The Garden City News (3/5/21)

SWINGING IN THE SNOW

Children at the Garden City Nursery School loved playing in the snow after recent storms. See page 42

Environmental Board discusses village water system, well projects

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

The Village of Garden City’s water quality has been a major topic of discussion online and at public meetings in recent days.

Several weeks ago the Garden City Board of Trustees sent out a mailer to all homes discussing steps the Village has taken to remediation contaminants such as 1,4 dioxane in the water sup-

ply, in response to changes in New York State drinking water standards.

On February 25th the Village posted a response to social media discussion about the water in which the Village was criticized.

“Recently, there have been intentionally inaccurate or otherwise misinformed posts on social media regarding the quality of our water and the Village’s efforts, goals

and activities regarding our Water System. We assure you that our water is tested daily and thoroughly in accordance with all state and county mandates. It meets all standards. As we have stated for several years, the Board of Trustees of the Village of Garden City continues to aggressively address the issue of Village-sourced water and water contaminants,” the See page 62

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

Garden City Public Schools hope to be able to offer full time classes for all secondary students by March 8th, according to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha, who spoke at the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, February 23rd.

The Garden City Board of Education heard presentations from members of the district administration who outlined plans for the reopening. Eighth and eleventh grade students returned last week. Dr. Sinha explained that “social distances” of six feet apart for students will not prevail in Garden City’s classrooms after the full reopening. A three foot distance had been discussed at the Board’s work session in early February.

The superintendent said the district is reexamining the schools’ “every other day” option for instruction, as she said having three options for students could compromise their educational experience. Dr. Sinha noted that although the term “reopening” is being used, in fac the district has continuously remained open for instruction since September 2020. She said the amount of in-person instruction will be expanding.

“We know that our schools are probably safer than anywhere else because there’s really been no Covid-19 transmission in our schools. The schools are a safe place and it’s something we have worked very, very hard on to ensure that safety for kids. As we are bringing kids back in we are trying to continue enforcing the safety protocols -everyone wearing a mask and our ventilation are two very important aspects of our in-school safety as we are decreasing the social distancing of six feet.”

One key area Dr. Sinha explained as crucial for in-person learning are hands-on environments such as science labs. The district had decided upon a phased-in approach in early December but that schedule changed because of a surge in cases after the holidays, which was also experienced nationwide.

“We had to delay the returning of our first cohorts of sixth graders and 12th graders due to Covid-positive cases we had in the schools,” she said, on the eve of a long-anticipated return of the 8th and 11th graders in GCMS and GCHS last week. Dr. Sinha praised the work of the Director of Facilities and the Buildings and Grounds crews in preparing the schools.

Seeing what you expect to see

Most readers probably don’t realize it, but the Garden City News is actually printed in two sections which are then collated before mailing. Some of our pages go out to the printer late Wednesday night and the final set goes out Thursday afternoon. As a standard procedure, we double check each page before transmitting each batch, so in theory we should catch egregious errors before they are set down on newsprint.

But sometimes whilst checking our work we see what we expect to see, instead of what’s actually there. This week, for example.

We receive the police blotter (Office Cat column) material and the text for the mayor’s column on Wednesdays, edit them and flow them into their respective templates. Except sometimes

we don’t.

Astute readers this week will notice that the same template was used for both columns this week by mistake (pages 28 and 30). We saw the error, to our horror, after that section had already been printed. So apologies to Mayor Trouvé for the mix up! n

In other news, the discussion about the use of Dr. Suess books in education has been a hot topic across the nation, including the Garden City schools.

We think that some of the drawings in the books do seem racist, but this is actually a “teaching moment.” It gives parents an educators an opportunity to talk with children about stereotypes and how our understanding of racial equity has improved over the decades.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

Connecting to NYC water feasible

To the Editor:

Recently, the Garden City BOT has made many statements on the water issue primarily summarizing a 15 minute presentation made by its consultant in 2019.  The BOT’s main takeaway: connecting to NYC’s drinking water will cost money and take time.

But the BOT consultant’s actual conclusion is that “the concept is feasible.”  See Video of Sept. 19 BOT Meeting  at 1:30:27. That is consistent with findings of prominent government agencies, including LICAP, which has stated: “New York City’s capacity to support Nassau County would appear of tremendous potential value. . . regional water sharing conceptually suggests significant merit.”

Here is what we know:

• The Village’s planned water treatment will cost $1-$2 million annually to operate, with no end date - this is in addition to the up-front equipment costs of ~$40 million.

• Connecting to NYC would pay for itself as the connection would enable the Village to turn off the water treatment systems saving us the $1-$2 million annual operation cost.

• Garden City is 4 miles from Belmont Park where a NYC water connection already exists.  A municipality in Suffolk recently completed a 9 mile water main extension at a cost of approximately $1.3 million per mile.

• NYC water is ideal. It gets 100% of its water from pristine upstate areas and affirmatively adds fluoride to the water for health benefits. NYC is willing to take steps to supply water to municipalities in Nassau.

sbaymack@coachreraltors.com Cell: 516-216-0244

• Our planned drinking water treatment introduces hydrogen peroxide into our water and causes chemical reactions in order to reduce contamination levels. The peroxide is removed before the water is supplied, but byproducts are a concern. The treatment will not remove all contaminants that are in our water.

For us and future generations, we

must demand that the BOT hires an independent engineer with no financial stake to review and implement the NYC water connection.

I am an attorney at a firm that has decades of Long Island environmental experience. My firm’s client base includes Long Island municipalities, citizen groups, industrial companies large and small, and developers. NYC is the safest and most sustainable path to cure our drinking water problems. Until this permanent solution is implemented, my family will continue to drink from an under-the-sink reverse osmosis filter –it is not expensive. If you do the same, please make sure to change the filters in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

Nick Rigano 7th Street handicapped parking

To the Editor:

I am writing to respond to the Community Agreement Party comments in the February 18, 2021 issue of the Garden City News regarding the 7th Street handicapped parking court case, which omitted a few key steps in the process, which I have outlined here. At the November 2016 general meeting of the Western Property Owners Association (WPOA), a show of hands from the general membership overwhelmingly supported the parking recommendations for 7th Street. The WPOA Board of Directors was also in support of this recommendation. Maureen Traxler, President of the WPOA, wrote to the Traffic Commission to request this topic be added as an agenda item for the December 15, 2016 meeting. However, the handicapped parking item was not added to the agenda. From November 2016 through early 2017, I had number of meetings with Mr. Suozzi, sometimes joined by Trustee Silver, Public Works Department head Joseph DiFrancisco, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Dennis Donnelly, and other Village representatives.  I also attended other POA meetings to discuss the handicapped parking

FABGC candidates: experience and commitment to you

SUBMITTED BY FOR A BETTER GARDEN CITY

No candidates better epitomize the “spirit of unselfish cooperation and a non-political attitude towards village welfare” than Cosmo Veneziale, Tom O’Brien, Mary Carter Flanagan, Terry Digan and Bruce Chester. Voting For A Better Garden City (FABGC) on March 16th is a vote to preserve our unique form of government and the village we all love.

As the village faces decision time on whether to proceed with an unprecedented construction project at St. Pauls, as well as a proposed renovation or new construction project at Firehouse #2, FABGC’s mayoral candidate brings exceptional expertise in a broad range of architectural specialties which will be invaluable to the village in evaluating any potential development proposals. No other member of the BOT or candidates brings this critical expertise as a licensed Architect who has been involved with residential, institutional, commercial and historic preservation projects for over 35 years. Cosmo Veneziale in 2000 served on the Garden City Board of Education’s Ad Hoc Committee which

saved the Village millions of taxpayer dollars in the restoration and alteration of all the Garden City schools and just last year was a member of the Western Property Owners’ Association Fire House Committee that designed a restoration and enlargement to the Edgemere Firehouse that could save Garden City millions compared to the village’s plan of record.

Overseeing all operations of the Village is critical to a successful Board of Trustees. Keeping taxes down while not taking on excessive debt depends on strong management experience. Tom O’Brien, FABGC’s Eastern Trustee Candidate has the background and credentials Garden City needs in our government. Tom’s passion for our village has led him to offer his formidable expertise to help return good government to our village.

Tom has excelled in leadership positions in his professional career as a Global Business Development Executive in the consulting/professional services industry successfully providing Business Advisory and Information Technology solutions

SUBMITTED BY THE COMMUNITY AGREEMENT PARTY CANDIDATES

We are presenting in this article the notable changes we would like to implement and our vision for the future of Garden City. Our goal is to ensure that Garden City continues to be a special place to live and raise a family. Our initiatives will include enhancing communications between the Board of Trustees and our residents, a focus on sustainability programs, creating additional committees to garner input from our well-versed residents, modernizing village operations, and enhancing our recreational programs, in particular for seniors. We will work hard to assure our residents are happy with the Village’s forward progress as we address the many issues that will present themselves in the future.

Our Top Priority - Enhancing communications between the Board of Trustees and our residents

• To supplement Village board meetings, we plan to hold monthly Zoom calls with residents solely to hear their concerns outside of the board

meeting setting.

• We will implement a more formalized process to circle back to every resident that raises a concern to make sure their voice is being heard.

• Organize semi-annual town hall meetings where residents can listen to a summary of all the major projects ongoing and have an open forum for questions. Post-COVID-19, we plan to hold a reception afterwards, so residents can meet the trustees and administrators as well as their fellow neighbors.

• Modernize and redesign our village website to make it more user friendly and interactive; there is a lot of information on it but not all of it easy to find.

Long-term we plan to have a fully functional mobile app. For example, your Garden City app would push Village alerts to your phone such as police activity or holiday garbage pickup dates, and you can have your library card and pool pass readily available.

• Encourage more residents to join our Environmental Advisory Board.

See page 48 See page 48

Manhasset Waterview

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

Charming 4 bdrm 2

New Listing Beautiful

Platinum Level Achievement

Stephen Baymack

Elizabeth Breslin

Gold Level Achievement

Cheryl McCauli e

Andrea Bharucha

Nancy Giannone

Mary Weille

Patricia Aprigliano

Linda Sambus

Kathleen Thornton

Barbara Chmil

Karen Guendjoian

Monica Kiely

Sean McCoyd

Cathleen Whelan Silver Level Achievement

Sharon Redmond Bronze Level Achievement

Suzanne Blair

Arlene Conigliaro

Lisa Fedor

Julie O’Neill

Laura Rich Stephen Baymack

Are you thinking of selling your home?

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

Jen Sullivan Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

182 Seventh Street Garden City, NY 11530

jennifer.sullivan@compass.com

Jen Sullivan is a licensed real estate agent affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by equal housing opportunity laws.

GC Board of Trustees Budget Work Sessions

The Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Garden City will conduct work sessions to review the Tentative 2021/22 Operating and Capital Budgets on the following dates:

Tuesday, March 9 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.Budget Work Session 1

• Budget Overview

• Building Department

• Recreation, Pool and Tennis

Thursday, March 18 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.Budget Work Session 2

• Fire Department

• Department of Public Works and Water Fund

Wednesday, March 24 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.Budget Work Session 3

• Library • Police Department

• Administration

• Finance & Other Unallocated

Tuesday, March 30 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.Budget Work Session 4

• Presentation of Changes/Final Budget

Monday,April 5 from 8:00 p.m.Adoption of Budget

These sessions are currently scheduled to be held via Zoom. If you wish to attend any of these sessions, please email Karen Altman, Village Clerk (kaltman@gardencityny.net) before 3:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting and she will send you the link.

St. Joseph’s Luck of the Irish Reverse Raffle

St. Joseph School students are feeling the Luck of the Irish with the reverse raffles!

March is here and St. Joseph’s School is feeling the “Luck of the Irish”! In lieu of the traditional Queen of Hearts Luncheon, held at the Cherry Valley Country Club in February, the St. Joseph’s School Family Association is hosting a reverse raffle with a $10,000 grand prize!

In these difficult times, when gath-

M: 516.361.7190 Email editor@gcnews.com to put your engagement or wedding announcement in this paper.

ering as a community is not an option, the Family Association is relying on different resources to replace traditional fundraising events. All proceeds will go to the Family Association to support the students of St. Joseph’s School. Much thanks to Maureen Dolan, the Luck of the Irish Reverse Raffle Chairperson, and the Dolan Family for their commitment to this event.

Tickets are $100 each and only 500 tickets will be sold. In addition to the grand prize, there will be 20 other cash prizes awarded, ranging from $200 to $2500. Unlike a traditional raffle where the winning ticket is picked first, in a reverse raffle the final ticket chosen is the grand prize winner, with many smaller winners along the way.

The drawing will be held on March 17 and announced through an video link email. Don’t miss out on your chance to win! The deadline for purchasing tickets is Friday, March 12. Tickets can be purchased through mail with the included form, or directly through the St. Joseph’s School Family Association website, WWW.SJSFO. COM. Purchasers will receive a ticket in the mail and will be emailed the winning announcement on the evening of March 17. Thank you in advance for your support. Good luck!

Getting married?

The Welcoming Club of Garden City

What's New?

A great time was had by all at last Thursday night's craft club! The group hand-knitted chunky blankets while sipping rose and enjoying a sweet treat. The perfect cozy night in! Special thanks to Goshi Goods for the chunky knit blanket kits and to Crystal’s Chocolate Creations for the delicious chocolate covered Oreos!

Join us for a virtual Texas Hold ‘Em poker lesson on Thursday, 3/11 at 7:30! The club’s very own poker extraordinaire Jax Russo Curtin will be hosting 1 hour + 30 minutes of guided game play. If you are interested in joining the lesson, please email Jax at jax.russo. curtin@gmail.com to sign up. Each lesson costs $15 and all proceeds from the event go to the INN.

Secure your tickets now for one or two nights of cooking classes with The Cooking Lab! On Saturday, 3/20 at 6 p.m. we'll be cooking up risotto and chocolate souffle, and on Thursday, 3/25 at 6 p.m. Greek chicken souvlaki is on the menu. Sign up for one or both!

Tickets are $35 per class and you will be responsible for buying your own groceries. A shopping list will be provided ahead of time. Please reach out to Deborah at WelcomingClubBunco@ gmail.com to reserve your spot today!

The club is continuing to host FREE weekly virtual meetups open to all moms who have had a baby within the last 12 months. We are 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 next week’s meetup, please email Noel at welcomingclubtoddleractivities@gmail.com for more information.

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 nec essary! 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 Craft Club knitted chunky blankets while sipping rosé and enjoying a sweet treat.

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

Sold price: $1,035,000

Date: 03/01/2021

Style: Ranch

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Lot Size: .2 acres

Total taxes: $17,588

MLS number: 3264871

The Seller’s Team: Nancy Giannone, Coach Realtors Fennessy Associates

The Buyer’s Team: Laura Carroll, Compass Greater NY

Fully updated 3 bedroom, 2 full bath ranch style home on beautiful park like 85x100 property. Architectural crown, base and box moldings. Beautiful marble and wood flooring. Updated eat-inkitchen with adjoining, bright and sunny family room. Your neighbors will have Entertainment system envy with the custom living room with built in entertainment system complete with 100’ plasma TV and full audio/tv equipment and surround sound speakers. Full footprint basement with recreation space, laundry and storage. Central AC, gas heat, updated kitchen and baths complete this perfect home. Ideal proximity to LIRR, parks and shopping.

178 Wellington Road

Sold Price: $1,145,000

Date: 01/05/2021

4 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Style: Colonial

Total taxes: $14,722

Lot Size: .14 acres

MLS number: 3250113

The Seller’s Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Lisa Fedor, Coach Realtors Fennessy Associates

Fully renovated open concept center hall colonial on prime estates block. Near Merillon LIRR and Nassau Blvd train and close to Stratford elementary school and Tullamore Park. LOW TAXES below $15k. First floor 4th bedroom with full bath. 3 additional second floor bedrooms including large master with walk in closest. Brand new Central AC and brand new windows, sprinklers, and outdoor hardscape. All renovated in past 18 months. Living Rm Chandelier Exclusion

Sold Price: $940,000

Date: 01/15/2021

Style: Colonial

4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Total taxes: $14,412

Lot Size: .14 acres

MLS number: 3268443

The Seller’s Team: Gina Fiorenze, Realty Connect USA

The Buyer’s Team: Gina Fiorenze, Realty Connect USA

Move Right in to this Beautiful 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Dutch Colonial Located Mid-Block on a Quiet Tree-Lined Street. Some Highlights of the Home include an Updated Chef’s Kitchen w/ peninsula and Farm sink. SS Appliances and Breakfast Area, Spa Bathrooms with radiant heat. 2 Gas Fireplaces, Central Air, Upgraded Electric, Sprinkler System, central alarm, Gas cooking and heat. Large bright living room with hardwood floors. Formal dining room open to family room. Finished basement with bar and lots of storage. Washer and Dryer in Garage. This Incredible One of a Kind Home is in Close Proximity to Restaurants, Shopping, Schools and the Park.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

66 Fernwood Terrace

Philip P. Andriola Honored As Best-In-State Wealth Advisor by Forbes Magazine

Philip P. Andriola, JD Private Wealth Advisor with Ameriprise Financial in Garden City and a Garden City resident, was named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” published by Forbes magazine. The list recognizes financial advisors who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism and success in the business.

The rankings are based on data provided by thousands of the nation’s most productive advisors Andriola was chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, compliance record and best practices in his practice and approach to working with clients. Andriola is part of Andriola, Goldberg & Associates a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC.

As a Private Wealth Advisor, Andriola provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations, and provided in one-on-one relationships with his clients. Andriola has 23 years of experience with Ameriprise Financial. For more information, please contact Philip P Andriola at (516) 345-2600 or visit the Ameriprise office at 401 Franklin Avenue, Suite 101, Garden City, NY.

About Ameriprise Financial

At Ameriprise Financial, we have been helping people feel confident about their financial future for more than 125 years. With extensive advisory, asset management and insurance capabilities and a nationwide network of approximately 10,000 financial advisors, we have the strength and expertise to serve the full range of individual and institutional investors’ financial needs. For more information, visit ameriprise.com or philippandriola.com

Philip P. Andriola, JD is a Private Wealth Advisor, Chief Executive Officer with Andriola, Goldberg & Associates

A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

He offers fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 22 years.

516.345.2600

401 Franklin Avenue, Suite 101, Garden City, NY 11530 www.philippandriola.com

Visit forbes.com for additional information about Forbes.

Source: Forbes, “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” Feb 11, 2021.

This ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, and firm nominations; as well as a quantitative review that includes assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2021 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

DAR spotlights member Janet Littlejohn

Mrs. Janet Chapin Littlejohn and her husband Bruce Littlejohn writing Christmas cards for active-duty military as Service to America project

Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution with Carla Hall D'Ambra, Regent, is spotlighting DAR member and Garden City resident Mrs. Janet Chapin Littlejohn. Mrs. Littlejohn has been a member of the NSDAR for 58 years, having joined the organization on February 1, 1963.

Mrs. Littlejohn has taught both English and accounting in Mrs. Skinner’s, Rockville Center, and Queens schools.  She has volunteered for over fifty years in her church as well as the DAR.  Mrs. Littlejohn was bursar for St. Paul’s School, and treasurer for the E.C.W. charities on Long Island. She and her husband, Bruce Littlejohn, were co-presidents of the Cathedral Club.  Together, they led The Assembly, a dinner dance club. Her beloved spouse Bruce, and her son, Fred Eckert, remain the loves of her life.

As a DAR member, Mrs. Littlejohn served as District X and XI Regents Roundtable treasurer.  She was the Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter’s secretary, treasurer and a past Chapter

Chapin Littlejohn leading a Chapter meeting

Regent. Currently, Mrs. Littlejohn is serving as conservation chair and women’s issues chair for her chapter.

While she enjoys ballroom dancing, bowling, and bridge, Mrs. Littlejohn’s favorite hobbies are gardening, landscape painting, storytelling, and skiing, which all express the joy she takes in nature and the great outdoors.  Mrs. Janet Chapin Littlejohn is a wonderful friend, advisor, and mentor to her Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter sisters.

Mrs. Janet

Local f lorist wins excellence award

New York State Senator Kevin Thomas presents the Empire Award for outstanding small businesses to owner Dorothy Hengstenberg.

Hengstenberg’s Florist of Garden City was recently awarded the New York State Empire Award for outstanding small businesses. The award is given to exceptional businesses who go above-and-beyond in service to their community. Family owned and operated since 1902, Hengstenberg’s Florist is the oldest flower shop in Garden City.

PRIX-FIXE MENU $45

APPETIZERS (Select One)

Caesar Salad

Apple Walnut Salad

Potato Leak Soup

Irish Nachos

Eggplant Rollatini

Lobster Ravioli

ENTREES (Select One)

Prime Rib

Corned Beef And Cabbage

Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Breast

Grilled Salmon

Sole Oreganata

Bangers And Mash March 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th By Reservation Only (516) 328-7540

DESSERTS (Select One)

Irish Cream Cheesecake

Assorted Ice Cream Delights for Two Bailey’s Irish Cream Tartufo Irish Cocktails and Beer Available

See Our Newly Decorated Dining Room Weddings and Banquets

51 Salisbury Avenue • Stewart Manor, NY 11530 (516) 328-7540 www.StewartManor.com

John Parks, President James Poirot, General Manager

SALE BY OWNER 175 Meadow Street , Garden City, NY

Newly redone expanded cape midblock with great yard space on 60 x 100 lot. Close to Garden City desirable schools, park, shopping, and transportation. This property is as must see with all its updates, modern lighting, and renovations. All new updated kitchen with modern appliances and open floor plan. This home has 4 bedrooms and lots of storage space. All new 1st floor full bath and 2nd floor full bath with surround sound technology and Kohler fixtures. Enclosed sun room overlooking large fenced in yard for privacy. Large basement home theater/ media/rec room with all new electric and carpeting, new washer/dryer appliances in laundry/ storage room. Attached garage with entry into the convenient mud room. New beautifully paved front porch and walkway. Amenities include CAC, new water filtration system, new alarm system, updated electrical panel. Move right in with plenty of space for all. Low taxes with star and all tax exemptions. Unique sale conditions favorable to buyer.

Asking Price $825,000

Call or email OWNER to schedule appointment or more details. Gina 516-232-6577 gbella922@aol.com

Compass is proud to welcome Julie Whicher!

A Garden City native, Julie has been a successful real estate agent in the local marketplace for over six years. She brings to Compass a strong knowledge of the Garden City area and a deep love of her community that she is eager to share. Prior to her real estate career, Julie was the Director of HR for a 100-person company, which sharpened her passion for helping others achieve their goals. Whether seeking a dream home for their family or selling a property they’ve loved for many years, clients can rest assured Julie’s knowledge, guidance and honesty will successfully achieve their goals.

Julie Whicher

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

julie.whicher@compass.com

C: 516.698.3975

O: 516.408.2231

“Julie was definitely the right choice for us! She was able to market our home for a quick sale and price we were thrilled with. She spent time with us, assured us she would take care of everything and delivered. Her real estate knowledge, negotiating skills and kind personality were unlike any other, She was available for us 24/7 and always kept communication open. We highly recommend Julie to anyone who has real estate needs. You will not be disappointed!” -Seller, Garden City

Diligence. Professionalism. Integrity.

No matter what your real estate needs may be, Maureen Lagarde is here to help. Your professional consultation is just one phone call away.

GC Scholarship Fund event benched, but not sidelined

The Garden City Scholarship Fund (GCSF) is an independent, not-forprofit organization that serves the students in the Garden City High School. Since its founding in 1998, the GCSF has granted scholarships to hundreds of deserving students. Each year, it grants approximately $30,000 in awards via the Julia Maloney Scholarship, the Unsung Hero Award, Club Awards, and the Joseph L. Prusan Random Act of Kindness Award. In addition, the GCSF has expanded its mission by giving “Helping Hand” awards to students in need due to personal or family circumstances. Needless to say, the GCSF is proud of its impact both in the community and on the success of its students.

The GCSF, which is not funded by the district or by any other organization, depends entirely on fundraising to carry out its mission. Its main fundraising event is the well-attended and wildly popular basketball game between the world-famous Harlem Wizards entertainment basketball team and the teachers/staff from the Garden City School District.  Sadly, because of COVID-19 and its limitations on big gatherings, the GCSF was forced to suspend the Wizards fundraising event for 2021.

However, the directors of the GCSF are determined to continue the tradition of providing monetary awards to GCHS graduating seniors. To that end, the GCSF is raising funds to purchase park benches to be installed in the GCHS courtyard as a way to raise money while at the same time providing a comfortable place for the students to relax out in the fresh air. Each bench will have a plaque recognizing the fundraising efforts of the GCSF, and there will be a list of all donors on the GCSF website, the

For more information. please scan this code with your phone.

Garden City News, and throughout the GCSF social media platforms. The goal is to have the benches available for the students as soon as the weather gets warmer. The opportunity to contribute will be open until April 1.

For more information or to donate, visit http://www.gcscholarship. org/2021/03/bench-fundraiser/ Checks: payable to GCSF, 56 Cathedral Ave., Garden City, NY 11530

As a reminder to our high school seniors: You are eligible to apply for the Julia Maloney Scholarship, the Unsung Hero Award, and the Joseph L. Prusan Random Act of Kindness Award. The deadline for all three applications is March 12. Applications were mailed home, but additional copies are available at the Guidance Office)

Independent East Nominating Comm seeks members

The EPOA has announced that the Independent East Nominating Committee is currently looking for members for the coming year. This fifteen-member group is responsible for interviewing and selecting candidates for both Village and School Board Trustees from the East. This is a critical committee and one that plays a key selection role for two important Village positions. To be considered, you must currently be a resident of the Eastern section of the Village.

Members elected to this committee will serve on a rotating term basis,

meaning that within each year only five members will be replaced. For this year, 5 members will be selected and assigned a term of three years. The time commitment for each year is a few weekday evening meetings in the fall.

Anyone interested in participating on the Independent East Nominating Committee should submit their name, address, and resume, including a summary of prior community service, to contactus@gcepoa.org. The deadline for submission is March 29.

93 5th Street, Garden City NY

$2,795,000 • 6 Bedrooms • 5 Baths

Meticulously renovated Arts & Crafts Colonial boasts 5400 sq. ft of living space designed for today’s living. The home is perfectly situated mid-block in the Central Section of Garden City. Featuring 6 bedrooms, 5 bedrooms, formal living room with gas fireplace, formal dining room, gourmet chef’s kitchen, master bedroom suite. Full finished basement with private home theatre. Amazing rear porch with built-in recessed outdoor heaters and a full service kitchen/BBQ . Just shy of a 1/2 acre, there is plenty of room for a pool. 4 floors of luxury living space. Low Taxes $29,800!

Please call me for a private appointment. Athena

Menoudakos

African American Month honoree

posted on the Town of Hempstead Facebook page on February 26

I’m Not Done Yet is hosting the Bobby Menges Memorial Blood Drive on Monday, March 22 from 1 p.m.–7 p.m. at the Stewart Manor Country Club on 51 Salisbury Ave. in Stewart Manor.

The bloodmobile is not available because of COVID-19, so a HUGE thank you to John Parks, owner of the Stewart Manor Country Club, who agreed to host the drive this year!

The blood drive is held in memory of Bobby Menges, who died in September 2017 after a long journey with cancer.   Bobby along with his brother, Jake, had been hosting bi-annual blood drives at their home since 2012.

For an appointment, please email efmenges131@gmail.com or scan the QR code below. Walk-ins are welcome, and there’s plenty of parking in the back of the club. If you are unable to donate blood, please

Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin (left) and Senior Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby (right) presented the Community Service Award to Sandra Lorraine Senior of Garden City during the virtual African American History Month Celebration, which was

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

Grimaldi’s Family Meals Are Back!!

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

*Additional Items May Be Purchased at Regular Menu Price. Toppings Available for Additional Cost. May Not Be Combined with any other coupon, discount, offer or Groupon. Prices Do Not Include Tax or Gratuity, Available for Take Out, No Substitutions*

DURING LENT

Antipasto/Tomato & Mozzarella

Assorted Pinwheels

One Large Calzone per Table with side of sauce

Unlimited Pizza with Toppings

You must wear a mask to and from the tables. Thank you for your cooperation Now Accepting Reservations For Parties of 6 or More

A $25 fee will be applied if canceling within 3 hours of reservation.

TAKEOUT & DELIVERY

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 11:30-9

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11:30-10

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment Shop

BY MELISSA JAEGER

In 1987, March was designated as Women’s History Month, by congressional resolution and presidential proclamation. Why? To recognize the vital role of women have played in American history. While there is a myriad of models to choose from, I’d like to recognize a local Garden City hero—Olive Frances Tjaden. Born in 1904, she was the first woman to attend and graduate from Cornell’s College of Architecture in 1925. She was apparently rejected by Columbia because she was too young— age 15 when she applied—so she waited a year and applied to Cornell. In 1981, Cornell renamed one of its buildings in

The weather vane that sits atop the former home of Olive Tjaden, the first woman to attend Cornell’s College of Architecture.

her honor.  For many years, she was the only female in the American Institute of Architecture.

In the late 1920s, Ms. Tjaden opened her own firm in Garden City. Throughout her career, she designed over 2,000 residences, auto dealerships, beauty salons and religious organizations. 400 of her creations were homes in Garden City, a few which are still around. Ms. Tjaden even constructed her own home in Garden City. Being acutely aware of the gender barriers in her male-dominated profession, Ms. Tjaden hosted social events for women at her home. An unique weather vane—a woman holding a caliper and sitting astride a T-square (both tools

used by architect)—sits atop her former home at 108 Eleventh Street. If you look across the street from The Garden City Historical Society Museum, you will see Ms. Tjaden’s home. Her legacy continues to live on—and thrive.

In keeping with the theme, we still have a few of the brass ornaments commemorating the 100th anniversary of the women’s right to vote. And, more broadly, we have several jeweled collars, reminiscent of another famous and trail-blazing New Yorker—Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Come check them out!

Just a reminder that we are open late on Wednesdays until 6:00pm. It’s a great chance to shop in peace and quiet, for those of you who work. 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 or go to our online store at: atstewartexchange.org. We also post photos on the AT Stewart Exchange Facebook and Instagram pages! Be sure to check out www.tgchs.org.

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 the hand-sanitizer when you enter the shop. And, to keep you feeling safe while shopping, we just purchased an air purifier which cleans the air every hour.

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 Shop is located at 109 Eleventh Street.

Shop Hours: Tues–Fri: 10:00–4:00 p.m., Wednesday til 6:00 p.m.; Sat: Noon–4:00 p.m.

Please call (516) 746-8900 For more information.

WPOA seeks applicants for Village positions

The Western Property Owners Association (WPOA) is seeking applicants from the Western Section who are interested in serving as the West representatives on Architectural Design Review Board (ADRB) and on the Cultural and Recreational Affairs Commission. The positions are appointments made by the Village Board of Trustees. The seat on ADRB is a three-year term, and the seat on the Recreation Committee is a four-year term, both commence in April 2021. ADRB’s responsibilities include examining the exterior design of build-

ings for the purpose of maintaining appropriate standards of appearance with respect to the specific building and their relationship to their Village surroundings. All plans for new buildings, additions, alterations and signs are required to be submitted, with the exception of additions or alterations to one-family homes. ADRB consists of seven members, and meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at Village Hall, unless otherwise noted.

The Recreation Commission consists of eight members, one representative from each section of the Village and four

at-large members. The Commissioners oversee development of the Village’s Recreation Program, and meet on the third Wednesday of each month, 7 p.m. at Village Hall, unless otherwise noted.

The Western Section representatives also interact with the WPOA Board of Directors. In the case of the Recreation Commission, the representative is expected to report on recreation department activities at directors’ meetings (monthly from September to June) and general membership meetings (four times a year).

Any resident of the Western Section of

Let your voice be heard!

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

Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention!

Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!

the Village who is interested is urged to submit a letter of intent and a resume to RoseAnn Vernice, the WPOA President, at ravernice@optimum.net. The deadline for submission of applications is Friday, March 19, 2021. Interviews with applicants will be scheduled in the following weeks.

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.

Jeweled collars, reminiscent of the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Put

a NEW face on the

Board of Trustees VOTE FOR RESPECTED COMMUNITY MEMBER

Yvonne Varano

Yvonne represents the past, present and future of Garden City. She believes in transparency, communication, keeping with the historical beauty and traditions of Garden City... and is confident she has the experience to make tough decisions after considering all the facts and citizen views and opinions.

She has analyzed multi-billion dollar companies for over 20 years, understands municipality budgets having reviewed the Garden City budget for several years and has a long-standing record of leadership in the Village, most notably as Past President of the district- wide PTA. She is considered reasonable and open...and is looking forward to actively participating in the many issues facing our Village today and making positive changes for the future.

Please Vote on Tuesday March 16th at Village Hall between Noon and 9pm

Vote for Mark Hyer

East Trustee

Community

Agreement Party

Responsive—Knowledgeable—Effective

In his four years serving Garden City as Trustee from the East, Mark Hyer has proven himself responsive, knowledgeable and a tireless worker on behalf of the residents. His professional background in law enforcement and security has given him a unique perspective on how government can proactively and effectively serve the needs of its constituents. His 17 years as a Garden City volunteer firefighter is a tribute to his longstanding community involvement.

Trustee Accomplishments

• Mark investigated and recommended the new ambulance service that the Village BOT adopted in 2019. It provides 24/7 service with two state-of-the-art ambulances, stationed at the St. Paul’s campus, and staffed by an EMT and a paramedic.

• Mark worked with local legislators and the MTA/LIRR to address problems with the idling work trains along Saint James Street that achieved a significant reduction in such trains.

• Mark worked with residents and Nassau County to create new parking spaces behind Stewart Field, including appropriate signage to protect residents of Raymond Court and historical signage to commemorate the history of the Motor Parkway.

• Mark worked successfully to move the National Grid gas main construction project off streets in the Mott section to County Seat Drive. He is continuing to aid residents of Arthur Street to move that section of the project to the nearby parking lots.

• He has helped East residents resolve sidewalk disputes, roadway paving complaints, water meter problems, sewer and flooding issues, among others. He has supported residents’ requests for stop signs and he supported residents in their efforts to stop the use of pesticides in Village parks. These are only a few examples of Mark’s responsiveness to individual requests for help.

• Mark has worked to keep taxes under the 2% tax cap and maintain GC’s Triple A bond rating.

Trustee Positions

Mark supports a Village-wide referendum on the disposition of St. Paul’s. Mark voted to go forward with litigation to remove the “Monster Poles” along the Third Track. Mark supports strict adherence to the NYS Open Meetings Law. Mark supports continued improvements to our recreational facilities, parks and ball fields.

Please support Mark Hyer for another term as Village Trustee from the East. He has a proven record supporting you.

Vote on March 16 at Village Hall or by absentee ballot for Mark Hyer and the Community Agreement Party candidates. Your vote matters!

The Community Agreement matters! Paid for by The Committee to Elect Mark Hyer

Let’s return to the traditional way we’ve governed Garden City for over 100 years

Vote (FABGC) For A Better Garden City on March 16th

The incumbent Trustee candidates have been disrupting the Garden City way of life. Many of their decisions have cost Garden City taxpayers significant amounts of unnecessary tax dollars. These same Trustees essentially shut down the Jay Gallagher Tournament and the Andy Foundation events at St. Paul’s. They would not negotiate a renewal lease to retain the Casino until the situation was recently publicly exposed. They fought handicapped residents for parking on 7th St. In short, they seem to have no interest in retaining the unique character of Garden City. FABGC is 100% behind maintaining and restoring the great traditions of the Village. It’s telling that multiple former Trustees are dissatisfied with the current regime, and are supporting the principles of the FABGC platform. If you really want to save GC traditions, vote FABGC March 16th. Learn more at FABGC.org

Cosmo Veneziale

Mayoral Candidate

Tom O’Brien Eastern Trustee Candidate

Bruce Chester Estates Trustee Candidate

Mary Flanagan Western Trustee Candidate

Terry Digan Central Trustee Candidate

THE REAL FACTS ABOUT YOUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES

• Maintained our Triple A rating by Moody’s based on “strong fiscal management”

• Arranged for 24/7 ambulance service which was critically important during COVID-19 pandemic

• Protecting our water supply with a new water tank, new well pumps and new equipment to treat our water

• Reduced village workforce from 325 to 265 without any reduction in services; digitizing our building department records

• Increased our police force to 52 and resolved the staffing of our firefighters

• Significantly improved our parks including new turf fields

• Built a new senior center

• Implemented LED lighting, new solar powered recycling containers and reduced the use of chemicals on ballfields

• Low tax increases for a decade, usually below the 2% tax cap

Bob Bolebruch, Mayor and Trustee from Western POA

Steve Makrinos, Trustee from Western POA

Rich Catalano, Trustee from the Estates POA

Yvonne Varano, Trustee from the Central POA

Mark Hyer, Trustee from Eastern POA

www.gardencitycap.org

Bob Bolebruch

Rich Catalano Yvonne Varano Mark Hyer Stephen Makrinos

News from the Children’s Room

Welcome March! We’ve been anxiously awaiting you!   March is the beginning of spring, the celebration of Irish heritage and St. Patrick, and March is the month we honor women in history.  Welcome back March—we are happy to see you!

March  is Women in History Month!

April 2021 is the 101th anniversary since the landmark ratification and adoption of the 19th Amendment, which proclaims in the U.S. Constitution that “the right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” The 19th Amendment was a victory for voting rights for women.

There are so many women in history to honor including:  “ Cleopatra ” by Adele Geras, “ Queen Elizabeth II ” by Jennifer Zeiger, “ Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice ” by Nikki Grimes, “ Mother Teresa ” by Candace F. Ransom, “ Helen Keller: The World in Her Heart ” by Lesa Cline-Ransome, “ Amelia Earhart ” by Lucia Raatma and so many others!  Check them out in the Children’s Room display!

The

Wearing of

the

Green and St. Patrick

March 17 is the traditional celebration of the patron Saint of Ireland—St. Patrick.  The Children’s Room has many books on all things Irish—including St. Patrick, St. Patrick’s Day, Irish fairy tales, and books on the culture of Ireland.   Enjoy reading “St. Patrick” by Ann Tompert, “St. Patrick and the Peddler” by Margaret Hodges, “St. Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland ” by Tomie DePaolo, “Let’s Bake St. Patrick’s Day Treats” by Ruth Owen, “What is St. Patrick’s Day” by Elaine Landau, “St. Patrick’s Day Countdown” by Salina Yoon, “The St. Patrick’s Day Shillalegh” by Janet Nolan, “Mary McLean and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade ” by Steven Kroll, “Blazing a Trail : Irish Women Who Changed the World” by Sarah Webb and “Ireland” by Patricia Levy.  Everyone is Irish on St. Pat’s Day!  Happy St. Patrick’s day to all!

Early Winter Programs & Events in the Children’s Department

MAKE A SPRING CRAFT WITH MISS BARBARA & MISS DONNA

March 24, 2021, 4:00–4:45 PM

This program is for Children in Grades K–5  Registration is required on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org) beginning March 9 at 10 a.m.

with a separate registration for each child.  The program will be held outdoors on Library grounds.  Crafts will be distributed prior to the start of the program.  Rain date is March 25.  Each participant should bring a mat or towel to sit on.

COLOR YOUR OWN

SPRING-THEMED BAG WITH MISS BARBARA & MISS DONNA

March 31, 2021, 10:30–11:15 a.m.

This program is for pre-school children (ages 2–5 not yet in kindergarten).  Registration is required on Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org)  beginning March 16 at 10 a.m. with a separate registration for each child.  The program will be held outdoors on Library grounds.   Bag & crayons will be distributed prior to the start of the program.  Rain date is April 1 at 10:30–11:15 a.m. Each participant should bring a mat or towel to sit on.

Book DiscussionsOutside on Library Grounds

BOOKENDS FOR 3RD GRADERS, 4TH GRADERS AND 5TH GRADERS

Tuesday, April 13 @ 4:00-5:00

Featured book is “The Unlucky Lottery Winners of  Room 13” by Honest Lee.  Registration is required and takes place in the Children’s Room only.  Registration began on Tuesday, March 2, 2021.   Please bring a mat or towel to sit on.  Should it be necessary, the rain date will be the following Tuesday,  April 20 at 4:00–5:00 p.m.

CHAPTER CHAT FOR SECOND GRADERS

Wednesday, April 21 @ 4:00-5:00 p.m.

Book title is The Third Grade Detectives:  “The Clue of the Left Handed Envelope” by George E. Stanley. Registration is required and takes place in the Children’s Room only.  Registration began on Tuesday, March 2, 2021.  Please bring a mat or towel to sit on.  Should it be necessary, the rain date will be the following Wednesday,  April 28 at 4:00–5:00 p.m.

StorytimesOutside on Library Grounds

Thursdays, April 8, April 15, April 22, and April 29 at 10:30 a.m.

Ages 2–5 (not yet in kindergarten) and caregiver.  Registration is required on line on Eventkeeper at www.gardencitypl.org.   A separate registration is required for each child and each storytime.  Please bring a mat or towel to sit on.  No raindates.

Garden City Library Board to meet

There will be a Regular Meeting of the Board of Library Trustees on Monday, March 8 at 7:30 p.m.

This meeting will be conducted remotely via Zoom conference call.

Further details about the meeting will be posted when available on the Library’s website www.gardencitypl. org.

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 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

Do you have a ser vice to adver tise?

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 516-294-8900 for rates and information.

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

Social Media Challenges for March

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

• Art: Make a piece of art that features the color green

• Writing: Write a limerick

• Food: Make an Irish dish

• Question of the Month: If you were lucky enough to win a million dollars, what would you do?

• Reading: Read a book with a green cover

If you participate in the challenges, earn community service credit by submitting so we can share it on our Facebook and Instagram pages!  Submit for the Art, Writing, Food, and Question of the Month Challenges here: https://www.gardencitypl.org/social-media-submission/ .

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

Teen Ornament Tree Display

Stop by the Tweens and Teens Room to see our Teen Ornament Tree! Each month, the tree will be decorated with new ornaments, created by our teen volunteers! The theme for March is shamrocks, and each volunteer decorated three wooden shamrock ornaments using acrylic markers for the tree. This community service program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library. Thanks to the tween and teen volunteers who helped make our tree display possible and to the Friends of the Garden City Public Library who funded the program. Make sure to stop by the Tweens and Teens Room to see the decorated shamrock ornaments and stop by next month to see what new ornaments are on the tree!

Tree Ornaments for Community Service: Egg Ornaments

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!

For the month of April, the ornaments will be egg-shaped. Registration will begin Tuesday, March 23 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www. gardencitypl.org). Completed ornaments must be returned by April 1 to the Library.

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.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

The next meeting of the Teen Advisory Board is Tuesday, March 9, 5 p.m.–5:40 p.m.. The meeting is for Tweens and Teens in Grades 6–12. We will be using Zoom Video Conferencing for this virtual program. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration began on Tuesday, March 2. Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Registration ends two hours before the start of the program. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom 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.

Teen “Nailed It!”

Dessert Decorating Challenge

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Teen “Nailed It” Dessert Decorating Challenge on Thursday, March 11, 5 p.m.–5:40 p.m. Try to decorate four cupcakes or four cookies based on a surprise challenge before time runs out! Registrants will be asked to have four plain cupcakes or four plain cookies prepared before the start of the program and also have decoration supplies available, such as frosting, icing, food dye, sprinkles, fondant, and candy. Registrants will be given the theme for the challenge at the start of the program and will then have 20 minutes to decorate their cupcakes or cookies based on the challenge. 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 began on Tuesday, March 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.

Teen Crafternoon: DIY Masks on Zoom

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Teen Crafternoon: DIY Masks on Tuesday, March 16, 5:00 p.m.–5:40 p.m. Registrants will be asked to pick up their craft kit in advance in order to participate in this virtual craft program. Please note that an iron or dryer must be used to set color after coloring the mask. 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, March 9 at 10:00 a.m. Registration ends two hours before the start of the program. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tweens and Teens

Dungeons and Dragons

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons on Thursday, March 18, 4:30 p.m.–6 p.m. Learn how to play the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons and Dragons by participating in one of our monthly Dungeons and Dragons Meetup! Beginners are welcome! Each meet-up will feature a new self-contained, one-shot adventure and players will be assigned premade characters to play as.

We will be using Zoom Video Conferencing for this virtual program. For more information about Zoom, visit their website at zoom.us. Mobile users should download the Zoom app onto their device before the start of the meeting. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) to participate in this virtual program. Registration begins on Tuesday, March 9 at 10 a.m. Registrants will receive an email with the login information to Zoom one hour before the start of the program.

Teen Games: Among Us on Zoom

Join us for a virtual meet-up, Teen Games: Among Us on Tuesday, March 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, March 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.

Attend a Program in March for Community Service

Earn community service by participating in a Garden City Public Library Tweens and Teens program in 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.

Message Cards for Patrons

When you check out a book at the Garden City Public Library over the next few weeks, you might get a surprise message card created by one of our teen volunteers! Message cards have been placed like bookmarks in books throughout the Children’s, Young Adult, and Adult Departments to send positive messages and brighten the day of patrons who check them out. This community service program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library. Thanks to the tween and teen volunteers who helped make message cards for the program and to the Friends of the Garden City Public Library who funded the program. Make sure to stop by the Library and check out a book to see if you get a message card from one of our teen volunteers!

Teen Mystery Book Display

For the winter–spring 2021, take a "Mystery ” book wrapped and decorated by our Teen Volunteers! Tweens and teens are encouraged to take home one of our wrapped mystery books that are on display for a surprise read. Will your mystery book be a total dud or will it become your new favorite book? The only way to find out is to take a chance and take one of our mystery books home! Books are free for patrons to take home. Patrons can take home more than one wrapped mystery book. Books can be any genre, target reading ages 12-18, and were published within the last two

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

years. The display and books will be available as books last. Books have been wrapped and decorated by teen volunteers in Grades 6–12 and were donated by Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta. Thanks to the tween and teen volunteers who helped make our display possible.  Make sure to stop by the Tweens and Teens Room to take home one of our mystery books!

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. Registration 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.

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

Teen-Created Social Media Content

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

Follow Tweens and Teens on Facebook and Instagram

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

Here are the Facebook and Instagram pages for the Garden City Public Library Tweens and Teens Department:

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/ GCPLTweensTeens

Instagram:  www.instagram.com/ GCPLTweensTeens

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

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.

Garden City's water is safe

Mayor Theresa Trouvé and the Board of Trustees have published a statement addressing intentionally inaccurate or otherwise misinformed posts on social media regarding the quality of our water and the Village’s efforts, goals and activities regarding our Water System. Residents will also be receiving a mailer this week. We assure you that our water is tested in accordance with all State and County standards. As we have stated for several years, the Board of Trustees continues to aggressively address the issue of Village-sourced water and water contaminants. To read the Board statement in full, visit the “Notifications and Alerts” section of the Village website, www. gardencityny.net.

Police warn of phone scam

The Garden City Police Department is warning residents of scammers calling people and using the names of two companies everyone knows, Apple and Amazon. Here is what you need to know. In most cases, you get a call and a recorded message that says it is Amazon and/or Apple. The message says there is something wrong with your account, i.e., suspicious purchase, lost package, or an order they cannot fulfill. In some cases, they state there’s been suspicious activity in your Apple iCloud account. In fact, they say your account may have been breached. In both scenarios, the scammers say you can press 1 to speak with someone, or they give you a phone number to call. Do not do either. It is a scam. They are trying to steal your personal information, like your account password or your credit card number.

If you get an unexpected call or message about a problem with any of your accounts, HANG UP!

• Do not press 1 to speak with customer support.

• Do not call a phone number they gave you.

• Do not give out your personal information.

If you think there may actually be a problem with one of your accounts, contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real. If you believe you may have been the victim of one of these calls, contact

the Garden City Police Department at 465-4100.

LIRR busing this weekend

This weekend, the LIRR will be running a brief outage on the Hempstead branch where there will be no service between Jamaica and Hempstead. The outage is necessary to perform emergency switch repairs in Queens Village and will take place from Saturday, March 6, at approximately 12:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (roughly 12 hours). The LIRR is provid ing buses for customers in both directions. To view the routes through Garden City, visit the “Notifications and Alerts” section of the Village website, www. gardencityny.net.

Property folders deadline this month

Residents have until March 31, 2021 to request their original property folders from the Building Department. To date, 4,200 folders have already been picked up, according to Superintendent Giuseppe Giovanniello. An additional 400 are in the Building Department office ready for pick up and 700 requests are being retrieved at this time. Please note that this is the only “original” hard copy that the Village maintains, and (for Village record-keeping purposes) is being completely replaced by an electronic “scanned” copy. While the Department has made every effort to make its newly scanned electronic copies as clear and “readable” as the originals, there are some documents (amongst the thousands already scanned) that may be more easily read in “hard copy original” form. As a courtesy, the Village is offering your original hard copy to you as the current homeowner. If you wish to have the “original file” you must show proof of ownership of the property requested. The Department will notify you when your request is ready for pickup. This “folder request project” commenced in June 2019. For further information, please contact the Building Department at 465-4040.

Bomb threat at Adelphi

On February 17, Officers responded to Adelphi University for a bomb threat received via email. With assistance from Adelphi Public Safety, a thorough investigation was conducted, and all appeared to be in order. Garden City Detectives have determined several other Universities across the country received similar threats on the same day. Garden City Detectives are coordinating their investigation with the FBI.

Village Election: What you need to know

The General Village Election for 2021 will be held on Tuesday, March 16, 2021. The polls will be open from 12 o’clock noon to 9:00 o’clock in the evening and will be held at Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue.

For more information regarding Covid-19 protocols on Election Day, absentee ballots and more, click here. The names and addresses of all those who have been duly nominated, and the office and term for which they have been so nominated, are as follows:

Community Agreement Party Mayor-2 Years

Robert A. Bolebruch-6 Kenmore Road Trustee-2 Years

Richard A. Catalano-82 Whitehall Blvd Trustee - 2 Years

Mark A. Hyer-43 Wyatt Road Trustee - 2 Years

Yvonne Varano - 20 First Street Trustee - 1 Year

Stephen S. Makrinos -101 Stewart Ave Justice - 4 Years

Allen S. Mathers - 111 Cherry Valley Ave

For a Better Garden City Party Mayor - 2 Years

Cosmo Veneziale - 104 Monroe Street Trustee - 2 Years

Thomas J. O’Brien - 28 Chestnut St. Trustee - 2 Years

Terence P. Digan - 65 Third Street Trustee - 2 Years

Bruce J. Chester - 220 Kensington Rd Trustee - 1 Year

Mary Carter Flanagan - 64 Harvard St

2021-22 Budget Work Sessions

The Board of Trustees will conduct work sessions to review the Tentative 2021/22 Operating and Capital Budgets

on:

Budget Work Session 1 Tuesday, March 9, 2021

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

• Budget Overview

• Building Department

• Recreation, Pool and Tennis Budget Work Session 2 Thursday, March 18, 2021

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

• Fire Department

• Department of Public Works and Water Fund

Budget Work Session 3 Wednesday, March 24, 2021 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

• Library

• Police Department

• Administration

• Finance & Other Unallocated Budget Work Session 4

Tuesday, March 30, 2021

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

• Presentation of Changes/Final Budget

Adoption of Budget

Monday, April 5, 2021 8:00 p.m.

Sessions are currently scheduled to be held via Zoom. If you wish to attend any of these sessions, email Karen Altman, Village Clerk (kaltman@ gardencityny.net) before 3:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting and she will send you the link.

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.

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.

n Plumbing repairs

n Drain cleaning

n Heat repairs

n Installation of appliances

n Installation of toilets & sinks

n Water filtration systems

Scam caller

On February 24th a victim received a phone call from a person claiming to be from Social Security. The call er informed the vic tim that her social security number was compromised and required money to be mailed to an out of state address to resolve the issue. The call was later determined to be a scam.

Fake business loan

On February 25th a resident reported that their identity was reportedly stolen and used to open a small business loan.

Forged registration

On February 26th a 43-year-old motorist was arrested on Willow Street for alleged possession of a forged registration, unregistered vehicle, uninsured vehicle, and improper lane usage.

Bumper banged

The bumper of a vehicle parked on Meadbrook Road was found damaged by unknown means on February 26th.

Reckless driving

A motorist was charged with reckless driving on Clinton Road on February 26th.

Fire alarm

GCPD assisted the GCFD for a fire alarm at a Franklin Avenue business. Upon investigation, firefighters determined the cause to be a faulty circuit breaker.

Leaving the scene

On February 27th detectives charged a 59-year-old male with allegedly leaving the scene of a February 21st auto accident on Old Country Road.

Excessive speed

On February 27th a motorist was charged with driving on Clinton Road with a suspended license as well as excessive speed and unregistered vehicle.

Domestic incident

As a result of a domestic incident investigation, on February 28th Garden City Police arrested a 49-year-old male for allegedly damaging items in his family’s home. He was charged with criminal mischief.

Grand dog larceny

On March 1st Garden City Detectives arrested a 33-year-old woman for alleged grand larceny. Police say a male victim had left one adult American Bully dog and eight American Bully Puppies in the care of the woman, who allegedly arranged for another person to take the dogs without the owner’s consent. The value of the dogs is approximately $62,000. The investigation is ongoing regarding the second subject.

Forged check

The Garden City Police Department is investigating a March 1st report of a subject depositing a $5,500 forged check at a Franklin Avenue Bank.

23 suspensions

A motorist was arrested for driving on Franklin Avenue on March 1st with twenty-three license suspensions and excessive speed.

Missing jewelry

Garden City Detectives are investigating a March 2nd report of the theft of assorted jewelry from an elderly woman’s residence during the past month.

Suspended license

A motorist was charged on March 2nd with allegedly driving on Cathedral Avenue at 4th Street with a suspended license and operating a portable electronic device.

Truck Stop

GCPD and NYS DOT conducted a commercial vehicle inspection on Clinton Road on March 2nd. Ten trucks were inspected of which three were placed out of service. Forty-six tickets were issued for various traffic and safety violations including six overweight violations, four hazmat violations and one unsecured load violation.

Graffiti

Graffiti was found on a Stewart Avenue utility box on March 3rd.

Fake unemployment filings

Garden City Police investigated six reports this week of victims’ identities being stolen and used to file for false unemployment benefits.

Due to Covid, our highly anticipated Wizards Basketball fundraising event has been benched, but that does not mean our support of our students is on the side-lines.

The Garden City Scholarship Fund remains committed now more than ever to helping our students by raising funds for scholarships and providing much-needed support.

For a limited time, we are raising funds for park benches for the GCHS courtyard so that our students can enjoy the fresh air and a break from the classroom. This is a gift that will serve students for years to come.

This is a wonderful opportunity to show your support for our students and help beautify the courtyard they enjoy!

Donation Recognition

:

GC Trojan Sponsor: $1000 - Funds a full bench.

GC Pineapple Sponsor: $250

GC Friends Sponsor $100

http://www.gcscholarship.org/2021/03/bench-fundraiser/

**If funds raised exceed the total cost of the benches, remaining funds will be used for scholarships**

A distant vision of 2024

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

There are some significant developments in New York State government as this is written, but things seem to be moving so fast on the Governor Andrew Cuomo front that we’ll wait to next week to write about them.

So I’m going to turn to something I wouldn’t normally write about-the 2024 presidential election. Yes, I know I noted a couple weeks ago that there are more than 40 months until the voters cast their votes for the next president. Between now and 2024, there will be many, many events intervening and things happening now may have little importance to the public three and a half years hence. And another reason for not jumping the gun about analyzing 2024 is that the two apparent front runners, President Joe Biden for the Democrats and former President Donald Trump for the Republicans, will be age 82 and age 78, respectively, in 2024. I sincerely wish both of them the best of health, but that is very old to be a presidential nominee.

But what is pretty unique is that this may be the beginning of a long and drawn out contest between two men and two ideologies that will only end when the voters decide at the polls almost four years from now. As the incumbent, President Biden is in strong position for renomination if he so desires. And, based on his address at the CPAC convention in Orlando last Sunday, Mr. Trump is at least strongly contemplating running again, with strong support in his party.

A little historical perspective may be in order.

In most instances, Presidents who have lost their bid for reelection do not seek another term. This was the case with the four incumbents defeated for a second term since 1900 -- William Howard Taft (1912), Herbert Hoover (1932), Jimmy Carter (1980) and George H.W. Bush (1980). As it happens, each of the four had long and rather successful tenures as influential figures in public life after they left the White House (President Taft actually became Chief Justice of the

Supreme Court), but none of them made another serious bid to become President again.

You would have to go back to Grover Cleveland, who lost his bid for re-election in 1888 against Benjamin Harrison (despite winning the popular vote), but regained the Presidency in 1892, to find an example of a defeated former President jumping back into the political fray. However, a more apt comparison to Mr. Trump might be Andrew Jackson, who lost the 1824 election in the House of Representatives to John Quincy Adams after no one got an electoral majority and then used the next four years to build up a populist base, which ultimately got him elected in 1828.

Essentially, at least from the perspective of 2021, to return to the White House, Mr. Trump will have to overcome two basic concerns. First, he will have to minimize the perception that he botched the response to the Covid virus. While you certainly can fault some of the Trump Administration’s early response in March and April, and Mr. Trump’s frequently over-optimistic prognostications, he will be able to point to the success of Operation Warp Speed in producing vaccines that are now getting into people’s arms.

More fundamentally, Mr. Trump will have to persuade voters, including those generally favorable to his overall policies, that his volatile personality is something that the country needs again. While the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot will have faded from memory, it still is a symbol of division.

For his part, President Biden will have to demonstrate that he is more than a figurehead implementing liberal policies. Obviously, the level of peace and prosperity in 2024 will be crucial to Mr. Biden’s success.   Another question is whether Mr. Bident’s team can mobilize anything like the record voter turnout in 2020.

Even from a distant vantage point, this could be shaping up as an epic contest.

Language, business studies come together at GCHS

A tutoring service that involved the entire family was among the businesses that students developed in their College German class.

Let your voice be heard!

Is there an issue in your community you want to discuss? Want to respond to something you saw in our paper? Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention! Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!

Students in Garden City High School’s College German 4 class participated in a Project Based Learning assignment that gave them a glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship while strengthening their language skills.

At home and in class, students developed plans for businesses and

used Google Docs to create ads. They researched other companies that were similar to theirs and worked to make theirs stand out more among competition. They also planned and filmed commercials that showcased their products. All materials were presented in German.

Students created an energy drink company that releases beverages for each season.

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

Garden City HS congratulates National Merit Finalists

Anteng Chen, guidance counselor Jeanne Kennedy, Anthony Remick, Guidance Counselor Ryan Shanley, Ryan Padala, Guidance Counselor Patrick Doyle and Ian Bailey.

Four Garden City High School seniors have been recognized as National Merit Finalists in this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program. Ian Bailey, Anteng Chen, Ryan Padala and Anthony Remick are among approximately 15,000 students across the nation that attained this distinction.

Finalists are selected annually after first being designated as semifinalists based on their PSAT/NMSQT performances. The results of this qualifying

Photo courtesy of the Garden City School District

test are submitted to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which identifies the highest scorers from a pool of more than 1.6 million entrants.

“Congratulations to our National Merit Finalists,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha. “This achievement demonstrates their hard work and dedication to academics. We are very proud of all they have accomplished!”

Garden City Kiwanis announces scholarship

The Garden City Kiwanis Foundation has announced that applications are now available for the 2021 Kiwanis Service Scholarship. The scholarship is open to any high school senior residing in the Garden City School District and is awarded in recognition of a student’s commitment to community service.

Applications have been provided to

the Guidance Department of Garden City High School and to many of the private high schools in the vicinity. Interested students should contact their guidance department. The application may also be obtained by emailing Carole Russo at cartaxpro@aol.com. The deadline for submitting an application is April 16, 2021.

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

Upcoming Board of Education Budget Meetings

The Garden City Board of Education has several 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 under the page’s Advocacy tab. The PTA will relay any information to the Board of Education or provide answers to questions.

• 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

“Rock Your Socks” and Celebrate

Inclusion!

Sunday, March 21, (3-21) is internationally recognized as World Down Syndrome Day (signifying a third copy of the 21st chromosome). To raise awareness and create conversation about Down Syndrome, diversity and inclusion, the GC PTA and SEPTA are

Garden City PTA News

asking all families to please “Rock Your Socks.” Crazy socks, lots of socks, whatever you choose! “Rock Your Socks” is a reminder that all types, shapes and sizes of the same thing can be unique in their own way! If you participate, please send pictures of your socks to membership@gcsepta.org or post to our social media pages!

Annual PARP PJ Literacy Event Goes Virtual

Thank you to all students in grades K-5 who opted to participate in our first ever PARP Pen Pals program. We had over 270 participants and kept our neighborhood mail carriers very busy! Students were matched to pen pals in the same grade from different Garden City schools and “connected” by writing and sending handwritten letters to one another. We heard from many students and their families that they truly enjoyed writing to and receiving a letter from a new friend in the mail.

This month, the PARP committee has reimagined a favorite PARP tradition, Pajama Literacy Night. In the past, K-1 students and their parents/ guardians were invited to gather at the Middle School to play literacy games and listen to stories read by some of their favorite primary teachers -- all while wearing their pajamas! This year, Pajama Literacy Night will take place from the comfort of your own home

EPOA NomComm seeks director candidates

The independent Nominating Committee of the Eastern Property Owners’ Association (EPOA), which nominates candidates for officers and directors of the EPOA, is accepting resumes from interested East residents who would like to serve on the board of directors beginning in the 2021/2022 year. The first meeting of the new term will commence in September 2021. We generally have one meeting per month from September through early June.

All directors and officers of the EPOA must be dues paying members of the EPOA ($20 annually).

If you are interested in serving as a director of the EPOA, please send a letter and resume stating your interest and qualifications (including any community service experience) to the Corporate

Secretary of the Eastern Property Owners’ Association, P.O. Box 7525, Garden City, NY 11530. Alternatively, you may email your information to contactus@gcepoa.org. No sitting EPOA director or officer serves on the nominating committee that interviews candidates for officers and directors of the EPOA.

Applicants will be contacted by the committee chairperson to set up an interview when they begin the nominating process. The deadline for receiving applications is March 29.

To learn more about the EPOA, how to become a member, upcoming events, and matters concerning the East, you may visit us at our website (www.gcepoa. org), on Facebook (@GardenCityEPOA), on Twitter (@GC_EPOA), and on Venmo (@GCEPOA).

on Tuesday, March 16th! It will be considered a district-wide Family Connect Night, and students in all grades and their families are invited to participate. Printable and virtual resources will be emailed to all students in grades K-5 and will also be available on the PARP page of the PTA website (gardencitypta. org/parp). Keep an eye out for an email with more information. It’s going to be a great night!

Latest Parenting Workshop

with Laura Campbell on March 10

Join us for our fifth virtual parenting workshop hosted by Laura Campbell, with the goal of supporting and assisting parents in the emotional support of their children as they navigate through this difficult time of change. The latest session will take place on Wednesday, March 10, at 7 pm. Check your email for the GC PTA Newsletter or visit gardencitypta.org for the link to register.

Mark Your Calendars! Important School & PTA Dates to Remember

• March 1: Parent-Teacher Conferences begin for Elementary and Primary students

• March 2: High School & Middle School Progress Reports

• March 3: PTA Health & Safety Awareness Day at High School

• March 11: Joint Middle School and High School PTA Meeting (7:30 p.m.)

• March 12: April ACT Registration Deadline

• March 13: SAT Examination at GC High School (7:45 a.m.)

• March 15: Website Opens for

the PTA Spring Sportswear Sale

• March 16: High School Spring Sports Yearbook Photos in Gym (2:45 p.m.)

• March 19: Primary & Elementary Report Cards

• March 19: Late Deadline High School Yearbook Orders www.yearbookforever.com by 11:59 p.m.

• March 29-April 2: Spring Recess

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.s Thank you to all who support the Garden City PTA.

Every child. One voice.

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

See what's happening at your library!

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.

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

GCPD: Beware of phone scammers

SUBMITTED BY THE GARDEN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Garden City Police Department is warning residents of scammers calling people and using the names of two companies everyone knows, Apple and Amazon. Here is what you need to know.

In most cases, you get a call and a recorded message that says it is Amazon and/or Apple. The message says there is something wrong with your account, i.e., suspicious purchase, lost package, or an order they cannot fulfill. In some cases, they state there’s been suspicious activity in your Apple iCloud account. In fact, they say your account may have been breached.

In both scenarios, the scammers say you can press 1 to speak with someone, or they give you a phone number to

call. Do not do either. It is a scam. They are trying to steal your personal information, like your account password or your credit card number.

If you get an unexpected call or message about a problem with any of your accounts, HANG UP!

• Do not press 1 to speak with customer support.

• Do not call a phone number they gave you.

• Do not give out your personal information.

If you think there may actually be a problem with one of your accounts, contact the company using a phone number or website you know is real.

If you believe you may have been the victim of one of these calls, contact the Garden City Police Department at (516) 465-4100.

First-graders perform acts of kindness

The best

the week of

Mrs. Maher’s first-grade

at Hemlock school discussed

tance of being kind citizens. They wrote beautiful cards, painted love

Beautiful Valentines and birthday cards for all of the residents at Queen of Peace Nursing Home.

and sent their smiles all the way to their elderly friends at Queen of Peace Nursing Home in Queens, New York.

Garden City schools connect through reading

The Garden City Public Schools celebrated literacy during World Read Aloud Day on Feb. 3. This year’s event featured guest readers as well as activities that tied into the theme.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Edward Cannone, Garden City High School Principal Kevin Steingruebner, Garden City Middle School Principal Dr. Eric Nezowitz, Stewart School Principal Linda Norton and Hemlock School Principal Audrey Bellovin each provided recorded read-alouds for teachers throughout the district to share with their classes. Also available was a Storyline Online video by Oprah Winfrey.

Homestead School received a special in-person presentation from Dr. Sinha, who visited six classrooms and read the book “Be You” by Peter H. Reynolds. The story inspired students to think about and share reasons they love themselves.

Stratford School observed World Read Aloud Day with virtual author visits. Second graders participated in Zoom sessions with Amy Guglielmo, who read her book “Pocket Full of Colors” and encouraged students to express their own colorful and unique qualities. Fifth grade classes enjoyed Zoom meetings with Kristina Holzweiss, during which they learned about her nonfiction books that offer at-home STEM projects. She discussed her series and shared tips for finding ideas and passion in writing. The authors also answered many questions about the writing process and their experiences.

World Read Aloud Day was created by the nonprofit organization LitWorld as a way to bring people from all around the globe together through stories. It is one of many ways that Garden City schools promote literacy and foster a love of reading.

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Edward Cannone was among the guest readers that shared stories with important messages.

Hemlock School students listened to a story read by Stewart School Principal Linda Norton.

Homestead School students enjoyed an in-person read aloud from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha.

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

Wrap-Up: 10,000 Masks Delivered

As has been said: “signed, sealed and delivered!” The Mineola Garden City Rotary Club has completed delivery of 10,000 disposable masks through the Rotary Million Mask Challenge. The masks have been divided between 6 charitable entities here in Nassau County.

Receiving the 10,000 masks from the Mineola-Garden City Rotary over the past several weeks were RotaCare, the New Ground Organization the Interfaith Nutrition Network (INN), The Long Island Volunteer Center, the Garden City Fire Department; wrapping up the deliveries last Friday was “For the Love of Pete’ Pantry located in Seaford, NY.

Pete’s Pantr y Receives

1,000

Masks from Rotar

y The Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club was pleased to complete its mission to distribute 10,000 disposable masks to “For the Love of Pete’s Pantry,” located in Seaford, NY. The Pantry was created in memory of Pete Haller, a man whose mission was that “no man, woman or child should ever go to bed hungry. ”Adhering to that mission, the Pantry provides non-perishable food, diapers, wipes, formula and more to families in need – completely free of charge. The Pantry depends on donations which may be made by visiting its facebook page or by emailing fortheloveofpetespantry@gmail.com.

Rotarians Diane Marmann and Joanne Meyer-Jendras, standindg with For the Love of Pete’s Pantry’s Nicholas Escobar and Daniel Brunnie.

Beth Escobar and Claudia Brunnie representing For the Love of Pete’s Pantry (right) receive 1,000 disposable masks from Rotarians Joanne Meyer-Jendras and Dianne Marmann (left).

Rob Kammerer, board member of the Interfaith Nutrition Network (INN), receives disposable masks from Rotarians Diane Marmann, Club president, and Joanne Meyers-Jendras, past Club president.

In Memory of Vincent Scheppa

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Vinny.

On the morning of Feb 17, 2021 Vinny passed peacefully in the arms of his loving mother. He passed away at home after complications due to a traumatic brain injury five years ago. He was 25 years old.

Vinny was born Jan 18, 1996 in Manhasset, New York. He graduated from Garden City High School in June 2014. In his short life Vinny touched the hearts of many and continues to do so today.

Vinny was tall in stature standing a mere 6’1”. He was protective, kind, sensitive, caring, thoughtful, considerate, and compassionate. His sense of humor was contagious and he always made you laugh. He had a love for people and animals. He was a true friend and a best friend to many.

He enjoyed many things, a good snow storm, snowboarding, paintball, dirt bike riding, tennis, video games, drawing, traveling, time with his dog, driving his truck on the beach, fast cars and firecrackers. His favorite holidays included Christmas and Easter. He found pleasure in spending time with family, friends and helping others less fortunate.

The Scheppa Family would like to express our deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks to St. Anne’s Church, The Community of Garden City, Family, Friends, and to all who gave their help, time, devotion, commitment & prayers. Your support lifted our spirits in our darkest moments. Your caring hearts and hands gave meaning to our sons’ life. You treated Vinny with respect & dignity, and for that we are forever grateful.

It’s with a heavy heart that we say goodbye Vinny. If love could only have saved you, you never would have died.

Rest in peace my beautiful son.

Vinny is survived by his parents Joe & Chris, brother Nicholas, Uncle Dave, Aunt Dorothy, Aunt Jeanette, Aunt Lisa, maternal grandparents & predeceased paternal grandparents.

Vinny was laid to rest on Feb 22, 2021 at Queen of Peace Cemetery Old Westbury, New York. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Fairchild Sons Funeral Home, Inc., Garden City, New York.

Kindly consider a donation in memory of Vincent to St. Mary’s Children’s Hospital or North Shore Animal League America.

A senior surprise at Garden City HS

Garden City High School seniors entered the building on Feb. 24 to find an uplifting surprise from their younger peers. They were greeted with congratulatory signs created by students from Stratford and Stewart schools. Throughout the hallways, encouraging words and illustrations celebrated members of the Class of 2021 as they prepare for graduation and promising futures.

Elementary school classes designed decorative signs with positive statements such as “You’ve got this,” “Seniors rock,” “You did it,” and “Go seniors,” just to name a few. Many of the posters featured signatures, short messages and decorations from each

student in the class.

Leigh Dowden and Terri King, teachers at Stratford and Stewart, respectively, organized the collaborative effort. After collecting the finished posters, they visited the high school after school on Feb. 23 and affixed them to lockers and walls throughout the hallways so that seniors would see them first thing the next morning. Parent Sandra Cooper, who proposed the idea for this initiative, provided the oak tag boards.

The signs brightened the high school and helped foster a sense of connection throughout the district as students and staff members support one another during difficult times.

Students from Stewart and Stratford elementary schools created signs to celebrate the Garden City High School Class of 2021.

Congratulating the Class of 2021.

Elementary students made signs to celebrate the seniors.

The signs posted at Garden City High School.

Students created messages for the seniors.

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

A senior surprise at GCHS

John Ellis Kordes The Kordes K orner

PhotograPhy history

Does anyone really know what time it is? In case you didn’t, a large very modern looking clock was hoisted into place in the early 1980s while the current Garden City Hotel was under construction. It is the fourth Garden City Hotel on that property dating back to 1874. None of the previous hotels had clocks and they all had red brick while this one had tan brick. It was all very puzzling and upsetting to the many long time residents who watched this hotel go up. However, the interior was and still is quite beautiful befitting a four-star hotel. Several years after it opened in 1983, residents’ concerns moved to behind the hotel as the Wydham condos began going up. “What were they thinking?!” was the often repeated question I would hear and the answer remains to this day, “I don’t know.” However, like the hotel, the interior of Wyndham is stunning and first class.

Seniors were impressed with the signs.

Smiles (under masks) for seniors.

Garden City High School students were excited to see the signs as they arrived at school on Feb. 24.

Garden City Nursery School Winter Fun

Learning to help shovel.

Winter continues to delight and excite the children (and adults) at the Garden City Nursery School.  Our landscape provides plenty for our little ones to do during the winter months.  Children enjoy sledding down the hill, swinging in the snow, and exploring their surroundings.  There are also many special holidays, visitors, and events that introduce our children to new experiences throughout the season.

The children were recently intrigued by a winter visit from Teepee Ted!  They learned about hibernation and the early settlers of our land.  Experiencing the warmth of a bear pelt is always a bonus for the kids.

The young thespians of GCNS also enjoyed performing in a class play this winter.  After reading The Three Billy Goats Gruff, the kids enacted the story with unparalleled enthusiasm.

And of course, love was in the air this Valentine’s Day.  All of our children delivered valentines to their classmates.  Our pre-k classes went on a special field trip to the mailbox.  After spend-

Bundled up to play in the snow.

ing much time learning about places in the community and practicing their addresses, our 4 year olds mailed wonderful valentine projects home to their grown ups.

As for our GCNS adults, we just enjoyed our First (and Second) Annual Virtual Trivia Night!  The Mormile family created several challenging sets of questions while we all played along on Kahoot!  Fantastic raffles were awarded throughout.  After playing the game, we went into breakout rooms with our specific classes and enjoyed some fun, meaningful conversation.  One of the core values at GCNS is connecting with all of our families on a personal level.  This game night concept was the result of many thoughtful parents brainstorming new fun and successful ways to do just that.  It truly felt special and fulfilling to spend some “grown up” time with one another from the comforts of our own homes.  Many thanks to the hard working members of our GCNS community for reinventing how we spend time with one another.

Teepee Ted showed interesting things. There’s a nice clear path for the wagon.

Swings are fun year round.

A trip to the mailbox to send some Valentines.

Intramural Quiz Bowl Champs

While it wasn’t quite the NBA “bubble,” Intramural Quiz Bowl made significant adjustments in order to return for its 25th season during these challenging times. This yearly trivia competition pits teams of one teacher and three students against one another through three rounds, a semifinal round and a three-team final to determine the champion.

The rounds would typically take place in head-to-head competition,

but in light of the pandemic, teams answered questions online in their own classrooms to qualify for the finals.

This year, the team, led by Dr. John Slater and comprised of seniors Ian Bailey, Nick Ragas and Jeffy Samuel, emerged victorious and now proudly wears the crown of Intramural Quiz Bowl Champion. The IQB Tournament is organized by social studies teacher Kevin O’Hagan. Sign Up & Save A New Issue Every Friday, Delivered to Your Door!

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

From page 2

request and answer questions.

In March 2017, I was elected President of the WPOA. I made sure the WPOA leadership knew that I was also head of the Mobility Impaired Committee.   Because the WPOA membership had previously overwhelmingly supported the 7th Street handicapped parking initiative, the Directors wanted me to serve.

On May 10, 2017, the WPOA Directors approved a request for consideration of three handicapped spaces on 7th Street. I then presented a petition signed by over 250 residents supporting handicapped parking on 7th Street. Subsequently, on June 15, 2017 the Board of Trustees Traffic Commission requested an engineering study to explore adding handicapped parking spaces on 7th Street and allocated $20,000 for this. At the September 20, 2017 Traffic Commission meeting, the engineering study regarding adding handicapped parking spaces on 7th Street by VHB was presented. Although I asked for the study days before the meeting, the Village said it would not be available until the presentation at the Traffic Commission meeting.  After waiting almost a year from my first meetings with the Village, the vote came quickly with 3 voting against the proposal, including WPOA Trustee Bob Bolebruch and Traffic Commission Chair Trustee Mark Hyer, and one abstaining. Trustee Hyer stated the request was denied but then added, “The Chamber of Commerce is willing to work with you”.  Subsequently, I appealed to the Traffic Commission to reconsider the request for handicapped parking in December 2017. In an email in January 2018, Chair Trustee Mark Hyer denied my appeal.

On May 25, 2018, my law firm, Covington & Burling, sent a letter to the new chair of the Traffic Commission, Stephen Makrinos, outlining our case and advising the Traffic Commission to stop kicking the can down the road. The letter was also sent to the rest of Board of Trustees. No response was received from Trustee Makrinos, a representative of the WPOA.  At this point, Trustees Bolebruch, Hyer and Makrinos had all taken official action to deny the handicapped parking request. Covington & Burling filed action in federal court in July 2018. On November 28, 2018, in federal court in Central Islip, the Covington & Burling legal team asked Village Counsel what defense the Village will offer.  The Village Counsel (Bee Ready LLP) states Gerry Kelly is not disabled as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Later that evening, I let the WPOA Directors know what had transpired earlier in the day at federal court. I told Trustees Bolebruch and Makrinos how hurt my family was when they heard the offensive position the Board of Trustees had

taken in this case.

The judge in the case ordered the parties to go to mediation, which occurred on February 25, 2019.  In April 2019, my term as President of WPOA concluded.  In May 2019, mediation of the handicapped parking issue failed.  On June 6, 2019, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved a retainer for the services of the Seyforth Shaw law firm and the defense added the firm to lawsuit on June 14, 2019.  In July, a settlement offer from the Seyforth Shaw firm is received by Covington and Burling. After the defense agreed to the three locations for the handicapped parking spaces on 7th Street chosen by my team, it also agreed to place access aisles on all the handicapped parking spaces in the rear lots (7S and 7N). The settlement was filed in federal court on July 26, 2019 and approved July 30, 2019.  In October 2019, three handicapped spaces were added on 7th Street. In addition, in March 2020, access aisles were added to back parking lot handicapped spaces in 7S and 7N and now conform to ADA standards.

Trustees Bolebruch, Makrinos and Hyer spent over $110,000 of taxpayers’ monies arguing that I was not disabled.  Please support the FABGC candidates, including Cosmo Veneziale for Mayor and Mary Carter Flanagan for Trustee from the West. If you need an absentee ballot, please email me at gerry7th@ gmail.com or call/text me at 302-5470800.

Gerry Kelly

Former trustee endorses FABGC To the Editor:

I have lived in Garden City with my wife Patty for 53 years, and we raised our two children here. I have been honored to volunteer in our local government and served on Garden City’s Board of Trustees for 8 years.

I have been closely following the Garden City News as we approach the March 16th election. The FABGC slate includes five highly qualified individuals with impressive and varied resumes and significant community service experience. Their business and volunteer experience qualify them to hold these important positions, and their commitment to preserving our community and strengthening our government makes them the best candidates for the positions. Having served under the Community Agreement, and appreciating its non political goals, recent actions and events make the present challenge timely and appropriate. The articles submitted to the Garden City News have laid out clearly why it is important for residents to have an opportunity for a change in leadership this year.

I join the other former trustees in endorsing the FABGC candidates, Cosmo Veneziale for Mayor, Mary Carter Flanagan for Trustee from the

See page 44

Ian Bailey, Nick Ragas, Jeffy Samuel and Dr. John Slater. Photo courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

Western Section, Tom O’Brien for Trustee from the Eastern Section, Terry Digan for Trustee from the Central Section, and Bruce Chester for Trustee from the Estate Section.

Charlie Menges

Where were you then?

To the Editor:

FABGC has been using social media to post more and more “ads” and videos, with a focus on some years-old Village issues. These issues (such as the Cathedral Nursery School or the Jay Gallagher Tournament) were all very complicated, difficult and emotional issues for everyone involved. Regardless of your opinion of these decisions (I supported some; didn’t support others), one thing stands out for me related to FABGC and these issues.

Where were they when these things were being debated? All involved numerous conversations, articles in this newspaper and debates at various public meetings (many more than just Board of Trustee meetings). Yet, none of the candidates took a stand at the time these were being decided. Few, if any, attended a meeting, wrote a letter, or called their Trustee to voice their concern. Now, years after these decisions were made, when they happen to be running for office, they are suddenly professing their horror at these decisions. I’ll assume they actually don’t agree with these decisions. But, to suddenly be making videos, posting all sorts of indignation and using these issues on their party platform seems, at best, disingenuous to me. It’s easy now, to appeal to the emotion of these decisions, to go on and on about how terrible this is. But, there were many, many challenging conversations on these topics. Where were you then?

Judy Courtney

Stick with what works

To the Editor:

YIKES!! We’ve had it too good in Garden City.

Triple A financial rating. Schools the envy of the metro area. Houses selling above already eye-watering prices. Volunteer government that has served us well for 100 years.

I know! Let’s turn our volunteer Village Trustees into human piñatas. We don’t have enough contention in our lives.

We need political parties like we need another hole in our heads. We didn’t get enough of that in 2020? Use your head. Stick with what works. Vote Community Agreement.

John Villanella

My experience, just the facts

To the Editor:

I’m going to begin this letter by telling you who I am so you don’t have to jump to the signature line at the end.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I’m Steve Ilardi currently the president of the Eastern Property Owners’ Association (EPOA). I also worked parttime at the Garden City Library for thirty-six years as the Library Monitor (security). I’m sure many of you know me from either of these roles however, today I write as resident Steve Ilardi. I want to share with you some of my experiences with the Board of Trustees (BoT) over the years, not just the present board but going back at least a decade. I started voicing my opinions at (BoT) meetings, mostly in defense of the Library as their budget was getting cut. I always thought the Library did a poor job of informing the Village BoT how much they contributed to the Village. Trustee Andrew Cavanaugh at the time, was one of the trustees who used and supported the library. You can search this paper for letters I have submitted in support of the library. One case was when the BoT criticized the actions of the library after Superstorm Sandy. https://www.gcnews.com/articles/library-under-special-scrutiny/

Over the years, prior to my involvement with the POA, I often commented and received responses at BoT meetings. Was it always cordial? No, it wasn’t, but I always had my say and most of the time received a response with which I was satisfied. It was after being at many BoT and budget meetings and actively participating at these meetings that I was approached to get involved with the EPOA. After submitting a resume and being interviewed by the Director & Officer Nominating Committee I became an EPOA director. In this role I chaired the EPOA Traffic Committee and represented the EPOA at the Village Traffic Commission meetings. During the process of reviewing resident traffic issues I worked closely with Police Commissioner Jackson and sometimes Village Administrator Suozzi. The POA is an important link from the residents to the Village administration and BoT whether it’s traffic issues, sidewalk concerns, trees, noise issues, etc.

There has been talk of having resident committees involved in the Village. Great idea! This is why there have been, and continue to be, various boards and commissions with residents contributing their time and expertise. The Recreation Commission, for example, spent countless hours developing a strategic plan for the improvement of parks and pool complex. They also developed a new pricing structure a couple of years ago to make the pool more affordable for our residents. Others contribute on EAB, Zoning, ADRB, Citizens’ Budget Review & Advisory Committee (CBRAC), Planning, Civic Beautification and Traffic. The EPOA has various committees: War Memorial improvement, Government Relations (Natl. Grid, MTA, PSE&G), Social Media, PTA

Liaison, Commercial Development, Junior Ambassador, and others.

As for the BoT, has it all been good? no; but has there been a lot of good? yes. I’m the first to admit there have been some poor decisions made, sometimes based on an ‘experts’ recommendation and sometimes a poor choice. However, there have been many positives accomplished in the recent past. We have new turf fields with LED lighting at Community Park, a new hockey rink, upgraded pool facilities with reduced rates to join, an ambulance service that does not cost the taxpayers anything and as a result keeps our police available for more patrolling of our streets. In the past an officer had to drive the ambulance to the hospital and a second officer had to leave patrol to pick them up and bring them back to their vehicle. This new service also cut out the police overtime involved with those transports.

We have a new water tower in the final phase of completion which will serve the Village into the next century. Water treatment in place or in progress at all our wells to treat 1,4 dioxane. The Village acted swiftly to get this all-important infrastructure in place. The Village increased the amount of road paving planned each year. They upgraded an aging fleet of Department of Public Works vehicles. The entire village has been upgraded to LED lighting, saving electrical costs every year. After residents brought their concerns to the EPOA the trustees worked with National grid to have a 24-inch gas main re-routed away from traversing the Mott section and onto County Seat Drive. The BoT is in continuing talks with National Grid to utilize the parking lots and not residential Arthur Street.

The Village has maintained Moody’s Aaa rating. Since 2013, my school taxes have increased 43%, Town of Hempstead taxes have increased 28% and Village taxes 11%, an average of 1.58% per year. I don’t need to mention how home prices have increased and when a home in Garden City goes on the market people are lined up and offers are at or over asking price; ask any real estate agent.

There have been plenty of letters explaining the POA nominating system and the Community Agreement so I won’t get into that here; however, there is a lot right with this system and this Village. Before you let one group, or one person, take over the BoT, do away with the POA system as we know it and spend our resources on a narrow focus of projects, consider the Community Agreement Party candidates who have both experience running a village and balancing Village services and taxes as well as two new Trustee candidates who will bring a new fresh perspective to the BoT. Don’t let Garden City become a two-party system with all the negative aspects that go with that and potential-

ly end the POA’s existence. Our way of governance has worked for over a century, so don’t let a few mistakes or a of couple trustee’s actions change what has made this community the place you chose to make your home and raise your family.

Vote on Tuesday, March 16th 12N-9P at Village Hall or apply for an absentee ballot (available at www.gcepoa.org) and choose the Community Agreement Party candidates.

Steve Ilardi

Integrity and work ethic

To

the Editor:

How excited and impressed I was to learn that Yvonne Varano was chosen by the 7 member CPOA Nominating Committee to be their nominee for Village Trustee, in the upcoming March 16th election. Acknowledging her high regard for our Garden City “Constitution”, The Community Agreement, Yvonne did the right thing. She answered the call for potential candidates, by submitting her resume to the CPOA Nominating Committee. Having gone through the rigorous screening process, the Committee selected Yvonne. As a resident of the Central Section for 46 years, I am honored to be represented by such a highly qualified candidate.

I have known Yvonne her entire life. She is an empathetic person, an attentive listener and a woman who takes her commitments seriously. Besides growing up herself in Garden City, Yvonne has chosen to raise her three children here. Being a part of three generations of Garden City volunteers, Yvonne has held many very responsible volunteer positions, most notably as the President of the Garden City PTA. As her interest in Village government grew, she volunteered as CPOA Representative on the Citizens Budget Review and Advisory Committee, attending all of the Board of Trustee budget meetings.

Working as an equity analyst and Managing Director, Yvonne’s research and analytical capabilities have been recognized by the Wall Street Journal, Forbes and Financial Times. She will bring to the Garden City Board of Trustees the very high level of knowledge and experience necessary for making fiscally sound decisions.

We are most fortunate to have a woman of Yvonne’s caliber, who is enthusiastically willing to volunteer her time, energy and expertise serving you, her neighbors and friends. She recognizes the need for improving communication between Village government and the residents and is already contemplating possible solutions. I know she will meet the challenges of this new position by addressing the concerns of all residents, while always respecting the history, traditions and quality of life we all treasure. I know that she is com-

mitted to preserving this magnificent inheritance we call Garden City.

I am confident that Yvonne’s integrity, work ethic and love for her “home town” will make her the perfect “new face” on the Village Board of Trustees. Yvonne Varano has my vote. I hope she has yours.

Wanda Rogowski

Why I’m running

To the Editor:

There have been many issues raised during this campaign. The uncertainty for members of the Casino, how long will their lease be extended? Will it be extended? The iconic firehouse on Edgemere road, will it be torn down and replaced with a larger version at a cost of maybe 10 million dollars? Why did this Board of Trustees (BOT) make such a questionable decision to fight a disabled resident’s request for handicap parking on 7th Street? Why did they sell Village land at Franklin Mews? Will this same BOT allow 5G cell phone towers be put up in your backyard (as long as it’s not in their backyard)?

The issue I am going to focus on is the poles and the defacing of the area along the LIRR main line in the Northern Estates section. The Third Track Construction has had a detrimental impact on the real estate values of their properties and potentially long term health consequences of the residents.

My wife, Patti, and I have been Garden City residents for over 23 years. We knew about the excellent school system and felt our children would flourish in it. We were very pleased as all four of them went through the GC school system. Another major reason was the beauty of the Village, which you see immediately as you approach the Village.

That all changed for us and the residents of the Northern Estates at the end of 2018. All of the 100 foot trees and shrubs that we were used to looking at and served as a noise buffer were ripped out. These included trees that were clearly on Garden City Property, it didn’t matter and now we look at factories. So began the journey dealing with the 3rd Track Construction and its PR representatives. In September of 2019, my neighbor Paul Rothenbiller and I were able to get a meeting with 3rd Track Construction PR Rep Travis Brennan and LIRR Rep.Leslie Mesnick. At that time, we were assured landscaping would be put on Kensington and Main Avenue to cover the factory, they even speculated sometime in the spring of 2020. What they didn’t tell us and knew at the time was giant poles were going to be put up before any landscaping was even considered.

At an Estates POA meeting around October 2019, Paul made a presentation

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

showing what the landscaping looked like before everything was pulled out and what it looks like now. We continued attending the POA meetings looking for any updates or information, from Estates BOT Daughney and Foley, but nothing was forthcoming.

Then, came the day in early April 2020 that I will never forget. Large tractor trailers carrying poles that when put up would be over 100 feet high. They loomed over Kensington Road, Strawberry Field  and all along Main Avenue. Supposedly, these poles were to be on the North side near the factories. Third Track committee trustees Daughney and Makrinos sent a letter to the LIRR/MTA saying they only gave the railroad authorization to move some poles south of the tracks. The railroad took full advantage of that and the flood of poles began.

The residents put together a petition that garnered close to a thousand signatures and was sent to the BOT, again no action or response from Daughney, Makrinos or POA. Daughney and Makrinos did nothing after sending their letter; neither did the BOT or the Estates POA. Residents had to deal with months of day and night construction, loud noises, bright lights all night and garbage all over.

In June 2020, the Village posted on their website the legal opinion of Beveridge and Diamond. It concluded the Village would be unsuccessful in getting the LIRR to move the poles. Did they know something we don’t know? On the Estates POA website, they posted an interview that Janno Lieber , the MTA’s Chief Development Officer did with Newsday. He said “we’re not going to stop the project and move the poles because one community has visual objections.” So we formed ReVAMP (REsident Voters Against Monster Poles) and continued to put pressure on the BOT to take action. The Mayor and two Trustees supported going forward with litigation, but the other five trustees did not. Our own Estates Trustees Daughney and Foley, as well as Third Track committee member Makrinos did not support litigation. Our Estates POA was totally silent on this issue. So basically our own Village BOT and our own Estates POA said they couldn’t help us. Because of ReVAMP’s persistence, the BOT finally agreed to take legal action in December 2020. Had I been on the Board of Trustees, I would have encouraged them to file an injunction demanding the MTA/LIRR immediately stop the construction of the monster poles, back in April of 2020. The Third Track committee should have had residents on it that were clearly affected by the construction, not 2 Trustees and 1 Village employee. This committee decided the design of our wall , the penitentiary style wall the residents have to look at every day.

This BOT has not handled quality of life issues in this Village very well. Will they allow 5G cell phone towers to be built in your backyard?

When FABGC reached out to me to run, I thought long and hard about it. I knew that my Estates POA didn’t support helping their residents that are so adversely affected by the Third Track construction. I knew I had to run with FABGC (For A Better Garden City).

As I noted at the beginning of this letter, there are a number of issues that will be have to be addressed and they will be by the FABGC Candidates. They have the professional backgrounds and integrity to represent the Garden City residents.

I ask the people of our wonderful Village to vote for Cosmo Veneziale for Mayor, and Mary Carter Flanagan, Terry Digan, Tom O’Brien and myself as Trustees so we can have a Better Garden City!

Bruce J. Chester Estates Candidate For a Better Garden City FABGC

Deep State GC

To the Editor:

Most people are aware of the expression “Deep State.” Here in Garden City we have our own “Deep State.”

There is little transparency. No-bid contracts are the norm. Deals are made under the cover of darkness. Here is an example.

How was the present village administrator Mr. Suozzi selected? He is a member of a politically connected family. Hmmm...

National Grid is preparing to dig up Arthur Street. The “dig” was supposed to be in the Mott Section but was cancelled. Mr. Delany, one of the negotiators, lives in the Mott Section. Hmmm...

Suozzi and Delaney tell us that discussions to change the location from

Arthur Street to some uninhabited locale.

In my opinion the deal to dig up Arthur Street has already been made. If you want to clean up this swamp you must vote for the “For a Better Garden City” ticket.

Angelo Di Pippo

Don’t block sidewalk with car

To the Editor:

The new law on construction materials and debris is a step in the right direction. Now, can the BOT and GCPD do something about the increasing number of residents who park their cars in their driveways so that they protrude on to the sidewalk causing walkers, including children and people pushing baby carriages, to walk on to the street to get around them.

This is becoming commonplace in Garden City, where many household own multiple cars and use their garages for storage. For some households this is the norm. I would think this already illegal in the Village. If so, the residents who do this routinely need to be warned, then the law needs to be enforced. If it is not illegal to block a pedestrian walkway with a car, it should be. Thank you.

Linda Ryan

Village election location

To the Editor:

The Mayor’s column on Feb.26 th stated the village is renting a tent in case of inclement weather for the village elections.

Would it not make more sense to move the voting to Cluett Hall or the gym at St. Paul’s.

The Presidential elections were held in the gym where there is not only plenty of room for safe distanting but protection from the cold, without incurring the cost of a tent.

Dian Kendrick

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 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

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Notice of formation of Crab And Bull Provisions LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 10/20/20. Office located in Nassau County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 227 lawrence St. Uniondale NY 11553.. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

GC 1168

6X 02/12,19,26,03/05,12,19

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

GARDEN CITY, LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL ESTATE FOR UNPAID 2020 VILLAGE TAXES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on March 19, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, in the Village of Garden City, New York, pursuant to direction of the Board of Trustees of said Village, I, the undersigned, Treasurer of said Village, will sell at public auction the following described real estate in said Village together with any improvements thereon, to discharge the unpaid 2020 Village tax, interest and other charges which may be due thereon at the time of the sale. Such real estate will be sold subject to any unpaid assessments thereon levied by said Village prior to the date of such sale and any unpaid tax liens for years prior to 2020 purchased and held by said Village, and subject to the provisions of the New York State and Federal Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, as amended, insofar as the same may be applicable to the owners of any said following described real estate. Purchasers will be required to pay the amount of their respective bids to the undersigned within ten days after the sale, pursuant to the provisions of Section 1454 of the Real Property Tax Law of the State of New York, as amended, and upon such payment shall receive a written certificate of sale describing the real estate purchased and the sum paid therefor. Please be advised that the Incorporated Village of Garden City intends to bid-in for any and all parcels to be sold at this year’s sale. Therefore, any and all tax liens sold at this sale will become village-owned tax liens.

Please be further advised that if the owner of any residential property is experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic and files a Declaration of COVID-19 Related Hardship form (RP-1102-DS) on or before March 18, 2021, said sale shall be delayed until after May 1, 2021, pursuant to NYS Legislation adopted December 28, 2020, (2020 Sess. Law News of N.Y. Ch. 381 (S. 9114) (McKINNEY’S)

The following is a list or statement of the real estate upon which such 2020 tax is unpaid, with the amount of such 2020 tax, together with interest and other charges due thereon to March 19, 2021.

REPUTED OWNER

OR OCCUPANT BLOCK LOTS TAX SALE MAP OF COUNTRY LIFE DEVELOPMENT

ANTHONY & KRYSTLE ABITABILE

Irene Woo, CPA, CMFO Village Treasurer

Garden City, New York

February 19, 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:

3X 02/19,26,3/05

FABGC candidates: experience and commitment to you

to Fortune 500 companies, as well as both Nassau and Suffolk County Governments. In his business career, Tom had his own P&L responsibility managing over 300 professionals in sales, business development, global outsourcing, project delivery, recruiting, resource allocation, and business operations functions working with over 150 client organizations. Garden City will be able to leverage Tom’s many years of Executive Management responsibility for our approximately 270 Village professionals.

With Terry Digan’s leadership and background, FABGC will ensure that there will be strong fiscal policies in place that will aid in an optimal rate of economic growth for Garden City. Terry brings 35 years of experience in the financial industry with many years spent in both Fixed Income and Equites. He is a proven leader who has dedicated many years giving back to the commu-

nity that gave him so much!

Terry Digan will provide the necessary financial stewardship of our Village to keep our taxes low. Intelligent financial oversight and transparency by your elected Trustees is a must. No-bid contracts and new $10,000,000 firehouses where there are better and less expensive solutions to meet the needs of our esteemed Volunteer Fire Department is a start.

Transparency is not just a tagline to FABGC, and we have submitted articles detailing how the present Board’s lack of transparency is negatively impacting our village. Mary Carter Flanagan’s many years of experience as a litigator and a judge, her awareness of this serious issue, and her commitment to addressing it will ensure that residents will again have the voice in government that they all deserve. On the Board of Trustees Mary will play a critical role in returning transparency to our local government as sought in the NYS Open

Meetings Law. Mary will also focus on strengthening the Village’s oversight on ethics in light of the frequent practice of no-bid contracts which negatively impact our village’s finances, and considering conflicts of interest raised as an area of concern by many residents.

With 46 years of experience in the Insurance Business, Bruce Chester spent a good part of that focusing on reviewing coverages for municipalities. In addition to trying to save them money, he also would      recommend coverages to better protect their interests while also reviewing      balance sheets of these municipalities to see how these coverages would fit into their budget.

Bruce Chester will bring his knowledge and his willing to fight to the Village. He will fight for the Garden City residents. His actions in forming REVAMP and aggressively addressing the monster poles demonstrate the type of leadership this Village needs when addressing serious problems.

FABGC candidates will bring candor and transparency to the village and pledge to change the arrogant and dismissive practices our residents have come to expect from our Board of Trustees. This is our solemn promise. 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, Neil McGoldrick, and Gerry Kelly

Our plans for the future of our wonderful Village

• Lay out a plan to reduce the carbon footprint of the Village and its impact on our environment.

• The Village has already taking steps such LED lighting, solar powered recycling containers and reducing the use of chemicals on our ballfields. Other areas to be considered will include acquiring electric vehicles, installing charging stations and implementing solar power at the Village’s facilities in the future.

• We welcome the participation of residents and students who have an interest in this important area, to share your ideas and concerns so that we can continue to improve our village

• Create an Operations Improvement Committee to supplement the great work of our Citizens Budget Review and Advisory Committee. The committee would consist of residents with expertise with finance, information technology, human resources and operations who would meet throughout the year to consider other opportunities to improve the overall operations of the Village – enhancing our service while reducing costs.

• We need to be forward looking and not reactionary. Accordingly, we plan to establish a GC 2030 committee to focus on a long-term strategic vision for the Village would help identify the types of investments that will be necessary to maintain our unique quality of life. This committee will address the New Normal and what that might mean to our Village, including how to ensure our business districts remain attractive and vibrant.

• The current BOT have done a

remarkable job limiting tax increases over the past decade – usually less than 2% cap – not easy accomplishment when salary and benefits exceed 50% of the budget.

All organizations are quickly embracing the digitization of their operations, although governmental entities tend to move slower, we want our Village to move as fast as the private sector in this regard.

• As to RFPs, the vast majority of service contracts (84%) are subject to an RFP. A contract should only go outside the RFP process when it is in best interest of the Village such as when there is a technical skill set required. This reasons for not having an RFP will be made fully transparent to the residents when such a contract is approved at a board meeting.

• Our seniors have been greatly impacted by the COVID-19 in so many ways including the associated isolation that has been very difficult.

• Loneliness is considered to a growing health issue in our country even before the pandemic.

• With this in mind, we plan to work to increase the number of recreational opportunities for our seniors and to engage them as active volunteers to keep Garden City great.

• We plan to continue to make enhancements of our parks – including the potential expansion of our turf fields and installation of new basketball backboards.

The Community Agreement Party candidates are ready to face each and every challenge as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and adapt to the New Normal. There are significant proj-

ects, challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the Village. This is why we have stressed the importance of the 18 years of collective Trustee experience of Bob Bolebruch, Stephen Makrinos, and Mark Hyer along with the fresh perspectives and deep financial expertise of Yvonne Varano and Rich Catalano. We strongly believe our backgrounds and financial expertise are the best combination to carefully and successfully navigate our future. Do not hand the keys to your Village over to individuals that do not understand our Village’s government or respect our “constitution,” the Community Agreement.

On Tuesday, March 16th, the residents of our Village will go to the polls to make an important decision on the future of our Village. In past weeks,

we have discussed the importance and benefits of our non-political form of governance under our historic 102-year-old Community Agreement. There is a large amount of misinformation from the opposition because they haven’t been involved and don’t know the facts. Make sure you know the facts before you vote.

Sincerely, Bob Bolebruch, Candidate for Mayor from Western POA Steve Makrinos, Candidate for Trustee from Western POA Rich Catalano, Candidate for Trustee from the Estates POA Yvonne Varano, Candidate for Trustee from the Central POA Mark Hyer, Candidate for Trustee from Eastern POA

Sunrise, Sunset in Death Valley National Park, Nature’s Geologic Art Gallery

BY KAREN RUBIN, LAINI MIRANDA, DAVE E. LEIBERMAN & ERIC LEIBERMAN

TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

On our second morning in Death Valley National Park, we’re up before sunrise to race to Zabriskie Point, one of the not-to-be-missed highlights, to watch the brilliant display as the rising sun seems to set the rock faces aflame with color.

Today’s itinerary in Death Valley National Park is on a strict schedule around Laini’s zoom appointments (COVID has given rise to “worker nomads” and “workations”) – the proximity to the places we wanted to see was one of the reasons we left Designed to Death AirBnB, 45 minutes drive into the park, for the Ranch at Death Valley, just about 7 minutes drive from Zabriskie Point in the most central part of this vast national park. We rush back to the Ranch at Death Valley, until her next break, so grateful for its close proximity to what we would like to do today. It requires incredible planning and logistics considering the distance to get to places in a park twice the size of Delaware.

But these breaks give me more time to explore and enjoy the Ranch. It is a full resort with a very casual, family-friendly vibe almost like a dude ranch resort; in fact it once was a working ranch and now has stables offering horseback and carriage rides and a marvelous “Last Kind Words Saloon” that looks like it is straight out of a western movie. It is laid out with two-story units of rooms that open out to either a patio or balcony, with everything from a gorgeous

swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, playground. There is even a full 18-hole golf course, at 214 ft below sea level, the lowest elevation course in the world. The ranch also offers Jeep rentals to explore the park in a rugged 4x4.

The “new and improved” 224room Ranch at Death Valley is part of a $100 million renaissance along with the nearby Inn at Death Valley (a historic, four-star luxury resort) and is at the vital center of activity in Death Valley. Set along Highway 190 next to the National Park Service Visitor Center, it offers a classic town square with towering date palms and Mission California architecture. Among the improvements: a new restaurant, ice cream and coffee bar, general store with souvenirs as well as groceries. There’s also a gas station next door.

It really is an oasis. (https://www. oasisatdeathvalley.com/)

The Ranch offers a real surprise when I come upon a museum with an outdoor display (the indoor museum is still closed as a COVID precaution) of coaches, mining implements, even a full train locomotive, set outside almost like a park. And you realize that this wasn’t all that long ago –the turn of the last century, a blip in context of the eons of time on view in Death Valley’s dramatic geology. The Museum at the Ranch is not to be missed. You are overwhelmed in Death Valley by nature and its powerful force, but here at the museum, you are reminded of man’s handiwork.

We’ve timed it so as soon as Laini has another break we dash back to Zabriskie Point for a short hike (the trail connects to the Golden Canyon

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

Sunrise at Zabriskie Point, one of the notto-be-missed highlights of Death Valley National Park, sets rock faces aflame with color © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

trail), before rushing back for her next Zoom meeting.

Back again at the Ranch, I do something I rarely ever have time to do: swim in the pool. It is absolutely glorious – naturally heated by hot mineral springs to a perfect temperature. And the scenery! We see what we couldn’t last night when we had the stars – the mountain peaks all around. We lounge for a couple of hours.

We’ve plotted an afternoon hike for when Laini finishes: Sidewinder Canyon.

We eat our lunch in the car as we drive the 32 miles to Sidewinder Canyon, a slot canyon where you are supposed to be able to explore three separate slots. This trail is really for adventurers, much less visited than

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Sunrise, Sunset in Death Valley National Park, Nature’s Geologic Art Gallery

Continued from previous page

the star attractions (there isn’t even an outhouse at the trailhead here); and it’s not at all well marked. We are supposed to watch for cairns – stones others have arranged in the shape of an arrow, or a pile of stones to mark the entrances.

This hike is more about a stony scramble of pointy sedimentary rock like concrete that has come out of the mixer with lots of stones. It is dramatic when you enter, like something will happen, especially when look up and see a boulder wedged in a space between narrow walls. It dares you. The landscape here is really harsh, unforgiving.

The RoadRunner cartoons come to mind, especially when we see a coyote and what seems to be feathers of a roadrunner.

We hike uphill for a mile and then return.

We again rush back to Zabriskie Point for sunset - we missed it by five minutes the night before, so this time, we make sure to get here in plenty of time to appreciate the changing light and colors.

This evening, we treat ourselves to a special dinner at the luxury, grand hotel, the Inn at Death Valley (originally named the Furnace Creek Inn), sitting outside on a lovely terrace rather than the dining room. The historic hotel, a member of Historic Hotels of America, dates from 1927, built by the Pacific Coast Borax Company, and played a pivotal role in the transformation of Death Valley from a mining wasteland to treasured national park. Among its famous guests are Marlon Brando, Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. (www.oasisatdeathvalley.com)

Before returning to the Ranch, we head to Harmony Borax Works, one

of the best places to see stars. I even see a shooting star.

The next morning, we pack up to leave the Ranch, with a plan to hike the Mosaic Canyon trail on our way out of the national park.

The four-mile roundtrip hike into Mosaic Canyon is sensational from start to finish – “a geological art gallery” of stunning, improbably smooth marble walls, scrambles on the way in that become natural slides on the way back (from eons of floods, apparently, or perhaps all the backsides that slide down). We follow cairns in the shape of stone arrows that point the way. (https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/mosaic-canyon.htm)

It takes us less than three hours, gorgeous and fun from very beginning, perfect for our final hike before heading back to Sonoma.

As we drive away, we start a list of

what we need to do when return: the Telescope Peak hike (a strenuous 7-mile hike up 3,000-ft. to 11,049 ft. altitude; Dante’s Peak (for an amazing view), and Darwin Falls (an actual water fall) top the list.

Plan your visit to Death Valley National Park, www.nps.gov/deva, 760786-3200.

© 2021 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com,  www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karenrubin & travelwritersmagazine.com/ TravelFeaturesSyndicate/ Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar. wordpress.com & moralcompasstravel. info. Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @ TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook. com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Homemade Ice Melt for Steps, Walkways and Driveways

BY MARY HUNT

Got ice and snow on top of super cold temperatures this winter? “Everyday Cheapskate” reader Jennifer does, and she wrote, “Do you have a solution for melting ice and snow on walkways, driveways, steps and windshields?”

I do, and at least one of these homemade recipes is sure to come to Jennifer’s rescue, and quite possibly yours, too

All of these recipes and methods use ordinary household items most of us keep on hand.

NO. 1: BASIC DE-ICER

Into a large container or bucket, pour 2 quarts water, 6 drops Blue Dawn dishwashing liquid and 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol (70% or 91%). Dispense using a spray bottle or other type of garden sprayer. Spray the mixture on icy area or steps, and watch the snow and/ or the ice melt, which is going to make your job of making those areas safe so much easier.

Why this works: Rubbing alcohol won’t freeze until it reaches at least minus 97 F. Because this recipe contains water, the mixture would freeze at a warmer temperature of perhaps minus 50 F. As for the Blue Dawn, just a few drops help break the surface tension of the ice and snow to get the melting process started.

Neither the alcohol nor the Blue Dawn content is harmful to landscape, pets or the environment, due to this being a very weak dilution.

NO. 2: LIQUID ICE MELT

Pour warm water into a bucket. Add rock salt crystals to it. (A good ratio is 1 gallon water to 1 cup rock salt, but this is not an exact science; you want to create salty water.) Stir occasionally until all of the salt crystals are completely dissolved.

Pour the saltwater solution into a sprayer. Spray the solution on frozen hard surfaces. The saturated force of the sprayer will penetrate through all the layers of the snow and melt it.

Why this works: Salt (sodium chloride) melts ice because adding salt lowers the freezing point of the water.

NO. 3: VINEGAR

Mix equal amounts of vinegar and water to produce an effective de-icer. Pour the mixture on iced surfaces, and the ice will slowly turn to liquid.

Why this works: The freezing point of plain white vinegar is 28 F, which is lower than water.

NO.

4: GRIT

A light application of sand, gravel, non-clay-based kitty litter or birdseed gives walkways more traction.

Why this works: In most situations, just adding a scant layer of grit to snowy surfaces provides the traction you need to safely get from here to there, whether you’re walking or driving a vehicle.

Caution: Do not use clay-based kitty litters for this purpose, since they will turn into watery sludge once they come in contact with moisture, and that will make the ground even more slippery than it was before.

NO. 5: SALT

Salt -- rock salt or ordinary table

salt -- is the most basic ice melt found in just about any house. Simply sprinkle the plain salt across the snow-covered area, steps or porch. Salt will then spread through the ice layer, turning it into slush. Interestingly, salt is only effective to keep ice sloshy to 15 F. So, if it’s 14 F and lower, you need to use an alternative method.

According to the University of Minnesota Extension, salts are less effective when applied in excess. Lesson to be learned: Use salt sparingly to treat treacherous ice on your driveway, steps and sidewalk. This will improve its effectiveness while protecting your landscape and hardscape.

Why this works: Salt (sodium chloride) lowers the freezing point of water. It is a perfect ice melt for your icy areas at very little expense.

NO. 6: BAKING SODA

Generously sprinkle baking soda on the ice- or snow-covered area, and wait for the ice to start melting. This may take a bit longer to melt than other options, but it will work. Do not use the soda-sprinkled path until the baking soda has done its job.

Why this works: Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) contains salt, and as we know, that lowers the freezing temperature of ice.

NO. 7: RUBBING ALCOHOL

Mix equal amounts of rubbing alcohol and water in a sprayer. Spray solution on snow and/or ice to melt it. You can use this ice melt for windshields as well, without worry of damaging the vehicle’s paint job.

Why this works: The freezing point for rubbing alcohol is way below zero. Compared to ice and snow, it’s very warm.

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

COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM

Crossword Answers

From her stage, Lea Salonga wows the audience

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

March is Women’s History Month and I’m highlighting an actor and singer I wasn’t familiar with until recently. I saw Lea Salonga on a PBS TV special a few months ago and think she’s a great singer.

She was singing a variety of musical show tunes from “On My Own” to “Meadowlark” and when it came time to sing “A Whole New World,” Salonga asked if any men from the audience would like to sing with her on stage. Abraham raised his hand and was chosen so there he was standing beside Lea Salonga singing “A Whole New World” from Disney’s “Aladdin” at the Sydney Opera House. He’s not a professional so he did a good job not a great one but he got A+ from everyone for trying and singing his heart out.

Salonga is renowned worldwide for her powerhouse voice and perfect pitch. She entered the Broadway musical scene with her 1991 Tony-winning performance as Kim in “Miss Saigon” and most recently starred in the Tony-winning 2017 revival of “Once on This Island.” She was the first Asian cast member to play Eponine in the musical “Les Misérables” on Broadway and later returned to the show as Fantine in the 2006 revival.

Born on February 22, 1971, in Manila, the Philippines to Feliciano Salonga, a naval rear admiral and shipping company owner, and María Ligaya Alcantara, Maria Lea Carmen Salonga spent the first six years of her childhood in Angeles City before moving to Manila. Her brother, conductor Gerard Salonga, is 2 ½ years younger than Lea.

A child prodigy, Salonga took to the stage at a young age. She made her professional debut in 1978 at the age of seven in the musical “The King and I” with Repertory Philippines. She played the title role in “Annie” in 1980 and appeared in other productions such as “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “The Sound of Music,” “The Goodbye Girl” in 1982, “Paper Moon” in 1983 and “The Fantasticks” in 1988.

In 1981 Salonga recorded

her first album, “Small Voice,” which was certified gold in the Philippines. In 1985, she and Gerard took part in the eighth Metro Manila Popular Music Festival as the interpreters for the song, “Musika, Lata, Sipol at La La La.” (wikiwand.com)

During the 1980s, Salonga also had several TV projects through GMA Radio Television Arts where she worked as a child actor. After the success of her first album she hosted her own musical TV show, “Love, Lea,” from 1983-1885 and was a member of the cast of German Moreno’s teen variety show “That’s Entertainment.”

Salonga acted in films including “Tropang Bulilit,” “Like Father, Like Son,” “Ninja Kids” and “Captain Barbell.” As a young performer Salonga received a Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences award nomination for Best Child Actress and three Aliw Awards for best child performer in 1980, 1981 and 1982. Her second album, “Lea,” was released in 1988.

She also opened for, and performed with, international acts such as Menudo and Stevie Wonder in their concerts in Manila in 1985 and in 1988, respectively.

She finished her secondary education in 1988 at the O. B. Montessori Center in Greenhills, San Juan, Metro Manila. She attended the University of the Philippines College of Music’s extension program aimed at training musically talented children in music and stage movement.

A college freshman studying biology at the Ateneo de Manila University when she auditioned for “Miss Saigon,” Salonga’s intention was to have a medical career. Later, in between jobs in New York, she took two courses at Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus.

In 1989 Salonga was selected to play Kim in the debut production of the musical “Miss Saigon” in London. Unable to find a strong enough East Asian actress/singer in the U.K., the producers searched many countries looking for the lead. For her audition, the then 17-year-old Salonga sang

Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s “On My Own” from “Les Misérables” and wowed them. Later on she impressed the audition panel when singing “Sun and Moon.” When asked what launched her international career, Salonga often credits “On My Own” with that.

A Disney princess twice, Salonga was the singing voices of Jasmine and Mulan.

Salonga and her future husband, Robert Chien, met in Los Angeles in 2001 when she was doing “Flower Drum Song.” He went to opening night because his cousin was a dancer in the show. Salonga says he loves watching theatre and has seen her in a lot of musicals, plays and concerts. Rob Chien is a businessman and owner of a multimedia company. They married in 2004 and have a daughter, Nicole.

What drew Lea Salonga to the stage:

“When I was about 6, my cousin was very active in a Filipino repertory company, doing musicals and plays. Her aunt was one of the founders of the company, and she told my mom that there were these auditions for ‘The King and I,’ and that they needed kids. I auditioned, got in and the love affair started from there and just kept going.”

Lea Salonga also has said:

“I was 17 when I auditioned for ‘Miss Saigon.’ I really grew up doing that show. I pretty much knew, almost a year into ‘Miss Saigon,’ that I was going to be a performer, that I was going to be singing and acting … It helped me find my niche. It made me realize that musical theatre was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”

“I don’t think I would’ve been performing this long if I didn’t love it sincerely to the degree that I do. It’s not enough to like it. Dilettantes like things. Professionals love things and I consider myself a professional.”

In her spare time Salonga likes to play video games. She adds, “I love to read ... I enjoy spending time with my husband and daughter, who are my most favorite people in the world.”

Retirement Benefit Calculation - the Advanced Course

BY TOM MARGENAU

There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who just want to know the time and those who want to take the clock apart to see how it works. I’m sure most of us fall into the first category. I sure do. But of course, there are always those who need to disassemble that clock, examine it and then try to put it back together.

And when it comes to Social Security retirement benefits, there also are two kinds of people: those who just want to know what their benefit is going to be and those who want to know exactly how the government comes up with their retirement benefit calculation.

But as I think about it, there is probably a third category of Social Security retirement benefit calculators. It is those people who want a general idea of how their benefit will be figured. They just don’t need all the nitty-gritty details. I think most seniors fall into that category.

For years now, I’ve been providing a relatively simple explanation for those folks. In a nutshell, a Social Security retirement benefit is a percentage of your average monthly income using your highest 35 years of inflation-adjusted earnings.

So, when you file for retirement benefits, the Social Security Administration will look at your earnings history and pull out your highest 35 years. They don’t have to be consecutive. If you don’t have 35 years of earnings, the SSA must plug in an annual salary of “zero” for every year you did not work, until the 35-year base is reached.

However, before they add up those “high 35,” they index each year of past earnings for inflation. And this is where the formula starts to get messy. That’s because there is a different adjustment factor for each year of earnings, AND each year’s adjustment factor is different based on your year of birth.

Here is a quick example. If you were born in 1949 and earned $20,000 in 1980, they would multiply those earnings by an inflation adjustment factor of 3.25, meaning they would actually use $65,000 as your 1980 earnings. But if you were born in 1950 and earned that same $20,000 in 1980, they would use an inflation factor of 3.33, resulting in $66,600 as the 1980 earnings used in your Social Security computation.

You can find a complete breakdown of those inflation adjustment factors for each year of birth (for folks nearing retirement age) at the Social Security Administration’s website: https://www. socialsecurity.gov.

The next step in the retirement computation formula is to add up your highest 35 years of inflation-adjusted earnings. Then you divide by 420 -- that’s the number of months in 35 years -- to get your average inflation-adjusted monthly income.

The final step brings us to the “social” part of Social Security. The percentage of your average monthly income that comes back to you in the form of a Social Security benefit depends on your income. In a nutshell, the lower your average wage, the higher percentage rate of return you get. Once again, the actual formula is messy and varies depending on your year of birth. As an example, here is the formula for someone born in 1949: You take the first $749 of average monthly income and multiply it by 90%. You take the next $3,768 of your average monthly income and multiply that by 32%. And you take any remainder and multiply it by 15%.

You can find a complete breakdown of those computation “bend points” on the Social Security website.

Believe it or not, that was the “simple” explanation for those who just want some idea of how their Social Security retirement benefit will be figured. To summarize, it is a percentage of your average monthly income using your highest 35 years of inflation-adjusted earnings. If this was a college course, think of it as Social Security Benefit Computation 101.

But now I’m going to offer the advanced course. This is the one for the bean counters and clockmakers out there.

I’ll start by introducing the term “primary insurance amount,” or PIA. The PIA is your basic retirement benefit upon which all future calculations will be based. The “raw PIA” is actually calculated at age 62. In other words, when the SSA pulls out your highest 35 years of earnings, they only use earnings up to age 62. Then that raw PIA gets “cooked,” or increased, to take into account any earnings you had after age 62 and to include any cost-of-living adjustments, or COLAs, that were authorized for Social Security benefits after the year you reached age 62.

But it gets a little tricky when the SSA does the re-computation for any earnings you have after age 62. If you worked full time until age 66, for example, you would normally assume that those earnings between age 62 and 66 would definitely increase your PIA. After all, you figure, they are some of your highest earning years, so they will become part of that “high 35.”

But not necessarily. And here is why. For reasons I can’t take the time to explain in this short column, earnings after age 60 are not indexed for inflation. They get calculated at current dollar value only. So, if your “raw PIA” was based on a full 35-year history of high inflation-adjusted earnings, your current earnings may not be high enough to become part of your “high 35,” so they won’t increase your benefit. Or they possibly might bump up the PIA, but not by much.

In fact, I hear from readers all the

time (the bean counters and clockmakers) who tell me that they are confused because the benefit estimate they are getting from the SSA now (at age 66, let’s say) is not much more than the estimate they got back at age 62. Their current benefit estimate includes the COLA increases but either little or no bump for their post-62 earnings. The reason why is that lack of inflation indexing after age 60.

As you can see, the Social Security retirement benefit formula is pretty messy. And if you’re not a clockmaker, I

say, “Don’t worry about it.” Just let the SSA do it for you. Go to the Social Security website, and click on the “Retirement Estimator” icon on the homepage. It will walk you through the process of finding out what your Social Security benefit will be.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has a book with all the answers. It’s called “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” You can find the book at creators.com/books. Or look for it on Amazon or other book outlets. COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WAre you hiring a salesperson, a consultant or both?

ho will you be hiring when selling, investing, purchasing, renting, or leasing your residential or commercial real estate, a salesperson or a consultant, or both? Hopefully, you will find a professional who is a hybrid and represents a combination of both types.

Everyone who is selling needs a salesperson to seek out the most serious, motivated, qualified income and the credit-worthy purchaser who will fall in love with your home, right? But at the same time has the savoirfaire and astute knowledge to be a professional consultant by asking probing questions to ascertain, narrow down and pinpoint those that are the real buyers from those that are the tire-kickers and shoppers, out for a day perusing homes for whatever reason.

Time is always of the essence in real estate and once it is lost or squandered it cannot be regained or reinvented. It is comparable to the property for once you own it you cannot grow anymore, making that specific piece a unique quantity, just like time!

However, a salesperson is what I call the old fashion term we use for someone that tries to sell you something in whatever fashion or way he or she can to close the transaction. It’s the old ABC, “always be closing” as Alec Baldwin said to his agents in the 1982 movie Glen Gary Glen Ross giving a tough condescending pep talk to them (Al Pacino, Jack Lemon Alan Arkin, Ed Harris, Jonathan Price, and Kevin Spacey). If you are in real estate and have never seen the movie, or saw it a long time ago go watch it again, it’s a must-see!

The hybrid version today is a sales-consultant one who goes through the complete process and whatever is necessary for qualifying buyers (as

BY CHARLYN FARGO

If what you eat matters more than how much you exercise when it comes to weight loss, do you still need to exercise? Absolutely. Even if the scale doesn’t budge, you’ll feel better, live longer and be happier. A new study, published in the Journal of Nutrition reminds us that, for children and adults, the foods we choose daily determine our weight. But that’s no reason to give up your time on the treadmill.

An in-depth study on children in Ecuador compared the lifestyles, diets and body compositions of children who live in rural areas to other children living in towns. They found, not surprisingly, that the rural children who run, play and scour the area for food were leaner and

well as sellers, investors, landlords, and renters too) to zero in on their specific “needs and wants” to hopefully hit that “home run” in finally satisfying the client’s search for what they are looking to get that tingling feeling from and fall in love with.

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

This is something that is learned through trial and error and is defined, honed and finessed through many years of experience like a fine-tuned race engine. It is no different than listening to those applying for a basic or high profile position, and the probing questions that one needs to ask to know if that individual is the right fit for the job.

Thinking about the tremendous amount of time I have spent over the years with clients, developing rapport and long-term relationships with them through poignant and pertinent fact-gathering conversations as one would do in an interview. This has truly reduced the amount of wasted time; although there are times some clients like to go beyond the “real estate” conversation and get into personal matters.

I oblige them because like myself, there are moments in time when some of us in the real estate industry feel just like psychiatrists, psychologists, and even hairstylists, who also hear the same stories, right? We do our best to listen to private personal and confidential issues, eg. husband, wife, girlfriend, boyfriend, and children matters, and when asked we offer advice from a layman’s point of view or from our own personal experiences. If handled properly this can bring us more closely to our clients and can form extremely tighter bonds and relation-

ships. I have several close friends that began as clients and I now consider them very close who I too can rely upon when I may need their advice.

This process of consulting is mainly about listening twice as much as we talk. I am sure that is why we were born with 2 ears and 1 mouth, but you would never know sometimes with those that talk more than they listen! There are those who have 5 mouths and ½ an ear if you can find it, LOL! To me, it’s never been about selling anything. But it’s always been more about getting prospective purchasers, investors, and renters to buy or rent from or through us by our consultative methods and information, guidance, and analysis that we provide.

Clients can then decide through careful and thoughtful conversations while considering the pros and cons and then finally narrowing down their parameters and trade-offs.

At this point, that is where they can come to a final decision in making an acceptable offer because they know and feel comfortable about what we have shown and guided them through by answering all their questions and meeting their desired requirements and not ours! Then we swing and hit the home run into the bleachers! Sometimes a grand slam will occur, where we list their home find another one and then they provide us a solid referral from a family member, friend, or business associate!

As I say it’s all about constantly and consistently listening, observing, absorbing, practicing, and applying one’s knowledge and expertise that makes a successful Broker and there-

NUTRITION NEWS

The Reason for Exercise

more active than the town children. .

Researcher Sam Urlacher, an assistant professor of anthropology at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, has been studying the Shuar people in the Amazonian Ecuador for some time. He tracked the body compositions and energy expenditure of 77 children between the ages of 4 and 12.

The children in town ate far more meat and dairy products than rural children, as well as white rice and candy, and they moved less. His conclusion? How much children eat influences their body weight more than how much they move.

So why is regular exercise so important? Here are seven reasons to exercise:

No. 1: It can help control weight gain and maintain weight loss.

fore leads to satisfied and happy clients who become your lifelong advocates and sometimes friends for future business.

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.

No. 2: It combats health conditions and diseases, including strokes, many types of cancer, high blood pressure, anxiety and arthritis, to name a few.

No. 3: It improves your mood. Endorphins in our brains are stimulated, which makes us feel happier, more relaxed and less anxious.

No. 4: It boosts energy by delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues and helps the cardiovascular system to work more efficiently.

No. 5: It promotes better sleep.

No. 6: It puts the spark back into your sex life by enhancing arousal, improving energy levels and increasing confidence about physical appearance.

No. 7: It can be fun, helping us unwind

and connect with friends.

To maintain weight, we need 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. (To lose weight, they increase the amount of moderate activity to 300 minutes or more a week.) In addition, strength training exercises are recommended at least two times a week. Whether you spread those times throughout the day or all at once isn’t critical. What matters is just to be active.

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

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Nassau County based title insurance agency seeks a bookkeeper with at least 2 years’ experience reconciling accounts, disbursing payments, performing a wide variety of data entry

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Call Kimberly (516)439-5026

Garden City General Business Law Firm seeks college-educated professional, reliable, proactive individual to work directly with Partner. Candidate must be able to perform a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to carrying out administrative duties, handling confidential information, maintaining computer and manual filing systems, drafting business letters, answering phones, communicating with clients and maintaining an organized, efficient working environment. MUST be proficient in all aspects of current law firm technology including OFFICE 365, EXCEL, OUTLOOK, and more. Job Type: Part Time FLEXIBLE

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Honest, Reliable, Friendly, Experienced Polish Woman is available for Companionship with Elderly. Housekeeping, laundry, meals, errands. Speaks English. Has own car. Call or text 516-589-5640

Night work/weekends I am available

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send resume to: kimberly@firstnw.net HOME HEALTH AIDE

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PART-TIME MONITORS 10 MONTH POSITIONS

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and other related duties as required for general purpose areas. Fingerprint clearance is required. Interviews will be on-going until the positions are filled

Please submit letter of interest, resume by April 2, 2021 to:

OLAS applications required Adrienne Commins

Assistant to the Chief Business Officer & District Clerk East Williston UFSD 11 Bacon Road, Old Westbury, NY 11568

A nonprofit organization in Queens is seeking sealed bids for sales and installation of security related enhancements. The project includes window replacement, blast resistant film installation, security training for personnel. Selection criteria will be based on knowledge of surveillance and security, adherence to work schedule, prior experience, references, and cost. Specifications and bid requirements can be obtained by contacting us at securemyschool@gmail.com All interested firms will be required to sign for the proposal documents and provide primary contact, telephone, fax and email address. Bids will be accepted until April 5, 2021 and work is to commence by: April 15, 2021 and completed by June 2021.

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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

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Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org

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MARKETPLACE

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!

MOVING SALE!!

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Vaccine is here! Safe to travel!

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Last two weeks in May. Buy one or two.

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Seek to buy Ranch or Cape Cod home in Garden City. Can pay all cash. Close now Move at your convenience. Principals Only Call : 516-747-1024

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We can frame anything!

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GCHS student honored for app development

Garden City High School freshman James Nagler already has a strong head start in the areas of programming and creating, which he plans to consider as possible college and career pursuits. A self-taught coder, James has successfully written two apps that are utilized by school districts and was recently recognized as a winner in the 2020 Congressional App Challenge.

Last year, James built an app for the Garden City Public Schools that enables the scheduling of time windows for Makerspace use. He later created a digital menu system app that is being rolled out in the Mineola Public Schools, where his father, Dr.

Michael Nagler, serves as superintendent.

James’ coding experience began in elementary school when he explored the Kidoyo program. He expanded his knowledge on his own over the years that followed and has taken many different online courses. He shared that developing each app was a process that took several weeks and involved planning, obtaining feedback and refining work, among numerous other steps.

The Congressional App Challenge’s website states that its mission is to inspire, include and innovate efforts around STEM, coding and computer science education. Each year, middle

About to hit a milestone?

and high school students across the country are invited to submit their original apps.

James looks forward to furthering his technology skills even more. “I believe that it is the future, and it’s a way for me to express my creativity,” he said.

“James is very talented and we are so proud of his hard work and accomplishments,” said Garden City Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kusum Sinha. “In addition to creating the scheduling app for our Middle School Makerspace, he has assisted his peers with Project Lead the Way. We look forward to seeing his next endeavors unfold!”

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

James Nagler

Photo courtesy of the Garden City School District

GC resident named to board of United Way

United Way of Long Island recently elected Garden City resident Dr. Jermaine F Williams, president of Nassau Community College, to its Board of Directors.  Throughout his career in higher education, Dr. Williams has focused his impact on improving access, retention, graduation and other measures of student success.   He is committed to reforming marginalized communities by strategically creating programs, policies and critical initiatives that support and yield positive student outcomes.

Dr. Williams remarked, “I am truly honored to be elected to the Board of Directors for United Way of Long Island and to serve alongside

such distinguished leaders. Nassau Community College is grateful for organizations like United Way who share our passion to effectively positively impact the lives of Long Islanders.”  He added, “As Nassau County’s sole Community College, we are supporting the needs of our community residents and look forward to deepening partnerships with United Way that speak to their building blocks of health, education, and financial stability.”

Theresa A. Regnante, president and CEO of United Way of Long Island, emphasized, “Dr. Williams brings a passion for higher learning that complements our commitment to education.  His vision also sup -

ports our mission of preparing young people – who are our future - to be successful and achieve their full potential.”

Dr. Williams received a Master of Arts in sociology from St John’s University, a Master of Educational Administration and a Doctorate of Education in educational administration from Temple University. He also holds certificates from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education for completion of the Seminar for New Presidents and Management Development Program. In 2018-2019, he was selected for the Aspen Presidential Fellowship for Community College Excellence led by the Aspen Institute.

Dr. Jermaine F. Williams

School district plans full in-person classes starting March 8th

Will hybrid model continue?

Earlier this year one of the components the district’s Reopening Plan was a hybrid (online and in-person) learning program at the secondary level. Students attended in person every other day at the secondary level, alternating with online classes.

Dr. Sinha said with the last cohort of students coming back into the district on March 8, “there really is no such thing as this online/in-person hybrid as the program becomes every other day.” The secondary-level cohorts will be abolished, and the six feet of physical distancing would be done.

According to Superintendent Sinha the District Reopening Plan should also be flexible due to emerging information, including vaccination eligibility and for dangerous new strains of the coronavirus.

The school district is hopeful that at the Board of Education’s work session scheduled for Tuesday evening, March 9, an updated Reopening Plan can be voted on “through a resolution by the Board, allowing us that flexibility in updating the plan. At the beginning, our Reopening Plan was always discussed as being fluid and flexible,” Dr. Sinha noted.

“Not a day goes by that we don’t get an update from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and the State Department of Health about potential changes or planning for districts. We’d still need the flexibility that if we ever had to go back to a hybrid mode with remote learning -- and we certainly don’t want to do that -- we can have flexibility to do that. The District Plan does need updating for when our students come back on March 8, the program we had with the six feet of distancing and everybody in cohorts will not be there,” she said.

with Stewart School we’ve moved students into Garden City Middle School in order to have the six feet distancing -- that was what the hybrid option was about with the social distancing. And we were fortunate as throughout the country there are school districts that have not opened their buildings at all, still learning fully remote. I believe we have done a pretty good job in New York State. In Nassau County, also most of the schools are either in hybrid learning formats or where we are offering everyother-day at the secondary level,” Dr. Sinha explained.

School Board Trustee Michael Cassaro said that he appreciates the goal of the Reopening Plan creating enough flexibility.

“It seems we have been paying attention to the ongoing changes or fluctuations at times requiring adjustments. As we embark upon this effort to get more kids in school I think this is something that we’ll all agree that flexibility is important to maintain,” he said.

Surveys of families?

School Board Trustee Matthew Wakeham asked Dr. Sinha if the district intended to send out another survey to families about the Reopening Plan and choice to discontinue the hybrid instructional model. Wakeham said it would be of interest to gauge the school district community’s interest in the in-classroom learning for the rest of 2020-’21. Dr. Sinha said the survey was not the focus before implementation of the full return of in-person instruction.

schools. Some parents expressed hesitation and Dr. Sinha told the board another survey, in late March, would likely be a helpful step to have feedback on the families’ comfort with in-school instruction.

The district administration noted that in Garden City’s school buildings students have been very compliant regarding safety protocols. “We do not see in our schools that kids aren’t following along. At times kids may need a reminder but for the most part the students are responsive to every protocol we’re asking for them to follow,” Dr. Sinha commented. She adds that Garden City families have been very responsive in reporting Covid-19 cases to the school district so that proper contact tracing can be pursued immediately.

Board President Holub asked if the district was in possession of a sufficient number of desk shields with increasing numbers of students coming back to Garden City High School and Middle School, “to handle the capacity of students at 75%” with the March 8 date circled. Dr. Sinha replied that the district had ordered the desk shields before and now, GCUFSD “has everything we need in order to bring our kids back.”

She noted that when sixth and twelfth graders came back to in-person learning just prior to the midwinter break, things went well and students even had the opportunity to go into some of their classrooms before the school break.

as they love having the kids in front of them,” Dr. Sinha said.

5th grade to return to Stewart

Also discussed during the meeting was whether the Stewart School fifth grade classes can move back to their school. During this year the class had been relocated to the Middle School for space reasons.

Both Superintendent Sinha and Stewart School Principal Linda Norton outlined a move back into the original school building for the remainder of the academic year. The Stewart School fifth graders currently housed at the middle school will return to their home building this coming Monday, March 8. Desk shields will be used and 5-6 feet of distancing between desks will be maintained.

Trustee Wakeham said there should be a survey sent out to all 5th grade families, and Dr. Sinha said this would again ask for a preference “one or the other” between the fully in-person and fully remote instruction.

“As all our Middle School students return they are going to need the space at GCMS. We’ve shared the challenges around grade 5’s arrivals and dismissal with the community and in communications with the Board, mainly with the car traffic. When the kids come back on March 8th there would be no larger spaces at all at the building for Middle Schoolers because our GCMS cafeteria along with the Middle School Library and music rooms are being utilized by Stewart’s fifth graders. The spaces will go back to the Middle School population, and those spaces would have more distance with the students. I know the kids want to go back into Stewart School and the Middle School is excited about the students coming back soon,” Dr. Sinha told the board. From page 1

School Board Trustee Stephanie Granville asked Dr. Sinha to clarify how all the district’s students, potentially for the rest of this school year, would either be attending in-person school full-time or learning fully remotely, no longer in a hybrid. Dr. Sinha said the clear goal for the school district is “to move towards and achieve that.”

“I am thinking as the weather gets warmer and our parents and kids can be more comfortable, the number or remote learners would decrease and more kids will be back in school. We know that for our kids, in-person instruction is beneficial for students as well as for us as educators to teach our students -- we want to have the kids in front of us. And our students need structure for the day and we provide that structure for the day -- students thrive in faceto-face interaction among peers and adults. We just did not have the space (for grades six through 12). In grades K through 5 we do have the space, and

“We could certainly do that, but at this point is doing one survey within the next two weeks for the remaining cohorts coming in on March 8. Then I think we’d do another survey more towards the end of March. There are some students and families that prefer the every-other-day option because of the level of anxiety around being safe, as classrooms are not going to have those six feet of distancing. We’re looking at their concern carefully and we don’t want to rush anything, but we are attempting to bring most of the kids into the schools. It’s challenging when students do come in every other day because it’s not a hybrid format -- in some ways the multiple options compromise learning for children. It’s also about the class having group work to complete, and then keeping track of who is coming in and who is not. We want to be careful with that as well, and it really is about being mindful of students and our parents,” she said.

School Board President William Holub said surveys were posted on the school district website. According to Dr. Sinha, results to date indicate a majority of the parents would like the schools open every day for instruction, but Dr. Sinha said there was some hesitation stated due to safety concerns without up to six feet being provided in district

“Before that break the sixth and twelfth grades were here for about a week and a half. For the most part many of our students are happy to be back in school, and the teachers are happy to have them back. In going into the classrooms and seeing how it’s going, I do believe this is a better experience for the students. And the teachers are joyful

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Environmental Board discusses village water system

From page 1

statement said.

Environmental Advisory Bd meeting

At the February 24th meeting of the Village’s Environmental Advisory Board, Village Trustee Stephen Makrinos spoke to members of the all-volunteer board via Zoom about the water system.

“This is something that the village has been taking very, very seriously even prior to New York State coming out with the official standards to adopt for 1,4 dioxane and PFOA/PFOS -- we as a village jumped into action with the technology that was out there and probably ahead of most Long Island villages. If any comments are made (by the public) that the village should have known about the potential crisis back in 2013, it is hard to imagine a remediation plan without knowing what standards the village would have to remediate to. Details from the state only came out in 2019 and went into effect in 2020. Overall with the projects, a couple of years ago we came up with the schedule of rehabilitating the village wells and the technology and electronics systems that go along with that. The Village has made several significant investments into the water system over the last few years -- and having clean, safe drinking water is very important. It’s something the Board takes very seriously and we’ll only continue to invest in this,”said Makrinos.

After Makrinos announced that half the village wells’ remediation equipment were in various stages of construction, he noted that two wells are pending Nassau County Department of Health inspection, another two are nearing completion and two more are in planning/early construction stages. Equipment at wells No. 15 and 16 near the Second Street/Hilton Avenue is under construction, with the foundation currently being built. Wells Nos. 13 and 14 are undergoing preliminary testing.

Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi said the Village of Garden City maintained a schedule of doing one well rehabilitation project per year (the well shaft, the screens and controls). Because of the AOP [advanced oxidation process] treatment systems, the full revision of the wells were added to the capital project. “All the wellhead and shaft plus control systems will all be done and updated at the same time as the AOP’s, and all the generators at wells will be upgraded if they need more power,” Suozzi explained to the EAB.

Suozzi provided specific well performance details during the EAB meeting and said of the 10 Village wells -- of which nine can run concurrently, because two are too close together to run at the same time -- Garden City is operating on five wells for this winter season. Three of those five wells passed

1,4 dioxane test results from the Nassau County Department of Health and the other two are just beginning testing.

Suozzi said just a few days prior, around February 20, the village received testing results indicating 1,4 dioxane levels under the state MCL (1.0 parts per billion). He noted that levels of 1,4 dioxane shown in test results for the three active wells indicated levels of 0.87, 0.37, and a third at 0.98 -- which dropped from 1.2 ppb -- so each of the three was under 1.0 ppb.

“All five are under the New York State health required levels for 1,4 dioxane and that’s without treatments (through Advanced Oxidation). Once the treatment is turned on they will be at non-detectable levels, basically zero. We just received clearance from New York State on Village Well No. 11 and Well No. 7 had been cleared, but they had not been processed yet. Village Well 10 has been cleared but it’s in line for a wellhead rehabilitation project. Each well must go through its own testing and they test water chemistry of each site, each well site must be proven with the test result. We expect to turn on village Wells 7 and 11 by very early March, as we wait for Nassau County DOH to give the thumbs up,” Administrator Suozzi said on February 24.

EAB member Evelyn Fasano asked Suozzi how many wells would need to be operational during summer. His answer was that it will depend on the weather.

“If it’s a dry and hot season we’ll need all nine Village wells pumping. That’s because people will have sprinklers on and garden hoses and it’s very hard to control -- no matter how many rules the village puts out there about water consumption and conservation. But it’s possible if the ninth well can’t get up and running in time we can run the other eight wells a little longer while reducing the water during the day, as we don’t want to wear out equipment,” Suozzi said.

He added that the village administration along with Village Attorney Bee’s firm and consulting engineers on the municipal water system from H2M Architects + Engineers held a meeting on February 24 for “breaking ground” and determining where the pipes would go for Wells No. 8 and 12, located at Garden City Country Club. The well system plans there were expected to be finalized March 4, with a “go live” date of June 1 in time for the summer water use season.

Trustee Makrinos concluded by saying the Village Board will keep residents abreast of every development.

“Just follow along and tune in for our Board of Trustees’ meetings as it will come up at probably every meeting as we speak about the projects that are underway,” he said.

EAB member Leo Stimmler reiterated a few of his public comments from the February 23 Board of Trustees

meeting where he criticized a letter by mayoral candidate from For a Better Garden City (FABGC) Cosmo Veneziale for what Stimmler perceived as his support of recommendations presented by “prominent environmental attorney” and former EAB member, Nick Rigano. “Back at a February 2017 EAB speaker presentation (by lecturer Sarah Meyland) she explained that there’s 1,4 dioxane in our water. Some of the attendees then felt it should be taken out of the drinking water right then, and others believed that we should be waiting for the state’s official guidelines on this emerging contaminant. My understanding is that Gov. Cuomo came out with the standard for 1,4 dioxane made official last July. Our village trustees cannot be held accountable for what happened prior to that date and there were very strong opinions then, four years ago,” Stimmler said.

Village Administrator Suozzi noted that the treatment for water contaminated with 1,4 dioxane was not available or approved by the New York State Department of Health until last year “because it comes from Canada and to date, is the only (AOP) system New York DOH has approved for use throughout the state,” he said. Another EAB member, former Village Trustee Laurence Quinn, also said he recalled asking Meyland about the treatments for 1,4 dioxane back in 2017 and at that time she said none were available “that could even reach the remote standards (MCLs) they were projecting.”

“If New York State had said the MCL at 1.5 parts per billion, we’d be treating one or two village wells. If they had set it at 2.0 ppb we’d be treating no wells -- but thank God they have set it low, at 1.0 ppb, because the closer to zero that it is then the better for everyone. Setting it at 1.0 ppb was a very aggressive move because usually when a state regulatory agency sets a limit for a contaminant, they will usually say we want the municipality or agency/district to have this in place in 18 months or two years from now. The State did this kind of backwards as they set the standard but have regulations coming into effect, but then they offered deferrals for those who might (towns/villages/cities) who might need it. If you are doing all the things you are asked to do and you are ahead of schedule and working at this, then New York State could consider a

deferral. With less than two weeks left to apply, the Village applied for that and received it (late last year),” Suozzi said.

Reducing water usage on lawns

Goals of reducing usage of water during peak months have been advised to village residents by municipal government mailings, as Trustee Makrinos said a few reminders went out. “For instance, if you have an odd numbered house you would water the lawn/ flip sprinklers on on the odd days of the month, and so forth. We are also reminding residents of the need to have rain sensors installed for their sprinkler systems,” he said, suggesting that regulations around the use of water for the property could be another part of literature in the mail.

Village Administrator Suozzi said that in the spring some public outreach and education is planned. “As we get towards April and May we could have items to include in the Mayor’s Column, or through POA meetings and newsletters, the Garden City Chamber of Commerce and The Garden City News reminding people that it’s most important to conserve water and that they should check with their irrigation system companies and that homeowners and businesses know just how long their sprinklers will be on for, and when, so they may know how much water they use,” Suozzi said.

The EAB’s Elizabeth Bailey said water districts, municipalities and suppliers in Nassau County overall have upgraded their water meter reading systems.

“Some of them have meter reading systems where they can actually determine whether people are obeying those irrigation guidelines by just the frequency with which they read the meters. Unfortunately I asked (former Superintendent of Public Works) Joe DiFrancisco about that and he said Garden City’s meter reading system does not permit that,” she said. Suozzi then explained that the water meters are read electronically but that type of data would need to be manually exported “to create spreadsheets and graphs, and it could be very cumbersome.”

“There is a (village) plan to upgrade the water module and that may have reporting capabilities that might assist in that manner, but right now that would not be progressing,” he said.

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Girls Varsity Fencing finishes tied for third in county

After their thrilling quarterfinal win, the girls’ playoff run came to an end in the semi-finals against Great Neck South, which subsequently repeated as Nassau County Champions. Yet, the girls can hold their heads high as they had a great season and finished tied for third out of twelve competing teams! We congratulate the team for its fantastic results this year under what were definitely unusual circumstances. Additionally, we congratulate three fencers who earned “All County” Honorable Mentions from the Nassau County Fencing Coaches’ Association based on their winning percentages during the regular season. These fencers are sophomore Alexa Andron in Saber, junior foil captain Sophia Ortiz and sophomore Dian Wakeham in épée. Finally, as we wrap up another successful season of GC fencing, we thank Coach Appelman for her efforts and bid farewell to three special seniors:

Senior Spotlight

Riley DeGearo

Riley DeGearo was saber co-captain this year and has been on the GC Varsity Fencing team since the 9th grade. She joined the team as a freshman with friends and due to the encouragement of then Coach Denise Holz. Riley thought that it would be fun to learn something new and was looking for a winter sport. She was also drawn to fencing by the then current team members and others

that would be joining with her. As to weapon choice, the coaches felt that saber would be a good fit because Riley was quick. At the end of last season, her teammates elected Riley saber co-captain for her senior year. Riley has enjoyed the friendships both made and strengthened on the team as well as the camaraderie with her teammates. “Fencing has taught me perseverance and that hard work pays off.” Riley’s leadership qualities have also served her as the brass section leader in the GC Marching Band, where she has been a member since the 8th grade. She also swims competitively year round. As to the future, Riley is open to fencing in college on an intramural or club team. She is still deciding on what school to attend and her major.

Annaliese Etienne

Annaliese Etienne was saber co-captain this year and has been on the GC Varsity Fencing team since 9th grade. Annaliese was drawn into the sport by her two sisters, Caitlin (‘17) and Brianne (‘18), who were also both saber fencers. Aside from her sisters’ influence in weapon selection, Annaliese also liked how saber was the most fast paced weapon. Annaliese is thankful for the fencing team as it “brought me some of my closest friends and has given me a unique experience at the same time.” She notes that while it was tough at times, she learned to get through the

rough patches because it’s all worth it in the end. Annaliese even “learned to appreciate the 2-hour long practices of intense workouts and full-day tournaments, which I used to dread as a freshman.” Annaliese was elected by her teammates as saber co-captain for her senior year. Her style on the strip is unique in that her attacks somehow manage to be lightning fast and graceful at the same time. She leaves the team “forever thankful that the fencing team was such a large part of my high school career.” As to the future, this is probably a wrap for her fencing career barring there being a club fencing team in college. Annaliese plans on studying engineering at either SUNY Maritime or the United States Merchant Marine Academy.

Francesca DiStefano

Fracesca DiStefano is épée captain and has been on the GC Varsity Fencing team since freshman year. At that time, her art teacher, Denise Holz, was coaching the team and encouraged Francesca to join. She had been looking for a winter activity and thought that it would be an interesting sport to learn. The coach suggested that Francesca try épée and she stuck with it for her four years on the team. As to her time fencing, Francesca reflects that “it’s been great to be part of such a close-knit group and unique sport.” She knows that the

Attention students!

friendships she made from the team will last beyond high school and notes that being on the team “has been one of the most positive experiences I’ve had these past four years.” As to the future, Francesca will be off to college in the fall and is open to fencing on a club team. She also notes that she would love to coach little kids in fencing.

We wish Riley, Annaliese and Francesca all the best in college and beyond. You will all be missed!

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

Senior saber co-captain Riley DeGearo

Senior épée captain Francesca DiStefano

Good luck seniors!

Senior saber co-captain Annaliese Etienne

GCHS Senior Spotlight: Matthew Mohen

Matthew Mohen has earned many achievements in his high school years. The National WWII Museum in New Orleans named him the 2020 Billy

Michal Student Leadership Award recipient from New York, and he recently finished in the top three of the Face of Nassau Baseball poll.

The Billy Michal Student Leadership Award is a national distinction presented annually to one student in each state. Honorees are selected based on their ability to maintain a strong record of volunteerism, demonstrate tolerance and school and community activism and involvement in implementing creative solutions to recognized problems.

As a varsity baseball player, Matthew has acquired such honors as the Brooklyn Strikeout Leader from 2018-2020. He also participated in the Summer 2020 New York Borough Cup Baseball Championship, and his family reports that he is committed to play baseball at the American International College NCAA NE-10 Conference.

Submissions are from staff, students, or parents. To nominate a GCHS senior, please contact Assistant Principal for Guidance and PPS Mandi Stefankiewicz at stefankiewiczm@ gcufsd.net.

FOR SENIORS fyi

Garden City Senior Center Open

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

Our hours will be 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

We will be practicing social distancing, so no exercise or group activities will take place at this time. Anyone visiting the Center will be required to wear a mask during their visit.

Lecture - “Is Journalism Dead?” with John Ellis Kordes

Tuesday, March 16 at 1 p.m.

Please visit the Senior Center as John Ellis Kordes presents “Is Journalism Dead?”. As newspapers and magazines go out of business and network news rating are declining, will journalism survive? The internet and social media are taking over—what does that mean for news as we know it? Mr. Kordes will

take a look at the state of the media in America today and in the future.

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.

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GARDEN CITY CENTENNIAL SOCCER CLUB SCHOLARSHIP

The Garden City Centennial Soccer Club is proud to announce that it is once again offering scholarships to eligible High School Seniors

Eligible candidates must be:

* High School Senior graduating this spring

* Attending an accredited university or college in the 2021-2022 school year

* A participant in a Centennial Soccer program for at least five years (intramurals, travel, referees and/or TOPSoccer)

* A Garden City resident

Additional qualifications and requirements are specified on the application.

At least four SCHOLARSHIPS of no less than $1,000 each will be awarded this spring

Applications can be obtained through the Garden City High School Guidance Office or through the Centennial website.

www.gccentennialsoccer.org

Applications must be submitted by April 1, 2021

We welcome and appreciate any contributions. Donations can be mailed to “GCCSC Scholarship Fund,” P.O. Box 358, Garden City, NY 11530

Matthew Mohen

Litmor Publishing Corp.

GC RECREATION AND PARK NEWS

Fieldhouse Program for Kindergarten & 1st Grades Extended

Due to the popularity of these programs, our after school gym program for Kindergarten and 1st grades has been extended through March. You will have to register and pay for the additional dates of the program.

Garden City and Parks continue to offer this after school program in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse for children in Kindergarten and 1st grades. This program will consist of organized games and activities in a supervised setting.

Note: Children must wear a mask to participate and bring a signed Covid form to each session. Children must bring their own water bottle clearly labeled with their name. Parents will not be allowed in the gym during the session. Drop off and pick up will take place on the west side of the fieldhouse (drive up). Space is limited for this program.

This program will run in St. Paul’s Field House according to the following schedule: Kindergarten extended two weeks – Thursdays, March 18 & 25 from 4 to 5:30 pm. The cost will be $20.

1st Grade extended three weeks –Wednesdays, March 10, 17, 24 or Fridays, March 12, 19, 26 from 4 to 5:30 pm. The cost well be $30.

Sneakers must be worn for any activity in the field house and only water is allowed

in the facility.

Note: Once the children are in our facility, they will not be allowed to leave unless picked up by an adult. Please be prompt.

Space is limited. Please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. with your registration fee made payable to the Inc. Village of Garden City, or, if you have a password you can register online at www.gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

“Bricks 4 Kidz” After School Program

Garden City Recreation and Parks is working with “Bricks4Kidz” to offer several 6 week Lego programs for residents in grades 1 to 4.

These classes will be held in St. Paul’s Center at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

“Bricks4Kidz” classes build on the popular “LEGO” bricks to deliver high-quality educational play. Each hour-long class is an engaging experience for your child with a new project each week. Our unique models aren’t the kits you find on the shelves of a toy store. They’re designed by “Bricks4Kidz” to teach concepts across a variety of subject areas. Working with a partner, or on their own, your child will experience the hands-on fun of seeing a model come together piece-by-piece, from concept to completion – and it’s motorized! We will offer the following classes:

SPECTACULAR SPORTS

Wednesdays beginning April 14 from 4 to 5 p.m.

In the Sports session, children will make motorized models of a wide variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, gymnastics and mini-golf using LEGO®Technic bricks and our own Bricks 4 Kidz design instructions. Learn how to use gears and axles, pulleys and levers to create amazing and fun motorized moving parts as we build these spectacular sports models. At the end of the 6 week session, all participants will go home with a LEGO® goody bag!

AMAZING ANIMALS

Thursday beginning April 15 from 4 to 5 p.m.

It's a zoo in here! Join us for a 6 week session building models of amazing animals. Each week we’ll discuss fascinating facts about the animals we build, from the chameleon that changes colors to the seal model that waddles across the table.

At the end of the 6-week session, all participants will go home with a LEGO® goody bag!

The cost of each session will be $135, checks only made payable to “Bricks4Kids”. To register please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. Please note: Masks must be worn to attend this class.

2nd Session of

Saturday Gym Program

Garden City Recreation and Parks will

conduct a second session, four week gym program on Saturdays for children in grades 2–5. This program will consist of organized games and activities in a supervised setting.

Note: Children must wear a mask to participate and bring a signed COVID form to each session. Children must bring their own water bottle clearly labeled with their name. Parents will not be allowed in the gym during the session. Drop off and pick up will take place on the west side of the fieldhouse (drive up). Once the children are in our facility, they will not be allowed to leave unless picked up by an adult. Please be prompt. Space is limited for this program.

The registration fee for this program is $40. This four week program will begin on March 6 and will run in St. Paul’s Field House according to the following schedule:

Grades 2–3 - Saturdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Grades 4–5 - Saturdays from 11:30 am to 1 p.m.

Sneakers must be worn for any activity in the field house and only water is allowed in the facility.

Please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. with a $40 registration fee made payable to the Inc. Village of Garden City, or, if you have a password you can register online at www. gcreconline.gardencityny.net

GCHS Boys Fencing Senior Spotlight

Ryan Bradley

Ryan is épée co-captain and has been fencing on the team since ninth grade.  Ryan had previously fenced foil in camp and at 5T Fencing Academy, but switched weapons to fill a gap in the men's epee roster in his sophomore year.  Ryan credits the fencing team with providing him unconditional support and camaraderie both on and off the strip.  One of the most memorable days of Ryan's life was when the team clinched the Nassau County Championship in 2020.  That same year, Ryan received Honorable Mention recognition. He is the namesake of the Bradley Memorial Award given to the fencer who had the best performance at a victorious meet.  Ryan plans on continuing to fence at tournaments and in college; he is not sure where he will attend college yet, but plans to study psychology.

Sean Maas

Sean Maas joined the G.C. Varsity fencing team in eighth grade. He has been épeé captain for his junior and senior years. Sean started fencing in 3rd grade as a Star Wars-obsessed kid whose mom suggested he have his 9th birthday party at North Shore Fencers Club. He

fell in love with the sport immediately, and began foil lessons the following week. When he was in 7th grade, he switched to épée and started training at NYFA in Coney Island, Brooklyn. When he joined the GC Fencing team, Sean was used to competing individually in relatively quiet National and Regional tournaments. At first, he was rattled by the cheering and shouting from his teammates and parents in the stands. He soon grew to love the chants of “uno Maas” and “live Maas” every time he was on the strip. He also learned to appreciate the support from his teammates and being a part of the GC Fencing family. Sean’s accomplishments while on the team include winning gold at the Nassau County Underclassman Tournament during his first and second years on the team (2017, 2018). During his sophomore year, he tied for third place at the annual Brentwood Holiday Tournament (2018) and also made Second Team All-County (2019). In 2020, he played a major role in enabling the team to win the Nassau County Championship. Sean trains year round at NYFA Long Island and competes in Regional and National tournaments. Sean plans to continue fencing competitively throughout his college years and beyond.

Logan Morrison

Logan was inspired to join the GCHS fencing team as early as 6th grade when the boys team were named Nassau County champions. His older brother, Bryce “the tree” Morrison, was épée boys’ captain. Upon entering High School, Coach Oliver decided that Logan too has the perfect body structure to also perform in épée. Logan is an ever-popular member of the team. He is also an accomplished tennis player and represents the GCHS team there. His non-sporting interests include rock music and collecting vinyl records. Logan has been accepted into a number of colleges and has accepted enrollment into the Dolan School of Business at

Fairfield University. He looks forward to hearing of the continued successes of the fencing team.

Andrew Burns

Andrew “he’s hot, he burns” Burns joined the fencing team in 9th grade. It was a natural fit for him, having become interested in the sport of fencing when he took a foil class at Hofstra in 5th grade. Andrew fell in love with the strategy of foil fencing and joined the exclusive foil club, 5T. He continues to train year round there and has received a national rating (2019). As a sophomore, he became a starter and earned Nassau All County Honorable Mention, which he repeated as a junior, as well as winning the county championship, an unforgettable high school experience. Andrew is now the senior foil captain, teaching and guiding younger foil fencers. “Being on the team has been an amazing experience for me, our team is always the most enthusiastic on and off the strip and it has shown me the importance of always supporting your friends. I also learned a lot from Coach Oliver and my teammates about

competing at a high level but always with sportsmanship.” Andrew plans on studying computer science in college, and will continue to fence either for a competitive college club or NCAA III team.

Aidan joined the fencing team in 10th grade at the behest of his friends, and immediately became a valuable contributor to an already strong and experienced épée squad. During his sophomore year, Aidan started and won a handful of matches as a “super-sub” and capped his first year winning the bronze medal at the Nassau County Underclassmen Tournament. As a junior, Aidan showed vast improvement and became a starter on the county championship team. Aidan has immensely enjoyed his fencing experience, especially working with and competing next to his best friends as well as mentoring some of the younger fencers on the team. Aidan has relished the unparalleled support, the spirit and the camaraderie that the fencing team offers, and is definitely going to miss those moments when the

Aidan Rosenblatt

Sean Maas

Andrew Burns

Left to right: Grant Scarangella, Ryan Bradley, Andrew Burns, Aidan Rosenblatt, Sean Maas, Justin Martin, Logan Morrison

Aidan Rosenblatt

Ryan Bradley

Logan Morrison

GCHS Boys Fencing Senior Spotlight

entire team stomps their feet and chants “Rosie” starting from a low hush to a loud uncontrollable frenzy. He thanks Coach Oliver and Coach Appleman for creating such a supportive and positive environment in which to compete, and wishes the team nothing but the best in the future. Aidan’s only regret is that he did not discover the great sport of fencing earlier. Aidan hopes to continue to fence in college and beyond, actively seeking out a school that has a strong club program.

Grant Scarangella

Grant joined the fencing team as a sophomore at his friends’ request. They described the positive coaching, friendships and exciting sport and convinced him to join the team. Grant also thought using swords looked like fun. The sabre captain that year, Logan O’Grady, selected Grant as a sabre weapon specialist. The sabre weapon requires high speed and intensity. As a junior, Grant participated on the coun-

ty championship team. Now as a sabre captain himself, Grant is grateful for the experience of having met a variety of great people and learning an interesting

and fun sport. He enjoys competing and inspiring others and appreciates the team spirit. In the future, Grant plans to study business in college. Although

Conversational, opinionated, wordsmith?

uncertain as to which school he will attend, he will continue to fence if the program is available.

Justin Martin

Justin “Just-in” Martin joined the fencing team as a sophomore. He had always been interested in fencing as a sport and wanted to join a high school team. Although he had not fenced previously, his friends convinced him to try out for the team. Justin wanted to fence foil “because it is the most common weapon used in competition.” Being part of the fencing team allowed him to learn foil, resulting in him joining the 5T fencing club to further his skills. Through fencing, he has also made many new friendships. Justin has “enjoyed the genuine camaraderie and team spirit on our team.” He will be attending college next fall studying computer science/cybersecurity and will fence there as well as continuing with 5T when he is in Garden City.

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Grant Scarangella

Justin Martin

GCHS Boys Fencing suffers tough playoff loss

The Trojans 2021 season came to an end last Thursday, February 25, as they faced the regular season champions from Syosset High School in the Nassau County Fencing Playoff semi-finals. The meet got off to a great start with junior saber Alex Pasqualina opening with a 5-0 win, and GC and Syosset squads trading wins over the next three matches to bring the teams to a 2-2 tie. Unfortunately, for the rest of the match Syosset won 2 for each GC victory and outpointed the Trojans to win 14-9.

The saber squad led GC with 6 wins to 3 losses, with 3 wins from junior Alex Pasqualina, 2 wins from senior captain Grant Scarangella and 1 win from junior Nicholas Michael. The epée squad broke even with 3 wins

and 3 losses, led by senior co-captain Sean Maas with 2 wins and his fellow senior co-captain Ryan Bradley with another win. The foil squad had a very tough meet facing off against a very strong Syosset squad and came up empty in 8 matches. In the end, the boys fought valiantly and gave it their all against the strong squad from Syosset.

As the season comes to an end, it is worth reflecting on “what a short strange trip it’s been”. The season was compressed into six quick weeks, split squad practices, masked and socially distanced meets, limited substitutions and no spectators. The parents and fans all got used to watching meets on YouTube or Zoom, and ended up yelling at their televisions or tablets like they were

watching the Super Bowl, or yelling and emailing when the link froze or disappeared.

An unusual season to say the least, but the boys and their parents are very grateful to Coach Oliver and Coach Appelman for all their hard work in making sure that the fencing season went live. They are also very grateful to Garden City High School administration for all its support this season and in particular Director of Athletics Eammonn Flood for all his help this season and making sure the parents and fans were able to watch all the meets. The boys also want to thank the senior parents for organizing a great senior day despite multiple reschedulings due to the snowy February weather.

Finally, the All County honors

were named for the 2021 season with senior epée co-captain Sean Maas named 1st Team All Long Island with a 22-4 record for the regular season. Sean was dominant all season and went a stretch of 5 meets without a loss. 2nd Team All County honors went to senior foil Captain Andrew Burns and junior saber Alex Pasqualina, while Honorable Mentions went to foil juniors Joe Armstrong and Jordan DeNaro. As we look forward to the future, we want to thank the seven departing seniors (see Senior Spotlight article) and congratulate the new captains for 2022 season: saber co-captains Alex Pasqualina and Nicholas Michael, foil co-captains Joe Armstrong and Jordan DeNaro, and épée captain Michael Siragusa.

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