The Garden City News (2/6/26)

HARLEM WIZARDS COMING TO GC

Don’t miss out on the family fun and get your tickets now!  On Friday, March 20, at 6pm in the Garden City High School gym, the GC teachers & staff will take on the world-famous Harlem Wizards in an exciting game of basketball! Superintendent, Dr. Sinha and High School Principal, Mr. Steingruebner are all smiles in support of this fun, community family event. See page 28.

North Avenue redesign approved

BY RIKKI MASSAND

At its meeting on Thursday night, January 22, the Village Board of Trustees approved modifications and capital improvements to the North Avenue and Nassau Boulevard area, converting the roadway from a two-way street between Nassau Boulevard and Kilburn Road to a one-way exit direct-

ing all traffic onto Nassau Boulevard.

The Board approved a Public Works agenda item related to the improvement project, with contractor Laser Industries, Inc. performing the work u at an estimated cost of $75,000.

The proposal was approved by the Garden City Traffic Commission prior to coming before the Board. That review

included outreach by the Public Works Department and input from several residents.

Garden City Mayor Ed Finneran commended Superintendent of Public Works John Borroni and Village Trustee Vinny Muldoon, chairman of the Garden City Traffic Commission, for their work in reviewing the issue and involv-

See page 30

Report suggests nonprofit role in St. Paul’s project

BY MEG MORGAN NORRIS

On Thursday, February 5th, residents of Garden City heard a presentation of a report on some possible options for the St. Paul’s main building. The report discusses seeking “home rule” legislation from the New York State Legislature in order to break restrictions on the property due to its status as designated parkland. It also discusses means of financing future development of St. Paul’s by having a not-for-profit group, the St. Paul’s Conservancy, issue bonds in place of the Village. It also suggests that the Village consider a Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) of between one and three percent to help pay costs.

The report was produced for the Garden City Board of Trustees by the St. Paul’s Advisory Committee, chaired by Robert Cattell and Frank Tauches. It can be found online at www.tinyurl.com/ StPaulsReport

One of the suggested uses of the property would be for the Garden City Public School District to use the building for programs such as a Universal Pre-Kindergarten program or for science labs for Garden City High School. However the report also notes that St. Paul’s couldn’t be used as a school without receiving a waiver from the New York State Legislature because schools are not permitted uses for designated parkland.

“Accordingly, the Committee suggests the prudent legal path is to seek relief through the New York State Legislature—sometimes referred to as ‘home rule’ legislation—if the Village determines to put a school in the Main Building,” the report states.

Under state law, property designated as “parkland” is considered a “public trust” and its use is highly restricted. In the event that the village wanted to remove the parkland restriction entirely it would likely have to provide a replacement parcel of land as well as seek approval from the New York State Legislature, which the report also notes.

Rehabilitating a portion of building

The committee also examined the costs of rehabilitating 25,860 square feet of St. Paul’s and also bringing an additional 136,276 square feet up to code, but not restoring it, which was referred to as a “white box standard.”

See page 30

This week’s issue contains a bumper crop of letters to the editor about the upcoming village board election and about the suggestions in the St. Paul’s Committee report which contains a number of controversial proposals. We count 32 letters this week, and there’s still five issues to go before residents cast their ballots.

As we’ve noted in the letters column, for the last three issues prior to the election we will limit the length of letters to 200 words, just so we can fit everyone’s opinions in the paper. This is the first time we’ll be instituting length restrictions and several people have commented to us that we should consider having such restrictions year round.

The problem with that is that some

letters discuss complex topics which really do need a lot of space to fully explain. We’d rather err on the side of allowing people to go on at length than make it difficult for complex ideas to get published.

And as far as comments we’ve gotten recently about restricting people from discussing national politics in our local paper, again we’d rather err on the side of including everyone’s opinions, even when we don’t personally agree with them (and boy, there are some we really don’t agree with).

It’s often a sixty-plus page paper. If there’s an opinion you don’t like, turn the page. Or better yet, send us a letter to the editor rebutting the opinion you don’t like. We’ll print yours too.

I can’t believe they suggested that To the Editor:

I thought my “Letter to the Editor” writing days were over but something happened last week which should ignite all GC voters.   Tucked away near the end of the recent Saint Paul’s Report is a suggestion for Trustees to consider a 1 – 3 % real estate transfer tax for the financing of adaptive reuse of the building.

There are many suggestions in life…

…there is the plain suggestion

…the good suggestion

…the great suggestion

…the bad suggestion

…the terrible suggestion

And then there is the mother of all suggestions:

…the ungodly brutal suggestion

That suggestion should never be uttered in public, much less in writing. The suggestion that once it is made you’d really wished you never made.

The Garden City Real Estate Transfer Tax is a doozie of an ungodly brutal suggestion!

A real estate transfer tax is nothing but a money grab so you can tell people you did not increase their property taxes currently.  It is a wealth tax on what may be the single largest asset in most resident’s estates – the asset they hope to live off in later years. It could equate in some instances to almost 2 years of Social Security.  Get It!!!

NYC introduced a real estate transfer when they were near bankruptcy. Nassau County “mansion” tax was introduced when the County’s finances were teetering on NYS takeover.  Both money grabs!!

The report references real estate transfer taxes in such stellar financial communities as Yonkers and Mount

Vernon which after only a cursory 30 second google search,  anyone would see that one of those municipalities finances were once taken over by the NYS; was recently close to having it occur again; has a separate line item for income tax for both residents and non-residents in plain sight on the NYS tax return forms and the other municipality currently teeters on financial insolvency and NYS takeover. Their financial pictures have been described as cesspools.  So much for comparatives.

BUT WAIT… it says the tax will be paid by the buyer.  I have room on my turnip truck for any resident who really believes that.

The most recent real estate report issued by Village Realtors last week says the average home price recently was approximately $ 1,250,000.  That means Realtor commissions of approximately $50,000, County mansion taxes of $12,500 and hypothetical Village transfer taxes of $37,500 plus closing costs.

HMMM…. that totals way over $100,000… and you really believe that buyers are going to just happily step up and pay… pay… pay!  If enacted I hope the realtors in the village are prepared for discussion of commissions up front.  There is only so much juice in the orange.  Village home prices and volume will eventually come down and sale prices and volume in premier neighboring villages will increase and local realtor commissions will be decreased.   What does this all mean?

It means your upcoming vote is critical

I don’t care who you vote for but it’s a HUGE mistake to support any candidate or sitting trustee who supports this real estate transfer tax.

During the three issues before the village election (Feb. 27th, March 6 and March 13th), the following rules for Letters to the Editor will be in effect:

• Letters must be 200 words or less.

• Letters must be received by our deadline of noon on Wednesday.

• One letter per person per week See page 48

I want to subscribe to

Trustee candidates seek resident input Courtney seeks re-election as Village Trustee

village, and discuss the St. Paul’s park.

Raymond George CRPC ® Managing Director, Wealth Management Financial Advisor

SUBMITTED BY THE CANDIDATE

Village Trustee and Deputy Mayor Judy Courtney has announced that she is running for re-election to the Garden City Board of Trustees, emphasizing continuity, collaboration, and the importance of addressing the full range of issues facing the Village.

Courtney currently serves as Liaison to the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals and Architecture Design and Review Board. She is also the Co-Chair of the Public Information Committee, Chair of the Vacancies Committee, and as a member of the Traffic Commission.

In announcing her candidacy, Courtney said she is “running for Trustee to continue the work we have begun. This has been an extremely action-oriented Board able to manage multiple projects at once.”

Throughout her term, Courtney has focused on collaboration across boards and commissions, as well as maintaining open communication with residents.

“I am proud of being able to listen to all residents and not to force any one single

Judy Courtney

idea I may have onto residents,” she said, noting that effective governance requires balancing diverse viewpoints and priorities.

Courtney stressed that while high-profile issues like St. Paul’s often

See page 27

Cody George CDFA® Vice President L-R: Cody, Raymond, Taylor Financial Advisor

Taylor George The 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.

Home Happens Here

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

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

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

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

Offered at $719,000

Hanna|Coach Realtors’

For Maureen Lagarde, real estate is about more than transactions—it’s about your next chapter. A lifelong Garden City resident with over 10 years of experience, Maureen combines deep local knowledge with a reach that spans all of Long Island.

Maureen is defined by her diligence and integrity, offering a steady hand whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller. Always available for confidential consultations, she provides the market insight and professional advocacy needed to navigate today’s landscape with confidence.

“At the heart of my business is a simple philosophy: people matter. I pride myself on a hands-on approach and a level of personal care that turns professional services into lasting relationships.”

—Maureen Lagarde

Maureen’s Recent Sales

THI S WEEK AT ROTARY

Faith Mission Founder to Receive Community Service Award

Temporary illness had kept Mary Joesten, founder & CEO of Mineola’s Faith Mission Food Bank, and a recipient of Rotary’s Community Service Award, from attending Rotary’s Holiday Dinner and Community Service Award presentations on December 17 when she was due to be awarded for community service along with co-honorees Joanne Meyer-Jendras and husband Gary Jendras.

Next Tuesday, February 10, 12:15 at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant - nearly two months later, MineolaGarden City Rotary will be so delighted to finally present to Mary, her award, so richly deserved by this dynamic community leader.

Founded in 1969 by Mary and her husband Edward Joesten, an ordained deacon, Faith Mission was born out of the Joesten’s concern for those less fortunate. From its humble beginning as a soup kitchen, Faith Mission has evolved into a bustling hospitality center that has helped thousands of those less fortunate within the Mineola community. “Their mission: “Fill an empty belly and nourish a hungry soul!”

On the corner of Willis Avenue and Jefferson Street, Mineola, the Lutheran Church of Our Savior houses the Faith Mission Food Bank and clothing distribution center). On any given Thursday morning (collection day), you might see generous donors carrying into the facility boxes and bags of non-perishable food items and articles of clothing (including much needed winter coats and jackets - desperately needed ).

Chances are you might find Mary Joesten scurrying about directing and pitching in with the vital and dedicated team of volunteers in order to be ready

Mary Joesten, founder/CEO of Faith Mission Food Bank, to receive a Community Service Award

for the more than 300 local residents in need who line up every Saturday morning to receive donated food items. (Our Rotary Club has held two different food drives to assist Faith Mission.)

“Mary Joesten, is a powerhouse who draws you in and immediately aligns you to her volunteer spirit with the express goal to save lives. Her concern about the welfare of others while supplying the resources to address food insecurity through Faith Mission are priority one. Bar none, Mary is a community champion that tips the scales toward that proverbial arc of social justice,” says Diana O’Neill, Club President – all through the generosity, perseverance and diligent work of Mary Joesten, Rotary’s most deserved recipient of Rotary’s 205 Community Service Award.

Chamber President to Update Business News

To Share Plans for 2026 Chamber Centennial

From time to time, Rotary is pleased to welcome John Wilton, President of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce to bring us up to date on additions and activities within the Garden City Business Districts. John is asked to report at bi-weekly meetings of the Village Board of Trustees. He will also inform Rotarians of upcoming plans to celebrate the chamber’s 100th Anniversary this year. (Interestingly, Rotary charter member Gerard (Jerry) Hughes was also a charter member of the Garden City Chamber of Commerce one year following Rotary.)

To reserve for the February 10 lunch meeting, please email gardencitymineolarotaryclub@gmail.com. Fee: $40 each person, payable at the door.

John Wilton, President, Garden City Chamber of Commerce will report on business district news

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/

the date

The Property Owners Association Engagement Committee presents a 250th Anniversary Event: American Revolution, From Boston to Long Island.

The event will take place on Tuesday, February 24 at the Senior Center from 7 p.m.–9 p.m. Details to follow…

Do you have a ser vice to adver tise?

Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 516-294-8900 for rates and information.

TAKEOUT

STEALS & DEALS

Please place your order at least 24 hours prior to pickup time

DEAL #1 ($60 + TAX)

2 16” Regular Pizzas, Mixed Green Salad, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

DEAL #2 ($65 + TAX)

2 18” Regular Pizzas, Choice of Dozen Wings OR Spinach/Artichoke Dip, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

DEAL #3 ($80 + TAX)

2 18” Regular Pizzas, Penne ala Vodka, Choice of Dozen Wings OR Spinach/Artichoke Dip, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

DEAL #4 ($155 + TAX)

2 18” Regular Pizzas,1/2 Tray of Chicken Parmigiana, 1/2 Tray of Caesar Salad, and a 2L Bottle of Soda

A LA CARTE ITEMS

1/2 Tray of Assorted Pinwheels w/ a Side of Sauce - $40 +tax

1/2 Tray Sausage & Peppers - $65 +tax 1/2 Tray Meatballs in Red Sauce - $65 + tax

or Groupon. CASH prices listed. Prices do not include tax or gratuity. Credit card payment will include 4% service fee. Available for takeout only. No substitutions.

Mini Calzone Bites

Choose from three available delicious options: Pepperoni, Buffalo Chicken, or Classic Three-Cheese. Served with your choice of dipping sauces on the side. ($7 each or 3 for $18)

Bruschetta Bites

A wonderful mix of tomatoes, herbs, spices, and olive oil with toasted crostini bread. 5 pieces. ($10)

Mini Pizzas

A Grimaldi’s mini pizza small enough to fit on a single plate! ($9) *Toppings on mini pizzas available at an extra cost* Classic Buffalo Wings 6 bone-in oven fired wings with buffalo sauce. ($10) Classic Spinach & Artichoke Dip Tender fresh spinach and artichokes a blend of cheeses. Served with tortilla chips. ($14)

Garden City Real Estate Market Information

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES IN GARDEN CITY

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

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

60 Pell Terrace

Date: 02/02/2026

Sold price: $1,200,000

3 bedrooms, 2 full baths

Architectural Style: Split Level

Square feet: 1,650

Lot size: .22 acres

Annual taxes: $19,633

MLS number: 933177

The Seller’s Team: Matthew Heaney, Compass Greater NY

The Buyer’s Team: Natalia Bok Choi, Laffey Real Estate

Welcome to this charming three bedroom, two bath split level home located in the heart of Garden City. Situated on an exceptionally deep lot this property offers endless potential for expansion, renovation, or creating your dream backyard oasis. The home features a bright and spacious living area, dining area and kitchen with windows looking out on to the spacious backyard. Upstairs, you will find three well proportioned bedrooms and two full baths, providing comfort and flexibility for any lifestyle. The lower level includes a cozy den with convenient two car garage access and additional unfinished basement with laundry. With its prime location near parks, schools, shopping and transportation, this is a rare opportunity to customize a home in Garden City.

306 Cambridge Ave

Date: 01/20/2026

Sold price: $1,160,000

3 bedrooms, 3 full baths

Architectural Style: Split Level

Square feet: 2,697

Lot size: .16 acres

Annual taxes: $18,059

MLS number: 869778

The Seller’s Team: Jason and Jennifer Krawitz

The Buyer’s Team: Yanling Lieu, Prospes Real Estate

This fantastic, beautifully maintained and spacious 4-Level split on a scenic block offers 3 large bedrooms, 3 full baths (including a primary en suite), and plenty of charm and character throughout. The main level features an entry foyer, living and dining area, and huge eat-in kitchen with access to the backyard. As you walk downstairs you’ll find a great, comfortable den with fireplace also with access to the backyard (and to the attached garage), and on the bottom level an amazing finished basement with plenty of living space, storage, a kitchen/bar area, and a full bath, serving multiple potential purposes whether being an extra den, playroom, or guest area. On the top level where you have three bedrooms, you’ll also find a fully redone, large hallway bathroom with tub. Other features of this home include new central AC, a new Navien tankless gas heating system, a large, grassy and pleasant backyard with patio, and more. This home presents an excellent opportunity.

This informational page is sponsored by Douglas Elliman Real Estate

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

We Know and Love Garden City

EPOA scholarship application open

It is with pleasure that the Eastern Property Owners’ Association announce that it will once again award a $1000 scholarship for 2026 to a graduating high school senior who resides in the Eastern section.

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

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

All interested, eligible seniors are encouraged to apply.  The deadline for applications is April 16, 2026.

GC Library Board to meet

There will be a Budget Work Session of the Library Board of Trustees on Monday, February 9, at 7:30 p.m. in the Library’s large meeting room located on

the lower level.

Further details will be posted when available on the Library’s website, www.gardencitypl.org

Do you have a service to advertise?

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

PACKAGE

#1

THE CLASSIC KICKOFF

($139 +TAX)

Feeds 8–10 hungry fans

•3-Foot Hero

(Italian or American)

•½ Tray Buffalo Wings

•½ Tray Baked Ziti

•Classic Sides

(Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, Coleslaw)

PACKAGE #2

THE FIELD GOAL FEAST

($159 +TAX)

Feeds 10–12 hungry fans

•4-Foot Hero

(Italian or American)

•½ Tray Buffalo Wings

•½ Tray Baked Ziti

•Classic Sides

(Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, Coleslaw)

PACKAGE #3

THE ULTIMATE PLAYMAKER ($209 +TAX)

Feeds 12–13 hungry fans

•½ Tray Buffalo Wings

•½ Tray Baked Ziti

•½ Tray Sausage & Peppers

•½ Tray Mozzarella & Tomato

•½ Tray Pasta Primavera Salad

•Dinner Rolls & Butter

APPETIZERS

HERO PLATTERS

Steak Sliders

All half trays unless noted otherwise

ge Rice Balls ($39)

• Chicken Wings ($39)

(Buffalo, Honey BBQ, Sweet & Spicy) la Vodka ($39)

Priced per foot

eat American Hero ($17)

(Roast beef, turkey, ham & American cheese)

• Grilled Vegetable Hero ($18)

(Fried eggplant, grilled vegetables & balsamic glaze)

father Hero ($18)

(Genoa slami, pepperoni, mortadella, soppresatta & provolone) let Italiano ($19)

(Grilled or breaded chicken cutlet, roasted red peppers & fresh mozzarella)

Garden City real estate, reimagined.

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

6

MOVING

Garden City’s Favorite Mover

Manhattan to Montauk Since 1995

GC Chamber of Commerce Spotlight on Business

Celebrity Look Aesthetics recently celebrated its grand opening.

SUBMITTED BY THE GARDEN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Celebrity Look Aesthetics recently expanded and celebrated a grand opening in their new Garden City location. For more than a decade, Katherine Kyriacou, RN, has built a reputation in medical aesthetics by blending clinical expertise with an artist’s eye and a caregiver’s touch. Inspired by a genuine passion for aesthetics and a desire to help people feel confident in their own skin, she has spent 13 years delivering evidence-based treatments that enhance natural beauty while prioritizing patient comfort, education, and long-term results. Her work is driven by a belief that empowering clients through knowledge and personalized care is as important as the procedures themselves.

Her decision to expand into Garden City was a thoughtful next step rooted in alignment of values. Attracted by the Village’s strong sense of community, vibrant local economy, and residents who value quality and professionalism, she saw an opportunity to bring her standards of excellence to a neighborhood that would embrace them. Since opening, the response has validated that choice: Garden City’s residents and fellow business owners have been welcoming, supportive, and engaged.

Integration into the community has been more than business growth—it’s been relationship-building. Active partic-

ipation in the local Chamber of Commerce has provided networking opportunities, visibility, and practical support, helping her establish meaningful connections and gain traction in the area. She emphasizes collaboration with other small businesses and participation in local initiatives as central to the practice’s role in Garden City’s ecosystem.

Looking ahead, her goals are ambitious but grounded in the principles that have defined her career: maintain the highest level of care and integrity, responsibly expand service offerings, stay abreast of advancements in aesthetic medicine, and build a trusted, compassionate team. Equally important is creating a welcoming space where clients feel genuinely cared for, educated, and confident.

The new Celebrity Look office is located at 657 Franklin Avenue and is currently promoting their signature "Wacky Wednesdays”, known for high-volume, walk-in-only, cosmetic deals.

Beyond services and growth, Katherine is committed to giving back to the community—supporting local causes, forming partnerships with fellow entrepreneurs, and fostering a culture of self-care and empowerment. Driven by passion, professionalism, and a sincere desire to help people feel their best, she continues to be a trusted presence in Garden City’s growing landscape of quality, community-oriented businesses. We wish Katherine and her team at Celebrity Look much success and the best of luck!

101 WETHERILL ROAD, GARDEN CITY

4 BD | 3.5 BA | $2,899,000

A rare opportunity on one of Garden City’s most desirable streets. 101 Wetherill Road offers 3,620 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space on an oversized .60-acre property, blending timeless curb appeal with modern comfort. Built in 2005 and meticulously maintained, the home features radiant floor heating throughout most of the residence, 4-zone central air, gas heat, and multiple flexible living and entertaining spaces. From the elegant living and dining rooms to the expansive great room with wet bar, wine fridge, and second gas fireplace, the home is equally suited for everyday living and hosting on a grand scale. The primary suite addition is a true retreat, complemented by three additional generously sized bedrooms and multiple full baths. A private backyard with mature plantings, two garages, and a versatile lower level with guest suite or gym complete this exceptional offering.

Hirschfield

As your Neighborhood Realtor, it is always my

Cathedral launches contemplative prayer gatherings

ngiannone@coachrealtors.com |

Over 200 people attended the contemplative prayer gathering in April 2025 during the Cathedral’s “Moon as Sacred Mirror” residency.

BY JENNIFER REHM

The Cathedral is launching a new series of candlelit contemplative prayer gatherings this winter and spring, part of a reimagined vision for spiritual formation under newly appointed Subdean Canon Adam Bucko. Bucko’s appointment marks a fresh direction for the Subdean role, which will now focus primarily on supporting the prayer life and spiritual formation of the Cathedral community, complementing the pastoral care already offered by clergy.

“Especially in these demanding times, the church is called to be a place where we can dwell in God’s presence, be tended and grounded there, and be formed to become a healing presence in the world,” said Bucko. “Intimacy with God is not reserved for a few, but is the birthright of every person.”

Dean Michael Sniffen expressed enthusiasm for this new direction. “Adam brings a rare combination of deep contemplative practice and a genuine heart for making prayer accessible to all people,” Sniffen said. “His vision for the subdean role will help us grow as a community rooted in

God’s presence, even as we hold many differences of experience and conviction.”

The Cathedral’s long history of welcoming people of all denominations, as well as those who are questioning faith or seeking meaning but do not have a spiritual home within an organized religion, is expressed in its understanding of itself as a House of Prayer for Long Island. “The Cathedral community is meeting all people wherever they may be on their journey with this new contemplative prayer series,” Sniffen remarked. “It is a perfect time to engage in this meaningful work with Canon Adam.” Bucko, who also serves as Abbot of the Community of the Incarnation - a new monastic community birthed at the Cathedral and now serving people across the country - believes that contemplative practice forms the foundation of community life. “What holds us together is not agreement, but prayer,” Bucko explained. “As we gather again and again, bringing all that we have and all that we are into God’s presence, we learn to remain close and to listen more deeply. From that shared practice of contemplation, our life together and our life in the world are shaped.”

Cathedral launches contemplative prayer gatherings

The gatherings will be held on three evenings this spring: March 4, April 15, and May 6. Each will draw on the Cathedral’s sacred atmosphere—a space shaped by generations of prayer—with gentle guidance into silence and receptivity.

The May 6 gathering will be particularly special, taking place under Luke Jerram’s “Gaia” sculpture, a stunning 20-foot diameter representation of earth suspended from the Cathedral’s nave ceiling. Bucko will co-lead this event with Canon Kris Vieira, co-founder of the Center for Spiritual Imagination.

Following each gathering, Bucko will offer individual appointments for those interested in exploring their own prayer life and spiritual journey more deeply.

“These evenings are open to all, whether you are new to this kind of prayer or have practiced it for many years,” Bucko said. “Just come as you are - we look forward to praying with you.”

For more information, contact the Cathedral office at cathedral@incarnationgc.org or to register please visit the links at linktr.ee/incarnationgc

Middle School students present at BOE meeting

Garden City Middle School students shared their classwork with Garden City Board of Education members and central administrators.

On Jan. 13, Garden City Middle School students and staff shared updates with the Garden City Board of Education through presentations, discussions and hands-on demonstrations.

The evening began with a presentation by Garden City Middle School Principal Edward Escobar, who discussed the importance of teaming and collaboration in supporting student success. He highlighted key areas, including students’ social and emotional development, instructional practices, learning environments — with an emphasis on distraction-free learning and purposeful technology use — as well as academic supports and interventions, curriculum and program offerings, student engagement, clubs and the transition to and from middle school.

Next, six student ambassadors spoke about their clubs, academics and les-

Photo courtesy of the Garden City School District

sons learned both inside and outside the classroom, sharing their perspectives on the middle school experience. Students reflected on how they have grown as learners and as individuals.

The evening concluded with a gallery walk, during which parents, board members and central administrators explored student work, including stop-motion projects, hands-on STEM explorations, ELA project-based learning, social studies podcasts and theater arts electives.

The evening highlighted the wide range of opportunities and experiences available at Garden City Middle School and offered a meaningful glimpse into the student experience. GCMS and the Garden City School District continue to be places where students are supported, challenged and encouraged to grow and thrive.

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.

The Road to the Midterms

BY BOB MORGAN, JR.

These are not easy days for Republicans as the midterm elections in November 2026 approach, but perhaps there is some hope for the party.

Outside of Nassau County, the 2025 election results were not good for the GOP, as Democrats won strong victories in the New Jersey and Virginia gubernatorial elections and elected a democratic socialist in New York City.

Recent special elections have generally not gone well for the GOP, either. This week, a special election for an open state senate seat in the Fort Worth, Texas area, a district won by President Trump by 17 points in the 2024 election, was captured by a Democratic candidate by 14 points.

All 435 districts in the House of Representatives are up for election in November and it appears that Republicans will be very hard pressed to retain their razor thin majority in the chamber. Of course, losing the House will have significant consequences to the GOP, and not just making it much harder to advance legislation. Democratic control will at a minimum lead to numerous investigations of the President and officials involved in the administration, if not pushes for impeachment.

The Democratic Party has its own set of problems with the electorate, but many recent polls give the Democrats a lead of about 5 percent on the so-called generic ballot in the House in which respondents are asked which party they would prefer to represent their district, as opposed to a preference based on individual candidate names. Based on historic poll results, this five point lead is probably consistent with a 15 to 20 seat gain by Democrats. For what it's worth, bettors on the Polymarket exchange currently give Democrats around a 82 percent chance of taking the House.

The picture in the Senate, where Republicans currently hold a 53-47 advantage,  is somewhat better for the GOP. Only 35 of the seats will be up in 2026 and the map of contested states is generally favorable

to Republicans.  Nevertheless, there are a few states where Democrats have a good chance to flip seats (for example, North Carolina and Maine) and other races are tight.  Right now, Polymarket puts the Republican chances of a hold at 65%.  Losing the Senate would be even worse for Republicans than the House because the Senate has control over judicial and executive nominations.       Nevertheless, from a Republican point of view all is not lost and not just because it is only February, almost 9 months away from election day.  There is talk of an off-year Republican convention later in the year to trumpet the party’s message.  Right now, Republicans are considered well funded.

Republicans are counting on continued improvement in the economy. The most recent report on gross domestic product (GDP), issued on January 22, 2026, basically an index of the total goods and services produced by the economy, recorded that GDP for the third quarter of 2025 increased by an annualized 4.4%, generally regarded as strong growth. This was well above the 3.8% increase in the second quarter and the strongest increase since the third quarter of 2023.

One hope that Republicans have is that, in addition to good economic news and continued high stock prices, the effect of  last year's tax bill will start to kick in, with taxpayers favorably affected by the reduction in overtime and tips, and/or better deductibility of state and local taxes will start to feel a bit wealthier and a little less concerned about affordability.  A related hope is that at some point this year, the Fed will reduce interest rates.

Many Republicans also hope that the party can soften its message a bit in the coming months, particularly on immigration.  Polls indicate that the party has ground with young voters and Hispanic voters.  You would think a more targeted deportation campaign would help with that.

In sum, Democrats are likely to make gains in November, but Republicans can’t be counted out.

84 Russell Road, Garden City O ered at $1,349,000

Perfectly situated mid-block in Garden City’s Northeast section, this beautifully updated split-level home leaves nothing to be desired. Gleaming hardwood oors run throughout the bright, spacious interior, which o ers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, plus a bonus nished third oor with two additional rooms. The large eat-in kitchen features stainless steel appliances and opens to a formal dining room and an oversized living room with stunning picture windows. The lower level is ideal for entertaining, with a generous family room, powder room, and direct access to a covered patio and well-manicured backyard. Additional highlights include a sizable nished basement with rec room, utilities and storage, irrigation system, security alarm, and LOW taxes. Convenient to the LIRR Mineola station, parks, and schools. Approximately 2,186 sq ft plus lower-level, basement, and third- oor living space.

Hoops for Hope on March 2

GCHS Varsity Basketball players shoot with the Junior Challengers before the game.

Have you marked your calendars? Come to Hoops for Hope! Come cheer the Challengers on Monday, March 2, 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 long-term illnesses.

Teamwork is what makes this event so great. 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. Quesions? Contact Katherine O’Hanlon at 516-760-7868.

It’s an afternoon you won’t want to miss!

Stratford third graders participate in science fair

Student next to his science fair project.

On Jan. 15, the first group of third graders at Stratford School in Garden City displayed their work during the third grade science fair, where they presented projects, posters and discoveries to classmates, teachers and family members. The fair is designed to spark curiosity in STEM, support investigations driven by student interests and strengthen the science curriculum by connecting learning to real-world problems through hands-on scientific inquiry.

In preparation, students learned the foundations of the scientific meth-

od, including observation, hypothesis development, experimentation and drawing conclusions. They then applied these skills by completing their projects independently at home, with minimal assistance from family members.

The science fair reflects the Garden City School District’s ongoing commitment to supporting STEM education and hands-on learning at all grade levels. The next session of the science fair will take place on Jan. 22 during the school day and in the evening.

BROSNAN | FREY | RYAN | BAJAJ

WE STAND AGAINST A REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAX!

At last week’s town hall, the Board of Trustees’ St. Paul’s Committee introduced the concept of a Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) of 1%-3% on all home sales within Garden City to fund saving St. Paul’s.

For home sales of $1.5M - $2.0M, that could be as much as an additional $45,000-$60,000 in taxes.

We do not believe that homebuyers and sellers should disproportionately bear the cost of saving St. Paul’s, a project that lacks widespread support within the village and could quadruple our debt. We must move forward as a village. Join us at next week’s Candidate Meet & Greet on 2/10, at the Garden City Senior Center from 7-8:30p.m. to learn more.

JUDY COURTNEY

For Village Trustee

20+ years serving our Village

Sitting Trustee & Deputy Mayor

Liaison to Zoning, Architecture & Planning Boards

Led key initiatives on code updates & communication

Known for listening and working collaboratively

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!

Valentine’s Day Luncheon/ Dance Party

Please join us on Friday, February 13, at noon for a Valentine’s Day Luncheon/Dance Party with live music by El Kabong. We will have delicious sandwiches, with macaroni and potato salad from the 7th Street Gourmet Deli, soda, tea and coffee, with special desserts, sponsored by the Sinclair at Port Washington. Cost $15.00 cash only. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk.

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.

Book Club

The next book club meeting will be on Feb. 12th at 1 at the Senior Center. The book is titled, “Theo of Golden”. All are welcome.  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, February 11, at 12:15. Space is limited, to register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

Caring for Loved Ones with Dementia

NYU EMS will be at the Senior Center on Tuesday, February 17, at 11:30, presenting, “Caring for Loved Ones with Dementia”. To register, please stop by the Senior Center front desk or call (516) 385-8006.

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.

Art Workshop With Sophia Cresciullo

Join us and learn how to make beautiful diamond dot coasters on Thursday, February 19, at 10 a.m. This is a free workshop, all supplies will be provided by Sophia. To register, please call the Senior Center front desk at 516-385-8006.

Monday Night Duplicate Bridge

The winners of the Monday, February 2, games: North/South: Athena Philippides and Carol Cook East/West: Terry Schoenig and Ellen Moynahan

Experts and Financial Institutions Agree ...

The eagerly-awaited independent BOT St. Paul’s Advisory Committee Catell-Tauches Report states that there are “Significant Financial and Other Benefits” to the restoration of St. Paul’s via 501(c)(3) charitable financing, and that notable financial institutions J.P. Morgan and Jefferies have “Confidence” in the Plan’s market appeal.

Key benefits of the Conservancy Financial Plan:

Village Control:

• St. Paul’s becomes an Enterprise Fund of the Village similar to the Water Dept., Pool and Tennis Courts

•Retains Legal Title to the building & land

•Authorizes Annual Capital and Operating Budgets

•Sets Construction Cost Budget

• Recreation Dept. creates and manages all programs and activities

1-2% Real Estate Transfer Tax Subsidy

•RETT paid by buyers at Closing

• 1% residential, 2% commercial for both public and private sales

• Potential $3 million annual subsidy to reduce residents’ debt service costs.

East Wing Available to the Board of Education

•$20-30 million in avoided Universal Pre-K costs

• STEM/AI training for all residents

• SEPTA & Pre/Post School Child Care Enrichment Programs

Additional Financial Advantages

•Interest only for 1-10 years

•Refinance and extend debt after 10 years

•Private and Federal NYS and Nassau County grants

•Quicker, less expensive Procurement

•Reduced Construction Costs

• Single NYS Legislative Package for Parkland exemption and RETT authorization

Weather damage

On January 28th, Garden City Police responded to a residence for a damaged entrance door and determined the cause to be weather related.

Suspended license

A Washington Avenue motorist was charged on January 28th with driving with a suspended license and a suspended registration.

False alarms

On January 28th, GCFD and GCPD responded to two fire alarms that were activated by system errors.

Unregistered auto

A Stewart Avenue motorist was charged on January 28th with driving with a suspended license and operating an unregistered vehicle.

Overheated charger

Garden City Police and Firefighters investigated a report on January 28th of smoke in a home and determined the cause to be an overheated charger.

Stolen check

A check placed in the mail in October was reported on January 28th as stolen, altered, and cashed.

Signal malfunction

On January 28th, officers responded to a traffic light malfunction on Rockaway Avenue.

Road rage

Garden City Police investigated a road rage incident on Nassau Boulevard on January 28th.

Water main

On January 29th, the GC Water Department and Garden City officers responded to a water main break in the vicinity of Locust Street and Tremont Street.

Property damage

Officers responded on January 29th to a property damage report on 7th Street.

Snow hazards

On January 29th, officers responded to multiple hazardous conditions due to snow.

Minor accident Officers responded to a minor auto accident on Keenan Place and 11th Street on January 29th.

Traffic enforcement

Multiple traffic stops were completed on January 29th, resulting in numerous VTLs including speeding, passing a red traffic signal, unregistered and uninspected vehicles, and other violations.

Suspicious auto

On January 29th, officers responded to a suspicious auto report that revealed the vehicle was legally parked and all was in order.

Lift assist

Officers responded on January 29th to a Cherry Valley Avenue address for a lift assist.

Electrical fire

GCFD and GCPD responded on January 29th to a Cambridge Avenue address for a fire call, where a small electrical fire had occurred and was extinguished prior to FD arrival.

False alarm

On January 30th, Garden City Police responded to a Bluebell Court address for an alarm and found everything in order.

Gas odor

GCFD and GCPD responded on January 30th to a Brixton Road address for an odor of gas, which FD determined was caused by a leaking gas can; the home was deemed safe for occupancy.

Identity theft

A victim reported identity theft involving stolen checks on January 30th.

Auto accident

On January 30th, Garden City Police responded to a minor auto accident on New Hyde Park Road.

Peaceful protest

GCPD and NCPD were present on January 30th at 1550 Franklin Avenue for a planned protest against ICE, where an estimated 150 people participated and the event concluded without incident.

Hit and run

Garden City Police responded on January 30th to Chestnut Street and Clinton Road for a leaving-the-scene auto accident.

Gone on arrival

On January 30th, officers responded to a suspicious auto report involving

an unoccupied vehicle in the street, but the vehicle was gone on arrival.

DWI arrest

Officers responded to a single-car auto accident on Edgemere Road and Cambridge Avenue on January 31st, where police arrested a 24-year-old Westbury man for alleged DWI.

Strange behavior

On February 1st, Garden City Police responded to a 7th Street business for a report of a male acting strangely, but the individual was gone on arrival.

Minor crash

Garden City Police responded on February 1st to a minor auto accident on Stewart Avenue with no injuries reported.

Sprinkler activation

GCFD and GCPD responded on February 2nd to a Franklin Avenue business for a fire call that was determined to involve a sprinkler head.

Mailbox concern

A suspicious circumstance occurred at the 6th Street mailbox during overnight hours on February 2nd. Video has been retained and the investigation is ongoing.

Graffiti report

On February 2nd, a report of graffiti at LIRR stations across the village was deemed a false report.

Locked out

A delivery driver was in Parking Field 7S on February 2nd and locked himself out of his truck Personnel rendered assistance.

Warrant arrest

On February 2nd, a Washington Avenue motorist was allegedly arrested for an active Nassau County Sheriff’s Office warrant.

Identity theft

A 7th Street resident was the victim of identity theft on February 3rd.

October check

On February 3rd, a check placed in the mail in October was reported stolen, altered, and cashed.

Interlock violation

A County Seat Drive motorist was allegedly arrested on February 3rd for circumventing an interlock device.

Stolen check

A check placed in the mail in December was reported on February 3rd as stolen, altered, and cashed.

Hey folks…this has been some W-I-N-T-E-R. But I just got some “hot news “from Congresswoman Gillen that our $500,000 grant application to assist in the funding of the Western Firehouse project was approved by both Houses of Congress and signed into law by President Trump earlier this week. The allocation is coming from the recently passed Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding bill. There are still some administrative hoops to jump through but when all is said and done we should have the monies in the GC coffers by mid-year. Just a super job by Chief Taunton and the team at the GCFD. Since being elected, for the betterment of the Village, one of my “pet projects” has been to deepen the Village’s relationship with all of our elected officials in Congress, New York State, the County and Town.

Potholes

The Village’s Highway Department crews work year-round to repair potholes across the 74 miles of roadway within the Village. The period from December through April is considered peak pothole season. Mobile crews are currently addressing “the little devils” throughout the Village (while still removing snow piles) and will prioritize responding to specific concerns raised by residents as quickly as possible. In the cold weather the crews “cold patch” the damaged road-

way which can serve as either a temporary or permanent fix. To report a pothole, residents are encouraged to contact the DPW dispatcher at 516-465-4031/32 or report a pothole via the Village app, MyGardenCity. Important to note: not all roads within the Village are maintained by the Village itself. For instance, Nassau Boulevard and parts of Stewart Avenue are owned by Nassau County. While we are unable to directly address issues on these roads, the Village will forward any reports to the County and request that repairs be made ASAP.

• 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)

250th Anniversary of America

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

• Wednesday, March 24, 2026: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Budget Work Session 2

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

Budget Work Session 3

Courtney seeks re-election as Village Trustee

From page 3

draw all the attention,  Village government must remain focused on all of its responsibilities. “We can lose sight of all that is needed in our Village, including upkeep of our Village facilities, management of water issues, and continuing development of new recreation programs that support all of our residents,” she said.

Courtney has  been deeply involved in Village life for many years, including prior service with the POAs, Mobility Affairs Committee, Recreation

Commission and other organizations. “I have always prided myself on raising my hand to volunteer. I truly believe this is the foundation of our Village.” If re-elected, Courtney says she will continue to prioritize responsible planning, infrastructure maintenance, transparent communication, and thoughtful coordination among the Village’s boards and commissions. “Garden City works best when we take a comprehensive view of what our community needs,” she said, “and when we work together to move the Village forward.”

On July 4, 2026, the U.S. of A. will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. We are planning to participate in the “Semi quincentennial” celebration in a meaningful way. Many groups across the Village are planning events between February/ March and Memorial Day as well as throughout the summer. We are looking for VOLUNTEERS! If interested, please contact Village Clerk Kelly Galanek at kgalanek@gardencityny. net or call 516-465-4051. Deputy Mayor Judy Courtney and Trustee Michele Beach-Harrington are co-chairing the educational and entertaining events,

including an American Revolution Book Club, old fashioned pool day on the 4th of July, a larger Little League parade and promenades. If you have other ideas please contact Ms. Galanek – we’d love to hear them!

Summer Employment Applications Available

The Recreation & Parks Department is now accepting applications for summer jobs at the local parks as well as the Pool. Please find the application at this link; the application is under the PDF attachments at the end of the page. Once the application has been filled out, they may be returned to the Recreation Office at 108 Rockaway Ave. or they can be emailed to gcrec@ gardencityny.net. For any new applicants that have never worked for the Village before, we will set up an interview date after we have received your application. PLEASE NOTE: All applicants must be 16 years of age or older to work as an attendant at the Pool or in the playgrounds. Lifeguards must be 15 years old or older. All lifeguards must have a valid Nassau County certification as well as a valid Red Cross certification to work at the Pool.

Buy your tickets now for the Harlem Wizards

Don’t miss out on the family fun and get your tickets now!  On Friday, March 20, at 6pm in the Garden City High School gym, the GC teachers & staff will take on the world-famous Harlem Wizards in an exciting game of basketball! Sponsored by the Garden City Scholarship Fund (GCSF), the event

promises a night of laughter with trick hoops and alley oops!  Tickets are available for $25 each on the GCSF website, www.gcscholarship.org, or by scanning the QR code.  Doors open at 5pm. (Note that tickets will be $30 each at the door, if available.)

The GCSF is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to the Garden City High School students. GCSF is not funded by the school district and relies exclusively on community fundraising and endowments. The annual Wizards basketball event is the GCSF’s primary fundraiser.  The GCSF awards over $35,000 annually to Garden City High School seniors. These awards include: the Julia Maloney Scholarship, the Unsung Hero Award, the Joseph L. Prusan Kindness Award, and the Helping Hand Award as well as school club awards.  Please visit www. gcscholarship.org to learn more.

Superintendent, Dr. Sinha and High School Principal, Mr. Steingruebner are all smiles in support of this fun, community family event.

Report suggests nonprofit role in St. Paul’s project

From page 1

Committee members consulted with a “third-party professional construction management company” to come up with an estimate of $80.3 million for such a project. However during the question and answer period of the meeting a number of audience members questioned the use of an anonymous consultant. In addition, residents questioned the breakdown of the costs listed, including a construction “contingency” estimate of less than 4% of the budget.

Committee members defended the use of the unnamed consultant. Robert Cattell, one of the co-chairs, noted that the individuals who assisted the committee “chose to remain anonymous and we have to respect that.”

The report refers to the company as a New York City based firm that has “an annual revenue exceeding $1.4 billion,

more than 600 permitted and completed projects, and over 500 employees. It has also completed several rehabilitations of 19th-century buildings in the New York City area. The contractor was not paid for their participation and chose to be involved because they recognize the potential of the project for the community.”

Financing through bonds, RE tax

The report also discussed financing options for the project. One of the most controversial was a suggestion that the Village could seek approval from the state legislature to impose a Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) of between one and three percent on all real estate transactions in the village. The committee’s report suggests that revenues from such a tax could be used to offset operating expenses at St. Paul’s (which were not discussed in the report) or could

cover debt service on bonds issued.

One resident asked why, if 47% of respondents to the most recent St. Paul’s survey said they would not support any increase in taxes, that the village would consider using a RETT.

The report suggests exploring the used of a not-for-profit corporation, the St. Paul’s Conservancy, as a conduit to issue bonds to finance the project, instead of having the village issue them.

According to the report, the village normally issues “general obligation” (GO) bonds to finance municipal projects. These bonds are secured by the tax revenues of the municipality and are attractive to investors. However, the report notes that NYS Finance Law would normally limit the repayment terms of the bonds to 15 years for renovating the building. If the village wanted to extend the term to 30 years it would have to get state approval.

Alternatively, the village could issue “annual appropriation” (AA) bonds which would not be secured and would carry a higher interest rate. However it would allow the village to extend the term or even defer paying down the principal for a time.

However, in order to avoid NYS Finance Law, the village would have to partner with another entity, such as a charitable organization, who would issue the bonds. In that scenario, the village would be obligated to make annual payments to the organization to ensure that it does not default.

The report claims that this structure would allow the village to avoid other costs in the project because the village is required to follow NYS Municipal Law for procurement during construction. It also notes that it would preserve the village’s capacity to issue GO bonds for other future projects.

North Avenue redesign approved by village

From page 1

ing residents affected by the change. “I think it represents a fantastic example of engaging the impacted residents,” he said.

Mr. Borroni explained that the initiative stemmed from a resident complaint about speeding vehicles on North Avenue, which his department investigated in coordination with the Garden City Police Department and the Traffic Commission.

“We came up with out-of-the-box ideas of how to solve the cut-through traffic and speeding on the residential streets. We had the pilot program of closing off North Avenue permanently between Kilburn Road and Nassau Boulevard, and it was successful. Then we decided to try a ‘One-way-out’ and it was successful, so we felt it was a better option. We also sent out a survey to the residents living in that area and the residents strongly responded that the One-way-out was the preferred option,” he said.

Trustee Muldoon said he is looking forward to the project being completed

once better weather arrives in early spring. He noted that the temporary “One-way-out” remains in place on North Avenue for now and has worked well.

Muldoon outlined the broader goal of the initiative: making Garden City safer by reducing cut-through traffic from major roadways. Working with Mr. Borroni, he said the Traffic Commission is focused on protecting residential streets and strategically addressing issues caused by GPS applications such as Waze and Google Maps, which can direct non-local drivers through neighborhoods to save travel time.

Muldoon said that the emphasis will remain on keeping the majority of non-local traffic on roads “which are designed to handle the heavier loads of traffic.”

Muldoon added that a similar approach is under consideration for the Mott section, where the Traffic Commission and village staff are looking to reduce cut-through traffic largely generated by non-residents.

“We are communicating with our

residents beforehand to get their input, and we take all of it into account and talk with the police commissioner, Mr. Borroni, and we’re going through studies with traffic engineers from Creighton Manning – then we’ll figure out the low-hanging fruit and work from there,” he said.

Village Historian William Bellmer offered public comment at the meeting, questioning how signage changes on North Avenue—what he believed would involve installing “Do Not Enter” signs—could cost $75,000. Mr. Borroni explained that the cost reflects more extensive roadway and intersection improvements beyond signage.

Superintendent Borroni said the project includes bumping out the entire curbline, regrading a portion of the roadway for drainage, and narrowing North Avenue as it approaches Nassau Boulevard.

“We’re making it more of a defined right-hand turn. We’re also constructing it to make it very hard to make a left from North Avenue so they can’t turn left from Nassau Boulevard onto North

Avenue,” he said.

Mr. Bellmer questioned whether all of the roadway work would be necessary and whether similar restrictions exist elsewhere in the village.

Curb, sidewalk and road contract

In a separate action at the January 22 meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the first renewal of the village’s Curb, Sidewalks, and Road Improvements contract, extending it from January 17, 2026, through January 17, 2027.

The contract covers a range of civil and site reconstruction work, including highways, drainage, parking lots, and parks. Laser Industries, Inc., based in Ridge, New York, was awarded the renewal option. Mr. Borroni said the contract is used for repaving projects and other work on an as-needed basis, with pricing based on unit cost.

He also noted that Year Two of the contract is not eligible for a price adjustment. Funding for the work is included in the capital budget accounts for “Curbs, Sidewalks, and Road Improvements.”

NYU LANGONE IS THE #1 PHYSICIAN PRACTICE NETWORK IN THE U.S.

Quality care is always close to home. No matter which location you visit or what brings you in, you’ll get the highest standard of care and attention that has earned us this recognition.

Robert L. Schoelle, Jr.

Robert L. Schoelle, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed peacefully into God’s hands on January 5, 2026 at the age of 82 surrounded by his loving family. Bob was a resident of Garden City for 54 years. Born in Rockville Centre, New York, Bob attended Southside High School and continued on to the University of Rhode Island, where he earned a B.A. in 1965 and Masters of Public Administration in 1967. He was a

IN MEMORIAM

member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, president of Pi Sigma Alpha national political science honor society, and captain of the URI Rams lacrosse team. Bob first arrived in Garden City as a summer intern while in graduate school. It was then that he met the love of his life, his wife Monica McKenna, who worked in the village recreation office.

After graduation, Bob served in the National Guard and then joined Garden City’s village administration as assistant administrator in the early 1970s. He worked for the Village of Rockville Centre for two years before returning to Garden City in 1980 to begin his 34-year career as Village Administrator. In this role, he oversaw the budget and daily operation of all village departments within the municipality. For Bob, his time spent in this role was more than a career. He cherished our village and was meticulously attentive to each and every detail of life in the community. He delighted in the beautification and maintenance of our community. He introduced the pineapple logo, a symbol of hospitality to all who came to his hometown. Bob cared deeply about all its residents and was always receptive to their concerns, no matter how seemingly insignificant, and often followed up resident calls with a hand written note. He also cared deeply about the village employees and treated everyone with the utmost respect. He considered his colleagues as family and was quietly

known for Christmas Eve visits with holiday wishes for on-duty workers, coffee deliveries for others plowing our snow covered streets and many other small acts of private kindness. There was no issue too small or too great to Bob. During his tenure he supported Garden City during significant events like 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy, helped bring Belmont and businesses to our community and many other major projects but it was the small things that made Bob even more special. He could be found during a storm on the streets late at night with a rain coat and flashlight checking on the safety of his employees and neighbors. These were the moments that mattered most to him.

Bob served as a member of many committees and organizations including the Mineola-Garden City Rotary, Rotacare, TMA, and the American Legion. He received a multitude of awards and citations for achievements and contributions too numerous to note. This was all recognition he was grateful for but that he never sought. He found more joy in giving back to the community with small actions. He rang the Christmas bells for the Salvation Army in town for decades through this past Christmas season, and took pride in being able to share the act with his grandson.

Bob was a great lover of the outdoors, highlighted by an annual trip to the Maine woods with lifelong friends, Skip and Gerry Schult, that continued for

over 50 years. He loved being in nature, whether in the mountains of Vermont or the beaches of Long Island. He could also often be found in his workshop painting, tying a fly or whittling a piece of wood into a decoy.

Above all, Bob loved his family. He was devoted to his wife, Monica, of 54 years. He was a dedicated and caring father to his children, Robin (Don McDonough), Timothy (Deidre Kelly Schoelle), and Erin (Dan Doherty). His greatest joy in life came from his six grandchildren, DJ, Caileigh and Brae McDonough, and Mary, Annie and Ty Doherty, to whom he was affectionately known as Bampy. He never missed an athletic event, concert, birthday party or play. He especially enjoyed cheering them on, and was always ready to give a pride filled hug. He was blessed to share his life in Garden City with his family. He is survived by his younger brother, Bruce, whose friendship he treasured, his sister in-law Sue, his nephew and God son Bradley, and niece Susan. He is also survived by his sister in law Maureen and niece Meaghan.

Bob was a true gentleman. His legacy of selflessness, generosity, kindness and service to others will live on through all who had the honor of knowing him.

A mass of Christian burial was held on January 8, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Church, Garden City. Robert was laid to rest at Queen of Peace Cemetery in Old Westbury.

Photos from the Village Archives

Nassau County Bar Association Building

A picture of the Nassau County Bar Association building, an imposing structure located on the north side of Fifteenth St. west of West St. It was erected and dedicated in 1931 for the association of Nassau County lawyers which was founded in 1899, and is referred to as “Domus”, Latin for “home”. The main structure is a large roofed hall modeled after “Middle Temple”, one of the Inns of Court in London. The cost including land purchase was about $80,000. The building with its annexes is used for association meetings and affairs.

The hall contains two large heraldic wall ban-

ners at its east end, the left one symbolically portraying the historical development of Long Island and the right one the historical development of law. Tabs at the bottom of each panel show dates of significant events. Although the building is not open to the public, a history of the association is on its website: “www.nassaubar.org/history”, which describes the banners and offers a video under the “About NCBA” tab. The association does offer the venue for private events.

Archives identifier: comoth25

The banners can be seen at comoth26

From Despair to Hope: Conquering Peripheral Neuropathy with Westbury Acupuncture

“It’s as though I’m stepping from razor blade to razor blade.”

“It feels like my feet are under attack by fire ants.”

“Like I’m walking on wet paint with rolled up socks.”

And you’re in this kind of pain all the time.

“It’s relentless, keeping you up at night and preventing you from doing even the most mundane tasks. Things that I used to take for granted, like wearing shoes and going grocery shopping. Two of my three children were getting married last year and I wasn’t even sure I was going to be able to attend their weddings,” shares Rose W. Rose was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in 2015, a degenerative condition affecting almost 5% of people over the age of 55.

“My doctor sat me down and said, ‘Rose I’m so sorry to tell you this, but you have peripheral neuropathy. I’m going to prescribe you gabapentin to manage the discomfort but overall, neuropathy is untreatable.’ My first thought was, ‘we can cure cancer but you can’t stop my feet from hurting?’ It felt like a cruel joke.”

While neuropathy can be caused by a number of things

neuropathy cases are classified as idiopathic. In layman's terms, the cause is unknown. This was the case with Rose. “Basically every question I had was met with an ‘I don’t know.’ It was depressing to say the least.”

Eventually, Rose was forced to quit her job because the numbness had started to set in and prevented her from driving.

Fortunately for Rose, she came across an article in the local newspaper featuring Jae Won Kim L.Ac and his innovative approach to treating peripheral neuropathy. “At first, I thought it had to be a sham. After so many specialists told me there was no hope, here was this acupuncturist in the

just had to call, and I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am that I did.”

Jae Won Kim, founder of Westbury Acupuncture, says that cases like Rose’s are incredibly common. “Almost all of my neuropathy patients have been told at one point or another that there is no hope. I like to think I specialize in offering hope.”

To quote the New York Times, “Chinese medicine proves itself where Western medicine fails.”

“Acupuncture has been treating complicated, chronic conditions like neuropathy for thousands of years,” shares Jae Won. “I start with a foundation based on this time-tested science and my clinical experience. I then

tailor treatments based on a number of factors including the severity of your neuropathy, how long you’ve had it, whether or not there are any underlying factors, things of that nature. It’s because of these personalized treatment programs that we’re seeing such incredible results!”

Four months after treatment, Rose is back at work and thriving. “Being back at work isn’t even the most exciting part,” exclaims “Not only was I able to attend my son’s wedding, but I could walk down the aisle! It was the most magical moment and I have Jae Won to thank To think, I might’ve missed that.” Rose held back tears.

If you or someone you love is suffering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling, or ‘pins and needles,’ or you’ve recently been diagnosed with Peripheral Neuropathy, it’s important to know that there are options.

There is hope. Call (516) 500-8281 to schedule an initial consultation or visit WestburyAcupuncture.com to read more incredible success stories.

IN MEMORIAM

Dennis Bengels

Dennis Bengels, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away in Bridgewater, NJ on January 29th at the age of 84.

Dennis and Barbara met in their early twenties and raised four children together over their sixty years of marriage. Although they had recently relocated to New Jersey, most of their years together were spent raising their family in Garden City. Dennis practiced law in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County, often litigating difficult medical malpractice cases that drew upon his earlier career in chemistry. Dennis was a memorable orator in the courtroom, earning the respect of clients, fellow attorneys, and judges throughout the court system. In the latter portion of his legal career, Dennis argued on behalf of whistleblowers and advocated for those whose constitutional rights had been denied. His versatility, reliability, and eloquence will long be remembered by former colleagues.

Have you lost someone?

Dennis was also appreciative of the arts, especially music. He was an excellent pianist and encouraged his children to play instruments, dance, and experiment with all sorts of art-making materials. His passion for the visual arts in particular was evident in his collection of sketches, paintings, and prints. He also loved literature and often quoted suitable passages to match any occasion or to dramatize a point. Most importantly, Dennis was a man who loved nature and believed that everyone should do their best to live together in harmony. He was devoted to his parents, to his wife and children, to his numerous dogs, and to his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bengels, his daughters Liz, Emily, and Jessica Bengels, his sister Nadeen, and by his four grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held in Dennis’s honor on February 14th from 1-4 pm at Laurel Circle in Bridgewater, NJ. His family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be shared with any local food pantry.

If you would like to post an obituary for a loved one, simply send a short biography of them along with (if desired) their photo, details of their funeral/visitation services, and/or any donation requests to editor@gcnews.com, or call our office at 516-294-8900 to inquire.

Kathleen M. Coghlan

Kathleen M. Coghlan

Kathleen M Coghlan (nee Koch), 70, Passed peacefully January 27, 2026

She is survived by her daughter Erin K Brink (nee Coghlan); son-in-law Nicholas Brink; granddaughter Nora Brink (8); grandsons Russell Brink (5) and Connor Brink (3); brother Richard Koch; sisterin-law Elizabeth Koch; and nephew Brian Koch. She loved spending summer days at the Garden City Pool, catching up with friends both old and new, but her greatest joy in life was playing an active role in her grandchildren’s lives.

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

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

HONORING ALL RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS

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

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE TO BIDDERS

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Notice is hereby given that bids for the following will be received at the Garden City Union Free School District, Business Office, 56 Cathedral Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530 until 10:30am Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at which time and place bids will be opened and read aloud.

PRINTING AND MAILING OF THE BUDGET BROCHURE and BUDGET NOTICE 2026 - 2027 School Budget.

Copies of the specifications and instructions may be obtained at the aforesaid Business Office between the hours of 8:30 am through 4:00 pm, MondayFriday up to the time of the bid opening.

Dana DiCapua Asst. Supt. for Business & Finance Garden City Union Free School District

Too much junk in your house?

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY LEGAL NOTICE

Pursuant to the provisions of General Municipal Law and Chapter 200 of the Code of the Incorporated Village of Garden City, New York notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeals of said Village will meet in the Village Hall at 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 , at 6:30 p.m. , to take action on the following matters:

1. APPEAL OF CHRIS & RACHEL SMIRTI in accordance with Section 200 - 85, for a ( 1 year extension of previously granted variances ( January 22, 2025 , of Sections 200-15 and 200-46 of the Village Code, to allow the issue of permits for the construction of a 144 sq. ft. one story rear addition w/ 18 sq. ft. platform, and 154 sq. ft. second floor side addition (demolish 43 sq. ft. rear walk in bay, at the dwelling known as 107 WEYFORD TERRACE (Map of Country Club Estates, Block 7, Lots 35, R-6 district), the granting of which would:

A . exceeds the allowable building area of 1,650 sq. ft. or 25.0% , by 92 sq. ft. ( 26 4 % or 1,742 sq. ft.) ~

B . reduce the required 18.0 ’ aggregate of side yards, to not less than 15 5 ’.

Building Department application # 2024-16029, Edward Paul Butt, R.A.

2. APPLICATION AND APPEAL OF FOUR P REALTY LLC . , in accordance with Section 200 - 85, for a ( 1 year extension of previously granted variances February 21 2024) in accordance with the procedures of per section §200-45 , and a variance of provisions contained in §200-15 & 200-52 of the Village code, to allow the issue of building permits, erecting a 6,176 sq. ft. 2 1/2 story dwelling, with 660 sq. ft. two car attached garage, 2,585 sq. ft. basement, 85 sq. ft. front portico, and 120 sq. ft. 2 nd floor balcony, the installation and maintenance of 18’ x 38’ in-ground pool with 9’ x 9’ Hot Tub, 364 sq. ft. Cabana, 70 sq. ft. outdoor kitchen, enclosed by 6’ foot fence; (demolish existing 3,477 sq. ft. two story and split level dwelling with 2 car attached garage), at the premises known as 161 HAMPTON ROAD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 90, Lot 1, R-12 District), the granting of which would:

A . exceed the allowable building area of 4,741 sq. ft. or 20.0% , by

245 sq. ft. ( 4,986 sq. ft. or 20.03% ~

B . reduce the 60.0’ required accessory setback from Merillon Avenue, to not less than:

1. 27.0’ to the edge of the proposed pool and hot tub ~

2. 2.5’ for 117.0’ of the proposed 6.0’ fence ~

3. 27.5’ to 5 A/C compressors ~

4. 30.5’ for the co-located generator ~

C . exceeds the 2,000 sq. ft. allowable square footage of driveway, in the Hampton Road front setback, by 250 sq. ft. or 2,250 sq. ft. Building Department # ZBA-000246-2023, Daniel Fabrizi R.A

3. APPLICATION & APPEAL OF MARLON & MICHELLE PAVON in accordance with the provisions of sections 200-45 and 200-70 , and a variance of section 200-52 .C & .H of the Village Code, to allow for the issue of a permits for the installation of an 8' x 8’ Hot Tub and wood burning fireplace, with the maintenance of 148 ’ of 4 ’ and 5 ’ high fencing and gates, at the corner premises known as 17 ST. JAMES STREET NORTH (Map of Garden City East, Block 134, Lot 1, R-20 district), the granting of which would:

A . reduce the 60 0 ’ accessory setback from St. James Street North , to not less than 44.9 ’, for 73.0 ’ of 4 ’ high fence ~

a 260 sq. ft. first floor rear and a 200 sq. ft. second floor side additions, with the reconstruction of a 43 sq. ft. portico at the front (demolish 94 sq. ft. second floor side portion) and the installation of (

B. extend horizontally required

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

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.

B . reduce the 80 0 ’ accessory setback from Butler Place , to not less than 53 0 ’ for 75.0 ’ of 4 ’ and 5 ’ high fencing and gate ~ C . cause a 10 0 ’ height for a freestanding fireplace, where 7 0 ’ is permitted.

Building Department application # 2025-18145, Daniel Fabrizi, R.A.

*Permit # 10607 for A/C issued in 1964.

4. APPEAL OF MICHAEL & PATRICIA ELLIS for a variance of provisions in Section 200-31 of the Village Code, allowing for the permitting of a 47 sq. ft. portico at the front; while erecting a 550 sq. ft. Pergola at the rear, and a 15 sq. ft. roof overhang at the side yard, at the dwelling known as 90 POPLAR STREET (Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 5, Lot 19, R-6 district), the granting of which would:

A . reduce the required front yard setback of 30 0 ’ to not less than 26 3 ’.

Building Department application # 2025-18228, Daniel Fabrizi, R.A.

5. APPEAL OF DESMOND & SHANNON WADE for a variance of provisions contained in Sections 200 - 15 , 200-31 & 200 - 52 H of the Village Code, to allow the issue of building permits to construct a 260 sq. ft. first floor rear and a 200 sq. ft. second floor side additions, with the reconstruction of a 43 sq. ft. portico at the front (demolish 94 sq. ft. second floor side portion) and the installation of ( 2 A / C compressors in the side yard, at the dwelling, known as 100 CHESTNUT STREET (Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 3, Lot 84, R-8 district) the granting of which would:

A . exceeds the allowable building area of 25 0 % or 2 , 188 Sq. Ft. by 152 sq. ft. ( 2 , 340 sq. ft. or 26 74 %) ~

B . reduce the 30 0 ’ front setback to not less than 25 83 ’, with respect to the re-constructed portico ~

C . reduce the 10 0 ’ plotline setback for freestanding equipment, to not less than 7 50 ’.

Building Department application # 2025-18070, Barbara M. Ruggiero, R.A.

6. APPEAL OF JAMES & BRENDA BLUM for a variance from

2 A / C compressors in the side yard, at the dwelling, known as 100 CHESTNUT STREET (Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 3, Lot 84, R-8 district) the granting of which would:

A . exceeds the allowable building area of 25 0 % or 2 , 188 Sq. Ft. by 152 sq. ft. ( 2 , 340 sq. ft. or 26 . 74 %) ~

B . reduce the 30 0 ’ front setback to not less than 25 83 ’, with respect to the re-constructed portico ~

C . reduce the 10 0 ’ plotline setback for freestanding equipment, to not less than 7 50 ’.

Building Department application # 2025-18070, Barbara M. Ruggiero, R.A.

6. APPEAL OF JAMES & BRENDA BLUM for a variance from provisions of Sections 200-15 and 200-46 of the Village Code, to allow the issue of building permits to erect a 326 sq. ft. one story Pavilion at the rear of the dwelling, known as 50 WHITEHALL BOULEVARD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 76, Lots 42, R-12 district), the granting of which would:

A . exceed the allowable building area of 20.0 % or 2,650 sq. ft., by 209 sq. ft. ( 2,859 sq. ft. or 21.5 %), of which 2.4 % is unenclosed or open space. ~

B . cause a horizontal extension of the existing 14 7 ’ minimum side yard, where 15 0 ’ is required.

Building Department application # 2025-18218, Barbara M. Ruggiero, R.A.

7. APPEAL OF DAVID HURD for a variance from provisions of 20015 , 200-31 & 200-46 of the Village Code, to allow for the issue of permits, for the erection of a 26 sq. ft. first floor addition with 258 sq. ft. porch at the rear, and an 11 sq. ft. first floor addition, with 176 sq. ft. porch at the front, and an 1,823 sq. ft. full second floor addition, at the dwelling known as 40 FENIMORE AVENUE (Map of Nassau Havens, Block E, Lot 28, R-6 district ), the granting of which would:

A. exceed the allowable building area of 2,040 sq. ft. or 25.0% , by 432 sq. ft. ( 2,472 sq. ft. or 30 28 %), of which 5.31 % is unenclosed or open space.

B. reduce the 25.0’ front yard setback, to not less than: 1. 23.16 ’ to the proposed steps ~

C . reduce the 25 0 ’ aggregate of side yards to not less than: 1. 18 9 ’ Easterly, and 2. 21.24 ’ from the West side second floor above the garage.

Building Department application # 2025-18225, John Viscardi, R.A. *Pending ADRB review at the February 24, 2026, meeting.

8. APPEAL OF DANIEL SCHMIDT & MAUREEN STRAUB for a variance of the provisions of Section 200-52.H of the Village Code, to allow for the issue of permits for the maintenance of ( 2 previously installed A/C compressors, in the side yard of the dwelling, known as 127 GARDEN STREET (Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 10, Lots 66, R-6 district) the granting of which would:

A . reduce the 10 0 ’ plot line setback for freestanding equipment, to not less than 6 7 ’.

Building Department application # 2025-18118.

9. APPEAL OF PAUL CANGRO in accordance with the provisions of Section 200-15 of the Village Code, to allow the issuance of a building permit for construction of a 123 sq. ft. first floor addition with a 34 sq. ft. covered entry at the side of the premises, known as 145 KENSINGTON ROAD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 36, Lot 27, R-12 District), the granting of which would:

A. exceeds the allowable plot coverage of 2,000 sq. ft. or 20.00 % by 590 sq. ft. (2,590 sq. ft. or 25 9 % .

Building Department application # 2025-18157, Kenneth C. Long R.A.

*Area variance granted previously at the January 20 th , 2001, hearing.

10. APPEAL OF NICK & LAUREN THEOHARIS for a variance of provisions in Sections 200-15 , 200-46 and 200-52 of the Village Code, to permit the erection of a 63 sq. ft . raised deck at the rear , and the maintenance of a previously permitted A/C compressor, relocated to the side yard, at the dwelling known as; 164 LINCOLN STREET (Map of Park Manor, Block -, Lots 97, R-6 district) the granting of which would:

A. exceed the allowable building area of 1,500 sq. ft. or 25.0 % by 99 sq. ft. ( 1,599 sq. ft. or 26.65 %) ~

B. reduce the 18 0 ’ aggregate of side yards to not less than 14 4 ’ ~

C. reduce the 10.0 ’ plotline setback for freestanding A/C equipment, to not less than 5 0 ’.

Building Department application # 2025-18194, Daniel James Reinhart, R.A .

11. APPEAL OF JAMES HOLLAND for a variance from provisions of Sections 200-15 and 200-46 of the Village Code, to allow the issue of building permits for the construction of, a 145 sq. ft. second floor rear addition, and the maintenance of a 75 sq. ft. roof over the existing cellar stair at the side of the premises; known as 88 MULBERRY AVENUE Map of Mineola Plaza, Lot 29, Block 1, R-6 district) the granting of which would:

A. exceed the allowable building area of 2,000 sq. ft. or 25.0 %, by 72 sq. ft. ( 2,072 sq. ft. or 25 9 %)

B. extend horizontally and vertically existing side yards, reducing the required 10 . 0 ’ minimum side yard to not less than:

1. 5.5’ to the cellar entrance roof, and 2. 9.7’ to the proposed second floor.

Building Department application # 2025-18198, Leo J. Pyzynski, R.A.

12. APPEAL OF MRS. SUSANNA IMPENNATO for a variance of the provisions of Section 200-15 of the Village Code, for the amendment of a previously issued building permit, to an 83 sq . ft . outdoor kitchen, with the modification of existing platforms at the rear of the dwelling, known as 172 WHITEHALL BOULEVARD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 26, Lots 36, R-12 district) the granting of which would:

A . cause the allowable building area of 2 , 650 sq. ft. or 20 0 %, to be exceeded by

12. APPEAL of the provisions amendment outdoor kitchen, rear of the dwelling, of Garden City of which would:

A . cause the be exceeded

171 sq. ft. ( Building Department Surveying, P.C. *Area variance 13. APPEAL of the provisions the issue of A/C compressors, FOURTH STREE R-20 district)

A . reduce to not less than B . reduce the Building Department

The Board may before the meeting.

DATED: Garden Galanek, Village The Incorporated the basis of its programs, Galanek, Village with a disability Galanek at Avenue, Garden 4:30 p.m. Next

Friday, February 6, 2026

Havens, Block E, Lot 28, R-6 district ), the granting of which would:

A. exceed the allowable building area of 2,040 sq. ft. or 25.0% , by 432 sq. ft. ( 2,472 sq. ft. or 30 28 %), of which 5.31 % is unenclosed or open space.

B. reduce the 25.0’ front yard setback, to not less than:

1. 23.16 ’ to the proposed steps ~

C . reduce the 25 0 ’ aggregate of side yards to not less than:

1. 18 9 ’ Easterly, and

2. 21.24 ’ from the West side second floor above the garage.

Building Department application # 2025-18225, John Viscardi, R.A.

How to Create a CommunityPass Account!

$375 per child.

*Pending ADRB review at the February 24, 2026, meeting.

Three simple steps to create a CommunityPass account:

be allowed.

Tennis Instructors Needed

8. APPEAL OF DANIEL SCHMIDT & MAUREEN STRAUB for a variance of the provisions of Section 200-52.H of the Village Code, to allow for the issue of permits for the maintenance of ( 2 previously installed A/C compressors, in the side yard of the dwelling, known as 127 GARDEN STREET (Map of Garden City Lawns, Block 10, Lots 66, R-6 district) the granting of which would:

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

A . reduce the 10 0 ’ plot line setback for freestanding equipment, to not less than 6 7 ’.

Building Department application # 2025-18118.

• 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)

Tennis instructors are needed for the instructional tennis program at the Community Park Tennis Center. Tennis assistants are also needed. For more information, please call the Recreation Office at 516 4654075.

9. APPEAL OF PAUL CANGRO in accordance with the provisions of Section 200-15 of the Village Code, to allow the issuance of a building permit for construction of a 123 sq. ft. first floor addition with a 34 sq. ft. covered entry at the side of the premises, known as 145 KENSINGTON ROAD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 36, Lot 27, R-12 District), the granting of which would:

Family Fun Time Hours at St. Paul’s

A. exceeds the allowable plot coverage of 2,000 sq. ft. or 20.00 % by 590 sq. ft. (2,590 sq. ft. or 25 9 % .

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

Building Department application # 2025-18157, Kenneth C. Long R.A.

*Area variance granted previously at the January 20 th , 2001, hearing.

• 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!

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

10. APPEAL OF NICK & LAUREN THEOHARIS for a variance of provisions in Sections 200-15 , 200-46 and 200-52 of the Village Code, to permit the erection of a 63 sq. ft . raised deck at the rear , and the maintenance of a previously permitted A/C compressor, relocated to the side yard, at the dwelling known as; 164 LINCOLN STREET (Map of Park Manor, Block -, Lots 97, R-6 district) the granting of which would:

Emphasis on 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

LEGAL NOTICES

NASSAU COUNTY NOTICE TO BIDDERS

A. exceed the allowable building area of 1,500 sq. ft. or 25.0 % by 99 sq. ft. ( 1,599 sq. ft. or 26.65 %) ~

B. reduce the 18 0 ’ aggregate of side yards to not less than 14 4 ’ ~

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 .

Building Department application # 2025-18194, Daniel James Reinhart, R.A .

Fencing Program

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.

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

WELDING REPAIR SERVICES 2026-2027 COOPERATIVE BID

DATE OF BID OPENING: WEDNESDAY, March 4th, 2026 at 10:30AM at GARDEN CITY UFSD ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE 56 CATHEDRAL AVENUE, GARDEN CITY, NY 11530

C. reduce the 10.0 ’ plotline setback for freestanding A/C equipment, to not less than 5 0 ’.

11. APPEAL OF JAMES HOLLAND for a variance from provisions of Sections 200-15 and 200-46 of the Village Code, to allow the issue of building permits for the construction of, a 145 sq. ft. second floor rear addition, and the maintenance of a 75 sq. ft. roof over the existing cellar stair at the side of the premises; known as 88 MULBERRY AVENUE Map of Mineola Plaza, Lot 29, Block 1, R-6 district) the granting of which would:

A. exceed the allowable building area of 2,000 sq. ft. or 25.0 %, by 72 sq. ft. ( 2,072 sq. ft. or 25 9 %)

B. extend horizontally and vertically existing side yards, reducing the required 10 . 0 ’ minimum side yard to not less than:

1. 5.5’ to the cellar entrance roof, and 2. 9.7’ to the proposed second floor.

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.

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

LEGAL NOTICES

Building Department application # 2025-18198, Leo J. Pyzynski, R.A. 12. APPEAL OF MRS. SUSANNA IMPENNATO for a variance of the provisions of Section 200-15 of the Village Code, for the amendment of a previously issued building permit, to an 83 sq . ft . outdoor kitchen, with the modification of existing platforms at the rear of the dwelling, known as 172 WHITEHALL BOULEVARD (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 26, Lots 36, R-12 district) the granting of which would:

A . cause the allowable building area of 2 , 650 sq. ft. or 20 . 0 %, to be exceeded by 171 sq. ft. ( 2 , 821 sq. ft. or 21 29 %).

Building Department application # 2022-12165, Ferrantello Land Surveying, P.C.

*Area variance granted previously at the October 18, 2022, meeting. 13. APPEAL OF JOHN & COURTNEY MALFITANO for a variance of the provisions of Section 200-52 of the Village Code, to allow for the issue of permits for the maintenance of ( 3 previously installed A/C compressors, in the side yard of the dwelling, known as 96 FOURTH STREE T (Map of Garden City Estates, Block 25, Lots W8, R-20 district) the granting of which would:

A . reduce the 10 0 ’ plot line setback for freestanding equipment, to not less than 6 8 ’ ~

B . reduce the 80 0 ’ accessory setback, to not less than 72.0’. Building Department application # 2026-77. End of Cases

The Board may transact any other business that may properly come before the meeting.

DATED: Garden City, New York 11530February 2, 2026, Kelly Galanek, Village Clerk

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. People with a disability who wish to attend a meeting should contact Kelly Galanek at least 24 hours in advance of meeting at: 351 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, New York 11530 (516) 465-4051, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Next Meeting: March 17, 2026

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)4708343.

Pioneer – Flag Footballstarting 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

WHEREAS, It is the plan of the Garden City UFSD, Baldwin UFSD, Bellmore UFSD, Bellmore-Merrick UFSD, Carle Place UFSD, East Meadow UFSD, East Rockaway UFSD, E Williston UFSD, Elmont UFSD, Floral Park- Bellerose UFSD, Freeport UFSD, Glen Cove City SD, Great Neck UFSD, Hempstead UFSD, Herricks UFSD, Hewlett-Woodmere UFSD, Hicksville UFSD, Island Trees UFSD, Jericho UFSD, Levittown UFSD, Locust Valley Central SD, Long Beach Central SD, Lynbrook UFSD, Manhasset UFSD, Massapequa UFSD, Merrick UFSD, Mineola UFSD, New Hyde Park-Garden City Park UFSD, North Bellmore UFSD, North Merrick UFSD, North Shore Central SD, Oceanside UFSD, Plainedge UFSD, PlainviewOld Bethpage Central SD, Port Washington UFSD, Rockville Centre UFSD, Roosevelt UFSD, Seaford UFSD, Syosset Central SD, Uniondale UFSD, Valley Stream Central SD, Valley Stream #13 UFSD, Valley Stream #24 UFSD, Valley Stream #30 UFSD, Wantagh UFSD, West Hempstead UFSD, Westbury UFSD, in Nassau County, New York to bid jointly for Welding Repair Services 2026-2027 Cooperative Bid and

WHEREAS, The Garden City School District is desirous of participating with other school districts in Nassau County in the joint bidding of the commodities mentioned above as authorized by General Municipal Law, Section 119-0 and

WHEREAS, The Garden City School District wishes to appoint a committee to assume the responsibility for drafting of specifications, advertising for bids, accepting and opening bids, tabulating bids, reporting the results to the Boards of Education and making recommendations thereon, therefore

BE IT RESOLVED, That the Board of Education of the Garden City School District hereby appoints Robert Foley, for the Garden City School District to represent it in all matters related above, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Garden City School District Board of Education authorizes the above mentioned committee to represent it in all matters leading up to the entering into a contract for the purchase of the above mentioned commodities, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Garden City School District Board of Education agrees to assume its equitable share of the costs of the cooperative bidding, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Garden City School District Board of Education agrees (1) to abide by the majority decisions of the participating districts on quality standards: (2) that unless all bids are rejected, it will award contracts according to the recommendations of the committee: (3) that after award of contract(s) it will conduct all negotiations directly with the successful bidder(s)

Motion made by Tom Pinou Seconded William O'Donohue

Comments Motion Carried by Board of Education to Approve Hosting Cooperative Bid For GCUFSD Board of Ed Meeting: Tuesday, January 27th, 2026

LEGAL NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that I shall, commencing on February 17, 2026, sell at public on-line auction the tax liens on real estate herein-after described, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party-in-interest in such real estate shall pay to the County Treasurer by February 12, 2026 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges, against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 per cent per six month’s period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as de ned in section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code. Effective with the February 17, 2026 lien sale, Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certi cate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certi cate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased.

Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/526/County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an in-person auction shall be held, same will commence on the 17th day of February, 2026 at the Of ce of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer. The liens are for arrears of School District taxes for the year 2024 - 2025 and/or County, Town, and Special District taxes for the year 2025. The following is a partial listing of the real estate located in school district number(s) 18 in the Town of Hempstead only, upon which tax liens are to be sold, with a brief description of the same by reference to the County Land and Tax Map, the name of the owner or occupant as the same appears on the 2024/2025 tentative assessment roll, and the total amount of such unpaid taxes.

IMPORTANT

THE NAMES OF OWNERS SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAMES OF THE PERSONS OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT. SUCH NAMES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE 2024/2025 TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLLS AND MAY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. IT MAY ALSO BE THAT SUCH OWNERS ARE NOMINAL ONLY AND ANOTHER PERSON IS ACTUALLY THE BENEFICIAL OWNER.

Town of Hempstead

School: 18 Garden City UFSD

Name

33003 00700

00270

33005 00260 26-28

33005 00790 79-81 JEDNAT

33007 00170 17-20 DUE FRATELLI DEVELOPMENT CORP.

33009 00790 CARROLL

33019 01190

33032 00060

33041 00010

33054 01380

33058 01260

33080 00330

34075 00090

34075 01100

34098 00940

34104 01120 SEAMAN

34110 01010

34117 00730

34118 00160

34124 01100

34144 00030

34161 00100

34533 00230

34546 00320

44 D 0373A TERMS

OF SALE

Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldier’s and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts. However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy

Town of Hempstead District 1001

HEMPSTEAD BEACON, NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK TREND

NEW YORK POST

UNIONDALE BEACON District 1002

HEMPSTEAD BEACON, NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

UNIONDALE BEACON District 1003

EAST MEADOW HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS

NEW YORK POST District 1004

BELLMORE HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS

NEW YORK POST District 1005

proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA), 12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et. seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed.

The rate of interest and penalty which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount from which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been noti ed by the County Treasurer that the certi cates of sale are ready for delivery, then all deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase be of no further effect.

Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.

Furthermore, as to the bidding,

1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certi cate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certi cates.

2. The tax certi cate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certi cate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certi cate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at speci c interest rates.

3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made, in connection with, said bid shall be forfeited.

This list includes only tax liens on real estate located in Town of Hempstead. Such other tax liens on real estate are advertised as follows:

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEIGHBOR NEWSPAPERS

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER District 1006

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEAFORD HERALD CITIZEN

WANTAGH HERALD CITIZEN District 1007

BELLMORE HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST District 1008

BALDWIN HERALD

HEMPSTEAD BEACON,

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

Town of Hempstead District 1009

FREEPORT HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST District 1010

BALDWIN HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST District 1011

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OCEANSIDE TRIBUNE

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD District 1012

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE District 1013

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

District 1014

FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU HERALD (FIVE TOWNS)

NEW YORK POST District 1015

FIVE TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

FIVE TOWNS TRIBUNE

JEWISH STAR

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST District 1016

FRANKLIN SQ/ELMONT HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST District 1017

FRANKLIN SQ/ELMONT HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK

HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

Town of Hempstead District 1018

GARDEN CITY NEWS

GARDEN CITY TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST District 1019

EAST ROCKAWAY TRIBUNE

LYNBROOK/EAST ROCKAWAY HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROCKAWAY JOURNAL District 1020

EAST ROCKAWAY TRIBUNE

LYNBROOK/EAST ROCKAWAY HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD District 1021

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

ROCKVILLE CENTRE TRIBUNE District 1022

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK

HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

District 1023

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEAFORD HERALD CITIZEN

WANTAGH HERALD CITIZEN

District 1024

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE District 1025

MERRICK HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

Town of Hempstead District 1026

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

LEGAL NOTICES

District 1029

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

MERRICK HERALD

MERRICK/BELLMORE TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

District 1030

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

VALLEY STREAM HERALD

VALLEY STREAM/MALVERN TRIBUNE

District 1031

ISLAND PARK TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

District 1201

EAST MEADOW HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

District 1205

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK

HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

Town of North Hempstead

District 2001

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

Town of North Hempstead

District 2002

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

District 2003

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROSLYN NEWS TIMES

District 2004

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

PORT WASHINGTON NEWS

District 2005

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK

HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

District 2006

MANHASSET PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

PORT WASHINGTON NEWS

District 2007

GREAT NECK NEWS RECORD

JEWISH STAR

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

District 2009

District 1027

MALVERNE/WEST HEMPSTEAD HERALD

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST District 1028

LONG BEACH HERALD

LONG BEACH TRIBUNE

District 2010

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

MINEOLA WILLISTON TIMES

District 2011

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW YORK POST

Town of North Hempstead

District 2122

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NASSAU ILLUSTRATED NEWS

NEW HYDE PARK FLORAL PARK

HERALD COURIER

NEW YORK POST

District 2301

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER District 2315

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

Town of Oyster Bay District 3001

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

District 3002

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

NEW YORK POST

SEA CLIFF - GLEN HEAD HERALD

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER District 3003

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE District 3004

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER District 3006

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

Town of Oyster Bay District 3008

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OYSTER BAY GUARDIAN District 3009

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

OYSTER BAY GUARDIAN District 3011

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

District 3012

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE

District 3013

From page 36

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 profits, 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 rec-

ommendations 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 13th at 110 Rockaway Avenue, please contact Amanda at amandaadamo123@gmail. com for signing up!

Are you a professional?

Our Professional Guide is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

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

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET ADVANCE

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE District 3014

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE District 3015

JERICHO NEWS JOURNAL

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SYOSSET JERICHO TRIBUNE District 3017

HICKSVILLE/LEVITTOWN TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NASSAU OBSERVER District 3018

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

MASSAPEQUA POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - N.

MASSAPEQUA

THE NASSAU OBSERVER

Town of Oyster Bay District 3019

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

District 3020

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

Applications Now Available!

Email sponsorships@gardencitypta.org.

Other Important Dates

• February 10 - All Schools Meeting and General Membership Vote

• February 11Scholastic Book Fair, 4–7 p.m., Hemlock

• February 16–20

- Schools Closed, Winter Recess

• March 2 - PARP

Virtual Author Visit

• 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!

Do you have a service to advertise? Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.

LEGAL NOTICES

NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - BETHPAGE THE NASSAU OBSERVER District 3021

BETHPAGE NEWSGRAM

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - BETHPAGE THE NASSAU OBSERVER District 3022

MASSAPEQUA POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - FARMINGDALE THE NASSAU OBSERVER District 3023

MASSAPEQUA POST

MID-ISLAND TIMES

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

SOUTH BAYS NEIGHBOR - N.

MASSAPEQUA

THE NASSAU OBSERVER District 3024

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

SEA CLIFF - GLEN HEAD HERALD District 3203

LONG ISLAND PRESS

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

ROSLYN NEWS TIMES District 3306

MASSAPEQUA POST

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST THE NASSAU OBSERVER

City of Glen Cove District 4005

GLEN COVE HERALD GAZETTE

GLEN COVE OYSTER BAY RECORD PILOT

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

THE NORTH SHORE LEADER

City of Long Beach District 5028

LONG BEACH HERALD

LONG BEACH TRIBUNE

NASSAU COUNTY WEBSITE

NEW YORK POST

Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities.

Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Of ce. Upon request, information can be made available in braille, large print, audio tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 13715.

Dated: February 05, 2026

New York Travel Show: Pauline Frommer Advises Where, How to Go in 2026

BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE

If you think that your bucket-list destinations will be more in reach price-wise in the off-season, you will find there is no such thing as an “off season” any more – travel is a lifestyle, ubiquitous throughout the year. Indeed, weather extremes are pushing the crowds that would have crammed Paris, Florence, and Venice in the summer peak to what would be the “shoulder season,” now offering little relief from crowds and high costs of “high season.”

But, travel expert Pauline Frommer, giving her popular talk at the New York Travel Show, advises set your compass to the secondary destinations that are not as high on people’s lists, helping those marquee destinations free themselves from the blight of overtourism, at the same time spreading the economic and cultural benefits that tourists bring to these lesser frequented places.

“Right now it is so important to consider secondary cities. Often these “secondary cities” have the same types of attractions as the brand name destination, but fewer visitors and lower costs”.

Instead of Amsterdam, which can be so damn crowded, visit Utrecht, a beautiful little city half hour outside Amsterdam, with the same canals, even more beautiful because there are 2 levels, lined with cafes, bars, and fairy lights at night. Utrecht has great museums – you can get a hotel for $65/ night in November (half the cheapest available in Amsterdam).

Here are Frommer’s recommen-

dations for destinations and experiences to enjoy in 2026 “where you will find travel new all over again”, places that will have great celebrations or be affordable, accessible (see Frommers. com/BestPlaces2026)

Oulu, Finland: may well be best known for world air guitar championships, but Frommer is recommending Oulu this year because this little community 20 miles south of the Arctic Circle (incredible wilderness, the Northern Lights will be prominent this year, indigenous cultures), is the European Capital of Culture for 2026. Hundreds of artists of all sorts will descend on Oulu, creating site-specific performances.

Viti Levu, Fiji is like Hawaii, with gorgeous beaches, but much less crowded and much cheaper on the ground than Hawaii, with lots of mom and pop resorts, plus traditional Pacific culture, and now, much cheaper to get

there because, for the first time, there are direct flights from the USA, making getting to Fiji finally affordable. Jasper, Alberta, Canada: two years ago Jasper was afflicted with horrific wildfires. Frommer is recommending visiting now because, “You can go and not realize what happened, but going specifically for fire ecology tours in burned areas and learn how to stop that from happening, how to regenerate and meet the people doing that - more important with climate change. Also, Jasper is another place to experience the Northern Lights that are forecast to be spectacular this year. The Rocky Mountaineer train this year, because of FIFA World Cup, is not going to Vancouver-Banff-Jasper, but just back and forth between Banff and Jasper. “You see the highlights, the best stuff and pay less with great train experience.”

Vienna, Austria this year is cel-

ebrating the 250th anniversary of the Berg Theater, which presents classical music. Every major name in classical music is performing. Last year, the city celebrated the 250th birthday of Johann Strauss, opening a new museum to him. In Vienna, you enjoy the famous Lipizaaner white stallions, beautiful markets, a beautiful, loveable city.”

Kruger National Park, South Africa, is for those who want to take an African Safari but don’t have a trust fund. The park, which is turning 100 this year (and may change its name), allows you to do a self-drive safari (which is rare). You pay $100 fee to get into the park, then go to areas where there are resorts ($80-90 per night) or camping is allowed (as little as $20/ night). When you go into the reserve, park rangers tell you where to go.

Travel Tips:

Best airfare search engines: Momondo, Skyscanner

Hotel Savings: google travel, trivago or skyscanner. To avoid surveillance pricing, set your VPN to a place like Arkansas.

Meet the People: InternationalGreeters.org (local volunteers who show you around for free; TravelingSpoon.com and EatWith. com (for foodies).

Finding multi-day tours : TravelStride.com, TourRadar.com

Travel insurance platforms when booking big-ticket trips (cruises, tours, safaris): SquareMouth.com, InsureMyTrip.com, TravelInsurance. com

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

A Planetary Island Within the Celestial River

BY DENNIS MAMMANA

Week of February 8-14, 2026

With much of North America shivering in a deep freeze, I’d be surprised if many folks are doing stargazing!

If you’re one of the intrepid few, you’ll find it hard to ignore the stars of Orion, standing stoically midway up in the southern sky. Even folks who happen to glance upward accidentally as they race from their cars to their nice warm houses almost instantly spot its four bright stars that outline a rectangle, and three more that trace a straight line in its center.

Easily the most attention-grabbing star grouping, Orion is not the only one in that area of the sky. In fact, one of the longest and faintest of all begins near the foot of the great hunter. Its name is Eridanus.

In ancient Greek mythology, Eridanus represents the river in which young Phaethon crashed after his failed attempt to fly the Chariot of the Sun, but no one knows exactly which river it is. Homer called it an “ocean stream.” Others claim it’s the Tigris or the Euphrates; still others suggest it might be the river Po or maybe even the mighty Nile.

To see this sinuous string of relatively dim stars, first locate the southwestern-most star of Orion (Rigel),

then look just above and to its right for the star that marks the beginning of the river. If you have a night with no light pollution or moonlight and a low southern horizon, you should be able to trace much of the celestial river as it meanders to the west and south.

Because Eridanus lies so far south, skywatchers in the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere can see only a portion of it; if you live in middle or high latitudes, you might be able to see only one-third or half of it. Those living in more southerly locations, of course, will see much more.

Though the stars of Eridanus are rather faint and obscure, one of them has captured the imagination of astronomers and science fiction authors alike. Its name is Epsilon Eridani, a slightly orange star appearing about midway down the constellation’s winding stellar string. You might recognize its name from science fiction novels by Isaac Asimov and Frank Herbert, as well as from the 1990s TV series “Babylon 5.”

It was in 1960 that Cornell University astronomer Frank Drake aimed a radio telescope in this star’s direction to see if he might detect evidence of a technologically advanced civilization inhabiting a planet orbiting nearby. Unfortunately, six and a half decades later, no such signals have ever been found.

Back then, the existence of planets orbiting the star was mere conjecture. Not so today. We now know that Epsilon Eridani, only 10.5 lightyears away, is encircled by a disk of dusty debris -- an asteroid belt, if you will. In addition, astronomers have confirmed that orbiting nearby is a Jupiter-like planet they’ve named Aegir, and they suspect it may have at least two additional planets.

LOST IN SUBURBIA

Tipping the Scales in My Favor

Might this nearby star be home to worlds harboring life? We don’t yet know, but if you step outdoors on any one of these frigid winter nights, you can gaze upon its light and wonder!

Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com.

COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM

BY TRACY BECKERMAN

As I was settling into bed one night, I happened to catch my husband out of the corner of my eye.

He was getting on the scale.

“WHAT ARE YOU DOING?” I yelled at him. He jerked his head around and looked at me with alarm.

“What? I’m weighing myself.”

I jumped out of bed and yanked him off the scale.

“You can’t do that now!!” I said emphatically.

“Why not?”

“You have to weigh yourself first thing in the morning, after you go to the bathroom, before you eat breakfast, and when you’re completely naked,” I said. “Everybody knows that.”

“What happens if I don’t do that?” he asked.

“You will weigh MORE!” I said, and shuddered.

I was stunned that my husband was so oblivious to the scale rules. It was common knowledge that you are at your lightest first thing in the morning,

and that clothes and food could add on micro-ounces. This is why most women ask for the first appointment when they go to the doctor’s office and insist on disrobing before getting on the scale.

When I go to the doctor, I go full-on airport TSA checkpoint, removing my shoes, belt, jackets, jewelry and anything else that might adversely affect the number on the scale. Conversely, my husband will get on the scale fully clothed, at any time of day, not even removing his shoes or belt, and then step off seemingly unscathed, no matter what the number is. It was dumbfounding.

When I weigh myself first thing in the morning, I remove not only my pajamas but also my mouthguard. Then I will step on the scale, and if I don’t like the number it shows me, I will move the scale around the room until I get a number I like better. If I still don’t like the number, I will tell everyone who will listen that my scale is broken. If the doctor’s office has the same number (or worse, higher), I will tell the doctor his scale is also broken.

And if I’m really desperate, I will break his scale so no other patient has to suffer the same outrage.

The next day I had to take the dog to the vet for his annual physical. When we got in the room, the doctor and his assistant groaned as they lifted the dog onto the examination table. The table also functioned as a scale, and I glanced at the dog, who looked unconcerned as the numbers went higher and higher. Eventually it stopped at a weight that even made me look twice.

“Bowie gained 5 pounds since last year,” said the vet. “He needs to go on a diet.”

“Maybe not,” I replied.

“What do you mean?” asked the doctor.

“It’s late in the day, and he needs a grooming.”

“What difference does that make?” asked the doctor.

“If we weigh him first thing in the morning and I take off his collar and shave his coat, he’ll probably be just right.”

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

COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM

Black History: A baseball player & a civil rights leader

BY CLAIRE LYNCH

With February being Black History Month, I am citing baseball player Larry Doby and civil rights leader Dorothy Height for their accomplishments.

Born on December 13, 1923, in Camden, S.C., Lawrence Eugene Doby was an American professional baseball player in the Negro leagues. In Major League Baseball, Doby was the second Black player to break baseball’s color barrier and the first Black player in the American League.

Larry Doby moved to Paterson, N.J., at age 14 with his mother after his father’s death. A gifted athlete from the very beginning, he excelled in four sports at Paterson East Side High School.

After graduating from high school in 1942, he accepted an athletic scholarship to play basketball at Long Island University Brooklyn. Doby had been dating Eastside classmate Helyn Curvy since his sophomore year and, according to Doby, being able to remain close to Paterson was the primary reason he selected LIU.

In the summer before he enrolled at LIU, Doby accepted an offer to play for the Newark Eagles of the Negro National League for the remainder of the 1942 season, and he transferred to Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia.

He only played basketball for one season at Virginia Union before he was called to serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Because of his military service he did not complete a degree, but the university has since honored him as an alumnus, and he is a member of the Virginia Union University Athletics Hall of Fame.

Although Larry Doby met his future wife, Helyn Curvy Robinson, as freshmen at Paterson Eastside High School, they married in the summer of 1946, after his discharge from the Navy.

He and Helyn raised their five children in a house on Nishuane Road in Montclair, N.J. that is still in the family. They lived in that town from 1960 until his death in 2003.

Larry Doby played basketball on the 1942 CIAA Champion Virginia Union basketball team, made his major league baseball debut on July 5, 1947, 11 weeks after Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier. As the first African-American player in the American League, Larry Doby played 12 major league seasons for the Indians, Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers.

During his career Doby was named

79. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998. His number 14 was retired by the Cleveland Indians in 2007.

Remembered as a local icon in Montclair, Doby is celebrated for his quiet strength, pioneering courage, and lasting legacy in sports and civil rights. He was given a Congressional Gold Medal posthumously.

A commemorative postage stamp was issued in Larry Doby’s honor in 2012 as part of the “Major League Baseball All-Stars” series.

A notable civil rights leader: Dorothy Height was born in Richmond, Virginia,

to seven Major League Baseball AllStar teams and led the Indians to the 1948 World Series Championship. In retirement Doby didn’t have hobbies, he stayed active in sports.

In 1978, Bill Veeck, the owner of the Chicago White Sox who had originally signed Doby to the Indians, hired him as MLB’s second Black manager.

Doby served as the director of communications for the New Jersey Nets of the NBA from 1980 to 1989, and as their director of community affairs until 1990. In 1995, he was named a special assistant to the American League president, a role in which he helped arrange speaking engagements and appearances for former players.

Larry Doby died on June 18, 2003, at his home in Montclair, N.J., at age

on March 24, 1912. The daughter of a building contractor who was politically active and a nurse, Dorothy Irene Height grew up in Rankin, Pennsylvania.

Height went on to graduate from New York University with a degree in education and a master’s degree in educational psychology. After college she worked as a social worker and became an active member of the National Council of Negro Women.

An influential civil rights leader who worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other activists, Height was also an advocate for women’s rights. She saw them as inseparable from civil rights and was instrumental in the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment which was passed by Congress in 1972.

Dorothy Height devoted her life to

grassroots organizations created to fight racism, sexism, inequality, poverty and other societal problems.

Known as the “Godmother of the Civil Rights Movement,” Height received numerous awards and honors and was recognized by multiple U.S. presidents for her activism.

Height also founded the National Black Family Reunion and was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It was U.S. President Bill Clinton who awarded Dorothy Height the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor, in 1994 during a White House ceremony, for her lifetime of work as a civil rights and women’s rights activist. She had worked as a tireless advocate for those two causes.

Dorothy Height also received the Congressional Gold Medal from President George W. Bush in 2004.

For her work as a civil and women’s rights leader, a commemorative stamp honoring Dorothy Height was issued in February 2017. The United States Postal Service honored her with a “Forever” stamp as the 40th entry in its Black Heritage series. That stamp dedication ceremony was held at Howard University and was attended by Height’s relatives and dignitaries.

Dorothy Height passed away on April 20, 2010, in Washington D.C., at 98 years old.

Height had many famous quotes but here are two of my favorites:

“We have to improve life, not just for those who have the most skills and those who know how to manipulate the system. But also for and with those who often have so much to give but never get the opportunity.”

“I want to be remembered as someone who used herself and anything she could touch to work for justice and freedom … I want to be remembered as one who tried.”

Happy Black History Month to one and all!

BY TOM MARGENAU

Your Friends and Neighbors Are Wrong!

Here is a bit of advice from a guy who gives Social Security advice for a living. Don’t take any advice from your friends or neighbors about Social Security. It’s always wrong!

OK, it’s not always wrong. But I’ve learned from many thousands of readers over the years that it’s wrong often enough to make it wise to heed my warning: When it comes to Social Security, don’t listen to your friends and neighbors. I’ll share examples of what I mean in today’s column.

Q: I get my Social Security check on the fourth Wednesday of each month. My wife gets hers on the second Wednesday of each month. And I thought that’s the way things work. Social Security checks come out on various Wednesdays. But I have a neighbor who insists he gets his checks on the seventeenth of each month. Why is that?

A: It isn’t like that. Your friend does not get his Social Security check on the seventeenth of each month. I’m not sure why he would say that. But it really doesn’t matter. He’s just wrong.

For about the first 50 years of the program, Social Security checks always came out on the third of each month. But about 40 years ago, for a variety of reasons, Social Security officials decided to stagger the delivery date of checks based on a person’s day of birth. People born on the first through tenth day of each month would get their checks on the second Wednesday of each month. Those born on the eleventh through twentieth would get their benefits on the third Wednesday of each month. And people born on the twenty-first through the thirty-first would get their benefits on the fourth Wednesday of each month. And for reasons a little too messy to explain here, a few folks still get their benefits on the third of each month. But no one, your neighbor included, gets a benefit check routinely on the seventeenth of the month.

Q: I will be reaching my full retirement age of 66 and 10 months in April 2026. I was planning to start my benefits then. But I have a friend who is the same age as me and he insists that anyone who doesn’t wait until 70 to start their benefits is a darn fool and is throwing money away. What do you say?

A: Well, I say I must be a darn fool because I started my benefits when I was 62 years old. But I did that for a variety of reasons that I’ve explained many times in past columns and just don’t have the space to get into today.

The truth is, no one really knows when the best time is to start their benefits because no one really knows when they are going to die. For example, your friend could wait until 70 to start his

benefits and then get hit by a bus two months later. Then who was the “darn fool?”

All each of us can do is consider issues such as your health, your other sources of income, your marital status and other factors and then just make the best choice you can about when to start your Social Security checks.

And by the way, many financial planners today would say you are right to start your benefits at your full retirement age.

Q: I was talking to a group of neighbors about the future of Social Security. One of them said that Congress will never take any action to fix Social Security until they are forced to pay into the program themselves. Isn’t that a good idea?

A: It’s a non-starting idea: Members of Congress, the president and all other top officials of the federal government have been paying Social Security taxes since the early 1980s.

Q: Late last year, I got a small increase in my monthly Social Security check. I wasn’t sure what that was about until several weeks later when I got a letter explaining what happened. (It was based on earnings I had the prior year that increased my benefit amount.) I was talking to a friend about this. He said the same thing happened to him a couple of years ago. He said the delay in sending letters of explanation was because former President Joe Biden messed up Social Security’s computer systems and that President Donald Trump just hasn’t gotten around to fixing things yet. What do you know about this?

A: I know your friend is full of malarkey! Why do some people insist on looking for political shenanigans and conspiracies when a very simple explanation is in order?

So why does a letter of explanation come many days, or even a week or so, after a change in Social Security benefits? It’s really not a great mystery. And it’s not a political conspiracy. It’s simply that electronic fund transfers can happen almost instantaneously. Whereas a physical letter takes a while to prepare and mail.

In other words, once the Social Security Administration figures out that someone is due an increase in their benefits, they push a few buttons and a payment is on its way to the beneficiary’s bank account. And then after those buttons are pushed, someone else at the SSA has to prepare a letter explaining what happened and then that letter has to go through the SSA’s mailroom and then to the U.S. Postal Service and finally to the recipient’s mailbox.

Some readers have remarked to me that the SSA should time the delivery of the check to coincide with the delivery

of the letter. I remember many years ago, while I still worked for the SSA, being involved in meetings where that issue was discussed. And SSA officials decided that it was best to get the money out to people as fast as possible (it’s their money, after all) and live with the consequences of a delayed letter of explanation.

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

Don’t Let Lost Sales Frustrate You as Tomorrow is Another Day

Who hasn’t ever lost a sale? If you say never, then you are either a liar or just maybe it was your first, second, or third sale and everything went seamlessly, beginners luck, for sure! The reason you haven’t experienced this sometimes devastating event is that you are what I call a “newbie” in the business! Just wait, it will occur. I just lost a sale from my client buyer. We spent over five plus months searching for that one buyer in a development that had the absolute slowest sales that I had experienced in many years. This was possible due to the high maintenance costs (but which included everything, even the internet service), but more importantly the two assessments, but that were absolutely critical and crucial in being pro-active with upgrades and updating and maintaining the development’s pristine look and condition.

My purchaser and his lady friend thoroughly loved the place, a three-bedroom and 2-bath coop with winter water views. My seller and buyer negotiated through me as the intermediary until they reached an agreed-upon price. The coop package was emailed to my buyer, and everything was somewhat stress-free and seamless until his attorney asked for more documents than I have hair on my head (maybe in 15 years, because I do still have a good head of hair, lol).

I heard through my other Broker who lives in the complex, that the seller’s attorney gotten word from the buyer’s attorney, that our buyer decided against moving ahead. After all the work we had performed, the hours of open houses to secure this one purchaser in a development that was currently a very challenging entity in the amount of time that it was to secure buyers for all the listings. The monthly carrying charges (maintenance) was higher than many other developments, but included everything from electric, HVAC, taxes, daily maintenance and a 24/7 concierge and inside parking was an additional $180 per month. Most important were

BY PHILIP A. RAICES

the two assessments that were imposed to revamp the landscaping, hallways and garages on all three buildings that I am only guessing might have been the reason for him to back out. However, I did disclose and convey to him right up front (it was on the listing data form that we gave him). Capital improvements allow the development to hold its value in most cases provides a stronger sale price over the long run!

Ruth’s record. However, all of them including Maris played 162 games or more compared with the Babe’s 154 and was paid $60,000. Moreover, Aaron Judge did hit 62 home runs in 2022 beating Roger Maris’s record and is now considered the number Home Run hitter of all time, but still playing more games (157) than Ruth’s (154) and an earning $40,000,00+ in 2022 when he broke the record.

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:

There was no rock left unturned with respect to all the required and necessary information provided to him. I say, sometimes the operation is a success, but the patient dies (or backs out, lol). I had a feeling that something was going on and that maybe my buyer was getting scared off, due to the amount of information that a typical coop asks on their application, or his attorney may have said something to give him second thoughts about purchasing this apartment. However, assuming and guessing is never accurate unless your client returns your call or text to explain why they changed their mind. It reminds me of a saying that a very old-timer commercial Broker, named Sam conveyed to me 30+ years ago, “Buyers are Liars; Sellers are Yellers, and LAWYERS, MANY TIMES ARE DESTROYERS.” Yup, that last thought is exactly what I am presently thinking, that his attorney may have said or inferred something to him that kiboshed my sale!

I want to segue to tell a story that I periodically tell about Babe Ruth. He hit 60 home runs and in my mind, is still the original numero Uno, “Homerun King.” He always stepped up to the plate and never stopped swinging! The reason I say this is that all the others, e.g. Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Barry Bonds (who reportedly had taken PED, e.g. steroids), and Roger Maris (not sure if he too, too any drugs) beat

I had a very strange and uneasy feeling that something was going on and that maybe my buyer was getting scared off by the assessments and/or his attorney saying something to give him second thoughts about purchasing this apartment. It reminds me of a saying that a very old-timer commercial Broker, named Sam conveyed to me 30+ years ago, “Buyers are Liars, Sellers are Yellers and LAWYERS, MANY TIMES ARE DESTROYERS.”

Yup, that last thought is exactly what I am presently thinking, that his attorney may have said or inferred something to him that “kyboshed” my sale!!

There will always be pitfalls and potholes along the paths of your business career as well as in every business, especially in the Real Estate game. One must be cognizant of the fact that failures will lead to successes; as it is only a matter of times you fail that leads you closer to your first, second or more sucesses. One must fail and learn by correcting mistakes, if possible, to savor and thoroughly enjoy your future sucessess; if one never gives up! “Winners Never Quit and Quitters, Never, Ever Win!”

The bottom line, one must keep getting up and continue swinging for the bleachers, for tomorrow will be the start of another day to create a new success story, in order to not only earn a living but continue year in and year out to be a successful Realtor and business person.

National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate). Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions. National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geothermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).

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

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

ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900 AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 6 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com

Garden City News • Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram • Syosset Advance Jericho News Journal • Floral Park Villager

DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.

2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:

1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”

2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.

Visa and MasterCard Accepted

EMPLOYMENT

HELP WANTED

GARDEN CITY ACUPUNCTURE

We are seeking part time help; Basic computer knowledge Friendly personality to interact with patients 6 hrs per day, 2-3 days/week Very flexible Please inquire at: 516-741-7206

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS!

Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first free months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844329-9391

WE BUY HOUSES FOR CASH AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

If you own a business or have a service to provide,

we’ll create professional advertisements to promote it and help you be seen by thousands of local readers! Call 1-516-294-8900 to inquire!

MARKETPLACE

INVITED SALES BY

TRACY JORDAN

Transform your space, maximize your value: Are you looking to add value to your property and enhance its appeal? Look no further! At Invited Sales, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your needs: Personal Property Appraisals and Evaluations: Get expert insights into the true value of your personal property.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOVENAS/PRAYERS

NOVENA TO THE BLESSED MOTHER

Oh Most Beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven. Oh, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me herein and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee (say three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (say three times). Amen. This prayer is never known to fail and is to be said for 3 consecutive days. In Gratitude (M.T.F.)

MARKETPLACE

Antique & Vintage Items Jewelry-Crystal-Silver Furniture-Mirrors-Tabletop Artwork-Lamps Consign, Shop or Visit the Yellow House 109 Eleventh Street Garden City 516-746-8900 Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed to 6pm) Saturday 12-4 (entrance & parking in back) Consignments by appointment atstewartexchange@tgchs.org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

WE BUY 8,000 CARS A WEEK

Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-403-3374

SERVICES

ATTORNEY

STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ.

Elder Law, Wills & Trusts

Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122

www.dangelolawassociates. com

Estate and Tag Sales: Simplify the process of selling estate items with our professional online and in-person tag sale services. Home Updates: From carpet removal to one-day floor refinishing and contractor services, we handle it all to refresh your home effortlessly. Staging Services: Elevate your space with our curated selection of furniture, accessories, lighting, and decorative items for a stunning transformation. Explore our captivating before and after photos showcasing homes where we’ve added significant value, making them stand out in the market: Visit: InvitedSales.com today to discover how we can help you achieve your property goals! Please Call: 516-279-6378 Or Text Tracy Jordan: 516-567-2960

WANTED TO BUY

LOOKING TO BUY!

Estates, Oriental items, Gold, Silver, Costume Jewelry, Dishes, Flatware, Watches, Clothing, Old Photos, Coins, Stamps, Records, Sports Cards, Pokemon Cards, Comics and Art. Immediate Cash Paid Call George 917-775-3048

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOS WANTED

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS

$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$ All Years /Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199 Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS 516-297-2277

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind today at 1-855-484-3467

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE

WYOMING LEGACY ESTATE: 14.5 horse-zoned acres bordering Bridger-Teton National Forest. South of Jackson Hole. Custom lodge, 360mountain views, hot tub, access to four-season outdoor recreation. https: / / 2antelopetrailpinedalewy.com

SERVICES

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE?

You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679

BARNES GALLERY

Custom Picture Framing Two Nassau Blvd Garden City, NY 516-538-4503

Tuesday-Saturday 10-5

CONSUMER CELLULAR

the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-7824069

JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING

We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship Thousands of frames to choose from!!

Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159

DO YOU KNOW WHAT’S IN YOUR WATER? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728

MADE IN THE SHADE CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Blinds, Shades, Shutters, Draperies

Top Brands at Discount Prices! Family owned & operated www.madeintheshadensli. com

516-426-2890

MASONRY

All types of stonework Pavers, Retaining Walls, Belgium Block Patios, Foundations, Seal coating, Concrete and Asphalt driveways, Sidewalks, Steps.

Free Estimates

Fully Licensed & Insured #H2219010000

Boceski Masonry Louie 516-850-4886

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES TODAY with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5 year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-5161160 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES with Briggs & StrattonPowerProtect(TM) standby generators the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496

SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

SAFE STEP

North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub.

Comprehensive Lifetime warranty. Top of the line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time!

Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step: 1-855-916-5473

HEALTH SERVICES

BIG APPLE ACUPUNCTURE

Xiao S. Chen Lac

Unmatched Expertise

Tailored Treatment Personalized Acupuncture

All types of pain treated including neck, back, hip, sciatica. Treatment adjusts internal organ balance, enhances immunity, metabolism and endocrine function. Promotes circulation, resulting in increased energy, weight loss and reduced facial wrinkles. We Accept Most Insurances www.bigappletcm.com

516-250-7051

FAMILY CARE CONNECTIONS, LLC

Dr. Ann Marie D’Angelo PMHCNS-BC

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Advanced Practice Nurse Care Manager Assistance with Aging at Home /Care Coordintion

Nursing Home & Assisted Living Placement

PRI / Screens / Mini Mental Status Exams

Medicaid Eligibility and Apllications

516-248-9323 www.familycareconnections.com

901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530

SERVICES

PAINTING & PAPERHANGING

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING

Plastering, Taping, Sheetrock

Skim Cutting, Old Wood Refinish, Staining, Wallpaper Removal & Hanging, Paint Removal, Power Washing, Wood Replacement JOHN MIGLIACCIO

Licensed & Insured #80422100000

Call John anytime: 516-901-9398 (Cell) 516-483-3669 (Office)

CLEANING

CLEANING AVAILABLE EXPERIENCED POLISH HOUSE CLEANER

Good references, ability. Very honest, reliable, responsible and hard working. Own transportation. English speaking. Flexible days and hours. Reasonable rates. I will do a good job.

Call or text 516-589-5640

SERVICES

AFFORDABLE TV & INTER-

NET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT

YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Deep-fried wings make the perfect big game offering

Deep-Fried Chicken Wings and Legs in Beer Batter

People from all walks of life look forward to Super Bowl Sunday. Diehard football fans may love each Sunday of the National Football League season, but even casual fans or people who typically don’t watch a game all season enjoy getting together with friends and family to watch the big game on Super Bowl Sunday.

Much of the appeal around Super Bowl Sunday is the festive atmosphere, a feeling that’s amplified by an assortment of delicious foods that tend to be on the menu at game watch gatherings. Chicken wings are a familiar staple of Super Bowl Sunday spreads, and this Lines+Angles recipe for “Deep-Fried Chicken Wings and Legs In Beer Batter” can help fans indulge their love for wings this season.

Makes 4 servings

For the batter:

1 cup flour

1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder

1⁄2 teaspoon paprika

1 medium egg, beaten

10 ounces beer, IPA-style Pepper

Salt

For the chicken:

4 whole chicken wings

4 chicken drumsticks

3⁄4 cup cornstarch

8 cups vegetable oil, for deepfrying

1) For the batter: Sift the flour, garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper into a large mixing bowl.

2. Whisk in the egg and enough beer to make a thick batter, taking care not to over-mix.

3. For the chicken: Heat the oil in a deep, heavybased saucepan to 320° F on a thermometer.

4. Pat the chicken pieces dry and then dust in the cornstarch. Dip in the batter to coat.

5. Deep-fry the chicken, in batches, for 14 to 18 minutes until golden, crisp, and cooked through (the wings will need less time than the drumsticks).

6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Two Nassau Blvd Garden City, N.Y. 516-538-4503 www.barnesgalleryframing.com barnesgallery@yahoo.com

• HEART SHAPED LAYER CAKES.

• HEART SHAPED STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

• STRAWBERRY CHEESECAKES

• HEART SHAPED COOKIES

• CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES

• HEART SHAPED LINZER TARTS

• CUP CAKES

6,

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.:

Below is a list of the seven most essential Reiner-directed films to watch:

• “This is Spinal Tap”

• “Stand By Me”

• “The Princess Bride”

• “When Harry Met Sally”

• “The American President”

• “Misery”

• “A Few Good Men”

February 2026 - Remembering Rob Reiner

2/2/26 - “A Few Good Men” (R),  1992, 138 mins

2/9/26 - “Princess Bride” (PG), 1987, 98 mins

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

February 2026 Programs Mah-Jongg Open Play

Thursdays 6–8 p.m.

• Thursday, February 12, Large Meeting Room

• Thursday, February 25, 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.

Yoga for Beginners or Yoga for “Not So Beginners”

Tuesday Nights -

• February 10, 17, 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 peo-

ple 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 Wednesdays,, February 11 , March 11, March 18      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) 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.

Bingo for Adults Fridays, February 20, 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, February 11, 18, 25

• 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 12, 19, 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.

Marc Courtade Presents the Music of Irving Berlin Tuesday, February 10, from 2–3 p.m. in the  Large Meeting Room

Irving Berlin was Russian born, but became the first major songwriter of the Great American Songbook during his 60-year career. From his first hit song “Alexander’s Ragtime Band” in 1911 through “An Old Fashioned Wedding” written for the 1966 revival of Annie Get Your Gun, Berlin’s 1,500 songs reached the hearts of Americans, and paid tribute to his adopted country. This program will honor the man and spotlight his music that remains an integral part of our musical heritage.

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.

Reiki with Kathleen Gunning • Thursday, February  19 • 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)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.

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

Adult Services at the Garden City Public Library

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 print-

from-home passes, visit the Library website, www.gardencitypl.org.

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

The following Library Museum Pass rules remain in effect.

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

• Reservations will be taken up to one month in advance of the desired date, subject to availability on a firstcome, first-served basis. Reservations can be made in person at the Adult Services Desk or over the phone at 516-742-8405 x5236.

Additional rules and information are available at the library.

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.

GC Library Board to meet

Check

There will be a Budget Work Session of the Library Board of Trustees on Monday, February 9, at 7:30 p.m. in the Library’s large meeting room located on

the lower level.

Further details will be posted when available on the Library’s website, www.gardencitypl.org

News from the Children’s Room

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.

• Saturday Feb. 7, at 10:30 a.m.: Inclusive Storytime - Grades 2–5

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

• Monday, Feb. 9, at 11:30 a.m.: Mixed Age Storytime - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

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

• Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 11:30 a.m.: Preschool Craft - 3 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 10:30 a.m.: STEAM Preschool Building - 6 Months to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 4:00 p.m.: STEAM Fun Club - Grades K–2

• Thursday, Feb. 12, at 10:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, Feb. 12, at 11:30 a.m.: Mother Goose StorytimeBirth to 17 Months

• Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 10:30 a.m.: A Time For Kids - 18 Months to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 3:30 p.m.: Mixed Age Storytime - Birth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, Feb. 18, at

Please join us on Feb. 10 at 11:30 a.m. for Preschool Craft - 3 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten).

10:30 a.m.: STEAM Preschool Building - 6 Months to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 3:30 p.m.: Dance Party - 2 to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, Feb. 19, at 10:30 a.m.: Mixed Age StorytimeBirth to 5 Years (Not in Kindergarten)

• Thursday, Feb. 19, at 11:30 a.m.: Mother Goose StorytimeBirth to 17 Months

• Friday, Feb. 20, at 10:00 a.m.: Chess4Community: Play and LearnGrades K-5

• 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)

Please join us on Feb. 11 at 4:00 p.m. for STEAM

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

Unattended Child Policy

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

PARP

Last week, the Children's Department partnered with the Garden City PTA and

held a special event, “The Spotlight on the Library,” for PARP (Pick A Reading Partner)! PARP is a National PTA program designed to foster the love of reading. The Spotlight on the Library event featured youth services librarians Miss Barbara and Miss Laura doing a special reading of the book “Because”, written by Mo Willems and illustrated by Amber Ren. Afterwards, children and parents read books written by students from Stewart and Stratford schools and did a fun craft. January was Puzzle Month so to highlight that fact and something fun for the children to keep, the craft was a puzzle that the children decorated to reflect themselves.

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

Join Us for Teen Programs During February Break!

Looking for something fun to do during February break? Teens in Grades 6–12 are encouraged to join us at the Library for one of our programs scheduled during the school break!

• Wednesday, February 18, at 2 p.m.: Teen Paint Party (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, February 19, at 2 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: DIY Ceramic Mugs (Grades 6–12)

• Friday, February 20, at 10 a.m.: Chess4Community: Play and Learn (Grades K–12)

• Friday, February 20, at 1 p.m.: Teen Movie Club: “ Black Panther ” (PG-13, 2018) (Grades 6–12)

To participate, please register online via LibCal at gardencitypl. libcal.com. Registration is currently open for Chess4Community: Play and Learn. Registration will begin Tuesday, February 10, at 10 a.m. for Teen Paint Party, Teen Crafternoon, and Teen Movie Club.

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!

• Saturday, February 7, at 10 a.m.: Inclusive Storytime Adventure - Teen Volunteering (Grades 9–12)

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

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

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

• Friday, February 20, at 10 a.m.: Chess4Community: Play and Learn (Grades K–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, February 10, at 10 a.m. online at

https://gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• Tuesday, February 10–Thursday, February 19: Ornaments for Community Service (Grades 6–12)

• Wednesday, February 18, at 2 p.m.: Teen Paint Party (Grades 6–12)

• Thursday, February 19, at 2 p.m.: Teen Crafternoon: DIY Ceramic Mugs (Grades 6–12)

• Friday, February 20, at 1 p.m.: Teen Movie Club: “ Black Panther ” (PG-13, 2018) (Grades 6–12)

Registration begins Tuesday, February 17, at 10 a.m. online at https://gardencitypl.libcal.com for the following programs:

• 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

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.

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

See

what's

on  our Hall of Fame Wall of Readers!

• Sign up beginning January 5, 2026. Not in 6th grade yet? You can sign-up beginning June 15 of the summer before you enter 6th 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!

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!

In fact, every candidate running for Village Trustee and every remaining sitting Trustee should declare both quickly and publicly where they stand on this bad idea.  If they are AGAINST this tax they are on your side.  If they are FOR this tax you should also vote accordingly.

If they give a response that the transfer tax issue needs further study or they need further information on the matter…that’s a “FOR; BUT I wont’ go on record now vote” so –head for the hills.

I cannot believe they suggested that!!!

All sitting trustees and candidates please give us your opinion ASAP!!!!

Video, social media posts, ads and letters to the editor will all suffice.

John P. Sullivan

Significant financial benefits

To the Editor:

Village residents who attended last week’s Townhall and those who have read the Report of the Board of Trustees Committee on St Pauls, Co-chaired by Messrs. Catell and Tauches all have been advised that the St. Paul’s Conservancy’s Financial Plan provides “Significant Financial and Other Benefits”.

The Catell-Tauches Report’s conclusion was reached after investigation of the Conservancy Plan by the Committee which received the experienced opinions of nationally recognized experts in municipal finance.

Equally important was that the Conservancy’s Financial Plan retained the Village’s control over construction costs and Recreation Department programming. Additionally, the Conservancy Plan could save residents $20-30 mm in avoided future Universal Pre-K construction costs.

The Conservancy remains available to discuss our Financial Plan with interested residents at a future time and place.

Frank McDonough, Co-Chair, St Pauls Conservancy

RETT robbery!

To the Editor:

I can’t believe our Trustees are even considering a Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) when you go to sell your home. So much nonsense that only the buyer would pay, they will just reduce selling price and eventually make GC a difficult place to sell you home. If you upsize or downsize your home, you will pay twice. This will be a negative for all of us, especially our Seniors.

Vote for Ryan, Brosnan, Frey and Bajaj, who are against this.

Barbara Cashin

It’s all in the numbers

To the Editor:

Since the latest committee report which provided no relevant updates

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

about any potential cost estimates on adaptive use of the St. Paul’s building but only a rehashing of past reports. Moving on that subject I would like to provide a past engineering report in 2023 from Westerman on cost analysis. Westerman had reported that it would cost $17,678,312 to demolish the whole building and cottages, remove foundations, plant grass and trees on the site. It was suggested that the area where the building was be converted into a formal open community park at an estimated added cost of $15 million, totaling $32,678.312, depending upon options.

Adaptive reuse at $49,526,287 dollars was just for the interior central portion of the building for public use. Figuring out the costs to restore the building would be dependent on what programming of this space would be needed. If it was to be a simple white box as described in our approach, finishing the building so it would come up to all building codes and regulations suitable for public use with no clearly defined program, could be in the order of an added $60 million. To demolish the cottages, you can add $300,000. Totaling sum would be about $109,826,287 just for the work alone back in 2023. If the project is determined to move forward drawings will be needed to be prepared by an Architect, Structural, MEPs, and Fire Protection engineers for final pricing. These services are not included in the cost estimates above. For this type of historic restoration project, soft costs can range between 15 and 20% of the cost of construction depending on the required consultants and design specialists needed. These studies, recommendations, and estimates consisted of a collaborated study prepared by Westerman Construction Engineering and Vakota Architectures for the Board of Trustees to consider.

It’s all in the numbers and what we are willing to financially support. In the last village survey over 50% of village residents were against spending taxpayers’ money on any of the three options that would keep the building in some form. It is clear to me that a wellthought-out park is the only sensible way to go for the financial well-being of the village now and into the future.

Bob Orosz

Unanswered questions

To the Editor:

Thank you to the Garden City News for sharing the report of the St Paul’s Advisory Committee prior to the January 29th meeting. The opportunity to review the lengthy report on such a complicated topic allowed residents to ask more thoughtful questions at the meeting.

As the St. Paul’s issue is an extremely complex one, I am sharing four points I took away from reviewing the report and watching the meeting.

First, the St Paul’s Committee was given a very limited charge by Trustee Muldoon who headed up the committee and provided them with both “guidelines” and “guidance.”  It is regrettable that their scope was limited to exploring the three preservation options on the St Paul’s Survey, as all three were clearly rejected by a majority of residents in the recent St. Paul’s Poll.  Had the committee been allowed to pivot upon learning of the St. Paul’s Poll Results, their efforts could have helped move us forward on a path to a real solution.

Second, while the cost estimate went up to $80 million for Option A in the committee’s report, residents learned at the January 29th meeting that the estimate is from an anonymous construction company, and it was sought out by a resident known to have been involved in the interference with the Westerman Cost Estimate report. Little credibility can be given to this anonymous estimate and having it on the Village website without a disclaimer is misleading. All residents should take a moment to read the released email detailing this resident’s involvement in the interference with Westerman’s cost estimates and notice he even signs his emails “Yours in Saving St. Paul’s!”  https:// drive.google.com/file/d/1qvRAAjDtW5nfGtyXvk2mOXNxDb3pybh/ view?usp=drivesdk

Letters to the Garden City News have challenged the cost estimates for a St. Paul’s Preservation Project, and I would recommend that residents wondering about the actual cost read the letter submitted by a volunteer resident group with relevant experience and expertise who estimated costs to be approximately $160 million. https://www.gcnews.com/ articles/can-we-afford-159950050/

Third, residents learned at the meeting that the committee did not get professional legal advice on some very critical legal issues surrounding the concept of financing through a 501(c)(3) organization, including whether there could be a risk of the Village losing the property if such financing were used.  Instead, the committee appears to rely on an unnamed member of the St. Paul’s Conservancy, with no reference to any written report.   It was not specified why professional legal advice was not sought, and it is unclear whether this was based on guidance from Trustee Muldoon who, with the Village Board of Trustees, has access to legal counsel. Please remember that, when I was Mayor, the Village hired outside counsel who were skeptical of this type of financing being in the best interest of the Village, though they were unable to definitively comment as the St. Paul’s Conservancy refused to provide me with a written report or sufficient details in writing for the law firm to consider.  If a detailed report has now been

provided, it should be attached to the committee’s report, available for residents, and reviewed by counsel hired by the Village.

Finally, when asked about the impact of an additional $80 million dollars of debt on the Village’s credit rating, an extremely important issue for our Village finances, there was no answer in the report or at the meeting. It is not known why the BOT did not get this important information to the committee from the Village Treasurer. Clearly, it would have been helpful for the committee to have this information in order to provide financing advice to the BOT.

I thank those residents who volunteered their time on this most recent St. Paul’s Advisory Committee without any bias or intent to be misleading to residents. It is unfortunate that you were not provided proper guidance and information so your efforts could have been more helpful in moving us towards a solution.  I continue to be committed to helping the Village in any way I can to help find a solution for St. Paul’s and am available as a resource to any present or future members of the Board of Trustees as well as any committee members.

Mary Carter Flanagan,  Former Mayor

A huge expense to gamble on To the Editor:

Mr. Torino’s letter to the editor, published in your January 30, 2026, edition, unfortunately is a prime example of the old political tactic so often employed by those unwilling or unprepared to factually debate an issue. Rather than focus on, and respond to, the serious and legitimate issues raised concerning the St. Paul’s Committee Report, Mr Torino attempts to shift our focus away to the irrelevant question of how the report was made public. We all know this deception well.

Similarly, in his letter, he demands that the FABGC candidates defend with precise and excruciating detail, how the demolition of St. Paul’s will be accomplished. This is a standard that supporters for the preservation/restoration of that same building demonstrated they cannot meet as recently as the January 29th Town Hall Meeting.

As Mr. Torino must have observed at the meeting, there was no proposed plan presented that day. Rather, it was repeatedly asserted, by those that have had free access to the St. Paul’s Building and considerable time to gather supporting data, that there is no concrete plan to rebuild St. Paul’s. They have, at best, the bare concepts of a plan.

The options in the Committee Report and favored by this Board of Trustees are and continue to be: Adaptive Reuse; Partial Renovation; or Mothballing. The St. Paul’s Committee Report focused on Adaptive Reuse. Funding figures were

provided by an anonymous construction firm. This is neither transparent, nor reliable.

Why then does Mr. Torino demand that supporters of other solutions, who, despite requests, have had no or extremely limited building/site access, come prepared to defend their proposals to the last minutiae? The only reasonable answer is that he seeks to distract from the paucity of details offered in the St. Paul’s Committee Report.

Let’s discuss some details. The St. Paul’s Building is 150,000 square feet of space. Based upon the wholly unsupported cost estimates Adaptive Reuse would cost $80.3 million for 26,000 square feet of use. The Committee stated that this $80.3 million was only a rough estimate of what it could cost to restore the building. The $80.3 million is just a starting point. Any uses of the building would result in additional yet to be determined costs. The remaining 126,000 square feet of space would be heated and cooled – a significant expense – but not usable.

What use would the Village get for $80.3 million? Your guess is as good as ours. The Committee Report and the presenters were clear on this point: No use has been determined. This sounds like the movie Field of Dreams – if you build it, they will come. It’s a huge expense for the Village to gamble on a use.

A park, which everyone can use and enjoy, is more cost effective to create and, by anyone’s estimate and simple common sense, considerably cheaper to maintain going forward. The cost is estimated to be $32,105,284, which includes the costs for saving the clock tower. This includes a 15% contingency as opposed to the unfathomably low 4% contingency assumption in the anonymously sourced St. Paul’s Committee Report.

See the St. Paul’s Park Report at: bit. ly/stpaulsparkcosts for details.

It is time to put the divisive issue of St. Paul’s behind us and move forward.

Neha Bajaj, Thomas Brosnan, Jo-Ann Frey, Thomas Ryan

Committee report fails

To the Editor:

St. Paul’s Advisory Committee presented their long awaited report on the future options for the redevelopment of the St. Paul’s main building. While there were some positive items, there were also a number of troubling items in their report & presentation, the following are just three of them:

1) An anonymous individual at an anonymous construction management firm estimated the cost for Adaptive Reuse for ~26,000 square feet at approximately $80.3 million, basically “white

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

boxing” the building for future development. The Committee refused to name the anonymous individual or company who provided their estimate for the “rough” $80.3 Million.

There are many reason for refusing to provide the employee or company’s name, some might be: 1) the company didn’t officially issue the estimate, 2) an employee provided the estimate privately, but not as a company representative, 3) the employee is not qualified to do this type of estimation 4) it’s more of a “guesstimate” since there wasn’t clarity on what the building would be used for and they were worried about reputation damage if the estimate is not close to accurate, or 5) the lack of transparency questions whether the employee or company exists.

2) The Committee has spent significant time trying to develop estimates for the annual operational costs for the redevelopment of the Main Building (e.g., costs of electricity, heating, and security). The Committee couldn’t identify the use of the Main Building — which remains an open question — therefore they made no estimate. The Village has spent years on St Paul’s use and the Committee spend the last year and a half doing their report; yet they still can’t explain the use or need for the building. Now they want to understand the Village space needs looking out over the next 5-10 years to decide on the future use of the building. ENOUGH ALREADY!

3) The Committee mentioned various bonding issues, the two most discussed where 15 year General Obligation (GO) bonds and 30 year Annual Appropriation (AA) bonds using a Conservancy. The Committee mentioned to look at page 26 and calculate the new household amount using the rates for the $60 M bond to come up with costs for the $80 M bond. Doing that, the average cost per household for the 15 GO Bond would be around $915 per year or a total cost per household of $13,725 over the 15 years. The 30 AA Conservancy Bond would be around $661 a year or a total cost per household of $19,830 over the 30 years. Reminder; average cost per household is NOT how the Village does property taxes, they use home assessment so these numbers could be higher or lower.

As an example: assuming a home assessment of $1.2 M; total cost would be around $22,230 for the 15 year GO bond and total costs would be around $30,373 for the 30 year AA Conservancy bond for these households. Remember - The $80 M would be the cost for the completed shell (white boxing) of St. Paul’s with additional costs after they decide on the use of the building. Costs could easily double (maybe even triple) when future use is decided and they include the Operational & Staffing costs. Also, Operational and Staffing costs will continue even after the bond is paid off.

Vote for Tom Brosnan, Jo-Ann Frey, Tom Ryan, and Neha Bajaj to build a park that we can enjoy.

Hopefully these and many other questions from the Committee’s report will be discussed in the weeks to come.

Tom Ryan

Disappointing meeting

To the Editor:

So we watched a presentation by yet another St. Paul’s Committee last Thursday night. If you closed your eyes you would think you were listening to Frank McDonough and Peter Coll. As expected the Committee was charged with looking at the three options that were on the St. Paul’s survey. The Adapted Reuse option will clearly be the one most reviewed by them. Will Facadism and Demolition get a fair look? I doubt it. They didn’t get a fair look from the previous St.Paul’s Committee, why would it be any different now? Former Mayor Flanagan and myself argued in vain for these options to be put on the survey for residents to be given a fair choice.

What also makes me and I’m sure a lot of our Village residents uncomfortable is the fact that the Committee is using figures given to them by an unnamed large commercial contractor based in Manhattan. That they did it pro bono doesn’t discount the fact that the Village residents need to know where these figures come from.

Why do we think the St Paul’s Conservatory will be able to raise funds now, when they have raised nothing to date.

All in all this was a disappointing presentation that will lead to more frustration for Village residents.

Bruce Chester, Former Deputy Mayor, Village Trustee

PPP a big red flag

To the Editor:

Garden City has been our home for over 40 years. My husband and I have raised our four children here. We have been and are once again members of the pool. Our kids played village sports. We use the library, frequent the local businesses and have participated in many village sponsored activities. In other words, we are active members of the community.

We are also a hard NO when it comes to saving the St Paul’s building. We voted to purchase the property to keep the fields for village use. At the time, it seemed likely that a plan would be found for the building. We supported the concept of it becoming the high school. But that, like every other proposal or idea, was shot down for a variety of reasons mainly due to the costs associated with retrofitting the building to bring it

up to current codes. And 30+ years later we are still without a use for it.

To consider a public/private partnership raises a big red flag. We do not want the state anywhere near the decision making process. To raise taxes just to hold onto a building that is outdated, not is great shape and rapidly becoming an eyesore does not make sense to us.

We wholeheartedly support the idea of a St Paul’s Park along the lines of what has been proposed. Let’s finally make a decision that will be useful to our entire community.

Steve and Lynn Hayes

Same tune, new chorus

To the Editor:

The St. Paul’s advisory committee report evaluating the future options for the redevelopment of the main building is based upon a weighted opinion poll taken back in the fall of 2023 with three options and only two choices.

Since then and the latest one gave the public three choices, after some 28 rewrites, adaptive reuse, partial replacement, and mothballing, which was overwhelmingly voted down by the residents of Garden City, who refused to financially support any of these proposals. The idea of demolition and a park was barely mentioned until it was questioned during public comments.

This board of preservationists runs on misinformation, disinformation, wishful thinking, and misdirection. There is an old saying: A fool and his money are soon parted. Let’s not be fooled again with their false claims, like seniors won’t be taxed for St. Paul’s, and their lowball figures from anonymous sources. The facts are that there are no real plans, only conjecture in order to entice residents into believing future proposals, of which there are none.

We heard this tune before except this time it’s wrapped in a professionally done 49-page report of rehashed data and speculative information. Residents deserve better by providing greater transparency of any future claims and numbers. We must also be able to know and verify where this information comes from, in writing, along with who is providing it to the BOT and the public for evaluation and consideration. Our financial future depends on it.

Bob Orosz

A fitting tribute

To the Editor:

Some believe that spending endless millions to restore St. Paul’s School to its former glory would best honor A.T. Stewart and our village history. I disagree. We should consider a more fitting and forward-looking tribute: remove the existing eyesore and create the A.T. Stewart Memorial Park.

At the park’s entrance, bricks salvaged from the original building could See page 50

be reused to construct a substantial pedestal, crowned with a statue of A.T. Stewart, much like the Eisenhower statue at Eisenhower Park. This would respectfully acknowledge the site’s history while giving it new purpose by creating a living, welcoming space that serves our community today.

The park can include a modern space-efficient outdoor dog park, providing a vibrant community space where hundreds of Garden City residents can gather, connect, and truly enjoy their neighborhood.

Alternatively, we can spend endless millions of our hard-earned money to restore deteriorating wood panels, stairs, floors, ceilings and walls that most of us will never see or enjoy.

John Fabus

Time to move on

To the Editor:

We don’t know what we want to do with St. Paul’s [wink-wink], but let’s think about how we might fund this. That was the mandate of the St. Paul’s Advisory Group. Much like last year’s St. Paul’s Survey, the options were shamelessly slanted toward the preferred outcome of current members of the Board of Trustees, with demolition ruled out of consideration. For over 30 years, the Village has been considering various building uses, including by GC Schools, without any viable success. So now the Report recommends finding such a use??? Enough! Time to move on.

Ralph Bulle

Data on library visitor count

To the Editor:

In last week’s letter, “Expanding Vision of Library,” published in the Garden City News, [ Expanding vision of Library - Garden City News ] it was stated that the Garden City Public Library now receives more than 15,000 visitors each month, up from an average of 6,000 visitors just two years ago. I am curious as to the source of this data, as it does not align with the library’s reported visitor counts over the past several years. Per Library Board of Trustees agenda packages, the library removed its entry gates in 2023, at which point visitor counts were no longer recorded or reported. Prior to that, in 2019 (pre-COVID), the monthly average was approximately 11,000 visits. Additionally, the Children’s Room was under construction throughout much of 2022 and early 2023, reopening in May 2023 — a disruption that clearly affected in-person visitation during that period.

Looking further back, from 2014 through 2018, the library regularly averaged close to 15,000 visits per month, which suggests that current levels represent a rebound to historic norms rather than a two-and-a-halffold increase over the past two years.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

Inferring that recent programming changes or the Children’s Room renovation alone drove such a dramatic rise in visits is therefore not supported by the available data.

I have long advocated for the library and its services, and I believe strongly that accurate information is essential — particularly as the library considers a major renovation of its lower level. A clear and factual understanding of usage trends benefits the entire community.

Steve Ilardi

Note - For transparency, I worked part time at the GCPL for 36 years (1984-2020) and for many years handled the statistics, including tracking visitor counts.

Unfortunate abuse of social media

To the Editor:

Over the years, many of us have warned our children about the importance of using social media responsibly. Unfortunately, it appears that some adults have not taken that lesson to heart.

As our Village elections—and discussions around other important Village issues—have become increasingly political, we are seeing disturbing trends emerge online. These include the creation of fake social media accounts designed to amplify positive commentary on certain issues, such as St. Paul’s Park, and the apparent use of bots to artificially inflate views and engagement so that posts appear to have broader support than they actually do.

Perhaps most troubling is the practice on some Facebook sites of blocking or silencing residents who express differing opinions. By preventing respectful disagreement, these forums create the false impression of unanimous support for a particular position—an impression that may not reflect the true diversity of views within our community.

I understand that social media and Facebook sites are not regulated in this regard and that administrators are free to manage their platforms as they see fit. I fully acknowledge the viability/ importance of the use of social media and I am a proponent of the media. Still, it is disappointing to see these kinds of shenanigans taking place in a Village as wonderful as Garden City. I would have hoped—and still hope—that we are better than this.

As a final note, the Village has several sources of neutral information, including the Village website, social media pages and the Village app. They are always great places to look for information.

Judy Courtney

For a better Library

To the Editor:

I support Neha Bajaj as a candidate

for Trustee particularly because she has clearly identified the Garden City Library as a resource meriting improvement and enhancements. As a reference librarian for over 30 years I appreciate the recognition by candidate Neha Bajaj that a library is part of infrastructure playing a vital role within a community. It functions a center offering multiple services and events.

As a librarian at Elmont Memorial Library part of my responsibilities include running the books and movies program for the homebound and as curator for the rotating monthly displays of the artistic works by local artists. (some artistic GC residents have participated). A library is so much more than a depository of books. I am confident Neha Bajaj as a new Trustee would have the focus to support the maintenance and betterment of our library as a true learning and community center.

Lee Gorray

Commitment, judgment, understanding

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

In support of Neha Bajaj

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my strong support for Neha Bajaj as she runs for the Board of Trustees. I’ve known Neha for nine years through our common experience of raising autistic children, and I have long admired her dedication to researching best practices and educational programs while advocating for all children in our Garden City school system.

Neha has a strong history of service and commitment to the Garden City community. She has held leadership roles within GC SEPTA and the GC PTA. Her own educational background - an MBA and an MSW – reflects her broad knowledge and ability to approach issues thoughtfully and comprehensively.

Neha truly cares about our village and is deeply committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for Garden City’s residents. Neha Bajaj has my full support and my vote on March 18.

Amy McCoy

Re-elect Jessica Tai

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my strong and unequivocal support for Jessica Tai and her service on the Board of Trustees. Jessica has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to our community through her thoughtful, results-driven approach to governance.

Jessica is a great coordinator. I have enjoyed many of the festivities in town. She coordinated events that bring people together, including organizing the Kick Off to Summer Festival on 7th Street with patriotic posters displayed on windows. She worked effectively with the Chamber of Commerce, the PTA, and civic groups on events, which reflects her inclusive and respectful leadership style.

Beyond community engagement, Jessica has shown a strong commitment to improving infrastructure, public facilities, and recreational spaces that benefit residents of all ages. At Board meetings, she has voted to support upgrades to parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, and community facilities, as well as major capital projects that enhance safety and long-term sustainability. She has raised good questions, followed up with progress, and had meaningful discussions. For example, her question on fire truck dispatch protocols and functions of different trucks helped the audience understand the importance of a renovated fire station. Her focus on planning, maintenance, and preparedness reflects the mindset of a responsible, thorough, and forward-thinking trustee.

In addition, Jessica has demonstrated leadership in advancing policies that

protect community character, enhance public safety, and promote environmental stewardship. Her support for updated village codes, safety and security initiatives, beautification efforts, and environmental programs underscores her commitment to preserving and enhancing the village for current and future residents.

Jessica Tai leads with integrity, collaboration, and purpose. She places the best interests of the community at the forefront of her work. I am confident that her continued service on the Board of Trustees will be a significant asset to our village.

Lisa Madigan

CAP candidates get job done

To the Editor:

Let’s let our current BOT continue to research, plan and implement their strategic plans to provide continuity in the coming two years. When this board tackles a problem, we get to enjoy the results.

I’d like to highlight and support the hard work of all the trustees but particularly Trustee Jessica Tai. Jess has been instrumental member of the committee to modernize village communications by launching the new Village APP “My Garden City” providing notifications, service requests and a direct links to the village web site and departments. She has championed transparency by timely publishing Village meetings on official sites and social media.

As co-chair of the Environmental Advisory Board(EAB), Jessica has worked with the Water Department on Lead Service Lines, Airplane noise abatement, Launched Smart Irrigation Sprinkler rebate program, debuted Pollinator Garden, improved municipal yard signage and functionality to increase compliance and more.

Jess was an instrumental member of the committee for the return of the successful, well-loved, renamed Seventh Street Summer Festivals. The Street Fair challenges were analyzed with the collaboration of the Police, Public Work Departments, Chamber of Commerce, residents and Trustees resulting in the return of successful festivals.

The current board tackled major much needed projects such as the aging Cedar Valley Lift Station (sewage station), full renovation of the Edgemere Firehouse with a 3 million dollar savings, and the Meadow Street Drainage project.

I encourage residents to vote for the CAP line to continue getting the job done!

Judy Courtney, Vinny Muldoon, Gerard Smith and Jessica Tai.

Jeannette McLaughlin

A great candidate

To the Editor:

Tom Ryan is a great candidate for

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

Village Trustee. I have known Tom for decades. He was a wonderful CYO basketball coach. Tom also had impressive law enforcement and finance careers. I am happy to support Tom Ryan for Village Trustee.

Margaret Kelly

Deep knowledge, dedicated service

To the Editor:

Having known Judy Courtney, Deputy Mayor for many years, and remembering her service on the Eastern Property Association and observing her service as a Village Trustee, I strongly encourage residents to join with me in voting for Judy in the upcoming Villagewide election on March 18.

I have known Judy’s long-standing commitment to Garden City, acknowledged many times over through her years of volunteer service within a wide range of leadership roles - through her efforts serving her POA as Director, Vice President and as President, and then as Deputy Mayor on the Village Board of Trustees.  Throughout her service to Garden City, Judy is known to work collaboratively to address local issues.  Her service to our Village also includes time as a member of the Recreation Commission, the Village 125th Anniversary Committee as well as the Mobility impaired Committee.  Judy’s initiatives, with others, have also created and presented informative programs of historic nature for the education and enjoyment of our Village residents.

Across all of these roles, Judy has consistently shown a willingness to step up, listen and work hard to get things done. I know that Judy knows and understands Garden City well and has a depth of knowledge and dedication that is invaluable on the Board of Trustees. And, to those of you who regularly attend Board of Trustees meetings, as I do, recognize Judy’s continual ability to seek clarity on vital issues.

Please join me on March 18 in voting for Judy Courtney along with the Community Agreement Party (CAP) candidates: Vinny Muldoon, Jesica Tai and Gerard Smith.

Althea Robinson

Supporting CAP candidates To the Editor:

Since moving to Garden City, Jessica Tai has made me feel at home. She hosted breakfasts where I got to meet some of the wonderful neighbors who make this community so special. She’s someone who genuinely cares about the people and the heart of this village.

Over the past two years, I’ve watched her tirelessly champion expanded planting and a thoughtful tree policy that protects our precious tree canopy. Walking through Garden City, it’s clear how much she and the Board values the beauty of our streets lined with trees

and flowers.

When I had questions about water safety, Jessica’s passion and knowledge shone through. She took the time to walk me through the GIS map showing the materials of the service lines connected to my home, patiently explaining the two parts of the line—from home to curb, and curb to main. She also made sure I knew about the free lead testing the Village offers and helped me understand my options. Her kindness and responsiveness made me feel supported and informed every step of the way.

I’m proud to support Jessica Tai and the entire CAP team—Vinny Muldoon, Judy Courtney, and Gerard Smith. Together, they are committed to keeping Garden City not just beautiful, but a safe, welcoming place we’re all proud to call home.

Wenya Fu

Judy Courtney for Trustee

To the Editor:

Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.

A lifelong resident of Garden City and passionate advocate of honesty and truth, Judy has been active in the disabled community, served as Vice president and President of the EPOA. She led the POA letter writing campaign against the Casino and has been instrumental in the leadership of our unique and special town along with fellow trustees Jessica Tai and Vinny Muldoon.

There are two kinds of people in this world, those who do the work And those who take credit. Try to be in the first group, there is less competition there.

For a Strong Trustee Vote for Courtney.

Patrick A. O’Rourke

Proven leadership, real results

To the Editor:

I enthusiastically endorse Deputy Mayor Judy Courtney for re-election as Garden City Trustee. As a lifelong resident with over 20 years of professional human resources experience, Judy brings invaluable dedication to our community, specifically through her work chairing the Public Information Committee and the Committee to Fill Vacancies, as well as her role as Commissioner of Building & Planning. She is deeply committed to maintaining Garden City’s fiscal health, ensuring transparent government, fostering a respectful environment for residents and Village staff, and protecting our Village’s unique character for future generations. Please join me in supporting Judy Courtney and the Community Agreement Party on Wednesday, March 18th.

John Reilly

Pleased with leadership

To the Editor:

We are writing to express how

pleased we are with the leadership of our Village of Garden City Mayor and Board of Trustees. It is reassuring to live in a community where our local officials are clearly invested, responsive, and transparent, and where residents truly feel informed and heard.

In particular, we want to acknowledge Trustee Vinnie Muldoon. One thing we both especially appreciate is his regular social media updates about village news and information. In today’s busy world, that has become one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay informed about what is happening in our village. Whether it’s infrastructure updates, community reminders, or important announcements, his posts make village information accessible and timely.

As longtime Garden City residents whose children have already graduated from Garden City schools, we no longer have the same daily interactions that once kept us closely connected to school-based and community networks. Because of that, these updates have become an invaluable way for us—and many others in a similar stage of life—to stay engaged with our village and feel connected to what’s going on.

We are grateful for the dedication, communication, and leadership shown by our Mayor and Trustees, and we thank them for their continued service to our community.

Ann & Damian George

Support for Jessica Tai

To the Editor:

I strongly support the reelection of Jessica Tai for Village Trustee.

My wife and I have been Garden City Estate residents for more than 13 years. We chose to raise our family here because of Garden City’s strong sense of community. We met Jessica, Warren, and their family years ago when our children shared the same bus stop. Even before being elected Trustee, Jessica was a deeply engaged and committed member of the community.

As a teacher with the New York City Department of Education, she brings a genuine passion for helping others to her role. Over the past two years as a Trustee, she has consistently sought out diverse viewpoints on issues critical to our village. Even when residents may not agree with her approach, she remains open to thoughtful, constructive dialogue.

Her efforts to preserve green spaces and maintain the village’s character are especially noteworthy. The restoration of the brick wall at the Nassau Boulevard train station, the lilac plantings along Manor Road, and the moratorium on prospective subdivisions all reflect this commitment.

Jessica has clearly demonstrated the dedication necessary to serve as Village

See page 52

Trustee, and I support her reelection. Ed Aw

Improving quality of life

To the Editor:

I am writing in support of the Community Agreement Party slate, which includes three sitting Trustees, Judy Courtney, Vinny Muldoon, Jessica Tai, and one new candidate, Gerard Smith. I have seen a profound difference in the way the board has been representing the best interests of the residents. From the renovation of Cluett Hall, to the number of trees being removed and then re-planted, to the turf field at St. Pauls, to the empowering of the various heads of the departments in town to get their job done efficiently and well etc. They are making a difference in improving the quality of life in the Village. I will be voting for the Community Agreement candidates to continue the progress they have made over the last few years.

Don Byrne

Vinny Muldoon: A good man

To the Editor:

I have been a Village resident for over 30 years and know Vinny Muldoon well. He is honest, trustworthy and always willing to help others. I know him to be a person of the highest integrity with strong moral and ethical principles. He loves this Village and has served it well. He has done a terrific job as trustee and I believe he will continue to represent the will of all village residents. Please support and vote for Vinny Muldoon, Judy Courtney, Jessica Tai and Gerard Smith.

John Sokolovic

Dedication, character, communication

To the Editor:

We are very happy to support the re-election of Jessica Tai for Trustee. Jessica has demonstrated an incredible level of dedication to the responsibilities of a Trustee over the last two years. It is clear from her involvement

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Email: Editor@GCNews.com

at BOT meetings that she has worked diligently to understand the various Village issues, budgets, projects and initiatives and she has also worked hard to improve the communication to the residents on these Village matters through her social media efforts as well as her involvement in the launch of our new Village App, MyGardenCity.

In countless ways, Jessica has ensured that the character of the Village is protected. She voted to pass new Village codes on pools, outdoor dining, our new tree policy, and supported a moratorium to pause all prospective subdivisions, upgrades to Cluett Hall, the turf field at St Paul’s, increased parkland designations and various other Infrastructure and facility Improvements. She has been incredibly active on the beautification of the Village and spearheaded the Nassau Train Station brick wall restoration and lilac plantings as well as organizing community festivals and events after the cancellation of the promenades.

Jessica’s dedication and volunteerism have resulted in an incredible list of achievements on behalf of our Village and its residents and we wholeheartedly support her re-election and the election of the other CAP candidates, Vinny Muldoon, Judy Courtney and Gerard Smith. We have an exceptional caliper of Trustees in the CAP slate and hope you feel the same! A terrific slate that have made and will make a positive difference for the future of our Village!

Kate & Karl Schmidt

Highest integrity

To the Editor:

My name is Joanna Sokolovic and I’ve had the privilege of growing up in Garden City. I have proudly called it home for the past 28 years. Vinny Muldoon is someone I know to be honest, trustworthy, and consistently willing to help others. He is a person of the highest integrity, guided by strong moral and ethical values. Vinny truly cares about this Village and has served

it with dedication and commitment. He has done an excellent job as trustee, and I am confident he will continue to represent the voices and best interests of all Garden City residents.

Please join me in supporting and voting for Vinny Muldoon, Judy Courtney, Jessica Tai, and Gerard Smith.

Joanna Sokolovic

Outstanding job

To the Editor:

We all know how difficult it was to shovel or plow the snow from our last storm. I am writing to say how much I appreciate the work of our Village crew. They did an outstanding job clearing the parking lot behind 7th Street. I have owned Seventh Street Gourmet for 17 years and I would say that this clean up was the best I have seen since owning the deli.  There was a lot of snow to clear and I appreciate the crew’s work.

Peter O’Hanlon,  Owner, Seventh Street Gourmet

Two more years

To the Editor:

Two years have flown by. It feels like only yesterday that I wrote a letter in 2024 to endorse Trustee Jessica Tai— and now she is already up for re-election. In that short time, the current team of Trustees has shown what steady leadership, collaboration, and genuine community spirit can accomplish for the Village of Garden City.

Beautification has been one of their top priorities, and the results are visible throughout the village. Public outreach, transparency, and a genuine responsiveness to residents have become defining hallmarks of the current board. It seems as though everyone has seen at least one of the informational videos featuring Vinny Muldoon and Mayor Ed Finneran, keeping residents informed in a friendly and accessible way.

Environmental initiatives have been another major focus. Tree planting, lead service line education, sprinkler rebate programs, and even attention to pet waste concerns all reflect a team that

cares about both the present and future health of our community. Infrastructure projects have also been handled with diligence and care, and our Recreation Department and Library can certainly attest to the trustees’ commitment and attention to detail.

I am surely leaving out many accomplishments—though if we wait long enough, Vinny may appear in another public service video to catch us up. The point is simple: this is a group that works. They work with each other, they work with village employees, and they work for the residents. The camaraderie between departments—DPW, Fire, Police, Library, Recreation and Parks— and the trustees has been repeatedly noted and genuinely felt. It is clear that this cooperative spirit has allowed the village to move forward on many fronts. With so much chatter surrounding long-standing issues like St. Paul’s, it is worth remembering the many areas where real progress has been made. At a recent meet-and-greet with the four current CAP candidates—Jessica Tai, Judy Courtney, Vinny Muldoon, and newcomer Gerard Smith—residents praised not only their accomplishments but also the respectful, productive way they have worked together. Trustee Torino, who is not seeking re-election, was also recognized for being part of this effective and unified team.

Continuity matters. Stability matters. And in my view, Garden City benefits when a team that collaborates well, communicates openly, and prioritizes the community is able to continue its work.

For these reasons, I encourage residents to vote on March 18th for Jessica Tai, Judy Courtney, Vinny Muldoon, and Gerard Smith. With Mayor Ed Finneran at the helm, this group has shown what can be achieved through teamwork— and what more can be accomplished if they are given the opportunity to continue serving our village.

Eileen K. Read

Webelos learn about martial arts

Members of The Webelos of Pack 243 at Charles Water Karate and Fitness.

The Webelos from Pack 243 of St. Joseph’s Church recently visited Charles Water Karate and Fitness in Williston Park, where they were introduced to the fundamentals of martial arts and learned valuable self-protection skills. The visit emphasized building confidence, discipline, and personal safety, while providing the Scouts with a fun and engaging experience.

Pack 243 extends a big thank you to the instructors and staff at Charles Water Karate and Fitness for their time, instruction, and warm welcome.

Pack 243 of St. Joseph’s Church is always looking for new members. Families interested in joining are encouraged to email stjoespack243@ gmail.com for more information.

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 coaching.

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.

Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk

Sports Events

Grapplers shine at county championships

On a frigid Sunday in Bayshore, NY, the GC Grapplers delivered a scorching performance at the NY-USA Nassau County Championships—widely regarded as the most demanding youth wrestling tournament of the year. 7 Grapplers earned prestigious All-County honors, with three captured Nassau County individual titles in their respective age and weight divisions. The outstanding results were a testament to months of dedication and preparation, leaving Coaches Jay, Kirk, and Ron energized and proud as Garden City emerged as one of the most successful town wrestling programs in Nassau County.

The day’s first wrestler to take the mat ended up having one of its biggest performances. After several strong showings on the circuit this season and years of commitment to the program, Eli Kong entered the tournament primed for a breakout moment. From his opening match, his determination was unmistakable. Eli opened with a dominant 13–4 major decision, building confidence with every bout. He powered his way into the finals, where he sealed the championship with a decisive pin to claim his first NY-USA Nassau County title in the 12U / 70 lb. division.

Gianiel Galarza continued his remarkable season by recording two pins on his way to the 14U / 155 lb. county title, putting an emphatic exclamation point on an already impressive year. Also in the 14U division, Nate Kong captured the 84 lb. championship, making it a memorable day for the Kong family and the GC Grapplers.

In the 12U / 63 lb. division, Luca Erigo rebounded from a tough opening-round

The team gathers with their proud coaches.

loss with grit and focus. With his teammates cheering him on, Luca delivered the match of his career, earning an 11–6 victory and finishing as the runner-up.

Keegan Fitzpatrick also impressed in the 12U / 82 lb. division, opening with a commanding 7–0 win before falling in a hard-fought match to the eventual champion, securing a runner-up finish of his own.

Rounding out the day, Owen Sampson (12U / 98 lb.) and Charlie Linchitz (14U / 126 lb.) battled through tough competition to earn well-deserved All-County

honors. This distinction is awarded to only the top six wrestlers in each age and weight class, underscoring the level of excellence displayed by these athletes. Together, these seven competitors made the Garden City wrestling community proud, proving once again that hard work and determination pay off.

As the season continues, the Grapplers will compete in several preparation tournaments ahead of the NYWAY Long Island Qualifier, with hopes of advancing to the State Championships in Syracuse, NY.

Additionally, this weekend the team will be in attendance at Garden City High School for the qualifying tournament for the High School County Championships. The Garden City Trojans boast a strong lineup, and the youth wrestlers will be there to support their mentors as they pursue team honors and potential individual county titles. Fans are encouraged to come out and cheer on the Garden City Trojans in what promises to be an exciting weekend of wrestling.

Garden City, NY

Studio, 1-bath. MLS# 952650. $259,000.

Garden City, NY 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath. MLS# 951849. $2,699,000.

East, #M32 Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 928262. $1,229,000.

Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 939371. $365,000.

Doubleday Court, Unit 114

Garden City, NY

2-bedroom, 2-bath. MLS# 935953. $1,200,000.

Garden City, NY 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 928706. $1,950,000.

Rockville Centre, NY 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath. MLS# L3531818. $1,399,000.

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 940550. $485,000.

Wyndham East, #M11 Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 915553. $925,000.

Men's Clothing Drive

$1,775,000.

Garden City, NY 1-bedroom, 1-bath. MLS# 929000. $525,000.

2.5-bath. MLS# 922619. $949,000.

Old Brookville, NY 9-bedroom, 7.5-bath. MLS# 925629. $40,000/mo.

Wyndham East, #411

Garden City, NY 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath. MLS# 933005. $1,275,000.

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