The Garden City News (11/26/21)

MEET A VETERAN

On Veterans Day members of the American Legion shared their experiences during a “Meet A Veteran” program. Above, guest speaker John Halloran shows his shadowbox of medals to Isabella Welch. See page 32

WPOA Candidates Night

The Western Property Owners Association (WPOA) will hold a General Meeting on Monday, November 29, 7:30 p.m. at Homestead School. The WPOA is planning a Meet the Candidates session, where Western section residents who have applied for the positions of Village Trustee, a two-year term beginning in April 2022, and School Board Trustee, a three-year term beginning in July 2022, will have the oppor-

tunity to address residents. We have several applicants coming to speak at this meeting. The WPOA is encouraging the applicants to speak about their interests in serving in these positions and explain their qualifications. A short question-and-answer session will follow.

Residents are encouraged to bring friends and neighbors to this meeting so they can become acquainted with

local residents seeking office in the upcoming elections.

Our Western Section representative to the Environmental Advisory Board, Larry Quinn, will speak about the EAB’s recent discussions on the noise and pollution complaints regarding commercial landscapers’ leaf blowers and how this situation might be mitigated.

See page 43

Board

BY RIKKI MASSAND

The Garden City Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) met in-person at Village Hall and on Zoom last Wednesday, November 17, to continue its discussion of gasoline-powered leaf blowers and the environmental issues they present.

The Garden City EAB has hosted discussions on this topic dating back nearly five years. Last Wednesday night, suggestions from the EAB regarding a seasonal ban on the blowers appeared to be headed to the Board of Trustees, which would ultimately make such a decision.

All EAB members at the meeting concurred on the village having a seasonal ban on gas-powered blowers for July and August. One member suggested this would present “a small step while being conscious of adjustments landscaping business owners would make.”

The EAB is only authorized to make recommendations to the Village Board of Trustees. If the Board of Trustees were to take up the issue it would have to place it on the agenda of a future meeting. In addition, any local law would also require a public hearing to be held.

In addition, more details and specific language could be added to the proposal and it would also need to be reviewed by the village’s legal counsel.

The EAB said that landscaping companies will have ample opportunity to comment prior to it being voted on by the trustees.

Mike Lutz, who has been in the landscaping business for 45 years with his firm “Landscaping by Lutz’’ was a key participant in the EAB’s discussion last week. He received a warm welcome and introduction from Village Trustee Mary Carter Flanagan, who chairs the EAB. Flanagan was disappointed that no one from the village’s municipally-contracted landscaping service, Floral Park-based ConKel Landscaping, could not attend the meeting.

The message Lutz came to deliver to the EAB was rather than imposing ‘Restrictions’ he believes the village should make mandates for ‘Respectful’ use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers.

Lutz said 95% of his company’s work is in Garden City and he runs two crews, covering everything from huge estates in the Central Section to smaller houses in the east or the west.

“For the things that the environmental board and village residents outlined as concerns, I think that if we work together as a team

See page 42

Shop locally this season

As many of our readers will see this issue of the paper on Black Friday, that starting line to the sprint for holiday gifts, we’d like to urge everyone to patronize local businesses as much as possible this year.

Right here in town you can get great gifts at the Historical Society’s Holiday Village and Market on Saturday, December 4th at the Society’s house at 109 Eleventh Street.

Looking for experiences to give? Try one of the spas or salons and give a day of beauty?

Does your family love to eat? Garden City has some of the best restaurants on Long Island, of many different cuisines? Do you need a tree? The Community

Church is selling Christmas trees on December 4th.

Shopping locally is a lot more fun than going to the big box mall, with its mega parking lots and mega lines. Get something for everyone on your list right here in town in half the time.

And shopping locally supports small businesses who, in turn, support the community. Without the support of small businesses, we wouldn’t be able to bring you this newspaper each week, because they support us.

n

We would also like to wish our Jewish readers a Happy Hanukkah. May your families have peace and light in this holiday season.

We’ve joined Compass!

After 12 years helping clients in the Garden City market we have made the move to Compass, a technology-driven real estate company with innovative tools and exclusive programs.

We look forward to providing our clients with an exceptional buying or selling experience.

Stephen Baymack

Licensed Associate RE Broker

stephen.baymack@compass.com

M: 516.216.0244

Laura Baymack

Licensed RE Salesperson

laura.baymack@compass.com

M: 516.537.5030

Parents should be vigilant

To the Editor:

It was more than disturbing to read that the implementation of Critical Race Theory even had to be discussed at a recent GC Board of Education meeting. (GC News, November 19). Prior to the necessity of Covid’s remote teaching, the majority of parents nationwide were essentially left in the dark as to CRT being incorporated into their children’s syllabi. This has now changed as parents have seen, first hand, myriad CRT infused lessons and assignments. (“Now class, let’s talk about all the privileges and oppressiveness associated with your whiteness; OK? How should you feel about this? Oh? Did I hear Very Bad? Ahhh, that’s a great start!”) CRT has, in fact, been infused into children’s lessons nationwide -- ‘hidden’ by the left’s obfuscation and false nomenclatures. This is easily verifiable.

The only way concerned parents can prevent the creep of this sophistry of leftist rot from poisoning children’s intellect is to be, and remain, vigilant. Very vigilant.

Anthony Parks

Rice let us down again

To the Editor:

Our representative Democrat Kathleen Rice has just voted to bankrupt your children and grandchildren by supporting the Socialist bill supported by Biden and Pelosi. I pray that the Senate kills this horrible bill which very few of her constituents would support due to the socialist/communist programs that are included in this legislation that Bernie Sanders and AOC have been pushing for the past year.

Richard F. Hay

Benefits, drawbacks to gas

To the Editor:

During the winter and spring of 2022, National Grid is installing new underground gas main lines in Garden City. Though these lines will help to improve

Yes! Y

I want to subscribe to

system safety and provide the gas system with greater operational flexibility, it is important to know both the benefits and drawbacks of a natural gas system.

Natural gas is an efficient, relatively clean burning, and inexpensive source of energy. Burning natural gas results in fewer emissions of carbon dioxide than burning coal or petroleum to produce the same amount of energy.

However, natural gas is a nonrenewable resource. Like other fossil fuels, natural gas is limited, though it is a relatively good alternative for oil and coal. As methods like fracking have made natural gas more attainable over the last fifty years, it has grown to be viewed as advantageous towards the environment and cheaper than other resources.

Many people may believe that utilizing solar power is an enticing alternative to natural gas. Solar power is clean, safe, and a good source of electricity. Unfortunately, the upfront costs to install solar equipment are so expensive that they easily deter many from converting to this model.

It is important that our village is aware of the benefits that a natural gas system can have on our environment in comparison to that of coal or oil. Though the installation of these main lines may be somewhat inconvenient, natural gas is a source of energy that will benefit both our town and the environment at large.

Caroline Sullivan 7 minutes to Grand Central To the Editor, Re: “Problems with new train,” Larry Penner, 11/21/2021 GCN.

I agree with the author that maybe - maybe - the cost vs. time saved is not cost effective. But as far as LIRR ridership being down, how can the author possibly predict what will happen in December, 2022? In October, 2020, the author had an opinion piece published in the Riverdale Press, predicting there would be no air conditioning on

Garden City

Mayor forms committee on St. Paul’s

At the November 18 meeting of the Garden City Board of Trustees, Mayor Cosmo Veneziale announced the formation of a St. Paul's Committee. Resident volunteers who will serve on the committee are as follows:

Brian Deveney, Chairman

Robert Schoelle, Vice-Chairman

Historic Research Subcommittee

Bill Garry (C)

Brian Pinnola

Kate Schmidt

Program and Use Analysis Subcommittee

Frank McDonough (C)

Jack Hartog

Betsy Andromidas

Johnathan Martin

Michele Harrington

George Salem

Kathie Wysocki

Budget and Finance Subcommittee

Ryan Mulrooney (C)

Do

Stephen Fereance

Bob Davis

George Kane

Thomas G. Ryan

Kurt Ehrig

Nicholas Eliopoulos

Robert Orosz

Legal and Zoning Subcommittee

Charles P. Kelly (C)

Tom Lamberti

Remy Bernardo

Ed Finneran

Jason Danisi

Keith Galanti

Design and Engineering Subcommitee

William Alisse, R.A. (C)

Joseph Jabour, P.E.

Joseph Plati, P.E.

Richard Redmond, P.E.

William Sollin

Brian Gemmell

Dan Clark

Paul Capece, A.I.A.

information.

Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray recognized Alan

Garden City Cub Scout Pack 55,

The Number One Brokerage in Garden City*

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

Suzanne Blair Liz Breslin

Kate Crofton Denise Donlon

Theanne Ricci

Shane Mullally Patricia O Grady

Laura Giacini Nancy Giannone George Kyriazis Cheryl Adams McAuliffe

Patricia Aprigliano Deirdre Albertson Susan Bashian Jasmin Burgos

Nicole Brodie

Andrea Bharucha Barbara Chmil Bill Eckel Atticka Ellis

Arlene Conigliaro Lisa Fedor

Maribeth Quinn Thomas Revithas

Cathleen Fennessy Whelan

Sharon Redmond Laura Rich Elise Ronzetti John H Russo Angela Linda Sambus Patricia Savella

Viviian Tener Kathleen Thornton Mary Weille

Louisa Pironi Rita Paiewonsky

Barbara Moore

Julie O’Neill

Laura Fitzgerald

Pamela Goeller Karen Guendjoian Tara L`ori

Roseanne McMahon Jayne McGratty Armstrong Monica Kiely

McCoyd

Photos with Santa Santa Claus is Coming to COACH REALTORS

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.

Governance Committee to recommend changes to board structure

SUBMITTED BY THE VILLAGE GOVERNMENT GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

This past year has seen significant changes in the Village of Garden City…

Since the village-wide election in March, at the behest of the Mayor  and with the active participation of many residents via various resident committees, there has been a significant amount of activity undertaken to evaluate existing village policies and procedures, either directly via the Board of Trustees, or within the aforementioned committees.  As an example, last week after months of work, the Fire Committee reported its findings and recommendations to the BOT to improve fire safety.  In addition, the St. Paul’s Committee has been formed and will be doing much heavy lifting in the coming weeks and months,  leading to a village-wide referendum on the fate of St. Paul’s.

[The Village Governance Committee continues to encourage all residents to participate on these committees commensurate with their respective areas of interest, expertise and time commitment required!]

The Village Government Governance Committee will be putting forth recommendations to the BOT. in the coming weeks regarding potential changes to the village governance structure beginning with the 2022–2023 election cycle.

Some of the recommendations the committee plans to put forth include: adopting BOT term-limits; ending the historical ‘rotation’ (in geographic seriatim) of the Mayor’s office; proposing that the office of the mayor should be a standalone village-wide election (simultaneously with the BOT);  and  allowing a sitting  mayor to run for re-election (subject to term limits).  Other more potentially controversial suggestions that have been suggested in sessions with various village parties include: calling for the mayor to be paid a (to be determined) stipend/salary;  electing all or one-half of the bot members in an “at large” fashion;  and redistricting the current geographic section breakdown into possibly two or three more equally populated districts. Some recommendations may need to be voted on by the BOT. and some will not (such as the rotation of the mayor, which has become tradition due to POA policies and traditions.)

We seek input from any and all residents on ways to improve the functioning and representation of village government. To that end, please contact co-chairs Ed Finneran and/or Donald MacLeod at gcvillagegovernancecommitte@gmail.com.  All inquiries will get a response.

More information about various issues to come in the weeks ahead.

Local non-profit’s CEO named Woman of Distinction

Life’s WORC, nonprofit organization located in Garden City that is dedicated to supporting peopled with intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism through its residential, community and trust services, is proud to announce that its chief executive officer, Janet Koch, was recently recognized as one of Nassau’s County’s Women of Distinction. The award program,  presented by Blank Slate Media, celebrated women who are leaders in their fields ranging from business to not-for-profit, health and human services. These noteworthy women were honored in a networking and awards event held on November 9, 2021 at Leonard’s Palazzo of Great Neck. Serving as the keynote speaker was Madeline Singas, associate judge, New York State Court of Appeals. News 12 Long Island’s Antoinette Biordi was the host.

Janet Koch, CEO of Life’s WORC receiving her award from Steve Blank, Blank Slate Media.

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

35 Osborne Rd.

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

The information about the homes and the photos were obtained through the Multiple Listing Services of Long Island. The homes presented were selected based solely on the fact that they were recently sold. Mortgage Rates this week from www.nerdwallet.com Loan

Date: 11/23/2021

Sold price: $2,040,000

5 bedrooms, 3 full baths

Style: Exp Ranch

Lot Size: .4 acres

Total taxes: $26,856

MLS number: 3284003

The Seller’s Team: Jennifer Sullivan, Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Anthony Guerriero, Century 21 AA Realty

Absolute pride of ownership in this newly renovated 5-bedroom, 3-bath stunning designer home situated mid-block on one of the best streets in Garden City! The 4000 sqft floor plan is open, light-filled w/ oversized windows, skylights & meticulously decorated. The main level offers relaxing & sophisticated living w/ a Formal living room w/ giant bay window, elegant dining room, new kitchen w/ Thermador & Bosch appliances, custom hood & separate breakfast area, a WOW 21’ x 19’ great room w/ vaulted shiplap ceiling, 2 story fireplace, skylights & wall of windows, home office, lounge/parlor w/ French doors creating wonderful indoor/ outdoor flow, mudroom, guest bath & master suite w/ brand new en suite bathroom. Upstairs you will find 3 oversized bedrooms, full bath & family rm/playroom. Other highlights: extensive millwork, new lighting fixtures, 2 fireplaces, attached 2-car garage, new long driveway with parking court, and professionally landscaped 113 x 150 lot w/ beautiful grounds!

Date: 11/16/2021

Sold Price: $1,807,000

6 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half bath

Style: Colonial

Lot Size: .43 acres

Total taxes: $25,857

MLS number: 3341472

The Seller’s Team: Maureen Taylor, Coach Realtors of Willistons

The Buyer’s Team: Mairead Garry, Compass Greater NY

Stunning, Spacious, Colonial in the Heart of the Central Section of Garden City. Just a short stroll to Charming Village Shops, Restaurants, and the LIRR. Beautiful Architectural Details throughout this Inviting Home. Great flow through First floor which features a Large Living room, Den, Formal Dining Room, Butler Pantry, Expanded Eat in Kitchen, and Mudroom. 6 Bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths leave room for All to Stay and Plenty of Space to Work at Home. Over 3500 sq ft plus a Finished Oversized Basement with Large Laundry Room, Rec Room, Home Gym and Storage galore. The Perfect Home for Everyday Living and Entertaining both Inside and Outside in the Relaxing, Private Backyard.

Date: 11/23/2021

Sold Price: $1,315,000

Style: Colonial

4 bedrooms, 3 full baths

Lot Size: .23 acres

Total taxes: $22,159

MLS number: 3299053

The Seller’s Team: Alexandra Porter, Douglas Elliman Real Estate

The Buyer’s Team: Clare Governale and Grace Kusnierek, Daniel Gale Real Estate

This peacefully located center-hall Dutch colonial has irresistible curb appeal. Set back on corner, the property manages to feel extremely private while maintaining its proximity to the train and golf course. Formal living room and dining room are ideal for entertaining. The charming den/music room is equipped with a dual-sided, wood-burning fire place that can be enjoyed from the both the den and living room. A spacious eat-in kitchen leads to a central sunroom with entries leading to a gated backyard and bluestone patio. Hardwood floors on both levels including finished basement. A must-see in Garden City!

Houses featured on this page were sold by various real estate agencies This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

Hilton Ave.

107 Salisbury Ave.

Katarzyna Kamer: M 917.548.7106

Christmas Tree Sale, Advent Celebration at GC Community Church

BY MELVA VICTORINO

The arrival of this year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in Midtown Manhattan on November 13th, officially began the holiday season.  The Norway Spruce is 79 feet tall, 46 feet wide and weighs 12 tons. It was 85 years old.  The official lighting of the tree always takes place the Wednesday after Thanksgiving. This year, it falls on Wednesday, December 1st  and marks the 89th ceremony in its history.  The color theme for this year is all about

joyful and bright, in both the traditional color and contemporary alternatives such as magenta and blue with muted colors. Whatever the colors and the size of the your Christmas tree this year, be sure to get it from the Garden City Community Church (GCCC) Christmas Tree Sale on Saturday, December 4th from 8:00 a.m. through 12:30 p.m.  GCCC cannot offer you a 79 feet tall Christmas Tree, but we can offer you even better.  There will be many fabulous trees  to choose from; and this year GCCC is adding wreathes and fresh

garlands to fill your homes with the smell of Christmas.  Freshly home baked goods will be on sale to take home or to enjoy while picking the perfect tree. GCCC is following the COVID-19 protocol, that we request the safety guidelines of distancing and masking.

The  Christmas Tree sale is one of the projects of the GCCC youth to help them raise funds for their 2022 mission trip, which will be to Colorado Springs from July 10th - 16th.  The youth and the adult leaders will primarily be working on construction for an organization that assists single mothers who live in poverty.  They will also work at a medical mission that delivers free medical care to under privileged and uninsured people living in poverty.  The GCCC youth and the adult leaders will give a week of their summer to help others, especially those who need their help most.  In helping others, they will receive a life-time experience that they will cherish all their lives.

November 28 is Advent Sunday with “The Fullness of Time” as its theme.  GCCC Advent Worship Service will be at 10:30 a.m.  Advent encompasses the four Sundays and weekdays leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The Advent season is a time of preparation for our hearts and minds.  During each Sunday of the Advent season, we will focus on one of the four virtues Jesus brought us: Hope, Love, Joy and Peace.  Advent will usher in the period of waiting for the coming of Jesus. It is a holy time for Christians to prepare in the coming of Jesus Christ.  To help us be ready for this holy event, the Rev. Lynn Sullivan will lead us in an Advent study via zoom on three Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m.  To join us email the church office at churchoffice@ thegccc.org or call 516-746-1700.

The Rev. Lynn Sullivan will lead  the Advent Studies and connect them to her Sabbatical.

• December 1: Week One –Waiting and Planning: Advent is a time of waiting and a time of planning. We will look at the scriptures of people who learned to wait and discover times in our

own lives that we too were in a period of waiting.  (Zoom)

• December 8: Week Two –Solitude and Meditation: Advent, like Lent is a time of meditation and prayer. We will discover ways we too can find solitude, even in the busiest time of the year.  (Zoom)

• December 15: Week

Three –  Reunions: Bethlehem was teeming with people returning home for the census. We can find this time of the year, reuniting with our loved ones, a sacred time of blessings and challenges. (Zoom) Sundays at 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m., & Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, December 12th at 4:30 p.m.: Vespers Service - Sanctuary Service (Livestream)

Friday, Dec. 24th at 4:30 p.m.: Family Service

Friday, Dec. 24th at 10:00 p.m.: Candlelight Communion Service

Sunday, Dec. 26th at 10:30 a.m.: Sanctuary Service - Come as you are There are many opportunities to celebrate Advent with us and to prepare for the real meaning of Christmas by sharing with others the blessings we have.  True to our purpose, we are the church that is “Building a community where all are enriched through Christian Love, Service, and Spiritual Renewal.”  Our vision is “Faithfully Reaching Out, Inclusively Drawing In.”

To learn more how you can join GCCC in celebrating Advent, visit our website at www.theGCCC.org or call 516-746-1700.  Our website will give information on how to participate in our church life, virtually or in-person.  The Garden City Community Church is part of the United Church of Christ and is an Open and Affirming (ONA) congregation that welcomes people of all ages, races, gender identities, and sexual orientations to participate in the life of our community.  Garden City Community Church is located at 245 Stewart Avenue between Whitehall Blvd. and Kensington Road.  Our website is www.thegccc.org, email  churchoffice@thegccc.org or call (516) 746-1700.

A Blue Christmas without you.

Loading the Christmas trees.

LADIES LUNCHING!

25% OFF

Your Entire Bill when you join us to watch your favorite NFL Team

Offer available at the bar and in the back dining room.

Please present this coupon to your server/bartender. Valid for DINE-IN ONLY. Not combinable with any other promotion, coupon, Groupon or discount.

Your Entire Bill when you join us for lunch Monday through Thursday from 11:30am to 3:30pm.

Please present this coupon to your server. Valid for DINE-IN ONLY. Not combinable with any other promotion, coupon, Groupon or discount.

Catching up with old friends or meeting to discuss the most recent book you read?

25% OFF

Your Entire Bill when you join us for lunch Monday through Thursday from 11:30am to 3:30pm.

20% OFF

Your Entire Bill when you join us for lunch Monday through Thursday from 11:30am to 3:30pm.

HOLIDAY FAMILY DINNERS

Available Friday, Nov. 19, 2021 - Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022 for lunch and dinner • Take out only

PACKAGE #1 $50 Plus Tax

• (2) 18” regular pizzas • Choice of a dozen buffalo wings or spinach artichoke dip • 2L Bottle of Soda

PACKAGE #2 $60 Plus Tax

• (2) 18” regular pizzas •Penne ala vodka

• Choice of a dozen buffalo wings or Spinach artichoke dip

• 2L bottle of soda

PACKAGE #3 $70 Plus Tax

• (2) 18” regular pizzas • Penne ala vodka

• Side order of meatballs • Choice of a dozen buffalo wings or Spinach artichoke dip •2L bottle of soda

Please present this coupon to your server. Valid for DINE-IN ONLY. Not combinable with any other promotion, coupon, Groupon or discount. THANK YOU TO ALL THE HEALTHCARE WORKERS!!

Please present this coupon to your server. Valid for DINE-IN ONLY. Not combinable with any other promotion, coupon, Groupon or discount. Join Us

HOLIDAY CATERING MEALS

Available Friday, Nov. 19, 2021 - Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022 for lunch and dinner • Take out only

PACKAGE #1 $80 Plus Tax

• (2) 18” regular pizzas • 1/2 tray chicken parmigiana

• Complimentary Bottle of Cabernet or Pinot Grigio

PACKAGE #2 $115 Plus Tax

• (2) 18” regular pizzas • 1/2 tray Caesar salad

• 1/2 tray chicken parmigiana • Complimentary Bottle of Cabernet or Pinot Grigio

PACKAGE #3 $145 Plus Tax

• (1) 18” regular pizzas • 1/2 tray Caesar salad

• 1/2 tray chicken parmigiana • 1/2 tray penne ala vodka

• Complimentary Bottle of Cabernet or Pinot Grigio

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

Diligence. Professionalism. Integrity.

Holiday wishes can come true without leaving Garden City

Get your holiday wish list ready for the Garden City Historical Society's Holiday Village and Market on December 3 and 4.

Thanksgiving was so yesterday - and Christmas is just four weeks away!  You have to find the perfect gifts for everyone; the wee ones want face time with Santa; you’d like to enjoy the magic of the holiday season.

On December 3 and 4, you and your family can experience a Holiday Village & Market that makes all wishes come true.

Santa will be in a 19th century Victorian parlor at The Historical Society at 109 Eleventh Street on Saturday, from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., to hear wish lists from children of all ages and pose for pictures. A forest of faux trees, decorated by the talented children of Stewart and Stratford schools, will surround Santa and be donated to needy families.

An antique train will be traveling around another parlor - a beloved three dimensional toy from another century.  Hot chocolate and candy canes, served in a third parlor, complete the delightful experience - all for free and all without having to leave Garden City!

The A.T. Stewart Exchange, merry and bright in the ground floor of The Historical Society, has antiques and collectibles gifts and holiday decor.

The Holiday Market, at the GC

Senior Center next door, opens Friday evening December 3, from 7–9 p.m. for a Benefit Preview Cocktail Party.  Tickets are $50: GCHSBenefit. eventbrite.com until December 2.

Shop fine and faux jewelry, fashions, sumptuous sweets, house and garden accessories, baby and children’s gifts curated and sold by local small businesses and artisans offer the perfect gifts for everyone.

A Festival of lavishly decorated Trees and valuable raffles will be on display, to view and be auctioned.

Admission is free on Saturday, from 11 a.m.–4 p.m.   Rich hot chocolate and festive gingerbread will be served at the Victorian Christmas Café.

The Historical Society Holiday Village & Market will support local entrepreneurs and artisans, showcase the artistic talents of Garden City’s children, designers, businesses and will contribute to the ongoing restoration of the society’s 1872 Apostle House Museum, being accomplished with the generous support of Vinny Muldoon’s Old World Quality Corp.

Please follow The Historical Society on Instagram and Facebook to learn more: @gardencityhistoricalsociety

Working as business partners to ensure that their clients have 24/7 coverage, Cheryl and Mary believe that two heads are always better than one in navigating the challenging, competitive and fast-paced Garden City real estate market. Known as “The Real Estate Ladies”, with over 40 years of experience between them, this seasoned dynamic duo will help you make an informed buying or selling decision.

257 Stewart Avenue

Stunning Estates 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Farm Ranch w/attached 2 car garage beautifully renovated in 2015. Gorgeous 150 x 150 property with room for a pool. Asking $1,799,000

35 Cambridge Avenue

This move-in ready, nicely updated 3+ bedroom, 1.5 bath Western section Colonial is located in the esteemed Garden City School District.. Asking $801,000

Hear what people are saying about Mary and Cheryl

“We used Cheryl McAuliffe and Mary Weille to sell our home and buy a new home, a process that is normally very stressful. Working with Cheryl and Mary made this process seamless and stress free! They are extremely knowledgeable about the market and they guided us through every step of the of buying and selling. They are professional and trustworthy and they always had our best interests at heart. We continue to recommend Cheryl and Mary to all our friends and family looking to buy or sell” — Home Seller & Home Buyer

“Cheryl is extremely responsive and level headed and made great suggestions for selling our house as quickly as possible. She has extensive knowledge and history of the area, and was wonderful personally to work with.” — Home Seller

46 Meadowbrook Road, Syosset

Calling all builders and buyers looking for a project to renovate or build new. Wonderful opportunity to purchase 50 x 226 property in sought-after location in the Syosset School District. . Asking $599,000

“We worked with Mary Weille - who partners with Cheryl. Mary was amazing! I’m an experienced attorney and negotiator - thus, I entered the home buying process thinking I was likely to be very self-sufficient. Mary proved that even sophisticated buyers can benefit from realtor expertise. We hit a number of bumps on our path to contract and closing - Mary helped us manage the process and ensured we got the home if our dreams on fair terms. I recommend her services without reservation!” — Home Buyer

Garden City HS Field of Flags honors heroes

Garden City High School students installed a Field of Flags outside Rockaway Avenue and Merillon Avenue as a tribute to first responders.

As part of a joint effort of the Students Helping Students organization, staff and community members, Garden City High School unveiled its second annual Field of Flags on Nov. 15. Spearheaded by the club’s president, senior Caterina Kephart, the initiative brought hundreds of American Flags to the grounds outside the building at the corner

of Rockaway Avenue and Merillon Avenue as a tribute to first responders and yielded a $3,940 donation to the William Bradford Turner Legion Auxiliary.

A small ceremony celebrated the field’s kickoff just after Veterans Day, and the flags will fly until Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day on Dec. 7. School administrators, staff and

Members of the Garden City Fire Department at the Field of Flags.

members of the Garden City Fire Department and Police Department, American Auxiliary Legion and Students Helping Students organization gathered to celebrate the Field of Flags and acknowledge those involved. Grayson Gardi sang the national anthem and Alessandro Ehrig and Tyler Glenn played “Taps.” Caterina and guidance counselor/ Students Helping Students adviser Kate Higgins described the project’s significance and extended special thanks to the custodial staff for assembling all the flags. Caterina noted that many similar displays she has seen were limited to veterans and deployed military members, and she felt that it was imperative to also recognize all first responders and medical personnel. Members of the community provided monetary donations in exchange for flag dedications to military servicemen and servicewomen, medical first responders, police officers and firefighters. A ribbon was affixed to each flag acknowl -

edging its honoree.

“It’s easy to forget that while we go to work, or school or practice, that somewhere in that same moment somewhere else, someone is putting their life on the line to protect us and our rights,” Caterina said. “I believe it is our job as Americans to make sure that all those who go above and beyond every day for the people of their country are appreciated and know that we stand behind them, always.”

Caterina introduced the idea last year and carried it out successfully, thanks to the support of guidance counselor Karen Whiston, members of Students Helping Students and local businesses that donated flag supplies. The efforts were continued this year with supervision from Ms. Higgins. The district hopes to make this a recurring charitable event that will pay homage to even more heroes in future years.

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

have reasonable rates and you'll get prompt results. Call our main office at 294-8900 to request info & rates, or visit our website at gcnews.com to place classified ads, see our latest rates, & receive more info.

The Garden City News, Bethpage Newsgram, Jericho-Syosset News Journal, Mid-Island Times & Levittown Times, and Syosset Advance! Along with Blank Slate Media Papers: Port Washington Times, Manhasset Times, Roslyn Times, Great Neck Times, New Hyde Park Herald Courier, and The Williston Times!

This sophisticated and chic Estates 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath farm ranch with attached 2 car garage is located on gorgeous 150 x 150 property with room for a pool. Perfectly redesigned and renovated in 2015, the home is simply stunning, o ering the nest in indoor and outdoor living and entertaining space. Highlights include a fabulous kitchen with expansive cabinetry/countertop & Wolf/Sub-Zero appliances, mudroom with laundry, sumptuous family room, living room with gas replace, dining room and luxurious 1st oor ensuite primary bedroom with calacatta marble bath. The second oor o ers ideal space for family and guests with two bedrooms, hall bath, a fun loft space den and attic storgage. A huge un nished, full basement o ers a myriad of possibilities. The private backyard is an oasis of calm with beautiful landscaping, large patio and separate seating area with gas repit. O ered at $1,799,000. Taxes $23,987.31

Let us open the door for you!

Mary Weille

Licensed RE Associate Broker

Mobile: 516.384.8833

maryweille@gmail.com

LIGMC to perform holiday concerts

The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus, which has performed at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in past holiday seasons, will be holding two concerts in other venues this year due to construction at the Cathedral.

Featuring legendary musical favorites from “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” and more, LIGMC’s “Home for the Holiday Special” concerts are scheduled for 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 10 at Saint Francis Episcopal Church, 1692 Bellmore Ave., North Bellmore, and 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 12 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington. Tickets are $25 and are available for purchase at the door or

online at www.ligmc.org.

“Especially during the holidays, experiencing the majesty of the Cathedral of the Incarnation has been a true highlight of each concert season. While the Cathedral continues to receive some much-deserved TLC, we are delighted that St. Francis Episcopal Church in North Bellmore has agreed to host our 2021 Nassau County holiday performance on Friday, Dec. 10. We hope to be back in Garden City to sing for you again as soon as we can, and we thank everyone at the Cathedral for opening their doors and their hearts to our merry band of choristers!” said Danny Schrafel, board member, Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus.

Larson Legacy Concert Series to feature duo

On Sunday, December 4, Adelphi will continue the series by featuring the music of an award-winning duo, the Bengsons.

Since 2015, Adelphi University has showcased the work of the next generation of music creators through the Larson Legacy Concert Series. On Sunday, December 4, Adelphi will continue the series by featuring the music of an award-winning duo, the Bengsons.

The Larson Legacy Concert Series is dedicated to giving creators an opportunity to showcase their work to new audiences. Creators featured in the series are also recipients of the Jonathan Larson Grant awarded annually to emerging composers, lyricists and book writers to honor the legacy of Adelphi alumnus Jonathan Larson '82, creator of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical “Rent.”

Recipients of the 2020 grant, Abigail and Shaun Bengson met, fell in love, formed a band, and got married within three weeks, and they have performed together around the world ever since. Their theater work includes “Hundred Days” (La Jolla Playhouse, New York Theatre Workshop, The Public Theater, Know Theater, Z Space, US Tour) and “The Lucky Ones” (Ars Nova), to name a few.

The performance, which will begin at 3 p.m. in Adelphi Performing Arts Center's Olmsted Theatre, will be in person and also live streamed. Tickets are $25 with discounts available for seniors, alumni and students. For live stream access, tickets

are $20. For tickets and more information, visit adelphi.edu/larson-legacy

Adelphi's priority is to ensure the safety of patrons, artists, staff and the entire Adelphi community against COVID-19. All audience members age 12 and over are required to show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Anyone under 12 or who is not fully vaccinated must show proof of a negative test taken within 72 hours of the performance. All guests, regardless of age or vaccination status, will be required to wear masks while inside the Adelphi PAC.

Christmas Hour of Music at the Cathedral of the Incarnation

BY KATHY MCCORMICK

On Tuesday, December 7, at 2 p.m. the Music Department of The  Community Club, will present its annual Christmas Hour of Music, featuring Kristine Dougherty on flute, and Henry DeVries, on piano and organ.This wonderful holiday program will be a live performance, held at the Cathedral of the Incarnation. Both performers have given us spectac-

ular programs over the years and this one will be no different.  The program will include  a variety of musical numbers including Christmas Carols.

Kristine Dougherty holds a Bachelor of Music degree in flute performance, from the North Carolina School of the Arts and a Master of Music degree in flute performance from the Mannes College of Music. Kristine studied with

Linda Chesis, Keith Underwood, Judith Mendenhall, Philip Dunigan and Sandra Miller.

Henry DeVries is a cum laude graduate of Westminster Choir College, in Princeton, New Jersey majoring in organ performance. He studied organ with Eugene Roan, harpsichord with James Jones as well as voice and choral conducting with James McKeever.

Please join us for this outstanding live concert. All are welcome. There will be no reception at the Casino following the program.  If anyone is interested in joining the Community Club please contact our club office at 516-746-0488 on Tues., Wed., or Thurs. between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.  This program will be great, you don’t want to miss it!

The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus.

THE VIEW FROM HERE

Thanksgiving 2021

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

Under normal circumstances, I probably would have written about the Kyle Rittenhouse trial at some length this week.  But I think it may be a better idea to do what I usually do at this time of year -- discuss the many things for which we should be grateful as we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.

For anyone who cares what I think about Rittenhouse verdict, my condensed take is that the jury got it right in accepting Mr. Rittenhouse’s claims of self-defense under the circumstances presented, which involved repeated imminent threats of lethal harm.  However, I do not think he acted prudently in going to a riot area with an AR-15 or that he is a particular hero or role model.

Having said that, let us remember at Thanksgiving how lucky we really are as Americans, even in a year that has presented many challenges.

Ironically, in assessing our blessings, I think you have to start with the Covid virus. Despite the enormous death toll the virus has taken in our country since early 2020, things have materially improved in recent months.

There is much legitimate debate about the proper role of mandates, lockdowns and masking in controlling the virus. Nevertheless, it is clear that both an improvement in therapeutic drugs as well as the vaccine developed last year under President Donald Trump in 2020 and distributed this year under President Joe Biden, has made an enormous difference. Amazingly, in the over 65 age group, the cohort most susceptible to hospitalization and death from the virus, over 99 percent have taken at least one vaccine, with 86 percent fully vaccinated. Overall, 82 percent of adults over 18 have at least one dose, with 71 percent fully vaccinated.  While the vaccine is not a panacea, breakthrough cases happen fairly often, and it looks like booster shots are necessary or at least helpful, the vaccine as well as better drug treatments have reduced the level and risk of hospitalization and death.

Last year at this time, many Americans elected not to enjoy Thanksgiving with their extended

family, sports stadiums were almost all empty and schools were closed for in-person learning in most states.  In many places, restaurants and bars had restricted hours, with some only allowing outside dining, and international travel was greatly restricted.   Now most of these restrictions are gone, or at least sharply reduced.  While the emergence of the Delta variant made the path to normalcy more difficult, cases are still 40 percent lower than at the latest peak in August and September, and deaths and hospitalizations are also much lower.  Significantly, there are no reports of a new major variant and there is increasing discussion in many places of lessening mask mandates.

Meanwhile, while the Biden Administration is coming under justified criticism  for rising inflation, supply chain issues and gargantuan spending programs, in fact the American economy is not too bad right now.  We seem to have weathered the pandemic recession, there is a very strong labor market and the stock market, which will help fund the retirement of many people through 401(k) plans, is near record levels.

Of course, as I note every year, our civil liberties remain intact, including constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of speech, the press and religion, as well as the right to due process and a fair trial.  Not everyone is going to be enthusiastic  about our entire national leadership, whether it is President Biden or the large Republican minority in Congress, but their substantial differences are thrashed out peacefully, with the opportunity of the voters to make any changes deemed necessary.

I also note, on a personal level, as I do every year, that I have much to be thankful for.  My health remains good, I have a wonderful and successful son.  I am also thankful that the newspaper business founded by my late parents remains strong and successful and in good hands with my sister Meg and her husband, Ed.  Happy Thanksgiving to all.

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!

Artist’s work to be exhibited at local restaurant

Sister Mary Anna Euring working on her brush paintings.

Sister Mary Anna Euring, OP, will have a solo exhibit of her Asian brush paintings, “On the Journey,” at La Nonna Bella Ristorante Italiano, 660 Franklin Avenue, Garden City, from  December 2 through January 6. The artist will be present on December 2, from 6:00–9:00 p.m.

Sister had always been drawn to Asian brush paintings and longed for the day when she would have the time to express herself through this medium. Now, after many years devoted to being an educator, administrator, hospital chaplain and counselor, she is fulfilling her heart’s desire by engaging as a contemplative artist.

Her paintings visually express a quote from Teilhard de Chardin: “For those who know how to see, everything is sacred.” As an artist, she attempts to “see” the essence of reality and portray it by using the simple tools of ink, brush and rice paper. The simplicity of the medium appeals to her as it expresses her belief that “less is more.”

She shares with us: “As my creative energy is released and flows spontaneous-

ly through the brush, I am always surprised by what emerges. Invariably, it's an expression of my inner self... perhaps a visual depiction of risks taken, challenges overcome, beauty experienced, and all the varied and deep emotions found within our universal life stories. Those who gaze on my art tell me that they are attracted by by its 'spirit,' and many are surprised to see their own life story reflected in what has flowed from my brush. This new-found gift of Asian brush painting is for me both a delight and a passion. My hope is that those who gaze upon it will be filled with deep peace, inspiration and healing.”

The artist, an Amityville Dominican Sister for 65 years, is allocating all proceeds from her exhibits to help support her congregation's ministries to those in need. Proceeds from this exhibit at La Nonna Bella will be donated to Sister Margaret Rose Smyth's ministry to and with those in need on Long Island's East End. Since 1996, Sister Margaret Rose has been a catalyst for social change on the North Fork, enhancing the lives of thousands of immigrant women and children.

Thank you to all our corporate sponsors, volunteers and participants for supporting the Turkey Trotwe could never have done it without you!

Happy Holidays to all and we look forward to seeing everyone next year!

-The Race Committee

WE LOVE AND THANK OUR PARTICIPATING SPONSORS

Lead Update

The Village of Garden City was recently notified of a high lead level in the domestic water supply sample at a home in Garden City. The Village contacted the Nassau County Health Department immediately for information and any guidance and simultaneously conducted tests for lead at each of its active well sites where the treated water enters the Village-wide distribution system. Those tests came back “Non-Detect” for lead and the results were shared with the Health Department. In conversations with the Health Department, preliminary results indicate that the home in question has a lead service line connection to the Village water main. The Village is awaiting a final report from the Health Department’s investigation and any recommendations that may be forthcoming.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode, especially where the water has high acidity or low mineral content that corrodes pipes and fixtures. The most common sources of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures. In homes with lead pipes that connect the home to the water main, also known as lead service lines, these pipes are typically the most significant source of lead in the water. Among homes without lead service lines, the most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and plumbing with lead solder. The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) has reduced the maximum allowable lead content -- that is, content that is considered “lead-free” -- to be a weighted average of 0.25 percent calculated across the wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures and 0.2 percent for solder and flux.

The Village immediately conducted tests for lead at each of its active well sites where the treated water enters the Village-wide distribution system. Those tests came back “NonDetect” for lead and were forwarded to the Health Department. H2M, the Village’s water consultants, is evaluating the effectiveness of corrosion control treatment throughout the Village. The Village has conducted all required lead and copper compliance mandates as required under the Federal Lead and Copper Rule, including the most recent sampling conducted in 2020, and was found to be in compliance. The Village is aggressively monitoring the water supply and is in regular communication with the Health Department during its investigation. We will remain vigilant and provide

updates as more information becomes available.

Residents can immediately request free lead testing kits through the New York State Department of Health. Email FreeWaterTesting@ health.ny.gov and provide the following information:

1. your name;

2. your phone number;

3. your e-mail address;

4. address for sample location and address for mailing test kit, if different;

5. county for sample location;

6. 1st choice for participating laboratory selected from the list below; and

7. 2nd choice for participating laboratory selected from the list below.

You should be aware that the results of these samples are not made available to the Village. If you wish, you can forward a copy of the results to the Village Water Department, but it is not a requirement of your participation in the New York State Department of Health program.

List of Laboratories

• Advanced Analytical Technologies, Orangeburg, Rockland County

• EMSL Analytical, Inc., New York, New York County

• Envirotest Laboratories, Inc., Newburgh, Orange County

• Erie County Public Health Laboratory, Buffalo, Erie County

• NY Environmental and Analytical Labs Inc., Port Washington, Nassau County

• Westchester County Department of Laboratories and Research, Valhalla, Westchester County

According to the EPA, there are several steps residents can take if their water has tested positive for lead:

• Learn if you have a lead service line. Contact your water utility or a licensed plumber to determine if the pipe that connects your home to the water main (called a service line) is made from lead. If a lead service line is discovered, it is a homeowner’s responsibility to replace it.

• Run your water. Before drinking, flush your home’s pipes by running the tap, taking a shower, doing laundry, or doing a load of dishes. The amount of time to run the water will depend on whether your home has a lead service line or not, and the length of the lead service line. Residents should contact their water utility for recommenda-

tions about flushing times in their community.

• Learn about construction in your neighborhood. Be aware of any construction or maintenance work that could disturb your lead service line. Construction may cause more lead to be released from a lead service line.

• Use cold water. Use only cold water for drinking, cooking and making baby formula. Remember, boiling water does not remove lead from water.

• Clean your aerator. Regularly clean your faucet’s screen (also known as an aerator). Sediment, debris, and lead particles can collect in your aerator. If lead particles are caught in the aerator, lead can get into your water.

• Use your filter properly. If you use a filter, make sure you use a filter certified to remove lead. Read the directions to learn how to properly install and use your cartridge and when to replace it. Using the cartridge after it has expired can make it less effective at removing lead. Do not run hot water through the filter.

St. Paul’s Committee

Mayor Cosmo Veneziale announced the formation of a St. Paul’s Committee at the November 18, 2021 Board of Trustees meeting. Resident volunteers who will serve on the Committee are as follows:

• Brian Deveney, Chairman

• Robert Schoelle, Vice-Chairman Historic Research Subcommittee

• Bill Garry (C)

• Brian Pinnola

• Kate Schmidt Program and Use Analysis Subcommittee

• Frank McDonough (C)

• Jack Hartog

• Betsy Andromidas

• Johnathan Martin

• Michele Harrington

• George Salem

• Kathie Wysocki Budget and Finance Subcommittee

• Ryan Mulrooney (C)

• Stephen Fereance

• Bob Davis

• George Kane

• Thomas G. Ryan

• Kurt Ehrig

• Nicholas Eliopoulos

• Robert Orosz

Legal and Zoning Subcommittee

• Charles P. Kelly (C)

• Tom Lamberti

• Remy Bernardo

• Ed Finneran

• Jason Danisi

• Keith Galanti Design and Engineering Subcommittee

• William Alisse, R.A. (C)

• Joseph Jabour, P.E.

• Joseph Plati, P.E.

• Richard Redmond, P.E.

• William Sollin

• Brian Gemmell

• Dan Clark

• Paul Capece, A.I.A.

Village Meet & Greet November 30

To further increase engagement with residents, the Village Governance Committee is sponsoring a monthly Meet and Greet. It will be held the fourth Tuesday of each month although the first meeting will be held on November 30, 2021 at the Village Senior Center from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. This is a chance for residents to engage directly with the Board of Trustees members without going through any third parties or having to wait until the end of a Village Board meeting. We hope to have a maximum of three Trustees at each meeting to avoid any violations of the Open Meetings Law. These meetings will not have an agenda; Trustees will be available to discuss multiple issues and concerns.

Water Update

Water Tower: The painting and electrical subcontractors will remobilize in the next week or so to begin completing their work.

Discolored Water Complaints: H2M is mapping discolored water detections and investigating complaints as they are registered. H2M is sending the draft “blue water report” to the Village this week.

Well 7 (Waterworks site): The contractor completed punch list items; “as-builts” are under H2M review; and the contractor ordered spare parts (may have delayed delivery).

Wells 8 and 12 (Rockaway Avenue site): Plans for permanent building will be ready for bid this month. Meeting conducted onsite for brick selection for H2O2 canopy. H2M to review brick selection for H2O2 canopy with the Village. H2M is expected to have final documents for permanent buildings by early December.

Well No 9 (Wilson Street site): Nassau County Health Department endorsed engineering report to the NYS Department of Health. Soil Investigation was conducted. Report under review and will be submitted to the Village. Design of facility continues.

Wells 10 and 11 (Clinton Road site): Extended casing of Well No. 11. H2M working on plans for blower replacement and enclosure at Well No.

Mayor Cosmo Veneziale

Aggressive driving

As a result of a November 17th traffic stop on Old Country Road for aggressive driving violations, Officers arrested a 28-year-old male for driv ing with a DWI Related suspended license, excessive speed, and unsafe lane usage.

Leaving the scene

Garden City Police inves tigated a report of a vehicle leaving the scene after col liding into another vehi cle on November 17th on the Adelphi University Campus.

Overweight

truck

A Brooklyn carting company was charged with operating a vehicle on Clinton Road while 13,500 pounds overweight on November 17th.

Truck vs. bridge

A truck struck the Cherry Valley Avenue train overpass on November 17th. The driver was cited for disregarding bridge clearance signs.

Leaving the scene

Garden City Police investigated a report of a vehicle leaving the scene after colliding into another vehicle on Franklin Avenue on November 17th.

Vehicle scratched

Several scratches were found on a vehicle parked in a private parking lot on Stewart Avenue on November 18th.

Unlicensed

operation

A motorist in the vicinity of St. Paul’s Field was charged with unlicensed operation and excessive speed on November 18th.

Suspicious package

On November 18th Garden City Police investigated a report of a resident receiving a suspicious package from a delivery service.

Vehicles entered

On November 19th a man was observed on surveillance cameras entering vehicles parked in a Carteret Place driveway. On the same day Garden City Police investigated a report of a vehicle entry on Salisbury Avenue. There was no loss reported.

License troubles

A truck driver on Clinton Road on November 19th was charged with

driving without a commercial license and for not having the proper highway-use tax permit.

Fight night

On November 20th

Garden City and Nassau County Police responded to a Ring Road restaurant for a report of a large fight. Upon arrival, the disorderly crowd dispersed. There were no reported assaults, injuries, or arrests.

Wrong way

A motorist on Stewart Avenue was charged with unlicensed operation and driving eastbound in the westbound lanes of the divided roadway on November 20th.

Suspicious mail

Officers investigated a report of a suspicious letter found in a resident’s mailbox on November 21st.

Damaged vehicle located

At 2 AM on November 21st, an Officer located an extensively damaged unoccupied vehicle on the grounds of the Church in the Garden. Police believe the vehicle struck and damaged signage nearby on Clinton Road. After investigation, Garden City Detectives arrested the 38-year-old male driver later in the day for allegedly leaving the scene of an accident.

Dumpster fire

Officers assisted GCFD for a dumpster fire at a 2nd Street residence on November 21st. Firefighters safely extinguished the fire. There appears to be no damage to the residence. The investigation is ongoing.

Shrubbery damaged

The Department received a report of a vehicle leaving the scene after striking and damaging shrubbery on Washington Avenue on November 21st.

Suspended license

On November 21st Garden City Police charged a motorist for driving on Stewart Avenue with a suspended license and passing a red traffic light.

False alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence on November 21st for

See page 44

providing everything from small repairs through full house renovations and custom new home construction, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

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

Six Word Holiday Story Contest

In the month of December, participate in our Six Word Holiday Story Contest! Tweens and Teens in Grades 6–12 can submit their holiday stories between December 1 and December 31, 2021 in person at the Library. Holiday stories must be exactly six words. Multiple submissions are allowed. Submissions must include a submission form, which can be found at the Library during the month of December. The winner of the Six Word Holiday Story Contest will be announced in January and will receive a $25 gift card to Amazon. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Tween Thursdays: Snowflake STEAM Challenge

Use a variety of supplies to make your own snowflake craft at Tween Thursdays: Snowflake STEAM Challenge on Thursday, December 2 at 4 p.m.! Registration began Tuesday, November 23 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). This program is for Tweens in Grades 4–7 and is a joint program with the Children’s Department. Tweens in Grades 6 and 7 who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library. Please note that it is Library policy that all children under age 10 must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the Library. Also, if the young child is attending a Library program, we require the parent or designated responsible person to remain in the Library throughout the program and meet the child upon completion of the program.

Teen Crafternoon: Decoupage Ornaments

Join us for the program Teen Crafternoon: Decoupage Ornaments on Monday, December 6, 5 p.m.–6 p.m.. Participants will receive three ornaments to decorate using tissue paper and Mod Podge. This program is for Tweens and Teens in Grades 6–12. Registration begins Tuesday, November 30 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program.

Teen Paint Night: Circle Canvases

Join us for the program Teen Paint Night on Wednesday, December 8, 6 p.m.–7 p.m. This program is for Tweens and Teens in Grades 6–12. Participants will receive a circle-shaped canvas and can paint with either acrylic or watercolor. Registration begins Tuesday, November 30 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org). This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

The next meeting of the Teen Advisory Board is Tuesday, December 14, 5 p.m.–6 p.m. The meeting is for Tweens and Teens in Grades 6–12. Registration begins Tuesday, December 7 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org).

If you are interested in helping to come up with programming ideas, volunteer 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 Game Night

Join us for the program Teen Game Night on Wednesday, December 15, 6 p.m.–7 p.m. This program is for Tweens and Teens entering Grades 6–12 in Fall 2021. Registration begins Tuesday, December 7 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl. org). This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program.

Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons

Join us for Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons on Thursday, December 16, 4 p.m.–5:30 p.m.. Learn how to play the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons and Dragons by participating in one of our monthly Dungeons and Dragons Meet-Ups! Beginners are welcome! Each meet-up will feature a new self-contained, one-shot adventure and players will be assigned premade characters to play. Please register via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) to participate in this program. Registration

begins Tuesday, December 7 at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service for participating in this program.

Volunteer Program Reviewers Needed: Programs to Review in December

Become a Volunteer Program Reviewer and earn community service by participating in Garden City Public Library Tweens and Teens programs! In order to receive community service, volunteers must participate in the program and then fill out an online survey reviewing the program within two weeks of attending the program. Each volunteer will receive community service credit 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. Below is a list of programs Tweens and Teens in Grades 6-12 (unless otherwise noted) can volunteer at as a Volunteer Program Reviewer in December: Registration online began November 23:

• 12/4 at 4 p.m.: Tween STEAM Snowflake Challenge

Registration online begins November 30:

• 12/6 at 5 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: Decoupage Ornaments

• 12/8 at 6 p.m.: Teen Paint Night: Circle Canvases

Registration online begins December 7:

• 12/15 at 6 p.m.: Teen Game Night

• 12/16 at 4 p.m.: Teen Dungeons and Dragons

These programs have been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

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

See what's happening at your

library!

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

physical or digital collection that you can write a review on!

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

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

• Submit a review here: https:// www.gardencitypl.org/submit-a-teenreview/

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

Follow Tweens and Teens on Facebook and Instagram

Follow Garden City Library’s Tweens and Teens on Facebook and Instagram!

The Young Adult Department has been using both social media platforms as a tool to post updates, announcements, digital resources, ebook recommendations, and more during this time of social distancing.

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

Instagram:  www.instagram.com/ GCPLTweensTeens

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

Teen Advisory Board Applications Now Available Online

If you are interested in helping to come up with some programming ideas or social media outreach ideas for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12, consider joining the Teen Advisory Board Online applications are available at https://www.gardencitypl. org/teen-advisory-board-application/  Applicants should be entering Grades 6–12 in Fall 2021. 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.

News From the Children’s Room Support the Library

Hanukkah

The first day of Hanukkah 2021 begins on Sunday, November 28, 2021 and ends the evening of Monday, December 6, 2021.  Hanukkah (also spelled “Chanukah”) is an eight-day winter “festival of lights,” which begins each year on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev.

Because the Hebrew calendar is based on the lunar cycle, the dates of Jewish holidays according to the Gregorian calendar change from year to year. For this reason, the beginning of Hanukkah can range from late November to late December.

In short, Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after a group of Jewish warriors defeated the occupying Greek armies. The festival celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and of spirituality over materiality.

https://www.almanac.com/content/ when-is-hanukkah

The Children’s Room has a display about Hanukkah.  Books include:  Light the Menorah! A Hanukkah Handbook by Jacqueline Jules, My family celebrates Hanukkah by Lisa Bullard, Shmelf the Hanukkah elf by Greg Wolfe, Runaway dreidel! by Leslea Newman and The best Hanukkah ever by Barbara Diamond Goldin.

Fall 2021–Programming for Children’s Room

December Crafts to Go!

Winter Scratch Art Craft

Grades K–2,  4:00–4:45 p.m

Eventkeeper registration begins November 23 @ 10 a.m.   Registration is required for each child attending Family” Mystery”

Holiday Craft To Go

**Hint - think “yummy,  candy & house”

Eventkeeper registration begins November 23 @ 10 a.m.

Pickup begins on December 1 @ 10 a.m.

Only one registrant per family

In the Children’s Room Winter Snowman Scene Glitter Mosaic Sign Grades 3–5,  4:00–4:45PM

Eventkeeper registration begins November 30 @ 10 a.m. Registration is required for each child attending

Tween Thursdays

December 2

Holiday Steam Project, 4:00–5:00 p.m.

*Adults must supervise all children under the age of 10 in the Library.  Adults or Caregivers must remain in the building during Children’s programs and meet the children upon completion of the program.

Dungeons and Dragons at the Library

Teens await instructions from the Dungeon Master during Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons, which was held on Thursday, November 18 at the Library. The Library will be hosting another Dungeons and Dragons game on Thursday, December 16.

The Friends of the Garden City Public Library would like you to add the library to your Small Business Saturday list of vendors to support. Although the library is not a small business, it is an important part of the local community and is in need of your support. Volunteers will be at the

library on Saturday, November 27 from 12 p.m.–2 p.m. selling GC themed ornaments and totes. There are both plastic ($10) and glass ($13) ornaments, as well as GC themed totes ($10). If you can't join them on Saturday, you can stop by the library and place your order with the circulation desk.

Teen Crafternoon: DIY Wood Bookmarks

A teen uses a paint pen to draw a colorful design on her wooden bookmark at Teen Crafternoon: DIY Wood Bookmarks, which was held on Monday, November 15 at the Library.

Garden City HS celebrates college athletic commitments

in partnership with

is pleased to offer custom plaques of any article appearing in this paper since 2014.

That’s Great News, Inc., located in Wallingford, Connecticut, specializes in designing and manufacturing customized wall plaques for people and companies that have been featured in newspaper and magazine articles.

The high quality wall plaques are custom made in a variety of styles in wood, acrylic and metal, starting at $159 and can be personalized. Free previews are available.

100% Money Back Guarantee – 30 day unconditional full refund guarantee. That’s Great News LLC will even take care of return shipping, no questions asked!

Fourteen Garden City High School seniors were congratulated for their commitments to collegiate athletic programs during a ceremony held on Nov. 10 in the gymnasium. Administrators, coaches, faculty members and the athletes’ families celebrated this extraordinary accomplishment.

Interim Director of Athletics, Health and Physical Education Bob Panariello coordinated the event and welcomed attendees. Students, dressed in attire representing their future colleges, assembled on the bleachers and were applauded by their guests.

Nine of the athletes are planning to play lacrosse next year. Jack Cascadden and Brendan Staub will both join Cornell University’s team, Carla Curth will attend Binghamton University, Kristen Hegarty has committed to American University, Caitlin McNaboe will head to Marist College, Jay Ottomanelli and Luke Schmitt will both join Trinity College’s team, Meghan Rode has committed to Syracuse University and Rowan Stenson has committed to Williams College.

Renee Gollisz and Nicholas Bernieri will play soccer at Marist College and Lafayette College, respectively. Christopher Reilly will join the swim team at Holy Cross, Anthony Cuccia has committed to the track team at Lafayette College and Patrick Heber will play on the baseball team at Bentley University.

To see what’s available go to www.thatsgreatnews.com (For assistance locating older articles please email editor@gcnews.com )

Fourteen Garden City High School seniors have committed to play sports at their future colleges. Photo courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Maggie Rey LLC.

Arts of Org filed with Secy. Of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/15/21.

Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to PO Box 7218, Garden City, NY 11530. Purpose: any lawful act.

GC 1252

6X 11/12,19,26,12/3,10,17

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Hover UAS, LLC.

Articles of Organization filing date with Secretary of State (SSNY) was 09/09/2021. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 162 Fernwood Terrace, Stewart Manor, NY 11530. Purpose is to engage in any and all business activities permitted under NYS laws.

GC 1253

6X 11/12,19,26,12/03,10,17

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Sealed bids MUST be RECEIVED BY AND DELIVERED TO:

THE PURCHASING DIVISION

Incorporated Village of Garden City

351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, New York 11530 between the hours of 8:30

A.M. and 4:30 P.M., UNTIL 11:00 AM EST, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following:

COLD WATER METERS

Specifications, Form of Bid, and other information may be obtained from the office of the Purchasing Division at the above address or you may download the bid specifications from the New York State

Contract Reporter website at the following web address: https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/ contracts.cfm

This bid specification will be listed under the Agency Name of:

Inc. Village of Garden City

Rosemary Monahan Purchasing Agent

Dated: November 26, 2021

GC 1254 1X 11/26

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Sealed bids MUST be RECEIVED BY AND DELIVERED TO:

THE PURCHASING DIVISION

Incorporated Village of Garden City

351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, New York 11530 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, UNTIL 11:00 AM EST THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following:

COMMUNITY PARK POOL

SLIDE TOWER STRUCTURAL STEEL REHABILITATION

Specifications, Form of Bid, and other information may be obtained from the office of the Purchasing Division at the above address or you may download the bid specifications from the New York State Contract Reporter website at the following web address: https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/ contracts.cfm

This bid specification will be listed under the Agency Name of:

Inc. Village of Garden City

Rosemary Monahan

Purchasing Agent

Dated: November 26, 2021

GC 1255 1X 11/26

Kindness counts at Garden City Middle School

September 2021 Kindness Counts award recipients.

October 2021 Kindness Counts award recipients.

Garden City Middle School students are kicking off the school year with kindness. Each month, a number of students receive kindness counts awards after being nominated by staff

September 2021

Alessandra Bonomi

Ryan Falvey

Antonella Falzone

Ursula Gormley

Luca Greci

Jennifer Ma

Alexa Marshall

Sarah Pogozelski

Riley Stier

members who noticed them going above and beyond to help others.

Congratulations to the following recipients for September and October:

October 2021

Regan Backer

Daniel Barker

Casey Dennis

Aydan Eschmann

Cooper Glick

Luca Greci

Noah Manon Guichard

Massimo Isopo

Juliana Lago

Amanda Tedesco

Rotary to Ring Bells for Salvation Army Dec. 4

Each year during the holiday season, for more than 30 yeas, it has been the tradition of the MineolaGarden City Rotary Club to assist the Salvation Army with it is Bell Ring project.  On Saturday, December 4, Rotary volunteers assisted by Garden City Boy Scouts will be manning the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle at the rear entrance of Kings market from 9 a.m.–4 p.m.  Please stop by and help us support this annual holiday service program.

Dedicated to doing the most good for men, women and children who need it most, the Salvation Army of Greater New York serves more than 600,000 New Yorkers each year in over 140 community and social service programs.

The Army also provides Thanksgiving and Christmas assistance in addition to serving food pantries, emergency rent programs sand medical expenses for people in need throughout Nassau County.

The Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club includes its annual bell ringing to assist the Salvation Army as one of its many service projects and thanks Kings Supermarket for allowing the Club to ring the bells outside its store.  Thanks also to Rotary bell ringers Jim Brady, Frank Marone, Joanne MeyerJendras, Kumun Sinha, Diana O’Neill, Jennifer Poupis, Althea Robinson and Bob Schoelle, project chair since the onset of Rotary’s involvement more than 30 years ago; more thanks to Boy Scouts of Troop 243, sponsored by St. Joseph’s R.C. Church, Garden City.  The scouts volunteer to help Rotary ring the bells as community service.

Holiday Lunch Party

Returns to Hotel Dec. 13

Everyone is welcome to join with Rotary to celebrate this afternoon of good cheer, fellowship and networking  at the Garden City Hotel, December 13, 12 noon.  Featured will be the presentation of Rotary’s “Community Service Award to both Greg Bavaro, owner, Garden City Pizza and Tony Lubrano, owner of Piccola Bussola, Mineola.  Spotlighted will be the Mineola High Chorus singing out tunes of the season – all along with a great Garden City Hotel lunch!

To reserve by December 8, at $75 per person ($700 for table of 10), please make your check payable to the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club and mail with reservation(s) to Rotarian Meg Norris c/o The Garden City News, 821 Franklin Avenue, Suite 208, Garden City NY 11530.

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

Revelers welcoming in the season at a previous Rotary Holiday Luncheon Party at the Garden City Hotel.

Troop 243 Boy Scout volunteers with Rotarians Althea Robinson and Bob Schoelle, long-time coordinator, at a previous Bell Ringing at King’s Supermarket, Garden City.

Veterans Day in Garden City brings together vets, kids

On Thursday, November 11, Frank Tauches, Commander of the William Bradford Turner Post #265 welcomed everyone to the 10 a.m. Veterans Day event which was held in the Garden City Library.  John Halloran was the guest speaker of the “Meet A Veteran” program and shared his military experience.  He enlisted in the Army and served 3 years on active duty as a medical specialist with assignments throughout the United States.  He was very proud of his military service and displayed his medals.  After his active duty, he reenrolled at St. John’s where he studied to become a teacher, his profession for 32 years.

Commander Tauches also recognized the other veterans in the audience including Jack Wehrum, U.S. Marine, Walter Roller, U.S. Navy, and Henry Wysocki, U.S. Army.  He also expressed his appreciation to the GCMS 8th grade students for the

cards thanking all veterans for their service. He thanked the Garden City library for the generous donation of mainly history and military books for the veterans and their families.

At 10:45 a.m., the William Bradford Turner Post No 265 sponsored the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Village Memorial Plaza on 7th Street outside the library.  Commander Tauches led the ceremony near the memorials which are dedicated to those who had served in previous wars.  This ceremony honored all veterans both the living and deceased.

American Legion President Jacqueline Eltringham introduced GCHS senior Caterina Kephart. Caterina created the Field of Flags project to ‘bring a sense of togetherness and patriotism to our town.’

Residents donated $25 to honor a hero of their choice with one of the 200 flags outside GCHS. ‘I choose to donate the

Adults and children attended the 10 a.m. Meet

Veteran

to right) are Isabella and Caleb Welch and Joseph and Ava

money to the American Legion for the great work and support you provide our veterans and military.’  Caterina was honored to participate in the Empire Girls State program where she ‘was able to further her leader -

ship skills…and to grasp what an honor is to live in the USA.’ Caterina thanked her guidance counselor, Ms. Higgins, for advice on her project.

Commander Tauches thanked everyone for attending and thanked

Mrs. Welch showed Mr. Halloran’s diploma to Isabella and Caleb.

A

session. Sitting front (left

Nadolny.

Post Commander thanked the Pack 243 Cub Scouts for attending the ceremony.

Post Commander Frank Tauches with former Post Commander Dr. Joseph Frye.

Veterans Walter Roller (U.S. Navy) and Jack Wehrum (U.S. Marine).

Ladies Auxiliary President Jackie Eltringham introduced GCHS student Caterina Kephart.

Mr. Halloran showed his shadowbox of medals to Isabella Welch.

Veterans Day in Garden City brings together vets, kids

The Fire Department, the Police Department and many residents attended the ceremony.

Mr. Halloran and our veterans for their service, dedication and valor.  He was very grateful to all the young people who attended the Veterans Day ceremony.  He invited everyone to the ‘Wreaths Across America’ ceremony at Memorial Plaza on Saturday, December 18 at

11 a.m. when the Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts will place wreaths at each monument.  Everyone is invited to attend.  Monthly meetings of the William Bradford Turner Post 265 will resume on January 5 at 7 p.m. New members are welcome!

Call for Technology Committee members

The Garden City Public Schools are looking for four community members with expertise in technology and instructional technology to serve on the district’s Technology Planning Committee to devise the 2022–2025 Technology Plan. There will be three or four meetings scheduled during the school year culminating with a plan submitted to the New York State

Education Department and a presentation to the Board of Education.

If you are interested to serve on the committee, please email Rita Melikian, director of technology, at melikianr@gcufsd.net, no later than Nov. 29, 2021. The first meeting will be on Dec. 9, 2021, at 7 p.m., via Zoom.

GCPD: Holiday Safety Tips

SUBMITTED BY THE GARDEN CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

The holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a time when busy people become preoccupied and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. We can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware. The Garden City Police Department wishes you a safe, happy and peaceful holiday season and offers the following tips:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Have someone pick up your newspapers, mail, and deliveries.

• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on automatic timers

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

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

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

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

• Tell someone when and where you are going, as well as what time you expect to return home.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Dress casually and comfortably; avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible. They are easy targets for thieves in crowded areas.

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

• Keep cash in your front pocket.

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

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

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

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

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason.

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

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

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

• Call 911 when being followed and drive directly to a Police Station or area where people are present.

• If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter or family member.

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

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

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

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

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

FOR SENIORS fyi

Garden City Senior Center is 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.

Beginner Mah Jongg

Garden City Recreation and Parks is pleased to offer beginner mah jongg lessons to our seniors.  This eight week course will cover the basics of the game and the rules so you can enjoy playing.  The class will meet every Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning Friday, January 7.  The cost of this eight week class will be $80 and space is limited.  Checks should be made payable to the Village of Garden City.

To register for this class, please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.  Applications will be accepted until all 16 spots are filled.

PLEASE NOTE – An additional $10 supply fee will be payable to the instructor at the first class.

Intermediate Mah Jongg Lessons

Garden City Recreation and Parks is pleased to offer intermediate mah jongg lessons those seniors who are comfortable with the basics of Mah Jongg and want to elevate their game.  This eight week course will continue to hone your skills as you learn techniques to make your game better.

The class will meet every Friday from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. beginning Friday, January 7.  The cost of this eight week class will be $80 and space is limited.  Checks should be made payable to the Village of Garden City.

To register for this class, please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.  Applications will be accepted until all 16 spots are filled.

PLEASE NOTE – An additional $10 supply fee will be payable to the instructor at the first class.

Special Events for the Month of December

Thursday, December 9 at 10:30 a.m. Computer Class

Intro to your Android phone and other Android devices.  In this class, students will get an introduction to their Android device (phone or tablet).  Students will learn about their device’s home screen, system  apps, learn how to access the Internet and email, understand their device’s settings, and discover many tips and tricks.  Bring your Android device or just come and listen.

“Open Studio” for Seniors on Tuesdays

Recreation and Parks has set some time aside for senior artists who are residents of Garden City to gather together to socialize and share your talents.  The Senior Center will be open for this on Tuesdays from 2 to 4:15 p.m.  Bring your own supplies, table covering, table easel (only) and enjoy sharing with other interested seniors.  PLEASE NOTE - You are responsible to clean up your area when you are finished.

Pickleball Resumes Again in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse

Pickleball is now open in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse to Garden City resident adults.  The sessions will be as follows: Tuesday through Friday –9:30 to 11 a.m. OR 11 a.m .to 12:30 p.m.

Play is drop in and rotate in on a first come, first served basis for Garden City residents only. No non-residents will be allowed at this time.  The fee is $6 per person, payable per session by check or credit card only, no cash will be accepted.

A resident may also purchase a five time pass for $25 or a ten time pass for $50.  These passes may be purchased either at the door or at the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

Senior Exercise with Felicia

Come join us for Senior Exercise with Felicia at the Garden City Senior Center!

Classes will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m.  In order to attend a class, you must preregister.  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.

Garden City

Seniors Bridge Results

The winners for the Monday, November 22 games are: North/South

1st Place: Carmel Quill & Athena Philippides

2nd Place: Joan Kiernan & Molly O'Grady East/West

1st Place: Irene Christie & Dolores Fury

2nd Place: Carrie Flapan & Ellen Moynahan

The Kordes K orner

John Ellis Kordes

PhotograPhy history

This is the “new” Merillon Avenue railroad stop. It has been under construction for years now and many residents have mentioned it to me. Every time I pass it one word comes to mind. “Why?” I mean was all this really necessary? This was not even a station but just a stop along the LIRR. On December 7, 1993, it became infamous as a shooting on the train, just before it pulled in at Merillon Avenue, took the lives of innocent people.

When I took this photo in October, I noticed the purple brick and the rest of “it.” One elderly resident (clearly not pleased) told me it’s a “monstrosity.” There’s a word you don’t hear much anymore. So I looked it up in my dictionary (yes, I still do that) and here’s the actual definition: “deviating from the norm in appearance or structure; grotesquely unnatural, exceptionally large and hideously shocking.” I think the “shoe fits.” (Come to think of it, it also fits some blind dates!)

GC themed totes, ornaments support the Library

The Friends of the Garden City Library are selling these holiday ornaments to support the Library.

The Friends of the Garden City Public Library are pleased to announce that based on poplar demand we are selling beautiful ornaments and totes to support the various programs of the library. We have all been impacted by COVID.  What better way to say “Let’s get

back to normal” than by supporting the community Library.

All ornaments are boxed for lovely gifting and have the pineapple logo and Garden City imprinted in gold. The glass ornaments are $13 and the plastic are $10,with the GC gold pineapple totes selling for $10.

This handsome tote gives you a place to stow your library books.

Please support the library by stopping by the Library to place your order or pick up a GC themed “Welcome” item. Friends’ volunteers will be offering these items on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 p.m.–3 p.m. with additional days being added shortly. Orders can

be placed at the library circulation desk. Please write your name, phone number and which ornaments you’d like and the quantity. Orders of 5 or more will be delivered to your home. Under 5 ornaments can be picked up at designated dates and times to be determined.

GC Schools seek volunteers for new committee

The Garden City Public Schools are seeking four parents/guardians (one representing each level: primary, elementary, middle and high school) to serve on a committee to review instructional material.

The committee will review the district’s process and protocols for determining the appropriateness of instructional materials, and will also review instructional material that a parent/guardian, student or staff may have concerns with that have not been resolved at the teacher or the principal level.

ians, the Advisory Committee will consist of one teacher from each level, one elementary and one secondary library media specialist, the Director of Literacy and two high school students.

2021. If you are interested in applying to the Instructional Materials Advisory Committee, please email a résumé and letter of application by Nov. 30, 2021 to: morrisc@gcufsd. net.

In addition to the parents/guard -

Volunteers will participate in an organizational meeting in December

Stay informed about your community with a weekly subscription to our newspapers.

With current events, announcements, restaurant reviews, puzzles, and much more, there’s always something for everybody to enjoy!

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment Shop

BY MELISSA JAEGER

Remember:  we are now open on Mondays!  And tomorrow!

As a kid growing up, I loved watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with all the cool floats and inflatables, as we worked to prepare the early dinner. I always went for the dark turkey meat (still do) since there was plenty of it because no one else liked it! After the clean-up, the day culminated in the traditional watching of “March of the Wooden Soldiers” with Laurel and Hardy on TV (for those of us who could stay awake). But my favorite part was and is the left-over turkey sandwich with all the trimmings later that night! And I looked forward to the next day too, not because of the special sales, but because it was the day my dad and I went into the city to shop for Mom.

While there aren’t any Black Friday specials at the Exchange, we are OPEN TODAY! So come on in and get a jump on your Christmas decorations and gifts! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas … Be sure to ask us about the Dec. 4th Holiday Village with 18 exceptional vendors who will be selling all kinds of great Christmas items, ranging from home and garden, baby & children’s gifts, jewelry, scarves, and sumptuous sweets. The Exchange will be there too! We will have a special collection of Bearington bears, felted ornaments made by Nepalese female artisans, fanciful resin trees, merry and campy dish towels, beautiful cocktail and luncheon napkins, and great gift-giving ornaments. Be the first to check out our latest ornament – a beautiful brass and painted 3D rendering of the A.T. Stewart Museum! Not to worry, if you don’t make it to this special event, we will have additional supplies of all these great items in the Shop!

All are welcome to come in and browse the Exchange, and to check out our selection of Waterford at fantastic prices. However, if you are not vaccinated, please wear a mask. Even though all the volunteers have been vaccinated, you will see that most of us continue to wear our masks, out of an abundance of caution. We offer hand-sanitizer when you enter the shop, and, to keep you feeling safe, we are running the air purifier which cleans the air in the Shop every hour.

We get newly consigned merchandise almost every day! And we sell new merchandise – especially gift items – purchased through the NY Gift Show. Therefore, I prefer to think of our shop as a Gift and Resale Shop. If you can’t make it in right away, please shop online at www. atstewartexchange.org and come to the Exchange to pick up.  We also post photos on the AT Stewart Exchange Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as the TGCHS website (www.tgchs.org).

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.

With the virus, we have had to take measures to safeguard our customers, consignors, and volunteers.  We now do consignments by appointment only which helps to keep down the numbers of people in the Shop at any point in time and reduces waittimes to consign.  Consignments are now done Wednesday through Friday

ornament for the holiday season at the Holiday Village on December 4, or anytime afterward at the Consignment Shop!

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: Mon - Fri: 10:00–4:00 p.m., Wed: 10:00–6:00 p.m., Sat: Noon–4:00 p.m.

For more information, please call (516) 746-8900

Lifeguards needed at Adelphi University

Adelphi University Campus Recreation is seeking Nassau County certified lifeguards for various part time hours throughout the week during the fall/winter/spring seasons.

There are several types of programs that need additional coverage

such as open recreational adult swimming, high school team practices and the village's youth learn to swim program.  The schedule is flexible and shifts are 2.5 to 4 hours long.  There are some early mornings, Saturdays, and also weekdays at noon or 6 p.m.

Other duties besides watching the

water include checking in patrons, water testing and maintaining a safe area on the deck.  This is a great opportunity for newly certified lifeguards to gain experience, summer guards to pick up some off season work, as well as for local college and high school students to earn some

Do you have grandchildren?

Enter our “World’s Most Beautiful Grandchildren” contest!

extra cash close to home.  The pay rate is $15–16 per hour.

Anyone who is interested is encouraged to reach out to the Adelphi Campus Recreation department by email at campusrec@adelphi.edu.

Just send in your grandchildren’s photos and a brief description of the child (or children) along with your name and address to editor@gcnews.com

Pick up a special GCHS

Gift of Travel: Put a Bow Around Wanderlust

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

The gift of travel is the gift of life-enhancing even life-changing experience, lifelong memories, connection with family, friends and new friends. There are lots of ways to give the gift of travel:

Gift of Travel Experiences:

Gift experiences that come to mind include pre-arranging special experiences:

Arrange a cooking class for a couple going to Paris (cooknwithclass. com)

A hot-air balloon experience over Cappadocia, Turkey (see tripadvisor. com)

Visit to museum exhibit (some now require pre-purchased tickets), attractions, like the recently opened world premiere of  Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru, at the Boca Raton Museum of Art, through March 6, 2022 (https:// bocamuseum.org/art/machu-picchuand-golden-empires-peru).

Organize a spa/wellness visit (SpaFinder.com)

Set up a walking tour (Context Travel, contexttravel.com) or a local guide (https://www.toursbylocals. com/find_guide)

Book a rock climbing experience (Gunks of the Mohonk Preserve, High Xposure Adventures, high-xposure. com; Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School, acadiamountainguides.com)

Prearrange a food tour (Private Street Food Tour by motorbike with local students, Saigon Back Alley Tours, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam).

Schedule a sea kayak nature tour in Van Damme State Park, Mendocino, (www.kayakmendocino.

Gift of Travel: Give experiences, like a sunrise hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia, Turkey © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

com); Bar Harbor, Maine (National Park Sea Kayak Tours, https://acadiakayak.com) or Albania.

Tripadvisor.com and viator.com are excellent sources for finding and booking visits to local attractions, sightseeing.

Arrange a bike ride (Blazing Saddles, San Francisco, blazingsaddles.com) or in Budapest.

Pre-arrange special zoo and theme park experiences like Wild Encounters at the Bronx Zoo and Animal Encounters at Busch Gardens Tampa including Keeper for a Day tours, Australia Insider Tour and Gorilla Insider Tour (https://buschgardens.com/tampa/ tours/).  Book a Dolphin Encounter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium,

home to “Winter” of “Dolphin Tale” fame (SeaWinter.com, 727-441-1790).

Get tickets to iconic holiday experiences like the Washington Ballet’s Nutcracker (30 performances from Nov. 27-Dec. 26, washingtonballet.org); George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker by New York City Ballet, November 26–January 2 (www.nycballet.com/the-nutcracker/tickets, 212-496-0600; or the Philadelphia Ballet, at the Academy of Music Dec. 10-31, https://philadelphiaballet. org/2021-2022-season/nutcracker/0 Can’t get to the wine tastings in Sonoma and Napa? You can still join their wine clubs and ship wine selections, for example, Imagery Wine (www.imagerywinery.com/store) and its sister winery Benziger (ben-

ziger.com).  Find more on sonomawine.com and napavintners.com.

Arrange for a private chef to prepare a special meal in your home in New York City (Chef Omakase, 646-612-7790, info@chefomakase.com, www.chefomakase.com).

Memberships Have Benefits

These days, with capacity restrictions and advance-purchase ticketing requirements at major museums, zoos, preserves, conservancies, sites, attractions, ski areas, and organizations think about gifting pre-purchased tickets or better yet, memberships or season passes.

Not able to visit? Many of the great museums and iconic institutions of the world offer some of the most interesting, innovative and creative items in their gift shops and you can support their mission by shopping online or through catalogs (check out holiday specials, discounts).

For example: the Smithsonian Institution (si.edu),which just introduced Galactic gifts from its new  FUTURES exhibition in the Arts & Industries Building, (https://aib. si.edu/futures/, Smithsonianstore. com).

Members of the American Museum of Natural History enjoy free admission, special access with limited-capacity Member hours, exclusive previews of new exhibitions and galleries, and more. Get $20 off when you use promo code MEM21. (www.amnh.org,  https://shop.amnh. org/featured/holiday-gift-ideas).

Membership at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art brings free entry for members and one to four guests, private access to exhibitions outside of public hours and discounts on dining and store November 26, 2021

Continued on next page

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Gift of Travel: Put a Bow Around Wanderlust

Continued from previous page

purchases (www.metmuseum.org).

Wildlife Conservation Society members get free admission to Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, and Prospect Park Zoo; other memberships add in the NY Aquarium, free parking and other special benefits like guest passes (https://bronxzoo.com/ shop/catalogs/memberships). You can also purchase gift certificates for Wild Encounters - in-person and virtual behind-the-scenes look at the Bronx Zoo and Bronx Zoo gift ticket vouchers $39.95/adult, $29.95/child.

You can also consider purchasing gift memberships in organizations like Sierra Club (they produce a catalog of trips, sierraclub.org); Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (railstotrails.org), Parks & Trail NY (ptny.org), National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA. org); The Nature Conservancy (nature. org); National Trust for Historic Preservation (savingplaces.org) which offers  Great Experiences & Tours, (nationaltrusttours.com); and its sister organization Historic Hotels of America, with some of most interesting and iconic hotels (www.historichotels.org).

Zoos, aquariums and special attractions are fantastic to shop at, especially for kids: The Palm Beach Zoo (www.palmbeachzoo.org), for example, has eco-friendly items. There are also Adopt-an-Animal programs. The Bronx Zoo has similar programs and an online

store (www.bronxzoostore.com). And you don’t have to visit the Kennedy Space Center, to get space-related items (www.thespaceshop.com), though visiting offers incomparable experiences.

National Wildlife Federation has a whole catalog of gifts you can buy (30% off with promo code 938800, but you can also make a donation to a particular cause that is symbolized by a stuffed animal or some other acknowledgement: Holiday Gift Guide (https:// www.shopnwf.org/collections/shopspecialty-shops-holiday-gift-guide). You can give the “gift of nature” and sponsor a forest with Trees for Wildlife program (https://www.shopnwf.org/category/ Shop-Cards-and-Gifts-Tree-Gifts-Treesfor-Wildlife).

Similarly, World Wildlife Federation has a great selection of gifts that support the organization’s conservation efforts: Gifts.worldwidlife.org/ gift-center/gifts/.

Stocking Stuffers, Gift Cards, Travel Gear

Hotels, resorts, tour companies even cruise companies offer gift cards (great stocking stuffers) which can be used to pay toward stays or amenities and experiences.

Xanterra Travel Collection, for the first time, is offering Xanterra Travel Collection Gift Cards redeemable across all its properties and brands for accommodations, tours, experiences, and retail purchases (Xanterra.com/ GiftCard).

You can purchase actual tickets or gift certificates for Broadway theater at broadway.com. Gift certificates can be redeemed for tickets to any Broadway or Off-Broadway show currently playing in New York City. (www.broadway.com/ gift-certificates)

SpaFinder has gift certificates for resorts, hotels, wellness centers and day spas (www.spafinder.com/bestof/resorts-and-hotel-spas), as well as gift cards can be used to buy gift sets (spafinder.com).

Skiers, snowboarders will really appreciate lift tickets (get discounted rates at liftopia.com; also EpicPass. com, IKONPass.com, Ski New York’s Ski3 pass, iskiny.com) or pre-paid lessons and rentals. Or if you feel really ambitious, purchase the season pass.

Then you get into clothes, jackets and specialized gear and equipment for every interest imaginable. Among our favorites (especially when you catch sales and closeouts):

REI member co-op (www.rei. com/s/gifts-for-travelers); (Patagonia. com); Eastern Mountain Sports, 888-463-6367, ems.com;   LL Bean, 888-610-2326, llbean.com; Sun & Ski , 866-786-3869, sunandski.com; Tennis Express , TennisExpress. com; Bass Pro Shops, www.basspro. com. And of course, luggage (ebags. com; Luggageonline.com).

As for travel wardrobe, Red Thread makes clothes ideal for travel – comfortable, lightweight, airy, versatile,

Fall-Blooming Rhododendron

packs well (pants, the essential black dress, jackets etc), specifically to your measurements from your cell phone using 3D technology, delivered within two weeks. I loved the RedThread resort pants with a Saint Tropez stylish flare, and comes with a lifetime guarantee if I need the pants re-sized to fit. (redthreadcollection.com, hi@redthreadcollection. com 800-710-0835).

For stocking stuffers there’s no better than actual socks, so crucial for walking tours, hiking, biking, skiing, and packing, like Darn Tough (www.darntough. com) and Bombas (which come with a promise to donate a pair for every pair purchased, https://bombas.com/).

Cameras and photography gear (memory cards, backpacks, lenses) are big on the wish list for travelers, with size and functionality among the key criteria. What’s in demand are the new smaller, lighter mirrorless cameras have as much functionality as the larger, heavier digital SLRs and use interchangeable lenses. Take advantage of sales to purchase slightly outdated models that have great reviewsB&H consistently has best inventory, prices, and holiday specials, plus excellent customer service, delivery and return policies, www.bhphotovideo.com, 800606-6969,  212-444-6615).

© 2021 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved.

BY JEFF RUGG

Q: I have many native and hybrid rhododendrons. One of my hybrids is now blooming and covered in buds. The flowers are much smaller than usual, and this past spring it had hardly any blooms. Never have I seen this plant bloom at this time of year. Not complaining. Just confused.

A: Your rhododendron is more confused than you are and will probably be complaining soon as the weather gets colder and not warmer. Plants have different levels of auxins (hormones) that are in balance with one another and ebb and flow over time. As some auxins build up and others go down, the flower buds go dormant. In the spring, the process reverses, and the buds are released from dormancy. Some auxins build up or break down with fluctuations in temperature, water in the soil and other environmental changes that may fool a plant into thinking spring has arrived.

Plants in northern climates are supposed to go dormant in the fall, survive

the cold and then break dormancy as the weather warms up in spring. Some species and some individual plants are occasionally fooled by stress caused by drought, root damage or insect damage. These plants come out of their dormancy prematurely or in the wrong season because of a mix-up in the ratios of their auxins.

Rhododendrons and magnolias are two species that commonly have plants that have some flowers blooming in the late summer or fall instead of the normal spring timing. Some plants do this because of genetic changes and can become new varieties, such as the reblooming lilacs sold by Proven Winners in their Bloomerang series.

If the normal spring-flowering buds are used up in the summer, the plant may grow new ones by fall and bloom somewhat normally in the spring, but your plant is blooming so late that only the flower buds that didn’t bloom will be able to bloom next spring. I don’t know what triggered your plant to bloom, but if there was something that you think could have

stressed the plant for a while that caused it to break dormancy, let me know.

Q: I have a 2-by-20-foot vegetable garden plot that only gets about five hours of direct sunlight each day. I plant lettuce, radishes, beets, carrots and a few tomatoes that usually ripen in late September. I do rotate these crops. Will I have a problem if I continue doing this but do not rotate other crops in this garden? What can you suggest that would be beneficial for this situation?

A: It is hard to rotate crops to reduce the spread of insect and disease problems when the garden is small. Also, if you don’t want the produce from the other kinds of vegetable plants, why plant them?

I think the best choice for your garden would be the addition of compost. Using different kinds each spring or every other year will help create a healthy soil full of nutrients. Don’t use manure-based compost because the root vegetables could be contaminated. Keep an eye on the root vegetables, as soil pests for one will be pests for all and soil pests tend to persist

from year to year. If a problem develops, then it may be necessary to remove some soil in that area. Continue rotating as best you can, and I think your garden will be fine.

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

COPYRIGHT 2021 JEFF RUGG DISTRIBUTED BY CREATORS

BY THOMAS BRENNAN

I was in the eighth grade and an announced afternoon Tea Dance was my introduction into the subtleties of how one should conduct the niceties of social intercourse. This was a voluntary, after-school affair, and the boys who attended meandered in our spacious auditorium at one end of the basketball court near the seating area, while as usual in parochial school practice, the girls were assembled directly opposite on the far side of the court. The polished wood basketball court and the ample space which surrounded it seemed to the boys as formidable an obstacle in its crossing as the Gobi desert did to an exhausted camel caravan. Ahead of us, we saw the empty space as an intimidating arid plain.

Until this very moment, even as the theme for this affair was to introduce us to a boy-meets-girl dance forum, the Brothers and the Sisters had waged a relentless and ultimately successful campaign to keep these eighth grade boys and girls apart. In the schoolyard, a high three-tiered chain link fence separated the girls from the boys. However, the thinness of the fence belied the ever-vigilant enforcement of the unstated yet completely understood rules of separation that assured that for the eight years we attended St. Teresa’s, there would be absolutely no interaction between the two groups whatsoever.

After school, the basketball courts on the boys’ side would be crowded with anxious looking boys waiting on the sidelines to play the winners of a previous game. Each game was played with a fierce determination to win with much the same fervor as a competitive stickball game with the decided advantage that basketball was not played on the street where passing cars could interfere with the flow of the game. Schoolyard three-man basketball games had begun to take the place of stickball as our game of choice.

The few courts on the girls’ side of the schoolyard were empty, but none of the boys would dare to venture into that “no man’s land” to pick up a game. The price would be too high. It was an accepted fact of life that punishment from a Brother, who spotted the serious infraction as he walked across that space to get to “the Brothers’ House” from the school, would be physical, and it would be meted out with a forceful vigor on the spot.

I do not recall ever having a single conversation with a girl from St. Teresa’s during the school term in my entire parochial school life. The restrictions imposed by the system itself would assure that there would never be any opportunity for even a chance meeting to occur. Yet in our early years on

The Tea Dance – Part I

Butler Place where I lived, and where the rules of the street prevailed, the girls who often played games with us did not come from Saint Teresa’s; they were considered neighborhood friends.

The wonderful music of that era began the dancing part of the event, which at this affair began with a fast tempo requiring a dancing skill I found intimidating. Learning how to dance with some degree of confidence had shot up to the highly competitive top tier of my crowded hit parade list of things I had to learn to gain entry into the dating world and all that went with it. Items on the very top of my list kept burgeoning to accommodate new challenges that popped up with an unwelcomed familiarity. That ever growing list, and my inability to deal with even one of them, grew insatiably like a mental obstacle course feeding my gnawing anxiety.

As far as I was concerned, everything that was still ahead of me felt daunting with no options I could think of at my disposal that might lead to my developing any sense of confidence.

Someone must have actually been in charge of the affair, so after watching the girls enthusiastically dance the Lindy among themselves with their flared dresses spinning widely in their wake, the boys pretended in their newly-acquired posture of casual indifference, to have absolutely no interest in even being there. But then, to save the day, a decision was made that maybe we ought to go with a slow song in the hope of getting the boys to dare to cross the great divide. This new cadence immediately signaled the vigilant nun patrol to ratchet up their attention to a more heightened level of alertness.

It was a universally accepted axiom in my world that no one was better at guard duty than a nun. They viewed their role on the dance floor like the Medieval Ages did a church: as providers of sanctuary. In their self-imposed obligation to protect the girls from entangling alliances, they readily maintained their protective instincts otherwise maintained by a Grizzly Bear for a new-born cub: on guard against intruders from the first moment they enter a room. Their instincts in such matters clearly trumped the theme of the afternoon tea dance, which was after all, was to get the boys and girls together.

Each of us assembled on the opposite sides of the great divide was well aware of the conflict in that delicate balance.

From a nun’s perspective, the lilting sounds of The Platters implied the threat of the lure of warm embraces that might overtake the Victorian atmosphere of the Tea Dance that these nuns had taken so much effort to establish as the norm. The nuns were more on

the side of Barry Fitzgerald’s character in the movie “The Quiet Man” who at some point in the beautiful film wryly observed with a pronounced “tsk” to the alluring Maureen O’Hara, whom he suspected was shifting too close in the carriage to John Wayne, “The proprieties must be observed.” Nuns were very big on proprieties.

Here was opportunity for the dreaded “occasion of sin” to enter in unannounced. In parochial school lore, the nuns recognized that the girls just might be vulnerable to a temptation that often came with the type of stealth that these naïve young ladies, without the benefit of the nuns’ vigilant protection, may be unable to identify, much less their being aware of the need to be protected from –the soft luring embrace of a slow dance that just might lead to other things.

I noticed that the Brothers had absolutely nothing to do with this operation. They still held their ground. Within this auditorium, the schoolyard fence could no longer be a physical deterrent, but the nuns were quick to marshal other forces which included their physically imposing a roomy space between each boy and girl as they danced. I wouldn’t have been surprised to see them equipped with their ever-present clickers, clicking intently while pointing to an indiscretion like a referee in a basketball game signaling a foul with a whistle. The fences might be gone but the nuns were not giving up on their protective shield quite yet.

In my immature state of latent development, I felt that almost any female who would allow me to hold on to her, clasping her waist to a slow song like “Earth Angel” was a welcoming, fullfledged “occasion of sin” which exotic boundary was well beyond the grasp of the more temperate, “near occasion of sin.”

By dribs and drabs, the boys had slinked back to the seating area, and I had flapped down one of the thin wooden slat seats where I sat down and brooded with my books in my lap. I looked around at my classmates with a coy searching glance and realized that I was essentially by myself. There was no one from my immediate area of the parish at the dance, in fact there was no one else from my side of Washington Avenue in sight, and the boys kept the pecking order of who they hung out with when they went home after school for their company here at the dance. They had their security blanket. My successful strategy of remaining incognito for eight years was now working against me.

I wanted more than anything else to be in one of the conversations with my anxious looking classmates who, like me, brazenly, as one of the nuns might describe it, now peered over at the girls with our minds set in the culling process mode. Which one to choose?

Check back next week for Part II of “The Tea Dance”

How a Social Security Benefit Is Figured -- For

BY TOM MARGENAU

There are some columns I could repeat over and over again -- because I’m asked the same questions over and over again. One of the most common questions I’m asked is this: “How is my Social Security benefit figured?” I’ve answered this question many times in past columns, and I’m going to do it again today.

This answer will be in two parts. The first part will provide a relatively simple explanation of the process. It is for those people (probably the majority of my readers) who want a general idea of how their benefit will be figured. They just don’t need or want to know all the nitty-gritty details. The second part of the answer will be for those who want to know it all and want to become experts in the Social Security benefit computation formula.

So, let’s start simple. 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.

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 gets just a little 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 1955 and earned $32,400 in 1982, they would multiply those earnings by an inflation adjustment factor of 3.31, meaning they would actually use $107,244 as your 1982 earnings. But if you were born in 1956 and earned that same $32,400 in 1982, they would use an inflation factor of 3.35, resulting in $108,540 as the 1982 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: 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. Simply put, 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 1955. You take the first $885 of your average monthly income and multiply it by 90%. You take the next $4,451 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” at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Believe it or not, that was the simple explanation for those who just want a basic idea of how your 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 were a college course, it might be called Social Security Benefit Computation 101.

But now I’m going to offer the advanced course for those of you who want to become experts.

I’ll start by introducing this term: the “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 (COLAs) that were authorized for Social Security benefits after the year you reached age 62.

But it gets a little tricky when SSA does the recomputation 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 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

Beginners and for Experts

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 don’t want to be an expert, I say, “don’t worry about it.” Just let the SSA do it for you. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov, 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 www.creators.com/books. Or look for it on Amazon or other book outlets COPYRIGHT 2021

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Process of a Sale From Start to Finish

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

There are a number of professionals who we have to work with to coordinate our sales, from the attorneys, home inspectors, contractors mortgage brokers, and sometimes managements and co-op boards as well as our sellers and purchasers. Every once in a blue moon a structural engineer to check out the integrity of walls and foundations in a home. The coordination between the parties is tantamount and crucial, especially during the current times, to make sure the transaction heads in the right direction in an efficient and expeditious fashion so the end result will be a positive one. With the assistance of the selling and listing agents and with the seller and buyer coming to an agreed and accepted price, (submitting the accepted offer with a lender’s letter or proof of funds if paying outright for the purchase) would be the initial first step in the process of creating a sale. The next step would be a deal sheet between the parties, showing all the parties to the sale, buyers, sellers, agents and attorneys, terms to the agreement (sale price, how much of a mortgage, total out of pocket by the buyer, what is included in the sale and the approximate on or about closing date. “On or about” closing dates are more flexible than a “on or before” date, which is a “time of essence” where the closing must take place on or before a specific date. This form will be emailed to the seller’s attorney as well as to all the other parties, so if any mistakes are apparent, they can be corrected by having more people review the document. When needed, seller(s) should discuss additional time that they might need to stay in the home after closing, due to unforeseen circumstances in moving to their next home. This will need to be written into the contract. Also, the attorneys will always go over the contracts as the terms and conditions and language must be agreeable to both of them.

However, prior to signing a contract, the buyer should perform an

inspection to make sure what they are purchasing has no major defects, as no one likes surprises, and additional expenses especially after closing (unless the purchaser(s) knows he/she is buying in “as is condition”).

First the contract is signed by the buyer(s), and then sent over to the seller(s) by purchaser’s attorney for the seller(s) to sign. Once the contract is fully executed, then the buyer(s) must provide their mortgage person a copy of their contract, so the process of applying for their mortgage begins. Assuming the buyer(s) have provided all their personal information from the beginning to get their pre-approval, so there are no conditions then their appraisal can be done on the home. Appraisals under the current environment will be scheduled in 1-2 weeks. The appraiser will complete his appraisal and then send it over to the bank to further the approval process. Usually most contracts are signed with a 45-60 day window for the final written mortgage approval. However, there are times when a delay by the bank or additional paperwork might be asked for from the buyer, and an extension of time will be required and is asked for by the buyer’s attorney.

man, allowed to rent, etc.) co-ops are an excellent alternative, as long as their financials are strong, with enough money in their reserve fund, good working capital to pay the monthly bills and maintenance that is somewhat comparable to other similar units and increases have been minimal over the last number of years.

Once management goes over the application, it then sends it over to the board to again, go over the package with a “fine tooth comb.” Then, management will call to schedule an appointment for the prospective purchaser’s in person interview. Lately, I see more boards considering or doing a Zoom interview is much more efficient, safer and more flexible in performing the interview for all involved parties.

is involved then a CD (closing document) must be kept by both agents for their records for 3 years as per the Department of State rules. Obviously, the process from start to finish is a very involved and with parts, so it is important to have everyone on the same page throughout the transaction, so the sale will be as efficient as possible with the least amount of stress.

When you’re not having turkey -- or thinking about fixing it -- here’s an easy recipe for those busy days that provides a good source of vitamin D and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. It’s from Hy-Vee Seasons magazine.

HONEY-WALNUT CRUSTED

SALMON AND BROCCOLINI

Nonstick cooking spray

4 (4-6 ounce) skinless salmon fillet portions

Fine sea salt

Black pepper

If it is a co-op sale, then management sometimes will ask for a copy of the contract to verify the sale. Once that is done a copy of the co-op sale package is provided to the purchaser(s) while the mortgage is being facilitated, and the process of filling it out begins. Although, it can be a challenge to some to provide all the required information that a co-op asks for on the application, it will provide a very clear picture of the financial capability of the buyer(s). Unless one has the money to purchase a condo, (no board approval) which can be around $100,000-$150,000 more for similar space, (but more luxury, guaranteed indoor parking, door-

Once the buyer passes the board then a closing can be scheduled, after the bank says that the sale is “clear to close.” Both attorneys, the bank attorney, title company will work on a closing date and will convey this to buyer, seller and agents involved in the transaction. Agents must send in their bills for services rendered with both their personal and corporate license numbers to the seller’s attorney. Also a final walk through of the property is done to make sure everything is in order, utilities are functioning and the home is in the same condition as when the buyer’s last visited it when there was an agreed and accepted price. No one likes surprises at the closing as that should be the time when everyone is satisfied and happy. However, if there are any major issues, then money is held in escrow until those issues are satisfied, but the closing will still occur.

The day of the closing all the paperwork is completed and if a cash sale then a copy of the contract is needed for the agents records, with all the NYS agency, lead (as applicable) and Covid disclosures. However, if a mortgage

Dinner Recipe For Busy Days

1 cup chopped walnuts

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

2 1/2 tablespoons canola oil, divided 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme

8 ounces broccolini spears, trimmed

1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch pieces

Preheat oven to 425 F. Lightly spray a large, rimmed pan with cooking spray. Pat salmon dry with paper towels. Place salmon in center of pan. Tuck under thin

edges of salmon, if necessary. Lightly sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Combine walnuts, mustard, honey, 1 tablespoon oil and 1/2 teaspoon thyme in a small bowl. Spread mixture on top of salmon. Toss broccolini and bell pepper pieces with remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil. Spread vegetables around salmon in pan. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in 425-degree oven until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145 F and vegetables are crisp-tender. Garnish with additional thyme if desired. Serves 4.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 40 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 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.

Per serving: 580 calories; 30 grams protein; 18 grams carbohydrates; 44 grams fat (6 grams saturated); 60 milligrams cholesterol; 4 grams fiber; 12 grams sugar (9 grams added); 210 milligrams sodium.

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

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

Somehow or other, I managed to get to the age of 56 never having made a Thanksgiving turkey. I have always been the guest at Thanksgiving, never the host, which was good news for me and for the people who didn’t have to attend Thanksgiving dinner at my home and ingest turkey that was so dried out you could put it in a pipe and smoke it, or so undercooked it could still gobble.

The truth is I’m not a great cook. Sure, I have my collection of things I make pretty well, and my family doesn’t know any better, so they think it’s good. As no one is complaining and I haven’t poisoned anyone yet, I’m fine with just being an OK cook. I know there are a lot of people who like to cook and like to try exotic recipes and cook every dish in the Julia Child cookbook. But given the choice between learning how to debone a duck and make a demi-glace and mak-

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of November 21-27, 2021

With the holiday gift-giving season barreling toward us like an out-of-control sleigh, we will soon be hearing and seeing ads to have a star named after someone special.

Now I have nothing against the free enterprise system. But I, like P.T. Barnum, have come to learn that no matter how ridiculous a product people will line up to buy it if it’s marketed properly. Remember the pet rock?

So, if rocks, why not stars? Why not take a person’s hard-earned money, write their name in a book and hand them a star chart and certificate? Well, that’s just what a handful of companies are doing, and at least one has been investigated by a state attorney general’s office.

Quite frankly, I think that having a star named after me would be a pretty cool novelty gift, but that’s really all it is. Where I take issue is that people often believe that this will buy them immortality -- that future astronomers will utter their name while studying “their” star. (“My, isn’t Otis scintillating tonight!)

Sorry, folks, it just ain’t so. Let me explain why.

On a clear, dark night, only a couple thousand stars are visible to the unaided eye. Of those, only a few hundred are endowed with proper names, most of which come from ancient stargaz-

ing a reservation at a restaurant, I’d opt for the Olive Garden every time. That said, for my first Thanksgiving, I decided to take the plunge and actually make a real turkey from a real recipe. However, since I have never done this before, I thought I should probably, at least, take a couple of practice passes at this turkey thing just to make sure no one at my dinner table would end up in the emergency room.

For my first turkey, I decided I needed a sure thing to get my confidence up. So, I made a meatloaf out of ground turkey and sculpted it into the shape of a turkey. It didn’t really hold its shape and ended up looking more like a frog than a turkey, but it was delicious, and no one fought over the drumstick.

For my second turkey, I bought a store-cooked turkey and reheated it. This worked out really well. My family was very impressed until I told them I didn’t actually make it and they laughed at me until I threw stuffing at them.

All the Right Turkeys Star Names

The third turkey never made it to the table. I actually cooked this one and it seemed like it was going to be perfect. It looked good. It smelled great! It must have smelled great to the dog, too, because I left it on the counter to cool while I picked up the kids from school and the dog ate the whole thing. He said it was delicious.

They always say the fourth time is the charm (I know you’ve heard it is the third time, but I figure the meatloaf turkey didn’t really count), so I expected that turkey number four was gonna be “da bomb.” This is a pretty good description of what happened when I dropped it taking it out of the oven and it exploded all over the kitchen floor. The dog enjoyed this turkey, too.

I was running out of time and on turkey number five, which, coincidentally, was the same number of hours I had it in the oven before I realized I had set the temperature but never turned the oven on. After leaving the turkey out,

STARGAZERS

ers of the Mediterranean: the Greeks, Romans, Arabs and others. The rest -- visible only to large telescopes -- are designated by numbers or celestial coordinates that astronomers list in thick star catalogues.

Take, for example, the brightest star twinkling low in the northeastern sky a few hours after dark. Various catalogues list it as HD34029, HR1708 and Alpha Aurigae, but since it’s the sixth brightest star in the sky, it also carries a proper name: Capella. The name means “she-goat,” a perfectly legitimate name for the brightest star in the constellation of Auriga, a charioteer who carries a goat. Names of other bright stars have similarly interesting origins and histories.

Now if you’d still like to “buy” a star for someone this holiday season, you certainly won’t hurt my feelings. You should have little trouble finding companies on any Internet search engine, but please be aware that most of the stars they’re “selling” are much too faint to see with the unaided eye. In fact, some may not even exist at all. Nearly three decades ago, I failed to find a friend’s “star” with both a 21-inch telescope and a camera. It just wasn’t there. And then I discovered upon closer examination that the “star” for which the person spent $50 was actually a dot of ink laid down on the star chart by some unscrupulous salesperson! Star names are fascinating, and they tell us much about the cultures who

uncooked, for five hours, I was pretty sure I would end up serving turkey a la food poisoning for dinner, so I tossed it.

As I contemplated my five failed turkeys, our future Thanksgiving guests called.

“Hi,” said my brother. “All ready for Thanksgiving?”

“Absolutely,” I said.

“What are we having?” he asked.

“That depends,” I said

“On what?” he wondered.

I looked at the garbage can stuffed with turkey.

“What are you bringing?”

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

COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM

created them. To learn more about the stars’ actual names, you might check out the book of Richard Hinckley Allen titled “Star Names: Their Lore and Meaning.” And for an even more in-depth and fascinating look at the subject, look into the classic three-volume tome known as “Burnham’s Celestial Handbook.”

When it comes right down to it, books like that would make a more useful gift for the stargazer in your family!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM

CLASSIFIEDS ...a sure way to get results.

ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900

AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 11 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com

Garden City News

• Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram

• Syosset Advance • Jericho News Journal Williston Times - Mineola Edition

New Hyde Park Herald Courier • Manhasset Times Roslyn Times • Port Washington Times • Great Neck News

DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.

2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:

1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”

2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com

Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.

Visa and MasterCard Accepted

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

FORMER BIG FOUR/SIX ACCOUNTANT

Stay at home mom looking to make extra spending money?

Flexible schedule, limited deadlines, work from home. 18-20 hours per week. CPA not required. Call 516-522-0499

Email: kathleen@kscprofessional.com

FRONT DESK ADMIN.

Busy Real Estate Office Computer and Organizational Skills Required. Flexible 20 hrs/week

IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY Resume/Call for Appointment 516-248-9494

LYNEER STAFFING SOLUTIONS Hiring Mail Sorters, Data Entry $15.00, Forklifts $17.50, Mystery Shoppers Ages 21-25 $20.00. 860 Long Island Ave., Deer Park NY 11729 631586-4699

OFFICE ASSISTANT NEEDED

P/T, all office duties including billing & accounts payable. Knowledge of QuickBooks a PLUS. Flexible Days/ Hrs.

Please contact Lynn at: LEckstein@fabricresourcesintl. com

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

RECEPTIONIST needed for P/T eves & weekends. Will train.

Also VET / TECH KENNEL ASST.

Duties include helping doctors with appointments/treatments. Cleaning cages/offices/ equipment. Must like animals, be reliable, dependable & work well with others. Pay negotiable for both positions. Please call to schedule interview.

Port Washington Animal Hospital: 516-883-2005

TAX PREPARER PART TIME

Franklin Square Experience needed Retirees welcome. Call 516-358-9455 Fax resume 516-358-9483

Email: ed@loturco.com

EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MARKETPLACE

•

•

•

•

•

Place an ad in our Classifieds for guaranteed results. Call the G.C. office at 294-8900 for more info.

A HOME HEALTH CARE

AIDE Irish trained woman with 10 years experience and excellent checkable references available. Honest and reliable. Licensed driver with own transportation. Please call 516-383-7150

HOME HEALTH AIDE / ELDER CARE

Loving reliable woman seeking FT position nights/weekends to take care of your loved one. Experienced with ALS, dementia, diabetes, etc. Great references highly recommended. Licensed driver. Call 646-575-8217

HOME HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

with over 15 years of experience, I am skilled in facilitating the needs of those with any type of physical or mental disability as well as end of life care. Able to perform all house hold duties and tasks necessary for in home personal care. Professional and compassionate care to help maximize the comfort of you or your loved ones in their own home.

Call 516-602-7178

CAREER TRAINING

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING

PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! (844) 947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

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

ATTENTION MEDICARE RECIPIENTS! Open Enrollment for Medicare health plans is here! Call our licensed insurance agents for an affordable quote for your needed coverage. Call for a no obligation free quote now! 844-808-9374 (TTY:711)

GET DIRECTV! ONLY $69.99 /month. 155 Channels & 1000s of Shows/Movies on Demand (w/SELECT All Included Package). PLUS Stream on UP to FIVE Screens Simultaneously at No Additional Cost. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

516-746-8900

Antiques-Furniture-Jewelry-Silver-Mirrors-LampsArtwork Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4

Shop Our Online Store ATStewartExchange.org

Items to Consign?

Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society Like us on Facebook & Instagram

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

AUCTIONS

COOL OLD STUFF IN GLEN COVE VINTAGE SHOP WINNER OF BEST OF NASSAU COUNTY 2021. GREAT PRICED items for Boat and Home. See ALL online: Wilsonsdrydock.com. For info/ appt Please call 516-662-2821

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

FREON WANTED: We pay

$$$ for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114. Convenient. Certified Professionals. Call 312-291-9169 or visit RefrigerantFinders.com

LOOKING TO BUY!

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

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

Please call 718-598-3045 or 516270-2128

www.antiqueassets.com

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS

$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h. DMV 10#1303199 Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS 516297-2277

DRIVE OUT BREAST CANCER:

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

APARTMENT FOR RENT

GARDEN CITY BORDER APARTMENTS

NO BROKER FEE. Huge, bright 1Br, 1 bath apt. $1685 +electric. Gated parking. Laundry room, air conditioning, hardwood floors, LIRR. www.gcbapts.com Voice or text: 516-524-6965

REAL ESTATE WANTED

HOUSE WANTED TO RENT

I am a 26 year old professional male, currently working and going to school for my masters. I am looking to rent a furnished room, studio or one bedroom apartment in Nassau County. I am responsible, respectful and clean. Please contact Jon at 917 885-3201 or email me at genie91234@yahoo.com if you are looking for a good tenant.

SUMMER 2022 RENTAL WANTED HOUSE OR APARTMENT

Retired Garden City couple looking for summer rental in Garden City, Rockville Centre, W. Hempstead or surrounding areas.

July, August and September. Please call Martha: 516-697-6694

SERVICES

BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99 /mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! CALL 888-508-5313

Dr. Marlene Levy (PhD,LCSW,DAAPM) Virtual and Outdoor CLINICAL HYPNOSIS & PSYCHOTHERAPY. Call 516-944-3885

SERVICES

FAMILY RECOVERY SERVICES

I am a long time resident of Garden City and understand the complexities of ADDICTION & MENTAL HEALTH.

I am available to GUIDE families find the MOST COST EFFECTIVE & COMPREHENSIVE TREATMENT PLAN for a loved one.

I will Bridge the Gap between a Family ravaged by Alcoholism, Drug Addiction and/or Mental Health AND Life Long Recovery.

HELP IS HERE NOW!

Please call me for a confidential consultation. 954-5408441

Kim Koslow, LMHC, MCAP, CTT

Licensed Psychotherapist Motivational Interventionist Reliable Resource

“It was in my heart to help a little because I was helped much” Kahill Gibran

FITNESS/MASSAGE

Virtual workout available via Zoom. One on One Rehabilitation in the comfort of your home.

Following COVID-19 Safety Practices.

Contact: 917-612-0460 Andersongourdet@gmail.com

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING

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

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

SERVICES

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

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A.

D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates.com

COMPUTERS

TDS COMPUTER SERVICE

Mac and Windows Repairs / Data Recovery/Virus Removal /Network Support/IT Security 516-944-5193

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

*Furniture Assembly

*Finish Carpentry

*Minor Electrical & Plumbing 28 year GC Resident Lic & Ins H18E2170000 Call BOB 516-741-2154

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AQUATEC

LAWN SPRINKLERS FALL DRAIN OUTS

Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates Installation Service/Repairs Joe Barbato 516-775-1199

CHIMNEY KING ENT. INC. FREE ESTIMATES

Stainless steel liners cleaning & repair specialists. Masonry specialist. FULLY licensed & insured. NYC NASSAU SUFFOLK 516-766-1666 or 631-225-2600 Since 1982 chimneykinginc.com

ELIMINATE GUTTER

CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off and 0% financing for those who qualify. PLUS Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-877-763-2379

FREE ESTIMATES

Extensions, Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Carpentry Work, Porticos, Siding, Dormers, Stone, New Construction & Conversions, Mason Work, Stone. Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli.com 516-426-2890

MASONRY

All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps.

Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

NEVER PAY FOR COVERED HOME REPAIRS AGAIN!

Complete Care Home Warranty COVERS ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE. $200.00 OFF + 2 FREE MONTHS! 866-440-6501

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY!

Slate & Tile Specialists

All types of Roofing

Local References

Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869

THE GENERAC PWRcell

a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-888-871-0194

WIREMAN/CABLEMAN

Flat TVs mounted, Phone, TVs & Computer wiring installed & serviced, camera & stereos, HDTV Antennas FREE TV www.davewireman.com

516-433-WIRE (9473

631-667-WIRE (9473) or TEXT 516-353-1118

SERVICES

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.familycareconnections. com

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

TUTORING

BROWN U. PHD

VIRTUAL TUTORING in Math and Latin. 20+ years tutoring/teaching experience, including at Brown. Call/Text 347-683-7961 for more information

SERVICES

TUTORING

Port Tutoring

Academic success

Test Prep/All subjects/ All Grades/All Levels. Individual and Small Group Tutoring. 516-767-1342 info@portturtoring.com

A & J MOVING & STORAGE:

Established 1971. Long Island and New York State specialists. Residential, Commercial, Piano & Organ experts. Boxes available. Free estimates. www. ajmoving .com 516-741-2657 114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NYDOT# 10405

LEAK REPAIRS

Plumbing Repairs

Bathrooms, Showers, Kitchens

24 HOUR SERVICE

Call 516-668-5624

PASSION FOR SENIORS

Certified HHAs, companions & Homemakers. 24 hour care available. Also Nassau locations. Trained in Dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Call 718-850-3400

Celebrate a popular chocolate dessert

It is hard to determine who created the brownie, but dessert devotees no doubt appreciation that individual’s now beloved creation.

Brownies are one of North America’s favorite baked treats. They actually are classified as a bar cookie rather than a cake, and the dessert earned its name from the deep, brown color of its main ingredient.

There have been many variations on the brownie through the years, and the lively debate whether crunchy end pieces or chewy middle slices are preferred continues. There may be less debate about how flavorful it can be to mix cheesecake with brownies, which is just what happens in this recipe for “Marbled Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies” from “Chocolate” (Love Food), by the editors of Parragon Books, Ltd.

Marled Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Makes 12

3⁄4 cup unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing

3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa

1 cup superfine sugar

2 eggs, beaten

1 cup all-purpose flour

Cheesecake mix

1 cup ricotta cheese

3 tablespoons superfine sugar

1 egg beaten

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease an 11 x 7-inch cake pan and line with parchment paper.

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan, remove from the heat, and stir in the unsweetened cocoa and the sugar. Beat in the eggs, then add the flour, and stir to mix evenly. Pour into the prepared pan.

For the cheesecake mix, beat together the ricotta, sugar and egg, then drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture over the chocolate mixture. Use a metal spatula to swirl the two mixtures tightly together.

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until just firm to the touch. Cool in the pan, then cut into bars or squares.

Each week Litmor Publications publishes the ads of providers in our Classifieds, Professional Guide and Service Directory. A 6 week agreement brings your specialty or service to the attention of the community in a public service format.

LET US BEGIN LISTING YOU IN OUR NEXT ISSUE. For More Information and Rates Call Nancy 516.294.8900 Email: Nancy@gcnews.com Include name, daytime phone number, address and email.

Deadline for Professional Guide or Service Directory is Monday, 12 Noon. Deadline for Classified is Tuesday, 1pm Advertising in the Professional Guide is only open to N.Y.S. Licensed Professionals.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

From page 2

MABSTOA buses in the summer of 2021. The vaccines were rolled out after his prediction and the buses were very air conditioned.

The author claims it takes seven minutes to go from Penn Station to Grand Central. I would agree with the author - if he had access to Captain Kirk’s transporter.

LIRR trains leave you on the lower level of Penn Station. Assuming a commuter has no mobility issues, fighting the throngs of people it would take at least five minutes just to get to the uptown platform of the 1, 2, or 3 train at Penn Station. Assuming a train comes instantly - a huge assumption indeedand assuming the train runs at top speed to Times Square, that takes another two minutes. Then there’s the walk from the uptown 1-2-3 platform to the shuttle, at least another two minutes. Assuming for the sake of argument the shuttle leaves immediately - again a huge assumption - it’s at least two minutes from Times Square to Grand Central. Then one has to walk the long corridor between the shuttle and the main Grand Central area.

All told it could take easily twice the time Mr. Penner asserts it would take from Penn to Grand Central. This scenario does not include how crowded the trains are, missing a train, trains not coming instantly, etc.

The author may be absolutely correct in being against the LIRR to Grand Central. He is entitled to his opinion and entitled to express his opinion. He is not entitled to justify his opinion with lies and half truths..

Nat Weiner

Support local businesses

To the Editor:

In these difficult economic times, as a result of COVID-19, it is especially important to patronize your neighborhood businesses. Do it not only on annual Small Business Saturday, November 26th  but every day of the year.

Small independent businesses are

at the mercy of suppliers, especially third party brokers, who control the price they have to pay for merchandise.  There are additional costs of sanitizing the store and providing protection to employees, who deal with the public during this ongoing health emergency.

I don’t mind occasionally paying a little more to help our local stores survive.  The employees go out of their way to help find what I need.  Customer service is their motto.  As an independent mom and pop store, they don’t have bulk buying purchasing power that Amazon or large national chain stores have.  The owners can’t negotiate lower prices from suppliers . This is why they sometimes charge a little more.  It is worth the price to avoid the crowds and long lines at larger stores in exchange for the convenience and friendly service your neighborhood community store offers.

Remember these people are our neighbors. Our local entrepreneurs have continued the good fight to keep their existing staff and suppliers employed without layoffs and canceling product or supply orders.  They continue to work long hours, pay taxes and keep as many employed as possible.  Many maintain the tradition of offering job opportunities to students during the holidays and summer.

Customers also patronize other commercial establishments on the block.  Foot traffic is essential for the survival of any neighborhood commercial district.  If we don’t patronize our local community stores and restaurants to shop and eat, they don’t eat either. This helps keep our neighbors employed and the local economy growing.

The owners of independent mom and pop stores are the backbone of our neighborhood commercial districts. Thank the hard working owners and employees who continue to work during these hard times. Show your support by making a purchase.

Stop by your favorite store and also drop off a box of candy or cookies as a show of appreciation.  Something sweet for the holidays helps take the edge off the stress we all face.

Larry Penner

Donald Carss

Donald Carss passed away peacefully on November 20, 2021 at age 93. Reunited in Heaven with wife Helen and son Steven. Survived by son Bob and beloved grandchildren Brian, Matt and Sarah of Cary, NC as well as many loving nieces and nephews who were incredibly good to him. He also had the best group of neighbors anyone could ask for that helped him live independently until his passing.

A purple heart recipient in the Korean War, Don was a proud graduate of Lynbrook High School, Bucknell University, and the NYU Stern School of Business. He had a distinguished banking career at various banks including Chemical Bank, Security National, Long Island Trust and Apple Bank. He found great joy in being a youth athletics coach with St. Anne’s CYO and the GCAA and loved seeing his former players around town as they grew and had families of their own. Mostly he relished his role as devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, neighbor

and friend.  He will be missed. Services will be held at Fairchild Funeral Home on November 30, to be followed by his burial at Holy Rood Cemetery.

IN MEMORIAM

Dorothy “Sue” (Barnosky) Carr

Dorothy “Sue” (Barnosky) Carr, age 95, of Swampscott, MA, formerly a longtime resident of Garden City,  and Saltaire, Fire Island, passed away on Saturday, November 13, 2021.   Dorothy was the beloved wife of the late Joel L. Carr with whom she shared over 65 years of marriage.

She was the loving mother of Katherine Phyfer and her husband, David of Geneva, IL , Brooks Carr and his wife, Heather of Swampscott, MA, and the late Simon Carr and the late Jay Carr; the cherished grandmother of Hugh, Sara and Will Phyfer, Ian,

Caroline, Andrew, Meagan, Charlotte, Jane, and Kat Carr; and the former mother-in-law of Beckie Marquigny and Bernadette Fortune.

Sue worked as model in and around New York City as young woman. She later settled in Garden City to raise her family.

Funeral services are private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Sue’s memory to the American Cancer Society via cancer. org. Arrangements are under the care of Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome.com for the Carr family.

Donald Carss

The

Environmental Board mulls limits on leaf blowers

From page 1

and if you (the village) will do enough outreach, I can see how people would curb their use of blowers. But with the summer months of June through September, I believe June is still spring and September is the fall so I’m thinking July and August is the run of summer, if you guys decide upon restrictions,” he said.

But, he was blunt to tell the EAB, for his business “using a rake will not work for us.”

One issue he hopes the village does work to curtail is the noise factor, with high decibel levels often found in neighborhoods early in mornings. Lutz noted that 8:00 a.m. was the earliest legally-permitted starting time, with a 9:00 a.m. start time in effect for Saturday mornings, but he’s seen other landscapers’ crews getting the blowers going as early as 7:30 a.m.

Lutz explained how there are people who do landscaping work, cutting the lawns and using leaf blowers, but not doing it as a full-time business - rather on the side. He says they are often continuing into the evenings (past 5:00 p.m.) as they may be working without insurance coverage and/or liability, disability or workers’ compensations plans.

“They’re often making extra money, without paying taxes or anything on the business, and I think those are folks out there that are hurting some of us. Als in regards to noise concerns I do have safety talks with my guys all of the time, they wear earmuffs and goggles. Every spring and year-round, I do give pep talks to my guys about being reasonable and respectful -- the landscapers association directs its members to tell their crews this info. We try to be careful and stay away from any school events or activities. When they work by the hedges they are asked to look around for any neighbors outside, and basically landscapers are promoting being civil, stopping or slowing down for people outside,” he said.

Regarding environmental pollution awareness, the landscapers association advises its members to be conscious of the equipment they are using and how the manufacturers -- just like for automobiles -- need to obtain initial safety items and controls including for emissions. Lutz says newer equipment, though they may sound even louder, are improved machines and more effective than old leaf blowers.

Lutz says on the market today, one new gas leaf blower similar to what professional landscape crews use costs around $500 and has a useful life of up to three years (with commercial use).

“To get a good commercial battery-operated leaf blower, such as the Greenworks (cordless/brushless backpack blower) with a good commercial one, the smaller ones need one battery while larger ones need two batteries

plus the charger. The issue becomes that the battery will only last for three hours. If one (landscape crew member) goes out for one day, they will need to have between three and four batteries charged. The total costs for the battery-charged blower, its charger, and two extra batteries to go out each day would be about $1,500. If I want to send three guys out for the entire day that alone would be about $4,500 -- I am considering the operating expenses and the charge would essentially be passed onto customers’ bills to recoup the additional amount. And, with the battery-operated though it would state the window to run is for three hours, after just about two hours the power starts to die down. We would have that situation where with the bigger houses along 1st Street we are going to take out barrels of landscape material with just a little, battery-operated blower that does not do as good of a job?” he asked.

Lutz said everything in business costs more money now, and then time is a cost for charging up the batteries for blowers.

“There would be houses that we’d need to start plugging into their residential electric. I do not know how the homeowners would feel about that,” he explained.

He also disputed the potential harm done to people who have allergies, asthma or other conditions because there are many factors like the weather on a particular day and vehicle emissions to consider.

EAB member Molly Preztycki Fielder reminded Lutz that gas blowers are spraying aerated gas mixed around the community which also has a strong odor, and she noted that this is pollution. Lutz responded that work gets done efficiently in Garden City, and generally does not disturb residents much.

“On a small house, but not counting the fall season when we are doing a lot, we are probably using a blower on the last tenth of doing the job -- that might take less than five minutes. Again we tell the guys to use the blowers away from houses -- and we even go to the point of asking people to move their cars, so we can be aware. But most of my customers’ kids are busy with activities as during the school year they are in school till 3:00 p.m. and then they are doing sports, or another activity. During the summers most of my customers are away or the kids are at camps. The EAB has mentioned about the elderly and concerns for their health in particular but I do have customers up to 101 years old -- there is not a lot of continuous noise and kicking up of dust particles that’s going on,” Lutz told the EAB.

EAB member and former Village Trustee Laurence Quinn does his own landscaping, on his property in the West that is 120’ by 100’ with no sidewalks, and he does the yard work on 135’ by

112’ as he measured.

“It would take me about six hours if I tried to rake all the pine needles. With the gas blower I used to have but got rid of, I could do that in about 45 minutes to an hour. With electric blowers that I have it does take about two to twoand-a-half hours. It takes longer to do with electric blowers than it does with gas-powered equipment. And I can’t get all the pine needles moved unless I put the higher settings on the electric blower -- I need turbo mode to get those needles. With the rest of the year however, I can clear my backyard and front yard within 10 to 15 minutes using that battery-powered equipment. From my perspective using it, during those summer months I really do not need the heavier (more draining) power. But I definitely do need more in the fall when the pine needles are coming down,” he told Lutz.

Lutz recognized some concerns as valid including the noise at inappropriate hours but he said despite people in Garden City enjoying the peaceful and quiet times, he believes more families and customers will want their property looking well-groomed. He noted the many events and backyard gatherings hosted in the community, plus the many observations neighbors make of the entire neighborhood.

“We do a lot of high-profile properties and people want their properties to look good,” he commented.

EAB member and Huntington Road resident Leo Stimmler asked him “do you have to use the gas-powered?” for the properties to end up looking terrific. Lutz says yes but in summer the biggest part of landscaping is trimming residential bushes.

EAB member John Reilly asked Lutz what his response would be if his clients in the village asked him not to use gas blowers, would he oblige?

Reilly also asked about the potential of Garden City deciding on a restrictive ban on gas leaf blowers from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and what impacts would that have on servicing clients here. Lutz says in 45 years not one customer has approached him to say “it’s too noisy” and request that his crews change to using battery-operated leaf blowers.

“This week in particular, I spoke with at least half a dozen of my other friends in landscaping who have businesses in Garden City and I said, ‘are any of your customers asking you to use electric/battery-operated blowers or they would complain?’ They all said no. Then to me, it appears to be only people other than our regular (residential and commercial) customers that are having the concerns about this,” Lutz said.

Trustee Carter Flanagan hoped for valuable input on any economic impacts for landscapers and their customers if a change to electric blowers or other non-gasoline equipment was required

for summer months to begin. She said much information points to landscaping rates not climbing as a result of the move away from gasoline-powered blowers. Carter Flanagan reiterated a need for Con-Kel and other landscaping companies to provide input into this topic.

“I appreciate Mr. Lutz coming and sharing information and I can tell he wants to work with the village. I will send him the recording of the meeting, and please if there are companies working in areas such as Manhasset with changes made from gas leaf blowers to more environmentally-friendly equipment, do send us the data on that and if there’s an economic impact -- I am hearing otherwise,” she said.

A resident who tuned in via Zoom said she’s a working mom raising children in Garden City and noted how Lutz appears to be a very respectful business owner who “takes his customers’ preferences into consideration.” However, she said her own experiences with landscaping crews around the neighborhood differs greatly from the operations and courtesies Lutz described.

“It’s not just a question of the landscapers coming to my house but the leaf blowers going to neighbors’ homes can be heard loudly. In fact I hear them four houses down the street, and it’s extremely disruptive. The kids can’t be in the backyard a lot of the time and I also have an infant that’s very sensitive to the loud noise. In my work meetings (online) I have to cut them short sometimes because of how loud it is, and it is not just about the landscapers performing spring and fall cleanups. There are landscaping companies -- three to four crews at a time -- on many blocks, and it’s so disruptive. What Mr. Lutz may describe as just a 10-minute job per house is simply not the experience for many residents of Garden City. We have observed how disruptive this is for the working parents and families with children at home, and I want to share that,” she said.

Trustee Carter Flanagan told Lutz and every EAB member that this comment really “mirrors a lot of the feedback that the EAB has received.” She added for Lutz, his customers may just not be the type of people to be vocal and submit complaints to him or other landscapers about noise.

Lutz asked the resident if she’s tried speaking to her landscaper “to tell him what your thoughts are, and how it bothers you, or if you would prefer they go easy with gas leaf blowers or if they could come back later.” The resident replied that she’s happy with her landscaper and the issue reaches much further, because any individual landscape business “can’t control what goes on with the service at my neighbor’s house or the houses down the road or across.” She noted that the landscaping business

Environmental Board mulls limits on leaf blowers

is not really the issue, but the proximity of houses and how the noise carries, and that there is no way for landscaping businesses to coordinate to recognize how disruptive the neighborhood can be on a given day.

Trustee Carter Flanagan also brought up the suggestion of new EAB member Kelly Smith [one of the authors of a Garden City News column “Go Green with Kelly & Colleen”] as she asked her colleagues to consider the public spaces and restrictions on gasoline-power blowers’ use at these sites. The golf courses have not yet weighed in with comments or reactions for the EAB, and other communities have restrictions within certain footage of residences.

Resident Linda Crew commented

that people on her street are arguing with each other about noise from gasoline-powered leaf blowers. “On a number of occasions last year I had to go out to tell the landscape crews that it’s 8:00 a.m. and they can’t be doing this. I then had to call the police when they flipped me the bird. I agree the pollution from leaf blowers is horrible as I am now on Flonase because I can’t breathe with all the particles in the air. I never had allergies and now I am suffering from this -- it’s contributed to from leaf blowers, all the pollen and the late-falling leaves. But to see neighbors fight is the biggest concern and I understand what everyone is complaining about. It seems like a waste of village resources to not have landscapers licensed -- you can’t control people who are not licensed,” she said.

A resident commenting over Zoom said she’s also observed “unbearable noise” and that she must leave her home whenever the gardeners are “going up and down the street, and also around the corner.”

“Garden City is no longer a peaceful town in which to live! In addition to pollution we now have intolerable noise. I would recommend the village look into the possibility of helping people hire some of the landscapers who are now accommodating themselves to villages that care far more about the health and well-being of their residents, and returning quiet and peace to their neighborhoods,” she said. Her emphasis is for Garden City to follow what’s been done in Sea Cliff, Manhasset, and other communities and try to remedy the

noise concerns.

EAB member Evelyn Fasano informed Lutz that he would not be alone in the changes that could be ahead as soon as in 2022. She says with any change to requirements such as a gasoline leaf blower ban for summer (July and August) there would be substantial advertising and outreach involved for landscaping companies, among community groups and in The Garden City News.

“Hopefully that would include landscape companies being licensed by the village. The information would be publicized in the paper and on the village’s website so you would not have as much of the work of changing (customers’) expectations as it may seem like at this particular moment,” she noted.

WPOA Meet the Candidates meeting November 29

From page 1

As a reminder, at this general meeting the WPOA will draw the winning ticket for 2 Club Level Seats for a January 18 game, New York Islanders vs. Columbus Blue Jackets at the new UBS Arena, VIP entry included.

The raffle was initially started at the WPOA Membership Welcome Event held at Repeal on October 20. Western residents who wish to “take a chance” are welcome to join the raffle at the November 29 general meeting. Raffle tickets are $20 a chance, or 3 for $50. The tickets were generously donated by our NYS Assemblyman Joe Ra.

As usual, WPOA officers and directors, as well as our Western Section

appointed officials and Village Trustees, if present, will provide reports to residents.

Contact information for our WPOA Board members can be found on our website, gcwpoa.com, or contact us at info@gcwpoa.com. Please consider joining the WPOA; membership can by paid at the November meeting or online at the WPOA website.

Lastly, mark your calendars for the revival of our WPOA annual Tree Lighting at the park on New Hyde Park Road and Plattsdale Road, Friday, December 3, 6-7 p.m.

Come enjoy the entertainment and have a cup of hot chocolate, compliments of the WPOA. There will also be a visit from Santa.

Environmental Board to host student discussion

With program planning underway on the topics of Energy Efficiency (January 26) and Water Quality and Conservation (February 16), the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) is looking forward to hosting a youth-focused roundtable discussion on Wednesday, December 8th from 8pm until 9pm at the Village Hall Board Room.  The roundtable will cover the rapidly growing field of sustainability focusing on volunteer and career opportunities available to students.

The EAB members will facilitate discussions with youth in our community to learn about their engagement with sustainability.  The conversations will also focus on the young residents’ environmental concerns along with their hopes and ideas for our Village.

High school students, college students and recent graduates are encouraged to email the EAB at mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net if they wish to participate in this event.  Whether you are 1) working on an environmental initiative, 2) a member of a club or volunteer organization, 3)  performing research or completing coursework in the field,  or 4) employed in the field of sustainability, this is an opportunity to share your experience, mentor other students, and present information to the EAB and the whole community. All residents are welcome to attend and hear some of the exciting work and ideas of young residents in the village! Email kaltman@gardencityny.net for the Zoom link before 3 p.m. on December 8.

Toy Drive to benefit the INN

The Mage Family is holding its 12th annual toy drive to benefit the INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network). The INN is located in Hempstead and helps to feed and clothe people in need here on Long Island. The items will go to children in need and will help to make the lives of these children a little happier this holiday season. Last year over 100 toys were collected from the residents of Garden City and surrounding towns. A new, unwrapped toy can be dropped off at 57 Nassau Blvd. Any type of new toy would be great. The deadline for toy donations is December 10th.Thank you for your help!

Do you have a service to advertise?

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

Performers from Broadway Bound during the last WPOA Tree Lighting ceremony.

Grace Mage with the toy donations for the INN from a previous year’s drive.

From page 24

11. Pour epoxy floor coating.

Wells 13 and 14 (Garden City Country Club site): H2M met with PRI to discuss options for constructing foundation to minimize landscape modifications. H2M and the Village met with representatives from the Golf Club to review the expected work last week. The Golf Club requested additional renderings and a landscaping plan. H2M is preparing that now.

Wells 15 and 16 Hilton Park site): Finished insulation for packed tower, starting installing booster pumps, continued site grading, and installed bollards for generator. Upcoming work includes installing ceiling, well cleaning and continuation of site regrading.

Fire Safety Committee Reports

The Fire Safety Committee presented several reports during a special meeting held Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at Garden City Middle School and via Zoom. Volunteer fire subject matter experts and residents, along with Chief Devyn Moody, and Assistant Chiefs Matt Pearn, Jonathan Parrella and James Tauton of the Garden City Fire Department, devoted hundreds of hours to this Committee. Resident volunteers serving on this Committee are: Billy Bedell, Kirk Candan, Bill Castoro, Christopher Corbett, Jason Danisi, Thomas Faranda, Bill Ford, T.J. Michon, Larry Nedelka, Joe Plati, Michael Rendino, Bill Sollin and Bruce Torino. According to Fire Commissioner and Deputy Mayor Tom O’Brien, the presentation was not a debate on people’s opinions on what the Village should or should not be doing but rather a thorough read out of the Committee’s fire subject matter experts who came together to analyze the Fire Department’s efficiencies and needs. Subcommittees provided thorough reports on the following subject matter:

• Legal Case Studies/After Action Report

• Emergency Action and Response Plan

• Facilities and Apparatus Needs

Analysis

From page 25

a fire alarm and determined the cause was shower steam.

Arrest for leaving the scene

On November 22nd Garden City Police arrested a 23-year-old female for leaving the scene of an accident on Clinton Road which occurred on Nov. 14th. She was also charged with driving with a suspended license.

cveneziale@gardencityny.net

• Master Plan and Risk Assessment

The reports, and PowerPoint presentation can be found on the Village website, www.gardencityny.net.

Toys For Tots Program

With the holiday season upon us, it is the time to reflect upon how fortunate we are to have the opportunity to share these times with family and friends. As you may be aware, there are many children who are not so fortunate.

In an effort to bring some happiness to families who will not have the resources to provide a gift for their child this year, the Garden City Police Department has a gift depository for the United States Marine Corps (USMC) Toys for Tots Program.

In the spirit of giving, I ask that if you are able to do so, please drop off any unused, unwrapped gifts into collection boxes in the lobbies of the Garden City Police Department and Village Hall. Your generous gifts, no matter how small, could make a difference to a child. Thank you in advance for your support of this most worthwhile program. Last year, the Department collected several boxes of toys that were distributed to children by the Marines.

Holiday Season Safety Tips

The holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a time when busy people become preoccupied and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. We can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware. The Garden City Police Department wishes you a safe, happy and peaceful holiday season and offers the following tips:

Driving

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Have someone pick up your newspapers, mail, and deliveries.

• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on automatic timers

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

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

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

Leaving Home

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

• Tell someone when and where you are going, as well as what time you expect to return home.

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

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

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

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

Automated Teller Machine (ATM)

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

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

• Do not throw your ATM receipt

away at the ATM location. Shopping

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

• Dress casually and comfortably; avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible. They are easy targets for thieves in crowded areas.

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

• Keep cash in your front pocket.

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

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

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

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

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason.

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

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

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

• Call 911 when being followed and drive directly to a Police Station or area where people are present.

• If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter or family member.

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

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

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

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

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

Truck strike

A delivery van struck the Chestnut Street Train Overpass. The driver was cited for disregarding bridge clearance signs on November 22nd.

Vehicle entered

On November 22nd Garden City Police investigated a vehicle entry on Beech Street. There was no reported loss.

Crash with injuries

On November 23rd Garden City Police responded to Old Country Road where a female motorist traveling westbound on Old Country Road in Mineola collided with a car door just opened by its operator. Police say the motorist then proceeded to drive across the street into the first floor of a Garden City building on the south side of the roadway, injuring a male occupant. The female motorist and building occupant were transported to a local hospital

for multiple non-life-threatening injuries. The Fire Department and Building Department responded and assisted in securing the scene.

Speeding charge

A motorist on New Hyde Park Road was charged with driving with a suspended license and speeding in a school zone on November 23rd.

Interviews for 2022 summer jobs at GC Pool

Letters to Santa

It’s time to send letters to Santa and the Recreation Department will speed up the process!  A special “Santa’s Mailbox” will be set up in the waiting area of the Recreation Department’s Administrative Offices at 108 Rockaway Avenue beginning December 1.  Children can drop their letters in the mailbox and Santa will send them a personalized reply.  Santa’s mailbox will be available through December 20.  Please wear a mask when entering our office.

Christmas Candy Contest

In addition to sending their letters to Santa, kids can take a chance at guessing the number of candy pieces in the jar next to Santa’s Mailbox and the child whose guess is closest to the actual number will win the jar, candy and all!  As with Santa’s mailbox, the candy contest will be available from December 1  to December 20. Please wear a mask when entering our office.

Although Santa will not be visiting our office this year, any donation for Toys for Tots will be greatly appreciated.

Adelphi Swim Lesson Registration

There are limited openings available in Garden City Recreation Department’s Children’s swimming lessons for Village residents at the Adelphi University Swimming Pool in Woodruff Hall on Saturday mornings.  Your child must be six years of age by the start of the program to participate.  This eight week session will begin Saturday, December 4, 2021.  Classes are taught by Red Cross Certified Instructors.  The cost is $120.00.  To register, please visit the Recreation and Parks Department at 108 Rockaway Ave or if you have a password you can register online at www.gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

Pickleball Resumes Again in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse

Pickleball is now open in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse to Garden City resident adults.  The sessions will be as follows:

Tuesday through Friday –9:30 to 11 am OR 11 a.m .to 12:30 p.m.

Play is drop in and rotate in on a first come, first served basis for Garden City residents only. No non-residents will be allowed at this time.  The fee

If you are interested in working at the Garden City Pool this summer please note the following:

You must be a high school senior or older OR worked at the pool last season to interview for a summer position at the pool.  Lifeguard, Pool Attendant and Office Staff are needed.

Appointments for interviews will be taken beginning Monday, November 22.

Please call the Recreation office at 516 465-4075 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to set up your interview.

Interviews will be conducted between 10 a.m and 4 p.m. on the following days:

Tuesday, December 21

Wednesday, December 22

Monday, December 27

Tuesday, December 28

Thursday, December 30 (from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Tuesday, January 4

is $6 per person, payable per session by check or credit card only, no cash will be accepted.  A resident may also purchase a five time pass for $25 or a ten time pass for $50.  These passes may be purchased either at the door or at the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

Adult Evening Programs at the Field House

The Recreation Adult Programs in the Field House begin on Monday, October 18 according to the following schedule:

Mondays - Men’s Basketball7:30–10 p.m.

Wednesdays - Men’s Basketball7:30–10 p.m.

Thursdays - Adult Volleyball7:30 – 10 p.m.

These programs are open to residents of the Inc. Village of Garden City who have graduated high school.  A picture ID is required to sign in to any program.  For further information, please contact the Recreation Office at 465-4075.

A fee schedule will be place for any resident adult interested in participat-

As this is, for many new prospective employees, their first time interviewing for a job, please note the following:

• Come to the interview dressed appropriately.

• Items that will be discussed: Job availability, job description and duties, requirements of the job, past work experience. (Please note, babysitting, volunteer work, yardwork and household chores as well as coaching and officiating are considered past work experience. Past work experience is not a requirement for the job.)

• Extracurricular and community activities such as: clubs, teams, scouts, school plays may be discussed during the interview.

• Pool attendants must be willing to do maintenance and janitorial work as part of their work day.

ing in Adult Activities in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse.  All programs are open to any resident who is a high school graduate or older.  The fee schedule is as follows:

10 Play Pass – Good for any Fieldhouse sport for 10 visits - $50 5 Play Pass – Good for any Fieldhouse sport for 5 visits - $25

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

A participant may bring up to 2 nonresident guests. These guest must arrive and leave with the resident.  There are no passes for non- residents.  The daily fee for the non-resident guest is $8.

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

Garden City Pool staff.

GARDEN CITY RECREATION AND PARK NEWS

The Stoller Thunder 9s conclude a magical season

The 2021 Thunder Stoller 9s.

Top row: Coaches John Lattuca, Daniel Vaillant, Sephir Hamilton, Greg Stoller, and Ryan Kelleher

Middle row: Donald Clavin, Greyson Rogow, Landon Stoller, Luke Padala, Phoenix Galli, Luke Finelli, James Sardelis, Matthew Garufi, JB Lattuca, Hayes Kelleher, Nick Scacchi, Michael Kennedy, Dylan Vaillant, Leo Delaney, Colin Slevin, Zach Argenziano, and Patrick Hegmann

Bottom row: Peter Hamilton, Andrew Bruno, Brady Castellano, William Fruzzetti, Owen Arneson, Jack Roller, and Nate Kong

Throughout the course of the season, the Thunder Stoller 9’s coaches threw out words such as: grit, determination, hard work, best efforts, and character.  Looking back at the 2021 campaign, it is clear that the boys comprising this team were the living embodiment of those words.  They embraced the qualities and characteristics of a true “team,” and believed in each other during each game during their long journey to the Championship Game.  Despite the outcome of the game on November 21, the Thunder left everything on

the field and should have nothing but pride in their performance throughout the season.

The Thunder had an exciting week as they diligently prepared for their first Championship Game, which culminated the night before the game with the team moms “decorating” each player’s house in celebration of the Thunder’s accomplishments during the season.  Team spirit could not get any higher as the Thunder marched into the main stadium at Mitchel Field on Sunday!

While the Thunder ultimate -

As always, the Garden City Spirit Fourth Grade Cheer team kept the crowd engaged and the enthusiasm level high! Thank you for your support throughout the season.

ly came up short against the Massapequa Mustangs, the game was not without its Thunder highlights.

The defense added three more fumble recoveries to its 2021 resume, as each of Hayes Kelleher, Michael Kennedy and Nate Kong capitalized on a Mustang miscue.  Kong also collected his first sack of the season in the Thunder defensive effort, which was enthusiastically celebrated by Coach Vaillant, Kong’s Thunder teammates, and the crowd!  The Thunder offense was able to break through against the tough Mustang defense in the third quarter as Landon Stoller pushed across a Thunder touchdown from one yard out, cutting into the

Mustang lead.

During the season, each player contributed to the Thunder’s success and should be commended and celebrated for a season well played!  On Sunday, the team was supported by the Garden City Spirit Cheerleaders, as they were throughout the season. While it is hard to find the words to conclude a season that ended just shy of our championship goal, this group of boys served as an inspiration to us all.  Coming off of a missed season last year due to Covid, the team put in an incredible effort over the last four months, and we are looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish over the next two seasons.

Join the TMA Booster Club of Garden City

For almost 80 years, TMA Booster Club of Garden City has supported the athletic and social activities of students in the Garden City schools and promoted good sportsmanship as well as ideal citizenship.

The TMA is composed of more than 50 Active Directors, 100 Life Directors and 325 Family members. With the generous support of our fellow residents, TMA has been

involved in a great number of projects covering a wide range of interests.

While TMA is still primarily committed to the athletic programs and organizations at GC Schools in recent years the TMA has expanded its support and sponsorship to other programs benefiting a wider range of students in the Garden City Schools.

Some of these programs are

SEPTA, The G.C. Marching Band, The Jamie & Paige Malone Foundation, Best Buddies, BAA/GAA Awards Night, Middle School Bagel Bash, The 9th Grade BBQ, Kickline, GCTA Hurricane Relief Fundraiser and the Father-Daughter and Mother-Son Dances. All of this would not be possible without the community’s continued assistance.

Did you know:  This fall the TMA

Love to write?

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

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Attach article and any photos (1MB), along with your name and contact info. • Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words.

donated 46 American flags to the Garden City High School to display at all home sports games and events on school grounds!

Memberships:  Senior/Young Alumni $25; Trojan Family Pride $100; Gold Pride $500; Platinum Pride $1000

Thunder Savio 10s close out season with a tough loss

Thunder Savio 10s.

The Thunder Savio 10s closed out the 2021 campaign with a visit to Mitchel Field to play Farmingdale in the 5th place playoff final on Sunday morning.  In an exceptionally evenly matched affair,  each team managed 5 possessions, and only one possession resulted in a touchdown.  Unfortunately for the Thunder, the score was notched on the Farmingdale ledger, as the Hawks left the field with a hard-fought 6-0 victory.

The Thunder offense opened the game with an impressive 13 play drive that occupied most of the first quarter.  RBs Henry Campolettano, George Lekanides, Kevin Hegarty, and QB Charlie Ruoff marched the ball 37 yards to the Farmingdale 15, but an illegal contact penalty negated a 10 yard reception by TE Lukas Hamilton that would have put the Thunder at first and goal inside the 5 yard line.  The drive stalled, and the Thunder turned the ball over on downs.  Offensive lineman George Lane, James Dunn, Michael Manley, Aidan Kehoe and Caden Fowler were instrumental in the success of the Thunder drive as they dominated the line of scrimmage.

Untimely penalties unfortunately undid too much of the Thunder offense throughout the game.  On the team’s second possession, TE Luke Herrera hauled in a Ruoff pass and ran it to the Farmingdale 1 yard line, but the play was wiped out by a questionable illegal formation penalty.  In the 3rd quarter, RB Henry Campolettano had his 40 yard sweep of the right end erased by a holding call well behind the play.  These penalties were momentum killers, and the Thunder offense was unable to overcome their impact.

The Thunder defense was ready to respond at every turn of play, and several impressive performances helped keep the game in gridlock.  LB George Lekanides led the team in tackles and recorded an inter-

ception, and he was generally a stop sign the entire game.  He executed one tackle, in particular, that will be used as the exemplar of hits for future Thunder players.  LB Ryan Jackson tormented the Hawk RBs, and along with DL Zach LaRosa dumped the Farmingdale QB on a brutal sack that demoralized the opponents.  CBs Owen Grant and Sean Campbell locked down the edges, and DE Will Haskell prevented any big plays from developing.  Interior linemen James Sorohan and Will Griffin effectively clogged the middle and allowed almost no yardage between the tackles.

The only score of the game occurred in the 3rd quarter, after the Thunder offense was forced to punt from its own 1/2 yard line.  Farmingdale took possession at the Thunder 11 and managed to punch it just past the goal line to record the deciding score.

It was a somewhat disappointing end to a long and successful season, but every one of the coaches is genuinely proud of how all of the boys played football this year.  The team contribution led to our winning ways: Joe Capparelli, Cannon Halsted, John Sardelis, John Luca Stile, Whipple Newell, and Luke Savio were indispensable.  We all also can’t wait to see Mikey Griffith kick our first FG next year.

We started with 17 boys as 7s, split into 2 teams as 8s, played COVID flag football as 9s, and finished with 60 kids playing football as 10s for the Fechts and the Savios.  This year we also faced some hardshipswe lost Finn Pizzi, William DeBusschere, Ryan Wagner, Ethan Landers, and Antonio Ordas to season ending injuries, we dealt with quarantines, and we played all of the toughest teams in our league.  We want everyone back next year — we have some business to finish - Go Thunder!

Correction

Editor's note: On the cover of last week's issue we incorrectly stated that the Garden City Varsity Field Hockey Team made it to the state finals for the first time in 39 years. The caption should have read that the states had not been played on Long Island in 29 years.In fact, since 1982 the team has won 36 Nassau County Championships, 23 Long Island Championships and seven state titles. We apologize for the error.

Community Park News

Thanksgiving Holiday Hours and Rates at Community Park Tennis Center

Please note the hours below for the Tennis Center during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.  Book your court today by calling the Clubhouse at 483-2525!

***The Tennis Center and Platform Courts will be OPEN 7 a.m.–1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day (11/25).

***Take advantage of our Holiday Rates from Thursday (11/25) – Saturday (11/27). To book a court or learn more about our holiday rates please call the Community Park Clubhouse at 483-2525.

***There will be no contract time from Thursday (11/25) – Saturday (11/27).  Contract Time will resumes at 7 a.m. on Sunday (11/28).

Tennis Lessons

***There will be NO youth OR adult lessons Wednesday (11/24) Thursday (11/25), Friday (11/26), and Saturday (11/27) due to the Thanksgiving holiday.

***The last days of our youth tennis lessons are listed below (weather permitting). If you have questions please call the Clubhouse at 483-2525

Monday - November 29th

Tuesday - November 30th

Wednesday - December 1st

Thursday - December 9th

Friday - December 3rd

Saturday - December 11th

Party at the Tennis Center!

Did you know you can have a Tennis or Platform Tennis Party at the Tennis Center?

Party dates are available for Friday and Saturday nights. Use of the Clubhouse for food and refreshments is included. Call Tom McGerty for availability and prices at

516 483-2525.

Tennis League Openings

We are still looking for some players to join leagues listed below. The league is a great way to meet new people and get some exercise during the winter months.  For more information please call Tom McGerty at the Community Park Clubhouse, 483-2525.

Thursday, 3.0, Singles at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, 2.5, Doubles at 11:30 a.m. Tennis Center Etiquette Reminder

We kindly remind all of our tennis players to please reframe from entering the tennis courts until your scheduled time begins. If you are early, please wait in the Tennis Clubhouse until one minute before your court time and then proceed to your court. In order to create a courteous environment we ask players to please end at the specified time. Do not finish a set or play one more point so that the next scheduled group has the opportunity to start on time.

Senior Citizen Tennis Time

The Department of Recreation and Parks is happy to announce that “Senior Citizen Time” continues this season at the Garden City Tennis Center.  Senior residents can now take advantage of the $28 per hour per court rate between the time periods of Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. –6:00 p.m. To make a court reservation please call the Tennis Clubhouse at 483-2525.

Stay Connected with Garden City Recreation

To stay better connected with Community Park and other Recreation news, we invite everyone to “Like Us” on our Facebook page, facebook.com/gardencityrecreation.

The

Garden City Varsity Football wins 6th straight Nassau County title

The Trojans made it look easy this season - undefeated and dominant in all facets of the game. But as the players, parents and coaches will tell you, nothing about playing GC Football is easy. The commitment to practice, conditioning, balancing schoolwork, and the relentless game schedule is not to be taken light -

ly. In addition to all those internal factors, the teams that GC play are always keen to beat the powerhouse Trojans, so you know they are bringing their best effort to the field. Again, while these wins seem easy to tally for the mighty Garden City, no opponent gives an inch of the field without a fight- and that was

certainly the case in the 2021 Nassau County Championship against the MacArthur Generals.

Luke Schmitt started the scoring with a pair touchdown runs and a balanced air attack going 10-13 passing to familiar targets Jackson Perisa and RJ Votruba. The efficiency and variety of the GC offense had

the Generals defense off balance, and it showed on the scoreboard with a 21-0 deficit at the end of the first quarter. The final score of 48-7 told only part of the story however, as the strong GC defense again put on a show. Brendan Staub, Sawyer Olsen, Rowan Stenson, and Will Paisley lead the defense again with constant

QB Luke Schmitt (#14) scores one of his 2 rushing TD’s.

Owen Holtzman (#52) with strong stop.

Philip Price (#76) handling his man.

Matt Griffith (#37) ready for the play to start.

Nassau County Champs!

Aidan Considine (#15) running for a long gain.

Andy Crescuillo (#68) completely controlling his match up.

Garden City Varsity Football wins 6th straight Nassau County title

pressure on the Generals backfield, leading to a Jack Archer interception. Aidan Considine, Matt Kephart, Kevin Blum, Evan Katradis, TJ Krieg, and Jack Levi all made key stops to hold the Generals to minimal yardage gains.

Garden City has again won the Nassau County Championship, and

in doing so tied the record held by the amazing GC football teams in the early 90s! A great achievement for sure, but this team is not yet done. GC will meet the Bellport Clippers in the Long Island Championship this Saturday at Stony Brook at 12 p.m. Go Trojans!

Jack Archer (#23) with an interception.

RJ Votruba (#44) with a great catch.

Cesco Ingrassia (#32) runs in for a TD.

Kevin Blum (#53) after a great play on the line.

Ryan Maher (#20) with a Pick 6!

Cody Wehrum (#72) and Matt Heaney (#75) moving on the line.

GC Trojans Soccer represented in Nassau All Stars Games

The GC High School Boys Soccer team were well represented at the Exceptional Senior game and Rising Stars game on Thursday Nov 18.

Finn Connolly represented the GC Trojans in the Seniors game, where his team won 3-1. The Rising Stars game had Rob Patrissi and Christian Pica square off against each other, with Pica’s team coming out the winner. We would like to congratulate all the award winners from this team who were honored at the game. The team finished ranked #1 in Nassau in all conferences. They also ranked #5 in NY State final rankings.

All County was Finn Connolly, Christian Pica, Rob Patrissi and Travis Thompson. Honorable All County were Ryan Buccellato and Nick Bernieri. All Conference were Connor Brock, Spencer Caporicci, James Castoro and Steven Zuniga. Finn Connolly

also took home the 2021 Conference Offensive Player of the Year Award and MVP of the Nassau County Championship (with help from his 30yd volley game winner which his dad taught him).

Congrats to next year’s captains as well: Spencer Caporicci, Rob Patrissi and Christian Pica. The seniors will miss this team and the friendships made along the way, but they would like you to continue the winning ways. Good luck, and can’t wait to see what the soccer gods have in store for GC Trojans 2022 team. Thank you, seniors, for a great soccer journey and memorable season Connolly, Buccellato, Brock, Fridrich, Schmitt, Kufs, Perrini, Bernieri, Bonvissuto, Russo, Meringolo. Remember this is a game that comes down to “TEAMWORK" and you guys showed it.

As one of the greatest, Paul LeSueur, used to say “All the Best”.

Section VIII President Pat Leary presenting Finn Connolly with Conference A2 Offensive Player of the Year and 2021 County Playoffs MVP.

Connolly and Patrissi and proud Coach Cutter with their All County plaques. Congrats!

Connolly, Patrissi and Pica representing GC Trojans proudly.

Wyndham Resale Office

Patricia Costello, Patricia Dickson, Alfred Kohart, Mary Krener and Linda Mulrooney

Out of Town Listings

Condos, Co-Ops & Rentals

111 Cherry Valley Ave, #306 Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3341251. $875,000.

Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3344312. $385,000.

Bayside, NY 2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3348271. $729,000.

111 Cherry Valley Ave, #708 Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3349143. $715,000.

100 Hilton Ave, M23

Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3352058. $695,000.

Seaford, NY 4-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3353751. $669,000.

Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3355052. $2,600/month

Rockville Centre, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3359878. $2,100/month

Rockville Centre, NY 4-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3359890. $598,000.

E. Schenck Avenue, NY 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3360665. $639,000.

Westbury, NY

2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3361200. $839,000.

Robert J. Krener

Cecile Raoult Lynn Puccio Cheryl Trimboli

Stephanie Marchan