School district kicks off budget season with increase under 1%
BY RIKKI N. MASSAND
The Garden City School Districty’s budget development process for the coming 2021-22 school year has commenced, even as many uncertainties remain related to the pandemic.
The series of budget meetings planned for coming months kicked off this week with an introductory presentation of budgeting and projected revenues for the 17 months ahead.
Garden City Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha made a
presentation to the Board of Education on Tuesday, February 2nd to introduce district revenue projections, ‘budget drivers’ and priorities for academic year, which technically begins on July 1st.
As proposed, Garden City Public Schools would have a budget increase below one percent. The proposed budget is $122,054,937, an increase over this year of 0.94% ($1,141,797).
For the upcoming school year the projected Tax Levy will be 0.84% or $878,645 while the Tax Base Growth Factor
for next fiscal year is 1.0031 ($324,097 in increase) from the 1.0040 mark in the current year.
The proposed budget is the total amount of money that the district plans to spend during the year. The tax levy is the amount of money that the school district will have to raise through property taxes. (In addition to property taxes, school districts also collect revenue from other sources such as state aid.)
The “tax base growth rate” number represents the chang-
See page 49
BY RIKKI N. MASSAND
With Garden City’s school district budget season underway, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha noted how the allocations of funds for the next school year are tied to the unknown trajectory of the Covid-19 pandemic, and in particular the difficulties in the vaccination rollout across the nation.
Garden City School Board President William Holub understands that goal is for the local district to “go back to what we had for in-school operations before the pandemic but with necessary safety protocols built around it -- from the ideas of classroom sizes, special education, services and programs, and how we intend to operate overall,” he said at the Board of Education work session, held on Tuesday, February 2nd via Zoom.
Superintendent Sinha explained that the district’s goal is to restore in-person services and programs for September.
“From what we are hearing from New York State, they are talking about vaccinations for students (children) before September. They are also talking about the masks as universal masking will still be in effect for September. In our secondary buildings, over the next couple of weeks we will be back to fully open however without the six feet or more of social distancing -- there will be the physical barriers in-place. We will have to see just how we function with those barriers and seeing logistically how we operate. I am confident that we will be able to do that well,” Superintendent Sinha said.
Board President Holub asked Dr. Sinha to confirm with the schools planning on returning more students to in-person instruction over the coming weeks, “social distancing of six feet” does not represent a magic number. The superintendent then provided more context for Garden City Schools’ reopening.
“In what we receive from the County Department of Health, the distancing is one of the first questions we are asked. There are other medical journals and experts that have examined the issues and suggested it could be three feet instead of six feet, calling the total measuring into question. What the New York State Education Department told school districts, that we must abide by, is that if you don’t have physical distancing of six feet between each desk or students’ workspace then you must have barriers. That too is something we asked
Garden City’s Girl Scouts took delivery last week of pallet loads of cookies destined for local families. See page 28
Photo by Regina Moran
Conservative spending
As budget season begins for the school district and Village, there is a lot of economic uncertainty that both entities will have to include in their calculations.
If the vaccine rollout, which has been slow to start, picks up speed, and most people are vaccinated by summer, things may start to return to “normal” by fall. Early studies reported this week indicated that those who are fully vaccinated seem a lot less able to transmit the virus, so that’s a hopeful sign (but the studies are not yet complete). But emerging variants seem to be more transmissible, and at least one seems more lethal, so it’s far from clear whether this will be the end of the pandemic or merely Year 2.
Those creating budgets should be extremely conservative with their spending on elective projects, and assume that revenues will also be down. While the economy is no longer in free fall, there’s still some chance that there could be further damage if the pandemic worsens.
For the Village, which has also had some unusual expenses due to new state requirements to remediate water contamination, this may not be a good year to spend a lot on capital projects. While interest rates are at historic lows right now, it’s not particularly far-fetched to imagine that the economy fails to revive, or even gets worse. Not to be a Negative Nelly, but this is really a time for conservative spending.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Email: Editor@GCNews.com
Show some vision
To the Editor:
One of the traits exhibited by any organization, or individual, is to have vision, then plans, and execute, successfully . You do not achieve success with 20/20 hindsight -- any more than predicting tomorrow’s weather based on the pattern of prior weeks, or assuming that past trends are forever.
Our Board of Trustees is in the process of violating the definition of effective management, again!
I am referring to how the rules have been set for the upcoming, Village Election to select five new seats on the Board.
Consider these facts for the March 16th event:
1) the time slot for voting in person is only nine hours -- Noon to 9 PM
2) There is only one site for voting, Village Hall.
3) There is likely to be perhaps several thousand residents who intend to vote;
4) Historically, only about 200-300 person voted;
5) This time we have a contested election, from a group of concerned citizens, who believe the present Board does not deserve high marks for their botching several major issues that they have dealt with. Good examples are the attempt to take over the Casino Club with the intent of selling it, the $10 mil firehouse fiasco, allowing the MTA to build ugly, Monster Poles in close proximity to many homes, and planning to renovate St Paul’s at an astronomical cost. There are many more such bungles.
516-537-3050
The new opposition to the candidates selected by the POAs, is FABGC (For a Better Garden City).
6) Covid is a turnoff to voting in person, so absentee rules need to be materially relaxed, and allowed to be 100% counted.
7) Village Hall does not have the capacity to handle such a large volume in a few voting booths. Also parking is difficult there, and there is no shelter
outside for waiting in line in cold or inclement weather.
Many have raised the question of why the BOT has not expanded voting hours or voting sites in recent weeks.
Response: “This is how it has always been done; we have no plans to change the past rules” They did offer to allow expanded voting by mail, by requesting from Village Hall, an absentee ballot. All voters would benefit by liberalizing the rules. Why not, in person, 8AM to 9 PM? Why not vote on more than one day, in person. Why not additional sites for voting?
Isn’t it a “no-brainer” to envision a chaotic scene on March 16th. Apparently not for this Board. Hopefully they will do something to head-off a catastrophe, i.e., an inconclusive election because all who want to vote simply cannot.
Trustees: Show that you are aware how important the March 16th event will be. Show that you have a bit of vision.
Say something. Do something. Or commit a historic BOT error. There is still time to act. This is an urgent appeal!
Sitting on your hands is not an option.
George M. Salem
Note: Today’s Letter is a follow-up to one on this theme, published in GCNews Jan. 15th
Expanded mail-in voting passes senate
To the Editor:
The easiest way to honor those who have served and died for our freedoms is to exercise your right to vote. Voting is an expression of our commitment to democracy. It is the most powerful tool delegated to the people, designed to permit freedom to flourish and candidates to be selected on their merits. But to quote Thomas Jefferson, “We do not have government by the majority; rather, we have government by the majority who participate.” By that sound logic, we should strive for the majority of our eligible residents to exercise their vote
See page 52
What Board’s $10 million firehouse plan reveals
SUBMITTED BY FOR A BETTER GARDEN CITY
What It Reveals About
Our Local Government
On March 16th, residents will have an opportunity to vote for a For a Better Garden City (FABGC) mayoral candidate and four FABGC trustee candidates who are all committed to (1) returning transparency to our local government, (2) ending the current practice of no bid contracts by our present Board of Trustees, and (3) restoring community engagement which was once a hallmark of our village government.
The present Board of Trustees’ action surrounding the $10 million Western Section Firehouse is another example that illustrates why your vote for FABGC candidates is so important. Transparency is essential for good government. No bid contracts often lead not only to overpaying for projects, but also to not getting the most qualified contractors. In a village fortunate to have many civic-minded residents with broad expertise and a willingness to volunteer their time, our local government should be welcoming their input.
The Board of Trustees has now spent
$342,000 for design plans which will include demolition of the 90 year old landmark firehouse in the Western Section. These plans are at odds with the recommendations of the Western Property Owners’ Association (WPOA) Firehouse Committee and many in the community. Anyone looking further into the Board of Trustees’ path towards a $10 million Western Section Firehouse will see an alarming lack of transparency, lack of community engagement and lack of sound business judgment.
Lack of Transparency
At a heated WPOA meeting on September 30th, 2020, a resident asked the Deputy Mayor what the process was that led the Board of Trustees to hire PKAD Architecture and Design (PKAD) to prepare plans that now include demolition and new construction at a cost that will likely exceed $10 million. The Deputy Mayor said it was a multi-step process, but not one of those steps was identified. The Deputy Mayor promised to provide the information, but that was over four months ago, and in spite of a nearly constant presence on Facebook
See page 51
and connected.
Briscoe Safe means local, state-of-the-art security monitoring for instant and accurate response to any emergency, plus a complete line of security, life safety, and automation offerings. All from GC Alarm and Worldwide Security – part of the Briscoe Protective family –protecting Garden City, its business and residents for over 40 years.
Why you should be concerned about the election
SUBMITTED BY THE COMMUNITY AGREEMENT PARTY CANDIDATES
In last week’s article we discussed the value of our democratic and transparent POA process to nominate residents to the Village Board of Trustees that was designed by the founders of our village at its incorporation in 1919. It is a unique form of governance that is meant to avoid politics in our village.
This year a rogue group has been established to contest the Community Agreement or POA candidates. Therefore, all of the Village’s residents should be very concerned about the election to be held on Tuesday, March 16, 2021.
In a letter to editor last week, the mayor candidate for this rogue group implied that there was an agreement to have a debate in writing in the Garden City News. The Community Agreement candidates were surprised to read this letter as none of us were contacted by either this rogue group or anyone from the Garden City News regarding such a debate. We believe that the Village residents would be best served by an in-person and safe one-on-one debate between
two mayor candidates, and potentially the trustee candidates. This would be broadcast live on Zoom and available for replay. We should have an independent moderator run the debate and allow residents to ask any questions for which they would like answers.
Consider these facts regarding this rogue group of candidates before you vote:
• The individuals have just started to become involved in the concerns of the Village. In fact, recently one of their candidates stated that he has never been to a Board of Trustees meeting. Board of Trustee meetings are an open forum where citizens are always invited to the floor for comments on agenda items. In addition, at the end of the meetings any citizen can bring up new business. It should be a concern of each and every resident in the Village that most candidates challenging our highly qualified POA candidates have never even been to or spoken up at a Board of Trustees meeting.
• They continue to ask questions in this paper which if they were really involved in the Village and concerned
See page 51
Manhasset Waterview 5Br, 3.55
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 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
101 Elton Rd., Stewart Manor Open House
Saturday, Feb. 6th 11:30am-1pm
Come see this charming four bedroom two full bath duplex with wrap around porch located on a quiet tree lined street.
• The first floor includes; foyer, sunny den/library, spacious formal living room opening to an elegant formal dining room, renovated high end eat in kitchen with granite countertops, Wolf stove, pot filler faucet, Sub Zero refrigerator and decorative wainscoting. A fabulous 25 x 13 great room with wood burning fireplace and french doors that access the porch. Conveniently located updated full bath complete this level.
• The second floor is very well appointed with four large bedrooms (two of them 12 x 13 with walk in closets) and an updated full bath.
• The oversized full basement is fresh and clean with storage, utilities, laundry and Bilco doors.
• The porch that overlooks the private yard and brick patio really set this home apart.
• Additional amenities include; IGS, hardwood floors, blue stone front and back stoop, gas heat and 220 amps. Near to railway, shops and pool.
Truly an exceptional value for a beautiful home that has an amazing floor plan, curb appeal, convenience and great square footage.
Offered at $699,000
Suzanne Blair
Licensed RE Salesperson, CBR Mobile: 516-238-0260
sblair@coachrealtors.com
Laura Rich
Licensed RE Salesperson, CBR Mobile: 516-987-2775
lrich@coachrealtors.com
21 Ash Street
Open House
Saturday, Feb. 6th 1:30-3pm
This gracious historical six bedroom four and a half bath colonial is centrally located in the desirable Country Life Press section of the village. It is a rare opportunity to own a stately home full of character and architectural details of a by gone era with today’s updates for modern living.
• The charming front porch greets you as you enter the foyer.
• The first floor boasts; oversized living room with two seatings and a wood burning fireplace, banquet size formal dining room, cozy sunny den and a chefs delight an eat in kitchen with granite countertops, cherry cabinets and stainless steel appliances. A well appointed full bath off the kitchen.
• The second floor contains a beautifully spacious master bedroom with an abundance of closet space and updated master bath. Two additional bedrooms and a full bath complete this floor.
• The third level has three more large bedrooms, an office and a full bath. The back staircase makes this ideal for private guest quarters!
• Full, finished basement with large recreational room, wet bar, laundry, utilities and half bath.
• Private yard with brick and paver patios as well as mature shrubbery and gardens.
• Additional amenities include 10 foot ceilings, hardwood floors, pocket doors, built ins, 2 car detached garage. Near to railway, schools and center of town.
Priced with the market at $1,299,000
Suzanne Blair
Licensed RE Salesperson, CBR Mobile: 516-238-0260
sblair@coachrealtors.com
Laura Rich
Licensed RE Salesperson, CBR Mobile: 516-987-2775
lrich@coachrealtors.com
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
Jen Sullivan Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 182 Seventh Street Garden City, NY 11530 jennifer.sullivan@compass.com M: 516.361.7190
Chaminade student starts GoFundMe page for local business
BY GARY SIMEONE
Chaminade High School junior Gerard Donnelly is not your typical high school student. The altruistic teenager started a GoFundMe page for local businesses that are currently struggling, including a Garden City business that has lost money as a result of the ongoing pandemic.
“The ongoing COVID-19 crisis has caused a nightmare situation for many small businesses across America,” said Donnelly. “My ultimate goal is to raise money for all of the local businesses across Long Island that are struggling right now. Many of these small business and restaurant owners spent their entire lives creating their businesses, and I’d like to help them as much as I could.”
Donnelly initially raised money for a pizzeria that was struggling in his hometown of Lynbrook.
“In early January, I placed fliers around town and solicited other businesses to help raise money for Angelina’s Pizzeria. In the course of two weeks, I was able to raise over $1,000 through a GoFundMe account.”
After seeing that raising funds through the GoFundMe platform could be a successful venture, Donnelly decid-
ed to follow-up on his success by helping a local business on Seventh Street. He ended up getting in touch with Kelly Martinez, owner of Garden City Skin Care.
“I spoke to her over the phone and she told me how she first had to take out a business loan, and then a personal loan, in order to keep the business afloat,” said Donnelly. “It was a sad story because she had to close the business for four months during the height of the pandemic and had lost money spending on PPE for COVID. People were also reluctant to go inside the business.”
He said that he has raised over $500 so far through GoFundMe, and his goal is to raise $1000.00 by the middle of the month.
“People or other businesses will usually donate $25 or sometimes $50,” said Donnelly. “The biggest donation that I have received so far is $250 from the Henry Schein Inc, which is based on Long Island.”
The teenager’s altruistic nature has earned him several outstanding awards, including the Town of Hempstead’s Hometown Hero Award and an official citation from Nassau County Executive Laura Curran.
an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call 294-8900 or visit us online www.gcnews.com to request information & rates Litmor Publishing's Community Newspapers
Chaminade junior Gerard Donnelly receives citation from Nassau County Executive Laura Curran (right) and GC Skin Care owner Kelly Martinez (left).
Renowned author releases historical book of Garden City
Author Richard Panchyk
BY GARY SIMEONE
Richard Panchyk is one of New York’s most prolific local history authors and photographers. The Westbury resident’s latest release is entitled “ Garden City - Pictures from a Pandemic, ” and focuses on scenes throughout the phased reopenings of the pandemic.
Panchyk said that before the start of the coronavirus pandemic last February, he was signed on to publish a photo book of the village.
“ The book was going to be filled with different places and historic sites in Garden City but once the pandemic happened it gave me the potential to go in a different direction, ” said Panchyk who is an author of over forty books. “ I photographed a lot of places located in the Village’s zip code trying to capture the transformation that was caused by the pandemic. ”
He said that the photos in the book are taken in chronological order and have captions detailing the importance of each site.
“ The bulk of my photographs were taken from May to July, and depicted things like the empty roads, the shuttered businesses, the mask requirements and takeout only signs on the restaurants and the eventual reopening of outdoor dining. ”
Some of the sites depicted in the book include the campuses of Adelphi University and Nassau Community College, boarded up storefronts at Roosevelt Field and scenes of an empty Seventh Street.
There are also photographs of the historical gazebo on the corner
of Stewart and Hilton Avenue, and ghostly pictures of normally crowded Old Country Road and Franklin Avenue devoid of cars.
“ It’s kind of like a snapshot in time for posterity and the historical significance of it all, ” said Panchyk.
Other sites that the author visited include the Garden City and Nassau Blvd train stations, with their empty platforms, and a photograph of a BLM (Black Lives Matter) rally that took place on Franklin Avenue in June.
Panchyk started his journey as an author fifteen years ago with various history books on the boroughs of New York City and Long Island.
Some of the titles he has to his name include “ Nassau County Through Time, ” “ Suffolk County Through Time, ” “ Abandoned Queens ” and “ Abandoned Long Island, ” which includes closeup shots of the former St. Paul’s School in the Village.
He said that when his current book, “ Garden City - Pictures from a Pandemic, ” was released last month, it was impossible to know where we’d currently be in the pandemic.
“ When I was taking some of these photos in June and July, with the reopening of restaurants and people out and about, there were only a few dozen cases being reported on Long Island at the time. Now we’re just getting out of a brutal wave and 1,000 cases are still being reported per day. ”
To find out more about the author and his new release, you can visit his website, Panchyk.com
Cover of new book by Richard Panchyk, “Garden City: Pictures from a Pandemic”
Garden City Real Estate Market Information
RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY
Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS
Sold Price: $999,999
Date: 02/03/2021
5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath Style: Colonial
Total taxes: $19,205
Lot Size: .14 acres
MLS number: 3257877
The Seller’s Team: Marisa DeSimone, Signature Premier Properties
The Buyer’s Team: Christine Riccobono, Douglas Elliman Real Estate
Welcome to the Adelphi Estates section. This brick center hall colonial has an amazing layout with great bones. All you have to do is customize it & make it your own. The 1st floor features a Formal LR/ DR, a bright & sunny EIK, a half bath & an amazing large den with a gas fireplace. The 2nd floor has 3 bedrooms. There is a large hall bath with double vanities, a great sized master which has an en suite with two double vanities & a walk in closet. The upstairs hallway has an open staircase which leads to the 3rd floor, which has two additional rooms. The basement is full & finished with a bar, & can be ideal for entertaining. This house also has IG sprinklers & new CAC. Don’t miss the opportunity to view this home which has tons of potential! All it needs is some modernization & it can be perfect for a large family!
119 Tullamore Road
Sold price: $1,250,000
Date: 01/29/2021
Style: Colonial
3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths
Lot Size: .15 acres
Total taxes: $22,458
MLS number: 3268937
The Seller’s Team: Sheila Pfeffer, Coffey Realty Solutions
The Buyer’s Team: Jennifer Sullivan, Compass Greater New York
Stately Traditional Brick CH Colonial in the Estate Section of Garden City in the middle of the block. Spacious and Sunny Home Conveniently located near Stratford and Homestead Schools. This Charming Sunny Filled Home features 7 Rooms including a Large Master Bedroom Suite plus 2 other large bedrooms, 1 additional full bath and 2 half baths. Ample storage in the Walk up Attic and Finished Basement...Detached 2 Car Garage with storage loft. Near LIRR
Houses
5 Jackson Street
Sold Price: $930,000
Date: 02/01/2021
Style: Ranch
3 bedrooms, 2 full baths Total taxes: $15,533 Lot Size: .18 acres
MLS number: 3263465
The Seller’s Team: Monica Kiely and Sharon Redmond, Coach Realtors Fennessy Associates
The Buyer’s Team: Stephen and Laura Baymack, Coach Realtors Fennessy Associates
Pristine Ranch in the Western section of Garden City. Open plan Entry Hall, Living Room, Dining Room, Den and Eat in Kitchen with hardwood floors, custom molding, and vaulted ceilings. Kitchen has granite countertops and SS appliances. Den features wood burning fireplace with sliding doors that lead to a raised paver patio. Master Bedroom has it’s own bath and 2 large closets. CAC, Gas Heat, new roof & gutters, new hot water heater, fully fenced rear yard with privacy landscaping, 80 x 100 property, IGS, paver driveway and walkways. Close to 2 train lines, neighborhood park & local shops. Low Taxes!
First – Eighth Grade Program
• Lower school to teen
• Full-Day: 8:30am-3:00pm
• Full summer program or
• Flexible 25-day minimum
• A variety of indoor and outdoor activities
• Optional aftercare to 6:00pm
Summer at Waldorf
“The counselors and staff at The Summer Program are exceptional!”
Sunday, February 14th
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the
Waldorf School of Garden City 225 Cambridge Ave., Garden City (516) 742-3434 x327
SUMMER DATES: Wednesday, June 30 to Friday, August 13, 2021 Visit Us
THI S WEEK AT ROTARY
Phil Hammond, producer/writer, Garden City New York Media
Did you catch Garden City New York Media’s Virtual Village Show, Winter Edition this past December? If not, you can still watch – or watch it again by visiting virtualvillageshow.com.
Media, in collaboration with the Garden City Hotel (where the production was filmed), the Music Academy Foundation and Broadway Bound Dance Center of Garden had joined to present this free Virtual Village Holiday Show for the community on December 18. Phil Hammond will also report on the full services provided by the media group and its production team.
An Extensive Portfolio
Garden City New York media boasts an extensive portfolio of productions including videos produced for various businesses, the Village of Garden City along with community street fairs and events plus a video of presentations and entertainment at past Chamber of Commerce Pineapple Balls.
A full-service video production and marketing company, Garden City New York Media specializes in video broadcasts, event coverage and design solutions for small businesses in Garden City and throughout Long Island. The company believes that through the power of video, technology and a little creative thinking, the team can help small businesses and Village organizations reach their largest audiences.
Church of St. Joseph
130 Fifth Street, Garden City, New York 11530 • 516-747-3535
Rev. Msgr. James P. Swiader, Pastor Rev. Prasanna Costa, Associate Pastor Rev. Msgr. William Koenig, In Residence Deacon John J. McKenna R E G I S T E R N O W :
LENTEN SERVICES
Ash Wednesday February 17, 2021
Distribution of Ashes at Services in the Church: 7:00 AM, 4:00 PM, and 7:30 PM
Distribution of Ashes during these Masses in the Church: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, and 12:10 PM
Daily Celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass During Lent
Monday through Friday at 12:10 PM in the Church Stations of The Cross During Lent
Stations of The Cross will be prayed communally on Friday mornings at 9:30 AM in the Church following 9 AM Mass Taizé Prayer
A service of song, silence, and contemplation Wednesday, March 24 from 7:30 – 8:30 PM in the Church
The Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club will welcome Phil Hammond, producer/writer to speak about the show created by the Garden City New York Media team located at its awesome and expansive studio at 739 Franklin Avenue, Garden City.
Hear how Garden City New York
Rotary virtual meetings are open to the public. Should you wish to have a link to this February 8 Zoom meeting featuring Garden City New York Media, please call Club President Diane Marmann at 516-741-8340; or email diane.marmann@gmail.com
Estates POA to meet February 16
The next meeting of the Property Owners’ Association of Garden City Estates is scheduled for Tuesday, February 16 at 8 p.m. at the Garden City Senior Center, 11th Street and Golf Club Lane. Come hear all five candidates from the Community Agreement Party: Deputy Mayor/Village Trustee Bob Bolebruch, Village Trustee Steve Makrinos, Village Trustee Mark Hyer, Central POA Candidate for Trustee Yvonne Varano and our Candidate Rich Catalano. Each candidate will introduce themselves and speak about their backgrounds and qualifications.
All residents of the Estates Section are invited to attend. After the candidates speak, there will be reports from our committee members, commission representatives and Village, Library and School Board
trustees on current topics affecting our community. There will be an opportunity for residents to comment on these, and other, issues.
Mark your calendars for the Village Election on Tuesday, March 16 at Village Hall from 12 noon to 9 p.m. You may apply for an Absentee Ballot up until March 9. Your vote is important!
If you are a resident of the Estates section, please join the Estates POA by either (1) going to our website https://www.gcestates.org/ , clicking on “Become a Member” and then on the link “Join” or (2) sending a check made payable to “Property Owners’ Association of Garden City Estates” in the amount of $20 ($15 for seniors 65+) with your name, street address, email address and phone number.
Available January 4 through April 3 for lunch and dinner, Take Out Only
FAMILY MEAL #1 - $30 PLUS TAX
One 18” Pizza with choice of Spinach and Artichoke Dip Or Grimaldi’s Mixed Salad & Complimentary 2 liter bottle of soda
FAMILY MEAL #2 - $40 PLUS TAX
One 18” Pizza, One Order of Penne alla Vodka, Choice of Spinach and Artichoke Dip Or Grimaldi’s Mixed Salad & Complimentary 2 liter bottle of soda
FAMILY MEAL #3 - $45 PLUS TAX
Two 18” Pizzas with choice of Spinach and Artichoke Dip Or Grimaldi’s Mixed Salad & Complimentary 2 liter bottle of soda
FAMILY MEAL #4 - $80 PLUS TAX
Two 18” Pizzas, 1/2 Tray Chicken Parmigiana & Complimentary Bottle of Cabernet OR Pinot Griegio
Gratuity, Available for Take Out, No Substitutions*
Garden City HS senior participates in worldwide telethon
Garden City High School senior Molly Madigan was asked to participate in a worldwide telethon supporting Sparkle Malawi.
Sparkle Malawi is an organization that provides children, including orphans with a nutritional program, health services and free education. The Sparkle Foundation aims to create brighter futures for children in Zomba, Malawi and they believe that every child deserves the chance to Sparkle! The telethon hopes to not only raise money for Sparkle Malawi, but also to raise awareness.
Molly has focused on community service throughout her high school years, so when asked to send a recording, she happily obliged. Molly will sing “Vanilla Ice Cream” from the Broadway hit “She Loves Me.”
The event will be live on February 11 and will last approximately 2 hours. It will include a variety of pre recorded videos by performers from all over the world. “Seeing how appreciative the children are, for things most people take for granted really puts things into
perspective,” said Siarra Healey, who has organized this telethon and resides in Switzerland. You can read more about The Sparkle Foundation at sparklemalawi.org
EPOA to host public meeting on February 11
The Eastern Property Owners’ Association (EPOA) will host a public meeting on Thursday, February 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. There will be updates from the East Trustees and EPOA Officers and Directors. The EPOA has invited the five Community Agreement candidates to its meeting, Robert Bolebruch for Mayor (West), Mark Hyer (East), Rich Catalano (Estates), Yvonne Varano (Central) and Stephen Makrinos (West) all for Trustee positions. They will each take some time to introduce themselves and give some background on their experience and why they want to represent the Village on the Board of Trustees.
Based on NYS COVID protocols, there will be a limit of 50 attendees. Face masks must be worn and there will be a sign in-sheet for contact tracing. The meeting will be recorded by Felix Procacci of justthefactsmedia.com and will be available on the following
day. The EPOA is planning to have the meeting available through Zoom. If interested in the Zoom link please email the EPOA at contactus@gcepoa.org. If interested in the zoom link please email the EPOA at contactus@gcepoa.org. The 2021 EPOA Membership Drive is now underway. East residents are invited to join for $20 for 1 year of membership or $40 for 2 years of membership. Dues may be paid through Venmo (@ GCEPOA), PayPal (go to www.gcepoa. org and click on membership) or by check. As a reminder, the EPOA consists of all volunteers but does have ongoing communication-related expenses. Thank you for your support.
To learn more about the EPOA, how to become a member, upcoming events, and issues concerning the East, you may visit its website (www.gcepoa.org), on Facebook (search: “Garden City Eastern Property Owners’ Association”), and on Twitter (@GC_ EPOA).
Molly Madigan Photo courtesy of the Madigan family
Garden City real estate, reimagined.
118 Meadbrook Road, Garden City
$1,675,000 · 5 Bedrooms · 3.5 Baths
Beautifully renovated and expanded with a seamless addition, 5 bedroom, 3 full and 1 half bath Colonial on prime Estates Block. Move-in center hall colonial boasting sun filled rooms and charm, with desired great room and Kitchen. The front door opens to a spacious foyer, gracious staircase and beautiful hardwood floors throughout. Living room with custom mill work, built-ins and a wood burning fireplace, a window lined home office/library adjoins the living room. Large formal dining room, kitchen with custom cabinetry, spacious center island, granite counter tops and professional-grade appliances including a paneled Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer, sliders open to a beautiful bluestone patio. This home has every amenity for modern day living, including upstairs laundry. Upstairs has an excellent floor plan for family and guests, with five bedrooms, three full baths. Basement has a media room and a home gym.
Suzanne
I have been a Garden City resident for over 20 years and have extensive knowledge of the community. This, combined with joining Compass, a technology-driven real estate company, I have the opportunity to elevate my business and provide you with the best service possible. Contact me today to set up an appointment!
”Suzanne’s enthusiasm and energetic personality are evident the moment you meet her. She had great staging ideas and was available seven days a week to promote the sale of our home. Suzanne sincerely loves what she does and treated our home sale as if it were her own.”
— Maryellen C., Garden City
Suzanne
Garden City High School Senior Spotlight: Anteng Chen
Annie Chen has many achievements to her name — she has been recognized as a National Merit Semifinalist and AP Scholar, and is a member of the National
Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society and Music Honor Society. Additionally, Annie was one of only five applicants chosen for an internship at the Department of Pathology in the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Weekdays between July 20 and Aug. 29, Annie commuted three hours to participate in the internship’s eight-hour shifts.
In the lab, she was responsible for tissue slides containing tumors along with lab samples. Part of her work involved labeling sample types and routing them to the proper, respective facilities, and another aspect required creating spreadsheets for patient information and sample types. Annie took the opportunity to do further research on tumors and their lab analysis. She also learned more about the policies of working in a medical facility and was taught hospital conduct, patient confidentiality and emergency procedures.
To nominate a GCHS senior, please contact Assistant Principal for Guidance and PPS Mandi Stefankiewicz at StefankiewiczM@gcufsd.net.
Florida and New York
BY BOB MORGAN, JR.
As this is written, I'm in Florida for a short trip. The snow storm is keeping me here an extra day, which is hardly tragic. The weather hasn't been spectacular by Florida standards, but there's nothing like a little sunny beach time in early February. For what it's worth, I am complying with Governor Cuomo's travel quarantine rules; I had a Covid test yesterday here in Florida and will have another one a few days after I return to New York State, that will allow me to exit from quarantine. Delta Airlines, at least keeps the middle seat empty on flights, so there was pretty good social distancing.
I've written about some of this before, but my Florida trip heightens in my own mind questions concerning how New York City and New York State will fare once the Covid pandemic is finally behind us, especially in comparison with states like Florida.
As a caveat, nothing here is intended to predict long term ruin for the Empire State. Indeed, and and very importantly, parts of New York, like the Nassau and Westchester suburbs may well prosper, as many city residents seek more space and excellent schools.
Once the virus is substantially behind us (I'm thinking it will be fall), there will likely be a boom in big city life. There is tremendous pent up demand for traditional urban pleasures like normal restaurant and bar service, music, plays, entertainment, live sports in front of crowds, and much more and people will flock to these activities. And there likely will be a related boom in tourism.
Having said that, big cities like New York may not quite be the same as they were before the pandemic. This is because there is an enhanced realization that many jobs can be done remotely and that proximity to the place of business may not be as important as previously believed, especially when housing prices are very high. This decline will likely manifest itself in lower real estate prices, but also in a decline in demand for office rental space (and likely conversion of some buildings to residential housing), as well as a decline in business of many establishments patronized by office workers who are now frequently working from home.
This raises comparisons with
Florida. While post-pandemic issues involving urban centers are not confined to blue state metropolises like New York, places like Florida will be at a comparative advantages going forward absent some changes. Consider that Florida, in addition to having better overall weather than New York (even taking hurricanes into account) that is attractive to people working from home, also has a number of strong economic advantages.
You start out with an overall business climate in Florida that crucially includes no state income tax plus lower costs and regulations that brings businesses and jobs to the state. New York, on the other hand, has a new "woke" legislature that seems intent on raising the maximum income taxes on wealthy taxpayers that will cause these individuals (and their businesses) to flee the state to places like Florida. Meanwhile, the legislative majority favors such ideas as bail reform that puts offenders back on the street and lowers the quality of life of everyone else.
Even the different approach to the Covid vaccine indicates a rather different governmental attitude to life and business between Florida and New York. I fully recognize that New York had unique challenges because of its status as a port of entry to much of the world at the time of a spreading virus. But it remains true that New York, despite having some of the most restrictive lockdown policies in the nation, has had the highest death count. Florida's relatively relaxed policies (which focused heavily on preventing outbreaks in nursing homes) , on the other hand, have produced lower unemployment rates, while keeping the infection and death rate to around the national average and far lower than New York's.
Again, none of this is to write a requiem for New York State, which has a unique excitement.cultural diversity and entrepreneurial spirit and remains the cultural capital of the country. And, as mentioned above, some parts of the state are more likely to do better than others going forward But New York does need to pick up its game, and its ability to retain businesses and individual residents, in the wake of strong challengers like Florida.
Annie Chen
Ideally Perched On The Hill 89 10th Street, Garden City
Impeccably maintained 89 Tenth Street is a true iconic & historical Garden City home. This turn of the century masterpiece colonial offers beauty, elegance, detail, space and privacy. Ideally perched on “THE HILL”, southern views overlook the world renowned Garden City Golf Course. It is only 40 minutes from NYC and just a short walk to the center of Garden City’s beautiful and vibrant village, with unlimited dining, shopping and entertainment options. The backyard boasts a country club like 20’ x 40’ heated pool and sprinkler system. The kitchen is complete with a 6 burner stove, 2 sinks as well as a butler’s pantry with its own sink, dishwasher and ice maker. The grand winding staircase in the great hall rises to and encircles the 2nd and 3rd floor landings. All rooms possess grand sizes, high ceilings, excessive sunlight, magnificent finishes and fine detail. There are 5 fireplaces throughout as well and with a whole house generator, 3 zone AC, 4 zone heating, alarm system and surround sound this home has it all. It is truly a village gem!!! Asking Price $3,499,000
Angela Briante Principal Broker and Owner
O: (845) 225-2020
LISTING AGENT
Karyne Aabel
Licensed RE Salesperson
C: (914) 907-4458
n Plumbing repairs
n Drain cleaning
n Heat repairs
n Installation of appliances
n Installation of toilets & sinks
n Water filtration systems
Forged registration:
A 33-year-old motorist was arrest ed on Clinton Road for possession of a forged registration tag, improper plates, and excessive speed on January 27th.
Lights out
Garden City Police responded to Washington Avenue and 11th Street for a traf fic light malfunction on January 27th.
Gate failure
Garden City Police responded to a railroad gate malfunction at the Nassau Boulevard train crossing on January 27th
Mirror damaged
A side view mirror to a vehicle parked in Parking Field 7E was found damaged on January 28th.
Multiple violations
As a result of a traffic stop investigation on Clinton Road on January 28th, a 31-year-old motorist was arrested and charged with possession of two forged registration documents, driving with a revoked license, uninsured operation, unregistered vehicle, defective brake lights and obstructed license plate.
Criminal contempt
On January 29th a 66-year-old man was arrested for contacting another family member in violation of a court order. He was charged with criminal contempt.
Shoplifting report
CVS reported that a man entered the store and stole multiple items on January 29th.
Kitchen fire
Garden City police and firefighters responded to a Hilton Avenue apartment on January 29th for a reported kitchen fire and determined the cause to be burnt food.
Unlicensed operation
On January 29th a motorist was cited for speeding in a school zone on Rockaway Avenue, failing to stop for a police vehicle, operating a cell phone and unlicensed operation.
Another shoplifting report
On January 30th
CVS reported that a man entered the store and stole merchandise.
Lights out
Garden City Police responded to a traffic light malfunction at the intersection of Franklin and Stewart Avenues.
Loud car stopped
A motorist was charged with driving on Franklin Avenue on January 31st with a suspended license, revoked registration, uninsured operation, loud exhaust system and tinted windows.
Water main break
Officers responded to Meadbrook Road for a water main break in the roadway on January 31st. The Water Department was notified and responded to the scene.
Snowstorm
On February 1st Garden City Police responded to numerous storm-related calls, including disabled autos, auto accidents, medical aided reports, hazardous conditions and alarms.
Packages stolen
Packages were reported stolen from the back porch of a Stewart Avenue residence on February 2nd.
DWI arrest
A female motorist was stopped on Stewart Avenue after allegedly leaving the scene of a vehicle crash that occurred on Pell Terrace on February 2nd. Upon investigation, she was arrested for DWI, leaving the scene of an accident and unsafe lane usage.
Unemployment fraud
During the past week, Officers investigated numerous reports of people’s identities being stolen and then used to file for false unemployment claims.
DISCOVER THE FINEST IN SENIOR LIVING
The Bristal Assisted Living has been serving seniors and their families in the tri-state area since 2000, offering independent and assisted living, as well as state-of-the-art memory care programs. We are committed to helping residents remain independent, while providing peace of mind that expert care is available, if needed. Designed with seniors in mind, each of our communities feature exquisitely appointed apartments and beautiful common areas that are perfect for entertaining. On-site services and amenities include daily housekeeping, gourmet meals, a cinema, salon, plus so much more. Discover a vibrant community, countless social events with new friends, and a luxurious lifestyle that you will only find at The Bristal.
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.
Nor’easter Cleanup
The February 1-2, 2021 Nor’easter dumped more than a foot of snow in Garden City. Crews began salting roads as snow began to coat roadways at approximately 11:30 p.m. Sunday night, January 31, 2021. According to Public Works Deputy Superintendent Domenick Stanco, crews continued salting roads and parking lots until the snow quickly intensified and began accumulating. The plowing operation then followed at approximately 1:00 a.m. Monday morning, February 1, 2021, and continued through 8:00 a.m. Tuesday morning, February 2, 2021.
There were approximately 46 pieces of equipment - large/medium and small trucks as well as several pay-
loaders and two backhoe loaders - working around the clock during this two-day Nor’easter. After plowing operation crews then began salting roads and parking lots again at 8:00 a.m. and continued through the day and evening on Tuesday, February 2, 2021.
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 miscellaneous breakdowns throughout the day and night that were repaired in the shop. Crews also responded to 15 road calls to keep the fleet up and running.
zero fire calls during the storm, according to Chief Thomas Strysko.
Identity Theft: Police investigating approximately 50 cases
As of Monday, February 1, the Garden City Police Department is investigating approximately 50 reports of people’s identities being stolen and then used to file for false unemployment claims, including numerous fraud cases against Garden City school district personnel.
your shoulder.
According to Commissioner Jackson, indications that someone has used your information to claim benefits include: receiving information in the mail from the Department of Labor about a claim you did not file, or your employer receiving notice of an unemployment claim filed in your name. All unemployment fraud should be reported since unemployment benefits are taxable income. If this happens to you, it means someone is misusing your personal information, including your Social Security number and date of birth. All victims should act promptly by following these steps that can help you protect your finances and your credit:
• Contact your employer’s HR Department
Garden City Police Officers responded to 27 storm-related calls, including disabled autos, auto accidents, medical aided reports, hazardous conditions and alarms. The Garden City Fire Department reported
Imposters are filing claims for unemployment benefits, using the names and personal information of people who have not filed claims. It has been determined that some scammers are using information from old data breaches of private or government agencies.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employer fraud can include certain actions to avoid tax liability or establishing a fictitious employer account to enable fraudulent claims against that account. Claimant fraud can include knowingly submitting false information; continuing to collect benefits when knowing oneself to be ineligible; not being able and available to work while certifying for benefits under state law; or intentionally not reporting wages or income while collecting full benefits. Additionally, identity theft may result in unemployment insurance fraud that is not the fault of the employer or the identity theft victim.
Commissioner Kenneth Jackson, who noted that state and federal governments have taken additional steps to detect and flag these fraudulent claims, said claimants should never:
• Post screenshots of their claim or their claim status on social media;
• Provide their Social Security number or unemployment benefit claim number to people on social media who offer to help resolve their issues;
• Agree to pay a private firm or individual to file for unemployment insurance benefits on their behalf (the Social Security Department does not charge a fee for filing a claim); or
• File a claim in a crowded setting where someone may “shoulder surf” and steal your data by looking over
• Contact the NYS Department of Labor by calling (888) 209-8124 or emailing https://www.labor.ny.gov/ agencyinfo/report-fraud.shtm
• File a police report with the Police Department
• File an identity theft complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at www.FTC.gov
• Report the activity to the credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, Transunion), and place a fraud alert or credit freeze
• Keep notes for future reference If you get benefits you never applied for, report it to your state unemployment agency and ask for instructions. Do not respond to any calls, emails or text messages telling you to wire money, send cash or put money on gift cards. Government agencies will never tell you to repay money that way. Anyone who tells you to do those things is a scammer. The Garden City Police Department’s Detective Division continues to work with the United States Secret Service in the investigation of fraudulent unemployment applications. If you believe you may be a victim of identity theft, please contact the Garden City Detective Division at 516-465-4108.
555 Stewart Avenue Update
The developer for the 555 Stewart Avenue construction project is pursuing the building permit process at this time, according to Thomas Levin, Special Counsel for Zoning Matters. This requires submission of detailed plan information and preparation of various legal documents. It is anticipated that this will be done within the next several weeks and that construction will commence shortly thereafter. The 150-unit residence, which
Mayor Theresa Trouvé
Stewart students illustrate Dr. King’s dream
are a full service general contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house renovations and custom new home construction, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.
At Stewart School, students created portraits of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in their art classes and wrote about their visions for social justice. This was one of many ways that the Garden City Public Schools honored the importance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Photo courtesy of Garden City Public Schools
EPOA seeks Junior Ambassadors
The Eastern Property Owners Association is seeking applications for candidates to be considered for Junior Ambassador positions for the years 2021–2023. This program is designed to introduce high school sophomores entering their junior year to Village government through participation in EPOA meetings, attendance at government meetings and promoting civic participation in our community. This is an exciting opportunity for students to become involved in local affairs and to learn about our unique form of local government.
The Junior Ambassador program is designed as a two-year commitment encompassing junior and senior years. Preference will be given to students who reside in the Eastern section of
Garden City and whose families are dues paying members of the EPOA.
The application itself details the responsibilities of the position. Students who attend Garden City High School may obtain an application from the Social Studies Department office or on the EPOA website.at www.gcepoa.org. High school sophomores who attend private school may obtain an application from the website. Completed applications can be mailed to EPOA, P.O.Box 7525, Garden City, N.Y. or submitted to contactus@gcepoa.org.
All interested sophomores are encouraged to apply. The deadline is Thursday, April 22, 2021. A brief interview will be conducted as part of the interview process.
Do you have grandchildren?
Enter our “World’s Most Beautiful Grandchildren” contest! Just send in your grandchildren’s photos and a brief description of the child (or children) along with your name and address to editor@gcnews.com
K orner
John Ellis Kordes
This house is situated on the northwest corner of Hilton Avenue and Fifth Street. It was built in the mid-1870s when Garden City was in its infancy. This photograph was probably taken in the late 1880s judging by the age of the trees and the Cathedral (completed in 1885) can be seen in the distance directly behind it. There are no other houses behind this one and on the far right is a house on Sixth Street which is also still there. The above house is part of a group of Victorian style houses along Hilton Avenue between Fifth and Sixth Streets built in the 1870s and early 1880s. While walking there, one gets the feel of how Garden City looked in those early years.
Today, this house has recently been redone and expanded. However, it has retained its Victorian charm and is a good example of how to do that kind of work without losing the spirit of the original. Although, the house no longer has its shutters, giving it a more modern look. Also, the house today does not have any landscaping around the foundation just like in the above photograph. That is how houses and buildings looked in the 19th Century including the Cathedral and St. Paul’s when originally built. This allowed for light to enter the basement, prevented roots from entering the foundation and prevented dampness and rot on the clapboards. It wasn’t until the 20th Century that landscaping around the foundation of houses became the norm (probably to hide the ugly three feet of stucco modern houses tend to have around their foundations).
Interestingly, in early ads for these Victorian houses, the term for landscaping was “parking.” It would read, for example, “there is 50 feet of parking surrounding the house.” It usually consisted of grass and a few trees. Now this was way before the automobile. So how did the term “parking” get associated with the car?
Apparently, in the early 20th Century when cars first started to appear, people would leave them anywhere- sometimes on the street or in an empty lot, of which there were plenty of back then. These lots were covered with grass and maybe a tree or two. So you were literally leaving your car in a park or “parking your car.” Official “parking lots” did not appear until the 1930s. Even landscaped highways were called “parkways.”
Now, why do we drive on a “parkway” and park on a “driveway” - well, that’s a story for another time!
Garden City PTA News
Parent U Is Coming!
The Garden City PTA’s annual Parent University program began this week, with virtual sessions continuing throughout the month. The virtual workshops, appropriate for parents with students pre-K through 12th grade, are facilitated by area professionals and district personnel. The free workshops are sponsored by community organizations, including educators, to best reflect current topics and trends. It is an opportunity to sharpen parents’ skills as we work together to raise healthy, well adjusted, and successful children. Studies prove when communities, caregivers, and educators work together to create supportive and safe environments for children to grow and learn – they thrive. For more details and registration information on the remaining sessions, visit www.gardencitypu. com.
Sign Up For PARP Pen Pals
To celebrate this year's PARP theme, "The Reading Connection: The Readers, The Dreamers, and Me," and our One School/One Book selection "Dear Dragon," students in grades K–5 are invited to participate in our February Pen Pal activity. Students from different Garden City schools will be matched according to grade and will send a written letter to their Pen Pal in the mail. This activity is completely optional (but we hope you will opt in!) and letter templates will be provided. Sign up for a GC Pen Pal by Wednesday, February 10, at: https://gardencitypta.org/parp
Mark Your Calendars!
Important School & PTA Dates to Remember
• Tuesday, February 9: SEPTA General Membership Meeting
• Wednesday, February 10: All Schools PTA Meeting
• Monday-Friday, February 15-19: Winter Recess
Upcoming Board of Education Budget Meetings
The Garden City Board of Education
has a number of upcoming budget sessions to plan for the next school year. This year, to keep everyone informed and make the process interactive, we have initiated a Google form for people to submit their GC Budget questions or concerns to the PTA. You can find the link on the Garden City PTA website: main landing page and also under the page’s Advocacy tab. The PTA will relay any information to the Board of Education or provide answers to questions.
• Feb. 2: Proposed Budget
Discussion - Work Session
• Feb. 23: Proposed Budget
Discussion
• March 9: Proposed Budget
Discussion - Work Session
• March 23: Proposed Budget
Discussion
• April 7: Proposed Budget
Discussion - Work Session
• April 20: Adoption of Budget 2021/2022 - No changes after this point
• May 4: Budget Hearing
• May 18: Budget Vote, 6 a.m. – 9 p.m., Garden City High School
Join the PTA, Support Garden City Schools
The PTA is proud to support all students and provide a connection between home and school. We are pleased to offer quality programming to students and parents throughout the school year. None of our endeavors would be possible without your continued support. To renew your membership for the 2020-2021 School Year, please visit www.gardencitypta. org and click on the “Membership” tab. Thank you for your active participation in the Garden City PTA!
Let’s Connect @GardenCityPTA
Website: www.gardencitypta.org
To Get Real Time InformationTurn on Notifications Facebook: Facebook.com/ GardenCityPTA Instagram: Instagram.com/ GardenCityPTA Twitter: Twitter.com/ GardenCityPTA
Join the conversation and invite your friends.
2021 Eastern POA Scholarship
It is with pleasure that the Eastern Property Owners Association of Garden City announces that it will once again award a $1000 scholarship to a graduating high school senior who resides in the Eastern section. The candidates, or their family, must be dues paying members of the EPOA. They must be currently attending public or private high school and plan to attend college full time in the fall. The focus of this
WE’RE STILL OPEN
scholarship is community service. Candidates may obtain an application from the Garden City High School Guidance Office or on the EPOA website at www.gcepoa.org. Should you have a question, you can call Barbara Garry at 248-1486. All interested eligible seniors are encouraged to apply. The deadline for applications is Friday, April 16, 2021.
The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment Shop
A gold heart for Valentines Day?
BY MELISSA JAEGER
Roses are red. Violets are blue. Let’s make Valentine’s Day, special for you! Who is this mysterious saint and why is Valentine’s Day February 14? Apparently, Valentine was more than one man. Legend has it that there are at least six men, three of whom were martyred. There was Valentine, an Italian priest who married young lovers, in defiance of Emperor Claudius’ decree (because he believed single men made better soldiers). He was beheaded. There was a bishop who was also beheaded. My personal favorite is an imprisoned Valentine who actually sent the first “valentine greeting” after he fell in love with a young girl, possibly his jailor’s daughter, who visited him during his confinement.
What is the significance of the date? Some believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of his death. Others say that celebrating St. Valentine’s feast day in February was an effort to “Christianize” the pagan celebration of Lupercalia, the fertility festival. In France and England, during the Middle Ages, February 14 was believed to be the beginning of birds’ mating season, and it was, therefore, thought that was a fitting date for romance.
Candy, flowers and gifts (especially jewelry) are exchanged between loved ones across the United States and around the world, all in the name of St. Valentine. At the Exchange, we have a great selection of reasonably priced gifts and jewelry for your loved one. Check out the sterling and cubic zirconia heart pendants, CZ heart studs, and many other lovely pieces from the Jewelry Garden on Nassau Boulevard.
All the pieces are new and authenticated. In addition, we have an assortment of consigned pendants, bracelets and earrings.
For those of you who work, we are open late on Wednesdays until 6:00pm. It’s a great chance to shop in peace and quiet. We get newly consigned merchandise almost every day! Not comfortable with coming into the shop? Please shop online and come to the Exchange to pick up. I continue to update the TGCHS website with photos of our newest merchandise! Be sure to check out www. tgchs.org or go 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 everyone safe. Please, now more than ever, wear your mask. We’re wearing ours. And please use our hand-sanitizer when you enter the shop. And, to keep you feeling safe while shopping, we just purchased an air purifier.
Unfamiliar with the Exchange Consignment Shop? We are housed in The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) Museum on 109 Eleventh Street (in the basement of the building). All the proceeds from the Shop sales directly benefit TGCHS. In addition to our best sellers – jewelry (costume and fine), lamps, mirrors and crystal (Waterford, Baccarat, Tiffany) -- we take/accept silver, pocketbooks, china, furniture, artwork, and collectibles. All items are in new or nearly-new condition.
Up until nine months ago, we did consignments by walk-in. With the virus, we have had to take measures to safeguard our customers, consignors and volunteers. Having appointments helps to keep down the numbers of people in the Shop at any point in time and reduces wait-times to consign. Consignments are now done Wednesday through Friday, 11:00 a.m –2:00 p.m. by appointment ONLY, so please call (516)746-8900. Unsure if your items are appropriate to consign? Email photos to store@ atstewartexchange.org and be sure to include sizing info. Please be sure items are cleaned and polished, ready for sale.
All the profits from the Consignment Shop support the maintenance and upkeep of TGCHS Museum. Thanks to your generous support, work on the outside of the Museum continues.
The club enjoyed a relaxing one-hour long yoga class on Tuesday night led by a super talented instructor, Sajah Archer, of Luna and Soul Yoga studio. It was the perfect way to wind down after a couple of stressful snowy days!
Registration for the club’s Miles for Meals event is officially open! Sign up now and get your t-shirt for this two-week virtual run/walk/cycle challenge taking place April 5–April 18 to support the INN! All family members are welcome and the club will be giving away some great prizes. Please visit the club’s Facebook page for additional information on how to register.
The club is hosting a lively discussion about “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett at virtual book club on Tuesday, 2/23! To sign up to join the conversation, please email WelcomingClubBookClub@gmail. com.
The next virtual craft night is on Thursday, February 25 at 7:30 p.m. Join the club as we make comfy, cozy blankets! The cost of this craft is $75 and includes super soft yarn, a large reusable bag that the materials come in, a small snack, a refreshing adult beverage, and a small donation to the INN. If you’re interested in joining, please email gccraftclub@gmail.com.
The club is hosting a FREE virtual meetup group open to all moms who have had a baby within the last 12 months. We will be offering guest speakers and a variety of health consultants. Come connect with other moms to share experiences, tips, concerns, and learn from each other. It’s a great way to build friendships while still practicing social distancing efforts. If you are interested in joining, please email welcomingclubtoddleractivities@gmail.com for information on the next meetup.
Coming Soon
Love is in the air! The club is organizing an asynchronous movie night event for Valentine’s Day weekend. Members will be invited to purchase takeaway boxes for pickup with all the V-Day essentials - popcorn, candy, wine, and a list of our favorite festive movies! Please visit the club’s social channels for more information coming soon.
We are also working to gauge interest in a virtual cooking class! If you’re a member of the Welcoming Club, please be on the lookout for a survey that was sent to your email. Completing it will be extremely helpful in the planning of this event!
Follow Us!
Facebook: The Welcoming Club of Garden City
Instagram: @gcwelcomingclub
Join A Group
Book Club: Enjoy a good book amongst friends. The book club meets every 6 weeks to discuss the page-turner of choice. For upcoming book club events, please email WelcomingClubBookClub@ gmail.com.
Craft Club: The craft club is a great way to meet with friends and get crafty. No experience necessary. We meet every few months to create a seasonal craft. If you are interested in joining, please email GCCraftClub@gmail.com.
Supper Club: Bring your significant others out for this one! This is a great way to make new friends as a couple. You will be paired up with 3-4 other couples to set up a rotation of dinner events. Host your new friends at home or head out to try local restaurants. Please email GCSupper@gmail.com for more information.
Bowling Club:No experience necessary! We are looking for new faces to join our Wednesday league. Occasional pacers are welcome. Anyone interested, please contact Ellen (Diller05@aol. com) Carol (santa060@yahoo.com) or Liz (mcdea@aol.com).
Bunko: This simple dice game is usually played in a group of 12. It is a great way to meet people and make new friends. The game is easy to learn and fun to play. If you are interested, please contact WelcomingClubBunco@ gmail.com.
Toddler Activities: A great way for you and your little ones to make new friends. Activities include stroller walks each week around our beautiful village and a visit to the park. We also set up playgroups with kids of similar age. Please email welcomingclubtoddleractivities@gmail.com for more information.
Golf: Golf lessons at Cherry Valley Club are always a big hit! Golf pro Ed Kelly helps us GCWC ladies improve our golf game. If you are interested in reserving your spot for the fall 2020 session, email WelcomingClubGolf@ gmail.com.
Tennis: Tennis lessons and group play begin soon! We play at the Garden City Community Park courts behind the pool. All levels welcome, groups will be formed based on experience. Spots are limited so please contact WelcomingClubTennis@gmail. com to reserve a spot for the 2020/2021 season!
Come join the fun and make a difference! We invite you to join the club! For just $37 a year you will have access to lots of great events and many fun members-only clubs and events. Complete the easy online membership form today at www.thegardencitywelcomingclub. org in the “Join” section of the website. While you are there, browse the site for lots of great information about the club.
The Girl Scout cookies have arrived!
BY REGINA MORAN
This past Sunday afternoon, before the snowflakes began to fall, volunteers bundled up to greet the arrival of this season’s Girl Scout Cookies. Thanks to
coordinator Kerry Couture, about 20 parent volunteers showed up to unload the tractor trailer truck and then help load up arriving troop cookie managers. A huge “thanks” to everyone involved who made this delivery such a success!
Unloading the tractor trailer filled with cookies.
Girl Scout parent volunteers.
Loading up and checking paperwork.
WPOA seeks applicants for officers, directors
The Western Property Owners Association (WPOA) Board of Directors is seeking applicants for positions as Officers and Directors. While these are volunteer positions, the benefits, in terms of learning how your local government operates and being a part of your Village government system, can be very uplifting. As a director, you can help bring events for families to the Western Section.
To date, the WPOA has received several applications, and those candidates will be
contacted. In addition, the WPOA would like to extend the invitations for additional candidates to apply. There are a number of open positions particularly in the areas of Programs/Publicity, Membership, Recreation and Playgrounds, Finance and Taxes, Police/Fire and Safety and Technology. The WPOA President works with incoming directors to choose a position that fits their area of interest.
If you’d like to have some additional information before applying to the Board,
you can contact RoseAnn at ravernice@ optimum.net.
WPOA terms of office begin in April 2021. Any resident of the Western Section of the Village who is interested in seeking office or joining the WPOA Board of Directors can submit a letter of interest and a resume to: RoseAnn Vernice, President, Western Property Owners Association, PO Box 7976, Garden City, NY 11530 or by email to ravernice@optimum.net.
The deadline for submission of applica-
tions is Monday, March 1, 2021. Applications will be reviewed by the Nominating Committee, and interviews will be conducted, as needed. The Committee will present its nominations at the April WPOA General Meeting.
The Western Section of Garden City is bordered on the north by the main line of the LIRR, on the east by the west side of Tanners Pond and Edgemere Roads, on the south by Cambridge Avenue and on the west by Jefferson Street.
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
Community Club: “Landscaping & Gardening in Jane Austen Novels”
Elizabeth Bailey, a resident of Garden City, will present a talk entitled “Landscaping and Gardening in the Novels of Jane Austen” at the Garden City and Hempstead Community Club on Tuesday, February 9 at 1:30 p.m. This talk will discuss the role and the importance of gardens and landscaping in the novels.
“To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure, is the most perfect refreshment.” This quote by heroine Fanny Price in “ Mansfield Park ” is one illustration of Jane Austen’s feelings about gardens. Jane Austen
had acute powers of observation and is renowned for accuracy in her novels. Therefore, a look at the gardens and landscapes depicted in her novels provides much information about the agrarian society in which the novels are set. Gardens play an important part in the novels for another reason: they were places where young women could get away temporarily from the restrictions that surrounded them and carry on conversations with a degree of privacy that was very difficult for them to find elsewhere.
Elizabeth Bailey grew up in Valley Stream and Garden City, and
is a graduate of Garden City High School. (Her family has its own farming tradition; over the years 1854 to 1929, her great-grandparents and grandparents built up a large truck farm in Valley Stream, which was located where Green Acres Shopping Center is today). After attending college and graduate school, Ms Bailey worked for the Tennessee Valley Authority in the field of air quality for 31 years, and returned to Long Island in 2007. She a member of the Garden City Environmental Advisory Board and she served for several years as the vice president of the Garden City
Bird Sanctuary. She holds a Master’s degree in theology; in her thesis, she examined the basis for ecotheology in the Catholic tradition. She is a trustee of the Valley Stream Historical Society, the organist at St Bernard Church in Levittown and Dean of the Nassau Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.
There is a $5 fee for guests. If anyone is interested in joining the Community Club, please contact our club office at 516-746-0488 on Tues., Wed or Thurs., between 9.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m.
GCHS junior wins awards for artworks, fiction
Garden City High School
junior Corinne Lafont was recently awarded two awards in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers.
The alliance aims to identify students from around the country with remarkable artistic and literary talent and present their work through the awards. Each area of the country is split into various regions, with Garden City in the Northeast Region at Large. There are three different awards:
the Gold Key, Silver Key and Honorable Mention.
The awards recognize student achievement in the visual and literary arts in 28 categories, including architecture, painting, flash fiction, poetry, printmaking, fashion design, expanded projects, and more. Works are judged on originality, technical skill, and emergence of personal vision or voice.
Corinne won a Silver Key award for her artwork “ The Beauty Standard ” and an Honorable Mention for an adaptation of
Attention students!
Gustave Courbet’s “ The Desperate Man: ” “ The Desperate He/They/ She. ”
In addition, Corinne also won a Silver Key award for writing. She is a co-founder of Lit Circles Book Club at Garden City High School. The club entered the Scholastic Awards as its first club contest. Corinne wrote a short story, “ Ava: A Palidrome ” for the contest. The story is a sharply worded criticism of modern society and the pressures placed on women.
Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA?
Made the honor roll or the Dean’s List? Scored an internship or a study abroad opportunity? We invite you to send details of any of these things and more, along with your name and contact info, to editor@gcnews.com for a chance to be seen in our paper!
The Desperate He/They/She by Corinne Lafont. (Medium: Soft pastels)
“The Beauty Standard” by Corinne Lafont. (Medium: Prismacolor pencils)
Corinne Lafont
5, 2021
Finding Love in All the Right Places
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, New York State is permitting restaurants to reopen indoor dining at 25 percent capacity, and as of March 15, will allow venues to host weddings at 50% capacity up to 150 guests. Governor Cuomo proposed that couples get engaged on Valentine’s Day and tie the knot on March 15.
Romance is by nature an intimate experience and even in a pandemic, it is possible to find romantic places and experiences. From glamping in nature, to boutique inns, to grand resorts offering specially planned, socially-distanced venues, and from “I love you,” to “Will you?” to “I do, the coronavirus has certainly reshaped romance and love, but where there is a will, there is a way. Love conquers all.
Back to Nature
There is nothing more romantic than getting a camper van and following wanderlust, or renting a cabin or lodge or glamping on a lake or mountaintop, with that added spice of adventure and nature (as in, “let nature run its course” or “doing what comes naturally”). Glamping is also providing the setting for backto-nature weddings and renewal of vows.
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has a special section for glamping, cabins, and “unique camping options” (a teepee, a yurt, a train caboose, a Conestoga wagon, tree house, wall tent, a vintage airstream among them) that offer the atmo-
sphere sure to get an “I will” or an “I do.” (See: https://koa.com/ways-tostay/unique-accommodations/)
GlampingHub, launched in 2013 as a booking platform for distinctive accommodations, sustainable tourism and luxury camping, is where you can find glamping spots all over the world, ranging from pet-friendly hotels or eco-friendly hotels, glamping retreats & getaways. It devotes a portal to Romantic Glamping ( https://glampinghub.com/portal/ romantic-glamping/).
Romantic Getaways
The Daniel Webster Inn in the historic village of Sandwich on Cape Cod is inviting couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a Feb. 13-15 package that includes champagne, chocolates, roses; $60 toward lunch or dinner and $15 toward breakfast, and a special gift to take home. Also, a suite-deal package is a one-night escape in an elegant suite with fireplace and oversized whirlpool tub, and chocolates and massages, plus
$50 toward dinner. (Dan’l Webster Inn & Spa, 149 Main Street, Sandwich, MA 02563, 800-444-3566, 833-361-4988, https://danlwebsterinn.com/)
Mountain Top Inn & Resort has all the charm, the warmth, the cozy, intimate hospitality of a country inn, and all the luxury, amenities, activities and quality dining of a resort. The setting is breathtaking – 350 acres surrounded by open fields, a 740-acre lake and mountains beyond, and the Green Mountain National Forest. In addition to a lodge, it offers separate cabins, and a barn/event space. It is no wonder Mountain Top is so popular for weddings (elopements too!) – it exudes romance. (Mountain Top Inn & Resort, 195 Mountain Top Road, Chittenden, Vermont 05737, 802-483-2311, www. MountainTopInn.com).
With a secluded island setting and the beauty of the Adirondacks as your backdrop, the grand, historic Sagamore Resort is an enchanting destination for a Lake George wedding, proposal or romantic getaway.
GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR
Besides the hotel, there are separate villa-style lodges. The AAA FourDiamond resort offers a world-class spa, a Donald Ross-designed championship golf course, swimming and tennis and the Adirondacks. (110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, 518-644-9400, 866-384-1944, www.thesagamore.com)
Grand Historic Hotels
Offer Special Ambiance
Historic Hotels offer ideal ambiance for a romantic proposal, a destination wedding, honeymoon, or special milestone.
The entire list of Historic Hotels of America members, in my book, are ideal for romantic getaways (historichotels.org), but here are a few of our favorites for your proposal: Mohonk Mountain House (1869) New Paltz, New York: Mohonk Mountain House is an enchanting Victorian Castle perched at the top of a mountain with a private lake. The hotel has 120 “summerhouses”
Continued on next page
Finding Love in All the Right Places
which are rustic gazebos designed for two people to share special moments together; taking in stunning views during or after a hike on 85 miles of trails- all of which provide the perfect romantic backdrop for someone to get down on bended knee. The Sky Top Tower is a hiking destination with panoramic views of the Shawangunk Cliffs and Catskill Mountains and a popular engagement site, along with the boat dock, which provides amazing views of serene Lake Mohonk. This is a full-service grand resort with world-class spa, indoor pool.
The Otesaga Hotel and Cooper Inn (1909) Cooperstown, New York: With its majestic views, The Otesaga Resort Hotel sits on the southern shore of Lake Otsego, known as Glimmerglass in James Fenimore Cooper’s novels, which makes the lake a popular place to pop the question. The lake dock, with its quaint stillness
and breathtaking views surrounded by century old oak trees is a perfect place to get down on bended knee. There are some who would rather propose in an old-fashioned boat with the resort as a backdrop and others that would prefer to be on a horse drawn carriage pulling up to the resort’s front portico. Moreover, being the home of the national pastime makes Cooperstown and the Otesaga a unique venue for a baseball themed engagement.
Basin Harbor (1886) Vergennes, Vermont: Basin Harbor is a grand yet rustic resort set on the stunning shores of Lake Champlain in Vermont. Steeped in tradition, this 700-acre resort has a variety of breathtaking settings that provide a perfect backdrop for engagements and weddings. There’s just about every activity you could want, including golf course, boating, tennis. Besides hotel accommodations, there are charming cottages.
See more suggestions; https://www. historichotels.org/us/experiences/hon-
eymoon-romance.php. Historic Hotels of America, 800-678-8946, historichotels. org.
Micro Weddings
Southampton Inn on Long Island has more than 20-years tradition of hosting “micro-weddings” – or the “minimony”. The inn has 3 acres of landscaped grounds, 2,300 sq. ft indoor ballroom for intimate but well-spaced wedding celebrations in a romantic setting (91 Hill Street, Southampton, NY, 11968, 631-283-6500, southamptoninn. com, reservations@southamptoninn. com)
What may be a new trend: elopement. Elopement packages, which have the benefit of catering to small, intimate ceremonies (as few as just the couple and witnesses) and minimizing the stress that typically comes with wedding planning Hotels also let the couple take advantage of windows of opportunity, compressing the time between “I will” to “I do.”
A GREENER VIEW
Vegetable Garden Seeds
Hyatt Carmel Highlands Inn offers special wedding and elopement packages that keep intimacy and romance in mind. Designed for 2 to 20 people, the Highlands Elopement Package allows couples to exchange vows on a romantic gazebo overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Hyatt Carmel Highlights 120 Highlands Drive, Carmel, California, 93923, events specialist, 831-622-5461, 831-620-1234, hyatt.com.
Q: I saved seeds from several of my garden plants last year, including pumpkins, peppers and peas. I want to store more again this fall, but I wanted to start with a few and see how they worked. Besides just planting them and seeing what comes up, how can I be sure the seeds are still good?
A: Congratulations, you are becoming a better gardener by growing your own crops. You started with some good, easy-to-collect seeds that should grow well this year. Collecting seeds is easy; the hard part for many gardeners is keeping them over the winter. The seeds may be tiny, but they are alive. They can die quickly if they dry out.
The best thing to do after they have been collected, cleaned and dried off is to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. A glass jar or sealed plastic container is better than a plastic bag.
To determine how well they are going to grow this summer, you can do a test. Take them out of the refrigerator, and let them warm up in a humid place. After a few days, place a few seeds of each kind on a wet paper towel. Cov-
er them with a wet paper towel, and make sure the towels don’t dry out for a week. Then see how many have begun to sprout.
If most are starting to grow, you can figure that when you plant them in the garden, most will grow. If only a few start to sprout, you can double them up by planting more than one seed in each location and then thin them out later, if you get more than one growing. If very few sprout, then you should probably buy new seeds.
If you collected the seeds from hybrids, your plants will probably not look or taste like the parent plants you collected the seeds from. If you collected seeds from older heirloom varieties, then they should be the same.
If you need to buy new seeds, I recommend checking out the following vegetable garden seed companies.
The Chas. C. Hart Seed Co. is one of the few garden seed companies that understands the difference between seeds that are genetically modified organisms and seeds that are genetically engineered. This company has been around for over 125 years and is an excellent source of garden seeds. If your charitable organization needs vegetable garden seeds, this is the company to contact at
https://www.hartseed.com.
The Baker Creek catalog has over 1,500 vegetable seeds. Jere Gettle and his wife, Emilee, publish the Heirloom Gardener magazine and “The Heirloom Life Gardener” book. For more information, check out https://www.rareseeds. com.
Renee’s Garden has garden-tested and taste-tested heirloom and gourmet vegetables, flowers and herbs. Her seed packets are very detailed, and Renee personally grows every plant variety before it is offered in the catalog. Find her catalog and cookbook at https:// www.reneesgarden.com.
The Harris Seeds catalog has a good selection of vegetables, plus flowers and tools. Find them at https://www.harrisseeds.com.
The Territorial Seed Co. catalog has a large assortment of vegetable seeds, and they have potato, garlic and onion plants. Find them at https://www.territorialseed.com.
The Totally Tomatoes catalog may not be completely tomatoes, but it is close. Check it out at https://www.totallytomato.com.
If you want to find new garden catalogs, check out the Direct Gardening Association website. They have a list
of companies and describe the products they carry.
Email questions to Jeff Rugg at info@ greenerview.com. To find out more about Jeff Rugg and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
COPYRIGHT 2021 JEFF RUGG DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS SYNDICATE
On cooler days, remembering summertime fun
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
My friend, Peggy, and I were talking on the phone about summertime fun and good memories and she mentioned that her son, Joe, who’s 11, went to a camp in Maryland for two weeks and he had a great time. It’s in northern Maryland, close to the Pennsylvania border, and Peggy and her husband dropped Joe off on a Sunday and picked him up on a Friday. That was two years ago, before the pandemic reached the U.S., when kids could be carefree and just have fun.
“What Joe said he liked best about that summer camp was all of the outdoor activities,” Peggy said. “He’s a fish so he enjoyed swimming in the pool almost every day and he did some archery, too. They played games, did some crafts like beading, scrapbooking and making tie-dyed T-shirts plus he had a chance to go horseback riding along a pretty scenic trail.
“Several of them went on nature hikes and I thought it was great for the kids to be out in the fresh air. When kids are in elementary school it’s a great time for them to be with other kids and participate in group activities with their peers. He also liked playing basketball in the gym then cooling off afterwards with a milkshake.”
I also told Peggy about last summer when my family and I took a road trip and headed to Watchic Lake in Maine. We went fishing off the pier and saw other families but we were able to maintain social distancing while having a good time.
Watchic Lake is in the town of Standish in Cumberland County, Maine. The lake itself is three-quarters of a mile wide and 1½ miles long. Its
deepest point is 41 feet deep. Compared to Sebago Lake, Watchic Lake is a small, quiet lake with a country atmosphere. There are some properties around Watchic Lake but they’re spread out.
We took our road trip in early summer when we wanted a change of pace and figured it wouldn’t be too crowded. After unpacking and getting settled, we spent our days fishing on the lake - my nephews caught largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and some white perch - and they posed for some proud photos of them holding up the fish they had just caught before releasing them back into the lake. Tyler wanted to weigh the bass he caught but we all said, “Just toss it back into the water!” so he unhooked it and tossed it back.
Some of the people in my group also took canoes out on the lake and when getting ready to go out on the water we tied our towels, lunch, water bottles and inflatables onto the back of the canoe. We took our time paddling around and we made sure that we stayed out of the way of motor boats, kayaks and other canoes. The other boaters always waved at us and we’d smile or wave back at them as we enjoyed our excursion around the lake. One of the best parts about canoeing on Watchic Lake was seeing the shoreline from a totally different perspective. Delightful.
During our time at Watchic Lake my relatives and I tried to identify all of the wildlife - there are ducks and loons, Baltimore orioles, kingfishers, chickadees, grosbeaks, finch, woodpeckers and many other types of birds. We spotted some eagles and osprey as well. For the bird lovers in my family, Watchic Lake was perfect. It’s pristine and if you stay very still, you’ll see the birds flying and landing close by.
When we just wanted to relax we would float on our backs on the water and stare up at the puffy clouds gently floating by in the sky. When we had extra energy we’d race each other in the water then head for the shore, towel off, and relax on the lounges and chairs at the water’s edge.
At night we’d cook dinner on the barbecue grill and devour our dinners with voracious appetites. I’ve found that the fresh air out in the country has a way of doing that. After dinner we’d linger around the barbeque and watch the kids make some s’mores. Seeing the stars high in the night sky was a memorable moment from Watchic Lake. Maine’s night sky can’t be beat.
Some of the children said in wonderment that they’d never seen so many stars. And they were so bright. We enjoyed pausing for a few days to stargaze and explore the back roads of Maine. Feeling like tourists in a new land and exploring the area felt great.
We took some drives into town to different restaurants and sports bars and checked out the local menu. The youngsters in my group always wanted to stop at the local donuts shop so many
times our last stop of the day would be for donuts, frozen coffees and iced-cold frappes.
Once we got pizza in Windham, Maine, and another time we all decided that we had to check out the Kindred Farms Market & Bakery in Casco. On our breakfast run there the cinnamon buns with the brown glaze were the fluffiest I’ve ever had and the iced coffees hit the spot, also. The lobster rolls were fantastic - they were fresh and sweet. It was a bit of a drive to Casco but it was one of the most scenic drives so it was well worth it. To be safe in these times, we always wore face masks when in public and when shopping in stores.
After the time we spent in Standish, Maine - both on the lake and exploring the surrounding towns - we all felt recharged and ready to go back to our usual routines.
Maine is cold country in the winter but our visit a few months ago was at a great (warmer) time of year. With the cold weather upon us, it was nice speaking with Peggy about summertime adventures. Lobster roll, anyone?
Social Security Is a Worldwide Phenomenon
BY TOM MARGENAU
Most readers of my column are very nice and very normal people. Some are more progressive in their political thinking. And some are more conservative in their political thinking. But most of these folks, whether they lean left or lean right in their politics, generally agree that Social Security has been a force for good in this country.
But then there are those whose politics are just a little to the right of Attila the Hun who hate Social Security. All I have to do is write something rather benign such as, “Social Security has helped some people in the United States.” And these guys (and it’s almost always guys) blast me with emails labeling me everything from a “socialist” to a “communist” to a “traitor.”
One recent email I got illustrates their views. He wrote, “Social Security is a deep-state plot to bring down the United States.” What these guys just can’t understand is that countries around the world recognize their citizens must come together as a caring society to provide some kind of base of support to older people; people with disabilities; and widows, widowers and orphaned children. And the mechanism all these countries use to make sure this happens is Social Security.
I have always been amazed by the number of people who think the concept of Social Security is unique to the United States. Or they figure that maybe a couple of those “socialist” countries, such as Sweden and Denmark, have social insurance programs in place, but surely not too many other places.
Actually, just the opposite is true. Almost every country on the planet has a Social Security system in place for its citizens. And many of those countries had Social Security laws on their books long before the U.S. jumped on the social insurance bandwagon in the 1930s.
I have in front of me a book called “Social Security Programs Throughout the World” that is produced by the U.S. Social Security Administration. It provides thumbnail sketches of the history, funding and benefits of each country’s social insurance system. There are currently about 190 countries around the globe. And 177 of them have Social Security programs.
I always point this out to young people who fret about the future of our Social Security system. I tell them that Social Security isn’t an American experiment in socialism that will someday run its course. Instead, Social Security is a worldwide phenomenon. It is a system of rules and laws in place everywhere in the world, from Albania to Zimbabwe. And most Social Security programs around the world offer benefits remarkably similar to our own -- to retirees, disabled people and survivors. I’m going to
use the rest of this column to highlight the similarities and differences between a random selection of those 177 programs described in the book.
The United States
First Social Security laws: 1935.
Funding: Workers pay 6.2% of wages matched by employers. Self-employed pay 12.4%.
Benefits: Full retirement at 66 (going up to 67 by 2027); disability at any age if 100% disabled; survivors benefits to children under age 18 and to widow(er)s at 60 or at any age if caring for minor children.
Germany
First Social Security laws: 1889.
Funding: Workers pay 9.8% of wages matched by employers. Self-employed pay 19.6%.
Benefits: Full retirement at 65 (going up to 67 by 2024); disability benefits at any age for full or partial disabilities; survivors benefits to children until age 18 and possibly up to age 27; widow(er) s benefits for two years following death, or for longer period of time if caring for minor children.
Argentina
First Social Security laws: 1904.
Funding: Workers pay 11% of wages; employers pay up to 17%; self-employed pay set monthly fees based on the kind of business.
Benefits: Retirement benefits for men at 65 and for women at 60, or as early as 50 if doing “hazardous work”; disability at any age with a loss of 66% of working capacity; survivors benefits to a spouse at any age and to children under age 18.
Australia
First Social Security laws: 1908.
Funding: Paid for with general tax revenues (no payroll or self-employment taxes).
Benefits: Means-tested retirement at age 65, going to 67 by 2033; means-tested disability and survivors benefits. A variety of other benefits that are not means-tested are available to Australian citizens.
Niger
First Social Security laws: 1967.
Funding: Worker pays 5.25% of wages matched by employer.
Benefits: Retirement at 60 or age 58 for government employees or age 55 if “prematurely aged”; disability benefits with a loss of 66% of work capacity; survivors benefits to children under 14 and to widow(er)s if caring for a dependent child.
These are very brief outlines of just five of the 177 Social Security programs around the world. But I hope they help make the main point of this column: We do not have a Social Security system in this country because politicians are trying to ram socialism down the throats of a naive American populace. We have a Social Security program because we are civilized people who, like human beings
across the globe, recognize that citizens must come together as a society to help older people, people with disabilities, widow(er)s and children when a worker dies.
If you have a Social Security ques-
tion, 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 2021 CREATORS.COM
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
How first timers can make a wise choice using logical steps
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
Purchasing your first home is a big step and one that is likely to impact your financial future for years to come. The following is an excellent path to pursue to determine where to begin.
Your first step will be to establish your budget then speak with a mortgage broker to get a prequalification letter. It’s not just all about your mortgage payments which will include your principle, interest and real estate taxes and insurance (P.I.T.I.) You have to anticipate the other costs of owning like future increase in taxes, repairs, maintenance and emergencies and set aside a little savings for those situations in the future.
Buy what you need anticipating future needed space as you expand your family. Buying too large of a home adds to the cost of your mortgage, taxes, insurance and up keep. Also keep in mind due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, is your job and/or business in a strong position now and into the future?
Purchasing your home and staying within your budget and living there for the near term for now might be your safest bet until the economy and your job or business improves. Being somewhat on the conservative side as needed in your expectations will be an excellent approach. Understanding potential appreciation for the going forward and its affect in future purchasing will go a long way if and when you want to move up to a larger home. Whether you sell, rent or exchange the current property a home with long term appreciation will provide greater buying options in the future.
Next look for neighborhoods which expect a rise in value or most important that have top notch school systems.
Working with a reputable Broker or agent will also assist you in minimizing major as well as minor mistakes in the purchase process. You don’t do your own dental work or yearly physical do you? Then connecting and seeking out a professional by reviewing their online reviews and testimonials will be the most prudent, smartest and safest way in searching out and securing your next place to call home.
You should determine your specific needs and wants in your home. Will you consider a fixer-upper where you could build value and appreciation into home right from the beginning or prefer a excellent to mint condition home? But then again do you have the knowledge and/or connections to be able to renovate? I recommend this path if you have experience or have enough professionals within your immediate family or friends to be able to do the job. Also, what are the minimum number of bedrooms and bathrooms you will need anticipating the growth of your family.
in. Once there is a clear picture of what you are looking to purchase, your broker will have the capabilities to set you up on an automatic search and send you those homes on a regular basis that come as close to what you might be searching for.
Our MLS system is the number one source for having updated information that is accurate and as we have the listings first before they go out to the large online companies whose information is not always accurate and up to date.
might be eliminated in the near future. This was put into effect during the last administration and mainly affected the higher real estate taxed blue states. It will all depend on what decisions Congress and President Biden to determine the right path to pursue. There are a great number of questions to be asked and decisions to be made as you go along searching for your home. Being as pragmatic and using common sense will aid you in finally finding your next place to call home. If you have any questions or concerns always feel free to reach out to me.
BY CHARLYN FARGO
Q: I used to meal prep, but now I work from home. Is it still a good idea to meal prep?
Consider what other needs and wants you may have so you will have as clear a picture as possible before going out and looking. You may have to adjust those specifics as you go along as I have seen buyers completely change their thoughts on the style of the home as well as the interior because their preconceived ideas of needs and wants weren’t always inscribed in stone. Finding the right fit is most important and getting that tingling feeling and falling in love with that special home is how it sometimes happens.
The majority now searches online to view photos and virtual tours to provide more than adequate information and insights to the homes and neighborhoods. Statistics about crime, schools, shopping, cultural offerings, things to do etc. will also provide the information that will further educate you in making the right decision as to where you decide to live. Then you can physically go out to scope out the neighborhood, schools, amenities, public transportation and other important factors which will enable you to determine if the location is your best fit.
Your broker should be asking you probing questions as to your budget, if you have a pre-qualification lenders letter, what towns, style of homes, bedroom baths etc you are interested
Once finding the home that you fall in love with, always make sure you hire a licensed and insured home inspector. Recommendations are always a sound and pragmatic way to go. Your real estate broker can also advise you as well, as they have established strong relationships within a multitude of industries dealing with the real estate process and will know who are the most proficient and expert at their trade and have a long standing and stellar reputation for doing the right thing. Don’t be penny wise and pound foolish and get stuck with expensive repairs or hidden defects so hiring the best inspector for your money is the best route to take.
I also recommend making sure you receive insurance quotes for the home you are interested in for there are factors that will affect the price eg. the neighborhood, location, flood zones, etc. Make sure you inquire and check the accuracy of the taxes to be sure that all deductions for any senior, military and any other exemptions, including the star exemption are added back so you will know the real taxes. School taxes are approximately 60-65% of your total real estate tax bill. An older couple or person with lower income may have a much higher star exemption deduction which reduces their real estate taxes. Your star exemption potentially will most likely be much lower than the current owner. Also, the S.A.L.T. (State and local taxes) deductibility maximum of $10,000 just
Q & A: Is Meal Prep Still a Good Idea?
A: Prepping even a few staple items for the week can make healthy eating so much easier. As long as you’re cooking, make a little more -- and freeze it -- or use it in another dish. Even though many of us are working more from home, we still have work to do -- Zoom meetings, reports, helping with homework, laundry, etc. Meal prepping can help keep healthy eating plans on track. Try batch-cooking
chili or chicken tortilla soup, and freezing it in portions. You can prep quinoa ahead to add to salads later in the week. It’s also helpful to cut up veggies in advance for a quick veggie tray or to use in a stir-fry. The more you do ahead, the easier it is to get dinner on the table.
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 to answer any of your questions and concerns in selling, investing, purchasing, or leasing residential or commercial property.
Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illinois. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRD.
COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM
CLASSIFIEDS
ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900
AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 11 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com
Garden City News • Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram
• Syosset Advance • Jericho News Journal
Williston Times - Mineola Edition
New Hyde Park Herald Courier • Manhasset Times
Roslyn Times • Port Washington Times • Great Neck News
DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.
2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:
1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”
2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com
Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.
Visa and MasterCard Accepted
Are you a professional?
Our Professional Guide is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.
EMPLOYMENT
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
$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
TAX PREPARER
PART TIME Franklin Square Experience needed Retirees welcome. Call 516-358-9455 Fax resume 516-358-9483 Email: ed@loturco.com
EMPLOYMENT
SITUATION WANTED
MATURE LADY SEEKS employment as CNA. Home health aide, very reliable, hard working, willing to do background checks, 15 yrs nursing home experience. Please call 516-4771225 or 917-244-3714
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)
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!
AUCTIONS
COOL OLD STUFF IN GLEN COVE VINTAGE SHOP. WINNER OF BEST OF NORTH SHORE 2020. GREAT PRICED items for Boat and Home. See ALL online: Wilsonsdrydock.com. For info / appt Please call 516-662-2821
MARKETPLACE
WANTED TO BUY
LOOKING TO BUY!
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
TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com
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
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
CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE
STUART FLORIDA FOR SALE BY OWNER
Gated Community Beautiful 2,441 sq.ft. home on small scenic lake w/screened lanai.
3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath
Two car garage
Large lush plot w/185’ frontage.
Award winning golf course and clubhouse w/gourmet dining and social activities. Gym, tennis, pickle ball, pools, dog park. Mixed ages.
10 mins to Hutchinson Island Ocean beaches/downtown Stuart restaurants and shops.
30 mins to PBI
$170,000/ $2,500/mo fees.
Info / pictures call 516-5511905 NO BROKERS
SERVICES
EXPERIENCED ORGANIZER
Need an extra pair of hands around the house?
Experienced organizer will help turn clutter and chaos into efficient spaces. No job too small Available weekends and evenings. Call Liz 917-679-5553
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
SERVICES
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
*Furniture Assembly
*Finish Carpentry
*Minor Electrical & Plumbing
28 year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154
Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli.com 516-426-2890
Roslyn Office space for SubletIMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY
Location: 1400 Old Northern Blvd. 2nd Floor, Roslyn NY 11576. Total approximately 700 sq feet. Two large interior offices, one about 250 sq feet and the second approximately 450 sq feet. Offered for rent at $1100 (per month). Within a large office suite on the top floor of a beautifully maintained building. Perfect for attorney, financial professional, or as a Long Island satellite office. INCLUDED: Shared kitchen, conference room, elect/ac/heat, common area cleaning and elevator. furnished (optional). Plenty of parking. Contact: Lisa Sicurelli, lsicurelli@ambabstract.com or call 516-626-0900.
SERVICES
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
MASONRY
All types of stonework
Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps. Free Estimates
Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000
Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886
THE GENERAC PWRcell
a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-888-871-0194
HEALTH SERVICES
FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC
Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion
Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement
PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams
Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.familycareconnections. com
up to 50-70% off suggested retail over 10,000 pendants, earrings, rings, bracelets something for everyone
to 50-70% off suggested retail over 10,000 pendants, earrings, rings, bracelets something for everyone
Valentine’s Day get your sparkle on... up to 50-70% off suggested retail over 10,000 pendants, earrings, rings bracelets something for everyone
TUTORING
LONG ISLAND TEACHER
available to tutor
ELA, social studies, special education, study skills, Living Environment, life skills, help with remote learning. Vaccinated with mask or over Zoom
Tailored to individual needs
Highly qualified Call LL 516-456-6849 CLEANING
PROFESSIONAL HOME & OFFICE CLEANING
You’re just one call away !! from a clean home or office.
Thorough and Professional Cleaning at affordable rates! Call today for Free Estimate Anna: 516-360-8340
SERVICES
A & J MOVING & STORAGE:
Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www. ajmoving .com 516-741-2657 114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NYDOT# 10405
DISH TV
$59.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-800-609-9405
Love to write?
you may submit your article to: editor@gcnews.com
From page 1
for more guidance on from NYSED to update their guidelines. In public education one of the things we are bound by is some of the guidelines put upon us that we must follow. Our goal as a school system is to provide structure for our children -- we try hard to ensure our students have consistency and structure. When the Department of Health calls the district and asks us if we do practice six feet of social distancing and universal mask-wearing, then those are really the two things they will ask us and that determines quarantining or the shutting down of schools. That is why not just us in Garden City but most school districts have adhered to the six feet of social distancing,” Dr. Sinha said.
As the budget presentation Assistant Superintendent for Business & Finance Dana DiCapua noted that pandemic related items are included in the Districtwide Safety Plan (now on the district’s website).
“In that plan it requires us to have
a certain amount of PPE and cleaning materials on hand -- we have all that in place and for next year we have a budgeted amount put forward that we’ll use to be able to support that. We have also talked about costs related to the use of paper this year with paper towels, everything needed for cleaning as for example in the restrooms we no longer use the hand-dryers. We need those supports in the budget on both our facilities side and on transportation. That’s something that directly affects the classrooms and we looked into this very carefully. Please be sure to understand that we’ve considered this in our budget,” DiCapua said.
Dr. Sinha and GCUFSD administration also noted that they’re well aware of residents and families still processing the unknown, and what happens if the vaccines’ rollout is stalled past the end of the school year.
“We are hearing concerns about having to start the 2021-2022 school year the same as the situation existing now. But we really don’t anticipate that -- when
we talk about adequate staffing and if there’s the case of scaled-down capacities then we would have to look at the district’s in-person class sizes differently. Our goal is to make sure inside and outside of school we adhere to the mandates to be able to have our schools stay open,” she said.
School Board member Michael Cassaro asked whether childrenwill have to wear masks to school again in September.
“To be clear, when you referred to it I don’t believe you are stating that you want the students to be wearing masks in September. What I believe I heard you explaining is that the word from New York State or the talk among districts and other superintendents is that this may be the case. We are still not sure about this taking shape and we are not the ones making decisions about that,” he said.
Dr. Sinha agreed that this is absolutely correct, and the masks are expected to remain one of many safety protocols in place in September -- as the health
officials evaluate if and when vaccinations for children will be available.
“I want to make sure there is no misconstruing of that. The follow-up, which I believe the district will get into for other parts of the budget, is do we feel that we are going to be able to be responsive with our budget for whatever regulations and conditions are thrown at us?” Cassaro asked. Dr. Sinha noted that in the budget development process for 2020-’21 the necessary shifts were made as requirements came up.
“We have to be prepared for schools to be open. When I speak about children’s vaccinations it is not something I am saying; rather something I am hearing. The many people who opt not to get vaccinations should know I am not saying anything of that nature that provisions are within vaccination would fall under the same guidelines,” she said.
Board President Holub said that the district is prepared to adhere to guidance from New York State as it changes, new outlines are introduced or rolled out.
Zachary Ortiz of Garden City was named to the Dean’s List at Johns Hopkins University for the fall 2020 semester. To qualify for the Dean’s List for academic excellence at JHU’s Krieger School of Arts & Sciences, students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or above in a program of at least 14 credits with at least 12 graded credits.
n SUNY Canton recognizes Katherine Dirks of Garden City for earning Dean’s List honors during the Fall 2020 semester. Dirks majors in the Criminal Investigation program.
Dean’s List recognizes full-time students for earning a grade point average between 3.25 and 3.74 on a 4.0 scale.
n
Garden City residents Caroline Tully, Class of 2021, and Elizabeth Tully, Class of 2022, earned Dean’s List recognition
College Notes
from Lehigh University for the Fall 2020 semester. Both students are graduates of Sacred Heart Academy, Hempstead.
n
Isabel Klatt of Garden City has been placed on the Gettysburg College Dean’s Honor list for outstanding academic achievement in the Spring 2020 semester.
Students with a quality point average of 3.60 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) for a semester’s work are placed on the College’s Dean’s Honor List.
n
Gettysburg College students take pride in their work, and we are likewise proud to announce their recent academic achievements.
Students with a quality point average in the range of 3.300 to 3.599 for a semester’s work were recently placed on the Deans’ Commendation List.
The following students from your
area have been placed on the Spring 2020 list:
Alexandra Archer, Kayla McCadden, Andrew Ripp, Timothy Schmelzinger and Nora Stenson
n
Grace Mage of Garden City has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s Fall 2020 President’s List. Eligibility for the President’s List requires that a student accumulate an academic grade point average (GPA) of 3.7-4.0 and earn 12 credits for the semester.
n
Bucknell University has released the Dean’s List for outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2020–21 academic year. A student must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a scale of 4.0 to receive Dean’s List recognition. Timmy Gormley, Class of 2021, from Garden City has achieved
Dean’s List status.
n
Georgia Cosola of Garden City has earned placement on the Gonzaga University Dean’s List for the Fall 2020 semester. Students must earn a 3.5 to 3.84 grade-point average to be listed.
n
Brian Colamussi of Garden City graduated with a degree in interdisciplinary liberal studies from James Madison University during commencement exercises Dec. 19, 2020.
About to hit a milestone?
Share your life accomplishments with your neighbors! Put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper, (and it's free of charge for subscribers!)
Email editor@gcnews.com
NOTICE OF FORMATION
Notice of formation of Comfort Cakes LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/24/20. Office: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 70 Roosevelt St. Garden City, NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful purpose
GC 1154
6X 01/15,22,29,02/05,12,19
NOTICE OF FORMATION
Notice of formation of Movie Making Mike LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/15/2020. Office Location: Nassau County. SSNY is designated as an agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail a copy of process against LLC to: 12 Main St, Westbury, NY 11590. Purpose: any lawful act.
GC 1155
6X 01/15,22,29,02/05,12,19
NOTICE OF FORMATION
Notice of formation of MIND ALCHEMY NEW YORK LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 10-132020. Office located in NASSAU COUNTY. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 2148 ISABELLE COURT, NORTH BELLMORE NY 11710. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
GC 1164
6X 01/29, 02/05,12,19,26,03/05
NOTICE OF FORMATION
Notice of formation of SCRUB ESTHETICS LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 10-13-2020. Office located in NASSAU COUNTY.
SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 2148 ISABELLE COURT NORTH BELLMORE NY 11710. Purpose: any lawful purpose.
GC 1165
6X 01/29,02/05,12,19,26,03/05
NOTICE OF FILING OF 2021 VILLAGE ASSESSMENT ROLL AND OF MEETING OF BOARD OF REVIEW FOR THE PURPOSE OF HEARING COMPLAINTS IN RELATION TO ASSESSMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2021
Pursuant to Section 1406 of the Real Property Tax Law, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Assessor has completed the Assessment Roll of the Incorporated Village of Garden City, New York, for the year 2021, and filed the same with the Village Clerk of said Village at her office in the Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York, where it may be seen and examined by any person during business hours until the 16th day of February, 2021. Please be advised that all complaints/grievances must be filed by the 16th day of February, 2021. Please be further advised that on the 23rd day of February, 2021, between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. the Assessor and at least a majority of the Members of the Board of Trustees, constituting the Board of Review, will meet via Zoom, for the purpose of hearing complaints in relation to assessments. All complaints/ grievances will be heard by appointment only. If you have a complaint/grievance, please email Village Clerk Karen Altman at kaltman@gardencityny.net by Tuesday, February 16
and she will send you a zoom link and an appointment time.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY
DATED: January 14, 2021 Garden City, New York
Karen M. Altman CLERK OF THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK
Dated: Garden City, New York January 27, 2021
The Incorporated Village of Garden City does not discriminate on the basis of disability for admission to, access to, or participation in its programs, activities or public meetings, and has designated Karen M. Altman, Village Clerk, as Disability Compliance Coordinator. Persons with a disability who wish to attend a meeting should contact Karen Altman at least 24 hours in advance of meeting at:
351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, New York 11530 (516) 465-4051
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
GC 1166
1X 02/05
NOTICE OF FORMATION
Notice of Formation of On The Ballpoint LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/11/2020. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to; 166 Oceanview Rd East Rockaway NY 11518-1021. Purpose: Any lawful purpose
GC 1167
6X 02/05,12,19,26,03/05,12
It’s What’s Happening for Young Adults at the Library
Teen Games: Among Us on Zoom
Join us for a virtual meet-up, Teen Games: Among Us on Tuesday, February 23 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, February 16 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.
Tween Watercolor Craft on Zoom
Join us for a virtual meet-up, Tween Watercolor Craft on Thursday, February 25, 5:00 p.m.–5:40 p.m. Join us on Zoom as we paint with watercolors on canvas! 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 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, February 16 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 1 hour before the start of the program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.
Message Cards for Community Service
Earn community service by creating positive messages for Garden City Public Library patrons! Each volunteer will receive 10 message cards to color, decorate, and write positive or library/ book themed messages. These message cards will be placed in books throughout the library in order to brighten the day of the patrons who check them out. Messages will be placed in books in all three departments, including Children’s, Tweens and Teens, and Adult Reference.
To participate, please register online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). Registration began Tuesday, February 2 at 10 a.m., and is ongoing until April 2 and more slots will be added as message cards become available, so check Eventkeeper regularly. Volunteers can sign-up for one slot at a time and can
only sign up for an additional slot after submitting their message cards.
Registrants will be asked to pick up their message cards at the library in order to participate in this community service program. Volunteers must return 10 completed message cards in order to receive community service. Volunteers will receive 2 hours for every 10 message cards they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.
Mystery Books for Community Service
Earn community service by wrapping and decorating books for the Garden City Public Library’s Tweens and Teens Department’s Mystery Book Display! Each volunteer will receive a bag of 5 books to wrap at home; the paper used to wrap the books should then be decorated by drawing, coloring, and writing positive or library/ book themed messages. Volunteers must provide their own wrapping supplies. Volunteers should not use regular wrapping paper unless they are able to still draw, write, or color somewhere on the paper they are using to wrap. These books will then be used as part of our Tweens and Teens Mystery Book Display, in which tweens and teens can take a mystery book home with them –to keep as a gift!
To participate, please register online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Registration began Tuesday, January 26. Registration is ongoing until March 26 and more slots will be added as books become available, so check Eventkeeper regularly. Volunteers can sign-up for one slot at a time and can only sign up for an additional slot after submitting their books.
Registrants will be asked to pick up their bag of books at the library in order to participate in this community service program. Volunteers must return 5 decorated and wrapped books in order to receive community service. Volunteers will receive 2 hours for every 5 wrapped and decorated books they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department.
Tree Ornaments for Community Service
Earn community service by painting ornaments for the Garden City Public Library’s Tweens and Teens Department’s Tree Ornament! Each volunteer will receive 3 ornaments and a set of paint pens to decorate their ornaments at home. Paint pens must be returned to the library. These ornaments will be used to decorate our new ornament tree each month!
To participate, please register online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) at 10 a.m. on the following dates:
• Shamrock Ornaments: Register 2/23. Ornaments must be sub-
mitted by 3/4
• Egg Ornaments Register 3/23. Ornaments must be submitted by 4/1 Registrants will be asked to pick up their ornaments at the library in order to participate in this community service program. Volunteers must return 3 decorated ornaments and their set of paint pens in order to receive community service. Volunteers will receive 2 hours for every 3 ornaments they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.
Grab and Go Bags
Stop by Garden City Public Library and grab one of our craft kits or prizes during the month of February! The Tweens and Teens Department is partnering with the Children’s Department to provide fun Grab and Go bags with extra crafts and prizes from previous programs for patrons to take home. Bags are on a first come, first serve basis and are available from February 1 to February 28 while supplies last. Patrons should only touch what they plan to take. Only one bag per patron per visit. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.
Attend a Program in February and March for Community Service
Earn community service by participating in a Garden City Public Library Tweens and Teens program in February and March! In order to receive community service, volunteers must participate in the program and then fill out a survey reviewing the program. Each volunteer will receive 1 hour of community service for every completed survey they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. Surveys will be emailed to program registrants only after the program is completed and they have attended the program. To participate, volunteers must register online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org) for each program they wish to attend separately.
Teen Advisory Board Meeting
The next meeting of the Teen Advisory Board is Tuesday, February 9, 5:00 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 began on Tuesday, February 2 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, February 11, 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 meetup 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 began on Tuesday, February 2 at 10 a.m. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program. 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
It’s What’s Happening for Young Adults at the Library
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 partici -
pating 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-theyoung-adult-tweens-teens-department/ .
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/contact-the-young-adulttweens-teens-department/ if you have any questions.
Garden City Public Library Board to
There will be a Regular Meeting of the Board of Library Trustees on Monday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. This meeting will be conducted remotely via zoom con -
meet
ference call. Further details about the meeting will be posted when available on the Library’s website, www.gardencitypl.org.
News From the Children’s Room
February is Black History Month
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their role in U.S. history. Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black history. The Children’s room has many books and biographies honoring African Americans and the history of their struggles. Some of those books include: “ Dream March: Martin Luther King, Jr. & The March on Washington ” by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, “ Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History ” by Vashti Harrison, “ 28 Days: Moments in Black History that Changed The World ” by Charles R. Smith Jr., “ Jackie Robinson Breaks the Color Barrier ” by Bo Smolka, “ Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad ” by Louise Chipley Slavicek, “ A Ride to Remember: A Civil Rights Story ” by Sharon Langley and Amy Nathan, “ Rosa Parks and The Civil Rights Movement ” by Terri DeGezell, and “ The Tuskegee Airmen ” by John M. Shea. Read all about these celebrat -
ed leaders of Black History. https://www.history.com/topics/ black-history/black-history-month Early Winter Programs & Events in the Children’s Department
We have been planning for early winter programs which include: February 10, 2021; 4:00–4:40 p.m. VALENTINE’S GRAB AND GO CRAFT ONLINE WITH THE CHILDREN’S LIBRARIANS
This program is for children in Grades K–5. Registration with a library card on Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org) is required, and began January 26 at 10 a.m. A separate registration is required for each child you wish to attend. Registrants must pick up their craft kit at the Library in advance of the program. See Eventkeeper for additional information.
PARP
Once again, we were pleased to help promote the PARP Reading program with the Garden City School District and PTA. Librarians Barbara Grace, Donna Furey & Kristen Sweeney presented via Zoom two programs highlighting new books, authors not to be missed and an overview of databases. The zoom meetings were held on January 13, 2021 to discuss K–second grades and then on January 20 for third–fifth graders. All information presented can be found on the Garden City Public Library website at www.gardencitypl.org.
CPOA meeting on February 9
The next monthly meeting of the Central Property Owners Association will be held at 7:30pm on February 9, at the Garden City Senior Center. In addition to its regular agenda the CPOA will be hosting a meet and greet for all of the Community Agreement Party candidates running in next month's election. There also will be reports from Mayor Trouvé, Trustee Minuto and Matt Wakeham from the School Board as well as regular Committee updates. There will be, as at every meeting, an opportunity to discuss all the major issues facing the Village today. Please join the CPOA, it should be a terrific evening. However, if you can't join in person please send an email to info@gccpoa.org and the CPOA will send you an invite to participate via Zoom.
Holiday cheer at NYU Langone through Teen Project, Charlie’s Champions
Local teens went online this year to spread holiday cheer to hospitalized kids at NYU Langone Hospital.
The teens were participants in Holiday Project, an annual donation drive for gift cards that are given out to teen patients at NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island through the Child Life Program and its NYU Langone Cancer Center for Kids— Mineola (CCFK).
Teen Project, which first began in 2014 was founded by teens Steven and Matthew Spirakis, who wanted to empower local teens to give back. The Spirakis brothers have long volunteered and supported the hospital’s annual Swim-a-thon, a Child Life Program fundraiser founded by their pediatrician, Dr. Ron Marino. “We learned the hospital often receives toy donations for young patients, but seldom receives appropriate gifts for teen patients,” said Steven Spirakis. “We decided to help by collecting gift cards teens our age preferred to receive and donate them to the hospital.” The fundraiser has continued each year and has raised $80,000 in donations since its inception.
The success of the campaign is largely due to the early expansion of the Holiday Project. In 2017, the Spirakis brothers partnered with T.J. and Luke Schmitt of Garden City-based Charlie’s Champions Foundation, a prominent supporter of the CCFK who provides care to pediatric patients battling cancer and complex blood disorders. The foundation was established by the Schmitt family in honor of Charlie Schmitt, a cancer survivor who was treated at the Cancer Center for Kids. “We have been raising money and awareness for Charlie’s Champions Foundation since we were both in middle school and because of what we experienced first hand with one of our cousins being treated at CCFK we knew that there was a direct need and focus that was lacking for teen patients. The gift cards were a great idea to show the teenagers being treated at a pediatric oncologist that we understood them as peers, gift cards allows them to shop online just like we enjoy doing.” said T.J. and Luke Schmitt.
Previous to 2020, the hospital would receive boxes from Holiday Project filled to the brim with gift cards, which were distributed to adolescent and young adult patients throughout the year including on birthdays and at holiday time. Due to special circumstances presented by COVID-19, the physical collection of gift cards was determined not to be a likely option. Instead, in collaboration with the hospital’s Office of Development and Alumni Affairs, the campaign moved online to the NYU Langone’s P2P Giving platform. Participants were able to
“join” the team by creating their own online fundraising page sharing their message to help spread holiday cheer to hospitalized teen patients at NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island.
The Spirakis and Schmitt brothers utilized this opportunity to broaden their online outreach and engagement to teens on different social media platforms.
One steadfast team member and top supporter, Delaney Zander, has been involved in the project for the past four years and helped coordinate the project with students at the Garden City Middle and High Schools. “Each year I look forward to being part of this project. It is hard to think of people my age going through treatment, especially this year with a new limitation on visitors to the hospital. I’m very grateful to my family and friends that support me in this project and help me raise money each year that I am involved. I have raised over $10,600 for Holiday Project over the past 5 years.”
Other team members who created online pages for the Holiday Project and continue their support from prior years include: Patrick Bohn, Christopher Smith, Sophia Ortiz, Richard Longo Jr., Brendan Staub, Lara Djunic, Kate Connolly, Katharine DeSanti, Brooke Barnett,
Gavin Burns, Matthew Romeo, Emily Romeo, Rory Heslin, Andrew Cresciullo, Ryan Maher, Julia D’Aloisio, Charlie Cohn, Ryan Riccio, Julienne King, Robert DeLaricheliere and family, Gia Famularo, Peter Halloran, Riya Katriyar, Christopher Reilly and Liam Pryor. Participants also include students from Garden City High School including Miracle Club, Key Club, Varsity Football and Lacrosse teams. The collaborative efforts of these individuals showed how team work and support of their peers helped them reach their goals.
In addition to the online giving platform, the Spirakis and Schmitt brothers had the opportunity again to enter into the W20 Foundation’s Team Up 4 Community Holiday Challenge. The W20 Foundation was started in 2007 by retired NY Islander Steve Webb. The challenge showcases community service projects by Long Island organizations involving athletes whose goal is to assist in inspiring others to give back and make a difference in their communities. The submission with the greatest number of votes is the recipient of a grant. “We knew this contest would be challenging. There were many impressive entries with students helping others facing hardships due to Covid-19. Collectively, we reached
out to our friends and teammates. Competition was really close, even to the last day,” commented Matthew Spirakis. “My high school wrestling coach, (Christopher Beihoff), and athletic trainer, (Christopher Napoli | NYU Langone Sports Medicine), are constant advocates of ours and were very helpful by publicizing the need to vote.” Through the enormous participation of supporters, the Holiday Project received over 1,900 votes and was awarded the First Place $3,000 Grant for the second consecutive year.
The proceeds raised from the Holiday Project and W20 Grant are donated to the NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island and NYU Langone Cancer Center for Kids— Mineola (CCFK). This event brings awareness that hospitals continue to need the support from the community. Medical care can only support so much, and it is the donations raised in these campaigns, which help a teen thrive, both physically and emotionally, to enjoy the holiday season. The campaign had the most successful year with $23,000 raised. Teen Project and Charlie’s Champions Foundation are grateful for the time and hard work which was put into this project to benefit all of the teen patients in this amazing way.
Heather Dall’Aste, Delaney Zander, Luke Schmitt, T.J. Schmitt, Matthew Spirakis, Steven Spirakis and Nicole Almeida
IN MEMORIAM
Eben Franz
Charles Eben Franz, 85, of Hendersonville, NC passed away peacefully on Monday, January 25th at home. Born and raised in Garden City, Eben was the first son of Francis (nee Storer) and Charles Franz of Garden City. He was a 1953 graduate of Garden City High School and 1957 graduate of St. Lawrence University, where he studied History and government.
Eben had served as an Army engineer in Germany for two years. He remembered his service and time in Germany fondly, having loved the local jazz clubs and travels throughout Europe with his Army buddies.
Employed by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company for 37 years, Eben had risen to Claims Manager of the Manhattan Construction Office where he developed his love of New York City and all of its chaos and diversity. During his 37-year career he supervised the training of countless recent college graduates readying them for their careers in business and the law.
Before moving to Hendersonville, Eben had been involved in everything that was Garden City throughout the years. He had served as a director of the Eastern Property Owners’ Association (EPOA) serving as editor of the EPOA Newsletter throughout the duration of his 9-year term. A “history buff,” Eben’s newsletters from the mid-1970s – mid1980s carried many historical accounts as they pertained to the eastern section of the Village. He had served on the Garden City Recreation Commission; had been active with the Garden City Jaycees; had been a basketball coach as well as a diving team coach and judge at the Garden City Pool. Eben and his family had been active members of the Garden City Community Church.
Eben had devoted his life to the service of others. Upon his retirement, he devoted the next 20-plus years in the Hendersonville area advocating for the working poor by helping families transition from welfare to work. He participated in several youth support organizations and served on the Big Brothers/ Sisters Advisory Board. He also tutored, led youngsters on numerous field trips and taught swimming to developmentally disabled children at the YMCA.
Eben had also acted as an adult leader on an Appalachian Service Project. He was a United Way volunteer for three years and also served on the Board of Mission, as a Sunday school teacher and an usher at the First United Methodist Church in Hendersonville. His many services in the Hendersonville area and beyond had earned him the honor of running the Olympic Torch through Asheville, NC for the 1996 Olympics.
A natural, lifelong athlete, Eben wrestled his way through college, ran and bicycled all over long island, was an avid hiker, had climbed all of the south’s 40 tallest peaks, and swam countless miles at the local YMCA well into his 70’s.
An avid nature and urban photographer, Eben captured and displayed thousands of images of his travels throughout the USA and of New York City, his special love. He had been a lifelong supporter of National Geographic and the Sierra Club.
Eben’s dedication to his work and avocations were only surpassed by his devotion to his wife and daughters to whom he gave his whole heart and soul as well as his boundless energy throughout his life. He will be remembered for his kindness towards everyone he ever met, always noting that, “Everyone you meet you either were, are, or will be; so be kind.”
Eben is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dorothy (nee Hutchinson) Franz of Hendersonville, his brother Langdon Franz and wife Loretta of Hendersonville, his sister Althea Robinson and husband Jack of Garden City, his two daughters, Pamela Susan Ellis and husband Daniel of Hendersonville, and Beth Franz and husband Bob Kretz of Brooklyn New York along with his two granddaughters, Emily Grace of Hendersonville and Georgia Gayle of Brooklyn. He is also survived by his special “girls,” Terri Mothershead and husband Derek of Hendersonville; Ovidia Wheeler and husband Chris of Georgia; and his “little brother” Chris Snyder of Mills River. The family would like to thank Dr. Eric Byrd for his love, friendship and incomparable care.
A memorial service was hosted on Zoom on Sunday, January 31 attended by his family and close friends. A graveside service is anticipated this coming summer at Greenwood Cemetery, in Brooklyn, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Erin Johnson at Action International Ministries for street children in the Philippines, The Sierra Club or The American Heart Association.
MEMORIAM
Chang Nam An
Chang Nam An, a longtime resident of Garden City, passed away on January 23, 2021 at the age of 77 after a valiant battle against Covid-19.
Born on December 11, 1943 and a native of Korea who immigrated to the United States, Chang was the epitome of human perseverance. The son of a prominent family from northern Korea before the war, Chang, his parents and siblings had to escape to the south in order to avoid an uprising that would have cost them their lives. Chang and his family started over in Seoul led by his father, Man Keum, a law professor, and his mother, Oh Kee, considered the strength of the family.
Throughout his childhood, Chang was an ardent athlete, especially when it came to soccer, often practicing for hours a day before and after school. Chang went on to graduate from Dankook University where he was one of the earliest Koreans to participate in organized American football, playing quarterback. While serving his mandatory military obligation in Korea, Chang was a member of a special unit participating with other countries under United Nations Command.
Chang eventually met his wife, Jeanney, and they decided to emigrate to the United States in the 1970s, to build a better life together. After more than a decade of marriage and many tribulations, Chang and Jeanney welcomed their first son, Rich, in 1988, followed by another son, Charlie, in 1990.
Chang was a constant presence in the lives of his children and considered them his pride and joy. After many years of hard work, often working 16 hour days, seven days a week, to build up his businesses, Chang was able to create a comfortable life for his wife and children.
Throughout all this hard work, Chang always made time for his family and was constantly present at his boys’ games and school functions. He knew that all the hard work he and his wife put in was so that his boys could have the best opportunities to succeed in life.
At the age of 63 Chang faced yet another hurdle in his life, a cancer diagnosis, right around the time his oldest son was entering college and his youngest was still in high school. After battling for his life once again and putting up a strong fight Chang was able to beat cancer. With a new lease on life, Chang took every opportunity to enjoy life with his family while pursuing his love for golf and karaoke.
Chang succeeded and accomplished his mission in life with both his sons graduating from law and business schools and with the marriage of his sons to wonderful women who he considered his daughters. A father who would do anything for his boys, Chang’s unending love extended to Rich’s boys, Harry and Jack. A doting grandfather, the birth of Harry and Jack gave Chang a new joy and purpose in life that only a grandparent can ever experience. Nothing made Chang happier than being able to see his grandsons and hearing them laugh. Chang was Harry’s best friend and while Jack was too young, his love for Chang was so real.
Chang met every obstacle in life head on with no fear by putting his faith in God and knowing he had the everlasting support of his family. Chang was cancer-free for 14 years before he caught Covid-19 just after Christmas despite the many precautions he took to keep him and his family safe. Despite initially mild symptoms, Chang’s condition took a tragic turn one week after his diagnosis and he succumbed to the disease after a twoweek hospital stay. After all the struggles and triumphs in his life, Chang lost this fight but will forever be remembered as the glue of his family, the one person who could always bring people together and celebrate the joys of life.
Chang is survived by his loving wife, Jeanney, his two sons Rich and Charlie and their respective wives Iran and Magen, his beloved grandchildren Harry, Jack and Penny, numerous siblings, cousins, nephews and nieces, and every other person who was fortunate enough to have Chang as his friend. The lasting impact that Chang left on this world and those who knew him will never perish and every person he touched will remember Chang An as someone who made their lives better. Rest in peace, a great man who never sought attention but made tremendous waves.
Have you lost someone?
If you would like to post an obituary for a loved one, simply send a short biography of them along with (if desired) their photo, details of their funeral/visitation services, and/or any donation requests to editor@gcnews.com, or call our office at 516-294-8900 to inquire.
Chang Nam An
Eben Franz
Dr. Allan J. Ahearne, born May 31, 1932 passed away at home in Warwick, NY on January 10, 2021.
Allan was raised by his beloved mother Helen McCauley Ahearne, his Aunt Virginia Anglescy, and his grandparents Michael and Ellen McCauley in a tight-knit Irish Catholic community in Jersey City, NJ. His childhood made a lasting imprint and infused in him a loving dedication to family, a tenacious will, an honor of commitments, and a singular style that was rich with mischievous humor.
Brian Quinlan
Brian Quinlan passed away peacefully on January 24, 2021. Brian was born in 1928 in the Bronx and grew up in Forest Hills, NY. After graduating
IN MEMORIAM
Allan attended St. Aloysius Elementary School in Jersey City and Xavier High School in Manhattan where lore has it, he was personally and perhaps frequently a recipient of JUG (Justice Under God) at the hands of his Jesuit educators. He earned his Bachelor of Science at St. Peter’s College in Jersey City and continued on to New York State Veterinary College at Cornell University, where he developed lifelong friendships and graduated with the Class of 1957.
Allan began his career as a veterinarian at a farm animal practice in Cumberland, MD. In 1959, he moved to Long Island, NY where he established his own practice, the Oceanside Animal Hospital.
Allan’s professional accomplishments and contributions were many. He served as President of the Long Island Veterinary Medical Society, a member of the Executive Board of the New York State Veterinary Medical Society, President of the New York State Veterinary Medical Board of Examiners, and founder and first Chairman of the New York State Veterinary Medical Political Action Committee.
Allan also worked as a State Veterinarian for the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, served as the Executive Dean at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, and was a regular guest commentator on “The
Warren Eckstein Pet Show,” a nationally syndicated weekly radio program.
While he took great pride in his work, Allan’s greatest love was his wife of 57 years, Kathryn M. Ahearne of Greenwood Lake, NY. Kathryn had been widowed, and when she and Allan married, Allan adopted Kathryn’s two children, John and Kathleen Connolly. The family settled in Garden City, and Allan and Kathryn had three additional children: James Martin Ahearne, Allan J. Ahearne, Jr., and Maura Kathryn Ahearne.
Allan and Kathryn gave the family a wonderful life in Garden City, where they lived and thrived until Allan’s retirement in 1997 when they fulfilled Allan’s long-term dream to settle in Cooperstown, NY. Allan quickly docked his 18’ Catalina Just Right at the Cooperstown Country Club, dropped his golf clubs at his Leatherstocking Golf Course locker, and made fast friends throughout the community.
Allan had a so-so golf swing, a disarming wit, and an endearing twinkle in his eye. Known around town as “Doc” and “Al,” he was a man of genuine charm who easily connected with people from all walks of life. He lived his own life aware of his blessings — he knew where he started and was forever grateful to be where he was. Allan spoke often of the sacrifices his mother and her family made for him, and he never
IN MEMORIAM
from Columbia College, Brian proudly served as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. Upon leaving the Service, Brian had a long banking career with JP Morgan Chase and the Bank of Ireland. Brian married Ann Leonard in 1956 and they resided in Fresh Meadows, NY. In 1964, the family moved to Garden City. Brian was a loving and devoted husband and father. He was a voracious reader and sports fan. Most of all, he loved being around his family.
forgot their love and care. He cherished his remarkable wife Kathryn, his children and their spouses, his grandchildren, and his friends. One would have been hard pressed to find a happier man when he was reclined on the couch in the family house in Greenwood Lake or Cooperstown with a fire roaring in the fireplace and family gathered around sharing stories and laughter with each other.
Allan is predeceased by his son, John James Ahearne of Chicago, IL. Allan is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn M. Ahearne of Warwick, NY; his daughter Kathleen Quain of Greenwood Lake, NY; his daughter-in-law Betsy Horne Ahearne and her daughters Marion and Caroline Ahearne of Chicago, IL; his son James Ahearne and wife, Lucy Birkett of Freeport, ME and their daughters Fiona and Louise Ahearne; his son Allan J. Ahearne, Jr. and his wife Amber Ahearne of Warwick, NY; his daughter and son-in-law Maura Ahearne and John Bregar of Bainbridge Island, WA and their sons Tobias and Jameson Bregar; and many friends.
Cards of condolences may be sent to Mrs. Kathryn M. Ahearne, c/o The Ahearne Law Firm, 25 Railroad Avenue, Warwick, NY 10990.
The world is a better place thanks to Allan J. Ahearne, DVM. Forever missed. We love you, Dad.
Brian leaves behind his loving wife, Ann; his children Paul Quinlan (Gail), Bruce Quinlan (Keri), Diane Quinlan, Pam Greene (Steve); 9 grandchildren and 1 great grandson.
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. Have you lost someone?
Allan J. Ahearne
Allan Ahearn Photo by Dave Gardiner
School district kicks off budget season with increase under 1%
es to property values within the district from one year to the next, according to Assistant Superintendent for Business & Finance and District Clerk Dana DiCapua. She noted that GCUFSD is provided with the information from the Nassau County Assessor’s Office.
Garden City’s projected Tax Levy of 0.84% is the maximum allowable tax levy. The district pointed out in its presentation this week that the state-mandated 2% Tax cap (or the rate of inflation) is not exactly 2% and there is an eight-step formula for determining the local tax levy limit. A 60% majority of voter approval is required if the proposed tax levy is above the “tax levy limit.” The rate of inflation this year (CPI) is at 1.23% which represents a significant drop from prior years, and that generates $1.27 million of allowable tax increase for Garden City. For 2020-’21 it was 1.81% and the prior two years, actual CPI was at above 2%.
Dr. Sinha said the district manages its budget year-after-year while planning for the future; not just in programming but for facility needs, transportation “and different components that allows us to run efficiently.” She noted how the school district and its individual schools serve as a central component to the sense of community in the Village of Garden City, stating that it is rare and unique how in Garden City the children who grow up here are often the ones coming back to town and purchasing their homes to raise the next generation of their families in Garden City “because of what this community brings to them -- schools are a central focus of that” Dr. Sinha said.
Sources of Revenues for the Garden City Union Free School District, as detailed on Tuesday evening, are the property taxes, New York State Aid, local revenues, Appropriation from Reserves, any allocations from District Fund Balance as well as PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes). PILOT revenues to the Garden City school district are projected to increase for 2021-’22 due to an increase in LIPA’s payment.
“Next year our Capital Tax Levy is going down by $450,348 and half of that is stemming from a bond paid off in this current school year. We made our last payment on a small amount of debt service that we had on it and that’s half, and the other is on refunding of a bond. Every year we test our bonds to be able to see if we’re able to do refunding and our excellent credit rating sets us up in a very good position to be able to take advantage of that and this year we were able to -- for our 2009 School Investment Bond. We are able to get some decrease on the Capital Tax Levy exclusion. The increase for the PILOT amount estimated for next year is a decrease to the Tax Cap. The Tax Base Growth Factor and CPI add to the Tax Cap and the Capital
Tax Levy and PILOT increases projected take it away -- giving us the maximum allowable of 0.84% cap,” DiCapua said on Tuesday.
Approximately 86.37% of the district revenues are slated to come from the property tax levy. The base formula to arrive at the Tax Levy Limit is derived by multiplying the prior fiscal year’s tax levy by the tax base growth factor and adding in PILOT payments receivable in the prior fiscal year (in this case 2020-’21) -- then that amount is multiplied by the Allowable Levy Growth Factor, and finally the PILOT payments receivable in the coming fiscal year are subtracted. The school district has slides and graphics detailing the calculations available on its website.
AAA bond rating
Dr. Sinha noted the school district’s AAA bond rating as well as its collaborative relationship with Village of Garden City government; participation in Nassau County and regional consortia to be able to procure lower costs for services and goods, as well as GCUFSD’s ownership of its own bus transportation system. Included for the 2021-2022 budget cycle will be costs for replacing buses.
“This is the third year we’ve received this AAA rating, the highest designation for a district and in New York there are only a handful of districts that have this rating. Because of this rating, as included in this budget there is a decrease to our debt service. Half of that is because we paid off bonds and were able to save over $200,000 in just one year -- the AAA rating allows the district to renegotiate our current debt with favorable rates. To lower costs we also participate in the county and regional consortia whenever we can. This really allows us to lower our costs,” Dr. Sinha said on Tuesday. Garden City’s Capital Tax Levy is projected to be less than the prior (current) fiscal year by $450,348 due to such lower expenses for the district’s debt services as well as increased building aid anticipated.
District owned school buses
Dr. Sinha discussed the asset that the district has with its own fleet of buses by saying that the bus drivers are an integral part of students’ experience “in getting onto the bus and coming to school, then when they go home.” As district capital needs evolve, the superintendent also said the kindergarten and Grade 1 community (Primary) schools are “something Garden City values and wants to hold onto” because it is unique for a community to offer three distinct buildings of that variety.
PILOT and the State Aid, and we’re continuing to use our Reserves to offset our Tax Levy bring our budget in under the tax cap, and we have the Fund Balance and Interfund Transfers from Debt Service,” she explained.
School District Trustee Stephanie Granville, who works as an educator in another Long Island district, asked DiCapua to clarify the scenario around State Aid and especially transportation State Aid. Other questions surround STAR -- School Tax Relief (STAR) program which homeowners who change addresses or locations are eligible for. DiCapua is confident GCUFSD will receive transportation aid from New York State.
As outlined in the presentation Tuesday, State Aid the district receives would increase from $6,700,434 in 20202021 up to $6,834,412 for next year. And at the same time, the total amount of revenues to the district from property taxes including STAR would go up by $877,641 -- as the tax levy for the current year was $104,547,393 and for next year it would be $105,425,033.
“These projections are based on what we as a district are anticipating spending, especially for special education, and State Aid is based on the data that the district submitted to the New York State Education Department (NYSED) from the two years prior. The State works off data from the year before last. Although it is going down overall and down in some categories, the way State Aid was presented for this year STAR was presented in a way in which it’s aid distributed or taken as revenue and that is not how STAR works. Some of that has to do with the way STAR is being paid out as it was changed from a deduction off of taxes to a rebate that you get from the state, so that is decreasing what gets paid out,” DiCapua said, noting that an interesting situation plays out from school system to school system. She said Gov. Cuomo’s State Budget is proposing to combine 11 expenses into a new service aid category “it would include transportation and BOCES aid and textbooks, computer, library and hardware plus building aid.”
“There is a lot of advocacy for not going forward with that proposed combined service aid so we will have to see what happens,” she said.
According to DiCapua, a good portion of the decrease with New York State’s budget is stemming from reductions to state liability, though that is refunded back with a federal subsidy that New York plans on receiving.
Budget drivers
aries and benefits. Dr. Sinha noted how the enrollment and projections with incoming kindergarten children are consistently reviewed with budgets and staffing in mind.
“Year after year we go through the budget drivers and budget priorities and they remain strong and constant year-after-year. They are focused on our students and safety. This year -- due to the pandemic -- we have also accounted for new local mandates and the County Department of Health, which fall under the State and Federal mandates though they came from NYSED and the State Department of Health. That includes for classroom ventilation, replacing filters, cleaning and disinfecting, additional supplies and PPE such as masks. We have already put additional protocols into place such as cleaning more frequently and disinfecting classrooms. These items continue to be a part of our budget planning process for next year, and we want to make sure our facilities are safe, clean and efficient -- this budget will reflect that we are continually investing in the upkeep of district facilities,” Dr. Sinha said.
Schedule for Schools’ Budget Process
A section of Tuesday night’s Board meeting presentation focused on changes imposed on the district during the year of pandemic.
“We have learned quite a bit in the last 12 months that we see we want to hold onto as we experienced the value of the use of technology, and how we can reach our students through it. We have leveraged technology and we want to continue to do that. Through the pandemic we’ve also been able to provide strong virtual learning and PD for our teachers and staff -- and we want to optimize our usage of time in virtual meetings, and we want to make sure there are opportunities for our students with the use of technology, even expanding ‘the silver linings of the year’ and carry that initiative into our future,” Dr. Sinha explained.
The March budget sessions will include discussions on instructional and program components, Dr. Sinha noted. The Non-Instructional, Administrative and Capital Components of the budget will be presented at the board meeting set for Tuesday night, February 23. The budget’s Instructional Components will be presented at the subsequent board meetings, with Part I on March 9 and Part II on March 23.
The school district’s budget is set for adoption by the Garden City Board of Education on April 20. The annual budget hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 4, with the annual budget vote and election two weeks later -- on Tuesday, May 18. From page 1
Assistant Superintendent DiCapua presented the school board with an overview of the revenue streams for the district’s budget calculations.
“We are seeing an increase into the
Among the largest “budget drivers” outlined in Tuesday’s presentation are district enrollment and accommodating class sizes, school security and student safety, including cybersecurity, and sal-
will include two buildings at four stories each, inclusive of 15 affordable housing units, received final site plan approval in July 2020. The residence will consist of 66 one-bedroom units, 72 two-bedroom units and 12 three-bedroom units.
Pothole Repairs
Pothole repair is ongoing in the Village. Roving crews are addressing problem areas that the Department of Public Works is aware of and responding to calls from residents for specific concerns. If a resident sees a pothole and wants to alert the Department for repairs, please call the DPW dispatcher at 465-4031/32 and the Highway Department will be notified. Also, as a reminder, the Village does not own all of the streets in the Village. For example, Nassau Boulevard and portions of Stewart Avenue are Nassau Countyowned. We cannot fix those streets but as always the Village attempts to have the County make repairs in a timely fashion.
New gas main project on 7th Street
National Grid will be installing a new gas main and service line transfers on Seventh Street, from Franklin Avenue to Hilton Avenue. The project is expected to begin this week, weather permitting, and expected to take twoand-a-half to three months to complete. Notification from National Grid has been made to business owners on Seventh Street informing them of the scope of the project as well as providing contact information. A construction representative will contact business owners 24-48 hours in advance to schedule gas service transfers. Any sidewalks or pavement areas that are
THE MAYOR’S UPDATE
Mayor@gardencityny.net
disturbed will be fully restored by National Grid. If you have any questions about the project call 625-2118. We thank you in advance for your cooperation during this project.
Construction Manager Search
The Library is seeking a construction manager for its Children’s Room redesign project. Library Board Chair Randy Colahan said the consulting position is part-time. Commitment of five to 12 hours per week, depending upon completion of the project, is required. The construction manager will act as liaison between H2M Architects & Engineers, the Village and the trades to ensure the project is completed within budget and on time. Inquiries should be directed to the Village’s Human Resources Department, 516-465-4006.
Recreation App
The Recreation and Parks Department is looking into an appbased card system. The Village of Floral Park has been issuing park cards for some time to residents to access their facilities. Transferring this idea to an app made more sense moving forward, according to Recreation Chairman Paul Blake. “To the best of my knowledge, we would be one of the first organizations to have such a ‘pass’ on a phone app,” he said. The Department is working with software vendor, Rec Pro, to see if they can provide this sort of app. If they cannot, the Department will check with other recreation software providers to see what may be out there. “We want to try to make this as convenient and easy for our residents as possible. If we can get this into an app-based application we’re going to be a little bit ahead of the game,” Mr. Blake added.
Merillon Ave. Station Enhancement
On February 15, eastbound platform service will be extended to 12 cars at the Merillon Avenue LIRR station. On February 22, following the commissioning of the New Nassau 1 Interlocking & Signal System, the Main Line tracks will be renamed to conform to the future permanent system accounting for three tracks. The naming system as follows will affect Floral Park, New Hyde Park, Merillon Avenue, Mineola, Carle Place and the Westbury stations:
• Track 3 – Westbound platform (north)
• Track 1 – Currently accessible eastbound platform (south)
• Track 2 – Future 3rd track (currently under construction)
Construction on the ADA-compliant elevators is expected to be substantially complete this winter. Following the completion of construction, crews will begin commissioning and testing the elevators to ensure complete functionality and safety requirements are met. On the south side of the station, platform barriers and metal art railings are being installed along with brick enclosures and canopy roofing. On the north side of the tracks, crews will continue installing under platform barriers along with guardrails and railings for the stairs and ramps. The installation of the station signage band along the westbound platform will take place this month during overnight hours.
Snowstorms: Help us help you
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Village residents and merchants who shoveled and cleared their sidewalks within 24 hours following last month’s snow event. Looking
ahead to the possibility of future snowstorms, the following suggestions are offered in an effort to reduce inconvenience to residents and to assist the Village in serving your needs:
• If possible, wait until the Village plows the street to clear the snow from your driveway entrance. If you can’t wait, shovel or blow the snow onto your property. Do not shovel or blow snow back into the street.
• When you hear that a storm is expected, move your car off the street into your driveway. This will speed up the plowing operation and make the streets safer for travel.
• Park your car, or cars, as close to the end of the driveway as is safely possible. This eliminates the need for shoveling the entire driveway to free your car when the storm has ended and the roads are safe to travel.
• If you are unable to shovel snow or are going to be away, make arrangements to have the snow cleared from your sidewalk. Please remember that you are responsible to shovel your sidewalks within 24 hours after the storm. This will be enforced by the Police Department. This is also applicable to the business community.
• Please clear snow away from all hydrants so that the Fire Department can reach them without delay. Also, make sure that the snow is not blocking the address number to your house.
• To facilitate safe garbage collections, a clear path should be made from the sidewalk to where the garbage is kept. If this is not possible, it is suggested that the garbage be carried to the curb for pickup.
• Be on the lookout for announcements on the Village website and social media pages regarding changes/ cancellations in Village services.
The Board of Trustees’ $10 Million Firehouse Plan
From page 3
and assurances that he has the time to take on the job of Mayor, the Deputy Mayor has provided no answer to that resident or to the community he was elected to serve.
Another concerned resident submitted a Freedom of Information Law request on December 7, 2020 asking for all documentation relating to plans for the Western Firehouse Project and the process leading up to the hiring of PKAD. As of this submission to the Garden City News, no documents have been provided.
Based on a review of the minutes on the Village website, it appears that the decision to hire PKAD was made without consideration of any other design firms, and it appears that there was no public deliberation as required by the NYS Open Meetings Law on the decision to hire PKAD or the decision to opt
for the plans calling for demolition.
Lack of Bidding Process
At the same meeting on September 30, 2020, another concerned resident asked if there were any other bids for this project that has to date cost taxpayers $342,000, and the Deputy Mayor quickly referenced a village law that allows these types of service contracts without any bidding.
Residents should all be asking themselves why the Board of Trustees would choose to use this loophole in our village law that allows these no bid contracts, and whether this is a good way to do business. The FABGC candidates in one of their recent Zoom meetings all agreed that they would support closing this loophole, and an end to no bid contracts is part of the FABGC Platform.
Resistance to Community Engagement
It is noteworthy that the Board of
Trustees did not seek to create a committee of residents on this project that at $10 million could be the most expensive construction project in the Village’s history. The WPOA Firehouse Committee was formed in the fall of 2019, but by that point, the Board of Trustees had already begun discussions with PKAD. Moreover, the Firehouse Committee has detailed the lack of cooperation they received from the Board of Trustees including the absence of any program or needs assessment. The Firehouse Committee was not even allowed the opportunity to discuss the program with our Fire Department, something that is customary when architectural plans are prepared. PKAD appears to have had extensive discussions with the Fire Department.
The Board of Trustees’ actions surrounding the Western Firehouse reveals an alarming lack of transparency, a regular practice of engaging in no bid con-
tracts at odds with the best interests of our Village, and resistance to allowing valuable community engagement.
If you share the concerns of FABGC, please consider joining this effort by emailing info.fabgc@gmail.com and visit our website fabgc.org. You can also contact our outreach contacts and your neighbors: Cosmo Veneziale, Mary Carter Flanagan, Tom O’Brien, Terry Digan, Bruce Chester, Mickey Paxton, Donald MacLeod, Effie Campbell, Deidre Orr, Arlene Chianese, Betsy Lenhart Andromidas, George Salem, Rich Corrao, John Cantwell, Charlie Kelly, Sivan Chapman, Josh Chapman, Mike Ryder, Molly Fiedler, George Evans, Michele King, Glenn King, Nancy Trabulsi, Kerry Koslo, Jonathan Martin, Bill Kavan, Remy Bernardo, Amy McGoldrick and Neil McGoldrick.
Why you should be concerned about the March 16 election
From page 3
about, should already know the answers to. The topic that was being brought up from 2013 were even decided upon by a whole different group of people than those of which are running today. But how would they know this given their lack of involvement.
• The beauty of the structure of our Village government is the ease for any resident to get involved. Every two years, we have a new Mayor representing a different section of the Village. Every two years, half of our Board of Trustees (4 members) come up for reelection. If you want to get involved, you have an opportunity to put in an application to be a Board of Trustee member EVERY YEAR. It is advertised in the Garden City News.
• Before you go to vote you should be asking yourself why didn’t any of the five people from this rogue group get involved before. Why didn’t they put in an application through the POA and generally accepted, long-established process? The candidates from the Western POA were UNCONTESTED this year! There are complaints about who is on the Board of Trustees but what choice did they have if the candidates go uncontested? Were the rogue group candidates afraid that they weren’t qualified enough and wouldn’t be chosen?
• When there are multiple candidates who submit their names for consideration there is a rigorous process to determine the nominee. In the Estates this year, there were four highly qualified candidates that the 15 members of the nominating committee had to debate. These individuals’ resumes are just as long, if not longer and more
impressing than those individuals that are challenging the POA candidates. Rich Catalano was the chosen candidate in the Estates. He went uncontested at the Annual Electors’ Meeting in January when any individual could have presented a challenge with just 15 signatures. Why? Was it because the rogue group had yet to find someone willing to run?
• Being on the Board of Trustees is huge commitment to the Village. The board typically meets twice a month. Each member also sits on multiple subcommittees that meet frequently throughout the year. Ask yourself before you vote, how committed are these individuals that have never been involved before? Do they even understand the level of commitment needed for this VOLUNTEER position?
• Remember that the POA candidates understands the time commitment and they understand the issues. The POA candidates are also not putting out blatantly incorrect information on a weekly basis.
Now that we have an upcoming contested election on March 16, what does this mean to the vast majority of residents of the Village who believe that the Village is well run and are happy that the Village taxes have not increased by more than 2% each year for the past 10 years.
This new rogue group has, in substance, created a political party in Garden City with a platform based on the special interests of certain residents. This is the inherent problem with having a de facto political party in that the candidates have to consider the special interests of the party that got them elected. For example, will it be in your
best interest if the rogue candidates were elected and then spend countless millions of your tax dollars litigating against the MTA regardless of assessing the probability of a favorable outcome because they are accountable to their special interest members?
The Community Agreement candidates are completely independent and were selected by their respective POA nominating committees solely on their backgrounds and commitment to serve the Village. Three of the five candidates were also selected because they have experience as a trustee - Bob Bolebruch, Mark Hyer and Steve Makrinos. Our Mayor candidate, Bob Bolebruch, has 8 years of trustee experience as compared to ZERO years of trustee experience for the candidate challenging him.
The Community Agreement candidates will always consider what is the best interest of all 22,500 residents of the Village of Garden City, not just select groups; this is a core fiduciary responsibility of any resident who serves as a trustee of the Village.
This is why the vast majority of resi-
dents of the Village should be very concerned about this election and everyone should be sure to have their voices heard. Spread the word with your family, friends and neighbors and Like and Follow our Facebook Page – “Garden City – Community Agreement Party 2021” or follow us on Twitter @gardencitycap to stay up to date on our campaign.
Also mark your calendar for Tuesday, March 16, 2021 for the in-person election at Village Hall from 12 noon to 9 pm.
If you will be out of town or have any concerns over COVID-19, it is very easy to vote by Absentee Ballot:
• The application for an absentee ballot is on the Village website.
• You can also obtain the application by emailing or calling Karen Altman, Village Clerk (kaltman@gardencityny. net and 516-465-4051).
• If your reason is related to COVID19, in Section 1 of the application check the box “temporary illness or physical disability”.
We look forward to continuing this conversation in the weeks ahead.
in the upcoming village elections. After all, our vote is your voice; what do you have to say?
On Tuesday March 16th, from 12:00PM-9:00PM, on the first anniversary of the New York State COVID-19 lockdown, Garden City will be holding elections for Mayor and Trustees at Village Hall. Unfortunately, our public health is now in as precarious situation than as a year ago. Therefore, we must appropriately tailor our actions to the meet these unprecedented challenges.
Fortunately, over a week ago, Senate Bill S1632 was passed, seeking to amend New York State Village Law to “allow a voter to request an absentee ballot where such person is concerned of contracting or spreading a disease that may cause illness to the voter or to other members of the public.” This purpose of this bill is to permit any village resident that has any apprehension of catching COVID-19, or any other illness, to vote by mail via an absentee ballot. This bill was passed in the State Senate and delivered to the State Assembly on January 26th, 2021, where it is currently pending, but expected to pass shortly. You can follow the lifecycle and eventual passage of this bill on the senate’s website (https://www.nysenate.gov/ legislation/bills/2021/s1632).
As voting takes place exclusively at Village Hall for half-a-weekday during the winter, social distancing will inherently cause a lengthy queue to form outside the door, out into the cold, dark evening where it may be snowing or raining, causing additional health and safety risks for in-person voters. Anyone who has recently driven near Village Hall on a weekday evening knows how difficult it can be find a parking space due to restaurants encroaching onto dozens of parking spots in the area. When compounded by inclimate weather, and health concerns, our village runs the perilous risk of a low in-person turnout, allowing the few to speak for the many, which is the fundamental antithesis of democracy.
By passing a bill to permit residents to cast a mail-in ballot due to the ongoing pandemic, the State is reaffirming the primacy of the people’s power to exercise their vote. Upon passage of S1632, any resident will be able to request and vote by absentee ballot via our Village Clerk, Karen Altman (KAltman@gardencity.net; 516-465-4051). There are six options to select when requesting an absentee ballot, and it is recommended that voters select one of the health related concerns – Temporary Illness, Permanent Illness, or Primary Caregiver. Absentee ballots are self-certifying and do not require a doctor’s note or evidence of illness, particularly in light of the potential new legislation. Village elections for members of our
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Email: Editor@GCNews.com
Board of Trustees are ultimately a referendum on the quality of leadership in the village and the hegemony’s impact upon our parks, schools, sanitation, water, roads, aesthetes, fire department, and police department. Decisions made by the Board of Trustees directly impact the fiscal policies of our village and your taxes.
Please vote in person on March 16th, 2021, or consider reaching out to our Village Clerk to request an absentee ballot if you have any concerns about yourself or your family members’ health. Absentee ballots must be delivered to the Village by March 16th, 2021. Village Hall additionally has a mail slot for the Clerk’s office where you can safely drop off your mail-in ballot. Vote. Use your voice. What do you have to say?
Ryan Torino
A big difference
To the Editor:
On March 16, residents will have a choice in the election for village mayor and four trustees. Simply put, the choice is between what we have had for many years, POA nominees who are mostly incumbents, or a slate of candidates from a citizens’ group, FABGC (For a Better Garden City) including Terry Digan, Tom O’Brien, Mary Flanagan, Bruce Chester and Cosmo Veneziale.
If the POA nominees prevail, the voters will have elected a slate that is mostly incumbents and can reasonably be expected to constitute a Board that will provide the same type of results that the village has had for many years.
The usual 8-0 votes of the Board may become 7-1 or even 6-2 but by renominating mostly incumbents (two individuals who have already served as Mayor are not running again creating the two “openings”), the POA slate guarantees more of the same.
The same includes, but is certainly not limited to:
1. A no bid, no RFP contract on the Edgemere firehouse with hundreds of thousands of dollars already spent and millions more ready to be spent and no information on how the firm was chosen;
2. No public referendum on St. Paul’s to guide the Board out of this 30 year holding pattern that has resulted in a fenced in building causing a million dollars annual drain;
3. No needs based analysis for the destruction of the Edgemere firehouse; and
4. Continued fallout from the Board’s failure to challenge the destruction of the Merillon Avenue neighborhood by the 3rd Track Project.
In contrast, if the FABGC slate prevails, they will have a voting majority and will be able to provide:
1. Issuance of a requirement that
RFPs are required for all significant expenditures and sole source/no bid contracts are not permitted absent an emergency;
2. Work stoppage on Edgemere firehouse until a needs based analysis is completed and presented at a public meeting;
3. Appointment of a committee of residents to draft a referendum on St. Paul’s to be presented, after a public meeting and upon approval by the Board, for a village wide vote; and
4. Review of all agreements made by the prior Board regarding the Merillon Avenue construction to evaluate whether those agreements foreclose certain remedies.
The biggest difference that a FABGC Board would bring is transparency, a no secrets respect the taxpayers and their taxes, which has been missing. If anyone has appeared before the Board in recent years, as I have many times, you would be aware that questions are not answered, speakers are cut off and treated with disdain and the whole meeting schedule is designed to discourage both attendance and participation.
FABGC Candidates Terry Digan, Tom O’Brien, Mary Flanagan, Bruce Chester and Cosmo Veneziale are committed to a no secrets transparent village government that respects taxpayers, their time and their taxes.
The best evidence of their commitment to transparency is provided each Wednesday evening at 8:00 p.m. when FABGC convenes a Zoom meeting at which the FABGC candidates are available to answer any questions.
Charles P. Kelly
Goal is transparency
To the Editor:
While For a Better Garden City (FABGC) may not have the words “Community Agreement” in its name, as a FABGC candidate and life-long resident, I have great respect for this agreement and no desire to make any changes to it. Nor do any of my fellow FABGC candidates.
The Village has grown into the strong, engaged and tight-knit community it is today under this historic document, and what brought the group of people known as FABGC together is a deep commitment to our community. No resident following the present state of our local government could argue that we are living up to the “spirit of neighborly confidence and accord” aspired to in the Community Agreement.
The purpose of the Community Agreement was to unify the separate sections of our village during a time when the future of Garden City as we know it today was uncertain. Its success cannot be disputed, nor can its important role in our history, and it is my hope
that we can preserve our unique form of government for future generations.
As we have set out in our submissions to the Garden City News, and as is described in detail on our website (fabgc.org), recent Board of Trustees’ actions are threatening the future of our village and our unique form of government.
Our challenge this year is not in any way an attempt to change the Community Agreement or turn our village into a two party town. Our goal is to bring openness, transparency, and a choice to residents. A vote for FABGC is a vote to preserve our unique form of government under the Community Agreement. We ask all residents to join us in these efforts for the future of our great village.
Mary Carter Flanagan FABGC Candidate for Trustee
Landscaping frustration
To the Editor:
In December 2018 3TC took down every piece of shrubbery on Main Avenue between Kensington and Brixton Roads. In addition the contractor damaged all trees from Nassau Blvd to Whitehall Blvd. and made a new roadway where grass and shrubs used to grow.
In June of 2019 several neighbors attended the Estates POA meeting and started asking for these eye sores to be remedied. We were assured by trustees Daughney and Foley that this was not a problem. In July the Mayor, Theresa Trouvé visited the site.
In September 2019 we met with Travis Brennan and Leslie Mesnick of 3TC. We were told that the Village of Garden City and 3TC landscape architects are planning on meeting soon. 3TC will find out when the replanting will start. Later that month Leslie Mesnick said she talked to the LIRR/MTA senior management regarding the schedule for planting and the desired early start date.
At the Estates POA meeting on September 12, 2019 Travis Brennan in response to neighbors concerns told everyone not to worry the wall and shrubbery will be complete in two months. (Still not done or even started). Ms. Mesnick at the same meeting assured us that every tree removed outside the LIRR ROW would be replaced with a tree of equal caliper.
In October of 2019 during the replacement of the Nassau Blvd. bridge I met with Mark Roche the MTA executive in charge of the project and gave him a tour of the site. He assured me that 3TC would be required to do more then the minimum.
October 10, 2019 at Estates POA meeting Trustee Daughney explained that the Village Board was working with
3TC on landscaping plans. But no dates or plans were provided.
On November 13,2019 at Estates POA meeting it was pointed out that the preliminary plans on the web site did not adequately cover the walls that were built. Trustee Daughney stated that the plans for the landscaping would be shared with the residents once they were received.
December 12, 2019 Board of Trustees meeting. I brought up the need for landscaping plans and in particular renderings to show all residents. No answer from board members, in the remaining time of my four minutes I asked how someone let 3TC build a switch in the street that stopped school busses from picking up children and required making a new bus stop further from the existing stop. Again no answers and my time was up. Why attend if you get no answers or even responses?
January 8,2020 Leslie Mesnick informed us that plans for landscaping would be posted and dates provided. Inadequate drawing were provided but no dates were given. She also mentioned that she would remind the village to ask for Community Benefits Funds. In spite of repeated requests the third track committee of Garden City (Daughney, Makrinos and DiFrancisco) no requests for funds were made except to repave Nassau Blvd. parking lot which is not part of the third track project. $1.2 million dollars were allocated for this project and zero for the third track landscaping.
At the January 21,2020 Estates POA meeting Trustee Daughney stated that the Village did apply for Community Benefits Funding for repaving Nassau Blvd. parking lot,but the bulk of any funds received would be used for third track improvements. Note zero funds outside the parking lot provided.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Email: Editor@GCNews.com
February 15, 2020 Leslie Mesnick, Community Outreach Manager for 3TC provided revised landscape drawings that did not correct any shortcomings from Nassau Blvd. to Whitehall Blvd.
On September 27, 2020 I forwarded my comments on landscaping plans that I had received from Jim Green the 3TC community ambassador to Trustee Daughney. He questioned whether revamp endorsed these comments and I said they did. He informed me that the Village did not need renderings and the final drawings were “imminent. Next week.” Daughney provided a list of changes they were requesting of 3TC. Daughney stressed that “it makes no sense to plant and then work or access needs to get done and the plantings have to be removed or dug up.”
The plans for planting are now either the spring or fall of 2021.
These will be done with no input from the village residents. My informal understanding is that since the Village is going to pursue litigation. Progress in this area has stopped. Hopefully this is wrong since it is imperative that this situation be resolved ASAP .
Conclusion :
Our board of trustees members from the Estates and one from the Western POA have let us down. We need a strong board to keep the Village looking like it always has, part of the reason many residents have moved to this community. Please support FabGC candidates to insure this is handled correctly.
Paul Rothenbiller
Member of ReVAMP
Fight to keep St. Paul’s standing
To the Editor:
Our first home in L.I. was in Suffolk and tiring of the commute I asked
my wife to research communities in Nassau County, that had an hour or less train ride to Manhattan. She suggested Port Washington and Garden City. We first visited the former and subsequently the latter.
When we drove to Garden City in the summer of 1982, we rode in on Stewart Avenue from Clinton Rd. When I first saw the green divider and the stately homes, I was greatly impressed. As we traveled West, I saw the Cathedral and when we came upon the magnificent St. Paul’s school building, I was sold. I knew I wanted to live in Garden City. We moved in, in September of 1982, and I have never regretted that decision for a moment.
Over the years, I have been disturbed to read the preponderance of negative correspondence about St. Paul’s ecommending its deconstruction. I have been meaning to write this letter in support of keeping St. Paul’s standing, for quite a while. However, with Covid-19 upon us I thought I’d wait until the crisis eased.
Unfortunately, the negative commentary has not abated and I feel that I should no longer sit on the sidelines: I believe that if we, as a community, permit St. Paul’s to be destroyed the character of Garden City (what makes it what it is) will be dramatically altered for the worse.
In a recent letter to the “Garden City News” Mr.George Salem requested that the Village Board (BOT) provide its residents with a range of the cost to abate and preserve St.Paul’s interior.I fully support that idea. I’ve seen numbers as high $5,000,000. Can this be correct ? What exactly is involved in this procedure? Notwithstanding the difficulty,I assume the BOT should be able to present a reasonably accurate cost range to the village residents, including con-
sulting fees, etc. In addition I suggest that an estimate of the annual cost to maintain the facility after the abatement, be made public.
Subsequently, if the BOT provides this information on any and all additional St. Paul’s projects the residents will be better able to evaluate them individually and hopefully arrive at a consensus on each; whether positive or negative.
I recently visited the Garden City website and ran the following on the debt/tax calculator: A $10,000,000. 20 year bond at 1% would increase taxes on a home with a $1,000,000.market value by $87.48 in the first year, declining in each subsequent year.The tax cost over the life of the issue would be $1,611.14. While I’m not eager to spend other people’s money, I believe we can certainly clean up St. Paul’s without placing an undue burden on our residents.Also,I am certain that preserving St.Paul’s adds value to our homes.
Trustee Louis Minuto has stated that if a decision to raze St.Paul’s is reached, he would resign. I can certainly appreciate his feelings. If I were a trustee, I wouldn’t want that to be my legacy.
Bill Garry, the president of the Garden City Historical Society has been quoted as saying: “…I know there’s a plan out there for St.Paul’s that will be successful.” I agree. We just need to work together to find a solution, rather than being at odds with one another.
FinaIly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank those residents who continue to support the preservation of St. Paul’s. And I’d especially like to acknowledge my admiration for our village trustees both past and present who have fought to keep this magnificent structure standing.
John Redican
Do you own a local business?
GCHS Girls Varsity Fencing splits latest two meets
On Wednesday, January 27, the girls travelled to Jericho, a perennial fencing powerhouse. The girls had a tough start with a 7-2 deficit in the first round. They fought hard in the second and third rounds, but fell short and lost by a score of 16-11. The wins were earned as follows: saber by senior co-captain Riley DeGearo (2-1), juniors Andrea Jimenez (1-1) and Kiley Brunning (1-0); and sophomore Alexa Andron (2-1); foil by freshman Ana Gaztanaga (1-2); épée by senior captain Fran DiStefano (1-1), junior Mia Kiriakas (1-0) and sophomore Cate Rovelli (1-1).
On Saturday, January 30, the girls hosted Hewlett and earned a thrilling 14-13 victory. The girls were up 5-4 after the first round. In the second, Hewlett swept saber in three consecutive 5-4 bouts and then took a bout in foil and épée to tie the match at 9-9. After the first two saber bouts in the third, Hewlett was up 11-9 until Riley DeGearo in saber and Ana Gaztanaga
in foil had big 5-1 wins. Next, junior foil captain Sophia Ortiz shook off two earlier 5-4 losses to level the match at 12-12. This nail-biter of a match came down to épée, where sophomore Dian Wakeman and Cate Rovelli both won their matches to secure the victory! With Tuesday’s match against Cold Spring Harbor postponed due to the snow, the girls are currently 4-2 on the season.
The 2020-21 GCHS Girls’ Varsity Fencing squad is coached by Brooke Appelman. Due to COVID-19, spectators are not allowed at the meets this season. However, meets are being live streamed on YouTube. Anyone interested in checking out this exciting sport can email friendsofgardencityfencing@gmail.com for a link on meet days. The remaining schedule is as follows:
2/4 – at Oyster Bay, 5:00 p.m.
2/8 – Wheatley, 4:30 p.m.
2/9 – at Syosset, 5:00 p.m.
TBD – at Cold Spring Harbor
Melissa Ng fencing against Hewlett
Junior Foil Captain Sophia Ortiz lunges for the touch
Cate Rovelli (right) won a critical bout
Kylie Brunning (left) wins her saber bout
Senior Saber Co-Captain Riley DeGearo attacks in saber
Dian Waksman with another critical win against Hewlett
GCHS Boys Fencing bounces back with 21-6 win over Hewlett
On Wednesday, January 27, the boys’ squad traveled to Jericho for a very difficult meet and took a tough 19-8 loss. The épée squad had the strongest performance at 5-4, led by senior co-captain Sean Maas, who went 3-0, with additional wins from senior Aidan Rosenblatt and sophomore Michael Siragusa. Sabre contributed 3 wins, with 2 from junior Alex Pasqualina, and 1 from senior captain Grant Scarangella, while the sole foil win came from senior captain Andrew Burns. The boys worked very hard and took several of the matches deep, but came up short overall.
On Saturday, January 30, the boys came storming back at home with a decisive 21-6 win at home versus Hewlett High School. It was a true team effort with all blades making a significant contribution to the win. The foil squad was 8-1, the sabre squad was 7-2 and the épée squad
was 6-3. Within foil, junior Jordan DeNaro led with 3-0, while senior captain Andrew Burns and junior Joe Armstrong added two wins each and sophomore Eric Hartmann also contributed a victory. Within Sabre, junior Nicholas Michael led with 3-0, while senior captain Grant Scarangella added 2 wins along with single victories from junior Alex Pasqualina and junior Andy Liu. Épée contributed 6 wins, led by senior co-captain Sean Maas 3-0, and additional single victories from senior co-captain Ryan Bradley, senior Aidan Rosenblatt, and sophomore Louis Rivera.
The remaining schedule is as follows:
2/6 – at Great Neck North at 10:00 a.m.
2/8 – Wheatley at 4:30 p.m.
2/10 – at Syosset
TBD – at Cold Spring Harbor (cancelled because of snow)
Senior Sabre Captain Grant Scarangella is quicker to the point.
Junior Sabre Nicholas Michael lunges for the point.
Junior Foil Jordan DeNaro goes toe-to-toe for the win.
Foil Sophomore Eric Hartmann scores for the win.
Senior Epee Aidan Rosenblatt makes the decisive touch.
Senior Epee Co-Captain Sean Maas is all-in with this lunging point.
FOR SENIORS
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.
Adult Art Class at Cluett Hall
The Garden City’s Department of Recreation and Parks will offer an adult art class this fall. This 10-week program will teach the beginner as well as the advanced student the art of painting portraits and landscapes/ still-life in pastel from photographs. Arleen Rueth Urban, the instructor for this program, is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America.
Classes will be held Fridays beginning February 12 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in St. Paul’s Cluett Hall. The cost of this program will be $140. Please note: Masks must be worn during class and each participant must fill out a COVID survey sheet before each class to attend. This class is open to adult residents who reside in the Inc. Village of Garden City.
The first lesson includes a portrait and landscape demonstration.
At that time, a supply list is provided. Demonstrations will be available as needed throughout the program. Each student will receive the individual attention required as they move at their own pace and level of expertise.
To register for this session, please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. If you have a password, you may register online at gcreconline.gardencityny.net.
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 program 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.
G C R E CR E AT ION A ND PA R K NEW S
Adult Art Class at Cluett Hall
The Garden City’s Department of Recreation and Parks will offer an adult art class this fall. This 10-week program will teach the beginner as well as the advanced student the art of painting portraits and landscapes/still-life in pastel from photographs. Arleen Rueth Urban, the instructor for this program, is a signature member of the Pastel Society of America.
Classes will be held Fridays beginning February 12 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in St. Paul’s Cluett Hall. The cost of this program will be $140. Please note: Masks must be worn during class and
each participant must fill out a COVID survey sheet before each class to attend. This class is open to adult residents who reside in the Inc. Village of Garden City. The first lesson includes a portrait and landscape demonstration. At that time, a supply list is provided. Demonstrations will be available as needed throughout the program. Each student will receive the individual attention required as they move at their own pace and level of expertise. To register for this session, please visit the Recreation and Parks office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. If you have a password, you may register online at gcreconline.gardencityny.net.
Let us help you promote your local business We'll personally create a customized ad campaign and run it in our papers to help boost your clientele!
Call our GC office at 294-8900, or visit us online at gcnews.com for more info & questions
New to Market
1 0 5 I n w o o d Ave n u e, Po i n t Lo o ko u t , N Y
I n t ro d u c i n g 10 5 I nwo o d Aven u e. Ra re l y a va i l a bl e p ro p e r ty i d ea l l y l o ca te d o n cove te db ea c h b l o c k ,j u st a 1 / 2 b l o c k to t h e o cea n ,t h i s
4 - b e d roo m , 2 -ba t h h o m e h a s i t a l l . L a rg e l i v in g ro o m w i t hwo o d f i re p l a c e, l a rge fo r m a l d i n i n g roo m , u p d a te d l a rge ki tc h e n w i t h 8 f t . i s l a n dsea t i ng o p e n s to l arge fa m i l y ro o m /g rea t ro o m . Se con d f l oo r offe rs l a rge m a ste r s u i te w i th ca t h e d ra l c e i l i n gs, ga s f i re p la ce a nd
l ove l yo u td o or d e c k fo r rel a xa t io n . 2 a d d i t i on a l b e d ro o m sw i t h la rge h a l l ba th w i t h j a c u z z i t u ba n d s h owe r. F i n i s h ed t h i rd f l o o r b oa sts l a rge l of t b ed ro o m a n d l a rge o u td o o r d e c k . B ase m e n t i s f u ll y f i ni s h e d w i t h rec rea c t i o n s pa ce, sto ra ge a n d l a un d r y. H o m e i n c l u d es a l l f u r n i s h i n gs. M ove i n a n d en j oy r i g h t aw ay. Tru l y a s p e c i a l h o m e. Wo n ' t l a st . M LS # 32 8 5 1 5 1 . $ 1 ,0 99,0 0 0.
S c a n m e fo r
Vi r t u a l To u r
K a t h l e e n L u c c h e s i H A r t h u r A n d e rs o n
Re a l Es t a t e Sa l e s p e r s o n
G o l d C irc l e of Exc e l l e n c e
G a rd e nC i t y O ff i c e
1 0 2 7 t hS t re et , G a rd e n C i ty, N Y
5 1 6. 24 8 .6 6 5 5, c. 5 1 6. 3 2 0.0 80 2
k a t h l e en l u c c he s i @ d a n i e l ga le.c o m
k a t h l e en l u c c he s i .d a n i e l ga le.c o m
Re a l Es t a t e Sa l e s p e r s o n
S i l ve rC i rc l eo f Ac h i eve m en t
G a rd e nC i t y O ff i c e
1 0 2 7 t hS t re et , G a rd e n C i ty, N Y 5 1 6. 24 8 .6 6 5 5, c. 5 1 6. 3 1 9. 245 9
a r t h u ran d e r s on @ d a n i e l ga l e.c o m a r t h u ran d e r s on .d a n i e l ga l e.c o m
Garden City, NY
3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3284884. $850,000.
3254193. $2,195,000.
NY
3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3273623. $700,000.
Garden City, NY
0-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3264344. $199,999.
2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3236079. $360,000.
Garden City, NY
6-bedroom, 4.55-bath. MLS# 3113870. $3,850,000.
Rockville Centre, NY 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3265075. $1,198,000.
Centre, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3272253. $219,000.
Garden City, NY
3-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3283760. $999,000.
Mineola, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3252233. $285,000. Freeport, NY 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath. MLS# 3258646. $1,340,000.
City, NY
2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3274277. $625,000.
Bayside,
Rockville Centre, NY
3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3265882. $765,000.
Riverhead, NY 6-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3247164. $1,650,000.
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
Garden
Rockville
UNDER CONTRACT
OPEN HOUSE
Bronx,
Susan Gillin Diane Piscopo
Wyndham Resale Office
2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3264719. $955,000. Also for rent $5,300.
3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3281947.
2.5-bath.
3278442. $999,000.
111 Cherry Valley Ave, #614W Garden City, NY
Cherry Valley Ave,
111 Cherry Valley Ave, PH2 Garden City, NY
$7,500.
111 Cherry Valley Ave, #614W Garden City, NY
2.5-bath. MLS# 3264723. $5,300.
111 Cherry Valley Ave, M6 Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1.5 bath. MLS# 3277059. $4,200.
111 Cherry Valley Ave, PH6 Garden City, NY
2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3251909. $2,900,000.
Patricia Costello, Patricia Dickson, Alfred Kohart, Mary Krener and Linda Mulrooney
111 Cherry Valley Ave, #612
3276531. $3,950.
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
UNIT LEADERS
BRAVO!
The Garden City office of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty would like to congratulate the following agents on their accomplishments this year.
