The Garden City News (3/28/25)

N ASSAU C

OUNTY C HAMPS

The Garden City Wings won the Nassau County Middle School Championship on Tuesday night (2-1) vs the powerhouse Half Hollow Hills team. See page 53

Garden City Schools budget up 2.8%

BY KASSARA MCELROY

The Garden City Board of Education is moving forward with 2025-2026 school year planning, proposing a budget of $137,760,845. This reflects a 2.82% increase, or $3,773,479, over the current year’s budget. The public will have the opportunity to vote on this in May.

The latest proposal shows a slight increase from the initial budget of $137,410,845, which reflected a 2.56% increase, or $3,423,479. Administrators attri-

bute the adjustment to rising insurance and liability costs.

The budget is divided into three main categories: capital (13.00% of the total), administrative (11.64%), and program (75.56%). The capital and administrative categories were discussed at board meetings in previous weeks. This week’s meeting focused primarily on the program portion, which accounts for over three-quarters of the total budget and has the most direct impact on student learning.

All budget presentations to date are available for public review on the district’s website. These documents, which include side-by-side comparisons of the 2024-2025 and proposed 2025-2026 budgets, can be found under Board of Education presentations. These documents include detailed breakdowns of dollar changes and percentage increases for each budget category and code, helping community members make the most informed deci-

See page 43

Did 2023 Committee Stack the Deck?

Emails hint at political strategy, altered estimates

BY MEG MORGAN NORRIS

A trove of emails obtained by Garden City Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan from the village appear to show that members of the 2023 St. Paul’s Committee may have sought to increase cost estimates for “facadism” and minimize costs for preservation in a construction cost report. That report is now being used as a basis for the current St. Paul’s survey, which will be arriving in residents’ mailboxes shortly.

Residents speaking at meetings, as well as letters to the editor of this newspaper have recently objected to the current survey because it doesn’t include options for facadism or demolition. The emails are available for the public to read online at https://tinyurl.com/stpaulsemails

Development of Westerman Report

At the time in 2023, the Village had commissioned a construction cost report from Westerman Associates that included options for restoring the building, demolishing it, or saving only a portion of its facade. That report was used to create a public

See page 45

Pool law approved despite opposition

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Steps to construct a backyard pool in Garden City will now face new setbacks, following regulations adopted by the village government.

After rounds of public comment and pushback to proposed restrictions on who may qualify to build a pool, the Village of Garden City Board of Trustees approved a local law amending Section 200-45 of the Village Code concerning swimming pools. The subject of a March 6, public hearing, the law ultimately passed last Thursday with some minor amendments—though not without dissent. Trustees’ votes and comments reflected a

See page 43

Consider the emails

On Tuesday afternoon of this week we received a batch of forwarded emails which had been obtained by Garden City Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan regarding the operation of the 2023 Mayor’s Committee on St. Paul’s. (The emails were provided to us by a third party, not the mayor.) The emails shed some light on how the Westerman cost estimates for St. Paul’s were developed during 2023.

We would have preferred to hold the story for a week to work on it more fully because our normal deadline is Wednesday afternoon, which would be a tight turnaround for such a story. In addition, we were recovering from our first bout with Covid, so this was not an ideal time to work on a giant story.

However, the current survey on St. Paul’s is either already in the mail or about to go out (we’ve heard both) and we realized that this was a story that needed to come out immediately.

The “ballpark” estimates used in the survey were developed with in part based on the Westerman report. If members of the committee sought to unduly influence how those numbers were developed, that is something that residents should consider when filling out today’s survey.

The emails are available online for viewing at https://tinyurl.com/ stpaulsemails (This is a Google Drive owned by the Garden City News.)

We urge residents to take a look and draw their own conclusions.

NYU Langone presses pause

To the Editor:

We learned this week that NYU Langone and Nassau County are not proceeding with plans to build a hospital and research campus at The Hub. The County had proposed that the hospital be built on Nassau Community College land, right next door to the proposed 72 acre Mega-casino that County leadership has been pushing for 2 years now. Members of Say No to the Casino have repeatedly asked: why not build a state of the art medical and research facility on the 72 acre Coliseum site? Wouldn’t that be an example of good development? It would be a project that would bring union construction jobs, would answer a need in our community, and would also bring long term career jobs instead of low wage service jobs. The casino Draft Environmental Impact Statement is still under review by the county legislature, and there is still time to stop the casino proposal.

Public statements, from both the county and the hospital, as to why talks stalled were vague. This leaves us to wonder: Did the hospital realize from the DEIS that Nassau’s environment, roadways, and infrastructure could not handle 2 large developments in the area? Did the hospital decide that they did not want to be on the doorstep of our country’s second largest casino - - one that will be larger than any casino in Las Vegas? Or, (and this is even more troubling) did the county lose interest in the hospital and favor the casino as the first priority? I hope this is not the case, but I would not be surprised if it was. In what world would our county government say “no” to a hospital and “yes” to a casino?

This news highlights an important idea that our Village’s lawsuit against Nassau County seeks to address: when the county unlawfully granted Las Vegas Sands 42 years of control over 72 acres of taxpayer owned land, they effectively precluded other, more deserving, development ideas for the

Hub property. Development is coming to the Hub, regardless of where the NY State gaming licenses go. If our government goes against the will of the people of Nassau and moves forward with the casino proposal, and we do not get a casino license, who will determine the future of the Hub property? Will it be the taxpayers who own the land, or Las Vegas Sands?

Monica Kiely

Candidate for school board

To the Editor:

My name is Erin Debrich and I am running for Board of Education Trustee. I have lived in Garden City for the past 15 years with my husband, Jon, and our three sons, Collin, Emmett and Teddy. I’m a former English and literacy educator and an engaged member of our Garden City school community. I have worked hard over the years to learn about our district and how it operates, as well as to build relationships with the people who work and live in it. I know as a Board of Education Trustee, my experiences and background would make me a valuable and strong member.

The responsibilities entrusted to a school board are wide-ranging and multi-layered, from working to maintain our fiscal health, updating our school facilities, to analyzing data and curriculum and everything in between. State education standards and assessments are changing to meet the times, so our work as a school community is important to move our district forward. Some of my priorities include:

- Literacy & Curriculum: In order to ensure progress, proficiency and achievement for our student readers and writers, it is necessary to dig deeper into student assessment data and help refine/change pedagogical practices to meet student needs with evidence based approaches. As a former high school English teacher with a masters in literacy, I know from experience that the work involved in building and main-

Village earns “Tree City USA” Recognition

The Village of Garden City has once again earned recognition as a “Tree City USA.” The Arbor Day Foundation’s program highlights a community’s commitment to planting, growing and maintaining trees to benefit its community. Garden City is part of a network of more than 3,500 Tree City USAs. This is the 33rd year Garden City has been designated as a ‘Tree City.”

“I am proud of the work this Village has done to maintain our ‘Tree City’ status. I congratulate Village Arborist Joe Umana for all his hard work and the Recreation and Parks Department for its steadfast commitment to preserving Garden City’s tree canopy,” Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan said.

Arbor Day Foundation Chief Executive Dan Lambe applauds Garden City’s commitment to the planting, care and celebration of trees. “By prioritizing tree stewardship, you’ve not only helped enhance Garden City’s beauty and livability, but you’ve also invested in a healthier, more sustainable future for your residents.”

In April 2024, the Village celebrated Arbor Day with a tree planting ceremony on the southeast side of the Gazebo on the Village Green. A tree planting ceremony near the Library is being planned this year, on April 25, to celebrate Arbor Day 2025.

With spring upon us, planting season has begun in Garden City. Any resident who would like a tree planted in front of their home is encouraged to call the Recreation and Parks Office at 516-4654075. Just this month the Board of Trustees made amendments to the Village tree code.

How Much Is My Home Worth?

Our Custom Home Value Report provides you with the information you need to get a better idea of what your home might be worth given current market conditions.

Your report will supply details on:

Buyer Demand | Statistical Data | Nearby Homes for Sale

Scan the QR code and enter an address to get up to three estimates of your home’s value today.

Tree Crew personnel Mike Anderson, Christian Smith-Maslaukas and Dave Menzies during last year’s spring tree planting.

Home Happens Here

Discover this one-bedroom, one-bath co-op in the sought-after Hamilton House of Garden City. This elevator building offers a secure, keyless entry and is fully handicap accessible for effortless living.

Inside, you’ll find hardwood floors, a spacious walk-in closet, and ample storage throughout. Open concept dining room, living room and galley style kitchen. An extra nook area perfect for a home office. The building features professionally landscaped gardens with private seating areas. Convenience is key, with laundry, mail, bicycle, and storage rooms all easily accessible on the walk-out level. Residents also enjoy on-site superintendent, on-site outdoor and garage spaces (subject to availability) and public parking lot directly across the street. Ideally located near shops, restaurants, and local conveniences, this co-op offers both comfort and accessibility. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity!

Offered at $410,000

Dana Eaton Kate Crofton Denise Donlon

Patricia Aprigliano Susan Bashian Andrea Bharucha Suzanne Blair Liz Breslin Barbara Chmil Deirdre Albertson

Arlene Conigliaro Roberta Clark Colleen Ciullo

Cheryl Adams McAuliffe

Maribeth Quinn

Sean R. McCoyd Jayne McGratty Armstrong Roseanne McMahon Barbara Moore

Patricia O'Grady Julie O’Neill Rita Paiewonsky Louisa Pironi Jill Palmeri

Tony Leondis

Bill Eckel

Sharon Redmond

Anny Ko

Howard Hanna|Coach

Theanne Ricci Laura Rich Elise Ronzetti

Unlock the Local Advantage: Your Trusted Guide to Selling Your

Discover the Power of a Neighborhood Resident and Real Estate Expert – Tap into My In-Depth Knowledge for a Seamless Selling Experience!

ngiannone@coachrealtors.com |

20th – July 7th 6:35-9:25pm Tuesday/Thursday

–

GC teens learn resiliency at Runner in Red workshop

Three dozen mothers and daughters from National Charity League participated in the launch of the Runner in Red 5K Map for Health and Resiliency workshop at the Garden City Library this month. Teams from Northwell Health and the Family and Children’s Association provided support in an event sponsored by Hilton Capital Management. Full details at RunnerinRed.com.

This academy includes:

This academy includes:

Jumpstart Your Career in the Financial Services Industry

Molloy’s School of Business Summer Finance ProfessionalAcademy offers an intensive learning experience tailored for individuals interested in pursuing careers in the financial services industry. This unique program will provide the training necessary to pass the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) licensing examination and gain other sought-after credentials in this industry.

Keep going, or quit?

There comes a moment when each young athlete must confront that challenge, whether to give into the hardship presented by their sport, or rise up –and that offers teens a chance to learn an invaluable life lesson.

The Runner in Red Resiliency Workshop teaches teens how to take values and skills they develop from sports — for example, learning how to keep going when things get hard - and apply the lessons as “tools” to meet the challenges of being an adolescent today.

• A Three–Credit Finance Elective. Led by a Series 7-licensed professional, this course prepares students to take the SIE, a FINRA licensing requirement for securities industry professionals.

• A Three–Credit Finance Elective. Led by a Series 7-licensed professional, this course prepares students to take the SIE, a FINRA licensing requirement for securities industry professionals.

• A Three–Credit Finance Elective. Led by a Series 7-licensed professional, this course prepares students to take the SIE, a FINRA licensing requirement for securities industry professionals.

Capital Management.

The resiliency workshop takes teens through a five-step process, modeled on a 5K run, to identify values and skills they learn from their participation in sports – lessons such as self-discipline, persistence and teamwork. They work in small groups to explore how to apply the lessons to challenges they face in school, which can be exacerbated by growing up in a social media age. Then the program takes them across a “finish line,” teaching them how to create “an action plan” to achieve goals.

• Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC). Completion of this self-paced course in Molloy’s trading room will attest to your competency on the Bloomberg Professional system, the gold standard for dissemination of financial information.

• Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC). Completion of this self-paced course in Molloy’s trading room will attest to your competency on the Bloomberg Professional system, the gold standard for dissemination of financial information. •

Career in the Industry Professional Academy individuals services industry. necessary to pass the examination and For more information, reply by May 1: https://forms.office.com/r/t3tHDGB84R

Completion of this self-paced course in Molloy’s trading room will attest to your competency on the Bloomberg Professional system, the gold standard for dissemination of financial information.

• Microsoft Excel Associate or Expert Certification.

• Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC). Completion of this self-paced course in Molloy’s trading room will attest to your competency on the Bloomberg Professional system, the gold standard for dissemination of financial information.

• Microsoft Excel Associate or Expert Certification. Strong Excel skills are essential to a successful career in finance.  The academy includes training materials and testing fees.

Microsoft Excel Associate or Expert Cetification. Strong Excel skills are essential to a successful career in finance. The academy includes training materials and testing fees.

May 20th – July 7th 6:35-9:25pm Tuesday/Thursday 7th 6:35-9:25pm

For more information, reply by May 1: https://forms.office.com/r/t3tHDGB84R

Tom Murphy, author of the novel, Runner in Red, and founder of the Runner in Red Foundation, a 501cs3 charity that promotes resiliency, conducted a kick off Runner in Red 5K Map for Health and Resiliency session at the Garden City Library on March 13. Three dozen mothers and daughters from the Garden City chapter of National Charity League joined in, as a team from Northwell Health’s Behavioral Health offered support. The program has also enlisted the endorsement of Long Island’s Family and Children’s Association.

The Runner in Red Foundation is sponsored in Garden City by Hilton

One mom wrote in her post survey, “The girls learned how to believe in themselves and see that their strengths from sports can help them in life.”

A teen wrote, “This workshop made me feel strong and know I’m not alone.”

The plan is to expand the Runner in Red workshop series on Long Island in the fall. The goal is to give a broad array of teens an opportunity to learn how to apply their strengths from sports to meet challenges and achieve goals in sports and school – and set themselves on a pathway to success in life.

To join the program and see full details, visit RunnerinRed.com.

Cathedral to host gala: Moondance in the Nave

The Cathedral of the Incarnation will transform its nave into an spectacular venue for a first-of-its-kind event this spring, as the historic church at the center of our village hosts the “Moondance in the Nave” on Friday, May 2.

The gala dinner/dance will take place beneath the Museum of the Moon installation by renowned British artist Luke Jerram. The installation, a touring piece of art, features a large-scale illuminated moon sculpture that has captivated and inspired the imaginations of audiences worldwide add link

“This event represents a unique opportunity to experience this space in an entirely new light—or rather, moonlight,” said Cathedral Dean The Very Rev. Canon Michael Sniffen. “We’re inviting the community to gather under the moon in celebration of our shared architectural heritage and to further our mission to make this building more accessible and open to every resident of Garden City.”

The event begins at 7 p.m. with cocktails in the cathedral undercroft, followed by dinner by Prime and dancing to music by Manhattan Rhythm Machine under the moon in the historic cathedral nave at 8 p.m.

The May 2nd gala is the marquee event of the Museum of the Moon installation at the cathedral, culminating three weeks

of cultural, social, academic and spiritual events under the moon. “The Cathedral is more than a beautiful structure—its a living connection to our community’s history and its hopes for the future. The events we have designed around this installation are

2, at the Cathedral of the Incarnation.

part of an ongoing plan to use the space as a community hub for cultural, social and sacred purposes. Yoga, Pink Floyd, tours, Adelphi lectures, an art gallery opening — we’ll have it all under the moon,” Dean Sniffen explained.

Tickets for the Moondance Gala are selling fast and available on Eventbrite or at the cathedral website at www.incarnationgc.org/moon. You can also call the Cathedral office at 516-746-2355.

Welcome to this beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath split-level home conveniently located in the Northeastern Section. This home features an open floor plan with a spacious sun-drenched living room that flows into a dining area and a beautifully renovated eat-in kitchen with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances.

The upper level boasts a spacious primary bedroom with an ensuite updated full bath and 2 additional bedrooms serviced by an updated hall full bath. The lower level offers a family room with a separate side entrance and access to a mudroom and a 1-car attached garage. The basement features a laundry area, utilities and ample storage.

Additional features include a walk-up attic perfect for all your storage needs. Additional highlights include central air conditioning, gas heating, and hardwood floors. The large 78 x 125 yard features a private side yard with mature landscaping and a large stone patio perfect for entertaining. This home is conveniently located near public transportation, schools, shopping, restaurants, and the park. The overall condition and low taxes make this the perfect place to call home.

Schedule a private showing and discover all that this property has to offer.

Offered at $1,099,000

A gala “Moondance in the Nave” will be held on Friday, May

Kristian Rhein’s Forum at GC Community Church

BY MELVA VICTORINO

Lent is the time of spiritual preparation for the celebration of Easter which marks the resurrection of Jesus.  It is a calling for all Christians to a period of the importance of walking together to find hope in uncertainty and face the future with courage, and a renewed focus of faith and service.

At Garden City Community Church (GCCC) all are welcome to walk together and share the journey of connecting deeper with God.

There are many ways the GCCC offers opportunities to walk in faith and one of them is sharing one’s faith journey. On Sunday, March 30th at 11:30 a.m., after the 10:30 worship service, Kristian Rhein will lead the forum in the parlor on how his faith helps strengthen him to serve the church.

Kristian was born and lived in Cincinnati, Ohio until his middle school when his family moved to Connecticut. They later moved to North Carolina and  joined a local Presbyterian Church where he was active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and youth group. He attended numerous church retreats and mission trips.

Kristian attended the University North Carolina and North Carolina State University for undergraduate and graduate school. He spent his internship at Rood & Riddle Hospital

in Kentucky. After his internship his family moved to New York. They joined the GCCC where his daughters were baptized.  They have lived in Garden City for the past 15 years and we have been members of GCCC, as long if not a little longer.  He works as a soccer trainer in town with Soccer Motivate and volunteer at the Mary Brennan Inn and Island Harvest throughout the year.

GCCC has been a home throughout his time in Garden City.  In good and bad times, he has had the support from GCCC and his faith in Jesus Christ.   Join the services at GCCC during the Holy Week and Easter Services:

• Palm Sunday, April 13th at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary

• Maundy Thursday , April 17th at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary

• Good Friday, April 18th the Chapel is open from noon – 3:00 pm for prayer & meditation

• Easter Sunday, April 20th –Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. on the church lawn, Musical Prelude at 10:15 a.m. in the sanctuary, Easter Service at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary.

• Easter Egg Hunt for the children after the 10:30 a.m. Easter Sunday service.

Regular church services are on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. in-person and live-streamed. For information on how to attend our services virtually or in person, please contact the church office churchoffice@thegccc.org. To get information regarding our virtual and in-person worship services and programs, visit our website at www. theGCCC.org.

The Garden City Community Church is part of the United Church of Christ. It is an Open and Affirming congregation. 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.

AAA Defensive Driving Course

The Knights of Columbus #15809 at St Joseph’s Church in Garden City is pleased to offer the community the AAA Driver Defensive Driving Course. The course will be held on Saturday April 5, 2025 - 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the St. Joseph’s Church, LL St Agnes Room, Garden City. Call for directions. Upon completion of this course, Participants

are eligible for 10% off their motor vehicle insurance for three years and/or a reduction of points from their driver’s license. The fee for the course is $55 per person and advance registration is required. To register and for more information, please contact: Louie Malave 631-398-8922 or John Russo 516-384-4552

Garden City Community Church

Plans underway for Easter Vintage Car Parade

For the 70th year, the Chamber of Commerce Annual Easter Sunday Vintage Car Parade kicks off on Sunday, April 20, at the new start time of 12:00 p.m.

The parade will step off on Franklin Avenue at Tenth Street with antique, classic and special interest cars throughout the metropolitan area expected to participate in the lineup.

Spectators are welcome to preview the hundreds of magnificent vintage car vehicles at the staging area in Parking Field 9E on Franklin Avenue between Ninth and Tenth Streets from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. when the parade begins. The procession of cars will head south on Franklin and west on Seventh Street to Hilton Avenue where it will disperse.

Various sponsorships providing many benefits are available. The chamber gratefully acknowledges our past sponsors and encourages any-

one who would like to participate as a sponsor to contact the Chamber of Commerce at 516-746-7724 or visit www. GardenCityChamber.com. This is a great opportunity for a block, a local team, a Cub, Boy or Girl Scout Troop, a school or any group to get together a support this nostalgic Garden City tradition! Please include any logo you’d like the Chamber to use on the website!

The Chamber asks that residents patronze its sponsors, without whom the Chamber of Commerce would not be able to offer the programs we do to the business community and the general public. Special thanks this past week to: The Helen Keller Services for the Blind, Leo’s Tavern, Il Gufo Restaurant, Coach Realtors, La Bottega Original, Revel Restaurant & Bar, Biz Family Auto Services & Hand Car Wash, Iavarone Brothers

Shopping event raises funds for The INN

In honor of its first anniversary in Garden City, J. McLaughlin, a clothing retailer on Seventh Street, will raise funds for The INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network), a Hempstead program serving the homeless and others impacted by poverty.

On Wednesday, April 2, between 6

and 8 p.m. enjoy cocktails and shopping. Ten percent of sales will be donated to The INN. The event will be hosted by Julie O'Neill, Sue Doherty, and Mary Ellen Coyne.

To register, please RSVP to stnygardencity@jmclaughlin.com

EPOA scholarship 2025

The Eastern Property Owners’ Association has announced that it will once again award a $1000 scholarship for 2025 to a graduating high school senior who resides in the Eastern section.

The candidates, or their family, must be dues paying members of the EPOA.  They must be currently attending public or private high school and plan to attend college full time in the fall.  The focus of this scholarship is community service.

Candidates need to submit an application which can be accessed from the EPOA website at www.gcepoa.org or obtained from the Garden City High School Guidance Department.  Should you have a question, you can call Barbara Garry at 516-248-1486.

All interested, eligible seniors are encouraged to apply.  The deadline for applications is April 16, 2025.

Get results!

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our Garden City office at 516-294-8900 for more information.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY SPECIALS

Personal Pizzas

Dine-in only! Available in the dining room and at the bar.

GRIMALDI’S PARTY PACKAGES

$32/person • 3-hour package Coffee • Tea • Soda Mixed Green Salad/Caesar Salad Antipasto/Tomato & Mozzarella Assorted Pinwheels One Large Calzone per Table Unlimited Pizza w/ Toppings

$35/person - +Pasta Course

$40/person - +Chicken/Eggplant Entrée

$24/person - Beer/Wine Package

$34/person - Open Bar Package

or

booked Mon–Sun 11:30AM–4PM. Starting at $32/person. Call for details. Holidays excluded.

HAPPY HOUR Mon–Thu, 11:30 AM–4 PM At the Bar Only

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

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

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS

165 Chestnut Street

Date: 03/26/2025

Sold price: $1,225,000

3 bedrooms, 3 full bath

Architectural Style: Exp. Cape

Property size: .18 acres

Annual taxes: $15,799

MLS number: 821789

The Seller’s Team: Sean R. McCoyd, Howard Hanna Coach Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Elise Ronzetti, Howard Hanna Coach Realty Fantastic 3bdr 2bth Expanded New England Cape Cod Home with attractive curb appeal and superb fit and finish. This beautiful home sits perfectly situated mid block on a rarely offered prime oversized 60’ X 130’ sun drenched southern exposure, parklike property. Additional notable features include an ideal floor plan: Inviting front entry porch leading you inside to a bright and spacious living room with recessed LED lighting and freshly finished natural grade hardwood floors. Fabulous chefs kitchen addition with custom cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, trendy industrial farmhouse lighting, new stainless steel appliances-including a 36” counter depth French door refrigerator, smart glass tile backsplash and a exterior side door which provides access to a large 13’ x 20’ rear yard deck space for alfresco dining. Sizable formal dining room serviced off kitchen space. Expansive family room addition with a cozy wood burning fireplace, multiple sunlit windows, a 6’ Anderson sliding glass door provides additional light and easy access to the rear yard deck/entertaining area. Mechanical features include: New appliances throughout, 52” Hunter ceiling fans, Led recessed lighting, efficient dual zone gas fired heating plant, designated indirect hot water tank provides copious amounts of hi-volume hot water, full service laundry station with new 4.6 cu. ft. no-agitator washer & new 7.2 cu. ft. clothes dryer, maintenance free vinyl siding, architectural roof shingle. The house has a large foot print basement with comfortable ceiling heights. The primary bedroom contains plenty of natural light with two large closets offering an abundance of storage space, there are two additional generously sizes guest bedrooms. This home has recently received a fresh professional paint job with warm select color tones throughout. Proximate to: Blue Ribbon Award winning schools, LIRR train station, major parkways, restaurants, shopping, top rated parks and all village amenities. Quality built to last spacious forever homes with reasonable taxes are becoming increasingly difficult to find. Come experience the very best of what true Garden City living has to offer... “Opportunity Seldom Knocks Twice!”

Date: 03/21/2025

Sold price: $1,136,500

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Architectural Style: Split level

Property Size: .15 acres

Annual taxes: $15,668

MLS number: L3588597

The Seller’s Team: Athena D. Menoudakos, Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Shelley J. Scotto, Compass Greater NY

Welcome to this bright and inviting split-level home in the Northeastern section of Garden City, ideally located mid-block on a quiet street. The main level features beautiful hardwood floors, an updated kitchen with granite countertops, and stainless-steel appliances. The space flows into a dining area and a spacious living room. The second floor offers three bedrooms, including a primary suite with a walk-in closet and en-suite bath, plus two additional bedrooms and another full bathroom. The lower level provides a cozy den, a laundry room , a back door to the rear yard, and access to the garage. The finished basement offers flexible space for a playroom or office, abundant closet storage, and a mechanical room. Outside, enjoy a private, fenced yard with in-ground sprinklers and plenty of room for entertaining. This home also features new central air, gas cooking, and heating, and is conveniently close to schools, parks, highways, shopping, the village, and the LIRR.LOW TAXES!!

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

54 Russell Road

Garden City PTA News

Save the Dates!

Grab your calendar and mark down these important upcoming dates across the school district. Keep an eye on the PTA website and the GCUFSD website “Events” page for even more detail on what’s happening across all seven schools.

• March 28 - Middle School PTA/ Septa Family Bingo Night

• April 9 - GCMS PTA Meeting via Zoom

PARP Pen Pal Program (Grades K–5)

The PTA PARP Committee is thrilled to reintroduce the Garden City Pen Pal Program for 2025!  Students from different Garden City schools will be matched according to grade and will send a writ-

ten letter to their assigned pen pal in the mail. This activity is completely optional (but we hope you will opt in!).  If you would like your child to participate, please complete the form sent to you through email by March 31.  Students will receive their pen pal matches before spring break, and are asked to send their letters by April 30th.  We look forward to helping kids connect with a love of letters, language, and reading!

Get Your Sportswear!!

The spring PTA sportswear fundraiser began 3/1. Grab all new GC pride gear for grandparents, parents, students, pets and more! Scan the QR code to start shopping or go to https://gcptas25.itemorder.com/shop/sale/

Your Membership Matters!

Please take a minute today to visit www.gardencitypta.org if you have not yet joined the GC PTA for the 2024–25 school year. While there, click the “Get Involved” tab to see the many volunteer opportunities with the PTA overall, and with your child’s specific schools. We can’t wait to work with you!

Let’s Connect @GardenCityPTA

Website: www.gardencitypta.org

To Get Real Time InformationTurn on Notifications

Facebook: Facebook.com/ GardenCityPTA

Instagram: Instagram.com/ GardenCityPTA

Twitter: Twitter.com/ GardenCityPTA

Estates POA announces 2025 scholarships

The Property Owners’ Association of the Garden City Estates (Estates POA) announces that it will be awarding up to three 2025 Yuter-Newman Estates POA Scholarships and that the application is now available.

This merit-based scholarship will be awarded to one or more 12th grade students (from any public or private high school) that reside in the Garden City Estates section. The applicants must be

accepted to, and planning to attend, a four-year college full-time in the fall. The selection of the winners will be by the Estates POA Scholarship Committee and will be based on academic excellence and the level of involvement in local civic causes and community service. To download an application, visit the POA’s website at www.gcestates.org/scholarships. Applications must be received by Wednesday, April 30, 2025 to be eligible.

Garden City Kiwanis Member Guest Night

The Garden City Kiwanis Cub recently held a “Member Guest Night” at the Seventh Street Cafè.

Members introduced their guests, and the prospective new members were informed of the Service and Fellowship that the Club provides.

Kiwanis International is a worldwide service organization that seeks “To Serve the Children of the World” through local clubs.

We bring a unique perspective to the table, blending traditional values with modern expertise. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, we are dedicated to providing personalized service tailored to your needs. When you choose our Mother/Son team, you gain a partner who truly understands the importance of long-term success and building a legacy for generations to come.

Patrick Curry, Club President; Laura Mulligan, guest; Tom Muscarella, Town Councilman and Member; Patrick Corrigan, guest; Roger Eltringham, DPP; Peter Leibman, guest; Jim Mancuso, Past Governor of New York District Kiwanis

Garden City real estate, reimagined.

Baymack

Lauren Grima Lic. RE Salesperson Principal Agent

Pedro “Pete” Diaz

Karen Guendjoian Lic. RE Salesperson Principal Agent

Athena Menoudakos Lic. RE Salesperson Founding Agent

Alexander G. Olivieri Lic. RE Salesperson Founding Agent

Patrick M. McCooey Lic. Assoc. RE Broker Founding Agent

Maureen

Kathleen

Alexandra Parisi Lic. Assoc. RE Broker

Lauren Canner Lic. RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team

Catherine Anatra Lic. RE Salesperson

Menoudakos Team

Demetrios Arnidis Lic. RE Salesperson McCooey Olivieri Team

Kathy Thornton

Jennifer Sullivan

Danielle Nero Lic. RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team

Daniel Niebler Lic. RE Salesperson Baymack Team

Kate Russo Lic. RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team

Julie Whicher Lic. RE Salesperson Baymack Team

Christina M. Hirschfield Lic. RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team

Susan Gillin Lic. RE Salesperson Jen Sullivan Team

Adrienne McDougal Lic. RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team

Ryan Mullins Lic. RE Salesperson Jen Sullivan Team

Frank Morabito Lic. RE Salesperson Pete Diaz Team

Amanda Keller

Team

Kerry Flynn

Team

Denice Giacometti Lic. RE Salesperson McCooey Olivieri Team

Mairead Garry Lic. RE Salesperson McCooey Olivieri Team

Carolyn Fowler Lic. RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team

Alyson B. Esposito

RE Salesperson Laura Carroll Team

Chelsea Costello

Team

5

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

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.

Reducing the Tax on Social Security

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

As Congress wrangles with a new major tax bill this year,  there will be numerous important decision points --  for example how much of the deduction for state and local taxes, now capped at $10,000,  will be restored.

However, none of these decision points for Congress  will be more important than the debate over reduction of taxation of Social Security benefits.  On the campaign trail in 2024, President Trump announced that he favored the repeal of federal income tax on these benefits.

As a brief review, taxation of Social Security benefits dates back to 1983, Under a law enacted at that time, one-half of Social Security benefits received by single taxpayers with combined income of at least $25,000 and joint filers with income above $32,000 was included in income.  For purposes of this calculation, combined income is equal to adjusted gross income plus one half of Social Security income plus nontaxable interest.  The actual tax paid on Social Security income depends on the taxpayer’s overall tax bracket.

In 1994, this formula was changed to include in income one half of Social Security benefits  received by single taxpayers with combined income (same definition)   between $25,000 and $34,000 and joint filers receiving between $32,000 and $44,000.  In addition, 85 percent of Social Security benefits  was included in income of single taxpayers with combined income above $34,000 and married taxpayers with combined income above $44,000.

Unfortunately, it is widely believed that a complete repeal of Social Security taxes is economically unrealistic.  Over the next decade estimates are that Social Security taxes will amount to approximately $1.5 trillion, $950 billion of which fund the  Social Security trust fund and the remaining $650 billion going to the Medicare trust fund. The result of cutting off this flow would be to hasten the insolvency of these  trust funds. While the shortfalls could be paid out of general revenues, there is already a national debt of $37 trillion.

Accordingly, it seems likely that

Congress will have to consider an approach not involving complete repeal of the Social Security income tax. The good news is that two good approaches are available, either of which could, in addition to reducing the tax substantially, also make it fairer.

The first approach recognizes that the combined income tax thresholds were originally established under the 1983 law and updated in 1994,  and have not been indexed for inflation. The change would require indexing of these amounts.

The lack of indexing means a larger portion of Social Security benefits are being taxed over time due to bracket creep, and this is especially true during times of high inflation. In 1999, about 19.5 percent of Social Security benefits were taxable, rising to about 33 percent of benefits in 2017 and about 37.9 percent of benefits in 2022. Ordinary income tax brackets were indexed in 1981, and the brackets for Social Security benefits should be treated no differently.

By updating, this will automatically increase the number of recipients who will pay no tax on their benefits, going part way to meet the President’s goal.  It will also reduce the number of recipients paying tax on 85% of their benefit, also going part way to meet the President’s overall goal of reducing the tax burden on recipients.

Another approach would be to tax Social Security  benefits in a manner analogous to Roth contributions to individual retirement accounts  and qualified plans.  Since an employee’s Social Security payroll tax contributions are subject to income tax, they can be viewed as Roth contributions and both they and the related investment earnings actuarially embedded in the employee’s Social Security benefit would be  received free of income tax.   The result is that only the fifty percent portion of the benefit funded by the employer’s share of the payroll tax and related investment earnings will be taxed. With a degree of common sense, Congress can reform the taxation of Social Security benefits without unduly burdening the fisc.

112 Brook Street, Garden City

4 BD | 3 BA | $2,199,000

Welcome to this stunning Craftsman-Style Colonial set on a beautifully landscaped oversized lot. Designed for seamless living and entertaining, the first floor features a foyer, formal living room with a fireplace, dining room, gourmet chef’s kitchen, a family room with a fireplace, a guest bedroom or office, and a full bath. Upstairs, the primary suite offers two walk-in closets and an en-suite bath, along with two additional large bedrooms and another full bath. The finished basement includes a TV/office room, recreation area, laundry, sauna, and storage. The private backyard is an true entertainer’s paradise, boasting a covered deck, outdoor TV, built-in speakers, a heated saltwater pool, a custom BBQ, a bocce court/golf green, and a hot tub.

OPEN HOUSE: Fri Mar 28th 4:30PM –6:00PM Sat Mar 29th 12:00PM –2:00PM

Please call me for a private appointment.

Athena Menoudakos

The Menoudakos Team

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Founding Agent - Compass Garden City

M: 516.316.4955

Athena.menoudakos@compass.com

Muscarella recognizes woman owned business

Town Councilman Tom

recognized Lisa Duff, owner of Coquette in Garden City, as the 7th Street establishment was featured as part of the Councilman’s Women-Owned Business Spotlight during Women’s History Month.

New Eagle Scout honored

and

congratulated John Francis Sievers, Jr. of Garden City as he reached the rank of Eagle Scout. John’s Eagle Scout project was building a habitat for local insect populations at the Garden City Bird Sanctuary, which is essential for the overall health of the ecosystem. The Court of Honor was held at St. Joseph’s School in Garden City. Also attending were John’s parents, John and Mary, Nassau County Legislator John Giuffre, and New York State Assemblyman Ed Ra.

Hempstead

Muscarella

Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin (second right)

Councilman Tom Muscarella (right)

Welcome to the Perfect Family Getaway! Walker Ave, East Quogue

This family-friendly, five-bedroom, three bath house on 3/4 acres of lush greenery, nature preserve behind, offers privacy and serenity as you grill on the deck or swim in the heated in-ground pool. Steps away from Shinnecock Bay, perfect for kayaking or canoeing.

Located just minutes from the best beaches, vineyards, and restaurants, this stunning residence boasts features that will make your stay memorable.

New central AC and internet provide a comfortable atmosphere throughout this newly refreshed home. The living room is warm and inviting with RokuTV, leading into dining room with large dining table. The kitchen is fully equipped with all the essential appliances and housewares.

Glass doors open to an expansive deck with large table and outdoor furniture, perfect for entertaining or sun-soaking. A three season screened in cedar outdoor dining room allows for fresh air in the shade.

Large master bedroom opens to the deck and pool. Connected by hallway to an oversized bathroom with steam shower and guest bedroom/office, these three rooms can be closed off for a real master retreat!

The opposite end of the house has a full-sized bedroom and full bath. The second floor has two bedrooms and a full bath.

Available Memorial Day through Labor Day for two weeks, monthly or full summer rental.

Old World Quality Corp.

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

Our community deserves complete unbiased information and an opportunity to finally bring closure to the difficult and costly St. Paul’s Main Building saga.

As promised, I am sharing what I recently learned from our Village records about what was going on behind the scenes when Westerman Construction was preparing their cost estimates. Westerman

Construction was hired to provide cost estimates for renovation, façadism and demolition of the St. Paul’s Main Building. Their reports were used for the October 2023 Public Opinion Poll, and they are being used in the creation of ballpark figures for the St. Paul’s Survey. It is a cautionary tale of special interests, our local government, and obfuscating important information for residents.

With the majority of the Board relying heavily on the Westerman Report and two members of the newest St. Paul’s Committee being part of the small group working behind the scenes in the drafting of the Westerman Report, it is important for residents to know. This information was not known by the majority of the members of the Board of Trustees during the time Westerman was engaged.

1. Within days of the BOT engaging Westerman to provide cost estimates, a small group was formed to communicate with Westerman Construction. The small group was proposed by the leader of the SPA (St. Paul’s Alliance), and it included himself, the former Mayor, and three residents. The leader of the SPA is is a long time advocate for preservation whose St Paul’s Resume includes being: an initial named plaintiff in the litigation against the Village regarding St Paul’s; a fundraiser and opposition leader to Care Matrix and Avalon Bay; actively involved in the preservation and adaptive re-use of St Paul’s since 1993; and a leader of opposition to demolition of St. Paul’s.

the opponents necks” referring to the following election. The small group worked with the Village Building Superintendent who directed Mr. Westerman to price a 125,000 sq ft structure behind the façade. (These emails helped explain why days before the 2023 Village Election, a Village meeting was held where inflated project numbers were associated with both my name and the name of another candidate).

3. An email describes a pricing strategy to be communicated to Mr. Westerman to keep adaptive reuse under $50 million and ramp up over time with the conservancy. One of the group members prepared a “pricing strategy document” that was sent to Westerman, and the emails mention the importance of Westerman working with the group’s engineer to “skinny down the costs.” Another email emphasizes how important it is that members of the group review the content of Westerman’s assessment before it is presented to the Village.

4. The emails document a meeting requested early in the process when one engineer in the small group voiced concerns about what Mr. Westerman said during the initial walk through. Another email included a request for a meeting to respond to structural issues being raised. These conversations were presumably continued off-the-record, and I was unable to learn what comments of Westerman troubled the group or to find the structural issues noted or who raised them.

5. The emails included directions to Mr. Westerman to update his demolition price to include salvage and storage which would increase the cost of demolition. Many may recall that the initial Westerman Report priced transporting the salvaged items across the country for storage in a better climate.

2. Before Westerman was hired, the SPA leader sent an email to the former mayor, a sitting trustee, the small group, and four other residents setting forth a strategy on façadism which he called “a horrible architectural concept.” He wrote that it was a “fabulous political concept,” however, because “it could be hung around

6. The SPA leader who worked on this cost estimation report with Westerman also provided the Torino Tax Exemption document shared at a POA meeting and widely criticized as misleading seniors on whether their taxes would be impacted by the project, shortly before they were being

See page 26

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan

Threat with weapon

On March 19, a 32-year-old male was arrested by Garden City Detectives for allegedly threatening to harm his ex-employer. Police say he held a box cutter to the victim’s throat and then used it to cut a chair cushion. He was charged with Menacing, Criminal Mischief, and Unlawful Imprisonment.

Multiple traffic infractions

A Wyatt Road motorist was charged on March 19 with multiple infractions, including driving with a suspended license, two counts of excessive speed, passing a Stop sign, and having tinted windows.

False fire alarms

The Garden City Fire Department and Police Department responded on March 19 to three separate fire alarms, all of which were found to be false activations. Two were caused by burnt food, and one was set in error.

Truck violations

On March 19, a Nassau Boulevard truck operator was charged with driving in a prohibited zone and operating a vehicle with improper license plates.

Repeat suspensions

An 11th Street motorist was arrested on March 20 for allegedly driving with seven license suspensions and making an illegal turn from a parking garage.

Hit-and-run injury

On March 20, a black sedan reportedly left the scene after striking another vehicle on Franklin Avenue and injuring the other driver.

Unlicensed operation

A Meadow Street motorist was charged on March 20 with unlicensed operation and passing a Stop sign.

Assault reported

A victim appeared at Garden City Police Headquarters on March 20 and stated he had been assaulted earlier that night within the confines of the NCPD 1st Precinct. He was transported to a hospital and the NCPD was notified.

Speed and suspension

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on March 20 with driving with a suspended registration and excessive speed.

False fire alarms

On March 20, GCFD and GCPD responded to three fire alarms—one set off by shower steam, another by burnt food, and one triggered by construction dust.

Excessive speed

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged on March 20 with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.

Commercial vehicle infractions

On March 20, a Franklin Avenue truck operator was charged with driving an over weight vehicle and having defective brakes.

False panic alarm

Officers responded on March 20 to a panic alarm at a residence, which was later determined to have been set in error.

Multiple violations on Franklin

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged March 20 with driving with a suspended registration and running a red traffic signal.

Package theft

Packages were reported stolen from the front porch of a Meadow Street residence on March 21.

Fraudulent check

On March 21, a business reported that a fraudulent check had been cashed against the company’s bank account.

Graffiti discovered

Graffiti was found on March 21 in the men’s bathroom at the St. Paul’s Comfort Station.

Suspended registrations

Three motorists—two on Stewart Avenue and one on Clinton Road— were charged on March 21 with driving with suspended registrations.

Open garage door

On March 22, officers responded to a residence for an alarm and discovered an open garage door. After investigation, everything was found to be in order.

Multiple infractions

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on March 22 with driving with a suspended license, suspended registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle.

Tent blown onto roadway

Officers responded on March 22 to Commercial Avenue, where high winds had blown a tent onto the roadway. The building owner removed the tent.

Suspended license

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged March 22 with driving with

a suspended license and excessive speed.

Fire alarms investigated

On March 22, GCFD and GCPD responded to a fire alarm triggered during a battery change and another activated by exterminators.

Franklin Avenue charges

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged on March 22 with driving with a suspended registration and excessive speed.

Traffic signal issue

Officers responded on March 22 to a traffic light malfunction at the intersection of Nassau Boulevard and South Avenue.

Unauthorized purchases

On March 23, a victim reported that their phone app account had been used to make several unauthorized purchases at local stores.

Clinton Road infractions

A Clinton Road motorist was

charged March 23 with driving with a suspended license, suspended registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle.

Dog reunited with owner Officers on March 23 used the department’s chip reader to successfully reunite a lost dog with its owner.

Failure to yield

A Franklin Avenue motorist was charged on March 23 with unlicensed operation and failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk.

Suspended license

On March 23, a Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.

Juvenile robbery case

On March 24, Garden City Detectives arrested a 17-year-old juvenile for Robbery, Assault, and Criminal Mischief. Police say that on August 9, 2024, the juvenile approached a male youth on 7th Street, punched him in the face, stole his phone, and then smashed it. Two other juveniles were previously arrested in connection with the case.

See page 26

Quick

Quick

Remote

Remote

Trusted

Trusted

Trusted

FOR SENIORS fyi

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!

Trip to Molloy College to See “Legally Blonde"”

Sunday, June 8

A trip to the Madison Theatre at Molloy University to see “Legally Blonde” $48.00, please make checks payable to “Molloy University”. The bus will leave from across the street from the Senior Center at 2:15, show is at 3:00. Deadline is May 8. Register at the Senior Center front desk.

NYS Div. of Consumer Protection to Offer Tips on Scams

Tuesday, April 1, 11:00, at the Senior Center

The New York State Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection will be offering tips to help you recognize and avoid scams and fraud. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

AAA Offers Help with Real ID/ Enhanced Licenses

Tuesday, April 8

Alice from AAA will be at the Senior Center from 11:00-1:00 to tell you all you need to know about the Real ID/ Enhanced License process. She will have the forms you will need, and let you know what you need to do to obtain one. No reservations necessary.

Complimentary Oral Cancer Screenings

Friday, April 11

Dr Fitzgerald and Dr DiVanna from the Garden City Center for Dental Excellence will be at the Senior Center at 11:00 to perform complimentary oral cancer screenings. Refreshments will be offered as well, reservations are necessary, please call the Senior Center at (516) 385-8006.

Trip to Raynham Hall Museum

Wednesday, April 23

Trip to Raynham Hall Museum in Oyster Bay. Recreation bus leaves at 10:30, guided tour begins at 11:30, lunch will be on your own at one of the many nearby restaurants, all within walking distance. Fee: $8.00, make checks payable to “Raynham Hall Museum”, register at the Senior Center front desk.

Trip to See “Fiddler on the Roof”

Sunday, May 4

Trip to see “Fiddler on the Roof” at the Argyle Theatre in Babylon, and lunch at La Famiglia. Cost is $67 for the show ticket, check made payable to the “Argyle Theatre” and $50.00 cash for lunch, paid at time of registration. Register at the Senior Center front desk. Registration deadline is April 4.

Mobility and Flexibility Maintenance

Tuesday, March 25, at 11:00 PT Timothy Caputo from Spear Physical Therapy will be at the Senior Center, giving a presentation about Mobility and Flexibility Maintenance. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Chair Yoga

New Chair Yoga schedule for Tania at the senior center. Beginning TUESDAY, March 4, 9:15–9:45 Meditation, 9:45–10:45 Chair Yoga class.

Trip to West Point

Tuesday, June 10

Trip to West Point for a tour and lunch at the Thayer Hotel. Tuesday, June 10, charter bus leaves from across the street from the Senior Center at 8:00 am, and it will depart West Point to return home at 3:00. To register visit the Senior Center, $153.oo check made payable to “Amazing Destinations”. DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO APRIL 4TH. We are now opening up this trip to non-residents.

Save the Dates for Future Trips: Sunday May 4: “Fiddler On the Roof” (Argyle Theatre)

Sunday, June 8: “Legally Blonde” (Madison Theatre at Molloy University) Sunday, August 3: “The Music Man” (Argyle Theatre)

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!!

FOR THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF CANCER CARE, THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME.

Perlmutter Cancer Center is an NCI-Designated Cancer Center right here on Long Island.

Perlmutter Cancer Center is committed to providing state-of-the-art, research-based approaches for the prevention, detection, and treatment of all types of cancers. With an expansive portfolio of clinical trials and doctors that are at the forefront of their fields, we are proud to offer the most advanced cancer care to our patients, close to home.

Better health starts with a better health system.

Perlmutter Cancer Center

Find a location near you

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

Reserve Now for RotaCare’s Annual Caregiver’s Ball

Founded in 1992 by the MineolaGarden City Rotary Club, our Club continues to regard RotaCare as its signature project and is a major supporter of this essential service which provides free healthcare for the uninsured and people in need.

This April, RotaCare cordially invites you to attend and join Rotary in support of its annual Caregiver’s Ball to be held on Thursday evening, April 10 at the elegant Inn at New Hyde Park. (Cocktails at 6:30pm, dinner at 730pm.)

As in past years, this gala event promises to be a most memorable evening with many luminaries in attendance.

A highlight will be the recognition of Dr. Francis Faustino, chairman of the Department of Family Medicine at NHYU Langone, along with Tom Crowley, the eminent immediate past district governor of Rotary District 7255 who also plans to acknowledge Mineola Garden City Rotary upon its 100th anniversary this year. These remarkable gentlemen will be RotaCare’s honored recipients of its 2025 Community Achievement Award.

RotaCare was born through the collaborative efforts of Rotary, local care professionals, area residents and an initial grant from the Grumman Corporation. A “MASH” team had been formed to operate weekly at the Mary Brennan INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network) in Hempstead.

As RotaCare evolved, more space was needed and in 2009, RotaCare had moved to the Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility in Uniondale where a staff of doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, clerical staff and translators volunteered and continue to give selflessly to help uninsured individuals and families receive access to vital health care services. For integral involvement and benefit to the community, RotaCare incorporated as a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization.

In 2022, R0taCare was able to lease a new 2,500 sq. facility in Hempstead which houses modern equipment, specialized on-site testing, all the space and everything needed for 40 volunteers to provide needed excellent care to those in need.

Please join Mineola-Garden City Rotary in support of RotaCare’s gala Caregivers Ball on April 10. Reserve now! Registration, Journal Ads & Raffle prizes can be purchased by visiting www.rotacareny.org. Questions: RotaCare.Events@gmail.com.

Breaking Cycle of Homelessness on LI Topic of New Ground’s Exec. Director

Last Tuesday, March 25, Shannon Boyle, LCSW, Executive Director of the New Ground organization, returned to report to our Club on New Ground’s most current developments in the orga-

Diana O’Neill, Club president; Shannon Boyle, New Ground’s guest speaker; Althea Robinson, publicity chair and Randy Colahan, 2024 Rotary Community Service Award recipient and board member of the Garden City Public Library, site of Rotary’s tree donation to the Village in commemoration of its 100th anniversary. The planting will take place on Arbor Day, April 25.

nization’s mission to provide social work and educational services that work with families and veterans to break the cycle of homelessness on Long Island.

It has been a thrill for MineolaGarden City to often hear from Shannon Boyle of the incredible evolvement of New Ground’s efforts and successes throughout the course of development since its founding in 1991.

We were happy, last Tuesday, to hear Shannon enthusiastically describe Grove, the new affordable housing facility which will open this June in Patchogue and provide for families of various income levels. At the helm of all programs and services at New Ground since 2013, Shannon shared hers and the New Ground Staff’s excitement at the opening of Grove, the ongoing expansion of New Ground and the opportunity to further carry out its mission to break the cycle of homelessness on Long Island.

Upcoming Meeting & Event Dates

April 8, 8am – Breakfast Meeting, Carle Place Diner. Speaker, Rotarian Kevin Mann to report on peace pole commemorative monuments.

April 10, 6:30 pm – RotaCare’s Caregivers Ball, Inn at New Hyde Park.

April 22, 12:15pm – Lunch Meeting, Davenport Press restaurant, USA House of Representative Congresswoman Laura Gillen to report. Reserve early to assure seat.

April 25 – Rotary to donate tree to Village to commemorate 100th anniversary to be planted on Arbor Day. All are invited.

May 13, 12:15 – Lunch meeting featuring Robert Hines, Mgr., Community Affairs, NY Rasing Association (NYRA). To reserve for Rotary luncheon/ breakfast meetings, email mineolagardencityrotaryclub@gmail.com.

DoorPrizes

Volunteer Fair

Garden City Public Library Wednesday, April 23, 2025 from 5:30 to 7 pm

Find ways to give back and build community.

NoFeeto Attend

Over 15 organizations will be seeking volunteers to expand essential programs and services, including:

American Red Cross • A.T. Stewart Exchange • Book Fairies • Cathedral of the Incarnation • Crayon Initiative • Faith Mission • Friends of the Garden City Public Library • Garden City Bird Sanctuary • Garden City Fire Department • Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club • NYU Langone Hospital/Long Island • South Shore Child Guidance Center • The INN • Ethical Friends of Children and more!

Questions: info@longislandvolunteercenter.org 516-564-5482 www.longislandvolunteercenter.org

asked to vote in the Public Opinion Poll.

All of this political strategy and maneuvering to steer residents in an effort to save the St. Paul’s Main Building occurred while this committee and cost estimation was being funded by Village Taxpayers.

The emails are available for residents to view at: https://tinyurl.com/ stpaulsemails

This will allow residents to have a better understanding of what was being asked of Westerman and why the report looked the way it did. As your Mayor I feel that being candid with residents is most important, even when it isn’t easy. This column was difficult to write.

Next week I look forward to focusing on the many great things that have happened over the last four years in my final Mayor’s Column.

Water Works Building

The Board has engaged D&B Engineers and Architects, D.P.C. to provide architectural and engineering design services for the exterior masonry restoration and roofing replacement of the 150-year-old Water Works Building, located at 103 Eleventh Street. D&B will conduct an evaluation of the existing building condition, make recommendations for restoration of the selected building exterior components, and prepare contract documents for building. The building, currently used by the Water Department and occasionally for special meetings held by the Police Department, is one of the Village build-

From page 21

Statue vandalism arrest

Nassau County Police reported the arrest of a 60-year-old female on March 24 for allegedly throwing a red liquid onto the Theodore Roosevelt statue at the County Executive Building during a protest on March 22. She was charged with Criminal Mischief and Making Graffiti.

Series of false alarms

On March 24, GCFD and GCPD responded to several false fire alarms, including one set in error, two due to system testing, and one activated by burnt food.

Unregistered auto

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged March 24 with driving with a suspended registration, unlicensed operation, and operating an unregistered auto.

Fireplace smoke investigated

mcarterflanagan@gardencityny.net

ings from the A.T. Stewart Era listed as a thematic group on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

St. Paul’s Playing Fields

The Board authorized a one-time treatment of the St. Paul’s Fields with a non-organic crabgrass pre-emergent. The treatment would require the fields to be closed for a period of 48 hours over Easter weekend (April 19-20) to coincide with pre-planned field closures. According to Andy Hill, those fields have a severe crabgrass issue and it’s starving the grass we’re trying to grow. The fields will be monitored. “Hopefully this will help us significantly improve the conditions of those playing fields,” Mr. Hill said.

Arbor Day 2025

The Board of Trustees has declared Friday, April 25, 2025 as Arbor Day in Garden City. Recreation and Parks Department tree crew members will join Arborist Joe Umana, Trustees and members of the Civic Beautification Committee, Environmental Advisory Board and Recreation Commission on April 25 at 2:00 p.m. to celebrate Arbor Day by planting a Little Leaf Linden tree in an area near the Library. The Rotary Club of Mineola-Garden City, on behalf of Village resident Althea Robinson, donated the tree to the Village.

February Police Activity

During the month of February, the Garden City Police Department responded to 1,941 service calls, including:

• 47 case investigations

GCFD and GCPD responded on March 24 to a smoke condition on Willow Street and determined it was caused by a fireplace.

Speed and unlicensed driving

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on March 24 with unlicensed operation and excessive speed.

Carbon monoxide hazard

On March 24, GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence for a CO alarm. Firefighters found positive readings and shut down a defective boiler.

Rockaway Avenue arrest

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was allegedly arrested on March 25 for aggravated unlicensed operation with eight license suspensions, as well as driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle.

Motorcycle violations on 1st Street

On March 25, a 1st Street motorcyclist was arrested for unlicensed operation, not wearing a helmet, and oper-

• 17 arrests

• 1 juvenile arrest

• 159 medical calls

• 67 accidents

• 18 impounds

• 1,944 parking tickets

• 1,401 traffic tickets

• 2 appearance tickets

Budget Sessions

The Board of Trustees is conducting work sessions to review the Tentative 2025-26 Operating and Capital Budgets in person in the Village Hall Board Room and via Zoom. Here is the remaining schedule (Budget Session #1 took place March 19; Budget Work Session #2 took place March 25): Budget Work Session 3 Thursday, March 27, 2025: 7:30 p.m.

- 9:30 p.m.

• Finance Department / Other Unallocated Expenses & Revenues / Insurance Reserve

• Building Department

• Administration

• Summary of Budget Changes

Public Hearing

Monday, April 7, 2025: 7:30 p.m.

• Public Hearing and Adoption of Budget

Happening

in Garden City Saturday, March 29th 10:00 a.m. Mah-Jongg at the Library. Must register.

Monday, March 31st

1:30 p.m. Movie Matinée: Enchanted April at the Library

7:30 p.m. Adult basketball at the Field House. Nominal fee.

Tuesday, April 1st

7:00 p.m. Yoga With Kimberly at the Library. Must register.

Wednesday, April 2nd

2:00 p.m. Mary Maguire Presents “The Hermitage” at the Library

Thursday, April 3rd

6:30 p.m. Encore showing of Conclave at the Library

7:30 p.m. Adult volleyball and soccer at the Field House. Nominal fee.

Friday, April 4th

11:00 a.m. Learn Italian at the Library. Must register.

Saturday, April 5th

11:00 a.m. Long Island Music for Aardvarks at the Library. Must register.

Monday, April 7th

7:30 p.m. Budget Public Hearing and Organizational Meeting at Village Hall and via Zoom

Wednesday, April 9th

10:00 a.m. Baby and Me Yoga Ages Birth-17 Months at the Library. Just register.

11:15 a.m. Toddler and Me Yoga Ages 18 Months-5 Years at the Library. Must register.

Saturday, April 19th

10:00 a.m. Easter egg hunt at St. Paul’s Fields.

Sunday, April 20th

12:00 p.m. 70th annual Easter Sunday Vintage Car Parade

Saturday, April 26th

9:00 a.m. Flea Market at the Bird Sanctuary. Free entry.

ating an unregistered and uninsured vehicle.

False CO alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence on March 25 for a CO alarm, which was later determined to have been set in error.

Truck zone violation

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on March 25 with unlicensed operation and driving a truck in a prohibited zone.

Overweight truck

On March 25, a County Seat Drive commercial vehicle operator was charged with multiple overweight violations.

Revoked license arrest

A County Seat Drive motorist was arrested March 25 for allegedly driving with a license revoked due to DWI, as well as having two additional license suspensions.

THE OFFICE CAT

Francis Faustino, MD, MBA, FAAFP Chairman, Department of Family Medicine, NYU Langone

Songs of Ireland for a Sunday Afternoon

John and Joe performing.

BY MELISSA JAEGER

What a great afternoon at the Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) Museum!  In a departure from previous years’ shows, this was not your serene, maudlin Irish concert. Instead, John Kouri and the Hambones put on a performance you might expect at your favorite watering hole in Dublin! Sure, there were your typical hard-luck songs like “Fields of Athenrye,” “Clare Island,” “Rising of the Moon,” and “Whiskey in the Jar.” John and Joe added a little Johnny Cash (“Ring of Fire” and “Folsom Prison”), a number from the “boys from Liverpool” (as John Put it) and even ended with “Country Roads” by John Denver. There was a lot of foot stomping and toe-tapping.

The members of the group have over 150 years of musical experience, playing in individual bands. They united in 2010 with a simple “desire to play the music we love.” For the past 15 years, they have been on a musical journey captivating their audiences with their diverse styles. If the name sounds familiar – it is if you go to the GC Pool! They have an extensive range of over 250 songs spanning across Irish, Americana, Pop, Classic Rock, and Country, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

The program was dedicated to the memory of Maureen Clancy (1932–

2021), with her family sponsoring the show. She and her husband, Cummin, started Clancy & Clancy Brokerage which has been around for almost 70 years. She was also an extremely active and respected member of the GC community, both in private and professional circles. Maureen was

a past president of The Garden City Historical Society and an avid supporter of its music programs.

After the performance, folks were encouraged to mingle with John and Joe, and to enjoy a little Harp beer and other refreshments, served up by our favorite bar man — Richie Ross.

Corned beef, Irish soda bread, and homemade goodies were also provided. In an informal survey of the audience, I spoke with one gentleman who said he thoroughly enjoyed the show BUT was disappointed that there wasn’t any dancing.  I promised him, next time …

Mary Mahoney with Penny Hinderstein, Exchange volunteer.

Richie Ross, our favorite barkeep (husband of Marty Ross).

Marty Ross, Exchange volunteer, handing out complimentary Bailey's before the show.

News from the Children’s Room

On Wednesday, March 18, Harbor Daycare visited the Garden City Library.

Upcoming  March and April Library Programs for Children

These programs are for children ages birth through Grade 5. Registration is required. Visit https://www.gardencitypl.org to view our Events on LIBCAL for registration forms for the month of March 2025.

• Monday, March 31, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Monday, March 31, at 1:30 p.m.: Little Listeners Storytime (Ages 3–5)

• Tuesday, April 1, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose Storytime (Birth to 17 Months, Non-Walkers)

• Tuesday, April 1, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime (3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, April 3, at 7:00 p.m.: Pajama Storytime (Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Saturday, April 5, at 11:00 a.m.: Long Island Music for Aardvarks (Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, April 7, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Monday, April 7, at 4:00 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime Adventure (Grades 2–5).

• Tuesday, April 8, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose Storytime (Birth to 17 Months, Non-Walkers).

• Tuesday, April 8, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime (3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, April 9, at 10:00 a.m.: Baby and Me Yoga (Birth to 17 Months, Non-Walkers)

• Wednesday, April 9, at 11:15 a.m.: Toddler and Me Yoga (18 Months to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, April 10, at 4:00 p.m.: Tween and Teens Yarn Group (Grades 4–7)

• Thursday, April 10, at 7:00 p.m.: Pajama Storytime (Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Friday, April 11, at 10:30 a.m.: Baby and Toddler Storytime (Ages Birth to 3 Years)

• Monday, April 14, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, April 17, at 2:00 p.m.: Craft for Grades K–5

• Saturday, April 19, at 10:30 a.m.: Baby and Toddler Storytime (Ages Birth to 3 Years)

• Monday, April 21, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, April 22, at 10:00 a.m.: Preschool Spring Egg Hunt (Ages 2 to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, April 22, at 4:00 p.m.: LEGO Club (Grades K–5)

On Wednesday, March 18, children ages 2–5 enjoyed a story and made a craft with Little Matters of the HeART.

• Friday, April 25, at 10:30 a.m.: Budding Bookworms Storytime (Ages 2 to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Saturday, April 26, at 10:30 a.m.: Budding Bookworms Storytime (Ages 2 to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, April 28, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, April 29, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose Storytime (Birth to 17 Months, Non-Walkers)

• Tuesday, April 29, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Storytime (3

Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, April 29, at 4:00 p.m.: Tween Tuesday: Drama Workshop (Grades 4-7)

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

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

The film “Enchanted April” will be shown at the Garden City Public Library on Monday, March 31.

Monday Movies

Monday Movies presented by the Friends of the Garden City Library at 1:30 p.m.: March 2025

3/31/25 - “Enchanted April”, 90 mins, 1992

Encore Presentation of the Movie “Conclave”!

Thursday, April 3, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. “Conclave”, 120 Minutes, 2024 Programs

Below is our schedule for Adult Services. More programs and information will be available soon.

Mah-Jongg

Saturday, March 29

from 10 a.m. to noon in the Large Meeting Room

To register, please register online at LibCal at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com/ . For additional information contact Adult Services at (516) 7428405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

Yoga with Kimberly Tuesdays, April 1, April 8; 7 p.m.–8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Kimberly Mercadante is back with her popular Yoga Series! Join her for a Yoga Class for beginners and more. All are welcome! This is a series of eight classes continuing through April.. To register, please register online at gardencitypl.org.   For additional information contact Adult Services at

Learn Italian at the Garden City Public Library.

(516) 742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

This program is funded  by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.

Italian Part 2

Fridays, April 4, April 11, April 18

11 a.m.–12 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Italian - Part 2, taught by Mrs. Lea Brunetti.  This program will pick up where Italian Part 1 left off.  Patrons who did not take Part 1, but have a limited background in Italian,  are welcome to join.

May dates will be announced soon! To register, please register online at LibCal at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com/. For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org.

April 2025

Mary Maguire Presents “The Hermitage” Wednesday, April 2 - Part One Wednesday, April 16 - Part Two Wednesday, April 30 - Part Three 2 p.m.–3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room: Come along with us as we wander through the majestic halls of that jewel of Russia, located in St. Petersburg - the Hermitage Museum. It is unfortunate that for the foreseeable future, we will not be able to view these treasures in person, but that makes this virtual tour all

the more relevant. The collection includes artwork by Leonardo Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Ruben, Picasso, Matisse, Monet, Gauguin and Cezanns.  In Part 3, a special visit will be made to the Carl Faberge Memorial room to explore the gorgeous collection of jeweled Easter eggs — each one valued at millions of dollars.

Defensive Driving Course with The Empire Safety Council

Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join us on Saturday, April 12, 2025,  10 a.m.–4 p.m., for a Defensive Driving Course with the Empire Safety Council. Receive 10% reduction on automobile/liability insurance and qualify for a license point reduction. Register In person at the Garden City Public Library. Space is limited, so check with the Reference Department for availability. Register separately for each person. Proper ID is required when registering an absentee party. You must bring a $33 check made payable to Empire Safety Council and current Library card with you to register. Bring your valid New York State driver’s license and a pen to class.

Mah-Jongg (Register for each one separately)

Thursday, April 10, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room Thursday, April 10, 4 p.m.–6 p.m.

Saturday,  April 19, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room  Thursday, April 24, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.         Thursday, April 24, 4 p.m.–6 p.m.   Please register online at LibCal at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com/. For additional information contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

April Book Discussion - Featuring Long Island Read’s 2025 Book - “On Fire Island” By Long Island Author Jane L. Rosen

Tuesday, April 15, from 7–8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

To register, please register online at LibCal at https://gardencitypl. libcal.com/. For additional information, contact Adult Services at (516)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

Museum Pass Information

Print From Home for Some Passes!

Through the generosity of the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, the Library offers free passes to select museums and cultural institutions. 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.  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. Passes for the following museums still need to be picked up at the Library: 9/11 Memorial & Museum, NYC (2 adults & 2 children); Empire Pass, Long Island Children’s Museum, Garden City (2 adults & 2 children); MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art), NYC (5 visitors) and Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage.

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 first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be done in person at the Reference Desk or over the phone at 516-742-8405 x5236.

Additional rules and information are available at the library.

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

C2 Education is offering free practice testing on April 15.

Take a Practice PSAT/SAT/ACT Exam with C2 Education!

Take the practice PSAT/SAT/ACT with C2 Education on Tuesday, April 15, at 10 a.m. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 8–12. Digital PSAT/SAT students will need a laptop or tablet with a charger. Students may use their own calculators for both the P/SAT and the ACT. To participate and take the exam, please register online beginning Tuesday, April 1, at 10 a.m. You are automatically registered to

attend the Results Review if you are registered for the exam. The Results Review will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 15. If you cannot attend the Results Session, please contact C2 Education at greenvale@ c2education.com.

Chick Incubation Project Begins Tuesday, April 15!

The Library’s Annual Chick Incubation program is returning this year! Eggs will arrive on Tuesday, April 15 and are scheduled

Help name the chicks! Enter your name in the Name the Chick contest for your chance to name one.

The chick incubation project will begin on April 15.

to begin hatching Monday, May 5. Chicks will be returned one week after they hatch. Eggs are picked up from Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY and chicks are returned back to Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY. Before they hatch, make sure to enter a name into our annual Name the Chick contest for your chance to name one of our chicks!

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.

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:

• Tuesday, April 1, at 7 p.m.:

Welcome to RealLife hosted the program “Teen Money Night” with teens in Grades 6–9 at the Library on Tuesday, March 18.

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

Teen Paint Night (Grades 6–12)

• Monday, April 7, at 3:30 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime Adventure Volunteering (Grades 9–12)

• Tuesday, April 15, at 10 a.m.: Practice PSAT/SAT/ACT with C2 Education (Grades 8–12)

• Tuesday, April 15, at 7 p.m.: Results Session with C2 Education. If you cannot attend the Results Session, please contact C2 Education at greenvale@c2education.com.

Registration begins Tuesday, April 1, at 10 a.m. online at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, April 8, at 4 p.m.: Teen Advisory Board (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, April 9, at 5:30 p.m.: Perler Bead Art for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, April 10, at 4 p.m.: Tweens and Teens Yarn Group (Grades 4–12)

• Friday, April 11, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: Egg Painting for Community Service (Grades 6–12 )

• Saturday, April 12, at 3 p.m.: Teen STEAM Workshop: Recycle Challenge with Chris

Buchman (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, April 8, at 10 a.m. online at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, April 8–Thursday, April 17: Ornaments for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, April 16, at 7 p.m.: Teen Craft Night (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, April 17, at 4 p.m.: Teen Creative Hour (Grades 6–12)

• Friday, April 18, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Gamers (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, April 15, at 10 a.m. online at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, April 22, at 3:30 p.m.: LEGO Club Volunteering (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, April 24, at 4 p.m.: Dungeons and Dragons (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, April 24, at 7 p.m.: ABCS of Student Loans with Welcome to RealLife (Grades 11–12)

How many jelly beans are in the Garden City Public Library?

Can you guess how many jelly beans are in this jar at the Garden City Public library? Stop by the library before April 14 and take a guess, you might win a prize! The jelly bean jar is on the Friends of the GCPL book sale shelves (behind the circulation desk).  You can write your guess on the form provided.

The number of jelly beans in the jar—and the winner—will be announced on Monday, April 14 in front of the Friends’ Book Sale shelves at 4:00.  We hope to see you there!

For information on the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, please see gardencitypl.org/ friends

Get rid of your unwanted items by placing an ad for them in our Classifieds! We have reasonable rates, and you’ll have prompt results! Call our Garden City office at 294-8900 for rates and other info.

Registration begins Tuesday, April 22, at 10 a.m. online at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, April 29, at 4 p.m.: Tween Thursdays: Drama Workshop (Grades 4–7)

• Tuesday, April 29, at 7 p.m.: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, April 30, at 5:30 p.m.: Teen LEGO Club (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 opportunities; all volunteer projects should be submitted at the Library with a Volunteer Form, which can be found outside the Tweens and Teens Room.

• Ongoing: Kindness Cards for Community ServiceNo registration required. Up to 10 cards can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

• Ongoing to Wednesday, April 23: Tweens & Teens Art & Poetry Showcase for Community

Service - No registration required. Up to three pieces of art and three poems can be submitted per volunteer.

• Ongoing to Wednesday, April 30: Poetry for Community Service - No registration required. Up to five poems can be submitted per volunteer.

• Ongoing to Monday, May 5: Around the World Recipe Cards for Community Service - No registration required. Up to five recipe cards can be submitted per volunteer.

Teens Learn About Good Financial Habits During Teen Money Night with Welcome to RealLife

Welcome to RealLife hosted the program “Teen Money Night” with teens in Grades 6–9 at the Library on Tuesday, March 18. The program featured games and activities to help teach teens about good financial habits, investing, savings, and more. Welcome to RealLife will be hosting another program called “The ABCs of Student Loans” for high school juniors and seniors on Wednesday, April 24, at 7 p.m. Registration will begin Tuesday, April 1,5 at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl.libcal. com.

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Friday, March 28, 2025

taining strong instructional programming is nuanced and detailed. Let’s work to make sure that the literacy curriculum and practices therein are centered on our students and reflective of the science of reading.

- Special Education: Listen to the experiences and needs of special education students and families, especially as pertains to annual reviews, implementation of IEPs and 504 plans, and the meeting of student goals. As a parent with two children who have benefited from special education services and as a former President of GC SEPTA, there are many issues students and families often face. Parent communication, staffing, increased student populations, related services and inclusivity are also equally vital to student success and we need to meet those head-on.

- Community Engagement: Collaboration and communication are foundations to successful partnerships and outcomes. Let’s look to increase community engagement in Board of Education work and meetings, while increasing opportunities for the board to hear directly from community members. Creating more sustainable ways to communicate and engage with more families is an essential part of improving our educational programming and moving us forward as a district.

My approach to the Board of Education will be built upon the other volunteer work I have done in Garden City Schools. It’s here that I have seen how many community voices in the educational conversation, whether in disagreement or agreement, is essential to the success of all of our students. It’s here that I have learned the importance of building relationships with people in order to get the most out of our collaborations. Together, our community can further strengthen and maintain excellence in our school district for all students. I would be honored to serve on the Board of Education to represent the voices and experiences of all of my neighbors.

Your Voice, Your Choice

Erin Debrich

Interest on St. Paul’s debt

To the Editor:

Many thanks to the saner voices who are writing letters highlighting the absurdity of rebuilding St Paul’s. I enjoyed Don MacLeod’s vision of the St Paul’s apocalypse. As an aside, I’ve passed by the Nassau County Family and Matrimonial Court complex hundreds of times since the rebuild began and often wondered how much the project cost and when was it supposed to be completed. In my mind that project is a layup compared to St Paul’s and it missed its’ cost and completion time estimates significantly. And that’s an understatement.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

Re St Paul’s, we don’t need the space. As I’ve read over the years removing St Paul’s will make GC a less attractive place to live and home values will decline. I’m hard pressed to believe either is true. As much as I’ve tried to understand the save-every-brick crowd I can’t. Saving the building makes no sense on any rational world. Maybe it’s me.

Lastly, to the real subject I want to address, the interest on any debt used to finance the rebuild. Bob Orosz wrote a concise article explaining this. The BOT seems to avoid mentioning this in most of their presentations or only do so when asked. As Bob pointed out, one can find the interest amounts for each rebuild and loan term option on the Village website. But, but, the current St Paul’s survey only mentions the principal borrowed and how that might affect your taxes. No mention of the interest. This was clearly done on purpose. I don’t follow the minutiae of the 15 vs 30 year borrowing options but for my example I’ll use 30yrs. Whatever amount is borrowed the interest will be nearly equal to the principal amount. That means the tax increase figures in the survey will be DOUBLE the amounts shown.

Double. For what????

St. Paul’s costs

Tim Deignan

To the Editor:

I attended the meeting on March 8th with regard to the costs surrounding the various proposals about St. Paul’s. I also did some further research.

The conclusions are: that Adaptive Reuse would cost about $100,000,000 plus interest for 20 years, plus $1,000,000 a year to maintain it. The cost of demolition and revitalization would be $15,000,000.

If the residents had been these figures prior to the 2023 survey, the overwhelming majority then would have voted for demolition. I have not seen the proposed new survey, but demolition was purposely left out. If you want to vote for demolition, you somehow have to write it in ( which almost guarantees failure).

The BOT, to really vote the “will of the people,” should hold a Binding Referendum will all choices, with an outline after each choice of the cost.

John Pittoni, Esq.

Fatally flawed survey

To the Editor:

The big news is that the survey is in the mail to residents and probably received by the time this Friday comes. This was intimated by Trustees Finneran and Courtney during the recent Board meeting. Yet Trustee Muldoon said that his documentation of his ballpark cost estimates was only to start posting this week. Without reliable backup information the ball park

cost estimates ( see questions #4,5,6,7 of survey) contained in the survey are unreliable in assessing the costs of a preservation project.

This topic unfortunately overshadows that at the last BOT both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor got a well deserved sendoff from many appreciative residents. These Board members served by tackling the big 3 issues confronting the Village, No Casino, LIRR 3rd track and, of course, St. Paul’s. Additionally, Deputy Mayor Chester has labored to improve our GCFD fire fighting capabilities. The Mayor spearheaded to various EAB informational meetings educating residents about important environmental topics” be entertained.( see letter, GCN, 3/14, p. 45 ).

The Mayor in her closing address, 1hr. 59 min. pointed out the strong letter Walter Beal had written concerning the cost of any preservation project. Mr. Beal is a seasoned experienced professional in large commercial construction who was active as a speaker during the Trustee Bolebruch led Board’s effort to solve St. Paul’s in 2019 and is a part of the Mayor Flanagan Committee on St. Paul’s. His Reality Check letter essentially says that municipal construction projects don’t come in at projected costs and such often double. This from a professional far more credentialed than a residential home construction owner such as Trustee Muldoon, however accomplished in that arena he is. Remember, Trustee Muldoon ascribes only a 10% contingency for a preservation project on a dilapidated 140 year old structure. In addition regarding the lack of support data- references for cost estimates the Mayor was extensively quoted in last week’s front page GCN article, Questions on Financing at p. 36 col. 2 “Mayor Expresses Concern”.

At this Board meeting as a follow up to two questions posed at the 2:57 min. mark of the Town Hall held 3/6/25, I asked again , Q.#1, about BCI analysis of Village recreational needs for additional interior space and Q. #2 when Trustee Muldoon was going to post the supporting data for the cost estimates presented at both Town Halls.

At the Board meeting as to question #1 the Mayor said (1hr. 43min.) the BCI info should be in by the time this letter is read.

As to Q. 2 Trustee Muldoon answered the question that he would post information after he got permission from the sources! (1 hr. 44-46) min). and again offered to meet me in West Hempstead or now even at my home - totally beside the point. Obviously he had still not provided the Mayor and residents with the information that should have been provided many weeks ago. (Note; the letter you now read was submitted late Tuesday. 3/25/25.) Had I accepted Trustee Muldoon’s invite to meet how could I have expected to get a look

at the information.? (Obviously some have significant issues or have very demanding business and family obligations making a visit to a trustee problematic, all of which beg the question why wasn’t the information been posted before the FIRST Town Hall when Trustee Muldoon had already listed 30 sources for his cost estimates? Yet in his 3/13/25 Facebook post he stated he needed the sources’ permissions to post their data! Isn’t it peculiar that he would list the names of sources he contacted but he had never sought permission to disclose their content until well after the Town Halls were held- weeks after Trustee Muldoon produced his “ballpark figures” on the largest capital investment this Village might ever make, we still have ZERO back up data? Does this approach any semblance of ballpark of transparency ? Does it meet the necessary level of professional competency? Can we expect that he will point out estimates where his sources do not give him permission to post their opinions? Time will tell. This is hardly the transparency that he and the other 5 Trustees (all of which are fiduciaries) campaigned on. All residents deserve more and better from their Trustees and Mayor elect. Clearly, it unthinkable to expect 17,000 residents to line up somewhere to obtain separate audiences with any Trustee for any purpose.

In sum the reasonable response to the survey is to say no to preservation choices as lacking foundation, being too costly with a lack of need and use for the residents of this Village.

S.G. Gorray P.S. At the Board meeting Trustee Muldoon misspoke when he said (1 hr 46 min) I “ignored” his invitation to meet at his office. Untrue, as stated in my GCN letter on 3/14, p. 45 , I declined that invitation and reiterated my request that any and all residents be able to access the supportive cost estimate information.

St. Paul’s costs

To the Editor:

I attended the meeting on March 8th with regard to the costs surrounding the various proposals about St. Paul’s. I also did some further research.

The conclusions are: that Adaptive Reuse would cost about $100,000,000 plus interest for 20 years, plus $1,000,000 a year to maintain it. The cost of demolition and revitalization would be $15,000,000.

If the residents had been these figures prior to the 2023 survey, the overwhelming majority then would have voted for demolition. I have not seen the proposed new survey, but demolition was purposely left out. If you want to vote for demolition, you somehow have to write it in ( which almost guarantees failure).

The BOT, to really vote the “will

The burdens of idolatry

To the Editor:

Government should not be viewed as some wizard awaiting the next wish, whim, or want to grant with some magic wand. It does not, and should not, operate as if it has access to unlimited resources.

The beauty of the Constitution (and the vision of America's Founding Fathers) is its emphasis on limited government committed to principles such as establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, providing for the common defense, and promoting the general welfare of our nation (ourselves and our posterity).

At the local level, that translates to safety, security, stability, and schools. Taxpayers should not be burdened by the passion projects of the few.

The Village government is about to send each Garden City household a survey on St. Paul's, which—among other things—attempts to assess relative support for Mothballing, Adaptive Reuse, and Partial Renovation.  For the large contingent of GC households who want no part of those three options, it will be necessary to choose "WILL NOT SUPPORT" for questions 4 through 6, "WILL NOT SUPPORT ANY OPTION" for question 7, and "DEMO" written in on option 8 for question 8.  Relegating demolition to a “write-in” only option is an unfortunate and clear manipulation of the survey.

The New York State Office of the Comptroller collects and publishes comparative state-wide data covering revenues, expenses, debt, and debtservice from self-reported information submitted by towns, counties, villages, and school districts.  The most current data displayed state-wide is for 2023, at which time Garden City had $84.1 million in debt ($37.3 million of bonds outstanding and $46.8 million in bond anticipation notes).  While each municipality is different across various variables, measuring debt per capita normalizes the evaluation of relative

of the people,” should hold a Binding Referendum will all choices, with an outline after each choice of the cost.

John Pittoni, Esq.

Financial risks of St.

Paul’s

To the Editor:

My wife and I are 37-year residents of the Village.  I have 40-years of experience as a construction lender for banks in the New York area.  I have been directly involved with the financing of many renovation projects of the size and scope of St Paul’s.  It has been my experience, especially with renovations, that [experienced] developers initially

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

leverage to the size of the locality. The $84.1 million in gross Village-issued debt—or approximately $3,700 per capita—stands amongst the highest levels of per capita debt on Long Island.

Garden City’s water debt in 2023 was largely reflected in the form of bond anticipation notes and is paid for by each household in the form of water bills to the Village, rather than taxes.  If one excludes bond anticipation notes and considers only general obligation bonds, the 2023 net Village debt adjusts to $1,632 per capita—still near the highest on Long Island—on par with Roslyn and Mineola, but below Old Westbury and Rockville Centre.

However, if we include Trustee Muldoon's "ballpark" estimates, Mothballing doubles that figure to $3,381 per capita, Adaptive Reuse triples that figure to $4,911, and Partial Renovation increases that figure by a whopping 241% to $5,567. With either of the latter two options, GC total general obligation debt would exceed that of the capital city of Albany with less than a quarter of its population and in the vicinity of the Town of Huntington with scarcely one-tenth its population. If tariffs, inflation, cost overruns, delays, or labor shortages happen along the way, those St. Paul’s “ballpark” figures could balloon higher—as would tax increases to cover the increasing costs.

Garden City residents should also be aware that, as of May 31, 2024, the Village had an unfunded $105.7 million liability for “other post-employment benefits” (OPEB), which reflects the present value of projected defined benefit nonpension payments for current and inactive employees.  In addition, our real property taxpayers are already responsible for a proportional share of debt obligations issued by the County, Town of Hempstead, and the GC UF school district, equating to another $114.5 million.

There is not much our Board of Trustees can do about these last two

apply for financing based on project cost estimates that they believe are realistic and typically we see a proposed 10% hard cost contingency in the budget.

It has been my further experience that once the project is fully “bought out” [meaning that actual construction contracts and sub contracts are finalized and signed] and the project proceeds to completion, the final costs, including all change orders bring total project cost to the range of 25-30% higher than the original estimates.

In substantial or “gut” renovations, once you “open up walls” there are too many chances for uncovering unanticipated “surprises” which can add to

obligations, but it can choose to be fiscally conservative by focusing on our quality of life and our financial stability.  Debt is a form of burdening future generations to pay for current spending.  In the case of the St. Paul’s building, debt would be burdening current and future generations to pay for a non-essential project of the past, effectively hamstringing our financial flexibility for the future.

In the Bible, we remember that Solomon inherited a wonderful kingdom from his father David and was providentially blessed with wealth and wisdom.  Unfortunately, Solomon forsook these blessings in pursuit of other temptations.  He turned to idolatry, conscripted labor, and imposed high taxes on his people to complete shrines to false gods and other massive building projects. These actions fostered distrust and resentment amongst his people, ultimately leading to the dissolution of his territory.

Has the St. Paul’s building become

significant increases in the cost of materials, and especially labor to cover the added time it will take to deal with the unanticipated “surprise.”   In a project like St. Paul’s, it seems unlikely to me that there will be a truly guaranteed maximum price construction contract with a third-party general contractor.  Rather, I suspect that with each trade there will be some form of a “cost plus” contract, meaning the contractors can pass along increases in material and labor costs as they arise on the job via change order.  In practical terms it will be very difficult for the Village to negotiate hard (as a private developer would) or to deny change orders as they

a source of idolatry, departing from the tradition of fiscal prudence and distracting us from more pressing matters?

Will the doubling or tripling of our net debt to levels unrivaled by any other Long Island village sacrifice our AAA credit rating, or will we just be resigned to meaningfully higher taxes to pay for this debt?

Will Garden City’s higher debt load and higher taxes limit our Village’s financial flexibility—as former Trustee Bob Bolebruch has consistently warned—to respond to unforeseen challenges, such as water, fire safety, roads, public safety, or school-related concerns?

Margaret Thatcher wrote that the problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people's money. May God grant us the wisdom and prudence to preserve, not a building, but the civility, stability, and prudence that has sustained GC for the last century.

James Kumpel, CFA

arise.  While a construction manager on behalf of the Village may be provided with certain incentives to keep the project on-budget and on-schedule, increases in total project costs won’t come out of their pockets (as they would in the case of a private developer.)

Experienced private developers tend to use the same higher quality and more reliable contractors and sub-contractors job after job.  Professional developers are highly motivated to negotiate hard with their contractors for the very lowest price and on-time and on-budget performance for all labor and material costs.  It seems to me that there might

See page 36

have been the potential that the trades who have provided the estimates for the St. Paul’s project may have been tempted to provide somewhat “low ball” estimates with the expectation that there will be little resistance to “change orders” insofar as their contract will be with a municipality.  If this were a project in which I was involved as a lender I’d likely require a contingency in the 40% range.

As an example of what could go wrong when a municipality undertakes a substantial renovation project consider the new Family Courthouse building right on the Village border.  How many millions is that project over budget?  How many years is it behind schedule?  I fear that the St. Paul’s project has the very real potential to take the Village down a similar “rabbit hole.”

Since I retired from banking a few years ago I have been doing some Expert Witness work.  I am presently involved in a case involving the renovation and adaptive reuse of an historic building in Manhattan.  The lender provided a $90 million construction loan to a highly experienced NYC developer.  While under construction the project did experience a “black swan” event, however once construction was able to resume approximately 9 months later, total project cost estimates were revised upward by the developer by $40 million above the original budget (which had just a 10% contingency).  This was after receipt of insurance proceeds.  After extensive “workout” negotiations both the developer and the lender refused to fund these overruns and the developer eventually completely “walked away.”  Had the lender taken over the project, even with capable third-party consultants and project managers, it was estimated that the costs to complete

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

would have exceeded $60 million thereby bringing its total investment in the project to over $150 million.  In the end the lender foreclosed and eventually sold the uncompleted project for pennies on the dollar.

Finally, I have not seen any discussion as to whether the construction cost estimates that have been floating around are based on union or nonunion labor.  In my experience, union labor provides the highest quality work but it does come with an increased price as compared with non-union labor.  If some mandate exists for the Village to select only the “lowest bidder” for each trade then, in my judgement this exposes the project to potentially lower quality workmanship and/or a higher potential for cost overruns and delays.  I think it would be helpful for the Village to clarify this.

Personally, I’m in favor of the demolition option.  I’m fiscally conservative and would much prefer the Village not increase its indebtedness by what could amount to more than $100 million.  If the Village is intent on spending this much money, I wonder if it would be better spent on upgrades to our schools, infrastructure, and public safety.  I think it would be very interesting to see a discussion and analysis on the overall benefits to residents on what $100 million could get us if spent on other than on the renovation of St. Paul’s into some vague “community use”.   Why not add an alternative-use [of $100 million] discussion/question to the upcoming survey?  I bet many residents would look at the St. Paul’s project as presently being discussed quite differently if presented with information on what else we could get for the same money.

Jim Freel, Sr.

Spiritual Adoption Novena reminder To The Editor:

A reminder to all readers that The Church of St. Joseph will be distributing 34th Annual St. Joseph Spiritual Adoption Novena Prayer Cards at the doors of the church and auditorium after all Masses tomorrow and Sunday, March 29 and 30.

We invite your readers to pick up a prayer card this weekend to join us in this in-home prayer project.

One need not be a member of St. Joseph’s to join and there is no cost to participate. Prayer cards will also be available in the weeks ahead in the bookrack in the main entrance of the church.

The Spiritual Adoption in-home Novena is a prayer commitment to recite two short prayers each day for pre-born babies to protect them from abortion. Printed on the card is a prayer for unborn children, authored by Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. Also included is a prayer for the babies’ mothers.

A “spiritual adoption” is not a literal adoption. Rather, the babies are “adopted in spirit.” We may never know the babies for whom we pray, but it is firmly believed that our prayerful efforts will help save these babies’ lives.

A unique element on the Novena prayer card is a section where participants can enter a name for the child whom he or she “spiritually adopts.” Participants have named their “spiritually adopted” babies after a favorite saint or a loved one - a lost child, spouse, relative or friend. Many have found this feature to be special to them, both practically and personally. They have commented that the naming of their “spiritually adopted” baby served as a reminder of the humanity of the unborn child and provided them with

an opportunity to fondly recall someone they love.

Each year our Spiritual Adoption Novena begins on March 25, the Feast of The Annunciation, the day when the Blessed Mother consented to become the Mother of God.

The Novena will conclude on December 25, Christmas, the celebration of the birth of the infant Jesus, and thus it coincides with the nine-month period when Jesus developed within His mother’s womb. At Christmastime, we will hold a village-wide baby shower to benefit the Long Island maternity home, Women First.

To be part of St. Joseph’s “Spiritual Adoption” Prayer Novena simply recite the prayers below daily (or any prayers of your choosing) from March 25 (The Annunciation) to December 25 (Christmas).

“Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, I love you very much. I beg you to spare the life of the unborn child that I have spiritually adopted who is in danger of abortion.” (Authored by Venerable Bishop Fulton J. Sheen)

This special prayer is for all expectant mothers: “Precious blood of Jesus and Mary, inseparable in the Divine Pregnancy, nourishing the Sacred Heart of Jesus forming in her womb; connecting link between the divine and natural order; bless the pregnant women of the world, and help them to see the importance of their role in forming a new creation for God and an heir of heaven.”

The babies’ tomorrows may depend on our prayers today. It’s never too late to pray for the pre-born babies.

Grand Knight Joseph Levano Knights of Columbus St. JosephBishop Baldwin Council No.15809 and St. Joseph Respect Life Ministry

Garden City schools teach the power of words

Garden City’s Homestead School students committed to the E Pledge and participated in kindness activities. Garden City’s Stratford School students committed to the E Pledge.

Garden City’s Stratford and Homestead schools are incorporating elements of the E Pledge into their kindness initiatives and character education programs. The E Pledge, created in honor of Ethan Falkowitz, is a commitment where students and staff promised to complete 100 small acts of kindness in 100 days. This initiative aims to foster a more compassionate and inclusive environment while encouraging students to work together to make a meaningful difference.

Stratford students “signed” the E Pledge by committing to actions that Ethan lived by: displaying integrity, spreading kindness, and being responsible and compassionate. The students decorated cut outs of the letter E and displayed them throughout the building and classrooms.

“The E Pledge has been a powerful and meaningful experience for our students,” said Mr. Chris Hartigan, principal of Stratford School. “By integrating its mission with our Stratford pillars of character, students have found a strong sense of purpose in their character work. They have enjoyed learning about the impacts of their actions alongside Ethan’s compassion and kindness.”

At Homestead School, students were introduced to the E Pledge and kindness initiatives in a developmentally appropriate way by their social worker, Mrs. Martinez. Since November, the Homestead community has embraced a spirit of generosity and compassion, participating in various activities such as filling gratitude jars, collecting food and toys for donation drives, singing to elderly residents at a retirement home

and creating compliment cards and Valentine's for Veterans. Additionally, students have been gathering used, broken and unwanted crayons to be recycled, supporting their Girl Scouts in earning their Silver Awards. The school is decorated with heart-shaped decorations displayed on courtyard windows, each one representing an act of kindness shared among students.

This year, Homestead School concluded their E Pledge of Kindness’ 100 Days of Kindness with their Random Acts of Kindness Week. As a celebration of the students’ commitment to kindness, they counted all the kindness hearts collected throughout the initiative, demonstrating their responsibility, respect, citizenship and perseverance.

“We are proud that all Homestead students continue to live out our Pledge

of Kindness daily,” said Principal Dr. Suzanne Viscovich. “We are honored that our students are participating in the E-Pledge of Kindness— a meaningful initiative inspired by the legacy of Ethan Falkowitz— and a program that encourages students to commit to positive actions and values such as the ones that are our Homestead Expectations: responsibility, respect, citizenship, perseverance.”

Through the E Pledge, students at Homestead and Stratford schools are not only learning valuable lessons in kindness and character but are also carrying forward Ethan Falkowitz’s legacy of compassion by creating a positive and supportive community.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of XOXROBINXOX LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/05/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to ROBIN SOHN: 156 Woodmere Blvd. South Woodmere NY 11598. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Apressea LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/07/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Apressea LLC: 89 4th Street, Garden City, New York 11530. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Notilt,LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/06/2024. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Kenneth Molloy: 67 Hilton Ave. D24 Garden City, NY 11530. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Blueverb LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/02/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to SSNY: 15 Crestline Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of ReveMedic LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/15/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Joanne Brown: 41 Maple St Freeport NY 11520. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NASSAU.   THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS INC., ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-16, Plaintiffagainst- CHRISTOPHER J. LENNON, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated January 2, 2025 and entered on January 8, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court "Rain or Shine" located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on April 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Garden City, County of Nassau and State of New York, known and designated as SBL# 33-326-96

Said premises known as 57 DARTHMOUTH ST., GARDEN CITY, NY 11530

Approximate amount of lien $2,171,885.88 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 004195/2007.

SCOTT SILLER, ESQ., Referee Pincus Law Group, PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556

The above sale, originally scheduled for March 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. has been postponed. The new sale date has been rescheduled for April 8, 2025 at the same time and place.

SCOTT SILLER, ESQ., Referee. {* GARDEN CIT*}

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW

VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK

LOCAL LAW NO. 2 OF 2025

ADOPTED MARCH 20, 2025

BE IT ENACTED BY THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Section 200-45. Swimming Pools, shall be repealed in its entirety and replaced with a new Section 200-45 to read as follows:

Chapter 200. Zoning

ARTICLE VII. Supplementary Use Regulations

§ 200-45 Swimming Pools

A.    Swimming pools covered herein shall be any outdoor pool exceeding two feet in depth.

B.    A swimming pool is permitted as an accessory use subject to the regulations applicable to accessory uses and subject to the additional regulations set forth in this section. For the purpose of computing the building area, the required yards, and the distances from the lines of the lot, the walls or platform along the side of the pool, and the foundation for the purifying apparatus, if any, shall be included.

C.    All swimming pools shall be designed by a licensed engineer or architect and shall be submitted to the Superintendent of the Building Department for approval.

D.    Each  pool  shall  be  provided  with  permanently  installed  facilities  for  the complete draining thereof. Such facilities shall include provisions, approved by the Superintendent of the Building Department, for disposing of the entire contents of the pool by means of diffusion wells or otherwise beneath the surface of the ground within not more than 24 consecutive hours. Such facilities shall be entirely separate from the house drains and house sewer. In no case may the contents of the pool be permitted to discharge directly or indirectly into a street or public drain or catch basin or pond or watercourse, or in, upon or under the lands of another person without his written consent, or in such a way as to adversely affect the functioning of the house drains or house sewer of another property.

E.    No pool shall be constructed on a plot containing less than 12,000 square feet.

F.    There shall be a distance between the pool and each of the side lot lines in a R-6, R-8 or R-12 District of at least 20 feet, in a R-20 District of at least 25 feet, and in a R-40 District of at least 30 feet.

G.    There shall be a distance between the pool and rear yard lot line in a R-6, R-8 or R-12 District of at least 20 feet, in a R-20 District of at least 25 feet and in a R-40 District of at least 35 feet.

H.    A pool shall be at least 10 feet distant from any habitable structure on the plot in a R-6, R-8 or R-12 District and at least 15 feet from any habitable structure in a R-20 or R-40 District.

I.    A pool shall be constructed only in the rear yard.

J.    All pools shall be fully enclosed by a six-foot high fence which shall be shrubbed with evergreens to conceal the view of said fence from adjoining properties and from the street. The location, nature and design of the fence shall be approved before installation and shall be located on a landscaping plan approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals and thereafter maintained in good condition, appearance and health as long as the pool shall remain.

K.    Fence gates; openings. Every gate or other opening in the fence surrounding such pool shall be equipped with a self-closing and self-latching device designed to keep, and capable of keeping, such gate or opening securely closed as set forth in the current New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code. Such gate or opening shall be kept locked at all times the pool is not in actual use.

L.    The Pool shall be secured with a cover or other means approved by the Superintendent of the Building Department and designed to protect against entry into the pool at all times when not containing water and not in use.

M.    Every swimming pool shall have swimming pool alarms which comply with requirements set forth in the current New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code.

N.    Plumbing shall comply with the applicable provisions of the Plumbing Code of the State of New York.

O.    All accessory equipment, including but not limited to purifying equipment, heater, salinization or other mechanical equipment, shall be located in the side yard or any rear yard of any residential property having a setback depth from the adjacent property of not less than the applicable minimum required side yard setback and shall be in a location approved by the Superintendent of the Building Department upon application showing the proposed location of the equipment, approximate distance to the dwelling on adjacent properties, proposed or actual landscape screening.

P.    No underwater or overhead lighting shall be permitted in or about said pool.

Q.    No loudspeaker device, which can be heard beyond the property lines of the premises on which any swimming pool has been installed, may be operated on the premises.

R.    No diving boards, slides or raised platforms will be permitted.

S.    Such pool, when maintained and used or intended to be used for swimming, bathing or wading by adults or children, shall be used solely by the owner, tenant or lessee of the premises upon which the pool is situated and by the owner’s family or friends and guests invited to use it without payment of any fee.

T.    Abandonment. Should an owner abandon a pool, he or she shall arrange to remove any depression and return the surface of the ground to its original grade and approximately the same condition as before the pool was constructed and he shall further notify the Village Clerk of the abandonment so that the inspection of the site may be made, and the records of the permit be marked accordingly.

Section 2. Effective Date.

This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon filing in the Office of the New York Secretary of State in accordance with the Municipal Home Rule Law. However, this Local Law shall not be applicable to any complete application for a swimming pool which has been accepted by the Superintendent of the Building Department prior to May 20, 2025.

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK  COUNTY OF NASSAU

Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff,  -against-

Janice Roberson, State Financial Acceptance Corp. its successors and/or assigns, Madison Home Equities, Inc. a/k/a Madison Resources Ltd., American General Finance, Inc., its successors and/or assigns, Nassau County Clerk, Defendants. Index No.:  614125/2024

Filed: August 9, 2024

SUMMONS

Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the county in which the mortgaged premises is situated  TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S):

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the attorneys for the plaintiff within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York; or within sixty (60) days if it is the United States of America.  In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to expunge, from the record, a Mortgage dated March 27, 1995 and recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on December 13, 1995 in Liber 17123, Page 379 as assigned, a Mortgage dated April 2, 1999 and recorded August 3, 1999 in Liber 19773, Page 224 and a Mortgage dated July 9, 1999 and recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on October 13, 1999 in Liber 19923, Page 239 as assigned, and to compel the determination of claims to the real property located at 132 Oak Avenue, Hempstead, NY 11550 with a tax map designation of  Section 36, Block 077, Lot 1

Dated: Bay Shore, New York                                      August 8, 2024

FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON, LLP

/s/BY: Linda P. Manfredi

Attorneys for Plaintiff  53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, New York 11706  (631)969-3100

Our File No.: 01-100134-T01

LITMOR’S NEWSPAPERS HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF LOCAL LAW

VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK

LOCAL LAW NO.  3 - 2025

ADOPTED MARCH 20, 2025

BE IT ENACTED BY THE VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES AS FOLLOWS:

The Code of the Village of Garden City Chapter 188. Trees, shall be amended as follows:

Section 1.  Section 188-5. “Penalties for offenses” shall be deleted.

Section 2.  A new Article IA. entitled “Planting on Private Property” shall be added as follows:

Section 188-5. Planting on Private Property

Upon submission of the appropriate paperwork, the Chairman, Board of Commissioners of Cultural and Recreational Affairs or his designee may, at the request of the property owner, plant an appropriate size and species of tree on the front lawn of private property. Thereafter, the responsibility for the care, pruning and removal of the tree, if needed, is the sole responsibility of the property owner.

Section 3.  Article II. “Infested trees and shrubs” shall be revised to read: “Article II.  Infested, Dead, or Dangerous Trees, Shrubs and Bushes”

Section 4.  Section 188-6. “Infestations prohibited” shall be revised to read as follows:

Section 188-6.  Conditions prohibited.

Section 5.  The text under current Section 188-6 shall be renumbered as 188-6.A

Section 6.  A new Section 188-6.B shall be added as follows:

B.  It shall be unlawful for owner, lessee or occupant of any lot or land to permit any dead or dangerous trees, shrubs or bushes, or parts thereof on their property.

Section 7.  A new Section 188-6.C shall be added as follows:

C.  A dead or dangerous tree is defined as any tree or part thereof on private property in the Village that is either dead, diseased, decayed, damaged or, due to other causes, in such a state that there exists a clear and present danger of said tree or any part thereof falling so that the free, safe, and lawful usage of the land by the public would be impaired or endangered and/or cause a dangerous condition to public land or public right-of-way.

Section 8.  The text under current Section 188-7 shall be renumbered as 188-7.A

Section 9.  A new Section 188-7.B shall be added as follows:

B.  It shall be the duty of any owner, lessee or occupant of any lot or land to remove any dead or dangerous shrubs or bushes, or parts thereof on their property to comply with provisions of Section 1886.B hereof.

Section 10. A new Section 188-7.1 shall be added as follows:

Section 188-7.1 Permit required.

No person or persons, firm or corporation shall destroy or remove a tree as set forth in Section 188-7 without first obtaining a permit therefore issued by the Chairman, Board of Commissioners of Cultural and Recreational Affairs or his designee.

Section 11. A new Section 188-8.C shall be added as follows:

C.  If the person upon whom the notice is served fails, neglects or refuses to remove any dead or dangerous trees, shrubs or bushes, or part thereof, with five days after such service or mailing of such notice, the Chairman, Board of Commissioners of Cultural and Recreational Affairs of the Village or his designee, shall undertake such work and the cost thereof as certified by the Chairman or his designee to the Clerk of the Village and shall thereupon become and be a lien upon the property on which such dead or dangerous trees, shrubs or bushes are located and shall be added to and become and form a part of the taxes to be assessed and levied upon such lot or land and shall bear in interest at the same rate as taxes and collected and enforced in the same manner as taxes.

Section 12. Section 188-10.  Definitions. - is hereby amended so that the definition of Tree shall read as follows:

TREE

Any living upright wood plant with its root system, which has at least a trunk of 2 ½ inches in diameter or greater at a height of 4 ½ feet above the ground.

Section 13.      Section 188-12 entitled “Protection of Trees” shall be added as follows: Anyone performing any work in the Village must provide   adequate protection to avoid unsafe, hazardous and other conditions which may be potentially detrimental to any Village tree, in accordance with tree protection specifications on file with the Village Department of Parks and Recreation.

Section 14. A new Article IV entitled “Penalties For Offenses” shall be added as follows:

Section 188-13. Penalties for offenses.

A.    Any violation of the provisions of this Chapter shall render each offender liable to a fine as set forth from time to time by resolution of the Board of Trustees.

B.    In addition to any fines hereunder, the Village reserves the right to seize, remove and dispose of any planting in violation of this Chapter.

Section 15. In this Chapter, the title “Chairman, Board of Commissioners of Cultural and Recreational Affairs or his designee,” shall replace “Director of Public Works” and “Director.”

Section 16. Effective date

This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon filing in the office of the New York Secretary of State in accordance with Municipal Home Rule Law.

Too much junk in your house?

Too much junk in your house?

Place an ad for it in our classifieds section! Call 516.294.8900 for more details.

Place an ad for it in our classifieds section! Call 516-294-8900 for more details.

NASSAU COUNTY BIDS

Sealed bids MUST be RECEIVED BY & DELIVERED TO: PURCHASING DIVISION

Inc. Village of Garden City 351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, UNTIL 11:00 AM EDT THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2025 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following:

CEDAR VALLEY PUMP STATION REPLACEMENT Specifications, Form of Bid, and other information may be obtained from the office of the Purchasing Division at the above address or you may download the bid specifications from the New York State Contract Reporter website at the following web address: https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/ contracts.cfm This bid specification will be listed under the Agency Name of: Garden City, Inc. Village of Dated: 03/28/24

Photos from the Village Archives Garden City

Hotel #4 Proposed

In November 1972 the Village Trustees, after much controversy, decided that a hotel-only use would not be financially viable, and rezoned the property to also allow apartments. Property owner Michael Forte then presented the hotel-apartment plan shown here [sources unidentified] in April 1973. It included a hotel of 444 guest rooms and below-ground grand ballroom, and two apartment buildings behind it with 305 units, later reduced to 223 larger ones. The hotel would face west toward Cherry Valley Ave. and the apartments toward Hilton, and the complex set back 250 feet on all sides.

In August 1973 the plan was approved and a building permit issued for foundation work. The site was completely cleared and the grade lowered in anticipation of an extensive underground parking area.. Retaining walls and building footings were started. But then Forte encountered financial problems due to the business climate at the time, and by August 1974 work stopped. Nothing more was completed, and Forte finally lost the property in June 1978. The new owner, Myron Nelkin and British company Trusthouse Forte [no relation to Michael] abandoned the partly finished design, and presented a new version, again including a hotel and three apartment buildings, later reduced to two. This plan was then approved.

Archives identifier: gchi01 A view of the excavation work can be seen at gchi02

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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

Conversational, opinionated, wordsmith?

We are looking for writers in our community to compose news articles on local topics, opinions, reviews, worthy places to visit on Long Island, and even fiction.

We aim to feature at least one new article and writer each week in our Discovery magazine section.

E-mail submissions: editor@gcnews.com

• Articles must be between 1,500 - 3,000 words. • Each writer will be reimbursed a stipend of $35.⁰⁰

AmaWaterways’ Vietnam-Cambodia Mekong Cruise:

The Cambodian Mekong and Siem Reap

GERI BAIN

My 30-year-old-daughter and I are on a week-long AmaWaterways Mekong River cruise. Our journey starts with two pre-cruise days based at the Sofitel Saigon Plaza exploring Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam before setting out on AmaWaterways’ five-star, 64-cabin AmaDara. We have completed the Vietnam portion of our cruise, featured in Part 1, and have crossed the border into Cambodia. Here, in Part 2 of our three-part series, we share highlights from our cruise through Cambodia and our stay in Siem Reap.

On day three of our AmaWaterways Mekong River cruise, we wake up to find our ship docked in Phnom Penh, where we will spend the next two nights. During our time in Vietnam, we anchored mid-river and tendered ashore; we are excited that for the next two nights we are docked right in town near a lively riverside park and can walk or take a tuk tuk (motorized rickshaw-style taxi) to the market, temples and other sites when we are not touring.

The Royal Palace complex, our first destination in Cambodia, takes our breath away with its gilded storybook Khmer architecture. Cambodia is a constitutional monarchy and this complex is the official royal residence as well as a key religious and educational center. Finn, our guide, explains the religious icons and the meaning woven into the architecture. For example, Nagas, which often take the form of multi-headed semi-divine snakes, are used to form balustrades and climb the steep, slanted roofs

AmaWaterways’ Mekong River cruise takes us deep into the cultures of southern Vietnam and Cambodia. (Photo: Courtesy of AmaWaterways)

of buildings, symbolically connecting earth and the heavens. We learn more at our next stop, the National Museum, where Finn shares important Hindu and Buddhist stories behind the sculptures and bas reliefs on display.

In the afternoon, we tour Sleng S21 Detention Center, now a Genocide Museum, where AmaWaterways has arranged for us to meet with one of only seven men known to have survived this torture camp. He has written a book about the horrors he’s seen. Our next stop, as it was for many S21 prisoners, is the infamous Choeung Ek Killing Fields, an extermination camp where the inhumanity is even more startling. Here, mass graves labeled with the number of men, women and children they contain and the skull-filled memorial tower among the shocking things we witness there.

Most of us were aware of the Khmer Rouge genocide, but the scale

and cruelty are unfathomable. It’s believed that at least 1.5 million Cambodians—about a fourth of the population—were murdered from 1975 to 1979 and many more died under the harsh conditions of forced labor camps. It is amazing to realize that most Cambodians alive today either lived through the genocide themselves or have relatives who survived (or perished) during that terror-filled period.

Our moods lift that evening at a pre-dinner performance by a local Khmer dance troupe, whose stylized hand gestures and movements tell classical and folkloric stories. The positive spirit carries into our next day at the Oudong monastery. As we enter its impressive prayer hall, awash in brilliant religious paintings, a giant Buddha statue seems to look down benevolently at us. We seat ourselves on the temple floor. Buddhist monks walk in and sit cross-legged facing our group. Before

bestowing a blessing on us, one of the monks, in perfect English, answers our questions and tells us about their lives and the importance of blessings in Cambodian life, where more than 93 percent of the population is Buddhist. During the 15-minute blessing ceremony, their chanting resounds hypnotically through the grand temple, drawing to a close with a gentle scattering of lotus flowers.

Over the next few days, we get a sense of rural and religious life on visits to a number of temples and small villages. Highlights include an ox-cart ride to a small temple, a visit to a school where we pair off with students to practice their English and a stop at “Silk Island” where we are shown the painstaking process of weaving silk fabric, from mulberry trees and silk worms to cocoons. We watch cocoons being “reeled” into thread that is dyed, set into hand looms and woven into iridescent scarfs, ties, and other products.

One of my favorite excursions is to Angkor Ban, a small agricultural village where people live in wooden homes raised on stilts, and we are guests of a friendly local couple who show us around their home and talk about their children and grandchildren. Leading us along its dirt roads, Finn points out the offerings families place at the small gilded ancestor shrines set on posts in their front yards, the oxen, tethered or fenced near many of the homes, and the daytime activities, many of which take place in the shady under stories of the stilted houses.

Our last stop is Kampong Cham We dock next to a riverside park

Continued on next page

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

The Cambodian Mekong and Siem Reap

Continued from previous page

where we see locals picnicking, exercising to music in small groups, and socializing. We are sad that our cruise is coming to an end. One of the things we love about AmaWaterways is that we tour in small “families” and our guides— one for each country—travel on board with us. The continuity helps fosters a deeper understanding of the culture as our guides build on their narratives. It also creates a familial feeling with them and our fellow travelers. Many of us exchange addresses. Marveling at how much we have seen and done, it’s hard to believe we have only been cruising for a week. We leave the AmaDara with a sense of life in the Mekong region that we could never have fathomed on our own.

AmaWaterways transports us by bus to Siem Reap, where we check into the Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor, a cultural icon that blends French Art Deco architecture with Khmer (Cambodian) art and design. It also showcases ancient Khmer art as well as contemporary Khmer art curated by gallery owner Nat Di Maggio, who offers guided art tours for hotel guests. Other hotel activities include daily monk blessings, morning yoga, and botanical, history, garden and other tours. (www.raffles. com/siem-reap)

Across the street is one of the royal residences of the King Norodom Sihamonia. We stroll through the public Royal Gardens and stop to listen to the prayers at a popular shrine where people come with candles, incense sticks, lotus flowers and other offerings. We return to the hotel in time for afternoon tea—or in my case, the condensed-milk sweetened Cambodian coffee I have come to love—and then head around the corner to the Angkor National Museum which presents a cultural history of the Khmer civilization that proudly con-

At the Oudong monastery, we chat with two monks who answer questions about their rigorous routine and why they chose to be monks. @GeriBain

veys how far-reaching and advanced the Khmer Empire once was.

That evening we indulge in a memorable tasting menu of Cambodian specialties, including corn cake with coconut sauce and snow fish with sweet and sour sauce, at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant,1932. The restaurant takes its name from the year the Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor opened to satisfy the burgeoning interest in Angkor Wat, just a few miles away. After dinner, we walk to the lively nightlife area, a chic modern area of bars, restaurants and sidewalk cafe-style eateries.

We set our alarm for 4 a.m. so we can watch the sun rise over Angkor Wat, a long-standing tradition. Seeing the reddish hues sweeping over the temples and reflected in the huge surrounding moat is well worth early wake-up and we enjoy the generous backpack breakfast Raffles sends with us. We’ve arranged for a private tour, which allows us to go at our own pace and tour several nearby temples, including Banteay Srei. We’re

NUTRITION NEWS

amazed at how well preserved it is - its exquisitely detailed 10th century carvings seem untouched by time.

The 800-year-old Ta Prohm Temple, a.k.a “Tomb Raider Temple” feels especially wonderful—not because the site starred in the the 2001 film starring Angelina Jolie—but because climbing around it gives me the feeling that we are explorers discovering something for the first time. Here, tree roots are spreading over and digging into the stone buildings, and I can imagine how archaeologists felt when they first began discovering the many temples in this region.

Before leaving Cambodia, we spend a morning at the Kulen Elephant Forest, where elephants that once worked under cruel conditions at Angkor Wat are protected and lovingly cared for. We notice torn ears and other evidence of their hard past; now they seem happy to be among people. Their handlers show us how to make treats that they eat from our hands and then we stroll with these

Spring Cleaning Your Diet

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Living in the Midwest with its range of seasons, I have the annual task of switching my closet from the current sweaters and turtlenecks (surprisingly, black and gray) to the lighter, brighter T-shirts and skirts.

It’s also a great time to spring clean your diet by rethinking old eating habits, making healthy food swaps and rethinking food choices.

Start by cutting back on alcohol, added sugars, salt and refined grains (think cakes and cookies). Then you can add more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and probiotics.

With our closet, we often want to add a new spring outfit. With our spring diet, think about trying a new fruit or vegetable. Try the new kiwi berry (no fuzz, super sweet, like a big grape) or some roasted chickpeas (Bombay spice or lightly salted). Both are fun and healthy. For healthy fats, try avocados, nuts, eggs, salmon, tuna, olive oil or dark chocolate. Start your spring clean with a healthy breakfast. A good breakfast fuels your day, and studies show that eating breakfast can help prevent weight gain. A 2017 study in Spain found people who skipped breakfast had more fatty buildup in their arteries, an early sign of heart disease. If weight loss is one of your spring

gentle giants through the forest, watching them interact with each other. We stop at along the way and allow them to sniff us with their trunks as we pet their rough, thick skin and feed them a treat. These elephants, that have been through truly horrific times, seem to harbor no grudges and to be striding resiliently into the future, much like the people of the region. My short voyage through Vietnam and Cambodia has not been a sightseeing trip; it has been a timeless journey into resilient cultures that will live within me forever.

Next, we fly back to Vietnam and spend three days exploring Hanoi, which you can read about in our next installment.

The basics:

In 2025, AmaWaterways offers oneweek Mekong River trips, except during May, June, and July, traveling between Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and Siem Reap, Cambodia. Prices start at around $2,320 and include transfers between the ship and Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap and all sightseeing, wi-fi, meals, and on-board programs. Airfare (discounted fares are available), visa fees, bar drinks (alcoholic beverages with meals are included), port charges (about $210 per person) and suggested tips ($80 per person for the crew) and $20-$25 for the cruise manager are extra. AmaWaterways also offers a choice of all-inclusive pre- and post-cruise options. The most comprehensive is eight nights, including Ho Chi Minh City, Siem Reap/ Angkor Wat, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay, priced at $2,779 per person. (AmaWaterways.com)

Next: Museum Hopping and Shopping in Hanoi

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

goals, pull back on portions. Use a smaller plate, share a dinner or save half for tomorrow’s lunch. Mindful eating -- taking more time to chew and explore tastes and textures -- can help with weight loss.

Add another bottle of water to your spring routine as well. Water is vital to all organ systems. Swap it in for a soda, jazz it up with lemon or lime or add some fresh mint.

Spring is also a great time to clean out the fridge and pantry. Clean it out with an eye for health. Ditch the chips and try those roasted chickpeas (6 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein per serving).

Continued on page 5

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

What’s fantastic about Springtime!

As the months pass, as the cold temperatures and brisk winds of winter slip away, I am once again pleasantly reminded about what’s great about spring. Here is my list of a few things that makes it a favorite:

Sounds of Spring Mornings

On spring mornings I wake to the sound of silence and to the sound of a small bird outside my bedroom window singing his song. Long before the others in my house wake up I hear those birds singing softly and it reminds me of so many times, 40+ years ago, that school would be closed for summer vacation and my time would be my own. Before the heat of July and August, before hearing the clanking of our fans or the constant whirring sound of air conditioning, I’d hear that sweet sound of the birds. Once spring arrived my sisters and I and our friends would count down the days until summer vacation. We looked forward to doing so many things. We were students at St. Agnes Elementary School in Rockville Centre so we’d get up early, eat breakfast and dress in our forest green uniforms then catch the yellow school bus for the ride to school. Once the school year was over the eight weeks until Labor Day meant the chance to rest and recreate. Every so often my mom would say it’s time to go food shopping so we’d dress in T-shirts and shorts, get in the car and do that together. On warmer days we’d head to the pool for hours of swimming. Or we’d get in the car and go swimming at Point Lookout. Whatever we did we knew those would be leisurely days. It’s a different bird that sings outside my window now. Picturing it as a cardinal, a bluejay or a bluebird, I know its familiar song and I look forward to waking up each day to its melody. When sunset comes it quiets down and rests but the next day it’s ready once again to sing its song. I am an early riser and when the rest of the house is still quiet I wake up and hear the bird. I imagine it sitting

on the branch of the tree outside my window and every so often I stand up and walk quietly to the window, thrust it open for some fresh air, to see it in person and not just imagine it. My cat also likes looking out the window. Bette Davis seems to know it’s spring when she jumps onto the windowsill to watch whatever is outside and to listen to the songs of the birds. She’s content being inside and hearing their trills. I imagine the colors of the birds’ feathers are bright and beautiful but I discovered a long time ago that even a tiny sparrow has a beautiful song to sing.

The Buzz About Bumble Bees

Bees in a colony work with each other to gather food. Some flowers have more pollen and nectar than others. When a good flower patch is found, bees recruit other bees from their colony to the patch. Using special dances inside the hive, bees communicate their flower location. One bee dances while other bees watch to learn the directions to a specific flower patch. The dancing bee smells like the flower patch, and also gives the watching bees a taste of the nectar she gathered. Smell and taste help other bees find the correct flower patch. The “waggle dance” tells the watching bees three things about a flower patch’s location: the distance and the direction away from the hive plus the quality of the nectar-rich flower patch. Once a bee finds a good flower, she collects resources and returns to the hive, and dances to tell other members of her colony where to find the flower so they can go and collect more resources from it. The dance is an excellent choreography - the bees’ goal is to find the most pollen and nectar in the least amount of time possible. People want to conserve bumble bees because they are essential pollinators. Tomato plants, peppers and cranberries all benefit from buzz pollination. It helps the environment when there are more bumble bees around.

Going to a Ballgame

If you’re in the stands, nothing beats the fun of belting out the song that everyone knows, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” The song was written in 1908 by Jack Norworth, a 29-year-old who hadn’t attended a baseball game. It was first performed at a baseball game in 1934 and then again later that year at a Major League Baseball game. It was in 1946 that tradition of singing this baseball song in the seventh inning first took place. The band struck up the song during a game while fans stood for the seventh-inning stretch. The song was described by Hall of Fame broadcaster Harry Caray as “a song that reflects the charisma of baseball” and now we all connect it with America’s national pastime.

These days you can hear “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” being sung at every MLB ballgame. While many teams played “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh inning stretch, very few people sang it. That changed thanks to announcer Harry Caray who spent 15 years with the Chicago Cubs. And, if you guessed Chicago Cubs, that would make sense,

but the answer is the Chicago White Sox, when Harry Caray was that team’s play-by-play announcer. It was after Bill Veeck bought the team and he was known for his publicity stunts. Veeck is the person who put ivy in the outfield at Wrigley Field. Early in the 1976 season Veeck heard Harry Caray singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” along with the organist during commercials. He could only be heard by people in the booth, but Veeck had an engineer secretly hook up a public address microphone in Caray’s booth, and the next night Caray heard himself singing to everybody in the stadium. Caray wasn’t happy about it, but Veeck told him that for years he’d wanted crowds to sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” and Caray’s participation did the trick. Caray argued that he didn’t have a good singing voice. Veeck said that was true which made everyone in the stadium feel they could sing at least as well or better. He told Caray, “If you had a good singing voice, you would intimidate them and they wouldn’t join in.” People join in because it’s such a fun, catchy song.

BY TOM MARGENAU

The GPO Repeal Backlash Has Begun

I predicted this was going to happen. The public outcry over the repeal of the Government Pension Offset law has begun. I am hearing from more and more people (mostly women) who want to know why retired teachers, firefighters, police officers and other public employees are getting Social Security spousal and survivor benefits that they can’t get. Here is a typical recent email.

Q: My sister and I are both retired teachers. I taught in a private school in Colorado, where I paid into Social Security. My sister taught in Dallas, where she paid into the Texas Teachers Retirement program and not Social Security. So I get a Social Security retirement benefit and she gets a Texas teacher’s pension. Surprisingly, they are both about the same amount. We each get about $3,000 per month. We’re also both widows. Until recently, neither of us could get widows benefits because our own retirement pensions prevented us from getting anything from our husband’s Social Security. But apparently a new law was recently passed called the Social Security Fairness Act that allows my sister to get full Social Security widows benefits. However, I still can’t. How in the world is that fair?

A: It’s not fair. I’ve been preaching that the misnamed Social Security Fairness Act is a bad law. And as a result, I’ve been receiving angry and even hateful emails from retired public employees around the country. I want them to listen to your story. (In today’s column, I will be dealing only with the repeal of the Government Pension Offset, not the repeal of the related Windfall Elimination Provision.)

First, here is some background to help you understand what GPO was all about. Throughout the history of Social Security, the law has always said that a Social Security retirement benefit offsets any spousal or widows benefits a person might be due.

Here are a couple quick examples. Mary is getting $3,000 in her own Social Security retirement benefit. Her deceased husband Frank was getting $2,800. Mary can’t get widows benefits because her own Social Security benefit is higher than her potential widows benefit.

Or we could change that example a bit and say that Frank was getting a $4,200 retirement benefit before he died. In this scenario, Mary will keep getting her own $3,000 Social Security check, but she will get an extra $1,200 in widows benefits to take her up to Frank’s $4,200 level.

Again, that Social Security benefit offset has been in place ever since the beginning of the program in the 1930s. But

by the mid-1970s, Congress noted a glitch in that law. The retirement benefits paid to public employees who worked at jobs that were not covered by Social Security but who had spouses who did work and pay into Social Security, were not subject to any offset. In other words, in our example above, if Mary was a retired teacher in Texas who was getting $3,000 in a Texas teacher’s retirement pension, she would have been able to get that pension AND have received full Social Security widows benefits on Frank’s record. (Either $2,800 monthly in the first example or $4,200 in the second.) There would have been no offset.

Congress correctly said that was unfair. So in the 1970s, they passed the Government Pension Offset law that essentially said that a public employee retirement pension would offset any spousal benefits due just as Social Security retirement pensions had always done. You would think that everyone would recognize the fairness of that. But that is not what happened. Public employees went into a rage thinking that they were being cheated out of spousal and widows benefits from Social Security that everyone else could get. They totally misunderstood the point that Social Security retirement benefits had always offset and spousal or widows benefits due. The GPO law was simply treating their public retirement pensions in the same way that Social Security retirement pensions had always been treated.

Anyway, public employee unions and advocacy groups spent the next 40 years lobbying Congress to repeal the GPO law. Bills to repeal GPO were introduced in every Congress. And every year, those bills were defeated. Why? Because the GPO law made sense -- it made sure that all working Americans were treated fairly.

But then we got into the politically wacky 21st century where there seemed to be constant partisan battles in Congress over budgets and continuing resolutions and government shutdowns and all other forms of fiscal chicanery. Amid all that mess, it became easier for GPO repeal advocates to get their bills into the hopper of an otherwise distracted Congress. And each year, they seemed to get closer and closer to having their way. Finally, in December 2024, literally almost at the last minute of the last day of Congress, they tacked on the totally misnamed “Social Security Fairness Act” into a mix of other bills, and it became law.

So now we are right back where we were 40 years ago. Public employees can get spousal and widows benefits that no one else can get.

But back to the teacher who sent the email I quoted at the beginning of the column. With the repeal of GPO, her sister, the teacher from Texas, will now be able to get her teacher’s retirement pension

AND full widows benefits from Social Security. But the letter writer, the private school teacher from Colorado, will never be able to get widows benefits. If anybody thinks that is fair, then please explain it to me.

Here is one more even weirder

and less fair part of the Social Security Fairness Act. As I mentioned many times in this column, as an old federal retiree, I collect a civil service retirement pension -- not Social Security.

Continued on next page

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

REAL ESTATE WATCH

Will education, entrepreneurial spirit spur homeownership?

Over the years a defining factor for the majority of purchasers was location, location and the school district. This was understandable, especially if you already had or planed on having children in the future. Today’s’ high prices of homes, condos and coops dictate who has the wherewithal to afford to move to a highly rated school system. Moreover, the availability and diversification of special education programs is another asset to consider when choosing a town. This is a dilemma for many who want the best education for their children, but may be limited due to the high interest rates and prices as well as their defined budgets and qualifications to be approved for a mortgage. Paying high rents as opposed to buying, to be in better schools is a trade-off in reducing your future wealth, but temporarily, may be worth it in exchange for a better learning environment and opportunities for your kids. Unfortunately, those with higher paying jobs or lucrative businesses have an advantage and are in a more beneficial position to purchase and choose better school systems.

The price of education has escalated over the last decade to an unpredictable average level of $36,523+ per student in 2025, for the 11 school districts in the Town of North Hempstead, up an estimated $1000 plus from the previous year as stated. Since approximately

SOCIAL SECURITY AND YOU

Continued from previous page

(Feds hired since 1984 do pay into Social Security and will retire with Social Security benefits.) Even though I get a comfortable civil service pension, with the repeal of the GPO, I am now able to collect a dependent husband’s benefit on my wife’s Social Security account. Anybody with a Social Security retirement pension the same size as my civil service benefit would never be able to do that. So why can I? And for that matter, why can millions of retired teachers, firefighters and police officers do the same? No one has ever been able to give me a good answer to these questions either.

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

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

65% of your real estate taxes are related to your school taxes, there appears to be no end in sight. It appears that the majority of school budgets in the higher valued property locations always seem to pass as education is still a priority for those particular voters and their families as the most important and worthwhile facet and commodity and of greatest value of a top notch community.

I need to change direction for a moment to provide some explanation. My personal and professional opinion, if you are currently residing in a school system that needs improvement, there is only one path that you must take as a homeowner. It should be of utmost priority for you to be as involved as possible in your schools and the programs it offers that will be the greatest benefit to your children’s education. There is power in numbers and the more proactive in participating in all meetings with school administrators; the greater the opportunity that changes will occur.

To start, this can be accomplished at home, by setting ground rules at an early age as to what you expect of your children as far as doing their

daily homework, studying and most important after school activities to keep them healthier, building strong character qualities and teamwork. Sacrificing some of their free time and becoming disciplined will assist them in their future development, endeavors and advancement later on in life. Consistent conditioning and guidance will reap the rewards in their future paths to success. Increasing the scholastic scores in math, science and English will raise the statistics and profile of that school. Hopefully this will also lead to better grades, going on to higher education and a successful career and/ or business. You as a parent are the most critical, crucial and influential component in order to advance them, being competitive leading to a successful outcome.

College may not be as important today for that segment of the population who have above average IQs, entrepreneurial skills and creative cutting edge ideas, as did Bill Gates, who started Microsoft and, Mark Zuckerberg, founder of Facebook (now Meta), as they dropped out of Harvard University to begin their global changing companies, redefining the world of PCs and social networking. Steve

NUTRITION NEWS

Jobs opted to drop out of Reed College to begin his journey in creating Apple Computer. Even Sergey Bren dropped out of his PHD program to start Google with partner Larry Page. However, Michael Dell, Dell Computers started his company in his dorm at the University of Texas. Come back next week for Part 2.

Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate,l = located at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. For a free 15-minute consultation, value analysis of your home, or to answer any of your questions or concerns he can be reached by cell: (516) 647-4289 or by email: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate.Com and you can search properties at your leisure and convenience at: https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com bit.ly/4bXWVu6 (facebook.com) bit.ly/4inVqaR (X.com) bit.ly/4bVSwrs (linkedIn) bit.ly/4inVK9z (Instagram) bit.ly/4bQH14x (YouTube)

Spring Cleaning Your Diet

Continued from page 2

And since it’s spring, heat up the grill and cook at home instead of going out. It will save you calories, sodium and money -- and you’ll be ready to enjoy the spring weather.

Q and A

Q: Should I wash my greens even if they are in packages that say they are “prewashed”?

A: The Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention say prewashed leafy greens in packages that say “ready-to-eat,” “triple washed” or “no washing necessary” do not need to be washed again. For all other greens, washing is important. Remove any torn or bruised leaves and the outer leaves of cabbages and lettuce heads and rinse the remaining greens under running water, rubbing them gently to help get rid of dirt and germs. The CDC does not recommend soaking, as that may allow germs from one leaf to spread to other

leaves. And the CDC does not recommend using produce wash, soap or any other chemicals on foods.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois, and the current president of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COMA:

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of March 30 - April 5, 2025

Check Out a Ringless Saturn

Saturn is everyone’s favorite planet, it seems. Through a telescope those glorious rings make that world appear so three-dimensional that it’s not uncommon for folks to accuse me of inserting a slide into the eyepiece. “It just can’t be real,” they proclaim.

But it is real. The ring system of Saturn is one of the great marvels of our solar system that even a small, low-powered telescope can show, along with Saturn’s largest and brightest moon, Titan. Of course, a more powerful telescope will show not only the planet’s rings but also a break within them known as the Cassini Division.

Astronomers have known about the rings of Saturn for nearly four centuries, and for most of that time, scientists debated their true nature. Today we know that, even though the rings appear solid, they’re made of countless chunks of ice that whirl around the planet at tens of thousands of miles per hour. And the size of the rings (a diameter of about 170,000 miles) is hard to comprehend. In other words, if brought to Earth this structure would fill most of the void between the Earth and the moon, yet the rings are less than a mile thick!

If you’ve never experienced this amazing sight, I’m afraid you’ll have a bit of a wait. That’s because these rings change their orientation as Saturn orbits the sun. At their widest, the rings girdle the Saturnian equator at a 26.7-degree angle to Earth. They appear “open” when Saturn is in the parts of its orbit that correspond to its summer or winter -- when its poles are tilted toward the sun and Earth.

As Saturn approaches its spring and fall positions, however, these remarkably thin rings “close down” and become quite difficult to see from Earth. When turned completely edge-on to us, they leave only a tiny, faint and nearly featureless yellowish-white disk.

Right now is one of those times. We crossed Saturn’s ring plane on March 23; at that time, however, the planet was much too close to the sun to get a good view. Our best view of Saturn appearing without rings will begin in April when it begins to emerge from the sun’s glare. And if you’ve never seen Saturn without rings, it’s well worth the effort to do so!

We’ve seen Saturn in our evening sky for the past

view quite thrilling, since the ring may appear only as a thin dark line crossing the planet’s disk or may even cast its shadow onto the Saturnian cloud tops. After this month, our next good edge-on view of Saturn won’t come until 2038-39.

By this time next year, the rings will be opening a bit more and will continue doing so until they reach their widest and brightest again in 2032.

Saturn will appear in the predawn sky in April, though its rings will barely be visible.

few months, but now it’s crossing behind the sun and is lost in our star’s glare. It will emerge into the predawn sky during April, but no matter what size telescope you use, you may find the view of a ringless Saturn disappointing. Or you may find this surreal

LOST IN SUBURBIA

And it’s these stunningly beautiful views that make Saturn everyone’s favorite planet!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. . COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

Nothing Comes Between Me and My Lava Cake

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

When it comes to desserts, there are three kinds of people: sugary-dessert people, fruit-dessert people and no-dessert people. I’m a sugary-dessert person, and like most sugary-dessert people, I don’t get the other kinds of dessert people at all. I can almost understand no-dessert people. But fruit-dessert people? Fruit as a dessert seems like a completely wasted opportunity. If a molten chocolate lava cake is on the menu, why would you possibly order fruit unless, perhaps, you were a pirate with scurvy and needed the vitamin C?

I had all this in mind when my husband and I finished dinner with one of his clients and the client’s wife. The dinner was perfectly nice. The conversation was lovely. But when it came time to order the desserts, my husband and I got a sugary dessert because, hello, lava

cake (!), while the husband got fruit, and the wife got nothing.

“Just coffee for me,” she said to the server. And then to me, “I’m trying to cut out sugar.”

I nodded respectfully at her choice to be a no-dessert person.

When my cake arrived, I went to dig in. But before I could get my fork into the cake, the no-dessert lady reached over with her fork, took a giant swipe of my cake and then plunged it into her mouth. No “Do you mind if I ...” or “May I have a taste?” She just went in with fork blazing and cakejacked my cake. I was floored.

“Ummmm,” she swooned. “This is yummy.”

“I wouldn’t know,” I said under my breath. “I haven’t tried it.”

I glanced at my husband, who had his fork up in midair, ready to have his

taste. He took one look at me and lowered his fork.

“Oh, honey,” said the no-dessert lady, who was rapidly becoming someone-else’s-dessert lady to her husband. “This is so good. You have to try it!”

With that she plunged her fork into my cake a second time and then fed her husband my cake off her fork.

“Oh yeah, that’s good lava cake,” he replied, licking his lips.

I went to say something, but I honestly was at a loss for words. I was astounded that someone would actually have the audacity to pilfer my dessert not one but two times, and before I’d even had any. I wondered if I had a look about me that said, “Sure, go ahead, take my cake.”

The bigger issue, though, was not that she had shoplifted my cake twice but that I really couldn’t say anything

about it. This was the wife of my husband’s client. She might be a cake-napper, but she was still a cake-napping wife of a client.

Fortunately, before I could say something, the client’s wife excused herself to go the bathroom, and the client stepped out to make a call. Impulsively, I reached out, picked up the saltshaker and dumped a generous amount of salt in her coffee.

My husband stared at me, appalled. “What are you doing?!?” he hissed. I shrugged. “I’m giving her her just desserts.”

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

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

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Homemade pasta makes for flavorful comfort food

Herb Ravioli

Makes 4 servings

Pasta is enjoyed across the globe. Whether it’s the main course of a meal or served up as a side dish, pasta will seemingly always have a place on the dinner table.

Pasta may not be the first

For the dough:

14 ounces flour; for pasta

2 egg yolks

For the filling:

7 ounces baking potatoes

1 slice stale white bread

3 1⁄2 tablespoons soft butter

1 bunch finely chopped chives

1 bunch finely chopped parsley

In addition:

Flour for the work surface

1 egg white

1) Combine the flour, egg yolks, eggs, oil, salt, and 2 to 3 tablespoons cold water and quickly knead to a pliable dough. Form into a ball, cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 1 hour.

2) For the filling, peel and quarter the potatoes and cook in boiling, salted water for 20 minutes.

3) Finely dice the bread. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and fry the

thing people think of when pondering comfort food, but certain dishes, including ravioli, certainly meet the comfort food criteria. Such is the case with this recipe for “Herb Ravioli” courtesy of Lines+Angles.

2 eggs

1 pinch salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

Sprig chervil

4 ounces crème fraîche

1 finely chopped shallot Salt Pepper

4 1⁄2 ounces bacon

1 bunch chives

Chervil or parsley, to garnish

diced bread until golden brown to make croutons. Let cool, then reserve 1 tablespoon of the croutons for serving.

4) Drain and mash the potatoes, let cool slightly, then mix with the rest of the butter, salt, pepper, herbs, croutons, and crème fraîche.

5) Divide the pasta dough in half and roll out thinly into 2 sheets. Put teaspoonfuls of the

filling on one of the sheets of pasta, leaving about 2 inches between them.

6) Brush the dough around the filling with egg white. Lay the second sheet of pasta dough on top and press together between the heaps of filling.

7) Cut out the ravioli with a pastry wheel.

8) Drop the ravioli into boiling, salted water and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, then take out and keep warm.

9) Dice the bacon and fry until crisp and brown. Wash the

chives, shake dry and snip. Serve the ravioli onto warmed plates, scatter with bacon, chives and croutons and serve garnished with chervil or parsley.

The Truth About Mobility: Why Rest Is the Enemy

BY AHMED AHMED

Remember when movement felt effortless?

You never used to painfully foreshadow what it would feel like to take the stairs or put your shoes on…

But now your body feels tight and achy.

You’re moving uncomfortably carefully…

And sometimes your days look like being stuck to the couch because moving hurts.

Now what if I told you avoiding movement is stopping you from regaining confidence in your body?

Here’s the thing…

Losing mobility is not just an age

related problem…

There are five reasons why people have their freedom of movement stolen from them…

Loss of strength- weaker muscles keep you from effortless motion.

Joint issues- instability in your joints (shoulder,back, hips, etc…) can make you avoid movement.

Pain- if moving into a position hurts, you don’t go there.

Disease- many conditions affect control of your muscles.

Changes in your body- bones and joints can transform to keep you from moving like you used to.

Get the news ever yone’s reading about!

Most commonly, people experience a downgrade in their ability to move because of a loss of strength or pain.

If that sounds like you…

DON’T rest your way to stiffness!

Your joints have fluid attached to them so that they can run smoothly…

The only way to make more of this, is to move.

This lubrication, called synovial fluid, keeps your joints healthy.

DO get stronger!

The more strength and stamina you build up in your muscles…

The more you’ll be able to move seamlessly.

To make your muscles healthier you need to exercise.

So remember,you’re not losing mobility because of age. You’re losing it because your body isn’t getting the movement it craves!

The good news?

It’s scientifically proven that it’s never too late to rebuild your strength… So start now!

Remember exercise is key to lifelong strength and independence. Try these tips today!Ahmed Ahmed is the owner of Lotus Fitness. Contact him at (646)415-2349 or ahmed@lotusfitnessny. com https://lotusfitnessny.com/

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

Ahmed Ahmed

Garden City Schools proposed budget up 2.8%

From page 1

sion.

District’s Program Budget Priorities

The proposed budget will help drive forward key district initiatives for the upcoming school year, focusing on strengthening instructional quality, aligning curriculum with state standards, and strategically integrating new tools and methodologies to enrich student learning.

Addressing recommendations from the literacy review remains a priority, as does the alignment of pre-K-12 skills and competencies as outlined by the

NYSED Blue Ribbon Commission and the Portrait of a Graduate. A major focus is on curriculum articulation, emphasizing the use of Authentic Assessments and expanding the implementation of storyboarding in learning.

The district also plans to develop curriculum related to bond projects, update elementary report cards, and leverage AI tools to enhance student-centered learning and operational efficiency while ensuring ethical and responsible implementation.

Additionally, leadership transitions will take focus, with support provided

for new hires, including a middle school principal, high school assistant principal, assistant director of PPS, and a coordinator for social studies and world language.

From a financial perspective, Garden City maintains the lowest per-pupil costs among neighboring districts at $22,466, though it typically ranks among the bottom three in spending. This data was sourced from Questar BOCES.

Building-Specific Budget Priorities

Building principals outlined their priorities for the upcoming school year.

At the high school, priorities include

leveraging AI programs for staff and student use, planning bond projects for new outdoor and interior facilities, and onboarding new leadership roles such as the assistant principal and social studies and world language curriculum coordinator. The school will also focus its curriculum articulation work on world language and science standards, exploring increased use of Authentic Assessments, and updating classroom environments to support enhanced learning experiences.

At the middle school, priorities include hiring a new principal, con-

Pool law approved despite opposition from two trustees

From page 1

mix of community feedback, including letters and emails submitted throughout the month.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan said the law includes minor changes in response to the input heard on March 6 and through other official communication channels. She reintroduced the proposed legislation last Thursday, which regulates setbacks and other requirements for installing a backyard pool on residential properties.

The “pool law” will not apply to any completed application accepted by the Building Department prior to May 20, 2025. Mayor Flanagan said this provision addresses concerns raised by residents who feared mid-process changes to the rules.

“I will remind you that doesn’t mean your pool will necessarily be approved. It will be in the same criteria that the Zoning Board of Appeals used previously” the mayor said.

The new law reduces the required setback between the pool and the rear yard by five feet across all zoning districts. Setbacks are now as follows:

R-6, R-8, and R-12: 20 feet

R-20: 25 feet

R-40: 35 feet

Similarly, the setback between the home (the habitable structure) and the pool has been reduced by five feet:

R-6, R-8, and R-12: 10 feet

R-20 and R-40: 15 feet

Trustee Ed Finneran said his opposition to the regulations is philosophical, calling the new law an example of government overreach.

“I would be in favor of minor reductions in setbacks so I have a philosophical thing. A lot of objections have to do with pool owners, behavior, noise, music. So it’s about being a good neighbor too so you don;t want to have to legislate behavior because you I really can’t. So my objection goes to an overall philosophy of this proposed law.,” he said.

Mayor Flanagan acknowledged the extensive work put into the proposal by Trustee Judy Courtney, the Board’s liaison to the Building Department, noting that the changes stemmed from recommendations by the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon recused himself from the March 20 vote due to his profession in construction and remodeling.

Before discussing the contested changes proposed at the March 6 meeting, the Board adopted a negative declaration under SEQRA (State Environmental Quality Review Act) regarding the law’s environmental impact. With Trustee Muldoon recused, five members—Trustees Tai, Courtney, Harrington, Chester, and Mayor Flanagan—voted in favor. Mayor-elect Finneran and Trustee Bruce Torino voted against it.

Finneran added, “I believe that the law is a bit of an overreach. We have had a decent history here in the village of allowing pools. I did a little research with the Building Department. There are approximately 7,200 to 7,400 homes in the village and there are less than 230 pools. There have been a rash of applications and pools built since the mid 2010s and certainly since covid-19 (2020 and later). Having a pool is not necessarily a right, though. There are some plots that you would agree just by the square footage it would be inappropriate for structural reasons and for a myriad of other reasons – and I think there are reasons that the 12,000 square foot level should be reduced.”

Trustee Judy Courtney asked Superintendent Giuseppe Giovanniello to confirm that pool applications no longer require Zoning Board approval—only fencing and landscaping plans do. Mayor Flanagan confirmed: “You just need ZBA approval of the fence and landscaping, but they can not reject your pool if you meet these requirements.”

Though two trustees opposed it, the

pool law passed with majority support. Are dry wells required?

Trustee Torino raised concerns about unintended consequences, particularly with Provision D of the law, which requires an installed facility for completely draining a pool.

“If there is an internal inconsistency with a law, it is my opinion that it should be resolved before it is implemented. If you look at the proposed local law section D, it requires that the structure has an installed facility for the complete draining of the water that is in that pool. That is a very good provision! What do people do now to empty their pool? I assume they put water in the drain, or they would put it in the street. I am very much in favor of the ability to put a dry well,” he said.

He stated, “all water that comes onto your property by rainwater needs to stay on your property.” Therefore, he believes property owners with pools should be required to put in dry wells.

During the discussion, Trustee Jessica Tai asked a question about the village’s existing residential pools based on the codes preceding the amendments to Section 200-45 voted on last week.

“Do we require dry wells? What is the requirement for the drywell? she asked.

Superintendent Giuseppe Giovanniello responded that the Village does require dry wells. He advised distances of a minimum of 10ft. from the property line from either the side or rear line, and a 10ft. minimum from the structure (home/garage) to a pool.” Tai confirmed there was no change in these requirements with the amendment of Section 200-45.

Torino remained in opposition to the law as it was constructed, as he . “If you want to take a look at dry wells, go to the County Courthouse and you can see the rings. It’s probably the size of John Gotti’s cell. So you say to yourself, what is the problem with provision D?….Provision D is in conflict with the

village procedure with regard to the placement of dry wells and in need for them to be 10 feet from all plot lines. So, if you have a 6 or 8 foot ring that means you have to have 10 feet on either side, which means that at a minimum you are going to wind up having 26 feet of distance between plot lines, your pool and other things. These rings also have to go to a depth of 12 to 16 feet,” he explained.

Torino, an attorney with nearly 50 years of experience, said he’s litigated cases where dry wells failed due to hydrostatic pressure—the force exerted by water and soil collapsing the rings. He told his Board colleagues, “In this particular case if you do the math from the village policy with regard to the rings being 26 or 28 feet, that means the setbacks don’t work….the difficulty in placing those items (the rings) is such that you will by definition – every time you make an application, unless you have a very, very large piece of property – you are going to look for a variance. So the question then becomes how we as a village, in writing the local law, reconcile that inconsistency which we are building into the law. You will also notice that with regard to the dry wells, one of the measurements is a 45-degree angle from the base of the footing in which the angle of repose from the dirt has to be calculated because of the dirt. Dirt does in fact tend to slide down the 45 degrees is needed for the angle of repose,” Torino said.

Mary Carter Flanagan noted an important point for any new or future Garden City residents:

“This is a right which we have never had before – someone can now buy a property in the village and they will know by looking at this whether they have a right to have a pool. No one was able to do that before; it always required the approval from the ZBA ... .You could go with an application for the pool and ask for variance from these,” she said.

Village Board approves amended tree law despite opposition

BY RIKKI MASSAND

On Thursday, March 20th, the Garden City Board of Trustees laid the groundwork to protect and preserve the village’s lush tree canopy and to promote more sustainable arboriculture practices.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan opened a public hearing on a proposed local law to amend Section 188 of the village code concerning trees.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon shared a story of his personal experience and explained how the tree canopy and treelined streets here are critical to preserving “what makes the Village of Garden City unique.”

“We’re all saying the same thing (and approving the law) to protect the trees we have. When my father was here on a visit, the first thing he said when driving into the village up from Hempstead was that it is like driving into an oasis of trees. That’s coming from a young man who grew up on a farm in Ireland,” he said.

Muldoon called trees “critical to what the village is all about.” He discussed the community and village government bearing the “huge responsibility to replant the trees that were taken away and never replanted” plus the new local law making sure Garden City has a consistent policy of replanting trees.

“Unless a tree is already dead or ready to fall down, preserve that tree for as long as we can – no reason to jump the gun and remove trees because they have a small bit of damage or rot or they lean to the left or right. Otherwise we’d be taking down half the trees in the village. To our staff in Recreation and Parks, Arborist Umana and the tree crew – keep up the great work. We’re all on the same page with the residents to protect our trees,” he commented.

Mr. Umana said the tree law was a long time in the making and clarified some of the concerns that there were no existing legal protections for the village trees, and people had taken advantage of that with some misuses of land and property.

“There’s a lot of construction going on in the village with no protection for the trees. There’s machinery and material being stored against our trees. This is detrimental. This really places an effect. Now (with the local law’s approv-

al) we can move towards the way the New York City Parks and Recreation Department protects their trees….You cannot work and operate around trees unless they are protected – that’s necessary. If Garden City will continue to be a Tree City USA, we are really going to put our effort into this. We are going to do it the right way, from the bottom to the top, especially in protecting the established trees. Everybody loves the 100-year-old-plus Oaks and Maples, and we want to see those survive and be maintained. The only way to do that is to protect them,” he told the board.

During the hearing, resident Rich Corrao asked whether the law would include monetary penalties for violations. Mayor Flanagan responded that the fine schedule would be established separately, allowing for updates without the need for a public hearing.

Umana called the previous permitting fee of $30 to remove a tree—regardless of size—“criminal.” Trustee Jessica Tai noted that under the old rules, no permit was required to remove the first tree on a property.

Umana said now a resident will need a permit for the first tree they want to remove in one calendar year, but that action would be free.

“After that it will go up based on the size (diameters of trees); 0 - 10 inches is $500; 11 - 19 inches costs $1,000 – and for 20+ inches – those large, old-grown trees that have been in the village for so long, 70, 80 or 100 years, it’s going to cost people. The pricing is a deterrent and we want to keep the tree canopy. We want to have our trees here…if you’re looking to cut down 10 or 20 trees then it will cost the applicant $15,000 or more. I don’t know if a lot of people have $15,000 to shell out just for permits,” the village arborist shared.

Corrao asked if the village had plans to help homeowners plant new trees, citing Rockville Centre’s support for front-lawn tree planting.

Mayor Flanagan said the village is formalizing a process for residents to request tree planting on their lawns, pending legal review. Trustee Tai inquired about areas where no planting strip exists between curb and sidewalk. The mayor said she wasn’t aware of a plan to provide trees in those situations.

Trustee Jessica Tai checked about

situations where there is no strip between curbs and sidewalks, or if it’s too narrow and there’s no opportunity to put a tree in the median.

The mayor responded, ”As far as providing the trees, I am not aware of that.”

Corrao said because some blocks have a strip while others are just an allée of trees uniformly planted on the lawns, a disparity arises.

“If there’s a plan in place because we have seen a lot of removals – whether it’s from the contractors, Hurricane Sandy, etc. – there’s just a lot going on,” he noted.

Board reflections, future planning

Trustee Bruce Torino offered advice to residents with concerns about trees on their property.

“If you look at your tree and if you think there’s a question, call the professionals. They are seated here, in the front row. They will tell you if the tree is going to come (survive) or the tree is going to go, but get it from the people that know,” he said.

Mayor Flanagan thanked resident Kelly Smith, who joined the Environmental Advisory Board in 2021 and helped spearhead the tree initiative alongside Paul Blake.

Trustee Tai looked back at one of his presentations to the EAB last year and how updates for the modern world were seemingly overlooked.

“During the presentation we were looking at some of the old codes that we had before the fines, from 50 or 100 years ago. The fine was very minimal so we made good changes in the code,” she said.

With the update for the law, residents will be able to request a tree planted on their front property – however the tree’s maintenance still falls on the homeowners.

The mayor acknowledged, “It’s really a step forward for people to be able to request one planted on their front lawn.”

Village Arborist Joe Umana credited the administration – Village Attorney Gary Fishberg, Administrator Ralph Suozzi, Superintendent of Building Giuseppe Giovanniello, Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni and Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Andy Hill, for the “team effort” in creating the right law for the village to

approve.

“We have put a lot of time and effort and I am proud of what we have accomplished. We all had an interest in this from construction on properties with trees, to increasing the fines and penalties,” he said.

Mayor Carter Flanagan spoke about the legal oversights from Fishberg, so Garden City can approve the fee schedule on a separate vote.

“In the future if we have to change amounts from time to time, we won’t have to do a whole new public hearing law,” she said.

The mayor initiated a separate vote on the fee and penalty schedule for tree removals. For 10 inch, calipers or less is $500; 10 to 20 calipers is $1000; 20-plus $1500, and other tree work $200 and that includes but not limited to excavation near the street tree; installation/ relocation of utilities near street tree; construction related activities near street tree; tree pruning and transplantation; tree bed expansion, etc. That’s a $200 fee. Also for removal of dead, infested and dangerous trees of all calipers there’s no fee. However, they are subject to penalties for work without permit. All work without permits will cost three times the permit fee, plus the permit fee,” the mayor noted.

The Board unanimously approved the fee schedule.

Rich Corrao took the opportunity during the public hearing on the tree law to express his great admiration for a job well-done by two of the original five FABGC trustees, who are leaving service next week after four years on the Board of Trustees – Mayor Carter Flanagan and Deputy Mayor Bruce Chester.

“Mayor, if you could indulge me quickly I have to provide a heartfelt thank you to both you and Trustee Chester for your service. Trustee Chester, before we go back to ReVAMP, I want to share a couple of sentiments; back when all of this started a lot of us felt we really didn’t have a voice and you guys stepped forward and took a leadership role – and that took tremendous courage. We know the hard work you have put in and the number of hours you have put in. I want to sincerely thank you and wish you all the best,” he said.

Did 2023 Committee Stack the Deck?

From page 1

opinion poll in 2023.

In her column in this week’s Garden City News, Mayor Flanagan says that the emails show that shortly after the board engaged Westerman a small group of the St. Paul’s Committee was formed to communicate with Westerman Construction. The group was proposed by Frank McDonough, who leads the St. Paul’s Alliance, a group that seeks to preserve St. Paul’s, and included himself, then-Mayor Cosmo Veneziale, and three residents.

Mr. McDonough had long been an opponent of facadism. On his resume to the village when he sought to join the St. Paul’s Committee in 2021 he noted that he had been “actively involved in the preservation and adaptive re-use of St. Paul’s since 1993.”

In one email obtained by the mayor from August 2022, Mr. McDonough said, “Facadism is a HORRIBLE architectural concept f too many reasons we all agree on BUT Facadism is a FABULOUS political concept f us bc we can Hang Facadism around our friends Neck and make his BoT puppets look amateurish and expensive SO Pls be sure that Facadism is advertised today in GCN and Social Media and discussed publicly Sept 6/13 at the Tues nite mtg. We must allow FABGC to own Facadism and we will WIN. No public evaluation of Facadism and we loose.”

Mr. McDonough is referring to the For a Better Garden City party, which had successfully fielded candidates for village board to challenge Community Agreement Party candidates. The person referred to as “our friend” is presumably Donald MacLeod, a founder of the FABGC party.

The “facadism” alternative would also have included the construction of a new building behind the St. Paul’s front to be used for recreational uses.

During the development of the Westerman report, members of the small group communicated with Lloyd Westerman and directed him to price out a new 125,000 square foot building to be included in the facadism estimate.

The cost of that new building appears to have doubled between one draft of the Westerman report and a subsequent one.

In a preliminary draft, that building was priced at $600 per square foot, but that estimate was subsequently changed to $1200 per square foot.

Larry Marciano, a member of the Board of Trustees at the time, noticed that change in price and repeatedly asked Garden City Building Superintendent Giuseppe Giovanniello, who had been communicating with Mr. Westerman for the village, for an explanation.

“After all of the work that Westerman did, I cannot believe they changed the price of the building by 100% in the

last 48 hrs. I think the BOT and the village deserves an answer in writing from Westerman as to why the cost of the building changed by 100% after we received the initial draft. I think before we make any decisions going forward it would be very important to understand how Westerman was able to ensure all other numbers were correct but missed the price of the new structure by 100% only after we received the draft,” Marciano wrote in an email to Superintendent Giovanniello.

Giovanniello responded to Trustee Marciano saying, “I really don’t know who and why the change was made, but the number can vary depending on the type of construction / program of the buildings needs, $600 or $1200 really does hold substance at this point unless you really know what you are proposing to build. For example a typical vanilla box building can be significantly less than a theater or a sports facility.”

However, Giovanniello also passed Trustee Marciano’s question to Mr. Westerman, saying, “Can you please help me address this email below. The only reports that I sent to the board was the draft on the 7th and the final on the eighth. Please advise.”

The email trove does not indicate if Westerman explained the price change. However, the Garden City News contacted Mr. Marciano, who no longer sits on the Board of Trustees. According to Marciano, he never got an explanation, and eventually didn’t pursue the matter.

The Garden City News reached out to Mr. Westerman by email but did not receive a response.

McDonough: Facadism considered

Frank McDonough responded to questions about the email, saying that facadism had been considered by the committee.

“Facadism was always considered a viable option as was Demolition. The Public Record supports that Façadism was extensively explored with open minds by the Architectural & Engineering sub-committee. Please recall that at No Time did any of the proponents and supporters of the Façadism option present any written information, drawings, plans , economic or financial analysis to describe their Façadism Project or why it was the Best Option or its Cost Analysis.”

(Mr. McDonough’s complete response to the Garden City News’ questions appear at the end of this article.)

McDonough goes on to say, “My August 31, 2022 email reflects and encourages the full and public evaluation of Facadism. My email was a Full Throated support of Mayor Veneziale’s prior email which stated that Facadism should be evaluated and “Fully Costed.

“So while you may see a lack of neutrality I see the reaction of Façadism proponents whose only effort to fully

and cooperatively explore their preferred projects was to write letters to GCN complaining of a lack of attention. A process proceeding to enable a full and open public debate was what occurred.”

“Skinny down the costs”

In addition to the facadism matters, in her column Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan also points to emails in which the group also mentions the importance of keeping the costs of adaptive use preservation low.

In an email chain on February 4, 2023, Architect Will Alisse and Building Superintendent Giuseppe Giovanniello discuss providing a list of program spaces to be included in Westerman’s cost estimate. Alisse refers to this as a “pricing program.”

Also a part of the email chain, Frank McDonough responds with “We want Westerman working w our Value Engineer to skinny down the costs”

When asked about that comment, McDonough responded, “The critically important ‘Cost Question’ was initially evaluated by the Architects & Engineering sub-committee. The standard architectural & engineering protocol and industry practice was to agree to an initial and preliminary Phase One Project Budget so that residents would know St Paul’s is a decades long Phased Development, Not an open ended Checkbook.

“The architects and engineers on the Mayors Committee in 2022-23 used this Preliminary Budget approach with contractor Westerman.

“Please recall that then Trustee Flanagan and the other FABGC trustees delayed Westerman’s hiring for a considerable period of time thereby delaying his important report to Village residents.

“Westerman was given an assumed budget of $50mm to determine whether that amount could provide a renovated building for community use.

“Westerman’s role was part of an initial planning step that architects use to define a project’s scope and cost. This is an iterative process with many revisions until project scope and cost are in balance.

“This iterative Budget process is not dissimilar to news articles undergoing numerous revisions before they are deemed ready to be published.

“Westerman determined, for planning purposes, that almost all of the required exterior work and 30,000 sq’ of renovated interior space could be achieved f approximately a $50mm investment.

“Westerman’s preliminary analysis confirmed that some portion of St Paul’s could be renovated at a reasonable cost to residents.”

Adding salvage costs to demolition

In her column this week, Mayor

Flanagan also notes that the emails directed Mr. Westerman to include costs to salvage and store items from St. Paul’s if demolition were chose.

“Many will recall that the intitial Westerman Report priced transporting the salvaged items across the country for storage in a better climate,” she wrote.

In the emails, after receiving an initial budget for demolition Superintendent Giovanniello asks Lloyd Westerman to add costs for salvage.

“LIoyd, Thank you! The draft estimate is for simple demolition The building is on the Na1onal Register of Historic Places.

“What would be the cost to have a Building Conservator provide evaluation and tagging of all existing building elements to be salvaged? What would be the Contractor’s cost for salvage removal and safe storage?”

Senior Tax Exemption?

Mayor Flanagan also found email indicating that the idea that senior citizens might be able to get a tax exemption for St. Paul’s, which was raised at a Property Owners Association meeting by Trustee Bruce Torino, originated with Mr. McDonough.

“The SPA leader [McDonough] who worked on this cost estimation report with Westerman also provided the Torino Tax Exemption document shared at a POA meeting and widely criticized as misleading seniors on whether their taxes would be impacted by the project, shortly before they were being asked to vote in the Public Opinion Poll,” the mayor wrote.

Comment by FABGC Founder

For a Better Garden City founder Donald MacLeod commented on the emails:

“Well, after reading the 20 plus emails, no resident can be anything but both horrified and outraged. The fact that a group of Save Every Brickers, GC Historical Society members and unethical preservationists, all serving on a government committee, funded by the taxpayers, have intentionally misled the residents on the facts that involve a $100,000,000 potential capital expense is almost impossible to comprehend.

“So the residents have spent the last 2 years being lied to during multiple presentations and voting in an Opinion Survey, with totally and intentionally false costs. It is clear that a small group of unethical preservationists, and I know many preservationist from my work and many are wonderful, caring, ethical individuals, not like this group, but here in these emails the same names are on almost all the emails documenting the deception. They’ve done more damage to Garden City, the St Paul’s building itself, the legacy of Alexander Stewart and our community

See page 46

Did 2023 Committee Stack the Deck?

From page 45

The

Friday, March 28, 2025

than Hurricane Sandy, Ash Borers and the Monster Poles combined. The calculated lies and deception are in black and white in one email after another. The pattern and conclusion is inescapable. Read the emails. All of them. And remember the names. Especially those on the BOT.

“And Trustee Muldoon’s response? Blah, blah, blah……..everyone’s great, God Bless America, and let’s move forward. I guess if I picked a committee with so many of the people named in these emails, I would too.

“Personally, as someone that spent thousands of hours to create a party to bring transparency and honesty into Village governance, and obviously failed, I’m so disgusted with this group’s behavior, I’m sad to say as a lifelong preservationist that has done multiple projects professionally, this group has convinced me we need to tear the building down and move on. Period.

“Mayor Flanagan and John Kordes are right, this building is a cancer on Garden City.”

Full text of GC News questions to Frank McDonough

On Mar 25, 2025, at 5:58 PM, Meg Norris <editor@gcnews.com> wrote:

“Dear Mr. McDonough,

“As you may be aware, a trove of emails related to the 2023 Westerman cost estimates for St. Paul’s has been circulating in the village during the last week. The emails call into question the neutrality of the St. Paul’s Committee on St. Paul’s that was created by former mayor Cosmo Veneziale.

“In addition, the emails raise a question about whether members of the committee influenced construction cost estimator Lloyd Westerman’s report released in March 2023. I plan to write an article about the emails in this week’s paper.

“In particular, I was wondering if you could comment on two emails written by you.

“The first is an email from August 31, 2022 which states in part, “Facadism is a FABULOUS political concept f us bc we can Hang Facadism around our friends Neck and make his BoT puppets look amateurish and expensive” (The complete email chain is pasted at bottom of this email.) The impression I got from reading this email is that the question of Facadism is being treated as a political one, instead of as a legitimate alternative for St. Paul’s. Can you comment on whether the committee examined facadism with open minds?

“The second email I’d like to ask you about is one from February 3, 2023 from you to Will Alisse and Guiseppe Giovanniello regarding the Westerman report. In that email you said, “Also, We want Westerman working w our Value Engineer to skinny down the costs”

Can you explain what you meant?

“In addition to the above questions, if you have any other comments I would be happy to print them

“I will be working on this story for this week’s issue, so if you would like to have your thoughts included I will need to get them any time on Wednesday.

“Thanks for your assistance.”

Full text of Frank McDonough’s response Mar 26, 2025, at 4:05PM

“Dear Editor:

“Thank you for your email regarding the 2022-2023 St. Paul’s Committee created and led by former Mayor Veneziale.

“I appreciate the opportunity to add a factual basis to your planned expose. Your article’s objectivity however becomes suspect since your email requesting my comments was sent to me at 6:00pm on the Tuesday evening before the traditional noon Wednesday GCN deadline. That’s not much time to evaluate the emails you forwarded to me and their context. You state in your transmittal email that “ a trove” of emails concerning St Paul’s have been circulating for weeks in the Village, thus the late hour and short, overnight response time of your email raise questions about the sincerity of your interest in my comments.

“I am not aware of any such email ‘Trove’ concerning St. Paul’s. Clearly you have been aware of those emails for some time. Judging from the email thread you provided I presume the source of the emails in question was current Lame Duck Mayor, Mary Carter Flanagan. Nor am I aware of the topics you have asked me to comment upon. It appears however that you have been aware of these topics for some time. Could you not have contacted me at an earlier date so that you might receive a more researched response for your Expose article? Don’t readers of the GCN deserve a more thorough reply that more notice and time would have provided?

“Please accept this preliminary reply to your questions but I reserve the right to respond more fully. I am also available to meet and discuss your questions in your office at your convenience.

“My role on Mayor Veneziale’s Committee was to manage a sub-committee to identify every and all possible uses of the main building requested by Village residents from the date the Village purchased the property until the then current date. All resident requested uses were identified and catalogued regardless of their viability under the property’s Parkland designation. Additionally, I managed a second sub-committee to identify various options to finance any whole or partial renovation or demolition of St Paul’s.

“The Westerman Report &

Committtee Neutrality

“Let’s address your question about the Westerman Report:

“ ‘Also, We want Westerman working with our Value Engineer to skinny down the costs’

“The critically important “Cost Question” was initially evaluated by the Architects & Engineering sub-committee. The standard architectural & engineering protocol and industry practice was to agree to an initial and preliminary Phase One Project Budget so that residents would know St Paul’s is a decades long Phased Development, Not an open ended Checkbook.

“The architects and engineers on the Mayors Committee in 2022-23 used this Preliminary Budget approach with contractor Westerman.

“Please recall that then Trustee Flanagan and the other FABGC trustees delayed Westerman’s hiring for a considerable period of time thereby delaying his important report to Village residents.

“Westerman was given an assumed budget of $50mm to determine whether that amount could provide a renovated building for community use.

“Westerman’s role was part of an initial planning step that architects use to define a project’s scope and cost. This is an iterative process with many revisions until project scope and cost are in balance.

“This iterative Budget process is not dissimilar to news articles undergoing numerous revisions before they are deemed ready to be published.

“Westerman determined, for planning purposes, that almost all of the required exterior work and 30,000 sq’ of renovated interior space could be achieved f approximately a $50mm investment.

“Westerman’s preliminary analysis confirmed that that some portion of St Paul’s could be renovated at a reasonable cost to residents.

“Westerman’s cost analysis contributed to a planning perspective and was NOT an actual bid.

“Westerman demonstrated the architectural importance of planning a project assuming what residents can afford to pay NOT what some open ended dream may cost.

“Equally important, proposed options including Demolition, Façadism and Adaptive Reuse all under went a Value Engineering review. Value Engineering is the final architectural and engineering phase. Value Engineering is a collaborative team effort among the architects, engineers and general contractor I.e. Westerman who was asked to reduce project costs as the result of Value Engineering introducing better, more efficient construction practices.

“All professionally developed construction projects endure a Value Engineering review to reduce project costs.

“The emails you cite merely highlight the efforts by the Architectural & Engineering committee’s efforts to reduce project costs consistent with traditional, sound industry practices.

“At no time that I am aware of was Westerman pressured to change his analysis. Importantly, Westerman was simply asked by the architects & engineers to use his Best Professional Judgement to confirm or reject:

“How much renovation/restoration of St Paul’s would a $50mm budget provide? Would that amount be sufficient for a Phase One Project?

“Westerman’s Report supported the Architect & Engineering sub-committee’s recommendation that the St Paul’s Project proceed to the next phase of development.

“Finally, you state that Westerman’s Report was issued in March 2023. I don’t believe that is accurate. May I suggest that you contact Westerman and inquire about Mayor-elect Flanagan’s role in editing and revising his March 2023 Final Report, which was delayed publication until October 2023 after multiple revisions just before the October 2023 Opinion Poll vote?

“Let’s now address your question about Facadism and its evaluation by Mayor Veneziale’s Committee on St Paul’s.

Façadism

“Your initial question was:

“ ‘The impression I got from reading this email is that the question of Facadism is being treated as a political one, instead of as a legitimate alternative for St. Paul’s. Can you comment on whether the committee examined facadism with open minds?’

“Facadism was always considered a viable option as was Demolition. The Public Record supports that Façadism was extensively explored with open minds by the Architectural & Engineering sub-committee. Please recall that at No Time did any of the proponents and supporters of the Façadism option present any written information, drawings, plans , economic or financial analysis to describe their Façadism Project or why it was the Best Option or its Cost Analysis. Here are some facts:

“1. The cost of Partial Demolition / Façadism was addressed at the Mayors Committee initial 2022 meeting. A subgroup was formed to investigate the cost of partial demolition. That group’s investigation was concluded after several months of discussions with demo experts.

“2. I walked around the St Pauls property with FABGC founder MacLeod and discussed for more than one hour various renovation options he preferred.

“3. During multiple public meetings during 2022-23 FABGC’s MacLeod offered various suggested Facadism alternatives to the Committee. Macleod preferred at various times an athletic

Did 2023 Committee Stack the Deck?

facility similar to Moynihan Station, a MidWest College Track facility and other concepts. At no time did FABGC leader MacLeod provide any architectural plans or written material to describe and/ or explain his preferred Façadism Plan.

“4. Macleod, Committee architect Will Alisse and I met over dinner for two hours to refine his preferred Façadism concept.

“5. A Village-wide Town Hall was held in October 2022. Its sole topic was reserved only and entirely for residents to discuss Facadism openly for several hours

“6. Promoters and supporters of Facadism were offered by the Committee professional, technical, legal, engineering, financial and clerical support to refine their preferred program.

“7. None of the Promoters and supporters of Facadism used or took advantage of the support offered by the Committee.

“8. As an initial supporter of Facadism, I took MacLeod’s preferred Facadism athletic facility and had his Facadism concepts converted into Architectural drawings/ elevations.

“9. I paid for Macleod’s architectural drawings myself. Macleod did not contribute any funds to support his own concept.

“10. On Veterans Day 2022 Peter Coll, Will Alisse and I meet with then Trustee Flanagan to review and discuss her preferred Facadism plan - a new building behind the South facade of St Paul’s. Trustee Flanagan’s plan was similar to a plan proposed years before by architects Irwin Bilenski.

“11. Architect Aliese on Veterans Day 2022 reviewed various alternative Facadism alternatives with then trust-

ee Flanagan reviewing the impact of demolishing all or part of the East, West & Central wings.

“12. The Committee met with three other Trustees including Charlie Kelly to discuss Facadism over several hours one evening. The Committee was instructed by Trustee Kelly that our Committee’s efforts should focus on “ the least possible Cost to residents ” of renovating St Paul’s.

“13. The Committee supported Trustee Kellly ‘s suggestion and focused on least cost Demo/Renovation alternatives.

“14. The architects & engineers concluded their review of Facadism. Their conclusion was that the 19th century construction techniques and practices used to build St Paul’s created costly challenges to any Facadism project.

“15. The Legal committee advised that partial demolition/Facadism might well trigger litigation from NYS and US Interior Departmet adding to the cost and delay of Facadism projects.

“16. The engineering estimate for an initial demo/Facadism engineering construction cost of the Facade ONLY would be $40mm.

“17. Westerman estimated Trustee Flanagan’s preferred Irwin Bilinski building would cost at least an additional $60mm

“18. The Flannagan preferred Irwin Bilenski Facadism project was viewed as a potential $40+$60=$100+mm price with significant 3-5 year litigation delays.

“19. The MacLoed preferred Façadism athletic facility was similar to NYMTA Moynihan Terminal project and would cost $125mm. Other unrefined MacLeod athletic facilities might cost less or more.

“20. There may be additional efforts undertaken to evaluate Façadism that the architects & engineers may recall but I may have omitted.

“Facadism was properly, openly and publicly evaluated. The above review of the Public Record demonstrates an openness to a full and fair debate on facts, not innuendo. All the professionals who evaluated Façadism, did so openly and without preconceptions or prejudices.

August 31, 2022 Email

“My August 31, 2022 email reflects and encourages the full and public evaluation of Facadism. My email was a Full Throated support of Mayor Veneziale’s prior email which stated that Facadism should be evaluated and “Fully Costed”

“So while you may see a lack of neutrality I see the reaction of Façadism proponents whose only effort to fully and cooperatively explore their preferred projects was to write letters to GCN complaining of a lack of attention. A process proceeding to enable a full and open public debate was what occurred.

“May I note that in contrast to the Committee’s open, transparent and public meetings as well as specific tutorials for trustees, FABGC leader MacLeod wrote me stating that I did not have his permission to expose publicly any of our discussions or architectural debates about Facadism. I felt all the time and effort spent with MacLied deserved to be publicly disclosed, I was upset that he did not share my support for an open debate.

AND

“Additionally, in my opinion your Expose article should also disclose that at the late August 2022 Board of Trustee meeting, then Trustee Flanagan had

offered a motion which was supported by all FABGC trustees, which motion called for the termination of Mayor Veneziale’s St Paul’s Committee and that all reports and notes from the Committee be delivered to the Village Clerk in less than 30 Days.

“This clear effort to use a Board motion and resolution to deny public access to any Report by Mayor Veneziale’s St Paul’s Committee and to terminate that Committee prior to its final report was concluded was defeated on procedural grounds. Months later Mayor-elect Flanagan disbanded the Veneziale Committee as one of her first acts as Mayor.

“Trustee Flannaga’s motion to terminate Mayor Veneziale’s St Paul’s Committee upset me because it was offered in late summer when most residents were out of the Village on personal/family time. Similar to MacLeods demand that I not disclose to residents all the work we did jointly on Facadism, I felt Trustee Flannagan was trying to deny residents access to a full debate on St Paul’s

“My preliminary response to your questions should be published in Full. Since I am currently traveling on business on the west coast It is subject to future corrections, edits and clarifications. Additionally, I will respond to your planned expose when I return to Garden City. Please also recognize that your late notice of your planned story did not provide me time to fully check dates and times etc.

“I look forward to a full and public debate on these and numerous other issues concerning St Paul’s.

“Frank McDonough”

Garden City Schools proposed budget up 2.8%

From page 43

tinuing curriculum articulation efforts with a focus on Earth and space sciences as well as world language standards, and reviewing the current master schedule to develop a plan for 20262027 – with class sizes as a top priority. Additionally, the school will evaluate elective offerings to ensure alignment with the Portrait of a Graduate framework. Other initiatives include refining the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Design and Modeling curriculum for its second year of implementation and broadening LinkIt to participation to all departments.

“These last four years have been some of the best of my life. I consider it my job for the next several months to make the transition a smooth one for our new building leader,” current Garden City Middle School Principal

Matthew Samuelson shared, reflecting on upcoming leadership changes.

At the K-5 levels, priorities include strengthening instructional practices and support strategies through LinkIt, enhancing K-1 “What I Need” (WIN) time with a focus on targeted smallgroup instruction, and developing standards-based K-5 report cards. K-5 will continue identifying interdisciplinary connections, refining units, and creating authentic assessments that integrate literacy. Additionally, ongoing professional learning will align with the comprehensive literacy approach and review recommendations. Lastly, efforts will be made to explore opportunities for expanding the Enrichment for All program to first and second grade.

Other District Updates & Honors

The literacy review is progressing. Community surveys have been distrib-

uted, and focus groups will be scheduled in the coming weeks. Site visits to observe literacy instruction in action are planned for May.

The Board of Education also posted new policies for public review and comment. These will remain available on the Board of Education page under Board Policies Under Review through the next regular meeting on April 23. Community members are encouraged to provide feedback.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha announced the valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2025. Seniors Jeffrey Li and Hunter Maguire earned these honors, demonstrating outstanding academic achievement while actively participating in clubs, activities, and the greater school community.

Additionally, Amy Xiao, a Garden City student, was named a 2025

Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar finalist for her research on Citrin as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment through clinical, pharmacologic, and metabolic analysis.

Community questions, future meetings

During the meeting, a parent asked when class size projections for the next school year would be shared with the community. The district confirmed that this topic will be addressed at the next Board of Education meeting on April 8. That meeting will also include discussions on PPS, technology, and athletics budgets. A budget adoption meeting is slated for April 23, followed by a public budget hearing on May 13. The budget vote and the election of two trustees will take place on May 20. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in these important discussions.

IN MEMORIAM

Diane I. Vierling

Diane I. Vierling, 85, a long-time resident of Garden City, NY, passed peacefully into eternal life on March 22, 2025. She has reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Edward, Sr., of 68 years.

Diane is warmly remembered by her four children: Debra (William), Denise (William), Edward, Jr., and Christine (Kevin, predeceased). Diane is also lovingly remembered by eight adored grandchildren: William, Jacqueline, Matthew, Kristina, Alexandra, Brendan, Nicholas, and Kevin; and five great-grandchildren: Eoin, Niamh, Lilly, Audrey, and Chloe; many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Constance and Anthony, and her brother, Joseph.

Diane was a woman of steadfast faith. She will be dearly remembered

Diane I. Vierling

for her loyalty, kindness, compassion, and generosity, and she will be deeply missed by many.

IN MEMORIAM

William O. Dwyer

William O. “ Bill ” Dwyer of Garden City passed away at the age of 91 on March 21, 2025.

Bill was born in Brooklyn on March 31, 1933. He was a graduate of The University of Notre Dame and St. John ’ s Law School. Bill spent his professional career first practicing law at Satterlee, Warfield, and Stephens in New York from 1958 to 1966, at which point he began working at Fairchild Publications, where he was senior vice president. After attending the Advanced Management Program at Harvard University in 1974, he began working at Moody ’ s Investor Services in 1975. He served as president of Moody ’ s from 1981 to 1988, president of Dun & Bradstreet Financial Information Services from 1989 through 1990, and president of D & B Corporation Japan from 1990 to 1993, when he retired. In 1996 he

returned to serve as president of Moody ’ s until 1998. He served on the board of The Garden City Golf Club, as a trustee at St. Joseph ’ s College in Brooklyn, and as a trustee of The Village of Garden City for 8 years, the last 2 of which he was mayor. Bill lived in Garden City from 1962 until his passing.

Bill is survived by his wife Maureen Dwyer, his spouse of 67 years, his children James Dwyer (Jennifer), Kathleen Dwyer, and Mimi Haeffner (Pete), his 5 grandchildren Brendan, Ian, Matthew, Brian, and Sarah, and his sister, Kathleen Clarke.

A wake was held at Fairchild Sons funeral home, in Garden City, on Wednesday, March 26. A funeral mass was held on Thursday, March 27, at St Joseph Church. Donations may be made, in his memory, to Parkinson ’ s Research Foundation, P.O. Box 96318, Washington, D.C. 20090-6318

IN MEMORIAM

Lillian Kathrine (Hauprich) Donnell

September 21, 1928 – February 19, 2025

Lillian K. Donnell peacefully passed away at age 96 on February 19, 2025, at home surrounded by her family. She was the daughter of Elizabeth (Mehringer) and John Hauprich, both immigrants who came to this country from Hungary.  She leaves behind her devoted sister Joan Hauprich and her loving children:  Bill (Gloria) of Scarsdale, NY; Lynn (John) of Lloyd Neck, NY; John (Lisa) of Manhasset, NY; Lisa of The Villages, FL; and Irene of Gilbert, AZ.   She is forever cherished and loved by her 16 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren: Jill (Vince), Billy (Courtney), Brian (Erika), Lauren, Michael (Kathrine), Mary, Stephen, Rosemarie, Matthew, Katie (Daniel), Kris (Sydney), Kevin, Sean, Elizabeth, Matthew, Madison, Paige, Hailey, Bryn, Kirby, Chloe, Lillian, Amelia, Nellie and Delilah.

Lillian was born in Yorkville NY, and eventually her family settled in New Hyde Park NY.  She met her husband, John, and together they moved to Garden City NY and raised five children.  Lillian was a stay-at-home mom and enjoyed participating in and chairing many parish activities and events where her children were often involved. When her children were older, she returned to school and earned her Masters Degrees in Early Childhood Education, Literacy, and Business Education.  She embarked on her second career at Denton Avenue School in Herricks School District, which became her second family.  She was proud of completing her Writing Process Course at Columbia setting her  in motion to give popular workshops all over Long Island.  She developed a love for her students and made lifelong friends with her fellow teachers.

Lillian K. Donnell

initiated and orchestrated Denton ’ s Flag Day celebration with HRC annually, always concluding the program with a resounding “God Bless America.”Her students were the spirited energy behind the festivities every year. She was always pleased when one of her students would come to visit in her retirement and share how much they enjoyed her classes and described their burgeoning successful careers, giving her credit for the inspiration she had given them.

Have you lost someone?

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

She retired at 83 after 30 years teaching 1st and 3rd grade.  Lillian and another teacher had the vision and community spirit to begin Denton Avenue’s Human Relation Club.  They encouraged the children to reach out to others in the spirit of kindness and good-will, collecting for Toys for Tots, Make a Wish Foundation, canned goods, doing environmental clean-ups, and so much more, giving each child in the club a vital role and confidence in their abilities to create a charitable program while also having fun and learning in the process.  The club is in its thirty-eighth year today and remains very popular.

Lillian was an ardent patriot. She

In retirement, Lillian enjoyed gathering her family together, playing Bridge, and visiting with old and new friends. She liked nothing more than sitting at the dining room table and visiting with her children and grandchildren. Her family Christmas celebrations were something to look forward to with joy every year.  Lillian was proud of her life as a resident of Garden City for almost 60 years and was involved with many of its amenities.  She took pride in her community, was a regular at The Garden City Pool, enjoyed luncheons at Cherry Valley CC and was a vibrant presence at neighborhood block parties.

Over the many years, she developed meaningful relationships with her neighbors and many close and cherished friendships.  She was a devout Catholic and an active parishioner of St. Anne’s Parish, serving as Assistant Regent of Catholic Daughters and the Daughters of America.  She was the joyful heart of our family and inspired those around her with her kindness, love, and faith. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

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If you own a business or have a service to provide, we’ll create professional ads to promote it and help you be seen by thousands of local readers! Call 1-516-294-8900 to inquire!

GCAA 2024-25 Intramural Basketball Playoffs

Boys 3rd Grade

Boys 4th Grade

Boys 5th Grade

Boys 6th Grade

Boys 7th and 8th Grades

Girls Grades 4-6

Soccer Players of the Week

Pre K Girls

Team 1:

Julia Schiliro

Giuliana Mingoia

Friday, March 28,

Ruby Fitzgerald

Team 2:

Olivia Bassi

Bridget Beecroft

Caroline Bernacki

Team 3:

Peyton Austin

Ella Chamberlain

Elle Gallagher

Team 4:

Clara Hannan

RyRy Leach

Team 5 - Pink Princesses:

The Whole Team

Team 6:

The Whole Team

Team 7:

The Whole Team

Team 8:

The Whole Team

Pre K Boys

Team 1

Alex Lyumkis

Gavin Short

Team 2

George Kapela

Daniel Berroya

Team 3

James Linchitz

Nolan Hauser

Team 4

Joseph Filosa

Kieran Madan

Team 5

Vincent Sticco

Nolan Ruffini

Team 6

Miles Ramirez-Amin

Welles Wenzel

Team 7

Sean Costello

James Grogan

Team 8

James Degloria

Parker mangan

Kindergarten Girls

Team 1 - Kicking Peacocks

Kathleen Ienna

Reagan Pellish

Team 2 - Pink Diamonds

Olivia Gomoka

Rose Joelson

Team 3 - Purple Gummy Bears

Mariella Calma

Liliana Manginello

Team 4 - Green Apples

Noor Hamdani

Madison O’Hara

Team 5

Madelyn Johnson

Drew Robinson

Team 6 - Blue Cotton Candy

Ellie Mantyla

Alessandra Schneider

Team 7 - Blue Cobras

Phoebe George

Raegan Henesy

Team 8 - Pink Butterflies

Emily Hughes

Mckinsley Landi

Lucy LeSueur

Kindergarten Boys

Lightening:

Mason Alvarez

Nolan Ryan

Red Team:

Lucas Kyon

Green Dragons:

Lucas Bacon

Tigers:

George Bacigalupo

Sam Kasnicki

Team 7:

Theo Franzella

Blanton Durie

Team 5:

Brooks Bolanos

Mason Flynn

Team 3:

Giovanni Belto

Danielle Fitzgerald

Team 4:

Colin Sessa

Patrick Bishop

1st Grade Girls

Team McAuliffe

Jiniyia Doshi

Clara McDonough

Team Balkema

Vivienne Hampel

Mia Forlenza

Team Groarke

Brooke Burgmeier

Riley Overby

Maeve Gublin

Team Scroggins

The Whole Team

Team Munnelly

The Whole Team

Team Urban

The Whole Team

2nd and 3rd Grade Girls

Dominators:

Gabriel Bacon

Claire Berbari

Audrey Calcagni

Lainey D’Alessio

Team Lightning: Rosemary Summers

Isobel Wall

Lady Goldkickers: Amelia Zulic

Shooting Stars:

Scarlett Gallagher

Ella Chen

Team 5:

Caris Shaji

Caroline Chalupa

Valentina Lanza

Team Power:

Gemma Sbeglia

Lyla Falck

2nd and 3rd Grade Boys

Team 1

John Gomoka

Patrick Gomoka Jr.

Team 2

Samraj Goel

Cooper Quinones

Team 3

Nicholas Mackiewicz

Team 4

Jack Becker

Ryder Candan

Team 5

Braedon Donnelly

Nicholas Raine

Team 6

Gianni Impennato

Alessio Calma

Team 7

Charlie Haunss

Aiden Williamson

Team 8

Thomas Keele

Zack Rao

Adult Evening Programs at the Field House

The Recreation Adult Programs in the Field House begin on Wednesday, October 16 according to the following schedule:

Mondays - Mens’ Basketball -

7:30–10 p.m.

Wednesdays - Mens’ Basketball -

7:30–10 p.m.

Thursdays - Adult Volleyball -

7:30 – 10 p.m.

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

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

10 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 10 visits, $50

5 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 5 visits,  $25

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

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

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

St. Paul's Fieldhouse Adult Pickleball Program

Pickleball will begin again in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse on Tuesday, September 17th.  This program is open to Garden City residents only, Tuesdays through Fridays, 9:30 to noon.

Each session will consist of open play with everyone attending round robining in to play.  If you attend the first session you must pay again to stay for the second session.  There will be no reserving of courts for individual play.  A monitor will be available for any person wishing to learn the game.  The fee schedule to attend is as follows:

GARDEN

10 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 10 visits, $50

5 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 5 visits,  $25

A participant may also “pay as you go”. “Pay as you go” prices will be $6.

To purchase one of the passes, please visit the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. You will also be able to purchase a pass from our St. Paul’s staff at the time of attendance.  Check or credit card payment is preferred.

Kids Pickleball Program at St. Paul’s

GC Rec is announcing a Pickleball program for the kids from March 4 through May 1.  It will be 90 minutes of play on all four courts in the field house with a basic intro to the game and rules. We will provide the equipment, and the cost is $100 for 8 sessions.  We will need a minimum of 8 and a maximum of 24 sign ups to run the program per day.

Indoor Track Hours at Cluett Hall

Mondays: 1 p.m.–8 p.m.

Tuesdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and  5 p.m.–9 p.m.

Wednesdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.; 1 p.m.–

4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Thursdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and  1 p.m.–8 p.m.

Fridays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.; 2 p.m.–

4 p.m. and 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Saturdays: 1 p.m.–5 p.m.

*Walk at your own risk. Hours are subject to change. Please do not open the windows on the track.

Trip to Yankee Game

Attention!!

Tickets must be purchased by 3/20/25 or we cannot book the trip!

Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays @ Yankee Stadium on July 31st: $90 gets you ticket, food, soft drinks, & ride to game. There are only 40 spots available for 4th–8th graders. We will leave from St. Paul’s parking lot at 10am. We will return at the end of the game. Pleas sign up at the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Avenue. Cash or checks(made out to the Village of Garden City) only. These tickets will go quickly, sign up as soon as possible!!

The Upcycle Acadamy Fashion Summer Camp

www.FutureFashionStars.com

Color Illustration - Flat Sketching

Silhouette / Shape / Proportion

Sustainability - Trend Spotting DesignUpcycling - Styling & More!  Look Book Photoshoot & Fashion Show on the last day of camp!! Keep the designs you create. All apparel and upcycle materials provided.

Garden City Recreation CenterThe Cottages, Weekly Monday–Friday,

12:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.,

July 7 – 11: Behind the Seams - Intro to Fashion

July 14 – 18: Love Story - Pastel and Pretty

July 21 – 25: Pop Star - Stage Worthy Style

July 28 – August 1: The Good Vibe Club - Sweats with Graphic Messaging & Sun Bleached Denim

AGE 8–11 // FEE: $395 per week

2025

Men’s Spring Softball League

Team applications are now online at: www.gardencityrecreation.org, or stop by the Recreation office for forms: 108 rockaway avenue

• Rosters and fees are due by Tuesday, April 1

• The league will begin play the week of April 20

• Fees– $650 for 8 game season plus playoffs for eligible teams

• Space is limited and teams must meet eligibility requirements

For more info, please contact the Recreation Department at 516 465-4075

Pioneer Sports Volleyball Clinic

Volleyball Clinic: Tuesdays, March 4 to April 8, 6:30–7:30 p.m. This program is a learn and play clinic for grades 3-5 at The St. Paul’s Fieldhouse. The cost of the program is $150 per child.

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 .

USA Sport Group and Pulse Sports are Gearing Up for Summer!

USA Sports Group, a longtime partner of the Recreation and Parks Department of the Village of Garden City, will be running Summer Camps from children ages 5–12.  It will be a multi-sport program with an adapted curriculum running from June through August.  For more information, please go to Pulsecamps. com

Attention: Tennis Players

Beat the winter DOLDRUMS and get some exercise while having fun!

Prime tennis court time is available: all days and all times.

Get ready for your spring and summer leagues with a contract for the remaining weeks of the indoor season.

Daily reservation times are also available!

We have Women’s League openings! Looking for 2.5 to 3.0 players for our women’s Monday doubles league:

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Please call the Recreation office to book a seasonal court or for more information: 516 465-4075

For daily reservations, call the Tennis Center Office: 516 483-2525

Chess Wizards Spring Session

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!!!

This program is a 10-week session. Class will be held on Tuesday’s from 4 to 5 pm in St. Paul’s Center (108 Rockaway Avenue) beginning April 1. To register please visit www.chesswizards.com.

Spring Session of Youth Tennis Lessons

Registration begins on Monday, March 24

The Spring Session of Youth Tennis Lessons will begin play on Monday, April 21st with the registration for these lessons beginning on Monday, March 24th. The Spring Session will be 8 weeks long, with the lessons occurring Monday through Thursday — which would put the Spring Session ending around the second week of June. Once registration opens, you will be able to sign up on the Recreation website, gardencityrecreation.org, or in person at the Tennis Clubhouse and at the Recreation Office located at 108 Rockaway Avenue.

Please visit the recreation website for fees, and meeting dates.

For further information, call the Community Park Tennis Office at 516 483-2525

Youth Summer Tennis Camp

Be on the lookout for upcoming information on our Summer Youth Tennis Program as we are currently developing plans for the Summer Tennis Camps.

‘31 GC Rams travel to West Point

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!

Rams in action at Army.

Strong defensive play vs Port Washington.

2031 Rams play in Michie Stadium.

Army Head Coach Joe Alberici addresses the boys from both Garden City and Port Washington.

Garden City Wings — The Champions of Nassau

The Garden City Wings won the Nassau County Middle School Championship on Tuesday night (2-1) vs the powerhouse Half Hollow Hills team. Hills came into the finals with a 18-1 record, outscoring opponents by 115 goals. The Wings were up to challenge, with each line rolling and performing at a high level. Breaker Seidenberg scored the two goals. The first goal at the end of 1st period and the game winner in the 3rd period. Breaker was named playoff MVP. Lucas Ferrucci in a legend making performance, had 26 saves. The Wings killed a 6 on 4 penalty in the final 1:10 minutes to clinch the victory.

In the first round of the playoffs, the Wings defeated Long Beach (9-4) in front of their raucous home crowd and then outlasted Bellmore (11-8) in the conference finals.

Team Members

Nicholas Marchelos, Eamon Harrington, Vin Sartorelli, Layla McQuade, Tyler Moody, Jack Mormile, Kieran Moon, Angelina Balestrieri, Mason McQuade, Liam Mijares, Brett Scuderi, Jake McDevitt, Ryan Chalupa, Steven Toro, Luke Seaman, Pierce Harrington, Norah McCallum, Connor Wade, Breaker Seidenberg, Mason Berry, Danny Willet, Anastasia Monte, Jack Bedford, Lucas Ferrucci, Caeden Corbett.

Coaches:

Sean McQuade, Rob Scuderi, Dennis Seidenberg. Team Manager: Brad Chalupa

Lucas Ferrucci

Words of wisdom from the coaches. 2024–25 County Champions

Town offers safe boating classes

Boating season may be several months away, but with a New York State law now in effect that requires all operators to be certified in safe boating, the Town of Hempstead is now offering safety certification classes.

The Town’s Bay Constables will lead a Boater Safety Course for adults (ages 18 years and older) in three sessions – Tuesday, April 29, from 7–10 p.m., Tuesday, May 6, from 7-10 p.m., and Tuesday, May 13, from 7-10 p.m. –at the Department of Conservation and Waterways (1401 Lido Boulevard, Point Lookout). Participants must attend all three sessions to receive their boating safety certificate.

“New York State law now requires that ALL operators of watercraft be certified in safe boating, and Hempstead Town is offering many classes to help local residents comply with the law ahead of

the coming boating season,” said Town Supervisor Don Clavin. “We in America’s largest township want to ensure that all local mariners practice safe boating, and we encourage them to sign up for the Town’s upcoming safe boating course.”

The New York State law governing these new boating safety requirements is known as Brianna’s Law, named after 11-year-old Long Island resident Brianna Lieneck, who was killed in a boating accident in 2005.

Additional safe boating courses for youth and adults will be announced in the near future. To register for an upcoming Boater Safety Class, please call the Bay Constables at (516) 897-4100.

Residents who are already certified but cannot locate their card can obtain new documentation at https://www.ilostmycard.com/records?state_cd=NY&cert_ type=Boating

Get results!

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our Garden City office at 516-294-8900 for more information.

Islanders chase wild card playoff position

The Islanders at a team practice this week at the Northwell Ice Center

BY TONY SENA

Over the past two weeks the New York Islanders have played some exciting and thrilling games with victories over some of the top teams in the NHL. They have moved up in the standings and are currently fighting for one of the wild card positions to qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs. With twelve games remaining in the regular season, the Islanders are competing with six other

teams for the final playoff position. Islanders team captain Anders Lee in speaking with the media following a team practice said that “we have to control our own destiny here, sure we look at the scoreboard and see what the other teams are doing but we have to continue to play our game and get wins.” The Islanders have six home games remaining at the UBS arena and fans can help cheer their team on over the next few weeks. Let’s Go Islanders!!

Be sure to check the back part of The Garden City News each week for the

GCAA Intramural Basketball concludes season with championship games

Boys Varsity Soccer wins first ever State Championship

between two defenders to Jack Schorr. The ball hit Schorr in stride, he beat the two flat footed defenders and whipped a shot past an outstretched keeper and GC had the insurmountable 2-0 lead and a ticket to the finals on Sunday morning.

As the final whistle blew on Saturday the boys knew they had one more test to complete their season long journey. After months of training and battle tested with 22 straight wins that included 17 shutouts the boys and their coaches were on a mission, bring the State title home to Garden City for the first time.

Once again, the Trojans faced a team in Clarnece that approached the game as many opponents have, contain the GC attack, allow time of possession to favor the Trojans but try to not allow good scoring chances. As with the previous day, the Red Devils played with only one man up front and ten behind the ball giving Garden City about an 80-20 percentage of ball control and several quality chances to get the opening goal.

The 2024–2025 GCAA Intramural Basketball season concluded this weekend with six championship games that included buzzer beaters, long distance three pointers, unbelievable late game comebacks, and everything else you could want from

Garden City had numerous chances but couldn’t come up with the first goal. In the opening twenty minutes the Trojans had several dangerous corner kicks but an active Clarence keeper kept them off the scoresheet, either coming off his line to punch the ball out or being in position to grab the ball off the heads of the taller GC forwards.

Perhaps the best chance for GC came in the eighteenth minute as Woodbine shook his defender in the box and one touched a ball that just cleared the bar.

Varsity Soccer team leaving for the NYS Championship weekend.

for the Trojans was a through ball from Profeta that just missed connecting with Jack Costa in the box. The first half ended nil-nil.

March Madness. The boys and girls displayed outstanding skills and teamwork. Everyone played hard, showed great sportsmanship, and most of all enjoyed the moment with friends and families. We would like to thank all of the participants and their fami -

For Clarence, their one and only scoring chance of the opening half came on a counterattack in the seventeenth minute as they pushed two men up field. With a good cross to the corner of the 18 yard box, the Clarence forward fired a shot to the opposite corner of the goal that went just wide as Pupke was able to close down the shooters angle.

In the last five minutes of the half, GC continued to attack and had two good chances, both with Luca Profeta on the ball. The first was a free kick from Profeta from 25 yards out that couldn’t connect. And the second, and last chance of the half

After an inspiring half-time talk with coach Paul Cutter, he emphasized that the game was there for the taking and the boys couldn’t continue to have so many chances without pushing one in. He implored the boys to raise their intensity, bring more urgency to the field and continue doing what they’ve done all season.

Cutter’s words were quickly translated to the field as the team scored in under two minutes gone by in the half. Controlling the ball off of the tap off, GC got the ball into the box and with bodies crashing, Justin Woodbine was able to push the loose ball past an out of position keeper for the opening goal of the game. Garden City celebrated but kept their game faces on as they inched closer to their ultimate goal.

lies for continuing to support GCAA Intramural Basketball.

the box and with only the keeper to beat he was taken down from behind and awarded a penalty kick in the 50th minute of play.

With Clarence looking to generate more offense to get back in the game, the middle of the field started to open up for GC. This played right into the Trojan game plan as the open space allowed them to control the ball with their quick passes and good touches on the ball.

We would also like to thank our grade coordinators, volunteer coaches, and clinic directors...without your enthusiasm and commitment to teaching the children how to play the game (while keeping it fun) we would have no program. We also thank the Recreation Department for all their support at St Paul’s all year long. We hope to see everyone back next season.

Watson approached the ball and drove a strong shot towards the corner, but the Red Devil keeper guessed right and made the save. Watson didn’t give up on the ball and without hesitation struck the ball into the open net for the goal that put GC up 2-0.

The Trojans had several more good scoring chances in the next 15 minutes as the shot total continued to climb in their favor at 23-3. Woodbine shot just wide of the post, Charlie Koester sent a free kick into the box for Jack Klein that was headed on goal and Profeta sent a couple of corner kicks into the goal area, but none connected for the important third goal.

As the game entered the final fifteen minutes, Clarence began pushing more players into the attack and had a good chance that Ian Pupke closed in on and forced the shooter to go wide of the goal.

Attention students!

Graduated from school? Have an outstanding GPA?

had the Trojans going 554 minutes without giving up a goal, and it raised the angst of the many GC fans that travelled to Middletown.

Garden City didn’t allow the Red Devils any room in the final minutes of play, and they secured the first NY State title in school history. And the players and coaches were finally able to celebrate loudly having accomplished what they had started in the summer months.

All that was left was a very happy ride back to Garden City, and with a GCPD escort the team bus was able to deliver that title on 7th Street to the many parents, friends and residents on Sunday afternoon. The season was truly an historic run for the team and coaches, as they finished their perfect season with a 23-0 record.

Special mention should be made of the excellent coaching and dedication to the team from head coach Paul Cutter with assistants Luke Connolly and Mike Lind, team managers Ryan Cappello and Henry Schnell, athletic trainer Anthony Navaro and Athletic Director Ed Ramirez (GCTrojanNation).

Made the honor roll or Dean’s List? Scored an internship or study abroad opportunity?

The insurance goal came off the foot of Nassau County scoring leader Myles Watson as he deftly worked the ball into

But with under six minutes remaining in the game Clarence made the game interesting. Attacking down the right sideline the ball was crossed into the middle and a Red Devil player was able to avoid the GC defense and with a quick one touch shot pushed the ball passed Pupke to make the score 2-1. The goal was the first given up by GC in the playoffs, official scoring

Congratulations especially to all the seniors, many of whom have been with the team for the past two or three seasons.

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!

7th and 8th Grade Boys

4th Grade Boys

3rd Grade Boys

5th Grade Boys

4th, 5th, and 6th Grade Girls

6th Grade Boys

Photos by Ed Rotondo

Mary Krener

Heaney Lisa Heaney

Lynn Puccio Cheryl Trimboli Scott Wallace

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk

Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Rene Blair

Christine Cudahy Manager Linda Mulrooney

Daureen Hausser

Aimee Escher

Patrick Gibbons

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Susan MacDonald Brigid Marmorowski

Patricia Dickson

Kathleen Lichtman Rockville

Stewart Manor, NY

1.5-bath. MLS# 826839. $925,000.

Wyndham West, #PH2

Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# L3579709. $2,500,000.

Mineola, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 833476. $349,000.

Garden City, NY Studio, 1-bath. MLS# 840065. $325,000.

Garden City, NY

4.55-bath. MLS# 828069. $2,399,000.

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 3-bath. MLS# 805421. $8,500/mo.

Marianne Imperial

Alesya Busel

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 3.55-bath. MLS# 834097. $2,549,000.

Floral Park, NY 5-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 831776. $995,000.

Garden City, NY 3-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 831521. $6,500/mo.

Garden City, NY Studio, 1-bath. MLS# 825577. $279,999.