The Garden City News (5/23/25)

T RACK T EAM T RIUMPHS

The Garden City High School Boys Track and Field team turned Senior Night into a celebration to remember, capturing the Division Championship title with a powerful and well-rounded performance this week. See page 50.

Scoop

the poop, save the ponds

BY RIKKI MASSAND

If your Ring doorbell camera has ever captured your neighbor’s dog “in the act,” the Village of Garden City has your back. Residents are being officially encouraged to properly dispose of pet waste in order to help protect local waterways, the environment, and the community’s quality of life.

At the May 21 meeting of the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB), co-chaired by Village Trustees Jessica Tai

and Michele Beach Harrington, board members addressed the persistent issue of dog waste left on sidewalks, green spaces, and even in plastic bags discarded improperly. The environmental impact of neglecting to clean up after pets was the focus of the evening’s discussion.

Trustee Tai noted that people have been observed not picking up after their pets or sometimes, plastic bags have been filled with waste but not properly discarded in bins.

“If you have gone through the whole process of bagging it, why not take it and put it in the right place. We have seen some disappointments and for tonight’s meeting, the purpose is to promote responsible pet ownership.”

The meeting began with a report from Village Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni, who emphasized that even a small amount of pet waste can significantly harm the environment. He warned

See page 39

School budget approved, principal search continues

BY KASSARA MCELROY

Garden City residents showed strong support at the polls for next year’s school budget, voting to approve the $137,760,845 million proposal for the 2025-2026 academic year. The budget passed by a decisive margin – 1,376 votes in favor to 343 against – ensuring continued investment in student programs, staffing, and educational resources.

Residents also elected two new members to join the Board of Education. Debra Cupani was chosen to succeed Trustee Arthur Gnecco, receiving 955 votes to Richard Corrao’s 646. Erin Debrich won the seat held by Trustee William O’Donohue, earning 1,031 votes to Dr. Dinorah DellaCamera’s 576.

Student achievements highlighted

Superintendent Dr. Kusum Sinha highlighted several recent

See page 40

Trustees push for equity in Adelphi deal

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the Village Board meeting on Thursday, May 8, Garden City Mayor Edward Finneran asked the trustees to postpone consideration of the annual parking fee agreement with Adelphi University. The proposed agreement called for a $25,000 payment from Adelphi in exchange for use of the village’s parking lot at Community Park during the academic year. This agreement has long served as a staple in the relationship between the university and the village.

The proposed renewal would have covered the 2025–26 academic year, from September 2, 2025, through May 21, 2026. But the Board of Trustees agreed to delay approval until a new

See page 40

A horse named Journalism showed what’s possible

The following is a joint editorial by the Empire State Local News Coalition. It is being published in community newspapers across the state this week.

This past weekend, a horse named Journalism showed us what a comeback looks like.

He was five lengths back, bumped and bruised as he fought through a crowded pack in the Preakness Stakes, one of horse racing’s biggest events. But Journalism didn’t fold, even when he looked to be down and out. He found daylight in the final turn, charged down the stretch, and stormed past the leaders to win in spectacular fashion.

It was gritty. It was powerful. And it was symbolic.

Because while Journalism the horse crossed the finish line in triumph, journalism the profession is reeling—and falling further behind every day.

In New York, dozens of local newspapers have shuttered over the past year, even in some of the wealthiest communities. Trusted reporters have vanished from towns and villages across the state. There’s no one left to sit through school board meetings, follow the money at town hall, or tell the human stories that hold communities together.

The decline isn’t distant. It’s here.

See page 43

Town’s Shady Casino Game

To the Editor:

The Town of Hempstead will host two hearings on the day after Memorial Day in order to consider changes in zoning law for the Hub that will “encourage comprehensively planned gaming facilities and associated uses”. In other words, the Town would like to rezone the 72 acre parcel of taxpayer owned land called “The Hub” for Gaming (aka Gambling). An as-yet-unnamed gaming operator is expected to present at these meetings.

The hearings will be held on Tuesday, May 27th at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM at Hempstead Town Hall, One Washington Street, Hempstead. A notice was posted on the Town’s website home page on Wednesday afternoon, May 21st. The Say No to the Casino Group encourages all citizens of Nassau County to attend.

We are outraged at the lack of public outreach from a Town Government that regularly sends costly mailers about mundane items. It’s very possible that the Town of Hempstead has violated Open Meeting Laws. They certainly have violated the spirit and intention of these laws, in order to advance a gaming facility that has been resoundingly rejected by residents. Plan to attend one of these meetings and Say No!

Monica Kiely

Steve Ripp Steve Rolston Mary Flanagan Richard Williams Lynn Krug George Krug Say No to the Casino

Election results

To the Editor:

Last night the school vote was counted: Out of a pool of 16,000 voters, just 1,719 votes were cast for the budget and 1,601 & 1607 votes were cast for the open school board seats. A 10% turnout rate for important decisions that affect every household is, frankly, awful.

The news of our schools’ drop in rankings was so alarming to me that I

made it my business to meet the candidates running for the open seats at the Eastern POA Town Hall on April 15 and the May 12 PTA meeting at the Middle School. The canary in the coal mine had warned us that our attention was needed, yet turnout at those meetings was underwhelming, and voter participation was even worse.

The most important responsibilities of the Board of Ed are setting sound policy and holding leadership accountable. We need to see responsible oversight and action plans so that every decision benefits our student population, supports our teachers, and respects us - the taxpayers - by spending our tax dollars wisely. What I haven’t seen from the current BOE and Administration is an urgency to respond to this slippage in reading and math performance at the elementary level. It stands to reason that poor performance in the lower grades will eventually affect the higher grades as those students progress - unless something changes. It is now up to the newly elected board members to ensure that our school system does right by our students and are committed to restoring our schools to a level that Garden City residents were accustomed to. I wish them all the best as they work to recover that status, and I offer my gratitude to all four of the candidates for devoting their time and energy to run for these crucial positions.

Elections are our chance to have a direct impact on the issues that matters most to us, and most would agree that our children’s education and futures are at the top of our list, so the lack of engagement and participation is mystifying. Perhaps there would be greater engagement during this process if the candidates took part in an actual debate, like those hosted by the League of Women Voters for political candidates? This time around what we mostly learned is that the candidates were all qualified and nice. What we saw very little of, save for a very brief few minutes at the PTA meeting, was a substan-

See page 42

Garden City leaders, residents speak at casino hearing Town plans zoning change hearing

this Tuesday

SUBMITTED BY THE SAY NO TO THE CASINO CIVIC GROUP

At Monday’s Nassau County Legislature meeting, members of the grassroots organization Say No to the Casino and Village of Garden City officials delivered pointed and passionate remarks opposing the proposed Sands casino.

Despite Las Vegas Sands publicly announcing it has withdrawn from the project, the Legislature moved forward with the release of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). Nassau County residents have until May 30th at 5:00 PM to submit comments to sandscomments@nassaucountyny.gov Residents who did not speak Monday may submit their written comments to the county legislators who are expected to vote to accept or reject the FEIS at the June 23rd meeting.

The FEIS is available in hard copy at the Garden City Library and can be found online at the following link: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/5774/SandsFEIS

Zoning change would permit gambling

With little notice, the Town of Hempstead has scheduled two public hearings to be held this Tuesday, May 27th, at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm to discuss changes to the zoning of the Hub property including a change that would allow gambling. Residents are urged to attend one of the public hearings that will be held at the Town Meeting Pavilion, 1 Washington St., Hempstead NY at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. The Town Clerk’s Office con-

Garden City leaders and residnts attended a Nassau County hearing to oppose the release of the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the casino site.

firmed that no mailers will be sent to notify residents.

Strong comments in opposition

At the County Legislature meeting on the FEIS,

Garden City Mayor Ed Finneran strongly criticized the move, calling it premature and unfounded. “We

See page 40

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Memorial Day Parade route

On Monday, May 26, 2025, the Village of Garden City will hold a Memorial Day Parade. Parade participants will begin to assemble at 9:00 a.m. in Parking Field #9E, on the east side of Franklin Avenue and 10th Street. The schedule will be as follows: 9 a.m. - Memorial Service at the

Cathedral of the Incarnation 10 a.m. - Parade will proceed westbound 10th Street from Parking Field 9E to southbound Franklin Avenue to westbound 7th Street to Cathedral Avenue. 11 a.m. - Memorial Ceremony to be held at the 7th Street Veterans’ Memorial.

St. Paul’s survey deadline

May 30 — don’t delay

Residents have shown great interest in the St. Paul’s survey, with more than 1,900 responses already received! If returning the survey by mail, it must be postmarked by May 30, so don’t delay!

If you’re completing the survey online via https://gardencitystpaulssurvey. org, it must also be submitted by May

30. Only one survey per household — whether written or online — will be counted.

This is an important opportunity to let your voices be heard about the future of St. Paul’s. Questions? Email stpaulsquestions@gardencityny.net.

Attention students!

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

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Village Memorial Day Prayer Service at the Cathedral

This Memorial Day, the Very Reverend Dr. Michael Sniffen, Dean of the Cathedral and a Lieutenant in the United States Navy Chaplain Corps, will lead the annual Memorial Day Prayer Service at 9:00 a.m. in the Cathedral. The service will include prayers for the nation, solemn remembrance, and patriotic hymns offered in the heart of our community before the parade begins its procession through town.

Even as he prays with the people of Garden City, Dean Sniffen’s ministry stretches far beyond its tree-lined streets. He has recently been appointed Command Chaplain of the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division—a unit known with reverence and pride as the Empire Battalion.

The 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines was formed during World War II and fought valiantly in the Pacific campaigns at Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. Since 1962, the battalion had been headquartered in Garden City. In 2024, its command was relocated to the Curtin Garvey Complex at Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn. The complex is named for two Marines serving as First Responders who lost their lives on 9/11 - Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Curtin and Gunnery Sgt. Matthew D. Garvey. Chaplain Sniffen gave the prayer of invocation re-dedicating the battalion’s new headquarters and invoking God’s blessing upon the Marines, Sailors, and civilians who serve from this new post.

In his role as Command Chaplain, Dean Sniffen serves as the senior religious leader for over 1000 Marines and Sailors. His charge is to provide confidential spiritual care, coordinate interfaith worship, and offer moral and ethical guidance both in garrison and in the field. Drawing upon a deep well of theological training and pastoral experience, he brings a unique emphasis on spiritual resilience— equipping servicemembers with the inner resources of strength, stillness, and sacred purpose.

“Our Marines and Sailors need more than physical toughness,” Sniffen said. “They need tools to anchor their souls. The Christian contemplative tradition offers ancient practices that center the heart, clarify the mind, and awaken courage—not just to endure, but to live meaningfully in every moment.”

Rooted in the rhythms of Benedictine prayer, Carmelite stillness, and Franciscan service; Sniffen’s ministry brings centuries of wisdom into the crucible of military life. Whether offering Eucharist before an exercise or deployment, walking beside troops in the field, or

U.S. Navy Lt. Michael Sniffen, Battalion Chaplain, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, delivers a prayer to Marines with Alpha Company, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, as a part of communion during Mountain Training Exercise 4-24 at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, Bridgeport, California, June 16, 2024. The training emphasized the importance of maintaining operational readiness and cohesion while mountaineering through dense forests, rivers and uneven ground. MTX includes a variety of scenarios to test the Marines' adaptability and resilience, simulating real-world environmental challenges they might face.

U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Jestin Costa

listening with care and presence, he fulfills the chaplain’s timeless mission: to bring God to people and people to God.

In addition to this new appointment, Dean Sniffen continues to serve as Dean of the Cathedral and the Mercer School of Theology. His dual service reflects a vision of ministry that bridges the sacred and the civic, the liturgical and the lived.

On this Memorial Day, we remember the fallen with reverence and honor the living with gratitude. All members of the Garden City community are welcome to join in prayer at the Cathedral of the Incarnation at 9 a.m. on Memorial Day.

GCRE HAS SELECTED Christine and Michael Tiedemann AS HONOREES OF THIS YEAR'S GALA AS WE RAISE MONEY FOR BREAKTHROUGH T1-D (formerly known as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation)

Black Diamond Sponsor: $20,000 (10 tickets included, podium recognition, acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Diamond Sponsor: $10,000 (8 tickets included, podium recognition, acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Platinum Sponsor: $5,000 (4 tickets included, acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Gold Sponsor: $3,000 (2 tickets included, acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Silver Sponsor: $2,000 (Acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Bronze Sponsor: $1,000 (Acknowledgement in GC News and at digital event)

Tickets are $200 per person. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor and/or donate, please visit: https://gcrepf.org/events or mail checks payable to “Garden City Real Estate Professionals Foundation” to Lauren Scarantino, 136 Stratford Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530

For more information about GCRE, please visit https://gcrepf.org

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

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

Mortgage Rates this week from www.nerdwallet.com

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS

Date: 05/21/2025

Sold price: $2,549,000

4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half bath

Architectural Style: Colonial

Property Size: .14 acre

Annual taxes: $24,106

MLS number: 834097

The Seller’s Team: Matthew Minardi, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Matthew Minardi and Aimee Escher, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Realty

Experience Luxury Living in This Fully Renovated Estates Colonial. Step into perfection with this stunning, completely redone 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath Estates section colonial. Every inch of this home has been meticulously updated with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. A Bluestone walkway welcomes you to the elegant foyer, where gleaming hardwood floors lead you into a breathtaking chef’s kitchen. Featuring top-of-the-line Thermador appliances, a large quartzite island, a built-in wine fridge, and a one-of-a-kind walk-in pantry, this kitchen seamlessly flows into the dining area and sun-drenched living room with a gas fireplace. The first floor also boasts a private home office with custom built-ins, a powder room and an oversized mudroom equipped with closets, cubbies, and a washer/dryer for ultimate convenience. Upstairs, the luxurious primary suite offers two spacious walk-in closets and a spa-like ensuite bath with a double vanity, stand-alone soaking tub, and a separate shower. Two additional bedrooms share a stylish Jack-and-Jill bath with a double vanity, while a fourth bedroom enjoys its own private bath. All bedrooms feature generous walk-in closets. A second-floor laundry room with two washers and dryers and access to a huge walk-up attic add to the home’s thoughtful design. The expansive basement surprises at every turn, offering multiple recreation areas, a home gym, a golf simulator, a separate family living space, a powder room, two additional rec rooms and a pristine mechanical room. Step outside to an entertainer’s dream backyard, complete with a covered porch featuring a gas fireplace, built-in heaters, and a TV—transforming a seasonal space into a year-round retreat. The Bluestone patio offers multiple dining areas and a built-in barbecue with a direct gas line. Additional highlights include, six-zone heating with four zones of radiant heat, including in the garage, brand-new mechanicals, Anderson windows , whole-house, one-touch electrical lighting system are just a taste of the many amenities offered. A prime location nears two LIRR stations, parks, and top-rated schools. From exquisite moldings to flawless hardwood floors, every detail of this home exudes sophistication. This is a must-see property—don’t miss your chance to own this exceptional residence!

Date: 05/19/2025

Sold price: $2,250,000

4 bedrooms, 3 full baths

Architectural Style: Expanded Ranch

Property Size: .34 acre

Annual Taxes: $24,959

MLS number: 810062

The Seller’s Team: Matthew Minardi, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Julie Whicher, Compass Greater NY

Spacious Expanded Ranch on large property located on desirable Osborne Road! Completely updated and excellently maintained by owners. All spacious rooms and 3 fireplaces. The expansive, vaulted family room has a gas fireplace and sliders to deck off the updated kitchen. Large primary with beautiful built-ins, private bath, and WIC. 4 zone Gas Heat, 2 zone CAC. House is wired for generator and has a newly replaced sewer line and copper water line! 100x150 property and lovely curb appeal.

This

informational

page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

19 Osborne Road

EPOA seeks Junior Ambassador

The Garden City Eastern Property Owners’ Association (EPOA) is seeking applications for candidates to be considered for Junior Ambassador positions for the years 2025–2027. This program is designed to introduce high school sophomores entering their junior year to Village government through participation in EPOA meetings, attendance at government meetings, and promoting civic participation in the community. This is an exciting opportunity for students to become involved in local affairs and to learn about Garden City ’ s unique form of local government.

The Junior Ambassador program is designed as a two year commitment encompassing junior and senior years. Preference will be given to students who reside in the Eastern

section of Garden City and whose families are dues paying members of the EPOA.

Students who attend Garden City High School may obtain an application from the Social Studies Department office or on the EPOA website at www.gcepoa.org. High school sophomores, who attend schools other than Garden City High School, may download an application from the EPOA website. Completed applications can be mailed to EPOA, P.O. Box 7525, Garden City, N.Y. or submitted electronically to contactus@gcepoa.org

All interested sophomores are encouraged to apply. The deadline is June 9, 2025.  A brief interview will be conducted as part of the application process.

GCPD joins Buckle-Up NY enforcement initiative

The Garden City Police Department is proud to announce its participation in the Buckle-Up New York enforcement initiative, running from May 19 through June 1. This statewide campaign focuses on enforcing seat belts and child restraint laws, which are vital in saving lives on the road.

During this two-week initiative, officers will conduct highly visible patrols and checkpoints throughout the Village of Garden City, specifically targeting non-compliance with occupant restraint laws, including child safety seat regulations. The primary goal of the Garden City Police Department’s Occupant Restraint Enforcement Program is to reduce personal injuries and fatalities resulting from automobile crashes through both education and enforcement.

Commissioner Kenneth Jackson emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The Police Department ’ s participation in this effort was made possible through funding from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC), with assistance from the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police and the Nassau County Traffic Safety Board. Our commitment to ensuring the safety of our commu-

nity is unwavering, and we encourage all residents to buckle up for their own safety and the safety of others.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports: In 2023, 10,484 passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts. Among the young adults (18 to 34) passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2023, 60% were unbuckled — one of the highest percentages for all age groups.

The Buckle-Up New York initiative serves as a reminder for all drivers and passengers to wear their seat belts and ensure proper use of child safety seats. Statistics show that properly wearing a seat belt significantly decreases the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident.

For more information about the Buckle-Up New York initiative, Commissioner Jackson recommends the following websites for further information:

https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/seat-belts#:~:text=Overview,estimated%2014%2C955%20 lives%20in%202017

https://trafficsafety.ny.gov/occupant-protection

Grand opening

Hempstead Town Councilman Tom Muscarella (left) attended the grand opening of eScript360 Pharmacy, located on Franklin Avenue in Garden City, on May 1, 2025. Also attending were Founder Yuriy Davydov, Partner Michael Kay, Chief Pharmacist George Dallas, and Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti.

Garden City real estate, reimagined.

Stephen Baymack

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Lauren Grima Lic. RE Salesperson Principal Agent

Pedro “Pete” Diaz

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

6

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.

Chamber, Rotary award business education scholarship

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce and Mineola-Garden city Rotary, co-sponsors,  have announced that Julia Rosenblatt, a graduating senior at Garden City High School has been awarded the “Althea Robinson Excellence in Business Education Scholarship.”

Selected by the Garden City High School Business Education Department, Julia is the student judged by her business teachers to best excel in the area of business and to exemplify the spirit of the Garden City Business Community.

Having earned high praises by her business teachers, they are quick to acknowledge Julia’s remarkable strides in six business courses throughout her years at Garden City High School.  They note that she has achieved a 100% in business courses, 98% in courses overall and has obtained a GPA 4.0 unweighted.  Julia’s business courses have included College Marketing, Marketing and Advertising, Fashion Marketing, College Business Management, Business Management and College Accounting.

Julia has been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) since her freshman year when she was the only girl student.  Having taken on many leadership roles and encouraging girls to become members of FBLA, she currently serves as president. Once the only female member, Julia takes pride in having sent an allgirls team to the FBLA Spring District Meeting this past January.

Julia has also participated in an introductory investment and finance class through the Teach Me Wall Street organization where she analyzed stock charts and learned to manage a financial portfolio. This, she says, gave her a taste of the finance world and increased her interest in pursuing a career in banking.

Along with her student partner, Julia participated in the Emerging Leader Competition held at St. Joseph’s University last December where they were tasked with reviving the Yes We Can community center, and providing a plan for its long-term stability.  Julia and her partner won first place overall in the finance category.

As Social Chair on the Math Team, Julia managed member recruitment, participated in in county-wide monthly competitions and ran the team Instagram page.  She had also received Garden City High School FacultyNominated Awards in Chemistry,

World History, Math, English and Spanish.  She served as president of the Economics Club leading the team in Fed & Euro Challenges andwas active in research preparation.  She was vice president and founding member of Junior State of America which promotes civic awareness through community service projects.

With her multitude of accomplishments, Julia has still found time to tutor peers, act as Park Attendant and Tennis Camp Instructor, serves as Long Island Science Museum classroom assistant and as teachers assistant for SCOPE Education Services.  She participated in the Softball Team’s 2024 Conference Championships and was varsity caption of the Tennis Team.

Julia will attend Yale University in the fall where she plans to study mathematics and economics.  She assures, “whether I am an actuary or investment banker, I know mathematics and numbers will be a part of my future career.”

Julia Rosenblatt will be the 33nd recipient of the business scholarship, in Althea Robinison’s name since 2012 as requested by the Garden City High School Business Department.

At a special luncheon, hosted by Mineola-Garden City Rotary on June 24, Julia will receive her award co-sponsored by Rotary and the Garden City Chamber of Commerce.  She will join Rotary’s student honorees from Garden City and Mineola High Schools who will receive Rotary’s “Maureen Clancy Memorial Scholarship.”

See what's happening at your

library!

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

Julia Rosenblatt

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!

Presentation on Trip to Ireland

On Wednesday, June 11th at 11:15 Matt from Colette Travel will be at the Senior Center to present information on an upcoming trip called “Shades of Ireland”, that will take place on April 15th-May 4th 2026. Register by calling the Senior Center (516) 385-8006, or stop by the front desk.

Bingo!

Wednesday, June 25

BINGO at 12:00, with Erin Fleischmann from Douglas Elliman. Erin will bring prizes from local establishments. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Trip

to the Argyle Theatre to See “The Music Man”

Sunday, August 3

join us as we go to see The Music Man at the Argyle Theatre in Babylon, and have lunch at La Famiglia Restaurant. The Recreation Bus will leave at 10:45, lunch will be at 12:00, and performance at 2:00. $67 for the theatre ticket, check made payable to the “Argyle Theatre”, and $50 cash for lunch, payable at the same time. To register, please visit the Senior Center front desk.

Open Ping Pong

Join us on Tuesday afternoons, at the Senior Center from 1:00–3:00 for Open Ping Pong. This new drop in program began Tuesday, May 6. Bring your friends, we have three tables!

Prepping for Hurricane Season

Tuesday, May 27, at 11:00

Join us for an Educational Session with NYU Langone, Subject: Prepping for Hurricane Season. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Nuances of Women’s Health Emergencies

Tuesday, June 24, at 11:00

Join us for an Educational Session with NYU Langone, subject: Nuances of Women’s Health Emergencies. 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 check made payable to “Amazing Destinations”. DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED, WE HAVE 3 SPOTS LEFT. We are now opening up this trip to non-residents.

Chess 4 Community

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

Senior Center Lunch Group

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

Monday Night

Duplicate Bridge Results

The winners of the Monday, May 19, games:

North / South:

1st Place: Athena Philippides and Carol Cook

East / West:

1st Place: Carrie Flapan and Dian Kendrick

Advertise in our papers!

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!

Empowering Vets: GC resident’s program enters 15th year

Edge4Vets, founded by Garden City resident Tom Murphy, director of the Human Resiliency Institute at Fordham, kicked off its fifteen year this spring helping veterans get jobs that can lead to careers. Full details at Edge4Vets.org.

What veterans need most to succeed in civilian life, according to business leaders, is support to translate their military skills into “tools” for civilian success.

Edge4Vets, founded by Tom Murphy, a Garden City resident and Director of the Human Resiliency Institute at Fordham University, has trained 3000 veterans since 2011. The program kicked off its fifteenth year helping veterans land jobs with an expansion to Tucson, Arizona this spring.

“Arizona is the tenth state where we’ve offered Edge4Vets,” Murphy said. “A Tucson business group, Desert Thunder Squadron, brought us in to prepare and connect airmen retiring from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base for jobs and careers.

“Research conducted by Dr. Kyle Emich at our Fordham-based institute shows that veterans know they’ve developed skills overseeing tens of millions of dollars of equipment or managing large teams, but often they worry whether they’ll get the chance to apply

their abundant skills for a career that fulfills them.”

That’s where teaching veterans to translate their military values and skills into “tools” for the civilian workplace comes in, followed by connecting them to HR reps for job placement.

Edge4Vets takes participants through a four-step process to create a personal PLAN4SUCCESS in four areas, Vision, Values, Skills and Action. Mentors, including business leaders and HR reps, provide support and give feedback.

The system works. Or as one participant in Tucson said in his post survey: “It was great having mentors with business experience help us formulate our thoughts and put them on paper.”

As Edge4Vets begins its fifteen year, including working in partnership with NYC Department of Veterans Services in NY and nationally with Airports Council Int’l-NA, the program is poised to support the next 3000 participants. For full details, visit Edge4Vets.org

Universal Pre-K seats available

The Garden City School District would like to announce that a limited number of Universal Pre-Kindergarten seats are available for the 2025–2026 school year at its Harbor Child Care Roslyn (Shelter Rock) location. Children who turn 4 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2025, and are eligible to start kindergarten in September 2026 may apply for the available UPK seats. To enroll, children must be residents of Garden City and provide documentation of all required immunizations and an up-to-date physical exam. Please note that children eligible for kindergarten (those turning 5 on or before Dec. 1, 2025) are not eligible for UPK under state guidelines.

The UPK program runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. and follows the Garden City Public School District calendar. Before care and after care services are also available for an additional fee. Please note that transportation is not provided; families are responsible for arranging their own.

For more information about eligibility and the application process, visit the UPK section of the Garden City Schools website: https://www.gardencity.k12.ny.us/o/gcps/ page/upk-20252026-school-year

If you have questions or would like to apply, please contact the Garden City Public Schools Office of Curriculum and Instruction at upk@gcufsd.net.

Dr. Levon Nikoyan, DDS FORWARD ORAL SURGERY

Your

Teenager and Wisdom Teeth: A Garden City Parent & Oral Surgeon’s Guide

Hello Garden City neighbors!

As a fellow resident of our wonderful village and a proud parent with two children right here at Garden City High School, I know firsthand the busy lives of our teenagers and the countless milestones we navigate alongside them – from sports and school events to thinking about the future.

Beyond being a local parent deeply invested in our community, I’m also a Board-Certified Oral Surgeon Combining these perspectives, one topic I see frequently, both professionally and as a dad/mom in town, is wisdom teeth

Like navigating driver’s permits or prepping for exams, understanding wisdom teeth is another important step during these formative high school years. Because I care deeply about the health and well-being of our community’s young people – our kids, our students – I wanted to share some straightforward insights.

Think of this as a chat between neighbors. This Q&A is designed to answer your common questions in simple terms, helping you understand why an early consultation with an oral surgeon about wisdom teeth isn't just routine, but a smart, proactive step for your teenager's longterm health and comfort. Let's clear up some common questions!

Q1: First off, what exactly are wisdom teeth?

A: Wisdom teeth are the very last set of molars to come in, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties (hence the name – supposedly when a little “wisdom” arrives!). They are located way in the back of the mouth, behind the second molars. Think of them as the “third molars.”

Q2: Why do wisdom teeth seem to cause so many problems?

A: It often comes down to space. Our jaws have generally evolved to be smaller than our ancestors’, meaning there’s often not enough room for these final four teeth to erupt properly. This can lead to sev-

eral issues:

* Impaction: The teeth get stuck under the gums or bone, or only partially break through.

* Angled Growth: They might grow sideways, tilted, or towards/away from other teeth.

* Cleaning Difficulty: Even if they come in straight, their position way back in the mouth makes them hard to brush and floss effectively, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Q3: My teenager isn’t complaining about any pain. Why should we see an oral surgeon now?

A: That’s a great question! The key is proactive planning versus reactive treatment. Waiting until pain starts often means a problem like infection, crowding, or damage to adjacent teeth has already begun. An early consultation allows us to:

* Assess Development: We can take special X-rays (like a panoramic X-ray) to see exactly where the wisdom teeth are, how they are developing, and predict if they are likely to cause future problems based on their position and the available space.

* Easier Evaluation: Evaluating wisdom teeth when the roots are not fully formed can often give us the clearest picture of potential issues.

* Plan Ahead: If removal looks necessary, planning it during a time that works best for your teen’s schedule (like summer break) is much better than dealing with an emergency situation during exams or a busy school year.

Q4: When is the best time for this first consultation?

A: While it varies, a good time for an initial evaluation is typically during the mid-teenage years, often between ages 15 and 17. At this stage, the wisdom teeth are developed enough to see their path, but the roots are often not fully formed, which can be advantageous if removal is eventually needed. Your general dentist might also recommend a visit based on routine X-rays.

GC Chamber of Commerce announces Belmont Festival

Garden City will once again take to the streets to celebrate the final leg of the Triple Crown with the return of the perennially popular Belmont Festival. While being run at Saratoga, the festival celebrating the 157th Belmont Stakes will be Friday, June 6th Garden City on Seventh Street. Please note that the street will be closed around 4pm.

“We are thrilled to host the Belmont Festival once again and appreciate the continuing support of civic, business, community leaders and local residents” says John Wilton, Chamber President. The Garden City Belmont Festival has historically been the largest Belmont Festival on Long Island, with attendance from Montauk to NYC, including

many of the VIPs who grace the halls of our very own Garden City Hotel.

The festival will take place on Seventh Street from 6 to 10 p.m. and will feature entertainment, a mechanical bull, live music, family-friendly activities and games, dancers from Broadway Bound and the signature art contest.

Garden City children will have the opportunity to show their love of horse racing by taking part in a children’s poster contest. Participants in the

children’s poster contest must be residents of Garden City who are currently enrolled in grades K – 5. This event wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of sponsors. If anyone is interested in being a sponsor of the festival, please submit the form below to The Garden City Chamber of Commerce, with the preferred logo at: jwil387@aol.com or rytom5489@ aol.com. Local organizations are also encouraged to set up tables to interface

2025 Summer Belmont Stakes and Promenade Sponsorship Opportunities

_____ Diamond $10,000

_____ Platinum $5,000

_____ Gold $2,500

_____ Silver $1,000

_____ Friend $250

Please send your preferred logo to rytom5489@aol.com

Garden City Chamber of Commerce

730 Franklin Ave.

Garden City, NY 11530

ST. PAUL’S SURVEY

DEADLINE MAY 30TH!!

RESIDENTS HAVE SHOWN GREAT INTEREST IN THE ST. PAUL’S SURVEY WITH THOUSANDS OF RESPONSES ALREADY RECEIVED!

• SUBMIT SURVEY ONLINE BY MAY 30TH: HTTPS://GARDENCITYSTPAULLSSURVEY.ORG

• SURVEY MUST BE POSTMARKED BY MAY 30TH SO DON’T DELAY!

• ONLY ONE SURVEY PER HOUSEHOLDWHETHER WRITTEN OR ONLINE - WILL BE COUNTED

• EMAIL QUESTIONS TO STPAULSQUESTIONS@GARDENCITYNY.NET

with the thousands of community members who will join us! Please contact the Chamber to arrange a table at 516-746-7724.

Mark your calendars for the next upcoming Chamber of Commerce events: Thursday, May 29th, 5:30pm: Biz Family Auto Ribbon Cutting event at 3 Commercial Avenue and the next Connect Event on Tuesday, June 10th at 5:30pm at Adelphi University, which is the first Connect event open to all residents!

Please stay connected to the Chamber of Commerce through their social media pages or by visiting www. gardencitychamber.org and remember, shop local!

Broadway performer, musician lead workshop at GCHS

Garden City High School students worked with Alexa Green and Chris Citera in a vocal workshop.

Garden City High School choir and theater students recently participated in a masterclass and workshop led by Broadway performer Alexa Green and musician Chris Citera. The event offered students a rare opportunity to learn directly from two accomplished professionals and gain meaningful insight into the world of performance. Green, known for her role as Glinda in the Los Angeles and San Francisco productions of “Wicked,” and Citera, a skilled vocalist and pianist, met while studying at Columbia University and now collaborate regularly as artists and educators. During their visit, they shared their personal journeys, detailing their education, career paths, and the realities of working in the music and

theater industry.

City School District

Throughout the workshop, Green and Citera emphasized the foundations of healthy vocal technique—breath control, tone, support, and expression— while also offering candid reflections on the discipline and perseverance needed to sustain a creative career.

Ms. Green and Mr. Citera led a masterclass with four soloists, each performing a piece they are currently preparing. Green and Citera offered personalized coaching on interpretation, technique, and stage presence, while classmates observed and learned from the feedback. The experience left students feeling inspired, motivated and more confident in their own artistic journeys.

Adelphi seeks summer lifeguards

Adelphi University Campus Recreation is seeking Nassau County certified lifeguards for various part time hours throughout the week this summer. There are several types of programs that need additional coverage such as a day camp and open lap swimming during the day, and open rec and a rental group in the evenings. NO weekends required! This is a great opportuni-

ty for newly certified lifeguards to gain experience as well as for local college and high school students to earn some extra cash close to home. The pay rate is $17.50 per hour.

Some shifts begin on June 2!

Anyone who is interested is encouraged to reach out to us by email at campusrec@adelphi.edu.

Photo courtesy of the Garden

This past Monday several residents joined me and Trustees Catalano and Muldoon at the NC Legislature building to comment on the Final EIS report regarding the potential environmental impact a massive casino development would have on the Coliseum grounds and surrounding environs. I could not have been more impressed with those that spoke out in opposition…both from the Village as well as the Say No to The Casino advocacy group. We will continue to follow that crucial process to its conclusion.

Additionally, this coming Tuesday, the Town of Hempstead Board will be holding its regular meeting at 10:30 a.m. at 1 Washington St. (in the Meeting Pavilion). The issue of rezoning and the enactment of the Mitchell Field Integrated Resort District at the Coliseum grounds is scheduled to be on the calendar. If adopted, even though there is no current casino operator sponsor for development, a casino build out would be allowed to proceed unimpeded at the Coliseum site. I plan on attending along with several residents and our allies in “Say No.”

Finally, it’s hard not to marvel at the job our Rec and DPW teams are

Muldoon -

performing on 7th St. as we get ready to commemorate Memorial Day and kick off the summer season in the Village…many thanks all around. Enjoy the long weekend and please take a moment on Monday to pay homage to those men and woman who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. A sacrifice that all of us in the Village and beyond benefit from every single day.

Village seeks volunteer to serve on Water Authority

The Water Authority of Western Nassau County provides water to some Village residents who live in the westernmost part of the Village. Members consist of two appointed by the Town of Hempstead, two appointed by the Town of North Hempstead, and one member each appointed by the Village boards of the Villages served by the Authority - Bellerose, Floral Park, New Hyde Park, South Floral Park, Stewart Manor and Garden

City. The Board meets once a month, on the third Monday, at their headquarters in New Hyde Park. Occasionally, the Garden City Board Member will serve as a liaison between residents and the Authority on matters of service, billing, etc. Interested candidates who wish to volunteer may send their letter of interest and resumé to Village Clerk Kelly Galanek at kgalanek@gardencityny. net.

Beautifying Our Downtown

As the saying goes, “it takes a village.” This was evident on Seventh Street this week with all hands on deck to prep Garden City’s downtown for Memorial Day, the highly anticipated return of the Belmont Festival and the long days of summer. Public Works and Recreation and Parks combined their workforce and equipment to take advantage of the weather to make a material dent in the tree grates on Seventh Street, between Hilton and Franklin avenues. Crews also hung flower baskets and performed other maintenance activities along the walkway as well.

Career Opportunities

The Village of Garden City is currently accepting candidates for several positions, including Deputy Village Treasurer, Parking Meter Attendant, Assistant Superintendent of Building Department, and Chair of the Recreation and Parks Department, to name a few. You can read the full job descriptions on our website via the Career Opportunities button [https:// www.gardencityny.net/441/CareerOpportunities]. All candidates should email letters of interest and resumés to the respective emails included in each job description.

Memorial Day 2025

William Bradford Turner Post, No. 265 will conduct its Memorial Day

Parade on Monday, May 26, 2025, beginning with a 9:00 a.m. Memorial Service at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, followed by 10:00 a.m. parade assembly in the parking lot on the east corner of 10th Street and Franklin Avenue, where the parade steps off. The parade route is as follows: southbound Franklin Avenue, westbound 7th Street to the Veterans Memorial, where a ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m. Post Commander Frank Tauches will lead the ceremony, which honors the men and women who have died while serving in the United States military.

Veterans Flags on 7th Street

The veterans flags on 7th Street, between Hilton Avenue and Cathedral Avenue, are a beautiful way to honor our local veterans. In October 2024, the Board approved the addition of flags on light poles on the south side of Seventh Street, along the stretch between Hilton Avenue and Cathedral avenues. These flags were erected May 15 and join the original 10 flags erected last May, at the request of Garden City High School junior Kiera O’Leary, whose Girl Scout Gold Award project was met with much enthusiasm. The veterans flags can be seen along 7th Street from Memorial Day through Veterans Day. The flags include a photo of local veterans and their dates of service.

Sanitation Collection: Memorial Day 2025

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage or recycling pickup on Monday, May 26, 2025. The Holiday Week Collection Schedule will be as follows:

Garbage

Western Half of Village: Tuesday and Friday

Eastern Half of Village: Wednesday and Saturday

Rubbish

Entire Village: Thursday, May 29

Recycling

Residents scheduled for recycling on Monday, May 26 are asked to put recyclables out on Monday, June 2.

Mayor Edward Finneran

Cocaine possession arrest

On May 14, a 65-year-old motorist was arrested for alleged possession of cocaine and for driv ing with a DWI-related revoked license.

Debit card theft

A replacement debit card was reportedly stolen in the mail on May 14 and used to make unauthorized pur chases, the victim reported.

CO alarm response

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded on May 15 to fire alarms triggered by construction dust and vaping steam.

Forged check cashed

An altered forged check was reportedly cashed against a victim’s bank account on May 15.

Truck operator cited

Garden City Police assisted firefighters on May 14 in responding to a residential carbon monoxide alarm activation; the home was later deemed safe.

Overweight vehicles cited

On May 14, two truck operators on Old Country Road were charged with driving overweight vehicles.

Graffiti removed

Garden City Police removed graffiti found on a traffic sign on Chestnut Street on May 14.

Stolen identity used

A victim’s identity was reportedly stolen and used on May 14 in an attempt to open an unauthorized credit union account.

False alarms

On May 14, GCFD and GCPD responded to several fire alarms activated by burnt food, vaping steam, and human error.

Child triggers false fire alarm

On May 14, Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a report of an active fire at a residence; firefighters determined there was no fire and that the call had been initiated by a child.

Hit-and-run report

A white sedan reportedly left the scene of an auto accident that occurred on May 15 on 11th Street.

Lawn mower theft

A lawn mower was reported stolen from a residential shed on Brook Street on May 15.

Multiple vehicle charges

On May 15, a motorist on Clinton Road was charged with driving with a suspended license, suspended registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle.

Alarms caused by dust and steam

A truck operator on Franklin Avenue was charged with driving an overweight vehicle on May 15.

Aggravated DWI arrest

Garden City Police responded on May 16 to a crash at Cambridge Avenue and Lydia Lane, where a vehicle had struck a fence. A 21-yearold male was arrested for aggravated DWI.

Suspended license and speeding

A motorist on Clinton Road was charged on May 16 with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.

Unsecured loads cited

Two truck operators on New Hyde Park Road were charged on May 16 with driving with unsecured loads.

Alarm responses

On May 16, GCFD and GCPD responded to fire alarms activated by burnt food, a battery change, and hairspray.

Unsafe turn and suspension

A motorist on Washington Avenue was charged on May 16 with driving with a suspended license and making an unsafe turn.

Multiple vehicle violations

On May 16, an 11th Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license, suspended registration, and operating an uninsured vehicle.

Identity theft reported

A victim’s identity was reportedly stolen and used to open multiple unauthorized cellphone accounts on May 16.

Unregistered vehicle cited

On May 16, a motorist on Hilton Avenue was charged with driving with a suspended license and operating an unregistered auto.

See page 44

MAKE THE SWITCH...

and trust in the Garden City area. Once the proud owner of the well-known GC Alarm, Joe now brings his expertise to Briscoe Protective, where he has dedicated countless years to safeguarding homes and businesses.

With over 40 years of hands-on experience, Joe is more than just a security expert; he’s a problem-solver who tailors each security solution to your unique needs. When it comes to protecting what matters most, Joe’s knowledge and commitment make him the go-to expert in the community.

Uniondale Hub Upgrade Project

The New York Power Authority is upgrading its existing Uniondale Hub substation on Stewart Avenue to support the interconnection of new transmission and facilitate the delivery of energy to address increasing demand.

Please join us at our open houses to learn more about this project.

Tuesday, May 27

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Uniondale Public Library 400 Uniondale Ave. Uniondale, NY 11553

Thursday, May 29

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Garden City Public Library 60 7th Street Garden City, NY 11530 nypa.gov/UniondaleHub

President Biden and His Fitness

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

Democrats, and indeed the whole political system, have been roiled by continuing controversy about former President Joe Biden’s mental and physical health during his presidency. Indeed,  a root cause of this situation is related to the extremely polarized nature of American media and politics.

I guess you have to start in 2020. Since Mr. Biden was born in 1942, and thus was nearing 78 years old, it was pretty much inevitable that his fitness for office would be called into question when he ran for president in that year.

Nevertheless, that issue was largely out of sight when he won the Democratic nomination in 2020 and campaigned for office. The Covid crisis was at its height, and it did not seem necessary, or particularly desirable for a presidential candidate to make numerous public appearances or to run a particularly strenuous race.

Indeed, Mr. Biden’s opponent, President Donald Trump, who largely relied on big rallies to make his case, was at a distinct disadvantage when he was forced to limit his options. Mr. Biden was able to rely on a very limited number of appearances, and two reasonably creditable debate performances. And despite this rather flaccid run and being accused of mainly campaigning from his basement, public unhappiness with Mr. Trump (and particularly his handling of Covid), allowed Mr. Biden to prevail.

In the  early years of the Biden Administration, the president kept short hours at work and spent long weekends at the beach  and there was the occasional stumble, fall or inappropriate statement, but no  gaffe attracted lengthy national attention. Nevertheless, by the summer of 2022,  a New York Times poll found that 61 percent of Democratic voters favored a new nominee, most citing Mr. Biden’s age as the main concern.  Still, Mr. Biden felt vindicated by the Democrats’ relatively good performance in the midterms and announced a reelection bid  in April 2023.

However, by 2024, it was becoming increasingly apparent that Mr. Biden was not up to the job.  Robert Hur, a special prosecutor investigating Mr.

Biden’s document retention practices,  declined prosecution because Mr. Biden would be able to present himself to a jury as a “sympathetic, well-meaning elderly man with a poor memory” . A well sourced Wall Street Journal article stated that Mr. Biden was “showing signs of slipping”.  Mr. Biden was frequently seen in videos as meandering during public appearances. Actor George Clooney said that Mr. Biden showed signs of age during a fundraiser.

But most of all, Mr. Biden was forced to change political course on account of a drastically bad performance in a debate against Donald Trump on June 27, when Mr. Biden spoke in a weak hoarse voice and repeatedly lost his train of thought. On July 21, he announced he was not running.

While it is perhaps to be expected that senior members of the Biden Administration, and other Democratic leaders, would be reluctant to expose Mr. Biden’s infirmities and raise questions about his fitness for office, the same should not have been true of the news media.

But key elements of the mainstream media, likely motivated by a fear of helping Donald Trump, basically buried concerns about Mr. Biden. Even before the 2020 election, questions about his seeming cognitive difficulties were dismissed as demonstrating bias against someone who stuttered. Videos of Mr. Biden wandering off or acting inappropriate were dismissed as deepfakes or cheapfakes. The well sourced Wall Street Journal article on the President’s problems was generally derided. Special prosecutor Hur was accused of Republican bias.  A Democratic candidate, Dean Phillips, who emphasized Mr. Biden’s infirmities, was ignored.  Only after Mr. Biden’s disastrous debate performance did much of the media seem at all interested in the competence issue.

Yes, there are right leaning media segments that reflexively defend Donald Trump. Nevertheless, even in this polarized atmosphere, it will take a long time to regain the public trust for media outlets that seemed to shove aside the crucial truth about President Biden.

Getting married?

IN MEMORIAM

Julia Malvese

May 26, 2000 – May 18, 2025

Julia Malvese, lovingly known as “Jules,” of East Northport, passed away at the age of 24. She was the adored daughter of Peter Malvese and Rosetta Atteritano, and the cherished granddaughter of Patricia Marino and Paul Malvese and Guiseppe and Julie Atteritano. The Malvese family formerly lived in Garden City.

Julia brought joy and light to everyone fortunate enough to know her.  She was a loving niece to Matthew and Sue Malvese and Chris and Julie Von During, and a dear cousin to Matt, Katelyn, Nathan, Christian and Makayla.  Her love was deep, her laughter infectious, and her spirit unforgettable.

Jules found delight in life’s simple pleasures: playing with cats, admiring puppies, and taking peaceful walks through Heckscher Park in Huntington or along the pier in Northport.  Breakfasts at Greenlawn Family Restaurant and sweet treats like lobster tails from Buttercookery were cherished rituals that became treasured memories for those who shared them with her.

A devoted fan of Sesame Street LIVE, the color yellow, and dancing in the car to Prince songs, Julia’s personality radiated joy.  Her laugh—pure and uncontainable—was the best sound on

Julia Malvese

earth. She embodied a beautiful, kind soul.  She was, in every sense, love itself.

Julia was better than everyone, not in pride, but in her ability to see and share the good in the world around her.  Her presence was a gift; her absence, an unimaginable loss.

In honoring her memory, let us strive to live with even a fraction of her light

IN MEMORIAM

Gary J. Metzler

Gary J. Metzler, a lifelong resident of Garden City,  passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on September 9, 1931, in Queens, Gary spent more than nine decades in the community he cherished and called home.

A graduate of Garden City High School, Gary proudly served his country in the Korean War. Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Anne E. Metzler (née Manning), also a Garden City native. Together, they raised their two children, Elizabeth and William, and built a life rooted in faith, family, and community.

Gary enjoyed a successful career in advertising in New York City, but his greatest joy was found in the simple, steady rhythms of family life. A devout parishioner of St. Joseph’s Church, he served faithfully as an usher at the 7:30 a.m. Mass for many years. Gary was also a devoted bridge player and a regular at the Garden City Senior Center,

where he shared many spirited games with close friends. He gave back to his community in many ways, including volunteering on Election Day well into his 90s to assist local voters.

Gary was predeceased by his beloved wife, Anne. He is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Price and her husband Douglas, and his son William Metzler and his wife Alison. He was a proud grandfather to Daniel Price, Timothy Price (Jessica), Colleen Metzler, Jack Metzler, Kerri Metzler, and Kara Metzler, and a loving great-grandfather to Kayleigh and Kenzie Price.

Gary’s steadfast spirit, generosity, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation was held at Fairchild & Sons Funeral Home in Garden City. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Joseph’s Church on Wednesday, May 21st. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary’s memory to Tunnels To Towers Foundation.

Talking shop at the Garden City Historical Society

Local historical society representatives (no particular order): Patricia Realmuto (Franklin Square) and Mary Anne Grey; Dan D’Antonio and Debbie Fehringer (Rockville Centre); Phyllis Ginsberg, Lynne Turner and Kathi Lismore (Long Beach); Karen Montalbano (Baldwin); Ellen Kelly and Lynn Liotta (Freeport); Ann Corbett (Floral Park); Madeline Pearson (East Rockaway & Lynbrook); Nicole Menchise, LILRC; and, Maureen O’Connell, Kate Schmidt, Mary Mahoney, Penny Hinderstein, and Mark Ryan (all of TGCHS)

Nicole Menchise, LILRC, and Kate Schmidt, TGCHS Trustee, admire the antique square grand piano restored and donated by Betsy and John Lane.

The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) hosted a meeting of local historical societies on May 17th at the Museum. The Museum parlor was the perfect venue for the gathering, presided over by Mary Mahoney, past president of the GC Historical Society. Local historical societies in attendance included Long Beach, East Rockaway/ Lynbrook, Franklin Square, Rockville Centre, Baldwin, Floral Park, and Freeport, as well as several Trustees from the TGCHS.

Every year, the GCHS invites historical societies to gather and share information on their activities, their challenges, and their accomplishments.

They discussed the TGCHS’ annual “Fashion Through the Ages” Exhibit, planned for October 17th – 30th.  And Franklin Square spoke of its extensive programs for fourth-grade children, which are done in collaboration with its schools. While the issues facing each group were varied, they shared a common issue – limited resources to preserve archives.

The gathering was fortunate enough to have Nicole Menchise, Digitization and Archives Coordinator from the Long Island Library Resources Council (LILRC) in attendance. She  offered use

ful strategies for cataloguing items so they can best be enjoyed by the public. Membership in the LILRC entitles historical societies to the resources of an archivist who has broad experience in gathering and organizing historical collections.  Most of the historical societies have an archives collection but do not have the resources for an archivist. Nicole provided invaluable information to the attendees who were eager to get her contact info!

Many ideas and suggestions for collaboration were discussed. At the end, attendees were treated to a tour of the second floor of the Museum which includes a recently restored bedroom, thanks to the generosity of GC residents Betsy and John Lane.  In addition, Kate Schmidt, Historical Society Trustee, displayed the restored piano in the front parlor, also donated by the Lane family.

The Garden City Historical Society (TGCHS) was founded in 1975 and is housed in the historic A.T. Stewart Museum at 109 11th Street, Garden City. For information, or to get involved, please visit the website thegardencityhistoricalsociety.org or follow us on Instagram at The Garden City Historical Society.

08/15/2025

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

Peter

for insertion to the duffel bags.

Rotary’s Epic Day of Service

Benefits General Needs’ Efforts  to

Serve Homeless Veterans

Last Saturday, May 17, at Freeport High School’s cafeteria, MineolaGarden City Rotary participated in Rotary’s Epic Service Day to benefit the efforts of General Needs to provide essential items for homeless veterans. A non-profit organization, General Needs focuses on providing necessities for 5,000-plus homeless Long Islands veterans and their families year-round.

Mineola-Garden City Rotary, in collaboration with numerous other clubs, partnered with the Freeport-Merrick Club, organizers, to fill 250 duffel bags, each containing t-shirts, underwear, socks, a towel and washcloth plus a bag of needed toiletries to be distributed to

homeless veterans.

Upcoming Events & Activities

May 27, 12:15 p,.m., Davenport Press restaurant – Lunch meeting featuring Jacqueline Eltringham, President, American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), Post 265, guest speaker. To register, email Mineolagardencityrotaryclub@gmail. com

June 10, 3 p.m., Mineola Memorial Park -  Presentation of Peace Pole to Village of Mineola to celebrate MineolaGarden City Rotary Club’s 100th anniversary – all invited.

June 24, 12:15 p.m., Davenport Press restaurant – Featuring presentation of Rotary/Chamber of Commerce student scholarships; address by Mayor Edward Finneran, To reserve, email mineolagardencityrotaryclub@gmail. com

250 duffel bags containing essential items to be distributed to homeless veterans were assembled by multi-club Rotary volunteers on 2025 Epic Day of Service.

Among the multi-club Rotarians who gathered to begin duffel bag packing were District Governor Beverly Janes (Hempstead-Uniondale); DG Beth Kramer (Floral Park-Belrose) along with Lonnie Sherman (foreground), founder and president of General Needs.

Rotarians

Marshall (standing) with Lynne Maimone Kossalka (left) and Tina Okeeffe pack the items

Volunteers Meg Norris, vice president (left), with fellow Rotarians Peter Marshall, Tina O’Keeffe and Lynne Maimone Kosszalka at Freeport’ High School’s duffel bag work site.

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

“Color Our World” Tweens and Teens Summer Reading Club: Registration Begins Monday, June 16

Registration begins on Monday, June 16, at 10 a.m. for the Tweens and Teens “Color Our World” Summer Reading Club! This program is for tweens and teens entering Grades 6–12 in Fall 2025 only. Tweens and teens can register online via LibCal (gardencitypl.libcal. com). Registrants can pick up their Summer Reading Club bags in the Tweens and Teens Room while supplies last.

Once you sign up, you can submit raffle entries for each book you read at the Library or online through our website (www.gardencitypl.org).

Tweens and teens who submit one raffle entry will have a chance to win one of this year’s raffle prizes and will also be automatically invited to the End-of-Summer Tweens and Teens Ice Cream and Pizza Party on Wednesday, August 13. All books must be at the appropriate reading level and be read and reviewed between June 16 and August 13. Registration is ongoing until Wednesday, August 13. Raffle entries must be submitted no later than Wednesday, August 13. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, August 13 at the End-of-Summer Tweens and Teens Ice Cream and Pizza Party. You do not have to be present to win. This year’s raffle prizes include:

• $50 Target Gift Card

• $50 Amazon Gift Card

• Seventh Street Gift Card Lunch Package worth $75 (3 $25 gift cards to Burger Spot, Tony’s Tacos, and Garden City Pizza)

• Seventh Street Gift Card

Dessert Package worth $75 (3 $25 gift cards to Baskin-Robbins, Starbucks, and TCBY)

Get creative this summer by entering our Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest!

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

• Airpods

• $50 Sephora Gift Card

The more books you read and the more reviews you enter, the more chances you have to win! Plus those who register for this year's Summer Reading Club will automatically be entered into our Gift Card Grab Bag Raffle!

Attend a program! Anytime you attend a program between June 16 and August 13, you will be entered into a special raffle to win a $50 Barnes and Noble gift card! The more programs you attend, the more chances you have of winning!

Winners will have until Friday, September 12 to pick up their prizes. Prizes will not be held past September 12.

If you have any questions, email Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl.org/ young-adult-department/contact-theyoung-adult-tweens-teens-department/.

“Color Our World”

Library Creative Arts Contest

Get creative this summer by entering our Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest! There will be two categories for the Contest: Writing and Art. Tweens and teens entering Grades 6–12 in Fall 2025 can participate and submit to both categories. Multiple submissions are allowed. There will be multiple winners for each category, with prizes being Amazon gift cards. Participants' work can also be submitted for community service to the Library’s Tweens and Teens Art Gallery show in August 2025. Participants can use the “Color Our World” theme as a source of inspiration for the contest, but are not required to follow the theme.

Submissions will be accepted in person at the Library beginning Monday, June 16. The deadline to submit is Friday, August 1. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, August 14 at the End-of-Summer Tweens and Teens Ice Cream and Pizza Party. You do not have to be present to win. Entries should not have been previously submitted to the Library for another contest or showcase. Entries can be submitted online via our website (www. gardencitypl.org) or in person in the Tweens and Teens Room. Each in-person entry must include the Contest Submission Form, which can be picked up at the Library. Winners will have until Friday, September 12 to pick up their prizes. Prizes will not be held past September 12.

If you have any questions, email Young Adult Librarian Laura Giunta at https://www.gardencitypl.org/ young-adult-department/contact-theyoung-adult-tweens-teens-department/.

Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Showcase for Community Service

Earn community service by submitting artwork or creative writing for the Garden City Public Library’s Tweens and Teens Summer Creative Arts Showcase in the Library’s Lower Level Gallery during the month of August 2025. Entries should not have been previously submitted to the Library for another contest or showcase. Volunteers can submit up to three pieces of art. Submissions are due Friday, August 1. Submissions can include artwork created at the Library during a Library program. Volunteers must return their entries with a volun-

Library hours on Memorial Day weekend

The Garden City Public Library hours are as follows for the Memorial Day weekend: Saturday, May 24: Open 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday, May 25: Closed Monday, May 26: Closed

teer form, which can be found at the Library, in order to receive community service credit. Volunteers do not have to submit all their entries at once and should do an additional form for any entries they submit at a later date.

Volunteers will receive two hours for each entry they submit, at the discretion of the Tweens and Teens Department. The artwork and creative writing will be displayed until the end of August. Afterward, participants can pick up their artwork until September 12. Artwork will be held no longer than September 12.

Work included in the show can be submitted toward this year’s Tweens and Teens Creative Arts Contest!

Bookmarks for Community Service

Earn community service by creating bookmarks for Garden City Public Library patrons! Beginning in June, volunteers can pick up at the Library a sheet of five bookmark templates to cut, color, decorate, and write positive or library/book themed messages. Teens may submit up to 20 bookmarks per month. Teens will receive one hour of community service credit for every five bookmarks they submit, at the discretion of the Young Adult Department. Volunteers must submit bookmarks with a volunteer form, which can be found at the Library outside the Tweens and Teens Room.

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:

• Friday, May 23, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: No-Sew Fleece Patriotic Pillows (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, May 27, at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl. libcal.com for the following programs:

• Thursday, June 5, at 7 p.m.: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

• Monday, June 9, at 3:30 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime Adventure Volunteers (Grades 9–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, June 3 ,at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, June 10, at 4 p.m.: Teen Advisory Board (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, June 11, at 5:30 p.m.: Perler Bead Art for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

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

• Friday, June 13, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Gamers (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 Service - No registration required. Up to 10 cards can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

Teens Create Perler Bead Art for the Library

On Wednesday, May 7, teens created Perler bead art to display in the Tweens and Teens Room! Patrons can now stop by the Tweens and Teens Room and see the display. Want to create your own Perler bead art and add to the new display? Then join us for our new volunteer program, Perler bead art for Community Service, which will be held again on Wednesday, June 11, at 5:30 p.m.! Teens will earn community service credit by making Perler Bead Art to display in the Tweens and Teens Room. Perler bead art teens make must be left for the Library to display in the Tweens and Teens Room in order to earn community service. Registration for the June session is required and begins Tuesday, June 3, at 10 a.m. online on LibCal at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com.

Love to write?

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

Email submissions: editor@gcnews.com

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

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

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

The film “Murphy’s Romance” will be shown at the Garden City Public Library on Monday, June 2.

Monday Movies

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

June

June 2  - “Murphy's Romance” 2018, 87 mins

June 9  - “Trial by Fire” - 1950, 92 mins

June 16 - “Father Of The Bride”1985, 107 mins

June 23 - “Jersey Boys” - 2014, 134 mins

June 30 - “The Parent Trap” - 1961, 84 mins

Programs

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

Yoga with Kimberly

Tuesdays, May 27, June 3, June 10

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 (516)7428405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

Italian Part 2 Fridays, May 30 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.

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.

Chairobics and Strength with Debbie Krzyminski

Wednesdays, May 28, June 4, June 11, June 18, June 25   12 noon–1 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

We’re excited to have Debbie back with her wonderful program.  Debbie Krzyminski from Fitness Figures, NY, Inc. will be teaching “Chairobics and Strength.” This program covers strength training, balance, coordination, aerobics and flexibility. Most of the exercises are performed seated in a chair. Equipment will be provided. Feel free to bring your own free weights, if you are comfortable using them. Have water available, wear clothing that you can comfortably move in and be ready to have fun! This is an eight-week session.

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.

CPR Training Taught by NYU Langone Wednesday, June 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

NYU Langone-EMS will be leading a CPR Class.  Learn about cardiopulmonary resuscitation and notifying 911 for EMS.  Please wear comfortable clothing.

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

Mah-Jongg (Register for each one separately)

• Thursday, June 5, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Large Meeting Room

• Thursday, June 5 from 4 to 6 p.m.

• Thursday, June 19 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Large Meeting Room

• Thursday, June 19 from 4 to 6 p.m.

• Saturday,  June 21 from 10 a.m. to noon

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.

Chef Rob’s Strawberry Festival Bread Friday, June 6, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Chef Rob is back with a hands-on class. This bread is super flavorful and moist with a sweet vanilla drizzle on top. Patrons will need to bring a large bowl, medium bowl, whisk, rubber spatula and a 9x5 loaf pan along with one container of strawberries.  Perfect way to start the summer!

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.

The Sparkle of the Century:  American Costume Jewelry in the 20th Century

Tuesday, June 10, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join Karen Reiter, a lifelong collector of vintage jewelry, as she shares how vintage jewelry is now considered “collectible art.” Pieces from Trifari, Haskell, Hobe, Coro and Carnegie are sought after by collectors. Costume Jewelry gave everyday women a piece of Hollywood sparkle. As collectors and fashion enthusiasts continue to cherish these designs, the sparkle of the century lives on, preserving the artistry and innovation of American costume jewelry. No registration is required.

Adult Bingo

Friday, June 13, from 11 a.m. to noon in the Small Meeting room

Join us for a fun morning of Bingo and win some fun prizes. Summer Bingo dates are:

• Friday, July 11

• Friday, August 15

Register for each Bingo separately online on Libcal (https://gardencitypl.libcal.com) or call Adult Services Reference Desk at (516)742-8405 ext 4236 or email Speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.

Defensive Driving Course with The Empire Safety Council

Saturday, June 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join us on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 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.

June Book Discussion“Educated: A Memoir” by Tara Westover Tuesday, June 17, from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

“Educated” is a 2018 memoir by American author Tara Westover. Westover recounts overcoming her survivalist Mormon family in order to go to college and emphasizes the importance of education in enlarging her world. Educated is both a tale of hope and a record of horror. We know from the first page of her book that Tara Westover is a bright woman, a gifted writer with an impressive, poetic command of language. But her early life offered no clue that she would become a Cambridge PhD or a brilliant memoirist. She was the youngest of seven children born to Gene and Faye (not their real names) Westover, fundamentalist, survivalist Mormons, in rural Idaho. Books are available at the Adult Reference.

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.

Summer Reading Club for Adults:

Color Our World June 20–August 2, 2025 Join us for our 2025 Adult Summer Reading Club!  The theme this year is “Color Our World” and we plan on having a colorful summer!

Please register at the Adult Reference desk. Once registered, you will receive review cards, instructions and some fun items to get your started.

Each time you read a book, we ask that you fill out a review card (provided in your bag). Return it to the box on the Reference Desk for a chance to win a prize.  The more you read, the better chance you have to win.  At the end of the summer, we will select review cards randomly and award prizes!

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

News from the Children’s Room

On May 28 at 3:15 p.m.:, the Tiny Songbirds will entertain with music for ages birth–5, Not in Kindergarten)

Upcoming  May and June 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 May 2025.

• Wednesday, May 28, at 3:15 p.m.: Tiny Songbirds (Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Friday, May 30, at 10:30 a.m.: Play Hooray (Birth to 5 Years , Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, June 2, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Monday, June 2, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, June 4, at 10:30 a.m.: STEAM Preschool Building (6 Months to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, June 9, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Monday, June 9, at 4:00 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime and Craft (Grades 2–5)

• Tuesday, June 10, at 10:30 a.m.: Father’s Day Preschool Craft (Ages 3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, June 11, at 10:30 a.m.: STEAM Preschool Building (6

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

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 firstcome, 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.

Months to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, June 11, at 6:00 p.m.: Pajama Storytime and Yoga 18 Months to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, June 12, at 4:00 p.m.: Tween and Teens Yarn Group (Grades 4–12)

• Monday, June 16, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Monday, June 16, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, June 18, at 10:30 a.m.: STEAM Preschool Building (6 Months to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, June 19, at 6:30 p.m.: PJ Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, June 23, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Monday, June 23, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, June 25, at 10:30 a.m.: STEAM Preschool Building (6 Months to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, June 25, at 4:00 p.m.: Celebrate The End Of School Year BINGO (Grades K–5)

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

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.

On May 30, children ages birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten) can join Play Hooray for movement and music.

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.

• May 23–26 - Schools Closed

• June 6 - 8th Grade Celebration (in school event)

• June 7- Sportswear and School Supplies Pickup at GCMS: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

*If you are not able to pick up please make arrangements with a friend. There will be no alternate date.

Staff Appreciation Lunches

The Garden City PTA truly appreciates the staff that take care of our children everyday.  Many thanks to all who volunteered and donated to the Staff Appreciation lunches!  Most importantly, thank you to our amazing teachers and staff for all they do for our children- we truly have the best in the world!  Photos from Hemlock and Stewart lunches below (all other schools featured last week)!

Let’s Connect!

Website: www.gardencitypta.org

Facebook/Instagram/X: @gardencitypta

Volunteers serving at Hemlock

Thank you, Hemlock teachers!

Hemlock teachers at the Staff Appreciation Luncheon

Volunteers at Stewart Lunch

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED LOCAL LAW

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Garden City, New York, will hold a public hearing at Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, in said Village as well as via Zoom at 7:30 p.m. on the 5th day of June 2025, upon the following proposed local law:

LOCAL LAW NO.  _ OF 2025

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

The Code of the Village of Garden City Chapter 132. “Liability of Village” shall be amended as follows:

Section 1.  Section 132-2 “Liability of Village in Certain Actions” shall be amended to read: No civil action may be brought or maintained against the Incorporated Village of Garden City, New York for damages or injuries to person or property sustained in consequence of any street, highway, bridge, culvert, sidewalk, or crosswalk being defective, out of repair, unsafe, dangerous, or obstructed unless, before the occurrence resulting in such damages or injury, (a) notice of the defective, unsafe, dangerous, or obstructed condition was delivered to the Village Clerk at 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York in the form of a written physical hard copy and (b) the Village failed or neglected to repair or remove the defect, danger, or obstruction within a reasonable time after being given such notice. No action may be brought or maintained for damages or injuries to person or property sustained solely in consequence of the existence of snow or ice upon any sidewalk, crosswalk, or street unless (a) notice thereof relating to the particular place was delivered to the Village Clerk at 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York in the form of a written physical hard copy and (b) the Village failed or neglected to cause such snow or ice to be removed or to otherwise reasonably make safe the place within a reasonable time after receiving the notice. Notice of a defect submitted via email, the Village’s website, any service, website, or application the Village uses to allow the public to submit reports or service requests to the Village, comments on a social media page maintained by the Village, or any other electronic means does not satisfy the process and procedure for submitting written notices of defect required by this section.

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.

Dated: May 9, 2025, Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk Garden City, NY BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK

The Incorporated Village of Garden City does not discriminate on the basis of disability for admission to, access to, or participation in its programs, activities or public meetings, and has designated Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk, as Disability Compliance Coordinator. Persons in need of any special accommodation for a disability who wish to attend a meeting should contact Kelly Galanek at least 24 hours in advance of meeting at: 351 Stewart Avenue,  Garden City, New York 11530 (516) 465-4051, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of Black Swan Handmade, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/14/2025. 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 Jaclyn B. Composto: 678 Byron Avenue Franklin Square, NY 11010. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PETITION

NASSAU COUNTY

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of Formation of AFC Nassau LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/16/2025. 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 LZ Registered Agent: Nassau County. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

COUNTY OF NASSAU

Index No. 613091/2024

Dated Filed: 5/7/2025

In the Matter of the Application to Acquire certain 126+ X 25 foot parcels, Lots A and B and all Improvements located thereon on Meadow Street in the Village of Garden City, County of Nassau, New York, Commonly Referred to as Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 52, Lot A and Block 53, Lot B on the Tax Map of the Village of Garden City and identified on the Nassau County Tax Map as Section 34, Block 184, Lot Vacant Land Adjacent to Section 34 Block 184 and Lot 34 and Section 34 Block 184 Lot 101 by,

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, Petitioner/Condemnor, -against-

VIVIAN CAINE, if living, and if he/she be dead, any and all persons unknown to petitioner, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to petitioner, and MERILLON CORPORATION, and any successors or assigns, all of whom and whose are unknown to the petitioner, Respondents/Condemnee.

Section: 34

Block 184

Lot: Vacant Land Adjacent to S/B/L 34/184/34 and S/B/L 34/184/101

(Nassau County Tax Map)

PROPERTY TO BE ACQUIRED: property known as Lots A and Lots B on Meadow Street in the Village of Garden City, Nassau County, New York 11530, further identified as Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 52, Lot A (“Lot A”) and Block 53, Lot B (“Lot B”) on the Tax Map of the Village a/k/a Section 34, Block 184 on the Nassau County Tax Map.

TO EACH OF THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENTS/CONDEMNEES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Incorporated Village of Garden City (“Village” or “Petitioner”), on June 26, 2025, will move this Court at the Nassau County courthouse, located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York 11501 for an order pursuant to Article 4 of the Eminent Domain Procedure Law authorizing Petitioner to file the acquisition map herein in the Office of the Clerk of Nassau County, upon the posting of security in an amount to be determined by the Court, unless the requirement to post security is waived by the Court, and that upon such filing, directing the following rights shall vest in Petitioner: the real property known as Lots A and Lots B on Meadow Street in the Village of Garden City, Nassau County, New York 11530, further identified as Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 52, Lot A (“Lot A”) and Block 53, Lot B (“Lot B”) on the Tax Map of the Village, a/k/a Section 34, Block 184, Lot Vacant Land Adjacent to Section 34 Block 184 and Lot 34 and Section 34 Block 184 Lot 101 on the Nassau County Tax Map (the “Property”), and for such other and further relief as this Court shall deem just and proper. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that Nassau County is designated as the venue of this proceeding since the property that is the subject of this action is situated therein. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that Petitioner hereby demands, pursuant to CPLR §403(b), that an answer and supporting affidavits, if any, shall be served at least seven (7) days before the return date of the petition. If you fail to appear or answer, judgment may be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED PETITIONERS/CONDEMNEES: The foregoing Notice of Petition is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Vito DeStefano, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, dated May 5, 2025, and filed with the petition and other papers in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office.

THE PURPOSE OF THE ACTION is to acquire the above referenced property by eminent domain to install a drainage system to address flooding on Meadow Street between College Place and Tremont Street in the Village (the “Meadow Street Drainage Improvement Project”).

Dated: Uniondale, New York

May 12, 2025

CULLEN AND DYKMAN LLP

By: Ariel E. Ronneburger

Attorneys for the Inc. Village of Garden City

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NASSAU COUNTY FORECLOSURE NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Marie Brifil; et al., Defendant(s)  Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 11, 2019, amended May 2, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 26, 2025, at 4:30PM, premises known as 1033 Tulsa Street, Uniondale, NY 11553.  All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Uniondale (not incorporated) in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 50 Block Y Lots 234 and 271.  Approximate amount of judgment $478,976.09 plus interest and costs.  Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 605833/2019. Paul L. Meli, Esq, Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 4304792 Dated: May 13, 2025 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 Too

Smart Tips to Save Money, Beat the Lines at Top Summer Attractions

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

Families are gearing up for trips to attractions from world-famous theme parks to local treasures. With shifts in consumer confidence, economic factors, and the general climate for travel, these tips for saving time and money and uncovering experiences are all the more appreciated.

The outlook for attractions in 2025 is strong, headlined by the much-anticipated opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando and many other investments in attractions and parks around the country. “While large-scale themed entertainment and immersive experiences continue to captivate audiences, there is also growing demand for more budget-friendly options. Family entertainment centers, science centers, aquariums, and museums are becoming increasingly popular as affordable alternatives for family summer fun. Additionally, we’re seeing a surge in interest for interactive attractions, seasonal events, and family-friendly entertainment, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy,’ said Jakob Wahl, CEO of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA).

Among the trends is a strong interest in smaller, regional attractions. “With shifts in consumer confidence and economic factors, many families are looking for experiences closer to home that offer great value and immersive entertainment. Attractions such as family entertainment centers, aquariums, and science museums are capitalizing on this trend by introduc-

ing special pricing, seasonal events, and interactive exhibits that appeal to a broad audience. This growing focus on affordability and accessibility is helping drive attendance and engagement across the industry.”

Here are more of Wahl’s tips and recommendations:

Money-Saving Tips: Planning ahead is the best way to save money. Booking tickets online, taking advantage of bundled packages, and visiting during off-peak seasons can lead to significant savings. Many parks also offer discounted evening tickets or multiday passes that provide better value. Guests should also explore dining plans and bring their own essentials, like water bottles and rain ponchos, to avoid extra expenses. Lastly, loyalty programs and annual passes can be a great investment for those who visit frequently.

Here’s another tip: many local and regional attractions offer annual membership passes that pay for themselves with just two visits, and in some cases include free or discounted admission to other partner attractions.

Best Times to Visit: The best way to avoid crowds, enhance your experience and save money is to plan visits during off-peak times. Weekdays, especially Tuesdays through Thursdays, tend to be less busy than weekends. For seasonal attractions, early spring and late fall often offer fewer crowds and more pleasant weather. Arriving early in the day or later in the afternoon is also a way to enjoy popular rides with shorter wait times.

Smart Ticketing & Shorter Lines: Many parks now offer online reservations, mobile ticketing, and virtual queue systems, so you can secure spots ahead of time. Purchase tick-

GOING PLACES NEAR AND FAR

ets in advance and take advantage of early entry programs when available. Express passes or skip-the-line options can be a worth the added expense for those who want to maximize your day, particularly during peak seasons. Start your visit to the park from the back because most guests start getting on lines for the rides in the front of the park. Also, visit the most popular, busy rides during the peak lunch hour, when lines may be shorter.

Maximizing the Experience: Planning ahead is key. Prioritize must-visit attractions, download park apps for real-time updates, and take advantage of mobile ordering for food to save time. For families, incorporating a mix of thrill rides, entertainment, and downtime ensures everyone stays engaged and energized. Taking breaks in shaded or indoor areas and keeping hydrated can also help extend the fun throughout the day.

Staying Safe & Comfortable: Staying hydrated and wearing comfortable clothing and shoes are essential for an enjoyable visit. Bring refillable water bottles, wear sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and dress in layers for changing weather conditions. Have a light, foldable rain poncho. Many parks now offer shaded rest areas, cooling stations, and even heat-tracking technology to help visitors stay comfortable. Additionally, being mindful of personal health and recognizing when to take breaks can make a significant difference in the overall experience.

Special Events & Milestones: This year is filled with exciting anniversaries and celebrations across the attractions industry. Dollywood is

Continued on next page

Universal’s Epic Universe, Orlando, is opening May 22 (photo: Universal Orlando Resort).

GOING PLACES, NEAR & FAR....

Smart Tips to Save Money, Beat the Lines at Top Summer Attractions

Continued from previous page

marking its 40th anniversary with special events and limited-time experiences, while Europa-Park in Rust, Germany, celebrates 50 years of innovation and growth as a family-run destination. Many parks are also expanding their seasonal offerings, from immersive Halloween and holiday celebrations to vibrant food festivals that highlight both local and international flavors.

Trends Shaping Visitor Experiences: Families are increasingly drawn to parks and experiences that bring beloved characters and stories to life. A great example is the expansion of  Peppa Pig Theme Parks, which cater specifically to younger audiences by offering immersive, character-driven attractions beyond traditional theme park experiences.

Another key trend is the  evolution of on-site accommodations. Parks are expanding beyond a day-trip experience by providing themed lodging that enhances the overall visit.  Silver Dollar City’s plans for the new Heartland Lodge & Campground is a prime example, giving guests the opportunity to stay immersed in the park’s unique atmosphere while enjoying added convenience and exclusive experiences.

Exciting New Attractions

This season brings a wave of groundbreaking attractions, from next-generation roller coasters to immersive themed lands. Among the highlights: Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, new family areas for Kentucky Kingdom and Lagoon Amusement Park, new roller coasters for Lost Island Theme Park, Six Flags over Georgia, Six Flags Great Adventure, Six Flags New England, and Six Flags Great America and unique Tilt Coasters for Cedar Point and the new Cotaland Park. Water parks are also unveiling innovative slides and experiences, such as Columbus Zoo, the new Okana Resort in Oklahoma, the new Bavarian Blast Indoor Waterpark and new Great Wolf Lodges in Foxwood and in Florida, keeping up with the growing demand for yearround aquatic fun.

Here’s what’s happening at some of the most popular attractions:

Universal

Universal Epic Universe, opening May 22, promises to be one of the most immersive and innovative theme parks ever created. With a total of more than 50 experiences that range from groundbreaking attractions to captivating entertainment to themed dining and shopping, guests explore five astounding worlds: Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.

Universal Orlando Resort has launched a variety of products to help guests

Walt Disney Company is undertaking a $30 billion, multi-year expansion of its theme parks and cruise line. This includes the largest-ever addition to Magic Kingdom, featuring new areas inspired by the movie “Cars.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

maximize their visit including theme park upgrades like Universal Express (to bypass lines), VIP Experiences, My Universal Photos, and bookings for Dark Universe’s Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience.

In addition to a 1-Day Universal Express Pass valid at Epic Universe, guests can also purchase a multi-day Universal Express Pass valid at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, and one-day at Epic Universe. (For information and to purchase upgrades, visit  www.universalorlando.com/ epicuniverse Additionally, Universal is enhancing seasonal events and themed experiences across its parks worldwide.

A major addition this year is  Universal Horror Unleashed, a year-round horror-themed attraction set to open in Las Vegas in August 2025.

Universal Studios Hollywood is offering its  Buy A Day, Get A 2nd Day Free ticket online through August 13, 2025 which allows returning for a second day free on select dates, with all visits completed on or before December 17, 2025.

Disney

As part of its evolution, Disney is bringing new attractions and entertainment to its parks, including:

• A  reimagined Test Track at EPCOT, set to offer a fresh take on the classic attraction.

• A brand-new  Little Mermaid musical at Hollywood Studios bringing the beloved story to life in an engaging new format.

• An  all-new parade in Walt Disney World, adding to the lineup of must-see entertainment.

• The  Zootopia 4D movie expe rience, coming to  Walt Disney World, immersing guests in the world of the hit animated film.

Six Flags

Six Flags has expanded food and bev-

• The Canopy Climb – An elevated adventure through lush treetops.

• The Rainforest Quest – A thrilling journey through exotic landscapes.

• The Enchanted Falls – A serene yet exhilarating water attraction.

Hershey Park

Hershey Park continues to expand its thrill ride lineup and immersive dining experiences while focusing on guest comfort and entertainment.

Coming Summer 2025:  Twizzlers Twisted Gravity giant swing. The high-thrill pendulum attraction will be the tallest Screamin’ Swing in the world when it opens – a giant swing ride reaching 137 feet, with speeds of  68 MPH and zero-G moments that defy gravity and provide breathtaking views of the park.

erage offerings, enhanced park theming and cutting-edge ride experiences. Popular seasonal events like WinterFest and Holiday in the Park will also return.

• Georgia Gold Rusher (Six Flags Over Georgia) – A spinning splash coaster that enhances the park’s storytelling and guest experience.

• Seven new roller coasters debuting in 2025, reinforcing Six Flags’ reputation for coaster innova tion.

• All-Park Passport Add-On – Launching in 2025, this pass allows unlimited access to all 42 amusement and water parks in the Six Flags portfolio, offering unmatched flexibility and value.

• Expanded dining & beverage options across all parks, featuring new signature menu items and upgraded facilities.

2025 Season Passes are now available at the lowest price of the year to lock in a full year of thrills, entertainment, and seasonal celebrations.

Busch Gardens

Renowned for its world-class coasters and immersive animal encounters, Busch Gardens continues to evolve with thrilling new attractions and captivating guest experiences including:

The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge Busch Gardens Williamsburg (2025)

Busch Gardens’  all-new family-friendly inverted coaster.

Wild Oasis at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (2025)

An  all-new immersive experience coming to the park’s Jungala area, featuring:

• Tree Top Drop – A 35-foot drop tower with dynamic multimedia jungle scenes.

• The Habitat Hideaway – A playful retreat for guests to explore.

Hersheypark offers a one-price admission with three sweet experiences featuring more than 70 rides and attractions, weather and maintenance permitting, including the most coasters in the Northeast with 15; The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park (open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend) with one million gallons of water among 16 water attractions; and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo included with admission only by entering through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours.

Save on tickets and Season Passes when purchasing them online. All tickets include the Preview Plan program (an incredible value unique to Hershey), which allows guests to enjoy two free hours of extra fun before closing on a night before their full-day visit if Hersheypark is open the preceding day. Hersheypark also offers ticket add-ons that allow guests to save on parking, dining and drinks and get to the thrills faster with the Fast Track program. Visit  Hersheypark.com/tickets-and-passes to view the current offers.

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

What’s a lazy, hazy day at the beach?

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

In late spring when winter is behind us I pack my things, head out the door and aim my car straight for the beach. Sometimes I invite a friend or sister to join me but many times I just get that urge to see the blue sky above and the rolling waves of the ocean as they hit the shoreline.

Setting up my beach chair and pulling out my striped towel, my floppy hat, my sun tan lotion and a good book, I put on my sunglasses, get comfortable and enjoy seeing and feeling everything nature has to offer. The beaches are brilliant around us and we are lucky to have them.

After reading a few pages I’ll grab my camera, tie the laces on my sneakers and head out for a walk along the beach. I don’t time how long my walk is or count my steps using a Fitbit fitness tracker, I walk for the sheer pleasure of it.

Breathing in the fresh air, I feel the salt water spray my legs and face lightly whenever an errand wave hits the beach. After being at home so much during the winter months and doing indoors types of activities with friends and family, I am happy to be outside among the natural elements. Occasionally I see a small fish swimming or jumping in the water and I smile at how perfect nature looks at times.

Passing someone on the shoreline who has the same idea as me we smile brightly, say hi and keep forging ahead

on our treks. We are the beach lovers, the people who like going to the beach before the crowds of summer arrive and fill up the seemingly endless spaces of sand that look so blank and open right now.

We are the ones who enjoy swimming in the waters and floating on our backs once it is safe to do so, once the lifeguards arrive for the season and give us permission to engage in some summer water sports.

If a friend and I plan on staying for a few hours she and I will pull out our beach umbrella and patiently set it up for the day. We’ll also pack a cooler of our favorite lunches, snacks and cups for some cold iced tea. If the stillin-school kids could see us now they would be jealous. We never get bored at the beach. We are the ones who at 4 and 5 p.m. wonder where the day has gone, wonder how the hours have passed in what seems the blink of an eye.

Veteran beach goers, we know what to expect for pretty much any type of weather. On sunny days we are prepared with our gear. On partly cloudy days we know the sun will go in and out and we are prepared, too. During the times when the weather goes from good to bad we’ve got our light rain jackets with hoods and pockets and know it won’t take long for us to grab our things and head back to my car which isn’t far away. That safe haven will keep us dry and transport us safely home.

Perhaps I am a bit mercurial

because sometimes I like the perfect sunny days of spring at the beach when I can watch the cumulous clouds floating slowly by overhead. At other times, however, I enjoy a light rain falling on the ocean’s waves and the beach and on other days a sudden heavy rainstorm reminds me how strong Mother nature can be. Observing the clouds turning dark and the seagulls signaling that a storm might be brewing, we listen to the signs and are cautious.

Ignoring the signals as kids we were caught off guard in storms and sometimes deluges but like most people, those were lessons we had to learn. I also learned long ago to hide my snack and keep it wrapped and hidden in between bites or the seagulls above swooped in and snatched it. I smile at the memory of having to hide my food but you know what, it could still happen today. Those seagulls are bold.

As a child my parents divided our time at the beach and at the pool we attended regularly. They liked both and the six of us Lynch kids liked both, also. The pool was a little more manageable for my parents: it was closer to home, we all sat in lounges or chairs around the pool and there were plenty of lifeguards watching the swimmers’ every move.

At the beach, on the other hand, there was more of a possibility for one of us kids to run off and take a flying leap into the ocean. It didn’t happen often but it was always out there. We liked splashing and swimming and frolicking in the ocean and a day at the

NUTRITION NEWS

Eating Healthy on a Budget

beach was a chance for us to just be kids. We liked having fun impulsively and for the time we were there, horsing around was all part of the fun.

Mom and Dad usually chose to go to Point Lookout because that drive was pretty much a straight run down Long Beach Rd. then onto Lido Blvd. from our home in Rockville Centre. And it was a straight run back when we were all happy and tuckered out from a day at the beach.

As an adult I still appreciate going to both the pool and the ocean. I’m game for whatever is on the schedule for the day. If people want to go to the beach I’ll go and if people prefer going to the pool that day, that’s fine, too. I still like walking along the shoreline whether I’ve got my sneakers on or I’m barefoot and enjoying splashing my feet in the water.

And the sound of the waves crashing on the shore? There’s no other sound like it whether it’s daytime or nighttime and there is a moon shining brightly above. It’s simply awe inspiring.

BY CHARLYN FARGO

Is it really possible to eat healthy on a budget? With rising grocery costs, it may seem like doing the impossible.

According to a recent survey by The Hartman Group, some 85% of consumers have noticed food costs rising. Over half of those people say rising prices have impacted their ability to purchase foods, beverages and other grocery items. And 25% admit they have to rethink how they shop for groceries.

Here are some steps you can take to manage food costs -- and still eat healthy.

No. 1: Eat out less. If you prepare a meal at home, you can add fruits and vegetables and cook with whole grains. While fresh may be best in season, frozen or canned (look for no-salt-added) can be the most economical when not in season. Also consider other sources of protein besides meat, like black beans, lentils, qui-

noa and eggs.

No. 2: Skip or reduce soft drinks and energy drinks.

No. 3: Choose larger containers of unsweetened yogurt to add to fresh or frozen fruit, smoothies and oatmeal.

No. 4: Choose canned or frozen seafood, such as tuna or cod. Fish is a great source of protein. Look for the reduced-sodium tuna and tuna packed in water rather than oil.

No. 5: Eat from your own freezer. You already have purchased it. Take an inventory and plan your meals around what you already have in your freezer. Have a taco night with ground beef or use those frozen vegetables in a quick stir-fry.

No. 6: Reduce your food waste. Can you repurpose leftovers? I love to cook a whole chicken in my slow cooker and serve the chicken with potatoes and vegetables the first day, then use the leftover chicken in a quesadilla, chicken salad,

chicken chili or chicken enchiladas. You can even make homemade chicken noodle soup and broth with the bones. A rotisserie chicken works as well.

No. 7: Plan your meals. My mom used to get the grocery store flyer and plan our meals around what was on sale. Today, you can do the same thing with the grocery store’s app. A few places even still offer coupons. Clip and save. Planning your meals also helps avoid overbuying. Knowing what’s for dinner reduces the temptation to eat out. Plan meals to include a protein, vegetable, fruit, whole grain and low-fat dairy.

No. 8: Save eating out for special occasions. That keeps eating out a celebration rather than an everyday event.

No. 9: Rather than buy your coffee -- hot or iced -- from a drive-thru or convenience store every day, make it at home. That way you can control the sugar, cream and calories -- and save money, too.

No. 10: Eat before you shop at the grocery store. You’ll be much less likely to buy things that aren’t on your list.

Q and A

Q: Do caffeine and alcohol affect sleep quality?

A: Caffeine has a half-life of between 5 and 8 hours, meaning half the dose is still in your system that many hours later. It all adds up throughout the day if you’re having multiple drinks or foods such as chocolate that contain caffeine. Even if you do fall asleep, the quality of sleep is impacted as your brain is more active with caffeine. Alcohol has been found to decrease sleep quality by 39% when consumed in certain quantities (more than two servings for men and more than one serving for women). Alcohol is also a diuretic, making it more likely you have to wake up to go to the bathroom. To be safe,

Continued on page 6

Retirees With Adult Children Who Are Disabled

BY TOM MARGENAU

Whenever I see a parent with a disabled child, it tugs at my heartstrings. On the one hand, I can’t imagine the hardships they must face almost every day. I think of our neighbors -- a retired couple our age (in their 70s) whose only child is a 40-year-old son with cerebral palsy. So much of their lives seems to revolve around the care for their son.

On the other hand, I’ve heard from readers who tell me that having a child with a disability can offer unique opportunities for growth and learning, both for the child and the family. While it can be challenging, there are benefits to be found in the increased empathy, adaptability, and family bonding it can foster. Additionally, there are various financial and support systems available to help families navigate these challenges. Today, I’m going to talk about one of those support systems: Social Security.

Since almost the beginning of the Social Security program in the 1930s, minor children have qualified for benefits on a retiree’s record. A child gets an amount equal to one-half of the retiree’s full retirement age benefit rate, subject to rules that limit how much a family with children can get in total monthly benefits. (Those rules are too messy to explain in today’s column.)

Benefits to kids usually stop once the child turns 18. But those benefits can continue indefinitely if the child is disabled. And let me clarify that a little more. More often than not, once retirees reach Social Security age, they no longer have minor children at home. But they possibly could have a disabled “adult child” still at home, be living on their own or in some kind of facility that cares for disabled adults. And the law says if that “child” was disabled before the age of 22, he or she will get disabled adult child, or DAC, benefits. And just like a minor child, that DAC will get an amount equal to 50% of the retiree’s FRA benefit rate. (When the retiree dies, that bumps up to a 75% rate.)

That all sounds relatively simple. But now, let me throw in a little twist. Very often, these disabled adult children will be getting Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits before mom or dad files for Social Security. SSI is a federal welfare program that pays a small monthly stipend (currently around $970 -- although it can be less) to old folks or poor and disabled people. While a disabled child is young and living at home, the income and assets of the parents are counted in the SSI calculation and that usually keeps the child from getting SSI. But once the child turns 18, the parents’ resources no longer count. So, lots of these “disabled adult children” get SSI benefits until one or both parents file for Social Security -- at which point the child is switched from SSI to Social Security DAC benefits.

And that switch must be made. Why?

Because SSI is a welfare program, and welfare rules state that if a person is on SSI, he or she must file for any other benefits they might be due.

One other point. SSI benefits almost always come with full Medicaid coverage. (Medicaid is kind of like the welfare version of Medicare.) Although the rules can vary from state to state, they generally say that if someone loses their SSI because they start getting DAC benefits, the Medicaid coverage can continue.

To help clarify things even more, here are answers to questions from folks who have a disabled adult child.

Q: I am 64 and plan on waiting until my full retirement age to file for benefits. I will get $3,700 per month then. My wife is about to turn 62. She’ll get $1,400 per month if she files for her own Social Security. We have a 32-year-old developmentally disabled daughter getting $967 in SSI benefits. I don’t think my wife should file for Social Security because our daughter will lose her SSI. My wife wants to file anyway. Who is right?

A: I’m not a financial planner. But I think your wife is right. If she files, your daughter will get an amount equal to onehalf of your wife’s FRA benefit rate. If her age 62 benefit is $1,400, her FRA rate must be about $2,000. And half of that, or $1,000, would be your daughter’s DAC benefit. And that is more than your daughter’s current $967 SSI check. So, your wife and daughter are financially ahead to file for Social Security. (And again, your daughter will likely keep her Medicaid coverage.)

Oh -- and when you file for your own benefits down the road, your daughter will be switched to 50% of your much higher monthly benefit. And now here is a similar question from another reader, with just a couple of little twists.

Q: I am a single mom about to turn 62 and want to file for Social Security. My monthly benefit would be $1,120. My disabled 25-year-old daughter currently gets $967 from SSI. I think her SSI check is more than she would be due from my Social Security. How do I keep her off of my Social Security so she can keep getting her SSI check?

A: You can’t keep her off your Social Security. You must file a claim for DAC benefits for her at the same time you file for your retirement benefits. But things will work out, as I will explain.

I’m guessing your full retirement age benefit is about $1,600. And that means your daughter will be due $800 in DAC benefits. But for reasons too messy to explain in this column today, only $780 of that counts against her SSI check. In other words, your daughter would get $800 in Social Security DAC benefits and $187 in SSI benefits ($967 minus $780 equals $187). So, your daughter will end up with $987 in total monthly benefits -- compared to the $967 she gets now. And to repeat, she will

keep her Medicaid coverage. 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 oth-

er 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

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Rental properties still the most advantageous investment

When there is a loss of employment, business failing, lack of adequate income, salary cuts, divorce or death, one must choose how to handle their mortgage obligations.

First thing you should do, by all means, is to communicate with your lender and let them know your current situation.

Lack of dialogue is a red flag to the bank and this is where you make a possible fixable situation, into a potential nightmare. More important, your credit will potentially be downgraded. So always call, and try to speak with the same person each time. Ask them their name and extension and if possible, their employee I.D. number.

Keep a connection to that person, since they are human and here about these circumstances every day and many times will work with you to solve or minimize your problem of not being able to pay on time.

The first line of action, if this will help you, will be to modify your interest rate.

The bank will ask for all your documentation, tax returns, all your debts, bank and brokerage accounts, (wherever you have assets) showing that your income has been affected and that you need a reduction or at least some type of work out so you can continue to inhabit your home (see list below).

Do not hide income but be up front with your lender. They will look at the big picture and if you qualify, I have seen rates as low as 2 percent for a six-year period.

They may add the accrued interest to the back end of your new modified loan; but you can try to negotiate and see if they will forgive a certain amount of that interest that you haven’t paid.

The next possibility will be a short sale (your mortgage is larger than the actual value of your home) and the bank will forgive the difference between the sale price and your total mortgage and release the mortgage lien on the property once it closes.

A federal law was extended, where the homeowner, doesn’t have to pick up that difference as income on their

tax return.

This type of sale would have to be approved and sanctioned by the bank, (you the seller, would have to fill out a “loss mitigation application” with the bank, before you could proceed.

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

They will also ask for the same information as if you were modifying your current mortgage, to make sure that you qualify. The following is a more precise list of items they will expect to approve your short sale:

1. A financial statement, in the form of a questionnaire, that provides explicit and detailed information, of your monthly income and expenses.

2. Proof of you total income (if applicable).

3. Most recent tax returns.

4. Two recent bank statements from all of your accounts, including brokerage accounts

5. A hardship letter, explaining in detail your current situation and why you need to receive an approved short sale

6. An offer must be in writing from a perspective purchaser, before the bank will approve the short sale. However, in many states, the lending institution can enact a deficiency judgment to collect the amount of money not paid back by the short sale.

7. One exception to the previous rule is the government’s Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program program, whereby the bank approves the short sale before a bonfire offer is presented and accepted, which, in this specific situation, then fully releases the seller from any obligations going forward, from the short payoff in satisfaction of the mortgage. Therefore, a deficiency judgment cannot be presented for the amount forgiven by the bank.

If you cannot sell your property in a short sale, then a Deed-in-lieu of Foreclosure might be another possible way to satisfy ones mortgage obligation (a broker would have to show proof on a listing agreement that they

tried to sell the home for at least 90 days).

Before, the banks would allow you to sign over your deed to them.

Also, an estoppels affidavit will be presented to the seller, that they are accepting the fact that they are knowingly signing over their deed back to the bank without duress or coercion.

However, if you don’t have a clause in the affidavit agreement that fully releases you from the difference between the fair market value and your mortgage obligation, they can submit a deficiency judgment to collect the difference.

Some states like California, Nevada and Oregon, by law, prevent the lender from initiating a deficiency judgment.

So you must be diligent in making sure your attorney or whomever is representing you, includes that clause fully releasing you and that the debt will be fully satisfied with no further collection consequences going forward.

In the past for those that have just walked away from their homes, because their mortgages were under water (value was or is less than the mortgage obligation) and could have continued to pay the mortgages. will have the greatest consequences from the banks in the long run. The banks can and in many cases will go after your assets, lien/garnish your salary, wages etc.

Again, the best way to handle that situation is not to walk away, but work something out with your bank.

The following link, will provide some added info: http://www.nolo. com/legal-encyclopedia/deed-lieu-vsshort-sale.html

According to Realtytrac.com, which analyzes statistics on foreclosures throughout the U.S., has housing inventory, foreclosure and year to date sales information.

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

He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations: National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate).

Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions. National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geo-thermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).

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

He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to:

https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/ no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289 or email: Phil@TurnKeyRealEstate.com

You can now search at your leisure for properties at:

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)

EVERYDAY CHEAPSKATE

Best Nontoxic, Organic, Safe and Cheap Weed Control for Yard

BY MARY HUNT

Weeds.

Those freeloaders of the garden world. No matter how lovingly you tend your tomatoes or fluff your mulch, those green invaders always show up like uninvited houseguests who overstay their welcome -- and bring their cousins.

If you’ve found yourself muttering on your knees while yanking weeds or reading weed killer labels that sound like chemistry class meets hazard training, you’re not alone.

The good news? You don’t need toxic sprays or a Ph.D. in environmental science to fight weeds. Here are seven ways to tackle them that are safe, organic, effective -- and won’t empty your wallet.

1. BOILING WATER: THE INSTANT KNOCKOUT

Your kettle just became a garden weapon. Pour boiling water directly onto weeds in sidewalk cracks, driveways or gravel paths. It literally cooks the plant down to the roots. Careful, please! Boiling water may not be toxic, but it could be hazardous to yourself and those nearby tulips when mishandled! Cost: free (unless you count electricity).

2. WHITE VINEGAR: NATURE’S WEED ASSASSIN

Make your own weed killer:

-- 1 gallon plain white vinegar (5% acidity)

-- 1 cup ordinary cheap table salt (NOT Epsom Salt!)

-- 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid, like Blue Dawn

Mix well in a spray bottle or other

such vessel, then spray directly on weeds during a hot, sunny day. It dries them out fast, but beware: It kills any greenery it touches. Repeat as necessary. Cost: around $3-$5.

3. MULCH LIKE YOU MEAN IT

Mulch blocks sunlight and keeps weeds from sprouting. Add it thick, especially over cardboard or newspaper

for bonus weed-smothering power. Great for garden beds and flower borders. Cost: free to cheap, depending on materials.

4. CORN GLUTEN MEAL: THE PREVENTER

Stops weed seeds from germinating. It won’t kill existing weeds, but it’s great as a preventative in early spring or late summer.

Heads up: It’ll stop grass seed too -- bad timing can backfire. Cost: about $20 per bag.

5. PULL WEEDS AFTER RAIN

Good old-fashioned weeding is easier hen the soil is damp. The roots come up

with less fight -- and pulling them is oddly satisfying. Cost: Free. Bonus points for stress relief.

6. GRAMPA’S WEEDER

Also known as the Original Stand Up Weed Puller Tool. This is truly awesome for those who would rather not get down on hand and knee: a long-handled weed puller that lets you uproot weeds without

bending, kneeling or grumbling. Outfitted with a simple claw, it grabs the weed’s roots, and a simple tilt of the handle pops it right out. Perfect for dandelions, thistles, crabgrass and any tap-rooted menace. Cost: around $40 on Amazon. Built to last generations (hence the name).

7.

FLAME WEEDING: FOR THE BOLD

Use a propane torch to zap weeds in hard scapes and gravel paths. A few seconds of heat breaks plant cell walls and sends weeds into the great beyond. Warning: safety first! Only use away

Eating Healthy on a Budget

from flammable materials, dry grass or mulch. Avoid use on windy days. Cost: $40-$80 for the tool.

8. DIY WEED BARRIER

Forget pricey landscape fabric. Recycle cardboard, newspaper or old cotton sheets under mulch. They block sunlight, suppress weeds and break down to improve your soil. Cost: free (and a good excuse to clean out the linen closet).

FINAL THOUGHTS

You don’t need chemicals or a home equity loan to keep your garden in shape. Boil it. Spray it. Smother it. Pull it. Or light it up (carefully). These frugal, natural methods will help you take back control without risking your health or your pet’s paws.

And if a weed or two still manages to sneak through? Just call it a reminder that you’re gardening with nature, not against it.

Mary invites you to visit her at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is archived complete with links and resources for all recommended products and services. Mary invites questions and comments at https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/contact/, “Ask Mary.” This column will answer questions of general interest, but letters cannot be answered individually. Mary Hunt is the founder of EverydayCheapskate.com, a frugal living blog, and the author of the book “DebtProof Living.”

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

Continued from page 3

time having a drink at least two hours before bedtime.

RECIPE

Not sure how to cook fish? Here’s an easy recipe with a Mediterranean flair. Use any fish you like: trout, salmon, cod or tilapia. Recipe is adapted from HyVee’s Seasons magazine.

FISH WITH MEDITERRANEAN SALSA

Servings: 2

1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoon olive oil, divided

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano

1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme

1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

1 (8-10 ounce) fresh fish, skin on, about 3/4 inch thick

1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes

1 tablespoon drained capers

1/2 cup fresh Bing cherries, pitted and quartered

2 tablespoons finely chopped Italian parsley

1 tablespoon sliced jumbo queen olives, chopped

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a large cast iron skillet. Heat skillet in oven for 10 minutes. Stir together butter, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper in small bowl and set aside. Remove skillet from oven. Place fish, skin side down, in skillet. Drizzle butter mixture over fish. Add tomatoes and capers. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until fish reaches 145 degrees. For salsa, stir together cherries, parsley, olives and remaining olive oil in small bowl. Serve salsa over fish. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serves 2.

Per serving based on using trout: 320 calories; 24 grams protein; 10 grams carbohydrates; 21 grams fat (6 grams saturated); 80 milligrams cholesterol; 2 grams fiber; 6 grams sugar (0 grams added); 490 milligrams sodium.

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

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of May 25-31, 2025

It can seem quite challenging for stargazers to comprehend the structure of the universe, but it’s really not that difficult. Just think of it as being assembled in a hierarchical structure not unlike the folders and files in your computer.

Let’s start at the beginning ... with stars. They’re everywhere, and we believe that orbiting nearly every star is a planetary system. Get enough stars close enough, and their mutual gravitation can hold them in orbit around a common center of mass. These are what we know as star clusters.

Now gather a few hundred billion stars and star clusters together, and you’ve got an immense structure known as a galaxy. The galaxy in which our star -- the sun -- resides is the Milky Way, so named because its central plane appears as a milky band of light arching across the summertime evening sky.

As immense as it is, ours is not the only galaxy there is. And, just like stars, galaxies can gather into what we call galaxy clusters and superclusters that extend as far as the largest telescopes can see.

We suspect there may be a trillion or more such galaxies that make up the visible universe. With this many,

It’s Galaxy Season!

it’s not surprising that some would be visible with even a moderately sized backyard telescope. And this time of year is a perfect time to do so, since the thickest part of our own Milky Way is below the horizon and does not block our view of the universe beyond.

We can find one of the richest galactic regions of the heavens in the area between the Big Dipper and the stars Arcturus and Spica, high in the eastern sky after dark. This area of the springtime sky is known to astronomers as the Realm of the Galaxies, and it’s definitely worth putting on your bucket list of celestial sights to check out.

If you have a small telescope and a clear night away from bright city lights, scan it slowly through this celestial area and you’ll be stunned by what you see. Even a telescope of 4 or 6 inches in diameter will reveal patch after patch of fuzzy light among the sharper stars. These are not just smudges but dozens of individual galaxies whose light has been traveling to our eyes since the time that dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

In the vicinity of the bright star Spica, for example, we find the famous Virgo cluster of galaxies, a system of several thousand galaxies bound together by gravitation and located some 60 or 70 million lightyears from the Milky Way. To a small telescope, they appear only as tiny smudges of

light, but most are gargantuan spiral and elliptically shaped structures.

To the west of Arcturus, we can find the more distant Coma cluster of galaxies. Lying some 400 million lightyears away, this cluster is home to a thousand galaxies embedded in a region filled with hot gas.

It’s truly remarkable what lies in the darkness above our heads on

spring evenings. On your next clear, dark night, I hope you’ll aim a telescope skyward for a remarkable journey among the galaxies.

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM

I’m in the Mood

for Ketchup

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

I’m not a french fry snob. I’ll pretty much eat any kind of french fry, whether it’s shoestring, waffle or curly; from a fast food restaurant, a steakhouse or my freezer. Given the choice between a baked potato or french fries, I will always choose the fries, thunder thighs be damned.

There is, in fact, only one thing that stands between me and pure french fry nirvana:

Ketchup.

I have to have ketchup for my fries. Fries without ketchup is like macaroni without cheese ... peanut butter without jelly ... Rings without Dings. It’s just not as good. Typically, this wouldn’t seem like a difficult thing to come by. Usually where there are french fries, there is ketchup.

Then one day when I was out of

town, I stopped in a local diner and ordered a burger and fries. I asked the server for some ketchup, and she obligingly brought me a red bottle.

But it wasn’t ketchup. It was catsup.

“Do you have any ketchup?” I asked her when I realized the error of her ways.

“This is ketchup,” she replied.

“No, it’s CATsup,” I corrected her. “It’s different.” She stared at me like I had lost my mind.

“Ketchup tastes better than catsup,” I explained.

She shook her head at me. “You’re not making any sense, hon. You said catsup tastes better than catsup.”

I suddenly realized, shockingly, that in this part of the country, even if you said ketchup, they heard catsup and there was no distinction between the two. I also realized that although I am not a french fry snob, I am, in fact, a

ketchup snob. I grew up on ketchup (with a K), which is made from tomatoes, not catsup (with a C), which is clearly made from cats, because the two taste nothing alike. Although some people might find them to be interchangeable, I do not, and I am typically loath to cover my lovely french fries with some sad ketchup wannabe.

On principle alone, ketchup is clearly the superior condiment. It has a long, important history dating back to the late 1600s, when it was discovered in China by English sailors and brought to the West. The word ketchup is derived from the Chinese sauce “ke-tsiap.” In Malaysia it became “kechap,” and “ketjap” in Indonesia. Sometime after it made its way west, someone messed with the name, thus the variation catsup was born. Sadly, catsup caught on in various parts of the country and never left. If it were just a matter of

spelling, I don’t think I would care all that much. But since they taste distinctly different, I would rather eat my fries naked than subject them to a catsup drowning. Still, in the interest of being a good tourist, I decided to just let the whole thing go.

“You know what,” I said. “Forget it. This catsup is good. But could you bring me some Splenda for my iced tea?”

“Splendid what?” she responded. I sighed. “Just sugar would be fine.”

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

LOST IN SUBURBIA

The Realm of the Galaxies is one of the richest galactic regions visible with a small telescope

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Expand your burger skills this barbecue season

Hamburgers with Stilton Cheese, Caramelized Shallots and Mushrooms

Makes 4 servings

Hamburgers are a staple of backyard barbecues. When summer arrives, few foods embody the laid back vibe of the season better than grilled hamburgers. There’s nothing wrong with a traditional approach to hamburgers, but going the extra mile and augmenting the flavor with some special ingredients can make these beloved summertime staples even more popular. If that’s your goal, then consider this recipe for “Hamburgers with Stilton Cheese, Caramelized Shallots and Mushrooms,” courtesy of Lines+Angles.

For caramelized shallots:

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 1⁄2 lbs. fresh shallots, peeled and sliced Salt, to taste

1 tablespoon sugar

For mushrooms:

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1⁄2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

For caramelized shallots:

1) Melt butter with olive oil in a thick-bottomed pan until the oil is shimmering. Add the sliced shallots and stir to coat. Cook, stirring on occasion, for 7 to 10 minutes. Do not let the shallots burn or dry out. Sprinkle the salt and sugar over the shallots.

2) Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently. If shallots seem to be drying out, add a little water or oil to the pan. Shallots should be brown but not burned. Continue to cook and stir; scrape up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, until the shallots

1 clove of garlic, minced

8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced

For hamburgers:

1 1⁄2 lbs. ground sirloin, chuck or round Coarse salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 slices Stilton cheese

4 hamburger rolls or sandwich rolls

1 tablespoon melted butter Lettuce leaves

are a deep, rich, browned color.

For mushrooms:

3) Melt butter with oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in balsamic vinegar, garlic and mushrooms. Saute for 20 minutes, or until tender.

For hamburgers:

4) Moisten your clean hands with cold water and divide the ground beef in 4 equal portions. Form into a flattened ball. Season with salt and pepper.

5) Refrigerate until ready to cook.

6) Prepare the grill and preheat to high. Brush the grill grate

About to hit a milestone?

with oil.

7) Place the prepared burgers on the hot grill grate. Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side for medium, or until an instant read thermometer inserted through the side of the burger into the center reaches 160° F.

8) Brush the rolls with melted butter and toast them on the grill for about 45 seconds. Assemble the burgers, with lettuce leaves, Stilton cheese, caramelized shallots, and mushrooms. Serve.

Share your life accomplishments with your neighbors! Put your engagement, wedding, or baby announcement in the paper. It's free of charge for subscribers! Email editor@gcnews.com

Photos from the Village Archives

The Water Works Inside

Showing the inside of the Water Works building on Eleventh St. some time after 1904. This building was described the previous week with a photo, archives identifier pwwtr05. In the photo here at lower right are four steam-driven water pumps and in the background in the added wing are three steam-driven electrical dynamos, the steam coming overhead from a boiler room beyond the right wall.

Water from the adjacent well was first pumped on 16 November 1876 after a well-attended parade [pardon] of the Hempstead Fire Dept. to the site. The works was demonstrated to force a stream of water 200 feet high from a 2-inch pipe.

Underground conduits from this works were laid by the Garden City Company in 1904 for electrical distribution in the Central area at the same time that sewer mains were laid to the disposal plant at the south end of Cherry Valley Ave. at First St. The underground electrical distribution and subsequent early 1920s Village code requirement prohibiting curbside power poles was one of the most important steps that occurred to give the Village streets their present appearance: the poles and wires are not visible on the streets, nor are the street trees mutilated for the wire runs. Those existing curbside poles in the west and northeast were installed before the code was adopted. Archives identifier: pwwtr20

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

EAB meeting: Scoop the poop, save the ponds

From page 1

residents against disposing of wastefilled bags in storm drains or on the ground, noting that Garden City’s storm drains do not connect to a treatment facility. Instead, they discharge directly into the ground or lead to nearby natural water bodies like Smith Pond (south of Hempstead Lake) and Halls Pond. .

“This introduces harmful bacteria, parasites and nutrients that can deteriorate water quality, harm wildlife and pose a risk to public health. Chapter 176 of the Village of Garden City Code prohibits illicit discharges for the disposal of pet waste into the storm sewer system to protect waterways from harmful pollutants. Violators may face fines and jail time. For a 1st offense a fine of up to $350 could be the result and/or six months in jail; for a second offense the fine can be from $350 to $700 and/or six months in jail. By a third offense a violator can be fined $700 to $1,000 again with the possibility of six months in jail. Remediation costs can apply, and violations can be considered a public nuisance,” Borroni explained.

Borroni offered clear guidance: “Do not throw pet waste into storm drains. Bag it, seal the bag, and place it in the trash.”

EAB member Laurence Quinn noted that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has suggested flushing pet waste as an alternative, which Borroni confirmed. However, EAB member Amanda Shore quickly reminded attendees that waste should *never* be flushed in plastic bags.

Trustee Tai mentioned a proposal to install thin mesh covers over catch basins to prevent waste bags from entering the storm system. However, Borroni cautioned that such covers could lead to clogged drains, especially during leafheavy seasons or winter ice buildup. He said village crews inspect high-risk flood areas but pet waste bags are often difficult to spot.

Trustee Harrington raised the possibility of installing signage and pet waste stations—with dispensers and small trash bins—on popular walking routes such as North Avenue, South Avenue, Hampton Road, Garden Street, and Oxford Boulevard. “Our garbage trucks could empty the bins and restock the dispensers,” she said.

Borroni supported the idea and said it merits discussion by the Board of Trustees. “Anything of that nature adds to Public Works operations though it’s obviously better for the responsible person to pick up after their pet. Signage

advising people to pick up – definitely. And our police need the signage in public for their enforcement duties, too. It’s definitely worth a discussion,” he said.

Commissioner of Police Kenneth Jackson told Trustee Tai that enforcement is challenging. Officers must witness both the act and the failure to pick up or the improper disposal. With limited police resources, this is rarely possible, though officers do keep watch.

Tai also inquired whether any feedback had been received about new “Pick Up After Your Pet” signs posted on Manor Road. Borroni said the only comment he’s heard so far has been a simple “Thank you.”

EAB member John Reilly expressed concern over dog owners leaving waste in high-traffic areas like North and South Avenue or grassy medians. “People aren’t picking it up there and dogs can get sick really easily. If you want to have an expensive bill – for a serious illness, treatment would probably cost a few thousand dollars, not to mention having to get your rugs cleaned,” he said.

Quinn added that summer poses additional health risks: walking barefoot or in sandals on contaminated ground can lead to exposure to parasites like hookworm. “I know at the beach I was

deemed to be anti-dog because I objected to dogs running free at the beach, as I was walking barefoot. I explained, if your dog has any parasite (where I walk barefoot) that will go into my feet. Unregulated poop anywhere is an issue,” he said.

EAB member Kurt Ehrig emphasized the need to educate residents about the consequences of leaving dog waste in public spaces and its downstream impact on storm drains and water quality.

EAB member Evelyn Fasano referenced a Garden City High School Science Research project led by Dr. Steven Gordon, which involved adding medallions to storm drains with warnings such as “Do Not Throw Waste Into Storm Drains.” She suggested revisiting and cataloging this effort.

Borroni agreed the project had value and expressed interest in reviewing the student’s research.

He concluded the meeting by reiterating the message: “Everyone should follow three simple steps: bag it, seal the bag, and place it in the trash. By doing so we can all protect our local waterways, and keep our environment clean and healthy.”

School budget approved, principal search continues

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accomplishments. Four Garden City High School students – Mannat Jain, Hunter Maguire, Jeffrey Li, and Amy Xiao – were named National Merit Scholarship recipients, the district’s highest number in recent years.

Garden City was also named one of the “Best Communities for Music Education” for the 14th consecutive year, a distinction made possible by the dedication of teachers, administrators,

and students alike. The high school Chamber Orchestra also earned a Gold with Distinction rating at the NYSSMA Majors festival, performing at Level 6, the most challenging level in the competition.

Middle School principal search

Dr. Sinha provided an update on the middle school principal search, explaining that while two candidates were moved to the next level of interviews, the district will be reopening the search.

An interim principal will be appointed, with a decision expected in the next few weeks.

Hiring across the district continues to move forward. A candidate has been recommended for the role of coordinator of social studies and world languages, and interviews for a coordinator of music and art are scheduled for next week. The June Board of Education meeting is expected to include several new hires, and Dr. Sinha emphasized that the district is in “very good shape”

heading into the new school year.

The district is also preparing for a state review of its Universal Pre-K (UPK) program. Enrollment remains strong for next year, though openings are still available at the Harbor Child Care location in Shelter Rock. Families interested in applying are encouraged to contact the district.

The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for June 3 beginning at 8:15 pm ET at the Garden City High School.

Garden City leaders, residents speak at casino hearing

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are reviewing a massive FEIS for a project that currently has no sponsor, no operator, and no valid lease,” Finneran said. “Las Vegas Sands—one of the most reputable gaming companies in the world, with a $30 billion market cap and an estimated $400 million investment— has completely walked away from this site.”

Former Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan stated that the environmental impact studies confirm the serious concerns we have had since the beginning about this proposed project. The traffic impact, water demands, pollution, crime, and increased DWIs cannot be sufficiently mitigated, and now is the time to “turn the corner and look to do something good at the Hub.”

Trustee Rich Catalano also voiced concerns, highlighting the public safety implications. Referencing a recent Newsday article, he cited the article’s alarming statistics - that 2,200 people have died in the past decade - equivalent to the village of Bellport, and that 16,000 people were severely hurtequivalent to the village of Floral Park. Trustee Catalano asked “So what is the Nassau County legislature’s response to these dangers – to continue to push for a massive casino in the heart of Nassau County next to two colleges and a Catholic high school - literally next to tens of thousands of students.”

Other powerful speakers included village residents Monica Kiely, Lynn Krug, and Peggy Volz, along with residents from other nearby communities including Uniondale, Westbury and

Baldwin. All urged the Legislature to abandon the casino plans and instead pursue development that benefits and uplifts local communities. Former Trustee Bruce Chester and current Trustee Vinny Muldoon attended to show their opposition.

Despite unanimous passage of the resolution—a necessary step toward allowing any future casino operator to apply for a New York State gaming license before the June 26 deadline—some legislators attempted to clarify their stance. Legislators Olena Nicks and Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, both Democrats, emphasized that approving the release of the FEIS was about ensuring transparency and not an endorsement of a casino at the Nassau Hub.

Uncertainty over the future of the casino proposal remains with Legislator

DeRiggi-Whitton admitting she does not know the identity of the potential new operator or developer. When asked, Garden City’s own representative, Legislator John Giuffré, said he too was unaware. With Newsday reporting the new operator or developer will present at the May 27th hearing, it’s hard to understand why there is so much secrecy surrounding the identity of that operator.

Mayor Finneran and Say No to the Casino are urging all residents to attend Tuesday’s hearings and make their voices heard. “This is a pivotal moment for our community,” said Monica Kiely, a vocal opponent of the casino. “We need to show up and speak out before irreversible decisions are made.”

Trustees push for equity in Adelphi parking deal

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meeting between village officials and Adelphi leadership can take place.

“We had a meeting with Adelphi’s CFO Michael Rhattigan back in January and unfortunately another meeting for earlier this month was postponed. We’re rescheduling that, and before we consider this we’d like to sit down with him and have a more holistic and global conversation about our (village’s) relationship with Adelphi,” Mayor Finneran said.

During public comments, resident Robert Herz expressed support for holding the meeting before approving a new parking deal. He reiterated points he had previously raised, urging the trustees to make a stronger case for Adelphi to share more of the financial burden of supporting the village.

“There are different ways to go about this. Earlier this year, I gave an article from the Providence Journal to (former) Mayor Mary Carter Flannigan in terms of how the city of Providence received substantial payments from Brown University and three other universities

(in Providence) based on the value of if they were not tax-exempt entities, it would be based on the full value of their properties. But for Adelphi, it wouldn’t surprise me if their full freight were like a million dollars a year to the village – which is not insubstantial given our municipal budget. That would be sort of like the maximum you could get out of them, and many colleges and universities that are well-off do that in terms of just being a good citizen to their community,” he explained.

Herz noted that the Garden City Police Department protects the campus and asked the Board if they shared a comparison to the total 911 calls in the village with Adelphi leaders.

“We allocate the expenses (to Adelphi) and they’d cover us for the cost of employees’ time and service… You would do the same thing for the fire department. And, they also get free sewer services - whatever that would be. They also get services from our Recreation and Parks Department, in terms of tree removals and things like that. So the village can present to them that they obviously are a substantial

cost to the municipality, to which they get all these services for free and they’re certainly far from poverty,” Herz commented.

Herz concluded that Adelphi should not receive discounted access to municipal services.

“Our village should also say that it really needs the money because of what our necessary capital expenditures are going to be over the next five years…. You can tell them, ‘Look, you know our capital expenditures’ rate is exploding and you need to help us,” he commented at last week’s meeting.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon echoed Herz’s comments and offered specific examples of rising village costs.

“I thought it’s an excellent point, and we’ve certainly talked about this before. There is a perfect example of what I’ve mentioned: the new fire truck that’s going to be delivered, in about a month, to the village,” he said. The new truck will cost about $999,000. Muldoon added that the village plans to order another truck this year—a $3 million pumper.

“My point is we do an enormous amount of fire response over to Adelphi,

on a regular basis. Approximately 10% of our calls are to Adelphi, on average, so we go anywhere from two to four times a day to Adelphi – with the expenses to the village when it comes to fire trucks and everything else like that, and we’re blessed to have our volunteers – it’s really about fairness and making a fair deal for the residents and taxpayers of this village with the Adelphi costs,” he commented.

Muldoon agreed with Herz’s suggestion that Garden City get serious about negotiating a “better and a fairer deal” for all the services the village provides, including the parking over at the pool facility.

He noted, “It just means it’s an amazing setup that they have, and it’s time to put the taxpayers before you Adelphi… We love them as a neighbor, as a school, and we love to have them in the village but it’s time to renegotiate this deal so that it’s fair for the taxpayer base and for them.”

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Village-wide speed limit reduction still under review

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At its May 8 meeting, the Village of Garden City Traffic Commission revisited the long-delayed proposal to reduce the village-wide speed limit and discussed potential changes to existing signage and installation of new speed limit signs.

Traffic consultants from Creighton Manning Engineering are preparing to present a summary of their “Speed Limit Evaluation,” which investigates which roads in Garden City could legally shift from 30 mph to 25 mph. While some roads are not eligible for the lower limit, the overall project—deferred since November 2024—remains active as consultants continue working with the Department of Public Works (DPW) and other village staff.

“Creighton Manning has investigated if there is an option and if it makes sense to reduce the village speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph, and what that entails for changing all the signage in town,” Trustee Vinny Muldoon, chairperson of the Traffic Commission, explained last Thursday. No decision on the proposal has been made yet.

Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni reported that most roads in the village can have their speed limits reduced, but a few require further review.

Village Trustee Judy Courtney, who also serves on the Traffic Commission, expressed frustration at the pace of the project.

“It just keeps sitting there – this was part of the initial summary Creighton Manning presented a couple of years ago. As a Board, we need to know what the steps are to put this to bed as it’s been out there for years,” she told Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni.

Borroni said he would resend the evaluation report to the full Board of Trustees to resume discussion. Courtney

How

BY AHMED AHMED

clarified that the Traffic Commission would evaluate the proposal first before escalating it to the full Board for decision-making. Borroni added that no funding for new signage is currently in the budget and any related costs would require village board approval.

New Trustee Rich Catalano, who joined the Traffic Commission on May 8, asked if existing signs could be modified or if they would all need to be replaced. Borroni said full replacement would be necessary, increasing costs.

Garden City Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson noted that according to Creighton Manning, it might be appropriate for some streets to maintain the 30 mph speed limit, and creating a blanket 25 mph limit might not be appropriate for all roads and could result in a “mismatch” of posted speeds throughout the village.

Trustee Muldoon urged action. “Like some other decisions in this village that have been put off for the last 30 years, it’s time to make some decisions and indecision is your enemy. It’s a big step. We will need all the information and we need professionals’ input, and to me this is a big deal, and the Board of Trustees should certainly be involved in the process. Let’s get all the facts and information we will need to make the decisions – pros, cons - and then let’s put this to bed this year, once and for all.”

The Commission deferred the item to its next meeting while awaiting further information.

Traffic calming proposal deferred

Also deferred was a request from resident Maureen Lyons for a traffic calming bump-out at the end of Plattsdale Road to deter wrong-way traffic from New Hyde Park Road. Trustee Muldoon, who visited the site, said drivers frequently cut across the one-way road, causing weekly accidents.

The village has capital plans to address the roadway of Plattsdale Road this year and and Trustee Muldoon said

the curbs are part of the project.

He asked DPW and village engineers to look at curb redesigns as part of a broader road improvement project.

“There’s a way to make it almost impossible to make a right the way because of how the curbs are built, and by narrowing it – the road now is way too wide so you can go and loop in there. Maureen has videos of people cutting in and there are accidents all the time, every week there,” he said.

Superintendent Borroni requested that the item be deferred until after a May 9 meeting between the village engineer and GCFD to ensure emergency vehicle access is maintained.

Trustee Muldoon noted that he also spoke to Fire Chief James Taunton about Plattsdale. “I think it’s about making sure a fire truck can get in and out, as the truck would need to go straight or right – it would be too hard making a left because that road is angled pointing out. It should be fine once we get the feedback from GCFD, and we might need to go take a look there as the whole curb which is rounded is damaged from people jumping it. There’s nothing but creative ways for doing the curb work there,” he explained.

Muldoon and Fire Chief James Taunton agreed that turning angles and curb configuration need careful review.

Village Trustee Yvonne Varano, also new to the Commission, agreed with Muldoon’s observations and suggested additional signage. Muldoon noted that signs are already in place but frequently ignored.

Speed humps, stop sign proposed

The Commission also discussed installing two permanent speed humps on South Avenue, between Adelphi University and Rockaway Avenue, in response to reports of speeding—sometimes reaching 70 mph.

Muldoon explained the area is heavily trafficked by Adelphi students, with few speed control measures in place.

Borroni submitted a preliminary diagram for the humps, and Muldoon proposed adding a stop sign at either Kensington or Brixton Road to break up the long stretch between Nassau Boulevard and Brompton Road.

“The kids are making a left or a right from Nassau Boulevard and they’re heading down South Avenue towards Adelphi. They’re taking the car from there down to Brompton without any break (stop sign) and the same from Brompton all the way, wrapping around to Cherry Valley Avenue. They have two huge stretches there, and at times the speeding is more than just college kids,” he said.

Police Commissioner Jackson said he would review crash and speed data to determine if the proposed changes meet DOT criteria.

“I look at Department of Transportation statistics from over there, and the numbers of cars travelling the route just takes up to the criteria. For the other local streets you’ve asked about, I will do an accident and speed study for that area, to help the Commission make their decision,” Jackson said.

He noted that 85th percentile speed data from 2022 showed speeds of 44 mph.

Trustee Courtney said before the village installs speed humps there should be another, recent study done as this was data from three years ago.

“There is no downside to installing permanent speed humps on South Avenue, and believe it or not they’re cheaper to do than the purchases and installation of temporary humps. The temporaries are more important to perform the temporary calming, at locations in front of residences because the residents could try to see how it works. ,” Muldoon said.

The Commission deferred the item until data is reviewed and a final recommendation can be made.

rewiring your body can free you from pain

Unexplained discomfort in the side of your calf…

What feels like static or numbness in your hand or forearm…

Or even an achy spot in your behind can be frustrating.

No matter what you do, those areas just don’t quiet down.

Now, what’s really going on here?

It may sound surprising…

But you might not actually have a problem in those areas!

Instead — they’re symptoms of a nerve root near your spine getting pinched.

This is called radicular pain.

So, how does this work?

Nerves carry messages both ways:

From your brain out to places like your calf… And from your body back up to your brain.

Picture them like electrical wires…

Starting near the spine at the nerve root and branching out to the rest of your body.

If something compresses that nerve root — like a herniated disc or a bone spur…

You might feel tingling, pressure, or pain far away from the actual problem. Your calf might feel sore, and that

sensation is real…

But the source of the problem could be anywhere along your spine.

If you’ve been stuck massaging or foam-rolling your calf without long-term relief…

You’re not alone. So, what can you do?

Rewire your nervous system using exercise. Yup, this works thanks to a process called neuroplasticity — which allows your brain to build new connections (like new wiring). Over time and through consistency, you can transform how your brain and body communicate…

Strengthen the muscles that help align your spine so your nerves flow freely…

And teach your body to move comfortably.

Studies suggest that even short-term exercise can calm irritated nerves and reduce pain by changing brain activity and decreasing inflammation.

So, next time your calf acts up, don’t chase the pain...

It might be coming from somewhere you never expected.

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/

Ahmed Ahmed

May 23,

tive discussion about how the candidates differed in their concerns and how they would address them. Contested elections mean nothing if we can’t draw a contrast between the choices. The choices for this year have been made by just 10% of the voters. It would be to the greater good if we could improve on that for the next go-round.

Lynn Krug

Thanks for support

To the Editor:

We wanted to thank the Garden City community for their support and trust in us. We are grateful, humbled and energized.  Let’s continue our conversations about our district and let’s work together to tackle next steps and challenges. We are ready to get to work as members of the Board of Education on behalf of all of our students.

Erin Debrich and Debra Cupani

Poppy Season - Join the Tribute

To the Editor:

During the montho of May, American Legion Post 265 and Auxiliary Volunteers are distributing the familiar handcrafted poppies honoring America’s veterans. Planned to coincide with Memorial Day, the annual drive pays tribute to those veterans who have died in the service of their country. It also honors millions of Americans, still with us, who served in the armed forces, and returned from their service to strengthen America. Veterans make each nine-piece poppy in Auxiliary sponsored poppy shops. Compensation for their work supplements physical and psychological therapy needed by these hospitalized and disabled veterans. The Auxiliary provides the materials and the volunteers. The veterans make the poppies.

If you are presented with a poppy, please wear it proudly in honor of those who have served our country. Although the poppies are not to be sold, any contribution received is allocated directly to assist needy veterans and their families in ways that the govenment does not provice. Our annual poppy drive, through our devoted citizens, is the primary resource for us to continue our work.

We actively are engaged with the VA hospital in Northport, the state veterans’ residence in Stony Brook, the Marine base on Stewart Avenue, and other venues that bring us to assist those who serve or have served in our armed forces.

Donations may be written to: ALA Unit 265, PO Box 8, Garden City NY 11530.

If you have or have had a spouse or relative who has served in the US military, and you are interested in becoming a member of our Auxiliary, you may contact Donna Armieri, Vice President

at 516-314-4552.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

If you are a veteran and you are interested in joining Post 265, call Jim Michalak, Post Membership Chairman at 646-438-1039.

Jacqueline Burdi Eltringham, President American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 265

Why disguise survey?

To the Editor:

After waiting weeks we finally received our St Paul’s Survey on May 14.. We were in the “condo group” that we were told had an incomplete address label. We decided to complete the survey online last week.

Today when the envelope arrived we thought it was “junk mail” as the envelope address stated it was from ETC INSTITUTE, 725 W. Frontier Circle, Olathe, KS 66061 and was mailed first class from Kansas City on May 8, 2025. To our surprise it was the survey! The survey inside had a paid return envelope back to Kansas. My first inclination, as others might have done, was to deposit it in the bin. Perhaps many did just that! Why the disguise?

Charles L. Ruoff

St. Paul’s debacle

To the Editor:

How much longer do the residents of Garden City have to be exposed to this economic boondoggle? The GC Historical Society and whatever name the Preservationists are using keep calling St. Paul’s “Historic.” The only thing “Historic” about this edifice is the historic amount of time it has outlived it usefulness, and at taxpayers expense. Thanks, guys!

I have written on a number of occasion to this paper asking the Historical Society: 1) What of “Historical” significance ever occurred at St. Paul’s? or 2)

Who of “Historical” significance ever attended or taught at St. Paul’s? Never saw any response, because nothing ever happened there. Yet, here we are burdened by the misnomer of “Historical” used in defense of what?

Have you ever seen a municipal project come in on time or on budget? Me either. It’s a scam, a ploy to get the citizenry to approve funding. Then when the hucksters have exhausted their original funding, without completion, return to the bamboozled voters asking for more funding.

They plead that having already spent such an amount it would be a shame to waste it, so give us some more to finish. Good money, after bad. Why start on this slippery slope? End this debacle, vote to demolish.

Additionally, I see in Facebook Trustee Muldoon taking propagandistic tours of St. Paul’s. Are Village employees along on these jaunts? Were “Hold Harmless” waivers signed, so the

Village isn’t liable for any accidents that may occur? Will proponents of demolishment be given the same amount of time to tour the facility and offer their views?

Thomas Brosnan

Clear as mud

To the Editor:

The St. Paul’s Survey--of all Garden City households--is now in its final days of circulation before being returned, by May 30th, for review and analysis. It has been sent to the roughly 7,000+ residential units of our Village, and must be returned by May 30th. I have 16 questions about the survey.

Question #1: Will a “winner” actually be declared, quickly-- with respect to demolition, preservation or facadism for the building?

#2: Will the method of declaring a winner be clear and unambiguous to all?

#3: Will the “rules of the game” be disclosed in advance of counting the votes? Who will do the counting? Will there be disclosure of the actual numerical votes? We do not want “judgments” of the “will” of the “people.” These rules would prevent “massaging” of the data and produce truly objective information.

#4: What outcome of the counting of the results would be considered a consensus or critical mass? For example, would a total vote of only 30% of GC households, roughly 2,000, be acceptable? Probably not, in my view. How about 40% or 50%? How about 60% of those who voted? Or what if the turnout is very low? This could be caused by residents who are indifferent to the topic, or are not aware of “write-in voting” for demolition or facadism. I would like to see a majority, 3,500 households, as the measure of victory. To the BOT: Please let us know regarding these very important issues and questions!

#5: What is the Role of the Board? There are eight members including Mayor Finneran. Sadly, I view the group as STRONGLY in favor of preservation of the building. If they voted today I would envision a unanimous 8-0 vote, or at worst, 7 to 1. By law, the Board is allowed to vote against the will of the residents. An exception would be via a “binding” referendum to approve bond issuance to finance construction of St. Paul’s. By the way... The”propreservation” bias of the Board can be gleaned from the heading of the Survey: “Garden City St.Paul’s Survey-Developing St. Paul’s as a Community Center.”

#6: Are there “too many cooks in the kitchen?” I refer to an article by our Trustees, in the GCN in early May, indicating that it could take several months for the Survey vote to be reviewed to measure public opinion on the use of the building. The Board press release

also stated that they are hoping for an “overwhelming” resident participation. Then the Survey results will be tabulated and analyzed by our consultants, BCI, which could take up to 2 months, then studied by the St. Paul’s Advisory Committee, and residents for roughly another 6-8 weeks. Finally the Committee report would be published. #7: Whose opinion will prevail? BCI, the BOT, the Advisory Committee or theResidents Survey? A firm, ETC Institute of Kansas, will perform the analysis for BCI. We have been led to believe that the Survey would be paramount in gauging what to decide on building usage. #8: Why does it take more than FOUR MONTHS to study the Survey-- if the criteria are objective and easy to understand? #9: In a too-close-to-call vote, would the Board call for a revote?, Or could the Board scrap the survey and decide the outcome based on “ballpark” analysis and conclusions? Thus we could wind up in a situation similar to the October 2023 “opinion” poll which had very controversial and confusing aspects and no clear winner. #10: The Survey contains too many selections to narrow down to a manageable number. There are more than 100 activities to choose from. There may be too many “small slices of the pie.” In fact, the Board deliberated for months on the language and contents of the Survey before it was released in January 2025.

#11: What if the raw statistical vote is inconclusive? Would the Board massage the vote numbers to determine what residents have told them to be the “true winner?” This would be unacceptable--for the vote on the number one subject of controversy in the history of Garden City.

#12: Could the survey be declared null and void based on difficult-to-fathom data.

#13: Timelines are vague or absent. I refer to... what will happen and when? Where do we go from today? What are near and longer term objectives? What does “phased” construction mean? How long is that? Will there be a continuation of the 30-year nightmare? In fact, we may not even see the final Survey results until late this year according to the Board.The Board has proposed “moth-balling” 65% of the building, to be developed at a later date, but only the first floor -- representing about 35% of the square footage of the building -- would be considered in Phase One. A vague cost estimate is called “ballpark,” an imprecise guestimate.

#14: Voting for a “ghost?” Two essentials for residents to consider were a) what are the definitive uses decided by the Trustees and the Advisory Committee and b) what are the costs in terms of higher Village taxes to each homeowner. Neither of these items are clearly spelled out. Thus residents have

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

voted for unknown items. Importantly the range of total estimated costs to preserve the building are WILDLY apart -- ranging from $30 million up to $200 million, based on internal and external, official and unofficial, sources. Clearly residents have voted blindly!

#15: Is there a threat of too much risk of back-breaking, ruinous, debt? -- excessive imprudent bond offerings which could “crowd out” other Village capital spending requirements and even threaten Garden City’s precious AAA Moody’s debt rating. Bonded debt requirements could be a large percentage amount compared to current outstandings. This could limit the desired size of debt issuance, and the size of the ultimate development of St. Paul’s.

#16: What about NY State Legislative Approval Risk. In the following circumstances, the State Legislature would need to approve: a) 30-year maturity bonds, and/or b) proposed activities which violate Parkland guidelines. Such approvals could take years, if ever, to achieve, and painfully delay St. Paul’s development. Incidentally, annual tax increases for a 30-year bond are significantly below what would be true for a 15-year bond -- but for 15 years longer (see Survey, p. 4).

Conclusions: I reiterate my long held view that demolition, and replacement with a park, is the better choice based on these primary arguments: a) demolition is far less expensive, b) we now have most of the proposed uses for the

building. Crucially, estimates of the ultimate financing costs to fully renovate the building are tens of millions of dollars apart--even amongst experts. The range is up to $75 million for preservation, $90 million for facade and $40 million for mothballing.

An unbelievable shortcoming of the Survey is that the choice of “demolition” does not appear on it. This is disgraceful--and perhaps not accidental. Write-ins are simply not reliable. The total turnout of voters must be sufficient to give our Trustees a mandate-that is a majority of the households. This would go a long way toward deciding whether residents are willing to accept an increase in their taxes to save the building, or are not enamored significantly to spend to preserve it. There are too few specifics to ponder. Thus our title of this Letter, “Clear as Mud” seems highly appropriate. There are too many unknowns and even indications of potential chaos. My major concern is the residents must be in charge of how to move forward. Mayor Finneran has promised to proceed in that fashion. I hope he keeps his promises, but I am skeptical that he will be successful--owing to how visibly “hell-bent” our Trustees are to preserve rather than demolish or choose facadism. The bottom line is “affordability” for residents’ pocketbooks and the GC Village budget. The battle royal could be Board opinion versus residents’ opinion.

George M. Salem

A horse named Journalism showed what’s possible

From page 2

It’s happening now. And yet, there is still a clear lane for journalism organizations to triumph—if we fight for it.

Last year, New York passed a firstin-the-nation tax credit to support truly local journalism. That policy, now in effect, offers a lifeline to community-based newspapers. It was made possible by the Empire State Local News Coalition, a nonpartisan alliance of more than 200 local newspapers in New York—including the Garden City News—committed to keeping local reporting alive.

To turn that legislative victory into a lasting comeback, the Empire State

Local News Coalition needs support— from readers, businesses, neighbors, and anyone who cares about truth, transparency, and community camaraderie.

Because while four legs carried Journalism to victory, it’s the Fourth Estate that carries our democracy—and right now, it’s running out of steam.

If you appreciate the work we do covering your schools, government, family, friends, and more, then please donate to the Empire State Local News Coalition at SaveNYLocalNews.com/support. With your help, journalism—the one that informs, uplifts, and protects—can make a dramatic comeback, too.

GCPD: Memorial Day Weekend DWI Patrols

This Memorial Day Weekend, the Garden City Police Department, along with other Police Departments throughout Nassau County, will be participating in the STOP DWI Enforcement Initiative that will be targeting Intoxicated and Drugged Drivers. This initiative will be enhanced by funds received from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson states, “According to the

New York State Police, slightly more than 30% of all fatal crashes are alcohol related. During this initiative, the Department will be deploying extra patrols on Village roadways to strictly enforce DWI and Impaired Driving Laws. These patrols are important in preventing holiday tragedies that seem far too common”.

The Garden City Police Department wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday.

Environmental Tip of the Week A Website that Helps Migratory Birds

We recently wrote about the “Lights Out” program, which helps safeguard migratory birds during their nocturnal journeys over Nassau County by encouraging diminished lighting overnight. This week we’re highlighting an app that shows the number of migratory birds that fly

You will see that birdcast.info reported that overnight on May 12, 2025 an amazing 357,200 birds crossed over Nassau County.

overhead: birdcast.info

This screenshot on the left shows the birdcast.info dashboard; the screen shot on the right shows the result on May 13, 2025 after “Nassau County” is typed into the search function.

Semipalmated Sandpiper, the Common Tern and eight varieties of Warblers on May 13.

Cluttered?

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our main office today 294-8900 for more information.

The birdcast.info website also shows migration times and other statistics, as well as each evening’s “expected nocturnal migrants” that included American Redstart,

The “Lights Out” Program continues through May 31 and we ask are residents to consider dimming and/ or turning off unnecessary outdoor lights between 11:00 pm and 6:00 am through May 31.

CPOA seeks candidates

The Central Property Owners’ Association (CPOA) is seeking candidates for Officers, Directors and Candidate Selection Committee Members. All terms of office shall commence immediately following the Annual CPOA Election meeting on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

Candidates are being sought to fill Officer and Director positions on the CPOA Board. The President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer shall serve one year terms expiring in May 2026. Directors shall serve three year terms expiring in May 2028. Candidates are also being sought to fill Member positions and Alternate

Member positions on the CPOA Candidate Selection Committee. Members and Alternates shall serve two year terms expiring in May 2027.

Residents of the Central Section who are interested in being considered for an Officer, Director or Candidate Selection Committee Member position can secure an application from the chairperson of the Candidate Selection Committee, Patty Siler at 695-7648 or pjst2@yahoo. com. The deadline for the return of a completed application form is Friday, June 6, 2025.

For more information on the CPOA, see their website at gccpoa.org.

Subscribe Today!

Get the scoop on what’s happening in your community every week! Contact us today 516.294.8900 or visit us online www.gcnews.com

Memorial Day’s True Meaning

BY JACQUELINE BURDI ELTRINGHAM, PRESIDENT, WM. B. TURNER AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY UNIT 265

Flowers in tribute to the deceased has been a custom for at least 300,000 years. We know that movements to encourage tribute to soldiers deceased in battle with flowers became prominent in our country at the time of our American Civil War. During WWI a remarkable occurrence gave birth to the poppy as the accepted flower of remembrance for deceased veterans.

The convergence of the remains of the buried soldiers (many of them, our own) with the composition of the wartorn soil of Flanders Field in Belgium and France prompted the growth of grand arrays of poppies there. The poppy began to symbolize tribute to deceased veterans in Europe and to some extent here in the United States. Just before the Armistice of November 11, 1918, was signed Moyna Michael (now renowned

in the USA as “The Poppy Lady”) began wearing and distributing all the artificial poppies she could find. With her example and efforts, citizens offered her donations for the care and support of veterans affected by their heroism in service. American Legion Auxiliary units, such as ours, perpetuate this custom with emphasis on Memorial Day - the day whose purpose is to remember those soldiers who have died, particularly while engaged in the service of our country.

When you prepare for the festivities that are associated with this day, take the time to ensure with your family the sacred dimension of the day. Join us for the service at our historic Cathedral of the Incarnation. The parade hosted by the Veterans of our Wm. B. Turner Post 265, and the memorial service at our beautiful village memorial plaza... and wear a poppy a veteran of our post or auxilian of our unit may give you. Then, enjoy your barbecue.

From page 23

Hit-and-run arrest

Garden City Police Detectives arrested a subject on May 16 for allegedly leaving the scene of a May 12 auto accident on Stewart Avenue.

Tinted windows

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged on May 16 with driving with a suspended license and illegal tinted windows.

Loose change stolen

Loose change was reported stolen on May 17 from a vehicle parked on Magnolia Avenue.

7th Street motorist charged

On May 17, a motorist on 7th Street was charged with driving with a suspended license and a suspended registration.

Clinton Road driver cited

A Clinton Road motorist was charged on May 17 with driving with a suspended license and a suspended registration.

Oven smoke alarm

GCFD and GCPD responded to a fire alarm on May 17 that was activated by oven smoke and a system error.

Speed and registration charges

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on May 17 with driving with a suspended registration and excessive speed.

Main Street hit-and-run

A grey sedan reportedly left the

scene after colliding into another vehicle on May 17 on Main Street.

Multiple traffic violations

On May 17, a Meadow Street motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration and failing to stop at a Stop sign.

Commercial alarm check

Officers responded on May 18 to a commercial alarm, found an open door, and determined everything was in order.

Speeding and unlicensed driver

A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged on May 18 with unlicensed operation and excessive speed.

Franklin Avenue hit-and-run

Officers investigated a report of a gold vehicle leaving the scene of a May 18 auto accident on Franklin Avenue.

Multiple vehicle violations

On May 18, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with driving with a suspended registration, speeding, and operating an uninsured auto.

Suspended license on Stewart

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on May 18 with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.

SUV leaves accident scene

A grey SUV reportedly left the scene of an accident that occurred on May 19 on Clinton Road.

Steam triggers alarms

On May 19, GCFD and GCPD

responded to fire alarms activated by shower steam, hair dryers, and system malfunctions.

Unsafe speed, unregistered vehicle

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on May 19 with unlicensed operation, operating an unregistered auto, and unsafe speed.

Check stolen from mail

A check placed in the mail on 6th Street was reported stolen, altered, and cashed on May 19.

Carbon monoxide alarm

On May 19, GCFD and GCPD responded to a residential CO alarm and deemed the area safe.

Truck violations on Franklin

One truck operator on Franklin Avenue was charged with multiple overweight violations, while another was charged with driving with defective brakes on May 19.

Mulch fire extinguished

Garden City Police assisted firefighters on May 19 in extinguishing a smoldering mulch patch on Stewart Avenue.

Multiple license violations

On May 19, two 7th Street motorists were charged with driving with suspended licenses and other violations.

Bank scam call

Officers investigated a report on May 20 of a victim receiving a scam phone call regarding fraudulent activity against his bank account. The victim, who does not have an account with that

particular bank, discontinued the call.

Unlicensed Clinton driver

On May 20, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with unlicensed operation and driving with a suspended registration.

Burnt food and false alarms

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to fire alarms on May 20, one triggered by burnt food and two others set off in error.

Seatbelt and suspension charges

A Cherry Valley Avenue motorist was charged on May 20 with driving with a suspended license and not wearing a seatbelt.

Unsafe speed and registration

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

Railroad gate issue

Garden City Police responded on May 20 to the Nassau Boulevard train crossing due to a railroad gate malfunction.

Multiple auto violations

On May 20, a Meadow Street motorist was charged with improper plates, operating an unregistered auto, and driving without insurance.

Truck violations on Clinton

Two truck operators on Clinton Road were charged on May 20 with driving in non-commercial zones and multiple lighting violations.

THE OFFICE CAT

Soccer Players of the Week

Pre K Girls

Team 1 - Purple Grapes:

Katelyn Collins

Maddie Murphy

Elizabeth Okurowski

Vivenne Mone

Team 2:

Lilah Crowley

Natalie Gustavson

Team 3: Grace McAleavey

Nina Roth

Alexis Schramm

Team 4 - Mint Chocolate Chip:

Grace Lentini

Team 5 - Pink Princesses:

Lina Giannuzzi

Dot Hayn

Brooke Horvath

Leni Palko

Team 6: The Whole Team

Team 7: The Whole Team

Team 8: The Whole Team

Pre K Boys

Team 1

Mateo Cerullo

Sam Ofenloch

Team 2 The Whole team

Team 3

Whole team

Team 4

Whole team

Team 5 The whole team

Team 6 The Whole team

Team 7

Jack Breslin

Logan Zuvich

Team 8

The whole team

Kindergarten Girls

Team 1 - Kicking Peacocks

Sophie Bletsch

Matilda Fonseca

Team 2 - Pink Diamonds

Savina Braxton

Charlotte Eng

Team 3 - Purple Gummy Bears

Mariella Calma

Olivia Santopadre

Team 4 - Purple Ponies

Quinn Rendino

Claire Sorenson

Team 5 - Green Apples

Catherine Burns

Team 6 - Blue Cotton Candy

Quinn Hinker

Beatrice Kutner

Renny Leach

Team 7 - Blue Cobras

The Whole Team

Team 8 - Pink Butterflies

Brooke Lempa

Reagan Hausner

Eleanor Rusten

1st Grade Girls

Team McAuliffe

Brynn Genova

Clare Sampson

Priya Bankewitz

Team Balkema

Ainsley Brathwaite

Coco Connors

Mae Connors

Team Urban

Piper Yeung

Juliet Constantino

Allie Ziniti

Team Scroggins

The whole team

Team Groarke

The whole team

Team Munnelly

The whole team

1st Grade Boys

Team#1 - Blasters

James Gnatowski

Nicholas Themelis

Team #2- King Cobras

Jack Hage

Henry McGlynn

Team #3 - Blues Brothers

Whole Team

Team #4 - Green Machine

Conor Napoli

Jack McGowan

Team #5

Isaac Chen

Barrett Brink

Team #6 – Gold Rush

Austin Charchalis

Everett Jamal

Team #7 – Orange Eagles

Westley Cohen

Liam Fasciglione

Team #8 – Green Machine

Whole Team

2nd & 3rd Grade Girls

Dominators:

Neave Smith

Claire Trudden

Shannon Trudden

Madelyn Ryder

Team Lightning: The Whole Team

Lady Goldkickers: The Whole Team

Shooting Stars: Emma Watts

Willow Griffing

Chloe Law

Team 5:

Carolina Nickas

Emme Horn

Avelyn Minarcik

Thunderbolts:

Victoria Lupo

Giuliana Moy

Camila Sampson

2nd & 3rd Grade Boys

Team 1

Luke Lefler

Charlie Dolan

Team 3

Jude McCrossen

Team 5

Stephan Davi

Nick Raine

Team 6

Alessio Calma

Luca Odriscoll

Team 7

Matthew Nicholson

Tristan Bilello

Team 8

Remy Trudeau

Zack Rao

The

May 23, 2025

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’ Basketbal l 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 nonresidents.  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 24.  This program is open to Garden City residents only, Tuesdays through Fridays, 9:30 to noon.

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:

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.

Pool Memberships are Now Available for Purchase!

https://www.communitypass.net/ login

We are excited to announce that registration for The Garden City Pool is available online via the CommunityPass registration system!

Due to a change in recreation software, every household must create a new account.

As online registration for programs will be starting soon, we encourage all families that will be registering to create their CommunityPass Account now!

In order to register for pool memberships or future programs, you MUST first create an account.

To create a new account, register an existing account, login or register for a program, follow the instructions found within this email or on the CommunityPass site.

Many of our programs, including the Garden City Swimming Pool memberships have residency requirements. In order to verify your residency on your account and gain access to registration for these programs, you must send a copy of your driver’s license AND a utility bill to gcrec@gardencityny.net *

How to Create a Family Account:

• Go to: https://register.capturepoint.com/GCRecandParks

• From the CommunityPass login homepage click on the ‘Create an Account’ button.

• On the next page complete the ‘Account Creation’ fields and click on Create at the bottom of the page.

• On the next page you will see the CommunityPass Privacy Statement.  After reading, click ‘Accept.’ Then click ‘Finish.’

Please save your login and password for future use. Only one account per family is permitted.

Your account will say "Unverified" until approved by a Recreation staff member.

You will not be able to purchase a pool membership until your account has been created and verified. We will approve your account as soon as we can.

*You can also verify in person at the recreation offices, 108 Rockaway Ave

Indoor Track Hours at Cluett Hall

Hours have concluded for the season. Enjoy the nice weather!

2025 Spring Art & Science Splash! Registrations Open

Our art and science classes are designed to inspire and educate your child in an environment where giggles and grins are encouraged. Children will get messy with paint, clay, slime and so

much more! Instructors (who are called “Mess Masters”) provide all the materials necessary for your child to participate in the class and no additional purchase is required to attend. We also offer weekly classes, workshops, camps, homeschool classes, art kits and gifts for kids. Registrations are now open. Dates and times can be found on their website. Forms can be obtained at,

• Online: https://forms.gle/1QeEM5J7texByRbq8

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

Pioneer Sports Volleyball Clinic

Volleyball Clinic: Tuesdays, March 4th to April 8th, 6:30-7:30pm. 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

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 Tuesdays from 4 to 5 p.m. in St. Paul’s Center (108 Rockaway Avenue) beginning April 1. To register please visit www.chesswizards.com.

Hooray- Hooray

Mini Golf at Community Park is now open for the season.

Summer Tennis Camp Information is Coming Soon!

The tennis camps begin on Monday, June 30, under the direction of our experienced pros, Rick Bates and Justin McMackin. Registration is underway.

Garden City Recreation and Parks Mini Golf at Community Park is now open for the season.

Special: All games are $1 per person for the month of April

Summer Tennis Camp Registration Begins:

The tennis camps begin on Monday, June 30, under the direction of our experienced pros, Rick Bates and Justin McMackin.

GC Recreation and Parks: Summer Tennis Camp – Ages 6 to 15

Registration is now underway Online registration is available: Information and registration form: www.gardencityrecreation.org

The Tennis Camp program offers children an opportunity to learn and advance their tennis skills in a fun setting while working with experienced tennis instructors. Our camps are set by age and children are grouped according to ability within their camp – please note that the type of tennis ball used will be determined by the course level. Sessions are at the Community Park Tennis Center. The age of the child, at the start of the session, will determine which session the child may attend, proof of age may be required. Please read the information below to determine which camp your child is eligible to attend. You may sign-up for more than one camp!

Equipment needed: flat soled sneak-

Tradition Lacrosse

The Tradition Lacrosse program kicked off their summer season this past weekend at the Queen of the Island Lacrosse Tournament at Stony Brook University. The program had ten Tradition teams competing and having fun with their teammates. The girls absolutely crushed it; especially the 2032 Pink team bringing home the Championship! They represented their community and families with pride, heart, and hustle.Tradition Lacrosse is a community led 501(C)(3) non-profit organization devoted to providing competitive youth lacrosse opportunities to its membership. Please visit www.traditionlax.org for more information.

GARDEN CITY RECREATION AND PARK NEWS

ers and a tennis racket. Please note rackets are provided for the novice level.

Platform Tennis News

We have some interest in forming a level 3 Women’s platform tennis team for next season. If you are interested in playing or would like more information, please email:sespey@gardencitny.net.

Register for a Free Plot in the Community Garden

Do you like to garden but just don’t have enough space to plant? GC Rec has you covered with a garden plot right in front of the Rec Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. Registration for a plot in the Community Garden will open Monday, April 28th, 2025. The Garden will officially open Monday, May 12th, 2025.

*Space is very limited. *

All plots are free for residents, registration is required. Please fill out the interest form found on the Recreation

website gardencityrecreation.org/headlines and return it to the recreation office.

Please note, this program is on a first come first serve basis. We will not be holding any plots for residents that have previously gardened with us. The combination to the gate has been changed, the new combination will be given May 12.

*All plots have been filled, all interested participants will be placed on a waitlist as of May 5.

Community Park Tennis News!

Summer tennis rates for tennis court time begin on Saturday, May 24.   The summer court fee is $36 per court per hour all day long.  Senior Citizen rates of $32 per court per hour are still in effect at the designated times. Beginning, Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, the Community Park tennis courts will open at 8 a.m. each day for the summer season.

Field hockey registration

Calling all rising 3rd grade girls! The Long Island Field Hockey League Association (LIFHA), now in its 22nd year, is registering players. This is a learning league. Join the fun! Garden City girls can send registration before June 30. An Adelphi playday and a 5-game travel schedule will begin in mid-September. The registration form can be found on the website, www. lifha.com. Print it out and send with

payment to the address below. Also, a USAFH membership is required for insurance purposes. Print out a copy of proof of membership from the website www.teamusa.org or usafieldhockey. sport80.com. The proof must show the player will be current during the time of play. Drop off or mail these three items to: Lisa Suau, 200 Brixton Rd., Garden City, NY, 11530.

GCHS Girls Lacrosse seniors shine in big win

On Friday, May 16, the Garden City Girls Lacrosse team took on Division High School in the Class B quarterfinals—and delivered a commanding 20–3 victory. But the scoreboard wasn’t the only highlight of the day. It was also Senior Day, a special celebration honoring the 14 senior players for their leadership, dedication, and impact on the program.

The honored seniors were: Arci Haffner, Ava Borzillieri, Brooke Hopkins, Brynn Reilly, Elizabeth Staub, Ellie Andersen, Emerson Goettelmann, Kate Connolly, Kathryn Monaco, Kitty Clavin,

Kyle Finnell, Makaela Morris, Meaghan Lynch, and Tori Ottomanelli. The junior, sophomore, and freshman moms organized a beautiful tribute, and each senior was introduced by Garden City Athletic Director Ed Ramirez before walking onto the field with their parents.

To mark the occasion, the starting lineup featured an all-senior squad and they made their presence known right from the first whistle. Arci Haffner led the offensive surge with a hat trick, while Kathryn Monaco, Tori Ottomanelli, and Emerson Goettelmann each scored twice.

Ava Borzillieri also found the back of the net, adding to the dominant start. The senior squad didn’t just shine in scoring. Unselfish play and sharp passing stood out, with Ellie Andersen dishing out two key assists, and Arci Haffner and Meaghan Lynch each contributing one. The defense was just as impressive, with Makaela Morris and Kitty Clavin making their mark through crucial stops and smart plays, helping shut down Division’s offense early.

The scoring continued in the second quarter with six more goals for Garden

City. Averie Smith opened the quarter with a goal assisted by Kim Colucci, followed by quick scores from Regan Backer and Ellie Andersen. Smith struck again, this time off an assist from Ashley Clark, who then added a goal of her own, set up by Michaela Molgano. Ali Bennett closed out the half with a goal assisted by Stella Goettelmann, sending the team into halftime with a commanding 16–2 lead.

Garden City added four more goals in the second half to cap off their dominant performance. Michaela Molgano opened the scoring with a well-placed shot off

The senior girls with their parents.

Seniors (left to right): Kyle Finnell, Kathryn Monaco, Emerson Goettelmann, Ava Borzillieri, Ellie Andersen, Elizabeth Staub, Meaghan Lynch, Tori Ottomanelli, Brynn Reilly, Kate Connolly, Kitty Clavin, Arci Haffner, Makaela Morris and Brooke Hopkins Senior girls pose on Warren King field.

GCHS Girls Lacrosse seniors shine in big win

an assist from Katie Horn. In the fourth quarter, Kiera Ruoff fired in an unassisted goal, followed shortly by Meaghan Lynch, who scored off a setup from Kitty Clavin. Brynn Reilly closed out the game in style, finishing a coast-to-coast play with a goal off a clear from the defensive end.

A special congratulations to senior captain Kyle Finnell, who has been selected to play in the prestigious New Balance All-America Senior Game—one of the highest honors in high school lacrosse. Only 44 players are chosen from across the entire country, making this an incredible and well-deserved achievement. Kyle’s selection is a testament to her exceptional skill, hard work, and impact on the field.

Please follow the girls on Instagram @ gcgirlsvlax for updates on their upcoming playoff season.

Senior captain Kyle Finnell has been selected to the New Balance All America senior game.

Brooke Hopkins and Makaela Morris, who turned 18 on Senior Day, celebrate their special day.

Kitty Clavin, #6, sprints up field with a smile!

Staub and Ava Borzillieri (left to right) show off their senior posters made by their teammates.

Class of 2025 players

Elizabeth

Boys Track celebrates Senior Night with division title victory

The Garden City High School Boys Track and Field team turned Senior Night into a celebration to remember, capturing the Division Championship title with a powerful and well-rounded performance on Tuesday evening. With senior athletes leading the way, the Trojans dominated across events, showing both depth and heart in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.

Senior Connor McHugh kicked off the highlights with a first-place finish in the pole vault, clearing an impressive 13 feet, 6 inches.

On the track, the Trojans’ distance

squad was unstoppable. Ryan McAlea took first in the 3200-meter run with a composed and commanding race while DJ McDonough continued his remarkable season by claiming victories in both the 1600-meter and 800-meter events. Hunter Maguire also finished strong in the 1600-meter.

In the hurdles, senior Dean Colletti charged to a first-place finish in the 400meter hurdles. Colletti returned later to anchor the victorious 4x400-meter relay team alongside Carter Olenik, Chris Byrne (sophomore), and Connor Wellbrock, who closed the meet in dom-

inant fashion.

The sprinters also brought the heat. Connor Wellbrock and Jacob Antilety delivered back-to-back finishes in the short sprints, placing second and third respectively in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. In the 400-meter, Luke Webber ran a strong race to finish second, while Will Farquar added crucial points with a fourth-place finish.

The 4x100-meter relay team of Michael Tusiani-Eng, Gianluigi Mazzella, Damien Cheng (sophomore), and Jacob Antilety took second in a fast and competitive race, showing promise

for postseason relays.

The victory was more than just a meet win—it was a celebration of a senior class that has helped set the standard for Garden City Track & Field. Their leadership and dedication were evident in every event, making this championship especially meaningful.

Special thanks to the coaching staff— Coach Dreher, Coach McDonald, and Coach Johnson for their leadership, mentorship, and tireless work throughout the season.

Sanitation collections Memorial Day week

Residents are reminded that there will be no garbage pickup on Monday, May 26.

The holiday week collection schedule will be as follows:

Western half of the Village (west of Rockaway Avenue): Garbage - Tuesday and Friday; Rubbish - Thursday, May 29

Eastern half of the Village (east of Rockaway Avenue): Garbage - Wednesday and Saturday; Rubbish - Thursday, May 29

Residents scheduled for recycling on Monday, May 26, are asked to put their recyclables out on Monday, June 2.

Place an ad in our Classifieds for reasonable rates and prompt results. Call our main office 294-8900 to request information & rates. Visit our website to place classified Ads, to receive more information & our latest rates, www.gcnews.com

featured in all 11 newspapers!

Division Champs!

Captains: DJ McDonough, Connor McHugh, Connor Wellbrock

Garden City closes regular season with win over rival Carey

In a game defined by grit, patience, and a flurry of second-half brilliance, the Garden City Trojans boys lacrosse team wrapped up their regular season on Tuesday with an emphatic 8-1 victory over crosstown rival Carey High School. It was a methodical and disciplined performance from the Trojans, who held the host Seahawks scoreless for more than two quarters while showcasing a mix of clinical finishing and smothering defense.

The early stages of the contest saw both sides feeling each other out, with neither team able to break through in a scoreless first quarter. But Garden City Charlie Koester finally opened the scor-

ing with a determined dodge in front of the crease, muscling his way to the cage to put the Trojans ahead 1-0.

Koester struck again early in the second quarter, this time capitalizing on a defensive breakdown by Carey for an empty-net finish to double the lead. Though the Seahawks responded late in the half with a man-up goal, slicing the deficit to 2-1, that would be as close as they would come.

Koester completed his hat trick on a powerful run to the cage, restoring a two-goal cushion and igniting a third-quarter surge for Garden City. James Debusschere added flair to the scoreboard with a slick backhand fin-

ish, followed by a composed left-side strike from Ben Smith to extend the lead to 5-1.

As the third quarter wound down, Owen Wuchte provided one of the evening’s highlights — an acrobatic goal that brought the visiting crowd to its feet and pushed the margin to 6-1. Smith added his second of the day in the final quarter, before Debusschere capped off the scoring with a tough, contested goal while absorbing a heavy hit.

The Trojans’ defense, led by Gus Gali, Andrew Dengler, and Declan Wuchte, and Luke LeSueur, stifled Carey’s offense throughout. Each executed crucial clears under pressure to

maintain possession and momentum. Meanwhile, senior Luke Cascadden delivered another strong outing at the faceoff X, ensuring that Garden City controlled the tempo for much of the match.

With the postseason now on the horizon, Garden City enters with confidence and cohesion, anchored by a senior class that knows how to win when it matters most. The Trojans first playoff game this Friday at home at 11am will also be Senior Day, a special celebration of the players and families. GO TROJANS!

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!

Dan Morizio(28) and Scott Nelson(4)

Jason Bremer

Merit Ruckh

Andrew Dengler

Brotherhood

Ryan Cappello gets the ground ball with help from Taylor Minuto.

Will Mattice

Mary Krener

Fortune Heaney Lisa Heaney

Lynn Puccio Cheryl Trimboli Scott Wallace

Arthur Anderson

Jessica Brantuk Ann Collins

Claudia Galvin Rene Blair

Christine Cudahy Manager

Linda Mulrooney Eileen O’Hara Diane Piscopo

Daureen Hausser

Stephanie Marchan

Aimee Escher

Matthew Minardi

Kathy Lucchesi Susan MacDonald Brigid Marmorowski

Patricia Dickson

Marianne Imperial Ryan Mullins

Oliver Grandison

Glen Oaks, NY 5-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 852793. $950,000.

Garden City,