In honor of its 100th anniversary, the Mineola Garden City Rotary Club donated a tree to the Village of Garden City. Helping to plant the Linden tree, from left, Lynne Maimone Koszalka, Diana O’Neill, president; Peter Marshall, Civic Beautification member Kathleen Auro and Rotarians Randy Colahan, Peter Marshall and Jim Brady. See page 9. Photo courtesy Carisa Giardino / Village of Garden City
BY KASSARA MCELROY
The Garden City Board of Education has adopted the proposed $137.8 million budget for the 2025-2026 school year, marking a 2.82% increase, or roughly $3.77 million, over the current year. The plan includes a tax levy increase of 2.42%, staying within the state’s allowable limit. A public hearing will be held on May 13, with resi-
dents voting on the budget on May 20.
Administrators emphasized that the budget is designed to support academic growth, strengthen social-emotional learning, and continue investing in school facilities. All past budget presentations since the start of the year are available on the district’s website, which include detailed breakdowns by capital, administrative, and
program categories, along with year-over-year comparisons. At the meeting, a community member raised concerns about the district’s $148 million Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liability. Although the liability has been part of the district’s financial reports for years, this is the first time it has been included in the financial highlights section. The speaker
See page 40
BY RIKKI MASSAND
At its April 24 meeting, the Garden City Board of Trustees declared a water emergency and took swift action to address a deficiency in available water flow at the Department of Public Works Yard. During hydrant flow testing, the water supply was found to be inadequate to ensure proper fire protection of Village assets at the DPW site. The issue stems from undersized water mains and aging infrastructure supplying the facility.
To remedy the situation, the Board authorized “necessary corrective work” as described by Superintendent John Borroni, using a Nassau County contract with Bancker Construction. The work is estimated to cost $1.5 million, to be funded from the Water Fund Surplus. Bancker is the current vendor under Nassau County Requirements Contract No. S80031B for water main work.
At the Board’s April 7 meeting, trustees approved a proposal
See page 40
BY RIKKI MASSAND
At its April 24 meeting, the Garden City Board of Trustees approved new tree plantings, overtime labor costs, and a $15,000 fund transfer to purchase trees and materials. The plantings will take place in northern Garden City along Manor Road, North Avenue, and Nassau Boulevard—areas affected by significant Long Island Rail Road clearing.
The Board authorized a $15,000 transfer from the Parks Equipment line to Parks Overtime, with $14,880 earmarked for the labor needed to complete the work. It also approved a $10,280 purchase for plantings along the Manor Road, North
See page 41
The downtown areas of the village have been looking beautiful in the last few weeks, as the daffodils and tulips have been putting on quite a show. Thanks to all of the village workers who have been tending the flowers and trees!
The St. Paul’s survey has been sent out to all homes in the village, and to date over 1500 have been returned. If you didn’t receive yours you can still participate by going online to https:// gardencitystpaulssurvey.org/
In the event that more than one survey is received for a household, the first one received will be counted.
The debate over the survey continues this week in our letters column, where the Board of Trustees refutes recent criticisms of the process. We hope
readers will read their letter, as well as one from Trustee Muldoon, and consider all sides.
As the local newspaper, we’ve felt our role is to provide a space for everyone to have a say, and we’re happy to print nearly all letters we receive.
Some have complained that our letters are often too long. As a writer we tend to agree that points are best made pithily, but obviously not everyone agrees. We will continue to print letters with only minor edits for grammar and spelling.
(However, in the event that newsprint, which is currently exempted, gets a large tariff, we may have to re-examine that policy to control the cost of printing.)
Board responds to former mayor
To the Editor:
Your duly elected Board of Trustees (BOT) is deeply committed to the well-being of our Village and is actively working towards a resolution for St. Paul’s. We have taken strategic steps to identify a project that reflects the preferences of the majority of residents. We understand that opinions vary, and the upcoming survey is a crucial opportunity for residents to voice their thoughts. However, we are profoundly disappointed by the on-going barrage of letters and posts from former Mayor Mary Flanagan, published in the Garden City News and elsewhere, disparaging the sitting Trustees. It is not our choice to “battle” with the former Mayor but she has left us no choice but to forcefully respond to her latest diatribe in a five-month campaign to discredit the Board’s St Paul’s building survey. This unprecedented public criticism from a former mayor marks an unfortunate moment in the village’s history. There is always room for disagreement and debate, as there should be. But it is unacceptable to present inaccuracies as truth and accuse others of implied unethical or unprofessional conduct. As a lawyer, the Mayor should
be keenly aware of the possible implications of her statements. For example: The Westerman Report – Former Mayor Flanagan has repeatedly stated that she believes the professionals from Westerman modified their estimates to placate some “preservationists”. She is basing this very serious accusation on a “trove” of Village emails that she obtained before leaving office. Nowhere in these emails is there any statement that this occurred. Mayor Ed Finneran and Deputy Mayor Judy Courtney spoke directly with Lloyd Westermann a few weeks ago and asked him very specific questions on this issue. Mr. Westerman responded very clearly and emphatically that he did not (and would not) change an estimate. He also said no one ever asked or even implied that he should do so. To accuse a professional engineering firm of this behavior is damaging to their reputation and is a most serious allegation.
Ballpark Figures – This has been a favorite topic of the former Mayor’s. Throughout this process, it has been made clear that the figures represent a compilation of input from professionals in all the areas needed to do any type of project. The sourced compa-
See page 49
BY JAMES BAUER
With the Sands decision not to proceed with the casino at the Nassau Coliseum site, there is an opportunity to create a 21st century community hub focusing on education, healthcare, housing, culture and opportunity that creates long-term value for Nassau County residents.
Garden City, working with other local communities and stakeholders, can be a major driving force to create and implement this vision.
This is without knowing Sands’
plans for the site and any recoupment of investments to date.
Here’s a high-level outline for a community-driven, progressive redevelopment plan for the former Nassau casino site.
The goal is to address major societal needs while engaging local organizations and residents from the start:
Outline for the Nassau Community Advancement Project
I. Vision Statement
• Transform the former casino site into
See page 20
As the future of St. Paul’s continues to be a topic of significant importance across the Village, the Board of Trustees (BOT) is keen on having an overwhelming resident participation rate in the St. Paul’s building survey. This effort will greatly assist us in gauging public sentiment regarding the future use of the Main Building. We urge you to participate and take advantage of this opportunity to have your voices heard.
To date, more than 1,500 residents have completed the St. Paul’s survey. It’s a great start but we’d like to see as many residents as possible participating! The survey will remain open for the next few weeks. Residents also
have the option to fill out the survey online at https://gardencitystpaulssurvey.org. Please note only one survey per household—whether written or online—will be counted.
Once the survey closes, the results will be tabulated and analyzed. (This process could take up to two months.) When the BOT receives the survey analysis from BCI, we’ll study and share it with all residents. Additionally, the BOT will provide the analysis with the new St. Paul’s Advisory Committee so it can incorporate the findings/information into their final report, which will also be shared with the public. After incorporating the survey analysis, we would expect the Committee report to be published approximately six to eight weeks later.
On Friday, May 9, at 6 p.m., the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program will host a Young Women’s Spin Class Get Together for women ages 45 and under. This special event aims to bring together young breast cancer survivors for an uplifting and energizing group fitness experience.
The class will be led by a fellow survivor and dedicated volunteer of the program, offering participants a supportive and empowering atmosphere to connect, move, and thrive in. Whether you’re new to spin or a regular rider, the class will offer participants a chance to go at their own pace in a judgment-free space.
“We’re excited to provide a space at Woodruff Hall Studio on the Adelphi University campus where young sur-
Let your voice be heard!
Is there an issue in your community you want to discuss? Want to respond to something you saw in our paper? Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention! Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!
vivors can connect through movement and mutual support,” said Nina Foley, LCSW, Adelphi’s volunteer and hotline supervisor. “This event is not just about the workout, it’s about creating a sense of belonging and joy.”
This free event presents a great opportunity for young breast cancer survivors to connect, share stories, and build community. Registration is required. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable workout attire and sneakers, and to bring a towel and water bottle.
For more information and to register for our Spin Class, please contact Nina Foley at 516.877.4315 or email at nfoley@ adelphi.edu.
Step inside this showstopping side-hall Colonial in the heart of Garden City, where timeless architecture meets today’s lifestyle. Fully renovated to the studs in 2014, this home blends warmth, sophistication, and comfort in every detail.
Boasting four generously sized bedrooms and two-and-a-half beautifully appointed bathrooms, this residence is made for both relaxed living and elegant entertaining. The formal living and dining rooms offer classic appeal, while the sunlit great room opens seamlessly into the gourmet kitchen—designed with an oversized island, top-tier appliances, and endless style.
All set on 75 x 146 lot, just moments from town, Grove Park and Country Life Press train station. Full of heart, history, and light, 103 Chestnut Street is a place where your next chapter can begin.
Offered at $1,950,000
Andrea T. Bharucha
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Mobile: 516.551.1366 abharucha@coachrealtors.com
8 Beech Street Open House Sunday, May 4th 2-4pm $1,689,000
Located in the prime Country Life Press section of Garden City, this stunning 2,513 sq. ft. Colonial offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a layout ideal for modern living and entertaining. Features include a formal living room with a wood-burning fireplace, an updated eat-in kitchen with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, and a sunlit family room overlooking a private backyard. The spacious primary suite includes an ensuite bath, and the large basement offers endless possibilities. Close to the LIRR and downtown shops, this home is the home you have been looking for.
From Monday, April 21, through Friday, April 25, the Garden City Police Department proudly participated in the No Empty Chair Campaign in collaboration with the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. This vital enforcement and education initiative focused on promoting safe driving habits among young drivers, particularly in areas surrounding local schools, student walking zones, and bus stops.
The primary goal of the No Empty Chair Campaign is to ensure that students develop safe driving habits that will allow them to attend their proms and graduation ceremonies. By raising awareness about the dangers of reckless driving, we hope to significantly reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes, which are currently the leading cause of unintentional deaths for 16 and 17-yearolds.
Throughout the campaign, the Garden City Police Department focused on enforcing laws related to excessive speeding, unsafe driving behaviors, seatbelt and child safety seat usage, cell phone and texting violations, passing stopped school buses, and underage drinking. These enforcement efforts are crucial to fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among young drivers.
As a result of this initiative, the Department issued 178 tickets for various traffic and safety violations, including:
• 31 Excessive Speed in a School Zone Violations
• 24 Excessive Speed Violations
• 10 Cellphone/Texting Violations
• 2 Seatbelt/Occupant Restraint Violations
• 32 Suspended License/ Registration Incidents
• 17 Unlicensed Operator Violations
• 9 Uninsured Operation Violations
• 53 Additional Moving Traffic Violations
On Friday, April 25, in coordination with the Garden City High School principals, Detective Roumeliotis, and Marge Lee from DEDICATEDD conducted a driver safety symposium with 600 junior and senior high school students.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of our youth on the road,” said Commissioner Kenneth Jackson at the Garden City Police Department. "Through initiatives like the No Empty Chair Campaign, we hope to instill safe driving habits that will keep our students safe today and in the future."
For two decades Brian Paradine has served diligently on the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), working behind the scenes to ensure the Village’s zoning decisions have been fair and aligned with the best interests of the Garden City community.
“This isn't a job for the faint of heart. It requires deep understanding, patience, and the ability to listen to diverse perspectives, both from the public and fellow Board members,” ZBA Chairman Michael T. Schroder said at the April meeting. “On behalf of all of us on the Board here today, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Brian. He helped maintain the beauty of this community, and his legacy will continue to have a lasting impact for many years to come.”
Mr. Paradine was a ZBA member for 20 years before ending his last term in January. During his tenure, it is estimated that Mr. Paradine made more than 2,600 personal inspections of
homes for the Board on his own time, in addition to evaluating individual appeals, addressing concerns from residents, and ensuring that zoning laws are implemented fairly and consistently.
“Serving on Village Boards or Commissions is an opportunity for residents to share their talents and contribute to the community in a meaningful way,” Mayor Edward T. Finneran said.
“We thank Brian for his long-term commitment and expertise.”
The Board of Appeals interprets the Zoning Code and makes decisions on applications for variances and special permits. The Board consists of five members and one alternate member, who serve for five-year terms. If interested in serving on the Zoning Board of Appeals, please send a letter of interest and resumé to Village Clerk Kelly Galanek at kgalanek@gardencityny. net.
Enter our “World’s Most Beautiful Grandchildren” contest! Just send in your grandchildren’s photos and a brief description of the child (or children) along with your name and address to editor@gcnews.com
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.
Volunteers from Garden City High School and Garden City Middle School helped make the event possible.
On April 24, the Children's Medical Fund (CMF) of New York hosted its annual Bingo Night fundraiser at the Garden City Community Church. Children enjoyed an exciting evening of bingo, prizes, fabulous raffle baskets, pizza (donated by Garden City Pizza), sweets and more! A fun filled night was had by all while raising money for a great cause.
CMF would like to give a big thank you to all of the bingo players, parents, volunteers and contributors for helping to make
a difference in the lives of the CMF families, If you would like to learn more about CMF and ways that you can help, please visit cmfny.org
CMF is especially grateful for the following students who helped make this event possible. Garden City High School student volunteers: Naya Lele, Gracie Corrigan, Eloise Pizzi, Emerson Lewis, Kayla Trongard and Alexander Kfuri. Garden City Middle School student volunteers: Anya Lele, Isabel Kfuri
Boating season may be several months away, but with a New York State law now in effect that requires all operators to be certified in safe boating, the Town of Hempstead is now offering safety certification classes.
The Town’s Bay Constables will lead a Boater Safety Course for adults (ages 18 years and older) in three sessions –Tuesday, April 29, from 7–10 p.m., Tuesday, May 6, from 7-10 p.m., and Tuesday, May 13, from 7-10 p.m. – at the Department of Conservation and Waterways (1401 Lido Boulevard, Point Lookout). Participants must attend all three sessions to receive their boating safety certificate.
“New York State law now requires that ALL operators of watercraft be certified in safe boating, and Hempstead Town is offering many classes to help local residents comply with the law ahead of the coming
boating season,” said Town Supervisor Don Clavin. “We in America’s largest township want to ensure that all local mariners practice safe boating, and we encourage them to sign up for the Town’s upcoming safe boating course.”
The New York State law governing these new boating safety requirements is known as Brianna’s Law, named after 11-year-old Long Island resident Brianna Lieneck, who was killed in a boating accident in 2005. Additional safe boating courses for youth and adults will be announced in the near future. To register for an upcoming Boater Safety Class, please call the Bay Constables at (516) 897-4100. Residents who are already certified but cannot locate their card can obtain new documentation at https://www.ilostmycard.com/ records?state_cd=NY&cert_type=Boating
Participating in the Arbor Day tree planting ceremony, were members of both Rotary and the Beautification Committee, Mayor Edward Finneran, Trustee Vinny Muldoon, Village Arborist Joe Umana, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Andy Hill, along with members of the Library and Environmental Advisory Boards and the tree planting crew.
Last Saturday, April 25, members of the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club joined with Village representatives, members of the Civic Beautification Committee, along with members of the Library and Environmental Advisory Boards and tree planting crew to celebrate Garden City’s Arbor Day 2025.
The ceremony was also the occasion to plant a Linden tree on library grounds on the west side of the library to provide shade between two benches to the north of the parking lot. The tree was donated to the Village by MineolaGarden City Rotary to commemorate the Club’s 100th anniversary.
Once grown, the Linden tree will provide much appreciated shade while providing beautiful yellow flowers in the fall – complimenting Rotary’s colors of yellow and blue.
courtesy Carisa Giardino / Village of Garden City
Rotary is most grateful to Village Arborist Joe Umana for working with Rotary throughout many months towards the selection of the tree type, its location and other logistics.
Rotary extends thanks to Mayor Ed Finneran, Trustee Vinny Muldoon, Arborist Joe Umana, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation and Parks Andy Hill who spoke of the meaning of Arbor Day and the importance of trees to the ecosystem; also to Elizabeth Bailey, long time member of the Village Environmental Advisosry Board for attending and to the Library Board and Director for attending and bringing to fruition this meaningful Arbor Day 2025. And, thanks also to Mother Nature who had her hand in it with perfect weather.
On Tuesday, 12:15 at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant, Mineola Garden City Rotary will host as guest speaker, Robert Hines, New York Racing Association’s Manger of Community Affairs. Robert will report on the current status of Belmont Park in operation since 1905 and the home of the Belmont Stakes.
For many years, the Village of Garden City and the Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with NYRA representatives, hosted a major festival on Seventh Street just prior to the Belmont Stakes and while the race will be held in Saratoga this year due to Belmont Park’s construction, a plan is in motion to continue the Belmont Festival – stay tuned!
It is also interesting to note that the
first organized horse racing in America dating back to 1665, was the New Market Course on the Hempstead Plains alleged to be in the northwest corner of Garden City in the central section. It has often been noted that ‘horse racing started in Garden City.”
A graduate of Columbia University, Robert Hines has spent the majority of his professional life in the sports and entertainment industry including roles with the New York Mets and Major League Soccer.
Join Rotary at its lunch meeting on Tuesday, May 13 to see what’s ahead for the projected unveiling of Belmont Park. To register for a great Davenport lunch of choice (fee: $40 payable at the door). To register, visit mineolagardencityrotaryclub@gmail.com.
Date: 04/25/2025
Sold price: $2,350,000
4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 1 half bath
Architectural Style: Colonial
Property Size: .17 acres
Annual taxes: $11,321
MLS number: 825374
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. Date: 04/28/2025
The Seller’s Team: Stephen and Laura Baymack, Compass Greater NY
The Buyer’s Team: Stephen and Laura Baymack, Compass Greater NY
Perfectly situated mid-block on a quiet tree lined street, this gorgeous new colonial is perfectly designed for todays modern family lifestyle. The home boasts an impressive 2900 square feet of living space on the first and second floors plus a full finished basement. The first floor features a spacious living room, an elegant formal dining room, and a gourmet kitchen with sleek white cabinetry, quartz countertops, top of the
number: 816822
The Seller’s Team: Michelle McArdle, Douglas Elliman
The Buyer’s Team: Michelle McArdle, Douglas Elliman
Welcome to 17 Beech Street, a beautifully updated 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath colonial located in the Country Life Press section of Garden City. The first floor features an entry foyer, spacious living room with woodburning fireplace, formal dining room, large eat-in kitchen, family room and powder room. The upstairs has a primary bedroom with en-suite updated bathroom, 3 additional bedrooms and a full bath. Some highlights of the home include an updated eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, central air conditioning, 3-zone gas heating, hardwood floors, a finished basement with large recreation room, in-ground sprinklers, new driveway and a 2-car detached garage. The oversized backyard with lush landscaping and rear brick patio make it perfect for entertaining. This home has incredible curb appeal and is in close proximity to the LIRR, shopping and restaurants on 7th Street, schools and the park. Don’t miss this one!
This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman
Houses featured on this page were sold by various real estate agencies
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.
Vietnam veteran Morris Miller, from Massapequa, speaking at a Kiwanis meeting. Miller shared his experience being honored with a whirlwind “round-trip” flight from MacArthur Airport to Washington DC and back to Long Island the same day. Miller stated, “They treated me like gold. I will never forget it.”
The GC Kiwanis Club hosted a speaker’s program featuring Honor Flight Long Island whose mission is to honor America’s World War II, Korean War and Vietnam veterans by providing an all-expenses-paid, round trip excursion to their Memorials in Washington DC.
If you are a World War II, Korean or Vietnam War veteran and have not seen your Memorial, you are eligible.
Veterans fly absolutely free. Guardians, who escort and assist during the day-long trip are asked to make a suggested $400 donation which is applied toward the day’s expenses including airfare, food and ground transportation.
For further information, visit their website: honorflightlongisland.org
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.
• April 21–May 15 - GOAT Sticker Contest
• May 5 - MS Staff Appreciation Lunch
• May 13 - All Schools Meeting, 7:30 p.m., GCMS
The Garden City PTA is excited to partner with GOAT USA for a special fundraising campaign this spring with a sticker contest, elementary assembly, and sale of our official Garden City GOAT design! All students K–12 are invited to submit their own GOAT sticker design by May 16 for the chance to win special GOAT USA swag. Templates
have gone out to students this week. The winning stickers will be printed and shared district-wide! Sale will be held May 1–16. Check emails for more, and stay tuned for updates on this special partnership! Important dates:
GOAT USA Sticker Contest4/21–5/15
GOAT USA Assembly for 4th & 5th Graders - 5/1
GOAT USA Custom Apparel on Sale - 5/1–5/16
New Executive Committee Slate
Thank you to all who submitted nominations for the open positions on our 25–26 GC PTA Executive Committee!
Please join us at our All-Schools Meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 7:30 p.m. at GCMS to confirm our full slate of EC members.
Let’s Connect!
Website:
www.gardencitypta.org
Facebook/Instagram/X: @gardencitypta
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!
We bring a unique perspective to the table, blending traditional values with modern expertise. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, we are dedicated to providing personalized service tailored to your needs. When you choose our Mother/Son team, you gain a partner who truly understands the importance of long-term success and building a legacy for generations to come.
Stephen Baymack
Assoc. RE Broker Principal Agent
Laura Carroll
List this spring with the #1 brokerage in Garden City.* Reach out to connect to a Garden City agent.
6
4
Stephen Baymack
The Baymack Team
Licensed Associate RE Broker
stephen.baymack@compass.com
M: 516.216.0244
Laura Baymack
The Baymack Team
Licensed RE Salesperson
laura.baymack@compass.com
M: 516.537.3050
Nestled mid-block on a serene, tree-lined street in the desirable western section of town, this stunning Tudor-style home offers timeless charm and modern comfort. Impeccably maintained, the residence welcomes you with a spacious living room featuring a cozy fireplace, an elegant formal dining room, a convenient powder room, and a sunlit kitchen with a charming breakfast nook. The second floor boasts a generous primary bedroom, a beautifully renovated full bathroom, and two additional well-proportioned bedrooms. The third floor provides a fourth bedroom and ample storage space. The finished basement adds valuable living space, including a recreation room, full bathroom, home office, and a laundry room. Step outside to a beautifully landscaped backyard with a bluestone patio that is perfect for outdoor entertaining.
6 BD | 5 BA | 3 HB | $7,000,000
This custom-built iconic home perfectly situated on a sprawling 150’ x 250’ lot boasts exceptional finishes and an unwavering commitment to detail. Spanning 6,500 square feet of exquisite living and entertaining space across the first and second floors, the home also features a fully finished basement and a remarkable sub-basement level that includes a basketball court and gym. Elegant, detailed moldings, including wainscoting, coffered ceilings, and intricate crown, base, and casement moldings are throughout. Features include a cedar roof, stone and cedar siding, Marvin windows, 11 zones of geothermal heating and cooling, 8 zones of radiant heat, four fireplaces, a carport, and a three-car garage with a loft. A private backyard oasis with multi-tiered slate patios, an outdoor kitchen, a gazebo with a firepit and television, and a fully turfed yard with sports lighting is surrounded by mature plantings that ensure total privacy.
Garden City High School has announced that two of its talented students, Tessa Frascogna and Clare Gardner, have been selected as 2025 New Faces Honorees by the Roger Rees Awards, presented by the Broadway Education Alliance and the Casting Society. This honor recognizes exceptional performing arts students who have demonstrated outstanding skill and passion in acting, singing and dancing.
Tessa and Clare are among a select group of 30 students from across the Greater New York City area to receive this distinction. Tessa earned recognition in the dance category, and Clare was honored in the vocal category. Honorees were chosen through a rigorous audition process that celebrated excellence in the performing arts, with honorees represent -
ing schools such as Scarsdale High School, Professional Performing Arts School, Rye Neck High School and William A. Shine Great Neck South High School, among others.
As part of this recognition, Tessa and Clare are invited to participate in the New Faces Enrichment Day on May 10 at Open Jar Studios in Manhattan. They will take part in specialized masterclasses, a college audition workshop, and a Q&A session with professional casting directors — an invaluable opportunity for their artistic growth and future careers.
The New Faces program, established in 2021, was developed to expand access to professional training and recognition for promising young performers.
GARDEN CITY
38 GROVE STREET
3
Saturday 5/3 | 12–2 PM
Sunday, 5/4 | 1–3 PM
Renovated & updated Cape Cod-style located on a tree-lined southeastern street and offers tennis court views across from one of Garden City’s exclusive parks. The brand-new white kitchen features quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances and overlooks the eat-in kitchen/den combo with a slider to a fenced-in side yard. Open-concept formal living room, eat-in kitchen, one-car garage, renovated full bath, bedroom, and a fl exible additional bedroom or dining room. Upstairs, there are two oversized bedrooms and a marble full bathroom with high ceilings.
GARDEN CITY
100 HILTON AVENUE, 710E
2 BEDROOMS
3 BATHS
1,425 SF
$1,050,000
This rarely found high fl oor offers stunning western views of the Garden City Golf Club and pond views. New hardwood fl oors throughout, renovated primary bath with a double vanity, spa tub, and walk-in shower, all with sunset views and access to a private balcony. The updated galley kitchen is conveniently located next to the dining area and a built-in bar. A fl exible second bedroom/home offi ce with French doors and built-in bookcases. Residents enjoy all the Wyndham amenities, including clubhouse with an indoor pool, game and fi tness rooms, and entertainment space.
Carroll
A view of the Cherry Valley Power Plant, located on the west side of Cherry Valley Ave. just south of the railroad, also showing Rockaway Ave. behind it, which crossed the railroad at grade until 1929, and St. Paul’s in the distance. The plant was constructed in 1902, and was used as a central location to provide steam to heat St. Paul’s School, the Cathedral, the See House, the Deanery, and St. Mary’s School. The boilers were fired by coal delivered to the plant via a railroad siding on its north side. A series of arched brick tunnels about 3½ ft.wide by 6 ft high [for maintenance] carried the insulated steam pipes to the destinations. Manholes for the tunnels still exist on the Cathedral grounds, and the tunnel entrance to St. Paul’s still exists under its front stairway. The plant was demolished in 1950 after more modern oil-fired systems were installed at the various locations.
During its time of operation rumors persisted that St. Paul’s boys could travel through the tunnels to reach St. Mary’s, a 3000-ft distance. This was theoretically possible, but never verified to have happened. Archives identifier: aer02
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
From page 2
a model 21st-century community hub focused on education, healthcare, housing, culture, and opportunity.
• Emphasize inclusive, sustainable growth with public-private partnership (PPP) financing.
• Create long-term value for Nassau County residents, not transient entertainment profits.
II. Core Goals
• Advance 21st Century Education
Build a STEM Innovation & Vocational Training Center. Partner with local universities, trade schools, and tech firms.
Focus on AI, renewable energy, biotech, coding, and skilled trades.
• Expand Health Care Access
Develop a Community Health Campus: Outpatient clinics. Mental health services. Senior wellness programs. Pediatric and family medicine. Partner with major health systems like NYU Langone, Northwell Health.
• Create Affordable and Workforce
Housing
Build mixed-income housing (low, moderate, and middle-income).
Prioritize housing for teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, and young families. Include senior-friendly housing and disability-accessible units.
• Family and Workforce Support Facilities
Affordable child care and early education center.
After-school programs and teen centers.
Career development support for working parents.
• Entertainment and Cultural Spaces
Non-gaming entertainment venues: Amphitheater for concerts and performing arts. Community event spaces. Museums (e.g., tech museum, innovation museum).
• Environmentally Sustainable Infrastructure
Green roofs, solar fields, EV charging stations. Walkable, bike-friendly campus. Parks, playgrounds, urban farming plots.
• Public Transit Access
Integrate with existing LIRR stations (Garden City, Mineola, Hempstead).
Shuttles to/from Nassau County hubs.
Explore new micro-transit options (on-demand buses, e-bikes).
III. Planning & Community Engagement Process
Community Planning Workshops
Invite residents, civic associations, schools, businesses, and nonprofits to shape the vision.
Set up monthly workshops and design charrettes.
Partnership Outreach
Form a steering committee with: Local universities (e.g., Hofstra, Adelphi, Nassau Community College).
Healthcare providers. Labor unions and business councils.
Cultural and arts organizations.
Affordable housing advocates. Transparency and Accountability
Create an online project portal with meeting notes, designs, financials.
Establish a Community Oversight Board elected by residents.
IV. Financing Strategy
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model:
Public sector provides land and zoning facilitation.
Private developers invest in housing, entertainment, and health/education facilities. Federal/state grants for affordable housing, health care, education initiatives.
Possible municipal bonds for infrastructure (roads, transit, utilities).
V. Next Steps
Community Listening Sessions –gather input within 90 days.
Issue a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) to developers and institutional partners.
Form Task Forces around key themes (housing, healthcare, education, arts, sustainability).
Develop a Master Plan with preliminary site designs and financing models.
Launch Public Referendum or Community Approval Vote if necessary.
3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,200 SF | $1,295,000
Open Houses
Saturday and Sunday 11AM – 1PM FOR SALE
Relaxing and fully-furnished ranch on .94 acre in Oregon View Estates. Features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a great kitchen with large island, gas range, and stainless appliances. Cozy living room with fireplace. In-ground pool with new heater. Spacious yard, enclosed pool area, and plenty of parking. Perfect for year-round or summer living. Move right in and enjoy!
4 Bed | 4 Bath | 3,585 SF
Open Houses
Saturday and Sunday 2PM – 4PM FOR RENT
Enjoy summer in Southold’s sought-after Bay Haven community. This beautifully renovated cape features a heated pool, access to a private bay beach, a bright open kitchen, a great room, and a cozy lounge with fireplace. The spacious layout includes a main-level primary suite, guest rooms, and a lower-level retreat — perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Multiple time frames available for 2025: MD-LD $80k, June $20k, July $35k, Aug-LD $38k, July-LD $70k. First time offered as a rental.
Scott Bortzner
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker M: 631.566.7463
scott.bortzner@compass.com scottsellsbothforks
BY BOB MORGAN, JR.
This week will mark the 100 day anniversary of President Donald J. Trump's second inauguration on January 20. As perennially seems to be the case with Mr. Trump's business and political career, the 100 days have been marked with numerous high and low points..
As this is written, according to the RealClearPolitics average of polls, Mr. Trump's approval rating as president is at 45.3 percent and his disapproval rating is at 52.3 percent. These ratings are not unlike the ones Mr. Trump earned at this time during his first term, perhaps slightly better.
The initial days of the second Trump administration certainly included a whirlwind of new policy initiatives perhaps reminiscent of FDR in 1933. In addition to immigration initiatives, there was, for example, the establishment of the cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Elon Musk, which sharply slashed spending at United States AID and other places. Mr. Trump also moved to dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs in and out of government.
Mr. Trump's highest successes and best numbers are on the immigration issue. This is not surprising given the rather abject failure of the prior administration of President Joe Biden, who effectively permitted many millions of undocumented immigrants to enter the country with little or no supervision. Migrants would frequently come into the country, get a distant court date, and disappear into the interior. A number of cities harbored large numbers of these individuals and parts of them verged upon becoming migrant camps.
Things have changed radically under Mr. Trump. Immigration over the Southern border has dropped dramatically. Aliens have been removed who have committed crimes beyond crossing the border illegally, or who have ignored prior deportation orders. With all the successes, Mr. Trump has occasionally stumbled on real and perceived humanitarian and due process concerns.
President Trump’s low point has to be his policies on tariffs. Mr. Trump commenced a trade war with Canada and Mexico, and then on
April 2, a day he labeled Liberation Day, heannounced an economic emergency and set tariffs of at least 10 percent all over the world, in addition to “reciprocal tariffs”, plus very high rates on China. Mr. Trump’s aim is to revive American manufacturing as well as remedy perceived trade unfairness against the United States.
Mr. Trump has gone back and forth on his tariff proposals, but they have been accompanied by declines in stock markets, as well as forecasts of renewed inflation and even a coming recession. Mr. Trump has not been shy concerning the need for the Federal Reserve Bank to cut interest rates.
On foreign affairs, Mr. Trump has certainly trod an unusual path, even apart from the underlying tariff issues. Some parts of his policies have been highly unusual, including a plan to annex Greenland, Gaza and, significantly, Canada. None of this is likely to happen and Canadians responded by electing an anti-Trump Liberal Party government. Mr. Trump has played a more positive role in the Middle East, supporting cease fires, while staunchly defending Israeli security. In the Ukraine, Mr. Trump has had an up and down relationship with Vladimir Zelensky, but at present seems seriously interested in brokering a reasonable peace deal.
The first hundred days have been ambitious and have in some ways moved the country in the right direction, for example in securing the border, cutting spending and speaking out against “wokeness”.
What the country needs right now, however, is a calmer, less frenetic Mr. Trump, whose policies are more predictable and who will concentrate on securing tax relief, keeping inflation low and reasonable new trade deals with our allies. In addition, Mr. Trump should focus on the need for peace by redoubling his efforts in the Ukraine, and build on his successes at the border by combining firmness with humanity. If Mr. Trump were able to alter his tone and tweak his policies a little, his second administration still could be very historic.
At the Garden City Democratic Club meeting on May 7 at the Garden City Senior, 6 Golf Club Lane, at 7:00 p.m., speakers will present discussions on the status of the Sands Casino and how current immigration policies may affect summer travel.
Garden City resident Steven Ross, a partner at New York City based law firm Ross & Asmar LLC, will answer any questions relating to the current administration’ immigration policy and how that policy might impact travel for Garden City residents. In addition, Mr. Ross will discuss and answer questions regarding potential immigration filing or petitions that Garden City resident might wish to file for family members or others.
Monica Kiley and Richard Catalano will be on hand to discuss the Say No to the Casino and Village of Garden City’s legal steps to block the Sands Casino.
Say No to the Casino is a bipartisan group of Nassau County residents that formed in early 2023 as a true grassroots movement dedicated to preventing the development of a casino at “The Hub”. In the complete absence of unbiased information from our County government, Say No has worked to educate the public, and provide the facts about the harmful social, economic, and environmental
impacts of a massive casino placed in the heart of residential Nassau. The group has also monitored the casino process and represented citizens at Nassau County Legislative and Committee hearings, and Town of Hempstead hearings. Say No to the Casino has a website at www. nocasinonassau.org, an active Facebook group called Say No to the Casino Civic Association, and is active on “X” and Instagram as well. The group has written numerous press releases, newspaper articles, and letters to the editor of various newspapers.
Say No to the Casino continues to organize rallies and speak out at public hearings. The group’s goal is to make resident voices heard and to compel elected officials to accept this simple truth: the majority of Nassau taxpayers do not want a casino at The Hub. Against seemingly overwhelming odds, Say No to the Casino is celebrating recent headway in the fight against the casino. Las Vegas Sands has decided not to compete for a casino license, and is seeking a replacement developer to continue their project. For more information about the Club, the Garden City Democratic Committee, or to inquire about becoming an Election Day inspector, visit www.gardencitydemocrats.com.
The Garden City High School German Club recently visited a German restaurant. They loved learning about German food’s history and getting to try it themselves. They also got to listen to some German music. They tried some German items such as black forest cake, Sauerbraten, Spaetzle, and Schnitzel. At the end of their experience, many students said, they want to try more German food. A great time was had by all.
Leave non-perishable food by your mailbox
SATURDAY, MAY 10
Hempstead Town Councilman Tom Muscarella greeted Jane Hildreth O’Keeffe, owner of Baubles, Bangles and Bags in Garden City, as the Nassau Boulevard establishment was featured as part of the Councilman’s Women-Owned Business Spotlight during Women’s History Month. Also attending were Kathleen Rydzewski and Kirsten Ernst.
The winners of the Monday, April 28 games:
North / South:
1st Place: Athena Philippides and Carol Cook
2nd Place: Joan Kiernan and Rosemary Brown East / West:
1st Place: Pat Fontaine and Ellen Moynahan
2nd Place: Terry Schoenig and Tommie Dodge
The winners of the Monday, April 21 games:
North / South:
1st Place: Ellen Moynahan and Pat Fontaine
2nd Place: Athena Philippides and Grace Basile East / West:
1st Place: Nick Basile and Bill Draybk
2nd Place (Tie): Dian Kendrick and Carrie Flapan Tommie Dodge and Terry Schoenig
For 25 years, we’ve transformed uncertainty into unwavering assurance, creating sophisticated spaces where care and comfort naturally intertwine. Because the best decisions often begin with ‘I’m not sure.’
When Expertise Meets Compassion – Confidence Follows
For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit: thebristal.com
As you’ve probably noticed there’s a lot happening across the Village as we enter the month of May. We have our outstanding DPW crew working on 7th Street replacing older curbs, resetting pavers, resetting red rock in several tree grates following the removal of problematic trees and the re-planting of a slew of new saplings. There’s also been an intense effort undertaken by the Recreation Department to address our fields and bring them back to their prior glory…it’s been a tough chore and there’s still a ways to go but they will not stop until the goal is accomplished. The Rec crew is also prepping the pool for another great season…there’s a fresh coat of paint being applied all around and non-slip epoxy is being added to the bottom of the kiddie pool. Andy Hill’s crew is also checking the furniture, primping the flower beds and taking the “wrapping off” a fully updated children’s playground. These are just a few of the projects going on around town in an effort to get the Village ready for the warmer spring and summer months. The Water Department as well as the Building Department are hard at work too… we’ll check in with them soon. Finally.. .just a reminder to fill out
the St. Paul’s building survey. We are looking forward to overwhelming household participation. We’ll likely keep the return period open for another couple/ three weeks but please respond ASAP. If you have not received the survey please call Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk, at 516-465-4051 or email kgalanek@ gardencityny.net.
Well over 1,500 residents have completed the St. Paul’s survey. Have you? The survey will continue to be open for the next few weeks. Residents also have the option to fill out the survey online at https:// gardencitystpaulssurvey.org. Please note only one survey per household— whether written or online—will be counted. I believe we’ve given you a great survey to act on. Please take advantage of this opportunity and let your voices be heard.
The Garden City Board of Trustees adopted a resolution opposing a casino at the Nassau Hub. This is the fourth consecutive Village Board that has unanimously voted against a project that would have a severely negative impact on our community. Although we are thrilled with the news that LV Sands has pulled out of the competition to obtain a NYS casino license at the Nassau Coliseum site, the Garden City Board will not rest until Sands’ attempt to off-load its leasehold obligations to the County and transfer its NYS gaming license application status to a third party is dead. We, along with our allies, will be there at every turn to fight against any kind of casino development at the Hub.
The Garden City Fire Department’s chiefs and line and corporate officers took their oaths of office Thursday, April 24, 2025 during ceremonies at Village Hall. Myself and Trustee Vinny Muldoon did the honors. James Taunton will once again serve as Chief of the Department alongside 1st Assistant Chief Jonathan Parrella,
2nd Assistant Chief Daniel Roeper and 3rd Assistant Chief Matthew Carroll. Line Officers include Captain – Engine Company: Joseph A. Philippas; Captain – Truck Company: Ryan T. Moody; 1st Lieutenant – Engine Company: Christopher P. Moscatiello; 1st Lieutenant – Truck Company: Robert G. Horvath; 2nd Lieutenant – Engine Company: Glenn T. Henneberger; 2nd Lieutenant – Truck Company: Rick C. Ma; Secretary: Anthony J. Della Ratta; Treasurer: Robert F. Kalb; Assistant Secretary: Leonard R. Rivera; Assistant Treasurer: Donald B. Byrne; and 1st Battalion Delegate: John P. Casey. It’s always a great night to swear in Garden City’s bravest. Congratulations and thank you for your service.
During the month of March, the Garden City Police Department responded to 2,219 service calls, including:
• 51 case investigations
• 18 arrests
• 2 juvenile arrests, including one arrest for bias graffiti on the MTA retaining wall on Railroad Avenue
• 167 medical calls
• 71 accidents
• 16 impounds
• 1,869 parking tickets
• 1,370 traffic tickets
• 4 appearance tickets
As federal environmental protections are rolled back—including the withdrawal of the USA from the Paris Agreement on climate change—the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island is stepping forward with a strong, faith-driven response.
On Saturday, May 3, Bishop Lawrence Provenzano and the diocesan Creation Care Community will host “Fight for Earth” Day & Spring Festival, a full day gathering of education, celebration, and advocacy at the George Mercer Jr. School of Theology in Garden City.
Running from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with separate morning and afternoon sessions, the event is designed to equip Episcopalians and others with the tools and inspiration to protect and honor creation.
and present danger—not just globally, but right here in our communities, as we saw with Hurricane Sandy. Local and state-level action is critical.”
The morning retreat will include expert-led presentations on climate action, advocacy, renewable energy, native plant gardening, and more.
The afternoon will feature interactive and family-friendly programming including:
• A foam-free flower arranging workshop
• Health and craft fairs
• A beekeeping demonstration
• A free book giveaway
• Student service opportunities (volunteer hours available)
“In the face of aggressive rollbacks of national environmental commitments, from increased drilling to the abandonment of protected lands, people of faith are called to a vigorous and intentional response,” said Father Matthew Moore, Diocesan Missioner for Environmental Justice. “Climate change poses a clear
The Episcopal Diocese of Long Island, which serves Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk, invites all who care about the Earth to take part in this free event.
To register: please scan the QR code or email: creationcare@dioceseli.org
Graffiti arrest
On April 23, Garden City Detectives arrested a 17-year-old juvenile for allegedly spray painting offensive and biased graffiti on a Railroad Avenue retaining wall on March 29. The juvenile was charged with making graffiti and aggravated harassment. The investiga tion is ongoing regarding the involvement of additional suspects.
Door damage
Police are investigating a criminal mischief report from April 23 involving a subject who allegedly kicked a front door to a residence, damaging the door and frame. A second door was also reportedly kicked on Brook Street, though no damage occurred there.
Juvenile charged
A juvenile was charged on April 23 in connection with leaving the scene of an auto accident that occurred on Stewart Avenue on April 9.
Check theft
On April 23, a victim reported that a check they had written to a hospital was stolen and cashed by an unknown person.
Suspended license
A motorist on Franklin Avenue was charged April 23 with driving with a suspended license and failing to yield to another vehicle.
Speeding violation
Police on April 23 charged a Clinton Road motorist with driving with a suspended registration and excessive speed.
Bees rehomed
Officers responded April 23 to a report of a large swarm of honeybees in a tree at Parking Field 7N. With the Parks Department’s help, a beekeeper was called and successfully removed the bees.
Multiple charges
On April 23, a motorist on Clinton Road was charged with driving with a suspended registration, unsafe lane usage, and operating an uninsured vehicle.
Burnt food
GCFD and GCPD responded to a fire alarm at BOCES on April 23, which was activated due to burnt food.
Office burglary
On April 24, officers investigated a burglary inside a Franklin Avenue building where a business office door was found damaged and items were reported missing.
Traffic violations
A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged April 24 with excessive speed in a school zone and passing a stop sign.
False alarms
Garden City Police and Firefighters respond to three separate fire alarms on April 24th. One was one triggered by a faulty detector, another by a blow dryer, and a third by someone smoking.
Red light offense
A motorist at Rockaway Avenue and 1st Street was charged on April 24 with unlicensed operation and passing a red light.
Excessive speed
On April 24, a Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license and excessive speed.
Bank fraud
On April 25, a victim reported that multiple fraudulent checks had been cashed against their bank accounts.
Loose dogs
An officer responded April 25 to Old Country Road for two loose dogs, which were safely caught and reunited with their owner.
Uninsured driver
On April 25, a Stewart Avenue motorist was charged with driving with a suspended license, excessive speed, and operating an uninsured vehicle.
Tree hazard
Officers safeguarded 10th Street on April 25 after a tree fell. A Village crew later arrived to clear the road.
Mail theft
A check that had been placed in the mail was reported stolen, altered, and cashed on April 25.
Speed and suspension
On April 25, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with excessive speed and driving with a suspended
See page 52
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.
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!
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 begins Tuesday, May 6. Bring your friends, we have three tables!
Tuesday, May 20, at 11:00 a.m.
Timothy from Spear Physical Therapy will be at the Senior Center presenting a seminar on managing arthritis and joint pain. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.
Friday, May 23, at noon
Join us for a Spring into Summer Luncheon at the Senior Center. $15 sandwiches, coleslaw, & potato salad from the 7th Street Gourmet Deli, also soda, coffee, tea and dessert. Register at the Senior Center front desk (cash only). Deadline: May 19.
Installation at the Cathedral Friday, May 2
Join us for a trip to the Cathedral of the Incarnation for a tour, and viewing of Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon installation. The Recreation bus will leave the senior Center at 10:15 (tour is at 10:30) or you can also sign up and meet us there. A box lunch will be provided. Cost, $14 cash. Register in person at the Senior Center front desk. Lunch selections will be made available at time of registration. Deadline: April 25.
Friday, May 9, at 12:15 p.m.
Join us at the Senior Center for a complimentary 50-minute pop-up class with new instructor Cathy. Includes a mix of cardio, resistance training (please bring your own 2–3 lb hand weights), and work using a small Pilates ball. Space is limited, to register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.
Hula Hoop Class
Tuesday, May 13, at 11:00 a.m.
Join us at the Senior Center for a complimentary pop-up Hula Hoop class with new instructor Jeannie. Hoops will be provided, come and
enjoy a fun mix of music, with a great variety of activities using hoops. You will stretch, learn the basics, tricks and choreography. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.
Sunday, June 8
A trip to the Madison Theatre at Molloy University to see “Legally Blonde” $48.00, please make checks payable to “Molloy University”. The bus will leave from across the street from the Senior Center at 2:15, show is at 3:00. Deadline is May 8. Register at the Senior Center front desk.
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.
Save the Dates for Future Trips:
Sunday, June 8: “Legally Blonde” (Madison Theatre at Molloy University)
Sunday, August 3: “The Music Man” (Argyle Theatre)
Chess 4 Community
Join us for Chess 4 Community’s Play and Learn at the Senior Center, every other Friday 3:00–4:00. This program will resume in the fall, dates to be announced. All ages and levels are welcome. No registration is required, just stop by and play!
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.
At Mount Sinai South Nassau, we honor the power of nurses and recognize the invaluable contributions they make to our hospital, its patients, and the communities we serve.
Mount Sinai South Nassau nurses have earned Magnet® Recognition, a national quality standard that few hospitals obtain, three consecutive times since 2014. A Magnet designation highlights the nurses and hospital’s commitment to patient care and is an indicator of better outcomes for patients. As we celebrate Nurse’s Week, we recognize the Mount Sinai South Nassau nurses who achieved this high standard of care.
www.mountsinai.org/southnassau
Garden City High School National Art Honor Society students and Locust School students worked on a craft together.
Members of the Garden City High School National Art Honor Society partnered with students from Locust School for a collaborative sculpture project, guided by National Art Honor Society adviser Ms. Amanda Marino and Locust art teacher Ms. Nicole Leyland.
The lesson was based off the children's book, “I'm NOT just a Scribble,” written and illustrated by Diane Alber. High school artists Millie DeLaricheliere, Gracie Krawiec, Molly Pryor and Keira Regan led the project by reading the story aloud and guiding the younger
students through the hands-on activity.
Locust students followed along step by step using pipe cleaners, googly eyes and glue to design their own 3D versions of the "scribble" character from the book.
“The final products were amazing, bringing smiles and laughter to everyone's faces,” said Ms. Marino and Ms. Leyland. “This hands-on project bridged literacy and the visual arts together in a creative and fun way!”
Monday Movies presented by the Friends of the Garden City Library at 1:30 p.m.: May & June
May 12 - “Throw Momma From the Train” - 1987, 88 mins
May 19 - “The Thomas Crown Affair” - 1999, 113 mins
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
Below is our schedule for Adult Services. More programs and information will be available soon.
Yoga with Kimberly
Please Note: NO class on Tuesday, May 6 Tuesdays, May 13, May 20, 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)742-8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org.
This program is funded by the Friends of the Garden City Public Library.
Part 2
Please Note: NO class on Friday, May 2 due to the Friends’ Book Sale
Fridays, May 9, May 15, May 23, 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.
Pickleball for Beginners!
Tuesday, May 6, from 7–8 p.m in the Large Meeting Room Join two former high school gym
The film "The Blind Side" will be screened at the Garden City Public Library on Monday, May 5.
teachers with a passion for pickleball. What is pickleball? How do you play pickleball? What equipment do I need to play? How do I get conditioned to play? Join us for this fun Pickleball for Beginners program as we explore this national phenomenon! It seems like everywhere you look, every sports facility, tennis court, park has accommodations for this new and upcoming sport!
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.
Mary Maguire’s Little Gems of Ireland
Tuesday, May 6 from 2–3 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room
Mary Maguire presents Little Gems of Ireland! Ireland is so much more than shamrocks, pipers and the Blarney Stone. Follow our trail as we visit the sites of Dublin, pay special attention to the National Gallery of Ireland to check out their Caravaggio and Vermeer. Then off to Trinity College to take in the Book of Kells. The Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher and all those castles with enchanting names like Kylemore, Clifden and Dromoland are calling us!
Chairobics and Strength with Debbie Krzyminski
Wednesdays, May 7, May 14, May 21, 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.
Mah-Jongg (Register for each one separately)
Thursday, May 8, 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, May 22, 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, May 8, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 22, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 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.
The Great Gatsby Movie Marathon to Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Book! Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room Join us for a triple feature! 10:00 a.m.–12:30 a.m.: “The Great Gatsby” (2013) featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, Toby Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton (142 mins).
1–2 p.m.: “ The Great Gatsby Midnight in Manhattan” (2013) (49 mins) This fascinating program explores the turbulent life and dark creative spirit of its writer—F. Scott Fitzgerald. It examines his disappointing college days at Princeton, his disastrous marriage to Zelda, his difficult relationship with Hemingway, and his tendency to sell out and compromise his talent for cash, which led to his tumultuous last days in Hollywood. It dispels the age-old mythology surrounding Fitzgerald, largely created by himself, which tends to glamorize the jazz age and his alcoholism, including contributions by the author's granddaughter Eleanor Lanahan, plus writers Hunter S. Thompson, George Plimpton and Jay McInerney. This program presents a fascinating portrait of this most evolving American Icon.
2:00–4:30 p.m.: “The Great Gatsby” (1974) starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow and co-starring Karen Black, Scott Wilson, Sam Waterston, Lois Chiles and Bruce Dern (146 mins).
May Book Discussion: “The Wedding People” by Allison Espach Wednesday, May 14, from 7–8 p.m. in the Small Meeting Room Join us as we discuss the book “The Wedding People” by Allison Espach. An uninvited guest at a lavish Newport, Rhode Island wedding weekend finds herself at the heart of unexpected connections and revelations. Phoebe Stone arrives at the grand Cornwall Inn in a green dress and gold heels, intending
to fulfill a long-held dream of shucking oysters and taking sunset sails, despite being alone. Mistaken for a wedding guest, Phoebe is the only person not there for the nuptials, yet her presence becomes pivotal.
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.
Books will be available at the Reference desk for checkout, copies may also be available on Libby.
Museum Pass Information Print From Home for Some Passes!
Through the generosity of the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, the Library offers free passes to select museums and cultural institutions. You can make a reservation to borrow a Museum Pass from one of the member institutions in our Museum Pass Program.
Some museum passes are now available to print from home. If you do not have access to a printer, the library will be happy to print the pass for you. These passes will be good for one day
only.
Please note that not all museums participate. Passes for the following museums still need to be picked up at the Library: 9/11 Memorial & Museum, NYC (2 adults & 2 children); Empire Pass, Long Island Children’s Museum, Garden City (2 adults & 2 children); MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art), NYC (5 visitors) and Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage.
The following Library Museum Pass rules remain in effect.
• Museum passes are available only to Garden City Public Library cardholders in good standing who have signed the Museum Pass User Agreement. Museum passes may be reserved in advance and must be checked out by an adult (18 years and older) family member.
• Reservations will be taken up to one month in advance of the desired date, subject to availability on a 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.
The Garden City Public Library will be holding a blood drive on Thursday, May 15, from 1:00 p.m. –7:00 p.m. in the Large Meeting room on the lower level of the Library.
Appointments are strongly preferred, walk-ins are welcomed only if capacity permits. To schedule an appointment, please visit the Garden City Public Library website at www. gardencitypl.org, you can scan the QR code below with your phone and type in Garden City, click on the link below or you can also call 1-800-933BLOOD to schedule an appointment or for any medical questions concerning blood donations.
Please remember to eat a good meal, drink fluids and bring your donor ID card or an ID with photo. Anyone 17 to 75 can donate blood, if you are 16 you need your parents permission, those permission slips can be emailed to you or filled out on site
if your parent is with you. If you are over 75 you can donate if you have a doctor ’ s note.
https://donate.nybc.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/329126
Thank you for your donation and support during this critical time.
There is something for everyone at the library book sale May 3 and 4. There are books for cooks, history buffs, gardeners, decorators, mystery solvers, art lovers, travelers, young adults and children. Treasure seekers will delight in our silent auction baskets filled with items for making ice cream, going to the beach, entertaining and barbequing, as well as toys for children. Silent Auction bids on the baskets have started at the library circulation desk. Sponsored by the Friends of the Garden City Library, the sale will be held two days:
Saturday, May 3:
• From 9:30–4:00, you will be able to buy wonderful, gently used books
• Place Silent Auction bids on baskets
Sunday, May 4:
• From 1:00–3:00 book sale and Silent Auction bids
• raffle baskets winners will be announced at 3:00 on Sunday
All proceeds will be used to support programs at the Garden City Public Library for children, young adults and adults, including the very popular Museum Passes and Monday Movie Matinees.
The Garden City Public Library’s website is gardencitypl.org where you will find information about the Friends of the Library and the Book Sale. The library is located at 60 Seventh St, Garden City, NY.
Let’s garden and go birdwatching!
There will be a Mother’s Day Craft Preschool Craft for children ages 3 years to 5 on May 6.
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.
• Thursday, May 1, at 10:30 a.m.: Pokémon Movie (Ages 2 to 5 Years, Not in kindergarten)
• Friday, May 2, at 10:30 a.m.: Mixed Age Star Wars Theme Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)
• Monday, May 5, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18 Months to 3 years)
• Monday, May 5, at 3:30 p.m.:
Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)
• Tuesday, May 6, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother’s Day Preschool Craft (Ages 3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)
• Tuesday, May 6, at 4:00 p.m.: LEGO Club (Grades K–5)
• Wednesday, May 7, at 10:30 a.m.: Duplo Lego (18 Months to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)
Thursday, May 8 at 10:30AM Mixed Age Storytime ages birth to 5 years (not in kindergarten).
Thursday, May 8 at 7:00PM PJ Storytime ages birth to 5 years (not in kindergarten).
• Monday, May 12, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime (18
The Garden City Public Library will be closed on Sunday, May 11, in observance of Mother’s Day. It will reopen on Monday, May 12, for regular hours.
There will be a Special Meeting of the Board of Library Trustees on Monday, May 5 at 7:30 p.m. in the Library’s small meeting room located on the located lower level.
On May 7, children ages 18 months to 5 years (not in kindergarten) can create with Duplo Legos.
Months to 3 Years)
• Monday, May 12, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten).
• Tuesday, May 13 at 10:30 a.m.: Preschool Fish Craft (Ages 3 Years to 5, Not in Kindergarten)
• Wednesday, May 14, at 10:00 a.m.: Play Hooray (Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)
• Thursday, May 15, at 4:00 p.m.: Tween and Teens Yarn Group (Grades 4–7)
• Saturday, May 17, at 10:00 a.m.: Baby and Me Yoga (4 Weeks –Prewalkers)
• Saturday, May 17, at 11:00 a.m.: Toddler and Me Yoga (18 Months to 5, Not in Kindergarten)
• Saturday, May 17, at 12:00 p.m.: Yoga for Grades K–4
• Monday, May 19, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime 18 months to 3 years.
• Monday, May 19, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime ages birth to 5 years (not in kindergarten).
• Tuesday, May 20, at 10:30 a.m.: A Time For Kids: Baby
Start (Birth to 18 months)
• Tuesday, May 20, at 11:15 a.m.: A Time For Kids: Tots Morning Out (Ages 2 to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)
• Tuesday, May 20, at 4:00 p.m.: Tween Tuesday: Video and Board Games (Grades 4–7)
• Wednesday, May 21, at 3:30 p.m.: Long Island Music Aardvarks (Ages Birth to 5 Years, Not in Kindergarten)
• 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)
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.
The Library’s Annual Chick Incubation program has returned this year! Eggs arrived on Tuesday, April 15 and are scheduled to begin hatching Monday, May 5. Chicks will be returned one week after they hatch. Eggs are picked up from Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY and chicks are returned back to Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY.
This year, the Library received five brown eggs and three white eggs, for a total of eight eggs. The brown eggs will hatch into either Black Star chicks, which are a cross between a Rhode Island Red rooster and a Barred Rock hen, or Cinnamon Queens, which are a cross between the Rhode Island Red rooster and the Silver Laced Wyandotte hen. Black Star female chicks hatch all black and the male chicks hatch black with a white spot on its head. Cinnamon Queen female chicks hatch red and the male chicks hatch yellow. The white eggs are from a White Leghorn mix breed and they will hatch yellow chicks. There is no way to determine the sex of these chicks when they are hatched. Before they hatch, make sure to enter a name into our annual Name the Chick contest!
Search the Library for mini painted eggs as part of our annual Spring Egg Hunt! These eggs were painted by teen volunteers in March and April. Over 100 eggs were painted and are currently on display in the Library, but patrons need to find 10 specific eggs and write down their location in order to complete the scavenger hunt. Patrons can participate in the scavenger hunt anytime they visit the Library until May 14. When you successfully complete the scavenger hunt, you can submit your completed entry to be entered into a raffle to win a $50 Amazon gift card. Only one
entry per person. There will be only one winner. Patrons of all ages can participate! The scavenger hunt sheets needed to participate are available at the Library. Thanks to all the teen volunteers who painted eggs this year in order to make this program possible!
These programs are for tweens and teens in Grades 6-12 unless otherwise noted. Registration is required for these programs on LibCal at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com.
Teens who complete an online survey after specific programs can receive community service for participating.
Registration is live online at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:
• Tuesday, May 6 at 3:30 p.m.: LEGO Club Volunteering (Grades 6–12)
• Wednesday, May 7 at 5:30 p.m.: Perler Bead Art for Community Service (Grades 6–12)
• Thursday, May 8 at 4 p.m.: Teen Creative Hour (Grades 6–12)
• Thursday, May 8 at 7 p.m.: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service (Grades 6–12)
Registration begins Tuesday, May 6, at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl. libcal.com for the following programs:
• Tuesday, May 13 to Thursday, May 22: Ornaments for Community Service (Grades 6–12)
• Tuesday, May 13 at 4 p.m.: Teen Advisory Board (Grades 6–12)
• Tuesday, May 13 at 7 p.m.: Teen Paint Night (Grades 6–12)
• Thursday, May 15 at 4 p.m.: Tweens and Teens Yarn Group (Grades 4–12)
• Friday, May 16 at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Gamers (Grades 6–12)
Registration begins Tuesday, May 13, at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl. libcal.com for the following programs:
• Tuesday, May 20 at 4 p.m.:
Chicks are expected to hatch starting on Monday, May 5.
Tween Tuesdays: Game Afternoon (Grades 4–7)
• Wednesday, May 21 at 5:30 p.m.: Teen LEGO Club (Grades 6–12)
• Thursday, May 22 at 4 p.m.: Dungeons and Dragons (Grades 4–12)
• Friday, May 23 at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: No-Sew Fleece Patriotic Pillows (Grades 6–12)
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.
• Ongoing to Monday, May 5: Around the World Recipe Cards for Community Service - No registration required. Up to five recipe cards can be submitted per volunteer.
During Teen STEAM Workshop
Teens used their imagination and recycled materials during Teen STEAM Challenge: Recycled Materials with Chris Buchman, which was held Saturday, April 12, at the Library. Teens were able to make different things, such as a Pringle ice cream maker and a paper towel roll barometer. Teen STEAM Workshops with Chris Buchman will be back in the summer, so make sure to check LibCal when the Tweens and Teens summer programming schedule is released.
Members of the Garden City Fire Department, led by Lenny Rivera (in middle), on hand to recruit first responders.
To celebrate National Volunteer Week, on April 23, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., the Garden City-based Long Island Volunteer Center sponsored a Volunteer Fair at the Garden City Public Library. 21 local community organizations were on hand to
recruit volunteers to help expand their programs and services. All ages were welcome and were treated to canvas bags donated by Anthem BCBS and NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island. In addition, youth were eligible for community service hours
Garden City-based SCO Family of Services looking for volunteers at events that benefit family service programming.
and created kindness cards for volunteer coordinators who tabled at the event. Attendees also donated used crayons for the Crayon Initiative sponsored by local Lions and Rotary Clubs. Many thanks to Meg Norris and the Garden City News for
Initiative.
promotional support. To obtain a free copy of the volunteer fair directory with more details about local volunteer opportunities, please call 516-564-5482 or email info@longislandvolunteercenter.org.
Join the Cathedral Community on Sunday, May 4, at 4:00 p.m. for a final opportunity for the public to pray beneath the moon, with the beautiful music of the Cathedral Choirs and a special Easter litany under the moon. The service will be followed by a reception in our Undercroft.
The Gallery at the Cathedral of the Incarnation installation: “Illuminations: Art in Sacred Space” will continue to be available for viewing.
Choral Evensong has been in use in the Anglican Church (of which the Episcopal Church is part) since the 1550s. It is still sung every day in nearly every Cathedral in England.
The Service consists of prayers, two readings from scripture, hymns and texts sung by the Choir. Unlike most other services today, most of Evensong is sung by the Choir alone, giving the congregation a chance for peaceful meditation and reflection.
Music for this Evensong will be centered around the Museum of the Moon Exhibit, which has been on display in the Cathedral for the past three weeks. The choir will sing the anthem “Seek Him that maketh the seven start,” a wonderful contemporary piece by the British composer Jonathan Dove. Also included will be organ music focused on the moon.
Evensong will be followed by a fes-
magnificent Museum of the Moon at the Cathedral.
tive reception in the Cathedral following the service. Both the reception and the Evensong are free and open to all. The Cathedral is located on Cathedral Avenue and Fifth Street in Garden City.
Service/therapy dog Gurgi accompanied his veteran at last year’s plant sale.
How can something as small as a plant make such a difference in a veteran’s life?
When this plant is purchased at the annual plant sale at Lutheran Church of the Resurrection on May 3rd, its power extends well beyond Garden City.
Over seventeen years, Resurrection’s Women’s Ministries has raised over $102,000 for veterans’ organizations such as the Walter Reed Society, Bethesda Naval Hospital, The Independence Fund, Building Homes for Heroes, America’s VetDogs, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, and for the last three years, Paws of War. One hundred percent of funds raised at the plant sale are donated to Paws of War.
Paws of War, based in Nesconset, rescues cats and dogs from kill shelters and from overseas where servicemen and women may have befriended them but were unable to bring them stateside. In addition to training these dogs to be service, companion, and therapy animals, they pro-
vide a no-cost mobile veterinary clinic. Paws of War doesn’t stop there. If a veteran should become homeless, Paws of War provides housing assistance, and foster care for their animal should a veteran become hospitalized. Not long ago when the fires were raging in California, Paws of War was there helping with disaster response and animal rescue.
A veteran and their service dog will be joining us on May 3rd. You’ll also find a wide assortment of annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, and flower baskets for your garden and Mother’s Day.
Resurrection Lutheran Church is a Christian community of faith, located at 420 Stewart Ave., near Clinton Rd., in Garden City. All are invited to worship at 5:30 p.m. on Saturdays and at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m. Sunday mornings, with Sunday School and Christian Education at 9:45 a.m. For more information, call 516.746.4426, or visit resgc. org.
Recently the Garden City Association of Girl Scouts held its Second Annual Girl Scout Cultural Appreciation Day, with the goal of celebrating and learning about the world around us.
May 2,
Approximately 60 Girl Scouts did a tour of the world, “visiting” different countries at the Senior Center.
Over six countries, including - Belgium, Ecuador, Philippines, Germany, Mexico and India were represented. Each country was hosted by a troop who researched and presented information about different food and activities specific to their country. The Girl Scouts acted as ambassadors of their countries by teaching others what they learned, while also having an opportunity to explore the other countries through food (quesadillas, guac and chips, parols, waffles and orejas) and craft activities. Fun activities included guessing the dress, identifying the flag, traditional Indian henna art and a traditional German dance performance. It was a very energetic and colorful room!
As part of the special event, Girl Scout troops also collected donations for Luggage for Love - an organization dedicated to providing dignity, comfort and hope to children moving around foster care or transitional living.
It was so special to see how each Girl Scout embraced perspectives outside of their own by being a host to another country and how much they
enjoyed learning and tasting new things throughout their world tour that day.
The Garden City Association of Girl Scouts wants to thank the following
local businesses for their support: Prost, Riesterer, Chicos, Figgy’s Events & Original Enzian for donating supplies, foods and a German dance performance.
Members of Garden City High School's Literary Circles Club attended Adelphi University's Writers and Readers Festival on April 4.
The Literary Circles club at Garden City High School is a vibrant community of students who share a passion for reading, writing and meaningful discussion. Through recent club meetings, events and trips, members have been exploring the power of literature to inspire thought, creativity and connection.
On April 4, members of the club had the exciting opportunity to attend the second annual Writers and Readers
Festival at Adelphi University. Students participated in an inspiring panel discussion featuring Barbara Forste and her daughter, Sarah Jessica Parker, — both lifelong advocates of reading and libraries— as well as New York Times bestselling author Adriana Trigiani.
Throughout the day, students engaged in sessions that highlighted the significance of literacy and literature, and explored the powerful impact reading can has on the lives of young people,
both now and in the future. The event offered valuable insights into the importance of books and reading in shaping young perspectives, imagination and creativity.
Continuing the celebration of the literary arts, on April 7 the Literary Circles Club hosted an evening of spring poetry in the school library. More than 40 students attended to express themselves through poetry, showcasing their creativity by selecting, performing and
writing original poems.
The event provided a meaningful platform for students to share their voices and experiences through the art of poetry, forming an atmosphere of community, creativity and self-expression. Club president Isabella Fuertes led the evening alongside English teachers Ms. Laurie Bocca and Ms. Aria Laucella, creating a memorable event.
From page 1
by H2M Architects and Engineers on an expedited basis to ensure the water project is completed before the Garden City Pool opens in June.
In other business on April 24, the Board approved acceptance of a $189,500 maintenance bond for the new automatic front doors at the Garden City Public Library. The bond, provided by West Babylon-based Intricate Tech Solutions, guarantees the entrance door work for 180 days from the date of bond acceptance. Village Counsel Gary Fishberg reviewed and approved the bond before the vote.
The Board also renewed a Department of Public Works contract for engine and generator repair and maintenance with PowerPro Service Company, Inc. of Bohemia. The contract covers a range of items and will be used as needed for routine and emergency services. Secondyear pricing applies, and funding is available in various accounts.
During his report, Superintendent Borroni responded to questions from Trustee Vinny Muldoon regarding Parking Field 6E near the historic Toll Lodge.
Borroni told the Board, “In 6E they completed the drainage work the other day. The concrete crew is currently
working on Garden Street, and once they wrap up there in the next week or two they will start the concrete work in 6E. Once they are done, they will follow up with milling and paving in the lot, followed by restriping.”
Trustee Muldoon also inquired about deteriorating curbs on Seventh Street. Borroni noted that the village typically performs repairs ahead of the annual Belmont Stakes Festival in early June.
“We patch curbs, fix pavers, and there might be some trip hazards to address. It’s come to a point where the curbs are just beyond patching as some curbs have been patched for many, many years and they need replacing.
We’re in the middle of doing that and installing better ADA ramps, so their lips are settled and not staying as trip hazards. We are also resetting some of the pavers by the courtyard near FourFive Coffee, which are tripping hazards, and by the start of May the work should be wrapped up. We will be out of there as soon as we can,” he noted.
Also approved on April 24 was the Chamber of Commerce’s request to hold the 2025 Belmont Festival on Seventh Street on Friday, June 6, from 6 to 10 p.m.
pending further update from the state.
One parent advocated for the return of formal vocabulary books for students, beyond the contextual vocabulary lists currently used in classrooms. The board acknowledged the suggestion and said they would discuss it with literacy consultants.
And during the second reading of the district’s Independent Educational Evaluation (IE) policy, one community member raised concerns about the lack of a formal internal evaluation policy. They also pointed to vague language in the IE policy and the requirement for a team meeting before approving independent evaluations, suggesting these could lead to delays for families. They urged the board to improve clarity and efficiency in both internal evaluations and the overall IE process.
The Garden City PTA’s Executive Committee voiced strong support for the proposed budget, highlighting its focus on modernizing technology, improving literacy instruction, and expanding services for diverse learners. The group urged the community to “vote yes on May 20,” calling the proposal “fiscally responsible, academically ambitious, and forward-thinking.”
The next budget work session is scheduled for May 13, with the final vote on the budget set for May 20 during the district’s regular board meeting.
From page 1
Avenue, and Nassau Boulevard train station walls.
Village Arborist Joe Umana’s plan includes planting 30 to 40 trees at each location along the LIRR tracks to form a natural barrier between the railroad and nearby homes. Specific plantings include 30 Juniper ‘Torulosa’ trees on Manor Road at $132 each ($3,960 total), 40 Lilac ‘Miss Kim’ No. 7 bushes along Nassau Boulevard at $59 each ($2,360), and another 30 Juniper ‘Torulosa’ on North Avenue for another $3,960.
Assistant Superintendent of Recreation & Parks Andy Hill explained, “The choice of material is based on drought resistance and the type of tree he believes has the best chance of success in those locations. The desire to complete this job this spring is what leads to the request for overtime to be approved as we would not be able to do it on straight time with our current plans for Joe’s planting and the other jobs.”
The Rec. Department thanked residents for cooperating with the temporary closure of St. Paul’s fields during Easter weekend through April 21 for a one-time pre-emergent crabgrass treatment. Hill reported the treatment was successful and that residents respected the posted signs and requests to stay off the fields until they were safe.
“Everybody was very amicable if we had to ask them to leave the fields before we close them and we kept them monitored. We had a lot of signage up there,” he shared at the Board meeting.
Rec. staff maintained the goal of keeping everyone safe and off the fields at St. Paul’s from later in the day on April 19th through Monday the 21st, “until the treatment was absorbed and until it was safe to go to the field again,” he said.
Trustee Vinny Muldoon followed up on a Recreation Commission discussion regarding upgrades to Field House and Cluett Hall lighting.
Assistant Superintendent Hill shared the news that the lighting for these key recreational facilities has been purchased, and the Rec. Department was waiting for deliveries from Musco LED Sports Lighting.
“They are leasing directly with the village electrical contractor Dennis O’Regan, who will install the lights. We are expecting an early to mid-May delivery of the lights. Dennis O’Regan said he can install them in two to three days with little disruption to the Field House, by closing off one or two courts at a time and still allowing us to use the other areas. We expect that by Memorial Day we will have the new lighting in,” Hill noted.
The Village received one flooring bid for Cluett Hall from Parson Floors in Suffolk County. Hill explained, “We have to verify if that is a legit contract. If not, we will go out to bid – but it was a very competitive price. We’re happy with that, and we are ready to go by June 1st once the new budget comes in.”
Hill also shared that the Recreation Department is reviewing synthetic turf plans.
“Trustee Tai has reached out to me to present to the EAB with regards to our plans for the existing grass, and what we as a Recreation Department and Rec. Commission thinks with regards to synthetic turf. Right now we are in the process of trying to locate the best place for that (synthetic) turf to go. We will start putting together the plans, and hopefully get the ball moving with that sooner rather than later,” Hill shared with the trustees last week.
Trustee Muldoon also inquired about Grove Park. Hill reported a temporary delay related to a change order, but fencing work continued, and surface work resumed following recent Board approval.
“My understanding at Grove Street is there was a slight delay in terms of the change order but it did not stop the work on fencing. It did stop the work on renovation of the surface but once that was approved at the last board meeting they got back to it. And I think definitely before Memorial Day,” Hill said.
Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni added that the contractor laid asphalt and must wait several weeks before painting the courts to allow oils to dissipate.
Muldoon also mentioned proposed air conditioning for the Field House and Cluett Hall to allow year-round use.
Hill explained that he spoke to Energy Mechanical, a company that does a lot of maintenance work with the AC units and HVAC. They have assured him that they will have a quote for the project and outline recommendations for HVAC and the AC in the Cluett Hall and the Field House (the quote was expected by April 25th).
“If I don’t get it I will start outsourcing to other people. We have waited a while for that now. We have a very good relationship with them, which is why we have waited, but I know there’s a need for haste in that aspect so we can try to get it in as soon as possible,” Hill told the Board.
Trustee Jessica Tai thanked Assistant Superintendent Hill and mentioned that there are a lot of needs in the village which the Recreation Department covers.
She commented, “For the plantings along Manor Road North Avenue and Nassau Boulevard, the issue came up in
the fall last year and we have received a tremendous amount of complaints from residents living near there and it really affected their quality of life.
Joe (Umana), Mr. Hill, Superintendent Borroni and Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi all have visited the sites with interests on beautification and Rec. Department work. I think this is a team effort and a lot of people were involved in coming up with a proposal that’s practical and beneficial to the residents. I really want to thank you for doing that, and thank everyone who was actively involved in this process.”
Trustee Judy Courtney questioned the need to transfer $15,000 for overtime if money already existed in the budget. Hill clarified that the existing funds were reserved for ongoing programs, and this additional planting project warranted a separate transfer to avoid future shortfalls.
Village Administrator Suozzi said the position the village takes is frugal in budgeting such costs.
“Last year, if you recall, we were transferring money. We used a lot of overtime because we spent a lot of overtime. And then, all these special projects came up. A lot of them but not all of them are driven by the trustees. Can we get this done quickly? Well, the only way to make up the (paid employee) time is to spend overtime on weekends to accommodate the expediency requested by the Board, and the upkeep of the appearance of the village. It’s quality of life. During the budget process this year I explained to the department heads that the overtime should be really for the special things. Every year we do Turkey Trots at Thanksgiving, our Easter Car Parade and everything else (for overtime budgeting). But for
the rest, it’s got to be an emergency which is easily understood by the board when we do that,” he noted.
Suozzi examined the two contrasting philosophies he sees here: to use up the overtime, and ask for it when you run out – which is what the village did in the past and trustees later had questions about it – or using overtime on a caseby-case basis. He commented, “That’s when the department heads bring it to the board for approval, and say, ‘this project would cost this much and leave our overtime that we budgeted in place and we will fund this now with the funds from somewhere else.’ But we are going to spend money either way – this way we are kind of asking the board to ok expenses up front versus on the back end.”
Hill also addressed a swarm of honeybees discovered in a tree in Parking Field 7N. He worked with the Garden City Police Department and beekeepers from the Cathedral of the Incarnation to have them safely removed. He reassured residents that such swarms are natural and temporary, and the bees are not aggressive.
Trustee Tai, speaking on behalf of the EAB, thanked Hill, Umana, Borroni, and Suozzi for resolving the situation in a safe and environmentally friendly way.
Hill concluded his report by announcing that 2025 Garden City Pool memberships would go on sale April 28. Batch emails were being sent to residents to create family accounts under the village’s new recreation software.
If you would like to post an obituary for a loved one, simply send a short biography of them with (if desired) their photo, details of their funeral/visitation services, and/or any donation requests to editor@gcnews.com, or call our office at 516-294-8900 to inquire.
BY AHMED AHMED
If you’ve been dealing with back pain that flares up while doing the dishes…
Or even when you bend down to tie your shoes…
You may have considered buying a new mattress.
In which case, you’re not alone.
Now, while there have been recent studies that show that mattress firmness matters…
Ahmed Ahmed
Band-aid solutions never really do the trick.
Let me explain…
If your discomfort is driven by motion or day-to-day activities…
Your bones, joints, and muscles play a way bigger role than any piece of furniture can.
Still, you’ve probably heard the stories of how a good mattress can help an achy back…
But research has proven it’s only because of how it interacts with your body…
Not because it solves the real problem.
Here’s the thing…
A bad mattress bends your spine out of shape…
Forcing some muscles to clamp down tightly while others relax.
By morning, you’re stiff, sore, and
struggling to get out of bed.
So what do you do?
You could find yourself going from one quick fix to the next…
Or you could get natural relief by strengthening your muscles and improving their stamina through exercise!
This way, you hand your body the tools it needs to support your back and fuel your motion.
A stronger back has the power to handle any mattress, so that you can wake up feeling refreshed the morning after spending the night at your daughter’s house…
Travel without worrying about how your back is going to feel after a long flight…
And walk for miles with confidence and energy.
Upgrading your mattress will leave you hoping for relief…
While upgrading your strength will give you the freedom to live a life filled with endless opportunities to create memories with the people you love.
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/
Long Island is in the migratory corridor for many birds who travel northward to their summer breeding grounds during the peak spring migration period (April 15-May 31). Amazingly, birds use stars to navigate the night skies during migration. However. increasing nighttime light pollution has created “fatal light attraction” in which migrating birds become disoriented and collide with windows, buildings and the ground. The National Zoological Park and the U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service estimate that “fatal light attraction” results in the death of 365 to 988 million birds a year in America.
Birds are a crucial part of earth’s ecosystem. You can help migrating birds by taking part in the ‘Lights
Out’ program: simply reduce/ eliminate unneeded outdoor lights between 11pm and 6 am through May 31. Lights Out is a national program sponsored by the National Audubon Society.
Lights Out has also asked commercial and residential buildings to limit indoor light pollution by closing blinds and turning off unneeded indoor lights from 11:00 pm-6:00 am through May 31. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Office of General Services (OGS) both support Lights Out. In addition to protecting migrating birds, this will also result in lower costs to New York state managed/owned buildings.. The NY DEC website is dec.ny.gov
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
NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY Notice is hereby given that GoodFriend SelfStorage facility located at: 119 South 3rd Street, New Hyde Park, NY 11040, will sell, to satisfy lien of the owner, at public sale by competitive bidding on May 1, 2025 at 11:00am. Bid online at storageauctions.com. This is a cash sale and all sales are final. Unit A213 – Didier Rouzeau
NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE TO BIDDERS BOARD OF EDUCATION
Garden City Union Free School District
PUBLIC NOTICE: is hereby given for separate sealed bids for: Boiler Replacement at the Garden City High School. Bids will be received by the School District, on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Administration Office, 56 Cathedral Avenue, Garden City, New York, 11530, and at said time and place publicly opened and read aloud.
Beginning Thursday, May 1, 2025, the Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers, P.C., 244 East Main Street, Patchogue New York, (631-475-0349). Complete digital sets of Contract Documents may be obtained online as a download for a nonrefundable fee of One-Hundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website: bbs.biddyhq.com. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained through Biddy c/o Lohrius Blueprint, 226 Newtown Road, Plainview, NY 11803 (516-465-2880) upon a deposit of One-Hundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to the GARDEN CITY UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT and may be uncertified. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above referenced websites. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract.
A non-mandatory pre-bid site walk through is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Garden City High School located at 170 Rockaway Avenue, Garden City, New York, 11530.
The Contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or the proposals will be rejected within 45 days of the date of opening proposals. Bids shall be subject, however, to the discretionary right reserved by the School District to waive any informalities, accept or reject any alternatives, reject any proposals and to advertise for new proposals, if in its opinion the best interest of the School District will thereby be promoted.
Each bidder may not withdraw his bid within 45 days after the formal opening thereof. A bidder may withdraw his bid only in writing and prior to the bid opening date.
By Order of:
The Board of Education
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Notice of Formation of ReveMedic LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/15/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Joanne Brown: 41 Maple St Freeport NY 11520. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
NASSAU COUNTY
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Notice of Formation of Ascend Professional Pathways, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/23/2025. 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 United States Corporation Agents, Inc.: 7014 13th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-CF1,
-against-
COLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on February 22, 2017, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CSFB MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-CF1 is the Plaintiff and COLLEEN TRETTIEN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on May 12, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 162 MEADOW ST, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530; and the following tax map identification: 34-546-32 & 39.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 000801/2015. Mark Ricciardi, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
Application for Authority filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 3/6/25 for Compass Expert Services LLC (LLC). Office Location, Nassau County. LLC formed in State of Delaware (DE) on 2/3/25.SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. The Post Office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him is: 146 Adams Street, Garden City, NY 11530.The principal business address of the LLC is 46 Adams Street, Garden City, NY 11530. Certificate of Formation for LLC filed with Secretary of State of DE at 401 Federal St #4, Dover, DE 19901.
Paying for newspapers can be ruff...
District
NASSAU COUNTY BIDS
Sealed bids MUST be RECEIVED BY & DELIVERED TO:
PURCHASING DIVISION Inc. Village of Garden City 351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, UNTIL 11:00 AM EDT THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2025 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following: FIRE DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS IMPROVEMENTS Specifications, Form of Bid, and other information may be obtained from the office of the Purchasing Division at the above address or you may download the bid specifications from the New York State Contract Reporter website at the following web address: https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/ contracts.cfm This bid specification will be listed under the Agency Name of: Garden City, Inc. Village of Dated: 5/2/25
Pursuant to the provisions of General Municipal Law and Chapter 200 of the Code of the Incorporated Village of Garden City, New York notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeals of said Village will meet in the Village Hall at 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., to take action on the following matters:
1. APPLICATION & APPEAL OF THEMIS SKOUFIS in accordance with the provisions of Sections 200-45 and 200-70, and variances from 200-15 and 200-52 of the Village Code, to authorize the issuance of permits for installation and maintenance of a 14' x 28' in-ground swimming pool with 6’ fence, in the rear yard of the premises known as 91 POPLAR STREET (Map of Garden City lawns, Block 4, Lot 22, R-8 District), the granting of which would:
A. exceeds the allowable building area of (2,184 sq. ft. or 25%), by (449) sq. ft. (2,633 sq. ft. or 30.09%) ~
B. exceed the allowable rear yard accessory coverage of (525 sq ft. or 30%), by (96) sq ft. (621 sq ft. or 35 48%)
Building Department application # 2024-16176, Elizabeth Bibla, L.A.
*Reserved Decision April 15, 2025
2. APPEAL OF MR. & MRS. ROBERT BALKEMA, for a variance of the provisions in Section §200-46 of the Village code, for the maintenance of exterior ductwork and appurtenances, installed during the erection of a 3,584 sq. ft. two story dwelling, with 1,593 sq. ft. finished basement, 529 sq. ft. two car attached garage, 143 sq. ft. front porch and, a 1,060 sq. ft. one story pool enclosure at the rear (demolish existing 1,851 sq. ft. dwelling and 400 sq. ft. attached garage), at the premises known as 12 ST. PAULS CRESCENT (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 11, Lot 9, R-8 District) the installation of which has:
A. reduced the (15 0’) minimum side yard to not less than (10 0’) ~
B. reduced the (35.0’) aggregate side yard, to not less than (33 1’). Building Department application # 2024-16284.
Adjourned February 11, 2025, meeting.
3. APPEAL OF YURIY MOSHEYEV, as contract Vendee, for a variance of provisions in Sections 200-15, 200-31, 200-46 & 200-52 of the Village Code, to permit the erection of ; 476 sq. ft. rear, an 80 sq. ft. & 54 sq. ft. front, first floor additions, with a 1,631 sq. ft. full second floor above (demolish existing 277 sq. ft. rear one story portion), while converting a 101 sq ft. portion of an attached garage to habitable space, and the installation of (2) A/C compressors in the side yard; at the dwelling known as 71 MEADOW STREET (Map of Garden City East, Block 120, Lot 18, R-6 district) granting of which would:
A. exceed the allowable building area of (1,575 sq. ft. or 25.0%), by (155) sq. ft. (1,726 sq. ft. or 27.41%) ~
B. cause extensions of the current (17.26’) aggregate side yard where (18.90’) is required~
C. reduce the front yard setback of (25.0’) to not less than (21.95’) ~
D. reduce the (10 0’) setback for freestanding equipment, to not less than (6.5’).
Building Department application # 2025-16798, John J. Viscardi, RA.
Adjourned April 22, 2025, ADRB mtg., scheduled for May 28, 2025, ADRB
4. APPLICATION of DAVID CORATTI & REGINA HENDRICKS, as per the provisions of Sections 200-45 and 200-70, of the Village Code, for permission to apply for permits, to construct and maintain a 18’ x 34’ in-ground swimming pool, with 7’ x 7’ raised spa and automatic cover, in the rear yard of the premises known as; 57 POPLAR STREET (Map of Garden City East, Block 116, Lot 17, R-8 district).
Building Department application# 2025-16518, John J. Viscardi, R.A.
5. APPEAL OF ZACHARY & LEONIDA HERRERA, for a variance of provisions in Section § 200-15 of the Village code, to allow the issue of building permits, for the construction of a 143 sq. ft. outdoor kitchen Pavilion and 22 sq. ft. fireplace at the rear, while maintaining a 32 sq. ft. portico over a 70 sq. ft. platform in the front; at the premises known as 115 KILBURN ROAD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 44, Lot 17, R-12 District), the granting of which would:
A. exceeds the 20.0% allowable building area of 2,800 sq. ft. by (251) sq. ft. or 21.79%, (3,051 sq. ft.) on a 14,000 sq. ft. plot.
Building Department application # 2025-16537, Daniel Fabrizi, R.A.
*Adjourned April 15, 2025, meeting
6. APPLICATION & APPEAL of THOMAS & CRISTA REGAZZI, as per the provisions of Sections 200-45 and 200-70, and a variance from provisions in Sections 200-15 and 200-52 of the Village Code, for permission to apply for permits, to construct and maintain a 18’ x 40’ in-ground swimming pool, and to erect a 268 sq. ft. Porch and 70 sq. ft. cellar entrance and 60 sq. ft. outdoor kitchen, in the rear yard of the premises known as; 2 CATHEDRAL AVE (Map of Garden City Central, Block 28A, Lot 9E, R-20 district), the granting of which would:
A. exceeds the allowable building area of 20% or 4,186 sq. ft. by (155) sq. ft. (4,341 sq. ft. or 20.74%) ~
B. reduce the required rear yard setback of (40.0’), to not less than (32.0’) ~
C. reduce the (80.0’) accessory front setback to not less than:
1. (69.5’) for the proposed fence ~
2. (70.0’) for the pool equipment.
Building Department application# 2025-16831, Daniel Fabrizi, R.A.
7. APPEAL OF NICHOLAS & MICHELLE LATTANZIO for a variance of provisions in Section 200-52 of the Village Code, for the maintenance of (2) previously installed A/C compressors, in the side yard of the dwelling; known as 112 WICKHAM ROAD (Map of Country Club Estates, Block 2, Lots 26, R-8 district) the granting of which would:
A. reduce the (10.0’) accessory setback to not less than (7.0’), with respect to the two A/C compressors.
Building Department application # 2025-16637
8. APPLICATION & APPEAL OF JUSTIN HILI, as per the provisions of Sections 200-45 and 200-70, and a variance of provisions of section 200-52, of the Village Code, to grant authorization to apply for permits, to construct a 15’ x 30’ in-ground swimming pool with 6’x 6’ raised spa, 58 sq ft. outdoor kitchen under 144 sq ft. pergola; a 2.0’ high retaining wall, enclosed by a 6' high Estate fence and gates, in the rear yard, of the corner premises known as 60 STRATFORD AVENUE (Map of Country Club Estates, Block 1, Lot 44, R-8 district), the granting of which would:
A. reduce the (50.0’) required accessory setback from Lee Road.
1. to not less than (35.00’), for (37.60’) of proposed fencing and gate and, 2. to not less than (30.32’) for (6.70’) of proposed retaining wall.
Building Department Application # 2024-16385, HM Engineering, P.C.
Existing A/C permitted in 1975, permit # 12044.
• A. exceed the allowable building area of 2,000 sq. ft. or 25.0%, by (76) sq ft. (2,076 sq. ft. or 25 95%) ~
9. APPEAL OF MICHAEL & ALESSANDRA MATOS, for a variance from provisions in Sections 200-7, 200-15 & 200-46 of the Village Code, to allow the issue of building permits for the construction of a 169 sq ft two story rear addition (demolish 21 sq. ft. cellar entrance), at the dwelling known as 6 HARVARD STREET (Map of Richlands, Block 4, Lot 13, R-8 district) the granting of which would:
B. reduce the (10 0’) required side yard setback, to not less than (8 16’) ~
C. cause an egress well setback as close as (4 7’), where (5 0’) is the minimum.
Building Department application # 2025-16691, Douglas R. Vaggi, R.A.
10. APPLICATION & APPEAL OF GABRIEL & MARIA ALFAYA as per the provisions of Sections 200-45 and 200-70, and variance from sections 200-15 and 200-52.E of the Village Code, to allow the issue of building permits for the construction of a 14' x 28' in-ground swimming pool with 6’ fence, in the rear yard of the premises known as 102 MEADBROOK ROAD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 7, Lot 14, R-6 district), the granting of which would:
A. exceeds the allowable building area of 1,650 sq. ft. or 25%, by (341) sq. ft. (1,991 sq. ft. or 30.2%) ~
May 2, 2025
BY KAREN RUBIN
TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Camping in all its forms – tenting, glamping, RVing, advanturing – will be extremely popular this year and campground operators across North America are preparing. Here is where to find the best camping resorts: Campspot Awards Showcase North America’s Best Camping Destinations for 2025 Campspot, a leading North America campground booking platform, announced the winners of its 2025 Campspot Awards, recognizing its top campgrounds across the United States and Canada.
Among the 2025 winners are several standouts:
#1 Top Campground in the U.S.: Verde Ranch RV Resort, Camp Verde, AZ: This Arizonabased resort offers striking red rock landscapes and easy access to nearby trails and the Verde River.
#1 Top Campground in Canada: Tsawaak RV Resort, Tofino, BC: Set amongst the beaches, rainforest and islands off the tip of the Esowista Peninsula, Tsawaak is a premier coastal destination, with activities such as whale watching, beachcombing, and kayaking.
#1 Top Glamping Campground: Broad River Campground, Mooresboro, NC combines glamping accommodations with lush forest views and scenic outdoor exploration nestled in North Carolina’s Foothills region.
#1 Top Unique Campground: True West Campground Stables and Mercantile, Jamestown, TN: Campers can step back in
Personal favorite: Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA in upstate New York near the Erie Canalway (marking 200th anniversary this year), has themed cabins like mine, with its own dinosaur dig and one with an actual planetarium, as well as the opportunity to mine for “diamonds” (quartz crystals). A family enjoys a campfire after a day of activity that may well include a cruise on the Erie Canal. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
time with horse trails and boarding, a western mercantile, and old-time charm designed to make you feel like you’re part of a western frontier town.
#1 Top Hidden Gem: The Cove Pub Campground, Inverness, FL: A true hidden gem, this Florida campground offers a relaxing retreat nestled among towering trees, with pub-style dining and peaceful waterside camping for an ‘old Florida’ getaway.
#1 Top for Families: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park CampResort: Golden Valley, Bostic, NC: Spanning over 600 acres, this familyfriendly park offers an exciting range of amenities, including water slides, laser tag, and mini golf, themed events and fun activities.
Spacious Skies Campgrounds, a fast-growing owner and operator of RV campgrounds with RV, tent, cabin and glamping sites across 15 locations from Maine to Georgia, offers its list of 20 different experiences and where to find them:
Stay rural, play urban. Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks in Savannah, Ga. and Spacious Skies Minute Man near Boston are especially appealing to travelers who want to explore the attractions of a big city by day and sit around a campfire beneath dark skies by night. Spacious Skies Minute Man is a short drive from downtown Boston and its history-focused attractions like The Freedom Trail, Boston Harbor Cruises and museums.
With Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks as home base, campers can easily access attractions such as Tybee Island and Georgia Coastal Colonial Gardens, and hop on the Old Town Trolley from the campground to visit Historic Savannah.
Dark Skies Gazing: While all of Spacious Skies campgrounds keep exterior lighting to a minimum to enjoy dark night skies, two of the best places for serious stargazing are Spacious Skies Balsam Woods in central Maine, and Spacious Skies French Pond. Also, each month, the campgrounds stage skythemed events, like May’s “Galactic Guardians.”
Hike to a fishing hole: Campgrounds that feature stocked on-site fishing ponds include Belle Ridge in Monterey, Tenn.; Peach Haven in Gaffney, S.C.; Hidden Creek in Marion, N.C.; Seven Maples in Hancock, N.H; Bear Den in Spruce Pine, N.C., Sandy Run in Fayetteville, N.C..; Woodland Hills in Austerlitz, N.Y.; and French Pond in Henniker, N.H.
Play pickleball in several locations including Spacious Skies Country Oaks in Dorothy, N.J., Seven Maples in Hancock, N.H., Hidden Creek in Marion, N.C. and Woodland Hills in Austerlitz, N.Y.
Paddle with your pals. Several campgrounds feature boat launches and rent kayaks and other paddle craft. These include Spacious Skies Seven Maples in Hancock, N.H., French Pond in Henniker, N.H and Woodland Hills in Austerlitz, N.Y. At Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks in Savannah, Ga., guests can paddle the Ogeechee River.
Seek out quirky local festivals and events. Many communities near
Continued on next page
Continued from previous page
Spacious Skies campgrounds stage fun and often quirky festivals throughout the year. For example, near Spacious Skies Balsam Woods in Abbot, Maine, whoop it up at the annual Whoopie Pie Festival in June. At Spacious Skies Country Oaks in Dorothy, N.J, there’s the annual Doo Dah Parade, featuring string bands, marching bands, floats and pageant winners. The event benefits the local Basset Hound Rescue.
Sample local brew . Several campgrounds are close to local breweries including Paradox Brewery near Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks, North Hudson, N.Y.; and Tuckahoe Brewing Company near Spacious Skies Country Oaks, Dorothy, N.J.
Take a daytime road trip. From Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray. Va., witness stunning vistas along Skyline Drive in the Blue Ridge Mountains and explore the themed Cultural Heritage Trails.
Power through Maine forestland on an ATV. There are more than 1,000 miles of trails just a short distance from Spacious Skies Balsam Woods in Central Maine. The campground offers easy access to the trails with campsite-to-trail ATV parking, an ATV wash station and onsite gas pump.
Mine for not-so-rare gems. Most campgrounds in the collection have gem-mining stations.
Give parks some love. Most Spacious Skies Campgrounds are near local, state or national parks. Campers at Spacious Skies Bear Den, Spruce Pine, N.C. can experience panoramic views from the top of Mount Mitchell, highest mountain peak in the Appalachians. Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray, Va. is right in the backyard of Shenandoah National Park, with more than 200,000 acres of wildlife-rich forestland dotted with waterfalls and hiking trails.
Fall in love with waterfalls. Near Spacious Skies Belle Ridge in Monterey, Tenn., hike an on-site trail to Bridal Falls as well as explore four massive waterfalls in nearby Burgess Falls State Park, including one that plunges more than 130 feet into a gorge. The spectacular Blue Ridge Falls is located near Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks in North Hudson, N.Y., and Linville Falls, the most-photographed waterfall in North Carolina, is located near Spacious Skies Bear Den in Spruce Pine, N.C.
Play a round. Miniature golf courses are available onsite at Spacious Skies Peach Haven, Gaffney, S.C.; Adirondack Peaks,n North Hudson, N.Y. Find fullsize golf courses near campgrounds including Spacious Skies Belle Ridge in Monterey, Tenn., near the Cumberland Cove Golf Course, and Spacious Skies
Seven Maples in Hancock, N.H., near the Shattuck Golf Course.
Go for a slide. Spacious Skies Hidden Creek, Marion, NC has a Jr. Olympic pool and giant water slide; Seven Maples, Hancock, N.H., has a huge water slide.
Dive deep into local history Most campgrounds are close to historic attractions. For example, campers at Spacious Skies Belle Ridge in Monterey, Tenn. can explore sites along the Civil War Trail; Fort Frederica National Monument is near Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks, Savannah, Ga.; Fort Ticonderoga is near Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks in North Hudson, N.Y.
is reopening its Cavendish campground, formerly known as Cavendish KOA Holiday, as a Jellystone Park location. Attractions at the new Jellystone Park location will include a swimming pool, jumping pillow and petting zoo as well as RC track where guests can race their own remote-controlled cars and trucks or rent ones on-site. The park also has walking and biking trails and a large playground.
Lake Charles, Louisiana: Four Points RV Resorts recently acquired LeBleu Lakes RV Resort in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and will convert it to a Jellystone Park Camp-Resort after completing several major
and the Averasboro Civil War Battlefield is near Sandy Run in Fayetteville, N.C.
For more information, visit www. spaciousskiescampgrounds.com
Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts Expand Across North America, Add Attractions
Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts continues to expand across the U.S. and Canada, offering families both new locations as well as more attractions and more ways to stay at existing locations.
Several new Jellystone Park CampResorts have come online in recent years while existing locations have continued to add more and more attractions like water slides, multilevel splashgrounds, floating obstacle courses, snowless tubing, and mini golf, Hershenson said.
With more than 75 franchised locations, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts operates in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences. This year, new Jellystone Park locations are opening in the following locations:
Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, Canada: Maritime Fun Group, which owns and operates leading family amusement parks and attractions in New Brunswick and on Prince Edward Island,
Park location features a huge water zone with two pools, multiple water slides, a lazy river, a splashground, and hot tubs. Luxury cabins, spacious RV sites, and a full schedule of activities make the Camp-Resort near Sand Hollow State Park and Zion National Park a new family favorite.
For more information, visit www. jellystonepark.com
Don’t Just Adventure, AdVANture in a Campervan Don’t just go for an adventure, try adVANturing in a fully-equipped campervan which, give you the freedom and flexibility of camping virtually anywhere parking is allowed.
Moterra campervans are fullyequipped with full kitchen (stove, sink and fridge), porta-potty toilet, thermostat heater and solar-powered electric system and water supply which give you the flexibility of camping virtually anywhere, even “wild camping.”
You can also take advantage of their concierge service and pre-planned itineraries, which are all-inclusive packages with a day-by-day personalized itinerary, pre-booked campgrounds, organized activities, and a dedicated Trip Expert and 24-hour helpline if you encounter any difficulty. Moterra also allows for one-way rentals and are pet and baby friendly.
Moterra’s has locations near airports in Jackson Hole, Wyo, Whitefish, MT, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, San Francisco, and Portland, Maine, for adventures in Northern New England and Eastern Canada.
improvements. Attractions at the new location will include a swimming pool, water slides, splashground, jumping pillows, and floating obstacle course. The park expects to open May 21 with 200 campsites and will eventually grow to more than 350 sites.
Watts Bar Lake, Tennessee: This Jellystone Park location just south of Knoxville opened in February and by summer will offer two pools, a large splashground with water slides and an outdoor movie theater. Families can meet the Yogi Bear characters, take wagon rides, play laser tag, and experience gem mining. Luxury glamping cabins and premium RV sites are set among the hills and woods overlooking the lake.
Last year, two other campgrounds joined the Jellystone Park: Cochran, Georgia: Less than an hour south of Macon, this picturesque Jellystone Park location is set among tall trees and boasts a lake and pool, comfortable cabins, and shaded RV sites. Family activities, interactions with the Yogi Bear characters, hiking trails, Wi-Fi and a dog park make for fun family vacations in a relaxing outdoor environment.
Zion, Utah: The state’s first Jellystone
Moterra Camper Vans, 2950 West Big Trail Drive, Jackson, Wyoming, 307-2007220, info@gomoterra.com, gomoterra. com
© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear. com
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
I’ve heard the saying that old things become new again and it’s true in that Gen Zers are doing things their grandparents used to do. It strikes me as amusing because with the generation gap I thought the younger kids wanted to be cool so you would think that things the older generations did or still do today wouldn’t be as appealing to them.
A case in point is crocheting which has become popular among many Gen Zers. I remember my mother and grandmothers sitting in their living rooms with their Ben Franklin reading glasses crocheting years ago and while I admired their handiwork - scarves, sweaters, doilies, etc. - it struck me as old-fashioned at the time. They liked to crochet so of course I didn’t say a word about it but never in my wildest dreams dd I think it would come back in style.
Some of the Gen Zers have gotten into letter writing and I was happily surprised to see that they are rediscovering libraries. On a similar note, they are reading and joining book clubs online, in person and at different places such as cafes, bars and bookstores. That’s not usually where my 50+ friends and I meet for book clubs but I give them credit for thinking out of the box.
Generation Z is the group that comes after Millennials and before Generation Alpha. Born between 1997 and 2012, this group has its own unique characteristics. This is the first generation known to browse the internet and the “Z” in the name stands for “zoomer.”
One characteristic of Gen Zers is their ease with technology. They were
born into a world of technological innovation - unlike the Baby Boomers and Gen Xers who came before them. For the most part information was immediately accessible and social media seemed to be all around them.
It’s not unusual for Gen Zers to work, shop, date and making friends online. They use technology to plan their trips. All of this is very different from their elders which makes for a generation gap sometimes but they are comfortable using the various digital tools.
This generation is a tech-savvy one and by and large they are independent thinkers who have goals and ambition. They also want to find jobs with flexible schedules - and they like remote work when it comes to joining the work place. Maintaining a work-life balance is very important.
Many Gen Zers are practical people and nostalgic people which explains why in so many cases they have taken up hobbies that we would have undertaken 40 and 50 years ago. Crocheting, knitting and embroidery have become popular hobbies and pastimes with them.
They’re still growing up but they know what they want in terms of jobs, their families and politics. These generalizations aren’t an exact science but still, many of the generalizations hold true. The Greatest Generation answered the call from their country to fight in World War II.
The Silent Generation was intent on persevering because they had grown up during the Great Depression, lived through World War II and fought in the Korean conflict which ran from 1950 -
1953.
Baby Boomers are a hard-working group of people who want to be rewarded for a positive performance. An independent group, they want financial stability and the ability to enjoy their retirement years.
My friend, Danny, and his family have been gardening and growing their own fruits and vegetables for years. Danny moved to Long Island from Virginia after getting married and he showed Suzy, his wife, what he had learned from his parents when they had a garden in their back yard.
When their two kids came along and got old enough to help out, they also started checking their “veggie garden” for the ripe carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and green beans Danny and Suzy were growing.
They would place them in baskets and happily hand them to their parents. Rinsing and preparing them for dinner, they would all be happy that some of the food on their table had been home grown. In time Danny and Suzy added eggplant and that was a big hit among the grownups but not so much with the kids.
When they moved into their house Danny and Suzy discovered some goodsized raspberry and blackberry bushes in their back yard and that produced berries every summer. The raspberries and blackberries were delicious - perfect as snacks or for adding to smoothies in the summer.
When their daughter, Mandy, was eight, she would pull the carrots from the ground, shake off the dirt and stack them up. She liked the vivid orange of
the carrots and would tell her mom and dad she couldn’t wait to have them on her dinner plate.
Their son, Sam, who was six at the time, liked picking the berries off the bushes and placing them in his basket. As he worked, Sam would go as quickly as he could from branch to branch and eventually from berry bush to berry bush.
Every so often he would stop to sample them, however. If they were sweet Sam would break out into a great, big smile but if they were tart, he would frown.
Danny, Suzy, a friend and I met for dinner recently and the subject of gardening came up. We all laughed picturing young Mandy and Sam going around the garden looking for treasures they could pick.
Suzy said her kids are grown now and as Gen Zers they have some typical Gen Z interests - fads and hobbies that used to be popular that have returned. Sam likes to do jigsaw puzzles and Mandy likes to crochet and do needlepoint. Both like to go antiquing.
Suzy added that Mandy had crocheted her a really nice sweater so she was glad these hobbies and pastimes are back in style.
Danny and Suzy mentioned that Mandy and Sam have their own houses now complete with vegetable gardens and when grandchildren come along maybe they will pick the berries from the bushes and pull the carrots from the earth.
“That would be perfect,” Danny said. “That would really bring us full circle.”
Mother’s Day is celebrated each May and marks a perfect opportunity to show Mom how much she’s loved and appreciated. Mother’s Day has been celebrated for more than 100 years, and in that time mothers have grown accustomed to certain staples of the holiday. A bouquet of fresh flowers, Sunday brunch at a local restaurant and some gifts from a partner and the children have become standards each Mother’s Day.
While Mother’s Day standards may never lose their appeal, families looking to make this year’s celebration a little more unique can consider these ideas.
• Whip up (or order in) some baked goods. If Mom is the family baker, surprise her this year with some homemade baked goods. An aroma of freshly baked goodies around the house
can set a welcoming tone for the day, particularly if the treats are prepared in the morning before Mom wakes up. Partners and children whose baking skills leave a little to be desired can get some freshly baked treats from a local bakery and have them waiting for Mom when she wakes up.
• Take to the road. Another way to make Mother’s Day extra special is to make the celebration a weekend affair. A weekend getaway can be a welcome breath of fresh air for mothers and serve as a great opportunity for the family to unwind and celebrate Mom away from everything that reminds her of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A getaway can be an especially ideal surprise for mothers whose children are full grown. Invite adult kids along and make their attendance a surprise for Mom.
• Book a unique experience. Experiential gifts have been wildly popular in recent years, so why not incorporate this trend into Mother’s Day celebrations? Book a tour of a local vineyard or winery, take Mom to a live theater performance, or take her out for a day on the water, complete with brunch and a champagne toast. Such memorable experiences won’t soon be forgotten and can provide an exciting alternative to previous Mother’s Day celebrations.
• Ensure Mom doesn’t lift a finger. A truly special Mother’s Day will give Mom a day off. Partners and kids can team up to take care of everything from the moment Mom wakes up until she returns to bed at night. Serve breakfast in bed, order in some lunch and then take Mom out for a nice meal at a local restaurant. In between meals, let Mom relax any way she sees fit, wheth-
er that’s curling up with a good book, dusting off her paint brush and engaging in some artistic endeavors and/or squeezing in a rare midday nap. Mom will undoubtedly appreciate a full day off, which might just make for the best gift of all.
Mother’s Day is the ideal time to offer Mom a unique experience that shows her how much she’s loved and appreciated. TF255880
BY TOM MARGENAU
There has been a lot of talk over the years about Social Security being a “Ponzi scheme.” I have addressed this issue many times before, so I don’t want to bore my regular readers with another long dissertation. But since a certain billionaire friend of President Donald Trump brought it up yet again, I will make three quick observations.
One: Social Security is not now and never has been an investment scheme. It is a social insurance program. (After all, the word “social” in Social Security means something!) In addition to providing retired and disabled workers, widows, widowers and the minor children of a worker who has died with a basic and stable income, it was established to achieve larger goals for our country as a whole. For example, one of those goals is to raise the standard of living of lower-income workers in retirement. This is accomplished with a weighted benefit formula that gives them a higher “replacement rate” (when comparing their average income with their Social Security retirement benefit) than their more well-to-do fellow taxpayers can expect.
Two: Many emailers tell me how Social Security started out with thousands of taxpayers for each Social Security beneficiary; and how we now suddenly find ourselves at a 3-1 ratio; and how the entire scam will implode when we reach a 2--1 ratio. That’s a classic Ponzi scheme scenario, they say.
Well, obviously in the very earliest days of the program (the early 1940s), there were many more workers than Social Security beneficiaries. It was more like a 40-1 ratio. But as more and more people quickly qualified for benefits, the taxpayer-to-beneficiary ratio rapidly went down, and by about 1970, it had matured to the 3-1 ratio we have been at for 50 years now. As the baby boomers retire, we are indeed heading towards a 2-1 ratio. But with some modest adjustments to benefits and/or tax rates, the system can continue to operate quite well at such a worker-to-beneficiary ratio. If you want to read more about Social Security financing and review some realistic reform proposals, spend 15 bucks and get my book, “Social Security: Simple and Smart.” You can get it online from Amazon or at a Barnes and Noble store.
Three: Ponzi schemes, by their very definition, have short lifespans. Social Security has been around for 90 years now. (I always wonder when skeptics will finally accept the fact that the program is here to stay!)
And since I mentioned Trump’s billionaire friend, Elon Musk, let me make these quick comments about his Department of Government Efficiency. For me, it’s a case of deja vu. Back in the 1980s, then-President Ronald Reagan appointed J. Peter Grace (the Musk of his day) to
head up a commission to eliminate waste, fraud and abuse in the federal government. Or to “drain the swamp,” as Reagan famously said. Here is just one person’s view of that swamp drainage.
At the time, I was heading up an SSA office with a multimillion-dollar budget that wrote and produced all of the hundreds of pamphlets and fact sheets made available to the public to explain the Social Security rules that affect them. The Grace Commission people spent more than a month with me and my staff going over every facet of our operation. When they were done, here is a summary of their findings. 1) Unscrew every other fluorescent tube in the ceiling lights. 2) Use discarded paper from wastebaskets for scratch pads. 3) Turn off the hot water faucets in the bathrooms. That was it. Those were their recommendations to “eliminate waste, fraud and abuse.” (And I’m not making this up.)
Speaking of Musk, here is a recent email I got from a reader.
Q: Thank God for Elon Musk. The more government bureaucrats he can get rid of, the better our country will be. Bureaucrats are just leaches who waste our time enforcing nonsensical rules. They need to be purged from our society.
A: I’ve written past columns about Trump’s and Musk’s attempts to reduce staffing at the Social Security Administration, so I’m not going to go over that again today. But I would like to comment on your disdain for government workers. It’s too bad that “bureaucrat” has become a dirty word that conjures up images of laziness and inefficiency. I’d like you to think about the whole idea of rules and why we have them and why we need people to carry out those rules. I’ll use what I know best -- the Social Security Administration -- as an example.
I recall many years ago, when I still worked for the SSA, taking a claim from a woman who was filing for benefits as a divorced wife on her ex-husband’s account. The law says to get such benefits, you must have been married for at least 10 years. What the law actually says is that your marriage must have reached its 10th anniversary before the divorce becomes final.
Well, in this woman’s case, her divorce decree was signed just two days before their 10th anniversary. So, I had to tell her that her claim was going to be turned down. She appealed to me (as I’m sure I would have done if I was in her shoes) that she was just two days, a measly 48 hours, shy of the 10-year rule.
My heart sided with her. After all, there really was no difference between a 10-year marriage and a nine year and 363 day-marriage. But as a government agent, a bureaucrat if you will, I had to carry out the law. And that law said you must be married 10 years. The law didn’t say “about 10 years” or “sort of close to 10
years.” It said 10 years. Suppose I had the power to tell the lady with the nine year and 363-day marriage that we’d let it slide and allow her to get divorced wife’s benefits. What about the next woman who comes in and is just one
week shy of the 10-year rule? Do we let her get benefits, too? How about somebody who is a month shy? Do you see my point? The law draws a line somewhere. And a government bureaucrat’s job is to carry
Continued on next page
Real Estate will be affected as prices rise for consumer staples, goods and services. Consumers may not truly understand that as companies raise their prices to stay in the black and continue to be profitable, we will pay the price of those increased costs. Essentially, we will be paying for those tariffs and not the countries that we have levied them against. This will eventually cause real estate inventory to rise as most pull back to costs of ownership and will jump back on the fence and wait and see what happens
The purpose of these tariffs is to bring back and repatriate jobs and businesses back to the U.S., but that will never occur en masse. However, the billions that have been gained will be offset by the greater losses due to reduced purchases by consumers, a decrease in sales taxes received local and nationally and less discretionary spending. The pressure on increased consumer costs will have a detrimental effect on our economy. About half of our annual imports, 1.3 trillion come from China, Canada and Mexico. (Go to usfunds.com for a greater explanation of the impact of the tariffs on our imports). Only those foreign corporations that will benefit from bringing their businesses here to avoid the tariffs and be competitive will consider doing so. The number one reason we outsource our manufacturing is the cost of labor as we cannot compete with the wages in the 3rd world countries. If we tried to, manufacturing businesses would not survive and there would be no benefit in attempting to go into business if the risks and costs made no sense in the brain and cents in the pocketbook. As noted in last week’s column our average wage is $30 per hour and theirs is $7 per hour and even less in some countries. Could AI bring
manufacturing back to the U.S.? It all depends on the way it is done to create a profitable enterprise.
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
If you do your research, you will surmise that tariffs accounted for 50-90% of our federal revenue from 17981913. Since the 1930s, we have moved from tariffs to free trade; as the local and federal income tax system was created and has become the prime method of funding our government. Over the last 70 years, our tariffs have contributed to less than 2% of federal revenue. With the advent of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and its successor, the World Trade Organization (WTO) have dramatically lowered global tariffs. Prior to the current tariffs, 70% of imports have been duty free. In 2024, for example, U.S. Customs and Border Protection received $77 Billion in tariffs, just 1.57% of total government income. We were the major player in manufacturing almost everything back then. As our economy grew, wages increased, other 3rd world countries also grew, but not at our pace, and their wages were considerably lower as was their standard of living.
The U.S. consumer is the largest purchaser of goods and services globally. We should have tariffs on those countries, like China; who controls their currency and has outlawed Bitcoin, making their goods less expensive and creates greater demand. Competition is healthy, but when it is unfair and fixed to undercut us, causing our national and international debt and trade deficits to continue to soar, as we buy more goods and services than
out that law precisely as it’s written. It’s not the employee’s job to interpret the law the way he or she thinks it should be interpreted.
In addition to accusations of inefficiency, lots of times, bureaucrats get lambasted for being too rigid and too narrowly focused on carrying out the rules and regulations of the organization they work for. But what a chaotic country we’d have if this weren’t so.
If you have a Social Security question,
Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -- Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.”
The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas. margenau@comcast.net.
COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS. COM
we sell overseas. Last year we had a $1.2 Trillion trade deficit! We are at a pivotal and uncertain juncture in time that we may not be able to turn back from and/ or repair.
Those countries, especially China, can export and dump their cheap goods here, as they are now doing with their electric cars world-wide. My idea is to balance our tariffs and by reducing our local and federal income taxes proportionately. Putting more money back into the pockets of our dwindling middle class, will boost and scale our excellent economy to higher levels, providing increased sales and income taxes to our local and federal government. However, taxing our most crucial and critical trading partners, Canada and Mexico, is a mistake and a huge error in judgment by our President. Neither country is benefitting as it’s just a tit for tat back and forth increases in tariffs by those countries and will provide no winner in the long run; but the consumer will be the biggest loser! Tariffs just don’t work the way we are carrying them out. Come back next week for Part 3.
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations:
National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate).
Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions.
National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geothermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).
He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to:
https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/ no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289 or email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.com
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)
BY MARY HUNT
If I asked you to deduct your monthly expenses from your monthly income, I have a feeling you’d look pretty good on paper. The mystery for many people is why they can’t get through a month without using a credit card to cover unexpected expenses, such as a prescription for a sick child, a quarterly insurance premium or a wedding shower gift.
Your predictable, fixed monthly bills are not the problem. Somehow, the rent and utilities get paid, and the family gets fed. The problem is the accumulation of nonmonthly expenses. Some are easily predictable; others are not.
Here’s the problem: Every day, we are wearing out our cars, the kids are growing out of their shoes, we’re using up our prepaid insurance, and we’re inching closer to the holidays and vacation. But we manage our money as if none of those things is ever going to happen. And when they do, we collapse into a pitiful heap and bemoan the fact that, once again, we’ve been broadsided by an emergency -- another financial crisis!
The solution for this problem is to establish what I call a “freedom account” that forces you to anticipate unexpected, irregular and intermittent expenses and finance your own emergencies.
Using your check registers for the past 12 months, your credit card statements, your tax return or, if all else fails, your memory, make a list of expenses you’ve
BY CHARLYN FARGO
Consider a plant-forward diet to help reduce your risk of breast cancer. That’s the finding from a new French research study, presented at the recent annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition.
For the study, more than 65,000 French female participants (average age 53) completed nutritional questionnaires in 1993 and again in 2005.
The women were classified as following either a mostly animal-based diet or a diet that’s mostly plant-based. Researchers found that those who consumed a healthy, primarily plant-based diet saw their risk for developing any type of breast cancer drop by an average of 14%.
What’s interesting about this study is that breast cancer risk fell only among women whose diets included significant amounts of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, vegetable oils, tea and coffee -- even if red meat and poultry occasionally were part of their plates.
had over the last year that you did not pay on a monthly basis. It might be insurance, property taxes, Little League fees, gifts, clothing, vacation, Christmas, car repairs, sports, hobbies, etc.
Come up with an annual figure (estimate if you don’t know), and then divide by 12 so you arrive at a figure that represents one-twelfth of the total annual expense.
For example:
Auto maintenance: $900/12 = $75
Auto insurance: $540/12 = $45
Christmas: $800/12 = $66
Property taxes: $600/12 = $50
Vacation: $720/12 = $60
Clothing: $600/12 = $50
Total: $346
It’s easiest if you open this at your current bank or credit union. Order checks for this new account, and have them personalized, including a line that says “freedom account.” You need two active checking accounts for this to work. Your regular checking account will continue to accommodate your monthly expenses and deposits.
At the time you open this account, request an automatic deposit or money transfer authorization form. Fill it out, instructing the bank to transfer the monthly total of your irregular expenses (in our example, it is $346) from your regular checking account into your freedom account every month on the same day.
Any three-ring binder will do. Fill it with paper. Prepare one page per subaccount you’ve chosen. Fill in the title of the subaccounts that you established in Step No. 1. Enter the amount to be deposited into that subaccount each month in the upper righthand corner. Prepare five columns for each subaccount: “date,” “description,” “in,” “out” and “balance.”
You now have a new regular monthly expense; in this case, it is $346. This is going to feel weird in the beginning. The truth is you are managing your money in a new way that puts you in control and reduces your dependence on credit.
Each month when that automatic money transfer happens, go to your freedom account notebook and enter the deposits on each page so you always know how much you have in each subaccount.
At times, you will be tempted to think of this new account as a savings account or investment holding tank. This is not a savings account. It’s a management account from which you are going to pay your irregular expenses using the checkbook you got when you opened it.
You may be tempted to skip funding your savings or emergency fund in favor of your freedom account. Do not do that. Scrimp wherever you must to free up funds for your freedom account every month while continuing to grow your savings.
Your new freedom account will give
But there were no protective benefits seen among older women whose primarily plant-based diet had a heavy reliance on fruit juices, refined grains, sugar-sweetened beverages and desserts. That type of diet, although plant-based, raised breast cancer risk by about 20%.
What we eat matters, whether it’s plant-forward or not, and in particular, how much fiber is included in your diet. Researchers explained that the high fiber content of the healthier plant-based diet helped lower cancer risk due to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Q: What are some of the health benefits of flaxseed?
A: Flaxseed is high in dietary fiber (helpful in preventing constipation) and contains the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (considered a healthy fat that helps reduce cholesterol and prevent hardening of the arteries). Flaxseed also contains phytoestrogen compounds called lignans that may be health-promoting. Additionally, flaxseed may have an-
new meaning to the term “ebb and flow.” It will accumulate big balances and then drop to hardly anything. But that’s the way it’s supposed to work. It is strictly a financial management tool that is going to make you feel confident and very grown up.
Don’t be hesitant to establish lots of subaccounts, even if you are unable to fund all of them in the beginning. It’s OK to have pages with zero balances for now, so dream big. Design with the future in mind!
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
ti-inflammatory properties. Mix it in your oatmeal, add it to a smoothie or sprinkle over yogurt.
Temperatures have been turned up over most of the country, and that means we’re looking for recipes that don’t heat up the kitchen. Here’s a salad from Ellie Krieger’s “The Food You Crave.” It’s a good source of fiber, vitamin A, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin K. The sweetness from the carrots is balanced by the tart apples, yogurt and cider vinegar.
CARROT, GREEN APPLE AND MINT SALAD
Servings: 4
1/3 cup plain nonfat yogurt or 1/4 cup plain Greek-style nonfat yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1 pound carrots, peeled and trimmed
1 Granny Smith apple, cored
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint Salt to taste
If using regular yogurt, place the yogurt in a strainer lined with a paper towel. Set the strainer over a bowl and let the yogurt drain and thicken for 30 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk together the drained or Greek-style-yogurt and mayonnaise until smooth. Whisk in the lemon juice, vinegar and honey. In a food processor, first grate the carrots and then the apple. Transfer them to a large serving bowl and stir to combine. Pour the dressing over the carrot mixture and toss to coat. Roughly chop the mint and add it to the salad. Season with salt. This salad will keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about 3 days. Serves 4. Serving size: 1/2 cup.
Per serving: 130 calories; 2 grams protein; 19 grams carbohydrate; 6 grams fat (1 gram saturated); 3 milligrams cholesterol; 134 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.
COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM
BY DENNIS MAMMANA
Week of May 4-10, 2025
OK, I admit I may not remember where my car is parked, but I sure recall my grade school planetarium field trips like they just occurred. These were some of the highlights of my youth, and they played a huge role in my decadeslong career as a planetarium astronomer.
It was great fun seeing the stars and constellations projected onto the overhead dome while the lecturer pointed them out and told stories about those visible that night. Equally enjoyable -- at least for me -- was to race outdoors after dinner to check them all out in the real night sky!
One of my favorite star groupings of springtime was the Big Dipper. This group of seven stars is part of a larger constellation known as Ursa Major, the Great Bear, but tracing a bear is not for impatient stargazers. From my backyard, I could always count on the Dipper to be hovering over my house to the north. But what I learned from the planetarium was how to use the Dipper to find other stars in the sky.
Of course, its “pointer stars” direct us to Polaris and other stars, something I’ve written about recently. But I remember one planetarium show when the astronomer showed even more. He traced the curving arc of the Dipper’s handle away from its bowl and demonstrated how to find two even brighter stars.
I remember he said, “Just follow this arc toward Arcturus ... then speed on to Spica.” Well, that was pretty cool, and that evening, I was able to do exactly that. Equally fun, though, was learning a bit about each of these two stars.
Yellowish-orange Arcturus is the fourth-brightest star in all the heavens and lies only about 37 lightyears from us. It’s an immense star -- a red giant, we call it -- about 25 times larger, and about 170 times more radiant, than our sun.
Arcturus was one of the first stars ever to receive a proper name. In ancient times, it was known as the “Watcher” or the “Guardian”; Arab stargazers knew it by two names, which translate as “the Lance-Bearer” and “the Keeper of Heaven.” Today, we use a name that comes from the ancient Greek word Arktouros, meaning “Bear Guard”; quite appropriate since it never strays from the great celestial bear.
Nearby, bluish-white Spica is estimated to lie about 250 lightyears from Earth, but it’s not just a single star. The light we see from Spica comes from the combined light of two stars that orbit one another every four days. Together they produce about 12,100 times more luminosity than the sun.
Spica was an important star in ancient days too. Around 3,200 B.C., the temple at Thebes was oriented to Spica and, in the second century B.C., Hipparchus used the star to discover the wobble of the Earth’s axis (known
as precession).
If you’re not sure you’ve found Spica, the waxing gibbous moon will help on May 10, when it will appear nearby.
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
“What’s in the bag?” I asked my mother as she got into the car. She had just come out of the hair salon and apparently had been talked into buying some hair products.
“New shampoo,” she said with some excitement. “My old shampoo was terrible. It really dried out my hair.”
“What brand were you using?” I asked. She thought for a moment. She seemed unable to come up with the name.
“Um ... Freaken shampoo,” she finally said.
I snorted. I knew she meant a different shampoo but had mangled the name. My mother was notorious for this, but she denied it vehemently, so I decided to have a little fun with her.
Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.
COPYRIGHT 2025 CREATORS.COM
The Dipper, Arcturus and Spica will appear higher in the sky each evening for the next few months and will offer a beautiful sight all spring and summer.
Once you locate the Big Dipper in the sky, it can be used to find the stars Arcturus and Spica.
“So that freakin’ shampoo dried out your hair?” I asked her.
“Yes,” she said.
“Did you try using some freakin’ conditioner?” I asked.
“Yes, but it’s too heavy,” she said. “It weighs down my hair.”
“You know, Mom,” I said, smiling, “if the freakin’ shampoo you’re using dries out your hair, you can try another freakin’ shampoo. Maybe some other freakin’ shampoo would work better for you. There’s a whole line of freakin’ shampoos out there you can get.”
“That’s true,” she said.
“And you might want to try some freakin’ conditioner too,” I suggested.
“Just ‘cause one freakin’ conditioner doesn’t work for you, doesn’t mean there isn’t some other freakin’ conditioner that would help your hair.”
“I do use a Freaken hair gel, that
is pretty good,” said my mother. “I don’t like the Freaken mousse, but the Freaken gel gives my hair lots of body.”
“What about the freakin’ hairspray?” I asked.
“I don’t really like the smell,” she responded.
“But all the freakin’ products have the same freakin’ smell,” I said. “The freakin’ hairspray smells like the freakin’ shampoo.”
“Really?” she said. “I like the smell of the Freaken shampoo.”
I laughed out loud.
“What’s so funny?” she asked.
“This whole freakin’ conversation!” I shouted. She stared at me as though I’d lost my mind.
“We’re just talking about shampoo,” she said.
“Freakin’ shampoo,” I clarified.
“Right,” she said.
“Freakin’ shampoo and freakin’ conditioner and freakin’ hair gel and freakin’ hair spray.”
“Yeah?” ...
“There is no FREAKEN shampoo,” I said. “You combined John FRIEDA and REDKEN to make Freaken!”
I saw understanding creep across her face and I cracked up. She looked at me and raised one eyebrow.
“You know what, Tray?” she said.
“What, Mom?”
“You’re a freakin’ pain in the neck.”
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
ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900 AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 6 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com
Garden City News • Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram • Syosset Advance Jericho News Journal • Floral Park Villager
DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.
2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:
1)Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”
2)Email Nancy@gcnews.com
Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.
Visa and MasterCard Accepted
HELP WANTED
PELLEGRINI PRIME MEATS
in Stewart Manor is looking for a Cashier/Store Manager. This a full-time position not a summer job Hours are between 8am-6pm Part-time or full-time opportunities available.
Email: PellegriniMeats@gmail.com
DENTAL OFFICE
Receptionist for established dental office in Williston Park. 4 days a week. Good organizational skills and friendly manner. Competitive pay.
Email: dakker42@aol.com
WANTED:
HOME HEALTH AIDE
Looking for a Home Health Aide to help with my elderly father (with mild dementia) in East Elmhurst, Queens Live In
Thursday through Monday. Primary duties include: providing safety, assisting with personal hygiene, dispensing medications, preparing meals and light cleaning. Must have references If interested call: 917-601-9757
SITUATION WANTED
CNA / HOME HEALTH AIDE
MATURE LADY SEEKS employment as CNA. Home health aide, very reliable, hard working, willing to do background checks, 15 yrs nursing home experience. Please call: 516-514-9442 or 516-205-9584
ATTENTION OXYGEN
THERAPY USERS!
Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719
ANTIQUE LOVERS TAKE
NOTE!
Brimfield is here All Shows! May 13-18. New shows open daily!
www.brimfieldantiqueweek. com
2025 dates: May 13-18, July 9-14, September 2-7
INVITED SALES
BY TRACY JORDAN
DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918
GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844329-9391
HEARING AIDS!! High-quality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060
WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670
Antique & Vintage Items
Jewelry-Crystal-Silver Furniture-Mirrors-Tabletop Artwork-Lamps Consign, Shop or Visit the Yellow House 109 Eleventh Street Garden City 516-746-8900 Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed to 6pm) Saturday 12-4 (entrance & parking in back) Consignments by appointment atstewartexchange@tgchs.org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society
AUTOS WANTED
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES!
Transform your space, maximize your value: Are you looking to add value to your property and enhance its appeal?
Look no further!
At Invited Sales, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your needs: Personal Property
Appraisals and Evaluations: Get expert insights into the true value of your personal property.
Estate and Tag Sales: Simplify the process of selling estate items with our professional online and in-person tag sale services.
Home Updates: From carpet removal to one-day floor refinishing and contractor services, we handle it all to refresh your home effortlessly.
Staging Services: Elevate your space with our curated selection of furniture, accessories, lighting, and decorative items for a stunning transformation. Explore our captivating before and after photos showcasing homes where we’ve added significant value, making them stand out in the market:
Visit: InvitedSales.com today to discover how we can help you achieve your property goals!
Please Call: 516-279-6378
Or Text Tracy Jordan: 516-567-2960
WANTED TO BUY
LOOKING TO BUY!
Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Sports Cards, Pokemon Cards, Comics and Art. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048
AUTOS WANTED
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS
$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199 Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS 516-297-2277
Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind today 1-855-484-3467
GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast free pick. Running or not! Call 24/7: 1-888251-3135.
WE BUY 8,000 CARS A WEEK
Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-403-3374
Welcoming office space, 2-4 rooms, with storage space available within an existing healthcare practice. Healthcare practitioner not required.
Inquiries can call: 516-538-3220
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!
COTTAGE NORTH FORK
SOUTHOLD
2 bedroom, 1.5 bath
Full eat-in kitchen, laundry in unit, Central A/C.
Located on a quiet block with beautiful water views. Situated within walking distance to the beach and just a short drive to town, restaurants, and the North Fork’s famous vineyards.
Spacious outdoor patio with seating, perfect for entertaining.
Weber grill, fire pit. Kayaks and Paddleboard included.
For photos and availability, Contact: 516-312-3837
AGING ROOF?
NEW HOMEOWNER?
STORM DAMAGE?
You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-920-9937
CONSUMER CELLULAR
the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?
Don’t Accept the insurance company’s first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider
JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship
Thousands of frames to choose from!!
Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495
SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75%More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277
ATTORNEY
STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.
Elder Law, Wills & Trusts
Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122
www.dangelolawassociates. com
AQUATEC LAWN
SPRINKLERS
SPRING TURN ONS
Backflow Device Tests Free Estimates Installation Service/Repairs Joe Barbato 516-775-1199
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076
DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S IN YOUR WATER? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728
MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS
Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies
Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli. com 516-426-2890
MASONRY
All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps. Free Estimates
Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000 Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886
PAULIE THE ROOFER STOPPING LEAKS IS MY SPECIALTY!
Slate & Tile Specialists All types of Roofing Local References Licensed & Insured 516-621-3869
PREPARE FOR POWER
OUTAGES with Briggs & StrattonPowerProtect(TM) standby generators the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496
SAFE STEP
North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive Lifetime warranty. Top of the line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step: 1-855-916-5473
HEALTH SERVICES
FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC
Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC Doctor of Nursing Practice Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams
Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications 516-248-9323 www.familycareconnections.com 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530
MENTAL
Adult Psychiatrist & Nutritionist
Focus on Women’s Mental Health
Therapy & Nutrition Psychiatry
Medication Management
A multilingual practice
Parthy Shah, MD
516-666-2693
Virtual Clinic online at: urjapsychiatry.com
PAINTING &
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING
Plastering, Taping, Sheetrock
Skim Cutting, Old Wood Refinish, Staining, Wallpaper Removal & Hanging, Paint Removal, Power Washing, Wood Replacement
JOHN MIGLIACCIO
Licensed & Insured
#80422100000
Call John anytime:
516-901-9398 (Cell) 516-483-3669 (Office)
TUTORING
BIOLOGY TUTOR
AP level: Biology, Environmental Science Regents & Honors: Living Environment
Virtaul or In-Person Dr. Amanda Shore, University Professor Please email: ShoreThingBiology@gmail. com
COMPUTER SCIENCE
TUTOR
AP CS A or Principles, College courses
Dessie MiMino, Caltech grad, TA; Software Engineer at Mirosoft & Google
Teaching CS for over 11 years; Virtual Contact: Dessie.DiMino@gmail.com
TUTOR AVAILABLE
Elementary Education NY State Permanent Cert. 30+ years experience Local resident
Learn to: Read, Write, Math Babysitting upon request Call 516- 510-3093
SERVICES
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT
YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
We’re looking for writers in our community to compose ar ticles on local topics, opinions, reviews, noteworthy 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
Whip up a quick pasta salad with ingredients fresh from the garden
Makes 6 to 8 servings
Fresh produce is refreshing and delicious. Whether it’s recently plucked fruits or freshly harvested vegetables, these foods boast a flavor and nutritional profile unlike any other.
1 lb. farfalle pasta
4 vine tomatoes, diced
8 ounces broad beans
1 yellow pepper, diced
Comfort foods might reign supreme during colder winter months, but come spring and summer, lighter fare can be just what people need to maintain their energy and avoid feeling sluggish on warm days and nights. This
2 tablespoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
1 sprig chopped thyme
1) Cook the farfalle in a large saucepan of salted, boiling water until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes.
2) Drain and refresh immediately in iced water.
3) Once cool, drain again and toss in a large mixing
recipe for “Pasta Salad with Broad Beans, Tomatoes, Peppers, and Herbs” courtesy of Lines+Angles offers a midday energy boost that can lighten your culinary load in the months to come.
1 small bunch chives, snipped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black peppercorns
Salt
bowl with the vegetables and chopped herbs.
4) Add the olive oil, lemon juice and seasoning, tossing again thoroughly before serving.
If you haven’t tried Chewy.com yet for your pet food and supply purchases, this is a great time to check them out. Last Hope is part of their rescue program. For each new customer that makes a purchase, Last Hope will receive a $20 donation. Go to Last Hope’s Chewy page at https://www.chewy. com/g/last-hope-animal-rescue_b100553681 for info on Last Hope and to shop for items and necessities on the shelter’s wish list.
Vintage cars from all eras were represented in the parade.
The warmth and the sun finally arrived in Garden City for Easter weekend, bringing this milestone 70th anniversary of the Annual Easter Sunday
Garden City Village Trustees Judy Courtney and Jessica Tai at the parade.
Vintage Car Parade participation and attendance back to pre-Covid levels!
According to the host, Garden City Chamber of Commerce President John Wilton, over 450 cars were registered to make their way down Franklin Avenue and Seventh Street.
New this year was the Easter Bonnet Parade, whose participants kicked off the parade from their own starting point, the historic and newly rehabilitated LI Motor Parkway Toll Lodge.
About twenty themed, crazy, fun and festive hats led the way for the antique, vintage and specialty cars that made their way to Long Island from all over the metropolitan area and as far away as Pennsylvania and Ohio!
The Chamber of Commerce always encourages residents to shop local and support small businesses, but they especially thank and encourage residents to patronize our parade sponsors, without whom the Chamber would not be able to continue the Chamber mission, which is
The Indy 500 pace car featured a full sized bunny.
dedicated to the prosperity of its member businesses and to the preservation of the quality, character and vitality of the greater community.
The 2025 Parade Sponsors were: TCBY, All State Insurance: Leo Fernandez, Lutz Landscape and Design, Combined Resources Consulting & Design, Barnwell Tires, French
Workshop, Paul’s Auto Collision, The Law Office of Marc Paz, Ethan Allen, Tap Room, The Pet Club, Hellen Keller Services for the Blind, Leo’s Tavern, Il Gufo, Coach Realtors, La Botega, Revel, Old World Quality Corporation, Biz Family Auto, Iavarone Brothers, FASTSIGNS and Candid Wealth Advisors: Christopher M. Coyne.
The students in the Toddler classes at Garden Manor Nursery School at Christ Episcopal Church are in full bloom! The two year old students have grown so much since their first days of school in September and are flourishing as school enters its final months. They love spending their morning playing and learning with their friends—from table time to circle time and play time to snack time. Also, playing outside in the playground is such a treat. Students especially love music and movement and reading stories together. Believe it or not they just proudly completed art work for our annual Art Show Fundraiser that was held in March.
Garden Manor Nursery School at Christ Episcopal Church is located at 33 Jefferson St in Garden City. Registration is open for the 2025–2026 school year. To learn more about our school please visit at www.gmns.org. Tours are available by appointment.
From page 2
ny names have all been posted on the Village website and shared at the various Town Halls. The numbers for each component of the work have also been shared on the Village website. There are over 100 pages of backup documents, including information and estimates from dozens of professional companies. As has been articulated over and over (and over!) again, these are directional estimates, based on professional input. More precise numbers will come once we have more input from residents and have developed a plan for the building, whatever that plan might be.
St. Paul’s Videos – It is more than interesting that the former Mayor has so much criticism for the various social media posts created by Trustee Muldoon. These videos have the full support of this Board. They are intended to provide residents with an unfiltered view of the St. Paul’s building. These videos showcase both the positive and negative aspects of the structure, showing crumbling walls, deteriorating windows and buckling floors as well as the Chapel, Minton tiles and detailed woodwork. Once again, the former Mayor’s personal attacks on Trustee Muldoon’s volunteer efforts (including questioning his professional competence and accusations of purposefully misleading the public) are not only unfounded, but are insulting to a sitting Trustee, Village resident and volunteer to the community.
We reiterate and acknowledge that differing opinions are a natural part of all decisions, especially one as contentious as St. Paul’s. But the former Mayor’s continued efforts to disparage, undermine, and sabotage the current Board’s work is unfortunate. The Village is in capable hands. The Board is following the St. Paul’s process previous boards including the former Mayor herself started.
It’s important to remember that this is a survey, not a final vote. It is time for the former Mayor to allow the current BOT to finish the work that she started and finally resolve the issue of St. Paul’s.
Ed Finneran, Mayor
Judy Courtney, Deputy Mayor
Rich Catalano, Trustee
Michele Harrington, Trustee Vinny Muldoon, Trustee Jessica Tai, Trustee Bruce Torino, Trustee
Yvonne Varano, Trustee
To the Editor:
Please let me begin by saying what I always have: we all work hard and are very blessed to live in this beautiful and unique Village. Our Board of Trustees, elected by the residents and led by our new Mayor, Ed Finneran, are working
Email: Editor@GCNews.com
hard across the village to make some great improvements and to keep the day-to-day operations in the village running. We have a fantastic team of people, from our paid staff, to our various volunteer subcommittees and boards and to my seven fellow Trustees. I could not be happier to work with you and with all of them.
The reason I feel compelled to write this letter is twofold. Firstly, and unfortunately, I must set the record straight regarding the Letter to the Editor our former Mayor Flanagan had published in last Friday’s edition of the GC News (April 24th, 2025) attacking my integrity and reputation. Secondly, I want to lay out the facts to refute the statements that are blatantly untrue and misleading. Most statements couldn’t be further from the actual truth.
Accusation #1: Lack of transparency and deliberate misleading of the residents. Nothing, and I mean nothing, could be further from the actual truth. Combined, we have sent out more letters, Village alerts, Village website updates, and Village social media updates than any other board in memory. Additionally, our Mayor and most of the Trustees have made use of social media and have communicated through the unofficial pages because we know that, for better or worse, this is a way our younger residents participate. A lack of transparency isn’t an issue we have. In my videos showing the inside of St. Paul’s, I have repeatedly shown “the good, the bad and the ugly”. This is very easy to check for yourself. View the videos. Then, we have posted all the pertinent information on our Village website. Again, please take a look. You can find them all on my Trustee Instagram account @trusteemuldoon_ gc and on my Facebook account @ TrusteeMuldoonGC. I have only asked that people fill out their surveys. I have provided honest and accurate information time and time again. We don’t only do it with St. Paul’s. We do it across the board.
Accusation #2: The interior of St. Paul’s will look nothing like the montage of conceptual photos posted.
My ballpark numbers have allowed for $800 per square foot for high end interior finishes, which would be in line with those photos displayed at both Town Hall Meeting (run by Mayor Flanagan, herself) and then displayed on our videos. If anyone is misleading the residents, it’s the Mayor. We’ve allowed for 25,000 square feet of that type of space. I’ve taken the Westerman Report, which is, in my view, a great report, and taken their ballpark figure of $50M for adaptive reuse and added about $23M worth of additional work to bring it up to those standards. I went over that in detail at the Town Hall Meetings which
are posted on the Village website. It’s also worth noting: these drawings have always been shown as “conceptual” and “idea-driven”. Please go back and look at the videos. These were posted as “renderings”. We trust our residents know what this means and will make up their own minds.
Accusation #3: Former Mayor Flannagan is “disappointed” in the Village Leadership
Talk about insulting the new Mayor, the Board and the voters! No new Mayor should have to deal with that, less than a month after being sworn in. After being a Mayor for two years and being gone for less than a week, she challenges them, their integrity and the integrity of the Westerman Report and their organization? This is so wrong on so many levels. The residents will have to do their own research on St. Paul’s, but they will also have to make up their own minds on who to trust. Integrity and reputation is everything. I am confident in my reputation, the integrity of myself and my family, and I stand by the reputation of my fellow Trustees and the Mayor. I stand by YOUR votes.
Accusation #4: Blame Game: We can’t move forward!
Ex Mayor Flanagan continues to blame everyone: Westerman, the Alliance, the Conservancy, the current Board and anyone she can by looking back, instead of thanking everyone who has worked to get us to this point. Were mistakes made 30 years ago? Possibly. Do we want to have our children sitting here in 30 years, doing this again? She has said herself, we need to find a project the majority of residents will support. Instead, maybe because it’s not “her way”, she continues to blame, demean, attempt to derail, cherry-pick communications and conversations, and outright lie. We look forward. We take the great work done by so many great people on so many hard-working committees. Instead of acknowledging them, she chooses to do the opposite, and that is the very distinct difference between us: I thank them all, we will take all their collaborative findings and we will move forward as you, the residents, want.
Accusation #5: “Vinny Muldoon” Ballparks are False
The costs on the survey were created by me working with professionals, who did not charge the Village for their tremendous amount of time. They are not mine. They are from professionals in the industry from NYC and here on LI. This is very important to understand: since the residents have not yet decided on a project, NO ONE can honestly tell you what you will spend because there is no project! That’s the next phase. When you don’t have complete blueprints or engineering, how can you give a definite number for a definite plan?? Former Mayor Flannagan may also
want to check her facts before she lies about the information for backups not being up on the website. Once I received permission to do so, they were posted, as I stated in multiple Board Meetings. That statement is more than misleading. Anyone is always welcome to reach out to us at any time for clarification.
Accusation #6: The Minton Tiles Will All Have to be Removed
The videos don’t lie. These were installed on structural concrete floors. Those floors are solid as a rock. When engineers get into the building for a full analysis, a report will be issued, but there is nothing anywhere saying those floors, and the tiles on them, are not safe. They are able to be restored. If there are any issues with the concrete, that will be addressed. Those tiles will be able to be a focal part of the building. Any area of tile can be removed, if need be, and can be supported from underneath. For her to say all those floors need to be removed is incorrect.
Accusation #7: Interior Railings aren’t up to code
Based on a comment by Walter Beal, former Mayor Flannagan has at best, misled the public on the future condition of any part of the building, if we move forward. I’ve also reached out directly to Walter Beal. If any part of the building is open to the public in a future use, it will be brought up to current code. With no construction experience at all, she insisted that misleading you. Yes, in our ballparks, bringing the building up to code is accounted for.
In closing, allow me to discuss transparency and honesty. Let me make it very clear: the former Mayor Flanagan did NOT want any ballpark number included in the survey. Again, you can review prior BoT Meeting videos. She fought me to include any numbers at all. How can anyone make an informed decision without them? She did NOT want to give any indication of what a tax increase might be on those numbers. We, the six previous members of the Board, fought for that. She did NOT spend hundreds of hours recording the interior of that building so, again, you could see the subject of the survey! This is a part of our history, much like the old Garden City Hotel and St. Mary’s School! Do you not want to see it firsthand? As of a few days ago, those videos have been viewed over half a million times! To me, that makes it all worth it, but make no mistake about it: you all have ballparks and videos and FULL transparency not because of former Mayor Flanagan. You have it because of the people who fought for it. People who were being asked to vote on this building having never had a chance to see it seemed to be at a disadvantage, in my opinion. Our Board trusts and respects the residents, including the ones who wanted to demolish it. For the others
See page 50
From page 49
May 2,
who wanted to save part or all of it, we respect them, too. We are not a political organization who will tell you how to fill out your survey. We will allow you to make up your own mind. While these videos are almost over, I feel like you all have some idea of numbers and some idea of the ACTUAL condition of the building. I’ve been all over it; it is not as some would like you to believe, and now you can see that. You will be in full possession of as many of the facts as we could provide. There is no financial obligation attached to this survey. This Board will always respect your vote, and I know that Mayor Finneran and I hope future Mayors will not treat their predecessors like this.
Thank you for reading and please fill out your surveys. Enjoy the rest of the videos, and God Bless you, this Village and God Bless the USA. To me, and for all of you, FACTS WILL ALWAYS MATTER.
Trustee
Vincent Muldoon
A simple response to survey
To the Editor:
Please let this “vote” register! This is not a survey but a tendentios and manipulative ballot.
Leave St. Pauls’s alone. Keep a fence around it for safety. Leave the basketball courts open for aspiring hoopsters of all ages. Use it for voting, as we currently do. Done.
The only dollars spent on this awesome property should be for lighting the building at night, paying the rec. supervisors, and for keeping the lawns verdant and cut. Enough of GC’s residents’ money has been thrown away on nebulous notions, far too much; enough already.
Anthony Parks
To the Editor:
At the last Board meeting the Mayor and Deputy Mayor announced that there was a failure to include taxpayer residents living in condos and co-ops in the survey. ( minute 11 -16) As demonstrated by a resident’s cogent remark at the beginning of that meeting many are upset about this. I hope they will upon finally receiving it will respond and not cede ground to those who may disagree with their views. Specifically, there is still the opportunity to respond to the survey for those who favor facade or demolition, despite having been marginalized by the Board’s putting out a survey contrary to the expert advice to include both facade and demolition as affirmative choices within the survey in view of both receiving votes in the Oct. Poll. (Note: Questions #5 and 6 were not even on the poll ballot!)
Clearly the survey is fatally flawed aside from the bungling of its distribution of the survey itself and the Board’s
Email: Editor@GCNews.com
lack of direction as to when the time to respond ends. When it comes to surveys and St Paul’s, this BOT is the gang that can’t/won’t shoot straight.
The resulting uncertainty about the when, the who and the why this occurred is a distraction and decreases confidence in the survey’s content. But far worse is the inconsistent framing of crucial questions. For the 3 preservation options a rating close ended type question is used to elicit quantitative information. Surveys often contain a variety of questions types,( open ended, close ended, rating and multiple choice) consistency is important to get results. For demolition and facade a qualitative question 8A is used subset 1=7 but the word facade and demolition do not even appear and are simply a write in Q# 8 and 8A. This format is grossly unfair to the more than half the residents who voted at the Poll (39% demo plus certainly at least 12% for facade, probably a lot more) as well as the the 75% of residents who didn’t vote at all.
Plus for all the Board’s stressing about providing cost estimates there are several questions about a possible pool with no mention of any cost whatever for any size, features or amenities. What size pool is the Board thinking about or is this just there to provide false hope to some big pool advocates?
Finally, the Trustee Muldoon cost estimates themselves are dubious at best. Frank McDonough referred to me as one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Fine by me. Perhaps he, his cowriter, former Mayor Veneziale, and Trustee Muldoon form another group, a less than holy trilogy?? consisting of those who, when criticized for shortcomings, attack in retaliation. This “I despise Mayor Carter Flanagan” group is motivated by her having called out discrepancies and misstatements which now permeate the current survey. Did they expect at the end of her term she would instead give them all an undeserved pardon?
Attacks on Those who have executed their right to disagree with the biased approach that has been chosen by those who have forsake their duty to be impartial have persisted going back to 2022.
But Mayor Carter Flanagan among others have provided objective evidence, documentation supporting her concerns of meddling with the Westerman cost estimate process. To the contrary Mr. McDonough never came up with clarifications for the feasibility and effectiveness of the St/ Paul’s Conservancy when asked by both Mayor Flanagan and Trustee, now Mayor E. T. Finneran a year ago and more recently this Feb. at BOT meeting when he actually promised to deliver the goods. Instead he receded into attack mode with former Save St. Paul’s colleague C. Veneziale from 2011 (a failed effort blistered in the Erwin Bielinsky report). Another com-
monality, they both worked on Mayor Veneziale’s apology to Mayor Carter Flanagan for going behind her back to her employer a probable attempt to derail her candidacy for Mayor.
Then, of course, Trustee Muldoon after touting and posting his reliance on over 40 cost estimation support sources failed to produce any of them until 3 weeks after his presentations. He refused to provide them to Mayor Flanagan when speaking at the second Town Hall! Really!?!And he recently had the temerity to accuse Mayor Flanagan of complaining about “baloney”. REALLY!
Recently disclosed emails reveal alarming evidence of behind the scenes inappropriate efforts to shape the information presented by Westerman to align with the position of the Veneziale appointed Committee (email 2//14/23 including Mr. McDonough, Mayor Veneziale, Peter Coll).
Now Mr. Congeniality, Trustee Muldoon, despite his claims to always being civil, joins the fray in claiming that Mayor Flanagan is untruthful in videos adding nothing to the information deficit at his Town Hall speeches and his rhetoric devolves now into bitter retaliation and recrimination. Trustee Muldoon’s far less than stellar cost estimate presentations at the Town Halls, rather they were misleading and unsupported by proper documentation. They demonstrated his lack of qualifications to undertake such a task. Isn’t this apparently conceded by Trustee Muldoon as he has said the real estimates should be done by architects, engineers or large firm versed in large project commercial construction. Doesn’t this exclude a residential contractor/remodeler from even a ball park participation?.
Maybe the Trilogy should get started on another apology letter. Practice makes prefect.
S. G. Gorray
To the Editor:
Las Vegas Sands’ decision against filing for a casino license was welcomed news, but their plan B could be much worse: Mr. Blakeman and LV Sands now seek a third party that operates both online and in-person gambling to make that casino license application. The fastest growing group of gamblers is people in their 20’s; Now imagine that such a company runs that casino at The Hub right between Hofstra and NCC, and now those students (as all of us in their “capture area”) are targeted by continual campaigns of digital marketing, on-line and in-person gambling cross-promotions, incentives like members-only events and other loyalty programs to entice that growing market segment. Like adding fuel to the fire, this horizontally-integrated entity
would leverage their digital / analog gambling-synergy double-whammy to extract even more money from county residents, especially those young adults. Let’s not forget the traffic and environmental impact of 10 million annual visitors to this already-congested area. Now is a good time to message our county leaders to stop the madness! Nassau residents don’t want a casino. Three years have been wasted on this folly, let’s go forward with a project that will enhance the community, fill some economic needs that all can support, and that serves to protect what’s left of our suburban quality of life.
Lynn & George Krug
The Emperor has no close [sic]
To the Editor:
Charades persist for many reasons. They end for one: courage.
According to U.S. News and World Report, Stratford and Stewart Elementary Schools have plummeted in state rankings, now sitting outside the top 100, at 191st and 199th respectively. A decade ago, Garden City led in literacy. Today, we’re at the bottom of the elite list.
Parents routinely hire expensive tutors to fill gaps in basic skills and don’t get clear answers about what our reading and writing curricula even are. Despite hiring consultant after consultant, assessment data (NWEA, NYS ELA, Math, etc.) shows more students underperforming.
The trendlines are unmistakable: the status quo isn’t working, and while many have quietly felt it, they’re understandably hesitant to speak. We’ve been, and will continue being, out front to do just that, so you don’t have to--explaining in detail to voters how we have a chance to reverse negative trends with programming that works.
We believe our $138 million school budget, which excludes the hidden “stealth tax” of private tutoring, should at least buy high proficiency rates in reading, writing, and math —foundations for future learning. Instead, our current program is moving the wrong way, watering down the experience for all learners and overburdening taxpayers. Too many students now enter Middle School behind. Compounding matters, vague report cards and test sheets leave parents guessing about their child’s progress, and the district often withholds support until students fall below the 35th percentile—long after early intervention would have been most effective.
Garden City has spent years reviewing data, hosting meetings, and paying hundreds of thousands to consultants, yet little has changed where it matters most: in the classroom. Worse, Garden City still uses discredited reading programs flagged by NYSED and abandoned by 38 states and New York City.
Structured Literacy programs, rooted in the science of reading and much closer to what we had years ago, must become the bedrock foundation for Garden City’s curriculum (i.e., highgain evidence-based instruction aligned with refreshingly wise New York mandates).
While other Board of Education candidates emphasize evermore data analysis and discussion, we believe our students have waited long enough. In contrast, we’ve been analyzing and voicing concerns for years—while others are just entering the conversation. Collaboration is essential— but leadership means knowing when the data already points to needed course correction. That’s the Board’s job: set curriculum, policy, and goals—and then lead.
True stakeholder collaboration also means listening to parents and holding leadership accountable when needed. Unlike other candidates, we are deeply experienced working and problem-solving within the system yet independent of it. We know how to partner on policy change– but we also won’t be influenced by personal relationships with or affinities toward administrators if we sense accountability is being avoided.
Put simply, we know the system, but we’re not captured by it:
• Richard Corrao, Esq. is an education attorney representing students across New York State, focusing on building education programs that prevent delays, enhance student achievement, promote fair disciplinary outcomes, and avoid unnecessary legal and financial strains. He regularly teams with public and private school educators and certified field experts on behalf of students, giving him unique insight into what effective schools do differently and where they stray from mission. A former Nassau County Assistant District Attorney and former chief legal counsel for a national government services firm, Mr. Corrao also brings a proven track record of fighting for accountability, transparency, and results, as well as working productively with government officials and rule makers. He also served as Chairman of the Village of Garden City’s Board of Ethics. He has children in the district and many educators in his family.
• Dr. Dinorah DellaCamera aided the New York State Education Department’s literacy initiatives as a member of its Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Task Force. She also serves as a Board Director for a nonprofit literacy organization where she regularly collaborates with families, legislators, and educators across New York. Dr. DellaCamera is a practicing veterinarian with a strong sciences background, a religious education teacher, an Ohio State University alumna, and a college admissions interviewer and application reviewer for OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
Email: Editor@GCNews.com
Moreover, she volunteers her time supporting parents navigating the IEP process to help ensure children receive appropriate services. Her family’s journey through the district’s reading program further strengthened her commitment to advancing science-based instruction across subjects.
Garden City has incredible potential. Let’s unlock it together and lead our schools to unquestioned excellence.
Please vote Corrao + DellaCamera (Row A) on May 20th at the Garden City High School.
Richard Corrao, Esq. Dr. Dinorah DellaCamera Students First Candidates for Garden City Board of Education
Let’s work together
To the Editor:
Educating students can oftentimes be likened to being on a team, with every “player” providing expertise, information, and perspective in their roles, and for the group at large. Parents, board of education members, students, faculty and administrators, are part of Garden City School District’s team, all working towards the same goal: the needs and successes of all of our students. To make any team strong and effective, there needs to be knowledge, shared goals, and a willingness to be self reflective. However, there also needs to be meaningful working relationships between all the players to put all of these other aspects together effectively. We have experienced how building such relationships within our community, despite differences of opinion and perspective, fosters transparency, collaboration and engagement. Relationships build trust and trusting relationships can begat results.
Part of the work of a member of the board of education is to be a part of that team, helping to facilitate and foster transparency, collaboration and engagement between families, community members, and the board. This work is done by listening to and engaging with everyone on behalf of our students. We know from our experiences with SEPTA and the PTA that building more sustainable ways to do the work of engaging with our community as board of education members will allow for the inclusion of many voices. In these conversations, we also want to ensure we can get information to residents, answer questions and address concerns, no matter the issue. We want to hold meet and greets as members, as an informal way to hear from residents outside of regular meetings. We hope to attend the meetings of community organizations and groups to provide updates and field questions about the district. We want to put in place other ways to get information into the hands of our residents about the schools. We plan to be present at school events and see the
work of all of our students, to continue to nurture a culture of trust and community involvement as board members.
We, as a Garden City community, are the ones building our schools. It is the collective actions we take that creates an environment that is safe, productive and provides our children with what they need to achieve. There’s a saying, akin to the idea of, “If you want to go fast, then work alone. If you want to go far, then work together.” To move Garden City Schools forward, let’s do the work together.
On May 20th, voting for Debra Cupani and Erin Debrich for the Board of Education is a vote for community engagement, communication and collaboration.
Erin Debrich Debra Cupani
To the Editor:
I am writing in support of Erin Debrich as a candidate for Board of Education trustee. I have had the distinct pleasure of knowing and working with Erin for the past seven years, both through her work with GC PTA, and more recently through our work together with GC SEPTA.
Erin is smart and kind. Her background as an English and literary educator gives her a unique advantage in understanding the needs of our children and will help to ensure their progress. Erin is one of the hardest working and most honest people I have ever met. She has given countless hours of her time in trying to understand the problems facing our district by attending Board of Education meetings and reaching out to families directly in her work with GC SEPTA. Two years ago, Erin created SEPTA Connect and her continued effort and involvement with this project has been life changing for our special education families.
Erin cares deeply about all the children of our district. I have no doubt that she will be an asset to our Board of Education. She has already proven to be an asset to our district.
Cristina
Dickey
To the Editor:
I am writing to express my full support for Erin Debrich as a candidate for the Garden City Board of Education.
I first met Erin over a decade ago when our oldest sons were enrolled in the same nursery school program. From the beginning, it was clear that Erin is genuine, caring, and always ready to lend a helping hand.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to see Erin’s deep commitment to supporting and advocating for all students and families in our community through her SEPTA leadership and various PTA committee roles. Her
dedication to volunteerism and active participation has made her a true asset to the Garden City schools and the community.
As a Board of Education Trustee, I am confident that Erin will continue to make a meaningful impact and reach a greater number of families seeking support and a voice in their children’s education. Her compassion is matched by her proactive approach to problem solving and willingness to step up wherever she is needed.
Erin is also incredibly knowledgeable about the many issues facing our District today. She is well versed on the responsibilities of this position. We need a Trustee who is ready to get to work on day one—someone who is thoughtful, informed, and committed to being a strong voice for all. Erin Debrich is exactly that person.
I hope you’ll join me in voting for Erin Debrich on May 20th.
Danielle Cangro
To the Editor:
As an educator who has had the privilege of working with both of Dinorah DellaCamera’s sons, I am writing to share my strong support for her candidacy for the Garden City School Board.
Although I do not live or work in the district, I’ve had a front-row seat to Dinorah’s unwavering commitment to education. She is a parent who doesn’t just advocate for her own children—she speaks up for all children. Her integrity, intelligence, and relentless dedication to ensuring students have access to a thoughtful, challenging curriculum are qualities any school district would be lucky to have on its board.
Dinorah follows the science of reading and makes decisions grounded in research, not fads. She knows how to analyze data, identify what’s working— and what’s not—and push for programs that deliver real results. She is also a tireless volunteer, lending her time and voice to families well beyond her own community, across Long Island.
Garden City has an incredible opportunity to elect a school board member who truly understands what it takes to support students, teachers, and families. I can’t think of a better advocate than Dinorah DellaCamera.
Faith Borkowsky
To the Editor:
Our current president, number 0047, since convicted rapists and Felons go by 4 digits in New York, has single handedly blown up a century of globalization, losing 6 trillion dollars in two days and the worst Stock Market in April since the Great Depression.
By an act of Congress I demand we rename the Gulf of America to….. the See page 52
Gulf of Stupidity.
King Trump suffers from the Dunning -Kruger effect, whereby people overestimate their own cognitive abilities. His White House Ikea Cabinet tells us “we’re ignorant but not stupid!”. They promise to use a secret dating app next time for war planning.
When I grew up we had Steve Jobs, Johnny Cash and Bob Hope.
Under Trump we have no Jobs, no Cash and no Hope.
As of this writing only 1,361 days left
license.
System malfunction
GCFD and GCPD responded April 25 to a fire alarm activated by burnt food and another triggered by a system malfunction.
Multiple violations
A motorist on Washington Avenue was charged April 25 with driving with both a suspended license and registration.
Drug collection
During the DEA’s National Drug Take Back Day on April 26, Garden City Police collected 85 pounds of medications, and Adelphi University Public Safety collected 34 pounds.
Truck violation
On April 26, a Clinton Road truck operator was charged with driving in a prohibited zone and using a non-commercial license.
Vehicle violations
A Cherry Valley Avenue motorist was charged on April 26 with suspended registration and uninsured operation.
False alarm
On April 26, GCFD and GCPD responded to a residence where a fire alarm was activated in error.
Email: Editor@GCNews.com
in office. That is the view from here. Patrick O’Rourke
Eagle Scout project
To the Editor:
My name is Andrew Byrnes and I am a Life Scout in Troop 55, Garden City. I am also a student at Garden City High School. I am currently working on my Eagle Scout rank, which is the final rank in Boy Scouts. To achieve this rank, I must execute a project to benefit the community and show leadership.
For my project, I wanted to both help honor our nation and help the commu-
nity. My project consists of building four American flag retirement boxes. These boxes would be placed in parks around Nassau County to help with the collection of American flags that are worn or tattered. Currently, there is a need for these boxes as the few other boxes around Nassau County are insufficient. My project will hopefully lead to the respectful retirement of American flags and prevent any disrespect to “Old Glory”.
I was wondering, would it be possible for the following message to be included in the paper in order to assist my fund-
raising efforts?
All donations for my Eagle project can be accepted in the form of check or Venmo. Checks can be made payable to Troop 55 and sent to Andrew Byrnes, 14 Brompton Rd. Garden City, NY 11530. Venmo donations are also welcome to my father: @James-Byrnes-39, authorization code 2953. Please know that any excess donations will be contributed to the further beautification of the area around the boxes.
Andrew Byrnes
Illegal signs
Police on April 26 removed unauthorized commercial signs that had been posted along Stewart Avenue.
Uninsured vehicle
A motorist on New Hyde Park Road was charged April 26 with suspended registration and uninsured operation.
Multiple offenses
On April 26, a Clinton Road motorist was charged with suspended registration, operating an uninspected auto, and driving without insurance.
Uninsured driver
On April 27, a Franklin Avenue motorist was charged with suspended registration and uninsured operation.
Tree obstruction
Officers on April 27 safeguarded Chestnut Street after a tree fell until Village crews arrived to clear the area.
Phone harassment
Police are investigating an April 27 report of an individual receiving multiple harassing phone calls.
Tremont Street charges
A motorist on Tremont Street was charged April 27 with driving with a suspended license and registration, along with operating an uninsured vehi-
Battery alarm
GCFD and GCPD responded April 27 to a fire alarm that was activated during a battery change.
License suspension
A motorist on South Avenue was charged April 27 with driving with a suspended license and registration and operating an uninsured vehicle.
Windshield damage
On April 28, a vehicle’s front windshield was reportedly damaged by unknown means while parked on Hampton Road.
Multiple infractions
A Rockaway Avenue motorist was charged April 28 with driving an unregistered, uninsured vehicle with a suspended license.
Burnt food alarm
GCFD and GCPD responded April 28 to a fire alarm that was triggered by burnt food.
Lost device
An Apple Watch was reported lost or possibly stolen on April 28 within the Village.
Domestic assault
On April 29, Garden City Police
arrested a man following a domestic incident in which he allegedly injured the wrist of a female family member and threatened to kill her. He was charged with assault and menacing.
Bank fraud arrest
After investigating a local bank on April 29, officers arrested a man who allegedly used false identification in an attempt to transfer funds from a victim’s account. Police say he was found in possession of forged IDs and credit cards belonging to multiple victims and was charged with six counts of possession of forged documents, identity theft, and attempted grand larceny.
Railroad issue
Officers responded April 29 to a railroad gate malfunction at the Cathedral Avenue crossing.
Fire alarms
On April 29, GCFD and GCPD handled two fire alarms—one triggered by construction workers and another due to a system malfunction.
Suspended registration
A motorist on Washington Avenue was charged April 29 with driving with a suspended registration and uninsured operation.
Brother-sister duo Anthony & Giavanna Oliveri getting ready for Rising Stars.
This past Sunday, April 27, brother-sister duo Anthony “AJ”, 10, and Giavanna Oliveri, 6, participated and represented the Village of Garden City at the 1st Rising Stars Jiu Jitsu Challenge by Tiger Schulmann. The format was simple yet effective, students from all over the Tiger Schulmann’s organization gathered in Melville to test their grappling skills against one another. What made this competition unique was matches were based on experience, not belts, making the field flat, fair and conducive to learning.
Under this new competition format, athletes were guaranteed four matches but were able to roll in as many matches as they wished within their competition window. And while points were tracked, results, rankings and outcomes were secondary to sportsmanship and Jiu Jitsu skills development.
AJ and Giavannna engaged in four matches each, representing the Village and Tiger Schulmann’s of Garden City at the highest level with pride and confidence.
Registration for the 2025 Garden City Thunder season is now open. Please visit www.GCThunder.com for online registration. Thunder Football is open to boys ages 7–11 (next year’s 2nd through 6th grade) who live in Garden City and
want to compete against other towns in Nassau County. The teams are coached by volunteers who teach the fundamentals of football, sportsmanship and how to be good teammates. Registration ends May 15.
The 2024 Thunder 8s are ready for the 9-year-old division.
and Walker will have their teams ready for another successful season.
It was a weekend to remember for the 2034 Garden City Rams, who captured the Town Cup championship on Saturday night at Stony Brook University. Their victory was built on months of hard work, team bonding, and shared determination. The Rams showed tremendous heart and hustle throughout the tournament, with every player stepping up when it mattered most. Facing a difficult four-game schedule, the 3rd graders went a perfect 4-0 in the rain, surrendering only 8 total goals on the day — a remarkable defensive performance.
Each game in the tournament had its own standout moments, and the team’s Hard Hat award recognized players who embodied the Rams’ values of grit, teamwork, and leadership:
• Sayville (Game 1): Mikey Eschmann
• Massapequa (Game 2): Carter Coratti
• Smithtown (Game 3): Patrick Hannan
• Long Beach (Championship Game): Justin Wenzel
Beyond the action on the field, the day had a true community feel, thanks to the many parents and families who came out to support the team. While the Town Cup championship is a major highlight, the 2034 Rams aren’t finished yet — three more challenging tournaments remain this season. Congratulations to the Rams players, coaches, and families on a well-deserved championship victory!
The Recreation Adult Programs in the Field House begin on Wednesday, October 16 according to the following schedule:
Mondays - Mens’ Basketball 7:30–10 p.m.
Wednesdays - Mens’ Basketball - 7:30–10 p.m.
Thursdays - Adult Volleyball 7:30 – 10 p.m.
These programs are open to residents of the Inc. Village of Garden City who have graduated high school OR adults who can show proof of graduating Garden City high school (diploma, student ID card). A picture ID is required to sign in to any program. For further information, please contact the Recreation Office at 465-4075.
A fee schedule will be place for any resident adult interested in participating in Adult Activities in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse. The fee schedule is as follows:
10 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 10 visits, $50
5 Play Pass – good for any Fieldhouse sport for 5 visits, $25
A participant may also “pay as you go” but payment will only be accepted by check or credit card only, NO CASH ACCEPTED. “Pay as you go” prices will be $6. Passes may be purchased at the fieldhouse when arriving for your sport.
Please note - A resident participant may bring in 1 non- resident guest. This rule will be strictly enforced. These guest must arrive and leave with the resident. There are no passes for non- residents. The daily fee for the non-resident guest is $8.
To purchase one of the passes, please fill out the attached application and mail to or visit the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. You will also be able to purchase a pass from our St. Paul’s staff. All payments must be made by either a check made payable to the “Inc. Village of Garden City” or credit card only, no cash will be accepted.
Pickleball will begin again in St. Paul’s Fieldhouse on Tuesday, September 17. This program is open to Garden City residents only, Tuesdays through Fridays, 9:30 to noon.
Each session will consist of open play with everyone attending round robining in to play. If you attend the first session you must pay again to stay for the second session. There will be no reserving of courts for individual play. A monitor will be available for any person wishing to learn the game. The fee schedule to attend is as follows:
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.
Indoor Track Hours at Cluett Hall
Mondays: 1 p.m.–8 p.m.
Tuesdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Wednesdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.; 1 p.m.–4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9 p.m.
Thursdays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1 p.m.–8 p.m.
Fridays: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.; 2 p.m.–4 p.m. and 5 p.m.–8 p.m.
Saturdays: 1 p.m.–5 p.m.
*Walk at your own risk. Hours are subject to change. Please do not open the windows on the track.
Hours will conclude on May 1. Enjoy the nice weather!
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
Designed for all ages and abilities, our enrichment curriculum follows a 5-level progressive skill development so that students can set goals to achieve and progress at their own pace. Our low student-tocoach ratio allows for individualized attention — meeting each student where they are in their journey & progression. Session dates are Thursdays, May 29 – July 24, 5:15–6:15 p.m. at Nassau Haven Park.
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 4 to April 8, 6:30–7:30 p.m. This program is a learn and play clinic for grades 3-5 at The St. Paul’s Fieldhouse. The cost of the program is $150 per child.
Up
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 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
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.
The Spring Session of Youth Tennis Lessons is underway. The Spring Session will be 8 weeks long, with the lessons occurring Monday through Thursday –which would put the spring session ending around the second week of June. Once registration opens, you will be able to sign-up on the Recreation Website, gardencityrecreation.org, or in person at the Tennis Clubhouse and at the Recreation Office
located at 108 Rockaway Avenue.
Please visit the recreation website for fees, and meeting dates.
For further information, call the Community Park Tennis Office at 516 483-2525.
Mini Golf at Community Park is now open for the season.
• Special: All games are $1 per person for the month of April
The tennis camps begin on Monday, June 30, under the direction of our experienced pros, Rick Bates and Justin McMackin.
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 sneakers and a tennis racket. Please note rackets are provided for the novice level.
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.
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 28, 2025. The Garden will officially open Monday, May 12, 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 GU10 GC Galaxy continue to improve and come together as a team as they gear up for their fourth regular season game and the semi-finals of the LI Cup. The opening round of the LI Cup back on March 15th was a gritty game with the Galaxy edging out a tough RVC squad 1-0. With over a month in between the first and second LI Cup rounds, the hard work during that time paid off. The Galaxy played PlainviewOld Bethpage in the LI Cup quarter finals this past weekend, going down 1-0 early, scoring the equalizer ten seconds later and then dominating the play on the way to a 5-1 victory. The team will take on a very tough Hauppauge team in the LI Cup
semi-finals next month.
The LI Cup success has been matched by early regular season wins over Wantagh, Levittown and Syosset for a 3-0 record. Contributions have come from every girl on the roster. Seven of the ten girls on the team have registered a goal so far this season. Goalkeeping has been particularly impressive, with Greta Loesch, Kay Pellish and Madeleine Connolly only allowing two goals over the first five games with each of them also making solid contributions when playing the field. The Galaxy goalies have been helped by the dominating play of the rest of the team both on offense with its ball control
and a smothering defense on the few occasions that the Galaxy don’t control the play.
The team has been solid from back to front with its lockdown defense led by Stella Sparacello, Anna Ringh and Amelia Bacich (who does triple duty as a midfielder and striker as well). The midfield/striker unit of Ali Atteritano, Ashley RodriguezPerez, Amelia “Yoshi” Wunsch and
Brooke Volpe have developed as a fearsome offensive force moving the ball and totaling 21 goals over the first five games. Best of all, the girls on this team are great friends and support each other on and off the field. We look forward to their continued improvement and wish them luck the rest of the season. Keep playing hard and having fun!
The Garden City Girls Lacrosse team is coming off an exciting and hard-fought week of competition, securing three impressive wins that showcased both their grit and depth.
The week kicked off on Tuesday with a thrilling comeback victory over Wantagh. Tori Ottomanelli opened the scoring for the Trojans off a pass from Averie Smith, but Wantagh answered with five straight goals. Just before halftime, Garden City shifted the momentum. Kim Colucci scored with 11.7 seconds left in the second quarter, and on her ensuing draw win, Kathryn Monaco sprinted downfield to score at the buzzer— cutting the deficit to 5–3.
That late surge ignited a run of four unanswered goals. LeeLee Gaffney found the back of the net off another Smith assist, followed quickly by a goal from Michaela Molgano set up by Colucci. Colucci then closed out the half with two unassisted goals, completing her hat trick. Wantagh managed to add one more goal in the third quarter, but the Trojans were unstoppable in the fourth. Arci Haffner scored off another Smith assist, Regan Baker added a goal from Gaffney’s feed, and Smith sealed the 10–6 win with a powerful 8-meter shot.
On Thursday, Garden City followed up with a commanding 20–5 win over Syosset
on their home turf. The game highlighted the team’s incredible depth, with 14 different players scoring. Kim Colucci, Tori Ottomanelli, Arci Haffner, Kathryn Monaco, Emerson Goettelmann, and Ali Bennett each scored twice. One goal apiece came from Regan Backer, Michaela Molgano, Deanna Prisco, Stella Goettelmann, Katie Horn, Katherine O’Hanlon, Ava Borzillieri, and Ciara Hergarty.
The offensive effort was powered by unselfish play and excellent ball movement. Kiera Ruoff led with four assists, followed by Averie Smith with three. Michaela Molgano and Katherine O’Hanlon each recorded two assists, while Ella Clark and Ottomanelli added one each. On the defensive end, the Trojans were just as strong, with standout performances by seniors Makaela Morris, Elizabeth Staub, Kitty Clavin, and junior Liana Kelly, who helped contain the Syosset offense.
To cap off the week, the Trojans competed in the annual Gains for Brains fundraiser at Cold Spring Harbor High School, taking on a talented New Canaan team in a back-and-forth battle. The first half saw both teams trading goals, ending in a 6–6 tie. Smith and Ottomanelli each scored twice, while Monaco and Colucci added one goal apiece. Smith and Ashley Clark each
contributed an assist.
In the third quarter, Ottomanelli completed her hat trick with a sharp finish off a pass from Regan Backer, keeping Garden City within reach. Down 7–9 heading into the final quarter, the Trojans dug deep once again. Clutch goals from Arci Haffner, Colucci, and Smith completed the comeback, securing a thrilling 10–9 victory and a perfect close to an outstanding week.
A special shout-out goes to senior captain Tori Ottomanelli, who was named Athlete of the Week at Garden City High School! Tori earned the honor with a stellar all-around performance—securing 28 draw controls and scoring 7 goals over the course of the week.
Teammate Regan Backer also received Honorable Mention for her outstanding work on the draw circle, winning an impressive 65–80% of her matchups. Her consistency and control were key to the Trojans’ possession game and overall success.
Congratulations to both girls on their well-deserved recognition!
The Garden City Trojans opened last week like a team on a mission, but ended it with a sobering reminder of how thin the margins are in high school lacrosse — especially with the legendary Woodstick Classic now just days away.
On Wednesday evening, the Trojans delivered a statement at Mitchell Field, overwhelming Calhoun in a 15-2 rout that underscored their depth, talent, and speed. From the opening whistle, Garden City seized control. Blake Cascadden fired the first shot past the keeper, and the floodgates opened from there.
Dan Medjid added to the early lead, before Charlie Koester poured in two quick goals in a matter of minutes. By the time Medjid scored again to make it
8-0, the game already felt out of reach. Koester completed his hat trick for a 9-0 cushion, followed by tallies from Julian Gali and James Debusschere.
Calhoun showed brief signs of life, scoring two goals to make it 11-2 at halftime, but Garden City never let up. Freshman Jack Lesuer notched his first varsity goal in style, sprinting through the defense and scoring on the run. Taylor Minuto’s goal, the product of relentless riding, epitomized Garden City’s effort. Jack Compelatano and Timmy Prebilski capped the scoring, while Garvis Toler, Gus Gali, and Conner Schiek turned in a standout defensive performances that helped stifle Calhoun throughout.
But just two days later, the Trojans faced a far different challenge.
At Northport High School on Saturday, Garden City found itself reeling as the host Tigers — a Suffolk County powerhouse — opened with eight unanswered goals. Shocked by the early onslaught, the Trojans struggled to find their footing. Ben Smith finally broke the drought with a lone goal from close range, but the damage had been done.
Though Garden City mounted a spirited comeback, fueled by two goals each from Anthony Asaro and Michael Berkery, and supported by strikes from Debusschere, Owen Wuchte, and Koester, the deficit proved too large. Northport’s early dominance held, and the Trojans fell 13-9 in one of their toughest tests of the season.
Now, the focus shifts to one of the most hallowed events in high school lacrosse: the Woodstick Classic.
This Friday, May 3, Garden City will
host archrival Manhasset in a game that has transcended generations. First played in 1935, the Woodstick is widely considered the oldest and most storied rivalry in high school lacrosse. Named for the wooden sticks once used by players before the modern era, the Classic is a celebration of tradition, skill, and fierce competition.
It’s a game where records don’t matter, and rosters blur into legacy. For Garden City, a win would be the perfect way to rebound from Saturday’s stumble — and to add another chapter to their storied lacrosse heritage.
Will the Trojans rise to the moment?
This week, the eyes of Long Island lacrosse will be watching. Come down to Garden City High School this weekend as we “White Out the Stands” to show support for all the talented GC teams competing. Dress in white and LET’S GO TROJANS!
The Woodstick Whiteout will be held on Saturday, May 3, at Garden City High School as part of the Woodstick Classic game against Manhasset. Come and watch some great lacrosse.
• Girls JV: 10 a.m.
• Boys JV: 12 noon
• Girls Varsity: 2 p.m.
• Boys Varsity: 4 p.m.
The event will have a Fastest Shot Contest, a Lacrosse Skills Challenge, Raffles, Bake Sale, T-shirts, and Sportswear.
Let's Go Trojans - White Out the Stands Sponsored by the Garden City PTA
Let your voice be heard! Is there an issue in your community you want to discuss? Want to respond to something you saw in our paper? Then write a letter to our editor and bring it to everyone’s attention! Send your letter to editor@gcnews.com and we’ll publish it for you!
Garden City, NY
4-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 841430. $1,475,000.
Garden City, NY
4-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 845782. $1,950,000.
Seacliff, NY
3-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 848176. $875,000.
Garden City, NY
Studio, 1-bath. MLS# 840065. $325,000.
Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath. MLS# 835678. $1,899,000. Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 845398. $1,899,000.
Garden City, NY
5-bedroom, 4.55-bath. MLS# 828069. $2,399,000.
Beach, NY 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 841465. $1,250,000.
West, #M23 Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 837845. $948,000.
Garden City, NY
4-bedroom, 3.55-bath. MLS# 834097. $2,549,000.
Rockville Centre, NY
5-bedroom, 3.55-bath. MLS# 840205. $1,398,000.
East, #604 Garden City, NY
2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 804224. $6,300/mo.
Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 2,55-bath. MLS# 831833. $1,899,000.
Floral Park, NY
3-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 852175. $775,000.
NY 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# L3561270. $1,468,000.
5/4 | 12:00 - 2:00pm
City, NY 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath. MLS# 843658. $1,950,000.
Centre, NY 4-bedroom, 4.555-bath. MLS# 835215. $1,798,000.
