The Garden City News (12/25/20)

Children at the Garden City Nursery School were all bundled up and ready to play in the mid-week snowfall last week. See photos of more Nursery School good times on page 44.

Uncertainty over proposed gas line route

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

Residents of Arthur Street asked the Garden City Board of Trustees to advocate for the Garden City Board of Trustees to go to bat for them with National Grid as the utility finalizes the route for its Northwest Nassau Natural Gas Integrity Project.

The natural gas transmission line will carry gas from the north shore to a facility on Stewart Avenue in Uniondale, but the exact route through Garden City is still undeter-

mined and the Village of Garden City has not been notified of the proposed route.

Although National Grid made a presentation at the Board of Trustee’s meeting two years ago, there still is no confirmation as of late December for what exact route in Garden City the project could end up taking.

At the Board of Trustees meeting on December 10th, Trustee Delaney commented, “First they proposed to have the transmission line underground beneath Roslyn Road,

through to Old Country Road, with making a left turn at Fair Court, going across from there to Lefferts Road and Wetherill Road (cutting across the heart of the East in the Mott Section). It would leave about one mile and a half of putting this transmission line through the major portions of the eastern POA. Transmission lines are something we have very little control over as distinguished from energy distribution lines National Grid uses. Trustee Hyer and I, Village Administrator Ralph See page 55

Pandemic has cost village $600K in surprise expenses

“STILL

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

Through October 2020 -- seven full months into the pandemic -- the Village of Garden City has endured approximately $600,000 in unanticipated, unbudgeted pandemic-related losses of revenues. But Deputy Mayor Robert Bolebruch reassured residents the Village is “still in the black” for the fiscal year.

Revenues up, offsets extra costs

At the Board of Trustees’ final meeting of the year, held December 10, Village Treasurer Irene Woo stated that Garden City has received 91% of its anticipated (budgeted) municipal revenues for fiscal year 2020-’21. This represents a 5% increase from the 86% of village revenues received through the same period one year ago, Woo said. Woo noted that her data is for three quarters of the calendar year, but the municipality’s fiscal year runs from June 1, 2020 through May 31, 2021.

“The Building Department received unbudgeted revenues due to two large projects and these revenues serve to offset the losses due to Covid-19 through October, estimated around $600,000. Those are mostly losses due to lower revenue from fees, fines and less amounts of tickets issued as well as a result of the village selling less Long Island Rail Road parking permits. The Garden City Pool had heavy financial losses this year due to Covid-19 and the reduced operating season (which began in mid-July). The Tennis Fund did see closure over the summer and that resulted in some losses of revenues there, though during October tennis was catching up a bit on the revenues,” Woo said.

Covid-19 costs

Costs for the village related to the pandemic include purchases of personal protective equipment (PPE) and various safety measures such as plexiglass barriers, and technology as operations moved online for most departments.

According to Woo, through October the expenditures were in line with the budgeted amounts from prior years with the exception of such Covid-related costs -- which were estimated at about $175,000

Merry Christmas

We’d like to wish our readers a very Merry Christmas. Although this has been a difficult year for many, like that star that rose over the stable in Bethlehem, there is hope arising for the end to this awful time. Two vaccines are now being deployed, with more on the way. We just need to be patient and help will soon be here.

Although we are not strongly religious, the true teachings of Jesus are especially relevant at this time in our history:

Be kind to each other. Be patient with each other. Take care of the infirm, the homeless, the poor. Treat each other as we would like to be treated. We are all in this together.

This may not be a holiday like we’ve been used to, with holiday parties, large family gatherings and lots and lots of gifts. But maybe we should think of this as a sort of reset to our usual overly commercialized Christmases.

Although there may be fewer people around our holiday tables, and possibly fewer gifts under our trees, this could be the time to really think about what is important: a few well thought out gifts, seeing those you’re closest with (and Facetiming/Zooming others).

For many, a “normal” Christmas is actually pretty stressful, as we strive to make a “picture perfect” holiday. This year can be different. Make it meaningful.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

Appreciated fire truck parade

To the Editor:

The Garden City Christmas Fire Truck Parade through the Northeast and Mott sections last Sat.. evening was fantastic!  It was also very appreciated, especially this year!

Margarita & John Lanides

Santa Claus parade

To the Editor:

I want to applaud the Garden City Volunteer Fire Department for bringing Santa Claus to town and spreading lots of holiday cheer throughout Garden City last weekend. For several nights Santa visited a different section of town in a magical fire engine parade from 6:30-8:30 p.m. As he rode by atop one of the fire engines, he waved to all the kids and adults who were watching the big scene.

It was wonderful to see the fire engines’ lights swirling and hear the sirens blaring as the caravan made its way up and down the streets. Neighbors came out of their homes and enjoyed the delightful event. It lifted people’s spirits and put smiles on a lot of faces at a time when we need it the most. I hope we have a Santa parade again next year! It sure warmed my heart.

Daria Hong

Thanks for generous support

To the Editor:

To all those who donated food, gave money, or helped us deliver… we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your help in making our 25th Thanksgiving delivery project a success! Through the help of so many, we were able to provide meals for 210 homebound seniors on Thanksgiving Day and the fixings for 30 local families to make their own meal -- 360 people in all.

None of this would have been possible without the generous support from the following groups: Rotary Club of Williston Park, Grace International Assembly of God Church, Garden City Foundation, Mineola - Garden City Rotary Club, Restaurant Depot, Parkway Community Church, Mineola Lions Club Foundation, and Cathedral Nursery School. A special thank you goes to Robert Auricchio, whose fresh produce made the meals extra special, and to the parishioners of St. Joseph’s and the Garden City Community Church for their incredible support. This year was like none other! Everything needed to be restructured to make sure everyone involved was safe.

See page 59

Looking forward to a return to transparency in 2021

Cell: 516-216-0244

Last week’s FABGC (For a Better Garden City) Zoom meeting was a tremendous success, and the community was able to hear from nine of our outreach coordinators about why they have gotten involved in our quest to return transparency and community involvement to government in Garden City. We will be starting weekly Zoom meetings in January as we introduce candidates for the important March election. Our discussions will focus on

what has happened in the recent past and how we can all be part of a solution for Garden City. FABGC’s support of the Community Agreement is detailed in our recent GC News article (https://www.gcnews.com/articles/ fabc-supports-the-community-agreement/). FABGC will present candidates from each section consistent with the Community Agreement which calls for representation of all four sections of

See page 59

Fall sports in spring: school district sports in a strange year

BY RIKKI N. MASSAND

Garden City Schools Director of Athletics Eamonn Flood, who joined the district only last summer, gave a presentation to the Board of Education about this very unusual year of school athletics.

At the Board of Education meeting held December 15, Flood looked back on what he’s been able to contribute in the district in a year where scholastic sports had to be completely abandoned or re-imagined once the governing conference, Section VIII, decided to postpone fall team sports.

NCAA commitments

In this fall semester, a total of 24 Garden City student athletes in the graduating GCHS Class of 2021 have committed to playing NCAA sports in their freshman years of college (20212022). Flood spoke of the Fall College Commitment Day in the district held outside, socially-distanced. The majority of these ascending student-athletes are on Garden City High School’s varsity boys and girls lacrosse teams but they also include soccer players, field hockey, swimmers and Trojans’ baseball. Flood says this is an exceptional record of achievement for the student-athletes’ currently attending the district.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha said the district typically offers a presentation from new administrators in the district just a few months into their work experience here in Garden City, offering “a glimpse into what they have learned and what they’ve worked on, and what they outlined for the district to do even better,” she noted.

But at the school board meeting Flood had to explain where the district stands currently with athletics programs and what the rest of the academic year might hold.

He began his comments at the meeting by stating how grateful he is for the hard work and dedication his colleagues in the district and across Nassau County have put forth to continue education and physical education through the pandemic.

“I started this position on July 1 and I then spent a significant amount of time speaking with, listening to and meeting students, parents, administrators, teachers and coaches to hear their various perspectives in terms of health and athletics. These are all our stakeholders, starting with our students, so it was up to me to comprehend what our students value -- in terms of the Garden City student-athletes, sports are an integral part of who they are. Being an athlete and a teammate is a big part

of who they are as a person. The success of teammates drives students to be better athletes and students, they feed off each other’s success....And our alumni here in the Garden City community and beyond are also a huge part of the strategizing and input process -- more so than in other communities I have been a part of,” Flood said.

Lifelong athletes

Something that stands out to Flood from his initial outreach in Garden City is that while many student-athletes at the high school look forward to participation in college, many of them are thinking about post-college plans and entering the workforce, even maintaining interests in group or organized athletics when they are in their careers, probably having families and “becoming parents themselves.”

“They want this athletics experience to carry far beyond high school; it represents a fabric of who the students are and intentions for athletics and physical activities to be a part of their lives. They understand how to be a good teammate, how to be active and how to stay healthy, and another value clearly represented is community service as for the Thanksgiving turkey drive the student athletes were a big part of that,” Flood noted.

For parents’ perspectives, gathered from 16 parents interviewed, 16 teachers and coaches and many other stakeholders, Flood presented that Garden City’s parents want student-athletes to work hard to earn their playing time, and for them to respect the process -sports are vital to their children’s overall development.

“Community really matters -- from helping teammates out to the turkey drive -- and traditions matter to our town. The common refrain was for students to go about the right way, earning what they get to do in athletics the right way. For the remainder of this year, we have seen that there is much frustration over the regional regulations over high school athletics. We are bound by the New York State Department of Health guidelines and NYSPHSAA (New York State Public High School Athletics Association) also follows those guidelines; all sports deemed to be high-risk have been postponed. A lot of people have blamed Section VIII and the school board, but we are bound by those guidelines,” Flood explained.

Low, moderate risk sports to begin

As of mid-December the plan is for the low and moderate risk sports for Garden City Middle School and Garden See page 60

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

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

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

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

Maribeth Quinn

John H Russo Theanne Ricci Laura Rich Elise Ronzetti Sharon Redmond Angela Linda Sambus

Cathleen Fennessy Whelan Patricia Savella Viviian Tener Kathleen Thornton Mary Weille

Louisa Pironi

Barbara Moore Patricia O Grady Julie O’Neill Rita Paiewonsky

Or Mayer

Monica Kiely

Roseanne McMahon

Cheryl Adams McAuliffe Jayne McGratty Armstrong

Chris Martocci Sean McCoyd

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

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

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

“I

love the spirit of giving.”

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

“Magical, jolly atmosphere.”

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

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

Merry Christmas and Seas s Greetings Fr the #1 Br erage in Garden City

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

“The spirit of joy and gratitude that abounds.”

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

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

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

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

Stephen Baymack

Stephanie Cullum Manager/ Assoc. Broker

Patricia Aprigliano Deirdre Albertson Susan Bashian Laura Baymack Andrea Bharucha Suzanne Blair

Conners

Crofton

Fedor

Laura Fitzgerald Tara Iori

Giannone

Goeller Karen Guendjoian Monica Kiely

Louisa Pironi

Barbara Moore Patricia O Grady Julie O’Neill Rita Paiewonsky

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

Angela Linda Sambus

Cathleen Fennessy Whelan Patricia Savella Viviian Tener Kathleen Thornton Mary Weille

Roseanne McMahon

Adams McAuliffe

McGratty Armstrong

Mayer Chris Martocci

Laura Giacini

Are you thinking of selling your home?

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

Jen Sullivan

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

182 Seventh Street Garden City, NY 11530

jennifer.sullivan@compass.com

M: 516.361.7190

Jen Sullivan is a

Go Green with Kelly & Colleen

Simple Tips for Family and Environmental Health

BY COLLEEN CIOLLO AND KELLY SMITH

When we started Go Green in April 2019, it was with the intent to simplify all of the information out there regarding environmental health and sustainability, and promote simple action items that each of us could implement to help our families and our community lead cleaner, greener, healthier lives and reduce our negative impact on the planet.  The time has come for us to wrap up this monthly column.  Before we say goodbye, we want to look back at some of our accomplishments as a community since the beginning of Go Green, and look ahead with optimism toward a greener future that can be secured by our continued commitment to environmental health and sustainability.

The Actions We Took Together and What We Have Achieved:

•  We fought for safer parks and playgrounds, and the Village of Garden City Department of Parks and Recreation has committed to a pesticide-free field management program in ALL neighborhood parks and playgrounds, excluding St.

Paul’s, as of Fall 2019.  We also shared tips on how to implement pesticide-free lawn management practices at home, to protect children, pets, wildlife, and our drinking water.

• We discussed the presence of the emerging contaminant 1,4-dioxane in Village drinking water, suggested filtration systems to reduce overall contaminants in drinking water at home, and shared ways to reduce the presence of contaminants in the community watershed.  At the Village level, Garden City is actively installing Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) systems in ALL Village wells to remediate the presence of 1,4-dioxane, and is committed to aggressively treating Village water to meet stringent New York State clean water standards.

• We reviewed recycling guidelines, and reminded residents what to recycle (Plastics 1 and 2, glass, aluminum, and mixed paper) what not to recycle (Plastics 3, 4, 5, 6) and, most recently, what to take to the Village Dump to ensure that they are recycled properly (corrugated card-

See page 60

Winterfest: A Time for Community Healing & Hope

BY JOHN W. CRONIN PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, GARDEN CITY BIRD SANCTUARY, INC

On January 9, 2021, the Garden City Bird Sanctuary, Inc. will celebrate its thirteenth annual Winterfest. Ordinarily, I would explain that Winterfest is a holiday we, on the GCBS Board of Directors, began in 2009 to honor all our members and supporters. It always takes place the second Saturday in January. However, 2020 has been anything but “ordinary;” the word “unprecedented” has been used most often to describe it.

We have seen a worldwide pandemic for the first time in a century. Riots have torn apart our cities. Political strife keeps us divided. We need to come together to heal and move forward in hope. Winterfest is the means by which this process can get started. Humanity has always flourished in communities. Interdependence is needed for survival. We have a nuclear family, then an extended family and close friends, which continues further into our surrounding

neighborhood, state, and country. At Winterfest, we seek to celebrate and strengthen the bond of community that exists in Garden City between families. In so doing, we remember our common purpose, and come forth with a greater resolve to be part of the solution to the problems which afflict the world.

Winterfest is full of meaningful ceremonies and traditions which reflect the three virtues that any community needs to survive: volunteerism, environmental stewardship, and (most especially) hope.

COVID-19 and the other events of 2020 have left us depressed, locked down, and isolated. NO MORE! At Winterfest, we will come together as a unified “one” (while socially distancing in our large nine-acre Sanctuary) to show that we are resilient and will not merely survive but thrive in 2021!

Our ceremonies will include a special thank you to the first responders. We will have a candlelit ceremony to mourn all those who passed in 2020;

See page 59

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.

Loan

Sold Price: $1,200,000 Date: 12/21/2020

4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath Style: Colonial Total taxes: $17,004

Lot Size: .14 acres

MLS number: 3251262

The Seller’s Team: Kathy Thornton, Coach Realtors Fennessy Associates

The Buyer’s Team: Claudia Galvin and Matthew Minardi, Daniel Gale Associates

Impeccably renovated & thoughtfully expanded four bedroom Colonial in the desirable Country Life Press neighborhood of Garden City checks all the boxes!! Traditional living spaces blend seamlessly with the 2 story rear extension which features a gourmet eat in kitchen, dining area & family room with gas fireplace & 2nd fl master suite with vaulted ceilings, WIC & new marble bath. New baths, a refreshed kitchen with painted cabinets, quartz counters & glass backsplash, new roof on house & garage, new landscaping, new HW heater are some of the latest updates. Enviable location as you can stroll into Village shops & restaurants & LIRR Country Life Press station at end of the block!

22 Elm Street

Sold Price: $925,000

Date: 12/16/2020

Style: Tudor

3 bedrooms, 1 full bath, 1 half bath

Total taxes: $14,076

Lot Size: .16 acres

MLS number: 3257465

The Seller’s Team: Michelle McArdle, Douglas Elliman Real Estate

The Buyer’s Team: Michelle McArdle, Douglas Elliman Real Estate

This beautiful 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath Tudor located in the coveted Country Life Press section is perfect for both entertaining or family living. The First floor features a Spacious formal Living Room w/ Wood-burning Fireplace, a Formal Dining room, an Eat-in Kitchen and Half bathroom. Take the Stairs a few steps and you will walk Right in to a Tremendous Family room which has a Second Wood-burning Fireplace and Built in Bookshelves. It is a Perfect place to Work from Home or for Entertaining. The Second floor Features a Large Master Bedroom with double closets, 2 additional Bedrooms and an Updated Hall Bathroom. The home Features a Finished basement, a Front Porch and a 2-car attached garage. The lushly Landscaped yard with Screened-in Porch in the Perfect Retreat. This home has incredible Curb appeal and is in Close Proximity to the LIRR, 7th Street Shopping and Restaurants, Schools and the Park.

Sold price: $710,000

Date: 12/17/2020

Style: Colonial 3 bedrooms, 1 full bath, 1 half bath Lot Size: .14 acres

Total taxes: $14,614

MLS number: 3264010

The Seller’s Team: Suzanne Blair and Laura Rich, Coach Realtors Fennessy Associates

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

This darling 3 bedroom 1.5 bath Colonial is move in ready! Situated on 60 x 100, this Eastern stunner has an updated EIK adjoined to a sun filled den, spacious living room, formal dining room with lovely bay window, basement with recreational room, storage and utilities. This super home also boasts; updated Anderson windows, new hot water heater updated boiler, brick patio, gutter guards and a one car attached garage with brick driveway. Near to park and schools.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

7 Tremont Street

| Garden City | $925,000

3 BR, 1.5 BA | Web# 3257465

M 610.805.9699

Michelle McArdle: M 516.306.4134 Sold | Garden City | $910,000 4 BR, 3.5 BA |

Garden City HS students make a difference with masks

were sold to support a fundraiser.

Garden City High School students and staff members from several classes and programs have come together to collaborate on making and selling face masks. Manufacturing, art and ACE students combined their many skills and talents to create approximately 250 fabric masks complete with decorative designs.

Teacher Michael Stano developed the idea as a hands-on learning project for his manufacturing class that serves the double purpose of helping to keep people safe during the pandemic. He walked students through the various steps of the mask-making process and taught them to sew, break down expenses and complete other tasks. They cut templates with a laser cutter, developed cost analysis charts and stitched the fabric using sewing machines borrowed from teacher Erin McKinistry’s fashion marketing class.

Mr. Stano also enlisted the assis -

tance of Media Arts 2 students, who worked under the direction of teacher Denise Holz to design ironon vinyl decals that were later cut with a Cricut machine and affixed to the masks. They submitted their sketches and used Adobe Illustrator to create vector images, which were uploaded to Cricut Design Space.

The ACE students and teacher Mary Ferrara stepped in from there and took on the sales and distribution responsibilities. They collected order forms, counted money, filled orders and delivered the masks around the school to staff. Transferrable job skills such as these align with the ACE program’s vocational components.

All proceeds from this initiative will go to an Adopt a Family fundraiser that high school staff members have coordinated to help those in need during the holiday season.

Garden City High School students modeled the masks and decals that they made.

Professional Guide is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information. Are you a professional?

Garden City High School manufacturing class students used sewing machines and skills to create masks that

Some of the students show their hard work.

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

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

The Entire Grimaldi’s Staff would like to wish Everybody a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!

HOLIDAY PACKAGES

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

PACKAGE #1 $80 Plus Tax

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

PACKAGE

#2 $115 Plus Tax

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

PACKAGE #3 $145 Plus Tax

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

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

CATERING MENU

APPETIZER SELECTIONS

ANTIPASTO

$80

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

ASSORTED BAKED PINWHEELS

$70

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

GRIMALDIS ORIGINAL RECIPE

BUFFALO WINGS

18” SALAD SELECTIONS

House

$80

Caesar $70

Chopped

Spinach

Portobello

$80

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

BRUSCHETTA

$70

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

TOMATO MOZZARELLA

$80

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

18” DESSERT PLATTER

Combination of Jr. Cheese Cake, Cannoli, Chocolate Decadence and Rice Pudding $80

Grimaldi’s Cannoli Platters (15 cannolis) $75

$80

$80

$80

Mediterranean $80

Add Fresh Mozzarella $15

Add Grilled Chicken $20

Add Salami $15

ENTREÉ SELECTIONS

Chicken Parmigiana

Half Full

$55 $95

Chicken Marsala $60 $100

Eggplant Parmigiana $55 $95

Eggplant Rollatini $55 $90

Penne Ala Vodka

$50 $80

Penne Bolognese $55 $90

TAKEOUT & DELIVERY

SUNDAY - THURSDAY 11:30-9

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11:30-10

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

This year has been like no other in our lifetime. The holidays can seem especially draining this year with all that is going on. We wish you moments of peace amid the difficulties, connections with family and friends even if they can’t be in person, and the warmth of memories from holidays past. The Garden City Compass agents wish you a very safe and Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bring good health, happiness and good fortune.

Alexander Olivieri, Alexandra Parisi, Athena Menoudakos, Christina Hirschfield, Colin Stewart, Danielle Nero, Jen Sullivan, Kerry Flynn, Laura Carroll, Maureen Lagarde, Patrick McCoo-

Real Estate Salesperson

The holidays are upon us and the importance of gratitude has never been more paramount.

are grateful for each and every client, past and present, and we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!

Twelfth Night Choral Celebration

The Cathedral Choirs will offer their annual Twelfth Night Celebration both in-person at the Cathedral of the Incarnation and online via Zoom and Facebook on January 3, 2021 at 4 p.m. The Twelfth Night Choral event has been a Cathedral tradition for years, becoming a ritual for many as the Twelve Days of Christmas come to a close. The event celebrates the Epiphany and will include carol settings, hymns, and the Procession of Three Kings. It is also a final opportunity to

see the Cathedral decorated for Christmas with dozens of poinsettia flowers, brightly lit Christmas trees and wreaths. Attendance at the Cathedral is limited to 50 people and registration is required in advance. The service will be broadcast live via the Zoom platform and also through the Cathedral’s Facebook page for those who prefer to attend online. All of the information to attend in-person and online can be found at www.incarnationgc.org/ connect.

Kindergarten registration

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

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

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

Anyone unsure about which school their child will attend can watch the instructional video posted on the https://www.gardencity.k12.ny.us/ Page/9911 to learn how to use the interactive map to identify a family’s home school.

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

At tention students!

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

The Cathedral Clergy processing at the Twelth Night Service in January 2020

Twelve Days of Christmas Social Media Challenge

The Cathedral plans to share photos like this one of donated clothing across the 12 days of Christmas.

The Cathedral of the Incarnation is hosting a special social media event during the 12 Days of Christmas. “The Incarnate Love Challenge” features a way to “share the love” of the season with a daily action from Christmas Day to Epiphany.

The activities include: 1) One prayer “for peace and love to reign on earth, 2) Two letters of gratitude to people who make a difference, 3) Three commitments to help your neighbors in the coming year, 4) Four phone calls of encouragement, 5) Five photos that inspire you to “love like Jesus,” 6) Six hugs, in-person or virtual, for people who support you, 7) Share seven favorite songs about love, 8) Take eight min-

utes of silence to reflect on the love of God in your life, 9) Bake nine sweet treats for a friend or stranger, 10) Give a ten dollar (or more!) donation to an organization that gives you hope, 11) Give eleven food items to the hungry, 12) Give twelve articles of clothing to those in need.

People who take the challenge are encouraged to tag the Cathedral of the Incarnation on Facebook and Instagram so that their participation can be shared.

The Cathedral’s Facebook page is facebook.com/incarnationgc and Instagram is @incarnationgc. For more information on the Cathedral of the Incarnation, visit www.incarnationgc.org/connect.

Happy Holidays!

Do you have grandchildren?

Enter our “World’s Most Beautiful Grandchildren” contest! Just send in your grandchildren’s photos and a brief description of the child (or children) along with your name and address to editor@gcnews.com

n Plumbing repairs

n Drain cleaning

n Heat repairs

n Installation of appliances

n Installation of toilets & sinks

n Water filtration systems

Tools taken:

Construction tools were reported stolen from a Pell Terrace construc tion worksite on December 16.

Theft from auto:

A medi cal device was reported sto len from a vehi cle parked in Parking Field 9E on December 16th.

Multiple violations:

A 36-year-old motorist was arrested on Stewart Avenue on December 16th for driving with a forged out of state registration, improper plates, unregistered vehicle, and not wearing a seatbelt.

Storm problems:

As a result of a winter storm on December 17th, Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to reports of auto accidents, hazardous icy/snowy road conditions, wires down, power outages, alarms, and a traffic light malfunction.

Ceiling fire:

On December 18th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to the Garden City Country Club and extinguished a small ceiling fire inside the Pro Shop.

Fuel leak:

Firefighters and police responded to Parking Field 7S on December 19th for a hazardous condition. Upon arrival it was determined there was a fuel leak from a disabled vehicle. The area was safeguarded, and the vehicle removed from the scene.

DWI arrest:

On December 19th while investigating a report of an aggressive driver on Franklin Avenue, Garden City Police arrested a 23-year-old male for DWI, unlicensed operation, excessive speed, and unsafe lane usage.

Leaving the scene:

Garden City Police are investigating a December 19th report of a vehicle with a U-Haul trailer leaving the scene after striking and damaging another vehicle on Stewart Avenue.

Burnt food:

On December 20th Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a call of a residential fire alarm activation. Upon investigation, the cause was determined to be burnt food.

Child endangerment:

On December 21st, Garden City Polcie and and Child Protection Services personnel responded to the Residence Inn where a one-year-old child was found alone and crying in a locked room. Two other siblings, ages 5 and 10, were found at other locations on the first floor without adult supervision present. During the investigation, the children’s mother returned to the hotel accompanied by a 9-year-old child. She was arrested for three counts of endangering the welfare of a minor. Child Protective services took temporary custody of all four children.

DWI crash:

On December 21st Garden City Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Franklin Avenue and 12th Street. One of the operators suffered chest pains and was transported by ambulance to Winthrop Hospital. The other operator, a 45-year-old male, was placed under arrest for DWI and transported to Winthrop Hospital for injuries sustained in the crash.

CO alarm:

Garden City police and firefighters responded to a 7th Street business on December 21st for a report of a carbon monoxide alarm activation. Upon investigation, all appeared to be in order.

Mutual aid:

On December 21st Garden City firefighters assisted the Carle Place Fire Department with a working house fire.

Criminal contempt

On December 22nd Garden City detectives arrested a 37-year-old male for allegedly approaching his ex-girlfriend at Garden City Plaza on December 4th as well as making threatening phone calls to her on November 30th, both in violation of an order of protection. He was charged with two counts of criminal contempt, and aggravated family offense.

Season's Greetings

This year, in the midst of an ongoing pandemic, we are still blessed to enjoy the Christmas and Hanukkah holidays responsibly with intimate groups of family and friends. While joy is always the transcending theme, as we hope it is for all, we ask that you include everyone, regardless of faith or private beliefs, in sharing this wonderful holiday season. Please take a few minutes to look in on your neighbors who may be alone or housebound to spread a little holiday cheer and comfort.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year to All from your Mayor and all of the Trustees. We wish you a joyful and safe holiday season.

Theresa A. Trouvé, Mayor

TRUSTEES Robert A. Bolebruch Louis M. Minuto

Stephen S. Makrinos Mark A. Hyer

John M. Delany

Colleen E. Foley

Brian C. Daughney

Community Club to present entertainer Jim Papa

BY KATHY MCCORMICK

On Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. at the Garden City Casino, the General Program Committee will present an afternoon of music and entertainment featuring Jim Papa. Jim was born in Brooklyn, New York, and his first word was not daddy or mommy, but “Hop,” a reference to the number one hit, at that time “At the Hop”. At the age of eight, Jim was very shy. When a group of scout leaders were putting together a Christmas show, they had all the scouts try out, and much to everyone’s surprise, Jim blew them away. They were so impressed they gave him the lead. Following this show, he was asked to sing at a variety of events throughout the neighborhood. At the age of ten, Jim’s family moved to Flushing New York, where he developed his style and love of music. There, he learned to read music, play tenorsaxophone, performed in several plays and was in his high school band.

Music was always important to

Jim but so was his family. Starting in the 1990’s he found a way to include music back in his life on a part time basis by working as a Karaoke DJ/ KJ. In 1996, Jim began Magical Music Entertainment, a business based here on Long Island. In 2001, he decided to live out his dream and made Magical Music a full time venture. Since then. he has entertained at hundreds of weddings, private parties, fundraisers and more. Jim has become one of the areas busiest and most requested entertainers.

Please join us for this live musical program. All are welcome, there is a $ 5 dollar fee for guests. All coronavirus regulations will be observed. Everyone must wear a mask.  Seating will be socially distant. No refreshments will be served following the program. If anyone is interested in joining the Community Club please contact our club office at 516-746-0488 on Tues., Wed., or Thurs. between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. This program will be great and bring some joy into January, so don’t miss it.

Do you have a service to advertise?

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

Happy Holidays to all of our valued Garden City customers.

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

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

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

The Art of Christmas at the Garden City Public Library

BY MARY MAGUIRE

You are invited to take a few minutes out of your busy holiday schedule to stop by the Garden City Library and marvel at the Showcase Display entitled, "The Art of Christmas.”  There you will find an eye popping collection of Christmas Tree ornaments from around world and from around the world of art.

Look for the green and pink replica of Monet’s house at Giverny surrounded by a Patricia Breen replica of the artist himself

and an ornament of his Japanese Bridge overlooking his waterlilies.

See if you can spot the Yellow House that Van Gogh lived in in Arles right next to a Byers' Choice representation of Vincent accompanying a large ornament sphere of his Starry Night.

Museums and famous building of the world are turned into treasured ornaments such as the Louvre, St. Mark’s Cathedral in Venice, the Duomo of Florence, The Leaning Tower of Pisa, and closer to home, Prometheus at the base of Rockefeller

Center’s Christmas Tree, The White House, The Capitol Building, The Liberty Bell etc., etc.  The Metropolitan museum is represented with a unicorn ornament from the Cloisters, a Degas Ballerina, a Mary Cassatt mother and child and the Met’s own mascot, William, the ancient Egyptian Hippo.

Handcrafted felt ornaments of famous artists include, among others, Dali, Frida Kahlo, Cezanne, Van Gogh, Raphael, Leonardo, Monet and Michelangelo.

or Sherlock Holmes.

And Madame Alexander Portait Dolls, stepping out of painting by Renoir and Sargent, round out the display.

Since we, most likely, cannot go into New York City to see the seasonal display of windows at Macy’s and Saks, this might just be your next best opportunity to glimpse the joy of the season through a glass window.

German Nutcrackers by Steinbach stand guard over the delicate ornaments.  See if you can identify Peter Pan, Geppetto, Charlie Brown, Humpty Dumpty, King Tut, Mother Goose, Ole King

German nutcrackers stand guard over the delicate ornaments.

See the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, in ornament form.

Royalty awaits at the Garden City Library exhibit.

Enjoy the exhibit of dolls and ornaments at the Garden City Public Library

Cole

The A.T. Stewart Consignment Shop

BY MELISSA JAEGER

Merry Christmas to all! This week, I thought I’d take a break from our thinly-veiled sales pitches, in favor of something a little different and cheerful -- Santa Claus. He goes by many names -- Father Christmas, St. Nicholas, Kris Kringle. But did you know that Thomas Nast, a political cartoonist actually drew the iconic Santa that we know (and love) today?   (Nast also developed the symbols of the Republican and Democrat parties!) In 1881, he drew the first likeness of Santa for Harper’s Weekly. His Santa was drawn to match Clement Moore’s depiction in Twas the Night Before Christmas – “beard as white as the snow, cheeks were like roses … a little round belly … shook like a bowl of jelly … “ BTW -- Moore and Nast were both New Yorkers!

But WHO was Santa? There is no one single person; rather a composite of persons. The original inspiration is a 3rd century bishop named Nicholas, who sold off his worldly possessions and gave to others less fortunate, which eventually led to his sainthood. In Europe, children would leave their shoes or stockings (or special St. Nicholas boot) in front of the fireplace (or front door) at night and find presents in them in the morning. Thus started the tra -

dition of leaving gifts and treats in stockings for good boys and girls –and charcoal for naughty ones. The Dutch celebrate “Sinter Klaas” (and if memory serves me, New York was a Dutch settlement). Images of Santa began to appear in stores in the mid 1800’s, in an effort to attract children and promote Christmas sales. Macy’s was the first store to have a “live” Santa. Who can ever forget “Miracle on 34th Street?!”

And right about now, I’d say we need such a “jolly old elf” to make us all feel good.

We will be open on Dec. 26th noon4:00. And New Year’s Eve, we will be open half day 10:00 -1:00, closed New Year’s Day and open again on Jan. 2nd (noon – 4:00). If you’re not comfortable with coming into the shop, please shop online and come into the shop to pick up or pick-up curbside. I’ve updated the TGCHS website with photos of our newest merchandise! Be sure to check out www.tgchs.org We have a link to our online store or you can go directly to our online store at: stores.myresaleweb.com/ at-stewart-exchange. We also post photos on the AT Stewart Exchange Facebook and Instagram pages.

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

For those unfamiliar with the Exchange Consignment Shop, we are housed in TGCHS Museum on 109 Eleventh Street (in the basement of the building). We take jewelry, lamps, mirrors, crystal, pocketbooks, china, furniture, silver, paintings, and collectibles. Unsure if your items are appropriate to consign? Email photos (include sizing info) to store@ atstewartexchange.org.   We accept consignments Wednesday through Friday 11:00am – 2:00pm by appointment ONLY, so please call (516) 7468900.

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

The shop is located at 109 Eleventh Street:

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

Old World

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

Who was Santa Claus?

DAR women learn about organ transport

Taking advantage of ZOOM to access the medical expertise of a DAR member across the country, the ladies of Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter NSDAR welcomed nurse Bethney Seifert to their November 21 virtual meeting. The topic of her presentation was the transportation of donor organs.

Chapter Regent Carla Hall D’Ambra introduced Mrs. Seifert to the group. Seifert is the current state chaplain, and past state organizing secretary for the DAR in Nevada. The Nevada DAR has 17 chapters and 800 members across the state.

Bethney Seifert has an extensive medical background. She joined the military at age 19, and spent time as a photographic interpreter. Eventually she switched to air transportation and dispatching, an area in which she spent 20 years of her career.

Mrs. Seifert explained that decisions are made to send donated organs to various locations depending upon blood types and other required matches.

“It’s like playing chess in your head, except it’s extremely fastpaced,” said Bethney Seifert, who serves as flight coordinator and safety manager for Reno, Nevada-based Transplant Transportation Services, which arranges transportation for organ recovery teams from across the Western United States, many of them located in the San Francisco Bay Area. “I’m always thinking three steps ahead to help make sure we anticipate anything that could happen. I don’t want to say I never saw that coming.” Weather can also play into transporting the organs, as time is both essential and limited when transporting an organ.  A heart for example must be transplanted within 3 to 4 hours,  lungs within 4 to 6 hours. For this reason, planes carrying donor organs have priority with take-off and landings. It is highly complicated to coordinate all the various facets of the transportation of an organ from hospital to hospital.

Seifert revealed that she conducted transport when the infamous 2017 Las Vegas shootings took place. She

was able to successfully conclude that mission in spite of the danger. With the international airport shut down, a recovery team was unable to fly out. Luckily, she located another plane that was in range, contacted the operator of that flight, convinced them to land at a nearby airport and fly the surgeon and the organ to Los Angeles, where the transplant was to take place.  “On the one-year anniversary of that night in Las Vegas, we all talked about how thankful we were to know each other and be able to work together,” Seifert said. “Every job is special because we’re providing such a vital service, but that night has had the most profound effect on me.”

Twenty-four-hour shifts make for long days, which is why Mrs. Seifert only works as a flight coordinator three times a week. Ten days a month she’s also a family nurse practitioner at an in-patient psychiatric facility for teenagers. Mrs. Seifert—who has two teenage sons with her husband Bill—mastered the art of multitasking during her 20-year service in the Nevada National Guard.

In the National Guard,  Mrs. Seifert

served 10 years as a photographic interpreter, the same job her grandfather had in the Navy during World War II. Then she moved into air transportation, loading equipment, cargo and other supplies in and out of military aircraft. Two-week deployments took her across the world to Australia, South Korea, Panama and Germany.

In 2004, she deployed for six months to Uzbekistan. An on-the-job injury during the deployment forced her retirement in 2006.

Regent Hall thanked Mrs. Seifert warmly for her very interesting presentation and for enlightening the ladies about the huge effort that goes into saving lives with organ donation.

Bethney Siefert with one of the jets she uses for her work.

Bethney Seifert, flight coordinator, nurse practitioner and NSDAR member

Realtors collect toys for sick kids

During the month of December, the agents of Compass at 182 Seventh Street organized a toy drive for the brave young patients of Cohen Children’s Medical Center.  The toy drive was a huge success and many generous donations were made from our wonderful community.  Thank you to everyone who donated Amazon gift cards and new toys to help spread holiday cheer among these child patients.  Nothing is more important than children and their healthcare.

Cohen Children’s Medical Center has earned top 40 national rankings for exceptional care in nine pediatric specialties – the most in the New York area – according to US News & World Report’s 2020 Best Children’s Hospitals. The largest provider of pediatric health services in New York State, Cohen Children’s has been ranked among the nation’s top children’s hospitals by US News for 14 consecutive years.

Adelphi production to be performed at Kennedy Center Festival

Adelphi University’s first virtual theatrical production, “This Odd Geometry of Time,” has been selected to be performed at the Kennedy Center’s American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF) for Region 2, running January, 11–14, 2021.

The KCACTF is a national theater program involving students annually from colleges and universities across the country. For the first time, the festival will be conducted entirely virtual.

“This Odd Geometry of Time,” which was streamed through Youtube in October 2020, is an exploration of intersectional feminism and climate change through the guise of a nature documentary. The story takes place over the course of 260 years and follows the lives of several historical women and one spirited Russian bowhead whale named Galina. The piece was written by Adelphi alumnae Megan Lohne (’04) and directed by Shoshanah Tarkow (’06), assistant by current student Matthew Pezzulich. The piece will be performed alongside competing productions from southwest New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC, northern Virginia, West Virginia and Ohio, in hopes of advancing to the national level.

“The current moment has proven that technological innovation is not

only a viable option for artists, but a necessity,” said Tarkow of the production. “This Odd Geometry of Time” innovates by incorporating virtual and augmented reality technologies with live performances, original music and a 12-foot Bowhead whale puppet.”

The production also has earned other awards and nominations from KCACTF. Student actors Daynah Richburg, Emma Scholl, Alexis Barros and Madelyn Barkoc were nominated for the prestigious Irene Ryan Award. Additionally, several students who worked behind the scenes were awarded certificates of merit. Awardees included Carson Fergueson and Natalie Piperno for puppetry, Carrie McElroy, Nicole Sponaugle, Brian Donahue and Kimmarie McCrann for stage management, Fiona Gavin for lighting design, and Chloe Yoo for virtual background design.

“When I started writing this experience, I had no idea what it would become,” said Lohne. “The piece gently turned into a commentary about society and how though we’ve made many strides, too much is the same.”

Lohne and Tarkow are co-founders of Like Fresh Skin, an immersive theatre company synergizing original text-driven narratives and emerging technologies to champion untold femi-

Cover art from “This Odd Geometry of Time”

nist stories. They have worked with the Adelphi community previously on two other productions. In 2018, they brought “Words Like Fresh Skin” to audiences. More recently, in spring 2020, the duo worked with Adelphi students on a virtual Shakespearean cross-pollination, “Too Solid Flesh,” performed while many students were displaced from their classrooms to their homes due to the pandemic.

After graduating from Adelphi, Lohne went on to receive her M.F.A.

in dramatic writing from The Actor’s Studio/New School and Tarkow continued her studies and received an M.A. in Performance Studies from NYU, though both have kept strong to their Adelphi roots.

“It’s my hope that students viewing this piece at the festival leave contemplating what is missing from their lives, what they hope for, and ultimately ask the bigger questions of ourselves and each other in this, our only time,” said Lohne.

Left to right: Jane LaRosa (Compass), Laura Carroll (Compass) Katie Hess (Cohen Children’s Medical Center) and Jen Sullivan (Compass)

The COVID Holidays

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

The Covid virus has certainly put a pall on the celebration of Christmas, Hannukah and the New Year, with only a few redeeming features.

Let’s first talk about the way we were in a distant year -- 2019. There are many people more active and social than me, but last year I had nine holiday events in the first ten days of December. There were events sponsored by political and social clubs as well as my work party and a number of house parties. Things got a little tough after a few days, but on balance it was wonderful celebrating the holidays with so many people from various parts of my life. There were a few other parties in the remaining days in December, followed by two family gatherings for Christmas. I went to a house party in New Jersey on New Year’s Eve with about 30 people, and slept over at the host’s house. All in all, a memorable and happy holiday season.

Now let’s talk about this year. By way of background, and as discussed in a number of previous columns, I think of myself as something of a Covid moderate. I recognize that this is a virulent and dangerous virus, for myself and others, and I really don’t want to contract it or spread it. On the other hand, I am not willing to lock myself up at home for an indefinite time. My solution is to go on with many of life’s activities, but try do so in a safe and responsible common sense way, which may well involve the use of masks and social distancing For example, I am generally willing to eat outside in restaurants (and sometimes inside), spent a good amount of time at the beach in season and regularly attend socially distanced church services.

But even with a willingness to encounter at least some potential risk, my holiday season (and virtually everyone else’s) has almost been reduced to zero. I won’t be attending

a single holiday party. There will be a Christmas Mass but only two scaled down family holiday gatherings.  And New Year’s Eve figures to be a complete bust. I haven’t been invited to a house party (problematic in any event) and going out isn’t an option, with Governor Cuomo ending alcohol sales at 10 pm. I’m sure it will be great to watch the ball drop at home on television.

Not to put too fine a point on it, this is will be a rather grim holiday season and not just for severely impacted businesses like restaurants and catering halls.  I think the holidays have been put here to give an opportunity for human fellowship, camaraderie, and also the opportunity to express appreciation to your fellow human beings, and it’s a shame to have them cut back so severely. While the holiday season has appropriately been criticized as excessively secular, its size and scale does give emphasis to the underlying religious observances, whether it is the birth of Christ or the Festival of Lights, but not this year. And the New Year presents, in addition to a final grand opportunity to celebrate the holidays, an opportunity to take stock, think about what is to come and to make resolutions, some of which are even kept. Much less of a celebration this year.

Yes, I suppose it could be said that there are a few good things about the Covid holiday season, and not just for shareholders of Amazon and UPS. It is certainly possible to overindulge of food and drink during the holidays. I guess there is an opportunity to get to know people better in smaller groups.

But I’m very happy that we are very unlikely to have holidays like the ones this year any time soon. Let’s all make the best of what we have, enjoy the company of our family and loved ones, and very much hope for a much better holiday season in 2021.

The Kordes K orner

For many years (decades actually!) I would photograph the Village Christmas Tree Lighting at the Gazebo. Each year the guest of honor was none other than Santa Claus himself courtesy of the Garden City Fire Department (their trucks are red for a good reason!) His visit here always ushers in the Christmas season. The above photo was taken by me in December of 1997 and we see Santa posing with one of his female “Toy Soldiers.” Does Mrs. Claus know about her? Ho... Ho... Ho... Merry Christmas everyone!

PhotograPhy history

John Ellis Kordes

December 25, 2020

Surging Demand, Limited Capacity Encourages Skiers to Discover New York’s Lesser Known

BY KAREN RUBIN

Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing in the brisk fresh air of greater outdoors will be salvation to get through this dark winter of isolation. Fortunately, New York State, with 50 ski areas (more than any other state), is gearing up, putting in the protocols to keep everyone safe and healthy, doing what will be the safest and healthiest way to be active this winter. Just being outdoors will be a tonic for body and soul.

ISkiNY.com (Ski Areas of New York) is a sort of one-stop online place to learn about the various mountain resorts and ski areas and overall New York State policies to address (and contain) COVID-19. All areas are under capacity constraints (50 percent of last season’s busiest day) and visitors must follow rules for wearing masks (an actual mask, not a gaiter) at all times except when actively skiing or eating. Most require or strongly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance (and are selling out because of limits) – even season pass holders. Also, areas are limiting time that can be spent indoors in the lodges (recommending using your own vehicle as a kind of base lodge), and with limited après-ski opportunities, are promoting day-trips to ski areas within driving distance. Fortunately, with 50 areas throughout the state, just about everyone lives within 2 ½ hours of a ski area. (See more at ISkiNY.com).

“Know before you go,” is Scott Brandi, President Ski Areas of New

A family enjoys expanded outdoor dining at Greek Peak. The strong desire for outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, coupled with capacity restrictions, is encouraging visitors to discover more of New York State’s 50 ski areas. Areas have found innovative, pleasurable ways to adapt to the state’s COVID-19 requirements (photo provided by Greek Peak).

York, recommends. Check ahead for conditions and availability.

Here are just a few of the ski resorts and areas to explore:

Greek Peak

The Greek Peak Ski Resort is a full-service, four-season resort and the largest ski area in Central New York. It has a 952 ft. vertical drop from a 2100 ft summit. It’s varied terrain (220 skiable acres) offers 56 runs (35% beginner, 29% intermediate, 27% advanced, 9% double-black diamond, 4 terrain parks and half pipe), serviced by six chair lifts and two carpet lifts; the longest run is 1.5 miles, plus night skiing. There’s also 8 km of Nordic terrain (natural, so depends on conditions) and snowshoeing.

The Adventure Center has a mountain coaster, guided zipline

Areas (There are 50) GOING PLACES

tours even in winter (by reservation), snowtubing (10-12 lanes).

Located in the Finger Lakes, Greek Peak offers an Adirondackstyle lodge, Hope Lake Lodge (151 rooms, sleeping 4-10 people) as well as log home (sleeps 14, across from slopes), outdoor heated pool, indoor water park with wave pool (water slides and hot tubs are currently closed under COVID-19 regulations).

Greek Peak Mountain Resort, 2000 NYS Rte 392, Cortland, NY 13045, 800-955-2754, greekpeak.net

Plattekill Mountain

Privately owned and operated by the Vajtay family, Plattekill Mountain in the northwestern Catskills, with 38 trails and terrain, offers “authentic mountain experience.” Powder Magazine (Dec. 2018),

described Plattekill as “The Alta of the Catskills.” It offers wide variety for skiers and snowboarders: 2-mile long beginner cruisers to steep double black diamonds with 1100’ vertical from its 3500 ft. high summit, accessed by 4 lifts (20% easier, 40% intermediate, 20% black, 20% double black), a “natural terrain park” nestled in the woods between the Lower Face and Shredded Mozzarella trails. “Big mountain terrain, small mountain charm.”

New this season: widening, clearing beginner and intermediate trails; installation of new snowmaking pump to improve snowmaking; new wireless technology; new “Platty Shack” with outdoor deck for quick grab and go items; new ‘order online’ option in cafeteria; new online shopping for tickets and rentals eliminating lines at rental shop.

Plattekill Mountain, 469 Plattekill Road, Roxbury, NY 12474, 607-3263500, info@plattekill.com, plattekill. com

Catamount Mountain Resort

Catamount Mountain Resort is a four-season resort straddling the NY/Massachusetts border just about 2 hours from NYC. “With its sister resort, Berkshire East, Catamount is one fun mountain with some of the best steeps in southern New England and some of the best beginner and intermediate terrain.” Catamount has undergone a stunning transformation since the summer of 2018: new lift, new lodge, hundreds of new snow guns, four snow making ponds, miles of pipe, and countless other upgrades which make Catamount one of the best small ski areas on the East coast.

Continued on next page

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Discovering New York’s Lesser Known Ski Areas

Catamount, Hillsdale, NY, 518-3253200, info@catamountski.com, https:// catamountski.com/

It has a 1,000 ft vertical from the 2000 ft summit, 38 runs on 133 skiable acres (40% beginner, 35% intermediate, 15% advanced, 10% expert); longest run is 2 miles, and intermediates get to ski 1.25 miles from summit to base on turnpike Upper and Lower Sidewinder; for advanced, the double black Catapult is the steepest trail in the Berkshires and its Upper/Lower Glade to Off Stage provides a half-mile of moguls; night skiing on 15 trails (more than 4 miles worth)

Catamount also boasts North America’s longest zip line, one of the largest aerial adventure parks on the East coast,

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

West Mountain

Nestled at the foot of the Adirondack Mountains, conveniently accessed just off I-87, West Mountain towers over Glens Falls.

West Mountain offers a 1010 vertical drop from the 1470 ft. summit, 31 trails on 124 skiable acres (36% beginner, 55% intermediate, 9% advanced, one terrain park), accessed by four lifts, with night skiing on 105 acres. Also a tubing park. 6-packs are for sale now that provide 6 tubing tickets, lift tickets or aerial treetop adventure tickets for the price of 5. Night skiing.

West Mountain, 59 West Mountain Road, Queensbury, NY 12804, 518.636.3699,

WestMountain.com

Bristol Mountain

Bristol Mountain, in Canandaigua, opened for their 56th season of operation. Located in the Western Finger Lakes Region, it offers 38 trails on 138 acres of skiable terrain and a 1200’ vertical drop from a 2200 ft. summit, accessed by six lifts including two high-speed quads (32% beginner, 50% intermediate and 18% advanced), 97% lighted for night skiing terrain and 97% snowmaking coverage; the longest run is 2 miles. Also, two terrain parks and 3 km of Nordic trails. Bristol Mountain’s North Star Village Townhouses offer affordable ski-in/ski-out lodging with built in deals with their Ski & Stay programs. Reservations will be required for card products and lift ticket sales.

Bristol Mountain, 5662 Route 64, Canandaigua, NY 14424, 585-374-6000, fun@bristolmt.com, bristolmt.com.

An excellent source: https://www. onthesnow.com/new-york/ski-resorts. html

For more information, contact Iskiny.com.

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

How’s business? A chronology of holiday facts and quotes

BY MARJORIE GOTTLIEB WOLFE

It has been said that “Man spends his life reasoning with the past, complaining about the present, and trembling about the future.” Let’s see what businesspeople, economists, retail consultants, CFOs, and others have had to say about the Christmas/Hanukkah season.

2020

“I think there is a lot of nervousness among consumers in general, but at this point, it’s not going to stop them from shopping in a major way. If anything, it will shift to more sales online as opposed to in store.”

James Bohnaker, economist

“This holiday is going to be unlike any holiday season any of us have ever seen before.”

Chip Burgh, CEO, Levi Strauss & Co.

“We are turning into Amazon nation.” Margaret O’Mara, History prof. at Univ. of Washington

Amazon has recruited 100,000 temporary workers for the holiday season, on top of the more than 427,300 workers it hired from Jan. to Oct. of this year.

“Restaurateurs are in a state of despair. The restaurant industry has been clobbered by the coronavirus pandemic this year…nearly 110,000 restaurants have permanently closed…”

Phil Kafarakis

2019

Consumer survey research shows that getting a tree is among the Christmas experiences people remember as a child. (CTPB survey)

Marilyn Monroe’s menorah—a gift

from Arthur Miller’s parents—sold for $112,522 at auction.

The Los Angeles Lakers will play on Christmas Day for the 21st consecutive year. It’s the fourth time that the Lakers and Clippers meet on the holiday.

2018

“Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas means a little bit more.”

Dr. Seuss

“One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas Day. Don’t clean it up too quickly.”

Andy Rooney

If you say “Alexa, Ask Santa Tracker for Santa,” she will respond with a bit of information on what Santa is doing right now. Apple’s digital assistant claims it can see Santa’s house from the cloud. Siri was most prepared for Christmas questions and the fastest to respond.

slate.com

2014

Pope Francis likened the obligation to buy gifts at Christmas to “material slavery.”

“Homeowner may still be enjoying their Jack-o-Lanterns and Halloween candy, but several major retailer have leap-frogged over Thanksgiving to kick off their deals for Christmas.”

Janet H. Cho

2013

“Christmas helps to employ millions of people and props up our entire retail economy.”

Sarah Palin

2012

“If you receive a gift card, use it immediately, approximately 20% of gift cards go unused.”

George Lowenstein and Cass R. Sunstein

2011

“In reality, when people aren’t able to even afford homes, and they don’t have jobs, they’re not going to be buying a lot of creative comforts.”

Joshua Owen

2010

“6 million Americans are juggling debt from last year’s shopping season.”

Newsweek

2009

“The frugality trend is still the overriding sentiment out there. Consumers are wiling to spend money, but theywant value.”

Jin Chang, Best Buy exec

“The consumer is going to be here for the last five days. The consumer knows that if they wait, the prices will come down. And they will.”

Howard Davidowitz

2008

“I don’t have to tell you the macroeconomics are not perfect. That said, I really believe people are going to shop for the holidays. Unless you believe Christmas isn’t going to happen, I believe people will shop.”

Neal Goldberg, The Zale Corp.

“It’s an extraordinary tough time for retailers. November is shaping up to be the worst month in retail since I’ve been here 30 years. Now I know know how that little kid felt who misbehaved all year and then wondered if Santa was going to show up in December.”

Edward Schmults, C.E.O., of FAO Schwarz

“You walk the mall, and consumers look like zombies. They’re there in person, but not in spirit.”

John Morris, Wachovia retailing analyst 2007

“Economic climate is not robust and our customer is more cautious.”

Myron E. Ullman, J. C. Penney 2005

“It’s not just getting an earlier start on the Christmas season, it’s getting to shoppers before they see their first heating bills.”

Candace Corlett 2004

“People are going to go out and shop and have a good time, but they’re not going to have as good a time as they did last year.”

Richard Hastings, analyst with Bernard Sands

Crossword Answers

2003

“No Grinch expected this holiday season.”

Deloitte & Touche, consulting firm 2001

“We’ve become like Pavlovian dogs, waiting for the last great sale in the sky. This year, consumers are going to be disappointed in what they find.” Carl Steidtmann 2000

“The traditional last-minute rush won’t help, because prices are already marked way down. This is going to be truly miserable—probably the worst holiday season in five years.”

Brian James, Sayles & Co.

“This could be a very, very sad Christmas for some retailers, particularly high-end stores. What’s happening in the stock market will make people feel less wealthy… [and] they won’t spend as much.”

Brill Beemer, America’s Research Group, Charleston, SC 1999

“It’s going to be a make-it-or-breakit Christmas. You’re going to see the A-leagues separated from the others. Consumers are going to vote and leave a lot of businesses behind during the holidays.”

Julie Wainwright 1998

“This year more than ever before, it is a waiting game between the consumer and the merchant to see who blinks first…Even though consumer confidence is up, people are still looking for bargains.”

Irwin L. Kellner, Econ. Professor, Hofstra University 1997

“Suddenly consumers have realized that the stock market is not a one-way street, going up only. That may make them a little less inclined to open their wallets.”

Kurt Barnard, Herald Leader 1996

“The reality is that most people don’t have that many incremental dollars to spend on general merchandise. But the key point is that for some companies the

WRITER’S CORNER

latter part of September was favorable, which we think portends for a healthy Christmas.”

Jeffrey M. Feiner, analyst at Salomon Brothers 1995

“It’s eerie. The crowds are unbelievably thick and the cash registers are silent. I can barely move here, but I can only see one Bloomingdale’s shopping bag.”

Kurt Barnard, retail consultant

“I’m extremely nervous what Christmas will bring. There really isn’t anything out there so awe-inspiring fashion-wise or trend-wise that people think they just have to buy it. Just walk through your local mall, and everywhere it’s jeans, jeans, and jeans.”

Philip Abbenhaus, Stifel

“We’re looking for a mediocre Christmas. This is not a disaster, it’s just a soft landing.”

David Wyss, Economist, DRI/McGraw-Hill 1994

“We know the [Xmas] growth is occurring with the discounters. The last recession was so long and so deep, it traumatized the consuming public. We’ve generated a cadre of bargain hunters.”

Pearl Kamer, LIA Planning Bd. 1993

“Experts expect grandparents to drop some $2 billion for their grandchildren this Christmas. That’s in addition to the nearly $10 billion they’ve already spent this year for gifts of merchandise and cash.”

James McNeal, Marketing professor 1992

“The middle class no longer feels ashamed of buying gifts at discounters.”

George Rosenbaum

1991

“We’re doing more [Christmas] parties, but on a smaller scale. People are very budget conscious. The trend is for less extravagance. Each food and liquor item is being looked at differently. And parties have less guests.”

Johannes Tromp, GM, Windows on the World

1990

“Retailers have lots of Christmas inventory and they’ve got to figure out how to move it, and the oldest way to do that is: ‘Half off, come and get it.’”

Alan Millstein, Editor of Fashion Network Report 1989

“The essence of gift giving is related to the monetary value of the item. A Christmas gift should cost exactly the same as the one given to you the year before, plus two percent.”

John Cleese, Business Week 1988

“Among adults, the attitude seems to be ‘if you can appeal to me, I’ll buy. If not, I won’t. My closet is full and I’m not in any great need of buying things I really won’t have much use for.”

William Ress, C. W. Ress & Co.

1987

“I’m surprised that we’re running ahead of our projections. I’m sure part of it is we’ve really put out an extra effort. We had areas set up with Christmas items the first of October. We used to do it right after Halloween.”

Paul Porado, Mgr., K Mart, Lodi, NJ

1985

“The question this year is not how good the Christmas season will be but how bad.”

Sandra Sjaber, Chase Econometrics

1983

“It’s the time of year [Christmas] when giving a turkey to an employee is supposed to create an unbreakable bond of gratitude.” Roger A. Wilson, D Magazine

1981

“New York has natural attributes from a business point of view. It’s located in the purchasing area of some 20 million people—the people who live here, those who come into work and those who live just outside. There are very few markets like that in the world. And there are buyers. These are shoppers.”

Ed Koch,

“How’m I Doing?

The Wit & Wisdom of Ed Koch”

MARJORIE GOTTLIEB WOLFE is a retired business educator, free-lance writer, and author of two books on Yiddish.

A Holiday Gift Idea: My New Social Security Book!

BY TOM MARGENAU

First of all, let me wish a heartfelt happy holidays to all the wonderful readers of my column. I’ve heard from so many of you over the years. I’ve managed to help you understand Social Security a little bit better. And many of you have managed to brighten my days with your kind words about me and my column.

Some of you are new to the column because it just recently began running in whatever newspaper or publication you read. But many of you have been reading it for years. In fact, just today, I got an email from a guy who told me that he and his wife have been reading my column for 20 years!

And many of you old-timers have been asking me this question: “When are you going to write a book?” Well, I finally have! More about that book in a minute. But first I want to share a little story with you.

I’ve actually been toying with the idea of writing some kind of Social Security guidebook for many years. In fact, about 15 years ago, I had a book ready to go. I found an agent, and this agent peddled my book to a number of book publishers around the country. Finally, a big publishing house in New York bit at the book. I spent about six months going back and forth with various editors, constantly revising the manuscript, until we finally got something we all could be happy with. Then it went to the managing editor of the firm for what was supposed to be a pro forma rubber stamp of the book. Instead, she threw a big wet blanket over the whole project and stopped the presses with this remark: “Why should we publish a book about Social Security when we know the program is going to be reformed next year and the book will be out of date?” That was in 2005. And here we are, 15 years later, and Social Security still hasn’t been reformed! So, anyway, my dream of publishing a Social Security guidebook turned into a nightmare. All that time. All that effort. All that work. For nothing!

I was so turned off by the whole affair that I put any plans to write another book on the back burner. I thought, I’ll just continue writing my column and be happy with that.

But as I said, over the years, so many of you have encouraged me to put that book back on the stove and onto the front burner. And that’s what I did this year. And now the book is ready. It was published just this week.

I call the book “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” It is a collection of fact sheets that I have written over the years about various aspects of the Social Security program. Let me explain that. I get hundreds of questions from my readers every week (sometimes every day!). And as you might guess, I am frequently asked the same questions again and

again! And over the years, what I did was develop various fact sheets that answer the most common questions that people ask or that cover the most common Social Security topics that people are interested in. So, instead of spending a lot of time answering these redundant questions with a long, drawn-out email reply, I’d send a fact sheet and say something like: “I wrote the attached fact sheet just for folks like you. It should answer all your questions.”

I have now put all those fact sheets -updated for 2021 -- into one place, “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” Here is an overview of those fact sheets and a little preview of the book.

Fact Sheet No. 1 is “Social Security Basics.” It is an introduction to the Social Security program and to the book.

Fact Sheet No. 2 is “Myths and Facts About Social Security Financing and Proposals for Reform.” There are so darn many rumors, half-truths and outright lies floating around about how the Social Security program is financed. This fact sheet sets the record straight. It also includes a list of the most common proposals that will be considered as part of inevitable Social Security reform.

Fact Sheet No. 3 is “When To Take Your Social Security Benefits.” Over the years, this has been, by far, my most popular fact sheet. It explains Social Security rules and tells you when and how to file for Social Security benefits. If you are nearing retirement, this fact sheet alone is worth the price of the entire book.

Fact Sheet No. 4 is “Working After Retirement and the Earnings Penalty.” If you are between age 62 and full retirement age, the law puts a limit on how much money you can make and still get Social Security checks. The rules are messy and difficult to understand. This fact sheet explains them as clearly as I know how.

Fact Sheet No. 5 is “A Woman’s Guide to Social Security.” This has always been my second most popular fact sheet. Whether you are a working woman or a stay-at-home mom, by reading this fact sheet, you will learn a lot about your own benefits and any spousal or widows benefits you might be due.

Fact Sheet No. 6 is “Benefits for Children.” If you are eligible for retirement or disability benefits and have minor children at home, this fact sheet explains the benefits they may get on your account -- or, if you die, the survivors benefits they will be due. The fact sheet also explains benefits payable to children with disabilities.

Fact Sheet No. 7 is “Social Security Disability Benefits.” This fact sheet explains the two disability programs that are run by the Social Security Administration and gives tips about filing for those benefits.

Fact Sheet No. 8 is “Government Pension Offsets and Social Security.” If you

or your spouse works for a government entity that does not pay into Social Security, or you collect a pension from another country, you should read this fact sheet. It explains the often-controversial offsets that affect any retirement or spousal benefits you might be due.

Fact Sheet No. 9 is “When Social Security Says You Owe Them Money.” If you have received a letter from the SSA telling you that you have been overpaid, you should read this fact sheet to learn how to deal with that issue.

Fact Sheet No. 10 is “Working After Your Social Security Checks Start: Will

Your Additional Income Increase Your Social Security Check?” The title explains what this fact sheet is about. The book also has two other helpful sections. There is a clarification of the “Top 10 Social Security Myths.” And the book ends with an explanation of what to do when someone getting a Social Security check dies.

If you want to put my new book under your Christmas tree, you will find it at my syndicator’s website: www.creators.com/ books.

COPYRIGHT 2020

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

With Innovative Classes, Workshops Gold Coast Arts Center Illuminates Dark Winter With

BY KAREN RUBIN

There is no better antidote to the cold dark winter that is upon us than filling the season and one’s soul with art, music, theater, film. People are turning COVID-19 isolation into an opportunity to broaden skills, discovering new talents and exploring new interests. And the Gold Coast Arts Center, a regional nonprofit multi-arts organization dedicated to promoting the arts through education, exhibition, performance, and outreach, is adapting its programs to the new reality, which in an interesting twist, has enabled the center to expand its reach well beyond the Long Island community.

Winter 2021 School registration started Dec. 10 for classes starting in January. The arts organization has been able to continue to offer about two-thirds of its catalog by adapting programs – some virtual, some still in-person in the arts center’s studios.

“Our focus for Winter 2021 as it relates to school is flexibility,” says Julie Wostenholme, Marketing & Development Director, for the arts center. “During these difficult times of Covid and with a second wave looming, our school team has proven itself to be a highly trusted resource and a dedicated concierge service to students and families.  We’ve evolved with the times by offering more options.”

These include innovative programs such as:

• Virtual, Hybrid & In-Person classes.

• Multi-session classes, One-Day workshops, Pop-Up classes & Create Your Own classes.

• Host a Holiday Art, Dance or Chess Party with Family & Friends

• Private lessons in all disciplines.

• Film / Art Combo Series – first ses sion is a film on Claude Monet, paired with a Monet themed paint ing class (this series is sponsored by HSBC in Great Neck).

• A new focus on adult classes, work shops.

One of the adaptations is that instead of offering programs that extend from winter into spring, because people are not comfortable committing to longer programs, most of the courses are divided into eight-session segments, but for specific classes, when you sign up for the winter session, you will be sent a promotional discount for signing up for spring session at same time.

Even its renowned film festival and year-round cinema series, which was reintroduced last May, is in high gear, continuing to bring the best of independent new films with its at-home screenings. The series continues to offer two to three new films a month, partnering with film distributors (a

50-50 split in the ticket price). You click to buy a virtual ticket ($10-12 per film) and have 48-72 hours to watch once you purchase. And you still have access to the hallmark of the center’s film festivals: special Q&As with directors and people connected with the film, as well as the ability to link to film reviews and critiques. (Tickets can be purchased for individual films, rather than a whole series.)

The center’s cinema series films are now accompanied by “film kits,” so that in addition to seeing movies that have been specially curated, movie-goers can also enjoy a GCIFF Film Team Selection Review as well as Director Statements, Q&As and any other specialized collateral materials made espe-

Art, Music, Theater, Film

theater, even robotics two virtual classes: for beginners, an intro to robotics, and programming, physics of robotics targeted to intermediate & advanced) and chess – a program that the center has offered for years, but with the “Queens Gambit” craze, now offers two new virtual chess classes. “People called to create their own chess class.”

“We have kept up a robust program. We’re not offering everything, but we continue to offer the most successful, innovative and popular programs, well thought out to accommodate the times.”

Indeed, one of the innovations is to “create your own pod” – customized class. People can propose a class to Ellen Schiff, Director of School for the

Gold Coast Arts Center in Great Neck, Long Island, is finding new ways to deliver classes, workshops and programs during the COVID-19 crisis © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

cially for the arts center. “This is a highly competitive market so we are trying to make the film experience with us a very well-rounded one,” Wostenholme says.

On view now: Ric Burns’ documentary “Oliver Sacks: His Own Life”; “Conviction” a French courtroom thriller based on a true story (French with subtitles); and “Saul & Ruby’s Holocaust Survivor Band,” a musical documentary about finding purpose and meaning in life at any age, the transcendent power of music and the importance of speaking out against anti-Semitism and bigotry, featuring an exclusive Q&A with director Tod Lending.

Virtual, Hybrid & In-Person classes are offered spanning age groups, from 4 years old to teens and adults as well as family programs, and across a huge array of “the arts” - art, dance, music,

Arts, and the arts center will arrange a teacher. The class can be customized and personalized for time, interest and competency level.

Another innovation are one-day adult workshops, which do not require a commitment beyond signing up in advance.  One of these new workshops is a “film & art” series –combining two disciplines: participants see a documentary of an artist’s exhibition and life on screen, which is  then linked to a one-day painting class at the arts center (the elements can be purchased separately or as a combo).

The January 7, “Adult Painting & Film” immersive workshop is focused on the life of Claude Monet and his most beloved paintings. “Watch how his art developed as the film,  Exhibition on Screen: I, Claude Monet features his gardens at Giverny, and the series of paintings they inspired. Students

will recreate their own rendition of The Bridge with the lively strokes that Monet used in this live in-person workshop.” No experience is required and the supplies are provided (sessions limited to 8).

The center is hoping to offer one of these Adult Painting & Film workshops per month.

For programs that are offered in the arts center’s own building on Middle Neck Road in Great Neck, strict guidelines and protocols are maintained for anyone coming into the center to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of students, teachers, staff -  socially distancing; only the students and program participants are allowed in; grids mark off six-feet separation; masks must be worn at all times, the center has a filtration system and keeps windows open where appropriate.

Even virtual classes, taught online, are organized so the supplies are provided – people drive to the arts center and pick them up curbside.

For example, an Adult Virtual Pastel Art Workshop is a 90-minute-session with an instructor, offered on January 24 (no experience necessary; supplies are included and can be picked up at the arts center; limited to 8 students).

The arts center is also offering “popup classes” – one day workshops, for example in ceramics (artist Jude Amsel is offering a holiday ceramics workshop); and “create your own” classes, where people make a request and the arts center puts together an instructor.

You can also host a customized holiday art, dance or chess party with family and friends to learn, say, cartooning.

The arts center is also offering private lessons in all disciplines. – 45-60 minute sessions that are virtual, interactive, personalized to your learning style and experience, with the instructor providing feedback (people have signed on from Colorado and Chicago).

All of these programs are prime for gifts and the Arts Center offers the opportunity to give the gift of art or membership. “How great to gift your parents or grandparents with an amazing class or workshop – they may discover some hidden talent or unexplored interest.”

Purchases on Amazon can also support the arts center, which is a beneficiary on the Amazon Smile program (shop, then choose Gold Coast Arts in the Pick a Charitable Organization tab).

The arts center remade the website,  goldcoastarts.org , with user-friendly menu and easy access to all class registrations).

ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900

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

Garden City News • Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram

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

New Hyde Park Herald Courier • Manhasset Times

Roslyn Times • Port Washington Times • Great Neck News

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

2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:

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

2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com

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

Visa and MasterCard Accepted

Are you a professional?

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

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

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

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

SITUATION WANTED

CNA / HHA / COMPANION

AVAILABLE

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

ELDER CARE Experienced woman seeks position to care for the elderly live in or live out. Certified HHA & certified child care. Excellent references. Please call 516-800-6442

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

RECENTLY DIAGNOSED W/ LUNG CANCER or Mesothelioma? Exposed to Asbestos Pre1080 at Work or Navy? You may be entitled to a significant cash award! Smoking history ok! 888912-3150

ADOPTION

ADOPTION

EMPLOYMENT

SITUATION WANTED

MATURE LADY SEEKS employment as CNA. Home health aide, very reliable, hard working, willing to do background checks, 15 yrs nursing home experience. Please call 516-4101892 or 917-244-3714

CAREER TRAINING

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

TRAIN AT HOME TO DO MEDICAL BILLING

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

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

EVENTS

COVID-19 TESTING

AVAILABLE

COVID-19 PCR Nasal Swab and /or ANTIBODY testing Mon, Wed & Fri in Floral Park Doctor’s Office without wait or lines. Scheduled by appointment. 516-488-1414

MARKETPLACE

A.T. STEWART EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT SHOP

516-746-8900

Antiques-Furniture-Jewelry-Silver-Mirrors-LampsArtwork Come to Consign & Stay to Shop Visit.... Our Shop 109 Eleventh St. Garden City Tues-Fri 10-4 (Wed till 6) Saturday 12-4 Our Website tgchs.org Our Online Store stores.myresaleweb.com/ at-stewart-exchange Items to Consign? Email photos (with sizing info) to: store@atstewartexchange.org

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

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!

AUCTIONS

COOL OLD STUFF IN GLEN COVE VINTAGE SHOP. WINNER OF BEST OF NORTH SHORE 2020. GREAT PRICED items for Boat and Home. See ALL online: Wilsonsdrydock.com. For info / appt Please call 516662-2821

WANTED TO BUY

I BUY OLD AMERICAN MOTORCYCLES Up to 1999. Call Dan 516-639-1027

MARKETPLACE

LOOKING TO BUY!

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

TOP CASH PAID: ESTATE CONTENTS ALL OBJECTS OF ART JEWELRY, ETC. Please call 718-598-3045 or 516270-2128

www.antiqueassets.com

CHERYL’S PET SITTING SERVICE

Dependable pet sitter will walk and feed your precious pet while you work or travel. Also available to board small dogs. Many excellent references. Call 516-971-3242

AUTOS WANTED

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

CLASSIFIEDS Call 294.8900

AUTOMOTIVE AUTOS WANTED

DRIVE OUT BREAST CAN-

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

SERVICES

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING

We can frame anything!

Quality Care & Workmanship

Thousands of frames to choose from!!

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

PROFESSIONAL HOME ORGANIZER

Need help decluttering? Organizing?

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

SUNFLOWER FINE ART GALLERIES MIRRORS

PICTURE FRAMING

Paintings

Art/Photo Restoration Printing, Hanging Services Shadowboxes, Smiles 6 A Terminal Road West Hempstead, NY 11552 www.sunflowerfineart.com @SunflowerArtGuy 516-747-7406

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AMBIANCE

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

*Handyman & Remodeling

*Kitchen Installations

*Furniture Assembly

*Finish Carpentry

*Minor Electrical & Plumbing

28 year GC Resident

Lic & Ins H18E2170000

Call BOB 516-741-2154

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

FREE ESTIMATES

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

Insured. Please Call 516-581-9146

LAMPS FIXED $65

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

LEAK REPAIRS

24 Hour Service

Bathrooms, showers, Kitchens Call 516-668-5624

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

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MASONRY

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

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

HEALTH SERVICES

DR. MARLENE LEVY PhD, LCSW, DAAPM and Outdoor CLINICAL HYPNOSIS & PSYCHOTERAPY. Call: 516-944-3885

IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY

Location: 1400 Old Northern Blvd. 2nd Floor, Roslyn NY 11576. Total approximately 700 sq feet. Two large interior offices, one about 250 sq feet and the second approximately 450 sq feet. Offered for rent at $1100 (per month). Within a large office suite on the top floor of a beautifully maintained building. Perfect for attorney, financial professional, or as a Long Island satellite office. INCLUDED: Shared kitchen, conference room, elect/ac/heat, common area cleaning and elevator. furnished (optional). Plenty of parking. Contact: Lisa Sicurelli, lsicurelli@ambabstract.com or call 516-626-0900.

SERVICES

HEALTH SERVICES

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager

Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

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

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

MICHELANGELO

PAINTING & WALLPAPER

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

CLEANING

PROFESSIONAL HOME & OFFICE CLEANING

You’re just one call away !! from a clean home or office. Thorough and Professional Cleaning at affordable rates! Call today for Free Estimate Anna: 516-360-8340

SERVICES

A & J MOVING & STORAGE:

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

DISH TV

$59.99 for 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-800-609-9405

Adelphi offers gap year experience

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

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

“ We had a lot of students who were looking for work experience

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

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

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

Louis chose Bayside Brewery

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

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

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

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

fits my résumé perfectly, ” Pham said. She worked with three other students to help the owner of Bayside Brewery explore other avenues for getting products out in the wake of COVID-19, as well as helping launch two new beer products.

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

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

The Garden City PTA wishes a wonderful -- and safe -- holiday break for the families, teachers and staff of our schools. Working together, our decisions help ensur,e the safety of our community and our schools. Please keep in mind the advisories of local, state and federal officials when making plans this season. Our schools depend on us to stay open!

PARP 2020 Continues

This year’s PARP program, “The Reading Connection: The Readers, The Dreamers, and Me,” had an enormously successful December with more to come in January 2021! PARP has finished distribution of 115 signed copies of our One School/ One Book selection, “Dear Dragon” by Josh Funk, to each class/cohort in grades K–5. Teachers read these

Garden City PTA News

books aloud to classes in December, and students will be invited to participate in an extension activity on Flip Grid. We are excited to announce that Josh Funk will be our third featured author visit on January 21, 2021, at 7 pm over Zoom! Parents, keep an eye out for how to register for this exciting event with our One School/One Book author!

Attention GCHS Juniors & Seniors: NYS PTA Youth Humanitarian Award

The NYS PTA is now accepting applications for its Youth Humanitarian Award ~ In Memory of Stanley Marcus. This award is presented to high school junior or senior students who best exemplify the humanitarian principles of Stanley Marcus. Since PTA is a volunteer organization, we believe that it is only fitting that we should

honor such service by our young people through the sponsorship of this award. Information and application can be found: https://nyspta.org/ home/pta-leaders/awards-and-recognitions/youth-humanitarian-award/. Applications are due to the GCHS Guidance/Counseling Center by January 27, 2021.

Mark Your Calendars! Important School & PTA Dates to Remember

• December 24 – January 1: Schools Closed for Holiday Recess

Join the PTA, Support Garden City Schools

The PTA is proud to support all students and provide a connection between home and school. We are pleased to offer quality programming to students and parents

throughout the school year. None of our endeavors would be possible without your continued support. To renew your membership for the 2020-2021 School Year, please visit www.gardencitypta.org and click on the “Membership” tab. Thank you for your active participation in the Garden City PTA!

Let’s Connect @GardenCityPTA

Website: www.gardencitypta.org

To Get Real Time InformationTurn on Notifications

Facebook:  Facebook.com/ GardenCityPTA

Instagram: Instagram.com/ GardenCityPTA

Twitter: Twitter.com/ GardenCityPTA

Join the conversation and invite your friends.

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

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

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

Call for an appointment: (212) 684-3305

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

The Bobby Menges “I’m Not Done Yet” Memorial Blood Drive

Despite a rainy day, a busy time of year, a last-minute change of location and a global pandemic, the seventh “Bobby Menges “I’m Not Done Yet” Memorial Blood Drive at the Roosevelt Field Mall on 12/14 was a big success!  The drive collected 67 pints of blood which will go towards helping over 200 people, including cancer patients, accident victims, and trauma patients.

As usual, many people contribute to the success of the blood drives.  I’m Not Done Yet thanks 7th Street Gourmet who donated a tray of sandwiches; BK Sweeney’s Uptown Grille who donated “A Pint for a Pint” to every donor; the Borrelli girls who put together the goody bags; the Simon Mall company who allowed us to use the former Justice space.

But mostly, we thank our DONORS, who show up and give the gift of life no matter what.

The blood drive is held in memory of Bobby Menges, who died in September 2017 after a 14-year journey with cancer.   Bobby, along with his brother, Jake, had been hosting bi-annual blood drives at their home since 2012.

If you were unable to donate blood, please consider making a donation to the Bobby Menges “I’m Not Done Yet” Foundation www. imnotdoneyetfoundation.org to support adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients as they face isolation and fear during treatment and need help more than ever, especially during COVID-19.

Nancy Morreale, regular blood donor and social worker at the NYU Langone Cancer Center for Kids with Liz Menges

Jessica Brantuk

Regular donor and AYA cancer survivor Marguerite Rix

Garden City Nursery School winter fun

Garden City Nursery School families have been able to grow close during this unique time in our lives.

For its families, GCNS is a constant source of cheer and a reminder of how magical childhood is.  The children are happily masked, playing, singing, laughing, sledding, and sharing special memories together.

The school looks forward to more fun together in 2021.

A visit from Santa brings smiles!

GCNS board members have their final Zoom meeting of 2020. Although virtual, we connect, share laughs, and celebrate.

Snowfall on GCNS grounds creates a Winter Wonderland of fun! The children love sledding down the hill.

All bundled up and ready to play.

Ready for some winter fun! Cocoa and cookies after a day on the slopes!

A cozy pajama day.

IN MEMORIAM

Dr. Vito A. Cardo, Jr.

Dr. Vito A. Cardo Jr., 80, of Garden City and Southold NY, passed away on November 16, 2020.

Dr. Cardo, also lovingly known as “Popa” to his grandchildren and “Doc” and “Dr. C” to so many loved by him, was born on October 15, 1940, to Vito and Clotilda Cardo in Bronx, NY. Dr. Cardo is predeceased by his parents and his brother and best friend, Richard.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Alice of 53 years; his seven children, Alice (Paul), Vito (Regina), Michael (Anabela), Elena (Patrick), Clare (Kevin), Marianne (Jason), and James (Erin); and his eighteen adoring grandchildren: Shannon, Emily, Aidan, Isabel, Lia, Kelly, Michael, Amália, Nazaré, Manuel, Jack, Fiona, Brian, Molly, Sarah, Leo, Catherine, and James.

After graduating from All Hollows High School in the Bronx, Dr. Cardo attended Manhattan College and Georgetown University School of Dentistry. He continued on to embark on a 50-year career as an Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon, teaching oral surgery and general dentistry residents

through three hospital systems; Catholic Medical Center, St. Vincent’s Hospital and Brookdale University Hospital. At the time of his passing, Dr. Cardo was serving as the Chairman for the Department of Dentistry and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery and the Director of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Program. Over the course of his expansive career, Dr. Cardo taught hundreds of residents, so many of whom respected and admired him.

On September 16, 1967, Dr. Cardo married the love of his life, Alice Welch. They lived together, inseparable for 53 years, sharing a love that is seldom seen. They had seven children and at the time of his passing, Dr. Cardo had 18 grandchildren that he loved endlessly. Dr. Cardo was a devoted husband, a loving father, and Popa. There is nothing he loved more than his family and he showed this every day through his gentle and quiet manner.

Dr. Cardo was perhaps the world’s biggest New York Yankees fan, passing down that loyalty and devotion to his children and grandchildren.

He was a true patriot. Dr. Cardo was so

IN MEMORIAM

William L. Mannion

William L. Mannion (“Bill”) of West Chester, PA, formerly of Charlestown, PA, Allendale, NJ and Garden City, NY, passed away of natural causes, surrounded by family, on December 16, 2020.

Bill was born in Brooklyn in 1930, the oldest of five children born to William and Helen Mannion. He grew up in Brooklyn and Mount Vernon, NY and graduated from Brooklyn Prep, Fordham University, and St. John’s University School of Law. Bill spent his whole career in the oil industry, beginning as a night watchman during his college years and rising through

humbled by the dedication of the many servicemen and servicewomen in our Armed Forces who risk their lives every day for our freedom.

A devout Roman Catholic and follower of St. Francis of Assisi, Dr. Cardo was a true example of what it means to serve your community. Dr. Cardo was a CYO basketball coach for over 30 years, coached numerous soccer and baseball teams and served as Commodore of the Southold Yacht Club.

This gentle, loving, caring and wonderful man has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts and will be supremely missed by so many.

The family would like to give a sincere and heartfelt expression of gratitude to the brave physicians, nurses and staff at Winthrop University Hospital who worked incessantly to heal and ultimately comfort our beloved husband, father and Popa.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial gifts be made to the Franciscan Bread for the Poor: https://give.stfrancisbreadline.org/page/1123/donate/1?ea. tracking.id=website

the ranks to become CEO of Pittston Petroleum. As CEO he was instrumental in the sale of the company to American Ultramar Ltd., and became Senior VP and Operations Manager of Ultramar Petroleum before retiring in his mid-fifties. Bill also enjoyed serving as a trustee of The Hudson River Trust, a former Equitable subsidiary, for many years.

Bill is survived by his children Alice Lovely (Tom), William L. Mannion (Stephanie), James F. Mannion (Helen) and Monica Cowan (John), his fourteen grandchildren, and his brothers Peter Mannion (Bonnie) and Paul Mannion (Winnie). He was predeceased by his

wife Joan and his sisters Joan Mannion and Elsie Kastor.

Bill had many interests and hobbies, including boating, tennis, skiing, and fly fishing, and enjoyed opera and reading about history. He had a thirst for knowledge and loved technology. He will be remembered for his upbeat and generous personality, his ready smile, the great stories from his childhood, and the many games he made up for his children and grandchildren.

Due to Covid-19, services will be private. Donations in Bill’s memory may be made to The Lord’s Pantry, 141 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, PA 19335.

Dr. Vito A. Cardo, Jr.

William L. Mannion

IN MEMORIAM

Robert Dean Kaliban

Robert Dean (“Bob”) Kaliban, age 87, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2020 at his home in Healdsburg California, of complications from kidney cancer. His improbable life’s journey began when he was born in the tiny rural town of Prairieburg, Iowa (population 163) on November 6, 1933. From there he moved to the bustling metropolis of Lisbon, Iowa (population 800) where, as he liked to say, he graduated just outside of the top ten in his high school class (of 16 students). Bob then attended Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa where he encountered two of the loves of his life, acting and more importantly, the woman who would become his beloved wife of 58 years, Pat “Pepper” Spaight. Bob, who until attending Loras College, had hoped to follow in his brother Don’s footsteps and find stardom on the baseball diamond, was bitten by the acting bug after taking to the stage in college; he soon turned his dreams from baseball to Broadway and television.

After starring in roles for 4 years at Loras as a big fish in a little pond, Bob shot for the moon upon graduating from college. He auditioned for a coveted opportunity “across the pond” in London to attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (“RADA”). With nothing to his name but a train ticket and big dreams, Bob travelled to New York City where he auditioned for members of the RADA faculty. As would become a pattern throughout his life, he won them over with his exceptional talents and Iowa farm boy charm and was awarded a scholarship to attend RADA. It was at RADA that Bob would hone his considerable talents (one of his proudest moments was playing the title role in “Hamlet” for the Queen Mum in London) which would propel him to an unparalleled career on Broadway, television and radio.

Following his graduation from RADA, Bob returned to the United States where he promptly married his true love (Pat Kaliban). But before they could embark on their lives together, Uncle Sam had an alternate plan which resulted in Bob joining the Army. The Army quickly realized that Bob was better suited to a microphone than a gun, so he was assigned to an Army Troop composed of talented entertainers, many of whom became life-long friends and went on to successful entertainment careers of their own. While in the Army, Bob and his Troop would travel across the country, singing and performing comedy routines for the soldiers. He somehow managed to stay out of trouble despite his irreverent impersonations of the commanding officers at the various bases they visited. Bob spent two years in the Army, while Pat held down the fort in Chicago as an elementary school teacher. Following the birth of their first son Kal, Bob was honorably discharged from the Army and the dynamic duo of Bob and Pat immediately set out to launch Bob’s professional acting career.

While there were certainly lean years, Bob was quick to find a measure

IN MEMORIAM

Patrick Manley

In loving memory of Patrick Manley whose life was lost way too soon at age 49 two years ago this month.

His wife Barbara lost the love of her life. His children Jillian & Ryan lost their Dad in their teenage years when they needed him the most. His parents Bob & Kay lost their son. His brother Michael lost his best friend. His in-laws Mary Ellen & Bobby lost their son-in-law. The children of his school district lost all the knowledge he could have provided for them.

We will all miss you forever. You are in the hands of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We will never stop missing you. May you rest in peace.

of success as he landed a role in the traveling production of “Redhead”, directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse. After about a year on the road, Bob and Pat ended up in New York, the place the two would call home for the next 57 years. Soon afterward, Bob and Pat welcomed their beautiful daughter, Kathleen, and with a family of four, Bob continued to hustle to make ends meet. It was during these years that Bob was cast on Broadway in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” where his talents as a singer and dancer garnered him the role of understudy for the show’s lead. While he would go on to perform in other Broadway shows, around the time of the birth of their third child, Tim, Bob turned his sites from the Great White Way to pursue a career in TV and radio. It was there that his inimitable talents truly shined.

Bob’s first commercial successes were “on camera” spots where he famously played characters such as the “Ty-D-Bowl Man”, “Cookie Man” of Chips Ahoy fame and Ronald McDonald. However, it was through his amazingly versatile vocal abilities and seemingly infinite accents and character voices where Bob left his indelible mark on the business. His work in voiceovers is truly legendary. During his heyday, one of his character or announcer voices could be heard during almost every commercial break as he voiced everything from straight announcers to the “plain M&M”. During the span of his over 60 year-long acting career, Bob performed in over 15,000 TV and radio commercials, animated and live children’s programming, TV shows, movies, radio dramas and more. In addition to his work as an actor, Bob worked on behalf of his fellow actors and dedicated countless hours of his time serving on the Screen Actors Guild Board for 20 years, serving two terms as the Local SAG President for the New York Branch, and for over 40 years on Board of Trustees for the SAG Pension and Health Plan.

Despite his tremendous success on stage and screen, unquestionably Bob’s most cherished role was that of loving husband, devoted father and beloved

“Grumpy” to his nine grandchildren. Bob and Pat raised their family in the Village of Garden City, New York, a community Bob loved and in which he was greatly involved. Bob was deeply loved by a multitude of friends in Garden City and was recently honored by the Garden City Historical Society for his many contributions to the community. For decades, Bob served as a lector at St. Joseph’s church in Garden City and later at Our Lady of Lourdes in Massapequa. He could frequently be found at the Cherry Valley Club in Garden City, working on his golf game, torching rivals with his blistering forehand on the paddle court, or entertaining as Master of Ceremonies for charity events.

Bob also spent many summers at his second home and family gathering place at the shore in Point Lookout, New York where he would revel in the opportunity to spend time with his grandkids. Bob loved to travel and enjoyed the time he shared with his family in places such as Colorado, Wyoming, Bermuda, Jamaica, the Virgin Islands, the Cotswolds, Kenya … the list goes on. Bob loved to eat good food, but most of all, an Iowa boy at heart, he loved popcorn or corn of any kind. He was a story teller; a collector and trader of jokes. He truly lived to entertain everyone he encountered. In short, Bob was a lover of life.

After the passing of his wife Pat, Bob followed his two oldest children west to California where he enjoyed soaking up the California sunshine and the chance to have more frequent visits with his family. Bob spent the last months of his life living with his adoring daughter. Bob is survived by son Kal and daughter-in-law Dawn, daughter Kathy and son-in-law Chris Nolan, son Tim and daughter-in-law Angie and nine loving grandchildren: Jess, Brody, Riley, Nathan, Marley, Colby, Ryan, Milo and Camron.

A memorial to celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of Bob Kaliban will be held in New York when we can safely gather to share stories and memories of the man that we all loved and admired so much.

Have you lost someone?

If you would like to post an obituary for a loved one, simply send a short biography of them with (if desired) their photo, details of their funeral/visitation services, and/or any donation requests to editor@gcnews.com, or call our office at 516-294-8900 to inquire.

Bob Kaliban

Patrick Manley

Marie T. Gillespie

On December 21, 2020, Marie T. Gillespie of Garden City passed away at the age of 95.  Marie is predeceased by her husband of 47 years, Edward, and her brother Eugene Turro. She is

the beloved aunt of John Turro and Walt Sapronov,  their wives Maria and Susan, and grandnephews Alexander and Andrew and grandnieces Sophia and Anna. She was an integral part of their family and will be greatly missed.

Marie Gillespie had a long and full life. She graduated from Hunter College and New York University Law School in 1948, third in her law class and the only woman graduate that year. She had a very successful corporate law career in Manhattan before marrying and moving to Garden City.  She had many friends in Garden City and throughout the country who greatly enjoyed her company. Marie and her husband Edward traveled the world over the decades, but always returning with great pleasure to their home and friends in Garden City.  She was a long-standing member of the Cathedral of the Incarnation. Marie died peacefully at her home in Palm Beach, Florida. Please contact Fairchild and Sons Funeral Home in Garden City for information regarding funeral arrangements.

We are both honored and humbled to be voted BEST FUNERAL HOME 2019 by our families, neighbors and friends that voted for us. We promise to always strive for excellence in caring for the families we serve. We are grateful for the sacred trust you have placed in us.

Victor LoGiudice, Managing Partner

James E. Lewis

Marie T. Gillespie

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

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

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

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

Tweens and Teens

Dungeons and Dragons

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

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

Tweens and Teens Free Little Library

The Tweens and Teens Department’s Free Little Library, which launched in December 2019, is still available in the Tweens and Teens Room. Books are free for patrons to take home. The Free Little Library will be available  as long as books last. The Tweens and Teens Department will add new books to the Tweens and Teens Free Little Library as needed and as supplies last. Books target readers in Grades 6–12 and were

published within the last two years. Books have been donated by Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta, who received the books through her work on the American Library Association's Best Fiction for Young Adults 2020 and 2021 Committees. For questions, please contact Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta via email at https://www.gardencitypl.org/young-adult-department/ contact-the-young-adult-tweens-teensdepartment/.

Social Media Challenges for December

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

• Art: Draw or paint a picture of a snowy day

• Writing: Write a festive story or poem about the holidays

• Food: Make holiday cookies

• Question of the Month: What is your dream gift and why?

• Reading: Read a dystopian fiction book

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

Submit for the Art, Writing, Food, and Question of the Month Challenges here: https://www.gardencitypl.org/ social-media-submission/ . Submit a 300-word book review for what you read for the Reading Challenge here:  https://www.gardencitypl.org/ submit-a-teen-review/ .

Gingerbread in a Bag with Chris Buchman

Learn the science behind gingerbread with science teacher Chris Buchman during the month of December. Gather up your supplies and do some science activities related to gingerbread in this prerecorded video!

This program is for children, tweens and teens from Grades K–12, but can be viewed by all ages and is a joint program between the Children’s and Young Adult Departments. The video premiered December 4 on our website at https://www.gardencitypl.org  and will be available from the premiere date for 30 days. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Cookies and Cream Cupcakes with the Baking Coach

Learn how to make Cookies and Cream Cupcakes with the Baking Coach during the month of December. Gather

up your cooking supplies and learn from the Baking Coach how to make some delicious cupcakes in this prerecorded video!

This program is for children, tweens and teens from Grades K–12, but can be viewed by all ages and is a joint program between the Children’s and Young Adult Departments. The video and recipe premiered beginning December1 on our website at https://www.gardencitypl.org  and will be available from the premiere date until December 30. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Snowman Mason Jars with Theresa Maritato

Learn how to make Snowman Mason Jars with Theresa Maritato during the month of December. Gather up your craft supplies and learn from Theresa Maritato how to make these bee-themed cupcakes in this prerecorded video!

This program is for children, tweens and teens from Grades K–12, but can be viewed by all ages and is a joint program between the Children’s and Young Adult Departments. The video and recipe premiered beginning December 1 on our website at https://www.gardencitypl.org  and will be available from the premiere date until December 30. This program has been funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Volunteer Teen Reviewers Needed

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

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

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

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

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

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!

the review to count toward community service.

Teen-Created Social Media Content

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

Follow Tweens and Teens on Facebook and Instagram

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

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

Instagram:  www.instagram.com/ GCPLTweensTeens

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

Teen Advisory Board Applications Now Available Online

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

News From the Children’s Room

December Holidays

The Librarians and the staff of the Garden City Public Library Children’s Room want to take this opportunity to wish our patrons a very Merry Christmas!   The usual Christmas traditions may be different this year, but whatever has happened this year cannot take away our love of the holiday season.  Although we may celebrate on a smaller scale without extended family, the true meaning of Christmas may just mean a little more this year.  Christmas books in the Children’s Room include:  “The Carpenter’s Gift: A Christmas Tale about the Rockefeller Center Tree” by David Rubel, “Redbird at Rockefeller Center” by Peter Maloney and Felicia Zekauskas, “Countdown to Christmas” by Dr. Mary Manz Simon, “Santa’s Story” by Will Hillenbrand, “Let’s Bake Christmas Treats! ”   by Ruth Owen, and  “Miracle on 34th Street : A Storybook Edition of the Christmas Classic” by Valentine Davies.

On December 26, the day after Christmas,  the African-American holiday of  Kwanzaa begins and continues through January 1.  Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of AfricanAmerican culture and marks the end of one year and the beginning of another.  We have books on this holiday in the children’s room including:  “Li’l Rabbit’s Kwanzaa ” by Donna L. Washington,  “My Family Celebrates Kwanzaa” by Lisa Bullard, “My First Kwanzaa” by Karen Katz, “Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story” by Angela Shelf Medearis, and“ Celebrate Kwanzaa” by Carolyn Otto.

On Thursday, December 31, we say goodbye to 2020!  It’s been a long, strange year and most people are probably anxious to see 2020 end and have high hopes for 2021!  We have books on New Years in the Children’s Room including:  “Feliz New Year, Ava Gabriela!” by Alexandria Alessandri, “Calendar Mysteries: New Year’s Eve Thieves ” by Ron Roy, “Who Stole New Year’s Eve” by Martha Freeman, “Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution ” by Pat Miller, “Just in Time for New Year’s! A Harry & Emily Adventure” by  Karen Gray Ruelle, and “Happy New Year, Everywhere ” by Arlene Erlbach. Happy 2021 from the Children’s Room!

January 2021 programming information will be available shortly. Check  the website www.gardencitypl. org for more information.

Virtual Programming -

Live on Zoom and Recorded

The Children’s Room is offer -

ing virtual programming on Zoom as well as recorded programming. Registration online on Eventkeeper is required at www.gardencitypl.org.

Recorded Programs

Patrons will have the opportunity to view the premiere program at the time of its debut on the website www. gardencitypl.org  and will also have multiple viewing opportunities of the program in the Virtual Library for at least 30 days after the initial program.   Please check the website for details.  Below is a list of recorded programs with premiere dates: A TIME FOR KIDS

(No registration required)

Nov 4 -  Baby Start (0–17 Months) BAKING COACH: All Grades

(No registration required)

Dec. 1 - Cookies and Cream Cupcakes ARTS AND CRAFTS WITH THERESA MARITATO Grades K-8

(No registration required)

Dec. 1  Snowman Mason Jars

PLAY HOORAY

(Ages 2½–5 and Caregiver)

(No registration required)

Nov. 23 - Tape 2: Transportation FUN SCIENCE WITH CHRIS BUCHMAN (Grades K–8)

(No registration required)

Nov. 6 - Tie Dye

Dec. 4 - Gingerbread/ Bread in a Bag Library Hours and Services

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

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

Library renovation plans moving forward

SUBMITTED BY THE GARDEN CITY LIBRARY ADMINISTRATION

The Garden City Public Library is embarking upon the renovation project to update the Children’s Department. Planning for the renovation dates back over seven years. The renovation will include spaces oriented towards children’s learning programs - a Reading Room for story programs and a Workshop for STEAM activities (Science Technology Engineering Art Math).  The project will also incorporate a remodeled entrance area and front Circulation desk. The Board Room in Administration will be transformed into the office for the Children’s Department.  The Library Administration and Library Board are striving to make these changes with minimal impact to the community, working with the Village and H2M Architects and Engineers to transition into construction while minimizing impact to Library users.

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

ect including architects Erik Heuler and Rabab Zia.

The renovation project impacts the footprints and operations of three Library departments, Children’s Services, Circulation and Administration, as well as computers and networks managed by the Computer Support Department.  The Library team consists of Barbara Grace, Head of the Children’s Department, Joe Agolia, Head of Computer Support, Jeanette Nicoletti, Head of Circulation, and Margaret Zulkofske, Senior TypistClerk coordinating Administration’s roles, who have met and continue to meet with the Director every week to coordinate the relocation of their departments and services during construction.

Early in 2021, the Children’s Department will be relocated to the Large Meeting Room on the lower level of the Library, with some materials located in storage on site. Staff have already begun to move some materials and create a floor plan for the new space.  No programs have been displaced. The Library will continue to provide virtual programs. On site programs have been suspended indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The temporary Children’s room will have Librarians and other staff on hand to assist with materials and other information needs.  The Circulation Department is also planning to move their work to another location in the Library. This will be for a shorter period of time and plans will be announced.  The schedule as well will be made clearer as the project progresses.

The Library Administration will aim to keep the Library patrons and the community updated on progress and any changes in Library services during construction.  Please check the Library's website at www.gardencitypl. org or call the Library at 516-742-8405 for more information.

Join Chef Rob for a Virtual Cooking Workshop

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

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

Speaking of Books: Fiction to Look For ward to in 2021

It’s time to look ahead to a new year full of new books  to read in 2021. Find your library card and get ready to reserve your print or rbook copy of these forthcoming books by popular authors, whose earlier novels you may have already read. All of these fiction titles are being released in the first four months of 2021, but can be requested now. Early reviews by readers of advance copies suggest that these books are engaging, thought-provoking, and a good read for a cozy evening at home.

“The Push” by Ashley Audrain (January 5, 2021)

“What Could Be Saved” by Liese O’Halloran Schwarz (January 12, 2021)

“The Children’s Blizzard” by Melanie Benjamin (January12, 2021)

“The Four Winds” by Kristin Hannah (February 2, 2021)

“The Paris Library” by Janet Skeslien (February 9, 2021)

“Sparks Like Stars” by Nadia Hashimi (March 2, 2021)

“The Rose Code” by Kate Quinn (March 9, 2021)

“How Beautiful We Were” by Imbolo Mbue (March 9, 2021)

“Eternal” by Lisa Scottoline (March 23, 2021)

“When the Stars Go Dark” by Paula McLain (April 13, 2021)

Weekly Staff Picks

Each week the Adult Reference Librarians recommend fiction and nonfiction by popular authors, some were recently published, others may be good reads that you might have missed. To request adult print books, send an email to https://www.gardencitypl. org/speaking-of-books/ or complete the form on the website. You can also reserve books directly in the online catalog at http://encore.alisweb.org/. Most  books recommended are available as ebooks. eBooks may be requested through the Nassau Digital Doorway at  http://nassau.overdrive.com for download on the Libby app or overdrive.com.

Next Week’s New Releases THRILLER AND HISTORICAL FICTION

“The Wrong Family” by Tarryn

Fisher (To be released on December 29, 2020) From the author of “The Wives” comes another psychological thriller riddled with twists. Juno Holland, the protagonist of this gripping psychological thriller was once a successful psychologist, until she began to get too involved in her patients’ lives, leading to her losing her practice and her home. Now, at 67, she sleeps on a bench in a Seattle park, where she meets and befriends 12-year-old Sam Crouch. One day, Juno can’t resist sneaking into Sam’s house, which his parents, Winnie and Nigel, are renovating, while the workers are out. When the workers return, she hides in a closet, where she discovers a trap door that leads to a large crawl space. She makes the crawl space her new home, where, undetected, she can overhear Winnie and Nigel quarreling. Eventually, Juno uncovers a  lifetime of deadly secrets under one roof.

“The Mystery of Mrs. Christie by Marie Benedict (To be released on December 29, 2020) The bestselling author of “The Only Woman in the Room” and many other popular historical fiction titles returns with a fascinating reconstruction of one of the most notorious events in literary history: Agatha Christie’s mysterious 11-day disappearance in 1926.  In December of 1926, Agatha Christie went missing. Investigators found her empty car on the edge of a deep, gloomy pond. Her World War I veteran husband and her daughter have no knowledge of her whereabouts, and England unleashed an unprecedented manhunt to find the mystery author. Eleven days later, she reappeared, just as mysteriously as she disappeared, claiming amnesia and providing no explanation for her time away. With her trademark historical fiction writing, Marie Benedict brings the reader into the world of Agatha Christie, imagining why such a brilliant woman would find herself at the center of such a murky mystery. Agatha Christie novels have withstood the test of time, due to Christie’s masterful storytelling and clever mind, but Agatha Christie’s untold history offers perhaps her greatest mystery of all.

Join Chef Rob for a Virtual Cooking Workshop

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

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

Blood drive to be held at GC Library

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

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic and CDC guidelines, appointments are strongly preferred, walk-ins are welcomed only if capacity permits. To schedule an appointment, please visit the Garden City Public Library website at www.gardencitypl.org . You can also call 1-800-688-0900 to sched-

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

Girl Scout Troop 1437 announces 2028 election platform

Front row: Naya Lele, Riya Motwani, Alice Oustacher, Eloise Stimmler, Emily Dombrowski.Back Row: Patrick Corrigan, Angelina Trimarchi, Gulia Fabrizi, Riley Steer, Sofia Klocek, Viviana Cervini, Anna Padala, Gracie Corrigan, Councilman Muscarella.

Girl Scout Troop 1437 won’t be old enough to run for public office until the 2028 election cycle, but that didn’t stop them from designing their party’s platform on a brisk fall morning in Garden City. Early polling (of the parents who were shivering on the back benches) predict a landslide victory. It is a bi-partisan platform that could reshape the political landscape for years to come and each girl contributed.

As part of their requirements to earn the Inside Government badge, the girls developed a platform that covered a broad array of public concerns such as: the environment (no loud cars, more bike paths, plant two trees for every tree that is cut down, more dog parks and no littering); fiscal matters (more money for schools, taxes on social media, raising the minimum wage and more money for sports); health care (better mental health program at schools); patriotism (incentives for more American flags on lawns) and technology (investments in research to create a flying car).

As with all wise politicians, they didn’t come up with these ideas in a vacuum – instead they consulted a member of a long-standing and respected political family in the region: Town of Hempstead Councilor Tom Muscarella. Each Girl Scout questioned Councilman Muscarella and based on the quality of the questions, we may have some future journalists in this group.

Councilman Muscarella started by giving the girls a history of his family’s involvement in public service (his father was a Town Councilman and he has brothers serving in the Town of Oyster Bay government and Nassau County legislature) and then got right to the interview. The questions and answers are below:

• What would you change in

our Town? Make the community safer. More stop signs for example.

• How does your job change over the years? Lots more legality to it and specialization. For example, solar panels, the type of material used for roads, etc. Also, Coronavirus has created a big emphasis on keeping people safe while at the same time honoring “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

• Where did you go to college and what degree did you get? I originally wanted to be a lawyer and perhaps someday a judge but ended up going to Ithaca and St. John’s and received an undergraduate degree in business. [Councilman Muscarella did point out to the Girl Scouts that you don’t need a law degree to become a judge.]

• Example of a big decision you made to make people’s lives better? One example was whether or not the Town should accept a donation for Kellenberg Fields, in the Town of Hempstead. The decision was ultimately yes and this will improve the lives for many young people at the school for years to come.

• Example of how you have handled regulations? One challenge was to slow down traffic around the high school in East Meadow. The Council debated between a stop sign, speed bump or other approaches and we ultimately decided to put up a flashing light and a sign reminding drivers of the allowed speed. Like many situations, the key was to listen to all viewpoints and ultimately make a decision that strikes the right balance while factoring in the pros and cons of the different alternatives.

• How often do you meet with the Garden City Mayor? I don’t usually meet with the Garden City Mayor given the view that local government is most capable of handling local issues

{Congress – Are you listening?}. Former President Ronald Reagan is an example of a leader that believed in this philosophy. Village government should handle most local issues (e.g., schools), the Town should handle town issues (e.g., town roads & parks) and so on up the government chain (county, state & federal).

• What inspired you to run for office? Local public service has been a Muscarella tradition for over half a century. I was one of seven children by former Hempstead Town Councilman Joseph P. Muscarella and former Hempstead Commissioner for Senior Enrichment Cecelia Nizza. When my brother Paul sadly passed away, I was inspired to follow in my father’s footsteps and serve the people of the Town of Hempstead as Councilman. At my swearing in ceremony, I used the same bible from 1972 that my father had used at his ceremony.

• What is an important project that you have been working on for the community? One important project is the stadium and future home of the Islanders on the land adjacent to Belmont Racetrack. While the property is owned by the state, local leaders are very involved to make sure things are done in the right way in order to best serve the community. We are working hard to ensure that this project is done properly and the Town’s interests are represented.

• Do you ever not agree with someone else’s idea? Yes – I have had plenty of disputes with people but I believe you can disagree and still get along. Disagreements are the key to successful governing. Similar to the business world, where if you can’t discuss and resolve disagreements, you will soon go out of business.

• What are the biggest challenges as a community? Maintaining zoning so that we don’t have very large buildings going up in the Town (for example, along the railroad) is important.   We have been working hard with other community leaders to ensure zoning rules are maintained and the character of our Village is respected.

• What’s your favorite ice cream? In general, mixing chocolate and vanilla together but to pick one favorite flavor, it would be Rocky Road.

• What is your favorite color? Blue

• How many people work in the town of Hempstead? At the leadership level, there are six council members which each have 2-3 people working for them and a Supervisor with roughly 20 people supporting the work of that office. Overall, there are over a thousand employees of the Town who do the important work such as picking up garbage and maintaining parks.

• What sports do you like? I’ve always liked baseball since my days playing little league but ended up joining the crew team with my twin brother when we got older and also enjoy tennis and golf since these are sports you can play with family and friends as you get older.

• What is your favorite part of the job? The people. You really need to like people to enjoy this job. I love seeing people around the town and listening to them and helping to make the town better in order serve their needs.

The girls were very thankful to Councilman Muscarella for his time, wisdom and oh yeah – he brought donuts! Politicians better keep on their toes and watch out for these girls in 2028!

Councilman Muscarella being interviewed by Girl Scout Troop 1437.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Name: Gretel & Momo’s Toys LLC

Articles of organization were filled with the secretary of state of New York(SSNY) on 09/14/2020., office location:Nassau County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him or her to the company: c/o United States Corporation Agents, INC. 7014 13th Ave, Ste 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Principal business address 630 Old Country Rd., Garden City, NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful acts.

GC 1140

6X 11/20,27,12/04,11,18,25

NOTICE OF FORMATION

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

GC 1141

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

NOTICE OF FORMATION

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

GC 1142

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

NOTICE OF FORMATION

Notice of Formation of BRAND CONCEPTS INTERNATIONAL

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

GC 1144

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

NOTICE OF FORMATION

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

GC 1150

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

College Notes

Alexandra Bubniak earned Dean’s List honors for the spring 2020 semester at Roger Williams University. Full time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a grade point average of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester.

n

Andrea Rouse of Garden City (11530) was one of more than 1,300 students who received degrees as spring graduates of the New York Institute of Technology Class of 2020. Rouse graduated with a BS in Nursing.

n

Colgate University has announced the names of Garden City students who have received the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence:

John Cooke, an Economics major and a graduate of Chaminade High School

Julianne Durnan, an undeclared major and graduate of Sacred Heart Academy

Emily Ball, a Classical Studies major and a graduate of The Hotchkiss School

Students who receive a term grade point average of 3.3 or higher while completing at least three courses earn the spring 2020 Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence.

n

Local students were named to the Spring 2020 Dean’s List at New York Institute of Technology. To qualify for this academic honor, a student must earn a GPA of at least 3.5 and complete 12 or more credit hours without any incomplete grades. Garden City students named include:

Steven Correa, Matthew DiCairano and Paul Mcdonald

n

Boston University awarded academic degrees to 2,003 students in September 2020. Among the graduates was Adam W. Hartog, who received

a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Business Administration and Management.

n

Olivia DeCurtis, of Garden City, graduated with the Class of 2020 during a virtual Commencement Ceremony this summer at Stonehill College.

n About 2,000 Hofstra University students earned their undergraduate, graduate, or law degrees this spring and summer. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual commencement ceremonies were held on August 23, 2020.

The following Garden City residents were among the graduates:

Jean Beau earned a Master of Business Administration in Marketing.

Bridget Byrne earned a Bachelor of Arts in Television Production & Studies.

Qi Di earned a Master of Business Administration in Marketing.

Danielle Franz earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.

Staci Hill earned a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling.

Vincent Keele earned a Master of Business Administration in Executive Business Administration.

Mahtaab Marandi earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

Troy Sorensen earned a Bachelor of Arts in Drama.

Alexander Tateosian earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting.

Lauren Tepper earned a Bachelor of Arts in Film Studies & Production.

Samantha Tiger earned a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in English Education.

James Wolfe earned a Master of Arts in Industrial/ Organizational Psychology.

Wai Yu earned a Master of

Science in Accounting.

n Seton Hall University is pleased to announce Colleen Sullivan of Garden City, has qualified for the Spring 2020 Dean’s List.

After the close of every semester, undergraduate students completing all courses with a GPA of 3.4, with no grades lower than “C”, qualify for the Dean’s List.

n The following local residents recently matriculated as first-year students at Hamilton College:

Christian Byrne is a graduate of Garden City Senior High School.

Julia Fornasar is a graduate of Garden City Senior High School.

They were selected from a pool of 7,443 applicants to the college, and join a class of 470.

n Haley Alagna, of Garden City, NY, is one of 70 SUNY Oneonta students to receive a Richard Siegfried Student Award this semester for earning a total GPA of 3.9 or higher.

Alagna studies Business Economics at SUNY Oneonta.

In order to be eligible to receive the Richard Siegfried Student Award, a student must be a full-time freshman or transfer student with a total GPA of 3.9 or higher.

n James Dicairano of Garden City was one of more than 60 college students who completed New York Institute of Technology’s rigorous Internship Certificate Program during fall 2020, earning valuable hands-on experience and developing skills in a wide range of work environments.

Dicairano interned at Morgan Applied Behavior Analysis, LLC. with the position of Behavior Therapist Intern.

With warm wishes for a happy holiday season, along with heartfelt thanks for your friendship and goodwill.

From the staff at Litmor Publications

Pandemic has cost village $600K in surprise expenses

From page 1

through October 2020.

The

Back at the Board’s meeting on June 4 the Village Board approved the $48,000 purchase of 150,000 3-Ply Masks from Morristown, New Jersey-based vendor Global Geeks, Inc. and these masks are being used at village offices, department locations and facilities including for Garden City Public Library, and the masks are worn by any visitors who are not already wearing a mask upon arrival.

Deputy Mayor Robert Bolebruch, designated Commissioner of Finance on the Board of Trustees, noted that through the federal CARES Act, Garden City is due to receive reimbursement for COVID-19 related expenses. Woo noted that the Village was approved for a $221,000 grant and Village Finance submitted an application for reimbursement of roughly $150,000 so far to the Town of Hempstead. “We expect to receive it shortly though the $175,000 only consists of Covid-19 related village expenses through October. The amount that we receive from the Town of Hempstead includes municipal expenses through November as well,” she said.

Storm expenses

Another cause of major village expenditures this year was Tropical Storm Isaias, which hit the region on August 4th and 5th. Village Treasurer Woo said this storm has caused about $750,000 of costs for Garden City through October 30. According to Woo, the total costs associated with this storm would be between $1.1 and $1.2 million.

At the December 10 Board meeting, the trustees approved additional funds from village surplus -- a total of $795,000 -- including a line item of $300,000 to the Recreation and Parks Department, to pay for contractual services for expenses related to Tropical Storm Isaias plus an allocation of $250,000 to the Village’s Contingency fund “to replenish funds that may be needed for the rest of the fiscal year” through May 31, 2021.

Garden City has begun working with representatives from FEMA to submit expenses for federal reimbursement -at a 75% rate -- though a process had not been established, just the guidelines set by early December.

“FEMA has notified the village that it will not be reimbursing for the replacement of trees -- they will only be reimbursing the village for costs associated with removing any existing trees that fell or were split, with limbs dangling, or for costs of sidewalks damaged as a result of the storm impacts and trees being uprooted. While they will not reimburse for lost trees, FEMA is reimbursing costs to cover what secures the safety and health of local residents,” Woo told the Board.

“The appropriation from Surplus is to help offset additional costs not

included in these numbers, costs that we are seeing through November and December to help cover some of those expenses as a result of the storm. We’re continuing to see debris removal which is needed, especially now during the leaf season, and additional tree removals happening throughout the village,” Woo explained.

Retainer for possible MTA litigation

The rest of that $795,000 allocation from Surplus is $100,000 for the retainer agreement with Berkman Henoch Peterson Peddy & Fenchel, P.C., the Garden City-based firm representing the village as it pursues litigation against the MTA/LIRR over the monster 93-foot-tall poles along the tracks in residential areas.Also at its December 10 meeting, the Village Board authorized further engagement with Pratt Brothers Inc. of Bay Shore, at a cost of $145,000 for its continuation of emergency removal of debris from Tropical Storm Isaias at the Public Works Municipal Yard Mulch Field.

Exempt from competitive bidding

Another cost the Village has had to endure is continuing to address removal of 1,4 dioxane, an emerging contaminant in the village’s drinking water, through the use of AOP (Advanced Oxidation Process) systems. On December 10, the Board declared an emergency related to the treatment of emerging contaminants and a resolution was adopted “exempting from competitive bidding requirements all contracts for ‘permanent’ AOP treatment systems, in addition to the existing exemption for ‘interim’ systems and broadening the categories of such exempt contracts.

Along with this the trustees approved a 2020-’21 Capital Budget expense was also approved by the Board December 10, allocations to cover services from consultants H2M Architects & Engineers for professional engineering services -- $264,800 for permanent construction at Clinton Road (Well Nos. 10 and 11) and with $128,800 approved for the permanent construction at Village Well. No. 7.

One of two major costs allocated at the meeting was for the permanent emerging contaminant removal system -- to Melville-based Philip Ross Industries, Inc., were for $3,468,500 construction at the Clinton Road Plant (Village Wells No. 10 and 11). In addition the Board approved the same contractor to receive $1,300,000, for the interim emerging contaminant removal at Country Club Plant (Village Wells No. 13 and 14).

Also in the consent calendar this month, the Board approved a change order in the amount of $20,223, for roll-up door modifications needed on the enclosures at the Water-Shed UV Reactor and Control Stations at seven village well sites housing the AOP systems. The well

sites and costs for enclosures are $5,778 for Wells No. 8 and 12, $5,778 for Wells No. 10 and 11 and $5,778 for Wells No. 13 and 14 plus $2,889 for Village Well. No. 7. The equipment included in these costs allocated by the board will cover generators, transfer switches, materials for the permanent building structure and operational pieces.

Still in the black

Deputy Mayor Bolebruch summarized the village’s financial situation, noting the Tropical Storm Isaias (perhaps $1.2 million) and Covid-19 impacts ($600,000 in lost revenues plus expenses of $175,000 to $250,000) and said this would be around $2.4 million -- not including the shortfalls from the village enterprise funds in the pool and tennis bubble.

“I know a lot of residents have been asking, especially with the pandemic, how Garden City is sitting financially. We are still sitting in the black in this current fiscal year to about $800,000, village-wide,” he said.

Next budget hard to predict

Trustee Stephen Makrinos said on December 10 that he’s concerned with the departmental budgets for next year, which will be developed during February and March budget work sessions. He worries that the pandemic’s impacts will extend further and limit revenues in 2021 similar to what has been seen in 2020. He suggested to

Treasurer Woo and his fellow board members the potential of looking at budget formulas with Covid-19 impacts. Woo noted that these are great questions and especially important considering the revenues’ side for Garden City, since the $600,000 and more lost was a major impact throughout the year.

Woo says for example for the Garden City Pool enterprise fund, since external factors such as state health regulations coming into play, there could be trouble forecasting the pool’s revenues. She wondered aloud if the budget presentations for fiscal year 2021-’22 should project another delayed opening with reduced capacities. According to Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Paul Blake, advice to municipalities and pool operators will probably not be know until very late spring, near the start of the pool season.

“Those are discussions we’ll need to have as we get closer to the actual budget presentations and understand what the guidelines are as that is mostly out of the village’s controls for opening any facilities, recreational or swimming facilities. It is too soon to tell right now but the budget process is becoming much more complicated due to this. We do have the history of this (2020) year to draw on, and that experience will only inform us in making decisions going forward. This remains something critical on our minds as we begin budgeting for 2021-’22,” Woo said.

Sign Up

Uncertainty over proposed gas line route through Garden City

Suozzi and the Department of Public Works met with National Grid over the last 18 to 22 months and discussed the potential path of this line. We’ve asked them to move it and one suggestion was making this come through County Seat Drive in Mineola south of Old Country Road -- directly west of the County Supreme Court building. We also suggested use of Village Parking Field 9E and the use of the LIRR rightof-way. When they initially evaluated it, there were alternative ways for them to go to come down to Stewart Avenue brought up.”

One route that Delaney doesn’t want is the direct route south from Old Country Road, onto County Seat Drive and down Arthur Street. A year ago National Grid had suggested this, Delany explained. Delaney said he participated in a conference call on December 10th with the National Grid regional representatives.

During public comments a resident pointed to the National Grid route map she saw online dated October 8, 2020, which indicated that Arthur Street is

an extension from County Seat Drive onto Stewart Avenue. She worried that Arthur Street and County Seat Drive are not labeled, and she told the Board from a property owner’s (homeowner) point of view there may be a situation brewing where “residents of Arthur Street would be grievously impacted.”

The resident asked the Board to “please advocate strongly as we encourage and expect, from your skills and position, it is IMPERATIVE to negotiate with National Grid as you did to defer it from going through the Mott Section.” Arthur Street was described as a quiet residential street with elderly residents, families with young children and a few doctors on the block plus beautiful homes that were constructed in the early 20th Century.

Another resident commented that it’s imperative for the Village government to engage National Grid now and not wait until a project route is formally announced in January or February.

The Covid-19 pandemic delayed the transmission line project timelines, Trustee Delany noted. He said he wants to be ‘within the loop’ as a final decision on this project comes up. Following up

with National Grid in January was stated as a priority at the Board meeting.

“I’ve again asked them to look very, very carefully to avoid using Arthur Street and they promised me that they’ll do so. I asked what their timing is to get back to us and they are hopeful to respond to the village in January. National Grid is on notice, from my conversation today (December 10) as well as all discussions from around one year ago -- the village has concerns over this transmission line going down a residential street. They are aware of it and I reminded them to do everything they can, engineering-wise, to map the transmission line out going through Parking Field 9E to get onto Stewart Avenue,” Delany said.

“No matter what they do, no matter where this goes, National Grid will have to justify what they are doing and I am hopeful that I will not have to worry about it -- they are well aware of our concerns about going down Arthur Street,” he added.

Mayor Theresa Trouvé was on the Board of Trustees’ committee assigned to oversee and discuss the options for National Grid’s project, and she says

the Board stopped short of sending out a letter to members of the community advising them of a public meeting on the matter, “so we could discuss it publicly.” The pandemic threw off that timetable and structure for dialogue. Trustee Delany said it would not make sense for the village to host a public meeting until there was more information on the project.

Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi says National Grid’s corporate representatives have been keen on listening to Garden City’s concerns through the last two years. “As a public utility they have a lot of power to do what it is they’ll need to do for delivery of this gas service. Since their first time coming into the village, we have challenged them with hard questions, and they received our push for alternatives to steer the transmission line out of residential neighborhoods. I commend National Grid on being very, very cooperative and they talk with and listen to us. They know of the safeties and laws and regulations to make their gas transmission project work, but to date they have been approachable and understanding,” Suozzi commented.

a local business?

Garden City Schools help bring toys to children in need

Generous students, families and staff members throughout the Garden City Public Schools have participated in several efforts to bring toys and winter necessities to families in need this holiday season.

For the 20th year, the district supported the United States Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots donation effort. Hemlock, Homestead, Locust and Stewart schools all accommodated donation boxes that were filled with gifts during the month of December. Members of the Marine Corps stopped by each of the primary buildings to accept the items and personally thank students and staff members, and Stewart delivered their gifts to the Toys for Tots coordinators.

Stratford School families filled two cars with more than 30 bags of toys for

the Hance Family Foundation, which provides the gifts to families and agencies in need. Garden City Middle School gathered an abundance of toys for NYU Langone Hospital’s annual drive.

The High School has been fundraising for its annual Adopt-a-Family initiative and students organized a coat donation drop-off for the INN thanks to the efforts of senior John Scarlata, members of the soccer team and other volunteers.

“The spirit of giving is always strong in Garden City, especially during the holidays,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha. “This year in particular, our efforts will go a long way. I am proud of our students for always thinking of others!”

Photos courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

Legislator Laura Schaefer and the Marines picked up Locust School’s Toy Drive collection.

Homestead School presented its Toys for Tots donations to the Marines.

Garden City High School students organized a coat drive for the INN and received a visit from Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin, Councilman Thomas Muscarella and Town Clerk Kate Murray.

Hemlock School’s Toys for Tots pickup.

A car load of toys were donated to the Hance Family Foundation thanks to Stratford families.

Annual Flynn dinner brings together GCHS Class of ‘75

The Jimmy Flynn Dinner, hosted by members of the Garden City High School Class of 1975, gathered via Zoom on Friday, December 5, led by the master of ceremonies (the proudest new grandpa in town), Patrick Gibbons.  Thomas O’Brien (‘76 GCHS) read a beautiful tribute to Jimmy touching on his ability to make a difference in all our lives.  Noting how 2020 tested our resolve, Tom remarked on how we can meet the challenges of a pandemic, an era of social and political upheaval, or various health and personal issues by remembering how fortunate we are to have each other.  Jimmy Flynn was a beloved member of GCHS '75 and a star athlete on 75’s record setting basketball team as well as a late blooming track phenomenon running for the famous Villanova University distance team. In everything he did, Jimmy made the day better for all.

George Caputo (‘75) announced the Citizen of the year award to Neil McGoldrick for his many philanthropic contributions.  A champion of many causes from assisting researchers battling diseases to local charities feeding the hungry and housing the homeless, Neil McGoldrick represents the heart of our community.  The Flynn Committee recognized Neil and his bride Amy’s wonderful support of many of the community’s outstanding non profit initiatives.

In the general session, the highlights of the evening were many but two stood out.  First, the renaissance man from California, Tony, “Skip”, Uzzi, delighted the Zoom audience with songs from his latest album and also a trip down memory lane with “A Traveling Man” sing along.  Skip now sings under the name “Nick Justice” and his music can be found on the web site http://nickjusticemusic. com/Music.html

On the 1975 record-breaking basketball

team, Skip entertained thousands of County residents with his mastery of the game and his ability to dribble through multiple defenders (The Uzzi Shuffle).  Now Skip is mesmerizing audiences with the folk music that displays a true talent.  The Zoom audience loved Nick Justice’s music medley.

The second highlight was the many minutes devoted to stories of old that in hindsight make you laugh at yourself and the free loving times in which the Class of 1975 was raised. Brian Burch highlighted St Joseph memories with Peter Angus noting family visits to the principal's office on Fourth Street! A number of family stories also came up but one deserves a special note. One evening, James Mercante went to dinner with his dad, Arthur Mercante, the referee of many Heavy Weight Championship Boxing Matches including the first Ali Frazier Fight at Madison Square Garden. Needless to say, James’ dad is a recognized member of the boxing Hall of Fame and a true legend.

So James and his dad enter a local restaurant and proceed to their table with the hostess.  All of a sudden, a voice cries out for Mr. Mercante! Alison DeGroot, (GCHS ‘79) stood up and pleaded with Referee Mercante to give a “TEN COUNT” for the many fans at the restaurant! Believe it or not, right there and then, Mr Mercante removed his coat, made some room, and gave Alison and the dining room crowd what they wanted! After he finished the 10 count the bar went crazy applauding the master of the boxing ring!

Three hours after the zoom Flynn Dinner started, a few jokes from Billy Harrison and a plea from Rick Schnell to move the JETS to San Diego, the evening ended. A final salute to all the organizers including Patrick Gibbons and George Caputo.  Job well done and congratulations to our award winner, Neil McGoldrick!

Some great gifts for deserving kids.

Garden City Middle School students gathered toys for NYU Langone Hospital.

This year’s Class of 1975 Jimmy Flynn Dinner was virtual.

Winter coats donated to children in need

Ethical Friends of Children has donated 44 new children’s winter coats to New Hour for Women and Children--LI. The coats were purchased by donations from various organizations that include the Ethical Society Youth Group, the Weill Fund, St. Bernard Church and

Knights of Columbus in Levittown. EFOC, which provides free new and used clothing to families in need, is a project of the Ethical Humanist Society of LI.

New Hour was founded on Long Island to provide meaningful support to current and formerly incarcerated

women, their children and families.

“New Hour works to empower women and families impacted by the carceral system,” says Serena Liguori, executive director. “We are deeply grateful for community partners like the Ethical Society who recognize the inherent worth of all

people and whose generous donation will provide warmth and hope to so many of our New Hour families.”

Ethical Friends of Children can be reached at efoc@ehsli.org; 516205-3047. New Hour for Women and Children can be reached at sliguori@ newhourli.org; 631-273-3300.

Volunteer staff at the Ethical Friends of Children boutique in Garden City. From left: Judy Rosemarin, Jim LoPresti and Pat Spencer.

From page 2

So many reached out to us ahead of time to offer help, we trusted that it would all come together, and it did! There are so many wonderful people who help us with this that we only know because of this project...we are blessed to have you in our lives.

Thank you all for your part in making this so very special. Have a wonderful holiday season!

The Alford Family John, Melinda, Amelie, Courtney, Meghan, Peter, and Tim

In response to Deputy Mayor

To the Editor:

In response to our Deputy Mayor Bob Bolebruch’s article last week titled “Protecting a Unique Form of Government”, we would like to address a couple of facts that we believe our Deputy Mayor got wrong. The first is in regards to FABGC (For A Better Garden City)’s “Secret Meetings.” Below is the link to our “secret meeting.” FABGC was extremely happy with the attendance.   So, maybe not as “secret” as the author claims. (also, please follow our “secret” Facebook page at fabgc.org. www.facebook.com/For-A-BetterGarden-City-113514017237276/videos/188429072940812

As to destroying our way of government, FABGC is following the Community Agreement protocol, run-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

ning a candidate in each section, and our Mayoral candidate, Cosmo Veneziale, is from the Western Section as that is the section that is next up in the Community Agreement rotation. There was an excellent article written two weeks ago, titled Village Government 101, outlining how the POA’s are not part of the Community Agreement.

As to the potential for “unequal representation” between sections, it never seemed to concern the BOT when they knew they were running uncontested. The Eastern Section has approximately 38% of the Village’s population. (Even more when 555 Stewart Avenue gets developed) The Central Section has roughly 11% of the population. They both have two BOT members.   So, clearly, “unequal representation” has always been a part of the Community Agreement, and the potential for a non-representative election has always been possible. In fact, we believe the original Community Agreement, formed when Garden City had 2000 residents and 4 legally separate “sections” took this into consideration. The Community Agreement has been altered in 1931, 1954, 1965, etc. If this was a serious concern of the BOT, they could have addressed it anytime in the last decade. Or is it only now, as the BOTs realize that the residents’ extreme displeasure has led to a meaningful and determined challenge, that this concerns our Deputy Mayor Bob Bolebruch.

For those that might be genuinely

concerned that one section might not be represented with two BOT Members if a long shot mathematical anomaly actually happens, we would suggest that every resident vote a straight party line: FABGC.

Residents, if you are comfortable with the record of these BOT members produced by the POA of letting Monster poles go up without the BOT lifting a finger, trying to sell or lease the Casino and stringing its members along going on 3 years now, selling and buying back Franklin Mews Park costing the Village six figures, spending $100,000 for fight handicapped parking against Gerry Kelly(and losing), trying to destroy the GCNews as the paper of record and cutting them off from sports scores, sanitation schedules, date of Easter Egg Hunt and Christmas Tree lighting, etc, and spending $342,000 in NO-BID contracts, again, no RFP, and NO-BIDS, for an unneeded $10,000,000 firehouse, then vote the same people back in office. If you think Garden City deserves better, vote for the FABGC candidates.

FABGC welcomes a fair and competitive election. What are the BOT and POA’s afraid of? If fresh blood, new ideas, a willingness to treat the residents with respect and to put an end to the back room agreements and violations of the Open Meeting Laws does not improve the performance of the BOT and bring resident trust back in our political leadership, then you can vote the FABGC candidates out at the end of

their term.

What do we as residents really have to lose?

Happy Holidays to All, Donald MacLeod

Voting questions

To the Editor:

I am not interested in going back and forth concerning Se. Kevin Thomas but I feel compelled to address [Michael Malony’s] response to Dr. Young’s letter. I, myself, have tried to get a response several times from Sen. Thomas as to his statement of the good works he’s done throughout his term. He has not answered me. What you indicate he has done is nothing more than Sen. Hannon has done over the years. But Sen. Thomas has not initiated anything new or progressive.

Also, our Democratic Values are not diminished by citizens questioning the way our Election Board is conducting our elections but is actually very Democratic.

I volunteered with school budget voting for 3 years and saw many irregularities with the process and when I brought to the Boards attention I was told to put “a sticker on it”. I stopped volunteering after 3 years of this as nothing was corrected.

We need to investigate the Board of Elections and/or change the way they are chosen. That is true Democracy.

Geri Moratti

Looking forward to a return to transparency in 2021

From page 2

the village in our Board of Trustees. As to an issue being raised by the deputy mayor about a challenge disrupting the balance of representation, FABGC is affording residents the opportunity to vote by slate, either for the FABGC candidates or the Property Owners’ Association (POA) candidates, and this would maintain the balanced representation set out in the Community Agreement.

A question raised in our recent Zoom meeting which can be viewed

on Facebook or Youtube was what FABGC’s role will be after the election. FABGC’s platform includes term limits for all members of the Board of Trustees, similar to term limits the POAs have in place for their own officers. With reform, it is our hope that challenges will not be necessary in the future. Beyond the term limits, FABGC would call for a thoughtful review by a village wide committee to address how we can strengthen our present nominating process. Community input on this issue, including critical input from our POA volunteers, would help strengthen

the nominating process and preserve our unique form of government. Many POA volunteers have seen first-hand how the committees have struggled to find residents interested in these important positions.

FABGC looks forward to returning the transparency and community engagement our village residents deserve in 2021 and welcomes all residents to join in our efforts.

If you share the concerns of FABGC, please consider joining this effort by emailing info.fabgc@gmail.com and follow us at fabgc.org. You can also contact

our outreach contacts and your neighbors:

Donald MacLeod, Cosmo Veneziale,  Mike Ryder, Mary Carter Flanagan, Mickey Paxton, Deidre Orr, Arlene Chianese, Betsy Lenhart Andromidas, George Salem, Rich Corrao, John Cantwell, Charlie Kelly, Effie Campbell, Sivan Chapman, Josh Chapman, Stephen Ripp, Molly Fiedler, Bruce Chester, George Evans, Suzey Samuels, and Bill Kavan.

Winterfest: A Time for Community Healing & Hope

From page 8

everyone who attends is invited to write down the name of a loved one lost to be remembered during the service. We will mourn together and honor them by moving forward together in hope. Winterfest begins at 4 p.m. as twilight approaches. As our supporters file in, there is warm cocoa to drink as we

fill the birdfeeders and put up some decorations for our fine feathered friends. About 4:30, we have a poem recitation around our evergreen trees. Then we have our special ceremonies rich in symbolism. Symbolism is an integral part of any tradition because it links tangible objects and ritual to the intangible ideals, emotions and ideas we wish to hold on to and pass along.

Finally, you will hear the ultimate message of hope that we pass on at Winterfest which is… ALL WINTERS MUST COME TO AN END. Not just seasonal winters, but the "winters" of COVID-19, social problems, economic problems, relationship problems, health problems, etc. The great religions of the world tell us even the winter of death itself will give way to a spring of new

life. So come on down January 9, 2021 to the GCBS and discover Winterfest: a modern holiday celebrating timeless ideals which make communities work! Won't you become part of our community of healing and hope? The GCBS is at 182 Tanners Pond Road. The gates open at 3:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the general public. It ends at approximately 5 p.m. Hope to see you there!

Go Green with Kelly & Colleen

Simple Tips for Family and Environmental Health

From page 8

board; i.e.: those Amazon packages!) We have been informed by a Village trustee that the Board of Trustees is considering a curbside cardboard recycling program in light of the increase of cardboard boxes in the Village.  Fingers crossed that, soon enough, we can include corrugated cardboard in the what to recycle curbside category.

• We made a case against gas-powered leaf blowers and the air and noise pollution they produce.  The Garden City News reported last week that at its December meeting, the Village Environmental Advisory Board discussed recommending a permitting process and set of guidelines for landscapers to operate in the Village, which could include limiting the hours and decibel levels at which gas-powered leaf-blowers can operate.  This proposed recommendation was made partially in response to growing residential concern over the impact of gas-powered leaf-blowers on quality of life and air quality.

• Perhaps most importantly, we discussed the indisputable link between greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.  We promoted several small steps individuals and families can take to reduce their carbon impact by, for example, driving fuel-efficient or electric vehicles, walking and biking more or using public transportation; eating a more plant-based diet and drastically reducing red meat consumption; properly insulating homes, replacing drafty windows with weather-tight, double-paned alternatives, and changing out old appliances for newer, EnergyStar-certified ones;

and voting for political candidates who make addressing and correcting climate change a platform priority.  Climate change and its devastating impact on weather, ecosystems, human health, and human rights will continue to be the humanitarian crisis of our lifetimes, and how we choose to confront it will be the legacy we leave for future generations.

Looking Ahead Toward a Greener Tomorrow

In 2021, we are hopeful that local, state and federal legislation and policies will take climate change seriously and adopt increasingly more appropriate environmental actions. Nationally, the incoming presidential administration has promised to rejoin the Paris Climate Accord and convene a world leader climate summit, while also setting new national emission reduction targets. The diversity of the incoming cabinet members and a return to evidence-based decision making are encouraging steps toward a safer environment, while mitigating climate change’s disastrous effects.

At the state level in December alone, the governor has signed legislation banning the use of carcinogenic PFAS chemicals in food packaging. The governor also signed legislation imposing harsher fines and prison sentences for illegally dumping of construction debris, making these environmental crimes felonies. Moving forward, we are hopeful that the state will do more to protect our drinking water by requiring utilities to report all PFAS testing results and invest resources in

better understanding how PFAS combinations impact public health, and creating an emerging contaminant list and begin statewide testing.

Locally, while the conditions of the pandemic make it difficult to volunteer at the moment, we hope as the current circumstances abate, our community members will recognize the many opportunities available to stay connected to environmental issues and advocacy on Long Island and in New York State. Relying on organizations that promote sound legislation, community building, and social justice offers each of us an opportunity to collaborate to build environmentalism into our daily lives and our Village. Consider following these organizations on social media to learn of advocacy opportunities with other concerned Long Islanders in the new year.

Environmental Advocates New York (eany.org/) aims to protect the climate, air, land, water, and the health of all New Yorkers. This organization is based in Albany and monitors state government, evaluating legislative proposals, and advocating for policies and practices that benefit the environment while campaigning against detrimental practices and legislation.

The Citizens Campaign for the Environment (citizenscampaign.org/) takes a regional approach to environmental education and advocacy. Currently, the organization is offering forums on climate goal legislation and wind energy projects.

Huntington CALM (Clean Alternative Landscaping Methods)

(huntingtoncalm.org) connects individuals and communities with actions relating to reducing or eliminating highly polluting and noisy landscaping practices.

There is an excellent potential through local governance to elevate the Village’s commitment and communication around environmental issues that advance health, social justice, and ecological good, by encouraging public discourse around these issues. We believe our Village can adopt a forward-thinking plan that advances meaningful environmental agendas, which will continue the ideals presented in our column to green Garden City together.

During this difficult time, please consider making a donation to help those less fortunate in our community through the INN in Hempstead. Their current requests are available at https://the-inn.org/covid19/which also includes a link for financial contributions.

Finally, we want to thank our loyal readers for their kind words and topic proposals.  We often heard from people we met how much they enjoyed our column and the practical suggestions within, which was very encouraging for two moms on a mission to hear.  We also would like to thank the Garden City News for giving us the space and opportunity to express our concerns and ideas.  We are committed to continue fighting the green fight on behalf of our families, our community, and the planet, and we sincerely that hope you are, too.

Fall sports in spring: school district sports in a strange year

From page 3

City High School to commence on January 4, immediately following the holiday winter break.

Winter sports including boys and girls basketball, competitive cheerleading and wrestling are high-risk and seasons are fully postponed.

Fall sports in spring

Flood noted that the fall sports are tentatively scheduled to begin March 1, with the spring 2021 athletics seasons including lacrosse and baseball beginning May 1. Middle School ‘Winter I’ Sports would begin January 4, Middle School ‘Winter II’ would begin February 8, GCMS fall sports would begin March 22 and GCMS spring sports would begin May 3, 2021.

“We ultimately planned for fall sports starting March 1 and spring sports starting May 1. With the Middle

School there would be a similar schedule for low and moderate-risk sports. Overall we will continue to integrate modern fitness and health concepts into our K through 12 physical education including the idea of wellness, fitness and nutrition into phys. Ed -- we want to be at the forefront of how phys. ed changes lives, just as our coaches are at the forefront of teaching techniques and sports education, and we will be developing more communication methods aiming at more rapid relaying of information -- we want the community to receive only accurate and timely information and dispel any rumors surfacing,” Flood said.

After School Board Vice President Tom Pinou raised a question on the potential cancellation of sports activities that would start January 4. Flood confirmed the district will fully comply with New York State Health Department

guidance. “We will look into what we would be allowed to do under any such guidelines and then see what could be offered. But at this point NYSDOH guidelines for the indoor school athletics are very, very restrictive and as long as we’re continuing to follow these guidelines, competitive sports indoors will remain a challenge,” he said.

Board Trustee Stephanie Granville asked if something similar to any

indoor team athletics would be offered to students under that circumstance, and Flood discussed weekly planning meetings he and staff are taking part in to discuss “what is allowed” under NYSDOH guidelines.

Another key component of Garden City’s athletics he noted is a long-term strategy to improve and maintain the district’s fields.

Get Results!

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call 294-8900 or visit us online www.gcnews.com to request information & rates Litmor Publishing's Community Newspapers

High school students hold Thanksgiving food drive

Garden City High School students load truck with donated food.

BY GARY SIMEONE

It turned out to be a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday for many of Long Island’s less fortunate thanks to the efforts of a group of Garden City High School seniors. A food drive was held on Saturday, November 21 at the High School to benefit the Mary Brennan INN in Hempstead. The event took place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“The food drive was so successful because it brought the Class of 2021 together during a time of uncertainty,” said Allison Moss, Class of 2021 faculty advisor. “COVID restrictions have been difficult for the senior class, and many students went out of their way to help provide over 12,000 pounds of food to the food pantry for the holiday season.”

Families brought their donations, which included canned goods and other non-perishable items to the bus circle in front of the school. A truck from the INN

was parked at the location, ready to haul the items directly to the INN, to help feed many needy families across the Island.

John Scarlata, one of the seniors who helped spearhead the food drive, said he and mom Tricia came up with the idea to organize the event.

“My mom and I had worked with the INN back in the main quarantine period in March and April, helping with small food donations and things of that nature,” said Scarlata. “I got to see firsthand all of the wonderful things they do for people less fortunate than myself, and we came up with the idea for this massive food drive on one of the biggest family and food holidays of the year.”

He and his mom created fliers and helped to spread the word about the event to faculty and staff members at the high school, as well as his fellow classmates.

“I recruited guys from my varsity soccer teambas well as kids from other teams and

Getting attention for the food drive.

regular students in the class. Altogether, I think we had over 40 volunteers come out to help box the food items and load it onto the truck.”

Moss said that during the month of November, a mobile food drive was held throughout the village where families signed up to place donations outside of their homes, where it was picked up by a senior student volunteer.

“That food drive culminated in a curbside collection day, which led up to the major event that took place on the 21st,” said Moss.

Scarlata’s philanthropic efforts are not over, as the senior has plans in the works to hold a coat drive on behalf of the INN later this month. Adelphi Cleaners of Garden City has offered to partner with him to help dry clean the coats free of charge.

Garden City, NY

4-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3257946. $730,000.

5-bedroom, 3.55-bath. MLS# 3254193. $2,195,000.

Manor, NY

3-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3270570. $669,000.

Rockville Centre, NY

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

Rockville Centre, NY

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

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

City, NY 6-bedroom, 3.55-bath. MLS# 3231150. $3,200,000.

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

Floral Park, NY

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

Riverhead, NY

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

City, NY 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3252417. $1,499,000. Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3258255. $1,490,000.

Garden City, NY

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

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

Rockville Centre, NY

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

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

Garden City, NY

CONTRACT

Manor, NY 3-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3266232. $525,000.

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

Centre, NY

4-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 3205390. $1,325,000.

3.5-bath. MLS# 3249968. $1,645,000. Condos, Co-Ops

& Rentals

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

Garden City, NY

0-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 3264344. $199,999.

Garden City, NY

Stewart

Stewart

Garden

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

Rockville

Freeport, NY 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath. MLS# 3258646. $1,340,000.

Rockville

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk Chelsea Costello Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Manager

Rene Blair Annmarie Bommarito

Christine Cudahy Assistant Manager

Patricia Costello Gregory Abruzzo

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Mary LoGalbo Linda Mulrooney

Susan MacDonald Patricia Dickson Brigid Marmorowski Eileen O’Hara

Susan Gillin Diane Piscopo

Rockville Centre, NY

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

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

100 Hilton Ave, M29 Garden City, NY

3-bedroom, 3.5 bath.

3237359. $999,000.

100 Hilton Ave, #605 Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3170706. $1,200,000.

$5,300.

1-bedroom, 1.5-bath. MLS# 3227978. $695,000. 111 Cherry Valley Ave, #805W Garden City, NY

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

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 3274277. $625,000.

111 Cherry

1.5-bath.

3276531.

City and Wyndham Resale

111 Cherry Valley Ave, #614W

111 Cherry Valley Ave, PH1

MLS#

100 Hilton Ave, #419 Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3255265. $999,000.

100 Hilton Ave, #902 Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 3248011. $1,800,000.

Cherry Valley Ave, #906 Garden City, NY

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

Wyndham Resale Office

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

New Hyde Park, NY 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 3274070. $875,000.

Mary Krener

Fortune Heaney

Peter Kerantzas

Alfred Kohart

Lisa Heaney

Robert J. Krener

Stephen Ripp

Kathleen Higdon Meredith Krug Cecile Raoult Lynn Puccio

Joseph Scianablo Cheryl Trimboli Scott Wallace

Patrick Gibbons

Kathleen Roberts Julia Mastromauro Rosado

Jennifer Petersen

Daureen Hausser

100 Hilton Ave, #412 Garden City, NY