The Garden City News (2/20/26)

CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS

In an exciting game against Hewlett, the Garden City High School Boys Varsity Basketball team secured the Conference Championship at the buzzer. The team concluded the regular season with a record of 17-3 overall and 11-1 in the league and advanced to the playoffs.

Volunteers sought for 250th festivities

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At the Garden City Board of Trustees’ meeting on February 5th, Mayor Ed Finneran discussed ideas to celebrate the United States’ Semiquincentennial year (1776–2026).

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is our 250th celebration of American Independence and this fair village intends to participate in a meaningful way. There will be a number of events and fun-scapades for the community that will kick off in February,” he said.

The mayor highlighted opportunities and celebrations from Presidents’ Day through Memorial Day, when a large event is planned at the St. Paul’s fields and athletic facilities. He also noted the potential for fun, family-oriented summer activities and a joint gala being organized by the Garden City Historical Society and the Cathedral of the Incarnation, “with the subject of The Gilded Age.”

Deputy Mayor Judy Courtney announced that she and Trustee

Michele Beach Harrington are the co-chairs of the village’s “250th activities.” She described plans for both educational and social events throughout the year.

Trustee Harrington discussed several ideas, including the possibility of the Garden City Public Library offering residents quarterly book clubs themed around the American Revolution, in coordination with Library Board President and former Village Trustee Colleen Foley. Harrington

See page 48

Board abandons

St. Paul’s partnership idea

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Near the end of the Tuesday, February 17th Garden City Village Board of Trustees meeting in Village Hall, Meadow Street resident Steve Ilardi asked Mayor Ed Finneran and the Board to report on the status of investigating opportunities for a “PPP” – public-private partnership, which Mayor Finneran had first discussed during the December 11, 2025 trustees’ meeting.

At the time, the mayor spoke about the need for a “formal pause” in deliberations on the potential reuse of the structure. Mayor Finneran said that the board needed to review exploring a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) option.

The PPP had been raised in a report by the St. Paul’s

See page 49

Police technology upgrade approved

BY RIKKI MASSAND

The Garden City Village Board of Trustees has approved an updated extension of the GCPD’s contract for license plate reader technology with Atlanta-based vendor Flock Safety, enhancing surveillance capabilities.

At the February 5th meeting, the board voted to extend the agreement first approved at the March 6, 2025 Village Board meeting. The contract will now run through February 29, 2029, while maintaining the current price of $36,000 per year. Last year, the board approved a three-year agreement running through February 2028. The updated agreement adds video cameras that integrate with the license plate readers (LPRs). Funding for the extension is available in the operating

See page 49

Parkland vs Greenspace

Lately there has been some discussion about creating a park at St. Paul’s and this idea has been gaining momentum. The main building would be demolished, but some of its original fixtures would be kept as a memorial to Alexander Stewart.

At a recent Board meeting there was commentary noting that the Cathedral of the Incarnation is also developing its grounds and that would serve the same purpose as the St. Paul’s Park.

While that might be true, the use of the word “park” when referring to the Cathedral grounds is imprecise, if not actually misleading.

In New York State, a “park” is a piece of property that is owned by the people, not by a municipality. The “public

trust” doctrine governs what may be done with designated parkland, and it’s very strict. Once a piece of land is parkland the government can’t easily take it away from the people.

The Cathedral’s plans for its land sound beautiful. There will be greenspace and it will no doubt be a gem that will enhance the village. But, it won’t be a “park.”

The Cathedral generously plans to allow residents to enjoy its space, and that’s commendable. But there’s no guarantee that in twenty years, or fifty years, that future residents would still be allowed use. It’s privately owned land, not a “public trust.”

Parkland is forever; greenspace is not.

Board flip flop on demolition

To the Editor:

My wife and I support Neha Bajaj for Trustee. We’ve known Neha and her family since 2016 when our boys started kindergarten together. She’s an intelligent, caring, fair-minded person who most importantly is an honest person.

Which brings me to my main point here, is there anyone that thinks the CAP candidates have been honest in regard to St. Paul’s. Remember these CAP candidates along with the rest of the current Board of Trustees put together a survey refusing to put demolition on the survey. They didn’t care about the wishes of most Garden City residents, only what they wanted.

Now with a few weeks before the election the Board says their willing to get quotes on the cost of demolition and a park. I think the Board is sensing which way the wind is blowing here and is starting to panic. If the CAP candidates get voted back in, can you really trust them to look at demolition as an alternative after how hard and, yes, unfair they have fought this option, I can’t. Vote for the FABGC candidates in this upcoming election, thank you.

Michael Renna

CAP against transfer tax

To the Editor:

Based on their full-page advertisement in the February 6th edition of the Garden City News, do the FABGC candidates want people to believe that the CAP candidates support a real estate transfer tax? In fact, no candidate supports such a tax. It is disingenuous for the FABGC candidates to portray themselves as saving the village residents from a tax that no candidate of either party supports. I will vote for CAP candidates.

Martin A. Waters

BOT bait and switch

To the Editor:

Last week, in a Letter to the Editor, I

compared the Board of Trustees’s stewardship of the disposition of St. Paul’s to a game of whack a mole. When the BOT makes a recommendation and then receives any pushback, it pivots to another concept. They are at it again!!!

Trustee Muldoon posted on Facebook that the Cathedral will be building a park in 3 - 5 years. So, he states that the Village no longer needs a park at St. Paul’s. This is comparable to arguing that because there are benches at the Garden City Country Club, there is no need for benches in any of Garden City’s public spaces. This is disingenuous and designed to distract from the discussion of what is to be done with the land currently occupied by St. Paul’s. Let’s be clear on a few things;

The Cathedral property is private property -- owned and controlled by the Cathedral -- not the Village. There is no guarantee that the Cathedral will actually create a park. The Cathedral has had financial difficulties. It sold St. Paul’s to the Village and tore down the St. Mary’s School. A few years ago it issued a request for propsoals to develop the property and had discussions with Adelphi to build student housing. The Cathedral controls access to their property and doesn’t have to open a park to Village residents. They own it. For context, the Cathedral owns the road at 6th Street that Village residents used for decades. Then they closed the road. It is their land.

If the Cathedral ever builds this fictional park on its property, Village residents will have no input or control over what features are -- or are not -- placed on the Cathedral grounds or if/when/ how it will be made available to the public. Want a jogging path? Not up to the residents. Want a bandshell? Not up to the residents. Want a koi pond? Not up to the residents. Want a gazebo? Not up to the residents. What is there will be entirely up to the Cathedral. It is their land.

What has Trustee Muldoon proposed See page 44

Presentation

on St. Paul’s Park proposal

St. Paul’s Park Group will be holding a presentation on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at the Senior Citizen’s Center from 7:00–8:30. We will be discussing the demolition of the building, historical pieces that can be saved both from the interior and exterior, costs and various uses future Boards of Trustees might want to consider. Presented by Walter Beal, Former Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan, James Kumpel, Donald MacLeod, Tom Ryan and Micheal Tiedemann. Image generated by artificial intelligence.

Moody’s: Village retains Aaa bond rating

Moody’s has once again issued a Aaa rating to the Village’s $17.9 million bonds issued in February 2026, citing in their credit opinion the Village’s strengths, including conservative budgetary practices that have resulted in a history of operating surplus and healthy reserves. At the close of fiscal 2025, the Village held $51.5 million in available fund balance, equal to a robust 55.5% of total revenue; unrestricted cash and investments are also very strong $62.1 million or 66.9%.

The $17.9 million in bonds were issued principally to fund various infrastructure projects around the Village, including water well treatment, replacement of water mains, road resurfacing and paving, street lighting, and replacement of the water slide at the community pool, as well as for the purchase of major vehicles and equipment.

The bond sale held on February 3, 2026 was very successful in that there were a significant number of bidders and the bids were very competitive and close. The winning bidder was UBS Financial Services Inc. with a

True Interest Cost (TIC) of 3.339% that reflects a premium offered of close to $1.4 million. This result was better than projected and according to our advisor, CMA, recent sales were at 3.67% and 3.57%. Due to the large amount of the premium offered, the par value of the issued bonds were resized to $16.7 million.

“The sale was extremely successful. This result was better than what we projected,” Treasurer Irene Woo noted.

Trustee Rich Catalano, chairperson of the Finance & Audit Committee, praised the Finance Department’s commitment to financial excellence. “It’s a lot of hard work putting together offering documents. What’s reflected in the Moody’s Aaa bond rating is the fact that our Village has a long history of budgeting  conservatively and maintaining healthy reserves. Our current Board of Trustees is committed to continuing these prudent financial practices.”

The full credit opinion can be viewed on the Village’s website, under the Finance Department tab.

Raymond George CRPC

Managing Director, Wealth Management Financial Advisor Cody George CDFA

Vice President

Taylor George

George Group at Morgan Stanley 1200 Franklin Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 516-683-3282

Associate Vice President Financial Advisor raymond.george@ morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/the-george-group

Team: Forbes' Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams list for 2022-2026 Raymond: Forbes' Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list for 2019-2025

The use of the CDFA® designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney.

Source: Forbes.com (2023-2025) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC. based on 12-month time period concluding in March of year prior to the issuance of the award.

Source: Forbes.com (2019-2024) Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based 12-month time period concluding in June of year prior to the issuance of the award.

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Village expands pollinator, tree diversity efforts

BY RIKKI MASSAND

Despite this year’s harsh winter conditions, village officials and volunteers are discussing potential spring projects to enhance the biodiversity and ecological footprint of Garden City’s municipal grounds. While conversations began some time ago, topics were summarized with Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) input and goals for 2026 were outlined at the January 14th Sustainability Roundtable.

In her presentation, EAB member and Farmingdale State University professor Amanda Shore spoke about the use of natural resources and how the village can leverage them “in a way that makes them present and available for future generations.”

“This means we need to balance out human needs, environmental needs and wildlife needs. The efforts to plant new flower beds focused on planting flowers that are known to support or grow the life cycle of various pollinators. It is particularly important because pollinators like butterflies and bees are threatened by a lot of factors including heating, pesticides and more. Hopefully with the new Village of Garden City Pollinator Garden, we can inspire individuals to create their own pollinator gardens. This is something the EAB and village officials can discuss,” she explained.

From nearby Sacred Heart Academy, Science Research Director Dr. Steve Sullivan told the EAB that the nuns who founded the school have sponsored gardens in Brentwood, “working on combating the mites that affect bees.”

He asked about the village’s response to this emerging threat to pollinators as part of its new municipal efforts.

“Those mites are becoming a huge problem with bees, and that might be something for students to learn about and try to help. As you bring in more pollinators, it’s something to examine for ways to protect them as they come into Garden City,” he said.

Shore concurred that mites and certain fungal diseases are detrimental to bee hives, especially during the winter when hives become too moist. She said the village currently has no way, particularly in winter, of quantifying the number of bees attracted to and arriving in the new pollinator garden, but noted it could become an interesting ecology project.

“The way to test for this would have to be capturing some bees and testing for the mites. Monitoring for this prob-

ably isn’t something we can implement as a village, though it can become a science project for somebody,” she said.

EAB member Elizabeth Bailey asked if there were organized bee hives in the village, and fellow EAB member Evelyn Fasano responded that the Cathedral of the Incarnation has one on its grounds.

Fasano said the EAB has discussed releasing ladybugs for Earth Day in April because they are effective natural predators of aphids. “I looked it up, and ladybugs also eat mites, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects. We’ve discussed this since last April and we’re on it,” she noted. Umana also brought up spiders and praying mantises as effective predators of smaller insects and detailed the role ladybugs can play in a pollinator environment.

“Ladybugs are used to take away/ eliminate mites, thrips and any little pests you have, though they need a food source. Once they find the source they will stick around by mating, reproducing and establishing generations of ladybugs in one area – but if they do not find the food source they will disperse. Ladybugs actually go dormant and sort of ‘sleep’ through winter’s cold so when the village receives them, we can put them in a fridge. If we do that they will stay dormant but alive, then we’d take them out of the fridge and as their bodies heat up they will become active. Their legs would start moving, then they’d disperse. And praying mantises are highly effective predators too – and in a tiny little mantis nest there can be 50 to 100 baby mantises that would come out to be big, strong insects,” he said.

EAB co-chair and Village Trustee Jessica Tai noted that ladybugs should not be released too early in order to protect pollinators, and that timing should coincide with the blooming of flowers this spring so a food source is available. Umana confirmed that the village intends to wait for warmer temperatures and the arrival of pest insects. He advised the EAB that early to mid-April presents a good window for the ladybug project, and Earth Day would be an ideal starting point.

Tai also said expansion of the municipal pollinator garden at Hilton Avenue and Stewart Avenue, near the gazebo, would be a worthwhile project this spring. She explained that this could involve removing some existing yew trees and shrubs behind it and adding “prettier, more visually appealing”

See page 48

Candidates to hold Meet and Greet

SUBMITTED BY THE FABGC CANDIDATES

For A Better Garden City Trustee candidates Thomas Brosnan, Joann Frey, Thomas Ryan, and Neha Bajaj will be hosting a Meet & Greet, Feb 24, from 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. Come speak with the candidates about their position on St Paul’s and any other specific issue or questions you might have. For more information about the Candidates, their bios and accomplishments, or to contribute to the campaign, please visit www.fabgc.org

us for an informative seminar on preparing your home to list and learn valuable tips and strategies to make your home sale smooth and successful.

Presented by: The Garden City Howard Hanna | Coach Realtors Team Saturday March 7, 2026, 10am - 12pm

Jen Sullivan Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Founding Agent of Long Island Member of the Luxury Division jennifer.sullivan@compass.com M: 516.361.7190

PTF MOVING

GCHS hosts wholeschool reading program

On Feb. 12, Garden City High School students and faculty members came together through literature for the ninth annual whole-school community read program.

Coordinated by high school librarian Margaux Calemmo, this year’s event featured the contemporary dystopian thriller “Sunrise on the Reaping,” a prequel to “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins. The gathering was the culminating event of an ongoing initiative that began with student and staff voting on a title to read collectively in December of 2025.

The final reading celebration featured small group “chat station” discussions about the themes of the novel and parallels to modern day society. For the second year, the event had a special twist as the chat stations were run entirely by student volunteers from the high school’s English language arts classes.

Guided by their student facilitators, with support from teachers from all subject areas, students shared their perspectives on the character development and themes of the novel. Emphasis was placed on the contemporary aspects of

the book, as this year’s selection, a dystopian novel, was a departure from the historical and realistic fiction that has often been chosen as the winning title.

The whole-school community read is a unifying event that has become part of the fabric of Garden City High School, with a large part of the student population from grades 9-12 participating. Planning by the committee typically begins in September, and the voting process is always inclusive of student voice and choice, as students are given three titles to choose from with “Sunrise on the Reaping” emerging as this year’s winner.

The growing popularity of the wholeschool community read at Garden City High School over the years has promoted interest from other school districts and public libraries, thereby prompting Calemmo to coauthor the book “The Whole-School Community Read,” published by Bloomsbury in November 2025.

The district is thankful to the PTA for donating copies of the book and the Garden City Public Library for making print, electronic and audiobook versions available.

Knights host defensive driving course

The Knights of Columbus #15809 at St Joseph’s Church in Garden City is pleased to offer the community a Driver Defensive Driving Course. The course will be held on Saturday, March 21, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the St. Joseph’s Church, 130 Fifth St., Garden City - LL St Agnes Room. Call for directions. Upon completion of this course,

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

GC Kiwanis announces scholarship

The Garden City Kiwanis Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now available for the 2026 Kiwanis Service Scholarship. The scholarship is open to any high school senior residing in the Garden City School District and is awarded in recognition of a student’s commitment to community service. Applications have been provided to

the Guidance Department of Garden City High School and to many of the private high schools in the vicinity. Interested students should contact their guidance department. The application may also be obtained by emailing Carole Russo at cartaxpro@aol.com. The deadline for submitting an application is April 1, 2026.

Commerce.

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

Long Island Sales Data From One Key MLS Nassau County Median Sale Price

195 Sackville Road

Date: 02/18/2026

Sold price: $1,330,000

5 bedrooms, 3 full baths

Architectural Style: Colonial Square feet: 2,549

Lot size: .15 acres

Annual taxes: $19,955

MLS number: 907963

The Seller’s Team: Eric Pang, Winzone Realty

The Buyer’s Team: Lisa Lei, E Realty Intl.

This beautiful single family colonial home located at one of the best areas in Garden City. Walking distance to school and LIRR, very easy to commute to the city. Roof is in great condition, beautiful front and rear yard, owner spent lots money on the pavers throughout the driveway and back yard, the house comes with three levels, 1st , 2nd floor and basement with separated entrance . Open kitchen with granite countertops, extra built in cabinets on both sides of the walls, dining room, living room, and family room easily alter to a guests master room and beautiful out door paved patio with barbecue area for family gathering, beautiful front landscaping with a nice size porch for relaxing and morning and afternoon coffee or tea on the 1st floor. Five bedrooms and one full bath on the 2nd floor with lots of closet space . recreation area, storage room , laundry room, full bath, gyms space and mechanical room in the basement.

301 Franklin Ave., #114

Date: 02/12/2026

Sold price: $1,150,000

2 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Architectural Style: Condominium

Square feet: 1,479

Monthly charges: $1264

Annual taxes: $14,364

MLS number: 935953

The Seller’s Team: Lisa and Fortune Heaney, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl Realty.

The Buyer’s Team: Scott Wallace and Marianne Imperiale, Daniel Gale Sothebys Intl. Realty

Experience refined, contemporary living in this impeccably updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence at Doubleday Court. The open floor plan features a sun-filled living and dining area with custom built-ins, large windows and sliders, elegant paneling, crown molding, and recessed lighting. The brand-new chef’s kitchen showcases high-end appliances, quartz countertops, abundant cabinetry, and a generous breakfast bar. Both the living room and primary suite offer direct access to the patio, creating a perfect spot to unwind. The serene primary suite offers an oversized walk-in closet and a newly renovated, spa-like bath with beautiful tile work, a double vanity with a quartzite counter, and custom lighting. A well-appointed second bedroom can easily serve as a den or home office. The new hall bath also features thoughtfully selected tile and finishes. Additional highlights include a separate laundry/utility room with a wholeunit dehumidifier and storage. Residents enjoy exceptional amenities, including a private outdoor pool with lounge and BBQ area, fitness center, 24-hour concierge, dog park, heated underground garage with 1-car assigned parking space, electric vehicle charger and bicycle storage, and a large private storage unit. Ideally located near the LIRR, shops, dining, schools, and parks.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

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Retiring police commissioner honored

Hempstead Town Councilman Tom Muscarella congratulated Village of Garden City Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson as he retired after 44 years of service to the village police department.

Beautiful 2022 new construction offering generous living space with 5 spacious bedrooms and 4.5 baths. Designed for comfortable living and effortless entertaining, the main level features a welcoming foyer, formal dining and living room, a gourmet Viking kitchen opens to a large family room with gas fireplace, plus mudroom, butler’s pantry, and cinema room. Upstairs offers a serene primary suite with walk-in closet, 4 additional bedrooms and laundry room. Finished basement with 11’ ceilings and full bath. Near New Hyde Park LIRR and

Michael S chroder ha s s uccessfully represented Garden City homeowners’ tax appeals for over 40 years. He has lived in the Village for 35 years .

RESU LTS

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Schroder & Strom is recommended by Garden City ’s most prominent attorneys and real estate agents for their clients’ tax appeals.

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

By John L. Gomes, MD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spotlight on Business: Chamber event draws record crowd

on Wednesday, February 4, at Adelphi University.

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted its first Garden City Connect networking event of the year on Wednesday, February 4th, at Adelphi University, and the response was nothing short of remarkable. A record number attendees filled the space, representing a dynamic mix of local business owners, entrepreneurs, networking professionals, and Garden City residents.

As always, John Wilton, President of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce, kept the evening energetic and engaging. Guests enjoyed multiple giveaways featuring gift cards generously donated by local businesses that continue to support the Chamber and its mission of strengthening the Garden City business community.

This year holds special significance for the Chamber, as it proudly celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce, marking a century of service, advocacy, and community leadership.

The success of the evening was made possible through the generous support of the event’s sponsors, including Meli, Garden City’s newest restaurant on Franklin Ave; Biz Family Auto on Commercial Avenue in Garden City; Loucri Jewelers on Old Country Road; Children’s Art Classes on Hempstead Turnpike;

and Inspiring Wellness on Franklin Avenue.

The Chamber also took time to recognize two outstanding individuals whose dedication continues to elevate its programs and events. Kaitlin Woods of Adelphi University was honored for her unwavering support of the Chamber and her willingness to always say “yes,” graciously facilitating the event space, food, and beverages. Additionally, Althea Robinson was recognized for her many years of service, experience, and invaluable institutional knowledge that she brings to the Chamber. The evening was further elevated by remarks from Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce President Frank Camarano, who acknowledged that Garden City continues to set the standard for networking events, noting that Garden City Connect is the largest networking event of its kind in Nassau County.

Events of this scale and quality require months of preparation. The Chamber extends its sincere gratitude to the Executive Board, Board of Directors, and dedicated interns whose hard work and commitment made the evening such a resounding success.

For more information on upcoming Chamber events and the next Garden City Connect networking event, please visitwww.gardencitychamber.org.

Kindergarten registration

Garden City Public Schools is excited to welcome incoming kindergarten students and their families to the community for the 2026–27 school year. Families are encouraged to complete the registration process and can direct any questions

or concerns to the district registrar at Registrar@gcufsd.net. Additional information, including important dates and required documents, can be found on the Kindergarten Registration Information page of the district website.

America 250: From Boston to Long Island

Long Island played an important role in the American Revolution. On February 24 you can learn about the Long Island spy ring commissioned by George Washington - the Culper Spy Ring - and events such as the Boston Tea Party that led to the Revolutionary War.

The four Garden City Property Owners’ Associations (POAs) invite you to “America 250: From Boston to Long Island.” The event will include:

• a presentation on the Culper Spy Ring by Margo Aceri, a Revolutionary War expert and Executive Producer of the upcoming TV series Redcoats and Petticoats

• a skit about Bostonians’ reaction to the Boston Tea Party (written by GC resident Leslie Dimmling)

• a skit about the Culper Spy Ring through the eyes of mysterious Culper Spy, Agent 355

• music from Revolutionary War period performed by members of the Garden City High School Marching Band

There is no charge, light refreshments will be served. However, space

is limited, so we ask you to kindly register using this QR code.

America 250: From Boston to Long Island will be held at the Senior Center at 7:00 p.m. on February 24.

The Garden City Property Owners Associations are 501(c)4 civic organizations.  See www.gccoa.org (Central), www.gcepoa.org (East), www.gcestates.org (Estates) or www. gcwpoa.org (West) for more information.

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The Laura Carroll Team Licensed Real Estate Salesperson laura.carroll@compass.com M: 917.370.5354 movewithlauracarroll

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Edgemere f irehouse renovation receives $500K grant

Congresswoman Laura Gillen presents a $500,000 check to Mayor Ed Finneran and Chief James Taunton. The federal funding will help the Village finance the Edgemere Fire Station rebuild. Also pictured are Deputy Mayor Judy Courtney, Trustees Vinny Muldoon and Michele Beach-Harrington, Village Administrator Ralph Suozzi, 1st Assistant Chief Jonahtan Parrella, 2nd Assistant Chief Daniel Roeper and members of the GCFD.

COMPLETE AUTO BODY & REPAIR UNDER ONE ROOF

Chief James Taunton thanks Congresswoman Laura Gillen for securing $500,000 in federal funds to help the Village finance needed improvements that will accommodate current and future firefighting apparatus, meet critical code requirements, and provide modern, fully functional facilities for volunteers.

“Today is an important and exciting day for the Garden City Fire Department and for the residents of our Village,” Chief James Taunton said as he welcomed Congresswoman Laura Gillen to Station 2 on Friday, February 13th. The congresswoman secured $500,000 in federal funding to help the Village finance the rebuild of the Edgemere Fire Station in the West.

“This renovation will directly benefit the Fire Department and enhance Garden City’s emergency response, while preserving the beautiful historic character of this nearly 100 year old fire station,” Congresswoman Gillen said.

“I applaud the Mayor and the Village Trustees and the Fire Department and the residents of Garden City for their commitment to upgrading this beautiful infrastructure here and to securing this federal funding. Garden City’s firefighters represent the best of Long Island, selflessly volunteering their time and putting themselves in harms way to serve others, to save lives and to protect this community and the families who live here.”

“This is a direct investment in the

safety of the residents of Garden City. These improvements will allow us to accommodate current and future firefighting apparatus, meet critical code requirements, and provide modern, fully functional facilities where our volunteers can respond at a moment’s notice,” Chief Taunton said. “While this project improves a building, its real impact is on the volunteers who serve inside it. We are neighbors helping neighbors, and when our volunteers have the facilities they need, our entire community benefits. Congresswoman Gillen, thank you for standing with our volunteers and investing in the safety of the Village we proudly serve.”

Mayor Ed Finneran thanked the Congresswoman and her team for their unwavering commitment to securing the funds. “Resident safety, peace of mind, quality of life and the freedom to pursue our goals and dreams all depend on a strong, community-minded police force, fire department and EMT service. Could there be a more important responsibility for any community? It’s hard to imagine there is one,” he said.

Fibromyalgia - The Invisible Illness

You wake up some days and can’t get out of bed.

Most evenings the pain is so intense you can’t even make dinner for your family.

The exhaustion takes over and covers you like a heavy blanket.

And of course, depression hits: you can’t clean your house or play with your kids.

You wonder if you’re any good to anybody like this.

This is life with Fibromyalgia.

And it was everyday life for Kelly C. of Westbury, NY. “I would spend my days in bed as the pain traveled to different parts of my body. Often it would feel as though there were bugs scurrying under my skin, a sensation I wish on no one. Look, I knew my family needed me, and it was devastating to disappoint them day after day because I didn’t feel well,” shares Kelly.

Fibromyalgia is a complicated and chronic condition that disrupts the lives of over 4 million people in the U.S. because of inconsistent and allencompassing symptoms, fibromyalgia remains one of the most difficult conditions to diagnose and treat. Ultimately, it becomes a diagnosis of exclusion. Scans show nothing, tests come back inconclusive, and your questions don’t have answers so the doctors diagnose you with “fibro”. A majority of practitioners will recommend anti-inflammatory diets increasing you take of magnesium, or prescribe

prescription medications that come with a slew of uncomfortable side effects. All of these are band-aids, masking the symptoms rather than fixing them.

“All the doctors and specialists I met with couldn’t offer me a real solution. Some even had the audacity to tell me that my pain was all in my head. I had never felt so defeated and disrespected. I started doing my own researchreading articles that told me to go gluten-free and eliminate toxins, even in my face wash. I did all of it and didn’t find any relief. However, I was having such a hard time focusing and concentrating. I’m not entirely confident in anything I did.”

Kelly’s story is not uncommon amongst those suffering from fibromyalgia. The pain is inconsistent and unrelenting, causing debilitating chronic fatigue and brain fog, something the afflicted not-so affectionately refer to as ‘fibro fog.’

the staff at Westbury Acupuncture have a 90% success rate in treating Fibromyalgia?

There are a few suggested causes for fibromyalgia including genetics, infections, and physical trauma, but so much about this disease is still so unknown that it has been dubbed the ‘invisible illness.’

Until now!

“I saw something on the local newspaper featuring licensed acupuncturist, Jae Won and his work with fibromyalgia.

At this point, I was willing to try anything. And thank God I did. Going to his acupuncture clinic has allowed me to go from surviving to truly thriving!” Kelly exclaims. “Since starting treatment, I went from not being able to cook dinner for my family to cooking for my daughter’s entire graduation party and playing slip-n-slide with two dozen teenagers. I was even able to go visit my mother for the first time in two years!

Before I was unable to make the ride because it put me in too much pain. I even hugged her!”

And why do Jae Won and

Jae Won shares all. “In addition to acupuncture, which has been used to treat pain for thousands of years, we use ATP Resonance BioTherapy. It’s a cutting edge technology that targets specific tissues in the body. It then reprograms them for optimal performance. We have protocols for a myriad of chronic conditions from neuropathy to tendonitis. We can even target the pain and inflammation caused by fibromyalgia.”

It’s in combining his experience, the time-tested science of acupuncture, and modern medical solutions like ATP Resonance BioTherapy that Westbury Acupuncture is giving much needed relief to those suffering with fibromyalgia and other complicated, chronic conditions.

Because Jae Won designs very personalized treatment programs for each of his patients, an initial consultation is required in order to receive treatment.

For a limited time the cost of that consult is free.

Visit WestburyAcupuncture.com to learn more or call (516)500-8281 to schedule today.

Ancestors revealed at DAR meeting

Members of the Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Heather Zawislak, Regent, made their Revolutionary War ancestors the focus of their most recent meeting on February 14.

The NSDAR is a community service organization whose pillars are education, patriotism and historic preservation. Their National headquarters is located in Washington DC across from the White House. Membership currently is about 190,000 women nationwide. In order to join, potential members are required to provide documentary proof of their genealogical descent from an American Revolutionary War patriot, and detail the nature of that Patriot ’ s service to the Cause.

At the meeting held on February 14, chapter members revealed the stories of the ancestors who made their membership in the organization possible. Often, the ancestor's own words have survived in letters or documents of the period. They and their families lived in perilous times. Some bumped elbows with traitors or heroes. Some were jailed, and some were wounded in battle. Some families contained both Patriots and

Tories. All of this made for an interesting story to share with others. Are YOU a women who is a descendant of an American Revolutionary War soldier? Do you enjoy histo -

ry and community service? If so, you might want to join our group.

The Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter NSDAR has been located in Garden City since 1929, almost 100 years!

Contact our Registrar Gen at the following email: nursegen@optonline. net for more information regarding membership.

FABGC candidates visit Senior Center

Candidates Jo-Ann Frey and Thomas Brosnan speak with residents at the Senior Center.

SUBMITTED BY THE FABGC CANDIDATES

Candidates Thomas Brosnan and Jo-Ann Frey met with residents at the Senior Center last Thursday February 12th. Over pizza and chocolate chip cookies Thomas Brosnan and Jo-Ann Frey met with the Men's Cribbage Group and the Pool Chat Group. They discussed the issues in the upcoming Village election on March 18th.

A range of issues were discussed focusing on the need for fiscal responsibility in the Village. There was discussion of the future of St. Paul's and the financial costs of Adaptive Reuse versus the cost of creating a park. Those in attendance asked a range of questions involving the FABGC's clear platform to create a park by remov-

ing the St. Paul's buildings, while retaining the playing fields, Cluett Hall, the field house and the clock tower. Retaining the clock tower would be a way to honor the memory of A.T. Stewart and the architecture and history of the building. In addition, historic artifacts would be salvaged and displayed for Village residents to see and appreciate, something they cannot do now. There was a robust discussion of the Village's need to consider needs versus wants when making funding decisions. Attendees were informed that the next Meet and Greet by the FABGC candidates, Neha Bajaj, Thomas Brosnan, Jo-Ann Frey and Thomas Ryan, would be on February 24 at 7 p.m. at the Senior Center.

IN MEMORIAM

Virginia Smith

Virginia “Ginny” Smith passed away peacefully on Valentine’s Day 2026. Her two sons were with her through her illness and take comfort in knowing she is now in the comfort of her loving parents, Thomas A. Lewis and Marie Lewis, as well as her brother, Thomas A. Lewis, Jr.

A lifelong resident of Garden City, class of 1953, she was fortunate enough to live out her life in her childhood home. A long-time active member of The Mineola Golden Age Club, she was known by many and loved by all. Her loving nature was always evident, often putting other people’s needs ahead of her own. Whether driving a friend to an appointment, organizing an outing, or lending a helpful hand in any way she could, everyone

knew they could count on Ginny.

In addition to her love and devotion to her family and friends, Ginny had a pure love for animals. One couldn’t count the number of dogs that were spoiled by her over the years.

Although the world might have just gotten a little bit darker, we are certain she is spreading sunshine up in heaven. We would ask that everyone please think of a past experience or memory of Ginny, and let that be comforting.

She is survived by her two loving sons, Thomas and Scott Noble, and her three grandchildren, Timothy, Emma, and Abigael Noble, who she was so proud of.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation in her name to either the American Cancer Society or The North Shore Animal League.

As AI Technology Accelerates

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

There have been numerous recent articles about the acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI) and what it may mean, both good and bad, for the economy and in our daily lives. This is an area of increasing importance for almost all of us.

Let me start off with a personal anecdote. In my law practice, I was recently asked by a client to do a preliminary review of a contract relating to the distribution of certain intellectual property that the client had created. (I can’t be more specific because of client confidentiality.) As an experiment, I ran the contract through AI, explaining that our firm was representing the content creator.

I was quite impressed by the work product, as the AI found contracts similar to the one under review and provided a list of provisions favorable to our client that might be included, and a few in the current document that could be deleted. Obviously, as an attorney who tries to be careful, I will review the AI output myself, verify the existence of the comparison contracts and probably add some thoughts of my own. But I have to say the AI input was quite useful to me, as well as cost effective to our client.

One viral essay circulating about AI is called “Something Big Is Happening”, written by AI startup investor Matt Shumer just a few days ago on February 9, 2026. Mr. Shumer, who claims that his essay is not intended to scare anyone, compares the current situation involving AI to the complacency felt in February 2020 about the coronavirus. In Mr. Shumer’s view, we are in the “this seems overblown” phase of something much, much bigger than Covid.

Mr. Shumer’s main point is that AI has improved exponentially in the last few years. For example, in 2022 it could not always perform simple arithmetic, by 2023 it could pass the bar exam, by 2024, it could write working software and explain graduate level science. By it 2025, some of the best engineers in the world turned over their coding to AI. And now, progress on AI is made almost daily, including AI that automatically helps improve previous versions of existing AI technology. The essay quotes Dario Amodei, the CEO of Anthropic, that AI models "substantially smarter than almost all humans at almost all tasks" are on track for 2026 or 2027.

Of course, this technology inevitably will have major effects on employment. Mr. Amodei of Anthropic predicts that AI will eliminate 50 percent

of entry level white collar jobs within one to five years.

Jobs likely to be impacted by AI are in such areas as legal work, financial analysis, writing and content, software engineering, medical analysis and customer service. Mr. Shumer points out that although the results may be imperfect currently, AI is now be taught to incorporate human traits like empathy and judgment in its decision making capacity.

Mr. Shumer offers a number of pieces of advice to people potentially affected by AI in this turbulent period. For example, people should use available AI regularly, including upgrading to paid subscriptions. Users should not just use AI as a search engine like Google, but give it challenging tasks that you might require in your employment; he does actually mention that lawyers should give AI contracts to review. He also advises that people prepare for the turbulence by battening down, improving performance at work and straightening out their finances

Nevertheless, and as recognized by Mr. Shumer, there are a number of other dimensions to AI, including some some that are quite positive and others that may delay, at least for a while, the full effects of the technology.

First, AI, for all its potential dislocations, also brings enormous potential benefits. Mr Amodei, who was also interviewed comprehensively by Ross Douthat of The New York Times, lists a number of these benefits. You could compare fully developed AI to a nation of 100 million geniuses who could bring their insights to biology and medicine, making progress much more likely in finding a cure for cancer and heart disease. AI-driven increases in productivity and innovation would likely fuel increases in overall wealth and GDP, producing a better standard of living and enough additional tax revenue to balance the national budget.

And, of course, there likely could be practical barriers to the advance of AI technology, both the parts we like and the parts we don’t. As Mr. Douthat points out in a column this week, one obstacle to radical speed is that “human society is a complex bottleneck through which the most efficiency maxing innovations have to pass”

I wish I could add a definitive conclusion to this column. Suffice it to say that even those (like me) who are not particularly technically oriented must now very much take AI into account.

Running A Village Has Never Been About One Issue

Has pledged to demo St. Paul’s immediately, regardless of resident input.

The FABGC Candidates have pledged to begin the process of demolishing St. Paul’s immediately, under “permissive referendum”, with a promise to save the clocktower, “if possible”

Committed to a residentled solution to St. Paul’s, with due diligence to all.

Finish the renovation on the Edgemere Firehouse.

Proceeding with the final phases of Water Department projects: Meadow Street Drainage Project, Cedar Valley Sewer Lift project & the historic Water Works building renovation.

Installation of two new slides and bathroom upgrades.

Finishing the Cluett Hall renovation including the new stage, HVAC, flooring, lighting, ADA elevator and playing courts.

Finish the HVAC upgrade ad new window installation in the Field House, enabling year-round usage, completion of the turf field.

..... and so much more!

Gas odor check

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to a Hilton Avenue residence on February 11th for a reported odor of gas. The situation was determined to be all in order.

Painting reported stolen

A victim told police on February 11th that a painting was stolen from a local business.

Check fraud case

An identity theft report was completed February 11th in connection with a check fraud case.

Tracker concern

On County Seat Drive on February 11th, Garden City Police took a report from a motorist who observed a tracker on their vehicle.

Hotel security detail

During a high-profile convention of the New York State Republican Committee on February 11th, which included protesters, the GCPD, PCDD, NCPD, and MTAPD assisted with security at the Garden City Hotel.

Washed check case

An Arthur Street resident was

the victim of identity theft on February 12th after a mailed check was reportedly washed, altered, and cashed.

Roadway arrest

On February 12th, a 24-year-old man from Levittown was reportedly standing in the roadway, causing traffic to stop. As officers responded and attempted to move him due to the unsafe condition, he allegedly assaulted one of the officers in an attempt to flee. Police say he was taken into custody and transported to NUMC.

Truck stop enforcement

The Motor Carrier Unit and Traffic Unit conducted a truck stop February 12th on New Hyde Park Road, inspecting nine trucks, taking four out of service, and issuing a total of 40 Uniform Traffic Tickets.

Burst pipe call

GCPD and the GC Water Department responded February 12th to a Raymond Court residence for a burst pipe.

Alarm responses

On February 12th, Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to multiple addresses for automatic fire alarms. All were determined to be in order.

Check fraud report

A victim responded to GCPD Headquarters on February 13th to report that a check had been washed, altered, and cashed.

Harassment probe

Officers responded February 13th to Garden City High School regarding a possible harassment report. The investigation continues.

Press conference detail

On February 13th, GCPD Community Policing officers were present at Fire House #2 as U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen held a press conference.

Pothole safeguards

Garden City Police responded February 13th to multiple reports of potholes to safeguard areas, if necessary, before DPW response.

Suspicious person

On February 13th, officers responded to an Old Country Road residence for a report of a suspicious person standing in front of the home. The individual was gone on arrival.

Burnt food alarm

Garden City Police and Firefighters responded February 14th to a Kilburn Road residence for an automatic fire alarm caused by burning food.

Alarm malfunction

On February 14th, GCFD and GCPD responded to a Franklin Avenue business for an automatic fire alarm that malfunctioned. The scene was determined to be in order.

Parking lot complaint

Garden City Police responded February 15th to an Old Country Road business parking lot for a report of two individuals in a vehicle smoking. The vehicle was gone when police arrived.

School alarm issue

On February 15th, Garden City Police and Firefighters responded to Stewart School for an automatic alarm caused by a carbon monoxide detector malfunction. GCFD deemed the building safe for occupancy.

Pipe break

Garden City Police and the GC Water Department responded February 15th to a Coventry Place residence for a burst pipe, and the water was turned off.

Lost jewelry found

Officers responded to the GC Hotel on February 15th for a report of lost jewelry. The items were later located inside a suitcase.

Passport scam report

On February 15th, officers responded to a Somerset Avenue residence for what appeared to be a passport renewal scam.

Vaping alarm

Police and firefighters responded February 15th to a Franklin Avenue business for an automatic alarm that appears to have been triggered by someone vaping in a bathroom.

Silent alarm check

Garden City Police responded on February 15th to a Brixton Road residence for a silent panic alarm. The homeowner was unaware it had activated, and all was in order.

Business check fraud

A Franklin Avenue business reported February 16th that a check had been washed, altered, and cashed. The investigation continues.

Traffic stop arrest

On February 16th, a Washington Avenue motorist was stopped for expired Georgia paper tags that did not belong to the vehicle. Further investigation revealed suspended registration, a suspended driver’s license, no insurance, and multiple other VTL violations. The motor vehicle was impounded.

Identity theft victim

A victim of identity theft reported it to the police on February 17th after a mailed check was reportedly washed, altered, and cashed.

Criminal mischief

On February 17th, a 27-yearold female from Ohio was arrested, police say, for criminal mischief to the Library front door.

Suspended driver stop

A Franklin Avenue motorist was stopped February 17th by a Traffic Unit officer after police say the motorist was observed using a cell phone and not wearing a seatbelt. Further investigation revealed suspended registration, a suspended driver’s license, no insurance, and multiple other VTL violations. The motor vehicle was impounded.

Last Friday we welcomed Congresswoman Laura Gillen to the Edgemere Fire House where she presented the Village with a $500,000 check. The federal grant will help the Village finance the rebuild of Station 2 in the West. Faced with numerous obstacles, the Congresswoman’s senior staff worked tirelessly for months, navigating the complicated maze of Congressional committees and political machinations to make this grant a reality. About eight months ago, we were told that a positive outcome was doubtful. Naturally, we were disappointed. But throughout the process, Congresswoman Gillen kept us informed and engaged. Then, just about a month ago, came the good news — the tide had turned. And here we are, ladies and gentlemen, one step closer to transforming a once magnificent and historic firehouse into a modern firefighting headquarters — and reaffirming our commitment to the safety, pride, and quality of life that define Garden City.

Moratorium on Subdivisions Extended

The Board voted to extend the moratorium on the application, acceptance and approval of building permits

by Village Boards or Commission, staff members and officials for residential subdivision in the Village, as approved by Local Law 6-2025 on August 14, 2025 through February 18, 2026, for an additional threemonth period, until May 18, 2026. Following the extension, there is one additional three-month extension permitted by that initial Board resolution. We have been working on two tracks. We hope to have the first done in a week or so (it’s process oriented) so that we can hold a hearing on March 5th prior to Board consideration of the new VGC code language.

- 9:30 p.m.

Budget Work Session 2

• Tuesday, March 31, 2026: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Budget Work Session 3

• Thursday, April 2, 2026: 7:30 p.m.9:30 p.m.

Public Hearing and Adoption of Budget

• Second Board of Trustees meeting of the new term (TBD)

Snow Complaints

Following Last Storm

Budget Work Sessions

The Board will conduct work sessions to review the Tentative 2026-27 Operating and Capital Budgets in the Village Hall Board Room and via Zoom beginning March 24, 2026, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Here is the full schedule:

Budget Work Session 1

• Tuesday, March 24, 2026: 7:30 p.m.

Adelphi PAC announces Larson Legacy Concert

Adelphi University’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) is set to host its latest Larson Legacy Concert on March 7, 2026, at 3 p.m. in the Olmsted Theatre, featuring acclaimed composer and 2025 Jonathan Larson Grant recipient Dylan MarcAurele. This event continues Adelphi’s tradition of showcasing emerging talents in musical theater.

MarcAurele, recognized for his innovative contributions to the genre, will present selections from his current projects, including the critically acclaimed musical “Pop Off, Michelangelo!” which recently enjoyed a successful run in London.

His Larson Legacy Concert at Adelphi will feature a cabaret-style showcase of music from past productions (like “Pop Off, Michelangelo!”) and future productions (including his upcoming parody musical “Heated Rivalry” that sold-out its performances in a matter of hours). Joining him for this concert will be Taylor Fagins, Mateo Chavez Lewis, and Yael Rizowy.

The Larson Legacy Concert Series, established in 2015, honors the memory of Jonathan Larson, the creator of the

Pulitzer Prize-winning musical “RENT” and a 1982 Adelphi alumnus. The series aims to support and nurture the next generation of musical theater creators.

Past participants have included notable artists such as Michael R. Jackson (“A Strange Loop,” “White Girl in Danger,” “Teeth”), Max Vernon (“K-Pop,” “The View Upstairs”), Zoe Sarnak (“The Lonely Few”), and Benjamin Velez (“Real Women Have Curves”).

Tickets are currently on sale online, with discounts available to seniors, students, Adelphi alumni and employees. This performance will also be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.

For more information, call Lucia and Steven N. Fischer Box Office at 516877-4000 or email boxoffice@adelphi. edu. The box office is open for phone and in-person sales Wednesday through Friday from Noon to 5 p.m. and is also open two hours before all ticketed performances.

Ticket sales, livestream details, and additional information are available online.

Following the big January snowstorm, the Building Department responded to 73 snow complaints. According to Building Superintendent Giuseppe Giovanniello, it’s very important to shovel snow off sidewalks adjacent to your house. The Village is here to help. We work together as a team so people can walk around the Village safely. Your cooperation is paramount. Please check out the ad in this week’s Garden City News detail-

ing snow removal guidelines. Any questions or concerns, call the Garden City Snow Hotline at (516) 465-4048.

Blood Drive at the Library

The Garden City Public Library will hold a blood drive on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 1-7pm in the large meeting room on the lower level of the Library. Appointments are strongly preferred; walk-ins are welcomed. To schedule an appointment, visit the Library’s website, click this link or call 1-800-933-BLOOD to schedule an appointment or for any medical questions concerning blood donations.

Chamber Centennial

The Garden City Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. To kick off festivities, the Chamber unveiled a commemorative Centennial logo, which will appear on all official communications throughout 2026. The celebration will also be visible with the installation of commemorative lamp post banners in Garden City’s downtown areas. Further, the Chamber has planned a series of events throughout 2026, including a community-wide “Shop Local” campaign and summer promenades.

The countdown is on for Hoops for Hope

The team is ready? Are you? Come to Hoops for Hope and cheer on the Challengers! The big day is Monday, March 2, 2026 at Garden City High School. Doors open at 3 and tip off is at 3:30. The game is being played in memory of Bobby Menges, a GCHS alum who lost his battle with cancer. All proceeds from the game will be donated to the I’m Not Done Yet Foundation. INDY’s mission is to help adolescent and young adult patients who are fighting cancer and other serious, chronic and longterm illnesses.

Teamwork is what makes this event so special. The Garden City Middle School is a huge Hoops for Hope supporter every year. Stop by their table outside of the gym on March 2. GCMS students are writing inspirational mes-

sages to the players on flyers that hang around their school. Students and faculty from all of the GC Schools, along with members of the community all come to cheer on the Challengers. Let’s all do it again!

A suggested donation of $5 includes a coupon for some free 7th Street Tenders from Seventh Street Gourmet, 100 Seventh Street, GC. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase for a chance to win great prizes. Family and business sponsorships are available. If interested please contact Liz Menges at efmenges131@gmail.com. Questions? Contact Katherine O’Hanlon at 516-760-7868. Hoops for Hope is probably already on your calendar. If it’s not, it’s time to put it down NOW!

Incorporated Village of Garden City Snow Clearing Guidelines

§178‐6 Removal of Snow and Ice From Sidewalks.

Upon failure of any such owner, lessee or occupant to remove such snow or ice within 24 hours, the Village may cause such sidewalk to be cleared and assess the expense thereof upon the property owner.

Snow and ice must be removed �4 hours a�er snow stops and�or ice forms.

Sidewalks are the responsibility of the abu�ng property owner.

The Americans With Disabili�es Act guidelines require a 4 foot clear path, free of snow and ice, for accessibility on sidewalks.

Corner Proper�es must clear the corner and ramp fully to allow for the free flow of pedestrian traffic.

Proper�es with a fire hydrant in front must clear off a 3 foot square around the fire hydrant for Garden City Fire Department access.

GCHS students shine at Model UN Conference

Top row: Liliana Magarino, Fallon Grant, Amanat Jain, Rebecca Chau, Luke Perry, Elsie Ross, Mihir Goyal, Tejas Beras.

Bottom row: Jisha Samuel, Naya Lele, Tiffany Zhang, Chloe Lin, Erica Egor.

During the weekend of Feb. 7, students from Garden City High School took part in Boston University’s prestigious Model United Nations Conference where they joined 2,000 peers from across the United States. GCHS students participated in 10 diverse committees, representing various nations and perspectives while working collaboratively to address global challenges.

The conference began with an inspiring keynote address by Youssef Chahed, the former prime minister of Tunisia, who was instrumental in bringing democratic change to the country during the Arab Spring. He urged tomorrow's leaders to engage with issues they are passionate about and strive for meaningful change. Throughout the weekend, students delivered speeches, defended

their positions, negotiated with fellow delegates, drafted and revised resolutions and voted on proposed solutions.

At one of the largest Model UN Conferences in the nation, Garden City High School had an impressive five award winners: Amanat Jain (The Phoenix of South America, Colombia 1958), Tiffany Zhang (United Nations Climate Change Conference 2025, Biodiversity Loss), Rebecca Chau (Food And Agriculture Organization; Illegal Fishery Practices) and Chloe Linand and Erica Egor (The Sixth Committee; Cyber Warfare).

Over the course of the three days, GCHS students forged new friendships and enhanced their critical thinking, leadership and problem-solving skills.

Photos courtesy of the Garden City School District

FOR SENIORS fyi

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

Fall Prevention

Join us at the Senior Center on Tuesday, February 24, at 11:30 a.m., Darlie Abdallah Hilaire, director of PT at Parker Jewish Institute, will speak on fall precautions. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Downsizing & Estate Planning Seminar

Join us at the Senior Center for a Downsizing & Estate Planning Seminar, Thursday, March 5, at 11:00 a.m. A complimentary brunch will be served, hosted by Erin Fleischmann, Douglas Elliman. Join Erin and a panel of trusted professionals from Cross Country Mortgage and estate planning/real estate law for an informative discussion on planning your next chapter.

Speakers: Cross Country Mortgage, Peter Lucia, Senior Vice President, Sam Mogavero, Mortgage Advisor, Michael O’Connor, Regional Sales Manager –Reverse Mortgages. Attorneys, Anthony W. Russo, Esq. – The Law Office of Anthony W. Russo, P.C., Craig A. Andreoli, Esq. – Law Office of Craig A. Andreoli, P.C. Elder Law & Estate Planning.

Topics Covered: Downsizing in today’s market, Financing & income options, Reverse mortgages, Estate planning & trusts.

Unable to attend? For a personal and confidential consultation, call Erin Fleischmann | 516-864-1977. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Bingo

Join us for BINGO with Erin Fleischmann from Douglas Elliman Real Estate, Wednesday, March 11, at 12:15. Space is limited, to register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Navigating Home Care and Medicaid Made Simple

Join us for an educational workshop with Dr Desirie Sykes “Navigating Home Care & Medicaid Made Simple” Thursday March 12, at 11:00. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Book Club

The next book club meeting will be on March 19 at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center.  The book is titled, “The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman. All are welcome.

Know Before You Go

Join us Thursday, March 26, at 11:00 for a presentation “Know before You Go” Understanding and navigating discharge from hospital/rehab, what to expect at rehab, ensuring legal and financial matters are properly organized, and about medicare coverage. RSVP to Kerri Winans Kaley by 3/23 at (631) 372-2392 or kwkaley@thebristal.com

Tai Chi

Beginning December 12, join us at noon for Tai Chi on the second Friday of each month, sponsored by the Bristal at Garden City. For the month of February, Tai Chi will take place on Friday the 27th.

Open Mah Jongg and Canasta

Every Tuesday, we will be offering pickup Mah Jongg and Canasta games, open to all residents from 12:00–2:00. Bring a set and have some fun.

Open Ping Pong

Senior Center Ping Pong on Tuesdays from 1:00–3:00. This is no longer a dropin program, If you are interested in playing, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006 to have your name put on an interest list.

Chair Yoga

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

Open Chess

Join us for Open Chess at Senior Center, every Friday at 2:00–3:30. Beginning December 5. No registration is required, just stop by and play! Amanat from Chess4Community will be here on Fridays beginning 12/19 if you need assistance, or have any questions.

Senior Center Lunch Group

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

A BETTER WAY TO USE THE WEB FOR AN MD.

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

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

Better health starts with a better health system.

Cathedral announces Lenten programming

Gummy bear challenge

The German club students learned about the history and making of German gummy bears.It was followed by learning about architecture and how strong foundations work.They took their knowledge to build as tall gummy bear towers as they can. The students had a lot of fun making their towers, and sampling the gummy bears. Fun was had by all.

BY JENNIFER REHM

The Cathedral of the Incarnation is launching an expansive array of Lenten programming designed to offer the community multiple pathways for spiritual reflection, growth, and renewal during this holy season.

Ash Wednesday Begins the Journey

Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of Lent, a 40-day season of penitence and preparation leading to Easter, during which Christians are invited to reflect on their mortality and need for God’s grace. The imposition of ashes — accompanied by the words “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” — serves as a powerful outward sign of humility, repentance, and the Christian hope of resurrection.

That same evening, Dean Michael Sniffen hosted the second in his series of four “In Good Company with the Dean” gatherings in the Historic Deanery on Fifth Street, offering an opportunity for fellowship and connection as the Lenten journey begins centered around the topic “Spirituality at Home: Prayer, Practice, and Presence.” Please register at linktr. ee/incarnationgc

Evensong Marks New Beginning and Milestone Anniversary

On March 1 at 4:00 p.m., the Cathedral will celebrate Evensong for Lent, marking a significant milestone for the community. The service will be the first Evensong - a service of evening prayer from the Anglican tradition, combining the ancient monastic offices of Vespers and Compline - led by the Cathedral’s new Director of Music, Canon Martin Green, and will be followed by a special reception celebrating Dean Michael Sniffen’s tenth anniversary as Dean of the Cathedral. All are welcome.

This moment, nestled amidst Lenten contemplation, brings together new leadership in the Cathedral’s renowned music program with a decade of pastoral leadership, congregational growth, and new and exciting programs under Dean Sniffen’s guidance.

Wild Hope Discussion Series

Following the wildly successful All Creation Waits series during Advent 2024, the Cathedral will continue its exploration of faith and the natural world with a new four-week discussion series centered on “Wild Hope: Stories for Lent from the Vanishing” by Gayle Boss.

“‘Lent,’ at its root, means ‘spring,’ a time for our stiff hearts to thaw and open to a fuller compassion,” Boss writes in the book’s opening. “Their stories also wake in us a wild hope that from all this death

and ruin something new might rise. The promise of Lent is that something new will rise.”

The Very Rev. Canon Dr. Michael Sniffen, Dean of the Cathedral, emphasized the spiritual importance of the series. “This Lenten journey invites us to expand our understanding of God’s renewing work in all creation,” he said. “As we reflect on these endangered creatures, we’re reminded that resurrection isn’t just a promise for humanity—it’s God’s hope for the entire created world.”

Each week, participants will explore portraits of endangered creatures from around the globe, reading chapters alongside appointed lectionary texts to reflect on traditional Lenten themes of repentance, renewal, and resurrection.

Deacon Lisa DeBenedittis, Director of Formation for Cathedral College, the co-located seminary program of the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island, noted the power of this approach to spiritual formation. “What we discovered during Advent 2024 was that these stories of God’s creatures open our hearts in unexpected ways,” she said. “Participants found themselves connecting more deeply with scripture, with each other, and with their own call to be stewards of God’s creation. We’re excited to continue that transformative work this Lent.”

The Dean’s Forum meets at 10:15 am Mercer School, 65 Fourth Street. Coffee and refreshments are always served. Copies of Wild Hope are available for a suggested donation of $10.

Contemplative Prayer Gatherings

On March 4 at 7:00 p.m., the Cathedral will offer the first in a series of Contemplative Prayer gatherings for Lent led by Subdean Canon Adam Bucko. These sessions, wondrously set by candlelight, invite participants to practice making conscious contact with God by showing up as they are, gathering all of their fears, anxieties, and life circumstances that need special care, and simply bringing them to God. Subsequent contemplative prayer gatherings are set for April 15 and May 6. Please visit linktr.ee/incarnationgc to register for any of these sessions.

Additional Lenten Opportunities

The Cathedral’ s sacred spaces remain open for quiet reflection and prayer from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday–Saturday. Please check www. incarnationgc.org for updates. Also, The Center for Spiritual Imagination offers several online programs to prepare for Holy Week and Easter, with more information available at www. spiritualimagination.org

Hance Family Foundation visits NCL chapter

the workshop.

The Garden City Chapter of National Charity League recently held one of their most meaningful Patroness meetings of the year. Representatives from the Hance Family Foundation, which is located in Floral Park, facilitated an interactive workshop based on their Beautiful Me program. The program promoted ways to increase awareness of inner and outer beauty, improve self-care and strengthen connections with others.

Warren and Jackie Hance found -

Courtney Rhein writes compliments to others in the room as part of the workshop.

ed the Hance Family Foundation in memory of their three daughters who were killed in a tragic car accident. Their mission is to empower young girls and women of all ages, something the Garden City chapter of NCL always strives to do.

For more information which explains a bit about the Garden City chapter and when the next membership drive is, go to the website at: https://www.nationalcharityleague. org/chapter/gardencity/.

Kathryn Ryan and Kelly Racich consider their strengths as part of the evening’s discussion.

Forum on Alzheimer’s, dementia at GC Community Church

BY MELVA VICTORINO

On Sunday, February 22, at 11:45 a.m., Ms. Hermancina Celisca of the Alzheimer’s Association will present a forum at Garden City Community Church (GCCC) on educational program that helps individuals and caregivers recognize the common warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease in themselves and others. Participants will learn how these signs differ from typical age-related changes and explore practical next steps to take if concerns arise, including how to start a conversation with a healthcare provider. The program will also highlight supportive resources available to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Ms. Hermancina Celisca, a Program Manager with the Long Island Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association oversees community education and support to individuals, caregivers, and families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. She works closely with community organizations, faith-based institutions, and healthcare partners across Nassau County. Ms. Celisca has an extensive background in public health and community awareness, with experience working across Boston, New York City, Long Island, and South America.

She is deeply committed to delivering compassionate, accessible education that empowers individuals and caregivers, and she believes that health education and health literacy are essential in promoting good health and advancing health justice. She will define the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's and will describe a set of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out daily activities.

GCCC is inviting the community to attend this very informative presentation. All are also welcome to join in their

worship service at 10:30 a.m. both in-person and live-stream, follow by fellowship gathering. Children’s Sunday school sessions are held on alternate Sundays, while youth classes take place on weeknights. There are worship services, events, and programs for all ages. To get information regarding its virtual and in-person worship services and programs, visit its website at www.theGCCC.org.

The Garden City Community Church is part of the United Church of Christ (UCC.) It is an Open and Affirming congregation that welcomes people of all ages, races, gender identities, and sexual orientations to participate in the life of its community. It is located at 245 Stewart Avenue between Whitehall Blvd. and Kensington Road.

For information on how to attend its services virtually or in person, please contact the church office at churchoffice@ thegccc.org. To get information regarding its virtual and in-person worship services and programs, visit its website at www. theGCCC.org.

NCL Garden City seeks new members

The National Charity League Garden City Chapter is currently holding a membership drive for the Class of 1932. NCL, Inc. Garden City Chapter is a group of mothers and daughters who have come together in a commitment to community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences.

Founded in 2016, the NCL Garden City Chapter is 330 members strong and serves over 40 philanthropies in the Garden City community and beyond.

Members currently consist of mother-daughter pairs, with daughters

currently in 7th through 12th grade. Enrollment is now open to rising 7th graders who reside in or attend school in Garden City.

NCL Garden City Chapter provides opportunities to serve and support the community, while fostering motherdaughter relationships, as well as building confidence and social awareness in young women.

The membership drive runs through March 1. For more information and to apply go to https://www.nationalcharityleague.org/chapter/gardencity/

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

Teen Book Club will meet on Thursday, February 24. Enjoy pizza as you discuss books!

Pizza and Pages: Teen Book ClubThis Month’s Theme is Romance!

Enjoy pizza while we talk about books during Pizza and Pages: Teen Book Club on Thursday, February 26 at 4 p.m.! Share what you're currently reading, get recommendations from your peers, and then do a book-related craft or activity! Discussions will be informal and casual. Participants can even share what they're reading for school or books they've read in the past! Each meeting will highlight a

genre or theme. This month's theme is Romance. Participants are not required to read a romance book, but mystery books will be available before and after the meeting for participants to check out in case they are interested.

Pizza and drinks will be served. This program is for tweens and teens in Grades 6-12 only.

To participate, please register online via LibCal at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com. Teens who complete an online survey after the program can receive

Teens met on Thursday, February 12 at the Library for Dungeons and Dragons. Teen Dungeons and Dragons is a teen-led program for Grades 6–12 in which teens lead game campaigns for their peers while enjoying snacks and drinks. The next Teen Dungeons and Dragons will be held Thursday, March 12, at 4 p.m. Register online via LibCal at gardencitypl.libcal.com beginning Tuesday, March 3, at 10 a.m.

community service for participating in this program.

Upcoming and Ongoing Library Programs for Tweens and Teens

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

Teens who complete an online survey after specific programs can receive community service for participating.

Registration is live online at https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Ongoing: 100 Books Before Graduation - Register online here: https://forms.gle/j262hNm4tGsvR8wz9. After you register, pick up your 100 Books Before Graduation packet located at the Library to participate!

• Monday, February 23, at 3:30 p.m.: Inclusive Storytime

Volunteering (Grades 9–12)

• Monday, February 23, at 4 p.m.: Teen Manga Mondays (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, February 24, at 4 p.m.: Teen VolunTuesday (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, February 25, at 4 p.m.: Teen Art Workshop (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, February 26, at 4 p.m.: Pizza and Pages: Teen Book Club

• Friday, February 27, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Clubhouse (Grades 6–12)

• Saturday, February 28, at 3 p.m.: Teen STEAM Workshop: Chemistry with Easy Bake Ovens with Chris Buchman

Registration begins Tuesday, February 24, at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, March 3, at 4 p.m.:

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

Teen Advisory Board (Grades 6–12)

• Friday, March 6, at 1 p.m.: Teen Movie Club: “Barbie” (PG-13, 2023) (Grades 6–12)

• Saturday, March 14, at 10 a.m.: Inclusive Storytime Volunteering (Grades 9–12)

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

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

• Friday, March 13, at 3:30 p.m.: Teen Gamers (Grades 6–12)

Ongoing Take-Home Community Service Opportunities

Looking to volunteer? Check out some of our ongoing take-home community service opportunities for tweens and teens in Grades 6-12. Please check at the Library for more information on each of these opportunities; all volunteer projects should be submitted at the Library with a Volunteer Form, which can be found outside the Tweens and Teens Room.

• Ongoing: Teen Social Media Team - No registration required. Up to four social media content can be submitted per volunteer monthly.

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

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

• Ongoing: Friendship Bracelets for Community Service - No registration required. Up to 10 bracelets can be submitted per volunteer monthly

Chick Incubation Project Begins Tuesday, February 24!

The Library’s Annual Chick Incubation program is returning this year! Eggs will arrive on Tuesday, February 24 and are scheduled to begin hatching Monday, March 16. Chicks will be returned one week after they hatch. Eggs are picked up from Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY and chicks are returned back to Cornell Cooperative Extension at Suffolk County Farm in Yaphank, NY. Before they hatch, make sure to enter a name into our annual Name the Chick contest for your chance to name one of our chicks!

New! 100 Books Before Graduation Challenge!

Tweens and teens are asked to read 100 books before they graduate! This program launched during the week of January 5 for tweens and teens currently in Grades 6–12. For every 10 books read, you will get 10 tickets to trade in for a prize in our prize cabinet. Pick a prize, or save them until you collect more tickets to use later toward a bigger prize! You will receive 25 bonus tickets at 20, 40, 60, and 80 books and 50 bonus tickets at 100! Plus, when you reach 100 books you will get your name up on  our Hall of Fame Wall of Readers!

• Sign up beginning January 5, 2026. Not in sixth grade yet? You can sign-up beginning June 15 of the summer before you enter sixth grade!

• You must finish the challenge by June 15 of the year you graduate high school

• Track what you’re reading on this reading log. You can only track books you have read after you have signed-up for this program.

• Any book (physical, eBook, and audio) you read that’s on your reading level after registering counts towards the goal. This includes books read for school! The only books that do not count towards the goal are books read before you register.

• While we love rereading, for this challenge, each book you read needs to be a book you’ve never read before.

• Hate the book you started reading? As long as you read 50% of the book, you can count it toward this challenge!

Register online here: https://forms. gle/j262hNm4tGsvR8wz9 or using the QR code above. After you register, pick up your 100 Books Before Graduation packet located at the Library to participate!

Books Before School encourages reading

NEW! Encourage Reading through 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten and 500 Books Before Middle School

Our Children’s Department is thrilled to introduce exciting new reading initiatives designed to help young readers discover the joy of books!

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

Encourage your child to embark on a journey of reading 1,000 books before entering kindergarten. This program fosters a love for reading, improves literacy skills, and provides fun milestones to celebrate along the way.

500 Books Before Middle School

For older readers, we offer the 500 Books Before Middle School program. This challenge promotes independent reading and helps children continue developing their imagination and comprehension skills.

Why Join?

These programs are designed to help children experience the pleasure of reading, build lifelong habits, and nurture a natural curiosity of stories.

How It Works:

Register in the Children’s Department beginning January 5.

Start reading and track your books.  Celebrate your progress with fun sticker rewards!

Together, let’s inspire a generation of readers!

For more information, contact the Children’s Department Staff.

NEW! The

Grades K-5 After School Hive!

Weekdays after school starting in February, children in Grades K–5 are encouraged to play, build, craft, and work together! Starting at 3 p.m. every weekday after school, children in Grades K–5 can join us in the Children’s Room for a different after school activity!

• Board Game Mondays: Board games will be available in the Children’s Room for kids to play until 8:30 p.m.

• Craft Tuesdays: Craft supplies like beads, yarn, scratch art, and more will be available in the Children’s Room until 8:30 p.m.

• LEGO Wednesdays: Build with LEGO in the Children’s Room until 8:30 p.m.

• Puzzle Thursdays: Work on jigsaw puzzles in the Children’s Room from Thursday through the end of the weekend!

Activities will also be available for kids in the STEAM Workshop if there isn’t a program. No registration required. Children must be accompanied by an adult in the Children’s Room and STEAM Workshop.

See what’s happening at your library!

Check this paper each week for fun and informative all-ages activities, like classes, lectures, concerts, movie screenings, and more, all for free or cheap!

News from the Children’s Room

Please join us on Feb. 24 at 10:30 a.m. Mother Goose Storytime - Birth to 17 Months.

Upcoming February Library Programs for Children

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

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

New Storytime Registration Rules

Children’s programs are extremely popular! To give as many children as possible the chance to enjoy storytime, beginning January 6 each child may register for one storytime per week. Please choose the session that best fits your child’s schedule and interests. If a child is registered for more than one storytime, the librarian will select which session the child will attend. As space allows, we will continue to welcome children from the waiting list and walk-ins.

If your child is registered, please arrive at least 5 minutes early. At the start time of the program, if your registered child is NOT checked in, you will forfeit your child’s spot to a child on the waitlist or walk-in list.

• Monday, Feb. 23, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime - 18 Months to 3 Years

• Monday, Feb. 23, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 10:30 a.m.: Mother Goose StorytimeBirth to 17 Months

• Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Craft - 3 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, Feb. 26, at 10:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, Feb. 26, at 11:30 a.m.: Mother Goose StorytimeBirth to 17 Months

• Thursday, Feb. 26, at 4:00 p.m.: Arts and Crafts - Grades 3 to 5

• Thursday, Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m.: Books Before Bed - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Friday, Feb. 27, at 11:00 a.m.: Dance Party - 2 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Saturday, Feb. 28, at 10:30 a.m.: Matters of the HeART - 2–5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, March 2, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime - 18 Months to 3 Years

• Monday, March 2, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age Storytime -

Please join us on Feb. 26 at 3:30 p.m. for Books Before Bed - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, March 3, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

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

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

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

• Thursday, March 5, at 11:30 a.m.: Mother Goose StorytimeBirth to 17 Months

• Friday, March 6, at 10:00 a.m.: Chess4Community: Play and Learn - Grades K–5

• Saturday, March 7, at 10:00 a.m.: Tiny Songbirds - 2 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Monday, March 9, at 10:30 a.m.: Toddler Storytime - 18 Months to 3 Years

• Monday, March 9, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, March 10, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, March 11, at 3:30 p.m.: Dance Party - 2 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, March 12, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Saturday, March 14, at 10:30 a.m.: I nclusive Storytime Adventure - Grades 2–5

Unattended Child Policy

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

See what's happening at your library!

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

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

Monday Movies

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

February 2026 - Remembering Rob Reiner

2/23/26  - “The American President” (PG-13), 1995, 113 mins

March 2026 MoviesWomen’s History Month

3/2/26 -“Erin Brokovich”,  R, 2000, 131 mins

3/9/26 - “Gorillas in the Mist”, PG-13, 1988, 150 mins

3/16/26 - “Coal Miner’s Daughter”, PG,  1980, 125 mins

3/23/26 - “Silkwood”, R, 1983, 128 mins

3/30/26 - “Norma Rae”, PG, 1979, 114 mins

February 2026 Programs

Yoga for Beginners or Yoga for “Not So Beginners”

Tuesday Nights -

• February 24

• March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Yoga for Beginners, 6–7 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room Yoga for Not So Beginners, 7:30–8:30 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Yoga for Beginners - If you are a beginner interested in learning yoga, join Kimberley Mercandante for Beginning Yoga Sessions! All are welcome! This is a series of 13 classes from January through March at 6 p.m.  Register once to cover the entire series.  Yoga-for-No-So-Beginners - This new program is designed for those people who have taken beginning yoga classes, but need a bit more challenge to their program. This is a series of 13 classes from January through March at 7:30 p.m. Register once to cover the entire series.

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

Adult Crocheting and Knitting with Lupe

• Wednesday, March 11, 25     from 7–8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room Crafter, knitter and crocheter Lupe Velasquez will be on hand to teach, help and suggest projects to do. Please register online at LibCal at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com/. Register once to cover the entire series. For additional information contact Adult Services at (516) 742-

8405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@ gardencitypl.org.

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

Mah-Jongg Open Play

Thursdays 6–8 p.m.

• Thursday, February 25

• Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25

• Wednesday, April 1

Small Meeting Room (Room assignment is based upon availability)

We are offering the opportunity to sign up for open play Mah-Jongg for all. In order to hold the room, registration is required. The room will be set up in groups of four and is open to all who would like to play.  Please note there is no instruction for this program. You must bring your own mah-jongg board.

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

Bingo for Adults

Fridays, , March 20, April 17 from 11 a.m.–12 noon in the Small Meeting Room

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

Chairobics and Strength Training with Debbie Krzyminski

• Wednesday, March 4, 11, 18, 25, Wednesday, April 1 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

We are happy to have Debbie Krzyminski from Fitness Figures, NY, Inc. back teaching “Chairobics and Strength Training.” 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 a ten-week session. Register once for the entire series.

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

Italian for Beginners and More with Lia Brunetti

• February 26

• March 5, 12, 19, 26 from 11 a.m. to 12 noon in the Large Meeting Room

Former Garden City High School teacher Lia Brunetti returns with her program “Italian for Beginners and More.” This program is for those with limited knowledge of Italian but all are welcome to join.

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

Reiki with Kathleen Gunning

• Thursday, February 26 7–8 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Start the new year off with an introduction to Reiki. Reiki promotes relaxation, stress reduction and pain management. It’s a wonderful form of selfcare, which supports physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being to improve the body’s natural healing ability.

Register online on LibCal (https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com) or call Adult Services Reference Desk at (516)7428405 ext. 5236 or email speakingofbooks@gardencitypl.org. Programs may be canceled due to weather, power outages, lack of registration, or other unforeseen circumstances. If contact information has been provided for registration, a direct attempt will be made to notify participants.

Jim Coll Presents “Forever Free: Lincoln, Civil War and the American March To Emancipation” Friday, February 20, from 1–2 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Continuing our monthly lecture

series in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, Jim Coll will discuss Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War.

In this lecture, we will discuss the American legal and political struggle towards the abolition of slavery. We will focus on the structure and impact of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation as well as post-war Constitutional developments regarding the ‘peculiar institution.’

Please register online at (https:// gardencitypl.libcal.com/) or call Adult Services (516)742-8405 x5236.

Empire Safety Council Defensive Driving Saturday, February 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Large Meeting Room

Join us on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. for a Defensive Driving Course with the Empire Safety Council. Receive 10% reduction on automobile/liability insurance and qualify for a license point reduction. Register in person at the Garden City Public Library. Space is limited, so check with the Reference Department for availability. Register separately for each person. Proper ID is required when registering an absentee party. You must bring a $33 check made payable to Empire Safety Council and current Library card with you to register. Bring your valid New York State drivers license and a pen to class.

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

Check Out A Museum Pass!

Through the generosity of the Friends of the Garden City Public Library, the Library offers free passes to select museums and cultural institutions. Reservations can be made via LibCal, which requires a Library card and a PIN. Please visit the Circulation Desk to verify or create your PIN. Once you have a PIN, you can make your reservations from home or at the Library. You can make a reservation to borrow a Museum pass from one of the member institutions in our Museum Pass Program. Some museum passes are now available to print from home, including the Vanderbilt Museum located at 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport. If you do not have access to a printer, the Library will be happy to print the pass for you. These passes will be good for one day only. Please note that not all museums participate. For a list of printfrom-home passes, visit the Library

Adult Services at the GC Public Library

website, www.gardencitypl. org.

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

The following Library Museum Pass rules remain in effect.

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

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

Additional rules and information are available at the library.

NCL Garden City seeks new members

The National Charity League Garden City Chapter is currently holding a membership drive for the Class of 1932. NCL, Inc. Garden City Chapter is a group of mothers and daughters who have come together in a commitment to community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences.

Founded in 2016, the NCL Garden City Chapter is 330 members strong and serves over 40 philanthropies in the Garden City community and beyond.

Members currently consist of mother-daughter pairs, with daughters currently

in 7th through 12th grade. Enrollment is now open to rising 7th graders who reside in or attend school in Garden City.

NCL Garden City Chapter provides opportunities to serve and support the community, while fostering mother - daughter relationships, as well as building confidence and social awareness in young women.

The membership drive runs through March 1. For more information and to apply go to https://www. nationalcharityleague.org/ chapter/gardencity/

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF GARDEN CITY

GARDEN CITY, LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL ESTATE FOR UNPAID 2025 VILLAGE TAXES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on March 13, 2026 at Village Hall, 351 Stewart Avenue, in the Village of Garden City, New York, pursuant to direction of the Board of Trustees of said Village, I, the undersigned, Treasurer of said Village, will sell the following described real estate in said Village together with any improvements thereon, to discharge the unpaid 2025 Village tax, interest and other charges which may be due thereon at the time of the sale. Such real estate will be sold subject to any unpaid assessments thereon levied by said Village prior to the date of such sale and any unpaid tax liens for years prior to 2025 purchased and held by said Village, and subject to the provisions of the New York State and Federal Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, as amended, insofar as the same may be applicable to the owners of any said following described real estate. Purchasers will be required to pay the amount of their respective bids to the undersigned within ten days after the sale, pursuant to the provisions of Section 1454 of the Real Property Tax Law of the State of New York, as amended, and upon such payment shall receive a written certificate of sale describing the real estate purchased and the sum paid therefor. Please be advised that the Incorporated Village of Garden City intends to bid-in for any and all parcels to be sold at this year’s sale. Therefore, any and all tax liens sold at this sale will become villageowned tax liens.

The following is a list or statement of the real estate upon which such 2025 tax is unpaid, with the amount of such 2025 tax, together with interest and other charges due thereon to March 13, 2026.

OWNER OR OCCUPANT

Irene Woo, CPA, CMFO Village Treasurer Garden City, New York February 20, 2026

The Incorporated Village of Garden City does not discriminate on the basis of disability for admission to, access to, or participation in its programs, activities or public meetings, and has designated Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk, as Disability Compliance Coordinator. Persons in need of any special accommodation for a disability who wish to attend a meeting should contact Kelly Galanek at least 24 hours in advance of meeting at:

351 Stewart Avenue Garden City, New York 11530

(5l6)465-4051

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Garden City PTA News

PTA Dinner on March 31

We know it doesn't seem that way, but the annual PTA dinner is right around the corner! This year’s theme is “I belong just as I am.” YOU belong at the PTA’s biggest fundraiser of the year - we hope to see you all there! There will be assigned tables again this year, so start creating your table of 10 now. Tickets will go on sale just after February break. Emails regarding monetary donations for grade level raffle baskets have begun to be distributed. It is never too late to donate your time or empty baskets to the dinner committee. If you have any donations of goods or services, please contact dinnerdonations@gardencitypta.org

Career Resources Committee

- Volunteers Wanted! We’re excited to announce the return of our interview skills practice opportunity for high school students March 20 and 27, 3–4:30 p.m. at GCHS, and we need your help! Experienced parent volunteers are wanted to guide students through mock interviews, offering constructive feedback and support. If interested, please email careerresources@gardencitypta.org to request the form.

PTA Nominations Open For

2026–27

It’s never too early to nominate GREAT candidates for our 26–27 PTA Executive Committee.

Open positions this year: President-Elect, Executive VP, VP of Curriculum, VP of Legislation, VP of Communications, Middle School Director, Homestead Director, Locust Director.

Nominate yourself or someone you know TODAY at gardencitypta.org Deadline to submit is March 11, 2026.

Annual Sponsorship Applications Now Available!

Email sponsorships@gardencitypta.org.

Other

Important Dates

• March 2 - PARP

Virtual Author Visit  with Susan B. Katz

• March 3 - Joint Primary Meeting

• March 10 - Joint MS/ HS Meeting

• SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR ANNUAL PTA DINNER: March 31, 2026!

Let’s Connect! Website: www.gardencitypta. org

Facebook/Instagram/X: @gardencitypta

To get real time information - turn on notifications!

GCHS hosts 30th annual Intramural Quiz Bowl

On Feb. 10, Garden City High School held its 30th annual Intramural Quiz Bowl. Organized and hosted by social studies teacher Kevin O’Hagan, the event brings together three teams, each consisting of one teacher and three students, to compete in a fast-paced trivia challenge. The competition includes three rounds — preliminary, semifinal and final — with teams answering a total of 150 questions across two 75-question halves, covering science, math, history, literature and vocabulary.

This year’s Quiz Bowl was extra special as past winners were invited to attend in honor of the competition’s 30th anniversary. The teams demon-

strated quick thinking, teamwork and strategy as they tackled questions from across the curriculum, highlighting both academic knowledge and friendly rivalry.

For the second consecutive year, the team of students Everett Lehnert, James Martin, Andrew Byrnes and teacher Scott McAuley emerged victorious, earning the title of 2026 Intramural Quiz Bowl Champions. Their names will be engraved on the Garden City High School Intramural Quiz Bowl champions plaque, ensuring their accomplishment is remembered for years to come.

courtesy of the Garden City School District

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY BID NOTICE

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Garden City Union Free School District

PUBLIC NOTICE: is hereby given for separate sealed bids for: Synthetic Turf Field and Library RTU Replacement at the Garden City High School. Bids will be received by the School District, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 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, February 19, 2026, 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 non-refundable 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 (516-4652880) 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 Wednesday, February 25, 2026 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 Garden City Union Free School District

Dated: February 19, 2026

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Garden City Union Free School District

PUBLIC NOTICE: is hereby given for separate sealed bids for: New Electrical Service at the Garden City High School. Bids will be received by the School District, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 12:00 p.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, February 19, 2026, 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 non-refundable 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 (516-4652880) 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 Wednesday, February 25, 2026 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 Garden City Union Free School District

Dated: February 19, 2026

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 EST WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2026 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud, for furnishing the following: 2026 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 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: 2/20/26

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

Notice of formation of Kamaboo LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/15/26. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Kamaboo LLC: 31 Buckminster Rd, Rockville Center, NY 11570. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

February 20, 2026

Celebrating Jack London’s 150th is Special Delight in Visiting Sonoma County, California, This Year

BY

KAREN RUBIN

TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM

A major highlight in visiting Sonoma County this year takes place at one of my favorite places: Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen: the celebration of 150th anniversary of novelist Jack London’s birth, with a full year of public programming and special events.

Planned events through 2026 include a quarterly speaker series featuring scholars and London’s great-granddaughter, a “Call of the Wild Day” family celebration with art, music, and guided walks, and gala events. The program also introduces new offerings such as an online “Around the World on the Jack London Trail” guide and themed trail challenges to highlight London’s global travels and local legacy. This yearlong initiative aims to blend heritage interpretation with immersive tourism experiences in a beautiful, hike-friendly setting at a California state park.

I am lucky to visit the state park on Jack London’s actual birthday (admission free that day!), and visit the cottage he lived in while he and his wife, Charmian, were building that grand Wolf House, the stunning and dramatic stone mansion that tragically burned down just before they would have moved in, but you can visit the spectacular ruins. The cottage – amazingly modest for such a successful writer - is filled with original furnishings and artifacts and photos - you even see the fireproof safe where he stored his manuscripts. The cottage gives you such an intimate window

Visiting Jack London’s cottage at Jack London State Historic Park gives intimate insight into the iconic novelist during the 150th anniversary of his birth © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

into the man – you see his office, but it is the tiny porch room with a simple cot where he slept and worked – and get a peek at his personality and idiosyncrasies (like how he liked to play practical jokes on his guests, who slept in a separate building).

After touring the cottage, I took one of the many hiking trails – this one to the small “lake” Jack London used for fishing – that goes through a redwood forest.

You realize what a visionary London was – he pioneered sustainable farming and ranching techniques, experimenting and learning by trial and error (his bet on eucalypses trees did not turn out well).

Not to be missed is the House of Happy Walls, the grand stone home built by Charmian London and Eliza Shepard, Jack London’s stepsister,

after London died in 1916 at the age of 40 (all the more remarkable to consider his body of work in such a short life). The stunning Arts & Crafts structure was Charmian’s home from 1935 until 1952. She put it into her will that it become a museum to London. Today, the newly re-designed exhibits showcase the adventurous and inspiring lives of the Londons. You appreciate not only what a brilliant writer London was, but what a decent human being.

From here, I hike another trail to the dramatic Wolf House ruins and then to the modest grave sites of Jack London and Charmian.

Jack London State Historic Park, 2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442, jacklondonpark.com, 707938-5216

Glen Ellen, a charming classical-

ly historic Californian town, is right in the middle of a score of wineries (Benziger is next door to the park, 1883 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442, benziger.com, https://benziger.com/tours-and-tastings/; also, Imagery, its sister winery, is one of our favorites;), the Sonoma Regional Park (hiking), and Sonoma Botanical Garden.

Spend another day trip traveling less than an hour further to some of the most magnificent coastline in California: the Sonoma Coast State Park, where there are stunning trails that hug the cliffs and go down to beaches and get drinks and food on Bodega Bay as the sun go down.

Get carried away to another continent at Safari West – spend a day, or even better, overnight in their glamping tents (luxurious) (Safari West, 3115 Porter Creek Road Santa Rosa, CA 95404, 800-616-2695, 707-579-2551, safariwest.com).

Another new activity in Sonoma: Park Rx- Forest Bathing Walks, a guided walking practice that originated in Japan that focuses on slowing down, reducing stress, and engaging the senses to support mental and physical restoration. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers a recurring Forest Therapy Series as part of its Park Rx Program.

Travel planning help is available from Sonoma County Tourism, https://www.sonomacounty.com

© 2026 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com

Night After Night, the Moon Drifts On

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of February 22-28, 2026

The moon returns to our evening sky this week. If you step outside as darkness falls, you can watch as it changes its phase -- from a crescent in the west, to a quarter phase in the south at sunset, and to a gibbous phase in the southeastern sky.

You’ll also notice, as I described last week, that its journey takes it through the constellations of the zodiac. Well, not really “through” them, of course. The moon lies considerably closer to us than the stars, and it only appears along the same line of sight as certain constellations.

There’s nothing unusual about this progression. It happens every month or so because the moon orbits the Earth. To complete its 360-degree loop around our planet, the moon must drift about 12 or 13 degrees eastward every night, and you can predict roughly where it will appear on successive nights.

Make a fist and hold it at arm’s length; it will appear about 10 degrees across from thumb to little finger. Now hold out just your thumb at arm’s length; this is approximately 2 degrees wide. And your little finger, also at arm’s length, appears about 1 degree across. So, by using these parts of your hand, you can predict approximately

where the moon will appear on the following night. The illustration I’ve included shows the moon’s path until March 1.

What about March 2? You can also guess where the moon will lie then, and that will be one night you won’t want to miss seeing it. That’s because the moon will pass through the Earth’s shadow and will experience an eclipse.

It should surprise no one that the Earth casts a shadow; every solid body illuminated by a light source does. What may surprise many is that it appears every evening. I know you’ve seen it low against the eastern horizon around sunset -- an immense purple haze, bordered on top by a fringe of pink. Many folks think this is smog, but it’s the shadow of our planet being projected through the atmosphere.

This shadow also extends millions of miles into space, and on the night of March 2 and morning of March 3, the full moon will pass through it, and many skywatchers in North America will experience a total lunar eclipse.

Now you might wonder, if this progression of the moon’s position along the zodiac happens monthly, why doesn’t the moon enter the Earth’s shadow every month? Well, that’s because its orbit around the Earth is tilted some 5 degrees to our orbit around the sun, so the full moon doesn’t always line up with the shadow.

On the night of March 2 and morning of March 3, many skywatchers in North America will experience a total lunar eclipse.

Sometimes it passes above it and sometimes below. But every six months, the moon’s path takes it at least partially through our planet’s shadow, and there’s a lunar eclipse.

To see an eclipse, however, the moon must appear in our sky at the right time. That’s not always the case, but on the night of March 2 and the morning of March 3, it will be for much

A Little Tickle in Your Throat

of North America. I’ll tell you more about this upcoming lunar eclipse next week, so stay tuned!

Dennis Mammana at

2026

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

I recently read that the average person will ingest eight spiders in his or her lifetime.

Apparently, this happens when we are sleeping, which would make sense, because I don’t know anyone in their right mind who would choose to eat a spider when they’re conscious, except maybe my dog.

While this might explain that full feeling I sometimes have when I wake up, I was reluctant to believe that even one spider would willingly climb into bed with me and take a kamikaze dive into my mouth. I’ve smelled my morning breath. It would kill anything smaller than an elephant upon impact.

Moreover, being a light sleeper, I’m pretty sure I would wake up if I felt someone or something tickling my tongue. It’s just not the kind of thing you can continue to sleep through. I have to imagine that somewhere in the deep recesses of my sleeping mind,

it would register that a spider was crawling into my mouth, and before you could say “Charlotte’s Web,” I’d be wide awake and spitting that sucker across the bedroom floor.

This is not to say that I haven’t accidentally eaten a few bugs over the years. I distinctly remember the joy of flying down a big hill on my bike when I was kid, and then the feeling of pure horror as a bug flew into my mouth and down my throat. I had no idea what kind of bug it was, other than the knowledge that it buzzed and crunched before it went down. Distraught, I told my mother, who responded that it was just a little extra protein in my diet that day.

Still, it’s one thing to inadvertently inhale a beetle, and quite another to find out that an army of spiders are playing tonsil hockey with you on their way down to your stomach.

Since I do not believe everything I read on the internet, I decided to do a little research into the matter to help allay my fears.

The first site I checked said we swallow four spiders in our lifetime.

That was better but still not great news.

The second site I checked said the number was closer to 20. After reading that, I felt compelled to wash my mouth out with Listerine and lie down with a cool washcloth across my head. But then I was worried I might fall asleep and swallow a spider, so I got up and went back on the internet.

Another site said we swallow a pound of spiders over our lifetime.

According to the site, that would be about 20,000 average-sized house spiders. I decided this information must be flawed. If we had 20,000 spiders in our house, I wouldn’t BE in the house long enough to swallow them.

I finally decided to check out Snopes. com, the go-to site for verification of urban myths.

According to them, the whole thing is a made-up crock of arachnids.

Flies, however, are another thing.

Tracy Beckerman is the auth or 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 2026 CREATORS.COM

REAL ESTATE WATCH

Upgrades That Protect Your Home, Not Just Its Price Tag

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

When most homeowners think about upgrades, they think about granite countertops, spa bathrooms, and open-concept kitchens. Those renovations can certainly enhance lifestyle and resale appeal. But there’s a critical distinction that often gets overlooked:

Some upgrades increase value. Others protect the value you already have. In today’s climate of rising insurance premiums, volatile weather patterns, aging infrastructure, and higher replacement costs, protective upgrades aren’t just smart — they are strategic. They preserve equity, reduce risk, lower operating costs, and, in many cases, make your home more insurable and marketable.

Here are the upgrades that safeguard your home—physically and financially—long before you consider selling.

1. Roof Integrity: Your First Line of Defense

The roof is not a cosmetic feature. It is a structural shield.

Modern architectural shingles with higher wind ratings, reinforced underlayment, and proper flashing around chimneys and vents significantly reduce the risk of leaks and storm damage. In coastal or high-wind areas like Long Island, upgrading to impact-resistant shingles can also qualify for insurance discounts.

A 30-year shingle is not just about longevity — it’s about durability against ice dams, driving rain, and heavy snow loads.

Skipping roof maintenance is one of the most expensive mistakes homeowners make. A $12,000 roof replacement can prevent $60,000 in interior structural damage.

2. Impact Windows and Reinforced Doors

Hurricanes, nor’easters, and severe storms are becoming more common in the Northeast. Standard builder-grade windows are vulnerable to windborne debris.

Impact-rated windows and reinforced exterior doors:

• Reduce storm damage

• Lower energy costs

• Improve home security

• Cut outside noise

• Potentially reduce insurance premiums

These upgrades don’t just protect glass — they protect the building envelope. Once a window fails in a major storm, internal pressurization can literally lift a roof off a structure.

Security and weather resistance are not luxuries. They are safeguards.

3. Water Management Systems

Water is the silent destroyer of homes.

Upgrades that protect against water intrusion include:

• Properly pitched grading away from the foundation

• Extended downspouts

• French drains

• Interior drain tile systems

• Sump pumps with battery backup

• Backflow preventers

On Long Island, where heavy rainfall and high-water tables are common, basement water mitigation is not optional — it’s preventative medicine.

A finished basement without a water management system is a gamble. Mold remediation alone can cost tens of thousands of dollars and create longterm health risks.

The most valuable upgrade is often the one you never see.

4. Electrical Panel and Wiring Modernization

Many older homes still operate with outdated panels or aluminum wiring.

Upgrading to a modern 200-amp electrical panel:

• Reduces fire risk

• Supports EV chargers and modern appliances

• Prevents overloads

• Improves insurability

Insurance carriers are increasingly scrutinizing outdated systems. Homes with Federal Pacific or Zinsco panels, for example, may face coverage challenges.

An electrical fire doesn’t care about your granite counters.

Protection starts behind the walls.

5. Smart Leak Detection and Automatic Shutoff Valves

Technology has quietly revolutionized home protection.

Smart leak detection systems monitor water flow in real time and automatically shut off the main supply if abnormal usage is detected. That means if a pipe bursts while you’re on vacation, your home doesn’t flood for 72 hours unnoticed.

Insurance companies increasingly reward homeowners who install these systems.

Given that water damage is one of the most common homeowner claims nationwide, this upgrade may offer one of the highest returns on investment in protection.

6. Whole-Home Surge Protection

With today’s electronics — HVAC systems, smart appliances, home offices, security systems — a power surge can destroy thousands of dollars in equipment instantly.

Whole-home surge protectors installed at the electrical panel:

• Shield appliances

• Protect HVAC systems

• Reduce fire risk

• Safeguard data and smart devices

As grids become more strained and extreme weather increases outages, surge protection becomes essential — not optional.

7. Fire-Resistant Materials & Detection Systems

While wildfire risk may not mirror the Western U.S., structure fires remain a significant threat nationwide. Upgrades that reduce risk include:

• Interconnected smoke and CO detectors

• Hardwired alarm systems

• Fire-rated doors between garage and home

• Upgraded insulation with fire-resistant properties

• Class A roofing materials

A garage-to-home fire spread is more common than many realize. Installing a self-closing, fire-rated door is a low-cost but high-impact protective measure. Protection isn’t dramatic. It’s deliberate.

8. Foundation & Structural Reinforcement

Hairline cracks may be cosmetic. Structural shifts are not.

Proactive foundation inspections and repairs prevent:

• Water intrusion

• Structural sagging

• Uneven floors

• Expensive long-term damage

In areas with expansive soils, freezethaw cycles, or older masonry foundations, periodic structural review is essential.

Protecting your home means protecting what holds it up.

9. HVAC Modernization and Maintenance

Your heating and cooling systems impact more than comfort.

Modern high-efficiency systems:

• Reduce operating costs

• Lower fire risk

• Improve air quality

• Reduce carbon monoxide danger

Adding smart thermostats and annual maintenance contracts reduces breakdown risk during extreme weather — when repairs are most expensive and inconvenient.

A furnace failure in January or AC failure during a heat wave can quickly escalate into a larger emergency.

Reliability is protection.

10. Security Systems and Exterior Lighting

Protection also means deterrence. Visible security systems, smart cameras, motion-sensor lighting, and reinforced locks reduce burglary risk and increase homeowner peace of mind. Many modern systems allow remote monitoring from anywhere in the world.

Crime prevention is not about fear — it’s about foresight.

11. Drainage-Friendly Landscaping

Landscaping is often viewed as cosmetic. It shouldn’t be.

Strategic planting and grading:

• Direct water away from foundations

• Reduce erosion

• Prevent basement leaks

• Protect patios and hardscapes Improperly placed trees can damage foundations and sewer lines over time. Root intrusion into pipes is an expensive and preventable issue.

Design with protection in mind, not just aesthetics.

12. Backup Power Solutions

Power outages are no longer rare inconveniences — they are seasonal expectations.

A whole-house generator or battery backup system protects:

• Refrigeration

• Medical devices

• Sump pumps

• Heating systems

• Security systems

When power goes out during a storm, homes with backup systems maintain safety and livability. Resale value increases — but more importantly, risk decreases.

The Bigger Picture: I nsurability & Marketability

There is a growing reality homeowners must understand:

Insurance carriers are tightening underwriting standards. Homes with aging roofs, outdated electrical systems, prior water damage, or poor storm resilience are becoming more difficult — and more expensive — to insure.

Continued on page 5

Questions About Spousal Benefits Never Stop

BY TOM MARGENAU

I’ve been saving up questions I’ve gotten from readers about benefits for spouses. It’s an issue I’ve covered a hundred times in this column. But the questions still keep coming. So, here is column No. 100 -- one about benefits paid to wives and widows -- and occasionally, husbands and widowers.

Q: I am about to turn 63 and am thinking of starting my Social Security then. My wife is 67 and has been getting her own Social Security since she was 62. My benefit is significantly higher than hers. I’ve heard that if I do take my benefits at 62, my wife’s spousal share will be based on that reduced amount. But her widow’s benefit, assuming I pre-decease her, will be based on my full retirement benefit rate. Is this true?

A: No, it’s not true. In fact, it’s just the opposite. The benefit paid to a wife while her husband is still alive is based on his full retirement age (FRA) rate. But the benefit paid to a widow includes any reduction he incurred in his own benefit if he started them before his FRA:

If you do take benefits at 63, here is roughly how they will figure your wife’s spousal benefit. They will take her full retirement age benefit rate and subtract that from one-half of your FRA rate. Any difference will be added to her reduced retirement benefit.

But if you die first, her widow’s benefit will be based on your reduced retirement benefit. In a nutshell, her own benefit would be bumped up to whatever you were getting at the time of death.

Q: My husband is 67 and starting his Social Security. I am 62. Other than a few years after high school when I had some part-time jobs, I have spent my entire adult life as a wife or homemaker. So, I have no Social Security of my own. A neighbor told me that after my husband dies, I will never be able to get widow’s benefits because I don’t have my own Social Security account. Is this true?

A: It’s absolutely false. As I always tell my readers, and as I just pointed out in a recent column, never listen to friends or neighbors offering Social Security advice. It’s almost always wrong. In fact, not only will you be due widow’s benefits when your husband dies, but you are due dependent wife’s benefits on his record right now. Call Social Security at 800 -- 772-1213 and file a spousal claim right away.

Q: I am a kind of rare bird. I have been a stay-at-home husband and father most of my adult life. My wife is a doctor and has been the primary wage earner in our family. We are both about to turn 62 and are starting to think about Social Security. Will I be due any Social Security on

my wife’s record?

A: Yes, you will. For the most part, Social Security laws are gender neutral. So you will be able to get your dependent husband’s benefits once your wife retires. And if she dies before you do, you will get widower’s benefits.

Q: I am 68 and thinking of signing up for my Social Security. I have a 45-year-old wife and we have two children. The 16-year-old daughter is her child from a previous marriage. The 10-year-old son is our child. I just learned our son might be due benefits on my record. Is this true?

A: Yes, it’s true. And not only your son, but also your stepdaughter. And for that matter, if she is not working, your wife could also be due benefits. But the amount of money you all would get will be restricted by “family maximum” rules that limit the amount of benefits payable to a retiree with minor children. I don’t have the space to get into all of that today. But you should call Social Security at 800-772-1213 to talk about filing for benefits for you and your family.

Q: I am waiting until age 70 to claim my Social Security. I am doing that to get the bonus added to my retirement rate for delaying starting my benefits until 70. But I was also doing that so that my wife would get my augmented benefits after I die. (Her own benefit is about a thousand dollars less than mine.) So imagine my shock when a Social Security rep recently told me that after I die, my wife’s widow’s benefit will be based on my full retirement age rate, not by age 70 rate. Is this right?

A: No, it’s not right. And for some reason (lack of training?), Social Security Administration reps frequently get this wrong. While you are alive, any spousal benefits she might be due are based on your full retirement age benefit. But after you die, her widow’s benefits are based on your augmented age 70 rate, including the bonus you got for waiting that long to claim your benefits.

Q: I am 63 and have been a wife and homemaker all my life, so I get a small percentage of my husband’s Social Security. But I’ve always wondered this. Why don’t women in my position get Social Security credits for the work we did as homemakers and childcare providers?

A: As I’ve explained in prior columns, this is a topic that has been debated for years. But the issue always comes down to this: Where would the money or earnings come from to put on your Social Security record? And the only viable solution policy planners have ever come up with is a concept known as “earnings sharing.” In a nutshell, that means a working husband and a stay-athome mom would split the earnings the husband makes

For example, if Husband Henry

makes $100,000 per year, $50,000 would go on his Social Security record and $50,000 would go on Wife Wilma’s Social Security record. Now that might make Wife Wilma happy that she’s being “paid” for Social Security purposes with earnings and credits going on her account. But just ask Husband Henry how thrilled he is that he only gets Social Security credit for half the money he makes -- and eventually ends up with a much smaller Social Security benefit!

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 2026 CREATORS.COM

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Upgrades That Protect Your Home, Not Just Its Price Tag

Continued from page 3

Protective upgrades are becoming underwriting advantages.

In competitive markets like Nassau and Suffolk Counties, buyers are increasingly educated. A home with documented improvements that reduce risk is not just attractive — it’s reassuring.

In uncertain times, buyers gravitate toward certainty.

Protection vs. Perception

A luxury kitchen photographs beautifully.

A new drain tile system does not.

Yet one protects your family and your equity; the other enhances lifestyle and potential resale pricing.

The smartest homeowners prioritize upgrades in this order:

1. Safety

2. Structural integrity

3. Water management

4. Mechanical reliability

5. Energy efficiency

6. Cosmetic enhancement

Equity grows best when risk is minimized.

Final Thoughts

Your home is more than an asset. It is shelter, security, and long-term financial stability.

Protective upgrades may not always increase your asking price dollar-for-dollar, but they dramatically reduce downside risk — and that is often more important.

In a world of unpredictable weather, rising repair costs, and evolving insurance standards, the question is no longer:

“What will increase my home’s value?”

It is:

“What will protect the value I’ve already built?”

The answer lies not in quartz countertops or designer lighting — but in roofs, drainage systems, electrical panels, and intelligent prevention.

Because the best upgrade is the one that keeps everything else standing.

And that, ultimately, is the greatest

return on investment of all.

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

WRITER’S CORNER

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

The random topics of book clubs

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

Book clubs have been around for a long time, I’ve discovered, and people meet both indoors and outdoors. Sometimes, weather permitting, they even gather at the beach to discuss the book of the day. It’s a good way to meet people I wouldn’t meet otherwise. Here’s a case in point: My public library and senior center have a long list of events held every month and men and women from the community join these groups or stop in to see what they are all about. Sometimes they like the groups’ topics and other times they decide it’s not their cup of tea. Trying something new is always a good thing.

Last year I went to the chess club meetings at the library and got friendly with Paula, Mark and Jack. All four of us had played chess in high school and we were either brushing up on our chess skills or starting to engage in some pretty good games.

After a while I got more interested in going to the book club at the library and lo and behold, I ran into Paula, Mark and Jack. We were like old lost friends reuniting because we’d gotten to know each other at the chess club. Whether the moderator had arranged for some guest speakers or we played chess, we had a chance to linger and chat before and after the meetings.

As retired Baby Boomers we were looking for things to do so these different

local activities were handy. Having something in common to talk about, whether it’s chess, the books being discussed at the book club, the author of the day, arts and crafts or genealogy means there is any easy ice breaker. Most people I know are eager to discuss the book they’ve just read or the chess game they just won.

Mention genealogy and everyone’s got a story to share. If there’s a moderator for the club discussions usually start quickly. The time flies by and soon the allotted hour is up. Time to return home and start dinner.

Every time I glance at my library’s calendar of events there seems to be another book club added. Talk about Edgar Allen Poe books or Kristin Hannah. You name it and someone somewhere has started a book club. They go in and out of style and that’s fine. People’s interests tend to ebb and flow and specific clubs can be started, continued or dissolved.

You can attend a certain book club or pick another one you like better. Groups change and people do, too. The book club I attend is a garden variety book club. We don’t specialize in reading and talking about certain authors such as Stephen King or Agatha Christie, we choose books pretty much at random, set the calendar for the year for 12 books to discuss and off we go.

I like the randomness of my book club. One thing is that I am almost always surprised by which book has been chosen. I may end up liking it or disliking it but

either way I’ll get to hear lots of opinions. Next month and next year it will be something different.

There are roughly 30-35 people in my book club and we spend a few minutes chatting before the meeting starts. Once the moderator takes her seat and begins everyone grows silent and sits still as she comments on what she feels are the strengths and weaknesses of the book. She doesn’t give a formal presentation, she just talks about what she liked and disliked.

Some of the bestselling books have their moments where the characters seem to come to life on the page and the plot is so good we don’t want to put down that page turner of a novel.

Once she finishes her remarks and opens it up to the floor people are eager to share their thoughts. The members of my book club are enthusiastic about whatever book is being talked about or I have a feeling they wouldn’t come to the meeting.

They could stay at home and relax with a cup of coffee while reading another scintillating novel. The enthusiasm of the people in my book club is contagious and we - who used to be complete strangers - have the general feeling that talking about books is a whole lot of fun.

We’ll have to do it again. Same time next month, same place but this time we’ll have a different book to discuss called The Midnight Library by Matt Haig which was published in 2020.

We have to read it but we’re given a short summary ahead of time: There is a make-believe library that contains an endless number of books, each one the story of another reality.

One tells the story of your life as it is, along with another book for the other life you could have lived if you had made a different choice along the way. While we all wonder how our lives might have been, what if you had the chance to go to the library and see for yourself? Would any of these other lives be better?

In The Midnight Library, Nora Seed has to decide if she would choose the life she has or if she would pick a different career. She’d always wanted to become a glaciologist - a scientist who studies glaciers, ice and their effects on the Earth. Does she choose that job?

She thinks about her prior relationships and also about travels and vacations she has taken with friends. Nora travels through the Midnight Library to decide what is truly fulfilling in life.

After reading the summary I know that the next book will make for an interesting discussion. Sure it means doing some homework which entails reading the book and taking some notes but that’s okay. It’s a fun type of homework.

I start to wonder what comments people will have but then I stop myself because part of the fun of book clubs is never really knowing what people will come out with. Anticipation is a good way to describe it.

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A hot breakfast for relaxed weekend mornings

Peasant Omelet

A hot breakfast can be just what the doctor ordered on weekends. Weekday mornings might be too hectic to whip up a hot breakfast, but that’s often not the case come Saturday and Sunday. For those with time to cook breakfast

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small potato, peeled and chopped into small pieces

1 clove minced garlic, peeled and minced

2 slices cooked ham, cut into bite-size pieces

2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish

1) Heat the oil in a skillet set over medium-high heat. Add the chopped potatoes and saute until almost fork tender. Add the garlic and continue cooking until the potatoes are tender. Add ham and fresh parsley, stirring until heated through. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

2) Melt butter in an omelet pan or saute pan. Beat milk and eggs together. Pour egg mixture into the

over the weekend, this recipe for a “Peasant Omelet” from Lines+Angles is delicious and simple to prepare..

Makes 1 serving

1 tablespoon butter

2 tablespoons milk

3 fresh eggs

Salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 pickle, sliced lengthwise (optional)

omelet pan. Cook over medium heat, gently move the eggs by sliding a spatula under the eggs, to promote even cooking. Cook until eggs are set.

3) Slide cooked omelet onto plate. Season with freshly ground black pepper and top with potato and ham mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley and sliced pickle. Serve immediately.o juices have time to thicken, from 1 to 2 hours.

Getting married?

Email editor@gcnews.com to put your engagement or wedding announcement in the paper.

Jazz Ensemble learns from guest conductor

On Jan. 16, guest conductor George Andrikokus visited the Garden City High School jazz ensemble for an instructional rehearsal session. During his visit, he worked closely with students to refine their technique, strengthen ensemble performance and deepen their understanding of jazz music.

Andrikokus is an Alfred artist and serves as director of bands and instrumental jazz programs at Hinsdale Middle School in Illinois. He has taught in multiple school districts, directed the Youth Jazz Ensemble of DuPage and received several music education awards. An active clinician, adjudicator and saxophonist, Andrikokus has performed internationally and currently serves as vice president of the Illinois Grade School Music Association.

During his visit, Andrikokus worked closely with students to refine their intonation, projection and style. He emphasized the unique role and strengths of each instrument within the ensemble and shared strategies for producing a fuller, clearer sound. Drawing on his experience as a saxophonist, he offered targeted feedback to the saxophone section and used engaging analogies to inspire students and elevate the ensemble’s overall performance.

“Mr. Andrikokus delivered an outstanding workshop that challenged

and motivated our students,” said Mr. Dan DellaMonica, band teacher at Garden City High School. “His energy and expertise truly resonated with the students, and they left the

taught the

rehearsal excited to put his feedback into practice.”

The jazz ensemble will continue to display their growth at upcoming performances, including the

Love to write? 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

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

Friday, February 20, 2026

for the St. Paul’s site, after arguing that the Village no longer needs a park at that site? Nothing. This leaves the Village with either the BOT’s preferred option: Adaptive Reuse, which residents have rejected, or further procrastination, while we continue to pay for St. Paul’s steady disintegration. I think not. It’s been 33 years. Enough is enough.

Increasing our park space enhances the charm, utility and attractiveness of the entire Village. It’s a clear choice.

Jo-Ann Frey Candidate for Trustee

Candidates against Casino

To the Editor:

As the four Community Agreement Party candidates, three of whom are current members of the Board of Trustees, we are writing to reaffirm our unequivocal opposition to the proposed LV Sands Casino or any other gaming development at the Nassau Coliseum site.

From the outset, we have made our position clear: broadly defined gaming  development is not appropriate for the Village and the surrounding communities.  Specifically, we have aggressively opposed Nassau County’s strategy of paving the way for the development of a large-scale casino at the Nassau Hub site, and we remain steadfast in protecting the character, safety, and long-term well-being of Garden City and its surrounding neighborhoods.

Our opposition has not been only a few words.  As Trustees, we have spoken at public hearings before both the Nassau County Legislature and the Town of Hempstead. We have stood alongside residents at public protests. The Board passed formal resolutions opposing the project and filed two Article 78 proceedings against both the County and the Town challenging actions related to this proposal. We also submitted detailed formal comments on the environmental review, raising serious concerns about traffic, infrastructure, public safety, and quality-of-life impacts.

We also continue to strongly support the Say No to the Casino group, whose leadership has shown all of us how the voices in the community can have real impact. Previous Boards have also spoken out against this proposal and laid the groundwork for this ongoing effort.

This fight is far from over. The Town of Hempstead’s ill-advised zoning decision to rezone the property in a way that broadly permits casino development at the Nassau Coliseum site underscores the need for continued vigilance.

Let us be clear: we will not give up this fight. We will continue to use every legal, legislative, and community tool available to oppose a casino or

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

gaming at this site and to advocate for responsible, appropriate development that reflects the values of the Village and benefits all of Nassau County.

Judy Courtney, Vinny Muldoon, Jessica Tai, Gerard Smith

CAP accomplishments

To the

Editor:

The FABGC platform has taken a page from the CAP BOT accomplishments.

Listed below is the platform for FABGC as taken from their flyer followed by the actual CAP BOT accomplishment.

No Casino - The CAP BOT recently brought two lawsuits against casino rezoning.

Enforcing Codes - There is an increased police presence on 7th street enforcing codes, a CAP BOT’s new committee is currently looking at codes for subdivisions, instituted a moratorium until work is completed on lot sizes, building size etc codes.

Traffic Calming- the CAP BOT worked with residents’ concerns re traffic safety hot spots- North Avenue as well as a plan moving forward for all traffic in the village.

Expand the Tree Canopy - the village along with the Beautification Committee and our arborist Joe Umana have implemented a tree planting plan

Continue working with businessesThe CAP BOT did coordinate with local businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, and multiple departments GC departments for the safe return of the 7th Street Festivals. Businesses said it was the first time they were invited to meet with the BOT!

Support improvements in Library programming - the CAP BOT did extensive exterior safety projects and recently heard the consultant’s lower level renovation presentation. Programming has dramatically improved this year.

Support the Fire Department Volunteers - the CAP BOT worked extensively with the firefighters to develop plans for the Western Firehouse at a $3 million dollar savings from prior plansfiscally responsible. Work is scheduled to start in June 2026.

Cluett Hall and Gymnasium complete all essential updates - the CAP BOT started and are nearing completion of all updates.

This CAP BOT has inventoried and inspected all village owned structures. Prioritizing and instituting a mitigation list for aging areas will save thousands of $$$ before major damage occurs.

Some spending cannot be put off, Meadow Street flooding, the Edgemere Fire House project fo the safety of residents in the Western and Estates

Sections and the repair and rebuild of the 100 year oldCedar Valley Lift Station, half collapsed that pumps our sewage to treatment plants. Disaster prevented!

Certainly all critical needs.

Garden City needs the CAP BOT to continue to run the village successfully. They certainly have the experience and strategic plans to make this happen.

Jeannette McLaughlin

CAP muddies the water

To the Editor:

First there was Full Restoration of St Paul’s, then Adaptive Re-Use, Partial Re-Use, Mothballing, PPP, RETT (Transfer Tax) that they just flip-flopped on, Conservancy (with no money) and even the possibility of commingling some of the Village & School District responsibilities including putting per-K (4 year olds) in St Paul’s.

The latest from the Community Agreement Party (CAP) is the Cathedral might build a park in 3-5 years on “private property” that was announced by CAP & not the Cathedral; is this the next thing to “muddy the water?” Private Park vs Public Park - who decides use; not the Village on private property.

Note: Cathedral closed their 6th Street extension to traffic - remember a private organization can allow something on private property and then change their position later; so you can’t depend on it.

What will CAP dream up next to confuse us all; wasting more time and pushing the cost even higher without any real proposal down the road. CAP is for everything and nothing on St Paul’s. Have you noticed that no one in CAP will indicate what they support, except more delay by their silence.

CAP has NO publicly stated position or solution for St Paul’s. They keep throwing things against the wall, hoping something will stick while they consider going to Albany to remove our Parkland designation.

Our straight forward solution is to build a Park and save the Clock Tower.

Tom Ryan

Willing to make the tough choice

To

the Editor:

“Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same.” -The Fray I have always been an art lover and attracted to beautiful architecture. When I moved to Garden City 14 years ago, I never thought I would be running for Village trustee on a platform calling for the end of the St. Paul’s debate with a park and only a small portion of the beautiful building saved to honor its memory.

Several years ago, three options were being debated: Demolition of the entire structure, Facadism (which would

involve taking down the majority of the building but keeping the front), and Full Restoration (aka Save Every Brick). I paid attention to the reports, committee findings and social media debates. I was ready to vote on the day of the survey, only to be surprised and disappointed that my option, Facadism, was unavailable. I had to chose between Demolition, taking down the whole structure, or Preservation, which seemed to encompass any option short of demolition. I felt torn. The building was beautiful, yet I did not want the Village saddled with the enormous debt required to save every brick. I also felt sad at the prospect of taking down the building.

Since that survey, the debate has continued to rage on. The only certainty has been results with no clear direction. Many residents do not want to pay more in taxes to save St Paul’s. In fact, 50% of residents who took the most recent survey last summer rejected every option that would increase their taxes. Half of respondents want NO INCREASE in taxes. Examining those results, I had to ask myself how we could continue to consider full restoration of St. Paul’s— an endeavor for which we cannot even get accurate and credible cost estimates, but which some sources have estimated to be as high as $159M or more when all is said and done. No funding sources have been identified and there is no evidence that we would be able to secure grants or philanthropic dollars to offset any of this cost. No wonder this has gone on for 30+ years.

The hard truth is that it will be difficult, if not impossible, to bring the two opposing sides together—those who want to pay nothing and those who want to save St. Paul’s at any cost. The park IS the compromise option both emotionally and financially. The park proposal includes ways to salvage historic artifacts from the building and display them so residents can finally see and appreciate them. The proposal calls for saving the clock tower as a way to honor the architecture and memory of the building.

The park proposal, which includes the cost of saving the clock tower, is estimated to be about $32M when compared to estimates of $100M-$159M+ to fully restore and fit St. Paul’s for usage. The park proposal also already includes a 15% contingency for unexpected expenses. The park proposal ensures economic sustainability, allowing the Village to maintain its Triple A Moody’s rating and fund much-needed projects.

The Village has pressing needs. The lower level of the library is in need of modernization. That work has been on hold as funds have been diverted for projects such as spending $3M to renovate the Water Works building, which is essentially a storage facility at this point. The tennis bubble desperately needs rehabilitation. With limited bud-

gets and resources, it’s reasonable to believe that these projects and similar future needs of the Village will be postponed if we are mired in debt from St. Paul’s.

As much as I would have liked to reach a solution, I cannot in good conscience advocate for the Village to Save Every Brick and burden residents and our children with the financial consequences of drowning the village in debt. I want the Village to thrive, not just survive. Many of us will mourn St Paul’s if it comes down, and rightfully so. That doesn’t mean it is not the best choice for our Village.

Vote for FABGC on March 18th.

Neha Bajaj Candidate for Trustee

Who needs the expense

To the Editor:

You can calculate your own estimated annual Village tax increase by using the Village of Garden City website in regards to the projected numbers of $60.4m, $80m, and a $100m, which are probably closer to $160m or $180m when all costs are factored into the total, for any of the St. Paul’s preservation projects by using the following:

1. For a $60.4m project, annual taxes will increase by 13.18% for a 15-year bond or 9.99% for 30 years.

2. For an $80m project, annual taxes will increase by 15.98% for a 15-year bond or 11.92% for 30 years.

3. For a $100m project, annual taxes will increase by 19.97% for a 15-year bond or 14.9% for 30 years.

4 For a $160m project, annual taxes will increase by 31.95% for a 15-year bond or 23.84% for 30 years.

5. For a $180m project, annual taxes will increase by 35.95% for a 15-year bond or 26.82% for 30 years.

The sum totals for each taxpayer are different and depend upon individual property values, exemptions, and taxes, which are presently shown on your Village tax bills. The above figures, however, do not include the estimated millions in annual operating costs that include staffing, utilities, insurance premiums, security, equipment, furnishings, supplies, janitorial services, maintenance on both inside and outside the building, parking facilities, management of the building, and programs. Remember that all these numbers will only go up year by year as costs rise. There is also a 10% to 20% soft cost contingency, according to the Westerman report summary, for the professional planning and designs of St. Paul’s that must be done prior to construction and added to the final figures.

The above costs also do not include annual village tax increases for the Village budgets and services, water bills, recreation facility increases, along with any future expenses for capital

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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improvements and emergency repairs. The choice to me is clear, go with the Park Concept and eliminate the needless unforeseen expenses associated with St. Paul’s once and for all....

Bob Orosz

Skills and professional experience

To the Editor:

I am writing this letter for several purposes. First, I continue to fully support the current BOT led by Mayor Ed Finneran. The current BOT possesses the perfect blend of skills and professional experience. Most importantly, I value their moral character, enthusiasm, professional experience, commitment and passion to address the community needs. Second, the team has proven that they have a clear and comprehensive overall understanding of the current needs of the Village. They work well together and have accomplished much within a short period of time. They possess the ability to analyze, to seek community input, to prioritize and to deliver. Third, I continue to encourage residents to become informed through information on the Village website and the recordings of the BOT Meetings. It is important to discern, and to weed out lies, exaggerations and misinformation. The recording of the BOT meeting held on Thursday, February 5 is available. Listen at 51:00 (Trustee Muldoon) and 1:01:45 (Trustee Courtney). Please listen to the discussion at this link https://www.facebook.com/reel/1837390463631384. As for St. Paul’s, I am confident that a final decision will be made by the residents. Please consider voting for Judy Courtney, Vinny Muldoon, Jessica Tai and Gerard Smith.

Marta Waters

Will GC still be a Triple-A borrower?

To the Editor:

In the February 13th edition of the G.C.News there was an article stating that Garden City Village received a AAA rating on a $17 million bond offering. The bonds were issued on February 3rd, at a cost of 3.67%, to fund various, non St Paul’s, infrastructure projects. Does this offering imply that future bond offerings related to St. Paul’s reconstruction would be available at a similar interest rate and a much larger quantity? After all, estimates of the total cost to rehabilitate St. Paul’s Main Building range from $80 million-$150 million. My answer is “not necessarily.” Bond issuance to re-purpose is likely several months away and will depend on financial market conditions at that time, as well as the make-up of a new Board of Trustees. The out-going Board has been pro-preservation.

My bet is that Garden City Village will pay higher interest rates than

today, other things being equal, owing to the added risk likely for demolition and reconstruction of St. Paul’s. Terms of any new funding would also depend on the ability of the Village to obtain funding from non-traditional sources--such as conservancies, grants, a real estate transfer tax, private/public partnerships, philanthropies and contributions from wealthy individuals. Personally, I am not optimistic that non- traditional sources of funding will be available in large quantities. Garden City Village has scheduled a town hall meeting to discuss financing sources, for early-March. As of today, very little has been finalized regarding the repurposing of St. Paul’s.

The St. Paul’s Advisory Committee has recently completed several months of studying the reuse of the St. Paul’s property. Admittedly, they are far from final recommendations--nor, obviously is The incoming G.C. Board of Trustees. I believe any final Committee report will be to preserve at least parts of the St. Paul’s Campus. Final plans will be up to the Board, several members of which will change on Village Election day (March 18). An important limiting factor of funds sources will be to respect the results of the September 2025 Resident Survey in which fully 50% said they are not willing to pay ANYTHING in higher taxes to reconstruct St. Paul’s. Whether Moody’s actually cuts its rating, investors will consider the higher risk in purchasing our bonds. Thus, we could see a de facto Moody’s rating reduction. Stated simply, the huge volume of future debt issuance dictates this reality. In my opinion, Garden City will ultimately reject preservation in favor of a town park, which would be far less costly, more popular with the residents, and keep our financial health, and AAA rating.

George M. Salem

Deep understanding of issues

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my strong support for Judy Courtney and the Community Agreement Party ticket in the upcoming election for Village Trustee.

As Chair of the Architectural Design Review Board, I have worked closely with Judy over the past year and have seen firsthand her commitment, judgment, and deep understanding of Village issues. In her role as Trustee, Judy has taken an active interest in and oversight of both the ADRB and the Zoning Board of Appeals, regularly attending meetings of each and staying fully informed on applications and the challenges they present. When complex matters arose before the ADRB, Judy was consistently available for discussion and provided thoughtful, well-grounded input that reflected both the letter and the spirit of

Village code.

As a Garden City resident for the past 51 years, in addition to working with Judy through the ADRB, I have also had the opportunity over many years to observe her work with other community groups and her strong, long-standing commitment to the Village. Her effectiveness is further informed by her work with the EPOA and her background as a lifelong Garden City resident.

The ADRB plays a vital role in preserving Garden City’s architectural character—an effort that directly supports property values and the quality of life residents cherish. Judy understands this responsibility and has been a strong supporter of the board’s work.

Garden City benefits from leaders who possess the institutional knowledge honed over many years, show up, listen, and work collaboratively. Judy Courtney exemplifies those qualities, and I proudly support her re-election.

James L. Bauer

High moral character

To the Editor:

I am writing in support of Tom Ryan for Trustee. I have known him for many years and if he says he will vote for a Park, he will do it.

Tom is a man of high moral character with a proven ability to get things done.

Please join me in voting for Tom Ryan.

Linda

Schroeder

Strong dedicated force

To the Editor:

We are writing to recognize the tremendous work of our (CAP) Board of Trustees: Jessica Tai, Judy Courtney, and Vinny Muldoon, who are up for reelection. Now joined by Gerard Smith, they will continue to be a strong dedicated force representing the members of our community.

Over the past few years, the Trustees have demonstrated thoughtful leadership and steady follow-through across a wide range of initiatives. They have ensured a top-quality water build out and the maintenance of the highest quality of water filtration systems—an essential investment in public health and long-term infrastructure. Road maintenance throughout the village has noticeably improved, and the revitalization of downtown 7th Street has enhanced both safety and vibrancy in our business district.

The full restoration of the Edgemere Firehouse in the western Estates section and the renovation of the Historic Tollhouse reflect a deep respect for our village’s history and safety. At the same time, forward-looking recreation and park development projects have

See page 46

Friday, February 20, 2026

created new opportunities for families and residents of all ages to gather and enjoy our shared spaces. The formation of the St. Paul’s Advisory Committee shows a commitment to thoughtful planning and community engagement.

Community facilities have also seen meaningful upgrades, including the renovation of Cluett Hall and the Fieldhouse. Village Street Fairs for the Ryder Cup and Homecoming brought neighbors together and showcased our strong community spirit. Efforts to beautify 7th Street have further enhanced the character and charm of our downtown.

Perhaps most importantly, our Trustees are highly visible and approachable. They respond quickly to citizens’ concerns and consistently demonstrate that they are listening. Their responsiveness and hands-on involvement reflect genuine dedication to the village and to the people who call it home.

We are fortunate to have Trustees who work collaboratively, invest in both infrastructure and community life, and remain accessible to residents. Their service deserves recognition, appreciation and re-election.

Maggie and Bob Johansen

Excellent candidate

To the Editor:

Jo-Ann Frey is an outstanding candidate for Village Trustee. I have known her my entire life, and she has always been inquisitive, thoughtful, hardworking and very interested in Village issues. She will be an excellent, engaged, and open Village Trustee. Jo-Ann approaches every responsibility with honesty and dedication. She respects the Village residents and will work tirelessly for their best interests.

Vote for Jo-Ann Frey on March 18th.

Linda Nahles

Vote for Judy Courtney

To the Editor:

Judy Courtney exemplifies the spirit of community service. As a longtime member and former officer of the Eastern POA, she has consistently dedicated herself to serving the village. Most recently, she has led the POA engagement group, coordinating events like the Fall Festival and our local holiday decorating contests that bring us all together.

In her current role as Deputy Mayor, Judy is deeply involved in all aspects of our village, with a particular focus on modernizing our zoning regulations. She also serves on the Traffic Commission and works closely with Jessica Tai to improve our communication channels and keep residents informed.

I strongly encourage everyone to

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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vote for Judy Courtney and the entire CAP slate—Vinny Muldoon, Jessica Tai, and Gerard Smith—on Wednesday, March 18th.

Richard Catalano

Support for Neha Bajaj

To the Editor:

I have been very active in the Village for over 30 years. I am a retired municipal attorney who worked at a big firm out here with many villages, so I know how much work being a Village Trustee takes. So first --- thank you to anyone who takes on such time consuming, difficult and mostly unrewarding work. I have known Neha Bajaj for many years through SEPTA and other groups in town and I vouch for her ability to be a great Trustee.

Barbara McElroy

Collaborative spirit achieves results

To the Editor:

Our current Board of Trustees is delivering on its promise of unity and respect, replacing past divisiveness with a steadfast focus on shared goals. They provide the leadership and character our community deserves—listening to residents, acting with urgency, and prioritizing village needs. This collaborative spirit is resolving long-standing issues, including the renovation of the Edgemere Firehouse, the installation of the St. Paul’s turf field, and the ongoing restoration of our village’s beauty. Most recently, by partnering with village administration and resident volunteers, the Board earned Moody’s highest bond rating and secured a $500,000 federal grant for the Edgemere Firehouse renovation. Please join me in supporting Vinny Muldoon, Jessica Tai, Judy Courtney, and CAP candidate Gerard Smith for the Board of Trustees on Wednesday, March 18th.

John Reilly

Considers all sides

To the Editor:

I write to recommend Jo-Ann Frey for the position of Village Trustee. We met 40 years ago while sharing an office as federal government administrative attorneys. In those close quarters I observed Jo-Ann’s remarkable energy coupled with her integrity and sense of fair play. She did an admirable job representing the government while treating other stakeholders (including opposing counsel and litigants) with respect. She’s a good listener and works to resolve issues after considering all sides and sober deliberation.

My admiration for Jo-Ann has increased through the decades as I have watched her continue her dedication to public service and family. She is the most reliable, hardest worker I know, as demonstrated by her pursuit of mul-

tiple graduate degrees while holding a full-time job and raising a family. Additionally, she has volunteered in the community and ably managed the care and finances of older relatives. It’s like she has more hours in her day than I have in mine.

Jo-Ann values her commitments and relationships. I feel lucky to have her as a friend and believe the Village would be well-served to have her as a trustee.

Debra Doherty

Support for Judy Courtney and CAP

To the Editor:

As a former Village Trustee, I had the privilege of helping guide Garden City through many important decisions. Serving successfully in this role requires far more than good intentions. It takes preparation, sound judgment, the ability to listen and a deep respect for the collaborative nature of local government.

During my time as a Trustee, I learned that the most effective leaders are those who do the work before the meeting begins, who ask the right questions, study the details and weigh the impact of every decision. They understand that progress comes from cooperation and that the best outcomes are achieved by putting the Village first.

Judy Courtney exemplifies these qualities. She brings a thoughtful, disciplined approach to public service and consistently demonstrates a strong understanding of how our Village operates. Judy listens carefully, communicates clearly and approaches issues with both pragmatism and respect for differing viewpoints.

Garden City benefits when experienced, capable individuals step forward to lead. Based on what it truly takes to be an effective Village Trustee, I strongly support Judy Courtney, as well as the full Community Agreement Party slate.

Mark Hyer

Compassion and analytical skills

To the Editor:

Jo-Ann Frey is a friend present in the earliest childhood memories housed within my mind. The abundant recollections subsequently created over the many years to follow also include Jo-Ann and the rest of her family. I cannot remember a time before I knew the Frey family. So many Thanksgivings and Christmases and backyard barbecues spent together. My family resided on Mulberry Avenue, a quick walk around the corner from the Frey home on Maxwell Road. Every school day I would walk past the Frey’s house on my way to Hemlock School. Once past the Frey home, I knew I was halfway to my destination.

I am very well acquainted with Jo-Ann Frey. She routinely displays

intelligence, affability, wit, generosity, and compassion. I have had innumerable conversations with her over the years and she always displays superior analytical and reasoning skills. She explains her point of view in extremely well reasoned and efficacious language, while never losing her good natured way of interacting with people. Prior to reaching decisions concerning complex and nuanced matters under discussion, Jo-Ann routinely demonstrates sound research and investigative skills, as well as discernment, and an ability to detect nuance.

Jo-Ann’s presence will be very value added to the Board of Trustees. Village elections are March 18th. Vote for her.

Craig W. Kennelly

Commitment to community

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my strong support for Judy Courtney and the Community Agreement Party Candidates for Village Trustee.

I have known Judy for many years. Our daughters were in the same high school class, and we also had the opportunity to work together at St. John’s University. Judy is thoughtful, dependable, and consistently willing to step up whenever help is needed. She is someone you can always count on.

One of the many examples of her commitment to our community is her work organizing POA food drives in support of Long Island Cares. Her focus is always on important issues and making a meaningful difference for those who need it the most. Judy spearheaded a food drive on Dec. 15, 2026, with the help of the amazing folks at Bileddo’s Key Food in Garden City. Food donated went directly to the Mary Brennan Inn. This food drive provided 744 meals for our neighbors facing food insecurity.

Judy’s support of the food drive and her other efforts show that her actions support her words when it comes to helping our Long Island neighbors in need. These are the qualities we need in a Village Trustee.

Mary Pat Beirne

Transparent and open

To the Editor:

It is my pleasure to back the FABGC candidates: Tom Ryan, Thomas Brosnan, Jo-Ann Frey and Neha Baja running for Trustee position’s. What a relief after not feeling heard or listened to by the current BOT members for far too long. Their last “sham survey” never mentioned the option of demolition and yet they claimed to be transparent and open to listening to ALL GC residents. It’s refreshing that those resident’s , who have waited for fiscal responsibility to return, now have the

hope of new trustee’s representing us.

Thank you, Tom Ryan, who I have known for decades and the other impressive candidates running with you and for taking the stand that most represents the needs of our community.

I know Tom to be a bright, moral & ethical man who has proven his devotion to his family, church, friends and community for many years. The evidence is mentioned in Tom’s resume. I would like to see a fiscally responsible BOT for all our residents and the idea of a St. Paul’s Park including saving the Clock Tower.

Peggy Volz

Commitment to fiscal responsibility

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my strong support for Jessica Tai for village Trustee. She brings a well-rounded mix of experience, perspective, and dedication to serving our community. Jessica is committed to responsible governance, transparency, and thoughtful decision-making that reflects the needs and priorities of village residents.

I have worked with Jessica Tai on the BOT and several committees and have found her to be thorough and always looking to act in the best interest of the residents. Jessica Tai has done an excellent job serving on the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) and Finance & Audit Committee, where she has demonstrated careful analysis, fairness, and a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility. We have also worked together with the water department to increase awareness of lead water lines in houses across Garden City. Jessica approaches all challenges with a collaborative and solution-oriented mindset and is a true asset to the board. She is considerate of others and their opinions and diligent about making well informed decisions.

Jessica has been instrumental in launching the Village app, MyGardenCity to improve communication particularly for residents that may find it more challenging to attend village meetings. As part of the EAB she has worked on tree preservation efforts and village beautification projects as well as advocating for plane noise reduction. She has also been supportive of critical infrastructure projects such as the new Cedar Valley Sewer Station, the Meadow Street Drainage project and the Edgemere Firehouse renovation.

The village has made significant progress through tangible improvements that residents can clearly appreciate, and Jessica has played a key role in driving this positive change. I encourage residents to join me in voting for Jessica Tai and the other CAP candidates Judy Courtney, Gerard Smith, and Vinny Muldoon in the upcoming election on Wednesday March 18th, St. Paul’s Gym from 12:00pm-9:00pm Yvonne Varano

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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Cares about his neighbors

To the Editor:

When I moved into Garden City a little over 20 years ago, I was fortunate enough to be living across the street from Thomas and Rosemary Brosnan, two of the nicest people you would ever hope to be neighbors with. Tom was the first person to welcome me and my family into the Village and immediately made us realize that moving to Garden City was the best decision we could have made. From our first day, it was apparent that Tom genuinely cared about the people living around him. We could see how he took the time to stop and talk to other residents of Euston Road, and that they all trusted him and could rely on his kindness.

Never a day goes by that Tom isn’t doing something for someone on the block, whether it’s checking in on an elderly next-door neighbor, whom he has been friends with for years, making sure that everything is fine and letting them know that he’s there if they need him, or just picking up someone’s mail when they’re away on vacation. Whenever a snowstorm hits, Tom is the one who gets out early and spends hours of his time clearing out his neighbors’ driveways and sidewalks with his snow blower before they’ve even had their morning coffee. My wife and I have always known that Tom is the one person we could expect to be standing at our front door if we needed a friend in a time of need.

However, one of the best things about being neighbors with Tom are the funny sidewalk conversations we’ve had over the years. I never want to be in a rush when I see him outside, because I might miss out on a few good laughs. I hope everyone in Garden City gets the chance to see how much better things in our village will be if they elect an intelligent and kindhearted man like him to serve in Village Hall. There is honestly no better man to be in that position than Thomas Brosnan.

Bob Donovan

Park would be a treasure

To the Editor:

Today I saw robins, heralding spring. Soon it be warm enough to stroll in my neighborhood park with beautiful trees, flowers, benches and happy people of all ages. I would absolutely love an even bigger Stewart Memorial Park at Saint Paul’s. We could add features over time, perhaps walking and bike paths, perhaps a bandshell. It would be a treasure.

Terry Schoenig

Enduring commitment

To the Editor:

During Jessica Tai’s term as a village trustee, her energy, devotion and joy

are evident as she serves the residents of this village. As a mom of two delightful children in the school district, she carries a genuine and enduring commitment to policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Keeping in mind to preserve the small-town quaintness of our village, Trustees Tai, Muldoon, Courtney and Varano have made impactful decisions that enhance the lives of residents.

Caring deeply about Garden City‘s character, Jessica and the current Board members have made thoughtful codes on outdoor dining and swimming pools and they have placed a moratorium on all prospective subdivisions. The trustees have passed bond resolutions for the Meadow Street drainage to prevent flooding and approved the overdue Edgemere fire station’s full renovation project to significantly reduce response time and to improve fire safety.

Jessica Tai and the trustees support a thriving Garden City with local businesses that are creating a vibrant downtown filled with shops and eateries. Cleanliness and beautification projects foster an inviting atmosphere that village residents enjoy. Trustees Jessica Tai, Vinny Muldoon and Judy Courtney are deeply invested in our town and have proven to be integral and devoted assets. Garden City is strongest when it is led by people who truly care about its character and its families. Trustees Tai, Muldoon and Courtney have shown that dedication and commitment time and again. I encourage my neighbors to stand with them and Candidate Gerard Smith to ensure our village remains the vibrant, welcoming community we cherish.

Jade Mo

A great candidate

To the Editor,

As village residents for 34 years, we endorse Vinny Muldoon for Trustee. We have known Vinny for 33 years. He is trustworthy, honest and always helping others. His moral integrity is beyond reproach. Vinny is a passionate and tireless worker for the community he loves. We support him and his fellow, dedicated trustees.

Nancy and Michael Crowley

Traffic and speeding

To the Editor:

My name is Matthew Ryan. I am 16 years old and currently a high school Junior taking a drivers ed course locally. Soon I expect to be driving on the streets of Garden City. I would like to express my concerns about speeding and reckless driving in Garden City; especially on our busier roads. I happen to live on a busier street and frequently see speeding and reckless driving

by cars and trucks alike. It is bad all the time but it is really bad during the morning and evening rush hours. When I do see enforcement it is not consistent. So much so that I feel that drivers know it is statistically very unlikely to get pulled over so they just continue to speed. I see enforcement and then won’t see it again for many days or even weeks. This creates an unsafe driving environment. I’m not scared to drive but the conditions do concern me.

I would like to ask village residents to adhere to the speed limit. I would like to ask the Village Administration to research alternative ways to limit speeding and reckless driving within the village. I would like to ask the Village Police Department to increase enforcement, make it more consistent and to be more visible on out busier streets.

Matthew Ryan

Support the Save America Act

To the Editor:

Once again, the two Representatives near Garden City, Laura Gillen our Representative and Tom Suozzi who Represents the North Shore of LI both voted against the Save America Act which calls for a requirement to show a photo ID in order to vote in the upcoming elections.

Recent polling shows that the American people want voter ID requirement to protect the integrity of our elections. Whites favor this by 85%, Blacks by over 75% and Hispanics by over 70%.

So again, Gillen and Suozzi have voted against the will of their constituents, and they won’t support the Save America Act. They back Schumer and Hakeem Jefferies consistently only four Democrats in the House voted in favor of the Bill.

It still needs to pass in the Senate which will be difficult since it needs 60 votes to support it and the Republicans only have 54 Senators so six Dems will have to cross over to accomplish this important legislation.

Please call or write Schumer and Gillibrand and tell them we expect them to support the will of the people not the Democrat Party.

If a Democrat won’t support voter ID, they clearly are preparing to cheat in the election. You need to show ID for prescriptions, airline travel, entering any major building in NYC, checking into a hotel, hospital, to open a bank account and other situations.

I will remind all the citizens who are represented by Ms. Gillen how for the most part she voted in step with Hakeem Jefferies and against the desires of the citizens in Nassau County.

Richard Hay

Volunteers sought for 250th festivities

From page 1

The

and Foley may review and select books in that category.

“Another thing will be bringing in a reenactor to portray Deborah Sampson, a woman who pretended to be a male so she could fight for the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War (in 1782 and 1783). We are working on that,” she said. Deborah Sampson was proclaimed the “Official Heroine of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts” on May 23, 1983.

Trustee Harrington added that the Village would like to expand the footprint and activities of the annual Little League Parade on Seventh Street, and it would be fitting for this year’s event to incorporate more of the history of America’s pastime — baseball.

Another idea Trustee Harrington said Mayor Finneran has suggested is a program for Village of Garden City volunteers to sign up as part of a celebratory Continental Army, where they would receive training as reenactors. A Revolutionary War encampment and

demonstration could then be organized at St. Paul’s or another venue for the community.

The Garden City Pool will feature an “Old-Fashioned Pool Day” for the Fourth of July.

The summer 2026 Friday evening Promenades were briefly mentioned as part of the Semiquincentennial celebrations, although no specific details were shared.

Trustee Harrington noted that, with lacrosse being the village’s favorite sport and having origins as a game created by Indigenous people/Native Americans, the trustees felt it could be an appropriate way to celebrate the nation’s history in Garden City by exploring the development of lacrosse.

Separate from the Board of Trustees’ announcements, on Tuesday, February 24, the four Garden City property owners’ associations are scheduled to host the fifth event in their historical series, fitting the Semiquincentennial theme: “The American Revolution from Boston to Long Island,” at the Garden City

Senior Center on Golf Club Lane, starting at 7 p.m. The free event requires registration and will feature two short plays by a local playwright, with local actors and musicians participating.

Open call for volunteers

Mayor Finneran shared the event planning themes with the goal of attracting volunteers, as the larger events will require substantial effort to organize.

“We need volunteers, ladies and gentlemen, and we’re looking for community members who can do things and follow through, and anyone who will be as excited as we are for these events.”

The Board advised residents interested in volunteering to contact Village Clerk Kelly Galanek at kgalanek@gardencityny.net.

Following the call for volunteers, Trustee Harrington announced to the meeting audience and those listening on Zoom, “If you have other ideas for events and celebrations we are very open to listening. This is only a list covering what we’ve looked at so far.”

During an update to the Board of Trustees on behalf of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce on January 22nd, Chamber President John Wilton shared information about publicity surrounding the Chamber’s 100th anniversary. He said there would be an effort to combine celebrations of the U.S. Semiquincentennial with the Chamber’s centennial this year, possibly through a shared main event. Reflecting on local history, Wilton also credited Althea Robinson, who served as the Garden City Chamber of Commerce’s executive director for 39 years, as a driving force behind the success of the local business community. He said Robinson was an innovator who led the way for 40 of the Chamber’s 100 years.

Wilton also noted that the annual Belmont Festival, the traditional kickoff for the Friday summer Promenades, is currently being planned. He said he looks forward to seeing the village and the Chamber, along with interns from nearby high schools, work together on expanded Friday events in 2026.

Village expands pollinator, tree diversity efforts

From page 6

plantings. Village Arborist Joe Umana noted that the pollinator garden’s deciduous plants are bare in winter and therefore less visually appealing. Tai said the garden’s footprint can be expanded and additional flowers will be added.

Umana also shared his idea of utilizing small strips of land — particularly in the Estates section — where there is not enough space to add new trees. He suggested these areas could be converted into smaller pollinator gardens instead of remaining turf (grass), which must be regularly mowed and maintained.

“Mowing would just move the bees away and possibly kill them, and bees need time for their body heat to warm up so they can move. Instead of the small strips of grass not serving any purpose, we could maybe turn a few into pollinator garden spots,” he advised. Trustee Tai added that sprinklers from adjacent homes could likely provide adequate watering to these strips.

Keeping Trees Top of Mind

Shore noted that Garden City has maintained its designation as an official “Tree City USA” for more than 30 years. There are over 12,000 trees on public lands within the community, not including the hundreds found on private properties throughout town.

“From new tree plantings, with over 400 new trees planted throughout 2025, plus our maintenance of trees and our

celebration of arboriculture, Garden City has been named a Tree City USA for more than decades, which is incredible. The national designation states how well we are doing in establishing and sustaining our biodiversity goals. And we have updated the village’s tree removal policy in a way that helps deter removals of healthy trees,” she said.

Shore and Umana have discussed increasing the diversity of tree species within the village.

“Greater diversity of plants and animals generally means healthy communities and populations, which promote long-term survival and resilience in the face of climate change,” Shore noted.

“Our village already understands the climate changes as heat and drought are an increasing threat, as well as warmer winters – there are already conversations happening at village-level about how the community’s trees react to prolonged drought or heating, and if we’re going to be prepared to combat and address new insect pests coming up further to the Northeast, with our winters becoming a bit warmer.”

In his presentation at the Sustainability Roundtable, Umana discussed another “EAB” — the invasive species Emerald Ash Borer — a dimesized foreign insect that has wiped out many ash trees nationwide. EAB member John Reilly raised broader concerns about the village’s tree diversity, noting that a single invasive species can eliminate an entire type of tree in town. The issue could extend to other invasive pests and additional tree species, with

limited clear solutions.

Umana explained that invasive species issues are cyclical in nature; they can be managed but not eradicated. “This will continue exploding even more as world trade expands. We get a lot of insects we’ve seen due to trade – they arrive in containers or they lay eggs and the products move overseas, bringing bugs with them. Long Island has experienced much recently, and the biggest threat was Emerald Ash Borer taking out most of the Ash trees – it’s still around and there were some Ash trees taken down earlier today on Wellington Road, and they were filled with Emerald Ash Borer. On those trees the bark was physically peeling off and you could see all the galleries in the tree,” he said.

Shore suggested the EAB could help organize a social media and newspaper campaign to educate residents about invasive species and how to identify them. “We can let people know when an issue starts to occur and how the invasive species can be detected,” she said. Umana replied that so few ash trees remain because Emerald Ash Borer wiped out the majority. He noted that Andover Court is one of the remaining areas where ash trees are still standing.

Reilly and Umana emphasized that increasing biodiversity through the village’s new tree planting program reduces the potential impact of future invasive species.

“We are not planting all the same trees on all the streets. Aesthetically it looks beautiful, but if we get a pest

targeting Linden trees, do you know what Stewart Avenue would look like? It would become a totally bare roadway and homes on its sides, nothing else, because the whole stretch of Stewart has Linden trees. And if we get a bad pest targeting Maples we’d lose the entire mall (Red and Sugar Maples). There is not enough tree diversity,” he said.

As the discussion continued, Umana said he remains eager to offer residents their preferred tree species for planting on their block, though the village has prioritized larger shade trees such as elms, maples, Japanese zelkova and oaks.

“I have always preached ‘Right Plant, Right Place’ and that method helps avert problems later on. Trees do not stay within the same space because they grow, so evaluating their spread when mature is important. I come to work and do the best I can to make a difference here and be proud of myself – if I’m doing something this village gets 100% of the best I can give. It eats at me when something does not go 100% the way I saw it, and I’m diligent in doing my research because I love this stuff. When the project,” he added.

The next meeting of the Village of Garden City’s Environmental Advisory Board is set for Wednesday night, February 25th, beginning at 7:30 p.m., both in person at Village Hall and via Zoom. Trustee Tai reports that the topic of the evening will be “Global Smart Communities.”

Board abandons St. Paul’s partnership idea

From page 1

Committee, which suggested the option of using a private entity, such as a notfor-profit, as a conduit for funding renovating the building.

The report floated the idea that the not-for-profit entity could issue bonds for the project itself, with the village agreeing to repay the entity. This method could get around some of the financing restrictions that the village faces due to state municipal financing law.

At the board meeting this week, the mayor said that the PPP idea is no longer an option, backtracking on comments he had made in December.

In December the mayor commented, “Following the Opinion Poll in late 2023 and the Village-wide survey conducted last spring, it became clear that our Village remains divided on the issue… As we investigate financing options for a project, we decided to draw on another option. In light of differing perspectives— and given the significant cost considerations, we believe it is both pru-

dent and responsible to explore whether a PPP could provide the Village with a viable option. This exploration is in its earliest stage and we believe it could be additive to the issue.”

However on February 17th, after a question by Steve Ilardi, the Mayor said, “We have taken some time and done due diligence on the PPP option and as a group, we have decided to withdraw any kind of interest there. We are taking that option off the table, and though it’s been fairly quick it took an intense amount of work.”

Trustee Bruce Torino also commented and told the audience the Board is looking at plans by Cathedral of the Incarnation which has said it plans to build greenspace open to the public on the Cathedral’s grounds.

“If one of the plans is for somebody else to put a park in place, and for the village to not have to pay for it, it’s a consideration that all of us need to determine. My crystal ball has glaucoma though and I can not predict that far in the future for what would be, could

be, or should be,” Trustee Torino said.

Trustee Vinny Muldoon said he was concerned about misinformation spreading, which he said included made-up costs for residents – including some rumors that it would cost nearly a $1,000 per month increase to their taxes to fund a St. Paul’s project. He said the Board is committed to “turning over every rock and pebble” to find a solution for St. Paul’s, after 33 years of its dormant and neglected state. For Muldoon, nothing has changed in the trustees’ goal of moving forward with a plan the majority of the community finds favorable.

“The future of St. Paul’s has to be tied to the debt level of our village, the money we’d need to spend no matter what project we do there as well as addressing all other infrastructure in this village which needs to be done. After my two years on this Board, there is much of it ahead,” Muldoon noted.

He also said he respects the opinions of those advocating to demolish the building and create a park, as well as

the views of those who want to see a preservation project to turn it into a beautiful community center “that a lot of people think we need as well.”

Muldoon concluded, “you have to balance it with money, and that is the reality.” The mayor added remarks about several debts that could arise as part of Garden City’s capital needs, sooner or later.

“With regards to other options, it is only a matter of our thoughtfulness and our creativity that would limit additional options – and there will be other options. As we look at any potential project at St. Paul’s, the village will have to balance that with a very significant amount of funding that will be needed for our infrastructure. Deputy Mayor Judy Courtney, along with Superintendent of Building Giuseppe Giovanniello, to accumulate research on the 60 municipally-owned buildings and there’s an enormous amount of work that will have to be done there. It is a five to 10 year plan, and other things can pop up,” Mayor Finneran said.

Police technology upgrade approved

From page 1

budget account “Police Maintenance of Software.”

The trustees also approved a change request for the 2025–26 capital technology budget to modify the planned purchase of three new mobile data units (portable computers) and instead purchase five new units.

In February 5th agenda, the Board approved the capital budget modification and authorized the purchase of five specialized tablet computers for a cost of $27,719. The cost includes discounts since they were purchased under a state contract.

GCPD’s Gerard Kniesel — now acting police commissioner for the Village of Garden City following the retirement of Commissioner Ken Jackson on January 31st — reported that the department recorded 2,072 events, including 30 cases and 13 arrests. Officers issued 1,551 parking tickets and 1,028 traffic tickets, conducted four field interviews, and impounded 10 vehicles. The GCPD also responded to 145 medical service calls and 68 traffic accidents throughout January.

Acting Commissioner Kniesel also described several incidents around the village. Following heavy snowstorms on January 28th, a Garden City resident called police because they could not find assistance to shovel their sidewalks and driveway. The dispatcher who received the call lives nearby and contacted her young adult son, who volunteered to shovel for the homeowner and refused payment.

“In keeping with the tradition of seeing many of our residents unable to get themselves shoveled out following a major snowstorm, we had an officer respond to another home… Understanding that the resident was feeling pressure to clean up the driveway and sidewalk, the officer also did the work by himself. In keeping with the freezing winter conditions, another officer responded to a call at a home, and in the basement the pipes had frozen and there was water waist-high. He helped the residents and walked through that to shut off the water valve,” Kniesel noted.

He told trustees that members of the GCPD understand their responsibilities to Garden City residents and recognize that if they do not step in, volunteers from the GCFD or others may be called upon.

“It is worth bringing up for our conversations, just some of the fine acts the people of our village’s police department are doing,” he said.

Kniesel also acknowledged village officials, including the Board of Trustees, department heads, and Administrator Ralph Suozzi, for participating in the ceremonial “Walkout” on Friday, January 30th for retired Commissioner Jackson.

“The entire GCPD is genuinely grateful for the show of appreciation you extended to the commissioner and for the spirit of figuring out planning for the moment – whether it was people from 40 years ago in his career, or just 40 days ago – there were literally hundreds of people who were packed in Village Hall,

down the hallways and down the stairs, going out to Stewart Avenue. Thank you to our Fire Department too as it is a nice sendoff to show our appreciation along with all the agencies that showed their respect to the outgoing commissioner,” he said.

Mayor Ed Finneran agreed that it was a “spectacularly well-attended, and COLD day (January 30) – but it was the proper sendoff for Commissioner Jackson.”

In other news from the February 5th meeting, the Board approved a $16,200 professional services proposal from Port Jefferson-based Sound Actuarial Consulting. The firm will complete the annual actuarial analysis of the Village of Garden City’s Workers’ Compensation and General Liability coverage at a cost of $13,000. The study is required for fiscal year-end statements when a municipality is self-insured.

The second portion of the firm’s work is an interim analysis and report regarding the village’s Other PostEmployment Benefits (OPEB) at a cost of $3,200. Results of the interim analysis will be included in OPEB disclosures within the village’s May 31, 2026 financial statements.

Treasurer announces Aaa Bond rating

Village Treasurer Irene Woo shared positive news with the Board at the February 5th meeting. Following a “ratings call” with Moody’s Investor Services, the Village of Garden City was once again assigned a top-tier AAA bond rating. Woo reported that the village sold $17.9 million in bonds to

fund various municipal infrastructure improvements.

“This $17.9 in bonds were issued principally to fund water mains (replacements), the water wells, the wells’ AOP treatment, road and paving repairs, street lighting; also the pool water slide replacement as well as a purchase for numerous pieces of large equipment/ major vehicles for village operations. The bond sale was extremely successful as there were 12 bidders, and all were very competitive and close in their bids. The winning bid was from UBS Financial Services at a true interest amount of 3.39% – and they offered a premium of about $1.4 million. This was a better result than we had projected with the village’s fiscal advisor (Capital Markets Advisors) a few weeks ago,” Mrs. Woo explained. She added that Garden City’s bond sale performed better than some other recent sales.

She told the Board that Moody’s report cited Garden City’s robust local economy, “supported by an affluent, primarily residential tax base, with conservative budgeting practices, have resulted in a history of operating surplus and healthy reserves.”

“According to our advisors at CMA, recent sales were at 3.67% and 3.57%. Due to the large amount of the premium offered, the par value of the issued bonds were resized to $16.7 million,” Woo said.

Trustee Rich Catalano, chairperson of the Finance & Audit Committee, thanked Treasurer Woo and the Finance Department for their work for achieving successful financing.

With its theme, “Service Above Self,” Rotary is the world’s largest service organization of business, professional and community leaders with 1.4 million members and 35,000 clubs throughout the world?

Incorporated in 1925, Rotary celebrated with great fanfare, its centennial year at its Holiday Dinner last December, at which we honored community leaders with our annual Community Service Award.

The l00-year old Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club is always open to welcoming new members who represent local businesses, government. professional services, churches, schools,

Welcome to Rotary!

retirees, community advocates and local residents – a wonderful group of individuals who enjoy great fellowship, sincere appreciation for each other and the work of Rotary.

Our Club meets for lunch on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 12:15 at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant in a private dining room. Occasional breakfasts, such as the one next Tuesday, are held at the Carle Place Diner, Carle Place. We feature noteworthy and diverse speakers who provide information on various topics.

Bonus: Should you be interested in learning more about Rotary and the many services our Club provides, or are

Attending a recent Rotary breakfast meeting at the Carle Place Diner, were: Diana O’Neill, Club President, Rotarian Dr. Ben Cohen; John Wilton, guest speaker; and Rotarians Jennifer Ferarra-Poupis and Althea Robinson.

looking into joining, Rotary invites you to attend one complimentary lunch or breakfast meeting.

For more information about Rotary or about joining our Club, please email

Membership Chairman Jim Brade at jtbrady1@verison.net or text Jim ate 16-382-7223.

Join Rotary for Breakfast

Next Tuesday, February 24

Interested in learning about Rotary and the services our Club provides? join us next Tuesday, February 24, 8am, at the Carle Place Diner, 151 Old Country Road (corner of Glen Cove Rd.) Get together with some of our members and begin the day with camaraderie along with a great breakfast of choice (fee: $20

paid at the door). Join us!

Next Lunch Meeting, March 10

Join Rotary next Tuesday, March 10, when we will resume lunch meetings at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant at 12:15am. Featured speaker: Giuseppe Giovanniello, Superintendent of Building, Inc. Village of Gardn City. Learn about the Building Department’s wide range of challenges with the main focus to enforce the Village Code and ordinances and to ensure that all building construction meets the latest NY State Codes’ standards. Stay tuned for further information

To reserve, email mineolagardencityrotaryclub@gmail. com. Fee: $40 each person, payable at the door.

Fourth graders begin Kindness Week with Blankets of Hope

Fourth graders at Garden City’s Stewart Elementary School kicked off Kindness Week by participating in Blankets of Hope, a service initiative that provides warm blankets and messages of encouragement to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The project, made possible through a grant, gave students the opportunity to make a tangible impact in their community.

After watching an informative video about homelessness and the goals of Blankets of Hope, a nonprofit organization, students wrote cards with messages of friendship and encouragement and

wrapped blankets to be donated to local shelters.

“Participating in this project was such a meaningful experience for our students,” said Brenda McCarthy, service learning coordinator at Stewart. “It helped them see how acts of kindness and empathy can make a real difference in the lives of others.”

By combining service, education and creativity, Stewart’s fourth graders set an inspiring tone for Kindness Week and demonstrated how they can make an impact in their community.

Students wrote cards with messages of encouragement and kindness.

How to Create a CommunityPass Account!

Three simple steps to create a CommunityPass account:

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

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

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

Stay Up to Date On All Things Recreation!

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

Fencing Program

This program introduces the Olympic sport of fencing to children in grades K-8 in a safe, structured, and engaging environment.  Fencing fosters discipline, focus, agility, and sportsmanship, making it an excellent complement to youth development. Coach will provide all equipment for class.  $375 per child.

Family Fun Time Hours at St. Paul’s

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

On Sunday afternoons beginning December 7, St. Paul’s Field House will be open for “Family Fun” for Village of Garden City families.   This open time provides the opportunity for families to enjoy various gym activities in an indoor environment.   The gym will be available for use from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. each Sunday until March 10.

This time is designated for family time only.  No organized practices or workouts will be allowed.  Although there will be staff to monitor activity, this is not a drop off program.  We ask that all elementary and middle school aged children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian.   For the safety of our users, sports involving paddle, stick, or

bat equipment will not be allowed.

The Sunrise

Theatre Company’s Production of “The Rainbow Fish Musical”

On Saturday, February 21, at 11 a.m. at Cluett Hall, join us for “The Rainbow Fish Musical”!  Story: Rainbow Fish is the most beautiful fish in all of the ocean, and the only one of his kind. When Rainbow Fish refuses to share his vibrant, shimmering scales, the whole ocean seems to turn against the vain creature. Unhappy that no one adores him anymore, the Rainbow Fish seeks out the wise Octopus, who helps him learn that it’s far better to be admired for being kind than for being beautiful. There will also be a “meet and greet” with the cast after the performance!  Please use Community Pass to make a reservations starting January 26.

Future Fashion Stars

Fashion Class – All things fashion like vision boards, fashion figures, design on mini mannequins, upcycling, basic sewing, styling, trendspotting and more!  You will be able to showcase your designs in a very special fashion show for friends and family. Keep the designs you create. All apparel and upcycle material provided.  Behind the Seams Saturdays 2/28 – 3/28 11a-12:15pm grades K-5 for $195 and Future Fashion Star full day workshop Friday, March 6, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., grades K–5 for $195.  Sign up at signup@futurefashionstars.com

Pioneer Sports

February Break- for grades K-5 on February 16 – 20, from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.  $70 per session or $325 for all five days.  Held at St. Paul’s Fieldhouse, kids will play multiple sports such as dodgeball, wiffleball, kickball, gaga ball, and many more.  Contact at www.playpioneersports.com or call at (516)470-8343.

Pioneer – Flag Football- starting Fridays 3/20 – 5/8 at 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. at St. Paul’s Fieldhouse.

Girls Volleyball- starting Mondays 3/16 – 4/27 at 3:30 p.m. – 4:40 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Fieldhouse. Each is $160 per child, contact at www.playpioneersports.com or call at (516)470-8343.

Sports & Recreation Network: Hockey Clinic which will emphasize

fundamentals, teamwork, and sportsmanship.  The clinic will help in growing skills, capturing smiles, and making memories.  There will be highlight moments and interviews put on video.  Will be held at roller rink in Community Park on Saturday, April 18.  Ages 4–6 at 9 a.m., ages 7–11 at 10:15 a.m., and ages 12–14 at 11:30 a.m.  More information at www.sportsrecnet.com

Yoga in Cluett Hall

Yoga at Cluett Hall on Feb: 28, Mar: 7, 14, April: 4, 18, 25, and May: 2, 9, 16, 23.For 10 classes it will be $100, $15 drop in.

There is also a Valentines Day special!  Try it for just 3 classes for $35, or 4 classes for $50!   Contact Amanda at amandaadamo123@gmail.com for more information.

Enrichment Camp

Young Entrepreneurs

Enrichment Camp Young Entrepreneurs for Grades 3-5, will be held on April 6–10 from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. for $450 at the Cottages (108 Rockaway Avenue).  This program empowers students with an entrepreneurial mindset develop a plan for their very own business ideas drawing from such disciplines as marketing, finance and strategy, in a supportive environment fostering teamwork. From designing marketing flyers to estimating prof-

its, students have fun while developing business savvy.  Sign up using Community Pass!

Enrichment Camp Junior CEOs for Grades 6–8, will be held on April 6–10 from 9:00–4:00 p.m. for $450 at the Cottages(108 Rockaway Avenue).  How would you like to the boss of Apple or Amazon for a day? In this leadership program, you can! Students act as CEOs for leading companies and work in groups to make strategic recommendations to address real business issues. Case studies include companies, such as Coke McDonald’s, Under Armor, Nike, Tesla, Uber and more! Students enhance their problem-solving skills, develop business savvy and cultivate a strategic mindset as future leaders.  Sign up using Community Pass!

Special Yoga Event

Flow From the Heart:  Celebrate heart health month with a heart-opening self acceptance yoga workshop let by Trish of Yule Glow and Amanda of Balanced Beauty. Together, we'll explore hear-opening postures and mindful meditation to foster compassion, self-love, and emotional harmony-inviting renewal for both body and spirit! It will be held on Friday, February 13 at 110 Rockaway Avenue, please contact Amanda at amandaadamo123@gmail.com for signing up!

German classes learn about holiday

Sixth grade German students learned about the traditions of Fasching.

Students in sixth grade German class with Mrs. Basile learned about the German holiday of “Fasching”. The students watched authentic videos of people celebrating Fasching. Then the students compared this holiday to similar holidays like Carnival or Mardi Gras.

After also completing a small reading and watching the videos, students created their own “Fasching” masks. They even got to try some local foods for the celebration. The students had a great time, and some students made multiple masks to share with their friends.

HANK Services pairs seniors, teens

Teens attended an orientation for HANK Services on February 11 at the Senior Center. The service pairs teens with seniors who need help around the house.

HANK Services for Seniors held its 6th and largest orientation Wednesday, February 11 at the GC Senior Center. All ten teens had joined right before the "monster" storm of January 25. They were an integral part of a group of 29 teens that shoveled 34 houses.

All teens are required to attend orientation with a parent before working in a senior ’ s home.

When the teens are first paired with a senior, the HANK adult volun -

teers will check that the home is safe and then accompany the teens on their first jobs. Parents are invited to meet the senior at that time as well.

“The teens ’ parents are always in the loop. And we often get positive feedback from them about the orientation. In fact, one of our adult volunteers signed up the day after her daughter's orientation, and another mom from last night's meeting has also expressed an interest in joining HANK.”

GC Tradition K & 1st grade spring lax clinics

Is your Garden City kindergarten or 1st grade daughter interested in exploring the sport of lacrosse?

Tradition Lacrosse, a GC non-profit, will again be hosting weekly Sunday morning one hour clinics at St. Pauls fields beginning in April, led by varsity players and parent volunteers. In addition to games and drills aimed at introducing basic stick skills, clinics will include introduction to small-sided games, specialized clinics, continued skill development and introductory rules/positional coach -

Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk

ing.

The total registration cost is $200 and will include a Garden City Tradition t-shirt, giveaway and all fees for fields and equipment. Families registering multiple daughters can use discount “multi” for a discount. All participants will need a stick, mouthguard and goggles and are required to have a U.S. Lacrosse membership valid through 5/28/26. Please visit traditionlax.org/pal for more info.

Sports Events

Garden City Wings wrap winning season

The Garden City / Herricks / Mineola Varsity Wings capped off a memorable 2025–26 campaign with a 9–5–1-1 record, good enough or a fourth-place finish in Nassau County Conference II.

Now in their 53rd season, the Wings were led by captains Carter Pickens and Dom Mack, along with assistant captains Thomas Bacich, Jack Vessio, and Will Raia.  This year marked a significant milestone for the program, as it was the first time in many years that the team featured a full roster.

Offensive Firepower

The Wings’ attack was powered by a deep and balanced roster. Defenseman Will Raia led the team in scoring with 32 points (19G, 13A). Fellow blueliner Dom Mack was right behind him with 24 points (18G, 6A) in just 9 games.

Up front, Jack Vessio piled up 22 points (11G, 11A), while Thomas Bacich and James Shields also posted solid contributions with 15 points.

Between the Pipes

Senior netminder Carter Pickens was the workhorse in goal, starting 12

2025–26 Garden City Wings Hockey team

of the team’s 16 games and facing 351 shots. Junior Will Amante appeared in 7 games, stopping 148 shots.  The future remains bright in net for the Wings, with Amante returning next season alongside Vegas Aharony.

Season Highlights

The Wings opened the season on

seniors who left a lasting mark on the program: captain Carter Pickens, captain Dom Mack, assistant captain Will Raia, and forward Michael Karcher. Their leadership, both on the ice and in the locker room, helped set the standard for a team that has plenty of reasons to be excited about the future.

Looking Ahead

The organization is well-positioned to build on this year’s success with a strong core of returning players, including assistant captains Bacich and Vessio, as well as Colton Mack, Max Toro, Andres Dominguez, Mitch Daab, and Trey Carabba. Furthermore, a talented group of players on the JV squad is eager to move up and contribute to the varsity ranks along with several other returning team members.

fire, winning four of their first five games, including a dominant 9–4 victory over Farmingdale and a 7–2 triumph over Wantagh/Seaford/ Plainedge. Back half of the season saw impressive wins: an 8–6 decision over Oceanside on Senior Night, a 9–1 rout of Cold Spring Harbor, and a 7–5 victory over Friends/North Shore in their regular-season finale on February 2.

Saluting the Seniors

The Wings bid farewell to four

The Wings wish to especially thank the parents, coaches Ian Mack and Tim Moon, and General Manager Steve Pickens, as the organization relies on its status as a self-funded, volunteer-run program.

Interested in joining for the fall? Reach out to gardencitywings@ gmail.com

Follow us on Instagram @gcwings.

GC Boys Varsity Basketball Conference Champions

2025-26 Conference Champions

Garden City approached its final regular season game requiring a victory to clinch the Conference Championship. The game took place away at Hewlett, where they faced a challenging crowd.

Hewlett established a 10-point lead at halftime through effective 3-point shooting and increased their advantage to 13 points in the second half. Garden City began to close the gap with exceptional defense led by Thomas Fargione. Trailing 61-53 with 2:08 remaining, Noah Lau made a crucial 3-pointer, narrowing the

deficit to 61-56. Matt Uhoda then drew a charge with 2:03 on the clock. Subsequently, Hewlett converted 1 of 2 free throws, extending their lead to 62-56. Kosta Walsh reduced the margin to 62-57 with 1:09 left. His powerful drive to the basket with 45 seconds remaining brought the score to 62-59. Max Siragusa executed a remarkable steal and scored with 35 seconds left, bringing the lead down to just one point! Max then forced a tie-up with 23 seconds remaining, with the possession arrow favoring Garden City! With seven seconds on

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the clock, Kosta made another strong move to the basket, tying the game at the foul line at 62-62.

On the following possession, Merit Ruckh and Noah Lau applied pressure on the Hewlett ball handler, resulting in a travel violation and turnover. Garden City inbounded the ball with three seconds remaining, passing it to Kosta Walsh, who

drove directly to the basket and executed an underhand layup in midair, successfully evading the #1 shot blocker at the buzzer to secure the Conference Championship! Garden City concludes the regular season with a record of 17-3 overall and 11-1 in the league. The Trojans advance to the playoffs with significant momentum.

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Wyndham East, #M4

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Men's Clothing Drive

Donate gently used men’s jackets, sweatshirts, pants, jeans, and shirts to help support those in need at The INN from February 1st - February 28th