English invited him and other Wampanoag to a great feast.

It took place over three days sometime between late September and mid-November in 1621, and was considered a harvest celebration. They’d had a successful harvest after a difficult winter and they wanted to give thanks for the blessings of the land. The Pilgrims and Native Americans came together for what turned out to be a celebration that included eating and playing games. That event is now celebrated as the first Thanksgiving.

Some people wonder which foods were served during that first feast of Thanksgiving and although wild turkeys were in the area, they probably ate venison plus fish and shellfish, which were all around them plus plenty of fruits and vegetables that the Pilgrims grew in their home gardens. Carrots, cucumbers, leeks, cabbage, lettuce, pumpkins and parsnips most likely were served.

In their first year on new soil the

Pilgrims had learned how to cook Concord grapes, walnuts, chestnuts, garlic, cranberries and wild sunflower aka Jerusalem artichokes - things that were native to Massachusetts.

As my relatives and I gathered around the table and during dessert a few of us talked about why we were thankful. My eight-year-old niece, Elle, said she’s grateful for singers like Taylor Swift. “All of her songs make me happy,” she stated and we all laughed.

Pete, my seven-year-old nephew, said he likes getting chocolate turkey candies from his grandmother on Thanksgiving and he smiled mischievously when he said it.

My sister, Susan, sat back in her chair and recounted the year she was married she and her husband, Don, invited her in-laws over for Thanksgiving Dinner. It would be a treat for them as well as Susan’s brother-in-law, Scott, and his wife, Alexa.

Excited about cooking her first holiday dinner from start to finish, Susan got busy the day before. Preparing mashed potatoes, a green bean casserole and turnips, she chilled a can of cranberry sauce. Thanksgiving morning Susan pulled a 15-pound turkey from the refrigerator and rinsing it in cold water in the sink, the bird kept slipping around and slipping and just then her mother-in-law walked in. “It looks like the runaway bird,” she chuckled then Susan popped it in a large roasting pan and all was well.

Everyone at the table laughed and growing serious, Scott said he was thankful for the latest addition to their family. Dylan was born six months before and there he was, sleeping in the playpen Scott had set up in the living room. With his blond hair and blue eyes everyone agreed that he was the cutest baby they’d seen in a long time. After dinner we took turns holding him and Don cited Scott for saying that family comes first on Thanksgiving and every day of the year.

This year will be my niece, Kylie’s, 15th wedding anniversary so we’ll all toast to that. It was on Saturday, November 28, 2009, that Kylie married

Josh. How they met: Kylie returned a dish at a friend’s house and when she rang the doorbell, Josh answered. Kylie and Josh had never met before but he was babysitting his two young nieces because his sister/the friend was out. Kylie noticed that they’d been having a tea party and Josh was thoroughly engaged in playing with the girls.

Kylie thought Josh was nice and she found out he was single but she was going to the Peace Corps the following month. She was packing her luggage and heading to a European country for three years. I wrote to her often overseas and a couple of times she said Josh was cute and wondered if he still lived nearby. Her friend said yes so shortly after her return to the U.S. they started dating.

As they say, the rest is history. They have four children, Chuck, Danny, Alex and Betsy. We will all have a good time celebrating that milestone.

Thanksgiving Day is not just a day off of work and school, it’s a national holiday that’s a perfect time for getting

together with family and friends to give thanks. This year Thanksgiving falls on November 28 and personally, I think that Thanksgiving is the best holiday of them all.

I enjoy all of the fun events connected with the four-day Thanksgiving weekend. Fall is the best time of the year.

A very Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!

Most Beautiful Grandchild

Caryl Oerzen shared this photo of 7-year-old Leah, who is as kind as she is beautiful. Leah is “always the first one to include others in her circle, as her teacher has mentioned many times,” Caryl said. “She is helpful, courageous and selfless.”

How Other Government Benefits Interact With Social Security

BY TOM MARGENAU

I have been saving up some emails from readers who want to know how other government benefits might affect their eligibility for Social Security, or vice versa. In other words, they wonder if their Social Security benefits impact whatever other government benefits they might be due.

I can always deal with that first issue. In other words, I can tell you what happens to Social Security if you get another government benefit. On the other hand, I usually can’t tell you what might happen to your other benefit when you get Social Security. For that answer, you’d have to talk to someone at the agency that manages whatever other government benefit you are talking about.

Q: I am about to turn 62 and want to file for my Social Security, but I am getting unemployment insurance. Can I get both at the same time?

A: There is no Social Security law that prevents you from getting unemployment benefits and Social Security benefits at the same time. But as I said above, you would have to ask someone at your unemployment agency if their rules let you do that.

Q: I am 60 years old. I have several medical problems, and I am in the process of filing for Social Security disability benefits. I am also filing for unemployment benefits. Will one benefit offset the other?

A: As I said in the prior answer, the Social Security laws say you can get Social Security and unemployment at the same time. But you are in a whole different boat than the guy who asked the prior question. He is filing for retirement benefits. You are filing for disability benefits. And if I was processing your disability claim, I’d be looking at your allegation of a disability very skeptically. Why? Well, to get disability benefits, you are telling the Social Security Administration that you are unable to work because of some disabling condition. But at the same time, you are telling the unemployment agency that you are ready, willing and able to work, but you just can’t find a job. I hope you see the conundrum there. And even though I don’t know their rules, if I were your unemployment benefit adjudicator, I’d also be very skeptical.

Q: I am getting worker’s compensation benefits, and I am now in the process of filing for Social Security disability benefits. Will I be able to get both benefits at the same time?

A: The answer is yes, but with some qualifications. There is a law that says the combination of your Social Security disability benefits and your worker’s compensation payments cannot exceed 80% of the average monthly income you had before you became disabled. (There is a complicated formula they use to come up with that 80% figure that I really don’t understand; just know that it ends up with a

maximum of around 80%.)

Anyway, if the combined benefits exceed that level, one or the other gets reduced to take you down to the 80% rate. Which benefit gets cut varies from state to state. But it’s been my experience that most of the time, it is your Social Security check that gets reduced.

Q: Can I get disability from the Veterans Administration and a disability benefit from Social Security at the same time?

A: You can get Social Security disability benefits while getting a disability check from the VA at the same time. And I’m pretty sure your VA check won’t be reduced if you get Social Security. But to be sure, you’d have to ask of someone at the VA.

Q: I get VA disability, but I was turned down for Social Security disability. Why? How can one government agency say I’m disabled but another government agency says I’m not?

A: Because each government agency has its own legal definition of “disability.” For example, the VA has degrees of disability. In other words, you might be classified as “50% disabled” by that agency. Or it could be 10%. Or 70%. Each case is different. But to get Social Security disability benefits, the law says you must be 100% disabled. Or to be more precise, it says your disability must be so severe that you are unable to do any kind of work, or that your condition is terminal.

Q: I am retired military and get a military retirement pension. I am about to turn 62 and plan to file for Social Security. Will that military pension affect my Social Security?

A: No, it won’t. You can get Social Security and military retirement at the same time. But once again, you’ve got to talk to the military retirement people to see what happens when you start getting Social Security. I’m pretty sure nothing happens, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Q: I get a teacher’s retirement pension from the state of Texas. If my husband dies, I’m told I won’t get any of his Social Security. Why?

A: A Social Security retirement pension has always offset any widow’s benefits you might be due -- dollar for dollar.

By the same token, the government pension offset law says your teacher’s retirement pension also will offset any widow’s benefits due. But the GPO law cuts you a deal. Instead of a dollar-for-dollar offset, your teacher’s pension is only a two-thirds offset. In other words, an amount equal to two-thirds of your teacher’s pension will be deducted from any widow’s benefits you might be due from Social Security.

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

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

him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

I have been thinking about how our supposed amazing economy and crazy housing market has been over the last few years. It is quite remarkable how things have transitioned into providing overwhelming benefits and amazing appreciation to whomever had purchased; especially to those that were fortunate enough to take advantage of the historically low rates.

But what about everyone else who were shut out of the market by the 11 interest rates increases and ever escalating prices? They either had to stay where they were in the current rental or staying put in their current home; not being able to either downsize or upgrade. We can point our finger at so many variables that contributed to this stagnation of the market. However, interest rates and prices and lack of inventory were the main culprits in the drastic change in sales. Who could have predicted this monumental event that occurred? Probably 99.9% would not have known this unless they had a crystal ball that no one else had.

Will our President-elect Trump and those who will advise him figure this out? Will he fire Jerome Powell as he has done with all the other advisers and put in his own genius to contemplate how we will solve our housing problems?

To be very candid, I feel that this is the tip of the iceberg and this will be a very long and drawn out process to come up with viable ideas and solutions to be able to stabilize the market. What is worse our national debt has now gone above 36 trillion dollars. From reading and researching I do not see enough attention drawn to this most critical problem that we are facing. Lowering rates will be advanta-

Are we in a checkmate postion?

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

geous in the cost of our National Debt as well as for buyers and refinancing of the most recent higher rate loans. But this will not solve reducing our national debt. We are consistently “kicking the can” down the road and not taking the bull by the horns in coming up with the absolute required and necessary solutions to our debt dilemma. All the unnecessary unwon wars, military spending and other wasteful expenditures of the past 30 years that we had spent trillions on has added to the misery of “how do we pay the money back?”

However, I am not sure how we will reverse the direction of our National Debt unless we experience some very severe sacrifice and financial pain that needs to be considered by Washington. The one way I think we can truly solve our money issue is to “bite the bullet” for a number of years. As they say, “no pain, no gain.” However, I have read that there possibly could be another way in paying our debt down through crytpo currencies that our government supposedly owns, but I am not convinced that this would be a viable path to pursue.

currency status and how we handle the current tumultuous and severe issues around the globe with our NATO partners will determine our future on the world stage.

Looking back to 1929, the National Debt was 17 Billion. Although some years weren’t as bad as others, all of our wars seriously increased our debt. From 1941-1945 our debt went from 49 Billion to 259 Billion. When most recessions hit, the debt receded, where some others it increased. Although our wars boosted our economy and added a multitude of jobs, it also kept increasing our National Debt. Moreover, stagflation, (which is a simultaneous occurrence of high inflation, stagnant economic growth and elevated unemployment) also contributed and raised our National Debt. From there it kept increasing right through the present day. This will assuredly have a major effect on housing. Whatever is left of our middle class, our debt will have a detrimental and negative effect on their mobility to increase their long term future wealth. Taxes will most likely increase to continue paying for our debt interest, which is 1 trillion+ per year.

In a little more than a year and a half, we will be heading into our 250th year of existence as a Democracy. We have many issues that need to be considered, addressed and solved. Problems will always exist as there is no Utopia anywhere in the world where everything is perfect. But if we keep doing what we always do and expect something miraculous is going to all of a sudden change, then we are dealing with what we call insanity. Housing will be a critical commodity for everyone and our future society will depend on reasonable prices that people can afford. At the rate and pace we are currently going with current and future National Debt, inflation, wages and salaries aren’t keeping up with the cost of living, how will we be able to provide shelter for those looking to purchase or even rent.

The multiplying of our National Debt and other major issues over the years is now and will be our ondoing and so much depends on our leadership in the world. Our reputation, reserve

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

LuminoCity Lights Festival

Continued from page 2

exhibit in fall 2025).

“Sweet dreams theme is close to my heart,” LuminoCity Founder and Creator Xiaoyi Chen said at the ribbon-cutting. “I wanted to bring out the wonder we had as kids – the magic. Walking through, transports you back to the holidays with family. We aim to bring light and happiness to all who visit.” She added, “Long Island is our home, too.”

The setting within Eisenhower Park is particularly special. You not only have the lights, the imagery, the colors and shape, the animation, the sound and musical effects, you have the smell

of pine trees and walk through this truly magical forest. You really feel you have come to a winter wonderland, an enchanted forest, a magical place – and not just the kids.

You can purchase tickets online, www.LuminoCityfestival.com (there may be discounts available), as well as at the entrance.

LuminoCity Holiday Lights Festival, Eisenhower Park, Parking Lot 4, 1899 Park Blvd, East Meadow, NY 11554, www.LuminoCityfestival.com

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.

LuminoCity’s Holiday Lights Festival enchants at Eisenhower Park, Long Island, through January 5 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

BY MARY HUNT

Psssst! Could you use an extra $300? You might want to take a look in your garbage.

Recent studies indicate that food waste remains a significant issue in American households. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that 31% of the food supply at retail and consumer

levels is lost or wasted, amounting to approximately 133 billion pounds and nearly $162 billion in value.

Focusing on produce, the Produce Price Index reports that wasting 150 pounds of produce annually could result in a financial loss ranging from $258

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Fresh Produce 101

to $334 per household, depending on the types of produce discarded.

In a survey of 1,000 households, the folks at Glad found that while 83% considered themselves knowledgeable about storing produce, only 32% knew the proper way to store apples, and 38% knew the best way to store strawberries.

And so, my dear readers, in an effort to raise our collective produce intelligence quotient, what follows is a crash course in the proper care and storage of fresh fruits and vegetables.

General: Most fruits will ripen at room temperature, but once ripe, they should be refrigerated. With few exceptions, do not wash fruits or vegetables before storing because washing hastens spoilage. Rather, wash just before eating.

Apples: Store in the refrigerator; do not overcrowd, allow for good air circulation. Unwashed, will remain at their peak for at least three weeks.

Bananas: Store at room temperature unbagged; suspended from a hook is ideal. Do not refrigerate. Once ripe will last three to five days. Can freeze: Peel, slice and spread on cookie sheet. Once frozen, bag them.

Raspberries: Do not wash until ready

to use. Store in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. For optimum length of life, arrange berries in a single layer. Will last for two to three days in the refrigerator, depending on how ripe they are.

Strawberries: Do not wash, do not remove stems. Store in a sealable bag. To achieve maximum fresh life, arrange strawberries in a single layer in a plastic container with tight-fitting lid. Will stay fresh for four to five days.

Grapes: Do not wash. Leave on stems and store in zip-type bag in the refrigerator. Unwashed will stay fresh for two to three weeks. Washed? One week if you’re lucky. Always wash just before eating.

ning water. Drain well. Store in sealable plastic bag in the refrigerator (insert a paper towel in the bag to absorb moisture). Will remain fresh and crisp for seven to 10 days.

Tomatoes: To ripen, store at room temperature, stem up and away from sunlight. Store in plastic sealable bag in the refrigerator. Will stay fresh for up to a week once ripe.

Potatoes and dry onions: Never refrigerate. Store in dark, cool space like closet or pantry. Maintain good air circulation. To get onions to last for a month or longer: Cut one leg from a clean pair of pantyhose. Drop an onion into the toe, tie a knot close to the onion. Drop in another. Repeat until filled. Hang from a nail in the pantry. Need an onion? Cut right below the lowest knot. Suspended with air circulation encourages long life for onions. Works well with garlic and potatoes too.

Avocados: Ripen at room temperature on the counter, then store in the refrigerator. Will stay fresh and wonderful for up to five days.

Lettuce: Here’s an exception to the washing rule: Wash well under cold run-

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 24-30, 2024

It may not seem like much when you read a description, but once you see one with your own eyes, you’ll understand why it’s so special. I’m referring to the phenomenon astronomers know as a lunar occultation.

A lunar occultation occurs when the moon, in its orbit around the Earth, drifts in front of a more distant object -- for example, a planet, star or star cluster -- and blocks it from view for about an hour or so.

Occultations of stars are important because they allow us to refine our knowledge of the moon’s orbit and even discover companion objects orbiting distant stars. In fact, it was a faint companion star orbiting the red supergiant Antares that first showed up during a lunar occultation in the early 19th century.

But this week it will be Spica that beomes the star of the show. Spica is the bright white star that marks the shaft of wheat held by Virgo, the maiden, and you can now see it low in the eastern sky before dawn. And on the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 27, it will co-star with the waning crescent moon in just such an occultation.

As the moon approaches Spica from its upper right, keep a watchful eye on the star until it winks out instantly behind the moon’s bright edge. This

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

I have a talking dog.

We didn’t know it when we got him, of course. He didn’t reveal this talent to us right away. He would vocalize occasionally in dog-speak, but no one really had any idea what he was saying because he spoke in his language, and we spoke in ours, and there was no Rosetta Stone program for either of us. But then one morning I came down the stairs, as I always do, and I said:

“Hello, Bowie!”

Bowie greeted me with some howling, as he always does, but this time, he said something very clear and easy to understand.

“Hello,” said the dog.

I stopped mid-step.

“What?”

“Hello,” said the dog.

“Joel, come here!” I yelled back toward the bedroom. “The dog is talking.”

STARGAZERS

Watching a Star Wink Out

occurs for two reasons. The first is that the star is so distant that it appears as only a point of light in our sky. The second is because the moon has no atmosphere to dim the star’s light before blocking it completely.

Watching the star disappear and reappear, however, might be a challenge for some, since the event may occur during bright twilight where you live.

Viewers around the country will view the event from different angles, so its times will differ from place to place. From New York City, for example, Spica will disappear at around 5:36 a.m. EST and reappear at around 6:51 a.m. EST. In Chicago, the occultation will occur at around 4:29 a.m. CST and end at around 5:38 a.m. CST.

Farther to the west, near Denver, viewers will miss the beginning of the occultation since the pair will be below the horizon, but the star will reappear on the upper right side of the moon at 4:21 a.m. MST. Unfortunately, from the West Coast, the event occurs before the moon and Spica rise.

The key is to begin your watch at least 10 or 15 minutes early; also, don’t turn away as the star appears to close in on the moon.

To get the event’s times for your location, call your local planetarium, science museum or observatory, or visit the following website: lunar-occultations.com/iota/bstar/1127zc1925.htm.

The times there are listed in Universal Time, which you must convert into your local time. To get EST, for example, simply subtract 5 hours from UT; for CST, subtract 6 hours; for MST, subtract 7 hours; for PST, subtract 8 hours. If weather should interfere, or you miss the split-second disappearance or

reappearance, don’t worry. We’ll get to see occultations of other planets and stars during the next year.

This week, in a lunar occultation, the moon will block the star Spica from view

LOST IN SUBURBIA

The Incredible Talking Dog

I heard the door open behind me, and my husband joined me on the steps.

“What are you taking about?” he said, sleepily.

“Watch this,” I said. I looked down at the dog, wagging his tail at the bottom of the staircase.

“Hello, Bowie,” I greeted him.

“Hello,” said the dog. To be honest, it was actually more like, “Huhro,” but it sounded close enough and the circumstances were certainly right for a wholehearted hello.

This would be a good time to acknowledge that Bowie is a golden retriever, and golden retrievers are not generally known for their vocal techniques. Huskies and malamutes tend to be the big talkers and will often congregate around water coolers to discuss the latest show on Netflix. But golden retrievers generally prefer to keep their opinions to themselves and refrain from any gossip or innuendo. Their motto is,

“Speak softly and carry a big stick ... or frisbee or tennis ball.”

We went downstairs and the dog greeted us in a more traditional dog way by bringing us a toy, wagging his tail and generally just acting as though he were happy to see us, unlike our actual children who had typically greeted us in the morning with a grunt and a sneer.

“Does he say anything else?” my husband wondered aloud.

“I don’t know,” I said. “I haven’t asked him.”

We let the dog out, even though he hadn’t said, “I need to go out,” and then when he came back in, I turned to him and said, “Do you want your breakfast?”

He sat and looked at me quite seriously. Then he spoke.

“Hello,” replied the dog.

“Looks like he’s a one-trick pony,” said my husband.

“Don’t pressure him,” I said. “He’ll

lose confidence.”

I decided to give up on the talking dog lessons and walked across the floor to get the dog his food. But as I walked, I failed to notice that it was raining outside and the dog had left a big puddle in the middle of the kitchen floor. I hit the puddle with my foot, lost my balance, skidded across the floor and fell flat on my butt. The dog watched this, then let out a series of guffaws that could only be interpreted as laughter.

“Well, he may only be able to say hello,” said my husband. “But at least he’s got a sense of humor.”

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

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Pecan pie makes a perfect dessert this Thanksgiving

Pecan Pie

A Thanksgiving dinner table can be a sight to behold. For foodies and others who love the array of comfort foods on display come the second Monday in October (in Canada) or the fourth Thursday in November (in the United States), Thanksgiving is a day to circle on the calen-

dar each year. While a mouthwatering turkey and sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing garner the bulk of the attention on Thanksgiving, the dessert table also can be a tempting place to direct one’s eyes. Though no dessert is off limits on Thanksgiving, pie is a

1 9-inch unbaked frozen deep dish pie shell, thawed

1 1⁄2 cups pecans, coarsely chopped

3 eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup light corn syrup

1⁄2 cup brown sugar

1) Preheat oven to 350° F.

2) Spread pecans along the bottom of the prepared pie shell.

3) In a large bowl, mix the remaining ingredients and pour over pecans. The pecans will rise to the surface of the pie.

particularly popular option on Turkey Day. With that in mind, those tasked with crafting something for dessert this Thanksgiving can consider the following recipe for “Pecan Pie” courtesy of Lines+Angles.

Makes 8 servings

1 tablespoon molasses

2 tablespoons butter, melted

2 tablespoons flour

1⁄4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

4) Bake for 60 to 65 minutes until the filling has set. Pie is done when the center reaches 200° F. Pie center when lightly tapped should spring back. Remove pie from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours.

5) Serve.

Give this beloved side a tasty twist this holiday season

Pecan-Cherry Bread Stuffing

Hosts have free rein when it comes to planning a holiday menu. Despite that freedom, many hosts feel obligated to prepare some holiday season staples their guests will surely expect when they sit down at the dinner table.

Stuffing is a dish many cel-

ebrants can’t wait to see on the holiday dinner table. For hosts trusted with preparing holiday meals, the beauty of stuffing lies in its versatility. A host of unique ingredients can be added to holiday stuffing without adversely affecting the popularity of this beloved

1 loaf crusty white or wheat bread, cut into 3⁄4inch cubes

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for baking dish

1 medium yellow onion, peeled and diced

2 large celery stalks, rinsed, trimmed and diced

4 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped

1 cup packed dried tart cherries

1) Preheat oven to 400° F. Position oven racks in the middle and lower third of the oven.

Arrange bread in a single layer on two rimmed baking sheets. Toast until dry and golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool.

2) Lightly butter a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery and

side dish. In fact, adding some unique ingredients can make people love stuffing even more. Such could be the case with this recipe for “PecanCherry Bread Stuffing” from Lines+Angles. Makes 8 servings

1 cup roughly chopped toasted pecans

2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves

1 tablespoon crushed fennel seed

Coarse salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1⁄4 cup fresh chopped parsley

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until onion and celery are softened, about 7 minutes. Add cherries, pecans, sage, and fennel seed; cook, stirring for 1 minute. Transfer to a large bowl and season with salt and pepper.

3) Add parsley, eggs and bread to the cherry mixture; stir to combine. Add broth in two additions, stirring until

absorbed. Season generously with salt and pepper; transfer stuffing to butter baking dish. Bake on middle rack until the top is deep golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 50 minutes

Resting time: 5 minutes

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Life’s WORC receives $50K donation

Dr. Harvey Manes, philanthropist and art collector, of Plainview, LI, recently donated $50,000 to Life’s WORC, a Garden City- based nonprofit organization that supports people with special needs, including developmental disabilities and autism.

Through his Manes Peace Prize Foundation, Dr. Manes made a donation of $50,000 in honor of Life’s WORC’s 50th anniversary in 2022 and the organization’s founder, Vicki Schneps. This latest act of generosity brings his total donations to $100,000 over the past two years.

“Dr. Martin Luther King once said, ‘The most important question you can ask yourself is what am I doing to help others?’ It’s a great pleasure for me to play a part in providing all the people who benefit from Life’s WORC with the opportunity

to expand their appreciation of art. This is a wonderful occasion,” said Dr. Manes.

The day’s event was kicked off by Matthew Zebatto, former CEO of Life’s WORC who welcomed an audience of staff and board members. He then introduced Ms. Schneps who praised Dr. Manes for his generosity and his commitment to improving the lives of the more than 2,000 people across the New York/metro area supported by the organization’s various programs.

“Life’s WORC is grateful for Harvey’s generosity in donating an opportunity for thousands of special people to enjoy and develop in the art world,” said Ms. Schneps.

The Manes Peace Prize Foundation’s funds will be used for a new Art Program to be offered by Life’s WORC.

Dr. Harvey Manes and Life's WORC founder Vicki Schneps.

The

veys. Sadly, our Board of Trustees is now ( Nov 19th) in a somewhat chaotic discussion re the contents of the upcoming second residents’ survey. The Board has reviewed 12 different versions of the survey without a final consensus. In short, Garden City’s St. Paul’s debate is virtually back to square one.

George M. Salem Trustee misinformation

To the Editor:

While no expert, as someone that has been involved in multiple façade projects in Manhattan, and presently involved in starting another, it is truly disappointing to listen to this BOT and realize how little specific knowledge and incorrect information they espouse about façadism. One can only hope it is not intentional misinformation.

At the most recent BOT Work Session with the firm the Trustees hired in an 8-0 vote, BCI, Trustee Muldoon’s criticism of facadism from having “looked at google” were entirely off the mark. It should be of concern to all residents that what the St Paul’s Finance SubCommittee Members estimated a “conservative $125,000,000” Adaptive Re-use project is being driven by one person, while an energetic salesperson and well-regarded as a residential contractor, but whose façade expertise comes from “looking at google” as Trustee Muldoon offered at the Nov 7th 2024 BOT Meeting.

As to Trustee Muldoon’s argument that “facadism is way too expensive”, perhaps he actually believes the costs Frank McDonough and St Paul’s Committee Members Finneran, Harrington and Torino (officially “liaison”) put out with the previous St Paul’s Committee. (Frank McDonough put the cost of a 100,000 sq ft sport/theatre facility, with no documentation or sourcing, and with no notification to the Finance Sub-Committee Members, at $120,000,000. Meanwhile, back in the real world Stony Brook’s indoor practice facility costs $15MM and is 62,000 sq ft. Dartmouth’s facility is 70,000 sq ft and costs $27MM, and Cornell is building an insanely nice facility that is 91,000 sq ft and costs $55MM.)

Trustee Muldoon does not seem to understand that one of the reasons facade projects are popular with developers is the price of the new construction is a fraction of rehabilitation, as well as the ability to provide infinitely more uses. Perhaps Trustee Muldoon should listen again to the BCI representative that spoke immediately before him at the BCI Work Session. The BCI representative emphatically states from their experience with older buildings, that facadism costs are “in the same ballpark with other options”, that it is a “lot less expensive to maintain and

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

operate year after year”, and “a lot of people would vote for being able to see the outside of that building…..but have something completely new, and a lot less expense to maintain year after year and less expensive to operate”. I urge Trustee Muldoon to go back and actually LISTEN to the video. We don’t know how many people exactly voted for facadism because the Mayor’s frequently criticized Opinion Survey failed to separate “Facadism” from “Adaptive Re-use”. But what we do know, is many for demo would support facadism, including the majority of the FDEM group and other demolition advocates (excluding my good friend George Salem), because their driving motivator for demo is not so much to tear down St Paul’s, but understandable fear of the money-pit phenomenon of trying to rehab a deteriorating centuries old and neglected building that provides no real use for the Village.

Trustee Muldoon’s “facadism is way too expensive” and his “I know better” attitude is a bit unfortunate. What to do with the St Paul’s Building is a value proposition for each resident to decide based on what activities they value, comparing the costs of one to the other and the uses it would allow different residents, and after the village receives UNBIASED estimates.

This was the path BCI was moving forward on, before this POA Board of Preservation Trustees hindered the process, prompting last week’s Mayor’s column, and a resignation from this Mayor’s St. Paul’s Committee. And frankly Trustee Muldoon, please don’t tell the residents what is “cheap” and what is “expensive”. It is for them to decide. I for one would gladly pay $1,000 a year or more for a light-filled, modern, flexible athletic/cultural center behind our beloved St Paul’s facade, but the thought of paying a single dollar for a refurbished museum, with an obsolete layout that few will ever enter, I personally find ridiculous.

While granted Trustee Muldoon might be an excellent choice to remodel parts of any resident’s home, with a strong residential contracting reputation, and expressing one’s opinion is important, maybe if Trustee Muldoon listened to the UNBIASED BCI that the Village Trustees hired with an 8-0 vote, rather than Frank McDonough, he might actually learn a thing or two about facadism, something he unfortunately would never have had the opportunity to practice in a residential construction business through no fault of his own. Not all “construction” is created equal. The difference between residential construction and commercial construction is the difference between day and night. Neither Trustee Muldoon nor I are experts in commercial facadism. A project of this magnitude requires a Hunter Roberts or

Hudson Meridian Construction Group or a Gilbane or The Whiting-Turner Contracting Co that would never have one person driving this type of project. They would have a team of a dozen, backed up by even more employees, not one individual that has never worked on a building of this size. As resident Steven C Schumacher, someone who appears to be involved in commercial construction, explained at the Nov 7th BOT, if you want an estimate you “hire a reputable firm, that has a reputation, they put their name and reputation on the line”. There would be a team of highly compensated unbiased professionals with their careers and livelihoods on the line, not a group of volunteers that are highly biased and in their “ends justify the means” ethos, have proven they are willing to mislead the residents in their “save every brick” mission. The fact that Trustee Muldoon’s St Paul’s Committee has many members from the original St Paul’s Committee and Alliance that put out so much misinformation, shows he is anything but unbiased. (https://www.gcnews.com/ articles/lies-damn-lies-statistics/) Trustee Muldoon, your comments regarding the outside of facade project “going to look terrible” at the last BOT meeting, meaning the new sides might clash with the front facade, again, demonstrates that you and the other Save Every Brick Trustees are anything but open-minded. One of the strengths of facadism is combining new materials with the old: glass, steel, aluminum cladding, etc., demonstrating that the village did not just destroy an asset, but worked hard to be practical to save the historical exterior while introducing space for modern uses. Look at how the Adelphi Indoor Sports complex has integrated multiple materials to create an appealing look. If the residents prefer a blending of brick so it does not “look terrible”, just leave the East and West outer walls of the St Paul’s Building in place. Let’s stop this nonsense of “it will not look nice”. Trustee Muldoon, do not force your aesthetic views on the entire Village. Your company is “Old World”, but many of us actually prefer new architecture and building materials. An architectural firm will produce Elevation Drawings and the Trustees will examine what the building will look like before the first brick is laid and no construction would ever take place before the BOT ok’s the design. The concern that “it might look like a Quonset hut” that the Alliance claimed before the opinion poll is as ridiculous and as intentionally misleading as Demo will leave our kids “practicing in Guam”.

Façadism is a reasonable choice that is a compromise between demo’ing the entire St Paul’s building and developing a building for modern uses that should be seriously explored. It was prom-

ised by the Mayor and Trustees in the Opinion Poll. To censor BCI’s survey to silence the residents because it doesn’t fit with the Preservationist Trustee and their overlord Frank McDonough’s save every brick philosophy is intellectually dishonest. Demo, Façade or Adaptive Re-use, let the residents be heard. Let’s not pretend an incompetent and ridiculous “Opinion Poll” should be the driver of the future of St. Paul’s. Trustee Finneran’s use of a faulty “Opinion Survey” to justify “demo is off the table”, shows he does not believe in a resident driven process, no matter how many videos he makes denying it. There is nothing wrong with supporting saving every brick, but when did it become acceptable in Garden City, for Preservation Trustees/Alliance/ Historical Society members to intentionally mislead the residents, especially our beloved senior citizens, before an “Opinion Survey” and an election with the fake “Trustee Torino Senior Tax Exemptions”, fake costs for Adaptive Re-use(ridiculously understated) and Facadism (laughably overstated), months of listening to Frank McDonough’s unworkable Conservancy with claims they can raise money cheaper than a Triple A village, (refuted by Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C and commonsense), the Historical Society’s President’s repeated “Demo will close the playing fields for two years” (Refuted by Westermann Construction), Trustee Harrington’s references to “grant money and donations” that she repeatedly refuses to identify and now Trustee Muldoon’s head scratching plan for putting a pool in the basement of St Paul’s and taking out load bearing floors and walls to have a higher ceiling, (last BOT Meeting) despite Trustee Torino’s ridiculing of the idea. All to create the illusion of a need for a dilapidated building with a layout that was built with 500 rooms to house students in the 1800’s, not for modern uses of a broad community.

(Note to Trustee Muldoon: BCI pointed out that an acceptable pool “needs at least 20,000 square feet just to get the type of pool this community would need”. The footprint of the St Paul’s wings are each roughly 50007000 sq. ft. Sorry Trustee Muldoon, the math does not add up. Not even close. BOTWebinar - Work Session - October 28, 2024 - Video.mp4 ) Those seniors that voted for Adaptive Re-use because candidates Torino, Muldoon, Tai and Courtney promised you tax exemptions….……we have been snookered. And let’s be honest about the consequences of this misinformation for seniors. Some seniors, not all, but some, that voted for Adaptive Re-use thinking it would cost them a zero increase in taxes, when they see their actual tax increases for $500 or $1000 or $1500 per year, will have to

seriously consider leaving the Village. Falsehoods have consequences. Stop using our seniors as pawns. It is great to say “We love our seniors”, but not while you are picking their pockets with fake tax exemptions.

It is likely that demo and façade are not going to be willingly considered by this BOT in any meaningful way, but no resident should think that those trustees that campaigned on “the residents should decide” and “I’ll listen to everyone”, have kept their pledge. No trustee should be posting video’s that this is a “resident driven process” as they censor BCI on Demo and Façade and volunteer to provide “ballpark numbers” to “sway the survey” to quote the Mayor, something BCI has clearly stated they will be no part of. It is a “resident driven process” as long as you support their $125,000,000 Adaptive Re-use plan that has no purpose except as a vanity project for those Preservationists and those that might attempt to use the project to further their construction or architectural resumes on the village dime. Trustee Muldoon has stated that his Committee is to look at Adaptive Re-use for St Paul’s. Nothing else.

The thought of any residential contractor, or any Trustee or volunteers, supplying estimates for St Paul’s, even “ballpark”, a project that might literally be the difference between a project that can make Garden City the envy of all of Long Island, or a Village that is known for creating a tax-sucking white elephant, should be viewed with alarm by all residents.

Fooled me once……………..

Donald MacLeod

Keep Christ in Christmas

To the Editor:

In last week’s November 15 issue of The Garden City News on page 8, we placed a story inviting village and area residents to take part in a “Keep Christ in Christmas” campaign by sponsoring a two-page message that will appear in the newspaper’s upcoming December 13 issue.

Most will agree that the true meaning of Christmas is too often overlooked this time of year. We are saturated with endless commercials and ads about “Black Friday” sales, “Christmas-themed” movies that rarely display a nativity

scene, and cruel legal challenges to public nativity displays by anti-Christian groups.

The words “Merry Christmas” have unfortunately been avoided at schools, businesses, department stores, etc. Instead, we repeatedly hear, “Happy Holidays”, intended to encompass all the political correctness of the season. It seems that we don’t want to offend anyone’s feelings, with the exception, of course, of those of Jesus Christ and His Blessed Mother.

Therefore, six years ago, in response to the secularization of Christmas, we, St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Knights of Columbus, decided to take a step to proclaim publicly the true meaning of Christmas – the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, Our Savior, the Light of the World. We created a “Keep Christ in Christmas” message to be placed in the Garden City News in the days before Christmas.

Please envision the following. The message will feature a peaceful, heartwarming nativity scene with the Blessed Mother Mary, St. Joseph, and the Baby Jesus in the hay-filled manger surrounded by the traditional cattle and sheep.

Below the nativity scene will be a familiar quote from the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 2, Verses 10-12: “And the angel said to them: Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, that shall be to all the people: For, this day, is born to you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David. And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger.”

The lower part of the “Keep Christ in Christmas” message will display the names of the contributors who cherish Christmas and who wish to proclaim that in this beautiful season of gift-giving that the greatest of all gifts is God’s gift of His Son to the world!

We thank those who have added their names and their generous donations to be part of our past “Keep Christ in Christmas” messages, and we thank in advance those who will help make this year’s Christmas message successful.

To take part in this year’s message, simply send your name(s) with a donation of $20. You may include the names of other family members and friends

as well; for example, John Jones, The Jones Family, IMO (In Memory Of) John Jones, John and Christine Jones, or John and Christine Jones & Family. Any one line is just $20.

All donations are tax deductible. Checks are payable to: Knights of Columbus Council #15809. Donations can also be made via Zelle: SJBB@ kofc15809.org.

Mail your name(s) and donation to: Mr. Robert Walters, 45 Mulberry Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530. Also include your telephone number or email address in case we have a question about your name(s). Please reply to us as soon as possible. Our deadline to receive both your name and donation is Monday, December 1.

Looking ahead to Friday, December 13, 2024, be sure to pick up a copy of The Garden City News to view the “Keep Christ in Christmas” message with your name(s) prominently displayed among the names of your family, friends, and neighbors.

We wish everyone a Happy and Holy Christmas 2024.

Thank you and God bless you. Grand Knight Joseph Levano St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Knights of Columbus Council #15809

A mother’s worst nightmare

To the Editor:

The late Mary Anne Trump had this profound assessment to say about her son Donald: “Yes, he’s an idiot with zero common sense, and no social skills, but he IS my son, I just hope he never gets into politics. He’d be a disaster”.

Truer words were never spoken. Our newly elected president is a convicted rapist, 34 count felon, calls our fallen WWII soldiers buried in Normandy “suckers and losers” (himself a Vietnam 5-time bone spur draft dodger), admires Hitler’s generals and has Putin on speed dial.

Melania Trump will visit the White House and use as an AirBnB , but don’t worry, First Lady Elon Musk will be there all the time.

Unlike the narcissistic psychopath who lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden and staged a coup on January 6yh to disenfranchise 81 million voters, VP Kamala Harris conceded the 2024 election to ensure a peaceful transfer of

power.

As President Biden said “You cannot love your country only when you win”.

Unfortunately, for Mrs. Trump, Honesty, and our Republic, her son, an idiot with zero common sense, will try to install a pedophile as AG, RFK Jr. who claimed “A worm ate my brain” as head of U.S. Health, and fellow boot licking sycophants in all aspects of government while the senate is in recess! Who needs a full senate hearing on qualifications to run the most powerful government in the world?

It’s a reality apprentice show, starring the GOP …. a shiver looking for a spine.

Benjamin Franklin when asked “do we have a Republic or a Monarchy?” he replied “A Republic, but only if you can keep it.”

God Save America, Patrick A. O’Rourke Party split-up

To the Editor:

The recent election gave the Democrat Party a tremendous blow. In contrast, the former President and his party picked up an overwhelming landslide victory. Whether the Democrat Party will recoup from this downfall and/or will split up remains to be seen.

It is the radical left wing of the party who cannot accept the catastrophic loss. It is in total shock and is searching high and low to find out whether this is based on any shenanigans by the Republican Party. It still doesn’t want to see that its ideology, policies, lies and misleading press led to its disaster. It is still bitter and is fighting just for the fighting’s sake!

But there is also a big section—the so-called middle-of-the-road group— who feels it got betrayed by its own party; these members want to start anew and adhere to the will of the people. Some of them even felt the need to leave and change their party affiliation.

To get out of this mess, it may be best if the party splits apart and each section goes its own separate way.

The leaders of the party were entrusted by the people to serve them and not themselves!

It is time to start a new page!

Heinz Mayer

Adult Evening Programs at the Field House

The

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please note - A resident par -

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

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

St. Paul’s Fieldhouse Adult Pickleball Program

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

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

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

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

A participant may also “pay as you

go”. “Pay as you go” prices will be $6.

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

Indoor Track Hours at Cluett Hall

Mondays: 1 p.m.–8 p.m.

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

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

Thursdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and

1 p.m.–8 p.m.

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

Saturdays: 1 p.m.–5 p.m.

*Walk at your own risk

**Hours are subject to change*

Winter Job Opportunity

We are looking for anyone 16 years or 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 p.m., you can do one or all the days. In the summer, we also have a summer program that runs at the 5 parks in The Village of Garden City. We have arts and crafts and sports all day. If either of those sound like something you may be interested, please contact sceballos@gardencityny.net, or come into the Cottages at 108 Rockaway Avenue for an interest form.

Chess Wizards for the Winter Season

Garden City Recreation and Parks has again partnered with the very popular “Chess Wizards” to offer after school programs for Garden City children ages 5 through 12 who want to learn the game of chess!

4-5 p.m. beginning 1/21 and ending 3/18. The cost of this 9-week session is $241. Classes will be held in St. Paul’s Cottages.

To register for this program please visit the Chess Wizards website at www.chesswizards.com.

Multisport Winter Break Program at St. Paul's

Despite the beautiful weather we have had this fall, GC Recreation is starting to plan for the winter! Pioneer Sports will be running a multisport winter break program at St. Paul's Fieldhouse for those interested. To register, visit https://pioneersports. leagueapps.com/events/

*Please wear appropriate shoe wear to the program. *

Stay Up to Date On All Things Recreation!

Follow our new Instagram and Facebook “GardenCityRecreation” for all Recreation content! Any questions regarding programs or facilities can be directed to our new Recreation email, GCRec@gardencityny.net . Winter Swim Lessons at Adelphi University Registration begins Friday, November 22

Youth swim lessons for Village residents will be held at the Adelphi Pool on Saturday mornings beginning December 7. The program runs for 9 weeks.

Fee for this program is $150 per child. Registration begins Friday, November 22.

• You may register online if you have an account with Recreation Dept.

• If registering by mail please include a check with the registration form

• If registering in person you may pay by check or credit card.

• Checks are to be made payable to: Inc. Village of Garden City

Chess Wizards is a fun way to have kids experience the excitement of chess. Kids will play in mini tournaments, have interactive lessons with chess pros and play cool chess variants like bug house. It is proven that chess enhances cognitive development in children, improves both verbal and mathematical skills, and increases all levels of academic performance! Playing chess stimulates the mind and helps children strengthen skills such as focusing, visualizing goals, abstract thinking, and forming concrete opinions.

Instructors (who are called "Wizards") provide all the materials necessary for your child to participate in the class and no additional purchase is required to attend. All students will receive a trophy, puzzle folder and wizard’s t-shirt. Come join the fun!!!

Classes will be on Tuesdays from

Please note: Your child must be six years of age by the start of the program to participate

For more information or a registration form go to: www.gardencityrecreation.org

Dates of Classes: Dec 7, 14, 21; Jan 4, 18, 25; Feb 1, 8, 15; Make-up date March 1

Winter After School Program is Back!

Garden City Recreation and Parks is excited to announce our annual after school program for grades K-6! Kindergarten and 1st grade will be held on Tuesdays, 2nd and 3rd will be held on Wednesdays, and 4th–6th grades will be held on Thursdays beginning the week of December 3. The cost is $100 for the 9-week session. Space is limited and fills up very quick! Registration is accepted online, if you have an account or at the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave.

Thunder 10s advance to championship weekend

Thunder D is ready for battle!

The Thunder 10s (Reilly) used their familiar formula of physical defense coupled with explosive plays to upset the #2 seed East Rockaway Raiders, 12-7 at East Rockaway High School last Sunday.

Entering the game as the lower seed proved to be all the motivation needed for the “Thunder-Dogs” as they came out swinging against the high-flying Raiders. After allowing two early first downs on the opening drive, the Thunder D-line began to frustrate their larger opponents with quickness and gap discipline. The interior of the D-Line was led by Victor Lopez, Jesse Frosch, Peter Rosenberg, Marc Sanzeri, JoJo Ordas, Henry Crain, Sofia Khawaja, Kian Durkan and Declan Quinn, while DEs Charlie Galli and Connor Reilly controlled the edge and stopped the outside running plays. East Rockaway turned to the passing game in

search of “chunk” plays but instead were locked down by Thunder DBs Charlie Fuschillo (1 TFL, 1 Pass breakup, 1 int), Caleb Howald (3 pass breakups), Gavin Alper (2 TFLs) and Caeden Corbett (2 pass breakups). Fuschillo and Howald combined to thwart the Raiders’ opening drive when their QB threw an ill-advised pass into a double coverage resulting in a Fuschillo pick.

Capitalizing on the momentum from the turnover, the Thunder Offense turned to the “Human Highlight Reel”, Caleb Howald, who took a quick toss from QB Charlie Fuschillo, broke two tackles and raced down the left sideline 63 yards for the opening score. The PAT failed, but the Thunder ended their one play opening drive with a 6-0 lead. East Rockaway, with a regular season record of 7-1, showed their resilience with a

Howald leaps into the end zone!

long TD drive that took more than half of the 2nd quarter. The Raiders converted their PAT to take their first (and only) lead of the game at 7-6. The Thunder offense responded by controlling the ball for the remainder of the 1st half as the HOGS (Charlie Galli, Victor Lopez, Peter Rosenberg, Jason Zonneveldt, Connor Reilly, Marc Sanzeri and Jesse Frosch) carved running lanes for Will Capparelli, Charlie Fuschillo, Brooks Galli and Caleb Howald. The last drive ended on the Raider 15-yard line, but more importantly, kept the ball away from their potent offense.

The fireworks resumed on the opening kickoff of the second half as East Rockaway booted the ball deep to Howald, who faked left and turned up the right sideline following a wall of blockers for a 70-yard TD and a 12-7

Thunder lead. From there, the day belonged to the Thunder Special Teams (led by Gavin Alper, Henry Faranda and RJ Frankenstein) and “Thunder-Dog” Defense. The D-Line continued to eat up blocks allowing LBs Will Capparelli and Brooks Galli to stalk the Raider ballcarriers and dole out the punishment. It was another impressive team victory with all three phases of game contributing to the outcome.

The victory sends the Thunder 10’s back to Mitchell Field for a re-match with undefeated and two-time defending age group champion Massapequa this Sunday at 12:45pm. Come out and join our Thunder Family as we cheer on the 10’s at their final game of the season, the NCFYL “Super Bowl”!

GO THUNDER!!

Let the celebrations begin!

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Caleb

Charlie Fuschillo sweeps the Raiders off their feet!

D Line is fired up!

Trojans storm past Cyclones in commanding playoff performance

The Garden City Trojans wasted no time asserting their dominance in Saturday’s playoff showdown against the Southside Cyclones, delivering a commanding 54-0 victory that sent a clear message to their championship rivals.

The Trojans lit up the scoreboard early, with electrifying touchdown runs by Michael Berkery and Blake Cascadden in the opening minutes of the first quarter. Both players showcased their speed and agility, breaking through Southside’s defense with ease and setting the tone for what would become a lopsided affair.

Garden City’s defense was equally relentless. Owen Wuchte pounced on a Southside fumble, flipping the momentum back to the Trojans. On the ensuing possession, quarterback Brayden Robertiello connected with Asaro on

a pinpoint pass downfield, setting up Robertiello’s first touchdown of the night. By the end of the first quarter, Garden City held a commanding 21-0 lead.

The second quarter saw more of the same. Robertiello added to his highlight reel with a second rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 28-0. Southside’s hopes of a comeback were dashed when relentless pressure from Zach Olson forced a hurried throw, leading to a spectacular interception by Dan Medjid. Moments later, Berkery found the end zone again, capping another efficient drive and stretching the lead to 34-0.

As halftime approached, Merit Ruckh powered his way across the goal line after a significant gain by Owen Andersen, and Chris Sarkis recovered a perfectly executed Garden City kickoff, sending the Trojans into the locker

Blake Cascadden scores.

Michael Berkery runs for the Trojan touchdown.

Brayden Robertiello dives for a touchdown.

Brandon Plunkett (18) and the defense make the sack.

Patrick Van Blenis stops a Cyclone.

Trojans storm past Cyclones in commanding playoff performance

room up 41-0.

The second half was no different, as Garden City continued to dominate in all phases of the game. Connor Schieck, Gavin Lawe, and Gavin O’Donohue contributed with punishing runs, with O’Donohue adding a late touchdown in the fourth quarter. Gianluca Ingrassia sealed the Trojans’ statement win with a final touchdown as the clock wound down, bringing the score to 54-0.

The Trojans’ performance was a masterclass in discipline and execution, with every unit contributing to their

overwhelming success. As they head into the championship game, Garden City appears unstoppable, their sights firmly set on bringing home the Nassau County title.

For Southside, the loss marked the end of a valiant season, but for Garden City, the road to glory continues this Saturday at 12:30 at Hofstra. If this performance was any indication, Manhasset will face an uphill battle in the County finals. Come down and cheer the GC boys on! GO TROJANS!

Owen Wuchte causes a fumble.

Gavin O’Donohue’s touchdown.

Merit Ruckh scores with blocking by Conor Fortney.

Gianluca Ingrassia (24) scores is first touchdown with blocking by Gavin Lawe.

Thunder Hajart season comes to an end in playoffs

A journey that started for the Thunder Hajart players and coaches in August ended this past weekend in a highly contested playoff game. The team finished the regular season with a competitive 4-4 record, which was good enough to earn them a spot in the playoffs against a tough Seaford team. This was the third time this season that Seaford played a team from Garden City and much like the previous two matchups, this one was a defensive battle all morning. Through three quarters, both teams struggled to gain much offense against the other teams stout defense. Seaford broke through in the fourth quarter to go up 6-0 and put an end to the Thunder Hajart season.

The loss didn’t put a damper on

what was a successful season for the Thunder Hajarts. The kids went toe to toe with one of the best teams in the county. Looking back on the season, there was so much to celebrate as the season came to an end. There was lots of team bonding events such as a pool party, parents night out, a winery trip and a wives teepeeing event for the playoffs. There were lots of firsts: first-year players Grant Kelly and Paul Milazzo, first time running a new offense and a new defensive scheme and first time making the playoffs.

The season may be over, but the Thunder journey has just passed the halfway mark. These boys will have two more years together to make memories they will never forget.

The Thunder Hajart 9s enjoyed a great season!

Captains Hudson Overby, Luke Mooney, Jackson Weber and Wyatt Acquavito.

Hudson Overby, Grant Kelly, Brogan Hajart, Wyatt Acquavito and Jackson Weber celebrate Maddox Minarcik’s fumble recovery.

Garden City’s defense gets ready for battle.

Joey Sileo, Ben Finelli and Luke Mooney swarm to make a tackle.

GC Lightning ends season undefeated

The GC Lightning (U9) closed out their fall season undefeated (8-0-1) with a victory over the Jericho Legends on Saturday, November 16. Since August, the boys have learned to work together as a cohesive team under the leadership of Michael Donovan, Marlon Pavon and trainer Nick Gaviria. The boys hard work, dedication and consistency has truly paid off.

The team will continue perfecting their skills during winter training and is looking forward to the spring season. Go Lightning!

to right:

Left

Conor Short, William Struck, Luke Medina, Michael DeGloria, Aidan O’Hara, Ryan Riordan, Dominic Donovan, Connor Maciaszek, Liam Calderone, Graham Baebler, and Elijah Pavon Not pictured: Luke Dillon

Garden City celebrates Commitment Day

On Nov. 12, Garden City celebrated its annual Commitment Day by honoring 22 student-athletes who will be continuing their academic and athletic journeys at colleges across the country.

The ceremony began with remarks from Director of Athletics Ed Ramirez, who thanked the athletic staff, coaches, teachers and parents, for their ongoing support of the students. He also congratulated the athletes for their dedication in balancing both academics and athletics.

“Today is a checkpoint along the great path that you’re on,” he said to

the students. “Keep doing the right thing and continue to work hard, and it will open the door to many opportunities.”

Each student was then invited to officially sign with their schools alongside their parents and families.

Congratulations to Michael Berkery ( lacrosse – Villanova University ), Blake Cascadden ( lacrosse – Cornell University ), Luke Cascadden ( lacrosse – United States Naval Academy ), Trey Plastaras ( fencing – Sacred Heart University ), Luke LeSueur ( lacrosse – Binghamton University ), Kathryn Monaco

( lacrosse – Villanova University ), Kullen McDermott ( lacrosse – Drew University ), Ellie Andersen ( lacrosse – Cornell University ), Emerson Goettelmann ( lacrosse – University of Rhode Island ), Meaghan Lynch ( lacrosse – University of California, Berkeley ), Arcangela Haffner ( lacrosse – College of the Holy Cross ), Tori Ottomanelli ( lacrosse – Harvard University ), Madeline Mitchell ( field hockey – University of Rochester ), Kyle Finnell ( lacrosse – Northwestern University ), Brooke Hopkins ( lacrosse – University of Notre Dame ), Chloe Benik ( soccer

– Cornell University ), Scott Nelson ( lacrosse – Adelphi University ), Evan Cabral ( baseball – Stony Brook University ), DJ McDonough ( track and field – Washington and Lee University ), Owen Wuchte ( lacrosse – Bucknell University ), Ryan McAlea ( cross-country and track and field – Hofstra University ) and Lauren Marino (rowing – University of Notre Dame ) on their athletic commitments.

family, signed to attend and play for

Garden City student Blake Cascadden, with his family, signed to attend and play for Cornell University.

Garden City student Arcangela Haffner, with her family, signed to attend and play for College of the Holy Cross.

Garden City student Luke LeSueur, with his family, signed to attend and play for Binghamton University.

Garden City student Lauren Marino, with her

Notre Dame University.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

GC Wolfpack LIJSL Premier League Champions

The Garden City Wolfpack U13 Boys soccer team captured the LIJSL Premier League Championship. This is the Wolfpack’s 6th League Championship in the LIJSL. Great job Wolfpack!

Front row (left to right): Matthew Jendras, Ryan Carey, Brady Castellano, Grant Volpe, Ian Miller, Andrew Seifert, Liam Nguyen, Jordy Rosa, Lucas Doggendorf.

Back row (left to right): Trainer Brian Cano, Luca Bunturi, Ryan Hook, Anthony Oppedisano, Jaxson Pepicelli, Tyler Love, Callum Paton, Carter Fecht, Liam Moylan, Coach Drew Carey, Coach Chris Jendras. Missing: Dermot Crimmins

GCAA intramural basketball registration

GCAA intramural basketball registration for the 2024–2025 season is now available at https://registration. teamsnap.com/form/11934. This link is also available at www.gc-aa.com (click Basketball and find the registration link on the home page). Please register early to lock in the rates of $115 for the K/1st grade clinics and $150 for intramural games (2nd–8th grades). Late fees of $25 will apply after October 31. There are also limited spots for each grade and with over 800 participants, we do expect to reach capacity.

The GCAA intramural basketball season starts on Saturday, November 30th and runs thru early March (12/7, 12/14, 1/4, 1/11, 1/25, 2/1, 2/8, and 3/1). Playoffs for older grades will be played on March 8 and conclude with Championship Saturday on March 15. GCAA rosters, schedules, standings, and clinics are easy to follow via the

GCAA Basketball website starting in late November.

Games will be played at St. Paul’s and our anticipated schedule for the 2024-2025 season is as follows:

• 8:00–9:00 a.m. (Kindergarten & 1st Grade Clinics, Boys and Girls)

• 9:00–10:00 a.m. (2nd Grade Boys)

• 10:00–11:00 a.m. (2nd/3rd Grade Girls)

• 11:00–12:00 p.m. (3rd Grade Boys)

• 12:00–1:15 p.m. (4th Grade Boys)

• 1:15–2:30 p.m. (5th Grade Boys)

• 2:30–3:45 p.m. (4th/5th/6th Grade Girls)

• 3:45–5:00 p.m. (6th Grade Boys)

• 7th/8th Grade Boys Games time varies (Saturday afternoons & Friday nights)

• 7th/8th Grade Girls Games time varies (Saturday afternoons & Friday nights)

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If you own a business or have a service to provide, we’ll create professional ads to promote it and help you be seen by thousands of local readers! Call 1-516-294-8900 to inquire!

PASTA NIGHTS

Boys Varsity Soccer wins first ever State Championship

The NY State Champions – Garden City Trojans

The Garden City boys varsity soccer team captured the first ever State Championship title in school history with a dominating performance over the past weekend. The team travelled to Middletown as the #1 ranked team in the state and proved that they deserved the ranking with two dominating wins. The team arrived back in Garden City with all the fanfare they deserved, being escorted by GCPD down 7th Street to their awaiting fans. The boys and coaches came off the bus in the center of town to loud cheers, friendly hugs and huge smiles from ear to ear to acknowledge the great season they just completed.

The Championship match on Sunday morning against Clarence, a team from just outside of Buffalo, capped a perfect season for the Trojans as they won 2-1 to

finish the year 23-0. The team dominated the regular season and carried that success through the playoffs until they won the ultimate prize — a State Class AA Championship.

Dominating time of possession has been one of this teams primary key to success, even when the opponents have packed the box to slow down their potent offense. This was evident to even the novice observer as both Goshen on Saturday and Clarence played with ten men behind the ball, forcing Garden City to be methodical with their passing and patient on the attack.

On Saturday against a strong Goshen eleven, the Trojans couldn’t break through until under fifteen minutes remained in the first half. Pressuring Goshen around the box, the Trojans forced them to give up a corner kick. With a significant height

advantage, Garden City was able to convert the dead ball kick for the 1-0 lead. Luca Profeta launched a curling left footed kick to the front post that Dylan Fisher headed in for the first goal of the match that turned out to be the game winner.

Earlier in the half the Trojans had numerous chances to get on top but Goshen’s defense was up to the challenge. The Red Hawks were a team that held opponents to only 12 goals during the season, to go along with 10 shutouts. The best opportunities for GC that were thwarted by Goshen’s keeper were an earlier header by Fisher off of a long throw from Connor Griffin, a through ball that hit Justin Woodbine in stride but the senior captain was ruled offsides and a terrific one timer off the foot of Myles Watson that forced a diving save in the corner.

The Trojan defense was not tested much in the half as Goshen sat back defending, only looking for a long counterattack. The first shot keeper Ian Pupke faced wasn’t until late in the half and he easily grabbed the high ball.

The second half opened with Goshen trying to push their attack but the stellar back four of Garden City wouldn’t allow them to break through. Fisher, Charlie Koester, Jacob Antilety and Thomas Fargione continually shut down the Goshen offense well outside the box to start the attack in GC’s favor.

Garden City kept pushing for the all-important second goal of the match out shooting Goshen midway through the half 14-4. The break came on a seemingly harmless throw in from midfield that went to Woodbine, who calmly back heeled the ball

Proud coach Paul Cutter with senior captains Connor Griffin and Justin Woodbine.

seniors

Boys Varsity Soccer wins first ever State Championship

between two defenders to Jack Schorr. The ball hit Schorr in stride, he beat the two flat footed defenders and whipped a shot past an outstretched keeper and GC had the insurmountable 2-0 lead and a ticket to the finals on Sunday morning.

As the final whistle blew on Saturday the boys knew they had one more test to complete their season long journey. After months of training and battle tested with 22 straight wins that included 17 shutouts the boys and their coaches were on a mission, bring the State title home to Garden City for the first time.

Once again, the Trojans faced a team in Clarnece that approached the game as many opponents have, contain the GC attack, allow time of possession to favor the Trojans but try to not allow good scoring chances. As with the previous day, the Red Devils played with only one man up front and ten behind the ball giving Garden City about an 80-20 percentage of ball control and several quality chances to get the opening goal.

Garden City had numerous chances but couldn’t come up with the first goal. In the opening twenty minutes the Trojans had several dangerous corner kicks but an active Clarence keeper kept them off the scoresheet, either coming off his line to punch the ball out or being in position to grab the ball off the heads of the taller GC forwards.

Perhaps the best chance for GC came in the eighteenth minute as Woodbine shook his defender in the box and one touched a ball that just cleared the bar.

For Clarence, their one and only scoring chance of the opening half came on a counterattack in the seventeenth minute as they pushed two men up field. With a good cross to the corner of the 18 yard box, the Clarence forward fired a shot to the opposite corner of the goal that went just wide as Pupke was able to close down the shooters angle.

In the last five minutes of the half, GC continued to attack and had two good chances, both with Luca Profeta on the ball. The first was a free kick from Profeta from 25 yards out that couldn’t connect. And the second, and last chance of the half

for the Trojans was a through ball from Profeta that just missed connecting with Jack Costa in the box. The first half ended nil-nil.

After an inspiring half-time talk with coach Paul Cutter, he emphasized that the game was there for the taking and the boys couldn’t continue to have so many chances without pushing one in. He implored the boys to raise their intensity, bring more urgency to the field and continue doing what they’ve done all season.

Cutter’s words were quickly translated to the field as the team scored in under two minutes gone by in the half. Controlling the ball off of the tap off, GC got the ball into the box and with bodies crashing, Justin Woodbine was able to push the loose ball past an out of position keeper for the opening goal of the game. Garden City celebrated but kept their game faces on as they inched closer to their ultimate goal.

With Clarence looking to generate more offense to get back in the game, the middle of the field started to open up for GC. This played right into the Trojan game plan as the open space allowed them to control the ball with their quick passes and good touches on the ball.

The insurance goal came off the foot of Nassau County scoring leader Myles Watson as he deftly worked the ball into

the box and with only the keeper to beat he was taken down from behind and awarded a penalty kick in the 50th minute of play. Watson approached the ball and drove a strong shot towards the corner, but the Red Devil keeper guessed right and made the save. Watson didn’t give up on the ball and without hesitation struck the ball into the open net for the goal that put GC up 2-0.

The Trojans had several more good scoring chances in the next 15 minutes as the shot total continued to climb in their favor at 23-3. Woodbine shot just wide of the post, Charlie Koester sent a free kick into the box for Jack Klein that was headed on goal and Profeta sent a couple of corner kicks into the goal area, but none connected for the important third goal.

As the game entered the final fifteen minutes, Clarence began pushing more players into the attack and had a good chance that Ian Pupke closed in on and forced the shooter to go wide of the goal. But with under six minutes remaining in the game Clarence made the game interesting. Attacking down the right sideline the ball was crossed into the middle and a Red Devil player was able to avoid the GC defense and with a quick one touch shot pushed the ball passed Pupke to make the score 2-1. The goal was the first given up by GC in the playoffs, official scoring

had the Trojans going 554 minutes without giving up a goal, and it raised the angst of the many GC fans that travelled to Middletown.

Garden City didn’t allow the Red Devils any room in the final minutes of play, and they secured the first NY State title in school history. And the players and coaches were finally able to celebrate loudly having accomplished what they had started in the summer months.

All that was left was a very happy ride back to Garden City, and with a GCPD escort the team bus was able to deliver that title on 7th Street to the many parents, friends and residents on Sunday afternoon. The season was truly an historic run for the team and coaches, as they finished their perfect season with a 23-0 record.

Special mention should be made of the excellent coaching and dedication to the team from head coach Paul Cutter with assistants Luke Connolly and Mike Lind, team managers Ryan Cappello and Henry Schnell, athletic trainer Anthony Navaro and Athletic Director Ed Ramirez (GCTrojanNation).

Congratulations especially to all the seniors, many of whom have been with the team for the past two or three seasons.

Photos by Ed Rotondo