The Garden City News (01/01/21)

A SNOWMAN FOR THE TIMES

Visitors to Garden City’s gazebo on after the first snowfall of the season made a snowman for the times, including a mask for its face.

With Village backing, Cathedral Ave. traffic solutions to be presented to county

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

Traffic and pedestrian safety on Cathedral Avenue will be a priority for the Village heading into the new year.

At the November 19th Village of Garden City Traffic Commission meeting, some Central section residents discussed efforts to improve a dangerous roadway. Residents said they have seen far too many ‘close calls’ and frightening

accidents near their homes.

The Village’s Traffic Commission, which consists of members of the Board of Trustees, Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson and the Department of Public Works has instructed the municipal staff to procure an engineering study to address traffic accidents on Cathedral Avenue, and to approach Nassau County Public Works officials to seek solutions.

The County offices were to be presented with the full study supporting the neighborhood’s concerns and possible solutions, such as new lane markings.

The Very Reverend Dr. Michael T. Sniffen, Dean of the Cathedral of the Incarnation, commented before the Traffic Commission November 19: “On behalf of the Episcopal

See page 41

Garden City is ‘Project Central’ for 2021

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

The Village of Garden City enters 2021 with multiple capital projects and big-ticket construction planning items on the table, ranging from public use facilities to water system infrastructure, potential improvements for recreational opportunities and enhancing the functionality and appearance of village properties.

St. Paul’s main building

The future of the St. Paul’s project remains an albatross for the Village Board as the stabilization and abatement of contamination/ hazardous materials continues. There has been no decision on the building’s ultimate fate as discussions about a new use were largely on hold during 2020.

As reported in October in The Garden City News, stabilization of the building involves addressing the mansard roofs including missing shingles and gutters, stormwater management and some structural work. Meanwhile environmental protection and ivy removal have already been done.

Consultants to the village, VHB Engineering, will conduct a Phase II environmental assessment and then a bid package can be formalized for cleanup (abatement) work. The Phase I study completed by VHB consisted of a visual inspection and investigation of property/site records and that identified the likelihood of contaminants in the building. VHB’s Phase II environmental assessment of St. Paul’s was set to examine conditions and the scope of work, including what contractors must ultimately clean out from the building.

Garden City Casino

Another historic building and ‘centerpiece’ in Garden City, that still has an uncertain future is the Garden City Casino at 51 Cathedral Avenue, which has housed what the village’s Mayor Theresa Trouvé calls an ‘extraordinary tennis and social club’ for the past 125 years. Unlike St. Paul’s, the Stanford White-designed Casino built in 1895 is not listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But the parcel is village-owned and at some Board meetings during 2019 and 2020, trustees were openly contemplating plans

Welcome, 2021

Dear 2020,

You started out as such a nice year, what happened?

When New Years rolled around last December 31st you were there, shiny and new, with your nice round twos and zeros. We had a nice mild winter here, and everyone was full of plans and ideas for the new year. Lose weight, try new work projects (we were thinking about creating a podcast!).

Sure, there was something going on over in China, where those poor people had some kind of new respiratory illness. But, we thought it would be like SARS or the swine flu - dangerous in theory, but not really much of an impact on most of us.

Then, all of a sudden the poor people

were in a nursing home in Seattle. And then they were everywhere.

Businesses shut down, leaving hopeful little notes on their front doors saying “See you in April.” (Some of those signs are still up around town.)

And then came the waves of civil unrest after videos of Black people being killed by police spread. And then some of the protests became riots. And then one of the most bitter elections in modern history.

So, 2020, you did not live up to what we expected of you. And while we are grateful to have made it to your end, we’re done with you. Get out and good riddance.

All of us

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

How we elect a mayor

To the Editor:

On March 16, 2021 residents will also elect a resident to serve as Mayor. Every two years the Mayoral position rotates from property owners’ association to property owners’ association. At this time the senior Trustee in that section can choose to run for that position. If the senior Trustee chooses not to, the junior Trustee would then be next in line to run for the position. This process enables each section of the Village to have mayoral representation regardless of population. As a result, the Estates and the West (the two sections with the smallest populations) have an equal opportunity to have the Mayor come from their section on this rotational basis.

When you are Mayor you need to understand how our entire Village works. Every year Trustees are assigned to different Departments, including Public Works, Police, Fire, Recreation, Finance and the Library, to mention a few. These assignments rotate in order to enable Trustees to understand, in detail, how that Department works. With a $67 million budget, eight Departments, 270 employees, and Union and legal matters, a Mayor needs an understanding of how our Village oper-

ates on a day-to-day basis. This is the reason the senior Trustee is chosen as the first choice.

To be Mayor also demands a tremendous commitment of our most precious commodity…TIME. This is not a position that can be served on a part-time basis. In addition to Village responsibilities, the Mayor must represent our Village on a political level with Nassau County, New York State and other municipalities. Then there are the emergencies that can occur. Two most recent examples are Superstorm Sandy and the Covid-19 nightmare. You have to know every department, every department head and all your local politicians in order to maintain the services that keep this Village functioning.

It is easy to focus on a few large issues but forget the basic everyday needs of our residents, including garbage collection, water supply protection, children’s recreation needs, and Police and Fire protection. This is done while keeping your Village taxes as the ONLY tax that has not skyrocketed over the last 10 years. It is easy to criticize. It is hard to volunteer and do the work. More to come...

Robert

Bolebruch, Deputy Mayor, Village of Garden City

Sanitation Collections:

New

Years Day

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage pickup on Friday, January 1, 2021.

The Holiday Week Collection Schedule will be as follows: Western half of the Village (west of Rockaway Avenue): Garbage - Monday and Thursday; Rubbish -

Wednesday, December 30

Eastern half of the Village (east of Rockaway Avenue): GarbageTuesday and Saturday; RubbishWednesday, December 30

Residents scheduled for recycling on Friday, January 1, are asked to put their recyclables out on Friday, January 8.

Do you have a service to advertise?

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

County legislator sponsors bill to help struggling restaurants

BY GARY SIMEONE

The restaurant business has taken a major hit during this ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Nassau County Legislator Josh Lafazan helped to stem the tide last week by sponsoring a new legislation that aims to put a limit on fees charged by third party delivery service apps. The new bill is entitled the Nassau County Restaurant Protection Act.

“The way it works is that delivery service apps such as UberEats and DoorDash charge restaurants a fee per order. These services can take up to 30% of the total sales from the restaurant and also charge a delivery fee to customers,” said Lafazan at a press conference at The Coach Meeting House last week. “In this scenario, restaurants can’t make any money on an order and at worse they can lose money. This new legislation would put a limit on the outrageous fees these delivery service apps can charge.”

Lafazan said that as it stands now, margins for restaurant businesses are

razor thin with added costs for rent utilities and the ingredients to cook the food.

“With these delivery services cutting in on their profit margin and what with COVID has done to the restaurant business, they are caught in a vicious catch-22 cycle. These apps hold 81 percent of the market share because they list restaurants in order for them to gain exposure and leave them with little funds to survive on.”

He added that because restaurants are left high and dry, they don’t have the additional funds to hire a driver or an outside delivery service.

Jeff Lundstrum, owner of the Coach Meeting House in Oyster Bay, said he’d used the UberEats app in the past to help gain exposure for his restaurant.

“At first we used it for the exposure, but over time we saw that it didn’t make sense because we were losing money and basically we were just spinning our wheels,” said Lundstrum. “As a restaurant, your profit margin is about five to ten percent. Add in the food costs, employee costs, cost to run the building,

Adver tise in our papers!

you’re looking at maybe ten percent profit and UberEats is taking thirty percent out. That leaves you with negative twenty percent. Businesses can’t survive like that.”

Lundstrum said he has severed ties with the delivery service app and hired an outside driver for the restaurants delivery service needs.

Lafazan said it was imperative for local government to act on these measures to help save our small businesses amidst the pandemic.

“These independent small restaurants are the pillars of our communities, and the unfortunate reality is that many of them won’t survive the next six months” said Lafazan. “Many of our major cities, including New York City, Seattle and Washington D.C. have already passed these measures to put a limit on the exorbitantly high and predatory fees charged by these third party delivery services.”

Lafazan said that the proposed bill is scheduled to last until 2022, “which will hopefully get these restaurants through unscathed during this pandemic.”

If you own a business or have a service to provide, we’ll create professional advertisements to promote it and help you be seen by thousands of local readers! Call 1-516-294-8900 to inquire!

would-be car thieves – or aid authorities

Nassau County Legislator Joshua A. Lafazan

What we love about the holiday season in our town...

“We feel blessed to live and work in such a wonderful community.”

“The best part of Christmas in GC is the strong sense of community.”

“I

love the spirit of giving.”

“Seventh Street is the heart of the village. you can just feel the joy.”

“Magical, jolly atmosphere.”

“Driving at night viewing all the decorations and lights!” “The Christmas spirit in the village.”

“Seeing joy in people, young and old, finding time to help others.”

Happy New Year to A and a Healthy and Safe 2021 Fr the #1 Br erage in Garden City

“The festive Christmas transformation of every home and storefront.”

“The spirit of joy and gratitude that abounds.”

“Driving through the village to admire all the Christmas trimmings.”

“New lights and fresh decorations mixed with old traditions.”

“The holiday spirit in Garden City brings the community together.”

Not Pictured: William Breslin, Michael Fedor, Robert McMahon, Joseph Pentrancosta, Tara Rice

Stephen Baymack

Stephanie Cullum Manager/ Assoc. Broker Patricia Aprigliano Deirdre Albertson Susan Bashian Laura Baymack Andrea Bharucha Suzanne Blair

Conigliaro Christopher Conners

Laura Fitzgerald

Giannone

Goeller Karen Guendjoian Monica Kiely

Louisa Pironi

Barbara Moore Patricia O Grady Julie O’Neill Rita Paiewonsky

Maribeth Quinn John H Russo Theanne Ricci Laura Rich Elise Ronzetti Sharon Redmond

Angela Linda Sambus

Cathleen Fennessy Whelan Patricia Savella Viviian Tener Kathleen Thornton Mary Weille

Roseanne McMahon

Martocci

Laura Giacini

Breslin, Michael Fedor,

McMahon,

Pentrancosta, Tara Rice

Stephen Baymack

Stephanie Cullum Manager/ Assoc. Broker Patricia Aprigliano Deirdre Albertson Susan Bashian Laura Baymack

Andrea Bharucha Suzanne Blair Liz Breslin Barbara Chmil Roberta Clark Arlene Conigliaro

Christopher Conners Kate Crofton Denise Donlon Bill Eckel Atticka Ellis Lisa Fedor

Laura Fitzgerald Laura Giacini Tara Iori Nancy Giannone Pamela Goeller Karen Guendjoian

Maribeth Quinn

John H Russo Theanne Ricci Laura Rich Elise Ronzetti Sharon Redmond

Angela Linda Sambus

Cathleen Fennessy Whelan

Patricia Savella Viviian Tener Kathleen Thornton Mary Weille

Louisa Pironi

Barbara Moore Patricia O Grady Julie O’Neill Rita Paiewonsky

Or Mayer

Monica Kiely

Roseanne McMahon

Cheryl Adams McAuliffe Jayne McGratty Armstrong

Chris Martocci Sean McCoyd

Are you thinking of selling your home?

Let Jen Sullivan guide you. Whether you are downsizing or searching for your dream home, allow Jen’s experience and results to work for you.

Jen Sullivan

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

182 Seventh Street

Garden City, NY 11530

jennifer.sullivan@compass.com

M: 516.361.7190

Jen

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment Shop

Here’s to a better 2021!

BY MELISSA JAEGER

Should auld acquaintance be forgot...

People have been making – and breaking -- New Year’s resolutions for almost 4,000 years! The tradition of making resolutions started under the Babylonians, though it happened in mid-March, coinciding with the planting season. Not only did they hope for a good crop, but they also promised to pay their debts and return any objects they had borrowed. The Babylonians felt that if they kept their word, the gods would smile upon them; and if not, they would fall out of the gods’ favor. The new year was changed to January 1st during the reign of Julius Caesar. And over time, Christians came to think of this as a time for introspection, of reflecting on one’s mistakes over the past year and resolving to do better. Research shows over 45% of Americans make resolutions, but only about 8% actually follow through on them.

What do I resolve to do this year? Don’t look at me – I won’t fall into that trap (LOL!)  I always remember a friend who resolved to win the lottery. And we all laughed at her, saying that it wasn’t a real resolution. All I can do is hope that with the advent of two Coronavirus vaccines, 2021 will be a better year! I wish and hope that we will be able to go back to “normal,” being able to gather

with friends and family. That is what I truly hope for.

“Auld Lang Syne” is a traditional song we sing on New Year’s Eve, as we bid farewell to the old year. Never have words been more fitting!

We will be open half day on Dec. 31 (10:00–1:00), closed New Year’s Day and open again on Jan. 2 (noon–4:00), resuming our normal schedule. If you’re not comfortable with coming into the shop, please shop online and come into the shop to pick up or pick-up curbside. I will continue to update the TGCHS website with photos of our newest merchandise! Be sure to check out www.tgchs. org We have a link to our online store or you can go directly to our online store at: stores.myresaleweb.com/ at-stewart-exchange. We also post photos on the AT Stewart Exchange Facebook and Instagram pages.

When you do come into the Shop, please follow our established sanitizing protocols and social distancing rules to keep you – and us -- safe. Please, now more than ever, wear your mask. We’re wearing ours. And please use our hand-sanitizer.

For those unfamiliar with the Exchange Consignment Shop, we are housed in TGCHS Museum on 109 Eleventh Street (in the basement of the building). We take jewelry, lamps, mirrors, crystal, pocketbooks, china, furniture, silver, paintings, and collectibles. Unsure if your items are appropriate to consign? Email photos (include sizing info) to store@atstewartexchange.org.   We accept consignments Wednesday through Friday 11:00am – 2:00pm by appointment ONLY, so please call (516) 746-8900.

All the profits from the Consignment Shop support the maintenance and upkeep of The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) Museum. With your generous support, work on the outside of the Museum continues.

The shop is located at 109 Eleventh Street.

Shop Hours: Tues–Fri, 10:00–4:00 p.m.,  Wednesday til 6:00 p.m.;  Sat, noon–4:00 p.m. Please call  (516) 746-8900 for more information.

WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR LUNCH AND DINNER Sun - Thurs 11:30-9pm Fri & Sat 11:30-10pm

The Entire Grimaldi’s Staff would like to wish Everyone a Happy Healthy 2021!

HOLIDAY PACKAGES

Available November 20, 2020 - January 3, 2021 for lunch and dinner • Take out only

PACKAGE #1 $80 Plus Tax

• (2) 18” regular pizzas • 1/2 tray chicken parmigiana • Complimentary Bottle of Cabernet or Pinot Grigio

PACKAGE #2 $115 Plus Tax

• (2) 18” regular pizzas • 1/2 tray Caesar salad • 1/2 tray chicken parmigiana • Complimentary Bottle of Cabernet or Pinot Grigio

PACKAGE #3 $145 Plus Tax

• (1) 18” regular pizzas • 1/2 tray Caesar salad • 1/2 tray chicken parmigiana • 1/2 tray penne ala vodka • Complimentary Bottle of Cabernet or Pinot Grigio

*Additional items may be purchased at regular menu price. *Toppings available for additional cost; may not be combined with any other coupon, discount, offer or Groupon; prices do not include tax or gratuity; available for take out only; no substitutions.*

CATERING MENU

APPETIZER SELECTIONS

ANTIPASTO

$80

Homemade mozzarella, oven roasted sweet red peppers, genoa salami, sicilian olives

ASSORTED BAKED PINWHEELS

$70

Variety of spinach, pepperoni, buffalo chicken and sausage and bacon rolls, served with a side of sauce

GRIMALDIS ORIGINAL RECIPE

BUFFALO WINGS

18” SALAD SELECTIONS

House $80

Caesar $70

Chopped $80

Spinach

Portobello

$80

Buffalo wings tossed with our homemade buffalo sauce. Served with celery and carrots and choice of blue cheese or ranch

BRUSCHETTA

$70

Seasoned chopped tomatoes, topped with a parmesan dusting served on crustini bread

TOMATO MOZZARELLA

$80

Large slices of tomato and fresh mozzarella with a basil pesto drizzle over a bed of greens

18” DESSERT PLATTER

Combination of Jr. Cheese Cake, Cannoli, Chocolate Decadence and Rice Pudding

$80

Grimaldi’s Cannoli Platters (15 cannolis) $75

$80

$80

Mediterranean $80

Add Fresh Mozzarella $15

Add Grilled Chicken $20

Add Salami $15

ENTREÉ SELECTIONS

Half Full

Chicken Parmigiana $55 $95

Chicken Marsala $60 $100

Eggplant Parmigiana $55 $95

Eggplant Rollatini $55 $90

Penne Ala Vodka $50 $80

Penne Bolognese $55 $90

TAKEOUT & DELIVERY

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 11:30-9 FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11:30-10

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

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

Mortgage Rates this week from www.bankrate.com Loan Term

30

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS

Nassau County Median Sale Price

Sold Price: $1,152,000

Date: 12/22/2020

4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Style: Colonial Total taxes: $17,004

Lot Size: .22 acres

MLS number: 3254003

The Seller’s Team: Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Jill Palmeri and Dana Eaton, Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Impeccably updated Center Hall Dutch Colonial from the pages of Southern Living Magazine. This newly renovated 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath home exudes charm while offering over 2400 interior sq ft of wonderful living space on a large 75 x 125 lot with LOW taxes!!! The first floor features a vestibule, entry foyer, formal living room with gas fireplace and beautiful moldings, a home office with french doors, sun filled 3 season room, formal dining room with plantation shutters, powder room, updated kitchen with new appliances and shiplap walls that opens to a 16’x’18 great room with wood burning fireplace and stunning windows overlooking the enchanting backyard. Upstairs there is a lovely master bedroom with ensuite bath, 3 guest bedrooms and additional hall bath. A newly renovated basement, walk up attic, detached 2-car garage and beautifully landscaped and private rear yard complete this special home.

1 Cedar Place

Sold price: $965,000

Date: 12/18/2020

Style: Colonial

5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Lot Size: .19 acres

Total taxes: $23,603

MLS number: 3256164

The Seller’s Team: Kathleen Lucchesi and Arthur Anderson, Daniel Gale Associates

The Buyer’s Team: Kathleen Lucchesi and Arthur Anderson, Daniel Gale Associates

A very rare opportunity exists here on ever beloved Cedar Place in Garden City. One of the most sought after blocks in the heart of the Central Section, this 2632 sq ft - 5 bedroom Colonial Home sits on oversized 75x113 property on privately landscaped yard. First floor offers entry foyer, over-sized Living room w/fp, large formal dining, family room/den with fireplace, Kitchen with large breakfast room, large bedroom on first floor and .5 guest bathroom and washer and dryer. Second floor includes master bedroom w/ensuite bath, 3 additional bedrooms and hall bathroom. Basement has storage,mechanicals and possible recreation space. Detached two car garage. Builders/investor opportunity here. Make this home your own on magical Cedar Place. Unlimited potential. 4 blocks to center of town, restaurants, dining and transportation..Infrequently offered, don’t miss this great listing that rarely presents itself.

Sold Price: $760,000

Date: 12/23/2020

Style: Expanded Cape

4 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Total taxes: $16,469

Lot Size: .14 acres

MLS number: 3255853

The Seller’s Team: Jim Raber, Charles Rutenberg Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Jessica Brantuk, Daniel Gale Associates

Home located in Presidential area of Garden City, GC Schools, with close proximity to 2 Long Island Railroad Stations. This wide-lined cape offers the opportunity for a master-bedroom on either the 1st or 2nd floor. The extension off the kitchen truly makes this a real eat in kitchen. Central air condition and gas heat are enjoyed in this home with new hot water heater . Just add a little TLC and your personal touches and this house will become truly a home for a life time. Homes in immediate area with updates have sold for over a million dollars. New Hot Water heater updated CAC.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

162 Lincoln Street

“King in the Wilderness” discussion at GC Community Church

BY MELVA VICTORINO

Once more, the Garden City Community Church (GCCC) is leading a discussion on documentary films and books about social justice. Most recently, two Zoom discussions on the documentary films “13th” and “True Justice” raised more awareness about racial inequality and factors that have contributed to it in the United States

today. As a continuation of its’ film series on racism, the GCCC will host a Zoom discussion on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. (EST) on the 2018 HBO documentary film the “King in the Wilderness,” as we explore the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

2018 marked the 50th anniversary of the assassination of the Dr. King. As time moves on, Dr. King became more of a myth upon which principles can be grafted to suit a narrative. This film goes beyond the speeches and sermons to bring to us the true personal portrait of Dr. King. This film is about Dr. King, but it is also about the movement through Montgomery, Birmingham and Selma, especially those three years from 1965 through his assassination.

Dr. King’s leadership during the Montgomery bus boycotts, the sit-ins, and the historic Selma-to-Montgomery marches is now considered the stuff of legend. But left out of many history books is much of what happened afterward, during the last three years of his life.

“King in the Wilderness” reveals a conflicted leader who, after the Voting Rights Act of 1965 passed, faced an onslaught of criticism from both sides of the political spectrum; the Black Power movement saw his nonviolence as weakness, and President Lyndon B. Johnson saw his anti Vietnam War speeches as

irresponsible. King’s fervent belief in peaceful protest became a testing point for a nation on the brink of chaos.

Through conversations with Dr. King’s inner circle of friends, the “King in the Wilderness” revealed a stirring new perspective into his character, his radical doctrine of nonviolence, and his internal philosophical struggles prior to his assassination in 1968.

“During the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King’s, leadership and commitment to nonviolence was steadfast, yet it was not without challenges from others equally committed to desegregation and racial justice.”  This documentary will enable us “to learn about the philosophy, strategy, and tactics of nonviolence from the leaders who worked alongside Dr. King and supported his vision, and from those who offered other strategies and tactics for African Americans to achieve full equal rights.”

The Rev. Dr. King participated in and led marches for Blacks’ right  to vote, desegregation, labor rights, and other basic civil rights.  This documentary was prepared in 2018 by Dr. King’s associates as they reflected on the last years of Dr. King’s ministry.

Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968. On January 17, 2000, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was officially observed in the United States.

The documentary debuted at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and is directed by Peter Kunhardt (HBO’s Emmy-winning Jim: The James Foley Story). 00Drawing on conversations with those who knew Dr. King well, including many fellow members of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), “King in the Wilderness” reveals stirring new perspectives on Dr. King’s character, his radical doctrine of nonviolence and his internal philosophical struggles prior to his assassination in 1968. The documentary also features archival footage, behind-the-scenes video of Dr. King’s private moments, intimate archival photographs and phone conversations recorded by President Johnson, who was both ally and adversary in Dr. King’s fight for civil rights.

We hope you will join us for this discussion and reflect on the next steps.

Registration is limited and is required to participate. Please register at churchoffice@thegccc.org for each individual in your family who plans on participating to form small age-appropriate break out groups. For more questions or to participate in the leadership, contact Paula Tusiani-Eng or Dorothy Gist at churchoffice@thegccc.org, or call 516746-1700. Due to some footage of violence, it is suggested that you be aged 18+ to participate, or if younger, with permission from parents.

To fully participate in the discussion, please view the documentary prior to attending the zoom meeting. You can watch “King in the Wilderness” on HBO documentary available at the link :  https://www.kunhardtfilmfoundation.org/film-archive/king-in-thewilderness

We will use for group discussion The Study Guide link: https://www.kunhardtfilmfoundation.org/attachment/en/5b64a8a46aa72ce4430396a1/TextOneColumnWithIm ageAndFile/5d8277e4f7c038bc3ca1879c

Come and join us at GCCC all week long. We have many ways you can participate in worship, programs, ministry services, and events, virtually or in limited in-person activities. We have started re-opening our in-person Sunday Worship Services following Re-opening Worship Guidelines. For information on how to pre-register to attend the service, please contact the church office at churchoffice@thegccc.org. To get information regarding our other 2021 virtual worship services and programs, visit our website www.gardencitycommunitychurch.org.

The Garden City Community Church is part of the United Church of Christ and is an Open and Affirming congregation that welcomes people of all ages, races, gender identities, and sexual orientations to participate in the life of our community. The physical church of Garden City Community Church is located at 245 Stewart Avenue between Whitehall Blvd. and Kensington Road. For more information, email  churchoffice@thegccc.org or call (516) 746-1700. And as previously mentioned, you may also visit our website at  www.gardencitycommunitychurch.org.

Dr. Martin Luther King

Wouldn’t it be nice to step into a turnkey location for your business? This 3450 square foot professional office, medical, or retail space is tastefully finished with 9 offices/exam rooms, an additional large executive suite, a large conference room which can serve as a second executive suite, a private executive bathroom, an additional ADA compliant bathroom, rear yard access, and full basement with Bilco doors to front sidewalk. The waiting area includes a gorgeous tile floor, custom tray ceiling, wainscoting, and a secretarial station. This location is ideal for doctors, dentists, accountants, attorneys, or realtors. It is conveniently located on a heavily trafficked street with over 21,000 vehicles per day. The property is located directly across from a municipal parking lot with additional street parking and access to public transportation. The site is for sale or for lease with immediate occupancy available. This space would also be ideal for a salon or similar business which needs to see clients in separate rooms due to COVID-19. The main floor is 1725 square feet with a 1725 square foot basement.

Other highlights: This property is within walking distance of the Nassau Boulevard train station, Adelphi College, Starbucks, and a multitude of eateries and other establishments.

Laura Carroll Licensed Real Estate Salesperson laura.carroll@compass.com M: 917.370.5354

Real estate foundation raises funds for kids

Heather Dall’Aste, NYU Langone/Winthrop; Joseph Farkas, founding trustee,/president, GCRE; Dr. Mark Efraim Weinblatt, NYU Langone/Winthrop, Frank Liantonio, trustee/vice president and chairman of the Charitable Events Committee, GCRE; Lauren Scarantino, executive committee member, co-chair of the Charitable Events Committee, GCRE; Brian Pinnola, trustee, vice president, GCRE

On December 23,  the Garden City Real Estate Professionals Foundation (GCRE) presented the NYU Langone/ Winthrop Cancer Center for Kids a “Holiday Gift” in the amount of $5,000 to make this special time of year even more memorable for the children in their care.

Joseph Farkas, founding trustee and president of GCRE, said “while great emphasis has been placed on battling the COVID 19 worldwide pandemic, no one should forget there are many very important causes that continue to require the generous support of others and GCRE feels strongly that the children of this great Hospital should not be forgotten during the Holiday season.  Our Trustees, Executive Committee and all of our generous Members hope

our gift will help put a smile on these Kids ’ faces during this special time of yea r”.

In 2020 and throughout the pandemic, GCRE has also supported NYU Langone Winthrop Hospital and its first responders with additional generous gifts from its members to show appreciation and gratitude for the incredible work the Hospital and its courageous workers do to keep the community healthy and safe.

For more information on GCRE, please go to www.gcrepf.org or contact Joseph Farkas at jfarkas@ metropolitanra.com  For additional information on NYU Langone / Winthrop Cancer Center for Kids, please go to www.nyuwinthrop.org/ services/center-for-cancer-care/cancer-center-for-kids

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

n Plumbing repairs

n Drain cleaning

n Heat repairs

n Installation of appliances

n Installation of toilets & sinks

n Water filtration systems

Suspended registration

Upon investigation of a police vehicle’s license plate reader notification, a motorist was charged with driving on Franklin Avenue with a suspended registration and unregistered oper ation on December 22nd.

Scam alert

On December 22nd the GCPD investigated a report of a resident receiving a text message to click a link to receive monetary pandemic relief. This was determined to be a scam.

Truck hits bridge, the original

A truck traveling southbound struck the Cherry Valley overpass on December 22nd. The 39-year-old male operator sustained chest pains and was transported by NYU ambulance to Winthrop Hospital. He was charged with disregarding bridge clearance signs.

Elevator issue

On December 23rd Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a 7th Street building and rescued an elderly male in a wheelchair who was stuck in an elevator that had broken down.

Leaving the scene

Officers investigated a report of a vehicle leaving the scene after crashing into another vehicle on Old Country Road on December 23rd.

Truck hits bridge, the sequel

On December 23rd a truck traveling southbound struck the Cherry Valley overpass. The 28-year-old male operator was charged with disregarding bridge clearance signs and operating a commercial vehicle without proper endorsement.

Bin seen?

A recycling bin was reported missing from a Russell Road yard on December 24th.

Stormy Christmas

On Christmas Day Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to several storm-related calls, including burglar alarms, fire alarms, a power line fire, a tree limb that fell on a vehicle, a tree that fell on a train, an auto accident, malfunctioning railroad gates and a traffic light malfunction.

Hit and run

On December 26th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to Stewart Avenue where a white sedan reportedly left the scene after striking the rear of another vehicle.

Sparking wires

Firefighters responded to an Ash Street residence for sparking wires in the basement on December 26th.

Excessive

speed

A 28-year-old motorist was charged with driving on Old Country Road with a suspended license and excessive speed on December 27th.

Truck hits bridge, the spinoff

A U.S. Postal vehicle struck the Chestnut Street overpass on December 27th. The 45-year-old operator was cited with disregarding bridge clearance signs. There were no reported injuries.

Anti-vaxx bribery

Garden City Police investigated a report on December 28th of a female who took her child to a Garden City Doctor’s office in October to get required vaccines and when the nurse completed the required immunization form and was ready to administer the shots, the female stated the child was not getting the shots and needed the form to show proof of vaccination. The subject then allegedly put $8,000 in the nurse’s pocket, took the form, and left the office. Upon investigation, Garden City Detectives arrested the subject, a 31-year-old female, for bribery and petit larceny.

Leaving the scene

Officers responded to Franklin Avenue and 2nd Street to investigate a report of a white sedan leaving the scene after crashing into another vehicle. A passenger in the vehicle sustained a head injury and was transported to a local hospital.

Vandalism at St. Paul's

On December 29th St. Paul’s personnel found the sink in the women’s bathroom of the St. Paul’s Comfort Station shattered. Further investigation revealed the window to the bathroom was damaged and its screen removed. The investigation is ongoing.

Happy Holidays to all of our valued Garden City customers.

We’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued loyalty over the past several months as we joined together six of the area’s leading names in security and fire protection –GC Alarm, Worldwide Security, SCAN Security, Bellringer Security, Supreme Security, and Briscoe Protective. Now we can provide an expanded set of security offerings and help to make the NY Metro area a safer place for you, your family and your business.

Don’t have a “Briscoe Protective” sign yet? Call us at 516.294.6434. We’ll install one, and as a thank you for your patronage, we’ll provide a complimentary system check while we are there. Be sure to check out page 3 of this paper for more information on how we can keep you and your property safe with a CCTV system.

Have a joyous holiday season and may the New Year bring you and your family many blessings!

Liz is an exceptional real estate professional, but don’t just take our word for it...

Liz was professional, honest, and experienced during the whole selling process for our house. If you want one of the hardest working, most diligent realtor in Long Island, Liz Breslin is the one!

My husband and I worked with Liz this summer to help us nd our rst home. We liked Garden City, but it wasn’t our only choice on Long Island. After spending time with Liz and exploring the area we knew GC was the right t for us. The second we signed on to work with her, she was sending us listings both on and pre-market. Not only was Liz fantastic and fun to work with, she was incredibly professional and patient throughout our house hunting process. House hunting, especially during a pandemic, can be daunting and she supported us from start to nish while o ering very helpful (and much needed) advice along the way. She could be reached via email/phone/text at all times which made us feel like we were in good hands. She helped us nd our new home which we are happily getting settled into and she has been a HUGE support to us even after closing. Her local knowledge is unmatched to anyone else we have met in the area, which made her an amazing resource when moving to a brand new town!

Liz is great. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of the local market. She astounded me once by giving the ownership history of all 4 houses on a particular corner that came up in conversation. She arrived at our rst meeting (before she was hired) with a complete dossier on our house including various government lings and really thoughtful comps. She listens and her advice is rst rate. She was always responsive and is scrupulously ethical. I could not recommend her more.

Liz is a true professional, demonstrating a rare combination of personal skills, market expertise and responsiveness that leaders of New York’s fastest-moving companies crave. Best of all, Liz mixes in just the right blend of humor when needed most.

I could not say enough kind words about Liz. My husband and I loved working with her so much that she became a big reason why we landed on buying in Garden City, when we previously were not considering it. She completely sold us on the neighborhood by her immense love and knowledge of everything the town has to o er. I am pretty sure she knows the selling history of every single house in the area. And although we worked with Liz throughout the Covid pandemic, she made sure she was always available and worked around all of the roadblocks that Covid brought us. She o ered very helpful suggestions, answered our emails within minutes of sending and eased any worry we had throughout our rst home buying experience. She even continued to answer our (many) texts after the closing and helped us nd our neighborhood landscaper, inspector, hair salon and so on. She was one of the few people we whole heartedly trusted throughout the process, as we knew she genuinely cared about our experience and nding the perfect home. Needless to say, we wouldn’t and couldn’t have bought our home without Liz. She is a gem to nd and anyone working with her is in the best possible hands!

Village Hall is open. Office hours are 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Visitors are required to wear a face covering, maintain social distancing of six feet and sign in to a Visitor's Log outside of the office they are visiting. Furthermore, while multiple people can enter Village Hall, only one person will be admitted into each office space at a time and are asked to abide by employee instructions. The Trustees and I, as your Mayor, would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year.

Snowstorm Cleanup

The December 16, 2020 snowstorm lasted approximately 21 hours. Crews began salting roads and parking lots at approximately 4:00 p.m. with 14 large and medium duty trucks with salters. According to Public Works Deputy Superintendent Domenick Stanco, as the storm intensified, plowing began at approximately 7:30 p.m. There were 48 pieces of equipment - large/medium and small trucks as well as several payloaders and two backhoe loadersworking around the clock throughout the night into the next day, Thursday, December 17, until approximately 5:30 p.m. where everything was re-salted after plowed before sending crews home. On Friday, December 18, crews went on their routes to check for icing conditions to re-salt roadways and areas in parking lots. Approximately 520 tons of salt was used during the three-day period as temperatures stayed below freezing throughout the weekend.

During the course of the storm, mechanics at the Village Garage were on-hand for the duration of the operation in order to keep plows and equipment fully functional. There were approximately 19 road calls performed by DPW’s mechanic shop employees and minor, miscellaneous breakdowns that were repaired in the shop to keep the fleet up and running.

Garden City Police Officers responded to 15 storm-related reports, including auto accidents, hazardous icy/snowy road conditions, wires down, power outages, alarms, and a traffic light malfunction while the Garden City Fire Department respond-

ed to two alarms.

Blood Drive at the Library

Long Island Blood Services will be holding a blood drive at the Garden City Public Library on Tuesday, January 5, 2021, 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in the Lower Level Large Meeting room. Area hospitals are in need of local residents’ help. Each donation can help to save up to three lives. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and CDC guidelines, appointments are strongly preferred. Walk-ins are welcomed only if capacity permits. To schedule an appointment, please visit the Garden City Public Library website at www. gardencitypl.org or call 1-800-688-0900 to schedule an appointment or for any medical questions concerning blood donations.

Department. The Library Administration and Library Board are striving to make these changes with minimal impact to the community, working with the Village and H2M Architects and Engineers to transition into construction while minimizing impact to Library users.

Head of Circulation, and Margaret Zulkofske, Senior Typist-Clerk coordinating Administration’s roles, who have met and continue to meet with the Director every week to coordinate the relocation of their departments and services during construction.

Virtual Recreation Center

Recreation staff has been busy keeping the Virtual Recreation Center updated and full of fun for residents. Check out some of the new additions, including New Year's Eve ideas, homemade candle recipes, word searches, reading and writing games and much more! Visit the Virtual Recreation Center at https://gardencityrecreation.org/virtual-recreation-center.

Library Renovation Plan Update

The Garden City Public Library is embarking upon the renovation project to update the Children’s Department. Planning for the renovation dates back over seven years. The renovation will include spaces oriented towards children’s learning programs - a Reading Room for story programs and a Workshop for STEAM activities (Science Technology Engineering Art Math). The project will also incorporate a remodeled entrance area and front Circulation desk. The Board Room in Administration will be transformed into the office for the Children’s

In November the Village entered into an agreement with H2M Architects and Engineers to proceed with the next phases of the project: Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding and Solicitation, Permitting and Construction Administration Services. This agreement established the creation of a “Project Team” named by the Library and the Village which consists of Marianne Malagon, Library Director, Randy Colahan, Chairman of the Library Board of Trustees, Ralph Suozzi, Village Administrator, Giuseppe Giovanniello, Superintendent of the Building Department and Katie Stone, Project Architect from H2M Architects and & Engineers. The Team will oversee the project considering their unique perspectives, meeting regularly as a team and also in contact as needed on the project. H2M’s team includes additional architects and engineers adding their expertise to the project including architects Erik Heuler and Rabab Zia.

The renovation project impacts the footprints and operations of three Library departments, Children’s Services, Circulation and Administration, as well as computers and networks managed by the Computer Support Department. The Library team consists of Barbara Grace, Head of the Children’s Department, Joe Agolia, Head of Computer Support, Jeanette Nicoletti,

The Children’s Department will be relocated to the Large Meeting Room on the lower level of the Library, with some materials located in storage on site. Staff has already begun to move some materials and create a floor plan for the new space. No programs have been displaced. The Library will continue to provide virtual programs. On site programs have been suspended indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The temporary Children’s room will have Librarians and other staff on hand to assist with materials and other information needs. The Circulation Department is also planning to move their work to another location in the Library. This will be for a shorter period of time and plans will be announced. The schedule as well will be made clearer as the project progresses.

The community will be updated on progress and any changes in Library services during the construction period. Please check the Library’s website at www.gardencitypl.org or call the Library at 742-8405 for more information.

Sanitation CollectionNew Year's Day

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage pickup on Friday, January 1, 2021.

The holiday week collection schedule will be as follows:

Western half of the Village (west of Rockaway Ave.): Garbage - Monday and Thursday; Rubbish - Wednesday, December 30

Eastern half of the Village (east of Rockaway Ave.): Garbage - Tuesday and Saturday; Rubbish - Wednesday, December 30

Residents scheduled for recycling on Friday, January 1, are asked to put their recyclables out on Friday, January 8.

Mayor Theresa Trouvé

Eric Andersen

Brett Bayduss

Rani Bendary

Tommy Bennetter

Harry Blair

Christopher Bushart

Donald Byrne

Salvatore Ciaravino**

Bruce Clay

Matthew Clay

Dan Colasuonno

John Cook

Brian Desiderio

Joseph Farkas**

Thomas Farrell

Steve Fenton

Kris Ferranti

Philip Foote

Nicholas Forelli

Steve Gaffney

Garden City Real Estate Professionals Foundation

Wishes Everyone A Happy and Healthy 2021

Chris Gorman

Thomas Granville

Jim Haggerty

Brian Hulla

John Ingrasia

Amanda Keller

Amanda Kinney*

Frank Liantonio**

Austin Lotito

Robert Maichin

Dino Mangione

Russell Matthews

Michael McCarthy

Philip Minarcik

Scott Newmark

Alex Overby

Christopher Palmer

Philip Palmeri

Jeff Pascale

Brian Pinnola**

Patrick Pryor

Robert Quaco

Robert Reinhardt

Nicholas Rigano

Louis Rosado

Gary Rufrano**

Tiffany Rufrano

Lauren Scarantino*

John Simone

Terence Tener

Steven Vazquez

Michael Ventre

Michael Volpe

Jim Wenk

Mark Wenzel

David Westermann

Matthew Whalen

Brad Wolk

*Trustee & Executive Committee Member

*Executive Committee Member

If you would like more information about the GCRE organization or how to contribute to the NYU Winthrop First Responders, THE INN, Mollies Fund, Charlie’s Champions, Bobby Menges I’m Not Done Yet Foundation, NYU Winthrop Cancer Center For Kids or how you can contribute to make a difference in the lives of Garden City Residents, please contact Joseph A. Farkas President, Founding Trustee at 516-455-1562 or visit www.gcrepf.com

renovated Colonial in the heart of the estates section. Move in ready come and see it will go fast! Offers a flexible floor plan, paver patio, central air, newer roof and great location near LIRR, bus and village parks. ML#3272907 |

Beautiful storybook Tudor, architect Olive Tjaden designed. Located in the heart of the Estates Section, close to LIRR and the Garden City Country Club. Entertainment sized living room, formal dining room. Updated: kitchen, baths, windows, double driveway and new front landscaping. ML#3245203 | $1,275,000

A Zoom musical tribute to Frank Sinatra

Musical maven Mel Haber will keep the romance going after Valentine’s Day with a special Zoom presentation about the life and music of Frank Sinatra. On February 15 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. (doors will open at 7:15), Haber will trace Sinatra’s career from his early days with Harry James and his band until the early 1980s. Included will be not only some of Frank's greatest recordings, but also his appearances in movies, television, and concerts.

In addition to the thematic “My Funny Valentine,” Zoomers will get to see him sing such songs as “One for My Baby,” “I Get a Kick out of You,” “That's Life,” “Night and Day,” “Blues in the Night,” and “My Way.” As an extra added attraction, Sinatra will sing with Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Shore, Dean

Martin, and Johnny Carson--yes, that Johnny Carson.

Dr. Mel Haber, a retired business writing teacher, is a devoted music lover, primarily of popular music and opera. His music programs at libraries, JCCs, adult education centers and Hutton House are sold-out events. Audiences have found him to be extremely knowledgeable, entertaining, and passionate in his presentations.

This event is sponsored by the Ethical Humanist Society of LI. The contribution amount is $20 per Zoom window. To sign up, email office@ehsli.org and instructions will be sent. Or, send a check to EHSLI, 38 Old Country Road, Garden City, NY 11530. Include email with the check. The Zoom link will be sent when payment is received.

Conversational, opinionated, wordsmith?

We are looking for writers in our community to compose news articles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even fiction. We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section.

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Attach article and any photos (1MB), along with your name and contact info.

• Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words.

• Each writer will be reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

Town holds STOP program

Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray (right) assisted Christine Peterson of Garden City as she participated in the Town of Hempstead Stop Throwing Out Pollutants (S.T.O.P.) Program on December 6, 2020 at Eisenhower Park in East Meadow. This program allows residents to dispose of harmful pollutants – such as antifreeze, drain cleaners and pesticides – in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.

Garden City Middle School students make a difference

Garden City Middle School students Maddie Mitchell and Elsie Ross with Principal Dr. Eric Nezowitz. Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

Garden City Middle School students Maddie Mitchell and Elsie Ross have used their creativity to help make a difference this holiday season. Through sales of handmade decorations, they were able to provide generous donations to charities that help those less fortunate.

Maddie and Elsie painted ornaments, which they sold in November to benefit Americares, an organization that provides health resources to people affected by poverty or disaster. Their efforts yielded a $226 donation, which was multiplied by eight through a Giving Tuesday

match opportunity. They made this contribution in Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha’s name as a way to thank the district’s administrators, teachers and staff members for making it possible to keep school open.

The two students also donated $180 to the Alford family’s annual Thanksgiving meal project for homebound senior citizens. They raised these funds through the sale of miniature holiday wreaths that they made using a craft kit that was a gift from Elsie’s aunt.

for the Casino in terms of its existence as a Village asset. A petition to ‘Save the Casino’ appeared in the October 16, 2020 edition of the News and circulates online. The Village Board of Trustees had approved executing a temporary extension of the current lease date to January of 2022, from the extension set to expire on January 5, 2021, but talks with Casino Board members and village officials were contingent upon the Casino seeking a longer (two decades’) term for continued operation at the site.

In a July 2020 interview with the News, Casino Board President Patrick McNamara explained that the land the Casino and its tennis courts and well-manicured grounds sits on — the entire block from Hilton Avenue to its east and Cathedral Avenue to its west — is part of a restrictive use covenant in the original deed of the property dating to the time when Garden City was not yet the incorporated village it is today.

“The property can only be used for the recreational use of Garden City residents. The Village does recognize and look at this as a village facility, which it is, but the specific use requirements would be maintained. The Casino Board had talked with Village trustees about their fall 2019 comments on the RFP

process. As a taxpayer and CPA here it is hard for me to argue against an RFP process but this needs to happen, and we have been waiting for this process to take place,” McNamara said.

The parcel of land was confirmed by the Village of Garden City as grantor in the original deed; the parcel subject to restrictions for any future development or change in its layout is on a prime Central Section block of real estate, south of the LIRR tracks and on the north side of 6th Street, and around in rectangular shape, from Cathedral to Hilton.

The Board’s primary voice on the license agreement situation has been Trustee Brian C. Daughney. A letter from Trustee Daughney read aloud at the board’s August 13, 2020 meeting noted the following: “The Casino was never granted a right to the property of the building. It has a license to use it. A license is much more limited than a lease.

“The Village was gifted the land and building, along with several other parcels, years ago by the now defunct Garden City Company. That was done around 1916 when the Village was incorporated. The grant does include language stating that it should be used for all residents for recreation. But that could be changed. And it does not say

that only the Casino tennis club can be there. It is not officially a park.

“The Casino has never paid rent or made any other payments to the Village. Remember this is a Village owned asset, so all taxpayers should be benefiting from the property, whatever its use.”

Water tower

The Village of Garden City’s new water tower on Old Country Road, next to the Ethical Humanist Society of Long Island, is nearly completed and every structural detail has been attended to prior to the project’s completion except one issue -- the painting of the new tank. Possible increase in painting costs were attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the Village Board’s meeting on October 1, 2020 an additional $465,500 change order for the costs of painting the new water tower both inside and out was discussed, but the allocation of money for this was soon removed from the agenda so Village Attorney Peter Bee’s law firm could review it.

The change order and its almost halfa-million dollar price tag was connected to delays in state and county approvals for soil remediation as well as issues in the placement of valves in the front of the new water tower. Trustees felt the pandemic creating the delays for bureaucracy and thus a higher cost for

the tank to be painted should not fall on Garden City to bear.

According to the agenda item from October 1, “these delays caused unforeseen cost increases in the supply chain supporting the project. The bid for this project was awarded on December 19, 2017, in the amount of $6,738,000, with a budget of $8,700,000. This change order increases the amount of the project to $7,733,157.” As proposed at the October 1 meeting, the cost was slated to come out of the village’s Capital Budget. Trustee Mark Hyer was vehemently opposed to rubber-stamping of the cost increase and change order and Bee’s firm is looking into the solution.

Western Fire Station

Garden City Fire Station No. 2, known as the ‘western’ Firehouse at the corner of Edgemere Road and Stewart Avenue, was the subject of an in-depth presentation and a Board of Trustees’ listening session at the December 1 special Board meeting. The next steps for this project are expected to take place in a January to February timeframe with one more presentation on ‘updated’ plans and designs to be presented at an upcoming trustees’ meeting. Heavy scrutiny has been given to the size for the new station, which will be

See page 29

FOR SENIORS fyi

Garden City Senior Center Open

Garden City Recreation and Parks’ Senior Center is now open.

Our hours will be 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We will be practicing social distancing so no exercise or group activities will take place at this time Anyone visiting the Center will be required to wear a mask during their visit.

Senior Exercise with Felicia Recreation and Parks is pleased to announce that senior exercise with Felicia began the week of October 26. Due to COVID restrictions, this pro-

gram will no longer be a drop in program. Participants will need to pre-register, wear masks and fill out a COVID form, and space will be limited.

Classes will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. In order to attend a class, you must pre-register. You may pre-register up to two days before the class you want to attend by calling the Senior Center between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at 385-8006. For a Monday class, you may call the Friday before. Space is limited.

IN MEMORIAM

Jennifer S. Defliese

On Tuesday, December 15, 2020, Jennifer S. Defliese, loving wife and mother of five children, passed away at the age of 64.

Jenny was born on August 8, 1956 in Rockville Centre, NY to Vernon and Hedwig (Humm) Sims. She was the youngest of three: Melinda Moore Lewis, MD, of Atlanta, GA, and Diana S. Lennon, of Pittsburgh, PA. Jenny received a Master of Arts degree in Art Education from LIU CW Post Campus in 1979. She worked at Hearst Business Publishing Corp. for 8 yeas as a graphic

designer. On August 25, 1979, Jenny married Robert W. Defliese, of Garden City, NY. Bob is a longtime teacher in the Garden City School District, where he still works. Jenny and Bob have lived in Garden City since 1982.

Jenny’s main passion in life was raising her children: Caitlin Defliese Watkins (husband Andrew Watkins) of Syracuse, NY, Dayna Defliese (fiancé Michael Tringale) of Boston, MA, Shannon Defliese (fiancé Ryan Boelsen) of Garden City, NY, Brian Defliese of Fairfield, CT, and Kerry Defliese of Garden City, NY, who is a Master’s degree student at Syracuse University. Jenny and Bob are also grandparents to Blair Boelsen, who just turned one. She loved running, playing tennis, swimming at Lake George, and cheering on GC athletics.

Jenny joined the Garden City School District in 2014 as a teacher’s aid serving at Stratford Avenue Elementary School, where she attended school herself.

Jenny will be remembered dearly for her sense of humor, love of animals, kind heart, and passion for life. She touched all those she met and will be immeasurably missed.

A private family service was held at Fairchild’s Funeral Home in Garden City on Tuesday, December 22. A broader memorial service will be held in the near future when health precautions are hopefully relaxed.

IN MEMORIAM

Blanche C. Giacinto

Blanche C. Giacinto (Hake), a former resident of Garden City passed away peacefully on Monday December 21, 2020 in Carle Place, New York, at the age of 97. She was born June 03, 1923 in Hempstead, NY, to the late Mary (Spatz) & Frank Hake.

Blanche was happiest when she had her family around her, especially her grandchildren. She had threatened her children and promised her grandchildren 100 years but we are all happy to have had her in our lives for 97½ years. She will be deeply missed by her family,

friends and all who knew her. Beloved wife of the late John K. Giacinto. Survived by her children Robert, Richard, Jeanne Whelan (Thomas), Joseph (Valerie), Margaret Dennis (James) and the late Jack. Also survived by eleven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and her brother-in-law Fred Giacinto.

Funeral mass to be held at St. Joseph’s Church in Garden City at 10:00 A.M. on Friday January 8, 2021. Burial will be private for immediate family. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Blanche’s honor to: https://mjhsfoundation.org/donate/

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.

Jennifer S. Defliese

Garden City is ‘Project Central’ for 2021

From page 26

able to house larger fire apparatus. The increased size would come at a substantial cost of $6 million, $8 million or even higher depending on finalized site plans developed by the project’s architects, PKAD .

After concerns that information about the project has been lacking in the past two years since the project was first proposed, in late 2020 the Western POA’s Firehouse Committee presented alternate plans.

The WPOA’s renderings specifically look into ways of restoring and renovating the current 1930’s era fire station with modern facilities to serve the needs of the Fire Department. The WPOA Committee’s plan does not call for demolition of the original structure.

Water system remediation

Another situation requiring major capital outlays has taken shape over the course of 2020, as a public health emergency of another kind -- water contamination -- was addressed in a ‘systematic’ manner. The additions of key water filtration infrastructure -- Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP systems) at Village of Garden City wells continues. The Village has been using the systems to remove 1,4 dioxane, an emerging

contaminant that has been found across Long Island water supplies. Garden City is the only “water purveyor” on Long Island for which 100% of the water wells need treatment for emerging contaminants such as 1,4 dioxane. This is distinct from being known as the only municipality to have to do so, as several water districts service multiple communities. Garden City is required to put AOP (Advanced Oxidation Process) systems at every one of its 10 village water well sites. With new state standards going into effect, 1 part per billion is the new New York State standard as a maximum allowable contaminant level (MCL) for 1,4 dioxane. Garden City was awarded a grant funding of approximately $9 million to fund two of its AOP system projects, which have an estimated cost of $16.5 million.

The village was awarded the grant money through the Water Infrastructure Improvement Act and the Intermunicipal Water Infrastructure Grant Program.

In his letter to the editor published in The Garden City News on November 13, Deputy Mayor Robert Bolebruch commented on the water infrastructure planning by the village: “We have already been awarded reimbursable grants from the state, estimated in the amount of $9 million to help offset our

costs with the 1.4-Dioxane project. That is a rate of reimbursement for each well of approximately 60 percent. After we file for all our additional grants we will then issue our normal long-term debt that will not be covered by the state reimbursement. It would be irresponsible to issue the total amount now in long-term bonds when we do not know what our final cost would be. In addition, when we issued the BANs [bond anticipation notes] they were issued at a premium, which will reduce our borrowing costs by $1.4 million. Once again, we want to immediately address our water issues and not wait for any type of reimbursement from the state. The safety of our Village water is our top priority. Our new water tank will cost approximately $8 million, but we are only financing $6 million. We are paying cash for the other two. In addition, we are using our cash in the water fund to do our well rehabilitations every year. We usually have been doing at least one well per year. “

Late in the year, the Board of Trustees did make adjustments to the slated Village capital projects for the remainder of fiscal year 2020-’21 that were first outlined with the spring 2020 budget process. The fiscal year runs from June 1 through May 31 of next year.

Deferred projects

After the Board’s detailed discussions on the physical plant in the village, the trustees agreed to defer $2.4 million in projects, namely repointing of the brick exterior at Village Hall (351 Stewart Avenue) which was estimated to cost $1.515 million, as well as the outfitting Village Hall with a new HVAC system, estimated as a $907,500 capital project.

Among prioritized projects still in the year’s capital budget are $1,990,000 for the replacement of water mains; $870,000 for sewer line improvements; $1,157,000 for (municipal) road repairs, $385,000 for replacing the Village’s Mechanic Shop Lift; $198,000 to replace the roof at the Public Works’ Garage, plus $204,000 allocated to address village-owned and maintained curbs and sidewalks.

Deputy Mayor Bolebruch noted that during the pandemic adjustments have been necessary and the shift in projects for the current fiscal year represents a 27 % reduction while keeping these items on the horizon for 2021-’22.

“This is our Board re-evaluating our budget during our fiscal year and making prudent fiscal adjustments,” he noted.

Bravo, Garden City MYO members!

On Sunday, December 13, fourteen Garden City student musicians had the opportunity to perform choral and orchestral masterworks under the direction of the accomplished directors of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of NY. Garden City students performed in MYO’s first virtual performance with their respective ensembles and directors and brought warm smiles to their family and friends who were livestreaming the event. These dedicated students began rehearsing via Zoom on a weekly basis with their respective ensembles soon after the start of the academic year. They prepared and rehearsed after school or in the evenings and truly rose to the occasion in spite of the circumstances of 2020. They played and sang with confidence, vigor and polish during the memorable year-end performance. These talented student musicians are

scheduled to perform once again on March 21, 2021! Congratulations to the following student musicians who performed in MYO’s various ensembles. Bravissimi!!

Samuel Chan (viola), Michelle Hu (violin), Annika Margolies (violin)GCMS, Grade 8

Maria Gaztanaga (soprano), Augustin Mingoia Murphy (trombone) – GCHS, Grade 9

Rebecca Barry (soprano), Isabelle Sirounian (soprano) – GCHS, Grade 10

Mary Grlic (bassoon), Jason Luo (violin), Jenny Zheng (flute) – GCHS, Grade 11

Enzo Cupani (bass), Molly Madigan (soprano), Paige Sanossian (soprano) – GCHS, Grade 12

Julia Revill (soprano) Sacred Heart Academy, Grade 10

tention 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!

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The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra Orchestra

The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra Choir

January 1, 2021

Driveable Winter Destinations: Ski New York’s Catskills

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

New York State is not only home to the most ski areas of any state (50), but also some of the best, which makes them particularly desirable this year when being outdoors - skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing –are some of the most healthful activities you can do, are driving distance accessible, and because you are staying within New York State, you don’t have to quarantine for 14 days on returning.

New York has been intense about COVID-19 protections, and has instituted regulations governing reduced capacity to afford social-distancing, mask-wearing (except for actively skiing or eating), instituting such things as cashless transactions, rules for riding the lifts, and limiting time in lodges and restaurants, and in some instances advance ticketing and reservations. But it also has meant pleasant modifications – more outdoor dining with heat, for example, plus cashless transactions.

But with the great demand for New York skiing, Scott Brandi, president of the NY Ski Areas Association recommends “Know before you go.” Check the sites in advance to check conditions and availability and book lift tickets and rental equipment in advance – for example, most holidays and weekends as well as season passes are sold out for ORDA areas but there may be availability for midweek visits (ISkiNY.com).

In just a few hours, downstate New Yorkers can be on the slopes in the Catskill Mountains, where three

Ski Windham Mountain in the Catskills, NY © Dave E. Leiberman/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

of the state’s most popular ski resorts are located:

Windham Mountain

Windham Mountain Resort, which began as a private club and preserves much of that same feeling, is a year-round destination in the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County, NY, less than three hours north of New York City, and now is part of Alterra Mountain’s IKON Pass program, which means passholders get priority in reservations during this period of on-mountain capacity restrictions.

Windham offers 1,600 vertical feet from a summit of 3,100 feet. Its 54 trails and six terrain parks provide 285 skiable acres, accessed by 12 lifts including a new high speed six-pas-

senger detachable lift and two highspeed quads. Windham also offers night skiing on six trails (45 acres). In the last 3 years, the resort has spent $12 million to improve the guest experience and offers beginner packages, lodging, dining options, an Adventure Park, and full-service Alpine Spa

Among the improvements this season: improved lift capacity, snowmaking and grooming; new a ski and snowboard simulator that offers guests the chance to ski or ride downhill race venues from around the world virtually while supporting the Adaptive Sports Foundation, a new equipment valet and quick tune up station; expanded Guest Services department and on-site call center; and upgraded booking system with

new software that will allow guests to bundle lodging stays with lift tickets, lessons and rentals in one easy transaction.

Accommodations are plentiful in the area: Windham has renovated rooms at The Winwood Inn, a quaint lodging property in the village of Windham owned and operated by the mountain. The restaurant, Tavern 23, has also been “renovated and reinvented” and features classic American comfort food.

New: Whisper Creek condominiums, high-end ski-in/ski-out lodging located steps away from Whisper Run on Windham Mountain. Building amenities include heated pool and hot tubs, club room and fitness center, ski locker-room with boot dryers and heated parking. Units comfortably accommodate 8 – 10 people and are perfect for extended family gatherings, wedding parties and special events. Whisper Creek is a short stroll away from the Alpine Spa and the Windham Mountain base lodge and within walking distance of the Mountain Bike Park and Scenic Skyride in the summer.  (518-734-3000)

Also, the historic Thompson House, literally around the corner, where we enjoyed our stay, has the charm of an inn with amenities of a resort (The Thompson House, 19 Route 296, Windham NY 12496, 518734-4510, info@ThompsonHouse, www.ThompsonHouse.com).

Windham Mountain, 19 Resort Drive, Windham, NY 12496, 800-7549463; to check conditions, call the Snow Report Hoteline 800-729-4766, info@ windhammountain.com, windhammountain.com.

Continued on next page

Driveable Winter Destinations: Ski New York’s Catskills

Hunter Mountain

Now part of Vail Resorts, Hunter Mountain, a legendary New York State ski resort and the closest major full-service resort to New York City, is also part of the EPIC pass, and among the COVID19 precautions and protocols that limit capacity on the mountain, EPIC Pass holders get priority in making reservations.

Four separate mountain faces encompass a wide variety of terrain which caters to skiers and riders of all ability levels.

Hunter rises from 1600 ft base to 3200 summit, a 1600-ft vertical drop, 320 skiable acres (expanded from 240), 67 runs (up from 59; 25% beginner, 30% intermediate, 30% advanced and 15% expert) ) serviced by 13 lifts (increased from 12). It offers 4 gladed areas, 4 terrain parks.

Hunter also has a 1000-ft long tubing hill, one of the longest in NY, with its own Magic Carpet surface lift.

In response to COVID-19, Hunter

has “reimagined” the resort experience, consistent with the policies and programs across the Vail Resorts brand.

Skiers are encouraged to use their own vehicles as their personal base lodge, since capacity is restricted. Transactions will be cashless; face coverings required at all times except when actively eating (EpicMix app makes it easier to manage Time to Dine). On-mountain restaurants are open but not bars. The equipment rental process has been streamlined, with seamless online booking, complimentary delivery service (so you skip the rental shop altogether).

On-mountain accommodations include The Kaatskill Mountain Club at Hunter Mountain (condos) and Liftside and Pinnacle condos in the village and there are many bnbs, inns, lodges nearby. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Fairlawn Inn, just a quarter-mile away from Hunter’s entrance. The historic, Victorian inn has been restored with modern amenities while keeping the charm and character of the original property. It is operating now with strict

COVID-19 safety protocols. (7872 Main St (Hwy 23A), Hunter NY 12442, 518-2635025, fairlawninn.com).

Belleayre Mountain

About three-hours drive from New York City, Belleayre Mountain is the nearest of three ski areas owned and operated by New York State’s Olympic Regional Development Authority, and included on ORDA’s pass programs. The ski area has been dramatically improved, turned into a four-season mountain destination. Among the improvements, the first gondola in the Catskills.

What I love best about Belleayre is its natural separation of beginners (from the mid-mountain to the base, with long beginner trails) and more advanced skiers. It affords a 1404 ft vertical drop from a 3429 ft summit, 51 runs on 175 skiable acres (longest is 2.2 miles; 22% beginner, 58% intermediate, 10% advanced, 10% expert), serviced by 8 lifts. Intermediates will enjoy Deer Run, which meanders through a beautiful part of the mountain. The ski resort also features five glades, one terrain park,

one progression park and one X-course. Cross-country skiers can enjoy 9.2 kilometers of ungroomed, unpatrolled trails.

There is no on-mountain lodging, but quaint inns and lodges nearby in Fleischmann’s, Pine Hill, Big Indian, Phoenicia, Shandaken and Margaretville (see www.belleayre.com/ plan-your-visit/lodging/) (Belleayre, Highmount, NY 12441, 800942-6904, 845-254,5600,  www.belleayre. com).

© 2020 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com,  www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karenrubin & travelwritersmagazine.com/ TravelFeaturesSyndicate/ Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar. wordpress.com & moralcompasstravel. info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @ TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook. com/NewsPhotoFeatures

How to Successfully Stick to Your New Year’s Resolution --

BY MARY HUNT

More than half of Americans, reportedly, make New Year’s resolutions. And 88% of those resolutions end in failure, according to a study by British psychologist Richard Wiseman.

There is a reason for this fail rate, and once we understand it, we’ll be able to keep our resolutions long enough to make them stick.

The bottom line is that our brains cannot handle New Year’s resolutions when we rely too much on willpower.

The human brain is divided up into sections -- each one handling different aspects of brain function. The prefrontal cortex (the part located at the front, behind your forehead) is assigned the tasks of staying focused, handling short-term memory, solving abstract tasks and using willpower.

Here’s the problem: part of your brain cannot handle all of those things at the same time. It requires a huge amount of focus and willpower to change a learned behavior overnight, which is what a New Year’s resolution demands.

Bad habits are hard to break -- and they’re impossible to break if we try to break them all at once. The focus and willpower required are just too much for the human brain. It simply cannot deliver.

The human prefrontal cortex is like a muscle. It has to be trained. If you joined a local gym, you would never dream of starting out lifting a 300-pound barbell on your first session. You’d start with a 2-pound weight for a two-minute session, working up slowly to heavier weights and longer periods of endurance.

Trying to keep a New Year’s resolution to quit smoking or lose a bunch of weight based solely on willpower is expecting your prefrontal cortex to pick up the equivalent of a 300-pound barbell on the first attempt -- and to keep doing it for hours on end. It’s just not possible. Typically, New Year’s resolutions go something like this: I am going to lose 20 pounds; I’m going to get out of debt, stop smoking, get organized, give up sugar, or run 2 miles a day. Does anything there sound at all familiar? Those are abstract goals that your brain cannot handle.?They are too vague.

Here’s the secret for how to make your New Year’s resolution stick: Make the resolution a habit first. And break it down to a tiny habit to start.

Strong willpower is not a character trait, in my opinion. Accept it. And don’t make the mistake of dumping the idea of making a New Year’s resolution. Just don’t depend on willpower. Instead, depend on these four steps to make your New Year’s resolution stick:

STEP NO. 1

Pick only one resolution. You are more likely to succeed with only one. Accept it.?Analyze everything you’ve thought about changing and pick the one thing that’s most important to you.

STEP NO. 2

Take baby steps. Make the steps tiny, even ridiculously so. A good tiny behavior is quick and easy to do. Think: Walk for three minutes; do two pushups; floss one tooth. Any of those actions may sound useless, but this is the way to get started. Your brain will thank you by suggesting in due time that you increase that to a four-minute walk or that you floss two teeth.

STEP NO. 3

Become accountable. Write down what you want to change. That makes you more likely to succeed with your new habit. Tell others. Social support is beneficial. So is accountability.

STEP NO. 4

Give yourself positive feedback. Or, seek that from your accountability group. Reward yourself with things that make you feel great. Positive feedback will increase your success rate and strengthen your desire to keep going by taking on another baby step -and another, and another, all the way to permanent and glorious change!

Happy New Year, everyone!

Yes, Really!

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.” Tips can be submitted at tips.everydaycheapskate.com/. 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 Debt-Proof Living.

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BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Coffee, donuts & a missing rabbit’s foot

These past few months my friends and I have played lots and lots of board games. And played lots of Go Fish and Uno with younger relatives. As the months passed, we got the idea to Zoom and compare notes about things we’d never really talked about in depthour all-time favorite books and favorite movies.

Offhand no one guessed my favorite book, “The Great Gatsby,” but my friends were familiar with it from their high school reading days and having seen the movies. It was published almost 100 years ago but that’s okay because its many themes stand the test of time.

Amy’s favorite book is “The Shining” by Stephen King, the horror novel that mainly takes place in the fictional Overlook Hotel, an isolated, haunted resort in the Colorado Rockies. “The book came out in 1977 and the movie hit the big screen in 1980,” Amy said. “It caught my attention right from the beginning and I couldn’t put the book down.”

Nancy said, “’Sister Act,’ the 1992 movie, and ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit’ in 1993 were hits for me. Seeing Whoopi Goldberg, Maggie Smith and Kathy Najimy singing their hearts out was great. I’m hoping for a ‘Sister Act 3’ very soon.” My friends and I asked each other, wrote down and kept track of what each other said but we laughed about that because it was just trivia we were talking about after all. Comparing notes was fun and we didn’t have to be so serious about everything.

Once things started opening up we decided to meet at a local coffee and donuts shop and made sure that we sat seven feet apart plus kept our face masks on when we weren’t eating our snacks or drinking our coffees and frappes.

Talking about everything under the sun, we covered current events and politics until that topic of conversation got touchy then we changed subjects. I looked forward to these informal get-togethers.

It was nice to get out for a while and good for our mental health. Seeing my friends was fun and safer than shopping in a mall. Being isolated month after month was wearing us down yet we knew why it was important for people to refrain from social gatherings.

The three of us - Amy, Nancy and I - all retired in the last few years so we could meet conveniently. We didn’t have to stick to a lunch hour or meet after work hours. We were glad about that.

True confessions: It turns out the donuts and frappes had too many calories so I had to step up my exercise program. In many ways 2020 wasn’t working out as I thought it would - it’s definitely been unprecedented - and this unexpected side effect of hanging around the local coffee and donuts shop presented a challenge.

Amy, Nancy and I deserve pats on the back because we took exercising seriously. Nothing was going to stop us from putting on our sneakers and walking for blocks at a time. We’d start out at the coffee shop and walk over to a park which had old trees and a picturesque feel about it.

Breathing in the fresh air felt great and knowing that we were being proactive health-wise felt good. For a while we’d walk around in a socially distanced way. Exercising in a small group lifted our spirits and slowly but surely I saw the pounds slipping away. My two friends said they were having similar results so we felt encouraged by our actions.

Once, before getting back into our cars, the three of us stood seven feet

apart and Nancy wanted to tell us a quick story. She recently told her grandson, five-year-old Ronnie, about the story of the missing rabbit’s foot. A few months before retiring from her Manhattan job, Nancy was commuting home one evening on the L.I.R.R. People often sit in the same seats and when her fellow passenger stood up to disembark, the chain of her green rabbit’s foot broke and it fell from her backpack to the floor.

The train’s doors opened and closed and its owner didn’t realize the rabbit’s foot was missing. Continuing east, Nancy wondered whether or not to pick up the lucky charm. She had to decide quickly because she was almost at her destination.

Scooping up the rabbit’s foot, Nancy stuck it in her pocket. She took it to work the next day and hoped she’d see her fellow passenger that evening. Five o’clock eventually rolled around and Nancy hopped onto her train at Penn Station. Before taking off, the owner of the rabbit’s foot got on and took her usual seat.

Turning and smiling, Nancy said, “I’ve got something for you.” Holding

up the rabbit’s foot, the young woman took it and grinned, happy to have her lucky charm back. “It fell on the floor when you left last night so I grabbed it,” Nancy added. The passenger thanked Nancy and they both started reading their newspapers.

Ronnie thought the story was great. He liked hearing the happy ending - that the rightful owner of the rabbit’s foot got her lucky charm back and that she had such a delighted reaction. In the days following, Ronnie told the story of the green rabbit’s foot to anyone who would listen. He got such a kick out of telling the punchline and his listeners enjoyed hearing the story.

The three of us friends agreed to meet another day to walk and chat. That night when I slept I dreamed of a small green rabbit’s foot that’d slipped from its owner’s grasp and gotten lost then landed on a magic carpet that returned it to its owner. In the end the rabbit’s foot glistened and it was on a silver chain that was super strong. I woke the next morning shaking my head at the bizarreness of the dream but pleased with its ending. All was well!

Full Retirement Age in 2021 and Beyond

BY TOM MARGENAU

I know many people are saying, “Good riddance” to 2020, partly due to political turmoil but primarily due to the deadly COVID-19 virus. But as for me, I have been dreading 2021. Why? It has to do with the increase in the Social Security full retirement age. And therein lies a story.

For the first half-century of the Social Security program, life was simple. You could wait until 65 to collect full benefits. Or you could take a reduced benefit as early as age 62. The term “full retirement age,” or FRA, didn’t exist and wasn’t needed.

But in the early 1980s, the Social Security program was reaching a financial crunch point. So, President Ronald Reagan, working with Congress, formed the bipartisan “National Commission on Social Security Reform.” I got involved in some of their meetings -- in a very minor role. And what was that role? Think “gofer” -- as in: “Yes, Senator, would you like a cup of coffee? I’ll see if I can get you one.” But, hey, at least I was in some of the rooms where commission meetings were taking place.

Anyway, one of the many recommendations to come out of those forums was a proposal to increase the Social Security retirement age from 65 to 67. But they didn’t do it overnight. It was to be phased in over an almost 50-year period.

And before I go on, let me dwell on that point a minute. I hear from many readers who tell me they plan to sign up for Social Security sooner than they wanted to because they are fearful that changes will be made to the program in the near future and they want to get “grandfathered” into the current system.

My advice: Do NOT make personal Social Security choices based on what you think Congress might do to Social Security in the next few years. There is no question that the program will be reformed in the not-too-distant future. But I will bet my next Social Security check that any major changes will be phased in over a long period of time (as happened in the 1980s) to give people a chance to adapt to them.

Back to the phase-in of the age-65 to age-67 retirement age. Here is the way it was set up. The retirement age remained at 65 for anyone born before 1938. But for people born in 1938, the retirement age was bumped up to age 65 and 2 months. For people born in 1939, it was 65 and 4 months. And the retirement age continued to go up in two-month increments until we reached people born in 1943. They had to be 66 to get full Social Security benefits.

And for reasons I’m not entirely sure of, the reform commission decided the age should plateau at age 66 for the next 11 years. In other words, the retirement

age is 66 for anyone born between 1943 and 1954.

That means for the past decade or so, I’ve been able to tell most of my readers that their retirement age is 66. I usually didn’t have to use the rather awkward phrase “full retirement age” because I could just say 66.

But now we are coming out of that 11-year hiatus, and the retirement age starts creeping up again. So, people born in 1955 have to be 66 and 2 months to get full benefits. People born in 1956 have to be 66 and 4 months. And once again, the age continues to climb in two-month increments until we get to people born in 1960 and later who have to be 67 to get full benefits.

So, the reason I have been dreading 2021 is that people born in 1955 are reaching full retirement age in 2021. And again, those folks have to be 66 and 2 months to collect benefits. That means for the next half-decade or so, instead of simply saying, “When you reach age 66, this or that will happen,” I am going to have to say, “When you reach your full retirement age, this or that will happen.” And then I’m probably going to have to explain what I mean by “full retirement age,” because lots of people aren’t familiar with it. Oh, well, who said the life of a Social Security columnist was simple?! And now here are some questions from people in the emerging 66-plus retirement category.

Q: I was born in 1955. I will turn 66 on March 1, 2021. But I know that to get my full benefit, I must be 66 and 2 months, which will be May 1, 2021. I want my full retirement benefit. So, when I file, do I put down March 1 as my starting date and let the SSA computers figure out my full age? Or do I put down May 1? Or because I know the May check will come in June, do I put down June 1?

A: None of the above. You will indicate April as your starting month. (For Social Security benefit starting purposes, you don’t worry about days, just the month you want your checks to start.)

Also, you don’t worry about when the check will actually show up in your bank account. You just worry about which month you want to be your first month of eligibility for Social Security checks. And if you want your full retirement rate, you normally would indicate May.

But in your case, we have an additional twist. There is a common law (not a Social Security law) that says you legally attain your age on the day before your actual birthday. So, you will legally reach age 66 and 2 months not on May 1 but on April 30. Because you reach FRA on that last day of April, you will indicate April as the month you want your benefits to start.

Q: I was born in February 1959. So, my full retirement age will be

age 66 and 10 months. But I want to start my benefits at age 62. Do I have to be 62 and 10 months to do that?

A: No. When they changed the full retirement age, they did not change the early retirement age. It remains age 62 for everyone, no matter what your FRA is. But you should know this. You will be assessed with a bit more of a reduction for starting your benefits at 62. The reduction has been 25% for people whose FRA was 66. But because of the

extra months between age 62 and your FRA (66 + 10 months), the age 62 reduction will be a bit more -- somewhere near 29%.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has a book with all the answers. It’s called “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” You can find the book at creators.com/books. Or look for it on Amazon or other book outlets.

COPYRIGHT 2020 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Adding value and a comforting environment in your home

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

Iwould like to take this time to wish all my readers a very safe, healthy and happy holiday season and a more safer, healthier, happier and potentially more “getting back to normal” and lucrative New Year in 2021.

I have visited so many homes over the years providing suggestions, ideas and solutions to what the particular homeowner could and should do to improve and add value to their home. Everyone has different needs and wants and everyone’s tastes are always varied and sometimes very unusual, eclectic or even way far out in left field. There are also those whose tastes are very artistic and very personal. However, this will almost always take away from the appeal and value of a home when it comes to selling. I use an analogy that some like vanilla, some like chocolate and some like butter pecan and then there are those that like rocky road and banana cherry split chip. So there are those that like things standardized without too much pizzazz, nothing too fancy. Then I will walk into a home and notice one wall that just projects itself out like it’s saying, “look at me.” Those bright red, blue, green or a specific or customized and outrageous vivid and glossy color makes the room really pop! The decorations, colors and design add a variety and personal touch and feeling to each and every home. However, due to its’ personal nature, these aren’t the specific things that will add true value and benefit to the home now or when selling. However, it will create and satisfy what the owners want their home layout and environment to look and feel like by imputing their specific visions, tastes and whims.

What does add value and benefit to your home are the “no brainer” most crucial and important items like updated or gut renovated kitchens, bathrooms and family rooms and/or finished basements, as well as roofs, windows and utility upgrades (heat, electric and oil to gas conversions and CAC split

units). However since the Covid-19 Pandemic raised its’ ugly head back in March of this year creating our current “new norm” has added to the mix, a new demand (mentioned in a previous column) and need by purchasers for home “office space” specifically for both the kids who are schooling mostly online as well as for parents who are working from home. Many of us are no longer traveling to our offices and may never go back, depending on the specific job, position or business and the reduction and/or elimination of the Covid-10 virus. In many ways the bright side of your situation is the huge sums of money and time that have been conserved and saved over the last 10 months in traveling, transportation costs (train, gas and car wear and tear and repairs). Greater production has been enabled from those working externally. The World Economic Forum and Summit October 20-23, 2020 expressed and discussed the following information:

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Sometimes it’s the smallest things that can help us reach our goals. Take breakfast, for example, if you struggle with making a quick, healthy breakfast, you may need to purchase a small skillet (for one or two, depending on your family size) to make a quick egg and veggie omelet or scramble in the morning. If you prefer a Smoothie in the morning, finding a place for your blender on the counter may be the solution for daily making a milk or yogurt-based healthy Smoothie (adding fruits and veggies) for a quick, grab-and-

• The number of employees permanently working remotely globally is set to double in 2021, according to a new survey by a U.S. technology research firm.

• According to their results, the percentage of permanent remote workers will rise from 16.4% to 34.4%.

• This would have ramifications in areas from retail to real estate.

• Here is the link to read more in depth info: https://www.weforum.org/ events/the-jobs-reset-summit-2020

My professional opinion and belief is that more and more families will focus their attention about and within the home. Working at home is and will be a priority. However being comfortable like never before will also be a major point of interest and technology will continue to play a major role

in creating a more alluring, educational, interactive and fun environment. Until vaccines are widely distributed and the vast majority of the population is inoculated, living and playing in and around the home will be a focal point. Besides an area for office space, family rooms and/or finished basements will no longer be an option, but a necessity, it will be a value added benefit to a majority of those families who will demand and search for. Although humans are by nature social creatures, the Covid-19 Pandemic has forced many and enabled others to pivot, to figure out and pursue another path and deal with and get use to a different alternate reality of coping with our “new norm.” Being happy while being comfortable and somewhat satisfied with one’s surroundings will be tantamount in dealing with the lack of social interaction. For sure it isn’t a healthy situation for so many, especially when you have all of a sudden gone from a successful business or job to having it all disappear overnight. Here is a very helpful link to help you deal with stress and its’ related symptoms: https://www.stress.org/2020/12

I have been advising my clients to take up and focus a greater amount of time on their families as well as existing hobbies or try something new e.g. checkers, chess, scrabble, crossword puzzles, hangman, mad lips or any game(s) that might be interesting and challenging. Moreover, the need for the aforementioned family rooms and/ or finished basements. The Covid-19 infection rates will continue to soar locally, domestically and around the globe, during the next 3-6 months. Your home will more and more of a cherished bastion, a fortress and destination for greater security, comfort and healthier surroundings for a house is not a home until it is lived in.

As we stay within our homes, next

spring the garden will be a sanctuary and a source for a release from stress, frustration and sadness by taking one’s mind off our current insidious Covid19 Pandemic. As the days and months pass, we will emerge from the frigid and snowy winter months, like hibernating bears, yearning for the fresh air of spring and the warmth of the summer sun.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 39 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.). He will provide you with “free” regular updates of sold and new homes in your town via the Multiple Listing Service of Long Island (MLSLI) or go to http://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search on your own. For a “FREE” `15 minute consultation, as well as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s tumultuous Covid-19 pandemic market without any obligation or “strings” attached. He can also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and our Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

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

go, protein-rich breakfast.

Think about what you struggle with. If it’s daily exercise, start 2021 with a plan. My doctor recently shared with me that walking three times a week leaves too many options to “wait until tomorrow.”

It’s better, he says, to just plan on walking every day, closing the door to the “tomorrow” excuse. Maybe you need to find a new place for the treadmill or hang a speaker nearby to be able to play your favorite music or podcast while you exercise. It may be helpful to lay your workout clothes and tennis shoes the night before,

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so it’s easier to get started on your workout. Even a simple thing like having a cold bottle of water waiting in the refrigerator may be the little push you need to exercise. If you’ve tried any of the home meal services, such as Hello Fresh or Home Chef, you know they try to apply this idea of making it easier to cook at home. Taking the work out of making dinner - everything is in the bag ready to cook - helps you accomplish your goal of eating less take-out.

I’ve found this works in my own life, whether it’s healthier eating and consis-

tent exercise, or crossing an item off my to-do list. A clean desk helps me stay on track and tackle the next project. It’s a simple thing, but if I don’t organize my desk, I can’t find the papers I need to guide me through the next assignment.

Challenge yourself to make a list of your goals - then find something to make it easier to accomplish. You’ll be on your way to accomplishing that goal.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illinois.

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$18.50 P/H NYC $16 P/H LI

$13.50 P/H UPSTATE NY! If you need care from your relative, friend or neighbor and you have Medicaid, they may be eligible to start taking care of you as a personal assistant under NYS Medicaid CDPA program. No Certificates needed. Phone: 347-713-3553

SITUATION WANTED

CNA / HHA / COMPANION

AVAILABLE

Experienced male or female aide available to take care of your loved one full time or part time 6hrs, 12hrs, 24hrs. Please call 516-688-9251

for anything you need in our classifieds section! Call 294-8900 for

and information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ADOPTION

ADOPTION

Single woman looking to build her family by adoption. Any ethnicity welcome, expenses paid. Please call 347-470-5228 or my attorney: 800-582-3678 for information.

EVENTS

COVID-19 TESTING AVAILABLE

COVID-19 PCR Nasal Swab and /or ANTIBODY testing Mon, Wed & Fri in Floral Park Doctor’s Office without wait or lines.

EMPLOYMENT

CAREER TRAINING

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING program! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HEARING AIDS!! Buy one/ get one FREE! High-quality rechargeable Nano hearing aids priced 90% less then competitors. Nearly invisible! 45 day money back guarantee! 833-4480751

Scheduled by appointment. 516-488-1414

NOVENAS/PRAYERS

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail). Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine of Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin assist me in this necessity. Oh Star of the Sea help me and show herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth I beseech thee from the bottom of my heart to succor me this necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother. Oh Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to Thee (three times). Oh Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy to me and mine. Amen. This prayer must be said for three days and after three days your request will be granted. The prayer must be published. Grateful thanks. (D.M.F.)

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP 516-746-8900

Antiques-Furniture-Jewelry-Silver-Mirrors-LampsArtwork Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit....

Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Tues-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4

Our Website tgchs.org

Our Online Store stores.myresaleweb.com/ at-stewart-exchange Items to Consign? Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org

All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society Like us on Facebook & Instagram

INVITED ESTATE SALES BY TRACY JORDAN is doing VIRTUAL TAG SALES and ONLINE AUCTIONS now! Sell the contents of an entire house or sell just a few things! You can host your own sale on invitedsales.com and Facebook and Instagram or we can do it for you. We can photograph, advertise and handle the winning pickups for you within a week! Don’t worry about your closing date, we can get your house ready on time! We are a one stop service for all your needs when you are moving or selling a property! Selling, donating, discarding and cleaning out services can be done to meet your time frame with minimal stress. Contact info@invitedsales.com for more information or call 516279-6378 to schedule a consultation or receive more information.

Visit us at www.invitedsales. com for a listing of our upcoming Virtual Tag Sales and Weekly Auctions!

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

MARKETPLACE

TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC.

Please call 718-598-3045 or 516270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com

PETS

PET SERVICES

CHERYL’S

PET SITTING SERVICE

Dependable pet sitter will walk and feed your precious pet while you work or travel. Also available to board small dogs.

Many excellent references. Call 516-971-3242

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

AUTO BUYERS! We visit you. Highest cash paid. Or donate, tax deduct + cash. DMV#1303199. Please call Luke 516-VAN-CARS OR 516-297-2277

DRIVE OUT BREAST CANCER:

Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup 24hr response Tax deduction Easy to do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755

SERVICES

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING

We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship Thousands of frames to choose from!!

Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

PROFESSIONAL HOME ORGANIZER

Need help decluttering? Organizing?

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Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Toys, Action Figures, Comics, Art and Furniture. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048 or 718-386-1104

Garden City resident who has a passion for organizing household items; toys, clothes, kitchens, garages, attics, basements. References available Call Liz Annese 917-679-5553

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

SERVICES

SUNFLOWER FINE ART GALLERIES MIRRORS

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Art/Photo Restoration Printing, Hanging Services

Shadowboxes, Smiles

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WE HAVE THE HELP YOU NEED

HHA, LPN, Nurse’s Aide, Childcare, Housekeeping & Day Workers. No Fees to Employers. Call Evons Services 516-505-5510

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A.

D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts

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

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122

www.dangelolawassociates.com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

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28 year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154

FREE ESTIMATES

Extensions, Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Carpentry Work, Porticos, Siding, Dormers, Stone, New Construction & Conversions, Mason Work, Stone.

Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146

LAMPS FIXED $65

In home service. Handy Howard. 646-996-7628

LEAK REPAIRS

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MADE IN THE SHADE

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SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

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PAINTING & WALLPAPER

Interior, Exterior, Plaster / Spackle, Light Carpentry, Decorative Moldings & Power Washing. Call: 516-328-7499

CLEANING

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Cathedral Ave. traffic solutions to

From page 1

Diocese, Bishop of Long Island and Mercer School of Theology and the Cathedral chapter, we fully support the Road Diet traffic format for Cathedral Avenue. Over the past five years we have become increasingly concerned for the safety of neighbors, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists seeking to enjoy our 23 park-like acres in the heart of the Village of Garden City. The Cathedral of the Incarnation is the largest property owner on this corner and takes seriously its mission to increase its use and hospitality for all residents of the Village of Garden City. The proposed traffic ‘Road Diet’ plans were unanimously supported by the CPOA and this will significantly improve village safety and quality of life. We recommend the Road Diet for Cathedral Avenue be implemented in partnership with Nassau County as soon as possible,” Dr. Sniffen explained.

During the last Garden City Board of Trustees’ meeting of 2020, held on Zoom December 10, Cathedral Avenue resi-

dent Bryan Maher spoke on behalf of neighbors in the Central section. Maher told the trustees an independent engineer’s study to find solutions is underway. He said there are 50 to 75 traffic accidents on the roadway each year, with most involving speeding vehicles.

“The CPOA and Traffic Commission have thankfully agreed to move forward, as we understand our engineer’s report is 90% of the way done. There is a little more to be completed before it goes to Nassau County, and I implore the village to please move quickly as another accident took place in early December with a car landing 80 feet into the sidewalk.”

“Thankfully, a father walking his child in a stroller on the sidewalk came upon the spot where the car hit the sidewalk, arrived at that site just 90 seconds after the accident -- otherwise we’d have a much different story,” Maher said. He thanked village officials for paying attention to the issue and asked that the engineer’s report and traffic calming proposals be ‘run through proper channels’ immediately, for the Commission

and/or Village Board to approve this quickly.

“Every week that goes by there could be a minimum of one to two accidents,” he said.

His neighbor and fellow Central section resident Trustee Louis Minuto is the chairman of the Traffic Commission. At the November 19th commission meeting he noted that the Cathedral Avenue situation remains a high priority to work with Nassau County on.

“I live through this every day and it’s a redundant situation we’ve seen. I don’t think there is any person who disagrees with the work towards solutions for traffic patterns and safety on Cathedral Avenue, but my considerations are the best ‘asks’ of Nassau County as this remains a County road. We’ve talked about it but how do we move the ball forward with the County?”

Trustee Minuto said, looking to Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi to liaise with Nassau County offices.

Earlier in November the Central Property Owners’ Association informed the Village government of its resolu-

More Information and

tion: “the CPOA unanimously supports the conversion of Cathedral Avenue to a ‘Road Diet’ traffic format within the Village boundaries; urges the Traffic Subcommittee of the Board of Trustees to move immediately to support funding of the study and implementation of same and procure the necessary involvement and approval from the Nassau County Department of Public Works.”

This resolution was the result of a comprehensive earlier discussion among CPOA members and directors. Frank A. Filiciotto, branch manager at firm Creighton Manning Engineering LLP, followed his October presentation to the Central Property Owners’ Association with a refined proposal to the Traffic Commission on November 19.

He noted there is not a threshold of 20,000 vehicles per day on Cathedral Avenue that would warrant having four full directional (two north, two south) travel lines on Cathedral Avenue, and that the Road Diet with turning lanes

See page 42

Cathedral Ave. traffic solutions to be presented to county

From page 41

could be implemented fairly

“What we’re looking at here is a Road Diet for a roadway that has far fewer vehicles to support. There is a lot going on and ‘dieting’ the road would create a dedicated lane for the left turn for traffic going north, turning to reach the Cathedral of the Incarnation (whether parishioners or faculty and staff). Through traffic would then pass directly by, without ever having to brake and make a sudden stop with people turning left in front of them. This is just one of the many benefits to what we’ve proposed,” Filiciotto said. ‘

At the October CPOA meeting he presented data that under the Federal Highway Administration (FWA) considerations the Road Diet has a “proven track record of reducing the 85th percentile speeds of a comparable and the incidence of excessive speeding,”

as well as a “crash reduction of 19.4%” based on post-implementation studies.

“Road Diets have definitely shown to reduce accident levels by at least 20% and up to 50%. In this case I would look to achieve getting the 85th percentile speed under 40 miles per hour on Cathedral,” he explained.

On November 19, Filiciotto told the Traffic Commission that what seems like an eternity ago -- back in January of 2020 -- there was a meeting he and Central section residents participated in with Nassau County DPW. Their main interest, at that point pre-pandemic, was forming a consensus on plans to address Cathedral Avenue. The presentation made to the County needed to be added to and fine-tuned about 10 months ago, but the village’s backing was a prerequisite to action, it appeared.

“That’s where they left things, and with a follow-up meeting held in February 2020 in Village Hall. There was representation from Nassau

County, along with (Garden City Police) Commissioner Kenneth Jackson where we presented a very similar proposal backed up by data. Essentially they told us to work through the village’s process, get some funding, and then the County would be happy to continue working on it and looking into a solution,” Filiciotto said.

Traffic Commission member, Village Trustee John Delany, suggested presenting traffic engineering studies information to the Nassau County Department of Public Works.

“We must do that and at least see what kinds of reactions we get back,” he said. Delany noted that bureaucracy may mean further delays to any submissions Garden City sends Nassau County, and that Cathedral Avenue is ultimately in the County’s hands.

“For those of you that have seen it just put up a few weeks ago, that traffic light on the corner of Eleventh Street and Golf Club Lane -- another

County road and consideration -- that has only taken over four years to be done. Dealing with Nassau County’s DPW has been very, very difficult and to my recollection, all the things we as a village have tried to do that were contingent upon dealing with the County has really taken a lot of time. I have met with the County DPW on several other issues and while they are very nice people to speak with and discuss the issues, there is just a process -- but in the end the County must know what we intend to do on Cathedral Avenue and why we want to do it. Then we can go from there,” Trustee Delany explained.

Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi commented that because not much roadway or roadside construction would be involved for the proposed solutions and ‘Road Diet’ the process should take much less time than the years that the Golf Club Lane traffic light took to be installed.

Two elementary school students win local art competition

Stratford School fifth-grader Matias Archer with Shanti Fund volunteer Bakul Matalia and art teacher Ashley Howard.

Shanti Fund volunteers Jay Shah and Bakul Matalia, Garden City Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha, Stewart School art teacher Nicole Leyland, Shanti Fund volunteer Gargi Shah, second-grader Valentina Carr, District Coordinator of Music and Fine Arts Dr. Nina Prasso and Paul Carr.

BY GARY SIMEONE

It was the Indian-born social activist Mohandas Mahatma Gandhi that was the inspiration for a Stratford Avenue School student’s art competition award. Fifthgrade student Matias Archer earned the Shanti Fund Calendar Art competition award in 2019 for his depiction of Gandhi to celebrate the leader’s 150th birthday. Matias was recognized for his contribution on December 9th by the charitable organization.

Ashley Howard, an art teacher at Stratford, said her students entered the art competition last year as part of the school district’s commitment to participate in regional art competitions.

“There was a panel of three judges who selected the winning drawings from stu-

Shanti Fund volunteers Bakul Matalia and Jay Shah, Stratford School Assistant Principal Christopher Hartigan, Garden City Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha, District Coordinator of Music and Fine Arts Dr. Nina Prasso, Shanti Fund volunteer Gargi Shah, Stratford School fifth-grader Matias Archer, Lisa Archer, Michael Archer and art teacher Ashley Howard.

dents in each grade level,” said Howard.

“Matias won this award as a fourth-grader in my class for his depiction of Gandhi on a 9x12 sheet of paper with watercolors and a Sharpie marker.”

She said the Shanti Fund organization’s main goal is to promote peace and non-violence among children, so students were encouraged to draw educational images on paper.

“Matias chose Gandhi because his 150th birthday was on October 2nd, and he wanted to do something in remembrance of the spiritual leader. He painted the image in blue, light green and teal colors to reflect Gandhi’s calm demeanor and peaceful manner of social activism.”

Matias said that he was familiar with Gandhi before participating in the art competition.

“I learned in my history class that he was a peaceful and calm leader, and that is what gave me the inspiration to draw a portrait of him,” said Archer.

As a result of his winning entry, Matias earned a $400 check from the organization and also had his picture taken with his art teacher in front of the school. His portrait of Gandhi will also be displayed in the Shanti Fund’s annual art calendar.

The fifth-grader plans to put the money he earned with the check to good use. He said that he plans to sign up for a winter online art class and purchase additional art supplies for his school.

Matias was not the only one to garner recognition from the organization for their artwork. Valentina Carr, a second-grader at Stewart School, was recognized earlier this month for her winning submission in

the competition.

Valentina achieved the honor when she was in first grade at Locust Primary School for a drawing she did of herself outside under blue skies and a rainbow.

She said the inspiration for her artwork was a book that she read in class entitled “I Am Peace” by Susan Verde.

“We read the book in class and talked about the ways we can calm ourselves down, be mindful of others and promote kindness,” said Carr. “When I drew the picture, I pictured myself in a crisscross pose outside on the grass under the sun and a beautiful rainbow.”

Valentina won a $100 check for her submission, and will also be featured in the organization’s annual art calendar.

Stewart School second-grader Valentina Carr with art teacher Nicole Leyland.

John Ellis Kordes

PhotograPhy history

I took this photo in March of 1999 showing a desolate looking Franklin Avenue looking south from Ninth Street. It was just as the Franklin Avenue Beautification Project was about to begin. Note the trees and lampposts have all been removed already and the former A&S building on the far left is already going through a renovation. The transformation from this image to what would come in just a matter of months was amazing. However, over 20 years later some of what was done is looking pretty shabby now. Some feel, perhaps, too much was done in the “beautification “ to take care of in the long run. A simpler (but attractive) design may have been more practical and lasted longer.

Town provides PPE to GCFD

Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray provided free PPE kits to the Garden City Fire Department on December 2. Accepting the kits on behalf of the department was Ex-Chief Richard Chiarello. This new town program makes 6,000 PPE kits available for local businesses with items needed to keep staff as well as their patrons safe. The kits are available free of charge and are only available while supplies last, so businesses in need of these high-in-demand supplies are encouraged to apply on the town website –hempsteadny.gov/ppe-giveaway – as soon as possible. This initiative has been made possible through funding from the federal CARES Act, which provided a $133 million grant to the Town of Hempstead to distribute economic relief grants to alleviate some of the adverse effects that have arisen due to the pandemic.

Adelphi offers gap year experience

With opportunities for traditional gap year activities such as traveling and volunteering limited due to the pandemic, Adelphi University’s virtual Gap Year Experience offers college students the opportunity to work remotely, in small groups, developing projects for companies in their chosen field. Participants in the program can earn college credits or certification.

This fall, the 11-week program, offered by Adelphi’s Innovation Center, launched with participants working in groups with IBM, Northwell Health and a Queens-based start-up, Bayside Brewery. The program trains students in the first three weeks to improve their professional, networking, digital literacy and consulting skills. Students then spend eight weeks in a guided internship with their chosen organization.

“We had a lot of students who were

looking for work experience and our gap year alternative provided that guided work experience,” said Graziela Fusaro, director of the Innovation Center and creator of the program. “We also had a lot of international students for whom it is harder to find internships in the United States, but since the center assigns them to work on projects with the companies, they consider this a way of getting job experience.”

Chloee Gabrielle Louis, who graduated from North Babylon High School last June, decided to take a gap year this fall after her parents raised concerns about her commuting to a New York City college where she was a registered first-year student.

She decided to try community college, Louis said. “But as the fall semester started, I started panicking because I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I wasn’t sure I wanted to be an accountant.”

Louis chose Bayside Brewery because

of her interest in business. Having gone through Adelphi’s Gap Year Experience and taken a coding class on the side, Louis has decided to switch her major to computer science.

“The internship opened my eyes and it helped me become more clear about my future," Louis said. “To kids who don’t know exactly what they want to do, they should definitely do this internship because it helped me get clarity.”

Phuong Pham, MBA ‘19, an Adelphi graduate student from Vietnam, was one of the international students in the program. Pham, who also plans to earn an MS in logistics, materials and supply chain management this fall, chose the Gap Year Experience as an elective and a way of gaining practical experience in her field.

“I chose Bayside Brewery because when I looked at the project scope, it was tailored toward supply chain management

and e-commerce, which fits my résumé perfectly,” Pham said. She worked with three other students to help the owner of Bayside Brewery explore other avenues for getting products out in the wake of COVID19, as well as helping launch two new beer products.

“The program gave me more hands-on experience,” Pham said. “I think the program has improved my leadership, analytical, organizational and time management skills and has helped me learn more about my field, which is supply chain.”

Registration for the Spring 2021 session of Adelphi’s Gap Year Experience, which begins February 1, is now open. Adelphi’s Innovation Center is currently interviewing applicants to help define the types of projects and companies that will be part of the next session. To apply for Adelphi’s Gap Year Experience program, visit adelphi. edu/gap-year.

The board certified cardiologists of Northwell Health are dedicated to providing high quality compassionate care. Using the latest research and technology, we coordinate care plans personalized for each patient’s needs, with a focus on wellness.

Andrea Berger, MD has joined Concorde Medical Group, a member of Northwell Health Physician Partners.

Concorde Medical Group 38 E 32nd Street, Suite 801 New York, NY 10016

Call for an appointment: (212) 684-3305

Over 480 convenient locations. Most insurance accepted. Learn more at Northwell.edu/PhysicianPartners

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Notice of Formation of 444 Himrod LLC . Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/28/2020. Office Location : Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upn whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of the process to the LLC, 26 West Melrose St, Valley Stream NY 11580. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

GC 1141

6X 11/27,12/04,11,18,25,01/01/2021

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Notice of formation of Catherine Cooke Interiors LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/7/18. Office: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 85 10th St. Garden City, NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

GC 1142

6X 11/27,12/04,11,18,25,01/01/2021

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Notice of Formation of BRAND CONCEPTS INTERNATIONAL

LLC. Art. Of Organization filed with the SSNY on 09/28/2020. Office: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 82 Sixth Street, Garden City, NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

GC 1144

6X 12/04,11,18,25,01/01/2021,01/08

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Notice of formation of Vamana Properties LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 8/31/2020. Office located in Nassau. SSNY is designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 58 -13TH Ave. Mineola, NY- 11501. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

GC 1150

6X 12/25,01/01,08,15,22,29

News From the Children’s Room

Welcome 2021!

We’ve Been  Waiting for You!

The Librarians and the Staff of the Garden City Public Library Children’s Room want to take this opportunity to wish our patrons a very Happy & Healthy New Year!   I think many of us might be ready to put the year 2020 behind us and hope that 2021 will be a year filled with hope, happiness and health!    January brings us the opportunity to make resolutions and the chance to change for the better!  Whether it’s exercising, eating healthy, taking up a craft, learning how to cook, READING  and visiting the library more, or quitting a bad habit that’s been hard to beat, we can use this time to move forward.

The Children’s Room has books on many of these topics and more!

Early Winter Programs & Events in the Children’s Department

We have been planning for early winter programs, which include:

DO A WINTER CRAFT ONLINE WITH MISS BARBARA AND MISS DONNA

January 27, 2021 4:00 p.m.–4:40 p.m.

Registration online on Eventkeeper is required at www.gardencitypl.org  beginning January 12 @ 10 a.m. Separate Registration for each child is required.  Crafts must be picked up in advance in the children’s room beginning January 12.

PREMIERE OF A TIME FOR KIDS WITH A VALENTINE’S CRAFT.

February 1, 2021 10 a.m.–10:40 a.m.

Registration on Eventkeeper at www.gardencitypl.org is required beginning January 19 at 10 a.m.  All crafts must be picked up in advance of the program beginning January 19.  The craft will be led by Miss Karen in a pre-recorded video.   A separate registration is required for each child.

The taped program will be available for multiple viewings until March 1, 2021.  Only those children registered will get a craft.

Tween Programs

HAIKU WRITING LED BY MISS BARBARA AND MISS LAURA   January 21 @ 5 p.m.–5:40 p.m.

Registration begins January 12 @ 10 a.m. on Eventkeeper at www.gardencitypl. org.   Registrants must have nice paper, crayons and markers available to them prior to the start of the program.   Some poems may be showcased on the Library’s social media.

PARP Banner

Once again, we are pleased to help promote the PARP Reading program with the Garden City School District and PTA.  PARP is a program that asks a partner (parent, grandparent, babysitter, older sibling, cousin, friend, etc.) to read with a child for at least 20 minutes daily, stressing the fact that reading can be fun as well as informative. The choice of reading materials can vary from books to anything with printed words. The daily activity of reading together strengthens reading and communication skills in the child and strengthens their relationship.

PARP is a program that cements the necessary bond between the home and the school to encourage love of reading in our children. It was developed in 1978 by the late State Senator James Donovan, chairman of the State Senate Education Committee. In 1987, the New York State PTA was asked to assume the program’s helm, and since then has administered the program. The program was originally named Parents As Reading Partners, but was changed in 2015.  For more information about PARP visit https:// nyspta.org/home/programs/literacy/.

We currently have the PARP Banner hanging in the Garden City Public Library lobby.  All are welcome to come in and take advantage of this sign for a photo op!    Happy Reading!

Library Hours and Services

The Library is open for  contactless EXPRESS Pickup and in-Library browsing seven days a week, Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m.  Please check the Library’s Website at www.gardencitypl.org, or call (516) 742-8405 and speak to a staff member to find out availability of current services and hours.

The Children’s Room has materials available for Kindergarten-5th grade in the Children’s Room.   If we do not have the item(s) you need in our Library, we can interloan the book from another library. Contact the Children's Room Librarians  by phone, email at https://www.gardencitypl. org/cpntact-the-childrens-librarians/ , or use the form on our website to request books. You can also request materials yourself directly in the online catalog. There are also books available to download from the Nassau Digital Doorway in the Libby app and on Overdrive.com.

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

Teen Crafternoon:

Snowflake Mason Jars on Zoom

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Teen Crafternoon: Snowflake Mason Jars on Tuesday, January 19, 5 p.m.–5:40 p.m. Registrants will be asked to pick up their craft kit in advance in order to participate in this virtual craft program. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 only.

We will be using Zoom video conferencing for this virtual program. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration begins on Tuesday, January 12 at 10 a.m. Registration ends two hours before the start of the program. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tween Haiku Writing on Zoom

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Tween Haiku Writing on Thursday, January 21, 5 p.m.–5:40 p.m. Join us on Zoom as we write haikus and then create word art with them! Registrants should have paper and pen/pencil, as well as markers, crayons, colored pencils, etc. during the program. This program is for tweens in Grades 4–7 only and is a joint program with the Children’s and Young Adult Departments.

We will be using Zoom Video Conferencing for this virtual program. Please register via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration begins on Tuesday, January 12 at 10 a.m. Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Registration ends two hours before the start of the program. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom 1 hour before the start of the program.

Teen Games: Among Us on Zoom

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Teen Games: Among Us on Tuesday, January 26 at 4:30 p.m.–5:10 p.m. and 5:20 p.m.–6 p.m. Grab some snacks and join us as we play the popular game Among Us! Registrants will need the Among Us game downloaded on either their PC/laptop or mobile device in order to play. Patrons can sign up for only one of the two 40-minute sessions. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 only.

We will be using Zoom Video Conferencing for this virtual program. Please register via Eventkeeper  (www. gardencitypl.org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration begins on Tuesday, January 19 at 10 a.m. Registration ends two hours before the start of the program. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program.

Teen Jeopardy on Zoom

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Teen Jeopardy on Thursday, January 28, 5 p.m.–5:40 p.m. Test your trivia knowledge in this Jeopardy-style game! This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6-12 only.

We will be using Zoom Video Conferencing for this virtual program. Please register via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration begins on Tuesday, January 19 at 10 a.m.. Registration ends two hours before the start of the program. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program.

Social Media Challenges for January

For the month of January, participate in our social media challenges to earn community service credit! January’s challenges are as follows:

• Art: Draw or paint two pictures: one that represents 2020 and one that represents 2021

• Writing: Write a haiku with a winter-theme

• Food: Make a dish for a food you've never tried before

• Question of the Month: What will you remember from 2020 and what are looking forward to in 2021?

• Reading: Start a new series or read a new author you've never read before

If you participate in the challenges, earn community service credit by submitting so we can share it on our Facebook and Instagram pages!

Submit for the Art, Writing, Food, and Question of the Month Challenges here: https://www.gardencitypl.org/ social-media-submission/ .

Submit a 300-word book review for what you read for the Reading Challenge here:  https://www.gardencitypl.org/ submit-a-teen-review/

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

The next meeting of the Teen Advisory Board is Tuesday, January 12, 5 p.m.–5:40 p.m. The meeting is for Tweens and Teens in Grades 6–12. We will be using Zoom Video Conferencing for this virtual program. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration begins on Tuesday, January 5 at 10 a.m.. Registration ends two hours before the start of the program. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program.

If you are interested in helping to come up with some virtual programming ideas or social media outreach ideas for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12, consider joining the Teen Advisory Board Online applications are available at https://www.gardencitypl. org/teen-advisory-board-application/  Applicants should be in Grades 6–12.

Tweens and Teens

Dungeons and Dragons

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons on Thursday, January 14, 4:30 p.m.–6 p.m. Learn how to play the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons and Dragons by participating in one of our monthly Dungeons and Dragons MeetUp! Beginners are welcome! Each meet-up will feature a new self-contained, one-shot adventure and players will be assigned premade characters to play as.

We will be using Zoom video conferencing for this virtual program. For more information about Zoom, visit their website at zoom.us. Mobile users should download the Zoom app onto their device before the start of the meeting. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration begins on Tuesday, January 5 at 10 a.m.. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program.

Tweens and Teens Free Little Library

The Tweens and Teens Department’s Free Little Library, which launched in December 2019, is still available in the Tweens and Teens Room. Books are free for patrons to take home. The Free Little Library will be available  as long as books last. The Tweens and Teens Department will add new books to the Tweens and Teens Free Little Library as needed and as supplies last. Books target readers in Grades 6–12 and were published within the last two years. Books have been donated by Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta, who received the books through her work on the American Library Association's Best Fiction for Young Adults 2020 and 2021 Committees. For questions, please contact Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta via email at https://www.gardencitypl. org/young-adult-department/contactthe-young-adult-tweens-teens-department/.

Volunteer Teen Reviewers Needed

Would you like to be a reviewer for the Library? Need community service hours? Then become a Volunteer Teen Reviewer. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. The Library is looking for teen reviewers to review books and media in the YA collection as well as digital content, such as ebooks and audiobooks, available on Nassau Digital Doorway. There might be a book you've already read in our physical or digital collection that you can write a review on!

• Browse the physical collection here: http://encore.alisweb.org/

• Browse the digital collection here: https://nassau.overdrive.com

• Submit a review here: https://

www.gardencitypl.org/submit-a-teenreview/

Reviews will be used to update the Tweens and Teens Library Review Page (https://www.gardencitypl.org/ category/teen-reviews/) as well as update our social media pages. Reviews are subject to approval by the Young Adult Librarian. Please make sure to follow the guidelines for reviews in order for the review to count toward community service.

Teen-Created Social Media Content

Earn community service by submitting a photo, video, or other content for us to add to the Library's Tweens and Teens Facebook and Instagram pages! Ideas for submissions include book reviews, artwork, poetry, short stories, personal essays, photos of food you’ve cooked or baked, or any other creative idea you have for content. Not all submissions will be used on our social media and submissions including photos of people are not allowed. Submit social media content here https://www.gardencitypl.org/ social-media-submission/ .

Follow Tweens and Teens on

Facebook and Instagram

Follow Garden City Library’s Tweens and Teens on Facebook and Instagram! The Young Adult Department has been using both social media platforms as a tool to post updates, announcements, digital resources, ebook recommendations, and more during this time of social distancing.

Here are the Facebook and Instagram pages for the Garden City Public Library Tweens and Teens Department:  Facebook:  www.facebook.com/ GCPLTweensTeens

Instagram:  www.instagram.com/ GCPLTweensTeens

If you’re interested in participating and want to learn when new virtual events will be happening for tweens and teens (Grades 6–12), or if you have any questions, email Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl.org/young-adult-department/ contact-the-young-adult-tweens-teensdepartment /.

Teen Advisory Board Applications Now Available Online

If you are interested in helping to come up with some programming ideas or social media outreach ideas for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12, consider joining the Teen Advisory Board Online applications are available at https://www.gardencitypl. org/teen-advisory-board-application/  Applicants should be in Grades 6–12. Email Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl. org/young-adult-department/contactthe-young-adult-tweens-teens-department/  if you have any questions.

Join Savvy Sightseer on a Bucket List Virtual Vacation

North Island, New Zealand

Everyone has a Bucket List, which is probably getting longer since we cannot travel during this time. Join Savvy Sightseer Jeanne Schnupp as she presents her new armchair travel program

The Bucket List, a virtual trip to North Island, New Zealand, a land of beauty and character. This recorded video program will debut on  the Library’s Facebook page and the website www. gardencitypl.org  on Tuesday, January 5 at 7 p.m.

Many patrons will recognize Matamata, the stunning countryside

where the “Lord of the Rings” was filmed and Auckland, the north’s largest city which is home to both a bustling modern waterfront and serene black beaches. Enjoy Rotorua with its shooting geysers and adorable tiny kiwi birds. The Bay of Islands is a subtropical paradise with 144 islands and the world’s smallest bird, the little blue penguin.

All are welcome to view this interesting recorded program. No registration is required. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Library open for browsing; virtual, contactless options available

During the COVID-19 pandemic the Library’s most important priority is to prevent the spread of the virus and to protect the health and safety of Library users and Library employees. The Library has a range of services including virtual or contactless options to meet the needs of residents.

The hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m.–5 p.m.  Patrons may continue to visit the Library to browse and borrow items.  To check out items using the contactless EXPRESS Pickup service seven days a week, simply call the Library or visit the website at https:// www.gardencitypl.org/express-pickup/. Contactless EXPRESS pickup is available during the same hours.   Library materials should be returned only to the front book drop or inside the lobby on carts marked “RETURNS ONLY.”  Items will be checked in and backdated to their return date after 96 hours quarantine.  Although fines will accrue on overdue materials, they can be paid online ($5.00 minimum) or on your next visit to the Library.  Please also note, the Friends of the Library are not accepting book donations at this time.  Inside the Library, masks must be worn over the nose and mouth at all times, and in coordination with this rule, consuming any beverage or food is also not allowed inside the Library building, including in the Step Down Café. Six feet distancing is mandatory including at Library tables, and rearranging furniture is not permitted.   Visitors are limited to 60 minutes in the Library and any additional time must be approved by the Librarian-inCharge. All study rooms and computer areas remain closed. Congregating in groups is not allowed. The Library reserves the right to require visitors

to leave who are not following these and other Library rules and policies.

Librarians may assist patrons with questions about reading or other information needs by phone or email as well as in the Library.  Patrons seeking staff assistance at the Library must keep six feet distance and stand behind floor markings and desk partitions. Patrons who wish a staff consultation (Reference, Readers Advisory) must sign in the log book.  For contactless assistance, Librarians can also help patrons find the reading, media or information they seek through the many virtual services offered such as OverDrive, Hoopla, RBDigital Magazines, and more. For academic assistance or online learning, Librarians can suggest one of the electronic information databases, where a research article can be sent to your email account, or printed for you to pick up.  To reach a Reference Librarian for assistance, call the Library at 516-742-8405 x5236 or enter your question in the form on the Library’s website at www.gardencitypl.org .

The Library will not hold meetings or programs in the library building until further notice.  For virtual programs, please check the Library's website and Calendar of Events at www.gardencitypl.org as well as the Library’s Facebook pages for updates and information on the Library’s online resources, services and virtual programs.

The procedures above will be continuously reviewed by the Library Board and Administration, as needed for safety. The Library is continuing to work with the Village to ensure the safety of Library employees and visitors and to provide excellent library service.

Blood drive to be held at GC Public Library

Scan this QR code with your phone to make an appointment.

Long Island Blood Services will be holding a blood drive at the Garden City Public Library on Tuesday, January 5, 2021, 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. in the Large Meeting room on the lower level of the Library. Area hospitals are in need of local residents’ help. Each donation

can help to save up to three lives. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and CDC guidelines, appointments are strongly preferred, walk-ins are welcomed only if capacity permits. To schedule an appointment, please visit the Garden City Public Library website at www.gardencitypl.org or you can scan the QR code below with your phone and type in Garden City. You can also call 1-800-688-0900 to schedule an appointment or for any medical questions concerning blood donations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic the Library’s most important priority is to prevent the spread of the virus and to protect the health and safety of Library users and Library employees. As part of the Garden City Public Library Reopening Plan, to enter the building and at all times throughout the building, face covering must be worn over nose and mouth and minimum six feet distance is required. Visitors are limited to 60 minutes in the Library outside of the time necessary for blood donation.

Garden City Library

New

Years hours

The Garden City Public Library will have the following holiday hours: New Year’s Eve, December 31: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. New Year’s Day, January 1: Closed

Learn to make braised pot roast

Simply Creative Chef Rob Scott will help you make a delicious winter dinner by showing you how to prepare his braised winter pot roast with vegetables and fresh herbs. This is a hearty dish for cold winter nights. Join Chef Rob on Wednesday evening, January 13 at 7 p.m.  for this virtual cooking program. Chef Rob’s special pot roast recipe will be provided.

Everyone is welcome to view the premier of this recorded cooking show on the Library’s Facebook page and the website www.gardencitypl.org on January 13 at 7 p.m. No registration is required.  If you miss the premiere, this program will be housed in the Virtual Library. This cooking workshop is sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library.

Free PPE for local businesses

Hempstead Town Councilman Tom Muscarella (center) and Town Clerk Kate Murray (left) provided a free PPE kit to Cathy Fonte, owner of Garden City Dance, on November 24. This new town program makes 6,000 PPE kits available for local businesses with items needed to keep staff as well as their patrons safe. The kits are available free of charge and are only available while supplies last, so businesses in need of these high-in-demand supplies are encouraged to apply on the town website –hempsteadny.gov/ppe-giveaway – as soon as possible. This initiative has been made possible through funding from the federal CARES Act, which provided a $133 million grant to the Town of Hempstead to distribute economic relief grants to alleviate some of the adverse effects that have arisen due to the pandemic.

Town of Hempstead “Mulchfest”

With the holiday season coming to an end and a new year just about to begin, the Town of Hempstead invites all residents to participate in America’s largest township’s first ever “TOH Mulchfest!" This new program allows residents to have their Christmas Trees shredded into mulch and encourages them to take a bag of mulch home for their own personal use.

Town Supervisor Donald Clavin –along with Senior Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, Councilman Bruce Blakeman, Councilman

Anthony D’Esposito, Councilman

Dennis Dunne, Sr., Councilman

Tom Muscarella, Councilman Chris Carini, Town Clerk Kate Murray and Receiver Jeanine Driscoll— invite Hempstead Town residents to participate in TOH Mulchfest, which will be held on Sunday, January 3 and Saturday, January, 9 at Baldwin Park (3232 Grand Ave., Baldwin) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“TOH Mulchfest is an environmentally conscious program that encourages residents to turn their beloved Christmas Tree into mulch for their gardens, lawns or compost piles,” said Clavin. “Instead of disposing of the trees through regular sanitation, we are proud to offer this greener option for residents looking to keep their Christmas Tree yearround.”

To participate in TOH Mulchfest, residents are asked to safely transport their Christmas Tree to Baldwin

Park on January 3 or January 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Town of Hempstead employees will then run the tree through a woodchipper and return a bag of mulch to the resident. The entire process will be contact-free and completely safe. Residents are reminded to remove decorations prior to bringing their Christmas Tree to the park.

Residents who cannot make either of the TOH Mulchfest dates will have the option to dispose of their Christmas Trees at a designated drop-off location at Baldwin Park from Monday, January 4 through Friday, January 8, Monday, January 11 and Tuesday, January 12th. Please follow the signage at Baldwin Park to the drop-off location, which will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on those designated dates.

Mulch has a variety of uses in gardening and landscaping, and the organic mulch produced from shredded Christmas Trees is helpful for the environment and will improve the organic content of your soil structure. Any excess mulch will be kept by the park and used for future landscaping procedures. What’s more, this program contributes to a greener footprint from Hempstead Town.

“Bring your Christmas Tree down to Baldwin Park and dispose of it the safe and environmentally sound way,” said Clavin. “I look forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come!”

Kindergarten registration

The Garden City Public Schools’ registration process for kindergarten students will be different this year and will be conducted by appointment only due to COVID-19.

Registration will take place over two weeks at the child’s home school beginning on Jan. 11 through Jan. 22, 2021. Parents/guardians can go to https://www.gardencity.k12.ny.us/ Page/9911 to make an appointment for kindergarten registration. Please be sure to complete all required forms, available at https://www.gardencity.k12.ny.us/Page/7942, prior to coming to your home school for

an appointment. Those registering must provide the school with the original and a copy of your proof of birth: either a birth certificate or a passport.

Anyone unsure about which school their child will attend can watch the instructional video posted

on the https://www.gardencity.k12. ny.us/Page/9911 to learn how to use the interactive map to identify a family’s home school.

Questions or concerns can be emailed to Registrar@gcufsd.net.

2-bath.

3257946. $730,000.

3.55-bath.

3254193. $2,195,000.

Stewart Manor, NY

2-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3274946. $559,000.

Bronx, NY

3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3273623. $785,000.

Freeport, NY

Garden City, NY

4-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3150374. $959,000.

Rockville Centre, NY

3-bedroom, 4-bath. MLS# 3264268. $798,000.

5-bedroom, 5.5-bath. MLS# 3258646. $1,340,000. Rockville Centre,

5-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3265875. $1,498,000.

Garden City, NY

6-bedroom, 4.55-bath. MLS# 3113870. $3,850,000.

Merrick, NY 6-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3270088. $688,000.

Floral Park, NY

3-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3257397. $858,000.

Riverhead, NY

6-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3247164. $1,789,000.

Hyde Park, NY 4-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3226325. $725,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3265075. $1,198,000.

Old Westbury, NY 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3275343. $1,799,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3265882. $765,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 4-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3205390. $1,295,000.

New

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk Chelsea Costello Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Manager

Rene Blair Annmarie Bommarito

Christine Cudahy Assistant Manager

Patricia Costello Gregory Abruzzo

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Mary LoGalbo Linda Mulrooney

Susan MacDonald

Patricia Dickson Brigid Marmorowski

Eileen O’Hara

Susan Gillin Diane Piscopo

Garden City, NY

New Hyde Park, NY

3-bedroom, 2.5-bath.

3274070. $875,000.

100 Hilton Ave, #419

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath.

100 Hilton Ave, #801 Garden City, NY

3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3179594. $1,999,999/Rent $7,999.

111 Cherry Valley Ave, M6

1-bedroom, 1.5 bath.

Rockville Centre, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3272253. $249,000.

Wyndham Resale

Office

Patricia

Patricia Dickson, Alfred Kohart, Mary Krener and Linda Mulrooney

100 Hilton Ave, M29 Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 3.5

2.5-bath.

3277059. $4,200. 111 Cherry Valley Ave, PH6

100 Hilton Ave, M7 Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3248629. $5,300.

NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3252233. $285,000.

0-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3264344. $199,999. Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3274277. $625,000.

3258640.

100 Hilton Ave, #412 Garden City, NY

1-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3227978. $695,000.

Cherry Valley Ave, #805W

City, NY

2-bedroom. 2.5-bath. MLS# 3245739. $900,000.

NY

4-bath. MLS# 3233161. $3,490,000.

111 Cherry Valley Ave, #614W Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3264719. $975,000/Rent $5,600.

111 Cherry Valley Ave, PH1 Garden City, NY 3/4-bedroom, 3.5 bath. MLS# 3236064. $3,498,000.

111 Cherry Valley Ave, PH4

City,

#902

3.5-bath.

3248011. $1,800,000. 111 Cherry Valley Ave, #906

City, NY

2.5-bath. MLS# 3255243. $1,150,000.

Costello,

Mary Krener

Fortune Heaney

Peter Kerantzas

Alfred Kohart

Lisa Heaney

Robert J. Krener

Stephen Ripp Kathleen Higdon Meredith Krug

Cecile Raoult Lynn Puccio

Joseph Scianablo Cheryl Trimboli Scott Wallace

Patrick Gibbons

Kathleen Roberts Julia Mastromauro Rosado

Jennifer Petersen

Daureen Hausser