The Garden City News (12/12/25)

Garden City Library’s longestserving trustee steps down

Library Board Trustee Linda Ryan; Library Board Vice Chair Mary Maguire; Village Trustee and Board Liaison to the Library, Bruce Torino; Randy’s daughter, Claire Long; outgoing Library Board Trustee Randy Colahan; his wife, Elena; his sister, Laurie Burke; Mayor Ed Finneran; and Library Board Trustee Paul O’Grady. (Not pictured: Library Chair Colleen Foley).

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Monday, December 8th marked the final public meeting for Garden City’s longest-serving Library Board trustee. On that evening, Garden City Public Library Trustee J. Randolph Colahan was greeted by Mayor Ed Finneran and Village Trustee Bruce Torino for a round of congratulations and appreciation for more than two decades of service. He received plaques, proclama-

tions, and, above all, heartfelt words acknowledging his leadership and dedication.

Randy Colahan was appointed to the GCPL Board in April 2002 to fill the seat previously held by Julianne Lewis, who had passed away the previous September. He fondly recalled Lewis, the mother of former Garden City Mayor Bob Lewis. Ironically, Lewis had replaced Colahan’s father — the late Joseph Donald Colahan — as a library trustee represent-

ing the Estates POA in 1979. The senior Colahan left the Library Board after suffering a heart attack the previous July. He died in February 2002, and just two months later, his son stepped into the role.

From January 2007 through December 2024, Colahan served as Library Board chairman for 18 years. Before him, Lewis had also served for many years, and last year the

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First Street calming measures reviewed

BY RIKKI MASSAND

The Garden City Traffic Commission was set to reconvene on December 11th to revisit several major traffic-safety topics, including planned projects and measures to help calm commutes along some of the village’s busiest stretches.

Concerns in the Mott Section reappeared on the agenda, as did a proposal for new road infrastructure in the village’s southern area: bump-outs (curb extensions) on the south side of First Street between Mayfair and Rockaway Avenues. The project would replace temporary bollards installed through a pilot program intended to slow traffic

into the village and reduce the likelihood of accidents.

A similar precedent was established with the Cherry Valley Avenue traffic-calming project in the same section of the village. That main thoroughfare was targeted for “tightening up the gateway” into Garden City from the south, particularly near Garden City Nursery School (GCNS). Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni said that to complete the “gateway treatment,” the village installed two bumpouts, one on each side of the road, each about eight feet wide. The project also includes striping down the road’s center to cre-

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Village hires HR chief, sets hearing

on tax exemption

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the Garden City Board of Trustees’ meeting on Thursday, November 20th, Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi presented an agenda item appointing a new Secretary to the Village Board. He explained that the candidate, Melissa Frisina of Patchogue, would be able to begin her duties on Monday, November 24th, or upon Civil

Service clearance following the Board’s approval. Ms. Frisina will manage the Village of Garden City Human Resources Department, with her appointment running through the end of the village year (April 6, 2026). The annual salary listed for the position is $125,000.

Before the vote, Mr. Suozzi stated, “Ms. Frisina comes

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Happy Hanukkah

We’d like to wish our Jewish readers a happy Hanukkah, which begins on Sunday.

As the lights of the celebration begin to glow we find ourselves stepping into the part of the year when holiday celebrations overlap. With Christmas around the corner, followed by Kwanzaa, we are reminded that our little town contains people of a multitude of faiths.

The overlapping holidays have a way of encouraging neighbors to notice each other and reconnect. Some folks do it by baking and distributing cookies, others by performing acts of service for the needy, or simply just doing a favor for a neighbor.

Acts of kindness are what draws residents together and makes them into a community.

It’s also a time when our local shops, restaurants, and small businesses shine brightest. Shopping locally isn’t just a feel-good slogan — it’s how we keep our own community vibrant. Every gift purchased on Seventh Street or Franklin Avenue helps sustain the places that make Garden City feel like home.

So as we celebrate our holidays lets remember what truly matters: family, kindness and looking out for our neighbors.

That spirit will carry us through the holidays and into a new year.

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

The true meaning of Christmas To the Editor:

We would like to bring to the attention of your Garden City News readers that in today’s issue we have placed a beautiful, double-page, centerfold “Keep Christ in Christmas” message. This is the seventh year that we have placed this message, and we trust it will become a tradition in Garden City to bring attention to the true meaning of Christmas.

We recognize that the true meaning of Christmas is mostly ignored in society. We see endless news stories about “Black Friday” sales, “Christmasthemed” movies that rarely display a nativity scene, and appalling legal challenges to Nativity displays by anti-Christian groups.

The words, “Merry Christmas”, have been banned at schools, colleges, businesses, department stores, etc. Instead, we repeatedly hear, “Happy Holidays”, intended to encompass all the politically-correct bromides of the season. It seems that we do not want to offend any one’s feelings, with the exception, of course, of those of Jesus Christ and His Blessed Mother.

In response to the secularization of Christmas, we Knights have pledged to proclaim publicly and joyfully our belief in the true meaning of Christmas – the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior, the Light of the World.

This special Christmas message was made possible by the generous support of the members of the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council #15809, and parishioners and friends of the Church of St. Joseph who wish to remember in this beautiful season of gift-giving, that the greatest gift of all is God’s gift of His Son to the world!

We wish all a very Happy and Holy Christmas as we always remember to Keep Christ in Christmas.

Joe Levano, Grand Knight, The Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council No.15809

Faster way to St. Paul’s decision

To the Editor:

With all due respect for John Pittoni, Esq. The BOT and our legal counsel have already proclaimed that the BOT has the only authority to vote on the fate of St. Paul’s. We the people get to vote on approving the bond to pay for it if they favor any alternative to demolition.

The faster and more effective way for the people to influence the decision to create a village park on the site is by challenging the four trustees whose terms expire in April.

Reach out to find four residents to run for trustee who are committed to vote to demolish the old building and create a park. It is the only way our voices will be heard!

Arnold Finamore

Seeking re-election to BOT

To the Editor:

As we approach the upcoming Village election, I am writing to formally announce my intention to run for re-election as a Garden City Village Trustee. It has been an honor to serve our community over the past two years, and I am proud of the meaningful progress we have made together.

Serving on this Board has shown me what can be accomplished when dedicated people stay focused on what truly matters: strengthening our Village, protecting its character, and planning responsibly for the future. I have been fortunate to work alongside a team that is collaborative, pragmatic, and deeply committed to delivering results for our residents.

During my term, we have taken on significant projects that had been delayed for far too long. We modernized key sections of our zoning code, and made measurable improvements in Village communications so that residents receive accurate, timely information in more accessible ways. We advanced long-overdue capital project

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New Greek restaurant to open on Franklin Avenue

BY GARY SIMEONE

When Jimmy Tsoumas came to Long Island from Queens, he had a vision to open his second restaurant in less than a years time. After opening Meli, his first location in Forest Hills last January, he aspired to bring his brand to Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

“I grew up in Queens but I know Long Island well from having spent a lot of time and living here in my younger days,” said the forty-five year old Tsoumas. “I spent time in Roslyn and on the north shore but also a lot of time hanging out at the popular Novita and Waterzooi restaurants here in Garden City.”

He said that while spending time at those popular Village restaurants he gave thought to opening his own location in the vicinity.

“I have multiple jobs in construction and the film industry but my passion really lies in the restaurant business, particularly in Greek cuisine,” said Tsoumas. “My flair is in Greek dishes and Mediterranean style cuisine which reflects both my background and culture.”

He said that he hopes to bring a combination of quality food and a good atmosphere to the area surrounding Franklin Avenue, which is home to a variety of restaurants.

“Our menu will highlight the freshness of local ingredients while staying true to many of our classic Greek recipes that have been passed down through multiple generations.”

Some of the dishes on the menu at Meli will include Greek specialties such as whole-grilled fish like Lavraki and Tsipoura as well as Saganaki and Spanakopita, which are famous Greek appetizers.

Tsoumas said the interior decor is inspired by the cities in Greece and will give off an island-type vibe to customers.

“The atmosphere will be bright with white chairs and tables and lots of Flowers and Greek style artifacts adorning the walls. People will have a great dining experience when they come here.”

The new location is slated to open in December.

To find out more information on Meli, visit Meli-estiatorio.com.

Kids bring classrooms to life at BOE work session

BY KASSARA MCELROY

At its December 9th work session, the Garden City Board of Education saw the district’s latest primary and elementary instructional updates in action, as students demonstrated learning through interactive, hands-on activities.

Administrators and teacher-leaders from Hemlock, Locust, and Homestead Schools began with an overview of What I Need (WIN) Time, which provides targeted instruction for kindergarten and first grade students. During these sessions, students rotate through stations led by classroom teachers, a speech pathologist, and a math coach to strengthen skills in phonics, phonemic awareness, and math fact fluency.

Reported WIN Time outcomes included gains in kindergarten addition and subtraction, fewer first-graders requiring AIS support, and double-digit increases in proficiency from the start of the year. Board members participated in a sample lesson, guided by first-graders from Locust School, who led literacy and math activities.

Science coordinators then shared updates on the district’s transition to New York State’s revised learning

standards, which emphasize curiosity, inquiry, observation, and collaborative problem-solving. First-graders from Hemlock demonstrated an investigation called “Why do shadows mysteriously move?” Using flashlights and paper gnomes, students showed how shadows shift as light moves, mirroring how shadows change outdoors throughout the day. Board members circulated among the stations, chatting with students about their observations.

The presentation also covered the district’s Enrichment for All program, which now reaches every second and third grade classroom. Students have sensory opportunities to build collaboration, critical thinking, and perseverance through engineering and design challenges. Recent projects included constructing towers and testing the stability of pumpkin stands, activities that align with classroom curriculum and New York State’s Portrait of a Graduate competencies.

Third-graders presented Monumental Math, a cross-curricular unit blending math, literacy, social studies, and technology. After researching

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Elise Ronzetti is a highly experienced real estate professional bringing a comprehensive background from her work in both residential brokerage and commercial real estate portfolio management with major institutions. This breadth of expertise gives her clients a strategic advantage in pricing, negotiation, and investment decisions.

Known for her professionalism; clear and honest communication; and, attention to detail, Elise provides thoughtful, personalized guidance to firsttime buyers, sellers, investors, and those upsizing or downsizing - always with a focus on results. She holds numerous industry designations, including Certified Buyer Representative (CBR) and Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), reflecting her commitment to top-tier service.

A proud Garden City resident, Elise is a supporter of numerous local charities, and served as a PTA Chairperson, Vice President of SEPTA, and as a Regents Board member of NYU Winthrop University Hospital. Her local knowledge and dedication make her a trusted advocate for clients navigating today’s market.

Home Happens Here

Large 2 Bedroom Condo Close To Town And Train ~ $698,888

Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo offering approximately 1,025 sq. ft. of comfortable living space in a sought-after residential neighborhood.

Enjoy a bright and spacious eat-in kitchen featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of cabinet space — perfect for home-cooked meals and entertaining. The open layout flows seamlessly into the living area, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Ideally located just minutes from the train and town center, you’ll love the convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and commuting options, all while enjoying the peace and charm of a quiet, tree-lined street.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizer, or looking for a great investment, this condo offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and location.

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Vote now in POAs’ Holiday House Decorating Contest

The festive spirit is in full swing in Garden City, including the third annual POA Holiday House Decorating Contest. It’s quickly become a tradition, showcasing the creativity and holiday cheer of many Village residents.

Voting for the 2025 POA Holiday House Decorating Contest is open to all residents of Garden City. Voting is open December 12–21, with the winners announced on December 23.

Residents can drive around town to see all the houses that have entered and vote on their favorites. Bundle up the family, get some hot cocoa and drive around our beautiful Village for a fun evening of holiday cheer!

To see all the entries – click on this map https://shorturl.at/wwXOq

Enjoy the ease of single floor living in this Classic 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch home on a quiet tree lined street in the Estates Section. Formal living room with wood burning fireplace, formal dining room, Eat in kitchen ,paneled den with cathedral ceiling and sliders to deck overlooking private back yard. Primary bedroom with bath, 2 additional bedrooms and hall bath complete the main level. Attached 2 car garage, Full basement with plenty of room for entertaining and storage, CAC, IGS. Convenient to train, shopping and all Garden City has to offer.

at $1,585,000 Please contact Jill

Papa Jim's Christmas Tree Drive

Every holiday season since 2013, the Connolly family of Garden City has spread the Christmas cheer with their Papa Jim’s Christmas Tree drive.  Named after the family patriarch, the goal is to spread the holiday cheer by providing Long Island families in need with a Christmas tree (and all of the trimmings) during this holiday season. The group provides each family with a Christmas tree as well as a tree stand, tree skirt, lights, ornaments, garland & a topping star to make their holidays a bit more complete.

How Can You Help?

Buy your Christmas tree from Papa Jim’s, and your purchase will also provide one Long Island family with a complete Christmas tree package – one Christmas tree with all the trimmings.  You help by going to PapaJimsTrees@gmail.com or by calling 917-776-6906.  Donations can also be made at https://gogetfunding. com/papa-jims-christmas-trees-2025

And if you know of any L.I. families who might be in need of a Christmas tree this holiday season, please contact the group through its Facebook page or at Papajimstrees@gmail.com

POAs seek candidates

Garden City POA's continue to seek any and all residents of the Village interested in running for election to the Village Board of Trustees and Board of Education. Please contact your respective POA President or email Michalakjune@gmail.com by December 13 with any interest, questions or otherwise.

Residents not wishing to run through their POA may run independently and still participate in any election support offered by the POAs such as Town Halls. The POAs continue to thank all of the volunteers for their time and dedication to the community.

Our

you for the opportunity to serve—and for considering me once again for this important role.

Thank you

To the Editor:

Judy Courtney

I am always a happy camper when I can say nice things about Garden City. Thank you, Kyle, GCHS ‘28, Katherine and Jen, American Legion, for honoring servicemen and women of the United States and for recognizing my service with VMJ-1, Marine Photographic Squadron One, during the Korean Conflict.

Dominick Basile From

The Connolly family spreads holiday cheer with Papa Jim's Christmas Tree Drive.

Chamber celebrates opening of new bakery

SUBMITTED BY THE GARDEN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, December 5th, to welcome Tatte Bakery & Café to the vibrant Franklin Avenue business district in Garden City.

Guests were treated to an impressive array of Tatte’s signature dishes, as well as a decadent spread of pastries, cakes, and cookies that showcased the café’s renowned culinary craftsmanship. The warm and inviting atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop as community leaders and residents gathered in celebration.

Mayor Edward Finneran and several members of the Board of Trustees were in

attendance, along with Chamber President John Wilton and members of the Chamber Board. Their presence underscored the community’s continued commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering a thriving downtown.

Since opening its doors, Tatte has quickly become a beloved addition to the Garden City business community, offering exceptional food, friendly service, and a welcoming space for neighbors to meet, work, and enjoy.

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt congratulations to the entire Tatte team. We wish them tremendous success and look forward to the joy and flavor they will continue to bring to our town.

WARM WISHES FOR A JOYOUS HOLIDAY SEASON

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

26 Cambridge Ave

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

Date: 12/08/2025

Sold price: $1,250,000

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Split level

Property Size: .17 acre

Annual taxes: $17,228

MLS number: 917140

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

The Buyer’s Team: Jennifer Sullivan and Susan Gillin, Compass Greater NY

Updated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath Brick Split-level home situated on a beautiful 60 x 124 lot in the Western section of Garden City. Spacious and bright with an open floor plan, the main level features a living room with oversized picture window, dining area, newly renovated eat-in kitchen with steps down to a powder room and den/ family room with access to the enormous backyard. Upstairs you will find a private master bedroom with renovated ensuite bathroom, 2 additional guest bedrooms and 1 full updated hallway bathroom. Additional highlights include: 2 car attached garage, double wide driveway, attic, partially finished basement, low taxes and close proximity to shops and LIRR. Truly, a must see!

100 Hilton Ave #607E

Date: 12/05/2025

Sold price: $779,000

1 bedrooms, 1 full bath, 1 half bath

Architectural Style: Condominium

Annual taxes: $6,772

Monthly charges: $1250

MLS number: 915159

The Seller’s Team: Maryann Ressa, Daniel Gale

Sothebys Intl Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Alyson B. Esposito, Compass Greater NY

Welcome to the highly sought after Wyndham East in Garden City. This condominium offers luxury living with exceptional amenities. This beautifully appointed one bedroom, 1.5 bath featuring dental molding throughout, new cherry wood floors and additional custom closet space offers a very comfortable and inviting living experience. It is bright and sunny with an easy flow, including a foyer, spacious L-shaped living room, dining area, updated kitchen, primary bedroom and primary marble bath with whirlpool soaking tub, shower and 2nd custom built closet space. Separate laundry room with Miele washer/dryer and wet sink. The living room provides easy access to a private terrace which is ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. This condo also offers updated air conditioning systems done in 2022, abundant large windows with the added bonus of a storage unit in the basement for extra convenience. 5 star amenities include a 24 hour doorman, concierge, elevator, indoor pool, fitness center, sauna, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ and many seating areas, gazebo, a pond and waterfalls all situated on beautifully landscaped grounds. Valet parking. Conveniently located in the heart of Garden City, minutes to shops, restaurants, the LIRR and a vibrant community.

We Know and Love Garden City

POAs collect donations for LI Cares

Garden City’s Property Owners’ Associations are teaming up with Long Island Cares to host a community-wide food drive on Saturday, December 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Donations can be dropped off behind Blieddos Key Foods, where volunteers will be on hand to collect contributions. All items gathered will be donated to the Mary Brennan INN, which serves individuals and families facing food insecurity across Nassau County.

Founded by the late singer–activist Harry Chapin, Long Island Cares is one of the region’s largest and most respected hunger-relief organizations. The nonprofit works to improve food security through community outreach, education, and a strong network of partner pantries—helping ensure that no Long Islander goes hungry.

Residents are encouraged to donate any nonperishable goods, but the fol-

lowing items are especially needed:

• Peanut butter

• Canned soup

• Canned fruit

• Canned vegetables

• Canned stew

• Canned fish

• Canned beans

• Pasta (whole grain preferred)

• Rice (brown rice preferred)

The POAs extend a special thankyou to Blieddos Key Foods Marketplace whose continued partnership and generosity make events like this possible. Blieddos has long been a valued supporter of Village organizations and a dependable neighbor in helping serve the greater community.

Residents are encouraged to stop by, donate what they can, and help make the holidays brighter for families in need.

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List this fall with the #1 brokerage in Garden City.* Reach out to connect to a Garden City agent.

American Legion joins Wreaths Across America

Complete Holiday Dinner Package 1 $399.99 Serves 20-25 people

50 Count Shrimp Cocktail Platter • Choice of 1 - Full Tray Baked Ziti or Penne Ala Vodka or Gluten Free Pasta • Choice of 1: Full Tray Chicken Francese or Sliced Roast Beef or Honey Glazed Ham • Choice of 2 Sides: Half Tray of Roasted Potato, Mashed Potato, Stuffing, Half Tray Sautéed String Beans or Broccoli • Large Tossed or Caesar Salad

The American Legion will join Wreaths Across America in honoring fallen soldiars on Saturday, December 13.

Complete Holiday Dinner Package 2 $299.99 Serves 12-15 People Choice of 1: Half Tray Baked Ziti or Penne Ala Vodka or Gluten Free Pasta Choice of 1: Full Tray Chicken Francese or Sliced Roast Beef or Honey Glazed Ham • Choice of 2 Sides: Half Tray Oven Roasted Potato, Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed String Beans or Broccoli • Large Tossed or Caesar Salad

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All Boars Head Products - Italian or American or Mr G (Chicken Cutlet, Roasted Peppers & Mozzarella) • Includes Half Tray of Baked Ziti or Buffalo Wings - Free 2 Liter Soda

On Saturday, December 13, communities across the nation will come together to Remember, Honor, and Teach by placing wreaths on the graves and memorials of the communty's fallen heroes. Please join the William Bradford Turner Post 265 for its wreath placing ceremony to honor those who served and gave all for our freedom at the Garden City War Memorial on 7th Street next to the library.

This powerful tradition ensures the sacrifices of our veterans are never forgotten. Every wreath, every name, every story matters.

We Have Been Family Owned & Operated Since 2002

153 7th Street, Garden City, NY 11530

Phone: (516) 742-2713

Fax: (516) 741-2713

International Cheese Platter

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

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $70

Medium: Serves 20–25, $90

Large: Serves 28–35, $100

Fresh Fruit Bowl

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

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $30

Medium: Serves 20–25, $60

Authentic Italian Antipasto

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

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $70

Medium: Serves 20–25, $100

Large: Serves 28–35, $130

Shrimp

Cocktail Platter

Classic shrimp cocktail served with horseradish dill sauce.

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $70

Medium: Serves 20–25, $100

Large: Serves 28–35, $130

Mini Focaccia Finger Sandwich Basket

Fresh baked focaccia bread filled with assorted gourmet fillings.

Tailored Sizes

Small: Serves 8–10, $70

Medium: Serves 20–25, $90

Large: Serves 28–35, $130

Fully Cooked Spiral Ham

lbs

Cooked Turkey Breast

Party Heroes

Grilled Vegetable

Other Platter Favorites: Fresh Mozzarella & Tomato Platter, Grilled Vegetable Platter, Bruschetta Basket, & Custom Baskets of Your Choice Made to Order Cannot be redeemed with any other discounts.

Women’s Health Care of Garden City committed to personalized care

By John L. Gomes, MD

John L. Gomes, MD, founded Women’s Health Care of Garden City in 1995. It has remained an independent private practice, providing personalized obstetrical and gynecological services.

He employs the technical advances of conventional medicine with an integrative approach to navigate women through difficult pregnancies into the menopausal years. He treats a wide variety of OB/GYN conditions and is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care.

All tests are conveniently done on the premises, and a dedicated, compassionate staff is on call 24/7.

He is committed to excellence in patient communication, education and support, as many patients come with anxiety associated with past experiences and future concerns.

Dr. Gomes received his undergraduate degree from Brown University, and his Doctor of Medicine from Columbia University.

He is both Board Certified and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Women’s Health Care of Garden City is located at 1000 Franklin Avenue, Suite 200, Garden City.

BY SUSAN SAMUELS

Around the Town

T he Cornelia Clinch Social Diary

Brooke and Victor Scotto

On December 2, Brooke and Victor Scotto marked 35 years together; five days later, they celebrated the 33rd anniversary of opening Seventh Street Café. As they retire from the restaurant world after an extraordinary 68 years in the business, we extend warm congratulations and heartfelt thanks. Brooke reflected on their journey, saying the years spent working side by side, surrounded by loyal customers, staff, and neighbors, were “heaven on earth.” Garden City will long remember their generosity and the many celebrations made sweeter at Seventh Street Café.

HANK Services for Seniors

If you remember PAVES, you’ll be delighted to know it’s been reimagined as HANK Services for Seniors (Hire a Neighborhood Kid), founded by Jeanine Springer. Local teens are assisting residents across Garden City, Stewart Manor, and Floral Park with gardening, seasonal clean-ups, odd jobs, and tech help. Learn more at HANKServices. org. The group will present at the joint meeting of the four POAs on January 20.

Coburg Sister-City Reunion

Garden City’s longstanding friendship with its sister city of Coburg resurfaced this summer when alumni of the 1985 Student Exchange reunited over Zoom, with participants joining from both sides of the Atlantic. Former Garden City Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan (GCHS ’86) notes that the relationship, enriched by decades of delegations, homestays, and shared celebrations, remains as vibrant as ever. She and Angelique Bellmer Krebbs (GCHS ’86; daughter of Village Co-Historian Bill Bellmer) are now tracking down former exchange members for a forthcoming history of this cherished partnership.

Joint POA Meeting

The four Garden City Property Owners’ Associations—Eastern, Western, Northern, and Estates—will hold a Joint Meeting on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 7:30 PM. The gathering, confirmed by the EPOA, will bring residents together for discussion of key village matters, continuing a long tradition of collaborative civic engagement.

Village Tree Lighting

The season officially began on December 7 with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting on the Village Green. Families enjoyed hot chocolate, performances by the Broadway Bound

Dancers and the GCHS Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and a festive visit from Santa, escorted by the Volunteer Fire Department. Police and Fire crews were on hand to ensure a safe and joyful evening—proof once again that it truly takes a Village.

Operation Santa

The Garden City Volunteer Fire Department will launch its annual Operation Santa program on Monday, December 15. Residents can follow Santa’s nightly route via the GCFD Santa Tracking page, with the link posted on the department’s Facebook page.

Santa’s Mailbox

Our thanks to the Parks and Recreation crew, having once again transformed the Village Green with holiday décor—and Santa’s mailbox is open for business at the gazebo. Children may drop letters to Santa through Friday, December 19 and will receive a reply from the North Pole.

GCHS Class of 1985 Reunion

The Garden City High School Class of 1985 celebrated its 40th reunion on November 28 at the Cherry Valley Club. Classmates reconnected over memories and laughter, thanks to a stellar organizing committee. Among those spotted: Nancy Akeson, Ralph Cutrone, Joe Caccamo, Rob Griffith, Sean Heaney, Suzanne Colucci, John Lipuma, Maura McMahon Beatty, Laura Esposito Como, Moira Davis, Sylvia Cabana, Rose Rosato Burton, Jill Harrington, Stratis Morfogen, Ed Stankewick, Carrie Wrobel, Amy Giarraputo, Barbara DuPont O’Hara, Courtney Corroon, Nicole O’Shea, Mark Burchill, and a bunch of guys I could not recognize for love or money.

Andy Foundation Holiday Initiative

Throughout December, every dollar spent or donated at the Andy Foundation Yard Sale Shop will be matched and directed to local food pantries. It’s a simple way to support families in need this season. The shop, located at 195 Herricks Road in Garden City Park, is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM–4 PM.

Tiramisu, Lobster, and a 90-Point Red: Dining with the Whitings

The Whiting family will host an exquisite Christmas dinner showcasing vintner Bill Whiting’s (GCHS ’86) culinary talents for close friends and family, including matriarch Joan Mariani Whiting (GCHS ‘47). Highlights included JFK lobster stew, spaghetti alle vongole, grey sole with langous-

to host West End Tree Lighting

The Garden City Western Property Owners Association (WPOA) will sponsor the West End Christmas Tree Lighting, on Friday, December 12, from 6 to 7:00 p.m. in the small park on Plattsdale Road adjacent to the New Hyde Park Road Business District.

This festive annual event will feature performances by Broadway Bound Dance Studio and the Waldorf Choir, holiday music provided by Dasher and MC Dr. Nicholas Vernice.

Grab a cup of a cup of hot chocolate provided by the Stewart Manor

Country Club owner John Parks.  And of course, no tree lighting would be complete without an appearance by Santa Claus.  Santa will have treats for all the children.

The WPOA president, RoseAnn Vernice, organized this event with the help of donations from All Island Dermatology, Enzo’s Pizzeria, Repeal Bar & Restaurant and Ruse Clothing. So, come on down, meet your neighbors at the annual West End Christmas Tree Lighting, Friday December 12.

CHOOSE 1:

25 pc. Shrimp Cocktail

Antipasto Platter

Assorted Cheese Platter

CHOOSE 1: (½ TRAY)

Meat Lasagna

Stuffed Shells

Eggplant Parmigiana

Baked Ziti

Sweet

Eye

CHOOSE 1:

Garden Salad

Caesar Salad Mesclun Salad

CHOOSE 1: (½ TRAY)

String Beans

Roasted Potatoes

String Beans & Roasted Potatoes Mix

Mixed Vegetables

HOLIDAY PACKAGES

CHOOSE 1:

45 pc. Shrimp Cocktail

Large Antipasto Platter

Large Assorted Cheese Platter

CHOOSE 1: FULL TRAY)

Meat Lasagna

Stuffed Shells

Eggplant Parmigiana

Baked Ziti

Sweet

CHOOSE 1:

Large Garden Salad

Large Caesar Salad

Large Mesclun Salad

CHOOSE 1: (FULL TRAY)

String Beans

Roasted Potatoes

Mixed Vegetables

String Beans & Roasted Potatoes Mix

Eye Round Roast Beef w/ Brown Gravy

Children pose with Santa while volunteer firefighters distribute candy canes.

The Broadway Bound Dance Studio dancers

The Pardon Power

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

A few thoughts on a recurring theme in American politics, the Presidential pardon power.

1976 election.

GIFT CERTIFICATE SALE

For every $100 gift certi icate purchased, receive a $50 complimentary certificate. Available Sunday, Dec. 14–Wednesday, Dec. 24. CASH ONLY.

Book any party of 25–35 people from Dec. 18–Jan.18 and get 10% off your bill. Book any future party of 25–35 people by Jan. 15 and get 15% off your bill.

NEW LUNCH SPECIALS ( DINE-IN ONLY )

• 12" Margherita Pizza & 16 oz. Soft Drink ($15)

• 1/2 Salad (Caesar, Mixed, or Chopped), Cup of Soup & 16 oz. Soft Drink ($15) Available Mon–Fri, 11:30AM–4PM. May not be shared. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons, Groupons. Toppings not included.

HAPPY HOUR

1/2 PRICE DRINKS AT THE BAR ONLY Mon–Thu, 3–7PM

Sun–Thu 11:30AM–9PM • Fri & Sat 11:30AM–10PM 10% OFF FOR NYU EMPLOYEES AND COURT/COUNTY EMPLOYEES (Must present work badge)

DINE-IN, TAKEOUT AND DELIVERY

In discussing pardons, you have to start out with the fact that the power expressly appears in the  Constitution, which states that the President “shall have the Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States." While the language does include two exceptions (it doesn’t apply to state offenses or to impeachments), otherwise it is pretty much unassailable.  The Supreme Court has held that the pardon power cannot be modified or abridged.   So to limit or revoke the President’s pardon power requires a constitutional amendment, a cumbersome process (absent a new Constitutional convention)  requiring two-third votes in both houses of Congress plus ratification by three quarters of the state legislatures.

President Jimmy Carter got both support and opposition for his blanket pardon for most draft evaders as he began his term.  President Bill Clinton issued a number of controversial pardons as his term expired, most notably to his half-brother and to fugitive financier Mark Rich.   President Joe Biden, again in the waning days of his presidency, pardoned thousands convicted of marijuana possession and issued preemptory pardons for family members.  There is also controversy about Mr. Biden’s use of the autopen to issue the pardons.

As for President Trump, seeking to undo what he regarded as excessively harsh punishments, he began his second term  by issuing a blanket pardon to January 6 defendants.   Two particularly controversial individual pardons have been to convicted money launderer and Binance CEO  Changpeng Zhao of Bina and to ex-Honduran President and convicted drug trafficker Juan Hernandez.

A good example of appropriate use of the pardon pawer can be found in the one issued  by one of our less appreciated Presidents, Warren G. Harding when he commuted the ten year sentence of  Socialist leader Eugene V. Debs.  Mr. Debs had been convicted under the Espionage Act for making speeches critical of the First World War, which was viewed as subversive, and his conviction and sentence was upheld by the Supreme Court. (Indeed, Mr. Debs ran for President from a jail cell in 1920.)  The war had been over for three years and President Harding, a conservative Republican seeking a gesture of national unity and believing that Mr. Debs’s punishment was excessive, commuted on Christmas Day, 1921 the sentence of the socialist leader to time served.  Mr. Harding then invited Mr. Debs to the White House, expressing his desire to met him personally.

Of course, Presidential pardons in recent years have not always been as well received as the one Mr. Debs received.  Probably the most controversial pardon in my lifetime was the one granted by newly installed President  Gerald Ford to his predecessor, Richard M. Nixon.  President Ford was seeking to get the Watergate matter behind the nation.  Instead, the controversy over the pardon may have cost Mr. Ford the

Some favor getting rid of the President’s pardon power, but, in addition to noting the extreme difficulty of implementing this Constitutional change, I think this change would be inadvisable.  There is quite a bit to be said for the pardon power.  People are occasionally convicted on weak evidence or for offenses disproportionate to their conduct. Acts resulting in a criminal conviction of an individual can be a complete aberration from normal behavior.   Sentences are sometimes too harsh.  There can be policy reasons for mass pardons.  In sum, sometimes justice must be tempered by mercy, and it may make sense  for the President, the one official elected by all Americans, to be the one exercising such mercy.

Probably the best hope for appropriate use of the pardon power lies in  electing Presidents who possess  the strength and integrity to do the right thing, at least most of the time.  No one will agree with all pardon decisions, but you have much more confidence in pardons issued by a President who generally acts in good faith and the public interest.

Phone grab

Garden City Detectives arrested a male subject on December 3rd for allegedly taking a phone away from a female victim during a domestic incident as she attempted to call 911. He was charged with Criminal Mischief.

Red-light stop

A Washington Avenue motorist was charged on December 3 with unlicensed operation and passing a red traffic light.

Alarm mix

Responding December 3 , Garden City Police and Firefighters handled a fire alarm triggered by construction activity and another set in error.

Speeder cited

On December 3rd, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.

Suspended registration

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and uninsured operation on December 3rd.

Office theft

A jacket, key fob, and cellphone were reported stolen from a Franklin Avenue office on December 4th.

Suspended license

On December 4th, a Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and uninsured operation.

Scam calls

A victim reported December 4th that they received numerous financial scam phone calls.

Double suspension

A Washington Avenue driver was charged with driving with a suspended license and a suspended registration on December 4 .

Smoky triggers

GCFD and GCPD responded December 4th to alarms activated by candle smoke, a hair dryer, a boiler issue, and a system malfunction.

Multiple violations

A Clinton Road driver was charged on December 4th with driving with a suspended license, speeding, and operating an uninsured auto.

Family assault

Garden City Police arrested a male subject on December 5th for allegedly striking another family member and causing facial injuries. He was charged with assault and endangering the welfare of a minor.

Shoplift probe

Garden City Police fficers investigated December 5a report of a female subject stealing an item from a 7th Street store.

Malfunction calls

GCFD and GCPD responded on December 5th to a malfunctioning fire alarm and a disabled elevator.

Alert error

Garden City Police determined on December 5 that a medical alert alarm activation was accidental.

Rideshare dispute

Officers responded to 7th Street on December 6th for a dispute between a rideshare driver and civilians. A 47-year-old male was arrested for allegedly slashing the driver’s tire and charged with Criminal Mischief.

Overweight truck

A Franklin Avenue truck operator was charged on December 6 with driving an overweight vehicle and unsecured cargo.

Online scam

On December 6th, the Department began investigating a larceny scam in which the victim never received a vehicle purchased online.

Intersection block

A Franklin Avenue driver was charged with driving with a suspended license, impeding traffic, blocking an intersection, and uninsured operation on December 6th.

Pet scam site

On December 6th Garden City Police investigated a report of a fraudulent website advertising pet sales.

Suspended papers

A Washington Avenue motorist was charged on December 6th with driving with a suspended license and suspended registration.

False alarms

GCFD and GCPD handled December 6fire alarms caused by burnt food, a system malfunction, construction dust, and a boiler leak; they also responded to a malfunctioning elevator.

Cherry Valley stop

A Cherry Valley Avenue motorist was charged December 6th with driving with a suspended license, an unregistered vehicle, and uninsured operation.

Porch theft

Packages were reported stolen from a Brook Street front porch on December 7th.

Tree lighting

Officers were assigned December 7to traffic and safety duties for the annual Stewart Avenue Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Mailbox theft

Detectives investigated a December 7 report of two subjects stealing mail from a 6th Street mailbox.

Protest patrol

Garden City handled December 7 traffic and safety details for a protest held on Franklin Avenue.

Traffic charges

Three Franklin Avenue motorists were charged on December 7th with driving with suspended registrations and other violations.

Gas-alarm calls

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded on December 7th to fire alarms caused by a battery issue and a faulty detector, and to a report of a natural gas leak.

Aggressive driving

An 11th Street motorist was charged with multiple aggressive driving violations on December 7 .

Overweight haul

A Franklin Avenue truck operator was charged on December 8th with driving an overweight vehicle.

Water-alarm

On December 8th, GCFD and GCPD responded to a fire alarm caused by a water leak.

Seventh street stop

A 7th Street motorist was charged December 8th with driving with a suspended license and suspended registration.

See page 44

As we barrel faster and faster towards Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza and New Year’s, it’s important to remember why we celebrate. I am among countless folks who tear around like the “Tasmanian Devil” in prep for the big days ahead. But from time to time, even this young fella tries to remember to “take a breath and steady the ship,” to soak in the holidays, what they represent, how important and blessed I am – like I’m sure you are as well - with family, friends and faith (whomever your God or Being might be). So here’s to the very best of the upcoming holidays to you and yours…may you find peace, comfort and joy!

A couple of quick posts:

The Marine Corps property: our good pal Frank Tauches recently heard from the Marine Corps Installations Command and was informed that in January their team is scheduled to be on Stewart Avenue inspecting the property, including a cursory environmental assessment. The internal process was set back weeks by the recent U.S. government shutdown. We are in touch with Congresswoman Gillen’s office here as well. As a reminder, there is a very lengthy Marine Corps/ Navy process in determining the future of the property and any interest shown by third parties is premature and is being monitored.

Propel NY: we continue to be in regular contact with the senior team managing the project’s cable “pathway” through the Village. There will be some disruption on Clinton Rd., Stewart Ave. and Franklin Ave. when construction likely begins in 3Q2026. We are working hard to minimize same.

EPA work on the Old Roosevelt Field plume: nothing new to report as we continue to monitor and are in contact with the appropriate EPA officials. When the EPA finalizes its plans, new well construction and piping are expected to be installed in the east, on Garden and Grove Streets. We will update you as developments warrant.

‘Tis the Season

Hope to see a great crowd at all these terrific and wonderful events:

• Today, Friday, December 12th, the WPOA will hold its Tree Lighting on New Hyde Park Road. It will begin at 6:00 p.m.

• On Sunday, December 14th, the first candle of the Hanukkah Festival of Lights Menorah will be lit at sundown on the Village Green, and...

• On Friday, December 19th, join us for Holiday Toast, Shop & Stroll

on 7th Street between 4-9 p.m....there’ll be lots to do for the young... and those a little less young!

Wreath Placing Ceremony

On Saturday, December 13, communities across the nation will come together to “Remember, Honor and Teach” by placing wreaths on the graves and memorials of our fallen heroes. Please join William Bradford Turner Post 265 for its wreath placing ceremony as we honor those who served and gave all for our freedom at the Garden City War Memorial on 7th Street next to the Library. This powerful tradition ensures the sacrifices of our veterans are never forgotten. Every wreath, every name, every story matters.

Leaf Collection

can drop their letters in the mailbox and Santa will send them a personalized reply. Santa’s mailbox will be available through Dec. 19

Toys for Tots collection ends Dec. 17th

Cardboard recycling permit fees waived

The Village is waiving the permit requirement for residents at the Municipal Yard for the month of December for cardboard recycling. The Board recognizes the community’s need for accessible recycling options, especially during the holiday season when cardboard waste increases. Proof of residency is required.

Still have leaves to dispose of? As of Friday, December 12, residents and landscapers were no longer permitted to place leaves in the roadway for collection. Leaves may be bagged and placed out for pickup on your regular rubbish day, or they can be brought to the Village Transfer Station (“Dump Area”).

Transfer Station Hours:

• Monday–Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Closed for lunch from 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)

• Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

• Sunday: Closed

Crews are still in the process of collecting leaves and will make additional passes through the Village, weather permitting.

Operation Santa

The GC Volunteer Fire Department is excited to announce that Operation Santa will be spreading holiday cheer throughout the Village during the week of December 15th! Keep an eye out as Santa comes riding through your neighborhood on a firetruck, greeting families and spreading the magic of the season. Updates and detailed schedules can be found on the Garden City Fire Department’s social media pages!

Letters to Santa

It’s time to send letters to Santa and the Recreation Department will speed up the process! A special “Santa’s Mailbox” has been set up next at the Gazebo on the Village Green. Children

To help the Marines bring some happiness to families who do not have the resources to provide a gift for their child this holiday season, the GC Police Department has a gift depository collection box for the United States Marine Corps (USMC) Toys for Tots Program at Police Headquarters. In the spirit of giving, please drop off any new, unused, and unwrapped toys into collection boxes located in the lobby of Police Department headquarters by Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Last year, our PD collected a ton of boxes filled with toys, which the Marines distributed to many deserving kids. Thanks in advance for participating.

Thank You, Randy Colahan

Garden City Library Board Trustee J. Randolph Colahan attended his final meeting this past Monday, following nearly a quarter of a century of dedicated service. First appointed to the Board in 2002, he served as chairman for an unprecedented 18 years, between 20072025. He currently serves as Trustee until his term officially ends Dec 31. He has been present for more than 275 meetings, plus numerous executive sessions and Village Hall budget hearings. I had the privilege of presenting Randy with a citation on behalf of the Village this past Monday evening. We all know what it takes in terms of time, dedication, hard work and time away from home. The Village was very lucky to have had Randy serve at our Library for those good many years. Good luck sir.

Mayor Edward Finneran

GC, Coburg, Germany Ambassadors - 40 Years Later

BY ANGELIQUE BELLMER KREMBS, MARY CARTER FLANAGAN AND ANDREAS FRANZ

Over the summer a zoom reunion was held with members of the Garden City - Coburg Germany Student Exchange Program marking 40 years since the ambassadors spent the summer of 1985 visiting each other’s countries and sharing their cultures. Plans are underway for an in person gathering next year. Discussions have begun on whether it should be in Garden City, in Coburg, or maybe in both as was the tradition of the Garden City Student Exchange Program that was a fixture in the Village for decades.

On the U.S. side, outreach to the group was led by the former Garden City mayor, Mary Carter Flanagan, and Angelique Bellmer Krembs, the daughter of Village Historian Bill Bellmer. Both women are GCHS class of ‘86. Andreas Franz of Coburg (now living in Hamburg) worked to reconnect with the Coburg Ambassadors. Mary’s brother John Carter, a 1987 Student Exchange Ambassador, visited Germany with his son last year to tour German car factories, reconnected with Andreas, and the idea of a reunion first emerged. Angelique’s father has helped keep the village archives which include much information about the long sister city relationship and the student exchange program, and Mary had been reminded of the special relationship as she frequently passed many of the beautiful gifts from Coburg visitors that still hang on the walls of Village Hall. Village Historian Patty Siler who has been working with Bill Bellmer to organize

Andreas Franz, Angelique Bellmer Krembs, Carsten Wagner, Addy

Mueller, Charlotte Tobin Sturdy, James Kempf, Thomas Feiler, Carl Hintz, Vince

Danielle Garcia

our village archives invited Mary to peruse the records showing the origins of the sister city relationship and the reports on the student exchange program.

The sister city relationship began in

Coburg and Garden City Ambassadors in 1985: Back row, L to R: Herr Ruckdeschel, Charlotte Tobin, Annette Klement, Klaus Ruckdeschel, Sonja Vollmer, Veronika Moser, Stephanie Rudloff, Addy Schönfelder, Carsten Wagner, Carolyn Curran, Peter Wickel, Jochen Müller, Alana Frey, Thomas Feiler, Leslie Clayton, Danielle Garcia, Mary Carter, Mary Theresa Ferris, Vince Conti, Angelique Bellmer, Patrick Sweeny. Front Row: Michael Klemnt, James Kempf, Andreas Franz, Carl Friedrich, John Fialcowitz, Mark Mueller, Carl Hintz

1951 as part of Operation Democracy. From the archives of old Garden City News papers we learned that the sister-city relationship (in German: “twinning”) began as a pen-pal exchange in 1951. At the time, the paper stated that “the object of this project is to promote international good will and understanding on a person-to-person level, and in a way that affords the greatest number of ordinary citizens a chance to do something specific in the cause of peace.”

The Mayor from Garden City who proposed the relationship was George R. Murdock, and the person who accepted the invitation for Coburg was Dr. Walter Langer, the Oberburgermeister. Dr. Langer was quoted at the time saying, “The Iron Curtain has cut this city off from its natural environment. Since in such a defensive position we are in need of assistance not only in material matters but also in ideals. I greet this relationship with Garden City most cordially and send to you and your citizens my friendliest greetings.”

The 1985 student exchange cohort seems to be living proof of the value of these cultural exchanges. Mary Carter Flanagan, as recent Mayor of Garden City, was inspired to resurrect the goodwill exchange started by her predecessors almost 75 years ago. In our reunion meeting, we found out that several of the German students ended up living in the US for a time, and several US stu-

dents visited or moved to Germany. One student from Garden City, Jim Kempf, is now living in Prague, less than four hours drive from Coburg! Only one person from the Garden City group still lives in her original home city, Mary Carter Flanagan, while at least three from the Coburg group still reside in Coburg: Peter Wickel, Sonja Vollmer, and Jochen Müller.

The group ended up in a wide variety of occupations - medicine, clergy, finance, law, consumer marketing, furniture manufacturing, film production, and auto engineering to name a few. Several of the students from both countries ended up in the fashion industry!

As the group plans the future reunion we will keep residents apprised of the rekindling of this special and longtime relationship between our Village and Coburg, Germany. We look forward to also sharing more of the interesting history from our archives with future articles planned on Garden City’s role in Operation Democracy and the history of student exchange programs in Garden City. If you would like to help or share your memories of the sister city activities or the Village Ambassador/ Student Exchange program, please email us at marycarterflanagan@gmail. com or abkrembs@gmail.com.

Coburg and Garden City Ambassadors from 1985 Sharing Memories and Catching Up in 2025. Starting at Top Left, L to R:

Schönfelder, Jochen Müller, Mary Carter Flanagan, Mark

Conti, Mary Theresa Ferris, Peter Wickel,

Sunday, December 14th 10:30 a.m. Worship Service & Christmas Pageant (In-Person and Livestream)

Sunday, December 21st 10:30 a.m. Worship Service (In-Person and Livestream)

Wednesday, December 24th 4:30 p.m. Family Service (In-Person)

10:00 p.m. Candlelight Communion Service (In-Person and Livestream)

Sunday, December 28th 10:30 a.m. Worship Service (In-Person and Livestream)

The Church of Saint Joseph

130 Fifth Street, Garden City, NY 11530

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

Bishop Andrzej Zglejszewski, Pastor • Reverend Joseph Lobo, Parochial Vicar

Reverend Hilary Nwajagu, Parochial Vicar • Reverend Matthew Browne, In Residence • Deacon John J. McKenna

CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE 2025

LESSONS AND CAROLS

Sunday, December 14th - 3:30 p.m.

CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS

Saturday, December 20th

9:00-10:00 a.m., 1:00-2:00 p.m., and 6:00-6:30 p.m.

Monday, December 22nd 2:00-4:00 p.m. & 6:00-9:00 p.m.

CHRISTMAS EVE MASSES

Wednesday, December 24th

4:00 p.m. - Church

4:00 p.m. - Auditorium

4:00 p.m. - Gymnasium

6:00 p.m. - Church

8:00 p.m. - Church

11:00 p.m. - Church (Carols begin at 10:30 p.m.)

CHRISTMAS DAY MASSES

Thursday, December 25th

7:30, 9:00, 10:30 a.m., & 12:30 p.m.

All Masses are in the Church

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

SOLEMNITY OF MARY, MOTHER OF GOD

Wednesday, December 31st, 2025

Vigil Mass 5:00 p.m

Thursday, January 1st, 2026

7:30, 9:00, 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

All Masses are in the Church

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE NO AUDITORIUM MASS, AND NO EVENING MASS ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 1ST, 2026

Randy Colahan recognized for service to Library

Library Board Trustee Linda Ryan; Library Board Vice Chair Mary Maguire; Village Trustee and Board Liaison to the Library, Bruce Torino; Randy's daughter, Claire Long; outgoing Library Board Trustee Randy Colahan; his wife, Elena; his sister, Laurie Burke; Mayor Ed Finneran; and Library Board Trustee Paul O'Grady. (Not pictured: Library Chair Colleen Foley).

Garden City Library Board Trustee J. Randolph Colahan attended his final meeting Monday, following nearly a quarter century of dedicated service.

First appointed to the Board in 2002, he served as chairman for an unprecedented 18 years, between 2007–2024. He currently serves as Trustee until his term officially ends Dec 31. He has been present for more than 275 meetings, plus numerous executive sessions and Village

Hall budget hearings.

Mary Maguire, Library Board Vice Chair, led the meeting in Chair Colleen Foley ’ s absence. She thanked Trustee Colahan for his mentorship of newly appointed Trustees, including herself. “He has always represented the Garden City Library with the highest standards of honesty and integrity and steered the Library through the Children ’ s Room restoration that countless young children enjoy today,” she said. “He respond -

Ed Finneran

Library Director Marianne Malagon and Operations Director Courtney Rosenblatt present outgoing Library Board Trustee Randy Colahan with an engraved gavel set from the Library during his final meeting serving on the Library Board of Trustees.

ed to every incident that occurred in the Library during his 18 years as chairman, whether a leak in the roof or a disruptive patron. We are filled with gratitude and pride in your accomplishments. You set a remarkable example for all of us to follow.”

In Chair Foley ’ s absence, Mayor Ed Finneran presented Trustee

Colahan with a citation on behalf of the Village, which read, in part: “His executive and management experience has provided invaluable levels of understanding and empathy, which has helped make the Garden City Public Library a warm, welcoming place for all … The Village

Continued on page 32

Mayor

presents outgoing Library Board Trustee Randy Colahan with a citation on behalf of the Village for his dedicated service on the Library Board of Trustees.

Former Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan and Village Trustee and Board Liaison to the Library Bruce Torino are pictured with outgoing Library Board Trustee Randy Colahan.

Reviving Hope: A Breakthrough Approach to Treating Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

"Several years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer and underwent chemotherapy treatments. I'm now in remission and blessed to still be here, but I was in so much pain. My feet and hands were constantly burning - a tingling sensation, almost like when your leg or arm falls asleep," shared Mary of Westbury.

Mary was suffering from Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy or CIPN. While chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells, they are not exactly discriminating in what they destroy. The smaller nerves, specifically those in your hands and feet, are some of the first to be harmed. Those suffering from peripheral neuropathy have described this pain as “burning,” “tingling,” “like walking on sharp rocks,” or like Mary explained, that fuzzy, tingling pain you experience during paresthesia (the technical term for when a limb “falls asleep”).

"Standing all day was not just a challenge, it caused me physical agony. Keeping up with my busy schedule - forget about it. I couldn't even go for walks on the beach." Mary, like so many others, was prescribed Gabapentin to help with the pain and told there was nothing anyone could do. In their words: “There is no treatment for neuropathy.”

Fortunately for Mary, where Western medicine fails, Westbury Acupuncture tends to

National Board-Certified Acupuncturist, has been blending the time-tested science of acupuncture with modern, medical technology to design a real solution for peripheral neuropathy that doesn’t involve invasive surgeries or prescription medications with uncomfortable side effects.

These Renew Nerve Ⓡ protocols, specific to Westbury Acupuncture and its network of certified providers, actually treat neuropathy versus attempting to mask its symptoms.

"Acupuncture is incredible at restoring blood flow and stimulating damaged nerves. It’s been used for centuries to treat peripheral neuropathy and similar conditions” tells Jae Won. “We take our treatments a step further by integrating ATP Resonance BioTherapy Ⓡ , which targets specific nerves in the body using microcurrent. ATP Resonance BioTherapyⓇ is

treatment stimulates the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients and energy they need to repair and recover.”

ATP Resonance BioTherapy Ⓡ was originally designed by NASA to speed up healing and recovery. “To have access to this kind of technology has been life changing for our patients” shares Gen, one of the incredibly compassionate Patient Care Technicians at Westbury Acupuncture. “We even have people asking if they can take the equipment home, so we’re working on developing some at-home options for our less mobile patients.”

After only four weeks of treatment, Mary is already seeing incredible improvement. "I've taken the handicap placard off my rearview mirror and I'm finally back to walking on the beach. I can't wait to see how I feel at the end of my program! I used to think that

the neuropathy pain was just the price I have to pay for still being alive. Jae Won has really given me hope for a better life!"

Jae Won L.Ac and the staff at Westbury Acupuncture have a 90% success rate in reversing peripheral neuropathy, and not just that caused by chemotherapy. They also have tremendous success in treating diabetic neuropathy and neuropathy of undetermined origin, otherwise known as idiopathic neuropathy. “I watched my grandmother suffer with neuropathy during her final years and it broke my heart when she was told there was nothing they could do. This condition is one of the main reasons I went into medicine. Since then, I’ve been on a quest to help people truly thrive in their golden years.”

The number of treatments needed to allow the nerves to fully recover will vary from person to person and can only be determined after a comprehensive consultation and detailed neurological evaluation.

If you or someone you love is suffering from peripheral neuropathy, call (516) 500-8281 to schedule.

For new patients, an initial consultation is complimentary. Simply visit www.WestburyAcupuncture.com for more information and to take advantage of this offer.

This special Keep Christ in Christmas message was made possible by the generous support of the members of the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph-Bishop Baldwin Council No. 15809 and parishioners and friends of the Church of St. Joseph who wish to remember in this beautiful season of gift-giving that the greatest of all gifts is God’s gift of His Son to the world!

Catherine Kiley IMO Donald T. Kiley

IMO Florence & Jack Kirk

Nancy & Nieve Klotz

Patty KnappCarianne Kokiadis

Lucile Kramer

David & Anne Donnelly Robert L. DoughertyMargherita C. Dougherty

IMO Rev. Paul G. Driscoll

Maryellen & Doug Drogalis & Family The Ducey Family

Brian & Joyce Abamont David A. Abraham, M.D. IMO Russ & Mary Agnello

A. Alongi

Anderson

&

Walter F. Kramer, Jr.

IMO

Walter F. Kramer, III IMO

Charles & Regina Kratt

Robert J. Krener

IMO

Daniel & Karen Kurpa Ann Kutch The Landi Family

Audrey LavinRaymond J. Larkin Alicia, Annemarie & IMO Frank Levano Janet & IMO Steve Levano & Family

Lorraine & Joe Levano & Family Rev. Joseph Lobo Austin & Theresa Lotito & Family

Steven & Michelle Levano-Loy Jim & Jeannie Madelmayer

Thomas & Susan Madelmayer Lisa & Mark Malaszczyk

& Raquel Malave & Family

& Alicia Marciano & Family IMO Isidore & Marjorie Irace Donald & Barbara Martis & Family Dr. Janet & Mr. John Mastanduono IMO Bartol & Mary Matanic

IMO Kenneth P. Ducey IMO

Anderson

William O. Dwyer

Jacqueline & Roger Eltringham

Ellen EmeryKathleen & Sidney Eng Betty ErdosMichael Falco

Berroya & Canlas Families

IMO Ivna Favreau

Joseph & Vicki Ferrara & Family

Ed & Mary Finneran

John & Helen Burke Fischbeck

Suzanne & Mike Fischetti

IMO William & Rosemary Fitzpatrick

Michael & Maria Franco & Family The Frankenberry Family Bob & Dodie Franz IMO Duncan A. Fraser Jr. IMO Duncan A. Fraser III

Anita & IMO Joseph P. Frey

Wanda & Stephen J. Gecewicz & Family

IMO Marguerite “Boo” & George Motz

The Germino Family

IMO Thomas Gilmartin

Sean Gilsenan Legislator John J. Giuffre

Ken & Melanie Graham & Family

Peter & Dorothy Greisbach & Family

John & Irene Grymes

Walter & Gracemary Hagan

IMO Bert Haggerty

Eileen J. Haggerty IMO Warren & Viola Hampton

Robert & Christine Harper

Regina & Victor Harte & Family

IMO Joseph A. Harvey Christopher & Karen Hassett

Daniel & Maritza Hassett

Frank & Muriel Hassett

Michael & Maritza Hassett

Peter Hassett

Stephen Hassett

Thomas & Katherine Hassett

Thomas & Mary Hassett

Trevor Hassett

William J. Havron

Richard & Lynn Hay

Kevin & Heather Hegarty

The Heinzelmann Family

Charles & Leslie Hickson

John & Kathleen Higdon

IMO Robert, Alice & Justin Hirche

Kathy & Michael Hopkins & Family

Marie & Steve Ilardi & Family Guy, Carman & Valentina Irace

Jennings

Paula & Bill

Geri Joseph

Keane

Keefe

John & Amy

Margaret & Jim

Josh & MaryAnn Keffer & Family

Edward & Nancy Kennelly

IMO

Peter & Margaret Kenny Jennifer, John, Abigail & Tessa Kibble

& Arthur Anderson

Arcoleo

& Rosemary Brosnan

& Donald Brudie & Family

Buckley

Carl & Regis

Diana & Chris Buffa Family

Barbara Burke & Family

James Burke

Katherine Burke

Mary BurkeThomas & Rose Burke

John Byrne

Patricia Duffy Byrnes J. Cadavid

Joseph Cangialosi

Peter Cangialosi Rose & Ciro Cangialosi

Brendan J. Carey

Patrick & Joanne Carle Gerard Carroll

Michael Casanno

Maryanne & IMO

Vincent E. Cashman

Judy & IMO

Bruce & Patricia Chester Janet Churik & Family The Ciaravino Family IMO Rosemarie Ciaravino

Don & Nancy Clavin & Family IMO J. Donald & Jane Dumont Colahan

Carol Cook Adrienne Cosgrove Rev. Prasanna W. Costa Sally CoyneKevin, Elena & Aidan Creeron

IMO

Robert & Patricia Cunningham IMO Bro. John Lawrence Dawson, OSF Alexander De Marchena Debbie & Hector de Marchena Paul & Kelly Debany & Family

Bernard & Diane Del Bello John M. Delany

Elizabeth & Richard Denby IMO Stephen & Helen deRaddo A. Desantis Stacy & Brandon DeStasio Leslie Dimmling & Family

Randy Colahan recognized for service to Library

Continued from page 28

of Garden City is honored to recognize Library Trustee and former Chairman, J. Randolph Colahan, for his twenty-three years of dedicated service to the Village and his efforts to continuously improve the quality of life for Garden City residents, making the Garden City Library a vital part of residents’ lives.”

“We all know what it takes in terms of time, dedication and being away from home,” Mayor Finneran said, “Having a person like Randy, who’s probably one of a handful who have served for nearly a quarter century, we are exceptionally lucky for his dedication and for the sacrifices his family made.”

Chair Foley reflected on Trustee Colahan’s tenure in a statement. "It’s been an honor and a privilege to work with someone so experienced and dedicated to the Garden City community. He’s one of the lon -

gest-serving Trustees Garden City has ever seen. I wish him all the best in retirement,” she said.

Trustee Colahan received an engraved gavel set from the Library, presented by Library Director Marianne Malagon and Operations Director Courtney Rosenblatt, and proclamations from U.S. Congresswoman Laura Gillen, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, State Senator Siela A. Bynoe, State Assemblyman Edward P. Ra, Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti, and Nassau County Legislator John J. Giuffré.

For Trustee Colahan, who thanked all those in attendance, including his wife, Elena, his daughter, Claire Long, and sister, Laurie Burke, his tenure afforded him many beautiful relationships. “Something that comes out of this is all the friendships I’ve been able to develop. Hopefully I will continue to see you in years going forward,” he said.

Nikolaus Tag celebration in German class

Nicholas Day is on December 6. Children all over Germany leave a single boot outside their doorsteps, which is magically filled overnight with candy and small toys. The next morning, children will wake up to find their boots are filled with wonderful things. The students in Frau

Basile’s ixth grade classes got to experience this great holiday also.

After learning about the holiday with readings, videos and songs, the students left boots in the classroom to find them filled with German toys and goodies.

Some people prefer traditional funeral services. Others prefer cremation. Some want an elaborate ceremony. Then there are others who don’t want any ceremony at all.

When it comes to funerals, there are as many options as there are people, and we take pride in being able to say we offer them all.

HONORING ALL RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS

Complete funerals starting at $5,995.00 (Funeral Home Charges)

Frau Basile's sixth grade classes.

A BETTER WAY TO USE THE WEB FOR AN MD.

Virtual Urgent Care from NYU Langone, the #1 physician practice network in the U.S.

While your rash, cough or cut may not be an emergency, you still need your symptoms diagnosed and treated. So, wherever you are in the New York area, you can see a doctor today. And with our single electronic health record, our providers can access all your medical records to make the most informed recommendations possible.

Better health starts with a better health system.

Primary Schools Service Learning Project

We were extra thankful this year for our generous first graders & families at Locust, Hemlock and Homestead! This year’s pajama drive for the PTA service learning project was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who participated by wearing pajamas for our assembly on November 25th, donating pajamas for the drive (185 pairs collected!), and/ or making bookmarks to be included in the matched books provided by the program.

Other Important Dates

• December 13 - PTA Holiday Sportswear Pickup, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. at GCMS

• December 14–22 - Hanukkah

• December 15 - Stewart School 5th Grade Band Concert, 7 p.m.

• December 16 - Locust Holiday Concerts; First Grade, 9 a.m. and Kindergarten 10:30 a.m.

Garden City PTA News

• December 16 - BOE Regular Session

• December 17 - Homestead 1st Grade Winter Concert, 9:15 a.m.

• December 17 - Middle School Winter Concert at the High School, 7 p.m.

• December 18 - Homestead Kindergarten Winter Concert, 9:15 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.

• December 18 - High School Winter Concert (Orchestras/ Symphonic Band), 7 p.m.

• December 24-January 2Holiday Recess (Schools Closed)

• Save the Date for our Annual PTA Dinner on March 31, 2026!

Let’s Connect!

Website: www.gardencitypta.org

Facebook/Instagram/X: @gardencitypta

To get real time information - turn on notifications!

Let your voice be heard!

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

Eric’s Italian Bistro

MODERN & CLASSIC ITALIAN CUISINE DINING • WINE BAR • CATERING

5 Course Party Packages-incl: unlimited wine. Starting @ $ 54.95 Off Premises Catering throughout the Holidays also available!

December 20th. and 21st. 2 Seatings: 11am and 2pm

3 Course Lunch included (Bingo, Free raffle and Prizes)

Open New Year's Day 4:30-9pm regular menu

Homestead students pose in their pajamas as all three primary schools helped donate over 185 pairs of pajamas!

Choose Us for Good Reasons

For the fourth consecutive year , Mount Sinai South Nassau is High Performing in Maternity Care

If you’re getting ready for the birth of your baby, choose Mount Sinai South Nassau, the only hospital on the South Shore to be rated High Performing in maternity care four years in a row by U.S. News & World Report ® We’re proud to provide safer, more empowering experiences for mothers and babies through:

• Reduced C-section rates for low-risk, first-time mothers

• Increased VBAC rates

• Low rates of unexpected newborn complications

• Commitment to exclusive human milk feeding

• Transparency on racial/ethnic disparities

• Low episiotomy rates

• Birthing-friendly practices

Learn more at southnassau.org/maternity, or call 877-SOUTH-NASSAU.

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

Volunteer by Decorating a Snowman for the Library’s Snowman Scavenger Hunt!

Teens in Grades 6–12 can earn community service by decorating and cutting out a snowman to be used in a Snowman Scavenger Hunt for all ages in the Library! Pick up the snowman template at the Library, cut and decorate the snowman at home or at the Library using the supplies in the Teen Makerspace, and then return the snowman to the Library! These snowmen will then be used for a scavenger hunt in the Library for patrons to participate in from the end of 2025 through January 2026! Snowmen are due no later than Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

Join us for the Library’s Third Annual Tweens and Teens Noon Year’s Eve Party

Teens can celebrate the New Year by counting down to noon on New Year’s Eve during the third annual Tweens and Teens Noon Year’s Eve Party, which will be held on Wednesday, December 31, at 11 a.m. in the Library. Tweens and teens can eat snacks, play games, make ornaments, sing karaoke, and talk with friends. Hot cocoa will be served and teens will be given NYE hats, noisemakers, beaded necklaces, and more for a balloon drop at noon on New Year’s Eve. Registration is required and begins Tuesday, December 16, at 10 a.m. online via LibCal at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com. Want to volunteer to help with the set-up or cleanup for the party? Let us know when you register! Space is limited, so make sure to sign-up early to save your spot at the party!

Upcoming and Ongoing Library Programs for Tweens and Teens

These programs are for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12 unless otherwise noted. Registration is required for these programs on LibCal at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com unless otherwise noted.

Teens who complete an online survey after specific programs can receive community service for participating. Registration is live online at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Ongoing until Thursday, December 18, at 4 p.m.: Tiny Art Show for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

• Ongoing until Thursday, December 18, at 4 p.m.: Ornaments for Community Service (Gra d es 6–12)

• Saturday, December 13, at

Teens can earn community service credit by decorating paper snowmen for a Snowman Scavenger Hunt.

3 p.m.: Teen Edible Holiday House with Chris Buchman (Grades 6–12)

• Tuesday, December 16, at 4 p.m.: VolunTeen Artists: Perler Bead Art for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, December 18, at 4 p.m.: Dungeons and Dragons (Grades 6–12)

• Friday, December 19, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Gamers (Grades 6–12)

• Saturday, December 20, at 3 p.m.: Teen STEAM Workshop: Bread in a Bag with Chris Buchman (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, December 16, at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, December 23, at 4 p.m.: Teen Marshmallow Snowflakes (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, December 31, at 11 a.m.: Teen Noon Year’s Eve Party (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, December 23, at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, December 30, at 2 p.m.: Teen Bag Charms and Keychains (Grades 6–12)

Ongoing Take-Home Community Service Opportunities

Looking to volunteer? Check out some of our ongoing take-home community service opportunities for tweens and teens in Grades 6–12. Please check at the Library for more information on each of these opportu -

can celebrate the New Year by counting down to noon on New Year’s Eve during the third annual Tweens and Teens Noon Year’s Eve Party.

Teens met on December 2, 2025, in the Teen Room at the Library’s monthly Teen Advisory Board meeting. Teens had snacks while discussing ideas for upcoming Teen Programs launching in January 2026. The Teen Advisory Board is for teens in Grades 6–12 and meets monthly on a Tuesday at 4 p.m. Visit LibCal at gardencitypl.libcal.com to see when the Teen Advisory Board will meet again in January and to learn more about upcoming programs for teens in Grades 6–12.

nities; all volunteer projects should be submitted at the Library with a Volunteer Form, which can be found outside the Tweens and Teens Room.

• Ongoing–-December 17: Snowman Scavenger Hunt Project for Community Service - No registration required. One snowman can be submitted per volunteer.

• Ongoing: Bookmarks for Community Service - No registration required. Up to 20 bookmarks can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

• Ongoing: Kindness Cards for Community Service - No registration required. Up to 10 cards can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

• Ongoing: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service

- No registration required. Up to 10 bracelets can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

• Ongoing until December 19: Fall Creative Arts Book Submissions for Community Service

- No registration required. Up to five pieces of writing and/or art (sized 8.5 × 11 inches) can be submitted per volunteer.

• Ongoing until December 19, 2025: Holiday Recipe Cards for Community Service - No registration required. Up to five recipe cards can be submitted per volunteer.

Teens

GC Library Board holds organizational meeting

On December 8, at the Garden City Public Library Board of Trustees

Organizational Meeting, Library Board

Vice Chair Mary Maguire — in Chair Colleen Foley’s absence, opened the meeting by thanking outgoing Library Board

Trustee Randy Colahan for his nearly 25 years of service on the Board, 18 of which were served as chair. His term officially expires on December 31st.

Trustee Colahan received an engraved gavel set from the Library, presented by Library Director Marianne Malagon and Operations Director Courtney Rosenblatt,

and proclamations from Garden City Mayor Ed Finneran, U.S. Congresswoman Laura Gillen, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, State Senator Siela A. Bynoe, State Assemblyman Edward P. Ra, Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti, and Nassau County Legislator John J. Giuffré.

Vice Chair Maguire continued with Organizational Meeting business by noting Officer positions are open to all sitting Trustees. She nominated Chair Foley to continue serving in this capacity, which was approved unanimously. Trustee Colahan and Trustee Linda Ryan jointly nominated

Vice Chair Maguire to continue serving in this capacity, which was seconded and approved unanimously. Library Director Malagon was re-elected to continue in her capacity as Secretary to the Library Board of Trustees for calendar year 2026.

Vice Chair Maguire then announced the Library Board members appointed Chair of the following Committees for the 2026 calendar year:

• Budget Committee – Vice Chair

Mary Maguire and Trustee Paul O’Grady

• Audit Committee  – Chair

Colleen Foley and a newly sworn in Trustee

to be appointed by the Village

• Building Committee - Vice Chair Mary Maguire and Trustee Paul O’Grady

• Community Relations Committee – Trustee Linda Ryan

• Personnel Committee  – Chair Colleen Foley

• Policy Committee  – Trustee Linda Ryan and a newly sworn in Trustee to be appointed by the Village

• Program Task Force  – Chair Colleen Foley and Trustee Linda Ryan

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

The film “Sabrina” will be screened on Monday, December 15.

Monday Movies

Monday Movies presented by the Friends of the Garden City Library at 1:30 p.m.:

December 2025

12/15/25 - “Sabrina” (TV-PG), 1954, 113 mins

12/22/25 - “Christmas in Connecticut” (TV-PG), 1945, 101 mins

12/29/25 - Family Movie: “Ice Age” (PG), 2002, 81 mins

December Programs

Happy 250th Birthday Jane Austen!

Tuesday, December 16, from 7–8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Dr. Mary Ellen Minogue, an expert on Jane Austen, will present a lecture on Jane Austen on her actual 250th birthday! Austen (1775–1817) wrote during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, and her work was primarily focused on the social customs and manners of the English middle class. She is often referred to as one of the most important writers in English literature. Her most famous works include “Sense and Sensibility”, “Pride and Prejudice”, “Mansfield Park”, and “Emma”, with “Persuasion” and “Northanger Abbey” published posthumously.

Register online on LibCal (https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com) or call Adult

Celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday on Tuesday, December 16, at the Library.

Services Reference Desk at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org. Programs may be canceled due to weather, power outages, lack of registration, or other unforeseen circumstances. If contact information has been provided for registration, a direct attempt will be made to notify participants.

Mah-Jongg  & Games

Thursday, December 18, from 6–8 p.m.in the Large Meeting Room

Register online on LibCal (https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com) or call Adult Services Reference Desk at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org. Programs may be canceled due to weather, power outages, lack of registration, or other unforeseen circumstances. If contact information has been provided for registration, a direct attempt will be made to notify participants.

Bingo for Adults

Friday, December 19, from 11 a.m.–-12 p.m. in the Small Meeting Room

Join us for a fun morning of Bingo and win some fun prizes. Register for each Bingo online on LibCal (https://gardencitypl.libcal. com) or call Adult Services Reference

Desk at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.  Programs may be canceled due to weather, power outages, lack of registration, or other unforeseen circumstances. If contact information has been provided for registration, a direct attempt will be made to notify participants.

Twin County Chorus

Saturday, December 20, from 1–2 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Twin County Chorus is an award-winning chapter of Sweet Adelines International.  They encourage women of all backgrounds to discover the joy of singing four-part a cappella in the barbershop style.  They will perform a selection of Holiday Music, ending with an audience sing-along.

Register online on LibCal (https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com) or call Adult Services Reference Desk at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.. Programs may be canceled due to weather, power outages, lack of registration, or other unforeseen circumstances. If contact information has been provided for registration, a direct attempt will be made to notify participants.

Join Melinda Space of Them’s The Breaks Chocolate and More and Make Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake on a Stick

Tuesday, December 30, from 1–2 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Who can pass up the delicious combination of chocolate and cheesecake? Join us in making a delectable creation! We will take a slice of cheesecake, cover it in decadent chocolate and then top it with a kataifi/pistachio mixture, drizzle that with yet more decadent chocolate and then top with chopped pistachio.We will package them and add a beautiful silk bow to showcase this decadent creation.

Register online on LibCal (https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com) or call Adult Services Reference Desk at (516) 742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org. Programs may be canceled due to weather, power outages, lack of registration, or other unforeseen circumstances. If contact information has been provided for registration, a direct attempt will be made to notify

participants.

Check Out A Museum Pass! Through the generosity of the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, the Library offers free passes to select museums and cultural institutions. Reservations can be made via LibCal, which requires a Library card and a PIN. Please visit the Circulation Desk to verify or create your PIN. Once you have a PIN, you can make your reservations from home or at the Library.

You can make a reservation to borrow a Museum pass from one of the member institutions in our Museum Pass Program. Some museum passes are now available to print from home, including the Vanderbilt Museum located at 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport. If you do not have access to a printer, the Library will be happy to print the pass for you. These passes will be good for one day only. Please note that not all museums participate. For a list of printfrom-home passes, visit the Library website, www.gardencitypl.org.

Passes for the following museums still need to be picked up at the Library: 9/11 Memorial & Museum, NYC (2 adults & 2 children); MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art), NYC (5 visitors); the Long Island Children’s Museum, Garden City (2 adults & 2 children) and the Empire Pass, which allows entry of the vehicle when the card is presented at most New York State Parks, Department of Environmental Conservation forest preserve areas, boat launch sites, arboretums and park preserves.

The following Library Museum Pass rules remain in effect.

• Museum passes are available only to Garden City Public Library cardholders in good standing who have signed the Museum Pass User Agreement. Museum passes may be reserved in advance and must be checked out by an adult (18 years and older) family member.

• Reservations will be taken up to one month in advance of the desired date, subject to availability on a firstcome, first-served basis. Reservations can be made in person at the Adult Services Desk or over the phone at 516742-8405 x5236.

Additional rules and information are available at the library.

Attention students!

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

•DECORATED COOKIE TRAYS

•HOME MADE PIES

•FIG COOKIES

•Fresh Baked Pumpkin, Cherry, Apple, Coconut Cream, Pecan Pies & More

•Chocolate Cornucopia

•CUPCAKES/CAKE POPS

HOLIDAY HOURS!

•GINGER BREAD HOUSES •CHOCOLATE

•FRESH FRUIT TARTS

CHRISTMAS DAY 6am–4pm NEW YEAR’S EVE 6:30am–8pm NEW YEAR’S DAY 9am–5pm

News from the Children’s Room

Please join us on Dec. 15 at 11:30 a.m. for Mixed Age Storytime - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten).

Upcoming December Library Programs for Children

These programs are for children ages birth through Grade 5. Registration is required. Visit https://www.gardencitypl.libcal.com to register for November programs.

Programs may be canceled due to weather, power outages, lack of registration, or other unforeseen circumstances. If contact information has been provided for registration, a direct attempt will be made to notify participants.

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ! Children’s programs are extremely popular! We recommend that registrants arrive EARLY to check-in. Your reserved spot will be held for 5 minutes after the starting time of the class before being given to a patron on the waitlist. If you know you cannot attend a class, please cancel your registration on LibCal or call the Library at 516742-8405 x5241, so that your spot can be released to someone on the waitlist.

• Saturday, Dec. 13, at 11:00 a.m.: Family Holiday House For Preschool - Age 2–5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

Please join us on Dec. 17 at 4:00 p.m. for STEAM Fun Club - Grades K–2.

10:30 a.m.: Inclusive Storytime Adventure - Grades K–5

• Monday, Dec. 15, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime - 18 Months to 3 Years

• Monday, Dec. 15, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose StorytimeBirth to 17 Months

• Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 10:30 a.m.: STEAM Preschool Building - 6 Months to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 4:00 p.m.: STEAM Fun Club - Grades K–2

• Thursday, Dec. 18, at 10:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, Dec. 18, at 11:30 a.m.: Mother Goose StorytimeBirth to 17 Months

• Thursday, Dec. 18, at 6:30PM Books Before Bedtime StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Saturday, Dec. 20, at

• Saturday, Dec. 13, at 1:00 p.m.: Family Holiday House Program - Grades K–5

• Monday, Dec. 22, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime - 18 Months to 3 Years

• Monday, Dec. 22, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, Dec. 23, at 11:00 a.m.: Preschool Holiday Dance Party - 2 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, Dec. 29, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime - 18 Months to 3 Years

• Monday, Dec. 29, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, Dec. 29, at 1:30 p.m.: Family Movie - “Ice Age”

• Tuesday, Dec. 30, at 10:30 a.m.: LI Music for AardvarksBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

Unattended Child Policy

It is Library policy that all children under age 11 must be accompanied by a parent or designated responsible person while in the Library. Also, if the young child is attending a Library program, we require the parent or designated responsible person to remain in the

Love to write?

film “Ice Age” will be screened on Monday, December 29.

Library throughout the program and meet the child upon completion of the program.

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

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Attach article and any photos (1MB), along with your name and contact info.

• Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words. • Each writer will be reimbursed a stipend of $25.⁰⁰

The

New York Surrogate's Court

OCA Official Form

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICES

OCA Official Form JA-6 Accounting Citation

File No. 2023-3191/A

SURROGATE’S COURT, NASSAU COUNTY CITATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent

TO:

Grassi Advisory Group, Inc.

Jasper Surety

NYS Office of the Attorney General

Margaret Holihan

John Sullivan

Richard Sullivan

Gavin Quinn

John Quinn

Janine Kessler

Suzanne Gittins

James Quinn

Patricia Quinn

Jean Willison

any and all unknown persons whose names or parts of whose names and whose place or places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained, distributees, heirs-at-law and next-of-kin of the said Thomas F. Quinn, deceased, and if any of the said distributees named specifically or as a class be dead, their legal representatives, their husbands or wives, if any, distributees and successors in interest whose names and/or places of residence and post office addresses are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained.

A petition having been duly filed by Public Administrator of Nassau County , who is domiciled at 240 Old Country Road, Suite 603, Mineola, New York 11501 .

YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Nassau County, at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York, on January 28, 2026, at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the account of Public Administrator of Nassau County, a summary of which has been served herewith, as Administrator of the estate of Thomas F. Quinn , should not be judicially settled.

[X] Further relief sought (if any):

1. Releasing and discharging the Petitioner from all liability, responsibility and accountability as to all matters set forth in the account of proceedings;

2. Allowing the commissions of the Petitioner in the amount of $33,961.34 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the amount of $9,987.11 pursuant to SCPA 1207(4);

3. Fixing and determining the attorney’s fees and disbursements of Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O'Brien, LLC attorney for petitioner in the amount of $59,236.35 as and for legal fees and $3,892.43 as and for disbursements, for a total of $63,128.78, of which $20,628.78 has been paid and $42,500.00 is unpaid;

4. Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi & Co, CPA’s, PC in the amount of $7,825.00, of which $1,825.00 has been paid and $6,000.00 is unpaid;

5. Releasing and discharging the surety;

6. Allowing the claim of John Quinn in the amount of $348.63;

7. Directing each of you claiming to be a distributee of the Decedent to establish proof of your kinship, and show cause why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship or deposited with the New York State Comptroller on account for the unknown next of kin of Thomas F. Quinn, decedent, should said alleged distributees default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship;

8. Granting such other and further relief as to the Court is just and proper.

Dated, Attested, and Sealed, HON. S/ Rhonda E. Fischer November 21, 2025 Surrogate (Seal)

S/ Debra Keller Leimbach

Chief Clerk

Richard T. Kerins

Signature of Attorney Print Name of Attorney Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O'Brien, LLC (516) 538-1111

Firm Name Telephone 254 Nassau Blvd. So. , Garden City South, New York 11530 rkerins@mmkolaw.com

Address Email (optional)

NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you, and you or your attorney may request a copy of the full account from the petitioner or petitioner’s attorney.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005CF1, -againstCOLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 22, 2017, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-CF1 is the Plaintiff and COLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 6, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 162 MEADOW ST, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530; and the following tax map identification: 34-546-32 & 39.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 000801/2015. Mark Ricciardi, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing.

*LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

NASSAU COUNTY PUBLIC NOTICE

Lash Star Cosmetics LLC, filed with SSNY 1/2/25, office Nassau Co., NY, SSNY agent for service

Mail: 650 Stewart Ave, Ste 153, Garden City, NY 11530, purpose lawful act/activity

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK

The resolution, a summary of which is published herewith, has been adopted on November 6, 2025, and an abstract thereof has been published and posted as required by law and the period of time has elapsed for the submission and filing of a petition for a permissive referendum and a valid petition has not been submitted and filed. The validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the Village of Garden City, in the County of Nassau, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the date of publication of the notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution.

Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk

BOND RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK, ADOPTED NOVEMBER 6, 2025, AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $2,500,000 TO FINANCE THE CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS TO THE WATER WORKS BUILDING, STATING THE ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST THEREOF IS $2,500,000 AND APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT FOR SUCH PURPOSE

The object or purpose for which the bonds are authorized is the construction of improvements to the Water Works building, at the estimated maximum cost of $2,500,000.

The period of usefulness is fifteen (15) years.

The maximum amount of obligations authorized to be issued is $2,500,000.

A complete copy of the bond resolution summarized above shall be available for public inspection during normal business hours at the office of the Village of Garden City, Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York.

GC Library’s longest-serving trustee steps down

From page 1

Library recognized Colahan’s 23 years of service as the longest-serving GCPL trustee. He added to that record with one more year in 2025, closing his tenure this week with accolades from the community. His most recent reappointment came in December 2020, and his term expires December 31st. He stepped down from the chair role a year ago but remained deeply involved, contributing managerial expertise and institutional insight. Colahan has had a long and successful career in the commercial printing and graphics industry.

“I’m definitely not trying to compare this with service on the Village Board of Trustees or the GC Board of Education – but we learned I was the longest-serving person for any of the three local boards!” he noted.

He added that he agreed to stay on for 2025 to help transition new GCPL Board Chair Colleen Foley and support the library staff. “I am glad I did as I am leaving GCPL in such great hands.”

Colahan reflected on how his father’s village service inspired

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of formation of Bar Down Sports Strategies LLC, a domestic LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/18/2025. Office location: Nassau County. Registered Agents Inc., 418 Broadway, Ste R, Albany, NY 12207 is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of formation of Web Fix LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/13/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to 19 Glen Rd, Garden City, NY 11530: . Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

him. “Before the Library, I was the Estates POA president from 1995 to 1997 and I still wanted to give back, though I was very busy at work. The GCPL Board position came up and I said I did have this heritage, so I wanted to give back – I put my name down, they interviewed a number of people and the Village Board chose me. That’s how this all started,” he said.

Over the years, he also served with the Centennial Soccer Club, The Men’s Association (now the Garden City Booster Club), and the original Garden City Turkey Trot Committee. He remains active with the Rotary Club of Mineola–Garden City, the Knights of Columbus, and the Kiwanis Club.

The modernization of the Library Children’s Room was completed under Colahan’s leadership. He noted that while the building dates to 1973, the Children’s Room had long needed updates for both learning and social use. Initial designs began in 2012, but funding was uncertain.

“We started seeking funding through various government authorities (including

the office of then-State Sen. Kemp Hannon) with Bullet Aid and grants, and at one point we thought the GCPL capital budget would have to fund the whole project. Then when Colleen Foley was on the Village Board of Trustees, she really became a catalyst…helping GCPL get over the hurdle and get a lot more funding than we probably thought we’d have in the beginning.”

He added that libraries today are far more than books on shelves. “The library embodies programs and services, and it is really a community center,” he said.

Colahan emphasized the library’s role as a cornerstone of the village. New residents, he noted, choose communities for their schools and often for their public libraries. “If you don’t have a library that’s good, you might have people choosing to move to a neighboring town instead…The library serves local families every day of the week,” he explained.

When Colahan joined the board in 2002, GCPL did not yet have internet access. He recalled the installation of the computer center more than 20

THE OFFICE CAT

From page 22

Panic false alarm

Officers determined December 8th that a panic alarm activation was accidental.

School-zone speeder

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged December 8th with driving with a suspended license, excessive speed in a school zone, and excessively tinted windows.

Trees for troops

GCPD and neighboring departments on December 8th escorted Christmas trees to JFK Airport for the Trees for Troops Program, supporting military personnel worldwide.

Arrests for package thefts

Garden City Police apprehended four youths on December 9th for allegedly stealing packages from a Hilton Avenue front porch.

years ago, a project driven by former Library Trustee Jack Pascal. Today, he noted, most patrons bring their own laptops and devices.

Still, Colahan says the staff remains GCPL’s greatest resource. “We have an amazing staff that brings a lot to the table…As a longtime library trustee it’s really great to just provide them with resources so they can develop what their knowledge is – services and programs for the village.”

He also reflected on decades of budget challenges, describing funding swings as a pendulum. He recalled his father’s experience in the 1970s, when the village nearly withheld a crucial payment that would have forced the library to close. Later, around 2010, GCPL again faced cuts that required reduced hours, though no staff layoffs. In contrast, he said, the partnership with the village over the last decade has been “fantastic.”

many great people and services we have here.”.”

Looking ahead, he cited the need for renovations to the lower-level program rooms, calling the space outdated and in need of new carpeting, wall treatments, and reconfigured meeting rooms. “That project needs to get done,” he said.

Colahan concluded by thanking former trustees and colleagues, including Vice Chair Gloria Weinrich; Trustees Lola Nouryan, Julianne Lewis, Germaine Greco, Charlie Murphy, Peter D’Antonio; and especially former Library Board Chair and Village Trustee John Delany.

“John was like an older brother who took me under his wing…He had the foresight to say the GCPL Board needed to put budget monies aside for programs, which we’ve only continued to enhance every year,” Colahan said.

Dark-web checks

A victim reported December 9th that their bank closed their account after seeing the victim’s checks being sold on the dark web.

Suspended registration

A Washington Avenue motorist was charged on December 9th with driving with a suspended registration and additional violations.

Debris hazard

Officers safeguarded Nassau Boulevard on December 9th due to roadway debris until DPW cleared the area.

Fraudulent check

A fraudulent check was cashed against a victim’s bank account on December 9th.

Odor investigation

Firefighters responded December 9th to a report of a natural gas odor on 2nd Street and determined the area was safe.

Colahan praised the coordination and support of Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni, Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi, and leaders in Recreation and Parks. He expressed appreciation as well for the Garden City Police Department. “While I may be leaving this Library Board, I have a ton of great memories…When you get to work with the village departments, you realize what an amazing place this is and how

As his GCPL Board term ends in 2025, Colahan expressed full confidence in the library’s leadership team, including Board Chair Colleen Foley, Library Director Marianne Malagon, and financial manager Courtney Rosenblatt.

“I am leaving this Library Board and administration in the best of hands…We benefit from their experience, financial management and knowledge of how the government works – GCPL has that as everyone brings their best to the table,” he said.

Kids bring classrooms to life at BOE session

From page 3

landmarks like the Pyramids, Eiffel Tower, and Statue of Liberty, students applied problem-solving strategies and built their own monuments. They shared their models with the board, explaining their engineering choices and teamwork, including one monument honoring the “GC Pineapple.”

Throughout the evening, board members and adminis-

trators praised the students, teachers, and families who participated. Many families left after their children’s presentations, but not before contributing to what Vice President Kristen Pappas described as “the most excitement we’ve ever had in the room.”

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for December 16 at Garden City High School.

December 12, 2025

Where to Find Best Gifts to Cheer Travelers, Adventurers’ Wanderlust

BY KAREN RUBIN

TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Enhance your traveler’s upcoming trip by prearranging a dining experience; a spa visit; admission to a museum, attraction or cultural event; a cooking, baking or jewelry making class; a hot-air balloon ride; rock-climbing adventure; walking tour; bike rental. And what trip doesn’t require some special gear? (If you time it right, you might also be able to benefit from holiday savings.)

You can purchase gift cards on many airlines including Delta Gift Card (https://www.delta.com/us/ en/gift-cards/overview); Southwest Airlines (https://www.southwest.com/ gift-card/); American Airlines (https:// giftcards.aa.com/), United Airlines, British Airways, Air France, KLM, SAS. Prefer riding the rails to boarding flights? Obtain Amtrak gift cards at https://www.amtrak.com/giftcards.

For hotels, Booking.com, hotels. com and others also sell gift cards. You can purchase gift cards for stays or amenities at Historic Hotels of America, Historic Hotels Worldwide, Beyond Green and Preferred Hotels & Resorts (all brands of Preferred Hotels & Resorts) online at giftcards. iprefer.com; Historic Hotels of Europe (https://historichotelsofeurope.com/ gift-voucher/). Small Luxury Hotels collection (https://slh.com/about-slh/ gift-cards).

Theme parks can be a very, very pricey vacation for families. Gift cards can put the vacation in reach or enhance the experience. Disney’s gift cards can be used for theme park tickets, resort stays, merchandise, dining and experiences at Disney destinations, redeemable at shopDisney.com, Disney Stores Disney Cruise Line®, and Adventures by Disney®.  https://www. disneygiftcard.com/.

Spafinder.com, a compendium of resorts, wellness centers and day spas,

Give your traveler the gift of experience like hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, Turkey © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

makes it easy to purchase giftcards, and runs holiday discounts. https:// myspafinder.spagiftcards.com/ category/eGift-Cards

Give the Gift of Experience

You can pre-purchase a citysightseeing pass that provides admissions to the most popular attractions and experiences in cities like Prague (PragueCoolPass.com); Paris (parispass.com); Amsterdam ( iamamsterdam.com ); Berlin (citypasses.eu); Dresden (getyourguide. com).  The added advantage is that the passes help organize the itinerary, provide info on hours, exhibits, and most importantly, save the time of waiting on line and the anxiety of being shut out and even save money over purchasing admissions individually.

Go City sells passes in 25 destinations from major metropolises like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Madrid, Singapore, London and New York to oceanfront oases like Sydney and Oahu, on 1,500 attractions, tours, and activities worldwide, saving up to 50% over purchasing individual tickets, connected on your smart phone (GoCity. com, 800 887 9103). CityPass (https:// www.citypass.com/) has pass programs in numerous US cities and Toronto.

Arrange for your travelers to drive

an exotic car, learn to fly, rock climb, skydive, bungee jump, take a hot-air balloon ride. Virgin Experience lists some 5000 different experiences in 122 regions from 600 “best in class” partners (https://www.virgingifts.com/us)

Context Travel offers personal walking tours with experts in 60 cities across 6 continents. https://www. contexttravel.com/gift-cards/new

Also consider gifting some of the really special experiences, like Zookeeper for a Day at Busch Gardens (www.buschgardens.com), a safari experience at Safari West, Santa Rosa (800-616-2695, safariwest.com), a sleepover “Night in the Museum” experiences at places like National Air and Space Museum, International Spy Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Cincinnati Museum Center, California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, or family memberships.

For the skier/snowboarder, consider purchasing lift tickets, lessons, rentals, perhaps even a multi-day, regional or local pass (EpicPass.com, IkonPass.com, snow.com, ski.com). Get Ski Tickets is an online marketplace to purchase datespecific discounted lift tickets, lessons, rentals, group lift tickets and season passes (https://www.getskitickets. com/, 970-233-7040, info@getskitickets.

com) and gift certificates (https://www. getskitickets.com/gift-certificates/).

And cruises may advertise as being “all-inclusive” but shore excursions are costly add-ons. Pre-purchase a shore excursion from Shore Excursions Group which offers 4,000 tours in 300+ ports worldwide at much less than purchasing from the cruiseline (https:// www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/).

Travel Gear

Our favorite go-to outfitters (especially when you catch holiday deals, sales and closeouts): REI (makes it easy to find just the right gift for travelers, adventurers, top trending gifts, gifts by activity or price, www.rei.com/s/ gifts-for-travelers; sale items https:// www.rei.com/c/travel-gear/f/scddeals, 800-426-4840; members have full year to return, non-members have 90 days);  LL Bean, 888-610-2326,  llbean. com; Sun & Ski (gift cards available; can shop deals, promotions, purchase gift cards, chat with an expert, low price guarantee, https://www.sunandski.com/c/sun-snow-sale, sunandski. com, 866-786-3869); Eastern Mountain Sports (gift guides for men, women, kids, stocking stuffers, https://www. ems.com/collections/gift-center, 888463-6367,  ems.com); Tennis Express (gift guide online, TennisExpress.com), Bass Pro Shops,  www.basspro.com; Patagonia (Patagonia.com); Paragon Sports (paragonsports.com).

What trip doesn’t involve photos! B&H Photo consistently has best inventory, prices and holiday specials, efficient delivery, excellent customer service, delivery and return policies (www.bhphotovideo.com), 800.606.6969, 212.444.6615).

And of course, luggage and packs: travelpro.com, Luggageonline.com, and www.nomatic.com

© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of December 14-20, 2025

We’ve all noticed it. Nights are growing longer, furnaces are working harder, and in many places, snow is blanketing the land. No doubt about it: Winter is coming!

The exact moment that winter arrives in our planet’s Northern Hemisphere this year is at 10:03 a.m. EST (7:03 a.m. PST) on Sunday, Dec. 21. For those south of the equator, however, this defines the beginning of summer.

This moment has long been known as the winter solstice. To Northern Hemisphere skywatchers, it marks the sun’s most southerly midday path across the sky, as well as the most southerly sunset point on the western horizon.

The winter solstice has been celebrated by cultures throughout the ages as the end of the season’s darkness and the rebirth of sunlight, warmth and life on Earth. It’s not a coincidence that some of our world’s major holidays are celebrated at this time of year. In fact, some -- including Christmas -- are scheduled around this one important celestial event.

Even the term “solstice” originates in antiquity, coming from two Latin words: “sol” (meaning “sun”) and “sistere” (meaning “to stand still”). It is on the winter solstice that the sun-

Winter’s Coming!

set’s southerly travel along the western horizon seems to end (the sun “stands still”), and our sun begins to drift northward once again.

You can easily watch this yourself. Go outdoors just before sunset and notice where the sun disappears behind the western horizon. You might even make a sketch or take a photograph of its position. Keep watch over the next few weeks and months, and you’ll notice that the sunset position will begin to drift northward along the horizon. By summertime, it will appear to set at its northernmost point, before it “stands still” and the cycle begins all over again.

The reason that our seasons occur is, unfortunately, a mystery to many, despite having learned all about this in elementary school. Some folks still believe that wintertime occurs because our planet lies farthest from the sun and conditions are much colder as a result. Now, while it’s true that our distance from the sun varies during the year, we’re actually millions of miles closer to the sun during our winter than during our summer!

No, our lower wintertime temperatures occur mostly because our planet’s axis is tipped 23.4 degrees to its orbit around our star and, at this time of year, the sun doesn’t appear in our daytime sky very long.

During the months of December,

January and February, the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the sun, causing sunlight to fall on us at a rather shallow angle. Six months later -- in summer -- when we’re on the opposite side of the sun, our planet’s tilt aims the Northern Hemisphere toward our star. Now solar rays beat down more directly onto the Northern Hemisphere.

From this moment on, the days become longer, the sun gradually

LOST IN SUBURBIA

appears higher in the daytime sky, and the greens of life slowly return to our planet’s Northern Hemisphere. And, though the stargazer in me enjoys the long, star-filled nights of winter, I’d be less than honest if I said I won’t relish the return of springtime!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

Making the Least of a Hairy Situation

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

One of the things I find to be a complete waste of time is shaving my legs. It’s not that I don’t need it, it’s just that the shave lasts all of about eight hours before the werewolf in me begins to reemerge. Additionally, with the vast acreage of hairy body parts that need to be attended to, it takes half the day to remove it all. It is simply not possible to do it quickly without cutting my legs to ribbons and looking like I’m recreating the shower scene from “Psycho.”

From time to time, it would occur to me that there are hair removal options other than shaving. But as someone who is not particularly good with pain, I have ruled out the solutions that promise you that “it will only hurt for a second.” This is what the dentist told me when he grafted my receding gums, what the OB/GYN told me when I was in labor, and what my mother told me

about marriage.

I remember one time when I was in college, there was a new product called an Epi-something or other. It had a nice feminine name and a pretty picture of some lady’s smooth legs on the box, and it guaranteed hairless legs for up to six weeks. It sounded like a miracle product, and I snatched one up for a pretty penny. What they neglected to say was that the Epi-thingy had these coils that yanked bunches of my hair out of my leg so painfully, I considered recommending it to the military. Granted, it did leave that one inch of leg that I Epied extremely smooth before I decided it was a medieval torture device and hurled it out my third-floor dorm window.

Fortunately, I live in the part of the country that has four seasons, so for two of them anyway, I can hide my Chewbacca legs under long pants. But

one day I went for a pedicure, and it happened that I was way overdue for a shave. As I was sitting with my pants rolled up and my toes in nice warm water, one of the salon ladies walked by and gasped.

“You don’t wax?” she asked.

“I shave. I just haven’t had time,” I explained.

“You want wax?” she asked.

“NO! NO WAX!” I said firmly. “Too painful.”

“Oh, we have a new procedure,” she said. “Body sugaring! It doesn’t hurt.”

I raised a doubtful eyebrow at her. I had been down this no-hurt road before and had ended up as roadkill. She explained to me how the body sugar worked and showed me some stuff that, God help me, looked an awful lot like snot. Staring down at my legs, I decided I should probably do something before an archaeologist saw me and

proclaimed me the Missing Link. So I reluctantly agreed to give it a whirl.

As Salon Lady rolled out the sugar booger on my leg, I lay down and braced for the worst. Suddenly I heard this huge ripping sound. Miraculously, I felt absolutely no pain. Nothing. Nada. Zippo. I was ecstatic. Bolting up, I grinned at her.

“Wow, that was amazing,” I exclaimed. “It felt like nothing!” She laughed. “It was nothing,” she said, holding up a piece of the white paper that covered the massage table I was on. “I just practiced on the paper!”

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

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

Throughout the year, the sunset’s position in the sky changes.

Casually puttering around the home

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

I come from a long line of putterers. I don’t mean a golfer who putts a ball on the greens, I mean someone who likes puttering about and spending hours looking for things that may lead to other things.

Just to be sure, I looked up the definition of the word putterer and this is what appeared:

“A putterer is a person who moves or works aimlessly, often in a leisurely way, or a person who does small, non-professional tasks as a hobby. The term often implies someone who is a hobbyist, tinkerer or dabbler, engaging in various activities without a specific professional goal.”

Yes, that’s the definition.

My father was a putterer and growing up I remember seeing Dad puttering about in the garage on many Saturdays when we kids watched TV in the living room. He’d look for his hammer or screwdriver or saw and get busy making something from wood. The thing is he’d spend more time than needed looking for the tool he was searching for. Still, he’d forge on.

Bird feeders were his favorite things to make and after painting them some bright colors he’d proudly show off the finished product to Mom and us kids then hang his latest piece on a branch in the back yard for the birds to use or give them away as presents. Nothing seemed to please him more than being able to show off his handiwork.

For years Dad worked full-time in NYC which meant taking the LIRR from Rockville Centre to Manhattan five days a week but once he retired I noticed that he’d spend hours puttering around in the garage looking for tools and making things - or he’d climb the stairs to the attic and spend hours puttering around up there looking through boxes.

So I guess I know who I inherited the puttering trait from. Dear old Dad. When large Rubbermaid bins became popularthose plastic bins that hold 31 gallons or 50 gallons - those measure 43.05 inches x 23.29 inches x 19.58 inches and they come with or without wheels. I took to them like ducks take to water. They were nice, shinier and brighter than the cardboard boxes I’d used for years.

I could line up my board games, card games, DVD movies, old cassette tapes, old vinyl records, family photo albums that we’d put together years before and more.

Once filled I’d snap the top on the bin and walk away content in the knowledge that some of my prized possessions were safely stored. I was particularly efficient

in stacking them so I made the best use of the space available.

The mistake I made at the beginning, however, was forgetting to label the Rubbermaid bins on the outside so they were easily discernible. I’d stacked them up and lined them up in the garage or my closets and months later - sometimes years later - I’d start searching for something and found the job was harder than it should have been because I’d have to open each bin and peer into its depths to find what I was searching for. That wasn’t an impossible task but labeling them would have made things so much easier.

I’m not proud of being a putterer but there could be worse things. I won’t name those things here because that would mean going off on a tangent but let’s say that I think of dear old Dad often - whenever I am deep in the throes of looking for something - a favorite board game, an old book, a very important tool I need or a skein of yard that’s just the right color for the sweater I’m starting to knit.

I am one of six Lynch kids and I never thought of my siblings as being putterers - but one time recently I was invited to my brother Phil’s home and being a prompt person, I arrived first.

Pulling my car onto his driveway I glanced up and saw his garage door open. Puttering there in the garage was Phil - opening this box and that box and I couldn’t imagine what he was searching for. But of course the search is what it’s all about.

“Ah, hah!” I said loudly, feeling better because I wasn’t the only sibling in my family who is a putterer.

When I asked Phil what he was looking for he said, “Some outdoor lights to decorate the patio. We haven’t used them in months but I know they’re here somewhere.”

And Phil kept looking. Some people call puttering doing garage projects but I contend that people can putter in lots of different places. The garage just happens to be a perfect place for puttering and rummaging about.

Knowing that I’ve got the puttering gene in my family is some consolation but that knowledge doesn’t stop me from puttering about. It’s just something we do. In recent months I’ve discovered that my brother, Peter, and sister, Susan, also like to putter around their homes.

I can think of some worse habits and vices than puttering but still, I don’t want my claim to fame to be puttering. No, thank you.

These days when I do go searching for something very important such as holiday decorations or the tax papers I

thought I’d tucked away very carefully, I don’t think of myself as someone puttering through Rubbermaid bins or boxes. Rather, I think of myself as a woman on a mission and somehow that sounds a little softer than hearing the word putterer.

I bet most putterers don’t think of themselves as putterers. They just start looking for something - the search has begun - and they keep at it and then it seems that not only minutes but hours have gone by.

As time goes on I’ve gotten more organized and more efficient so that has made my puttering habit a little less obvious than it used to be but suffice it to say that once a putterer always a putterer. What can I do?

How to Handle Social Security Issues When Someone Dies

BY TOM MARGENAU

Every couple of years, I like to cover a topic that confuses almost everyone. And that confusion comes at a time when they have so many other things on their minds. I’m talking about handling the Social Security affairs of someone who has died.

Of course, there are many different potential scenarios involving the death of someone. But for today’s column, I will be primarily dealing with the one I most commonly hear about from my readers. It involves a husband and wife, both of whom were getting Social Security benefits -- and the husband dies.

The first issue I will cover is what to do with the final Social Security check for the deceased. And to do so, I must start out by making three points. First, Social Security checks are paid one month behind. So, for example, the check you get in December is the benefit payment for November.

Second, the law says you must be alive for an entire month to be due a Social Security check for that month.

And third, Social Security benefits have never been prorated. People don’t like this rule because the Social Security check for the month of death must be returned.

To help explain how this plays out, I’ll use an example. Mary’s husband, Fred, died on Nov. 28. Mary would not be able to cash Fred’s November Social Security check (paid in December) even though Fred was alive for 28 days of the month.

But there is a flip side to this lack of a proration rule. If Fred did die on Nov. 28, Mary would be due widow’s benefits for the whole month of November, even though she was a widow for three days of the month.

And as I’ve explained many times in my column, the lack of proration can also help out when someone first starts getting Social Security. For example, if Fred took benefits at age 66 and he turned 66 on April 30 of some past year, he would have received a check for the whole month of April even though he was 66 for only one day of the month.

So to repeat, continuing with my example of Mary and Fred, after Fred dies, Mary must return the Social Security check for the month of death. But that’s only if she got the check in the first place.

I added that qualifier because there is a very good chance the check won’t even show up in their bank account. As you may have heard, there are all kinds of computer-matching operations that go on between various government agencies and banks. So if the Treasury Department learns of a person’s death in time, they won’t even issue the Social Security benefit. Or, if the check was issued, the bank will likely intercept the payment and return it to the government before it even hits a checking account. In other words, Mary usually doesn’t have to worry about

returning any Social Security checks. It’s almost always done for her.

There can be a little twist to this scenario, though. For example, let’s say that Fred died on Dec. 2. And let’s further say that his Social Security check was normally sent to him on the third of each month. In other words, Fred died just before his Social Security check was deposited into his bank account. Because he was alive the whole month of November, that means Fred was due the money from that November check (paid on Dec. 3).

And now Mary, as his widow, is due that money. Sometimes, bank officials will sort of just wink at Mary and let her keep the proceeds of that last Social Security check. But if they follow the letter of the law, that November Social Security benefit would have to be returned to the Social Security Administration. Then it will be reissued to Mary in her name. (There is a form that needs to be filled out to get that to happen. Mary would have to talk to an SSA rep about that.)

So far, I’ve been talking about dealing with the last Social Security check that was sent to the deceased. Now let’s talk about getting any Social Security widow’s benefits that will be due. I’ll continue to use the example of Mary and Fred.

If Mary were getting only Social Security spousal benefits on Fred’s record (meaning she didn’t have her own Social Security), then the Social Security Administration would simply automatically convert her from spousal benefits to widow’s benefits once she notifies them of his death. And she will also get the one-time $255 death benefit.

If Mary were getting her own Social Security benefits, and if that benefit were less than her husband’s rate, then she would be due the difference in widow’s benefits. But she will have to call Social Security at 800-772-1213 to file for those benefits and the one-time death benefit.

However, if Mary were getting her own Social Security and if she were under her full retirement age when Fred dies, then Mary would have some options. She could choose to file for reduced widow’s benefits immediately, or she could choose to wait until her full retirement age and get the full 100% widow’s rate.

If Mary was getting her own retirement benefit before Fred died, and if that benefit was higher than Fred’s benefit, then Mary wouldn’t be due any widow’s benefits. But she would be due that onetime $255 death benefit.

Throughout this column, I have been talking about a situation involving a husband and wife getting Social Security benefits, in which the husband dies. And I did that because that is the way these situations normally happen. But of course, there are many other potential scenarios.

If we have a married couple and the wife dies first, then the same rules described in this column apply to the surviving husband.

If a person who was getting Social Security benefits dies, but doesn’t have a spouse, then someone needs to notify the SSA of the death and follow the rules explained above about returning the last Social Security check. And the one-time death benefit would not be payable.

If a person who was not yet getting Social Security dies, then of course, there are no benefits to stop. But if that person left a spouse or minor children, then contact the SSA because survivor benefits may be payable.

If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon. com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

Why Long Island Homes Are Quietly Leaving the Market

The pandemic frenzy is long gone — and now sellers are discovering the new rules of today’s market.

Long Island’s market is changing fast. Here’s what homeowners need to know before they list.

A noticeable shift has taken hold across the Long Island real estate market: more sellers are pulling their homes off the market than at any time since the pandemic surge. The phenomenon is occurring in Nassau, Suffolk, the North Shore, South Shore, and even out toward the East End. Yet inventory remains low, buyers are active, and homes are still selling — when priced and presented correctly.

So why the sudden increase in delistings?

The answer lies in a combination of affordability pressures, mortgage-rate dynamics, market psychology, seasonal trends, and Long Island’s aging housing stock. The result is a market caught between two realities: sellers anchored to yesterday’s prices and buyers restricted by today’s costs.

Affordability Has Shifted

Dramatically

Mortgage rates hovering in the 6%–7% range have redefined what buyers can afford. A buyer who could once purchase a $700,000 home at a 3% rate may now be capped at $500,000 or less. Higher payments, higher taxes, and higher inflation have made buyers more cautious and more selective.

For sellers expecting a fast sale or bidding wars, this shift often comes as a shock.

When showings slow down and offers come in below expectations, many homeowners choose to delist rather than adjust their price.

Rate Lock-In: The Silent Force Freezing the Market

Nearly 70% of Long Island homeowners hold mortgage rates below 4%. Many refinanced into 2.5%–3.5% loans. Moving now — even into a smaller home — often means swapping a lowrate mortgage for a much higher one.

In many cases, this means:

• Higher monthly payments

• Higher taxes at the new property

• Higher insurance and maintenance costs

The math simply doesn’t work for thousands of households.

These homeowners test the market but ultimately decide to stay put, adding to the delisting numbers.

Sellers Are Still Expecting Pandemic Frenzy

Between 2020 and 2022, homes sold

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

in days — sometimes hours — with multiple offers and bidding wars well above asking.

But that market no longer exists.

Buyers are financially constrained. Overpricing is punished quickly. Homes needing updates are scrutinized or passed over entirely. Sellers who price based on 2021–2022 conditions soon find themselves reconsidering.

Instead of reducing their price, many prefer to remove the home and “wait for the spring market” or “wait for rates to drop.”

Seasonality Is Amplifying the Slowdown

Long Island real estate has always been seasonal. Activity peaks in spring and early summer, then cools through fall and winter. But the slowdown going into 2024–2025 has been sharper than usual.

With fewer buyers out and holidays approaching, many sellers aren’t willing to let their homes sit and grow stale. They pull the listing with plans to relaunch in February or March. Strategic? Yes.

But it also contributes to the rising delisting statistics.

Aging Homes Are Struggling to Compete

Long Island’s housing stock is older than the national average. Many homes — especially in Nassau County — are 60 to 90 years old. These houses often need:

• New roofs

• Updated electrical service

• Modern kitchens and bathrooms

• Updated plumbing

• Efficient heating and cooling

• Cosmetic updating

Buyers today, facing higher mortgage payments, want turnkey homes. They are less willing to overlook old kitchens, dated bathrooms, or necessary upgrades.

When offers reflect these realities — often tens of thousands below asking — many sellers choose to delist rather than negotiate or renovate.

Taxes and Carrying Costs Reduce Buyer Motivation

Long Island’s taxes are among the highest in the nation. When buyers calculate:

• Mortgage

• Property taxes

• Insurance

• Utilities

• Flood insurance (in coastal areas)

• HOA or condo fees the total monthly cost can be intimidating.

Sellers often see strong early interest only for buyers to retreat after finalizing their numbers.

The result? Another delisting.

Life Circumstances Are Also Shaping Decisions

Many homeowners begin the selling process before they fully understand their next step. But life intervenes:

• Elderly parents need care

• Adult children move back home

• Job relocations become uncertain

• Downsizing options are too expensive

• Preferred homes are unavailable

When the next chapter becomes unclear or unaffordable, sellers pause their plans and pull their listings.

A Market Recalibrating — Not Crashing

Despite the rise in delistings, Long Island’s market remains fundamentally strong.

Well-priced, well-prepared homes still sell quickly.

Buyer demand is real — just constrained.

Inventory is low — but mismatched with buyer preferences.

The market is not collapsing. It’s rebalancing.

However, on the brighter side here are some benefits to those homeowners who need and want to upsize and/or downsize:

1.) If you have built up a large equity position, then putting up a greater and more sizable down payment will most likely not be such a detrimental position to be in due the higher rates. It may be more affordable than you might anticipate. Depending on your tax bracket you just might have more deductions. (discuss with your CPA). Also, it also depends on whether or not you will have capital gains exposure (call for a free consult).

2.) If you are downsizing, then paying cash will only expose you to having to pay just the real estate taxes. Moving to another State is another option, where there are no State income taxes and lower real estate taxes e.g. Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming.

3.) Some are in a position to rent their home and purchase another one,

then after two years and one day, it is considered an investment property and one can do a 1031 Deferred Tax Exchange and defer capital gains and eliminate all capital gains taxes. Depending on your finances, in the long run could reduce them much further (call for a “free” consult).

Sellers who understand today’s buyer expectations — realistic pricing, updated condition, and strong presentation — will prevail going forward into 2026.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations:

National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate).

Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions.

National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geothermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).

He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.

He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to: https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/ no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289 or email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.com

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Potato Latkes

Food figures prominently in many holiday celebrations, and Chanukah is no exception. Latkes are considered a musthave in many households celebrating Chanukah, and there’s no shortage of recipes to try

3 large russet potatoes, peeled 2 eggs

1 teaspoon kosher salt

this holiday season. Those who want to take a more unique approach to latkes can consider air frying, which is a method of preparing popular fried foods that is credited with being healthier than traditional frying. Chanukah celebrants who find that appealing can try this recipe for “Potato Latkes” courtesy of Lines+Angles. Makes 4 servings

3 tablespoons matzo meal 1tablespoon cornstarch or potato starch, plus extra for dusting

1) Coarsely grate potatoes on a box grater; alternatively, use grater attachment on a food processor for uniform pieces.

2) Submerge potatoes in a bowl of cold water. Drain well and wring out in a clean dish towel to extract as much moisture as possible.

3) Beat eggs in a large mixing bowl with half the salt. Whisk in matzo meal and cornstarch or potato starch.

4) Add dried potato to egg mixture, stirring thoroughly to combine. Divide and shape into four large latkes, approximately 1/4-inch thick.

Cooking spray

Sour cream, to serve 1 tablespoon chives, snipped

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

5) Dust with more cornstarch (or potato starch, whichever using), gently shaking or brushing off excess. Season with remaining salt.

6) Preheat air fryer to 380° F. Spritz basket with cooking spray before carefully arranging latkes in it.

7) Cook for 8 minutes. Turn and cook for a further 4 to 6 minutes until golden brown all over.

8) Remove from air fryer and let cool briefly before serving with a garnish of sour cream and chives.

Answer: Jamie Foxx

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K of C supports Knight injured in accident

BY DENI COLLINS AND R. MCAULIFFE

On Sunday, December 7th, following the Knights Mass at St. Anne’s Church, a check for $25,000 was presented to 4th Degree Knight Larry Marquino to assist him with expenses which resulted from a skiing accident. The funds are the result of extraordinary community support, and the Council’s most recent “Octoberfest” event at Plattduetsche

Park in Franklin Square

The Knight’s Council has been serving St. Anne’s Parish, and the surrounding communities for over 20 years. Please visit  www.11836kofc.org   for more information.

Be a part of the world’s largest Catholic fraternal organization. Join The Knights of Columbus

Photos by Denis Collins

Larry’s Council brothers join in congratulating him on his continuing recovery!

Christmas Pageant at GC Community Church

BY MELVA VICTORINO

On Sunday, December 14th  at the 10:30 a.m. worship service, the Garden City Community Church (GCCC) Sunday school students will be performing a Christmas Pageant.  Amanda Dias, Youth Ministry and Outreach Coordinator, Tara Noll Socha, Katie Masters, and the parents of the children are hard at work to present the story of the Nativity. Watch the shepherds flock with their sheep, donkey, and all their barn animals, and as the 3 kings come to worship the baby Jesus. All are invited to come and see what they have been working on and stay after the service to join in the fellowship hour. Its programs and events for the following weeks are:

• December 14th is the third Sunday of Advent known as the Sunday of Rejoicing to express joy that Christmas is near. The pink candle is lit to break the somber tone marking the midpoint of anticipation for the birth of Jesus.

• Tuesday, December 16th at 9:30 a.m. - Prayer Service at the Chapel

• On Sunday, December 21st, right after the 10:30 service, the Christian Education Team will be visiting some of GCCC's homebound members for a Christmas caroling.

• Wednesday, December 24th at 4:30 p.m. - Family Service

(In-person)

• Wednesday, December 24th at 10:00 p.m . – Candlelight Communion Service (In-person and livestream)

• Sunday, December 28th at 10:30 a.m . - Worship Service (In-person and Livestream)

Visit GCCC and join a community of God’s people! No matter who you are or where you are in your journey in life, you are welcome at GCCC. There are worship services, events, and programs for all ages. Its Sunday Worship Service is at 10:30 a.m., in-person and livestream. Church school on Sundays, youth group and confirmation classes on weekdays. To get information regarding its virtual and in-person worship services and programs, visit its website at www.theGCCC.org. All are invited to the following events:

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

Grand Knight Jay Lynch, Larry Marquino, Fundraiser Coordinator Knight Chris Gorman

The birth of Jesus

Photos from the Village Archives

FRANKEL’S AND M. H. LAMSTON

Two photos of the west side of Franklin Ave north of Stewart Ave., showing the Frankel’s and Lamston stores. Frankel’s, a fabric store, started at #840 in 1956, where Gross Jewelers is today. Its sister store, Fabrics Plus, was added at #820, now CVS. It started there after the Best & Co. department store moved from #820 up to #1130, south of 12th St., probably to be closer to Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, and Saks Fifth Ave. The Lamston variety [“5 and 10 cent”] store was first located on the next block at #920 in 1951, then moved to #850, next to Frankel’s, in 1966. It lasted until 1990, and Frankel’s until 2006.

Archives identifiers: comret24, comret25

A selection from the extensive Village Archives. Others can be seen at www.NYHeritage.org  - click on Organizations, G,  and Garden City Public Library. Comments/questions: email Historian@gardencityny.net - Wm. Bellmer

From page 18

tines and scallops, and, as always, their celebrated tiramisu to finish. Each course was paired with fine wines, with guests eagerly anticipating Bill’s own Bill’s Blend Red, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot blend that has earned high praise, including a 90-point rating from Wine Enthusiast. ( https:// billsblendwine.com/ )

Beyond the Bubble

• Stratis Morfogen is headed back to the Miami restaurant scene after 13 years away. This November, he debuted Brooklyn Chop House at the new Moxy Hotel in Wynwood, a two-floor,

T he Co rnelia C linch Social

19,000-square-foot space complete with rooftop lounge and sweeping city views. Stratis calls it the most beautiful project he’s ever worked on and looks forward to welcoming friend to the rooftop pool lounge, private dining rooms, or just drinks with friends featuring beautiful views of Miami.

• Ava Nat Milone (GCHS ’24, Belmont University freshman) wowed judges on Season 28 of NBC’s The Voice, belting Lizzy McAlpine’s “Ceilings” with effortless poise. She dazzled in a layered blue tulle maxi skirt, cropped tailored jacket, and sparkling blue eye gems. Songwriter, self-taught guitarist and pianist, and former Garden City field hockey standout, Ava has the village

cheering every step of the way. Her parents, Guy and Christina, must be bursting with pride.

Warmest Wishes

• Birthday cheers to Newsmax host and mad saxophonist Greg Kelly (GCHS ’87); and to former Village Historian Suzie Alvey (GCHS ’70).

• We also note with sadness the sudden passing of Ed Norris (GCHS ’81) on Thanksgiving Day. Ed and his wife, Meg, served as co-publishers of the Garden City News until his early retirement in 2010 due to Parkinson’s disease. He was a strong, thoughtful, and deeply proud man. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Meg and their

Diary

sons, Kevin and Garrett. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, or a charity of your choice.

If you have news to share, from celebrations and gatherings to personal milestones, I’d love to include it future columns. Please feel free to send along notes about upcoming or recent events, parties hosted at home, engagements, weddings, births, travel adventures, volunteer happenings, or any of the small but meaningful moments that make our community shine. Your stories help bring the village to life. Kindly send contributions to socialeditor@ gcnews.com

“A Festival of Lessons and Carols” at The Cathedral

BY LARRY TREMSKY

“A Festival of Lessons and Carols for Christmas”, will take place on Sunday, December 14 at 4pm at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Garden City. The service is free and open to all. The full Cathedral Choirs will perform favorite and familiar carols in addition to some lesser-known works from around the world.

Lessons & Carols is modeled on the service as developed at King’s College, Cambridge, UK. It traditionally begins with the carol Once in Royal David’s City sung by a solo boy or girl chorister, then joined by all. Lessons & Carols was first done in the cathedral in 1953, mak-

ing this the 71st anniversary.

The Cathedral Choristers, a group of twenty boys and girls, will feature prominently at Lessons & Carols. The choristers, at their strongest in many years, will join with the adult singers in a wide variety of works. The choristers also join in singing all the descants (the high voice above a tune) and most of the other carol settings.

The carols performed by the choirs include the Ukrainian Carol “Today in Bethlehem”, sung in its original language as a tribute to the people of Ukraine during this time of war. Also included will be arrangements of traditional carols from England, Germany, France, Canada and the United States.

Larry Tremsky, Director of Music at the cathedral, explains “we put a lot of energy and effort into our music program, and especially at Christmas. We sing carols this year in English, Latin, and Ukrainian; past years have also included German, French and Spanish. Our boy and girl choristers are up to the challenge, since we work extensively with them both on music-reading skills as well as vocal training. Last year we had a contest for the choristers to learn the Ukrainian text of Carol of the Bells by memory; several of the kids still

FOR SENIORS

Garden City’s Senior Center is open. Please visit the Senior Center Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for further information on activities and events!

Zumba Gold Session

Beginning January 27, Andrea will begin a new 8 week Zumba Gold Session. Tuesdays at 10:30–11:15. Register on Community Pass or see Felicia at the Senior Center.

Surviving Holiday Stress

NYU EMS will be at the Senior Center on Tuesday, December 16, presenting, “Surviving Holiday Stress”. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Trip to Argyle Theatre to see

“Newsies”

and Lunch at La

Famiglia Garden City Recreation and Parks

will present a trip to the Argyle Theatre in Babylon, and lunch at La Famiglia Restaurant on Sunday, February 8th at 11 a.m.

The bus leaves from across the street from the Senior Center at 11 a.m., lunch at 12 noon antd show at 2 p.m.

Cost $72 for show ticket (check made payable to the “Argyle Theatre”) and $50 cash for lunch, both to be paid at time of registration.

To register please stop by the Senior Center front desk.

Cardio Mini Session

Join us for a new 4-week Cardio

Mini Session with Cathy, 2:00 Tuesdays beginning 12/2. Cost: $24.00. Bring your own 2 or 3-pound hand weights. Sign up on Community Pass or see Felicia at the Senior Center.

Chi

Beginning December 12, join us at noon for Tai Chi on the second Friday of each month, sponsored by the Bristal at Garden City.

Pickup Mah Jongg Games

Beginning on Tuesday, 9/23, we will be offering pickup Mah Jongg games, open to all residents on Tuesdays from 12:00–2:00. Bring your lunch and a set.

Open Ping Pong

Join us on Tuesday afternoons, at the Senior Center from 1:00–3:00 for Open Ping Pong. This is a drop-in program, bring a friend!

Chair Yoga

Chair yoga schedule for Tania at the senior center.  Thursdays 9:15–9:45 Meditation, 9:45–10:45 Chair Yoga class. Beginning September 11.

remember it - perfectly! Hearing a tenyear old boy who’s not of Slavic origin say a text in nearly perfect Ukrainian, from memory, is quite amazing.  It’s the ability to do cool things like this that make our work together so satisfying.”

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

Chess 4 Community

Join us for Chess 4 Community’s Play and Learn at the Senior Center, every other Friday, 3:00-4:00. This program will resume in the fall, dates to be announced. All ages and levels are welcome. No registration is required, just stop by and play!

Senior Center Lunch Group

Join our Senior Center Lunch Group at 12:30-3:30 on Wednesdays, or, if you miss your pool friends, join the Garden City Pool Chat Group at the center, on Thursdays beginning at 1:00-3:30. For both groups, coffee and tea will be served, just bring your lunch and chat!! Also, call to inquire about our two book clubs, one meets on Thursdays during the day and the other on Wednesday evenings.

Tai

Choirmaster and Assoc. Organist David Preston leads the choir

Canon Musician Tremsky, Bishop Provenzano and Dean Sniffen surrounded by choir members

Donald Michael Pfail—beloved husband and father—passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, at the age of 74. Don was a native New Yorker, born in Ridgewood, Queens, on September 17, 1951. His parents, Donald and Frances, of German and Slovene descent, raised him alongside his two brothers, John and James.

Don embodied the American Dream through sharp intelligence, determination, and hard work. He became the first in the Pfail family to graduate from college, earning his B.B.A. from Baruch College and his M.B.A. in Accounting from St. John’s University. He went on to build a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant, eventually opening his own practice. Don earned deep respect from colleagues and his community for his expertise in finance, internal audit, and regulatory compliance.

In spring 1983, Don met the former Eileen Florek, picking her up in his baby blue Camaro for a blind date. That

IN MEMORIAM

night, he confided in his mother that he had found his wife. When Eileen took a trip to Europe with her girlfriends, every hotel she checked into held flowers, love notes, and telegrams confessing Don’s love. They later married in 1985, filled with love and happiness for the life ahead of them. Don and Eileen raised four beautiful children— Thomas, Brian, Stephen, and Erin, with faith at the core of their family.

As the Pfails grew their young family in Floral Park, they soon called Garden City home in 1991. Don was incredibly passionate about community outreach and volunteer work. He belonged to the Garden City Men’s Association, G.C.A.A., and was treasurer of the Estates Property Owners Association, amongst many of the village’s organizations.

The intrinsically Roman Catholic values were imparted to Don through his grammar school, St. Matthias, and the prestigious Christ the King High School, where he was later inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame. His innate love for Christ and the Church only grew stronger as he advanced his education at St. John’s University. Don eventually served as an Eucharistic minister at the family’s parish, St. Anne’s. His relationship with God touched every part of his life, especially his family’s.

Don instilled in his second-eldest son, Brian, a foundational devotion to the faith, particularly during Brian’s formative years at Chaminade High School. Education, too, was priceless to Don and ever-valued. Stephen would later join Brian at the college preparatory school, where they developed a bond not only through brotherhood but also through the school’s motto, “Fortes in Unitate” or “Strength in Unity.” Brian would later draw on his father’s commitment to Catholicism through his own struggles, eventually advocating for his beliefs in his professional career

as a journalist.

Don’s youngest son, Stephen, followed in Don’s footsteps, studying accounting at the University of Scranton and working at his father’s former firm, KPMG. Whilst in college, Stephen interned at Don’s firm, KBW. Don’s example of a strong work ethic and transformational leadership led to Stephen’s success in accountancy at KPMG.

Don’s dedication was unmistakable day after day, as he boarded the LIRR at Nassau Boulevard bound for Manhattan to work and provide for his family. His work ethic wasn’t just routine; it reflected his character, reliability, and unwavering sense of responsibility.

Unforgettably, Don was a passionate sports fan—a die-hard Yankees, Rangers, and Giants fan—he generously shared that love with his children. Whenever a big sports game was on TV, Don had a habit of standing directly in front of the screen, on his high horse, proclaiming his coaching strategy would have guaranteed a team win. Some of Don’s fondest memories were within feet of the TV with all his youngsters around him.

When Don and Eileen purchased their summer home in Point Lookout, their eldest son, Tom, eyed its more careful pace as the warm beach community it was. Those summers by the ocean became some of Tom’s most cherished memories with Don. The genuine peacefulness of Point Lookout would later mirror the feeling Tom found when he stumbled upon Jupiter, Florida, a place that felt like home the moment he arrived. Just as Don discovered Point Lookout for his family, Tom found his own coastal haven years later, inspired by the life his father created.

Don’s influence manifests every day in Tom’s management career at Marriott. Tom carries the same dedication his father lived by: showing up, leading with integrity, and taking pride

in his work. Don’s example resonated with Tom, who continues to craft his career in his father’s footsteps. Don’s daughter, Erin, felt the power of her father’s boundless love from an early age—from long beach walks collecting shells to backyard catches for hours under the floodlights. Each night, Erin eagerly waited for Don to come home so he could read her a bedtime story and say prayers together. As she grew older, he coached her lacrosse team, the Garden City Maroon Sweeties, a role he took on with immense pride. When Erin approached high school, Don encouraged her to attend Sacred Heart Academy, valuing its Catholic education. As her college lacrosse recruitment intensified, Don remained focused on ensuring she received a strong academic foundation. With his encouragement, Erin chose nursing at the University of Scranton, a Jesuit institution.

Don proudly celebrated her achievements as a student-athlete and her future in nursing. When Erin began her career in critical care, Don beamed with joy. As his health declined, Erin cared for him with skilled and loving hands, taking immense pride in supporting the father who had given her so much. Don and Eileen’s devotion to one another knew no bounds, evident in their forty years of marriage. Their vows of marriage remained solid in their commitment to each other. In Don’s final years, Eileen dedicated herself wholly to his care and support. Until his last breath and ever after, their love transcends words—felt deeply, quietly, and unmistakably within the soul.  Don faced it all, Don stood tall—and he did it his way.

Don’s gentle strength, his deep faith, his love for his family, and his quiet patriotism will stay with us always. Rest in peace, Don—you earned it, and we love you.

Three simple ways to support your achy shoulder

How much longer is your shoulder going to ache?

You put dishes away…

Get dressed…

Turn into your driveway…

And that spark of pain keeps zapping your shoulder.

It feels like you’ve checked all the boxes you’re supposed to check when your shoulder hurts…

You’ve been moving more carefully, but the discomfort still lingers.

So now what?

Recent research shows that people with shoulder pain started feeling better when they did targeted strengthening exercises instead of resting the joint.

Yup, it’s true…

Your shoulder feels better when the muscles around it get stronger.

But if shoulder exercises feel like they’re off the table…

That doesn’t mean you can’t strengthen.

Let me explain…

Your achy shoulder is like an employee covering everyone else’s shift.

When the muscles that connect into your shoulder…

Like the ones in your elbow, back, and neck…

Stop helping, your shoulder starts doing everything on its own.

That’s when it gets sore! So, strengthen its support team.

Start with simple moves that get your elbow, back, and neck to do their jobs again.

Try this… Gently bend your elbow, then straighten it out.

This wakes up the muscles that help your shoulder move forward and back.

Now, try a side bend with your torso…

Like you're sliding your armpit down

your side.

This helps your back muscles support your shoulder so it moves comfortably from side to side.

Finally, try a small side bend with your neck…

Slowly bring your ear toward your shoulder.

This activates the muscles that help your shoulder move up and down. These movements help take the load off your shoulder while strengthening it at the same time…

So you can reach, lift, and get dressed with ease and confidence.

Ahmed Ahmed is the owner of Lotus Fitness. Contact him at (646) 415-2349 or ahmed@lotusfitnessny. com https://lotusfitnessny.com/

Donald M. Pfail

Donald M. Pfail

Ahmed Ahmed

Martins Tag celebrated in German class

The Garden City Middle School German sixth grade class learned about “Martins Tag “ in Germany. They read about the history of the day and learned songs traditionally sung on that day. Yet, their favorite part was creating traditional German Martins Tag lanterns. Martin of Tours was born in the

4th century and started out as a Roman soldier. Many legends surround his life, but the most famous tale tells how he cut his cloak in half to share it with a beggar who was dying of the cold. He is a friend of the children and the poor. A fun time was had by all, with making the lanterns.

The students learned the history of the legend.

Sixth graders learned about Martins Tag in Germany.

Students created traditional paper lanterns.

Third graders combine math, social studies in Monumental Math unit

Garden City’s third grade students at Stratford School and Stewart School recently completed an interdisciplinary unit that connected mathematics with social studies. Throughout the unit, titled Monumental Math, students practiced adding and subtracting within 1,000 and explored real world contexts by learning about famous monuments around the world and their cultural significance.

To complete the project, students worked in small groups to select a personally meaningful topic and design a monument that represented their chosen theme; chosen topics included healthy eating, school pride, honoring police officers and principals, kindness, and the village of Garden City.

On Nov. 24, each class rotated through the displays to view their peers’ creations, while students presented their monuments and shared the inspiration and research behind their work. District Coordinator of Mathematics and STEAM Ms. Christina Cardella and District Coordinator of Social Studies and World Language Ms. Victoria Buonpane also participated in the showcase by speaking with students, asking questions and celebrating the thoughtful work that went into each project.

“It was incredible to see how hard our students worked and how confidently they presented and shared their ideas,” said Ms. Jenny Campbell, teacher at Stratford. “Their creativity and dedication truly shone through in every project.”

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

Third grade students explained their monument to Ms. Buonpane.

Third grade students and their monuments.

Third grade students and their monument, which celebrated principals and assistant principals, with Principal Mr. Chris Hartigan and Assistant Principal Ms. Allison Robb.

First Street traffic calming measures reviewed

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ate a narrower visual. “The shoulders/ edgelines would be curbed, and there’s topsoil and grass seed put down on the sides,” he noted.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon, chairman of the Traffic Commission, offered input as someone who travels through that area multiple times a day—his office sits just south of the village border at 136 Cherry Valley Avenue.

“This will be giving drivers the same feel as going through the new crosswalk area, where it feels like the curbs come in real tight and you’d feel like you need to slow down to go through there,” he said. “I think that would at least slow people down getting into the village, and it should also help us with the moms and dads dropping off and picking up kids from GCNS. They (bump-outs) make the whole area safer.”

Superintendent Borroni added that the speed radar feedback sign would be moved to the median island to help alert drivers to their speeds. While initiatives for the First Street/Cherry Valley Avenue corridor have been discussed at several 2025 Traffic Commission meetings, the First Street bump-outs were most recently reviewed at the October 23rd session.

Bump-outs for First Street between Mayfair and Rockaway Avenues were discussed with an estimated installation cost of $35,000, including a 20% contingency.

Muldoon asked Trustee Yvonne Varano, a First Street resident and Commission member, about her conversations with neighbors regarding traffic concerns.

“Mr. Borroni provided me with the plans for the bump-outs and I spoke with neighbors who had additional questions. We put together visuals and pictures for people to understand what’s going

in,” she said. “There are five houses close to the location, and I spoke directly to two people who were thrilled we’re doing something other than the temporary orange bollards. They were a little concerned that people might try to drive over bump-outs we put in and I told them it would be a high enough curb. There were questions about landscaping too but it seems there’s support from the neighbors.”

Trustee Judy Courtney requested additional outreach to residents living farther along First Street. “The First Street opinions we received have varied to a great degree, and this is not an inexpensive decision to make,” she said. “I would go further than checking in with the houses right by the intersection and speak to more people down the block.”

Muldoon noted that Varano’s outreach focused on residents with direct sightlines to the First Street/Mayfair intersection. “The good news is this is not the same as installation of a STOP sign that half of the people want and half don’t want. This is more a measure to protect people coming out of their driveways in that area, and it will help slow things down as you go into the residential area,” he said.

Police Commissioner Ken Jackson provided the Commission with an auto-accident analysis report for the First Street/Rockaway Avenue intersection dated October 31, 2025. He said the Commission would review the updated data at its December 11th meeting. He also noted the village had unsuccessfully sought approval from Nassau County for a change in prior years. The new report includes fault analysis for accidents at the intersection and checks for emerging trends. “We did it a year and a half ago and we’ll see how that looks and if there’s been any changes backed by data,” he said.

At the October meeting, Jackson noted that some residents had complained that the orange bollards slowed them down. Resident Bob Baker spoke at that meeting, referencing a survey measuring traffic volume — over 12,000 cars per day.

Baker said the bollards had worked well, “in particular in the cases where the school bus stops for children on First Street.” He also suggested that if the bump-outs reduce traffic volume significantly, that would be a welcome development. He added that the village should have a way to evaluate the bump-outs’ impact.

“Then if that doesn’t significantly reduce the traffic volume I’d go back to suggestions made at the outset of the discussion, and we should revisit the ideas of doing something such as a STOP sign or a light,” he said. He dismissed the alternative, a roundabout, as unrealistic. “If it doesn’t diminish the volume of traffic we should go back to look at the culprit, which is essentially the uninterrupted flow of traffic coming up from Hempstead Turnpike into Rockaway Avenue.”

Muldoon said a traffic light might not solve the problem and, in any case, approval would fall to Nassau County. He believes the turning arrow onto Rockaway Avenue is a major factor in congestion and risky behavior. Drivers, he said, must be more cautious at the light. He added that he’s warned his own children about the dangers of drivers trying to beat the changing signal.

“The more accidents you have at the intersection, the better the case we’d have to present evidence of an issue with the arrow (light) which needs to be corrected,” he said. “We can never correct the bad drivers, the drivers on their phone or those who aren’t paying attention, but the arrow changing (from

Hempstead Turnpike) has always been that way, and I deal with it multiple times per day — it’s tricky there.”

He reiterated that a roundabout was not feasible due to cost and design constraints. No formal request for a traffic light has been submitted to Nassau County. Muldoon added, “The other alternative was a series of STOP signs, but the problem with that would be that we’d have cars totally backed up towards the GC Pool, and every summer that would totally mess up the flow of traffic in and out of the pool parking lot because of a backup at a STOP sign and coming down the hill,” he said, before checking with Jackson on the GCPD’s analysis.

“We looked at it but the village would need to square off the area, and Superintendent Borroni had a design made. It would be effective to stop the vehicles speeding down (heading south) but there would be an issue at the Pool entrance/exit. The company that did the traffic study and they determined a traffic light would offer more benefits, looking at trends into the future (2030 to 2050). In the consultants’ views the traffic light would have been fairly comparable to the roundabout’s success. The STOP sign should be the third option in my eyes, but it would be something that will slow people down and people would hesitate more,” he said.

Muldoon said the Commission would continue monitoring the First Street corridor, which remains a high priority.

With Mott Section concerns still on the December 11th agenda, Muldoon added that Waze, Google Maps, and similar navigation apps remain “the biggest enemy the village has” because they encourage faster cut-throughs in residential areas “just for people to save one or two minutes.” He emphasized that resident input will be essential in shaping next steps.

Village hires HR chief, sets hearing on tax exemption

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to Garden City with over 20 years’ of comprehensive experience in human resources leadership, management and operations. She earned an MBA and a bachelor of science in Operations Management, accompanied by credentials from the Society for Human Resource Management and Cornell University. I am excited to have her joining our team, and I thank the Board for your support.”

The Secretary to the Board of Trustees position was previously held by Garden City resident Courtney Rutt Rosenblatt. Before that role, Rosenblatt served as village auditor, leading municipal HR functions. She later became operations director at the Garden City Public Library (GCPL), and on January 20th

of this year, the GCPL Board appointed her Secretary to the Library Board— an exempt position under the Library Board of Trustees.

A second agenda item on November 20th involved proposed contractual step increases for three village employees in the Civil Service Employees’ Association Rank & File Unit and one in the Civil Service Employees’ Association Supervisors Unit. Following the Board’s approval, the salary increases became effective on Monday, December 1st.

“The collective bargaining agreement for both units provides for an employee to be granted a salary increase annually of an additional step within the salary range of the position classification, upon the recommendation of the Department Head and the approval of the Board of Trustees, to recognize exceptional and

outstanding employee performance,” Suozzi explained.

In a third administrative item, the Board approved a proposal estimated at $1,875 from CJ Flag & Son, Inc. of Lindenhurst to assist with hanging Veterans Flags in the Seventh Street business and dining district. The contract includes installing up to 10 additional double-sided brackets on light poles between Hilton Avenue and Cathedral Avenue, including the poles in front of the Garden City Hotel and GCPL. Funding is available in the budget line for “Funds and Distribution of Literature.”

Hearing on firefighters’ tax exemptions

The next Village Board meeting— scheduled for Thursday, December 11th at 7:30 p.m.—will include a public hear-

ing on a proposed local law to establish a municipal tax exemption for the Garden City Fire Department’s volunteer core, currently 99 members. Village Attorney Gary Fishberg provided an overview of the measure before the Board formally introduced the local law at the November 20th meeting.

“The deadline to enact this local law is the end of this year. The current law has been extended for three years but there is an opportunity to adopt a new local law now. There are a couple of additional items that can be provided within the law that might benefit volunteer firefighters and/or their families (surviving spouses of a volunteer firefighter) who would continue to live in the Village of Garden City,” Mr. Fishberg said.

The Board formally approved holding the public hearing on December 11th.

How to Create a CommunityPass Account!

Three simple steps to create a CommunityPass account:

•Create an account through this link:  https://register.capturepoint.com/ GCRecandParks

•Verify your residency with 2 proofs of residency (ID and utility bill) by email (gcrec@gardencityny.net) or stop by the Cottages (108 Rockaway Avenue)

•Log in to your new account and hit the “Click Here To Register” button to find the type of Membership or Class you want to sign up for.

Stay Up to Date On All Things Recreation!

Follow our new Instagram and Facebook “GardenCityRecreation” for all Recreation content! Any questions regarding programs or facilities can be directed to our new Recreation email, GCRec@gardencityny.net .

Upcoming Programs

Flag Football is coming back!Indoor session from 11/7–12/19 from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at the St. Paul’s fields and the St. Paul’s Fieldhouse.  There will be 30 minutes of clinic and 30 minutes of games!  Run by Pioneer!  Girls’ Volleyball Clinic - Sessions

starting Mondays 11/17–12/22 from 6 p.m.–7 p.m. at St. Paul's Fieldhouse!  Run by Pioneer!

Multi-Sport Camps: Winter Break Camp - 12/26, 12/29, 12/30,12/31, 1/2 from 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

After School Winter Program

Calling all children grades K-6th! Join us for our annual program, featuring all types of sports and games. Our staff will instruct and interact with the children while guiding them through all types of activities.  Nine weeks for $125!  Starting December 2 through February 12.  K-1st Grades on Tuesday from 3:30 p.m.–5 p.m.; 2nd–3rd Grades on Wednesday 3:30 p.m.–5 p.m.; 4th, 5th, 6th Grades on Thursday 3:30 p.m.–5 p.m. in the St. Paul’s Fieldhouse. Limited spots available, registration began on November 14 at 9 a.m. Registration will be through CommunityPass.

Tuesday Class Grades K–1 is full!

Space is limited in the Wednesday and Thursday classes.

*No programming 12/23–1/1

**Children must wear athletic footwear only!

Fencing Program

This program introduces the Olympic sport of fencing to children

EAB Tip of the Week

Two Water Updates

Two Water Updates

The Garden City Water Department recently released the following statistics about lead service lines.

Total number of service lines: 6960

Identified service lines 3422

Lead service lines 1190

Galvanized service lines 60

Non-lead service lines 2172

Unknown service lines 3534

Note: the galvanized service lines also need to be replaced, as they contain small amounts of lead. Garden City continues its efforts to reduce the number of service lines in the unknown category. If you do not know if you have a lead service line, please get your water tested. Contact the water department if you need help in determining what material your service line is made of. The water department can send a serviceman to check your service line where it comes into your house and determine if it is lead or galvanized piping.

LI Parks recently released an article about the status of Long Island Sound. It’s good news. The

in grades K–8 in a safe, structured, and engaging environment.  Fencing fosters discipline, focus, agility, and sportsmanship, making it an excellent complement to youth development. Coach will provide all equipment for class.  $375 per child.

Chess Wizards Winter Program

Garden City Recreation and Parks has again partnered with the very popular “Chess Wizards” to offer after school programs for Garden City children ages 6 through 12 who want to learn the game of chess!

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

Instructors (who are called “Wizards”) provide all the materials necessary for your child to participate in the class and no additional purchase is required to attend. All students will receive a trophy, puzzle folder and wizards t-shirt. Come join the fun!!!

Class will take place on Tuesdays from 4–5 p.m. starting 1/13/26.

Classes will be held in St. Paul’s Center, 108 Rockaway Avenue. To register please visit www.chesswizards.com.

Nosed Reindeer”. This stage play is based on the animated television special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” adapted from the story by Robert L. May and the song by Johnny Marks. The play will be performed in Cluett Hall beginning at 11 a.m.  Please make reservations by calling the Recreation Office at 516 465-4075 on or after Monday, December 1st.  The play is open to Village of Garden City Residents and admission is free.

• On Wednesday, December 31, the Recreation Department will be holding its annual Children’s New Year’s Eve Celebration! The event is held in Cluett Hall and begins at 11 a.m. This year the entertainment is by Clowns.com. A magic show, balloon twisting and music and dancing will be the highlight of the event. Of course, there will be hats and noisemakers and a countdown to 12 noon. Reservations will open on Monday, December 15. Call the Recreation Office for reservations: 516 465-4075. Free admission.

Family Fun Time Hours at St. Paul’s Family Fun Time (for all residents, elementary aged children must be accompanied by an adult) - Sundays 3 p.m.–5 p.m.

hypoxic zone in Long Island Sound was slightly over 18 square miles in size and lasted for 40 days. This is the smallest zone seen since 1987, when modern records began to be kept. In the late 1980s, the extent of the hypoxic zone was about 200 square miles. Several factors are responsible for this progress. Communities in both New York and Connecticut have worked to reduce the amount of nitrogen released into Long Island Sound by upgrading wastewater treatment plants, reducing stormwater runoff and developing long-term management strategies. These efforts have reduced the amount of nitrogen released into Long Island Sound. The dry weather in 2025 also helped by reducing stormwater runoff. Climate change poses a threat for the future, since warmer waters hold less oxygen, and many local bays and harbors are still experiencing poor oxygen conditions. However, the general improvement from the 1980s until now is a success story, showing that nature can recover when given a chance to do so.

Yoga Class

We will be hosting a brand-new yoga program for adults at Cluett Hall in the fall.  Classes will be held on Saturdays from 8 a.m.–9 a.m. starting December 6!  More information to come!

Tennis Instructors Needed

Tennis instructors are needed for the instructional tennis program at the Community Park Tennis Center. Tennis assistants are also needed. For more information, please call the Recreation Office at 516 465-4075.

Adelphi Swim Lessons

Swimming Lesson Registration 2025–2026

Began November 17

Children’s swimming lessons for Village residents will be held at the Adelphi Pool in Woodruff Hall on Saturday mornings beginning Saturday, December 6, for 9 weeks.

Please check the website: gardencityrecreation.org for more details.

Coming Holiday Events

Mark Your Calendars for Holiday Fun in December!

• On Sunday, December 14, the Recreation Department is proud to present a Sunrise Theatre Company production of “Rudolph the Red-

On Sunday afternoons beginning December 7, St. Paul’s Field House will be open for “Family Fun” for Village of Garden City families.   This open time provides the opportunity for families to enjoy various gym activities in an indoor environment.   The gym will be available for use from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. each Sunday until March 10. This time is designated for family time only. No organized practices or workouts will be allowed. Although there will be staff to monitor activity, this is not a drop off program.   We ask that all elementary and middle school aged children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian.   For the safety of our users, sports involving paddle, stick, or bat equipment will not be allowed.

Send Your Letters to Santa!

It’s that time of year! Santa’s magical mailbox has been set up at the gazebo on The Village Green (corner of Stewart and Hilton)! Anyone who writes a letter to Santa and drops it off in the mailbox will receive a letter from Santa in return. We will be accepting letters until Friday, December 19.

Winter Youth Tennis Lessons

Winter Youth Tennis Lesson registration begins on Monday, December 15.

Our next session of Youth Tennis lessons begins in mid-January and the registration begins on Monday, December 15. For more information go to gardencityrecreation.org Registration may be done through your Community Pass account or in person at the Recreation Office.

GC Grapplers make statement across two tournaments

The young wrestling season barely had a chance to begin before the GC Grapplers dove headfirst into competition, showcasing depth and resolve across a busy opening weekend. Thirteen members of the more than 60 strong club split between two events: The WAR Zone Winter Warfare tournament in Melville, and the highly competitive Long Beach Gladiators tournament in Long Beach. The performances underscored why Garden City is rapidly emerging as a youth wrestling powerhouse.

At Winter Warfare, head coach Matt Rich and assistant head coach Ron Serrano led seven Grapplers

through the “WAR Zone” format - a non-traditional, efficiency-focused setup that pairs wrestlers dynamically by age, weight, and skill rating to maximize mat time instead of advancing through standard brackets. John LoPiccolo, Reed Daily, and Owen Sampson opened the year with impressive victories, while Luca Erigo, Sean Taylor, Harrison Carbo, and Dylan Serrano logged multiple matches and applied their training with grit. When the action wrapped, the Grapplers placed 10th overall (out of 22 teams), an impressive result given team rankings reflect only the top 10 individual scores. Coaches Rich and Serrano lauded the

group’s effort and execution. Meanwhile in Long Beach, six Grapplers launched their season at the Gladiators tournament, a traditional early-season proving ground that attracts the top youth wrestlers from around the tri-state area.

Guided by coaches Jay Rivera, Shawn Mosca, and Kirk Smith, the group impressed from start to finish. Nate Kong, Caleb Howald, and Matt Lyons battled deep into their divisions in pursuit of podium finishes. Gianiel Galarza notched a pivotal win over a teammate on his way to third place. The day’s signature moment belonged to Eli Kong, who stormed back from a 10-0 deficit,

turned the tide from the top position, and secured a memorable pin with a textbook cradle as teammates, coaches, and spectators erupted. Keegan Fitzpatrick rebounded from an opening loss to the eventual champion, stringing together multiple wins and going undefeated the rest of the day.

The season may still be in its infancy, but the GC Grapplers are already in full stride. The club practices every Tuesday and Thursday at Stewart School, offering both recreational and competitive sessions, and welcomes new participants. If this opening weekend is any indication, the outlook for the Grapplers, and Garden City wrestling, is bright.

Reed Daily gets his hand raised after a hard fought victory.

Two Grapplers kicking off the wrestling season at the WAR Zone Winter Warfare tournament.

The GC Grapplers got off to a good start at the Long Beach Gladiators tournament.

Owen Sampson muscles his way to a 6-3 victory.

Field Hockey celebrates championship season at awards dinner

The Garden City Varsity Field Hockey program gathered this week for its annual awards dinner, commemorating another extraordinary season marked by hard work, unity, and championship success. The evening served as both a celebration of team accomplishments and a heartfelt tribute to the athletes—especially the seniors—who helped uphold the program’s proud field hockey tradition.

Throughout the night, players were recognized with All-League, AllConference, All-County, All-State, and Long Island Championship awards, reflecting the depth of talent across the roster. Garden City athletes earned numerous distinctions, underscoring the program’s reputation as one of the strongest in New York State.

The evening started with the Unsung Hero Award, given to the teammate whose quiet dedication, sportsmanship, and consistent effort made a meaningful difference behind the scenes: this year’s recipient, sophomore Delaney McNaboe.

The Exceptional Senior Award was presented to Shea McGovern, a standout player whose leadership helped the team throughout the season. Known for her encouragement of younger teammates, McGovern has been a role model and leaves behind a lasting legacy of excellence.

Academic achievement was also celebrated through the Scholar Athlete Award, which recognized the player with the highest academic average during the fall marking period. This year’s honor went to Daly Prybelski, whose ability to balance high-level athletics with exceptional academic performance reflects commitment, discipline, and character.

Additional athletic distinctions included:

Your 2026 undefeated LI champions!

• All-League: Grace Berkery

• All-Conference: Shea McGovern, Daly Prybelski, Jenny Roller

• All-County Honorable Mention: Brianna Kashimer, Casey Psaki

Coaches from across Nassau County nominated the county’s top field hockey players, resulting in an impressive list of Garden City honorees: Grace Brantuk, Katherine O’Hanlon, Emily Racich, Averie Smith, and Catalina Suau were all named All-County, a testament to their impact on the field and the respect they’ve earned from the broader field hockey community. Allcounty includes All-Conference and AllLeague.

The program also celebrated AllState honors, awarded to Averie Smith and Emily Racich, recognizing their exceptional skill and contributions to one of the state's most successful field

Garden City award winners

Captains Katherine O’Hanlon, Catalina Suau, and Averie Smith

Emily Racich, Shea McGovern, and Delaney McNaboe

Field Hockey celebrates championship season at awards dinner

hockey teams.

While the awards highlighted individual excellence, the evening's most impactful moments were reserved for the entire team. This year's team finished the regular season undefeated and was the only Nassau team to reach the state level. This year's senior class leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, having played at the County, Long Island, and State levels all four years!

Hey Red!

Celebrating our seniors

GCHS launches NoSo November campaign

The Garden City High School Parent Teacher Association recently announced the launch of a new digital wellness campaign, the "NoSo (No Social Media) November" challenge, designed to raise crucial awareness about screen time and encourage healthier digital habits among students and parents.

The initiative, introduced by PTA member Dawn Dennis, seeks to encourage students and parents to actively reduce screen time throughout the month. “NoSo November” is being implemented directly in physical education classes, where students were guided to look at their current screen time usage and set personal goals for reduction. Assistant Principal Connor Cohn directed students through the activity, and then their goals were anonymously posted on banners inside the school so that students can see what their peers are working toward achieving.

To maximize awareness, statistics and slogans are being utilized to inform participants about the issue, including data on the average time teens spend on social media and discussions regarding the dangers associated with various social media platforms. The main goal is to build self-regulation and encourage healthier habits among GCHS students.

Seniors signing their NoSo banner.

Parents are an integral part of the initiative, as they are encouraged to have conversations with their children about screen time and work together to set personal goals. By promoting these discussions, the program aims to create a healthier balance in students’ lives and actively reduce the time spent on social media.

The organizers recognize that success can be measured broadly, believing the program is successful if it reaches even one child and helps them feel better about reducing their screen time. The PE classes will include a review of students’ progress and will encourage them toward continued self-regulation beyond the duration of the challenge.

“This initiative was an outstanding success,” said Assistant Principal Cohn. “Staff and students alike participated and collaborated to do assessments of their screen time usage and their overall usage of social media. It was a useful and enjoyable initiative we will surely proceed with next year.”

Seniors celebrate the Long Island Championship.

GC Girls Field Hockey after their championship win!

LAX seniors deliver poinsettias to children’s cancer center

Kimberly Krupa of NYU Langone Cancer Center for Kids with GCHS lacrosse seniors Will Mattice, James Sullivan, Ryan Haniffy, Merit Ruckh, Garvis Toller, Chase Kraus, James Debuschere, Owen Andersen, and Charlie Koester as they deliver poinsettias for the families.

This year marked the 27th annual Friends of Garden City Boys Lacrosse Poinsettia Sale, a cherished tradition that brings together our athletes, families, and community. Players once again sold poinsettias throughout Garden City to help support the upcoming spring season, while also offering the option to donate plants to the NYU Langone Cancer Center for Kids- Mineola.

A highlight each year is when the

Sports Events

senior lacrosse players personally deliver the donated poinsettias to the center. Child Life Specialist, Kimberly Krupa shared, “We love this tradition. It brings such joy to our families during the holiday season.”

Senior Charlie Koester reflected, “It’s great to be part of something that gives back.” Fellow senior Chase Kraus added, “It’s an honor to deliver the plants and spread some holiday cheer.”

GCHS teacher

interviewed

on “Why I Teach” podcast

Garden City High School social studies teacher Mr. Mike Zagari was recently featured on the podcast “Why I Teach,” hosted by Cindy Schwartz of the radio program “Rockin History,” a longtime resource in his Soundtracks course.

In the episode, Mr. Zagari and Ms. Schwartz discussed their shared passion for teaching and history, reflecting Mr. Zagari’s belief that is captured by historian David McCullough: “History tells a story.” Their conversation also inspired new ideas for the YouTube channel “US History Underground,” which Mr. Zagari co-runs with teacher

Mr. Kevin O’Hagan.

“Recording the podcast was a wonderful experience and it was a pleasure to sit down with Cindy Schwartz and talk about all things education,” said Mr. Zagari. “Her show, ‘Rockin' History,’ has been influential in developing curriculum for my course, ‘The American History Soundtrack,’ which focuses on U.S. history through the lens of music.”

To listen to Mr. Zagari’s interview, please visit https://open.spotify. com/episode/5QjlYzxpOWXRlYxa9kTolU?si=xFfjCnVQRnKxp4FfpABmoQ.

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Softball standouts commit to collegiate programs

Two longtime teammates and standout athletes from the Garden City Athletic Association (GCAA) softball program have officially committed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. Kaitlyn Santopietro and Emily Ingersoll, who first developed their passion for the sport on Garden City’s youth fields, will now bring their talent and dedication to NCAA programs in the fall of 2026.

Both athletes began their softball journeys playing for GCAA, where they built a foundation of skill, sportsmanship, and competitive drive. Over the years, they emerged as leaders on and off the field, earning recognition for their work ethic, athleticism, and commitment to their teams. Kaitlyn and Emily have continued to excel as key members of the Garden City High School varsity softball team, where they were both named captains during their junior years.

Kaitlyn Santopietro has committed to Adelphi University, where

she will continue her softball career while pursuing a degree in accounting. Known for her consistency, strong pitching, and powerful hitting, Kaitlyn has been a cornerstone player for every team she’s joined.

At Adelphi, she looks forward to contributing to a program with a strong tradition and a culture of excellence.

Emily Ingersoll has committed to the University of Mount Saint Vincent, where she will join the Dolphins softball program. As a catcher, Emily has developed advanced receiving skills, strong chemistry with her pitchers, and a presence at the plate. These attributes have made her a standout throughout her development. She is excited to continue her softball career at the collegiate level while studying nursing at the University of Mount Saint Vincent.

Their families, coaches, and the entire GCAA community proudly celebrate this milestone as both athletes take the next step in their softball careers.

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Garden City athletes Kaitlyn Santopietro and Emily Ingersoll

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