The Garden City News (12/13/24) by Litmor Publishing

FESTIVE FOOTWORK

Dancers from Broadway Bound Dance Center were among the performers at the Garden City Christmas Tree Lighting and Hanukkah Festival of Lights held on Sunday, December 8. The event was sponsored by the Village and Chamber of Commerce.

Photo courtesy Garden City Chamber of Commerce

GC schools lead in AP & Regents testing, target literacy growth

BY KASSARA MCELROY

At the Garden City Board of Education’s work session on December 4th, administrators presented a data-driven report on 2024 student achievement. From strong advanced placement participation and performance to middle school Regents exam mastery, the

district continues to outshine regional, state and national benchmarks.

However, there is room for growth, particularly in literacy. To support this, the district is consulting with a literacy expert to refine instructional practices. This expert will offer fresh feedback and recommen-

dations to ensure the program aligns with the latest research and best practices.

Administrators also outlined the district’s strategy for leveraging this data to build on existing strengths and address areas needing improvement, ensuring ongoing growth and

See page 44

Village challenges Sands’ casino new lease in court

BY MEG MORGAN NORRIS

The Village of Garden City has filed an action in state supreme court to ask that a 42 year lease of the Nassau Coliseum to the Las Vegas Sands corporation be annulled.

The lease is a part of a deal in which LV Sands would build a $6 billion casino with 400,000 square feet of gaming areas, 148,000 square feet of food, beverage and retail space, and a hotel with 1,670 guest rooms.

In 2023 LV Sands signed a 99-year lease with Nassau County for the 72 acre Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum site. However, that lease was voided by the courts because the legislature did not properly hold open meetings, and also that the state’s environmental review laws (SEQR) were not properly followed. That decision is under appeal.

See page 51

Village examining South Avenue traffic issues

BY RIKKI MASSAND

The Garden City Traffic Commission, at its November 21st meeting, discussed a request by Robert Vassalotti to review the timing of the traffic signal at the intersection of South Avenue and Cherry Valley Avenue.

A related item was approved at the prior Commission meeting on September 19th - the double left-turn arrows on the South Avenue pavement, turning north onto Cherry Valley Avenue. The village’s Department of Public Works provided a diagram of the requested left turn arrows for the Commission’s review.

Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson advised that the GCPD

See page 51

All on BOT fighting for GC

At a recent Garden City Board of Trustees meeting the trustees had a fairly vigorous difference of opinion on whether to file an Article 78 petition with the courts to challenge the validity of a 42 year lease by the LV Sands corporation for the Nassau Coliseum property. Proponents of the suit thought that it would be another way to fight the casino project; opponents felt that the funds could be better spent by focusing on the fight over the environmental harms that the massive casino will bring to the region. In the end, the board decided to allocate $150,000 for the action.

There are two takeaways for this particular skirmish, and both of them are actually positive.

First, while they differ on the spe-

cific courses of action, all eight of the trustees are making the fight against the casino a top priority. Unlike the Nassau County Legislature, our Board of Trustees understands the serious damage that the project could cause, and is willing to fight it.

Second, although it may be uncomfortable at times for the members of the board, it is actually really great that they are hashing out their disagreements in a public session. NYS Open Meeting law says that decisions on how to spend money should always be made in a public setting (although discussion of specific legal strategies can be behind closed doors).

A strong public discussion is a sign of a healthy government

No Trustee conflict existed To the Editor:

You can tell when we are approaching “election time”. Last week’s paper again raised the stale and unfounded claim that Trustee Harrington, and before that Trustee Muldoon had a “conflict of interest”. At many different levels, this assertion is devoid of any legal merit. It is the unfounded muck raking that only serves the prurient interests of a key board warrior intent on beating their chest but never willing to stand for office and election to the position of a Village Trustee.

As to what constitutes a true “conflict of interest”, instead of the unfounded innuendo contained in the correspondence in the paper, I refer all to Article 18 which sets forth the criteria used to evaluate if an actual conflict exists: [1] there must be a contract; [2] the individual must have an interest in that contract; [3] the individual, in his or her public capacity, must have certain powers or duties with respect to the contract; and [4] the situation must not fit within any of the exceptions listed in law.

None of the criteria exists for either Trustee Harrington or Muldoon. The unfounded inference that a conflict existed is an absence of leadership by an individual who may be gearing up for the upcoming election and smacks of “yellow journalism”. It detracts from the issues that confront the Village and Board. If any of the scriveners believed a conflict truly existed each certainly had the opportunity months / years ago to submit a request to the Village’s Ethics Board for a determination. The lack of action on the writer’s part speaks volumes.

Bruce A. Torino, Esq. Village Trustee

Sands Casino and Risk Analysis 101

To the Editor:

Thank you Mayor Flanagan, Trustees Courtney, Chester and Finneran for voting to challenge the Sands Casino

42-year lease.

Suffice to say, each and every one of the 8 Trustees are against the Sands Casino. Suffice to say, all 8 Trustees that were serving when the Monster Poles went up, were against the Monster Poles. What is important is how one acts and votes from there.

Regarding the Sands Casino, the issue is we seem to have two legal paths to challenge the Sands Casino. One is to challenge the 42-year lease, and another is to challenge the Environmental Review Process. Trustee Muldoon argues that he and this BOT are “1000 % committed as a board to stopping the Sands Casino project from being built in Uniondale. There are many ways to fight this fight- but we also have to be smart as to how we use taxpayer’s dollars as we go thru this process.” Trustee Muldoon further argues “the reason why some of us voted not to approve the funds for the article 78 was based on advice from multiple qualified attorneys in this matter including our own village counsel. The funds would be better used in the environmental phase.” (Did the trustees that voted “yes” not have access to “multiple qualified attorneys and our own village counsel” and just ignored their advice?) This is the heart of the matter. Trustees Muldoon, Torino, Tai and Harrington appear to think it is an “this-or-that” proposition. Funds can be used for the challenge to the lease, OR to quote Trustee Muldoon “funds will be…..better used in the environmental phase.”

Others, including myself, think the Casino will be so detrimental to the quality of life in Garden City and the surrounding communities, that property values will be greatly damaged in Garden City ($7 Billion in property value X 10% = $700,000,000 in damages if Say No To the Casino Monica Kiely’s sources are correct), huge increases in crime, traffic, that the legislators that voted 19-1 to let the Casino move forward are bought and paid for and the legislaSee page 25

GC residents object to environmental impacts of proposed casino

BY MONICA KIELY

SAY NO TO THE CASINO CIVIC GROUP

On November 21, Nassau County released the Draft Environmental Impact Statement on the proposed Las Vegas Sands casino project at the Nassau Coliseum. On Monday, December 9 the County held a public hearing on the “DEIS” and a proposed long term lease that would allow LV Sands to develop their casino. The DEIS covers a wide range of issues, including air, water, and traffic concerns, as well as social concerns like gambling addiction and upticks in crime and drunk driving that often accompany such places.

The hearing took place in the 200-person capacity Legislative Chamber at County headquarters on Franklin Avenue. Despite it being held at 5:00 PM on a Monday evening two-weeks prior to Christmas, the room was full before the meeting started and many residents were turned away; many residents left, some stayed. The crowd that accumulated in the lobby was unable to take part in the meeting, as most of the doors to the meeting room were shut. A video screen in the lobby could not be heard, and the closed-captioning on the video screen malfunctioned. Many residents were frustrated that members of special interest groups had seats saved for them, thus limiting the already inadequate capacity of the room. Several resident speeches were cut short by hecklers and/or audio system malfunctions. It did not always go smoothly, but project critics were undeterred by the clear bias of the proceedings.

Proponents of the project seemed to be speaking from similar talking-points, repeatedly describing the 28,000 page document as “robust” and “comprehensive”, while critics objected to a report that they said,

Advice Matters.

despite its overwhelming size, is inadequate in critical areas, failing to address concerns about the unprecedented traffic burden resulting from 10 million annual visitors, impact of pumping over five million gallons of water weekly from our stressed aquifer, and whether air quality impacts in adjacent communities with high asthma levels are accurately represented. The damage caused by gambling addiction was discussed as “mitigated” by casino advocates but cut short when discussed by casino opponents as “off topic” though it is mentioned in the DEIS.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan spoke eloquently as did Deputy Mayor Bruce Chester, Trustee Ed

Finneran and Trustee Vinny Muldoon. Garden City residents attended in force, and many of them made statements. Residents from other areas of Nassau like East Meadow, Uniondale, Baldwin, Westbury, and Hempstead also spoke about their concerns regarding this project. One East Meadow resident, Julie Berger, thanked Garden City for our recently announced suit against Nassau County.

The County legislature did answer multiple requests to extend the review and comment period owing to the sheer size of the document and the holiday season being upon us. Falling short of the requests to extend by 30-days, the legislature instead declared a two-week extension, changing the deadline to January 21, 2025.

The LV Sands project is in competition with numerous other well-funded initiatives vying for three downstate licenses and there are several steps and milestones ahead before they can make a license application. Though many Nassau residents believe that the issue has already been settled, there’s still a way to go and there’s no certainty as to which entities will prevail.

The executive summary of the DEIS is 819 pages long with appendices making up the bulk. The DEIS can be found on the County website, and a physical copy of the DEIS is available at the Garden City Public Library. Public comments on the DEIS can be emailed to the county until Tuesday, January 21st at sandscomments@nassaucountyny.gov and will be entered into the public record.

Monday’s hearing can be viewed on Nassau County’s website using this link: https://nassaucountyny.iqm2. com/Citizens/Detail_Meeting.aspx?ID=2161

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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.

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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.

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Garden City residents at a protest against the casino in August 2024

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Library Bd. honors longtime Trustee, Rec. Superintendent

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At its December 9th meeting, the Garden City Public Library Board of Trustees took time to honor two special contributors and longtime village residents – outgoing Library Trustee, Board Vice Chair Dr. Lola Nouryan and the recently retired Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Paul Blake.

Separate resolutions were swiftly approved thanking both honorees. Much to her surprise, Trustee Nouryan was presented with multiple certificates and plaques for her dedication and service to the Garden City Public Library (GCPL).

Soon after the meeting started Library Board Chairman J. Randolph Colahan announced the recognition for Mr. Blake, and he presented his longtime colleague with a special certificate of thanks.

“Thank you for what you’ve done with the Library over the years – the improvement is night and day, and for our requests you’ve always said YES. The Library Board supports you and we really owe a debt of gratitude to you,” Colahan noted.

The certificate for Blake read, “The Garden City Public Library Board of Trustees acknowledges Paul Blake, chairman of the Board of Commissioners of Recreational and Cultural Affairs of the Village of Garden City, in recognition and sincere appreciation for many years of valuable contributions to the Garden City Public Library, to the Village, including added safety and beautification of Library grounds and assistance with Library programs. In

his over 35 years with the Garden City Recreation and Parks Department, most recently from 2019 to 2024 as head of the department, the Library benefited greatly from your commitment and dedication.”

Colahan and Blake reminisced on their time as local teenagers decades ago, when they were in the same German classes at Garden City High School. Blake noted that he grew up further away from the library, at the northwestern edge of the village with his family’s house on Greenridge Avenue. Blake then addressed the GCPL Board and members of the audience, including Village Trustee Bruce Torino, Secretary to the Board of Trustees Courtney Rutt Rosenblatt, and Environmental Advisory Board member/Friends of GCPL director Evelyn Fasano.

“As Trustee Colahan mentioned, I did grow up in Garden City at the same time as him. I remember as a little kid attending Stratford School, we piled onto the school bus and drove us to the old library building. We met the librarian then, Mrs. Hale, and we got a tour of the building and we were all signed up for library cards. From that moment on the GCPL became a special place . I spent a lot of time here as a kid, especially during junior high. When I started working for the Rec. Department we were running a lot of programs in conjunction with the Library – programs that continue today in many cases, and we’re very proud of it,” he explained. Blake mentioned the babysitting workshop with the Red Cross, the Chess Club that met at the library on Saturday

Library Director Marianne Malagon, Library Trustee Linda Ryan, outgoing Library Board Chairman Randy Colahan, honoree and outgoing Library Board

Vice Chair Dr. Lola Nouryan, Library Trustees Colleen Foley and Mary Maguire and Village Trustee and Library Liaison Bruce Torino. Photo by Rikki Massand

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Fresh Fruit Bowl

A customizable selection of our freshest fruits, including differernt berries, kiwis, pineapples, and more arranged together on a platter.

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33rd annual Christmas Shower for babies, moms

BY JOSEPH LEVANO, GRAND KNIGHT, ST. JOSEPH-BISHOP BALDWIN KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL NO. 15809

Next weekend, Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15, the St. Joseph’s Respect Life Ministry and the St. JosephBishop Baldwin Knights of Columbus Council No. 15809 will host the 33rd annual Christmas Baby Shower at all the Masses celebrated at the Church of St. Joseph.

We are asking for gift donations for expectant mothers and their babies. Suggestions for baby gift items include new baby clothing, layette items, homemade knitted caps, sweaters, booties and blankets, disposable diapers, and infant formula. For the mothers - pajamas, toiletries, metro cards, and gift cards are very helpful.

Gifts for babies and their mothers will be collected in large, Christmasdecorated boxes at the doors of St. Joseph Church and school auditorium and will be delivered to Women First Pregnancy Options (formerly The Life Center) in time for Christmas. For confidential information, their office number is: 516-408-6300 and their website is: https://womenfirstpregnancyoptions. org/

We thank those who, over the years, have generously donated gifts to our showers. Their kindness has brought immense joy and hope to the young mothers who often feel very alone in their decision to choose life for their babies. (Of special note, we thank those parishioners who chose to include with their gift a brief note of support for an expectant mother and her baby, offering to continue to pray for them both.)

It is our hope that this year’s collection will be equally heartfelt and suc-

Over the past 33 Christmas seasons, a wide assortment of gifts has been donated at a village-wide baby shower sponsored by the St. Joseph Respect Life Ministry and the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council #15809. This year’s gifts will be delivered in time for Christmas to Women First, an organization that specializes in offering life-saving alternatives to mothers with untimely pregnancies.

cessful. The gifts need not be expensive: it’s the thought that counts. Please join us in helping to make this Christmas a very special one for the mothers and their babies.

The St. Joseph Respect Life Ministry and the Knights of Columbus St. JosephBishop Baldwin Council #15809 wish everyone a Happy and Holy Christmas.

Sustainability roundtable

on January 15

Please join the Garden City Environmental Advisory Board for a roundtable discussion on sustainability! The meeting will take place in the Village Hall Board Room on January 15, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The discussion will explore ecological footprints and how individual actions can contribute to local and global sustainability goals. Participants will address how to practice sustainability at different levels of

society, as well as emphasize the importance of sustainability in career paths. The roundtable discussion is open to all interested community members. High school and college students, as well as recent graduates, or individuals involved in a local sustainability initiative or program, are invited to lead in the discussion. If interested please email Amanda Shore at amanda.n.shore@gmail.com.

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF TEAMWORK, TRUST & TENACITY

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Old World Quality would never be where it is today with out you! Each and every one of you have shown us unwavering commitment, amazing work ethic and you are constantly exceeding our expectations. We are a team and a family and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are very proud of how this company has evolved and how you have played such an important part in that growth.

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Garden City Real Estate Market Information

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

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

81 Monroe Street

Date: 12/03/2024

Sold price: $2,250,500

5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial

Property size: .14 acres

Annual taxes: $22,321

MLS number: L3579745

The Seller’s Team: Laura S. Carroll, Compass Greater NY

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

This luxurious new construction, built in 2018, offers all the modern amenities for contemporary living. The open-concept kitchen and great room feature commercial-grade appliances, marble countertops, and two gas fireplaces, all enhanced by stunning millwork throughout. Additional highlights include a Generac whole-home generator, radiant heated floors, and dual-zone forced air for optimal comfort. The 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home is ideally located between the Stewart Manor and New Hyde Park train stations. The full basement, with egress windows, includes a bedroom, full bathroom, and a unique dug-out room beneath the one-car garage, providing endless possibilities for additional space. With closed-circuit camera security and a built-in speaker system, this home offers maintenance-free luxury living at its finest

138 Hayes Street

Date: 12/10/2024

Sold

number: L3586058

The Seller’s Team: Kelley Taylor, Douglas Elliman Real Estate

The Buyer’s Team: Sharon Redmond and Monica Kiely, Howard Hanna Coach

Beautifully maintained brick home mid block in Garden City Village. Ranch style home with front porch and rear patio. Formal Living Room, Formal Dining Room, Den with wood-burning fireplace, built in shelving and access to two car attached garage adjacent to Formal Dining Room. Expansive eat in kitchen with access to rear patio. Primary Bedroom with full bathroom, 2 Additional Bedrooms, Hallway Bathroom, Full large basement partially finished with outside entrance. Pull down attic storage with room for expansion. Gleaming hardwood floors throughout the home. Move in condition or perfect for creating your architectural dream home. Come see this immaculate home for yourself and fall in love.

75 Kingsbury Road

Date: 12/04/2024

Sold price: $1,290,000

3 bedrooms, 1 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial

Property size: .14

Annual taxes: $19,103

MLS number: L3537097

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

The Buyer’s Team: Maureen LaGarde, Compass Greater NY

This charming 1937 field stone colonial home with a slate roof is situated mid-block in the heart of the Mott section in Garden City. It has original architectural details, high ceilings, leaded glass windows, hardwoods, picture frame moldings, and archways that bring timeless elegance. The beautiful entryway leads into a spacious living room with a wood-burning fireplace. From there, the dining room provides the perfect entertaining and everyday living space. The sunlit den surrounded by windows is the ideal retreat for relaxation. The updated kitchen features new granite countertops, a stylish backsplash, and new flooring, while a convenient powder room completes the first level. This home features a large primary bedroom, two additional bedrooms, and a sizable full-hall bathroom. The large basement provides ample play area, storage, and laundry room space. Outside, the 6100-square-foot property offers a beautiful backyard perfect for relaxing and entertaining. Convenient to school, parks, LIRR, highways, and downtown Garden City. This home is a perfect blend of oldworld charm and modern amenities.

This informational page is sponsored by

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

Merry Christmas

HOLIDAY MENU 2024

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GCPD helps provide Trees for Troops

The Garden City Police Department assisted in the Trees for Troops program.

The Garden City Police Department is proud to have once again participated in the Trees for Troops program, a commendable initiative of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation. This program plays a crucial role in providing free, farm-grown Christmas trees to members of the United States Armed Forces and their families through various forms of support, including dona-

tions, sponsorships, and the dedication of countless volunteers.

Commissioner Jackson stated “It is our honor to contribute to the well-being of our military families during the holiday season. We believe that these small acts of kindness can make a significant impact on those who sacrifice to serve our country”.

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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.

Army Reservist joins Garden City Police Department ranks

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan administered the oath of office to Police Officer Paul Salvodon, a former NYPD patrol officer and current Army Reservist, during a brief ceremony at Village Hall November 21, 2024.

Officer Salvodon began his law enforcement career as a police officer with the NYPD in January 2018, assigned to the 69th and 75th Precincts as a patrol officer. During his time with the NYPD, he earned a Bachelor’s

degree in criminal justice from CUNY John Jay through the NYPD leadership program. He also volunteered as a firefighter with his local Fire Department from 2014–2021 and is currently a soldier with the United States Army Reserve and was recently assigned to active duty in Kuwait.

Officer Salvodon and his wife, Fabiola, a nurse practitioner, have two children.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan, Officer Paul Salvodon, Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson and Trustee Bruce Torino, liaison to the Garden City Police Department.

A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas

BY LARRY TREMSKY

“A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas”, will take place on Sunday, December 15, at 4 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City. The service is free and open to all. The full Cathedral Choirs will perform favorite and familiar carols in addition to some lesser-known works from around the world.

Lessons & Carols is modeled on the service as developed at King’s College, Cambridge, UK. It traditionally begins with the carol Once in Royal David’s City sung by a solo boy or girl chorister, then joined by all. Lessons & Carols was first done in the cathedral in 1953, making this the 71st anniversary.

The Cathedral Choristers, a group of twenty boys and girls, will feature prominently at Lessons & Carols. The choristers, at their strongest in many years, will join with the adult singers in a wide variety of works. The choristers also join in singing all the descants (the high voice above a tune) and most of the other carol settings.

The carols performed by the choirs include the Ukrainian Carol “Today in Bethlehem”, sung in its original language as a tribute to the people of Ukraine during this time of war. Also included will be arrangements of traditional carols from England, Germany, France, Canada and the United States.

Larry Tremsky, Director of Music at the cathedral, explains “we put a lot of energy and effort into our music program, and especially at Christmas. We sing carols this year in English, Latin, and Ukrainian; past years have also included German, French and Spanish. Our boy and girl choristers are up to the challenge, since we work extensively with them both on music-reading skills as well as vocal training. Last year we had a contest for the choristers to learn the Ukrainian text of Carol of the Bells by memory; several of the kids still remember it - perfectly! Hearing a ten-year old boy who’s not of Slavic origin say a text in nearly perfect Ukrainian, from memory, is quite amazing. It’s the ability to do cool things like this that make our work together so satisfying.”

The service usually fills the cathedral to its 400-seat capacity, with standing room only. It is suggested to arrive at least 30 minutes before the service begins. For questions on the program, contact the cathedral office at cathedral@incarnationgc.org.

Attention students!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA? Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity? We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be seen in our paper!

Bp. Provenzano and Dean Sniffen with Canon Tremsky at Lessons & Carols 2023.

Canon Lawrence Tremsky conducts the choir.

The Full Cathedral Choir

How many candy canes are in the jar?

How many candy canes do you think are in the jar at the Garden City Public Library? Stop by the library before December 19 and take a guess, you might win a prize! The candy cane jar is on the Friends of the GCPL book sale shelves (behind the circulation desk). You can write your guess on the form provided.

The number of candy canes in the jar – and the winner – will be announced on Thursday, December 19 in front of the Friends’ Book Sale shelves at 4:00.

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

It’s estimated that Americans eat nearly 1.7 billion candy canes a year!

Vote now in POAs’

Holiday House Decorating Contest

The festive spirit is in full swing in Garden City, including the second annual POA Holiday House Decorating Contest. It’s quickly become a tradition, showcasing the creativity and holiday cheer of many Village residents.

Voting for the 2024 POA Holiday House Decorating Contest is open to all residents of Garden City. Voting is open December 13-22, with the winners announced on December 23.

Residents can drive around town to see all the houses that have entered and vote on their favorites. To vote, simply use the QR code or https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ SLT22YS

So, bundle up the family, get some hot cocoa and drive around our beau -

tiful Village for a fun evening of Holiday cheer!

Sanitation collectionChristmas week

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage pickup on Wednesday, December 25.

The Holiday Week Collection Schedule will be as follows: Western half of village (west of Rockaway Avenue):

Garbage - Monday and Friday; Rubbish - Thursday, December 26

Eastern half of village (east of Rockaway Avenue): Garbage - Tuesday and Saturday; Rubbish - Thursday, December 26

Residents scheduled for recycling on Wednesday, December 25, are asked to put their recyclables out on Saturday, December 28.

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The Church of Saint Joseph

130 Fifth Street, Garden City, NY 11530

Our Warm and Personal Greetings for a Holy and Happy Christmas and a Blessed New Year

Reverend James P. Swiader, Pastor • Reverend Prasanna Costa, Associate Pastor

Reverend Hilary Nwajagu, Associate Pastor • Deacon John J. McKenna

CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2024

LESSONS AND CAROLS

Sunday, December 15th - 3:30 p.m.

CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS

Saturday, December 21

9:00-10:00 a.m., 1:00-2:00 p.m., and 6:00-6:30 p.m.

CHRISTMAS EVE MASSES

Tuesday, December 24

4:00 p.m. - Church

4:00 p.m. - Auditorium

4:00 p.m. - Gymnasium

6:00 p.m. - Church

8:00 p.m. - Church

11:00 p.m. - Church (Carols begin at 10:30 p.m.)

CHRISTMAS DAY MASSES

Wednesday, December 25

7:30, 9:00, 10:30 a.m., & 12:30 p.m.

All Masses are in the Church

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO AUDITORIUM MASS AND NO EVENING MASS ON CHRISTMAS DAY

SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Vigil Mass 5:00 p.m

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

7:30, 9:00, 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

All Masses are in the Church

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO AUDITORIUM MASS, AND NO EVENING MASS ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025

Lutheran Preschool opens registration

Children love sharing stories together.

Once again Lutheran Preschool is pleased to offer a positive and innovative preschool program for 2, 3, and 4-year-olds, with registration now open for the 2025–26 school year.

According to Director Mrs. Jean Dietterick, activities follow the New York State standards in early childhood education. “Our teachers are certified in literacy and learning instruction. We provide a play-based environment, as the teachers implement early language, literacy and math activities.” She adds, “Our focus is to provide the skills necessary for kindergarten expectations. School days are filled with positive social experiences and language expression.” With small class sizes for eight to ten children, students also enjoy outdoor recess, time in gym, music and enrichment.

Lutheran Preschool offers clubs with lunch after school, including book talks, crafts, creative building, games and chess, art club, creative building, games and chess. Soccer Shots is also available.

To schedule a tour, discuss the Preschool program and see a typical school day, contact Mrs. Dietterick, 516-741-6447, Lutheran Preschool, 420 Stewart Ave., Garden City.

Resurrection Lutheran Church is a Christian community of faith, located at 420 Stewart Ave., near Clinton Rd., in Garden City. All are invited to worship at 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays and at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. Sunday mornings, with Sunday school and Christian education at 9:45 a.m. For more information, call 516.746.4426, visit resgc.org.

A Festival of Lessons & Carols for Christmas Sunday, December 15 at 4pm

Christmas for Kids Christmas Service & Pageant December 24 at 4pm (preceded by carols)

Christmas Eve Mass December 24, 7:30pm online or in-person, 10:30pm in-person only (both preceded by carols)

Christmas Day Mass December 25 at 10am

Choral Evensong for Twelfth Night Sunday, January 5 at 4pm, followed by reception to benefit the INN

Choral Evensong for Candlemas Sunday, February 2 at 4pm

Cathedral: Neighbors being neighbors on Thanksgiving

BY ARLEEN BREEN

Every year on Thanksgiving Day, the Cathedral of the Incarnation’s Neighbors being Neighbors Ministry leads volunteers in preparing and serving a traditional Thanksgiving feast on Jackson Street in Hempstead. This year they continued the custom, in spite of the inclement weather.

Our volunteers braved the cold and rain to share the bounty donated by our parishioners. Trays of traditional Thanksgiving dishes: turkey, stuffing, potatoes, and vegetables, were prepared by our volunteers and then loaded on the Cathedral Bus - which became a bountiful buffet station for the day!

This year, our “Mitt-stravaganza” drive also collected hats, scarves, gloves and mittens - many of them hand made by our crafty knitters and crocheters. These were distributed with the food on Thanksgiving. We will continue this drive, with baskets for donations available in the Cathedral through Advent.

This special event is just one of the many events this ministry performs. They are in the community twice per week throughout the year distributing sandwiches, fruit, snacks, coffee, and hot soup during the colder season. Groups of volunteers make the sandwiches - individually and in groups. This provides fellowship for our volunteers and much needed food for our neighbors. Food insecurity is at the base of many other hardships faced by our neighbors.

The USDA defines food insecurity as “a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food.” In our region, the food insecure includes the unemployed and working poor, children, seniors, veterans, the homeless, and other socio-economic and ethnic groups.

Food insecurity exacerbates other issues associated with poverty, including health problems, employment issues and the ability to concentrate at work or school. Many

The team preps the Thanksgiving Feast.

Crafty Cathedral members knit and crocheted mittens to distribute.

Cathedral: Neighbors being neighbors on Thanksgiving

The November cold and rain couldn't stop these volunteers!

people right next door need to choose between eating and paying rent or purchasing necessary medications. Neighbors being Neighbors seeks to ameliorate this issue right here in our own backyard. They have worked with other organizations here on Long Island to collect warm coats, assist homeless people in navigating the shelter system and obtaining access to needed programs. Check out our website at incarnationgc.org for information on how to volunteer and/or support the many beautiful ways in which this ministry assists our neighbors.

“Faithfully Reaching Out, Inclusively Drawing In. Building a community where all are Enriched through Christian Love, Service, and Spiritual Renewal.”

Garden City Community Church

www.theGCCC.org 245 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530 516-746-1700

Advent Schedules

Sunday, December 15th 10:30 a.m. Worship Service (In person and Livestream)

Sunday, December 22nd 10:30 a.m. Worship Service & Christmas Pageant (In person and Livestream) Christmas Eve Worship Services

Tuesday, December 24th 4:30 p.m. Family Service (In person) 10:00 p.m. Candlelight Communion Service (In person and Livestream)

Sunday, December 29th 10:30 a.m. Worship Service (In person and Livestream)

DWI arrest

On December 4, officers investigated a one-vehicle crash on Franklin Avenue and 11th Street. Police arrested the 46-year-old driver for allegedly driving while intoxicated (DWI).

Multiple violations

A truck driver on Clinton Road was cited on December 4 for allegedly driving in a prohibited zone. The vehicle was also found to be unregistered and uninsured.

Unlicensed operation

On December 4, a motorist on Stewart Avenue was charged with driving with an unlicensed operation, unregistered auto, uninsured auto, and uninspected vehicle.

Fire alarm responses

Officers on December 4 assisted Firefighters with several fire alarms, including one caused by shower steam, another by a battery issue, and two others set off in error.

Hazmat violation

Police say a truck driver on Clinton Road was charged on December 4 with unlicensed operation, unsecured hazardous materials, and driving with a

suspended registration.

Check theft

On December 4, a victim reported that a business check was stolen, altered, and cashed without authori zation.

Traffic violations

A motorist on 7th Street was charged on December 4 with allegedly driving with a suspended registration and unregistered vehicle.

Stop sign violation

On December 4, a St. James Street South motorist was charged with allegedly passing a Stop sign and driving an uninsured auto.

Hit-and-run

A gray van reportedly fled the scene on December 5 after colliding with another vehicle on Cherry Valley Avenue.

Reckless driving

On December 5, a Rockaway Avenue motorist was cited for unlicensed oper-

ation, excessive speed, and an improper turn.

Identity theft

A victim reported on December 5 that their identity and credit card information were stolen and used to make unauthorized purchases.

Tax violation

A truck operator on New Hyde Park Road was cited on December 5 for having unsafe tires and lacking a Highway Use Tax Permit.

Gas leak response

GCFD and GCPD responded on December 5 to Franklin Avenue for a possible natural gas leak. Firefighters declared the area safe.

Aggressive driving

On December 5, a motorist on 2nd Street was charged with passing a red light and unsafe lane usage, and aggressive driving.

Open door report

Officers responded on December 5 to a residence where a postal employee noticed an open door. After an inspection, everything appeared in order.

Fatal crash assistance

Officers assisted NCPD on December 6 with investigating a fatal crash on Old Country Road in Carle Place.

Parking Field arrest

Police say they arrested a 29-yearold woman in Parking Field 9E on December 6 for allegedly driving while intoxicated and having open alcoholic containers in her vehicle.

Harassment charge

A 7th Street store employee was arrested on December 6 for allegedly slapping a customer in the face. He was charged with harassment.

Graffiti removal

On December 6, an officer discovered graffiti on a Rockaway Avenue Stop sign. It was removed without further incident.

Truck violations

A Newmarket Road truck driver was cited on December 6 for allegedly driving with an unsecured load and exposed, damaged wiring.

Stolen check

A check placed in the mail on 6th Street was reported on December 6 as stolen, altered, and cashed fraudulently.

Fire alarm responses

Officers assisted Firefighters on December 6 with two fire alarms caused by construction work.

Event details

On December 6, officers provided traffic and safety details for the Western Tree Lighting Event.

Traffic charges

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on December 6 with allegedly driving with a suspended registration and excessive speed.

Cooking smoke alarm

On December 6, officers assisted Firefighters with multiple fire alarms, including one activated by cooking smoke and others set off by construction activities.

False report

Garden City Detectives arrested a 24-year-old man on December 7 for allegedly falsely reporting his vehicle stolen from the Mobile Service Station. Police say he made a false report after crashing the vehicle on the Southern State Parkway, in which he fled the scene in another vehicle. He was charged with filing a false written statement and leaving the scene of an auto accident.

Impaired driving

On December 7, a 34-year-old male was arrested on Stewart Avenue for allegedly driving while impaired by alcohol. He was also cited for having an open alcohol container and driving the wrong way on a one-way roadway.

Speeding charges

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on December 7 with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.

Fire alarm issues

Officers assisted Firefighters on December 7 with fire alarms triggered by a sprinkler issue, burnt popcorn, and two other false activations.

Suspended registration

On December 7, a Stewart Avenue motorist was cited for driving with both a suspended registration and a suspended license.

Gas grill leak

GCFD and GCPD responded on December 7 to a natural gas odor. Firefighters found a leaking outdoor grill and made the area safe.

Garage door check

Officers on December 7 investigated

tive process is a long-shot, etc., that the resultant legal avenues is the only real chance of success. Many believe, if we have only two legal avenues, we should take them both, increasing the odds of success in one arena or the other. They would appear to be independent paths and have no correlation. Yes, the $150,000 for the 42-year lease challenge could have been diverted to the Environmental challenge, if Trustee Muldoon had gotten his way, but in a village with a $67,000,000 budget, that spends $150,000 on a infrequently used Toll House, $100,000 for power washing for business owners when it is their responsibility….not the residents, and is talking about spending $40,000,000, $75,000,000 or $125,000,000 on St Paul’s, how in the world is $150,000 of that money more important than fighting the Sands Casino in every avenue that is available to us? If we really need money for an Environmental challenge does it really need to come from the funds for challenging the 42 year-lease? Trustee Muldoon didn’t say to power-wash Franklin Avenue, we had to take the funds from power washing 7th St, did he? If Trustee Muldoon and the other Trustees voting “no” want to pretend there is a cap on dollars to fight the Sands Casino and we have to choose one of two paths, why isn’t the decision between the lawsuit and the Toll Lodge? Or between this lawsuit and the Fire House? Or this lawsuit and $150,000 of work on St Paul’s? Why is the decision between challenging 42-year lease OR the Environmental Review. It makes no sense.

Sure, let’s be prudent. Let’s watch our dollars. But when literally a quality of life, our way of life, to say nothing of increased crime or traffic (good-bye stickball in Meadow Street), to argue that to fund the environmental challenge Trustee Muldoon and others voted to take money away from the 42-year lease challenge, not the general budget, is something that every voter has a right to question the absurdity of. The priority of all the Trustees should be opposing the Sands Casino anywhere we can. I don’t even understand why this Parent’s United dominated Board of Education is not helping fund this fight. Our educational rankings and scores have dropped so low the last three years, does this BOE think gambling a mile away will help our student’s math scores? $150,000 or $1,500,000, this is a fight worth having. Almost no one in GC is for the damage the Sands Casino will bring to GC. It is how and to what extent each trustee is willing to oppose it that makes the four “Yes” Trustees different from the four “No” Trustees. It is great to post videos stating “1000% opposition” to the Sands Casino, but that does not alleviate the need for

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

smart decision-making and an intelligent prioritization of spending of village dollars. Many that are not members of the Chamber of Commerce would take fighting the Sands Casino, even with an uncertain outcome, over doing power-washing for their fellow members of the Chamber of Commerce that have failed to do the work themselves as required by code, that were even given a year’s suspension of said code, and still won’t even support the Village in its opposition to the Sands Casino. Trustee Muldoon, Courtney, Tai and Torino disagree. They are free to disagree, and residents have a right to call out their differences of opinions in a letter to the Garden City News (https://www.gcnews.com/articles/ peculiar-happenings/) without being attacked by those four trustees. That is how governance works.

Again, thank you Mayor Flanagan, Trustees Courtney, Chester and Finneran for focusing on the serious work of a Trustee and voting to challenge the Sands Casino lease.

Donald MacLeod

Re: Saying No to the Casino

To the Editor:

There was great news in this past week channel 12 gave the BoT Nov. 21 meeting due attention and Newsday, 12/07/24 at p. 24 wrote up the Board’s less than unanimous resolution approving the funding of the Article 78 proceeding to be brought (and now filed) against the County and others petitioning the Court to overturn the 42 year lease granted to the Sands Casino. This action allows the Village to go to offense and compliments the super strong efforts of the Say No to the Casino group defending us and other residents of our county from the perils of the Sands Casino.

I proudly distributed about 75 flyers in the western section relating to the legislature environmental hearing event held this past Monday, 12/09. When dropping of flyers, I got positive feedback from residents on the Board’s important step, so kudos to the Mayor, Deputy Mayor Chester and Trustees Finneran and Courtney in initiate the legal proceeding! We are putting where our mouths are. A lawsuit gets headlines and demonstrates our commitment, a symbol of village unity! This puts Albany on notice of our resolve. Residents appreciate that the Village is covering all basis to fight the Sands Casino. Comments included that we are better off, may have a better chance, using the Court system than fighting political operatives in the legislative process. Hofstra has had some Court related success blunting the Casino onslaught. Using the court system to protect the integrity of our values, our culture, or health, safety and welfare seems more than reasonable at $150,000 for legal fees by a necessity to retain the

prestigious law firm, Cullen & Dykman to represent us, to fight the good fight. This expenditure is for a vital necessity, not some discretionary project be it large (St. Paul’s) or smaller (power washing commercial areas).

Certainly opinions may vary about the suit but was Trustee Torino’s talking “out of school” disturbing? Having attended the special executive session with other Board members where the attorneys to litigate the case answered Board member question about the matter 2 days before the BOT general meeting it was unfortunate that Trustee Torino commented on the prospect of the litigation in a less than positive way getting into a discussion of the executive session which was designed to protect Village litigation strategies from Casino allies prying eyes and ears. Village counsel Fishberg, Mayor Carter Flanagan and Trustee Finneran all sought to deter Trustee Torino from making inappropriate remarks. (see BOT at 1hr 40-48 min ). While Trustee Torino certainly has the right, along with other negative Trustees to vote no, he went over the line. Having a right to speak and properly exercising it are not the same. Remember Trustee Torino assisted his son in an unsuccessful Article 78 proceeding against the Village and the Mayor! The judge threw

it out as untimely and without merit. He proposed an illegal senior tax exemption for any St. Paul’s project back on Oct. 10, 2023 misleading them.

Were other naysayers swayed by him? that is up to the observer. Perhaps noteworthy, 2 other naysayers to the litigation resolution, Trustees Muldoon and Tai have unequivocally supported Trustee Torino’s legal acumen. At the Board meeting on May 9 2024 both extolled his expertise to become a full member of of the Legal Committee; “Trustee Tai, after “some meetings” in which Trustee Torino participated, stated Trustee Torino’s “experienced and qualifications were unmatched and that he really understands the pitfalls.” Trustee Muldoon stated that the “reason why we want Trustee Torino on the legal committee is for one reason… and one reason only, to have the most qualified person , period, on any committee We have the most experienced, 46 years of experience…Trustee Torino is the most qualified by a long shot, to give us advice, on this board to serve on the legal committee, to give us advice, to look out for the best interests of the village from a legal perspective, to save us money where he knows he can or cannot.” Do Trustees Tai and Muldoon having seen Trustee Torino lose the

See page 26

The

Article 78 case- the lawsuit against the Village and Mayor, and also espoused the fake and/or illegal “Trustee Torino Senior Tax Exemption”, have second thoughts on Trustee Torino’s legal acumen grossly misleading our seniors on a serious financial matter?

Disregarding the fact a special session was called to present the matter privately to Board members, Trustee Muldoon ( 1hr. 47 min.) approved of Trustee Torino discussing his qualms about the institution of the lawsuit. It would seem that Trustee Muldoon, impressed with Trustee Torino’s lawyering, encouraged going down a dangerous path to giving Village insights to the Sands Casino? The Mayor at (1hr. 41 min.) and Trustee Finneran and Village counsel (1hr. 44-46 min.) warned against that but to no avail as Trustee Torino disclosed information about subjects discussed at the executive session to the Village’s adversaries. Neither Trustee Tai or Harrington voiced the basis of their “no” vote. However, Trustee Harrington did not publicly disclose that she is employed by LIU, a university that has a joint program with the Sands Casino for placement of LIU graduates, for which she is responsible. So speculation is justified as to why this relationship was not disclosed which may have been avoided had the disclosure been made. This is not to say an actual conflict exists but in this day and age appearances have to be considered and explanations made.

Fortunately, at the end of the day the opinions of independent counsel and wise collective strategy prevailed as reflected in the Board vote and the Village has a new weapon at its disposal. Everyone, unite on this important goal, defeating Sands Casino.

S. G. Gorray

A chilling statistic

To the Editor:

As so many of us have families and young people that are dear to us, this statistic should resonate with all GC neighbors: College students are addicted to gambling at twice the rate of the general population with a University of Buffalo study putting the number over 10%. That’s one in ten. Approximately 75 percent of college students gambled during the past year (whether legally or illegally) with about 18 percent gambling weekly or more. People in their early 20s are the fastest growing group of gamblers. Young adults get hammered continuously with digital ads and media promoting sports and online betting.

In that context, the idea of building the country’s second-largest casino side-by-side with Hofstra University and Nassau Community College would seem like a bad joke or headline from “The Onion”, but our county leader-

ship (some of whom have ironically expressed grave concern about the menaces of marijuana dispensaries) are working hard to make the Sands casino-resort at the Nassau Hub a reality, a development that would further normalize and make available an activity that the American Psychiatric Association classifies as an addiction on a par with opioids. This statistic applies to young adults in their early twenties but these conditions are being made ripe for today’s teens (and preteens) to be tomorrow’s gambling addicts at even greater rates.

If this concerns (and horrifies) you as it does me, get active in opposing the LV Sands casino project. See https://www. nocasinonassau.org for info on contacting our town, county and state leaders, and demanding that they do better for Nassau County and our children.

George Krug

Just the facts on casino fight

To the Editor:

First and foremost, the entire board unequivocally opposes the proposed casino. The no votes by four trustees to authorize the expenditure of $150,000 to fund an Article 78 proceeding was not a rejection of our willingness to take legal actions; rather, it reflects our commitment to utilizing our financial resources effectively. Many of us believe that concentrating our efforts and expenditure of monies to oppose the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) is the best course of attack and represents the most strategic approach to address this issue.

From the initial announcement that LV Sands and Nassau County had plans to construct a casino, this Board, for a multitude of reasons, including traffic, safety, pollution, addiction, crime, and depletion of natural resources have been active in their efforts to oppose this project.

The Board was side by side with the residents actively participating in hearings and publicly voiced our opposition to the casino. The Village has engaged top legal firms at a significant legal expense, as well as lobbyists, to support our cause in opposition to the construction of a casino. The Village has commenced an Article 78 proceeding to address what are asserted to be the improper actions taken, inter alia, by LV Sands and the Nassau County in seeking to move forward on the casino project. However, key questions remain on what other legal actions can the Village initiate to focus on and defeat the environmental debacle the Casino will cause. The issue on what specific legal actions should we pursue, how many actions should we initiate, and what outcomes do we expect from these actions are very significant questions this Board is charged with addressing.

This Board will not waiver in its

opposition to the Casino and recognizes that this fight is a marathon contest against a well-funded and politically savvy opponent. Thus, the Board and every resident must be strategic in our approach, investing our time, energies, and resources wisely. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), which is thousands of pages, is a critical document on which we must focus our efforts to defeat, as it highlights the environmental implications at the forefront of our concerns.

Looking ahead, the DEIS which has only recently been published, will need to be vigorously reviewed and failures addressed. Accordingly, this Village has engaged law firms and will in the future need to engage engineering firms to oppose the statements by LV Sands and Nassau County as contained therein. Our primary focus must be to refute this document. This document represents a pivotal moment in the Village’s efforts. The Board will concentrate our resources to act collaboratively with the residents and those others that share our passion to combine our energies to fight fiercely and intelligently. Legal actions, which the Village and others have taken will always remain an option as we move forward.

Trustee Harrington, Trustee Muldoon, Trustee Tai, and Trustee Torino Trustees,

Incorporated Village of Garden City

Keep Christ in Christmas

To the Editor:

We would like to bring to the attention of your Garden City News readers that in today’s issue we have placed a beautiful, double-page, centerfold message “Keep Christ in Christmas”. This is the sixth year that we have placed this message, and as in the past, our purpose is to share the true meaning of Christmas with the residents of Garden City.

We recognize that the true meaning of Christmas is mostly ignored in society. We see endless news stories about “Black Friday” sales and “Christmasthemed” movies that rarely display a nativity scene.

The birth of Christ is almost completely overlooked as the secular world strips the religious significance from the celebration of Christmas, while egregiously exploiting its commercial benefit. Unfortunately, the commercial supplanting of Christmas has become the norm.

The words, “Merry Christmas” have

been banned at schools, colleges, businesses, department stores, etc. Instead, we repeatedly hear, “Happy Holidays”, intended to encompass all the politically correct bromides of the season.

It seems that we do not want to offend any one’s feelings, with the exception, of course, of those of Jesus Christ and His Blessed Mother.

In response to the secularization of Christmas, we Knights have pledged to proclaim publicly and joyfully our belief in the true meaning of Christmas – the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior, the Light of the World.

This special Christmas message was made possible by the generous support of the members of the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council No.15809, and parishioners and friends of the Church of St. Joseph who wish to remember in this beautiful season of gift-giving, that the greatest gift of all is God’s gift of His Son to the world!

We wish all a very Happy and Holy Christmas as we remember to Keep Christ in Christmas.

Joseph Levano, Grand Knight, The Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council No.15809

Sorry to see him go

To the Editor:

As someone who lived in Garden City from 1st grade through college summers, I appreciate what John Kordes has contributed to both GC and the Garden City News. It’s bittersweet to read that he is retiring from his role on the paper, for I’ve looked forward to his articles as part of my remote online subscription.

While working on our 50th GCHS reunion, I met John first by phone and then in person when he guided our two historical bus tours of town. His knowledge of GC’s history as well as its then-current state had classmates actually exclaiming “Wow” and “I never knew that” as we traveled about. This was no dry recitation of historical facts, but a lively, humorous presentation of interesting information. A special part of a special weekend for those of us able to attend.

There are hometown ties that can’t be broken, and John Kordes has been instrumental in keeping them intact for me. I’m sorry to see John leave the paper and wish him well on his journey. May he never fade!

Laura Nelson

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

What a night it was for our Village on Monday as many residents gathered at the Legislative Building to show their opposition to the proposed casino project. Thank you to Deputy Mayor Bruce Chester (6:10:40), Trustee Edward Finneran (6:19:40) and Trustee Vinny Muldoon (6:12:55) who, along with me, (6:26:15) made public comments on behalf of the Village.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Garden City residents who spoke at the hearing about the negative environmental impact that the proposed casino would have on our beautiful county and our Village in particular.

Your voices were heard, and your powerful words are now part of the public record.

George Krug 4:59:09

James Lynch GCSD 5:15:55

Leo Stimmler 5:22:15

John McFeely 5:30:00

Glen Aldrich 5:33:45

Lynn Krug 5:39:50

Monica Kiely 5:53:15

Richard Catalano 7:03:40

Richard Williams 8:16:50

Ray Meyer 8:29:00

I invite you all to watch these residents of our Village who took the time to come, waited for hours, and spoke so eloquently! (https://vimeo.com/showcase/11350648?video=996310372&fbclid=IwY2xjawHGuPJleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHV67FlfLsh0UvJ90N2gIni40zV8NdKCkUVdvQRhkBvY0xazkGtDOsMKdcQ_aem_kE3iX0IzesvZqXP83sYIxQ) Thank you for standing up for the place we all call home!

Written comments are being accepted (sandscomments@ nassaucountyny.gov), and that is a great way for your voice to be heard. I know some who planned to speak were turned away because the room was at capacity and others who signed up to speak could not wait the hours needed because of other commitments, and I hope you all submit what you had planned to say.

A paper copy of the DEIS (Draft Environmental Impact Statement) is available in the Garden City Library and on the county website (https://www.nassaucountyny. gov/DocumentCenter/View/46753/ Sands-DEIS-Text?bidId=). The volume of that DEIS speaks to the tremendous impact this project would have with 180 intersections identified as being impacted and

the addition of lanes on the Meadowbrook Parkway being proposed to handle the influx of vehicles expected.

Residents can visit the Say No to the Casino website (www. nocasinonassau.org) for information on how to get involved.

Family Fun Time on Sundays

On Sunday afternoons beginning January 5th, St. Paul’s Field House will be open for “Family Fun” for Village of Garden City families. This open time provides the opportunity for families to enjoy various gym activities in an indoor environment. The gym will be available for use from 2:45 to 4:45 p.m. each Sunday until March 9th. This time is designated for family time only. No organized practices or workouts will be allowed. Although there will be staff to monitor activity, this is not a drop off program. We ask that all elementary and middle school aged children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian. For the safety of our users, sports involving paddle, stick, or bat equipment will not be allowed.

St. Paul’s Board of Trustees

Advisory Committee

Members of the St. Paul’s Board of Trustees Advisory Committee are helping to guide the Re-imagined St. Paul’s Phase and have been meeting regularly. Members Bob Catell (co- chair), Frank Tauches, Jr. (co-chair), Joseph Jabour, Brian Gemmell, Stephen Fearance, Joseph DiPrisco, Cristina Handal, William Kuhl, Brian Collins, Guy Milone, Liz Kelly, Gerard Smith, James Burbage, Tracey Williams and Dylan Williams possess large scale commercial project experience in the following fields: construction, architecture, engineering, to name a few. To read member bios, please visit the Village website, www.gardencityny.net [https://www.gardencityny.net/291/ Path-to-a-St-Pauls-Master-Planin-2024]

Trees For Troops

The Garden City Police Department is proud to have once again participated in the Trees for Troops program, a commendable initiative of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation. This program plays a crucial role in providing free, farmgrown Christmas trees to members of the United States Armed Forces and

See page 43

Vinny

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

GC Police assist needy kids with “Shop with a Cop” program

Shop with a Cop is an annual event where uniformed police officers assist at-risk children with their holiday shopping, free of charge to the child and their families.

“The Garden City Police Department was excited to continue this wonderful tradition that not only supports disadvantaged youth but also strengthens bonds between youth and law enforce-

ment, promoting trust and understanding while providing families in need with the opportunity to enjoy the holiday season. Commissioner Jackson said, “Shop with a Cop is a perfect opportunity for local law enforcement to engage in a meaningful way, showing that they truly care about the well-being of all children."

Love to write?

Sgt. Kevin Reilly & Officer Tiffany D’Alessandro

The Garden City Police Department again participated in "Shop with a Cop" to assist disadvantaged youth.

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

MANHATTAN | BROOKLYN | LONG ISLAND

Should We Shorten the Transition Period Between Presidents?

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

Early in the morning of November 6, the day after Election Day, it became clear that Donald J. Trump had won a majority of the electoral votes and would therefore become President. Later that day, Kamala Harris, graciously conceded the election.

Despite these clear cut results, Mr. Trump will not actually be inaugurated until January 20, 2025, more than 2 1/2 months after Election Day. Indeed as a formal matter, Mr. Trump will not be chosen by the electors until December 17, and his election will not be certified in Congress until early January.

Am I the only one who thinks that this transition period is far too long?

A few thoughts on this.

There was a time in our history when Inauguration Day was even later, on March 4. This may have made sense in the early days of the Republic when there were great transportation and logistical barriers in getting to Washington, D.C. However, during a seemingly interminable (and highly contentious) transition period in 1932-33 during the depths of the Great Depression, between the outgoing lame duck president, Herbert Hoover, and the incoming Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 20th Amendment to the Constitution was enacted. This amendment moved Inauguration Day to January 20 and provided that the term of Congress would normally commence on January 3.

In Britain, by way of contrast, if there is a change of prime ministers after an election, the outgoing prime minister normally resigns within a few hours in a visit to the monarch and the new prime minister then visits with the monarch to be appointed, and immediately assumes his or her duties.

I recognize that it would take a new constitutional amendment to move Inauguration Day to say, December 10, and that such amendments, which require a two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress plus approval of 38 state legislatures, are difficult to pass. But a change surely has much to recommend it.

For one thing, the voters have

spoken in an election and have the reasonable expectation that the candidates they have chosen will serve soon, rather than continued governance by a lame duck administration.

Another reason, of course, is the possibility of important developments during the lame duck period, and the need for presidential leadership. Whether the United States likes it or not, the world goes on irrespective of domestic political changes. Right now, for example, in Syria, the Assad regime, which for decades, has finally been deposed and has the current leader, Bashar al-Assad, reportedly has fled to Russia. It is not at all clear what the new government will be like, but there is concern that radical Islamists will play a dominant role. All of this has important implications for the United States and its relationships with numerous countries such as Iran, Israel and Russia. Even apart from competence issues associated with President Biden, it would be better if these issues were addressed by an incoming rather than lame duck administration.

There could be a number of ripple effects associated with an earlier inauguration. As did the 20th Amendment, a new amendment would have to provide for an earlier date for electors to mee and an earlier commencement date for the new Congress say, December 5) to facilitate confirmation of nominees and enactment of new legislation advocated by the new President.

Another difference would be that the current process of the Presidentelect dribbling out his or her nominees after the election would not be possible. A solution to this might be for the candidate of the party not holding he White House to announce his or her preferred team before the election, a sort of shadow cabinet arrangement that exists in Britain. Yes, a shorter transition period would leave less time for post-election contests and litigation, but that arguably is a good thing.

On balance, I believe that shortening the transition period is an issue very much worth considering.

Mount Sinai South Nassau named among the top 10% in nation for overall orthopedic services by Healthgrades

At Mount Sinai South Nassau, our orthopedic specialists o er the latest advances in the care of your bones, muscles, and joints. Our team is experienced in the latest techniques to repair damage, restore mobility and speed recovery.

Mount Sinai South Nassau has been named a recipient of the Healthgrades Orthopedic Surgery Excellence Award and a Five-Star recipient for hip fracture treatment and is among the top ten percent of hospitals nationwide for overall orthopedic services for ten years in a row.

Learn more at southnassau.org/ortho

Passport Day at Town Hall

Town Clerk Kate Murray (left) assisted Glenn and Patrice Giordano of Garden City as they applied for passports on November 12 at Hempstead Town Hall. For more information about the Town Clerk’s Office, please visit hempsteadny.gov/town-clerks-office or call (516) 812-3046.

Hempstead

On Dec 5, J.McLaughlin of Garden City collected Toys For Tots from top clients. They will continue to collect through the 20th of December.

• CUPCAKES

• COOKIES

•Fresh Baked Pumpkin, Cherry, Apple, Coconut Cream, Pecan Pies & More

•Chocolate Cornucopia (Filled with Butter Cookies)

•Specialty Layer Cakes

TRAYS

• YULE LOGS

•FRESH FRUIT TARTS

•Seasonal Cupcakes, Cookies and Pastries

• GINGER BREAD HOUSES

HOLIDAY HOURS!

CHRISTMAS EVE 6am–8pm

JERICHO TURNPIKE, FLORAL PARK, NY 11001

CHRISTMAS DAY 6am 4pm

NEW YEAR’S EVE 6am–8pm

• P: (516) 354-3831

NEW YEAR’S DAY 8am–5pm

HOURS

CHRISTMAS EVE

LUNCH 12 - 4 PM

•Ginger Bread Houses

•Cookie Trays

•Fresh Fruit Tarts

CHRISTMAS EVE 6:30am–8pm

CHRISTMAS DAY 7am–4pm

NEW YEAR’S EVE 6:30am–8pm NEW YEAR’S DAY 9am–4pm

DINNER 4 PM - 9 PM

•CHOCOLATE BASKETS

•FRUIT CAKES

• ANISE DROPS

CHRISTMAS EVE 6:30am–8pm

CHRISTMAS DAY 6am–4pm

NEW YEAR’S EVE 6:30am–7pm

NEW YEAR’S DAY 9am–4pm

•STRUFFOLI AND MORE OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE, NEW YEARS EVE & NEW YEAR’S DAY

NEW YEAR’S EVE LUNCH 12 - 3PM DINNER 4 PM - 9 PM NEW YEAR’S DAY DINNER 3PM-9PM

This special Keep Christ in Christmas message was made possible by the generous support of the members of the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council No. 15809 and parishioners and friends of the Church of St. Joseph who wish to remember in this beautiful season of gift-giving that the greatest of all gifts is God’s gift of His Son to the world!

Paula & Bill Jennings Geri Joseph John & Amy Keane

& Jim Keefe Josh & MaryAnn Keffer & Family

& IMO Richard Kendrick

Edward & Nancy Kennelly

& Margaret Kenny & Family

John & Abigail Kibble

& Jack Kirk

Kokiadis Lucile

Maryellen & Doug Drogalis & Family The Ducey Family IMO Kenneth P. Ducey Bill & Maureen Dwyer Jacqueline & Roger Eltringham Ellen EmeryKathleen & Sidney Eng Betty ErdosMichael Falco

Lou & Evelyn Fasano IMO The Fasciani Family The Ferragamo Family Joseph & Vicki Ferrara & Family Al & Cathy Ferrigno Ed & Mary Finneran John & Helen Burke Fischbeck Suzanne & Mike Fischetti & Family IMO William & Rosemary Fitzpatrick ILMO Dorthy and Thomas Flaherty Gale and William Flaherty Michael & Maria Franco & Family Matt & Janice Frankenberry & Family Bob & Dodie Franz IMO Duncan A. Fraser Jr. IMO Duncan A. Fraser III Anita & IMO Joseph P. Frey IMO Dolores Furey Wanda & Stephen J. Gecewicz John & Jennifer Gibbons Annette Gilmartin The Sean Gilsenan Family Legislator John J. Giuffre Jo GormleyKen & Melanie Graham & Family IMO Jane Grant Arline Greco Greg & Rita Greco & Family Peter & Dorothy Greisbach & Family Walter & Gracemary Hagan IMO Bert Haggerty Eileen J. Haggerty IMO Warren & Viola Hampton Jim & Pat Hanley Kemp, Bronwyn, Alex & Maddie Hannon Robert & Christine Harper Christine Harrington IMO John T. Harrington Regina & Victor Harte & Family Mrs. Marie Hartmann IMO Joseph A. Harvey Frank & Muriel Hassett Peter Hassett Stephen Hassett Thomas & Katherine Hassett Thomas & Mary Hassett Trevor Hassett William J. Havron Mark & Lisa Heaney The Heinzelmann Family Leslie & Charles Hickson John & Kathleen Higdon IMO Robert, Alice & Justin Hirche Kathy & Michael Hopkins & Family Andrew Hubschman Marie & Steve Ilardi & Family

Joyce & Brian Abamont David A. Abraham, M.D. Russ & IMO Mary Agnello IMO George & Rita Alexander IMO Dr. James A. Alongi IMO Agnes & Harry Anderson H.Arthur Ander son

Marygene & Arthur Anderson

Appelt Family

Bailey

Baker

& Marianne Bee

Mr. & Mrs. William P. Bee

& Mary Beer

& Beth Bennett & Family

& Diane Brady

& IMO John Brancato

Gregory F. Breen

Mary Broyles & Family Barbara & Donald Brudie & Family

& Regis Buckley

& Chris Buffa Family Barbara Burke & Family

Burke

Burke Thomas & Rose Burke

ByrnePatricia Duffy Byrnes Joseph Cangialosi Peter Cangialosi Rose & Ciro Cangialosi Brendan J. Carey Gerard Carroll Maryanne & IMO Michael Casanno Judy & IMO Vincent E. Cashman The Catalano Family Bruce & Patricia

Village of GC: Drinking water warning

SUBMITTED BY THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

Sampling shows elevated lead levels in some homes.

The Incorporated Village of Garden City found elevated levels of lead in drinking water in some homes. We may also have tested your home. If we did, you should receive or may have already received these results. These results are specific to your home and may be different from the results taken in other locations. If those results were non-detect for lead or you recently replaced your service line, this information does not pertain to you. Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Please read this information closely to see what you can do to reduce lead in your drinking water.

As determined by routine sampling from the Village’s ten water supply wells, the source water has not been found to contain lead. The most consistent source of lead in the Village’s water is from lead service lines serving homes. If your home is serviced by a non-lead service line and your home has been previously sampled showing non-detect samples, the information in this notice does not pertain to you. Consistent with our previous notices, the Village continues to advise its residents that if you are either unsure about the material composition of your service line or lead levels, please refrain from drinking water directly from the tap and either use a filter certified to remove lead (NSF-53) or drink bottled water, until further notice.

The Village recently completed a lead service line inventory based on the Village’s historical records, sampling, and self-identification surveys for all residents within the Village. Please go to the Village’s website at www.gardencityny. net; browse to the ‘Water and Sewer Services’ and view the Lead Service Line Inventory tab to check the service line status of your home. If your home is serviced by a lead service line, the Village will waive all road opening permit fees for replacement of a lead service line.

What is an Action Level?

The lead action level is a measure of

the effectiveness of the corrosion control treatment in water systems. The action level is not a standard for establishing a safe level of lead in a home. To check if corrosion control is working, EPA requires water systems to test for lead at the tap in homes that are likely to have elevated levels of lead, including those with lead service lines. We compare sample results from those homes/ buildings to the NYS and federal action level of 0.015 mg/L (15 ppb). If 10 percent of the samples from these homes have water concentrations that are greater than the action level, then the system must perform actions such as public education and adjusting treatment.

What Happened/What is Being Done?

Between July 1, 2024, and December 30, 2024, we collected at least 60 samples from homes with lead service lines and analyzed them for lead. The results of more than 10 percent of our samples exceeded the action level for lead. The Village installed a corrosion control treatment system in November 2022 and continues to monitor the effectiveness of the system through water quality sampling at homes that have known lead service lines. Since installation of the system, lead levels within the Village for comparatively sampled homes have decreased, on average, by approximately 50%.

Health Effects of Lead

Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children can have decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can lead to new learning and behavior problems or exacerbate existing learning and behavior problems. The children of women who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy can have increased risk of these adverse health effects. Adults can have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney, or nervous system problems.

Steps You Can Take to Reduce Your Exposure to Lead in Your Water

1. Use a water filter that is NSF-53 certified to remove lead and can reduce

lead in drinking water. Read any directions provided with the filter to learn how to properly install, maintain, and use your cartridge and when to replace it. Using the cartridge after it expired can make it less effective at removing lead. Do not run hot water through the filter. For more information on facts and advice on home water filtration systems, visit the EPA’s website at https:// www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/home-drinking-water-filtrationfact-sheet and EPA’s Consumer Tool for Identifying Drinking Water Filters Certified to Reduce Lead.

2. Use only cold water for drinking, cooking, and preparing baby formula. Hot water dissolves lead more quickly. Boiling water does not remove lead from water.

3. Flush your pipes any time water has been unused for more than 4 to 6 hours. Lead levels are highest when water has been sitting in the pipe. Run your cold water for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure complete flushing.

4. Get your water tested. The Village offers free water quality testing for lead to all homeowners within the Village who are served water by the Village. You can scan the QR code above to submit a request for a sampling kit. The Village will drop off a water sampling kit for your use directly to your home with instructions on how to collect the water sample.

5. Know about construction in your neighborhood, contact us at (516) 465-4003 to find out about any construction or maintenance work that could disturb your service line. Construction may cause more lead to be released from a lead service line, if present.

6. Clean your faucet screens (also known as an aerator). Sediment, debris, and lead particles can collect in your aerator. If lead particles are caught in your aerator, lead can get in your water.

For more information on these actions, please visit https://www.epa. gov/ground-water-and-drinkingwater/ basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water#getinto

Call us at (516) 465-4003, email at waterissues@gardencityny.net or visit our website at www.gardencityny.net. For more information on lead in drinking water, contact the Nassau County Department of Health at (516) 227-9692 or by email at DOHOffice@ nassaucountyny.gov, or the New York State Department of Health directly by calling the toll-free number (within New York State) 1-800-458-1158, extension 27650, or out of state at (518) 402-7650, or by email at bpwsp@ health.ny.gov. General guidelines on ways to lessen the risk from lead in drinking water are available from EPA’s website https://www.epa.gov/groundwater-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-leaddrinking- water.

Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.

7. Get your child tested to determine lead levels in their blood. Drinking water can be a source of childhood lead poisoning, you may wish to speak with a healthcare provider to see if your child’s blood lead level is elevated and/ or if there is a need for blood testing, if you are concerned about potential exposure.

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.: December 2024

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

January 2025

1/6/25: TBA

1/13/25: TBA

1/20/25: TBA

1/27/25: TBA

Programs

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

Mah-Jongg

Thursday, December 19, Thursday, January 2, Thursday, January 16, Saturday, January 18 (New!),

Thursday, January 30 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 Tuesday, December 17 in the Large Meeting Room from 7 p.m.–8 p.m. 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.

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 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, however space is limited.

Contact Adult Services - 516-742-8405 ext. 5236 or email: Speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org

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

January

Programs

More programs and information will be available soon.

Reiki with Kathleen Gunning Tuesday, January 7, and Tuesday, January 28, from 7 – 8 pm in the Large Meeting Room

Start the New Year off with an introduction to Reiki. Reiki promotes relaxation, stress reduction and pain management. It’s a wonderful form of self-care, which supports physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being to improve the body’s natural healing ability.

To register, please go to www.gardencitypl.org/calendar. For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

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

Operatalks with Tanisha Mitchell -

“La Bohème” Sunday, January 12, from 2 p.m.–3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

“La Bohème” continues to be one of Giacomo Puccini’s hits with memorable music and characters. This opera is about a beautiful love affair between poet Rodolfo and seamstress Mimi during

Christmas in Paris.

Tanisha Mitchell is the founder and CEO of Operatalks (operatalks.com), an arts outreach company that brings a new spin on opera lectures by using technology, artifacts, and even her own singing to teach and inspire audiences. Her outreach continues to grow on the east coast from Long Island to Florida through libraries, community centers and beyond. No registration is required. This program is funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Learn to Speak Italian with Retired GCHS Teacher Mrs. Lea Brunetti8-Week Program Series

Fridays, January 10, January 17, January 24, January 31, February 7, February 14, February 21, February 28, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. in the Small Meeting Room

Retired Italian teacher from Garden City High School Mrs. Lea Brunetti, will be teaching beginner Italian in an eightweek series. Come join us as we start to learn the beautiful language of Italian with an experienced teacher! We promise there will be no tests! Just some fun! Maybe this will inspire a trip to Italy? Who knows! Non vedo l'ora di vederti! (I look forward to seeing you!) Grazie!

To register, please go to www.gardencitypl.org/calendar. For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

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

Dennis Raverty Art Lecture on “The Mysteries of ChiricoThe Reluctant Surrealist” Tuesday, January 14, from 2 p.m.–-3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join Dennis Raverty in a lecture about Giorgio de Chirico’s work. Chirico is among the most enigmatic of early 20th century painters. His strange “metaphysical” pictures executed during the First World War and shortly thereafter capture an uncanny, poetic world of lonely, haunted piazzas and melancholy streets with dreamlike distortions and juxtapositions of time, scale and perspective. Although idolized by the Surrealists, he later denounced his early work and turned to classicism.

No registration is required. For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

Chairobics and Strength with Debbie Kryzminski

Wednesdays, January 22, January 29, February 5, February 12, February 19,

The film “The Holdovers” will be screened at the Garden City Public Library on December 16.

February 26 12 p.m.–1 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room Debbie Kryzminski from Fitness Figures, NY, Inc. will be teaching “Chairobics and Strength.” This program covers strength training, balance, coordination, aerobics and flexibility.Most of the exercises are performed seated in a chair. Equipment will be provided. Feel free to bring your own free weights, if you are comfortable using them. Have water available, wear clothing that you can comfortably move in and be ready to have fun! This is a six-week session; a separate registration is required for each class. To register, please go to www.gardencitypl. org/calendar or call the Reference desk at (516)742-8405 x 5236.

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. 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

News from the Children’s Room

Lego Club met Tuesday, December 10, at 4:00 p.m.This program was funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Upcoming 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

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

• Saturday, December 14, at

News from the Garden City Public Library

(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.

Grades 3–5 enjoyed Growing Crystals With Science Teacher Chris Buchman. This program was funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

1:45 p.m.: Baking Coach: Polar Bear Cupcakes, Grades K–5

• Saturday, December 21, at 2:00 p.m.: Cradle of Aviation, Grades K–5

• Monday, January 6, at 4:00 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime Elementary, Grades 2–5

• Wednesday, January 8, at 1:30 p.m.: Duplo Lego, Ages 2–5 (Not In Kindergarten).

• Saturday, January 11, at 10:00 a.m.: A Time For Kids Ages 2–5 (Not In Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, January 14, at

4:00 p.m.: Lego Club, Grades 2–5

• Saturday, January 25, at 12:00 p.m.: Tiny Song Birds 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.

Garden City Public Library

holiday hours

The Garden City Public Library will have modified hours in observance of Christmas and New Year’s as follows: Tuesday, December 24 - Christmas Eve - 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 25 - Christmas - Library is closed all day. The Library will reopen on Thursday, December 26 regular time. Tuesday, December 31 - New Year’s Eve - 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 1 - New Year’s Day - Library is closed all day. The Library will reopen on Thursday, January 2 regular time.

See what's happening at your library!

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

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

The Tweens and Teens Noon Year’s Eve Party is Back!

The Tweens and Teens Department is excited to bring back the Tweens and Teens Noon Year’s Eve Party this year! Join us for food, snacks, and activities as we countdown to noon on New Year’s Eve at the Library!

This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 only and will be held on Tuesday, December 31, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Registration begins December 17 at 10 a.m. online at https://www.gardencitypl.org/calendar/.

Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. Want to volunteer? Choose if you want to volunteer to set-up before the party, clean up after the party, or both when you signup!

Registration is required. Space is limited, so make sure to register early to reserve your spot at the party! This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Help Decorate Our Tree for the Holidays!

Stop by the Tweens and Teens Room at the Garden City Public Library in December and help decorate our tree. We will have supplies to make ornaments available in the Tweens and Teens Room for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. Participants can hang the ornament they decorate on our tree or take the ornament home with them. Ornaments will be available to make while supplies last. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tweens and Teens Winter Reading Club

Join the first ever Tweens & Teens Winter Reading Club and participate in our raffle for your chance to win a $50

Amazon gift card! Sign up online at https://www.gardencitypl.org/calendar/ beginning Monday, December 16 at 10 a.m. Registration is ongoing until Friday, February 28. Submit a raffle card for every book you read this winter between December 16 and February 28! Raffle entries can be submitted at the Library or through our website (www.gardencitypl. org). There will be three winners! The more you read and the book review cards you submit, the more chances you’ll have of winning! This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 only. Registrants can find book review cards available outside the Tweens and Teens Room at the Library.

Winter Stories for Community Service

Tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 can earn community service by writing Winter Stories for the Library’s Tweens and Teens Department’s to display! Volunteers can submit up to five stories. Volunteers’ stories will be displayed as they are submitted outside the Tweens and Teens Room throughout the winter.

Stories must be typed and be between 50 and 300 words. All stories should be original work. Each story should include a title. Stories should be related to Winter or a Winter Holiday from December through February. No registration is required, but stories are due no later than February 28.

Volunteers must return a volunteer form with their stories; volunteers do not have to submit all five stories at once and should do an additional form for stories they submit at a later date. Please return stories and volunteer forms to the Community Service Drop-Off Box on the metal cabinet in the Tweens and Teens Room.

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

If you have questions, please contact the Tweens and Teens Department at: https://

www.gardencitypl.org/young-adult-department/contact-the-young-adult-tweensteens-department/.

Upcoming December Library Programs for Tweens and Teens

These programs are for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 unless otherwise noted. Registration is required for these programs.

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/8y7eFFszgKgi86kLA for the following program:

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

Registration is live online at https:// forms.gle/S3adeKE1JeuUTYj28 for the following programs:

• Tuesday, December 17, at 4 p.m.: Tween Tuesdays: Winter Sweater Wood Painting Project (Grades 4–7)

• Thursday, December 19, at 4 p.m.: Dungeons and Dragons (Grades 6–12)

• Friday, December 20, at 4 p.m.: Teen Gamers (Grades 6–12)

• Saturday, December 21, at 3 p.m.: Digitalis Digitarium: Portable Inflatable Planetarium with the Cradle of Aviation (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Monday, December 16, at 10 a.m. online at https://forms.gle/ jx3hFv5Kjw15hSje6 for the following programs:

• Monday, December 16, to Friday, February 28: Tweens and Teens Winter Reading Club (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, December

17, at 10 a.m. online at https://forms.gle/ LcyVPWaQpRGLW1wPA for the following programs:

• Tuesday, December 31, at 11 a.m.: Tweens and Teens Noon Year’s Eve Party (Grades 6–12).

Ongoing Take-Home Community Service Opportunities

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

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

• Beginning Monday, December 16, 2024 to Friday, February 28, 2024: Winter Stories for Community Service. Teens Go on an Adventure at November’s Dungeons and Dragons Meeting!

Teens take their characters on an imaginary adventure during Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons, which was last held on Thursday, November 21 at the Library. During the meeting, teens enjoyed snacks while playing as they used their creativity to play the popular role-playing games. The program was run by teen volunteers, who took on the roles of Dungeon Master to host the game for their peers, with two games running simultaneously in order to accommodate more players. Dungeons and Dragons meets monthly and is for Grades 6-12, with the next meeting being held at the Library on Thursday, December 19. This program was funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teens playing Dungeons and Dragons.

The Noon Yar's Eve Party will return this year.

First Graders Service Learning Project

Every year, Garden City 1st graders do a service learning project led by the PTA during Thanksgiving, and this year they chose Pajama Program as the cause. Pajama Program is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing equitable access to healthy sleep for all kids. The first graders at Locust and Homestead collectively gathered 166 pairs of pajamas. For each pair of pajamas donated, the program matched it with a brand new book by Scholastic. The students also hand crafted bookmarks to go with each book. They had an assembly on 11/27 to learn how their donation helped others. Well done Locust & Homestead 1st graders and parents who donated to this wonderful cause!

Stratford PTA Family Fun Night

Stratford families had a blast at the PTA Family Fun Committee’s Holiday Bingo event on Friday 12/6. Teachers, students and families came together for an afternoon filled with Bingo fun and prize giveaways. Many thanks to everyone who volunteered to make this a successful event!

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 optionjust 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

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Garden City PTA News

About to hit a milestone?

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

Homestead students with the pajamas they collected for Pajama Program.

Locust students with the pajamas they collected for Pajama Program.

Gallant family celebrates three weddings

and Mrs. Kevin Gallant

Alice Cavanagh-Gallant is delighted to share the joyous news of her and her late husband Stephen's children’s weddings, all three taking place within a span of 11 months.

Kevin Gallant married Deirdre Bednar of Rockville Centre at St. Agnes Cathedral on October 6, 2023. Kevin's good friends, Brian, Demetri, John, and Nick, who have been close

and Mrs.

since their days at Stratford Avenue School, were honored to be part of the wedding party.

On November 11, 2023, Ryan Gallant tied the knot with Crystal Czerniak of Houston, Texas, in a beautiful ceremony in Austin. Teddy Lord, a cherished friend from Ryan ’ s time at Garden City Middle School, officiated the wedding. Ryan's other

FOR SENIORS

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!

Save the Dates for Future Trips:

Sunday May 4: “Fiddler On the Roof” (Argyle Theatre)

Sunday, June 8: “Legally Blonde” (Madison Theatre at Molloy University)

Sunday, August 3: “The Music Man” (Argyle Theatre)

Trip to Argyle Theatre

to See “Jersey Boys”

Trip to the Argyle Theatre to see Jersey Boys, and have lunch at La Famiglia restaurant, in Babylon. Saturday, March 8. Our new recreation bus departs from across the street from the Senor Center at 11:00, lunch is at

12:00, performance at 2:30. Register at the Senior Center front desk, $67.00 check made payable to ‘The Argyle Theatre” and $50 cash for lunch, also paid at time of registration.

Happy New Year Luncheon

Wednesday, January 8, at 12:00

Ring in the new year with a delicious luncheon of hot food catered by Garden City Pizza. Register at the front desk of the Senior Center, $15 a person. Cash only, please. Space is limited.

Chess 4 Community

Join us for Chess 4 Community’s Play and Learn at the Senior Center, every Friday, 3:00–4:00 beginning December 6. All ages and levels are welcome. No registration is required, just stop by and play!

close friends from Garden City— Jack, Joe, Mike “ Galz, ” and Ryan G.—were proud members of his wedding party.

The celebrations concluded with Caitlin Gallant's wedding to Zach Halperin of Port Washington on August 31, 2024. Zach’s childhood friend Matt, a trusted companion since elementary school, served as

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 18, and December 16 to talk about the services they offer, including travel, DMV services, insurance, discounts and much more!

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.

Senior Center Lunch 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!!

officiant. Caitlin’s dear friends from Garden City, Brooke and Julia, were part of her bridal party. Each wedding was a spectacular event, filled with love, laughter, and the presence of many friends from Garden City. The Gallant family cherishes being part of such a wonderful community and celebrates these milestones.

Monday Night

Duplicate Bridge Results

The winners of the Monday, Dec. 9, duplicate bridge games: North / South: 1st Place: Nick Basile and Bill Draybk 2nd Place (Tie): Pat Fontaine and Ellen Moynahan; and Athena Philippides and Carol Cook

East / West: 1st Place: George Salem and Rudy Kaiser 2nd Place: Tommie Dodge and Terry Schoenig

Mr. and Mrs. Zach Halperin

Mr.

Ryan Gallant Photo by Carhart Photography

their families through various forms of support, including donations, sponsorships, and the dedication of countless volunteers. Commissioner Jackson stated, “It is our honor to contribute to the well-being of our military families during the holiday season. We believe that these small acts of kindness can make a significant impact on those who sacrifice to serve our country.”

Letters to Santa

It’s time to send letters to Santa and the Recreation Department will speed up the process! A special “Santa’s Mailbox” has been set up in the waiting area of the Recreation Department’s Administrative Offices at 108 Rockaway Avenue. Children can drop their letters in the mailbox and Santa will send them a personalized reply. Santa’s mailbox will be available through December 20.

Christmas Candy Contest

Kids can take a chance at guessing the number of candy pieces in the jar next to Santa’s Mailbox at the Recreation Department’s Administrative Offices at 108 Rockaway Avenue. The child whose guess is closest to the actual number will win the jar - candy and all! The candy contest will be available December 9-20.

Leaf Collection

Still have leaves to dispose of? As of Monday, December 9, residents and landscapers were no longer permitted to dispose of leaves in the road. Residents can bag their leaves and put them out on Rubbish day or bring them to the Village Transfer station “ Dump Area,” which is open Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (closing 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for lunch during the week); and Saturdays 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Crews

are currently still collecting leaves and will be making a few more passes, weather permitting.

Happening in Garden City

Friday, December 13th

3:00 p.m. Chess 4 Community’s Play and Learn at the Senior Center. All ages and levels are welcome.

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

Monday, December 16th

1:30 p.m. Monday Movie Matinée: The Holdovers at the Library

7:30 p.m. Adult Basketball at the Field House. Nominal fee.

Tuesday, December 17th

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

THE OFFICE CAT

detected and resolved a leak.

From page 24

a report of an open garage door at a residence. After inspection, all was found in order.

Robbery in “taxi”

A victim reported on December 8 being robbed on Meadow Street after entering a vehicle he believed to be a taxi. Police say the driver and a passenger forcibly stole a chain from the victim’s neck and then pushed him out of the vehicle.

Hit-and-run arrest

Detectives arrested a 23-year-old suspect on December 8 for allegedly leaving the scene of an accident on Nassau Boulevard the previous day.

Traffic violations

A Clinton Road motorist was cited on December 8 for driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.

Stolen package

On December 8, a package was reported stolen from the front porch of a Meadow Street residence.

Tree lighting safety

Officers provided traffic and safety details on December 8 for the Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Village Green.

Unsafe turn

On December 8, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation, unsafe speed, and making an unsafe turn.

CO alarm response

GCFD and GCPD responded on December 8 to a 7th Street store for a carbon monoxide alarm. Firefighters

Registration violation

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on December 8 with unlicensed operation, a suspended registration, and excessive speed.

Reckless driver arrest

Garden City police responded to Cherry Valley Avenue in the vicinity of 11th Street on December 9th for a report of a suspicious vehicle doing spinouts and driving recklessly. Upon arrival, police say they observed the vehicle parked in a residential driveway but as they approached the vehicle, it fled southbound on Hilton Avenue, committing multiple traffic violations. The vehicle was stopped in Hempstead, where the subject fled on foot. A perimeter was set up by Garden City and Hempstead Police, resulting in the apprehension of a 38-year-old male from Amityville. According to police, he had stolen the vehicle earlier in the day in Hempstead from a victim by knifepoint. The man was charged with Robbery, Unlawful Fleeing from a Police Officer, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation, and other traffic and penal law violations.

Red light violation

A Clinton Road motorist was cited on December 9 for driving with a suspended license and allegedly running a red light at Stewart Avenue.

Water main assistance

Officers assisted the Water Department on December 9 with a water main break on Eton Road.

Fire

Firefighters responded on December 9 to several fire alarms, including one caused by cleaners and another activated in error. Officers provided assistance.

Tinted windows

On December 9, a Clinton Road motorist was cited for driving with a suspended license, excessive speed, and tinted windows.

System test

Firefighters and officers responded on December 9 to a carbon monoxide alarm triggered by the owner testing the system.

Multiple alarms

On December 10, officers assisted Firefighters with four false fire alarms, two caused by electrical issues, and two triggered by burnt food.

Burglary alarm

Officers responded on December 10 to a burglary alarm at a residence and found an open door. After inspection, all appeared secure.

Elevator reactivation

Firefighters on December 10 reactivated a stuck elevator on Cherry Valley

516-385-8006.

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

Sunday, December 22nd

1:00 p.m. Twas the Night Before Christmas live performance by the Sunrise Theatre Company in Cluett Hall. Make reservations by calling 516 465-4075.

Tuesday, December 31st

11:00 a.m. Noon Year’s Eve Party at the Library for Tweens and Teens. Must register.

12:00 p.m. New Year’s Eve celebration at Cluett Hall featuring entertainment by Jester Jim. Must register: 516-465-4075.

Sunday, January 5th

2:45 p.m. Family Fun time for Garden City families at the St. Paul’s Field House

Avenue.

Traffic charges

On December 10, a Stewart Avenue motorist was cited for driving with a suspended license, excessive speed, and an uninsured auto.

Unsafe driving

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on December 10 with driving with a suspended registration, unsafe speed, and making an unsafe turn.

Paper hazard

Officers and Firefighters on December 10 responded to a smoke condition caused by papers too close to a furnace. The area was rendered safe.

Gas leak resolution

On December 10, Firefighters and officers addressed a natural gas leak at a residence by shutting off the gas supply.

Toys for Tots

The Garden City Police Department reminds residents of its Toys for Tots collection boxes. New, unwrapped toys may be dropped off at Police Headquarters 24/7 until December 20.

GC schools lead in AP & Regents testing, target literacy growth

From page 1

success across all schools.

Each principal shared an overview of their school’s performance during Tuesday night’s session. For a detailed breakdown of the 76-slide Student Achievement Report, visit the Board of Education Presentations page on the district’s website.

Advanced Placement Success

Over half of high school students participate in AP courses, with 628 students taking exams last year. 565 students scored 3 or higher, maintaining a steady upward trend. The district’s AP quality index—measuring participation and performance—is double that of neighboring schools and triple in certain courses.

A record 310 students earned AP Scholar recognition this year, the highest in the district’s history. Of those, 143 achieved the prestigious AP Scholar with Distinction honor, awarded to students who score 4 or higher on eight or more exams. “A lot of schools are proud to have one. It’s really hard to comprehend how big of a deal this is,” Principal Kevin Steingruebner said.

Garden City earned the top Platinum AP School Honor last year, one of only eight Long Island schools to achieve this distinction.

Regents Achievements

The district takes pride in having earned the highest overall Regents exam average on Long Island at 88.4%, a distinction it has held since 2016.

Garden City High School achieved a 100% pass rate on the 11th-grade English Regents exam, the final academic requirement for graduation eligibility. This exam serves as a key indicator of student readiness.

More than 50% of middle school students take high school-level Regents exams in Algebra 1 and Earth Science, with 100% pass rate and mastery rates of 94% and 96%, respectively. “This puts our students in a strong position as they advance through high school,” noted Middle School Principal Mr. Samuelson.

The District’s Top Focus Areas

There are several key areas for improvement. Middle school ELA educators are focusing on New York State Standards 2, 3, and 4 and increasing writing across the curriculum. In math, priority areas include algebraic reasoning, proportions, geometry, and improving students’ ability to respond to constructed questions.

At the elementary level, the focus for ELA is on standards 2, 3, and 4, CLEAR responses, and strategic preparation for computer-based testing (CBT). In math, educators aim to improve constructed responses and incorporate more spiral review to reinforce core concepts.

Trustee Kristen Pappas inquired about the 30% proficiency rate for students with disabilities in ELA grades 6-8 and asked about additional sup-

port to close the achievement gap. Administrators clarified that the issue isn’t just about adding support but rather tailoring instruction to meet individual needs, especially in small student populations.

At the elementary level, students with disabilities show 33% proficiency in ELA and 48% in math (grades 3-5). These students are supported through programs such as resource rooms, integrated co-teaching (ICT), and specialized 12:1:2 classrooms, which focus on individualized instruction.

“District leaders remain committed to improving proficiency rates and addressing achievement gaps with targeted strategies designed to support all learners. While there’s always room for improvement, we are incredibly proud of our students and staff for their hard work and dedication,” Dr. Alice Bowman, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, concluded.

Community Comments and Concerns

One resident strongly advocated for teacher-created data and assessments to more accurately evaluate student performance over standardized testing. “I want to remind those who weren’t in education during No Child Left Behind that the issue arose when New York State and the nation were forced to create difficult standardized tests, which the entire nation failed. Pearson Publishers got the contract for New York State, and after students performed poorly on their first test, Pearson sold test prep materials. These materials were discarded each year because the tests were continually changed. Since then, none of my family members, including my children and grandchildren, have taken the test. I opt out because they’re unfair. No disrespect to Mr. Steingruebner, but the reason the high school does well is because of the Regents tests, which have a curriculum designed for the test. The New York State test, on the other hand, is unpredictable. We spend too much time and energy trying to figure out what will keep test companies in business. We need to focus on in-house evaluations, using teacher-created data and tests, as teachers know what their students are learning. Our students are going to good schools, with strong support from parents, yet the results look bad because it’s all part of a multi-million-dollar business.”

Another community member raised concerns about post-COVID ELA performance, comparing local districts. “This past week, I posted on local Facebook pages about ELA 3-8. I think we’re headed in the wrong direction. I’m looking pre-COVID to post-COVID. And I’m looking beyond Garden City, to competitors like Herricks, Great Neck, Northshore, others. We don’t have a math problem, we have an ELA problem. I posted this and I’m going to give it to the board tonight. What I’d like to see you do is review this, digest it, and please forward it to the administration and open

a dialogue asking the question, ‘why?’

I’m looking at the data and I am absolutely amazed to see New Hyde Park and Garden City Park score better than us in ELA. I saw Plainview and Bethpage right on par with Garden City, same thing this year. I want you to look at the data and open up a dialogue with the administration and ask why some children are not reading at grade level. And please consider looking at a literacy consultant.”

Administrators confirmed that the district has started working with one.

No GC Regionalization Participation

State education officials reported last week that its regionalization plan is now entirely voluntary after months of pushback from Long Island schools. Garden City passed a resolution to opt out of participation Tuesday night. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha will be sending a written letter to the state department by January 15, 2025 confirming this decision. The next board of education regular session is set to take place next week on Tuesday, December 17, in the high school auditorium beginning at 8:15 pm.

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

Cathedral Avenue School

The first public school building in the Village was built in 1902 on Cathedral Ave. at the west end of Seventh St. The one-story structure had five classrooms. In 1913 a second story with four more classrooms and an auditorium was added for $40,000. As a result, the school tax rate was increased to 26 cents. By 1919 the school accommodated 216 pupils from kindergarten to grade 6. The minimum annual teacher’s salary was set at $1,000.

In 1925, with the opening of the Cherry Valley School across the street, grades K-9 were now accommodated there and the Cathedral Avenue School was no longer used. Grade 10-12 students went to high school mostly in Hempstead. In 1930 grades K-6 were relocated to the new Stratford School. and in 1934 pupils from Central and East in grades 3-5 were moved back to the Cathedral Avenue School building before being finally relocated to the new Stewart School in 1937. In 1932 the high school was authorized for grades 10-12, with the first graduation in 1935. District registration in 1936 was 1,818. By 1949, even with the three additions to the Cherry Valley School, classes were again being held at the Cathedral Avenue location for junior high school grades 7 and 8. The JHS and HS cafeteria was in its basement, as none had been provided at the Cherry Valley building.

When the new high school on Rockaway Ave. was opened in 1955, the Cathedral Avenue School became the district Administration Building and the play areas next to and behind it became parking lots. Archives identifier: schpuba01

Rotarians & Scouts ring bells for Salvation Army

The Bells rang from 9 a.m. throughout the afternoon outside of King’s Market rear entrance last Saturday, December 7 as volunteer Rotarians and scouts assisted the Salvation Army of Greater New York with its Red Kettle Project in support of the Army’s charitable efforts.

Its mantra, “Doing the Most Good” for men, women and children who need it most. The Salvation Army serves more than 600,000 New Yorkers each year in more than 140 communities.

Rotarians who rang the bell last Saturday included Rotarians Jim Brady, Randy Colahan, Diane Marmann, Joanne Meyer-Jendras, Diana O’Neill, Meg Norris, Althea Robinson and Bob Schoelle. Performing community service were Scouts, sponsored by the Church of St. Joseph: John and William Sievers, Anthony Grego, Broch Miller, William Schrafel, Robert and Thomas Deierlein and Zachary Argenziano, along with scouts Declan and Deegan.

Rotary thanks Rotarian Bob Schoelle, project chairman for some 40 years, assisted this year by Rotarian Randy Colahan. Also acknowledged is the Salvation Army’s Stephen Ditmer who drew in the crowds with a medley of holiday tunes. Rotary is also grateful to Kings Market for allowing Rotary to ring the bells outside their store.

The Salvation Army’s Stephen Ditmer, who regaled shoppers with a medley of holiday tunes, along with Rotarian Diane Marmann, Scout Zachary Argenviano and Meg Norris, Rotary vice president.

Peter O’Neill and Scouts John and William Sievers.

Bob Schoelle, volunteer Scout and Rotarian Joanne Meyer-Jendras.

Scout William Sievers, Diana O’Neill, Bob Schoelle, Randy Colahan and Scout John Sievers.

Scout William Sievers, Rotarians Diana O’Neill, Bob Schoelle, Randy Colahan and DJ McDonough, Bell Ring Chair Bob Schoelle’s grandson.

Krishna Grego, Scouts Anthony Grego, Broch Miller and William Schrafel with Rotarians Diana O’Neill, Althea Robinson and Randy Colahan.

Robert and Thomas Deierlcin with the Salvation Army’s Stephen Ditmer.

The Force was with the Library on Star Wars Day

Tweens pose with Assistant Director Ralph Guiteau and Librarians Barbara Grace and Laura Giunta after training with Saber Guild: Endor Temple on lightsaber choreography.

Director

On Saturday, November 23, the Library held Star Wars Day! This all-day event featured programs for all ages, children, tweens and teens, adults, and families, including:

• Star Wars Scavenger Hunt on 1st Floor of Library

• 500 Piece Star Wars Puzzles on 1st Floor of Library

• Jedi/Rebel Storytime and Dark Side Storytime

• Screenings of Star Wars movies and TV specials

• Character Meet and Greets with 501st: Empire City Garrison, Rebel Legion: Echo Base, and Saber Guild: Endor Temple

• Teen Volunteer Opportunities

• Build a LEGO Space Ship

• Lecture: George Lucas and the Creation of Star Wars with Clive Young

• BB8 Cupcakes with the Baking Coach

• Star Wars Video Games on

Members of Rebel Legion: Echo Base, Saber Guild: Endor Temple, and 501st Legion: Empire City Garrison stand with Library Director Marianne Malagon for Star Wars Day.

got the chance to take pictures of costumed

from

Patrons

characters

the Star Wars Universe at the Library as members of 501st Legion: Empire City Garrison, Rebel Legion: Echo Base, and Saber Guild: Endor Temple pose.

Library

Marianne Malagon joins patrons outside the Library to meet Star Wars characters from 501st Legion: Empire City Garrison.

Children in Grades K–5 decorate cupcakes to look like BB8 during a program with Baking Coach. Another session was held for Grades 6–12.

The Force was with the Library on Star Wars Day

Nintendo Switch

• Star Wars Trivia

• Jedi Training with Saber Guild: Endor Temple

• Grogu Robotics

Over 200 patrons joined in on over a dozen programs held throughout the day. Special thanks to the Friends of the Garden City Public Library for sponsoring two sessions of BB8 Cupcakes, two sessions of Build a LEGO Space Ship, the lecture “George Lucas and the Creation of Star Wars” with Clive Young, and the film screenings of A New Hope, The Force Awakens, and Star Wars

Rebels: Spark of Rebellion.

This event would not have been possible without the volunteers from the members of the Lucasfilmrecognized costume charity organizations 501st Legion: Empire City Garrison, Rebel Legion: Echo Base, and Saber Guild: Endor Temple, who volunteered their time at the Library participating in programs such as two sessions of Jedi Training, Jedi/Rebel Storytime, Dark Side Storytime, and Character Meet and Greets. Thanks to all the patrons who attended and may the Force be with you this holiday season!

Members of 501st Legion: Empire City Garrison, Rebel Legion: Echo Base, and Saber Guild: Endor Temple pose for pictures in the Children’s Room.

Members of Rebel Legion: Echo Base and Saber Guild: Endor Temple read Star Wars stories to families during Jedi/Rebel Storytime

GC dancers triumph at Irish dance championships

Two Garden City High School sisters, Riley and Delaney McNaboe, competed at the 2024 Mid-Atlantic Regional Championships, also known as the Oireachtas (o-rock-tas), which took place over Thanksgiving weekend in Philadelphia. The girls dance for the prestigious Doherty Petri School of Irish Dancing in Garden City, which has been teaching the art form for over thirty years since 1991. Doherty Petri has locations in New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, California and Belfast, Northern Ireland. The dancers often take training trips overseas to the Belfast location before major competitions. The dancers have competed throughout the world and performed for audiences throughout the region, especially during their St. Patrick’s Day high season.

The Oireachtas is a qualifier for the World Championships and draws the best and most talented dancers from the MidAtlantic region, who compete in solos and group dances called Ceilis. In competitive Irish dancing, dancers compete by age group and level (beginner, advanced beginner, novice, prizewinner, and championship). Regionals competition is fierce as each of these dancers competed against close to 100 of the region’s best in each age group. Leading up to Regionals, the dancers trained in the studio five to six days a week for several hours per day. Big congratulations to our local stars!

Riley McNaboe, a senior at Garden City High School, beat out nearly 100 of the region’s best dancers to be top of the podium with first place in the Girls Under 17 age group, capturing the title of Oireachtas Regional Irish Dance Champion! This marks the eighth year in a row that Riley has been the Oireachtas champion, which is quite a feat. Riley competes all over North America and Europe. She’s a four-time North American/National Champion and a five-time world medal holder, having placed third in the world in 2023. Riley spent her fall travelling overseas and placed 3rd at the All-Scotland Championships in Glasgow and 4th at The Great Britain Championships in London. Her next major competitions will be the World Championships in Dublin in April and the North American Championships in Washington, D.C. in July. On top of training five to six nights a week, Riley keeps up with her studies as an honors student. She is also busy as a GCHS Varsity Kickline captain, president of the National Italian Honor Society, High School Peer Educator, Senior Class Treasurer, National Charity League member, and an Irish Dancing Magazine intern.

Delaney McNaboe, a freshman at Garden City High School, competed in solos at the Oireachtas in the Girls Under 14 age group. Delaney had a fantastic dance day achieving her personal best at regionals landing on the podium in third

place. This amazing placement qualifies Delaney for the World Championships, which is often called the Olympics of Irish dance with only 1% of dancers ever making it to this most prestigious Irish dance competition. Delaney began dancing at the Doherty Petri School at the age of five and has travelled all over North America and Europe competing. Over the summer, she placed 5th at the North American Championships, and she took home an All-Ireland medal last winter. She is currently ranked 25th in the world. Her next major competitions will be the World Championships in Dublin in March and the North American Championships in Washington, D.C. in July. She also most recently was selected and performed with the infamous Riverdance dance troupe on live TV at the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. When she’s not in the dance studio, you can find Delaney on the fields as a Garden City Varsity Field Hockey player or giving back to the community as a National Charity League member.

Delaney McNaboe

Riley McNaboe

Sisters Riley McNaboe and Delaney McNaboe sporting their sashes, Riley with first place and Delaney with third place.

Riley flying high in the Parade of Champions which takes place at the end of the competition weekend to celebrate each winner in each age group.

Barbara Taylor

Barbara Taylor of Duxbury, Massachusetts, died on December 2, 2024 after a brave fight with declining health.

Barbara was born in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of Henry and Rita Biddlecomb. She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, James and daughter, Nancy Kindregan. The Navy stationed them to

Josephine DiCostanzo

Josephine DiCostanzo (Pippy), 95 years young and a 67 year resident of

IN MEMORIAM

Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where their daughter was born and they later settled in Merrick, followed by Garden City. Barbara was an creative Interior Designer and owner of The Gingham Goose Antique Store in Garden City. They moved to Duxbury, MA where Barbara was a devoted volunteer at the Duxbury Art Complex for 20 years along with a member of the Duxbury Garden Club and singer at Holy Family Church. Barbara and Jim were avid

travelers, collected art on their various trips and loved spending time at their cottage in Cape Cod.

Barbara is survived by her husband, James Taylor, daughter Nancy Kindregan (late Robert Quinn) of Pembroke, MA, grandchildren Emily Kindregan and her husband Greg Thompson of Tonbridge, England and Conor Kindregan of Pembroke, MA. She will be missed by sisters Deb Schaible (George) Witchita, KS, Claire

Bannerman (John Czapleski) Panama City Beach, FL, Anita Sells-Reiter, Milwaukee, WI, brother Ed Biddlecomb, Oconomowoc, WI and sister-in-law, Joan Downey, Emerson, NJ along with many loving nieces and nephews.

A funeral Mass will be held January 4 at 10am at Holy Family Church in Duxbury, MA. Arrangements by Shepherd Funeral Home, Kingston, MA.

IN MEMORIAM

Westbury, passed away on December 4, 2024 at NYU Langone Medical Center in Mineola. Josephine frequently attended Mass at St. Joseph's in Garden City.

She is survived by her four children, Lynne, Nick (Mabel), Donna (Ray), and Maria; her seven grandchildren, Sheri, Nicole, Joanna, Kristyn, Jenna, Jaclyn, and Joey; and by her two great grandchildren, Andrew and Gianna. She was pre-deceased by her beloved husband John Joseph DiCostanzo (Joe D.); and by her loving parents, Giuseppe and Antoinetta Farina, immigrants from Settefrati, Italy; and by her adored siblings: Gaetano (Angie), Marie (Carlo), Anthony (Hilda) and Mario (Beatrice); and by her cherished in-laws: Lucy (Nicholas), Josephine (Joe), Raye, Fran (Pacifico), Lucy (Joe).

Josephine cherished her title and role as “Aunt Pippy” to many nieces and nephews, their spouses and children. To whom her gifts of love, fun, stories and pride in their accomplishments transcended four generations.

She was a dear friend to Vestra Chianese and family.

Josephine was born in Manhattan, on June 2, 1929. She graduated from Julia Richmond High School in 1947. As a young woman, she was employed by R.H. Macy’s in Times Square as a bookkeeper. In 1950 she married the love of her life, John Joseph DiCostanzo (her Joey) who lovingly referred to her as “his bride” until his passing in 1988.

Her life’s work was dedicated to her home, her family, extended family and friends. Including being an integral part in raising her grandson Joey.

As she was always impeccably dressed and groomed, it exemplified her love of fashion from a young age.

Later in life she was employed by Union Local 342 as an Administrative Assistant.

Some of the joys she cherished throughout her life included being an avid New York Yankees fan, who often sang the “Joltin’ Joe DiMaggio” song. A perennial fan of W.T. Clarke Athletic

Programs from the 1960’s to the present. Josephine was an original “bobby-soxer” at the Paramount Theatre always in pursuit of catching a glimpse and enjoying the music of Frank Sinatra. She took great pride in her Italian/ American heritage and was a devout supporter of the U.S. Military. She will always be remembered for her incredible meatballs, lasagna and her infamous song “My Son, My Son”. Josephine’s zest for life was an inspiration and blessing to all who knew her. She and her family are immensely grateful for the healthcare provided by her amazing NYU Langone doctors: Dr. Richard Jacaruso, Dr. Jeffrey Schneider, Rachel Travis NP, Dr. Naveed Masani, Dr. Jonathan Haas and Dr. Dustin Suanino, whose excellent care enabled her to continue to live and enjoy her family, friends and good times. A special thanks to the phenomenal nursing staff on Oncology Unit Hoag 1.

Have you lost someone?

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

Josephine DiCostanzo

Library Bd. honors longtime Trustee, Rec. Superintendent

From page 6

The

mornings under the direction of Mike Stern, and a Teens ‘n Tots Storytime with the former Young Adult Librarian Laura Prisco to train teenage volunteers to read stories and present for the young children.

Blake added the great partnership between the Library and the Rec. Department for making a “wonderful selection of books” available for members and guests at the Garden City Pool each summer.

“It is so gratifying to see people come down off the pool deck, look at the shelf and see some books they want to read. The Friends of the Garden City Public Library do a great job supporting that. And on the grounds’ maintenance by the Rec. and Parks employees – today as I drove here, the grounds look spectacular because you can see it. The initial design, the initial thought and the vision for this library now shines on Seventh Street, thanks to the cooperation of you at the Library Board who basically allowed me to do whatever I thought was best with landscaping and maintenance,” he said.

Blake extended his arm and shook hands with Chairman Colahan again, before Library Director Marianne Malagon also shared a few words of thanks for him and gave Blake a big hug.

The GCPL Board meeting continued with Chairman Colahan creating a new agenda item to honor retiring Trustee/ Vice Chairperson Nouryan for her service to GCPL and the village since 2014.

Colahan began the meeting by ask-

ing Trustee Nouryan to lead the GCPL Board and its audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, at what was her last regular meeting in service on the board.

“I will miss you so much, Lola, as you are really like our Rock of Gibraltar. She is a person who doesn’t say much but when she speaks, you better be listening as she’s offered so much to the Board over the years, and we will hold a dinner for her this Wednesday night,” he explained.

Library Director Malagon was emotional as she spoke about Trustee Nouryan, who was part of the GCPL Personnel Committee that ultimately chose her to become the director.

“Tonight the Garden City Public Library presents you, Lola Nouryan PhD, with a plaque honoring your service from 2014 to 2024. The Library Board acknowledges your hard work on the Personnel Committee – especially in selection for the Library Director position - and the Reopening Committee, and providing great support and many contributions to the library chairperson and GCPL board. I have to say, Lola, you have always been tremendously supportive, kind, generous, and have always reached out at the right moments. I really appreciate knowing you and working with you since my very first day here. Thank you for these and other valuable contributions to the Garden City Public Library have been greatly influential,” Malagon said, as she held back tears and hugged Nouryan.

Former Village Trustee and current Library Board Trustee Colleen

This December the Village Board is waiving the permit fee for GC residents at the Village Yard for cardboard recycling. The Board recognizes both the need for accessible recycling options and the increase in cardboard waste during the holidays. Proof of residency is required. Recycling Tip of the Week

Foley shared the special moment by presenting Trustee Nouryan with certificates and resolutions of commendation from NY State Assemblyman Ed Ra; another sent to Nouryan from Anthony D’Esposito on behalf of the United States House of Representatives, and a third citation from the Nassau County Legislature.

“Every level of government is here represented, expressing appreciation for your efforts with the library – it has been extraordinary,” Foley said. She and Chairman Colahan said the GCPL Board would have to help Nouryan carry all the certificates home.

There was one more special honor in store Monday night. Dr. Nouryan also received honors in the form of a proclamation from Garden City Village Trustee Bruce Torino, liaison to the Library Board. He commented, “On behalf of the village, we’d love to recognize the efforts for your being here, your stalwart support of the library and saying to everybody, ‘let’s live together and work together,’ and try to make Garden City a better place. Thank you very much.” The GCPL Board’s audience immediately applauded and Trustee Nouryan smiled brightly.

In her first year as a Garden City Library Board Trustee, Assemblyman Ra honored Nouryan as a 2014 Woman of Distinction. She served as a psychologist for many years, with a distinguished background in the education field – as a Hofstra University professor in the Graduate Department of Psychology, where she taught for over 30 years, as well as in the role of clinical supervisor for Hofstra’s Psychological Evaluation and Research Counseling Clinic. Earlier in her career Trustee Nouryan served for decades as a school psychologist in the Rockville Centre School District.

Library Director Malagon noted her contributions since the spring of 2020, as a key part of the GCPL Reopening Committee both during and following the Covid-19 pandemic. At the onset of planning for reopening procedures, Trustee Nouryan advised that the Garden City Public Library should take “a very conservative, measured approach” to its reopening.

New GCPL Board Leadership Elected

The December 9th meeting at Garden City Public Library also served as the board’s organizational meeting, to prepare for the 2025-2026 official year.

Trustee Colleen Foley was unani-

mously elected as the new chairperson of the GCPL Board, as Chairman Colahan announced in May that he would not seek an officer position next year, though his library trustee term continues until January 2026. Colahan has served as the Library Board’s chairperson since January 2007, and as a GCPL trustee since April 2002.

GCPL Board officer positions are open to all sitting trustees. In his comments, Colahan noted the need for the GCPL Board to have a succession plan. He nominated Foley to be the next chairperson, and the Board soon approved her in the role.

On Monday night, December 9th, Library Trustee Mary Maguire was elected as the GCPL Board’s new vice chairperson. Trustees Foley and Linda Ryan jointly nominated her.

“Colleen and I will jointly nominate Mary for your dedication and hard work on behalf of the Library, and it is well-deserved. We appreciate everything you’ve done for GCPL and what you continue to do,” Ryan told Maguire. Foley, acting as chair, then noted the appointments for various GCPL Board committees.

For the 2025-2026 year, the GCPL’s Budget Committee and Building Committee will be Vice Chair Maguire serving alongside a newly-appointed Library Trustee. (Resident Paul O’Grady was expected to be confirmed for the position on Thursday, December 12th by a Board of Trustees’ vote.)

On Monday night, Chairman Colahan welcomed Mr. O’Grady as an audience member. He explained that on the Village Board of Trustees’ December 12th agenda, O’Grady’s appointment for a term on the GCPL Board beginning in January is listed, as Nouryan exits the trustee position. Trustee Bruce Torino also greeted O’Grady at this week’s meeting and thanked him for volunteering to serve the community. Torino also offered his congratulations to the continuing library trustees and the board’s new leadership.

The GCPL Audit Committee in 20252026 will be Trustees Colahan and Chairperson Foley. The Community Relations Committee will consist of Foley and Mary Maguire; the Personnel Committee will consist of Trustees Linda Ryan and Colahan; the Policy Committee will be Linda Ryan, and Ryan will also serve with Chairperson Foley on the Library Program Committee.

for details.

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

Village examining South Avenue traffic issues

From page 1

was asked to visit that location and observe the traffic.

“I had a sergeant positioned there who said that since the two arrows were painted on the roadway it definitely helped with the backup. He feels the timing of the light is fine, and you have to remember that that intersection is weird as cars heading northbound can cross at the stop sign. Sometimes that causes a little backup on South Avenue and it would happen no matter what due to the road’s configuration. But since they put the two arrows in it has emptied out faster,” Jackson commented.

He added that though the arrows are clear on the road, some drivers may not notice them and there’s a grass strip to the right, so another move might be to post “Left-Turn Only” signs. Commissioner Jackson then posed that idea for adding signage to the Commission at last month’s meeting.

With Jackson’s input, the Traffic Commission unanimously approved new traffic signs from South Avenue to Cherry Valley Avenue.

At the start of the Village Board of Trustees’ November 7th meeting, Kensington Road resident Marilyn Cadigan shared a public comment about the dangerous situations for Garden City drivers, pedestrians, commuters and cyclists who are on or near South Avenue heading in either direction, to or from the Adelphi University campus.

“The reason I’m here tonight is that I know the village has been doing a lot to try to control the speeding on local streets. I have to tell you that South Avenue between Nassau Boulevard and Brompton Road (where there is a Stop sign) is like the Indianapolis 500 raceway.”

She commented to the Board, “it is so dangerous and there from Brompton west to Cherry Valley Avenue, vehicles go by like race cars…On the south side of the LIRR tracks the children attending Garden City High School aren’t entitled to a school bus – many of them ride their bikes and some of them walk. If anyone gets hit by one of the speeding cars at any time, it would be all over.”

Cadigan’s suggestions included speed bumps and more stop signs in that area, but the emphasis was on calling the vil-

lage to do something.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan noted that Trustee Ed Finneran, chairperson of the Traffic Commission, will be taking this into account for South Avenue.

She added that the Board has authorized the village-wide traffic calming study and that part of the community is included for review. Cadigan acknowledged the Traffic Commission’s process and evaluations and thanked the Board and staff for the speed bumps on Kilburn Road, which she said people use as a “cut-through.”

Cadigan returned to Village Hall for the Traffic Commission meeting November 21st. She spoke about similarities between her concerns for South Avenue being similar to what was expressed about the 1st Street and Rockaway Avenue area, starting with speeding and the loads of traffic.

“They go five streets from Nassau Boulevard to Brompton Road, and they pick up so much speed in those five streets. Then from there past Brompton to Cherry Valley Avenue they pick up more speed. We have many children in the area and some that ride bicycles. The cars don’t slow down when they turn corners in these spots,” she said. Drawing a parallel, her message was for Garden City to take immediate action and help.

“What we’re all concerned about is the safety of our families. There should be four-way stop signs, those will definitely slow people down. And definitely seeing more police presence will also help. Maybe then people will think of another cut-through or just drive much safer, but you must take actions to curb what is happening in the areas people are bringing up,” she said.

Mott

Section Traffic Evaluated

In other Traffic Commission news from late November, village trustees and executive staff members made note of the report from consulting firm Creighton Manning Engineering LLP, intended to reduce speeds and cutthrough traffic in the Mott section of the village – streets in the East including Huntington Road, Kingsbury Road, Transverse and Wetherill Roads, etc.

The consultants submitted the “Mott Section Traffic Calming and Cut Through Mitigations” concept proposal

dated November 1, 2024, for an estimated cost of $45,850. The item for the Traffic Commission had been deferred twice, at the July 18th and September 19th Commission meetings, with a note that Creighton Manning was given time following September’s meeting “to refresh its study and make it a more comprehensive study.”

Trustee Finneran announced that Creighton Manning’s proposal for the Mott Section of the eastern section of Garden City involves potential for speed humps, curb bump-outs, a few stop signs and potentially make the Mott area a one-way direction.

Trustee Judy Courtney, a Traffic Commission member, said she only had time to review a few basic points, but there is still more detail for her to read about and investigate. Courtney also explained that the request for this detailed report originated in an Eastern POA meeting several months ago. Public Works Superintendent John Borroni spoke about traffic in the Mott section in the June 2024 EPOA meeting.

Trustee Finneran brought up a related agenda item for the Commission: a village resident requested the installation of a traffic light at Washington Avenue and Court House Drive. This involves impacts to the other local streets in the village’s east and primarily in the Mott Section.

“This will be a part of our Mott section study, and it’s also on a Nassau County road (Washington) and there are lights within a couple of blocks of the area, so it is something we’re still evaluating but not contemplating what we would do. That issue can be part of whatever resolution is devised for the Mott section,” he noted.

Kingsbury Road resident Heidi Hajart said she brought several neighbors to the Traffic Commission meeting because of their shared concerns about Kingsbury becoming “a major cut-through.”

She noticed an item of New Business on the Commission’s agenda for a left-turn restriction for southbound Washington Avenue at Kenwood Road.

“If for the Mott section there’s a major study, something like this would not be addressed until everything is

addressed. Please help the Mott section in considering it for children present. So many roads have restrictions, and people driving can’t turn from 3 to 6 p.m. on Arthur Street (continued south from Old Country Road, on County Seat Drive). The Courthouse is not open yet and with the apartments by Roosevelt Field with more people coming into Garden City will want to drive through the Mott section. I know I bought my house in a busy section of the community with a lot happening, but I want my kids to be safe and there is more growth happening every single year,” she said.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon, also a Commission member, commented that the Mott section study is key because it provides “all the information you need to make good decisions” for enhancing public safety and mitigating the recent traffic patterns.

Steve Schnupp from Kenwood Road requested the restriction for his vicinity, and addressed the Traffic Commission two weeks ago. He said traffic backs up often because “everyone is trying to make a left on Washington going south.” He cautioned about the drivers not familiar with the local streets of the Mott section, who are brought to that part of the village by Waze and other GPS apps and this causes traffic problems from early mornings until around 7 p.m.

Trustee Finneran advised him and others to keep vigilant about the Mott section study, as his concern and more issues will soon be covered.

Trustee Courtney asked residents like Schnupp and Hajart visiting the village Traffic Commission to stay engaged and informed.

“The Mott section study will also be part of the Tuesday, December 17 agenda for the EPOA and we will publish a notice. That’s a more feasible time to discuss it. I know we have it on the agenda and we might be going over the Creighton Manning study, depending on where we are with it, but at the least we’ll be sharing the general ideas. DPW Superintendent Borroni has a lot of ideas as well, and I encourage (residents) to attend the meeting. We’ll have more time to really talk this through,” she said.

Village challenges Sands’ casino new lease in court

From page 1

In the meantime, the LV Sands and the county legislature signed a new 42-year lease, but the new agreement did not acknowlede that the property would be used for a casino.

In an Article 78 filing made on

December 6th, Village Attorney Gary Fishberg argued that the new lease should have been subject to environmental review “that includes all the activities reasonably contemplated under the 42 year lease as well as the casino project it will facilitate.”

(Article 78 legal actions are used to

challenge a governmental action, among other things.)

Furthermore, the Article 78 action claims that the lease was not proper because the legislature did not conisider whether it would be consistant with the county’s master plan. The village, in its filing, says that the Nassau

County Planning Commission acted “abitrarily, capricously, and in violation of Nassau County Administrative Code when it approved the lease.

As of press time no response by the county has been filed.

Families 4 Families: A new chapter

On Tuesday November 5, Garden City Middle School students collected, sorted and delivered 10 “Bags of Basics” to The Belmont Childcare Association's Anna House. Families 4 Families began in Washington DC in 2020 and the organization continues to expand, with chapters in many communities across the United States. F4F helped identify a need at BCCA and this new chapter will support Anna House in any way possible. If you or your child is interested in learning more, email katequinn1957@gmail.com. The more the merrier!

Pink Day at Our Precious Angels

German students help at Christkindlmarkt

City High

BY SUSANNE BASILE, GERMAN TEACHER

On Sunday, December 1st, the Garden City High School German Language Club helped with the events at the Christkindlmarkt held at Plattduetsche Park. The students worked the craft tables for the younger students. It celebrates the holiday time. Many dance groups, music groups and German food was found. German danc-

The students worked at craft tables for the younger students.

ing, German games, German food and German souvenirs were found at the event. A fun time was had by all.

Be sure to check the back part of The Garden City News each week for the latest in GC sports.

Garden

School German Club students helped at a Christmas Market at Plattdeutsche Park.

Our Precious Angels Child Care and Preschool participated in a school wide "Pink Day" to raise awareness for breast cancer.

BY KAREN RUBIN

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Independent Collection Hotels & Resorts, a division of HHM which manages 240 properties across North America, offers gift cards for its portfolio of independent Luxury and Lifestyle, Resorts, Premium Branded and Branded Select. Among them:

Continued on next page

The Rittenhouse, Philadelphia; Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid; MacArthur Place, Sonoma. Purchase in increments of $100, up to $500 for the specific hotel https:// www.independentcollection.com/giftcards

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Give the Gift of Travel.....

New York State’s Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation gift card can be used at 8,500 campsites, 850 cabins, 135 cottages and 18 golf courses throughout the state, including the magnificent Watkins Glen State Park campground © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

purchasing the cruise:

The Royal Caribbean pre-paid gift card can be used for Royal Caribbean International or Celebrity Cruises cruise bookings and redeemed by booking online. The gift card will be sent to the recipient via email on the delivery date you choose. For same-day delivery, most gift cards are sent within an hour of your purchase. Royal Caribbean (www.royalcaribbean.com/programs/gift-cards, 866-562-7625)

Norwegian Cruise Line makes it possible to gift onboard credit, wine, gourmet treats, spa visits, or create a registry so that bunches of family and friends can contribute toward a cruise (https://www. ncl.com/onboard-gifts).

Other cruiselines that have gift card programs include: Disney Cruise Lines ( https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ featured/holiday-gift-cruise/); Carnival Cruise Lines (https://carnival.ourgiftcards.com/); Princess Cruises (princess.com/giftcard); Holland America (https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/ us/plan-a-cruise/giftcard)

Maine Windjammer Association, with its fleet of member historic ships that sail out of Maine ports, offers e-gift certificates that can be ordered in any denomination, and will be honored by any vessel in its fleet. The gift certificates never expire and can be customized with a special message. Order online. You can have your e-certificate sent immediately or schedule it for a future day. (giftcertificates@sailmainecoast.com,800-807-9463; https://www.sailmainecoast.com/windjammer-sailing-gift-certificates/)

Gift a cruise aboard Erie Canal Adventures, which operates a fleet of 11 delightful houseboats that cruise New York State’s Erie Canal, eriecanaladventures.com, 315-986-3011.

Gift of Travel for Wellness Wanderers

For wellness wanderers: Plan tradi-

to give the gift of a culinary experience directly. You can arrange a voucher that allows them to cook Cajun-style in New Orleans, make rum cocktails in Barbados, or cook with a Michelin-star chef in Montreal, and much more.

Traveling Spoon connects travelers with local hosts in their homes in 200+ destinations around the world to cook family recipes, visit local markets, learn culinary traditions and create memories over food. Founded in 2013, Traveling Spoon offers private food experiences, from home cooked meals to cooking lessons, with personally vetted hosts. In 2024, Traveling Spoon added destinations and off-the-beaten-path culinary experiences and currently operates in 233 cities in 70 countries.

tional Ayurvedic therapies, yoga sessions, aqua fitness experiences, and hikes in the Himalayan foothills to wrap up under the tree this year. Book a sleep enhancement or yogic detox wellness program at Ananda in the Himalayas to give the gift of vitality this year.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, Ananda in the Himalayas is a world-renowned holistic wellness retreat in North India, overlooking the spiritual town of Rishikesh and river Ganges. Located in the former Palace Estate of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal, the retreat spans 100 acres of lush grounds and gardens and offers customized programs including yoga, meditation, emotional healing, spiritual awareness, and healthy cuisine. The heart of Ananda lies in its 25,000 square foot wellness center, offering beautifully designed therapy rooms with nature views, open-air yoga and meditation pavilions, an outdoor pool, a physiotherapy center, gymnasium, and a comprehensive range of Ayurvedic and international therapies for holistic cleansing of the body, mind, and soul.

For sustainability seekers: “Wrap up” a sustainable and eco-friendly experience at Hotel Belmar by arranging to ride horseback through the countryside, visit a sustainable farm, or attend a garden-toglass cocktail class.

Hotel Belmar is an independent, family-owned luxury eco-lodge situated in Costa Rica’s Monteverde cloud forest highlands and fosters connections to nature, mindful serenity, and holistic wellness. Rooms become eco-conscious sanctuaries, ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and sustainability in an unforgettable setting. Farm-to-table gastronomy, thematic forest immersions, garden-surrounded yoga, cultural programs, a carbon-neutral farm, and an onsite craft brewery bridge guests to Monteverde’s natural wonders.

For culinary travelers: Traveling Spoon is offering gift givers the chance

For purposeful adventurers: This is the holiday season to go big and gift that unexpected—but much desired—trip to someplace off the beaten track with a personalized itinerary designed by Naya Traveler.

For travelers looking for an experience that’s all their own, want destinations that are off the beaten path and meaningful, that don’t feed into overtourism, Naya Traveler creates tailored itineraries to exactly those kinds of destinations around the world. Naya Traveler focuses on fully-formed itineraries that feature exclusive insider experiences bringing back purpose and value to travel and providing a space to discover a destination through the eyes of those who know it best.

For luxury escapists: Put a bow on a selection of spa treatments at the Ti Spa at Calabash Cove Resort and Spa Calabash Cove Resort and Spa is one of the most popular all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotels in Saint Lucia, offering seclusion, beauty, and mesmerizing views. The 26 suites blend Caribbean charm and modern luxurious resort amenities.

BY LOU THEODORE

Hello Basketball, Goodbye Baseball

This one is for those in the reading audience who bet on sports. Once again, it’s transition time. It is time to leave a truly exciting baseball season (particularly for Met and Yankee fans) and return to the tainted world of college basketball. Both are important to many of us since sportsbooks have now become front and center for the betting public. For me, it’s DraftKings. For others, it’s FanDuel. In any event, here’s how baseball came down for me and what’s coming up with basketball.

Baseball

What a dream season for those of us who are Met fans. It was almost better for the Yankee season (even though they made it to the World Series). But, what about my bets? I probably won a couple of bucks only because of partnerships with two of my dearest friends

(who are still around). Mary and I naturally had several bets on the Mets. My key bets were on San Diego and Cleveland. Believe this or not but I had $2 on San Diego to win the National League at 180-1! Ouch! *!@#. Both these two bets lost although I had a $20 pickup on a Cleveland futures over bet. But, baseball is behind us and it is now time to talk basketball and this season’s basketball bets.

Basketball

As noted last Spring, I caught Connecticut at 40-1 two years in a row. I’m hoping that the 2024-25 season will be another good year.

Keep in mind that there are primarily two types of bets available in sports betting: the point spread and the money line. My recommendation is future bets (that I refer to as seasonal bets). These are bets on a team or individual winning a championship, league, division,

Yogurt for Lower Blood

BY CHARLYN FARGO

It’s the holiday season, and your blood pressure may be rising -- maybe it’s the holiday stress; maybe it’s the relatives. But whatever the reason, having a little yogurt every day may help lower your blood pressure.

Add a dollop of yogurt to your morning cereal, make a smoothie with a halfcup or have a quick yogurt cup on the go. New research from the University of South Australia and published in Science News backs up this suggestion.

Conducted in partnership with the University of Maine, the study examined the associations between yogurt intake, blood pressure and cardiovascular risk factors. Researchers found that yogurt is associated with lower blood pressure for those with hypertension.

It is estimated that more than a billion people in the world suffer from hypertension (and not just during the holidays), putting them at greater risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

The study was conducted on 915 community-dwelling adults from the Maine-Syracuse Longitudinal Study. Habitual yogurt consumption was measured using a food frequency questionnaire. High blood pressure was defined as being greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg (a normal blood pressure level is less than 120/80 mmHg).

Researchers found that for people with elevated blood pressure, even small amounts of yogurt were associated with lower blood pressure. Results were even stronger for those who consumed yogurt

award, etc., and the good news is that each of these bets (hopefully) applies over an entire season. In college basketball, it is who is going to win the NCAA Championship or make the Final Four. For example, last year, I had a $2 bet on Yale to make the Final Four at 1000-1, and $5 on North Carolina State to win it all at 50-1. But that was last year. What remains is what do I have for this year?

Here are some of the approximate future odds to win the NCAA Tournament:

UConn (9-1) - Kentucky (25-1)

Duke (10-1) - Baylor (30-1)

Alabama (11-1) - Indiana (45-1)

Houston (14-1) - Tennessee (50-1)

North Carolina (20-1) - Illinois (60-1)

Do I have any suggestions? Of course I do! I’ll be putting some money ($2 –$10) on the following teams: Houston, Illinois, and Tennessee (my key).

Pressure

regularly. Their blood pressures were nearly 7 points lower than those who did not consume yogurt.

It may be the live, active bacteria that are responsible for lowering blood pressure. Researchers found the bacteria promote the release of proteins that lower blood pressure. In addition, dairy foods contain a range of micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium and potassium, all of which are involved in the regulation of blood pressure.

The bottom line is what we eat makes a difference in our health, and a serving of yogurt a day could make a difference if you have high blood pressure.

Q and A

Q: How can you encourage kids to eat healthy foods that they may not like?

A: Try introducing healthy new foods by combining them with foods your child already likes. It also helps to offer children lots of options and get them involved in grocery shopping and cooking, so they have a say in what they eat. I’ve found it’s important to continue to offer foods like broccoli -- show them you like to eat it -and eventually, they will eat it. A parent’s job is to present healthy food to kids. A kid’s job is to choose to eat it. Often, they will do that if alternatives aren’t quickly provided. Remember that all foods can be fine in moderation -- even cake and cookies can be enjoyed occasionally but shouldn’t be a staple in kids’ (or adults’) diets.

Continued on page 5

Whatever you do, if anything – good luck. Kansas (12-1) and Michigan State (55-1) look good, but I can’t bet them since I believe both coaches should be barred by the NCAA. This also hurts: St. Johns will have to be reckoned with this year; but, I hope I’m wrong.

Don’t forget that it is also the season for the NHL, NBA, NFL, and college football. I offer these comments:

NHL: Try the Rangers and Devils to win it all.

NBA: Pass.

NFL: My money is on Baltimore (AFL) and Green Bay (NFL).

College Football: I got in early on Oregon, Tennessee, and Mississippi.

Visit the author at:

www.theodorenewsletter.com and/or Basketball Coaching 101 on Facebook

BY TOM MARGENAU

You Say Tomato, I Say Tomahto!

Every once in a while, I will use a word or phrase -- with the most innocent of intentions -- that nevertheless ends up driving some people nuts. Well, if not “nuts,” it at least makes them irate enough to send me an email voicing their anger with my language choices. I’ve saved some up, and here they are today.

Q: It really gets my goat when you use the term “Social Security checks.” Don’t you know that no one gets a paper check anymore?

A: Actually, for a variety of reasons, a couple hundred thousand people still get paper Social Security checks. But that’s neither here nor there.

I occasionally use the term “Social Security check” interchangeably with the term “Social Security benefit.” (Although check out the next question about how even that term upsets some people!)

I suppose I could religiously refer to someone’s “Social Security direct deposit payment.” But that can be a little bit stilted and awkward. So I think if, every once in a while, I talk about a person’s Social Security check, my readers will know I’m not referring to a paper check mailed to them every month but rather to the payment that shows up monthly in their bank account.

Q: I hate when you use the term “Social Security benefit.” I worked hard and paid lots of taxes in return for the Social Security money I get every month. I am not getting a “benefit” from the government. I earned it!

A: I am not trying to imply anything negative or degrading when I refer to Social Security “benefits.” It’s just a commonly used term for the money that Social Security beneficiaries get every month from the government. Uh-oh! I just said “beneficiaries.”

Q: You should not be using the term “Social Security account.” That implies some kind of banking relationship. The government is not my bank. They are not holding my money in an account. As we all know, the government has stolen every nickel of money ever collected in Social Security taxes, and they are just repaying us with made-up money from an empty U.S. Treasury.

A: I’ll get back to your allegation of stolen Social Security funds in a minute, but first let me deal with the word “account.”

Once again, I’m not trying to imply anything by using the word. I simply use the word “account” interchangeably with the work “record.” I think you’ll accept the fact that you do have a “record” with the Social Security Administration. For example, they maintain a record of your earnings while you are working and then they maintain a record of your monthly payments once you start receiving benefits.

Also, if you go to the SSA’s website, you

will see that you can open up a “MyAccount” site to help you access all kinds of personal services associated with your Social Security account. Oops. Should I have said “Social Security records” or “Social Security files?”

Now back to your stolen money allegation. I just don’t have the space in today’s column to explain Social Security financing. If you really want to understand the issue, get my book “Social Security Simple and Smart” and read the chapter called “Myths and Facts About Social Security Financing.” In a nutshell, every dime ever collected in Social Security taxes is immediately converted into U.S. treasury notes. And some of those notes are redeemed (with interest) every month to pay all benefits due that month. The remaining notes make up the Social Security trust funds.

Q: It really gets my goat when I hear you, and many politicians, refer to Social Security as an entitlement. I worked all my life and paid Social Security taxes all my life. How can they call that an “entitlement?”

A: They can call it that because Social Security is an “entitlement” -- literally. And I think you’ve got to blame popular culture, not politicians, for abusing the term.

Social Security is an entitlement in not only the literal but also the legal sense of the term. Social Security is Title 2 of the Social Security Act. Medicare is Title 18 -and other programs make up other titles of the Social Security law. So that’s where the root word “title” comes from.

Once you meet all the qualifications for Social Security benefits (having enough work credits, being the right age, etc.) then you are considered “eligible” for benefits. But when you actually file a claim for benefits and get approved, you are legally “entitled” to those benefits.

So that is what makes Social Security an “entitlement” program. And for that matter, any other government program for which you have to meet certain eligibility criteria and then sign an application and get approved for benefits is also an “entitlement” program.

But popular culture has given the term a bad name. Many folks have started using the word to imply some kind of government handout, such as welfare or food stamps. Actually, welfare and food stamps are also “entitlement” programs because you have to meet certain eligibility criteria and file a formal application to become “entitled” to those benefits, too.

It’s just too bad the name has been given such a stigma. There is nothing wrong with being an “entitlement” program. It’s just a legal term.

Q: In a recent column, you used the term, “OMG!” That is using our Lord’s name in vain and is an affront to me and all good Christians. You should be ashamed of yourself!

A: Oh, my goodness (OMG), I had no idea I was committing a sin!!

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 oth-

er 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

REAL ESTATE WATCH

Sustainable development and its value

Everyone wants to save money and conserve on their energy usage, right? But how many actually practice this basic and most crucial and critical concept? Not many, that’s for sure.

Globally, 1 in 4 vehicles sold in 2023 were electric or plugin hybrids. Even the percentage of those who own all electric or hybrid vehicles only account for 4.6%, which will not solve our climate change issues. However, in Norway it was 93%, 60% in Sweden and in China is was just shy of 40% and the U.S. 10%. The U.S. had the 3rd smallest percentage of purchases. However, overall, only 18% of the world’s cars sold in 2023 were electric or hybrid plug-ins. This is only one facet to be able to reach a successful and sustainable climate change goal. It will be a very daunting task as I do not see how we in the U.S. can convert and transition our cars, trucks, trains, ships and factories to non-fossil fuel alternative sources anytime soon; as we have an addiction, like drugs, in continuing the path we are taking. I predict that the cost and length of time to convert will be in the neighborhood of at least 25+ years. Government and consumer goals do not match the results that we are currently experiencing now and over the next 10 years. Practicing and adhering to a set of lofty objectives that we are trying to accomplish are unrealistic and unattainable in the reality of our current results. Here is a link to more information and statistics: https://www.lea.org/reports/ globalev-outlook-2023

When it comes to sustainable homes, only 2% or 36,000 of the 1.8 million homes constructed met the criteria of being eco-friendly or as some call

Continued from page 3

RECIPE

Looking for a new recipe to serve during the holiday season? You can’t go wrong with vegetables to help balance out the overabundance of sweets. This side, roasted asparagus with balsamic browned butter, is from Cooking Light’s Holiday Cookbook.

ROASTED ASPARAGUS WITH BALSAMIC BROWNED BUTTER

Servings: 8

40 asparagus spears, trimmed (about 2 pounds)

Cooking spray

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons butter

2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on a baking

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

them low carbon footprint builds. This is a practice of designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining buildings in an environmentally responsible and resource-efficient manner as quoted by Tony Mariotti of Ruby Home Luxury Real Estate in his article from Sept 11, 2023. According to Business Wire, 84% of homeowners said living in a green home was important to them. In addition, 64% said they would pay more to live in a green home or development. LEED-certified homes increased by almost 20% from 2017-2019. Around 400,000 homes existed at that time, but barely comprised a tiny portion of all existing homes constructed.

dents (2,257).

In 2024, 5 states led the list for eco-friendly homes, which were, California led with 39,296, Texas with 24,598 and New York with 24,598, Washington with 10,521, and Colorado with 8091. In 2019, CBRE published a Green Building Adoption Index which found only 13.8% of commercial office buildings in the U.S. in the 30 largest markets met the criteria of being fully green (but not LEED/Leadership in Engineering and Environmental Design) certified). However, we started the green initiative and are the world leader, China second and India third. Washington D.C. became the first city to legislate for green building certification with the Green Building Act in 2006. It still leads the country in the number of LEED certifications at over 1500+ establishments per million resi-

A key factor in green construction projects of buildings and homes is the savings and stronger asset values going forward, based on increasing future fossil fuel energy costs. According to the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, building green only takes an increase of 1-12% in the construction budget in most situations. If you switch to a solar panel system, do your homework and do due diligence to make sure it is worthwhile to ensure enough savings. Your roof will need a substantial amount of sunlight, approximately at least 80% for a good portion of the day for creating the storable energy to be converted to electricity. Also, purchasing the system for the majority will be more beneficial than leasing; unless you cannot afford to buy it, then leasing will be your other option and giving away the kilowatt hour credits to someone else. Currently, NYS provides a direct tax credit of 25% and federally you will also receive a 30% direct tax credit, which totals 50%! My professional advice is to get 3 estimates and see what your overall costs and savings will be.

Installing solar panels to reduce your electric costs will be a win/win situation for you, the environment and your pocketbook.. You will continue to save money over the years while electric costs continue to increase. More importantly, this will add excellent future value in the sale of your home. If you need any advice on solar ener-

gy, geothermal HVAC, Heat pumps or any questions or concerns in saving energy and money, call me for a Free consultation.

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; (516) 647-4289.

sheet; coat with cooking spray. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 400 F for 12 minutes or until tender. Melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat, and cook 3 minutes or until lightly browned, shaking pan occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in soy sauce and vinegar. Drizzle over asparagus, tossing well to coat. Serve immediately. Yield: 8 servings (serving size: 5 spears).

Per serving: 45 calories; 19 grams protein; 3.9 grams carbohydrate; 3 grams fat, 8 milligrams cholesterol; 1.7 grams fiber; 134 milligrams sodium.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois, and the current president of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. . COPYRIGHT 2024 CREATORS.COM

Is Your Grocery Bill Gobbling Up Your Budget?

BY MARY HUNT

Is your monthly grocery spending eating up a big portion of your income? You’re not alone. Figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture show that as of March 2024, on average, a family of four spends $1,341 per month on groceries to be eaten at home. Here, let me do the math: That’s $16,092 annually! And that doesn’t take into consideration the amount the typical household is spending on eating out.

Want to cut your grocery costs by, oh, let’s say HALF? You can if you are determined to become a smart shopper, employing every trick and tip in the book. You can -- without sacrificing your family’s health and joy of eating great food -while keeping $8,000 or so in your pocket over the coming year.

1. SKIP THE CONVENIENCE MARKUPS

Yes, those precut bags of vegetables and single-serving oatmeal packets are super convenient -- but they’re also budget busters. Consumer Reports points out that precut veggies come with jaw-dropping markups: Precut onions cost 392% more per pound than whole onions, and precut green beans have a 192% markup. The solution? Roll up your sleeves and do your own chopping, shredding and grating. You’ll save a bundle and maybe even burn a calorie or two. Do your own chopping, shredding, grating and measuring, and you will save a bunch.

2. STOP WASTING FOOD (AND MONEY)

Be honest -- how much produce ends

up wilting in your fridge? A squishy cucumber here, a moldy berry there -- it adds up fast. The Natural Resources Defense Council estimates that the average household tosses 40% of the food they buy, equating to an annual loss of thousands of dollars for a family of four. Buy only what you can realistically use, and start keeping tabs on what’s getting tossed. Your wallet will thank you.

3. REFUSE TO PAY FULL PRICE

Here’s my mantra: Never pay full price. Ever. If it’s not on sale this week, wait it out -- it will be soon. Get creative with your meals and plan around what’s discounted. When pantry staples or freezer-friendly items go on sale, stock up. Just make sure you have the space to store them!

4. MASTER UNIT PRICING

Comparing prices gets a lot easier when you know to look at unit pricing -that’s the cost per ounce, pound or piece. It’s right there on the shelf tag, so bring your reading glasses if you need to. Once you start paying attention, you’ll see how often bulk purchases or generics win the price war.

5. CHOOSE RECIPES WISELY

Instead of building your weekly menu based on a Pinterest craving, start with what you already have and what’s on sale. It’s amazing how far you can stretch your budget with a little creative meal planning.

6. STICK TO YOUR LIST

Make a shopping list before you leave the house, and don’t let your eyes wander once you’re in the store. Those unplanned

Good Gardening Doesn’t

BY JEFF RUGG

Are you an aging-in-place gardener? You know the type -- people like my 91-year-old mother who is still growing tomatoes and other vegetables, summer flower pots on the porch, and houseplants galore. She is not quite as active as she used to be, and she has downsized some of the garden.

Or are you a gardener who is getting arthritis? My shoulder really hurts when I lift my arm too high. Have you had your

knees replaced? I know several gardeners who have gone through one or both knee replacements. Even if you are a young gardener now, you are getting older every day, and the time will come when old age sneaks up on you.

In other words, everyone should get a copy of both books by the gentle teddy bear of a young-at-heart gardener Duane Pancoast. He wrote “The Geriatric Gardener: Adaptive Advice for Seniors” and The Geriatric Gardener 2.0: More Adaptive Gardening Advice for Seniors.” Both books are as essential to gardeners as books on pruning, weeding or any other gardening task.

He offers many great tips and explains how we don’t have to compromise our desirable garden, but we can adapt it to fit our health and abilities. Finally, when our outdoor gardening is over, we don’t have to be a retired gardener; there are many indoor plants that are very low maintenance. Get the books directly from Duane at thepancoastconcern.com/the_ geriatric_gardener.

purchases add up quickly -- research from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that 60%-70% of supermarket transactions are impulse buys. That’s a big chunk of change you don’t need to spend.

7. GO ORGANIC WHERE IT COUNTS

Save your organic dollars for foods more likely to harbor pesticide residues, like soft-skinned fruits, meat, milk and chicken. Check out the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” lists at www.foodnews. org for guidance. Spoiler alert: Organic cookies are not a wise option.

8. BREAK UP WITH BRANDS

We all have our brand loyalties, but it’s time to let most of them go. Store brands and generics are often just as good -sometimes identical -- to their namebrand counterparts. Don’t like it? Most stores will happily refund your money if you’re not satisfied.

9. BE A COUPON NINJA

Digital or paper coupons can be great, but read the fine print. Make sure you’re grabbing the right item and size, and watching those expiration dates. It’s frustrating to grab the wrong thing and miss out on the savings.

10. KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN

Markdowns, buy-one-get-one-free deals or specials can be great -- but only if you double-check. Ask a store employee to verify prices to make sure your coupon applies or if something seems unclear. Don’t let sneaky tactics trip you up. You’re smarter than the grocery store’s gimmicks.

With these strategies in your arsenal,

you’re well on your way to a leaner, meaner grocery bill. And who knows -you might even have some fun outsmarting the system while you’re at it. Now, go forth and conquer those aisles!

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.”

Stop as You Get Older

Another book that is oriented toward the senior gardener is Toni Gatone’s “The Lifelong Gardener: Garden with Ease and Joy at Any Age.” Toni is a frequent speaker on topics such as herbs, fruits, vegetables, rooftop gardens and more. Her book is filled with tried-and-true methods of gardening that will eliminate physical strains by using the proper tools. It is available at bookstores and Amazon. One of the tips that both Duane and Toni give for gardeners is to plant into containers. Barbara Wise is another garden speaker and author. She wrote “Container Gardening for All Seasons.” This book dives into 101 beautiful flowerpots. Each one has a recipe that is easy to follow. You don’t have to be a senior gardener to enjoy this book. Just pick a picture of a flowerpot that you like and go to the garden center to buy the plants. Plant it following the recipe, and you will have the prettiest flowers on the block. It is also available at bookstores and Amazon.

One of the ways that senior gardeners an reduce the labor involved in

maintaining their landscape is to replace some of the lawn grass with ground cover plants. This is especially true in shady areas where grass doesn’t grow as well as other plants. A great book that teaches you how to effectively remove the grass and pick a prettier, lower maintenance plant is “Groundcover Revolution.” Author Kathy Jentz is also the editor for Washington Gardener Magazine and the award-winning GardenDC Podcast. “Groundcover Revolution” is again in bookstores and Amazon. Don’t forget, the “Greener View Gardening” book is available on Amazon. It is for gardeners of every age and every experience level. It also pairs up with my YouTube channel which will have 400 videos by the end of the year. I would love to hear from you on which topics you want me to cover with videos in the new year.

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

A GREENER VIEW

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of December 15-21, 2024

Every star we see in the night sky is like our sun. Sure, some are larger or smaller, and some are hotter or cooler, but all work the same way. Each is a thermonuclear fusion reactor that converts millions of tons of hydrogen into helium each second and, in the process, releases energy -- some of which we see as light.

Also like our sun, most stars are home to planetary systems. Despite these not being visible to the human eye, this has been a topic of study for many centuries. As far back as 2,000 years ago, ancient Greek thinkers conducted vigorous debates on the subject.

It wasn’t until 1983 that the Infrared Astronomy Satellite detected a dusty disk around the bright star Vega, producing the first evidence of a planetary system in formation.

Since that time, astronomers have found other such protoplanetary disks around other stars, but in 1995 they made a stunning discovery. They found the first actual planet orbiting the star known as 51 Pegasi some 50 light-years away. And if you think this wasn’t a big deal, this discovery won the Nobel Prize in 2019!

The newly found planet was known to astronomers as 51 Pegasi b, but in 2015 the International Astronomical Union announced that they had assigned it an

STARGAZERS

The Dusty Disk of Vega

official proper name: Dimidium.

Today, we can count more than 7,300 planets and more than 5,000 planetary systems orbiting nearby stars. The technology for finding these has improved so much in the past quarter-century that their number rises significantly every year. If you’d like to keep up with the rapid pace of planet discoveries, visit both exoplanet.eu/catalog and science. nasa.gov/exoplanets and have a look around!

So what about that first dusty disk found around Vega some four decades ago? Do we know any more about it? Is it, in fact, the beginnings of a new planetary system? Great questions, all!

When the Hubble Space Telescope was launched in 1990, astronomers aimed it toward Vega and saw reflected light from dust the size of smoke particles mostly on the edge of a 100-billionmile-wide disk. In 2005, they used the infrared Spitzer Space Telescope to map this dusty ring but couldn’t see much detail -- at least, not enough to determine if there existed any clumps that would ultimately form planets.

And this year, the new James Webb Space Telescope aimed its 6-meter diameter infrared-sensitive eye toward Vega for an even closer look.

From its perch a million miles above the Earth, it resolved the glow of warm sand-sized particles and found the disk to be remarkably smooth. In other words, there appeared no evidence of

planets within, nor even clumpiness in the disk that might eventually lead to the birth of planets.

This is an important finding because it throws into question our understanding of how planets and planetary systems come to be and opens an entirely new path for astronomers to explore.

Step outside this week to check out

Vega; it’s the brightest star low in the western sky after dark. Of course, you can’t see its disk, but you can see the star that’s captured astronomers’ imaginations!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. .

Sleeping in C Minor

“Ow!”

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

I woke up with a start when my husband’s left arm whacked me in the head. I rolled over to yell at him and saw that he was sound asleep. His hands, however, were wide awake and keeping a perfect 3/4 time to some mystery concerto. Sadly, this was not the first time this had happened. My husband works in the music industry, and like most husbands, he tends to take his work to bed with him. For us, this means he goes to sleep dreaming of music. Sometimes I wake up to the sound of him humming in his sleep, which, truthfully, can be kind of cute if not for the fact that he wakes me out of a dead sleep humming. But the other, less cute thing he does in his sleep is conduct. And things can get dicey when he is working on a big orchestral piece and I happen to be sleeping in the string section.

After my husband whacked me, I rubbed my forehead and wondered if I should interrupt the symphony and tell the players to take five, or roll over and go back to sleep.

I watched for a minute and saw his hands start to slow down. I wasn’t sure if the piece he was conducting had become more allegro or if one of the horn players had screwed up and they were trying it again more slowly.

Deciding the conducting coast was clear, I closed my eyes and tried to go back to sleep. But just as I dropped off, I got another blow to the head.

“OK, maestro, concert’s over!” I barked at my husband, shaking his shoulder.

His eyes popped open.

“What?”

“You’re conducting in your sleep again!” I exclaimed.

He snorted. “I was not.”

“You were, and you whacked me in

the head twice!” I responded. “Could you switch to a more sedate piece of music?”

He laughed.

“It’s not funny. I didn’t know orchestral music was a contact sport. Couldn’t you just snore like other husbands?”

While I was clearly not a fan of being whacked in the head by my husband in his sleep, I suddenly realized there might actually be an untapped resource in his sleep-conducting. If he could conduct in his sleep, why couldn’t he do some other things that would be infinitely more productive? Maybe we could get him to dream about home repairs and have him fix the broken garage door in his sleep. Or change the lightbulbs in the bathroom. Or even take out the garbage. He could sleepchore his way through all the things he complained about doing when he was awake. It was genius.

“I’m going back to sleep,” he said

groggily.

A few minutes passed, then I heard my husband’s breathing get more rhythmic, and I knew he was asleep. I leaned in close to him and began to chant softly into his ear:

“Garage door. Garage door. Garage door.”

“Garage door,” he murmured.

“Yes, garage door. Fix the garage door,” I said softly.

“Good plan,” he said loudly. “And if you’re going down to the garage, you might want to grab a bike helmet in case I whack you again.”

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.

LOST IN SUBURBIA

The bright star Vega is visible in the western sky this week. (

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

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MARKETPLACE

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MARKETPLACE

INVITED SALES

BY TRACY JORDAN

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Gingerbread takes the cake

Tender Gingerbread Cake

Plenty of foods are associated with Christmastime, but none perhaps as familiar as gingerbread. Although the slightly spicy and warming tang of gingerbread often is enjoyed in cookie form or baked into panels used to create gingerbread houses, the spice combination of ginger, cloves and cinnamon can impart a delicious flavor to cakes as well.

This holiday season, whip up this recipe for “Tender Gingerbread Cake” from “Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy” (Sourcebooks) by Danielle Kartes.

Yield: 1 cake

1 cup packed muscovado sugar (dark brown works great)

1⁄2 cup plus 2 tablespoons butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 eggs, room temperature

1⁄4 cup plain full-fat Greek or plain yogurt

1 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt

1⁄2 teaspoon cinnamon

1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves

1) Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 9-by-9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.

2) Cream the sugar, butter, and vanilla on low speed, 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time and mix until just incorporated, then scrape down the sides of the bowl and gently fold the yogurt into the batter.

1⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger

1⁄4 teaspoon apple pie spice

1 cup hot water

3⁄4 cup molasses

3) In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices together.

4) In a third bowl, mix the hot water and molasses together.

5) Now mix the dry ingredients into the batter in 3 additions, alternating with the hot molasses water. Do not overmix.

6) Pour the batter into your

Garnishes 1⁄2 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 cup pomegranate arils

lined pan and bake 25 to 30 minutes until the cake is well baked. Allow the gingerbread to cool, then dust with confectioners’ sugar and pomegranate arils. This cake is also lovely with cream cheese icing! Serve and enjoy.

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Troop 243 honored by Chamber, local officials

On November 21, the Garden City Chamber of Commerce, led by President John E. Wilton, hosted a prestigious event at Adelphi University to celebrate the outstanding contributions of local organizations. Boy Scout Troop 243 was honored to receive numerous citations and proclamations in recognition of their commitment to community service, leadership development, and the values of Scouting.

The Citation Award was presented by esteemed local officials, including: Donald X. Clavin, Jr., Elaine Phillips, John Giuffre, Mary Carter Flanagan, Jessical Tai, Dorathy Goosby, Dennis Dunne, Sr., Thomas E. Muscarella, Melissa Miller, Laura A. Ryder, Christopher R. Schneider, Kate Murray, and Jeanine C. Driscoll

The event showcased the dedication of Troop 243 to fostering the values of citizenship, character, and service. Scoutmaster Antonio Cruz accepted the award on behalf of the Troop, expressing gratitude for the recognition. “This honor is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our Scouts, who strive to make a positive impact in our community,” said many attendees.

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce continues to highlight the efforts of local organizations like Troop 243 that strengthen the fabric of the community. The Troop looks forward to continuing its mission of service and leadership in the years ahead.

Boy Scout Troop 243 was honored by local officials at an event held by the Garden City Chamber of Commerce.

Varsity Kickline caps off amazing fall season

November was a month of play-off excitement for Garden City Football with entertainment by Garden City Varsity Kickline during halftime. The Seniors choreographed routines throughout the play-off month of November for the semifinals, Counties, and the pinnacle, the Long Island Championship. Each routine wowed crowds with high kicks and impeccable dance synchronization choregraphed to popular songs, “Stole the Show”, “Our Story” and “Shiver Remix”. And the bonus was the boys won the Long Island championship again!

The team is under the direction of GCVK alum Elena DiChiara. Captains are Emma Carey, Giana DeVito, Lola Imperiale, Riley McNaboe, and Roisin Pfaff. In addition to the captains, the talented kickers on this team are: Seniors: Devlin Abbate, Gianna Fodera, Olivia Giordano, Amelia Graser, Mia Johnston, Gracie Krawiec, Eva LoPiano, Julia Melendez, Morgan Myers, Silvana Newcomb, Liv Sioukas, Maria-Isabella Ucinski; Juniors: Valentina Clavijo, Ashley Conefry, Julianna Costelli, Tessa Frascogna, Emma Glick, Gracyn Henry, Fiona Kinney, Sarah Liu, Ella

Signature jump split ending.

Photo by Ed Rotondo

2024-2025 GCVK captains: Roisin Pfaff, Emma Carey, Giana DeVito, Lola Imperiale, and Riley McNaboe.

Photo by Ed Rotondo

Wowing crowds with perfect pom synchronization.

Photo by Ed Rotondo

2024–2025 Varsity Kickline team.

Photo by Ed Rotondo

Varsity Kickline caps off amazing fall season

Marchan, Jessy Martin, Mackenzie Molloy, Muireann O’Brien, Emily Pelter, Molly Pryor, Julia Ross, Cecelia Santos, Katie Schneider, Julia Sullivan; Sophomores: Fiona Bailey, Alexandra DiCaprio, Olivia Vendetti, Olivia Larenas; Freshman: Aydan Eschmann.

In addition to high flying kicks all season, the girls enjoyed fun bonding time with pasta parties, pre-game breakfasts and holiday celebrations. The girls high kicks can next be seen on December 19 during halftime of the Boys Varsity Basketball game!

Pre-performance team breakfast.

GCPD officer honored for saving child

Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin (second left), Councilman Tom Muscarella (right) and Town Clerk Kate Murray (left) presented the Town of Hempstead Police Service Award to Officer Thomas Schade of the Garden City Police Department in recognition of his dedication to serving and protecting the residents of America’s largest township. Officer Schade displayed his quick-thinking ability and tenacity this past summer, responding to a report of an infant in cardiac arrest after a near-drowning experience. In the sweltering heat, Officer Schade ran from the parking lot of Garden City Pool in full gear with a medical bag in hand, rushing inside. Upon arriving at the scene, Officer Thomas Schade knew that the infant’s life was in his hands and his next few actions would be crucial factor. Without missing a beat, he began providing first aid to the child. He quickly administered oxygen to the infant in efforts to revive the child’s heartbeat. His selfless commitment to his duties and his dedication in such a critical situation has led to the infant making a full recovery without any complications.

The team celebrated a fabulous fall season with a holiday party

Adult Evening Programs at the Field House

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

Mondays - Mens’ Basketball - 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 participant 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 nonresidents. 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.

Programs with Pioneer Sports!

Pioneer’s “Super Sports Program” is a 3-day multi-sports camp held on Monday, Thursday and Friday during the winter break (12/23- 1/3). To attend the program for all 6 days, the cost is $315. You may also register for individual days which costs $60 per day. The program will take place at the St. Paul’s Fieldhouse from 9am- 12pm. To register please visit https://pioneersports. leagueapps.com/camps/

Join Pioneer Sports for fun filled multi-sport camps at the St. Paul’s Fieldhouse on January 20 and January 29. This program is open to children in grades K–5 and will take place from 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Cost of the program is $60 per child per day. To register, visit Https://pioneersports.leagueapps.com/ events/

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!

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 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 ongoing 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

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.

Coming Events for the Holiday Season:

“Twas the Night Before Christmas” –Family Show

Sunday, December 22, at 1 p.m. in Cluett Hall

Live performance by the Sunrise Theatre Company

New Year’s Eve Celebration for Kids! – * Family Show!

Tuesday, December 31, at 12 noon in Cluett Hall

Featuring entertainment by Jester Jim!

* Please make reservations to attend family shows by calling the Recreation Office at 516 465-4075. Registration begins on Wednesday, December 11. Family events are free of charge. Letters to Santa

It’s time to send letters to Santa and the Recreation Department will speed up the process! A special “Santa’s Mailbox” will be set up in the waiting area of the Recreation Department’s Administrative Offices at 108 Rockaway Avenue beginning December 2. Children can drop their letters in the mailbox and Santa will send them a personalized reply. Santa’s mailbox will be available through December 20.

Christmas Candy Contest

In addition to sending their letters to Santa, kids can take a chance at guessing the number of candy pieces in the jar next to Santa’s Mailbox and the child whose guess is closest to the actual number will win the jar, candy and all! As with Santa’s mailbox, the candy contest will be available from December 9 to December 20.

Family Fun Times on Sundays

On Sunday afternoons beginning January 5, St. Paul’s Field House will be open for “Family Fun” for Village of Garden City families. This open time provides the opportunity for families to enjoy various gym activities in an indoor environment. The gym will be available for use from 2:45 to 4:45 p.m. each Sunday until March 9. This time is designated for family time only. No organized practices or workouts will be allowed. Although

GARDEN CITY RECREATION AND PARK NEWS

there will be staff to monitor activity, this is not a drop off program. We ask that all elementary and middle school aged children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian. For the safety of our users, sports involving paddle, stick, or bat equipment will not be allowed.

Registration for the Winter Session of the Ultimate Workout

Registration begins Monday, December 9.

Tennis Ultimate Workout

12 sessions – 1. 5-hour classes ** FEE: $350.

(A fun way to drill for the experienced tennis player)

Please note: Ultimate Workout is geared to the intermediate and advanced level player

Meeting Dates: Saturdays: January 11, 18, 25; February 1, 8, 15; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; April 5

No Class on Feb 22

Time: 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon

No online registration accepted.

Please sign up in person or mail a check with below form, to the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

Registration is on a first come - first served basis. Space is limited.

Pickleball championship players take home awards

Garden City's Carina Szabo and friends took home some impressive awards in their respctive age and level categories at the pickleball national championships in Mesa, Arizona on November 9–17.

Above: Bob Kessler, Gold Mixed Doubles and Bronze Men's Doubles; Chelsea Lizaius, Gold Women's Singles, Bronze Women's Doubles; Carina Szabo, Silver Women's Singles, Bronze Women's Doubles; and Jake Sandler, Gold Men's Singles.

GCAA Basketball Results Week 1

Girls 2nd and 3rd Grade Standings

Boys 4th Grade

Girls 4th thru 6th Grade Results

Date Score

12/7/2024 Pelicans - 10, Lakers - 8

12/7/2024 Knicks - 38, Bucks - 28

12/7/2024 Heat - 26, Celtics - 10

12/7/2024 Mavericks - 16, Warriors - 16

Girls 4th thru 6th Grade Standings Team Won

Boys 2nd Grade Standings

Boys 5th Grade Results Date

12/7/2024 Pelicans - 36, Lakers - 19

12/7/2024 Knicks - 16, Bucks - 11

12/7/2024 Warriors - 34, Mavericks - 23

12/7/2024 Celtics - 31, Heat - 21

Boys 5th Grade Standings

Boys 3rd Grade Results

Date Score

12/7/2024 Celtics - 17, Mavericks - 12

12/7/2024 Warriors - 21, Knicks - 15

12/7/2024 Lakers - 20, Heat - 7

Boys 3rd Grade Standings

Boys 4th Grade Results

Date

Boys 6th

Boys 6th Grade Standings

- 35

Boys 7th/8th Grade Results

12/6/2024 HEat - 46, Celtics - 32

12/6/2024

12/7/2024 Jazz - 24, Lakers - 11

12/7/2024 Knicks - 22, Celtics - 14

12/7/2024 Pelicans - 38, Heat - 26

12/7/2024 Mavericks - 14, Clippers - 12

12/7/2024 Bucks - 22, Warriors - 17

GCAA Tornadoes visit Adelphi Hawks

Left to right: Liam Maher, Hudson Overby, Jack Joelson, Henry Crain, James Schrubbe, Rohan Hurley, Leo Nero, Jake Serafino, Felix Ehrig. Back row: Coach Marc Serafino, Coach Mike Joelson. Not pictured: Joey Sileo, Luke Haskell, Wyatt Acquavito, Teddy Delaney.

The GCAA Tornadoes fourth grade basketball team visited Adelphi University on Sunday, December 8, as the men’s basketball team took on the Hawks from Saint Anselm. The Adelphi Panthers handily defeated the Hawks 90-63 in an exciting matchup. The boys were inspired by the infectious energy in the arena and enjoyed cheering on the home team.

The Tornadoes participated in the high five tunnel as the starting Panthers were announced, played one another in a fast-paced scrimmage during half time, and visited

the locker room as Adelphi head coach David Duke spoke with his team after the big win. The Adelphi dance team hosted a youth clinic the same morning, and many of the Tornadoes players’ sisters were able to perform at halftime with the dance team.

The Tornadoes play in the Island Garden Super League as part of the GCAA Travel Basketball program. They are coached by Mike Joelson, Nick Acquavito, Marc Serafino, and Joe Sileo. Their first game of the season is on Thursday, December 12.

Rohan Hurley makes a fast break as Leo Nero guards him.

The GCAA Tornadoes formed a high five tunnel for the starting Panthers. Liam Maher and James Schrubbe guard Jack Joelson as he goes for a layup.

The GCAA Tornadoes formed a high five tunnel for the starting Panthers.

Ava Joelson and Milly Nero pose with members of Adelphi Dance Team after their halftime performance.

Henry Crain dribbles the ball down the court.

GC wrestlers notch top finishes at Manhasset Invitational

Last Saturday, the Trojans’ Varsity Wrestling team opened their 2024–2025 season at the annual Manhasset Invitational. Thirteen Garden City boys entered the tournament and competed against wrestlers from nine other high schools: Cold Spring Harbor, Farmingdale, Grand Street Campus, Kings Park, Manhasset, North Shore, Seaford, Westhampton Beach, and Wheatley.

Farmingdale cruised to the team title, with Manhasset finishing a distant second. Garden City finished a respectable 4th with 161.5 total points — a nice improvement over last year’s 135.5 score at the same tournament. GC had four wrestlers qualify for their championship bouts -- sophomore Eric Chen at 131 lbs, senior Nick Griffin at 138 lbs, junior Anthony Pica at 145 lbs, and senior Jack Cicione at 190 lbs. Griffin was the sole winner of the bunch, though he had to fight back from a 7-1 third period deficit in his semifinal match before a dominating 15-2 performance over the #1 seed in the bracket final.

Five other Trojans finished in the top six in their weight classes: freshman Ryan Bozelli (5th at 108 lbs), senior Bennett Griffin (4th at 145 lbs), junior Gabe Cohen (3rd at 152 lbs), junior Kyle Walsh (4th at 190), and sopho-

more Cooper Bromberg (5th at 285 lbs). Two others recorded wins on the day — sophomore Vin Lattuca (124 lbs) and freshman Nick Sampieri (131 lbs). Seniors Joe Lippens (152 lbs) and Walker Scricca (190 lbs) also competed in the tournament.

Up next, Garden City will host twelve

other squads for the annual Bobby Menges Trojan War tournament, tomorrow December 14. New head coach Stephen Jones has converted what was once a dual meet tournament into one of the premier individual tournaments on Long Island. The occasion also serves as a fundraiser for the Bobby Menges "I'm

Not Done Yet" Foundation -- remembering the former Trojan wrestler and student leader, Bobby Menges, who passed away at the age of 19 in 2017 after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. Please come out and enjoy a day of top-flight wrestling and support a great cause!

Ben Griffin finished with 3 wins on the day.

Gabe Cohen overcame a wild 25-22 semifinal loss to place third in his bracket.

Nick Griffin won his second consecutive Manhasset Invitational Title.

Kyle Walsh in action versus a Cold Spring Harbor wrestler.

Trojans – It’s not one team, it’s one nation!

This past Saturday, the Trojan Nation came together in full force to witness an extraordinary moment: the Garden City High School Varsity Football team secured their 54th consecutive victory and claimed their 12th Long Island Championship at

Stony Brook University.

A Garden City football game is far more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of community spirit.

Over 150 Garden City students contribute their talents on and off the field as football players, cheerlead -

ers, kickline performers, and members of the marching band. These events are a cornerstone of our town, bringing together student fans, families, friends, and alumni. From the endzone, the next generation watches with wide-eyed anticipation, dreaming of the day they’ll step onto the turf and carry forward the proud tradition of the Trojan Nation.

The Trojan Nation’s success and unity have flourished under the

leadership of Athletic Director Ed Ramirez. Since arriving in Garden City in 2022, Mr. Ramirez has infused the district with fresh energy and enthusiasm. Students of all ages strive for the excitement of a shoutout on Trojan Nation’s social media platforms, aiming for the ultimate recognition—the coveted “Name and Sport.”

Superintendent Dr. Kasum Sinha said, “Our football program exem -

Senior champions with the fans.

The Spirit of the School - The Garden City Cheerleaders Garden City Kickline

Trojans football and cheerleaders celebrate an amazing season.

The award-winning GC Band.

The Alumni - last year’s seniors come back to watch the streak continue

Trojans – It’s not one team, it’s one nation!

plifies the heart of Garden City: dedication, excellence, and unity. This win is so much more than a championship—it’s a celebration of what makes Garden City special. Our students, whether they’re on the field, performing with the band, or cheering from the stands, bring an incred -

ible energy and pride that unites us all. I couldn’t be prouder!”

The Trojan Nation is more than a legacy; it’s a living, breathing community that continues to grow and inspire every generation. Congratulations to all and Let’s go Trojans!

The next generation.

Family, friends and football.

arthritis You Need To Know

BY AHMED AHMED

Did you know that nearly 50% of adults over 65 show signs of osteoarthritis?

This wide-spread disease makes it frustrating to enjoy simple pleasures like gardening, walking with your friends, or playing with your grandkids.

And to understand it, first you need to understand bones - the building blocks of your body.

The two hundred and six bones you may have, connect together to make up the skeletal system…

At the end of your bones you have tissue called cartilage.

Cartilage protects your bones by distributing the load onto your joints and reducing friction as you move.

Now when you move your joints, bones move too!

And as this happens, they rub against each other which can potentially cause pain- IF your cartilage is damaged.

Here’s the thing…

Cartilage is like the eraser at the end of a pencil…

When it’s brand new, the eraser looks shiny and thick.

The more you use your eraser the more it wears down!

And when it’s worn all the way down,

you can’t use it anymore.

Slowing down this inevitable wear and tear process can help you avoid surgery and pain.

But how?

You get your bones in alignment, because misalignment will lead to quick cartilage loss.

This cartilage loss is also known as osteoarthritis, which often leads to horrible pain problems.

To illustrate how misalignment speeds up the demise of your joints imagine this…

There’s a 100-pound magician lying on a bed of 100 nails…

He’s fine because each nail only supports 1 pound.

Now imagine him on just 10 nails, all on his left side.

Each nail now takes 10 pounds, and the left side is under serious strain.

This is what happens to your joints when they’re misaligned!

Uneven pressure leads to faster wear and tear and ultimately osteoarthritis.

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

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call 294-8900 or visit us online www.gcnews.com to request information & rates Litmor Publishing's Community Newspapers

Ahmed Ahmed

St. Anne’s X-country team crosses season’s finish line

The cold of November didn’t stop our fourth through eigth graders from having a great race.

Another thrilling season has come to a close for the St. Anne’s CYO CrossCountry team. This dedicated group of runners practiced twice a week, working on different aspects of racing and building their speed and endurance. Throughout the season the team participated in meets at parks and schools throughout Long Island. With each meet the runners became stronger and more determined, and their hard work in practice paid off.

From the smallest kindergartners to experienced middle schoolers, every runner contributed to the success of the team. The runners were all great teammates and supporters of one another, pushing each other in practice and cheering each other on at the finish line. The coaches couldn’t be prouder of all the runners and the efforts they made.

St. Anne’s CYO Cross Country and Track program prides itself on teach-

This year, St. Anne’s ran in two new meets at Eisenhower park. The 2nd and 3rd grade boys smashed their half mile course.

ing sportsmanship, having fun, and instilling a lifelong love of running. Programs are run year round, and are open to children from grades kindergarten through eighth grade who live within St. Anne’s parish;attend St. Anne’s school; or worship and attend faith formation classes at St. Anne’s Church. Registration for winter track is now open. For registration information and more please visit https:// www.stannesgccyo.org/indoor_track/.

The Pee Wees and Coach Chris always bring their full energy to ever practice and meet.

All the way through the finish line!

A beautiful fall race at Belmont Lake State Park.

GCAA ThunderFootball congratulateS

GCAA ThunderFootball congratulateS is proud to be part of the Garden City Football Community. Champion Football Football

2024LongIslandChampion & Rutgers Cup Winner

GardenCit y Trojan s Football

Thunder 9 toy drive

Some of the Thunder 9’s players, along with their siblings and friends, did a toy collection for the children in the emergency room at Cohen Children’s Hospital. Thank you to everyone who contributed!

Pictured: Callum and Jackson Weber, Jack, Ryan, and Aiden Williamson.

Garden City represented at Challenge of Champions

Garden City kids Samantha “Nuke” Arnouk and Anthony “AJ” Oliveri getting ready to compete.

On December 8, the Tiger Schulmann’s Martial Arts organization hosted its bi-annual mixed martial arts tournament in Edison, New Jersey. The Challenge of Champions sees competitors from all Tiger Schulmann schools across the tri state area gather to test their skills in kickboxing and jiu jitsu. The Village of Garden City was represented by Samantha “Nuke” Arnouk, 8, and Anthony “AJ” Oliveri, 9, both students at Stewart School.

Sports Events

For the last 3 months, in addition to their regular training schedule, Samantha and AJ participated in tournament training, developed and executed by Joshu Steve Inoshima of Tiger Schulmann’s in Garden City. The tournament training is designed to mimic the competition in terms of rules, round length and overall match flow not to mention help the competitors hone the skills and grit that they would take to

the mat with them.

For Samantha it was her first time competing, opting the kickboxing route. She found herself in a field of 12 and was able to amass victories in the eighth finals and quarterfinals, enabling her to place 4th within the bracket. A returning competitor, AJ participated in both disciplines. Both of his matches were well fought, as he pushed his scoreless jiu jitsu match into overtime and came up a hair short in kickboxing. And while wins and medals are great, the Challenge of Champions is about students representing their schools, testing themselves and digging deep to push forward with their heart.

And that is exactly what Samantha and AJ did; not only as representatives of Tiger Schulmann’s in Garden City, but also as representatives for the Village of Garden City displaying courage and valor.

Dave Ettinger named Jets’ HS Coach of Week

The Jets named Garden City High School’s Dave Ettinger the High School Coach of the Week for the week of Nov. 4.

The Jets High School Coach of the Week award, now in its 29th year, recognizes a coach in the tristate area who exemplifies the best of the game. This includes teaching strong football fundamentals, inspiring young players to excel, and supporting youth football through dedication to their community, school and student-athletes.

Coach Ettinger began his coaching career at Garden City Middle School in 1999 and became an assistant coach for the Trojans in 2006. Since taking over as head coach in 2015, he has led the team to eight Nassau County Championships and six Long Island Class II Championships. Earlier this season, Ettinger became the fastest coach in Nassau County history to achieve 100 career victories. On Nov. 30, he led the Trojans to their 54th consecutive win—a Long Island record—by defeating Sayville, 31-28, to secure the Long Island Class III Championship.

Ettinger, a 1993 graduate of Commack High School, played football at Hofstra University as a four-year starting kicker and earned All-American honors. He later competed in the 1997 Hula Bowl and participated in the 1998 NFL scouting combine. His overall coaching record now stands at an impressive 105-3.

Garden City High School football coach Dave Ettinger with a custom Jets jersey.

Photo courtesy of the Garden City School District

As part of the award, Ettinger received a $1,000 donation for the school's football program and was invited to attend a New York Jets game, where he was honored on the field at MetLife Stadium. Garden City High School also earned an automatic bid to compete in the 2025 New York Jets 11-ON Tournament.

Bobby Menges’ Trojan War Tournament

If you’re interested in supporting a great cause and watching some competitive wrestling, stop by GCHS on Saturday, December 14, between 9:30 and 5:00. The Garden City High School Wrestlers are proud to be hosting this tournament in honor of Bobby Menges, a Garden City High School wrestler (2015 graduate) who tragically passed away from cancer at 19. While Bobby was ill, he and his family learned that the needs of young adults with cancer are very different than those of children and adults. The “I’m Not Done Yet” foundation was established by Bobby’s family. The aim is to raise money to support the unique needs of young adults who are battling cancer. During the tournament, raffles will be

sold. 100% of the raffle sales will go to Bobby’s foundation. Raffle prizes include a PlayStation 5 (slim), Apple wireless AirPods, Islanders tickets and a gift card to SmokHaus, a Sephora gift card, a stand up paddleboard and more! The cost of raffle tickets starts at $3.

The Bobby Menges tournament had previously been a dual tournament.

Coach Jones, Garden City’s new head coach, was enthusiastic about continuing the tradition of hosting a tournament in honor of Bobby. Coach Jones was able to include twice as many teams as in the past. Including Garden City, there will be thirteen teams competing. Consider stopping by!

THE MARKET IN A MINUTE

As the year draws to a close, we want to take a moment to thank our clients and our readers for your trust and support throughout the year. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Holiday season ﬁlled with warmth, happiness, and cherished moments. May the New Year bring prosperity, health, and exciting opportunities your way! Looking forward to staying connected in 2025!