The Garden City News (12/16/22)

HO HO HOLA

Board looks at measures to improve pedestrian safety

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At its December 1st meeting, the Village Board of Trustees again discussed installing handrails to protect pedestrians crossing under LIRR bridges in the Village. The discussion was a continuation of a conversation

from the Board’s November meeting when the Board considered installing handrails in the new Denton Avenue underpass to separate pedestrians from traffic.

During the public comment period, Brixton Road resident Robert Vassalotti

presented his thoughts on the proposals for additional pedestrian safety measures. Among the strategies for safety discussed in November involves a sidewalk plan for Cherry Valley Avenue near Garden City Middle School,

Village considers Country Life Press station’s future

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the Board of Trustees’ December 1st meeting, the future of the Country Life Press LIRR station building came into question as the Long Island Rail Road has advised the Village of Garden City of its plans to demolish the structure. The railroad proposes replacing the structure with a hardscape and landscaping, and possibly a small bus shelter facility.

Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi presented a slideshow at the meeting and told the board that the grounds of the station are overgrown, the paint on the structure is dull and there is substantial water damage inside it

due to the failing roofing system.

“The LIRR plans to abate the building and remove the lead paint and any asbestos that might be there, then demolish the building and dispose of it. They would then do a project for a hardscape outside with a large bus shelter that has a metal roof. The cost the railroad has identified it would spend for this project is in the range of $600,000-plus,” Suozzi explained.

According to Suozzi, the Long Island Rail Road asked for the village to provide its intentions for the structure by December 15 – the date of the last Board of Trustees meeting this year. As the discussion unfolded, the

Wreaths Across America Day 2022

Each December, the nation celebrates Wreaths Across America Day. On Saturday, December 17, at 10:30 a.m, Commander Frank Tauches of the William Bradford Turner Post 265, will lead the wreath laying ceremony at the

Veterans Memorial Plaza on Seventh Street outside the GC Library. All ages are invited to attend this brief ceremony.

The purpose of this day is to Remember, Honor and Teach.

Fencers begin season with strong team

Christmas pageant at Comm. Church

In this week’s issue we have discussion of a new restoration vs. demolition debate, this time over the Country Life Press train station.

By all accounts, the building has outlived its usefulness. At the same time it may have some historical value as one of the older structures in town.

The wishes of the nearby residents should probably be the most important consideration, as living near an overly bright concrete plaza may very well

harm their property values. (Just ask the neighbors of the Merillon Avenue station about how they feel about the views there!) Although time is short to come to a consensus, the Village should try to work with them to determine the best course of action.

n

We would like to wish all of our Jewish friends a joyful Hanukkah, which starts on Sunday, December 18th.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

Country Life Press proposal

To the Editor: Happy Holidays to all GC residents and family. On Monday evening December 12th, I attended a resident meeting at the GC Senior Center to discuss the Country Life Press LIRR station restoration project. I would first like to thank Village Trustees Larry Marciano of the Eastern Section and Mary Flanagan of the Western section for their attention to this matter. They stepped up, door to door, ringing bells this past Sunday and Monday to save our community. Thank you for your efforts!

We are a little community here at Country Life Press. A little bubble within a bubble, if you will. Bounded by the LIRR and Washington Ave to the East, St James St and Main St to the South. We love our little bubble. Of course, there are many more resident who are impacted by what happens at the Country Life Press LIRR station and they must be heard. However, no other residents are affected to the extent we are.

I live five houses away from the abandoned station house in question. The area has been a source of vandalism and negative transient behavior for years. I feel horrible for the residents who live even closer than I do. I am not a proponent of restoring the station house into something that doesn’t make economic sense, burdening the village with the costs, for something we may not want or need. I believe some simple cosmetic repairs to the building and surrounding property is prudent in improving the appearance of the area.

In any event, it was clear at the meeting, no residents favor the LIRR proposal to demolish the station house and build an open plaza with ramps, benches, waiting shelters and bright lighting. This would clearly decay the residential context we are working so hard to protect. I impress upon the board to take control of the station house, in whatever way possible, so the residents can judge what happens in

Parks make life better

To the Editor:

Parks make life better! This is from the most recent flyer from the Village’s Recreation and Parks Department. I fully agree with this statement. That is why I was pleased by Bill Kuhl’s presentation at the November 16th Town Hall meeting at the Middle School. Bill, a landscape architect by profession, presented a plan for a park that would be put in place after the demolition of St. Paul’s. In my view it would offer an oasis right in the heart of our village and have the fringe benefit of not requiring the additional 430 parking spaces mandated by the proposed reuse of the building, nor would it require the ongoing expense of managing the proposed 300 seat theatre, Lego room, gym, robotics room, music room, aerobics room and all the other rooms in the proposed reuse plans.

Go to Village Hall and you see numerous renderings of the proposed plans for reuse, along with laptops that have slide shows of many interior and exterior pictures of St. Paul’s. Sadly, there are no renderings of the proposed park. Demolition is not an end of something, but the opening of an opportunity to create a space that can become a centerpiece of the Village.

Lastly, the following is a quote from page 13 of the 2012 Erwin & Bielinski PLLC report on the St. Paul’s building: “Finally, the Committee must face the fact that the School is archaic in construction and lay-out and lends itself to virtually no modern occupancies. It is also an enormous building, far larger than any of the remotely conceivable occupancies might require. In short, the School has outlived its usefulness as a building. The urge to preserve this admittedly handsome building is entirely admirable, but the community

The Garden City News

Published every Friday by Litmor Publishing Corp.

Entered as Periodical Matter in the Post Office at Garden City, N.Y. 11530 - USPS 213-580

Robert L. Morgan, Publisher 1974-1994 • Mary J. Morgan, Publisher 1994 • Meg Morgan Norris, Publisher and Editor

• Edward O. Norris, General Manager

GARDEN CITY NEWS PHONE 294-8900

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Postmaster: Send Address Change to Garden City News 821 Franklin Ave., Garden City, Suite 208, N.Y. 11530

The Garden City News 821 Franklin Ave., Suite 208 Garden City, N.Y. 11530

our neighborhoods, not the LIRR. Michael Sbeglia, AIA NYS Registered Architect

New restaurant promises fun, laid back atmosphere

BY GARY SIMEONE

The owner of Primehouse in Garden City is back with a new venture, this time opening a restaurant which he describes as a fun, casual American grill atmosphere. The new business, which is named Stone Street Wood Fired Grill, is set to open its doors in January of next year.

Art Gustafson, who owns Primehouse Steak & Sushi and two other restaurants in Rockville Centre, said he thought the Village needed an establishment which offered great American food at a reasonable price.

“We felt the village needed a fun vibetype restaurant that served up great food,” said Gustafson. “Our main objective is to provide the customer with health-conscious American classics reimagined with smoke and fire. That’s basically the whole concept here.”

He said the driving force behind Stone Street is the massive wood-burning grill and the giant rotisserie unit

“The idea behind this restaurant was for people to come in here and not break the bank, have a good time watching the game and to enjoy good food at the same time.”

The menu at Stone Street is classic American fare, which consists of woodfired ribs, rubbed rotisserie chicken,

double-stacked burgers, chicken wings, steaks, grilled fish and wood grilled pizzas.

The restaurant also features a huge Ushaped bar with sixteen craft and imported beers on tap, as well as custom flavored hard seltzers and creatively mixed cocktails.

What will stand out to customers is the unique artwork that adorns the walls of Stone Street, in the main dining area as well as in the hallways and bathrooms. Gustafson said his inspiration was classics cars in the dining space and a kings and queens motif inside the bathrooms.

“In the mens room, the three kings we chose were Elvis (Presley,) Muhammad Ali and the rapper Biggie Smalls. In the ladies room we have on the walls, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Latifah and Rupaul, who is an American drag queen and actress. We’re trying to appeal to everybody.”

He said that customers would be wowed with the interactive, immersive experience of having sensor lights and a giant disco ball illuminating the artwork as they walked through the hallway area.

Gustafson said his new venture is unique to Long Island and that is what makes it so special.

“You’ll see fun, vibey restaurants

but this is more of a chef driven kind of experience. Although it’s a casual vibe on the inside and menu-wise, once you start eating you’ll see there’s real thought put into the menu. The quality is definitely at a different level.”

He added that he wanted his new venture to be an alternative to the trendy, expensive restaurants that are

out there and appeal to a multitude of demographics.

Gustafson has a long track record in the restaurant business. He has forty years experience as an apprentice and chef and has opened a total experience f eight restaurants.

The restaurant will be located at 630 Stewart Avenue.

EAB seeks environmentalists for January discussion

SUBMITTED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY BOARD

Last year the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) began a new tradition of hosting a youth-focused roundtable discussion on sustainability. The roundtable offers young residents an opportunity to learn more about the the rapidly growing field of sustainability, with a focus on volunteer and career opportunities available to students.

The EAB student members, Niamh Pfaff, Raymond Byrnes and Isabel Byrnes, will assist in planning the program this January. 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. Community service hours are available for participating students.

All residents are welcome to attend on January 11, 2023. at 7:30 p.m. at Village Hall or by Zoom to hear some of the exciting work and ideas of young residents in our village!

111 15th Street - B2 ~ Garden City, NY

Offered at $285,000

Bright, charming and move-in ready one bedroom Cherry Valley co-op. Stunning, updated kitchen with cream cabinetry, granite counters, tumbled marble backsplash. Open floor plan, living room-dining area. Large bedroom and pristine full bath with soaking tub/shower combo. Beautiful residential setting on meticulously maintained grounds.

• Central Air

• In unit washer/dryer

• 1 Parking spot (Garage parking available for $60 waitlist)

Ideal proximity to LIRR, NYU Langone Hospital, shopping, restaurants, GC vibrant downtown area. All amenities the village of Garden City has to offer.

Nancy Giannone

Licensed RE Salesperson, CBR Mobile: 516.865.2448 ngiannone@coachrealtors.com

Garden City Office | 116 Seventh St, Garden City NY 11530

Featured Home

The Number One

This sun-drenched Stewart Manor colonial completed a total “down to the studs” interior renovation and the results are simply fabulous. Prepare to be impressed and delighted by all new walls, doors, molding, two sets of double sliding barn doors, hardwood floors, wiring and electric, plumbing, 2 zone CAC and gas heat, a kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops and two new full baths - one on the first floor and one on the second. The roof, abundant windows and siding were also recently updated. This home is located mid-block on beautiful 50 x 100 property with a lovely, fenced backyard. The residence is perfectly convenient to the Stewart Manor LIRR station, Stewart Manor Country Club and all the wonderful shopping, services and eateries on Covert Avenue.

Offered at $879,000

In Contract

Picturesque 5+Bedroom 4 Bath / 2 HB Tudor with breathtaking views of Golf Club. $2,495,000

Sharon

Stewart Manor Sun-drenched, total "down to the studs" renovated 3/4 bdrm, 2 bath mid-block chic Colonial $879,000

Stewart Manor Detached 3 br, 2 bath charming move-in ready colonial on a quiet block & entertainers backyard! $829,000

Huntington Station 3 Br/1 Ba Bungalow ranch. All done & gorgeous w/open flr plan & fenced backyard !!! Taxes $6,839.66 $499,999

Fully updated Cherry Valley Co-Op with 2 bed, 1 bath, courtyard location. CAC, W/D in unit & hardwood floors throughout $385,000

The New Congress

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

Here are some thoughts on the incoming 118th Congress, which commences on January 3, 2023.

Presumably Kevin McCarthy of California will be the new Speaker, replacing Nancy Pelosi. Mr. McCarthy, who needs to win a majority of voting members to be elected, is facing some opposition, but you have to think that some deal will be worked out to avoid a protracted floor fight.

Republican control of the House of Representatives, even with the small Republican majority elected in November, (the likely GOP majority on January 3 will be 223-212, with one vacancy), makes it virtually impossible for liberal legislation advocated by President Biden to reach his desk. Republicans will control just about all committees in the chamber as well as the flow of legislation. Accordingly, the biggest effect of the midterms and the election of the new Congress is to end Mr. Biden's ability to pass legislation solely with Democratic votes, even in areas like budget proposals where this was previously possible. Mr. Biden either will have to get Republican support for his proposals, or attempt to bypass Congress by using executive orders. So far this alternative strategy has not been very successful for the President, as he was shut down by the Supreme Court in attempting to impose an eviction moratorium and in mandating vaccines for employees of large corporations.

On the other hand, while the GOP in effect gained a veto over unacceptable legislation, it has extremely limited power to enact legislation of its own that does not have significant Democratic support. Any GOP proposal would have to get past the Democratic controlled Senate and be signed into law by President Biden or be passed on an override of Mr. Biden's veto. Not very likely.

Republicans may attempt to gain some leverage by attaching their favorite proposals to “must pass” legislation (for example, debt ceiling measures or defense appropriations), but this strategy is usually of limited value because it opens the GOP up to charges that the party is shutting down the government, which normally is very unpopular.

Even though they are not likely to get very far in actually enacting legislation, Republicans will no doubt attempt to make political points by passing measures in the House. For example, Republicans will likely try to roll back legislation passed in 2022 which beefs up the number of Internal Revenue Service agents. In addition, Republicans will likely pass bills making the permitting process easier for energy projects and to beef up border security.

House Republicans also will have the ability to conduct hearings and they certainly will do so. My advice to the GOP would be to emphasize areas that highlight policy differences, like an investigation of the withdrawal from Afghanistan or the origins of Covid, rather that partisan dogfights like the finances of the Biden family. I’m not optimistic that this will be the approach, however.

As for the Senate, Democrats are in a better numerical position after the midterms with a 51-49 advantage, as opposed to an equally divided chamber, with Vice President Kamala Harris having to break ties for her party. This gives Democrats greater representation on committees and lessens the importance of swing senators like Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, who this week announced that she had left the Democratic party, but likely will caucus with the Democrats.

However, with one important difference, the one seat gain is not that important since legislation now must get through the Republican controlled house. This also makes the debate over retaining the filibuster rule, which requires 60 votes for passage of most legislation, much less meaningful, The important difference, however, is that the extra Democratic senator makes it easier for Mr. Biden to get his judicial and executive appointments confirmed.

In sum, the changes in Congress will largely legislatively hamstring the Biden Administration, without particularly creating legislative opportunities for Republicans. Maybe there will be the occasional bipartisan breakthrough, but this will be the exception rather than the rule.

St. Joseph’s Church Baby Shower a heartwarming event

St. Joseph’s Respect Life Ministry, with the help of the St. Joseph’s Rosary Altar Society, held its annual Spiritual Adoption Christmas Baby Shower on the weekend of December 10 and 11, and organizers were overjoyed by the wonderful array of baby gifts that were donated. Hand-knitted blankets, sweaters and caps, handmade Christmas stockings, beautiful baby clothing, pajamas, stuffed animals, diapers, soaps, creams, toys, warm socks for mothers, and over $400 in gift cards to Target, Walgreens, and CVS were donated. The gifts were delivered to the Life Center/Women First, a local maternity help center that directly assists needy mothers experiencing crisis pregnancies.

This is the thirty-first year that St. Joseph Church has held a Christmas baby shower to celebrate the precious gift of life of pre-born children

and to assist expectant mothers who choose life for their babies. Since the first Christmas Baby Shower was held in 1992, more than 3,000 gifts have been donated to maternity help centers.

For those who may have missed last weekend’s baby shower, the Christmas boxes will remain at the doors of the Church through next Saturday and Sunday, December 17 & 18. Gift suggestions remain the same: diapers (all sizes); layette items; newborn clothes; hand-knitted hats, sweaters, and blankets; toiletries and socks for mothers; and gift cards to stores such as Target and Walmart.

The St. Joseph’s Respect Life Ministry and St. Joseph’s Rosary Altar Society sincerely thank all those who participated for their generosity and wish all a Happy and Holy Christmas.

St. Joseph Church’s Christmas Baby Shower to celebrate the gift of life and support expectant mothers and their babies garnered more than 100 gifts and over $400 in gift cards.

HOLA of Garden City holds Christmas Party

Members of HOLA of Garden City gathered on Sunday, December 11, at the Garden City Senior Center for its annual Christmas Party. Over thirty families enjoyed Ecuadorian cuisine, dancing, a rousing game of musical chairs, crafts for kids, and raffles. The HOLA children had a special visit from Santa who brought gifts for all!

Members of HOLA of Garden City gathered on Sunday, December 11, at the Garden City Senior Center for its annual Christmas Party. Over thirty families enjoyed Ecuadorian cuisine, dancing, a rousing game of musical chairs, crafts for kids, and raffles. The HOLA children had a special visit from Santa who brought gifts for all!

HOLA of Garden City, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 2004 by a group of Garden City residents of Hispanic descent, its mission is to unite Hispanic families within Garden City to celebrate our culture and to preserve the Spanish language. To learn more about the group visit: www.facebook.com/ HOLAGardenCityNY/.

Little girls’ clothing needed

clothing, backpacks for school and infant furniture. The service is set up like a store so people can select what they want from a wide variety of clothes. “As we’ve set up our winter store, we are finding a gap in our supply of clothing for little girls,” says Ethical Friends of Children Director Jim LoPresti of Massapequa Park.

Ethical Friends of Children, established in 1985, is staffed entirely by volunteers and there is no charge for any services. Individuals, families, or community groups donate gently used clothing and other things children may require, such as backpacks. Any cash donations go entirely towards purchase of needed items for children, such as diapers and formula.

6-year-old Yousselyn Gomez, with her mother and brother, finds a great pair of shoes at Ethical Friends of Children.

Ethical Friends of Children, a free shop for Long Island children in need, is requesting donations of girls’ clothing, sizes 2 to 5.

This outreach program, run and supported by the Ethical Humanist Society of Long Island in Garden City, assists more than 2500 children and their families each year by providing them with

“Customers” are referred by many of the area’s social service organizations and are supported by both religiously affiliated and private agencies funded by Nassau and Suffolk Counties

Volunteers are always welcome to help sort, organize and deliver clothing and goods.

To volunteer or donate, please contact office@ehsli.org

Or call the the Ethical Humanist Society of LI at 516-741-7304.

People can also make a monetary contribution to EFC through https:// www.ehsli.org/social-action/ethical-friends-of-children/

Garden City Public Library

On December 12, at the Garden City Public Library Board of Trustees meeting, Chairman J. Randolph Colahan was re-elected to his position for the 2023 calendar year.

Trustee Greco was unanimously elected to the position of vice chairperson for the 2023 calendar year.

All Library Board of Trustees members were elected chair(s) of the following committees for the 2023 calendar year:

Budget Committee – Trustee Peter D’Antonio Audit Committee – Trustees J. Randolph Colahan and Peter D’Antonio Building Committee – Trustee Mary Maguire Community Relations Committee – Trustee Germaine Greco Personnel Committee – Trustee Lola Nouryan Policy Committee – Trustee Germaine Greco

Shrimp Cocktail Platter (sm/lg)

Crab Cakes

Beef Wellington

Platter (sm/lg)

Wrapped Scallop

Platter (sm/lg) Fruit Platter (sm/lg)

The Garden City News

Friday, December 16, 2022

Garden City Real Estate Market Information RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN

GARDEN CITY

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

Mortgage Rates this week from www.nerdwallet.com Loan Term Interest Rate APR

30-year fixed 6.184% 6.292% 15-year fixed 5.329% 5.504% 5/1 ARM 5.855% 6.408%

Long

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

Month Current Year Prior Year % Change

Oct - 2022 $675,000 $650,000 3.8

Sept - 2022 $700,000 $660,500 6.0

Aug-2022 $700,000 $670,000 4.5

July-2022 $720,000 $670,000 7.5

June-2022 $719,500 $644,000 11.7

May-2022 $685,000 $635,000 7.9

Apr-2022 $668,000 $630,000 6.0 Mar-2022 $650,000 $600,000 8.3 Feb-2022 $650,000 $599,000 8.5

Jan-2021 $650,000 $601,000 8.2 Dec-2021 $645,000 $605,000 6.6 Nov-2021 $651,500 $599,000 8.8

22 Franklin Court 72 Kensington Road

Date: 12/01/2022

Date: 12/02/2022

Sold price: $1,036,000 4 bedrooms, 1 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Tudor Lot size: .08 acre

Total taxes: $16,632

MLS number: 3413174

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

The Buyers Team: Adrienne McDougal, Compass Greater NY

This charming, historical English Cotswold style stucco semi-attached home with its tucked-in porch, steep-gabled slate roof, and brickwalled garden is a touch of European yesteryear with the perfection of modern updates. This hidden gem is behind Country Life Press Station in the desirable Franklin Court Mews center court. The welcoming foyer leads into a beautiful living room with a wood-burning fireplace, formal dining room, Sunny EIK, and a half bath on the first floor. French doors off the dining room lead to a private yard with lush, manicured gardens and a cozy bluestone patio. The 2nd floor boasts a primary bedroom, three additional bedrooms, and a hall bath-a full-size stand-up attic with lots of storage. The large basement is a complete bonus! This home also has village-on-the-street parking permits.

Sold price: $999,000 3 bedrooms, 1 full baths, 1 half bath

Style: Colonial

Total taxes: $16,057 Lot size: .14 acre

MLS number: 3422853

The Seller’s Team: Patrick McCooey and Alexander Olivieri, Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Alexa Nicolette, Signature Premier Properties

Welcome to this custom-built brick English Country Home in the Estates Section. Enjoy the flow of the first floor with large sun-filled rooms. Enter through the enclosed sun porch/mudroom and step up into the formal living room with a wood-burning fireplace, gleaming hardwood floors, architectural details, and an updated first-floor powder room. Continue into the inviting formal dining room, with french doors leading to your private side yard and patio. Off the LR & DR is the recently renovated chef’s kitchen with SS appliances, granite countertops, and entry to the two-car garage completing the first floor. The second floor boasts an oversized primary bedroom with an adjoining, newly renovated full bathroom, also accessible to the two additional bedrooms. Lastly, there is a full finished basement with open living space and several storage rooms along with the laundry room and updated components. All just a few blocks from the Nassau Blvd. train station.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

Andee Greif, Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker M 516.236.6075 | O 516.466.2100 Louis Fisher, Lic. R.E. Salesperson M 610.737.5410 | O 631.858.2421

Clavin honored at NCC Gala

Hempstead

Supervisor Don Clavin (center) was honored during the Nassau Community College Foundation Gala at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City. Also recognized at the event were Stuart Richner and Amy Amato of Richner Communications, NCC Interim Vice President of Academic and Student Services Dr. Charmian Smith, and NICE Bus CEO Jack Khzouz. Also attending were Nassau Community College Interim President Dr. Maria Conzatti and Nassau Community College Foundation Gala Chair Michael McGinty.

Town

Laura

Stephen Baymack

Lic. Assoc. RE Broker

Baymack Team M: 516.216.0244

Laura Carroll Lic. RE Salesperson

Laura Carroll Team M: 917.370.5354

Pete Diaz Lic. RE Salesperson

Licensed as Pedro Diaz M: 516.642.9881

Lauren Grima Lic. RE Salesperson M: 917.642.5036

Maureen Lagarde

Lic. RE Salesperson M: 516.850.7812

Patrick McCooey Lic. Assoc. RE Broker

McCooey Olivieri Team M: 516.236.4287

Athena Menoudakos Lic. RE Salesperson M: 516.316.4955

Michael Meule Lic. RE Salesperson

Michael Meule Team M: 516.713.8177

Alexander Olivieri

Lic. RE Salesperson

McCooey Olivieri Team M: 516.306.7738

Chelsea Costello Lic. RE Salesperson

Laura Carroll Team M: 516.509.7961

Alexandra

Jennifer Sullivan Lic. RE Salesperson

Jen Sullivan Team M: 516.361.7190

Salvatore Sica Lic. Assoc. RE Broker

The Sica Team M: 347.922.8947

Lauren Canner Lic. RE Salesperson

Laura Carroll Team M: 516.650.7474

Maeve Kilgo Lic. RE Salesperson

McCooey Olivieri Team M: 917.576.9928

Christina Hirschfield Lic. RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team M: 516.805.0703

Julie

Patricia

Susan

Adrienne

Frank

BY LAWRENCE TREMSKY

“A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas” continues to be the highlight of the Cathedral of the Incarnation’s choral season and an annual favorite for Garden City. A

free event and open to all, the service will take place on Sunday, December 18, at 4 p.m. The full Cathedral Choirs will perform favorite and familiar carols in addition to some lesser-known works from around the

The Cathedral Choir.

world.

Lessons & Carols is modeled on the service as developed at King’s College, Cambridge, UK. It traditionally begins with the carol Once in Royal David’s City sung by a solo boy or girl choristers, then joined by all. The carols sung by the congregation model those used in the UK.

The carols performed by the choirs include the Ukrainian Carol “Scherdyk”, known here as “Carol of the Bells,” by Mykola Leontovych 2022 is the 100th anniversary of the American premiere of the work in Carnegie Hall, and the choirs will sing this piece in its original language, both in honor of the anniversary and to remember the people of Ukraine during this time of war.

The service will also present new arrangements of traditional carols from England, Ireland, France, Canada, and the United States. Included will be the oldest carol from North America, “’Twas in the Moon of Wintertime,” originally written in the Huron Indian language in 1640 and set to an old French tune by a Jesuit priest, Jean de Brebeuf. A missionary to the Hurons in what is now Quebec, Father Brebeuf used symbols and figures (fox, rabbit fur, beaver pelt) that could be understood by the Hurons, and the hymn entered the tribe’s oral tradition. Other carols include a beautiful setting of “Gabriel’s Message,” a Basque carol set by the Canadian composer

Sarah MacDonald, and the hauntingly beautiful “The Magi’s Dream” by the contemporary UK composer James Whitbourne.

The choirs will be accompanied by the Cathedral’s newly-renovated Casavant organ, which returned to service after a hiatus of 18 months while extensive work and upgrades were done.

The service usually fills the cathedral to its 400-seat capacity, with standing room only. It is suggested to arrive at least 30 minutes before the service begins. For questions on the program, contact the Cathedral office at 516-746-2955.

Bishop Provenzano offering a blessing at the 2021 Lessons and Carols.

The Cathedral fills for this beautiful festival.

Open House | Sunday, December 18th | 12:00–3:30 PM

Get ready as the kitchen of your dreams awaits! Don’t miss this fabulous “open concept” completely renovated home, with a huge show-stopping kitchen/family room that is cool and contemporary. The Colonial is situated on a 70x100, mid-block lot, with a beautiful “turf” yard that is completely fenced in and landscaped to perfection. The main level has a great flow with a spacious great room that has a stylish gas linear fireplace. The kitchen boasts an incredibly large waterfall center island with custom white cabinetry, quartz countertops, herringbone wood floor, designer tile backsplash, wine cooler, and double wall oven. French doors open to a den with sliders out to a large patio. There is an office, a brand new full hall bath, and a primary bedroom ensuite with another new bath and walk-in closet. The second floor has four large bedrooms with walk-in closets could be second master and a newly renovated hall bath. Also a huge basement, walk to LIRR. Co-listed with Four Seasons Realty.

Art show at the Garden City Public Library

Pat Williams, a Garden City resident and former Merrill Lynch vice president, is currently showing over 40 of her original paintings at a one-woman show on the lower

level of the Garden City Library through the month of December.

As a young child, Pat spent many summers on her parents’ boat as they enjoyed

Who You Work With Matters.

their time on the Atlantic Ocean. The love of the ocean and nature stayed with her throughout her life. She began painting while her two children were young, but time constraints of raising a family and working full time forced her to put down her brushes and easel. After retiring from Merrill Lynch in1996, Pat was able to renew her love of painting by focusing on the beautiful surroundings at her second home near New Hope, Pennsylvania.

From her beautiful seascapes to her serene woodland scenes, Pat’s paintings are a visual representation of her memories of time spent on the ocean and her time in

New Jersey and Pennsylvania. They add a perfect finishing touch to her many clients’ homes near the beach or their cabins near the mountains.

Pat is a member of the Suburban Art League and the Art League of Nassau County. Her work has been displayed at the Barnes Gallery in Garden City and also at the Art Stop Gallery in Rochester, New York.

Her paintings will be on display on the lower level of the Garden City Library until December 31. Please stop by and take a look! If you have any questions or would like additional info, you can reach her at Pat@ Newsphoto.com

Pat Williams’ woodland scene will be on display at the Garden City Public Library. A beach scene by Pat Williams.

A winter scene by Pat Williams.

We

Have Been Family Owned & Operated Since 2002

153 7th Street, Garden City, NY 11530

Phone: (516) 742-2713 Fax: (516) 741-2713

International Cheese Platter

A variety of imported and domestic cheeses arranged with seasonal fresh fruits and displayed in a basket.

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $69.99

Medium: Serves 20–25, $89.99

Large: Serves 28–35, $99.99

Fresh Fruit Bowl

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

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $29.99

Medium: Serves 20–25, $59.99

Large: Serves 28–35, $99.99

Authentic Italian Antipasto

Prepared with the finest Italian products, including fresh water mozzarella, provolone cheese, ham, prosciutto, Genoa salami, pepperoni, artichokes, roasted peppers, pepperocini and olives.

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $69.99

Medium: Serves 20–25, $99.99

Large: Serves 28–35, $129.99

Shrimp Cocktail Platter

Classic shrimp cocktail served with horseradish dill sauce.

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $69.99

Medium: Serves 20–25, $99.99

Large: Serves 28–35, $129.99

Mini Focaccia Finger Sandwich Basket

Fresh baked focaccia bread filled with assorted gourmet fillings.

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $69.99

Medium: Serves 20–25, $89.99

Large: Serves 28–35, $129.99

Fully Cooked Spiral Ham $49.99 7–9 lbs

Fully Cooked Turkey Breast $69.99 8 lb average

Party Heroes

Varieties

Italian or American $16.99/ft Marinated Grilled Vegetable $18.99/ft Chicken Cutlet $18.99/ft

Many thanks from the veterans

This year’s “Sweats for Vets” program has been quite a success thanks to the generous donations from village residents and from Borealis Dermatology in Garden City for their generous donation of ten sweatsuits for the veterans. Thank you Dr. Navin Arora, U.S. Army veteran, and Jaehee Lee, assistant manager.

was grateful for all the donations for the veterans at the Northport VA Hospital.

Your donations are greatly appreciated by our veterans in the hospital during this holiday season. This enables them to enjoy a holiday celebration and receive a new sweatsuit and gift card. The Auxiliary appreciates your contribution to help our veterans enjoy the holidays!

Assistant Manager Jaehee Lee and Army veteran Dr. Navin Arora at Borealis Dermatology with their generous donation.

The American Legion Auxiliary was thankful for the donations to the Sweats for Vets annual project.

American Legion Auxiliary President Jacqueline Eltringham

Phoenix Construction Solutions 102 Jackson Street, Garden City, NY 11530

cveneziale@gardencityny.net

Seventh Street Crosswalk RFP

World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp.

www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Old World Quality Corp. www.oldworldqualitycorp.com

Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

Vinny Muldoon - Owner and Garden City Resident

The Village is currently seeking proposals to provide professional engineering services related to improvements to the 7th Street Crossing located approximately 300 feet west of Franklin Avenue. A Request For Proposals (RFP) was issued December 12. The Village aims to receive a full set of construction plans and specifications for the purpose of bidding the construction of the selected improvement for the identified crosswalk. The goal is to make the crosswalk more visible and provide drivers with more notice as they approach the crosswalk.

New Police Officer

MTA/LIRR is planning to move ahead with this project shortly but has given the Village until mid-December to consider entering into this agreement. At the same time, some residents have proposed the Village forgo this offer and take on the full cost of abatement and maintenance of the structure.

Garden City Pool is Hiring

The Garden City Pool is starting to hire for the 2023 summer season. Positions include staff, lifeguard and working the pump house. Keeping the pools clean and safe. If interested please call the Recreation Office at 516-465-4075 to set up an interview.

Corrosion Control Study

Renovations, Roofing, Painting, Kitchens, Plumbing, Heating Conditioning, Custom Spaces, much project too OWQC!

741-8226

Valley Ave, Hempstead 11550

According to H2M, the Village’s water consultant, 585 samples have been requested by residents; 581 sample kits have been delivered. H2M has also collected/returned 491 bottles. Pace Analytical completed 474 sample analyses and transmitted results to residents. Orthophosphate is being injected into the water system. The District is taking entry point and distribution sampling to monitor orthophosphate treatment.

Library Board Appointments

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Office: (516) 741-8226

Office: (516) 741-8226

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

Custom Homes, Renovations, Extensions, Roofing, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Mudrooms, Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning, Custom Mill Work, Exterior Spaces, Masonry Work, and much more. There is no project too big or too small for OWQC!

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Office: (516) 741-8226

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

136 Cherry Valley Ave, West Hempstead 11550

We are a full service General Contractor providing everything from small repairs through full house builds, with meticulous attention to detail no matter what size your project is.

I had the pleasure of administering the oath of office to new Police Officer Rodolfo Sulmonte, who is currently assigned to the Nassau County Police Academy. Officer Sulmonte was born in Queens and grew up in Levittown. He attended St. Mary’s High School and graduated from Island Trees High School in 2010. After high school, he played professional hockey in the Ontario Hockey League and participated in the Islanders Rookie Camp in 2010. After five years in professional hockey, he attended and graduated Nassau Community College. While there, he also began coaching Tier 1 U16 and U18 hockey for the PAL Junior Islanders. He held this position for six years while pursuing a career in law enforcement.

Country Life Press Train Station

Instagram and Facebook: @Oldworldqualitycorp

Email: Jenn@oldworldqualitycorp.com

A meeting was held Monday evening with residents who live in the vicinity of the Country Life Press train station following the MTA/ LIRR’s announced plans to abate and demolish the existing Country Life Press Train Station building. In its place will be a new plaza and potentially a shelter that will include plantings that the LIRR would install, and that the Village would maintain. The scope of work also includes but is not limited to items such as evaluating and addressing ADA code compliance, repairing other structural features such as platform joints, ramps, railings, lighting, benches and bike racks. It is important to note that the MTA/LIRR is covering 100 percent of the cost of demolition and any replacement structure/ plaza and associated plantings. The

On December 12, at the Garden City Public Library Board of Trustees meeting, Chairman J. Randolph Colahan was re-elected to his position for the 2023 calendar year. Trustee Germaine Greco was unanimously elected to the position of Vice Chairperson for the 2023 calendar year. All Library Board members were elected chair(s) of the following committees for the 2023 calendar year:

• Budget Committee – Trustee Peter D’Antonio

• Audit Committee – Trustees Colahan and Peter D’Antonio

• Building Committee – Trustee Mary Maguire

• Community Relations Committee – Trustee Greco

• Personnel Committee – Trustee Lola Nouryan

• Policy Committee – Trustee Greco

Board of Trustees Meeting

Please be advised there will be one scheduled Board of Trustees meeting in January, to be held on Thursday, January 12, 2023. Special meetings can be called at the discretion of the Board.

Mayor Cosmo Veneziale

Leaving the scene

On December 7th Garden City Police charged a 58 year-old man for allegedly leaving the scene of a two-vehicle accident on 1st Street at Rockaway Avenue. According to police, the man left without exchang ing insurance infor mation.

Switched plates

On December 7th a motor ist on 10th Street was charged with driving with a suspended license and switched license plates.

DWI arrest

A 52-year-old male motorist was arrested on Nassau Boulevard and Somerset Avenue for DWI and reckless driving on December 8th.

Elevator stuck

On December 8th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to an apartment building for people stuck in an elevator. The occupants were released, and no injuries were reported.

Suspended license

A motorist on Stewart Avenue was charged with driving with a suspended license and distracted driving (cell phone) on December 8th.

Check stolen from mail

On December 8th a check placed in the mail at the Garden City Post Office was reportedly stolen, altered, and cashed for more than $4,800.

Financial scam

On December 8th a resident reported at a person claiming to be from a financial institution advised her that her account was compromised. Per the caller’s request, the victim provided personal information, later used to make an unauthorized $10,000 withdrawal from the victim’s account.

Leaving the scene

A 30-year-old female was charged with allegedly leaving the scene of an accident that occurred on Cherry Valley Avenue on December 5th.

Multiple charges

On December 9th a 42 year-old male motorist was arrested for allegedly driving with a suspended license due to a prior DWI arrest, two additional license suspensions, smoking cannabis while driving, and excessive speed.

Prostitution arrest

On December 9th, after an investigation, a 41-year-old woman was arrested at an Old Country Road office for unauthorized practice of a profession (masseuse without a license) and alleged prostitution.

Overweight truck

On December 9th a company was charged with the alleged operation of a truck on Washington Avenue with an unsecured load and 14,000 pounds overweight.

Tree lighting

On December 9th Garden City Police provided traffic and safety details for the Western Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Suspended license

A truck driver was charged with driving with a suspended license and not wearing a seatbelt on December 9th.

Suspicious activity

On December 10th Garden City Police investigated a report of suspicious activity by a person at two Ash Street properties. There is no loss or damage reported at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

Accidental alarm

On December 10th Garden City Police responded to Homestead School for a burglary alarm. The building was checked and appeared secure. It was determined that the alarm was activated when a contractor for PSEG caused a power outage to the building while working on local power lines.

Unlicensed operation

A motorist on Rockaway Avenue was charged with unlicensed operation and passing a red traffic light on December 10th

License restrictions

A motorist on Stewart Avenue on December 10th was charged with driving in violation of license restrictions and a child under four not properly placed in a car seat.

Excessive speed

Officers arrested a 41-year-old motorist on Clinton Road for DWI, excessive speed, and unsafe lane

Bo Oconnell is a Financial Advisor with Andriola, Goldberg & Associates, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. He offers fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 32 years.

To contact him: ameripriseadvisors.com/Edward.Oconnell, 401 Franklin Avenue, Suite 101, Garden City, NY 11530, (516) 345-2600.

Make investing automatic with dollar-cost averaging

Have you ever held off from making an investment because you’re concerned that the timing may not be right? If this fear is preventing you from investing, dollar-cost averaging is an approach that you may want to consider. It has the potential to help you accumulate wealth over time and throughout the market’s highs and lows. Here is an overview of the strategy.

How it works

The concept is simple — you invest a consistent amount of money at regular intervals. You put the money to work in the same investment – a stock, a mutual fund or other type of asset — regardless of the price of the asset. This should continue over an extended period of time.

Investing with such a defined cadence takes market timing out of the picture. If the asset has fallen in price, your periodic investment will allow you to purchase more shares. If the asset rises in price, you’ll purchase fewer shares. If you are committed to your dollar-cost averaging plan, all that matters is maintaining a consistent monthly investment, not the price of the investment you’ve chosen. You may want to periodically increase your monthly contribution amount.

Here’s a brief, practical example of how dollar-cost averaging works. Suppose you commit $200 per month to purchase a mutual fund. In the first month you invest, the share price is $10, resulting in a purchase of 20 shares. In the second month, the price drops to $8, and you purchase 25 shares. In the

third month, the value is back to $10, and you again purchase 20 shares. In total, you accumulated 65 shares at an average price of $9.23/share. Yet after three months, your initial $600 investment is worth $650.

While this demonstrates the advantages of dollar-cost averaging during periods of market volatility, keep in mind that the future direction of an investment’s value is difficult to predict. If the share price continues to rise over time, you’ll purchase fewer shares. That means the benefit of the systematic investment approach will be reduced. It’s important to note that dollar-cost averaging does not assure a profit or protect against a loss in declining markets. It is a way to utilize market volatility to your advantage if you invest consistently, hold the investment over the long term and the underlying investment likely increases in value.

You may already be doing it

Dollar-cost averaging may already be part of your investment regimen. If a portion of your paycheck is directed to investments in your workplace retirement plan, you are taking advantage of this strategy by making consistent investments into a specific investment regardless of its value.

Keep in mind the advantages and disadvantages discussed above as you consider whether to use dollar cost averaging. It may also help to consult with a financial advisor to find out more about how this strategy may fit into your financial plan.

Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2022 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

The A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment & Gift Shop

BY MELISSA JAEGER

‘Tis nobler to give than to receive. Isn’t that what we’ve always been told? I, for one, LOVE to give a gift that puts a smile on someone’s face. Why is that? For one thing, it’s a way to express gratitude and thank the recipient for being part of your life. Gifting lets us communicate our affection and appreciation. And – wait for it -- it releases endorphins. We tend to feel a greater sense of happiness when we see the recipient beam with joy. It’s the same feeling you get when you work out or exercise. And a whole lot easier!

Haven’t finished your shopping? Or maybe you haven’t started? Don’t be Scrooge … For those of you who live for the challenge of the last-minute purchase, check out our sale! Friday, Dec. 19th – 27th, get 20% off all Christmas merchandise & 10% off all other merchandise! We will be closed Dec. 24th and 25th and re-open on Dec. 26th.

The Exchange still has lots of gifts and stocking stuffers – and gift ideas. There’s something for everyone. Consider these … Fabulous just-in-time finds for the Holidays!

For Her:

• Give the gift of Fur! We have lovely mink and lynx coats!!

• Enamel Hinged Boxes - for the collector. Christmas themed, animal lovers

-- yellow lab, sheepdog, Havanese, llamas, horses, elephants, penguins, or for the wanderlust in your family

• Jolly Gems – Everyone loves a little bling!

• Inis Fragrance of Ireland – Feel & smell special with this line of cologne, hand & body lotion, shower gel and soaps

• Chanel soaps –These handbag-shaped soaps are a big hit!

• Holly Jolly pins – What’s more festive than a Santa, snowman, candy cane, trees, and poinsettia pin?!

• Thumbelinas - (fingerless gloves), hats and scarves are all hand-knitted and will make anyone feel special

For Him:

• Men’s Socks in “beer” cans with a grilling, fishing or golfing theme! We also have holiday plaid socks and more with various sports themes

• Money Clips, 6-in-1 Grooming Kits, Playing Cards & Bottle Openers

For the Kiddies:

• Retro Push-bottom Toys

• Zooties (booties) & Bibs -- For the newborn

• Glycerin Soaps w/toys inside –Kids will want to wash up

• Bearington Bear – Plush animals. Sid the Sloth, T-Rex, Clara Bellerina, Elfie and many more!

For Chanukah or Christmas:

• Delicious Dip Mixes from Gourmet du Village - Brie with cranberries & almonds, figs & pistachios, apricots & jalapenos, baked parmesan & artichoke, French onion dips, and much more!

• Mulling Spices and ProseccoFlavoring to toast your family and friends

• Candles - Red, white and green candles to set your table

• Napkins -- Chanukah and Christmas-themed cocktail and dinner sizes

• Wine Bags - Fun & feisty wine bags and napkin sets.to gift your hostess

Remember: we have expanded holiday shopping hours on Wednesdays until 6:00 p.m. Please stop by to browse & buy.

About Us

• The Exchange Consignment Shop is 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.

• Shop 24/7 online at atstewartexchange.org and pick up your purchases at the Exchange.

• Follow and Like Us on the AT Stewart Exchange Facebook and on the AT Stewart Exchange Instagram pages. We sure do get around!

Remember: all the profits from the Consignment Shop support the maintenance and upkeep of TGCHS Museum. Check out our new paint job! Old World Quality is working

There's still lots of holiday decor and gifts available at the A.T. Stewart Exchange Consignment and Gift Shop.

to repair and re-paint the back of the Museum. We remain open throughout this process and precautions are taken to protect customers entering the Shop. Thanks for your generous support!

The shop is located at 109 Eleventh Street.

Shop Hours: Mon – Fri: 10–4 p.m., (Wednesdays until 6 p.m.) Sat: Noon–4 p.m.

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

Thank you to a truly extraordinary team and the extraordinary residents we serve.

YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE. EVERY DAY.

CHEERS TO A HAPPY HOLIDAY!

TO YOU. TO US. TO ALL!

For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit: THEBRISTAL.COM

Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies. Equal Housing Opportunity.

usage on December 11th.

Hit and run

A vehicle reportedly left the scene after striking another car on Rockaway Avenue at 1st Street on December 11th.

Leaving the scene

Officers investigated a report of a pick-up truck leaving the scene after backing into and damaging an unoccupied vehicle in Parking Field #8 on December 12th.

Identity theft

On December 12t a victim reported that their identity had been stolen and used to open an unauthorized cell phone account.

Unlicensed operation

A motorist on New Hyde Park Road on December 12th was charged with unlicensed operation, speeding in a school zone and passing a red traffic light.

Excessive speed

On December 12th a motorist on Stewart Avenue was charged with driving with a suspended license and exces-

sive

speed.

Check fraud

On December 12th a victim told police that an unknown person intercepted, altered, and cashed a check that was placed in the mail.

Unauthorized purchase

A debit card accidentally left in an ATM machine on Franklin Avenue on December 13th was later stolen and used to make an unauthorized purchase.

Water, sewer break

On December 13th Garden City Police investigated a report of a water main break on Franklin Avenue and determined it was a sewage backup. The Water Department was notified and responded.

School zone speeding

On December 13th a motorist on New Hyde Park Road was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed in a school zone.

Leaving the scene

A vehicle left the scene after striking and damaging another car on Meadow Street on December 13th.

FOR SENIORS fyi

Senior Exercise Schedule at the Senior Center

Our Senior Center is back to a “regular” schedule with many classes to tone, strengthen, and stretch your bodies. These classes are open to Garden City residents ages 60 or older. Here are the classes we offer:

Mondays

Chair Exercise with Felicia at 10 a.m.

Tuesdays

Chair Yoga with Samantha at 11:15 a.m.

Wednesdays

Chair Exercise with Felicia at 10 a.m.

Thursdays

Exercise with Joy at 9 a.m. – nominal charge Yoga with Samantha at 11:15 a.m. Chi Kung with Andrea at 1 p.m. - nominal charge

Fridays

Chair Exercise with Felicia at 10 a.m. Resistance Bands at 11:15 a.m.

For further information please contact the Senior Center at 385-8006.

Monday Night Seniors Bridge Results

The winners of the Monday, December 12, games: North/South

1st Place: Joan Kiernan and Claire Burns 2nd Place: Pat Fontaine and Ellen Moynahan

East/West

1st Place: Grace Basile and Joan Cowie 2nd Place: Dolores Furey and Irene Christie

Reminder - There will be no duplicate bridge on Monday, December 19, and Monday, December 26, 2022.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!

of $100,000 or more the 365-day guaranteed interest rate is 2.96% with an APY of 3.00%. After the guaranteed rate period, the APY will be set at the default rate in effect at that time for the Complete Money Market account. Fees may reduce earnings. Other than as described above, at our discretion, rates may change at any time without notice. You must maintain the required daily balance for the statement cycle to receive the respective disclosed yield. You must deposit a minimum of $5,000 to open this account. A low balance service charge of $15.00 will be imposed every month if the balance in the Complete Money Market account falls below $5,000 any day of the month. The rate and offer are subject to change and early termination without prior notice at any time. 2) A Flushing Bank Complete Checking account with a minimum monthly balance of $5,000 is required to receive the advertised rate. Certain fees, minimum balance requirements, and restrictions may apply. Fees may reduce earnings on these accounts. A checking account is not required for IRA accounts. 3) The Customer Value Program (CVP) is limited to one (1) new Complete Checking account per customer. New money only. Existing checking account customers are not eligible. A new checking account is defined as any new checking account that does not have any authorized signatures in common with any other existing Flushing Bank checking account(s). An existing checking customer is defined as anyone who currently has or has had a Flushing Bank

2.96%

Sportswear Pickup on Dec 17, 9 –11 a.m. at GCMS

Order holiday gifts and gear in our recent sportswear sale? Pick-up for all orders will be on Saturday, December 17, from 9–11 a.m. at the Garden City Middle School. Limited cash-and-carry options will also be available on-site. See you there!

PARP Polar Express Ready to Depart

On Wednesday, December 21, at 7:45 p.m., children and families are welcome to log in for our second annual nighttime reading of the Polar Express by our official GC conductor. There may even be another surprise visitor in attendance! Register for the event at bit. ly/3hp0X6G.

The Power of Raising Confident Children

Join us on January 12 for the second session with our guest speaker Laura Campbell, as we share and discuss how to raise a confident child, who can navigate the ever-growing challenges of today. Register today at www.gardencitypta.org/parent-speaker-series.

From birth, children are constantly learning new skills and acquiring the confidence to use them. As they grow older, this confidence becomes just as

important as the skills themselves. When children lack confidence, they are reluctant to try anything challenging or new. The fear of failure, judgment and disappointing others keeps them in their comfort zone and from building resiliency. The social media highlight reels are here to stay, and only a confident child will rise above the comparison traps and self-doubt, to reach their highest and greatest potential.

Mark Your Calendars!

Get your pencils ready to mark these important upcoming dates for the PTA and your schools:

• Dec. 17: Holiday Sportswear Pick-up at the Middle School

• Dec. 20: Board of Education Regular Session

• Dec. 26–Jan. 2: Schools Closed

• Mar. 29, 2023: GCPTA Dinner -- Save the Date

Join Us on the PTA!

Did you know that last year the Garden City PTA had 2030 members and donated nearly $125,000 to our seven schools in the form of grants and programming? This year we are aiming for 100% membership and an even stronger impact! It’s not too late to join our crew! Whether you support our work with your membership, or you have the time to volunteer, we want YOU aboard! Join us at https://gcpta.memberhub.com by October 1 for a chance to win a $150 Amazon gift card!

Let’s Connect @GardenCityPTA

Website: www.gardencitypta.org

To Get Real Time InformationTurn on Notifications

Facebook: Facebook.com/ GardenCityPTA

Instagram: Instagram.com/ GardenCityPTA Twitter: Twitter.com/ GardenCityPTA Join

Christmas 2022 We are looking for writers in our community to compose news articles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even fiction. We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section.

• Love to write? Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

The Church of Saint Joseph

130 Fifth Street, Garden City, NY 11530

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

CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2022

CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS

Saturday, December 17

9:00-10:00 a.m., 1-2:00 p.m., and 6:00-6:30 p.m. Monday, December 19: Advent Day of Reconciliation Confessions 7-9:00 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO CONFESSIONS ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24th AND 31st

CHRISTMAS EVE MASSES

Saturday, December 24

4:00 p.m. - Church

4:00 p.m. - Auditorium

4:00 p.m. - Gymnasium

6:00 p.m. - Church 8:00 p.m. - Church 11:00 p.m. - Church

CHRISTMAS DAY MASSES

Sunday, December 25 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 a.m., & 12:30 p.m. in the Church

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

SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD

Saturday, December 31, 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, January 1, 2023 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. All Masses are in the Church

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO AUDITORIUM MASS, AND NO EVENING MASS ON SUNDAY JANUARY 1, 2023

Reverend Msgr. James P. Swiader, Pastor • Reverend Prasanna Costa, Associate Pastor Reverend Hilary Nwajagu, Associate Pastor • Deacon John J. McKenna

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

From page 2

should weigh whether the scale of the necessary investment compared with the likelihood of a successful reuse is consistent with their wishes.”

Walter Horn

Excoriating review of St. Paul’s To the Editor:

In recent letters to this newspaper several residents have commented about the October 2012 review-- by an architectural/engineering consulting firm, Erwin & Bielinski-- of the assessment of the October 2011 proposals by the then Committee To Save the historic St. Paul’s building. I refer to the letters written by Messrs. Steve Gorray, Bob Orosz, Bob Wolff, and yours truly.

The points of view of the letters relate to the fact that the E&B very negative report was NOT seen by the public over the last 10 years -- until it was “discovered” a few weeks ago by Mr. Orosz who brought it to the attention of the Garden City BOT, the SP Committee and the general public. Throughout the 2022 St.Paul’s debate, the public dialogue has been dominated by heavily optimistic statements and print media orchestrated by Frank McDonough’s “Uses” SubCommittee, The GC Historical Society, GC resident architects and engineers and even bullish comments from Mayor Veneziale himself.

They flunked the course. Today’s letter is intended to highlight some of the key conclusions of the E&B Report in order to better inform residents who hopefully will one day vote on the fate of the building. In a nutshell, E&B excoriated, i.e, severely criticised, the G.C. Committee’s evaluation of the risks, costs and procedures to complete the renovation and “save” the building from demolition. If I could paraphrase E&B’s “grade” of the Committee’s 2011 work-- it would be in the range of “D” or “F”. And this is no exaggeration. There are very few compliments of the Committee’s work in E&B’s review.

A dozen quotes from E&B: There are 12 pages of summary text plus some appendices in the report. From these I have taken, verbatim, some key conclusions and comments, also citing the page in the report where the excerpted quotes can be found. I could have chosen dozens more, but for brevity these are my choices:

1. We believe that there are significant, perhaps insurmountable, financial, administrative and technical problems with any proposal to re-use the St. Paul’s School. (P.12).

2. The School has outlived its usefulness as a building. (P.12).

3. If a fire occurred during the restoration period, there is no assurance that it would not result in the total loss of the building. (P.12).

4. The Committee’s proposal does not address the fundamental problems with the physical layout of the School for future use. (P.2).

5. The costs projected by the Committee are not realistic and are not the the full costs of preparing the building for use. (P.2).

6. Our firm (E&B) has estimated the total cost for work required would be approximately $38 million. (P.8).

7. The total cost for the project could even be in the $40-50 million range. (P.4). (Note: Translated into today’s dollars, these estimates would be a multiple of those quoted -- perhaps in the $100 million-plus area.)

8. Until an end use for the School is identified any cost estimate is pure conjecture. (P.8).

9. The Committee has significantly underestimated the extent of work and its cost. (P.4).

10. The cost projection of $100 per year for the “average GC resident” over a 15-year period, is not a realistic reflection of actual cost. (P.3).

11. There is no evidence that lead paint is the only environmental hazard that exists within the proposed occupied areas. (P.5).

12. The Committee has not fully addressed the significant building code and life safety challenges presented by the School. (P.9).

The Mayor’s view of the E&B report: At the Nov. 30th Work Session of the BOT, dedicated to St. Paul’s, Mayor Veneziale disparaged the Report, stating that he does not accept it as accurate. He implied that the Report was stale and not applicable to today’s world. I disagree with his assessment.

If anything, the condition of the Building is worse today than 10 years ago. In fact, care and maintenance of the structure has been poor from the day Garden City purchased it in 1992.

My conclusions: The highly critical, embarrassing E&B Report was apparently ignored and suppressed for 10 years by persons who knew of its contents and are involved today in the rosy, optimistic one-dimensional publicity -- at town halls and in other media publicity -- which has been financed by thousands of dollars of funds granted by the BOT. This statement applies especially to the USES and Historical subcommittees. The For Demolition (FDEM) Committee of which I am a member continues to espouse demolition of the building and creation of a Village park for all residents to enjoy. We believe that sometime in mid-late 2023 a Village-wide vote would agree with us.

Unfortunately, the St. Paul’s Committee remains on track to follow its path of unrealistic expectations. To our knowledge no external consultant

DEAR

Dr. Tina

Senior Skin Rejuvenation

Dr Tina Funt

I am asked many questions about senior (age 55 plus) skin rejuvenation. I’d like to share my tips.

What are Fillers?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

From page 30

has ever given a clean bill of health as to the structural integrity of the building. FDEM hopes the Committee and the Board will recognize the folly of their beliefs next year. Lastly, we are not saying that the Committee and Board will repeat all the errors of the past. We are saying that the condition of the building and the costs to redevelop it, have not been accurately described up to now.

George M. Salem

Schaefer, Ed Ra, Kate Murray, and others to the dire consequences of the MTA/3TC’s overreach and variances from prior commitments.

Bruce Chester stepped up as the nominee of FABGC to run for the Estates trustee position in 2021 and has been a welcome voice of reason and representation on the Board. After winning his seat with more than 70% of the vote—outpacing the total votes won by the prior Estates POA trustee over five general elections—Bruce went to work establishing a Third Track Committee of seven residents, not just BOT insiders.

Board-Certified by the American Board of Dermatology and Author of The Doctor’s Secret has been named a Power Woman of the East End!

What are the best skin care products? With a myriad of products available, there are 3 must haves:

1. Retinoids (like Retin A) are vitamin A derivatives. They promote cell turnover so there are new cells to retain moisture. They minimize fine lines and brown spots.

2. Vitamin C which is an antioxidant to help build collagen. This too will minimize fine skin wrinkles.

3. Sunscreens (at least #30) to protect against harmful UV rays which ages skin and causes skin cancers.

What does Botox (and other similar products) do?

The “toxins” prevent muscular contraction leading to the “number 11” lines on your forehead and around your eyes so you don’t have a worried or skin weathered appearance. These products typically last 3-4 months and are very safe. Cleansers and moisturizers vary depending on if skin is dry or oily.

Fillers are hyaluronic based or calcium hydroxyl apatite based substances. They are injected to the skin to add volume to deflated and flat cheeks, skin folds from nose to lips (nasolabial), eliminate folds around mouth (marionette lines) and plump up lips and small lines above lips. As we age, we lose volume giving us a tired and older appearance. Many fillers can last up to months - 1 year. The fillers smooth out skin by adding volume.

What do lasers do?

Lasers and Intense Pulse Light (IPL) treat red and brown discoloration as well as broken blood vessels. Some lasers treat skin lines all over the face that are deeply embedded.

What are energy devices?

There are many devices which perform skin tightening. There is radiofrequency, microneedling or a combination used to tighten skin as well as treat acne scarring which worsens with aging due to loss of collagen and elastic fibers. For more severe cases, there are fractionated ablative lasers.

YOUR WINTER READ!

“The Doctor’s Secret” This is my first novel which details the journey of becoming a physician during the 1980’s when medicine was not the career of choice for women. It addresses the importance of determination, resilience, and support from loved ones that people need when undergoing challenges and crisis in their life. So as New Year’s approaches, we need to make resolutions to take care of our emotional and skin care needs. The Doctor’s Secret can be purchased on Amazon.com (Hardcover or Ebook). The Doctor’s Secret by Tina Funt, M.D. Proceeds are donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Dr. Tina can also be reached at 516-747-7778.

Dr Tina Funt

Note: The actual E&B Report we have referred to above is 60 pages long. The Summary that we have excerpted is 12 pages and appears at the start of the Report. To access it, go to the Incorporated Village of Garden City website, scroll down, on the left side, to St. Paul’s, choose “Assessment Conditions, October 24, 2012.”

Supports Chester for board

To the Editor:

As we approach the end of 2022, it is my honor as a co-founder of ReVAMP (Resident Voters Against Monster Poles) to heartily endorse Estates Trustee Bruce Chester for re-election in March 2023.

Amid the COVID lock-down in March 2020, the MTA/3TC erected monster utility poles, without advance notice, without village consent, and on the wrong side of the tracks—adjacent to hundreds of Garden City Estates homes. Shortly after sending a letter of protest on April 8, 2020, the former rotational Mayor/Third Track Committee head/ Estates POA Trustee confidentially and hypocritically requested “talking points” from 3TC communications representatives to justify and rationalize these permanent stains on the Estates neighborhoods.

At that time, the Estates POA refused to stand up for the impacted property owners of the Estates. Instead, the POA openly posted MTA Construction Chief Janno Lieber’s defiant counterpoints from a Newsday interview on its website and adopted the former rotational Mayor’s position that nothing could be done to defend our village, so why bother?

Bruce engaged with the heads of 3TC and the MTA’s Third Track project, rather than lower-level outreach and communications managers, who had no authority to make policy and spending decisions.

Bruce rallied support among fellow trustees to support the legal defense of Village residents adversely impacted by the Third Track Project, consistent with the designated funding that had been tardily approved by the prior Board in late 2020. Bruce showed up at the Denton Avenue Bridge on a cold December 2021 morning when the MTA was attempting to commence demolition of the prior bridge, in violation of a pending court injunction.

Bruce and Mayor Veneziale negotiated with the MTA to ensure that historic stones could be repurposed at the Denton Avenue Bridge and enhanced landscaping would be planted in 2022.

Rather than wasting community benefit funds, Bruce Chester rallied fellow trustees to approve the allocation of remaining community benefit funds toward improving the quality-of-life and greenspace of project-adjacent neighborhoods adversely impacted by the Third Track project. Quite a contrast to the prior rotational Mayor/Estates POA Trustee, who had diverted funds away from project-adjacent neighborhoods toward refreshing parking lot bricks and planters at an unrelated LIRR Station nearly a mile away from the Third Track project.

Board-Certified by the American Board of Dermatology and Author of The Doctor’s Secret has been named a Power Woman of the East End!

Dr. Tina K. Funt is a Board-Certified Dermatologist practicing in Garden City for 33 years. She works for Schweiger Dermatology Group with 80+ offices throughout Long Island and the tri-state area. Dr. Funt specializes in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. Her passions are medicine, the arts, golf and dogs.

ADVERTORIAL

In response, community members such as Rich Corrao, John Cantwell, James Kumpel, Paul Rothenbiller, Enis Mehmet, Charlie Kelley, Alaine Lawlor, and Bruce Chester co-founded ReVAMP to represent and communicate Garden City residents’ outrage. In the absence of support from either the Estates POA or the Estates POA Trustees at the time, ReVAMP had to fill the void to alert politicians like Don Clavin, Laura

Bruce Chester has been available to Village residents at Meet-and-Greet events, at designated POA meetings, at committee meetings, and at community functions. Unlike his predecessor, Bruce recognizes the importance of listening to and reflecting the concerns of his constituents. He has been a responsive trustee who deserves our enthusiastic support for re-election to the Garden City Board of Trustees.

James Kumpel, Co-Founder of ReVAMP

Are you a professional?

Our Professional Guide is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

ASK THE DOCTOR

Board-Certified by the American Board of Dermatology and the author of “The Doctor’s Secret”

Dr. Tina is taking your skin related questions via her Instagram @tinafuntmd and email: Tfmdbook@gmail.com

News from the Children’s Room

Children enjoy building with LEGO as teen volunteers help during the Children’s Department’s monthly LEGO Club meeting. The December meeting was held on Wednesday, December 7, at the Library.

Construction and the Children’s Room

Construction continues! The Children’s Room has relocated temporarily near the Periodical Room with materials on the first floor and the second floor. Come by to say hello and scope out the new location!

Winter/Spring Programs

Winter Storytimes

You must do a separate registration for each child you wish to attend the program.

Each session has a separate registration. Register online on Eventkeeper

Children’s Librarian Regina Foge reads a picture book to parents and children before doing a craft during Craft Time for Three and Four-Year-Olds, which was held Thursday, December 8, at the Library.

(www.gardencitypl.org) with a library card.

MOTHER GOOSE

(Ages 6 Months–29 Months Old) 10:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

(Toddlers Ages 2½–3 ½) 11:30a.m.–12:00 p.m.

(Pre-Schoolers Ages 3–5 (Not Yet in Kindergarten) 1:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.

• Monday, January 9Registration begins Tuesday, December 27, @ 10:00 a.m.

Buy a Brick

Celebrate or honor your loved ones this holiday season and give the gift of a lasting legacy in the Mount Sinai South Nassau garden, located at the corner of Oswald Court and One Healthy Way.

Honor a loved one or someone who made a di erence in your life. Remember a special person or celebrate a special occasion. Support Mount Sinai South Nassau’s mission and vision for a healthier tomorrow.

News from the Children’s Room

from 4:00–4:30 p.m.

Registration begins Jan. 10 at 10 a.m.

• Monday, January 23Registration begins Tuesday, January 17, @ 10:00 a.m.

• Monday, January 30Registration beings Tuesday, January 24, @ 10:00 a.m.

• Monday, February 6Registration begins Tuesday, January 31, @ 10:00 a.m.

• Monday, February 13Registration begins Tuesday, February 7, @ 10:00 a.m.

• Monday, February 27Registration begins Tuesday, February 14, @ 10:00 a.m.

Reading Pals

(Ages 4–Second Grade) Tuesday, January 17,

Additional winter/spring programming information will be coming soon. Please check Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org) for registration information.

December Holidays

Hanukkah will begin the evening of Sunday, December 18, and will end in the evening Monday, December 26.

Christmas is Sunday, December 25.

Kwanzaa will begin Monday, December 26, and ends Sunday, January 1.

Stop by the library and browse the holiday books to make the season more festive.

Hanukkah Books

“Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins”

by Eric Kimmel

“Way Too Many Latkes : A Hanukkah in Chelm” by Linda Glaser

“Kugel for Hanukkah?” by Gretchen M. Everin

“The Runaway Latkes ” by Leslie Kimmelman

“I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Dreidel” by Caryn Yacowitz

“Honeyky Hanukah” by Woody Guthrie

Christmas Books

“Merry Christmas Gus” by Chris Chatterton

“Mouse’s Night Before Christmas ” by Tracey Corderoy

“The Christmas Feast” by Nathalie Dargent

“The Wheels on the Bus at Christmas”

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!

by Sarah Kieley

“Dear Santa, I Know It Looks Bad, But It Wasn’t My Fault” by Norma Lewis

“Christmas Mouseling” by Dori Chaconas

Kwanzaa Books

“Celebrate Kwanzaa” by Carolyn Otto

“Li’l Rabbit’s Kwanzaa” by Donna L. Washington

“My First Kwanzaa” by Karen Katz

“Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story” by Angela Shelf Medearis

“My Family Celebrates Kwanzaa” by Lisa Bullard

“Seven Candles for Kwanzaa” by Andrea Davis Pinkney

Find a doctor today at mountsinai.org/southnassau

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

December YA Book Picks

Looking for something to read during the holiday break? Then check out one of the following books on our December Monthly Reading List:

• “Two Degrees” by Alan Gratz (Grades 4–7) (Adventure): When three children endure separate climate change disasters--a wildfire in the California woods, a close encounter with a hungry polar bear in Canada, and a massive hurricane in Florida--they emerge from their experiences committed to changing the world.

•

“Frizzy” by Claribel A. Ortega (Grades 4–8) (Graphic Novel): Tired of going to the salon to have her curls straightened every weekend, Marlene slowly learns to embrace her natural curly hair with the help of her best friend and favorite aunt.

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

Teen Holiday Party

•

“Sparrows in the Wind” by Gail Carson Levine (Grades 6–8) (Historical Fantasy): Trojan princess Cassandra is cursed by Apollo with the gift of prophecy, and must try to find her place in a world that she knows to be perilous; years later, will her friendship with a young Amazon princess named Rin help her to avert a disastrous end to their war?

• “Self-Made Boys: S Great Gatsby Remix” by Anna-Marie McLemore (Grades 9–12) (Historical/ Romance): Three teens chase their own versions of the American Dream during the Roaring 20s in this YA reimagining of “The Great Gatsby.”

•

“I Miss You, I Hate This” by Sara Saedi (Grades 9–12) (Realistic): Best friends Parisa Naficy and Gabriela Gonzales grapple with the complexities of their relationship even while they spend their senior year apart due to a pandemic that disproportionately affects young people.

Want more book suggestions? Check out the full December Book List on our website here: https://www.gardencitypl. org/young-adult-reading-lists/ Patrons can also find the list at the Library, so make sure to visit the Tweens and Teens Room to learn about the latest books! Plus, tweens and teens can earn community service for reading and reviewing the books listed above by joining our Tweens and Teens Best Books 2023 Committee! If interested, please sign-up to join the committee by visiting Garden City Public Library’s website at https://www.gardencitypl.org/ tweens-teens-best-books-2023-committee/ or for more information, please contact the Young Adult Department at https://www. gardencitypl.org/young-adult-department/contact-the-young-adult-tweensteens-department/.

Help Decorate Our Tree for the Holidays!

Stop by the Tweens and Teens Room

Celebrate the holidays and the New Year with friends during the holiday break by joining us at the Library's Teen Holiday Party on Wednesday, December 28, at 7 p.m.! Play games, sing karaoke, watch a short holiday film, and do other holiday-themed activities. Snacks and drinks will be served. Teens can bake for the program and earn community service credit! Volunteers who bake must bake at least 2 dozen items, must individually wrap items, and must include a list of ingredients. Please note registrants will be eating baked goods, which will be baked by other tweens and teens. All registrants should indicate if they have any food allergies. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 only. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, December 20, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so make sure to register early to reserve your spot at the party! Teens 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.

Tree Ornaments for Community Service: Snowflake Ornaments

Earn community service by painting ornaments for the Garden City Public Library’s Tweens and Teens Department’s Ornament Tree! Each volunteer will receive three ornaments and a set of paint pens to decorate their ornaments at home. Paint pens must be returned to the Library. These ornaments will be used to decorate our new ornament tree each month!

For the month of December ornaments will be snowflakes, which will be used to decorate the Tweens and Teens Ornament Tree in January. Registration began Tuesday, December 13, online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Completed ornaments must be returned by December 22 to the Library.

Registrants will be asked to pick up their ornaments at the Library in order to participate in this community service program. Volunteers must return three decorated ornaments and their set of paint pens in order to receive community service. Volunteers will receive two

Tweens get creative by painting during the program Tween Thursdays: Mini Canvas Painting. The program was held on Thursday, December 8, and was a joint program between the Children’s and Young Adult Departments.

hours for every three ornaments they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Teen Gamers

Kick off the weekend with our new Teen Gamers program on Friday, December 16, at 3:30 p.m. We will have our Nintendo Switch consoles for teens to use as well as tabletop board games and Magic: The Gathering cards for teens to play with. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 in fall 2022 only. Registration begins Tuesday, December 6, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens 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.

Tweens and Teens

Dungeons and Dragons

Join us for Tweens and Teens Dungeons and Dragons on Thursday, December 22, 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 13, at 10 a.m. online via Eventkeeper (www.gardencitypl.org). Space is limited, so check Eventkeeper for availability. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive community service

for participating in this program.

GCPL Tweens and Teens Best Books 2023 Committee: Volunteers Needed!

The Tweens and Teens Department is looking for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 to volunteer to provide feedback on recently published Young Adult books as part of our Tweens and Teens Best Books 2023 Committee! Eligible books are those published between October 1, 2022 and December 5, 2023 and aimed at tweens and teens in Grades 6–12.

Volunteers will be asked to read books on the Tweens and Teens Department’s monthly reading lists beginning with December 2022 and then write a 300-word review. Volunteers can also nominate a book not on our lists as long as it’s published between October 1, 2022 and December 5, 2022 and the Library owns a physical copy in the Young Adult collection. Volunteers will earn community service credit.

Credit for both reading and writing reviews on new books in the Library’s Young Adult Collection. The feedback used throughout the year will help the Young Adult Librarians compile the Best Books list for the year in December 2023.

There are no requirements on how many books a volunteer must read and volunteers can read however many new books they are able to throughout the year. Volunteers can get credit for books they do not finish, as long as they provide 300-word feedback as to why they chose not to finish the book. The committee may meet throughout the year if there is interest, but volunteers are not required to attend meetings and can still participate by reading and providing feedback on recent Young Adult books.

S H O P L O C A L

T H I S H O L I D A Y S E A S O N -

Blakeman Nassau County Executive

Bruce

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

If interested, please sign up to join the committee by visiting Garden City Public Library’s website at https:// www.gardencitypl.org/tweens-teensbest-books-2023-committee/ or for more information, please contact the Young Adult Department at https://www.gardencitypl.org/young-adult-department/ contact-the-young-adult-tweens-teensdepartment/.

Follow Tweens and Teens on Facebook and Instagram

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

The Young Adult Department uses both social media platforms as a tool to post updates and announcements about upcoming Library programs and community service opportunities.

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 events will be happening for tweens and teens (Grades 6–12), or if you have any questions, email Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl. org/young-adult-department/contactthe-young-adult-tweens-teens-department/ .

Teen Advisory Board Applications Now Available Online

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

News from the Garden City Public Library

Happy Hanukkah 2022!

Hanukkah begins at Sundown on Sunday, December 18, and ends on Monday, December 26. The central feature of the observance is the nightly lighting of the Chanukiah or menorah, an eight-branched candelabra with a place for a ninth candle, the shammes, used to light the others. One candle is lit on the first night of Hanukkah, and an additional candle is lit on each successive night, until, on the eighth night, the Chanukiah is fully illuminated. Hanukkah is also called the Feast of Lights or Festival of Lights due to the importance of the candle-lighting . Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate!

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

Fall Programs

News about fall programs are listed below. Check out our website (www. gardencitypl.org) in the coming weeks for more information about upcoming winter programs.

Monday Movies Presented by the

Friends of the Garden City Library

(No registration required)

• December 19, 2022 - “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946), 132 Mins

Defensive Driving Course with Empire Safety Council

Saturday, December 17, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Join us on Saturday, December 17, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. for a Defensive Driving Course with the Empire Safety Council. Receive 10% reduction on automobile/ liability insurance and qualify for a license point reduction. Registration in person at the Garden City Public Library begins on Monday, November 28.Space is limited, so check with the Reference Department for availability. The first two weeks of registration are limited to Garden City Public Library cardholders only. Registration for those

The classic Christmas film “It’s a Wonderful Life” will be shown at the Garden City Public Library on December 19.

without a Garden City Public Library card began on Tuesday, December 6. Register separately for each person. Proper ID is required when registering an absentee party. You must bring a $30 check made payable to Empire Safety Council and current Library card with you to register. Bring your valid New York State driver’s license and a pen to class.

Please visit the Library for more information on additional upcoming events and programs. You can also visit our website (www.gardencitypl.org), follow us on Facebook (https://www. facebook.com/GardenCityPubLib), or call us (516-742-8405) to learn more. There’s more great programs to come, so stay tuned!

Great Gifts for Travelers to Spark Wanderlust, Check off that Bucket List

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

What could be a better than giving someone a part of the world, some memorable, life-enhancing, life-changing experience, something from their bucket-list, perhaps? Give the gift of travel.

Gift of travel can be everything from the trip itself (even create a registry so that lots of friends and family can contribute), to pre-arranging some experience or activity to enhance a trip: a dining experience, a spa visit, visits to a museum or attraction, a cooking, baking or jewelry making class; a hot-air balloon ride (champagne!); rock-climbing adventure; walking tour; bike rental. And what trip doesn’t require some special gear?

You can pre-purchase a city-sightseeing pass that provides admissions to the most popular sights in cities like Prague (PragueCoolPass.com), Amsterdam, Berlin, Dresden, Paris (parispass.com), New York City. Check out Go City, which sells passes in over 30 destinations from major metropolises like London and New York to oceanfront oases like Sydney and Oahu (GoCity.com, 800 887 9103).

More and more travel companies –hotels and accommodations, cruises, tours, theme parks, sightseeing, spa visits, restaurants and dining, and even transportation companies from airlines to Amtrak to Uber to a Maine Windjammer Cruise – now offer gift cards, e-gift cards or vouchers. And the beauty is you can give the amount that works best for you and they can be spent in the way your giftee wants.

Gift cards can open up doors to

travel, or take the sting out of the pinch to a traveler’s, couple’s or family’s wallet. Gift cards can be that extra spark that gets your loved one to finally depart on their bucket-list experience.

Here are some examples:

A yacht-style cruise to the Mediterranean. A historic stay at the new Maswik Lodge South in the middle of Grand Canyon National Park. A BVT Bicycling Vacations guided tour to New Zealand. These are but a few of the experiences that can be acquired with Xanterra Travel Collection gift cards toward Xanterra’s operations in Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Parks, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Xanterra Travel Collection also owns and operates the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel in Williams, Ariz., The Grand Hotel in Tusayan, Ariz., The Oasis at Death Valley in Death Valley Calif., Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls, Mont., Windstar Cruises, Holiday

So many ways to give the gift of travel that makes such a bucket-list family experience like a Galapagos Cruise possible, from forming a registry for many to contribute to a fund, to arranging for special experiences along the way, to clothes, gear, photography equipment © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

Vacations, VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations, and Country Walkers. Xanterra is also affiliated with two Forbes Five-Star Resorts, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO and Sea Island on the coast of Georgia. (https://www.xanterra. com/gift-cards/)

Globus family of brands Gift Certificates, redeemable for tours and cruises, come in denominations of $50, $200 & $500. Gift Certificates may be used in conjunction with any promotion offered at time of booking and they are transferable up until time of application of payment to an existing booking. https://www.globusjourneys.com/tour-gift-certificate/

Tauck Tours eGift Cards, available in any amount, are valid for any Tauck land journey, river or small ship cruise and Tauck Bridges family adventures. https://www.tauck.com/ guest-travel/egiftcard.

Contiki also offers a travel gift card that can be used on any Contiki trip; the voucher certificates include

PLACES NEAR AND FAR

a personalized message, can be sent electronically or printed, and does not expire. https://www.contiki. com/en-us/resources/travel-giftcard 866-266 8454.

Lodging

Historic Hotels of Europe, an exclusive collection of independent and unique hotels, castles, palaces, country houses and other properties handpicked for historic importance, quality and unique story, throughout Europe, offers a gift voucher, valid for five years, in amounts from 50-1500 Euros. voucher@ historichotelsofeurope.com, https:// gifts.historichotelsofeurope.com/

You can purchase gift cards for stays or amenities at Historic Hotels of America (as well as with individual member properties). In addition, Historic Hotels of America has partnered with National Trust Tours, https://www.historichotels. org/us/national-trust-tours.php (both are programs of the National Preservation Trust) to promote travel offers and opportunities. When booking a tour, mention Historic Hotels of America and receive three $100 gift certificates for a two-night stay at a Historic Hotel. Also check the individual member historic hotels and resorts.

New England Inns & Resorts Association gift cards can be redeemed at 300 lodging properties all over New England and can be purchased in any amount you choose. The cards never expire.

Make a reservation directly with the property and let them know you will be using a New England Inns & Resort Gift Card. Present the card at

Great Gifts for Travelers to Spark Wanderlust, Check off that Bucket List

check-in. https://www.newenglandinnsandresorts.com/gift-cards

Want more choices: Hotels.com gift cards unlock hundreds of thousands of places to stay worldwide, including major hotel chains. The gift cards are available in denominations from $10 up to $2,000 and there are no expiration dates or fees. Also, Hotels.com has a secure gift registry where friends and family can contribute toward a Hotels. com eGift Card. What is more, you can trade-in select gift cards (from coffee companies, clothing companies, etc) for Hotels.com Gift Cards. https://www. hotels.com/page/giftcards/

Who knew you could also get a Camping Gift Card to New York State’s Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation sites, providing access to 8,500 campsites, 850 cabins, 135 cottages and 18 golf courses throughout the state. Purchase online at  https://shop. parks.ny.gov/store/gift-cards/ for any dollar amount and have no expiration date. They can be used with the NYS camping reservation system (Reserve America), https://www.reserveamerica. com, 800-456-2267

Cruiselines also make it easy to purchase gift cards, and even gift registries so that family and friends can contribute to purchasing the cruise: Norwegian Cruise Line makes it possible to gift onboard credit, wine, gourmet treats, spa visits. Or create a registry so that bunches of family and friends can contribute to a cruise (https://www.ncl.com/ onboard-gifts). Also: Disney Cruise Lines (https://disneycruise.disney. go.com/featured/holiday-gift-cruise/); Carnival Cruise Lines (https://carnival.ourgiftcards.com/ ); Princess Cruises (https://www.princess.com/ gift-cards); Royal Caribbean (https:// www.royalcaribbeanincentives.com/ royal-caribbean-gift-card-program/ ); Holland America (https://www.hollandamerica.com/en_US/giftcard.html).

You can actually buy e-gift cards for Celebrity Cruises, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, even AirbnB from amazon.com.

Maine Windjammer Association is now offering gift certificates toward cruises on any of its member vessels. They can be purchased in any amount and don’t expire. (Save 10% on purchases on Dec. 14, use code MWAWind22). They will send a packet of brochures as well. (800-807-9463, giftcertificates@sailmainecoast.com, www.sailmainecoast.com/ windjammer-sailing-gift-certificates/)

Gift of Experience

Give experiences that turn a trip into a wonder that lasts a lifetime.

Gift certificates from Broadway. com can be redeemed for tickets to any Broadway or Off-Broadway show currently playing in New York City (https:// www.broadway.com/gift-certificates/).

Drive an exotic car, learn to fly, rock climb, skydive, bungee jump. Virgin Experience lists some 3000 different experiences in 122 regions from 600 “best in class” partners that their gift card can be applied to (bioluminescent kayak adventure in Tomales Bay, CA; drive a stock car on Thompson Speedway, CT; learn to fly in Mesa, AZ. Easy return, no expiration, free exchange (https:// www.virginexperiencegifts.com/ action-and-adventure, https://www.virginexperiencegifts.com/gift-certificates)

Whether retracing the Revolution in Paris, diving into the ecology of Venetian canals, or exploring Kyoto’s teahouses at twilight, Context Travel offers tours with experts. Context offers personal walking tours in 60 cities across 6 continents. Skip the line and off-hours access to popular sites in the world’s cultural and historical capitals. Tours range from half-day to 7-days plus. Context Travel also offers the “gift of learning” – virtual and in-person sessions with top experts– you can explore the Colosseum with an archaeologist, uncover masterpieces of the Louvre with an art historian, or explore the palaces of Istanbul with an architect — from home, or in person (https://www.contexttravel. com/gift-cards).

TripAdvisor offers gift cards and e-certificates that can be purchased online or over the phone. You can pre-load the card with a set amount of money and then give it as a gift for

NUTRITION

someone to utilize when making reservations. For more information, visit TripAdvisor.com and chat with a live agent for assistance.

Spafinder, a compendium of resorts, wellness centers and day spas, makes it easy to purchase giftcards. Take 25% off $200+ with promo code VIP25; get $20 off $80, Spafinder.com

Theme parks can be a very, very pricey vacation for families. Gift cards can put the vacation in reach or enhance the experience. Disney’s gift cards can be used for “practically” all things Disney – theme park tickets, resort stays, merchandise, dining and experiences at Disney destinations. https:// www.disneygiftcard.com/

There are any number of adult fantasy camps to satisfy, well, every fantasy. If you can fantasize it, there is likely a fantasy camp to realize it.

Want to play baseball like a major leaguer? There are baseball fantasy camps with teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Atlanta Braves (mlb.com). Basketball: 76ers Fantasy Camp is the inaugural team in the NBA’s first and only fantasy camp of its kind (Aug. 25-27, 2023, www.76ersfantasycamps.com). Hockey (Miracle on Ice Fantasy Camp, Apr 30-May 4, 2023, https://lakeplacidlegacysites.com ),

Also: Broadway theater (Broadway Fantasy Camp, broadwayfancamp. com), Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp, an interactive musical event that takes place in various locations worldwide involving various Rock Stars on various dates.(rockcamp.com)

Space Camp, an educational camp in Huntsville, Alabama, on the grounds of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center museum near NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. It provides residential and educational programs for children and adults on themes such as space exploration, aviation and robotics (spacecamp.com).

For many, being able to participate in major science research is also a fantasy. Earthwatch makes it possible to support research that responds to global challenges – from climate change to human-wildlife coexistence to sustainability – while engaging local

Mediterranean Diet for Weight Loss

BY CHARLYN FARGO

The Mediterranean diet may just be the most studied diet pattern we know. It consistently rates as a top diet in U.S. News and World Report’s annual review.

The Mediterranean diet, which is actually a meal pattern, was developed in the 1950s and 1960s when a few researchers noticed the significantly lower prevalence of heart disease in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. They attributed the low prevalence of heart

disease to the overall lifestyle observed and particularly the pattern of foods eaten. Meals centered around vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, eggs, seafood and less red meat.

Over the past two decades, research has found the Mediterranean diet may help manage diabetes, protect against memory loss and reduce the risk for developing certain cancers.

Now a just-released study finds that the Mediterranean diet pattern may help

those who lose weight keep that weight off.

Called the MedWeight study, researchers found that adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle pattern was associated with favorable weight loss outcomes. The study was published in Science journal.

Researchers examined the relationship between lifestyle patterns and weight loss outcomes among those who kept their

communities, and offers more than 40 field research expeditions around the world, with opportunities for teens and adults and no prior experience needed (Earthwatch.org).

For the skier/snowboarder, consider purchasing lift tickets, lessons, rentals, perhaps even a multi-day, regional or local pass (EpicPass.com, IKONPass.com, snow.com, ski.com). Get Ski Tickets is an online marketplace where skiers/riders have access to purchase date-specific discounted lift tickets, lessons, rentals, group lift tickets and season passes. https://www. getskitickets.com/, 970-233-7040, info@ getskitickets.com. They also sell gift certificates (https://www.getskitickets. com/gift-certificates/)

Getting There

The Delta Gift Card is redeemable for any Delta Air Lines flight worldwide and for any Delta Vacations package that includes airfare, delivered to inbox or mailbox. No expiration date. With the purchase of $250 or more on Delta Gift Cards, get a $20 Starbucks eGift. https:// www.delta.com/us/en/gift-cards/overview

Gift a getaway or a portion of it with Southwest Airlines gift card. Personalize the gift card and send by e-card or by mail. No expiration date, fully transferrable. Only usable for passenger travel on Southwest (https:// www.southwest.com/gift-card/).

Prefer riding the rails to boarding flights? Amtrak gift cards are available from $25 to $250 for booking a train journey anywhere in the US and select destinations in Canada. Redeem for travel online, in the app, by phone or in staffed stations; never expires. (May not be used for onboard purchases.) https:// www.amtrak.com/giftcards

See more at https://goingplacesfarandnear.com/gift-of-travel-sparkingthat-wanderlust-checking-off-that-bucket-list-opening-pathways-to-life-enhancing-experience/

© 2022 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com

“Star Wars: Andor”: A Unique Perspective on an Inconsistent Galaxy

BY DANIEL J. SULLIVAN

Ever since Disney bought Lucasfilm, and with it, the Star Wars franchise, for $4 billion in 2012, it has found trouble in satisfying its audience. Certain films, such as 2017’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi were well received by critics but panned by the general public (see The Last Jedi’s 91% critics score vs 42% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.) While others, such as 2019’s Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker saw the exact opposite (52% critics vs 86% audience.)

Despite this, one film that was very well received by both groups was 2016’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, directed by Gareth Edwards. Unlike previous Star Wars movies, which were based on Joseph Campbell’s theory of mythology and primarily focused on space fantasy, Rogue One instead placed heavy emphasis on the, admittedly overlooked, “war” aspect of Star Wars and told a story about a struggling militia of rebels forcibly stealing data from the all-encompassing Galactic Empire. Given the success of this film and the potential to explore a different side of the Star Wars universe, it seemed only natural that in 2022, Disney released its first Rogue One spinoff, the television series Star Wars: Andor.

Andor, set 5 years before the events of Rogue One (as well as 1977’s Star Wars: A New Hope), serves as an origin story for one of the film’s main protagonists, Cassian Andor (portrayed by Mexican actor Diego Luna.) The series examines Cassian’s life as a mercenary on the planet Ferrix as well as his childhood in an indigenous tribe on the planet Kenari, while simultaneously showcasing the growing conflict in the larger galaxy through deliberations in the Imperial Security Bureau and conversations in the Galactic Senate. This balance provides nicer context to the story of the overall saga, but often times makes Cassian feel like a background character in his own show. One could argue that this is a good thing, however, because Cassian Andor is fairly stoic and generally the least interesting personality in any given scene. Not to say that the rest of the ensemble is particularly engaging. With stone faced demeanors and names like “Luthen Rael” and “Bix Caleen”, the cast is far less memorable and charming than the Luke Skywalkers and Han Solos that came before them.

What is memorable, however, is Andor’s actual story itself. Following a three episode arc format, the show has a series of two episode buildups before an action-packed third episode climax. The fourth through sixth episodes, in particular, are the show’s most engaging and accomplish something different for the Star Wars franchise. While most of Star Wars has the “fate of the galaxy”

at hand (Rogue One included), Andor showcases a much more intimate, smaller scale heist on an imperial garrison pulled off by a team of seven rebels, of which Cassian is one. The fourth and fifth episode go into detail regarding the team’s planning and training for the mission, with the sixth episode serving as the big payoff. Unlike anything else in Star Wars before it, in which the villains are the heads of empires and the heroes are notable figures, the heists in Andor put the spotlight on the smaller victories from unknown heroes against low-ranking generals that take place in a larger war. Even in the context of the real world, it allows one to consider the smaller struggles that have taken place in wars, overlooked in favor of larger battles like Normandy or Gettysburg. This is most certainly the strength of Andor and that which sets it apart from the rest of the Star Wars franchise.

However, as much as uniqueness is Andor’s greatest asset, it is also its biggest weakness. Whereas the series explores new aspects of the Star Wars universe, it takes so many liberties with the established world, that it doesn’t feel like a natural continuation of all that came before. Scenes taking place in markets and villages feature an all human cast, with nary an alien or a droid in site, the imperial garrison is patrolled by soldiers in uniform - not the sleek white stormtroopers audiences have come to know for 40 years, and most egregious of all – it lacks the franchise’s timelessness. When George Lucas was working on the original trilogy in the late 70s and early 80s, he is quoted having told the costume designers “I don’t want to see any buttons or zippers on these costumes because it’s too close to Earth. If it’s going to be space fantasy, if it’s going to be another world, then there shouldn’t be things like zippers and buttons.” This simple rule established an important aspect of the style of the Star Wars universe – it is timeless – it exists beyond our time and place. When watching any of the previous films or television series,

it is difficult to identify anything as something you may own in your home. Andor, unfortunately, plays fast and loose with this rule, and it greatly hurts the series. Characters use iPads and tablets frequently, a television news program is shown on a screen, people are shown drinking out of coffee cups, and one character’s costume is clearly just a hoodie, drawstrings and all. These design and costuming choices, coupled with the lack of aliens and droids, take

the series out of the shared universe it is supposedly a part of and make it seem like little more than a generic sci-fi show. In addition, an extremely lackluster score by Nicholas Britell is a far cry from the memorable compositions written by John Williams, Ludwig Göransson, and Michael Giacchino in the franchise’s previous entries. These aspects are the weakest parts of Andor and will hopefully be improved in the show’s second (and final) season.

At the time of this review’s writing, Star Wars: Andor is just passed its halfway point (episode 7 out of the planned 12.) Overall, the series is a solid sci-fi adventure that, despite its uninteresting characters and bland score, manages to tell a fairly engaging story about the overlooked aspects of a larger galactic war. Although it would benefit greatly by maintaining visual continuity with the rest of the Star Wars films and series, it works as a one off, introducing audiences to a previously unexplored part of the galaxy, outside of the struggle between the dark and the light sides of the force.

Star Wars: Andor releases weekly, Wednesdays on Disney+.

BY TOM MARGENAU

Here is the bottom-line message of this column: If there is any doubt or question in your mind about your eligibility for any Social Security benefit, insist on filing a claim for that benefit. You have every right to do so. Now, let me explain this in more detail.

I hear from readers all the time who tell me they talked to a Social Security Administration representative about their potential eligibility for a given benefit and were either bluntly told they weren’t eligible or were otherwise discouraged from filing a claim. So, the person making the inquiries is sent away empty-handed, but oftentimes still has lingering doubts about his or her possible entitlement to benefits.

If you are ever in that situation, let me repeat: Insist on filing a claim. It’s your legal right, and by doing so, you accomplish two things. No. 1: You will get a legal decision about your eligibility for benefits, not just one Social Security clerk’s opinion. No. 2: You will have appeal rights. In other words, if your claim is denied and you still are not satisfied, you can ask that your claim be reviewed. You even could take it all the way to the Supreme Court if you wanted to! That last comment is a little far-fetched (although feasible). However, the basic point I am making is very valid. If an SSA rep just says no and you walk away only to later learn you were due benefits, you generally won’t be able to do anything about it but gripe -- and then file a claim with no retroactivity. But if you actually file a claim the first time and it is denied, and you later are able to prove your eligibility, you will get full retroactive benefits to the date you filed the claim.

As I said, I hear from lots of readers who are given the cold shoulder by anSSA representative. Of course, sometimes the informal denial is entirely appropriate. For example, if you are only 60 years old and try to file for Social Security retirement benefits, and you are told you must be at least 62 to be eligible for such benefits, that’s an accurate response and there is really nothing you can do.

But many times, the situation is more of a gray area, and if the SSA rep jut turns you away and doesn’t offer you the chance to file for benefits, he or she isn’t doing a good job. In a minute, I’ll give some examples I’ve heard from readers. But first, I want to make this point. When I started working for the SSA back in the early 1970s, it was drilled into us almost from day one of our training class that people had every right to file for any benefit they thought they might be due and that it was our job to help them file such claims. In fact, the staffing of any Social Security field office was determined, in part, by the number of claims taken. So, there was that extra incentive to help people file claims for benefits: More claims meant more staff. It was as simple

Your Right to File a Claim for Benefits

as that. But based on the number of complaints I get from readers who tell me that they are discouraged from filing for benefits, I’m guessing that staffing procedure doesn’t exist anymore at the SSA.

Here are some recent emails from readers with examples of what I am talking about.

Q: Even though my husband and I lived together for 20 years, we didn’t actually get married until two years ago. Sadly, he died last month. I’m 68 years old and get a small Social Security benefit on my own record. When I went down to the Social Security office to file for widow’s benefits, the clerk told me we had to be married at least 10 years, so she said I wasn’t due anything. She helped me file for the $255 death benefit, and that’s all I got. But lately, some friends told me I should be getting widow’s benefits. What should I do?

A: You should march right back into that Social Security office and insist on filing a claim for widow’s benefits. The 10-year duration-of-marriage rule applies only to divorced spouses. You were married to your husband at the time he died, so that rule doesn’t apply to you. The SSA rep you talked to should have known that. If you get the same person again, ask to speak to a supervisor. But whatever you do, don’t leave the office until you file a claim for widow’s benefits.

Q: Not too long ago, you wrote a column explaining the rules for getting benefis as a divorced wife. Here is my story. I am 65 and get a very small Social Security retirement benefit because I didn’t work much outside the home. My husband, on the other hand, had a very good job and made a decent living. We were married for about 30 years. We divorced three years ago. Neither of us has remarried. He is also 65 years old and doesn’t plan to file for Social Security benefits until he is 70. Your column said that I should be able to get benefits on his record even though he hasn’t filed yet. So, I called Social Security’s 800 number and explained my situation. The phone rep told me that I can’t get any benefits from my ex until he files for Social Security himself. I read her the part of your column that said I am due benefits now, and she said, “Who are you going to believe: some clueless guy who writes a newspaper column, or me, an official government representative?” And then she hung up! So, what do you suggest I do?

A: Well, I don’t suppose it would help to call her back and tell her that the “clueless guy” worked for the Social Security Administration for 32 years and has written a nationally syndicated column about Social Security for about 25 years. I don’t think it would impress her.

But here’s what should impress her. Either go to your local Social Security office or call the toll-free number (800-

772-1213) and absolutely insist on filing a claim. The law clearly says a divorced woman can file for benefits on an ex-husband’s record even if he is not yet collecting benefits. He must be old enough to be eligible for Social Security -- essentially meaning he has to be 62 or older. But that’s it. Then, once your benefits start and you get an official “award letter,” it would be great if you could somehow track down that phone rep who wouldn’t let you file a claim, read her the award letter and tell her that despite her failings as a public servant, the “clueless guy” helped you get your benefits started.

Anyway, I hope all my readers got the message of this column: When in doubt, demand to file a claim for benefits to protect your rights and get a legal decision.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -- Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.”

COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

The Co-op and Condo Purchasing Process

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

You have finally found “your place to call home” and arrived at an agreed and accepted on your purchase of a co-op. You have submitted your offer with your pre-approval from your bank or if cash proof of funds. Some sellers will ask to see your financials prior to going to contract to be confident that you are financially strong enough to pass the co-op board. Then the contract is made up by the seller’s attorney and sent to the buyer’s attorney for review.

Once all the terms are agreed upon by the attorneys and their clients and the final contract is drafted then the contract is signed first by the buyer and then the seller. All required agency, lead, housing anti-discrimination, and buyer disclosures should also be signed too by both parties. Over the last few years, I have seen some buyers will do an inspection prior to signing their contract to make sure there aren’t any hidden issues with the building structure. Sometimes, the buyer’s attorney will ask for the most recent board meeting minutes. Sometimes it will have information about any future capital improvements that might be considered or approved to be completed. This could cause either an assessment or an increase in monthly maintenance. From my experience, management will not email them but will allow minutes to be reviewed in their office by the buyer or his/her attorney.

It is now time to be prepared and gather all your current financials together. Most recent tax returns, W-2s, if salaried, or 1099s, if self-employed, bank accounts, all asset accounts, e.g. bonds, stocks, etc. Most items should be noted on your tax returns. The next step is to request to have your agent email you a sales application that when done will be handed into the management office. It is crucial that you follow the exact directions on the application and proceed with filling it out and answering all the questions in the most accurate fashion. It is critically important to be an “open book” and disclose all your assets and liabilities. There are times that co-ops can even go so far as to request the IRS to verify your income

tax returns by filling out form 4506. They will also ask for personal and business references to ascertain the strength of your character as they know you best as a person. Most buyers should have sufficient and solid personal and business relationships. Be straightforward, candid, and upfront with your information as it will make your package complete. A few co-ops have switched to an online program that allows all participants in the transaction to fill it out which makes it a more seamless and efficient procedure. This simplifies the process, especially if there are several people and/or family members involved, as it can be forwarded to each individual, as each section is completed; especially if there are several purchasers who reside in different locations. Co-op applications specifically inquire about your finances as they want you to paint them a picture of how strong a candidate you are. This will allow management and the board to have the most positive opinion and view of you and whomever else is part of the purchasing process. It will make them feel the most comfortable enabling you to pass the management and board review allowing you to purchase.

When filling in the financial data, again, it is extremely important to provide all the pertinent information exactly as they are asking for it. Also, by New York State law application fees today can only be a maximum of $20. It is also important to put your packages together in the exact order of the questions asked. It’s prudent to have your agent review your package to make sure everything is done correctly and completed in the proper order. If you need additional help ask your agent. Then you will need to duplicate as many packages as are required as noted in the instructions. Each completed package should be in individual binders w/color coded tabs to separate each section to make it as easy as pos-

sible for the review process for management and the board. The impression and presentation you convey in your packagers are important, but your income, debt/ income, and credit are paramount in passing the board. Make sure to add the required checks that will go to the management. If you have questions reach out to either your agent or the management company. Their contact info is always on the board sales application. When done, you should either drop off your completed packages in person (or if allowed, your agent can assist); so management can go over them or if you are very far away overnight them.

Once reviewed by management and accepted then they will be sent to the board for their final review. If all is good, management will call to schedule an appointment in the evening for you to meet the board. Once you pass the board, both attorneys have to set up a closing and if financed with a lender and there is a “clear to close” determined by the bank. It is usually within 2 plus weeks or less if it is a cash transaction that a closing will occur. You should ask your attorney about what you will need to bring with you, e.g. certified and regular checks and I.D. A final walk through is scheduled the day of or one day before the closing to make sure everything in the unit is as it was when you last saw it and that the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave, ACs, washer/dryer or whatever appliances were included functions properly (ask about any warranties or paperwork).

The closing should take approximately 1½-2½ hours assuming everyone is on time, all the necessary paperwork and documents are available and completed and the monies from the funding bank are ready. Upon completion, you will get your keys to your new home and don’t forget the mailbox keys too.

Obviously, there are many facets to buying a co-op, but it is the most

cost-effective and economical way for one to purchase in getting a “foot in the door” to become an owner and begin growing your future wealth.

Continue to Donate to the Ukrainian Crisis and save a life or 2: https://usaforiom.org/iomsukraine-response/

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.) and in 2022 has earned his National Association of Realtors “Green Industry designation for eco-friendly construction. 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 https://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.

weight off and those who regained weight they lost. Some 470 adults were analyzed (62% were women) with a history of overweight or obesity and significant weight loss in the year prior to the study. Participants were classified as maintainers or regainers and were asked to fill in a series of questionnaires on dietary intake and eating behaviors, physical activity

and sleep. The participants were rated using a Mediterranean Lifestyle Index.

The study found that those who scored the highest in the Mediterranean Lifestyle Index had 28% higher odds for maintaining their weight loss.

The researchers added that even modest shifts toward healthier living may contribute to long-term weight loss.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illi-

nois. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on

Twitter @NutritionRD.. COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS

Add our weekly Professional Guide to your advertising plan. Call our Garden City office at 294-8900 for rates and information.

STARGAZERS

Seeing the Inner Planets at Dusk

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of December 18-24, 2022

It’s always fun to ask stargazers why they believe that, if Mercury is the closest planet to the sun, it’s not also the hottest of our solar system. That honor belongs to Venus, nearly twice as far from the searing heat of our star.

The reason, of course, is rather simple. Venus is shrouded by a thick cloudy atmosphere of mostly carbon dioxide gas that acts like a blanket and holds in heat. Mercury, on the other hand, has virtually no atmosphere so, while it’s still quite hot, much of the sun’s heat captured by its surface during the daytime can radiate back into space during the Mercurian night.

Another difference between the two planets is how bright they appear in our sky. The Venusian atmosphere serves as a highly efficient reflector that shoots back into space nearly two-thirds of all sunlight falling on it. The darker rocky surface of Mercury, by contrast, reflects only 11% of the sunlight it receives. This means that the two planets appear strikingly different in brightness and color.

This week stargazers have a great chance to check out our solar system’s two innermost planets as they appear near one another shortly after sunset.

You’ll have little trouble spotting Venus; it shines low in the southwestern sky at dusk with a brilliant white

light and is easily the brightest object in the evening sky.

Above and to its left you should see Mercury, appearing as a fainter, yellowish “star.” If you spot it, you can consider yourself fortunate; it’s been said that the great 16th century Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus -- who calculated the movements of the planets -- never actually saw this world with his own eyes.

If you aim a small telescope toward Venus, you’ll see only a tiny white disk. That’s because Venus is currently on the opposite side of the sun -- about as distant as it can ever become and is directly lit by sunlight. Give it a few more months, however, and this planet will swing around to our side of the sun. When it does, it will appear higher and brighter in our western sky at dusk and will appear in a quarter phase by spring and a crescent shape by summer.

Next, try aiming your telescope toward Mercury, but don’t be surprised by how tiny and blurry it appears. First off, this planet is barely the size of the continental United States. And secondly, its appearance near the horizon means that its light must pass through a tremendous amount of distorting atmosphere before reaching our eyes.

If you’re lucky enough to see a steady image, you might notice that Mercury now appears in a nearly full phase. Keep watch over the next week or so and you’ll see it gradually evolve into a

crescent before vanishing in the sun’s glare near the end of the month.

If you have trouble spotting these planets, on Saturday, Dec. 24 the (very) thin crescent moon will create a beautiful sight to the left of this pair after sunset. The following night the thicker

crescent moon will appear much easier to spot above and to their left.

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS.COM

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Honk if You Like Santa

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

As I circled the mall parking lot for the 30th time, I finally saw a pair of red lights two rows over that let me know someone was pulling out. I quickly threw my car into reverse and sped over to the row. But as I arrived at the spot and put on my turn signal, another car arrived at the same time from the opposite direction and put his turn signal on, too. I knew immediately that this was going to be an ugly holiday parking standoff and I prepared myself for the worst. I stared into the driver’s seat of the other car to see who my parking spot adversary was, and I saw...

Santa Claus.

Yes, it was Old Saint Nick. Kris Kringle. Father Christmas. Whatever you want to call him. I could see his cherry red cheeks and long white beard and the not-so-merry twinkle in his eye. He was decked out in his finest red suit,

shaking his fist at me and pointing to the spot.

I was momentarily flustered. Why was Santa driving? Why didn’t he come on his reindeer? That would have made more sense. I’m sure there was plenty of reindeer parking in the back. Plus, I’m sure he knew the mall parking would be crazy this time of year. One of his elves could have just called him an Uber and avoided all the hassle.

But here he was, behind the wheel of a beat-up Chevy Malibu, looking to play chicken with me for a parking spot at the mall. He pointed to his white beard and red hat, as though expecting me to honor some kind of Santa seniority clause. I shook my head no. I don’t know how they do things at the North Pole, but down here in the lower 48, we don’t give preference to big, jolly guys in red suits.

As we waited for the other car to pull out, I thought about the consequences. I

was pretty sure if I took the spot, I was going to end up on the naughty list. Was I ready to get a lump of coal in my stocking for the last parking spot at the mall? Yes. Yes, I was. It might cost me two turtle doves and a partridge in a pear tree, but I was going to get that spot.

I gunned my engine to let him know I meant business, and then I stopped. Suddenly I realized that maybe Santa was fighting me for the spot because he was late for his duties inside. There was probably a mile-long line of kids who had been waiting hours to sit on Santa’s lap. Was I really such a Scrooge that I’d keep Santa from giving these kids that moment of pure wonder and delight?

In my hesitation, I failed to notice another car driving up the row, and before I knew what happened, it shot out from behind me and flew into the empty spot. Santa and I both stared incredulously as we saw our parking spot stolen right out from under our

noses.

Within moments, a large woman with white hair and a bright red coat emerged from the car and I realized, without a doubt, it was...

Mrs. Claus.

As she dashed past my car, I rolled down my window.

“Hey, Mrs. Claus.” I cried. “That was not very Christmassy of you!”

Then she ran through the rows and yelled, out of sight...

“You all are too slow. Too bad and good night.”

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 2022 CREATORS

On Saturday, Dec. 24 the (very) thin crescent moon will create a beautiful sight to the left of Mercury and Venus after sunset.

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

ADMINISTRATIVE OPENING

Fallsburg Central School Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel Services NYS SDA or SDL Certification Required. Please forward resume & Fallsburg’s application (located at fallsburgcd.net) by Dec 23rd to: Fallsburg-recruitment@scboces.org

Attn: Assistant Director Search EOE

HIRING MAIL SORTERS $16.00-$17.00, Pickers / Packers Springfield Gardens $17.00 Mystery Shoppers Ages 21-25 $20.00 860 Long Island Ave, Deer Park, NY 631-586-4699

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) Computer with internet is required.

TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get trained, certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-5436440 (M-F 8am-6pm ET) Computer with internet is required.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Get DIRECTV FOR $64.99 / month for 12 months with CHOICE Package. Save an additional $120 over 1st year. First 3 months of HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz and Epix included! Directv is #1 in Customer Satisfaction (JD Power & Assoc.). Some restrictions apply. Call 1-888-534-6918

MARKETPLACE

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

Antiques-FurnitureJewelry-SilverMirrors-Lamps-Artwork 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

FLORIDA

SATSUMA MANDARINS

Tree ripe harvested Easy to peel Perfect for kids and Christmas gifts. Go to website: www.barlcitrus.com to place your order. Shipped daily 15 lb. box $45 w/free shipping

MARKETPLACE

INVITED ESTATE SALES

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

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

LENOX HOLIDAY CHINA

5 Piece Service for 12 $1,050 Additional accessory pieces and glassware sold separate. GRAYMONT (PLATINUM TRIM)

Service for 12+ with additional accessory pieces by Grace China, 83 pieces $550. Call 917-414-0967

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 516662-2821

MARKETPLACE

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

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

TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516-270-2128 www.antiqueassets.com

MARKETPLACE

TAG SALE

MOVING SALE

GARDEN CITY

Everything must go! Furniture, Designer Clothing, Sports Equipment, Christmas Gifts! Much More!! Monday, Tues, Wednesday 12/19, 12/20, 12/21 10 a.m. 215 New Hyde Park Rd, Garden City, NY 11530

APPOINTMENTS

PREFERRED 516-398-0407

a n nd d f f a ax x e e s s

•

• L Liiggh h t p ph h o onne e d u ut t y y

• • P Prre e v viioou u s e e x x p pe e r riie e n n c ce e i in n o of f f fi i c ce e ad dm m i in n

• • A Abbi l lit t y y t to o p prri i o orri i t ti i z ze e & m m u ult t itta a s s k k

• • S Sttrroon n g g A At t t te e n nt t ioon n t t o o d d et ta a i il l

• • S Sttrroon n g O O r rgga a n niizza a t i ioonna a l sk ki i l llls s

• • F Fu u lll- t tiim m e e T Te e m m p poorra a r ry y (s s e ea a s s o onna a l ) )

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR TO BREAST CANCER RECOVERY! Tax Deduction Receipt Given Upon Pick-Up, Free Towing. 501C Charity. 631-988-9043 breastcancerresearchrecovery.org

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

WHEELS

FOR WISHES

benefitting Make-A-Wish Northeast New York. Your Car Donations Matter NOW More Than Ever! Free Vehicle Pick Up ANYWHERE. We Accept Most Vehicles Running or Not. 100% Tax Deductible. Minimal To No Human Contact. Call: 877-798-9474 Car Donation Foundation d/b/a Wheels For Wishes. www.wheelsforwishes.org

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT

APARTMENT FOR RENT

GARDEN CITY BORDER APARTMENTS

Huge, bright 2BR, 2 bath apt. $2,485 + electric. Gated parking. Laundry room, air conditioning, hardwood floors, Near LIRR. Avail 1/15/23.

NO BROKER FEE www.gardencityborder.com Voice or text: 516-524-6965

SERVICES

ARE YOU BEHIND 10K OR MORE on your taxes? Stop wage and bank levies, liens and audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, and resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888-869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm PST)

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AQUATEC LAWN SPRINKLERS

FALL DRAIN OUTS

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

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636

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

DON’T PAY FOR COVERED HOME REPAIR AGAIN!

American Residential Warranty covers ALL MAJOR SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES. 30 DAY RISK FREE / $100 OFF POPULAR PLANS. 833-398-0526

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

HANDYMAN

Careful & Reliable

Serving GARDEN CITY and surrounding area since 2003 Repairs & Installations of all types

Carpentry, Moldings, Lighting and More 35-yr Nassau Resident References Lic#170101

Phone/Text Friendly Frank: 516-238-2112 Email: Frankcav@optonline.net

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

PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY! Slate & Tile Specialists All types of Roofing Local References Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

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

SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

PARTY HELP

LADIES & GENTLEMEN

RELAX & ENJOY Your Next Party!

Catering and Experienced Professional Services for Assisting with Preparation, Serving and Clean Up Before, During and After Your Party Bartenders Available. Call Kate at 516-248-1545

SERVICES

A & J MOVING & STORAGE:

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

114 Jericho Tpk, Mineola NY DOT# 10405

DISH TV

$64.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo expires 1/21/23 Call 1-866-595-6967

LEAK REPAIRS

Plumbing Repairs Bathrooms, Showers, Kitchens

24 HOUR SERVICE Call 516-668-5624

MAGNUM SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC.

Serving Garden City for 40 years.

Let Magnum Upgrade Your Existing Security System. Burglar & Fire Alarms

Cellular Radio 3G Upgrades Remote Access Call: 516-486-5484

PASSION FOR SENIORS

Certified HHA’s, Companions & Homemakers. 24 hour care available. Also Nassau Locations. Trained in Dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Call 718-850-3400

Chocolate is the star in this crowd-pleasing cookie

Thick Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Cookies garner a lot fanfare come the holiday season. They’re given as gifts, left out for Santa and shared with family and friends. Rolled and cut cookies get the bulk of the attention, especially when frosted and decorated to perfection. But plenty of classic cookies are equally at home on holiday cookie plates or nestled in

cookie jars. This recipe for “Thick Chocolate Chunk Cookies,” courtesy of “Live Well Bake Cookies” (Rock Point) by Danielle Rye creates huge, gooey cookies that are big on chocolate flavor. On occasions when chips won’t do, chocolate chunk cookies can add sweetness to any event.

Makes 14 cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) cold, unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces

1) Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.

2) In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt until well combined. Set aside.

3) In the bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the cubed cold butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for 2 to 3 minutes, or until well combined.

4) Mix in the eggs, one at a

Last Hope is Part of the Chewy.com Rescue Program

If you haven’t tried Chewy.com yet for your pet food and supply purchases, this is a great time to check them out. Last Hope Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation is now part of their rescue program. For each new customer that makes a purchase, Last Hope will receive a $20 donation. Click on the ad below or go directly to the Last Hope page at https://www.chewy. com/rp/5941

1 cup packed light brown sugar

1/3 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 bag semisweet chocolate chunks

time, then mix in the vanilla extract, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5) Mix the dry ingredients until just combined, then mix in the chocolate chunks on low speed until fully incorporated.

6) Using a 1⁄3-cup measuring cup, measure out the balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one.

7) Cover the cookie dough balls tightly with plastic wrap and

refrigerate for at least 2 hours. 8) Preheat the oven to 350 F. 9) Remove the baking sheets from the refrigerator and bake the cookies for 15 to 18 minutes, ur until the tops are set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 15 minutes, then carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

10) Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

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.

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.

Celebrate the New Year with “Jack Frost”

at St. Paul’s Cluett Hall Saturday, December 31 at 1 p.m.

To ring in the new year, Garden City Recreation and Parks will sponsor a performance of “Jack Frost” on Saturday, December 31, at 1 p.m. at St. Paul’s Cluett Hall. Plaza Theatrical Productions will delight us with their rendition of this wonderful show. After the show, we will “count down”to the

New Year! Admission is $5.00, and reservations are necessary by calling the Recreation and Parks Office at 516-4654075.

Tots Storytime, Arts and Crafts Program announced

Garden City Recreation and Parks is pleased to announce the start of a new Tots Storytime/Arts and Crafts session. This seven week winter session will be held on Thursday mornings at 10:00 a.m.–10:45 a.m. in St. Paul’s cottage #1 facing Rockaway Avenue and is open to Garden City residents ages 2 and 3 years of age and a caregiver. Each 45 minute class will cover a theme with short stories and crafts. Themes covered will be Winter, Snow, Polar Bears, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and more! Class will be taught by Recreation Supervisor Andrea Genna. The session will begin Thursday, January 19, and run until March 9. The price for the session is $60.

*Please note – The participant must be the age by the start of the class.

To register for this class, please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue, or if you have a password you can register online at www.gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

Winter Youth Tennis Lesson Registration Begins

We are pleased to announce the start

of registration for our 2023 Winter Youth Tennis Program. A variety of lessons are offered for children of various ages and skill levels. A schedule of available classes and a registration form is available on our website at www.gardencityrecreation.org.

Please mail the registration form and registration fee to the Recreation Dept. at 108 Rockaway Avenue. You may also walk in to register or register online, if you have a password, on our website at www.gcreconline.gardencityny.net.

Please Note – Our classes are not considered daycare and cannot be declared for tax exemption.

Garden City Pool Job Interviews for the 2023 Season

The Garden City Pool is holding interviews for 2023 summer positions on the following dates:

• Tuesday, Dec. 20: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Tuesday, Dec. 27: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Friday, Dec. 30: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Thursday, Jan. 5: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• Saturday, Jan. 7: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To sign up for an interview you must be at least 16 years old. All future employees must sign up for an interview including those who were employed at the Pool previously.

We will accept calls to schedule interviews beginning on Monday, December 12.

To schedule an interview, please call

the Recreation Office at 516 465-4075.

After scheduling your interview, please stop by the Recreation Office to pick up an employment application. When you come to your interview, please bring the completed application with you.

Interviews will be held at the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

Lifeguards must have their Nassau County Certification and be up to date on their CPR (CPR needs to be renewed yearly).

Please arrive at your interview on time and dressed appropriately.

Adult Dance Performance Group

Our Dance Company’s Adult Performance Group began on Thursday, December 8. Rehearsals are held each Thursday in St. Paul’s Cluett Hall from 8 to 9 p.m. For anyone who is interested in performing, or learning choreography (and not performing). The group rehearses pieces each week, that will be performed in our annual showcase in June.

This rehearsal will be conducted by Felicia Lovaglio. The cost of this program will be $295. To register, please visit the Recreation and Parks Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

“Chess Wizards” is Coming Back as an Afterschool Program

Garden City Recreation and Parks

has again partnered with the very popular “Chess Wizards” to offer after school programs for Garden City children in grades 1 to 5 who want to learn the game of chess! Chess Wizards is a fun way to have kids experience the excitement of chess.

Kids will play in mini tournaments, have interactive lessons with chess pros and play cool chess variants like bug house. It is proven that chess enhances cognitive development in children, improves both verbal and mathematical skills, and increases all levels of academic performance! Playing chess stimulates the mind and helps children strengthen skills such as focusing, visualizing goals, abstract thinking, and forming concrete opinions.

This eight week class will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays beginning Tuesday, January 3, and will cost $193. Instructors (who are called "Wizards") provide all the materials necessary for your child to participate in the class. Come join the fun!!!

To register for this class, please visit Chess Wizards’ website at www.chesswizards. com.

Recreation Pickleball News

Beginning Tuesday,

November 1, Recreation and Parks is offering one pickleball session from 9:30 to noon, Tuesdays through Fridays. This session will be open to residents and will allow continuous round robin use during that session. The cost per session will be $6.00 daily or with a pass, $5.00.

Did you know that Hemlock and Edgemere Parks both have pickleball courts? Residents are invited to use the courts and nets

Adult Evening Programs at the Field House

The Recreation Adult Programs in the Field House are running weekly according to the following schedule:

• Mondays: Mens’ Basketball, 7:30–10 p.m.

• Wednesdays: Mens’ Basketball, 7:30–10 p.m.

• Thursdays: Adult Volleyball ,7:30–10 p.m.

• Thursdays: Adult Soccer, 8:30–10 p.m.

These programs are open to residents of the Inc. Village of Garden City who have graduated high school OR adults who can show proof of graduating Garden City high school (diploma, student ID card). A picture ID is required to sign in to any program. For further information, please contact the Recreation Office at 465-4075.

A fee schedule will be place for any resident adult interested in participating in Adult Activities in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse. The fee schedule is as follows:

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

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

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

PLEASE NOTE - A resident participant may bring in 1 non-resident guest. This rule will be strictly enforced. These guest must arrive and leave with the resident. There are no passes for non- residents. The daily fee for the non-resident guest is $8.

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

Wreaths Across America Day 2022

it.

We remember our fallen U.S. veterans, we honor those who serve and we teach our students/scouts the value of freedom. This mission is carried out in part by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

Wreaths Across America in Garden City is organized by the William Bradford Turner Post 265 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 265. We remember the men and women who served our country, honor our military and their families, and teach our children about freedom and those who protect

LEGAL NOTICES

Notice of Formation of The Uncluttered Cat LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022-11-04. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to The Uncluttered Cat LLC: 275 Lakeview Ave Rockville Centre NY 11570. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Dreamcatch Holdings LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022-11-17. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Peter Samaan, Esq.: 90 Merrick Avenue Suite 802 East Meadow NY 11554. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Potentiate LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022-10-13. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Austin Stoner : 187 Robby Lane New Hyde Park NY 11040. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of BUSHIDO S.C.K RYU WAY OF THE WARRIOR . Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022-10-24. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Registered agents inc: 418 Broadway Ate R Albany NY 12207. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L & L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. DANIELLE MOSER BALAN, et al, Defts. Index #15-009836. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale dated April 8, 2019, I will sell at public auction on the north front steps of Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 19, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 34, Block 44, Lot 40. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the auction. MICHAEL EHRENREICH, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY. #99886

Notice of Formation of Alicia Brooks Meehan LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022-11-16. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Alicia Meehan: 172 Brixton Rd Garden City NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful purpose

Commander Frank Tauches at Veterans Memorial Plaza on 7th Street.

The

Village considers Country Life Press station’s future

trustees concurred that there should be outreach and information for residents of the immediate area, and the village planned to commence this process.

The administration also reached out to the liaison between the LIRR and Garden City, Nick Fasano, to see if there were estimates on the cost of just abatement. After some fluctuation the cost has been estimated around $166,000, but the village needs to have a professional estimate done for the abatement. Suozzi said he and Superintendent of Building Giuseppe Giovanniello felt that was high.

Mayor Cosmo Veneziale asked about costs for repairing the roof of the station, and Giovanniello commented on the damages from water infiltration and tree branches on it.

“The asphalt shingles would need to be completely redone, and the sheathing would need to be replaced. Other systems on that building including soffit areas would also need to be redone. Cosmetically the whole roofing system would need to be redone with the interior abated. There is a bathroom in the structure too – the scope of work would be contingent upon what we would plan to do with the building, and whether or not we are conditioning it or not conditioning it to serve as a shelter,” he said.

Giovanniello and Suozzi discussed alterations to bring the building up to code and operational, as items such as lighting are needed for public safety. They considered the $350,000 range as a baseline, with no windows, doors or heating system and only for serving as a public shelter – not inhabitable space but just for its intended purpose for hosting commuters. The lighting of the structure would be a code requirement.

Trustee Lawrence Marciano commented on the proposal from the LIRR and the history of the building, originally sitting at the track level in the first half of the 1900s. He said the Country Life Press station may have outlived its useful life by now.

“Having commuted on LIRR for several years, the location of this station building is as inconvenient as imaginable. The funny part is if you look at the pictures from 1919 and that era, there was no elevated platform and it made sense. No one, unless you are on the 5:04 train and you are going to Brooklyn, would sit at the front of the tracks –everyone goes to the middle or the back of the trains. And at the ground level there is a chain-link fence between that structure and the train. People living in that neighborhood are already having trouble with kids hanging out near the train tracks – proposing putting another

structure there where kids might hang out could drive those residents over the edge,” Marciano commented.

He added that talking with neighbors is crucial, and considerations for a neighborhood improvement should be uncovered.

Garden City Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Paul Blake said the village completes landscaping work there each year, and they ask the LIRR to cut the high trees that have limbs and branches going through power lines. “They came in this year and did a good cleanup for us at the station as shrubs were horribly overgrown – though the LIRR is six to eight months behind on shrubbery work.

“We do have to go in there to help them do it as it keeps their platforms and stairways open – this is a matter of public safety as we don’t want our residents falling…the whole area needs a crew cut for shrubs to be drastically cut back, but we do not have time to spend three to four days there,” Blake said.

Deputy Mayor Tom O’Brien commented that the safety aspect is critical because people will be on the LIRR platforms at various times, and sometimes would not be able to see clearly.

Resident Robert Vassalotti provided the Board with several photos and items related to the history of the Country

Life Press station prior to the December 1 meeting. He then spoke during public comments and said the consideration for what the LIRR has proposed, including their willingness to contribute to the village, need to be prioritized as the board moves through its evaluation process.

Vassalotti noted the purpose for a station; a great spot for train riders to hang out as they wait. He discussed the value of having such a shelter for people who are walking a few blocks to the station, in either very hot weather or freezing cold, as the shelter aspect could serve the community. He even suggested a part of it to hold a private business use, and commented that perhaps a diner or coffee shop would want to open a kiosk or stand inside a Garden City rail station.

“The information I sent on the history of the station really points to Country Life Press as a publishing company and that history, with them coming to Garden City. Eventually the LIRR built the station for the company workers and transit. While I like to maintain and preserve historical things, the rendition shown from the LIRR is actually looking pretty good, and I am a preservationist –perhaps it’s the way to go,” he said.

Another big factor he put into per-

From

spective is the limited timeframe, by December 15.

“I am all for preservation, but this looks pretty logical (for the LIRR hardscape rendering). If we were to restore the building it would be nice but not very usable for what the village has been discussing and proposing. If the station can’t be a real place to go we might as well just do the LIRR plan,” Vassalotti commented at the December 1 meeting.

Mayor Cosmo Veneziale thanked Vassalotti and said his points were well-taken, but the goal for now remains getting input from the Garden City residents nearby, and to also determine ridership from that location.

Resident Brian Pinnola, a preservationist who has advocated for the continuity of several key historic sites, told the board of trustees that DoubleDay Press is of national significance and the identity of Garden City, New York has spread nationwide and beyond due to the many publications produced by the company here, over the last 120 years. He noted that there could be an educational repurposing and adaptive reuse for the Country Life Press LIRR station, as a limited-operation museum that can host programs and school group tours.

“Has anyone given thoughts to the impacts of Doubleday on literacy and publishing industry in this country and probably throughout the world? People have completely forgotten about the significance of Doubleday and the history that it has here in Garden City – the physical plant with the company being here and building such a beautiful facility, but you can go anywhere to a bookstore or used book sale and there are books that say Doubleday Page and Company – Garden City, New York! People all over see our village name, and we should not forget about that,” Pinnola said.

He said he agreed with Trustee Marciano that the station’s time as a transportation facility is “long gone” before he advised the educational and museum repurposing.

Pinnola added that he hoped the Garden City Historical Society may offer to operate it as a museum, with the limited use and some tours.

“Even in its current condition the station has merits as an attractive building. That can be another adaptive reuse, and we need to respect our older buildings as we’re losing too many of them. We do not have landmarks laws and this would be a good example,” Pinnola commented.

From

along the eastern side of the underpass.

“That place is constantly flooded and again tonight it flooded (due to pouring rain). I also know Nassau County painted the lines along the road but I am not sure of how well they’re painted past the school. It seems that something is a little off for markings, possibly for the lanes’ width – both for the northbound and southbound traffic past the Middle School. My suggestion is we should have the entire area reinspected for the appropriate dimensions and spacing of it as well as the edge lining in front of the GC School District Administration building because at night it becomes hard to see,” Vassalotti said.

Deputy Mayor Tom O’Brien spoke about his observations walking that area, as on the west side of Cherry Valley (south of the Schools’ Administration building) the paving does not continue down to the end of the underpass. He suggested that evaluations take place for a sidewalk to go in, but noted that the pavement would need to stop in a location appropriate to accommodate the right-turn lane for traffic going to 7th Street. Discussions among trustees continued on what sidewalk design could be effective for that central location to assist anyone walking over to

7th Street.

Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi commented that Village Engineer John Barone is designing a sidewalk layout for the 6th Street intersection at Cherry Valley Avenue.

“We have talked with Nassau County about this and we expect they will complete the actual ADA-compliant ramps for sidewalks. We would align with that portion of sidewalk and go underneath and connect to the side with the Administration building entrances and with the existing sidewalk that’s there but ending on the grass,” he explained.

Vassalotti also told the Village Board more lighting should be installed for people and traffic at village crosswalks including the major intersections out on Stewart Avenue and in the Middle School vicinity, as well as the crosswalk on Stewart directly in front of Village Hall.

GCHS fencers begin season with strong team

The Garden City Men’s Varsity Fencing team, under the leadership of new Coach Joe Brajdic, opened the 2022–23 season Wednesday, Dec 7, against a talented and experienced Great Neck South squad. Despite suffering a tough loss, strong performances were turned in by the foil squad with four wins and the épée squad with three wins. Sophomore foil co-captain Trey Plastaras won all three bouts as did senior épée co-captain Louis Rivera. Sophomore saber Michael Kelly and freshman foil Henry Conlon took the strip for Garden City to round out the weapons.

For those unfamiliar with the high school format, each meet consists of three rounds of nine bouts, three for each weapon—saber, foil and épée. The winner is the fencer to reach five touches or the fencer with the most touches at the end of the three minute bout. A tie at the end of regulation goes to a one minute overtime period where a fencer is awarded “priority” based on chance and that fencer will win at the end of the one minute unless the other fencer scores a touch. A team point is awarded for every bout won and the team that reaches 14 points first wins the meet, though fencing continues until all 27 bouts have been fenced.

Next up for the boys was a double meet on Saturday Dec. 10. They recorded a 19-8 victory over Wheatley/Roslyn in the morning. Saber had five wins, foil six, and épée eight. Saber wins were recorded by senior captain Pat Bohn, sophomore Matteo Shettino and junior Stephen Cowie. The foil squad was led by senior co-captain Eric Hartmann and Trey Plastaras who swept their competition. Louis Rivera and senior épée co-captain Michael Siragusa recorded three wins each with junior épée Connor Davan contributing two wins of his own.

Saturday afternoon saw the team fencing Oyster Bay and earning another victory, 18-9. All weapons earned six wins. Matteo Shettino led the saber squad with three wins, Pat Bohn had two and Stephen Cowie contributed his own “W”. Foilists Eric Hartmann and Trey Plastaras again went unbeaten as did épée Louis Rivera. Also on épée, Michael Siragusa earned two wins and Connor Davan one. New team members and underclassmen were able to participate in the meet, including freshman foil Henry Conlon, sophomore foil Marc Tosi, freshman épée Keathan Ho, and freshman épée William Stone. Come cheer the boys on at the next meet.

Trey Plastaras and Eric Hartmann talking strategy with Coach Joe.

Pat Bohn and Michael Siragusa.

Henry Conlon en garde.

2022–23 Men’s Varsity Fencing team.

Will Stone, Louis Rivera and Connor Davan, épée.

Stephen Cowie and Matteo Schettino.

Children’s Christmas Pageant at Garden City Community Church

The shepherds flock with their sheep, donkey, and all their barn animals, as the 3 kings came to worship the King of kings.

Come see the Christmas Pageant and stay after the service to join in the fellowship hour.

Whoever you are, wherever you are in your life’s journey, you are welcome at GCCC. We have services, events, and programs for all ages. We have many ways you can participate in our church life. Our Sunday Worship Service is in-person and live-streamed. Following the state mandates, masks are optional during this time.

The shepherds.

BY MELVA VICTORINO

On Sunday, December 18, at the 10:30 a.m. worship service, the Garden City Community Church (GCCC) Sunday school students will be performing a Christmas Pageant. Amanda Dias, Youth Ministry and Outreach Coordinator, Katie Masters, Sunday school head teacher, and the parents of the children were hard at work to present the story of the Nativity.

Watch the angles dance their way to the stable where baby Jesus was born.

To get information regarding our other 2022 worship services and programs, visit our website at www.theGCCC.org.

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

Joseph, Mary, and Baby Jesus.

Katie Masters giving last instruction.

Trojans beat Freeport, lose to Manhasset

Garden City Trojans, coming off an opening season win at Massapequa, met up with Freeport HS at Uniondale HS for the Jo-Jo Wright Invitational Tournament. GC (2-0) beat Freeport 66-39. Leo Vlogianitis led all scorers with 24 points (3) 3 pointers. Vlogianitis was named to the All Tournament team. Quinn Long (13 pts, 7 asts) ran the up tempo GC offense that kept Freeport defenders on their heels all game.

Junior Matthew Liberopolous (10 pts, 5 asts) gave the Trojans three players in double digits. Ben Lau (9 pts, 4 rebs), Danny Psaki (4 pts, 3 rebs), RJ Votruba (2 pts, 5 rebs) James Healy (2 pts, 2 asts) and John Uhoda (2 pts, 2 rebs) rounded out the scoring for the Trojans.

In a rematch of the Nassau County Championship, Garden City went on the road to play reigning State Champions Manhasset HS. The Trojans came out

of the gate fast and took a 7-0 lead with baskets by Long, Vlogianitis and Lau. Manhasset settled the game down and showed why they are the favorite to repeat as State Champions beating Garden City 81-55. Quinn Long led the Trojans with 14 points and 6 assists. Leo Vlogianitis (12 pts, 4 rebs), Matthew Liberopolous (9 pts, 4 ast), James Healy (6 pts, 3 rebs) Ben Lau (4 pts, 2 reb), Kevin Dealy (3 pts, 2 asts), Braden

Soutar (3 pts, 2 reb) Danny Psaki (2 pts, 2 reb) and RJ Votruba (2 pts, 3 reb) all fought hard for Garden City.

Next up for the Trojans are two more road games. Friday, 12/16, 5 p.m. at Roslyn HS, and in a Catholic/public HS crossover tournament the Garden City Trojans take on the Chaminade Flyers at Elmont HS on Saturday, 12/17, at 1 p.m. Come on out and cheer for your Garden City Trojans!

#4 James Healey.

#21 Quinn Long.

Coach Jim Hegmann accepts award for Garden City Basketball.

Leo Vlogiantis is named to the Jo-Jo Wright All Tournament team.

Quinn Long drives past Manhasset defender for a bucket. #11 Leo Vlogianitis. Kevin Dealy.

GCAA Basketball Results: Week 2

Girls 2nd and 3rd Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Celtics 2 0 Knicks 2 0 Lakers 2 0 Mavericks 2 0 Nets 2 0 Nuggets 2 0 76ers 2 0 Warriors 2 0

Girls 4th thru 6th Grade Results

Date Score

12/10/2022 Mavericks - 20 Knicks - 6 12/10/2022 Celtics - 20 Nets - 9 12/10/2022 Lakers - 28 Warriors - 11 12/10/2022 76ers - 23 Nuggets - 14

Girls 4th thru 6th Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Mavericks 2 0 Lakers 2 0 76ers 2 0 Celtics 1 1 Warriors 1 1 Knicks 0 2 Nets 0 2 Nuggets 0 2

Boys 2nd Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Celtics 2 0 Knicks 2 0 Lakers 2 0 Mavericks 2 0 Nets 2 0 Nuggets 2 0 76ers 2 0 Warriors 2 0

Boys 3rd Grade Results

Date Score

12/10/2022 Mavericks - 18 Knicks - 14 12/10/2022 Celtics - 27 Nets - 14 12/10/2022 Warriors - 8 Lakers - 5 12/10/2022 Nuggets - 12 76ers - 12

Boys 3rd Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Tied Warriors 2 0 0 Celtics 2 0 0 76ers 1 0 1 Nuggets 1 0 1 Mavericks 1 1 0 Lakers 0 2 0 Knicks 0 2 0 Nets 0 2 0

Boys 4th Grade Results

Date Score

12/10/2022 Knicks - 18 Mavericks - 16 12/10/2022 Nets - 27 Celtics - 25

12/10/2022 Lakers - 19 Warriors 19 12/10/2022 76ers - 31 Nuggets - 12

Boys 4th Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Tied Knicks 2 0 0 Nets 2 0 0 76ers 1 1 0 Celtics 1 1 0 Nuggets 1 1 0 Mavericks 0 2 0 Lakers 0 1 1 Warriors 0 1 1

Boys 5th Grade Results

Date Score

12/10/2022 Mavericks - 29 Knicks - 27 12/10/2022 Nets - 33 Celtics - 27 12/10/2022 Lakers - 30 Warriors - 20 12/10/2022 Nuggets - 24 76ers - 20

Boys 5th Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Lakers 2 0 Nets 2 0 Knicks 1 1 Celtics 1 1 Mavericks 1 1 Nuggets 1 1 76ers 0 2 Warriors 0 2

Boys 6th Grade Results

Date Score

12/10/2022 Knicks -50 76ers - 30 12/10/2022 Lakers - 40 - Warriors - 20 12/10/2022 Nets - 49 Nuggets - 34

Boys 6th Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Lakers 2 0 Knicks 2 0 Mavericks 1 0 Nets 1 1 76ers 0 1 Nuggets 0 2 Warriors 0 2

Boys 7th/8th Grade Results

Date Score

12/10/2022 Lakers - 65 Warriors - 35 12/10/2022 Nets - 48 Celtics - 47 12/10/2022 Knicks - 44 Mavericks - 28

Boys 7th/8th Grade Standings

Team Won Lost Knicks 2 0 Nets 2 0 Lakers 1 0 Celtics 1 1 76ers 0 1 Mavericks 0 2 Warriors 0 2

Get rid of your unwanted items by placing an ad for them in our Classifieds! We have reasonable rates, and you’ll have prompt results!

Call our Garden City office at 294-8900 for rates and other info.

Looking for a Trusted Real Estate Advisor and Community Expert?

Let Maureen guide you with all of your real estate needs!

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— Susan, Seller

Maureen Lagarde

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson maureen.lagarde@compass.com M: 516.850.7812

Sports Events

Portraits

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY, HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOURS!

WITH LOVE MARY AND BOB KRENER

We are overjoyed to be celebrating 50 years in Garden City real estate with you and your families. We are proud of our record in providing three generations with excellent service for all of their real estate needs.

MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Mary Opulente Krener

Associate Real Estate Broker

Garden City Office 516.248.6655, c.917.518.7205 marykrener@danielgale.com marykrener.danielgale.com

Robert Krener

Associate Real Estate Broker

Garden City Office 516.248.6655, c.917.517.6518 robertkrener@danielgale.com robertkrener.danielgale.com

danielgale.com

Garden City Office | 516.248.6655 102 Seventh St, Garden City, NY

Wyndham Resale Office

Wyndham West , M18

Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3316468. $949,000.

Wyndham East , M24

Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3336732. $749,000.

Wyndham West , #305

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3385390. $849,000.

Wyndham East , #314

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3416284. $889,000.

Out of Town Listings

Wyndham West, #709

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3365911. $899,000.

Stewart Manor, NY

4-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3444927. $649,000.

Wyndham East , #316

Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3393639. $999,000.

Wyndham East, M26

Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3334082. $1,100,000.

Forest Hills, NY

Studio, 1-bath. MLS# 3414781. $168,000.

Floral Park, NY 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3427944. $675,,000.

Floral Park, NY

3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3439999. $749,000.

PENDING

Floral Park, NY 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3415478. $1,099,000.

Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3426665. $598,000.

Condos, Co-Ops & Rentals

Garden City, NY

Studio, 1-bath. MLS# 3443856. $249,000.

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3430970. $379,000.

Garden City NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3433391. $379,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3403232. $415,000.

Patricia Costello

Patricia Dickson

Linda Mulrooney Greg Abruzzo

Garden City and Wyndham Resale Office

102 Seventh Street, Garden City, NY | 516.248.6655 | danielgale.com

PENDING

PENDING PENDING

PENDING

PENDING

Garden City, NY 6-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3436298. $1,100,000.

SOLD

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3430364. $1,239,000.

Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3438962. $1,348,000.

Garden City, NY 6-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3433959. $1,599,000.

PENDING SOLD

Garden City, NY

4-bedroom, 2.55-bath. MLS# 3393086. $1,599,000.

Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3392496. $2,100,000.

Garden City, NY

4-bedroom, 2.55-bath. MLS# 3417650. $2,159,000.

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3445044. $2,425,000.

SOLD

Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3431226. $2,850,000.

Garden City, NY 6-bedroom, 4.5-bath. MLS# 3419099. $2,999,988.

Wyndham

Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3446393. $ $6,800.

Wyndham

Garden City, NY

1-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3418239. $670,000.

Wyndham West , #411

Garden City, NY

1-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3391186. $739,000.

Wyndham

Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3388058. $869,000.

Wyndham

Garden City, NY

3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3376904. $1,275,000.

Mary Krener

Fortune Heaney

Peter Kerantzas

Lisa Heaney

Robert J. Krener

Stephen Ripp

Kathleen Higdon

Cecile Raoult

Lynn Puccio

Cheryl Trimboli

Scott Wallace

Julia Mastromauro

Rosado

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin

Rene Blair Alyson Bremer

Christine Cudahy Manager

Patricia Costello

Gregory Abruzzo

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi

Linda Mulrooney

Susan MacDonald

Patricia Dickson

Brigid Marmorowski

Eileen O’Hara Diane Piscopo

Daureen Hausser

Patrick Gibbons

Meredith Krug

Geannie Murray

East, #901

Stephanie Marchan

East , #709

West , #403

East , #M5