Rockaway Times 1-12-23

Catch Basin Catastrophe

Photos by Mike Doyle

Missing Man Reunited with Family

seph Regassa went missing from Arverne.

Described as a high-functioning autistic male, a search was underway not long after he left his home. Friends, neighbors, the 100th Precinct, the Rockaway Nassau Safety Patrol and members of Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers’ office teamed up in search of Joseph through the night. By the morning of January 8, Joseph had been found safe and was reunited with his family.

A missing young man has been found safe. On the afternoon of Sunday, January 7, 20-year-old Jo-

“Thank you to everyone that went above & beyond looking for Joseph. Joseph is now back with his family, safe and sound. It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we work together as a community,” the 100th Precinct shared along with a photo of Joseph with his family.

NYC Parks Eases Lifeguard Testing Time

Lifeguard recruitment is underway, and NYC Parks recently announced some changes to the qualification test.

In an article by Gothamist on January 6, First Deputy Parks Commissioner Iris RodriguezRosa said they are trying to make things a little easier in an attempt to boost recruitment after low staffing numbers last summer.

When new lifeguards take the qualification test, they typically must be able to swim 50 yards (two laps) within 35 seconds. Starting this year, potential candidates have 45 seconds to complete this swim to qualify for the 16-week training. Additionally, for the first time, applicants will receive their swim time at the end of the test, so they know how much they need to improve, and will be given another opportunity to test if they failed. After completing training, the final 440-

yard swim test times of 6 minutes and 40 seconds for beach or 7 minutes and 40 seconds for pool still applies.

However, a temporary pay increase that was used to lure newcomers last summer, with a starting pay of $19.46, is returning to a $16.10 an hour starting pay this year, but this may increase.

NYC Parks is aiming to staff their pools and beaches with at least 1,400 lifeguards this year. Lifeguard qualifying tests are currently underway at five facilities in Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan. In addition to the 50-yard swim in 45 seconds, candidates must be 16 years old by the start of employment, and have at least 20/30 vision in one eye and 20/40 in the other, without corrective lenses. To register, head to: www.nycgovparks.org/opportunities/jobs/lifeguards

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Contact The Elected

Congressman Gregory Meeks

67-12 Rockaway Beach Boulevard Arverne, NY 11692 Phone: (347) 230-4032

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato 9516 Rockaway Beach Blvd Rockaway Beach, NY 11693 Email: amatos@nyassembly.gov 718-945-9550

City Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers 1931 Mott Avenue, Suite 410 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 • 718-471-7014

City Councilwoman Joann Ariola 114-12 Beach Channel Drive, suite #1 Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Email: joannariola32@gmail.com 718-318-6411

State Senator James Sanders Jr. 1931 Mott Avenue – Suite 305 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 Email: sanders@nysenate.gov 718-327-7017

Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson 19-31 Mott Avenue, Suite 301 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 Email: Andersonk@nyassembly.gov 718-327-1845

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The Rockaway Times 114-04 Beach Channel Drive Rockaway Park, NY 11694

Phone: 718-634-3030

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Jeanne Ferriola and Sean McVeigh PUBLISHER

Katie McFadden MANAGING EDITOR

Mary Ellen Olsen MANAGER

Monica Clifford BILLING/ LEGALS

Tom McVeigh and Fred Marino SALES

Kevin Boyle

By Sean McVeigh

Names are so important. That’s true when it comes to anything. Some names are so iconic they take on a definition of their own. Google is not just the name of a search engine - it has its own definition in the dictionary! Jeff Bezos chose to name his company Amazon because he wanted a name that would always be near first alphabetically. Before that though, he was set on “Cadabra” as in “abracadabra.” Could you Imagine if we were ordering toilet paper, a back scratcher and 40 AA batteries from Cadabra? It’s just not right. The Rockaway Times is a great name. I have it on good authority that back in 2014, there were several different iterations of names that almost took the cake. Some good, some not so good. The reason many newspapers (this one being the most famous, of course) use the word “Times” in their title is because one of the definitions

Name Nuances

of “time” is “an instance of something happening or being done; an occasion.” Makes sense. The Rockaway Times is a bit of a double entendre though. For better or worse, all locals are familiar with showing up on “Rockaway Time,” particularly in the warmer months… Just perfect!

I will go on record saying that the best column title to ever grace these pages is “Boyleing Points.” It does not get any more perfect than that. Without even beginning the column you knew what you were in for. I wonder about the “aha!” moment when that first came to Kevin. He must have thought it was too good to be true. A play on words that would endear a writer into his audience’s hearts for years.

So where am I going with all this? Well, I am trying to figure out what I should name my column. It’s difficult enough trying to figure out what to write about but on top of that I have to worry about

what the heck I’ll call it too. I know there is no competing with “Boyleing Points,” so I won’t even try… “Mc(Con)Veighing the Point”? No! I said I wouldn’t try. Stop. While I love a good pun as much as the next guy, I find myself to be more an alliteration kind of guy. For those of you who don’t know, an alliteration is “the occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words.” For example, “Bungalow Bar” or “Wacky

Wednesday.” They just flow so nicely. There is something about an alliteration that sounds right to me. I think in the end that is the direction I will go. “Thursday Thoughts”? “Sean’s Soapbox”? I really don’t know.

Give me another week. I promise I am working on it. By next week I will have one! In the meantime, I will sit and simmer in jealousy that I have not had my column name epiphany yet. It’s really boyleing my blood!

“People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other” - Martin Luther King Jr.  Happy MLK Day to everyone!

Last week, the oldest person in America, and fourth oldest person in the world, Bessie Hendricks, of Iowa, passed away at 115 years old. She was born on November 7, 1907. Before she died, she gave her secret to a long and successful life: Hard Work! Great advice, Bessie. Edie Ceccarelli of California, who turns 115 years old in February, now holds the title of the oldest person in the United States.

*****

Sweet Relief! This week, the MTA announced that it would be reopening 18 bathrooms in nine stations throughout the city. All subway bathrooms have been closed since March 2020 due to the pandemic. The city has 133 bathrooms throughout the subway system so only opening 18 is a bit odd, but hey, it’s NYC! Just for reference, it’s important to know that approximately 2.4 million people take the NYC subway system every day. The A line will have bathrooms open at Jay Street-Metrotech and Fulton Street. *****

The 100th Precinct has been taking the time to paint over the graffiti that has plagued the pillars of the elevated train on the Rockaway Freeway between Beach 84th Street and Beach 80th Street.

On Facebook, alongside a photo of the Neighborhood Coordination Officer in action covering up the vandalism, the 100th Precinct said, “PO Gomez is on a mission!”

Thank you to PO Gomez and the entire 100th Precinct. The people

of Rockaway appreciate you and the effort!  *****

Our thoughts are with the Ferguson family and the RBQ staff, after the passing of longtime bartender George Ferguson. *****

Registration is open for the Rockaway Little League Spring 2023 season. You can register on their website at rockawaylittleleagueny. net or go through the Rockaway Little League’s Facebook page. *****

Reminder that the last day for Christmas Tree pick up by the DSNY to be chipped for compost is Saturday, January 14. Be sure to remove all lights, ornaments and stands and do not put it in a plastic bag. Artificial trees can go out with your plastic/metal recycling.

The JASA Rockaway Park Older Adult Center is hosting great activities, parties and trips this year! We will be including more

events in the Things To Do section moving forward but this week JASA invites all adults age 60+ to their "New Year, New Beginnings" Party with DJ Angela: Wednesday Jan 25th @11AMLunch and Dancing and Weekly Yoga with Cynthia- Mondays @ 11AM, and Fridays @ 11:30AM. To RSVP or for more details please call: 718-634-3044.

Don't want to miss The Rockaway Times on Thursdays? Sign up to receive our weekly email. We send the entire paper in a PDF version. Go to Rockawaytimes.com and click on Subscribe on the top right or send us an email at Mail@ Rockawaytimes.com and we’ll sign you up. Oh, and be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook! *****

Get your cameras out…  you know what’s coming up in just over a month? The kickoff of The Rockaway Times Photo Contest! Start snapping… we know you’ll want to submit your awesome photos when the contest begins.

JANUARY 12

1773 – The first public museum in the U.S. was established in Charleston, S.C.

Th is Week in History Frustrations Flood Emergency Town Hall

1915 – The U.S. House of Representatives rejected a proposal to give women the right to vote.

JANUARY 13

Walker Hornung was born.  Scott Ruscillo was born.

1999 – Michael Jordan announced his second retirement from the NBA. He would “unretire” again in 2001.

2002 – After 17,162 performances, The Fantasticks ended its almost 42-year off –Broadway run.

JANUARY 14

Bernadette McCann was born.

1954 – Marilyn Monroe married baseball legend Joe DiMaggio.

1963 – George Wallace sworn in as Alabama’s governor, promising “segregation forever.”

JANUARY 15

Anne Marie Greene was born.

Joan Prendergast was born.  Mary Butler was born.

Dick Magoolahan was born.

Bob Magoolahan was born.

1967 – The first Super Bowl was played:

Green Bay Packers 35, Kansas City Chiefs 10.

JANUARY 16

Theresa Turchiano was born.

Terry Schmitt Boyle was born. Gen Berretta was born.

Kelly Caiazzo was born.

1920 – A year after it was ratified, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages, went into effect.

2003 – Space shuttle Columbia blasted off on what would be its final mission. The craft broke up on its descent on Feb. 1, killing all on board.

JANUARY 17

Katie Carey Green was born.

1706 – Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston.

1998 – President Clinton became the first sitting U.S. president to testify as a defendant in a criminal or civil suit.

JANUARY 18

Mary Liz Grosseto was born.

1733 – The first polar bear was exhibited in America, in Boston.

1993 – All 50 states joined in the observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

By Katie McFadden

Following the unexpected flooding on December 23 from Winter Storm Elliot, State Senator James Sanders arranged an emergency town hall to bring local elected officials, federal, state and city officials and the community together to get some answers.

At a packed Goldie Maple Academy on the evening of January 5, the meeting got heated as many angry locals expressed, “I’m tired of being tired” in response to the flooding issues that are becoming more common. Through the anger came a few key points; that those with damage must report it to the City so FEMA can potentially reimburse folks; that the bayside of the peninsula won’t see protection for at least three to four years, and that catch basin issues need to be addressed to prevent floodwaters coming up through them during extreme high tide events.

Sanders opened the meeting likening Rockaway to New Orleans’ “Lower 9th Ward” after Hurricane Katrina and said, “We’re looking for solutions.” To try to keep things organized and moving, with a less than two-hour timeframe to use the school’s auditorium, constituents with concerns were asked

to write down questions on postcards, to be asked of panel members that included federal representatives like Patrick Touhy of FEMA, Michael Oseback, a project manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), state reps like Adriana Espinoza, Commissioner of Equity and Justice at the NYS Department of Environmental Conversation, city reps like Zach Iscol, Commissioner of New York City Emergency Management, Vincent Sapienza, COO of the Department of Environmental Protection, DOT's Queens Deputy Commissioner Al Silvestri, Bernadette Nation, Director of Small Business Services, Rudy Giuliani, Director of the NYC Mayor's Office of Housing Recovery, Rebecca Fischman, Senior Policy Advisor at NYC Mayor's Office of Resiliency, Benjamin Strong, Senior Director of the Office of Emergency Preparedness at NYC Department for the Aging, and elected officials like Councilwomen Joann Ariola and Selvena Brooks-Powers, Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams. Each member of the panel was given a moment to provide a statement before questions were

taken from elected officials and members of the community.

In his introduction, Iscol advised people to sign up for Notify NYC alerts if they have not already done so, so people can receive alerts about potential flooding events. People can sign up at nyc.gov/notifynyc or by calling 311. He also emphasized the importance of those who received flood damage, to report it to the City, so an emergency declaration can be made federally, so federal funds can be released to help those who are struggling. “If you have not submitted a damage assessment form, do so. Call 311 or submit the form online at: www. nyc.gov/site/severeweather/resources/report-damage.page

“For federal emergency declaration, we have to collect this information and provide it to the state who provides it to FEMA, but if we don’t have enough damage assessments, we won’t qualify for FEMA, so if you have not submitted, it is important to do so,” Iscol said.

Osebeck of USACE briefly touched upon the work they will eventually be doing to focus on bayside coastal protection including bulkheads and pump locations, to which Councilwoman Ariola asked if there was any way to speed up that process. “It really is the only solution to keeping out floodwaters, which are rising, from devastating our communities,” she said.

“I will do anything we can to advance this project as quickly as possible, but there are challenges ahead. We’re nearing completion in the 10% design phase, and I know that doesn’t sound like a lot, but this 10% holds a lot of weight and this is going to allow us to acquire an architect and engineer firm to expediate to 30%. I’m going to work with our city partners, and they’ll commence the ULURP process and as we move forward that ULURP could present challenges as we look at utilities and locations and dimensions of things to be installed, but I can promise any avenue we can take that will shave off months, days, years, we will seek that opportunity,” he said. But when asked about the fastest possible time for

that work to begin Osebeck said, “The actual construction groundbreaking, we’re three to four years away from, and that’s the reality of this. To expediate that in half in unrealistic. There are laws to abide, engineering principals we have to go by, and we can’t just build blindly. We have to ensure this wall will be constructed to serve its purpose.”

Assemblyman Anderson and Councilwoman Brooks-Powers asked specifically about things being done by the City to prevent flooding in the area of Edgemere, and particularly Edgemere Avenue, which as one of Rockaway’s evacuation routes, was underwater during the flooding. Silvestri of DOT said, “Edgemere Avenue is a project that the city will respond to. Through support, the city had $25 million to scope and move ahead with the street raising project from Beach 62nd to Beach 68th Street. Edgemere Avenue is under the Arverne East project that has two segments of Edgemere Avenue being raised. We can do everything we can at DOT to push it forward, but it is in the scoping phase right now.”

Sapienza of DEP said, “There’s been a lot of work in the Rockaways over the last few years. There are projects for water mains, sewers and DOT work that DDC has designed. But I want to point out that much of this work wouldn’t have prevented this flooding given the tidal surge. We’ll continue to make those investments but in events like this, I don’t know if it would’ve made much of a difference.”

Several locals who had a chance to speak begged to differ. In a simple question, one local asked, “Why are the sewer lines never clean?” which was met with loud applause. The local went on to say they’ve lived in Rockaway for 60 years and they’ve never seen the city clean the catch basins on Beach 17th or anywhere else. Silvestri responded saying, “In DEP’s defense, when we activated the flash flood plan, they, along with Sanitation, cleared a thousand catch basins in 24 hours before this event. The flooding that occurred was not caused by rain,

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but tidal flooding based on a new moon and offshore winds piling water into Jamaica Bay. They did clean the catch basins. I inspected them. In a tidal event, the water in the bay is higher than the elevation of the catch basins, so the water is not gonna do down.” In response to this, someone loudly shouted, “Nonsense!” Sapienza responded, “I will continue to do inspections of catch basins and I will put it on my personal route to inspect 17th Street.”

However, some in the audience insisted that the problem is indeed coming from the catch basins, as locals across the peninsula claimed they watched the floodwaters come up from the catch basins themselves. Another local named David chimed in saying, “You didn’t give us answers. You’ve been beating around the bush. You know what’s going on here. The day that water came, the tide was higher than the catch basins with 6 ft, five inches of water. On January 21 it’s gonna be 6 ft 8 inches and January 22 it’ll be 7 ft. You know what’s gonna happen.”

A local plumber named John then commented, offering possible solutions to the DEP. “My statement to Sapienza is, the catch basins on 73rd rise and flow with the tide. The tidal water was at elevation 8 on December 23.

For Hurricane Sandy, it was elevation 12. I appreciate the DEP’s investment in the infrastructure throughout Rockaway, but you’ve built a superhighway for Jamaica Bay to come in and flood our neighborhood. This water came from the storm sewer system that is tied into Jamaica Bay. It’s not your fault personally, but I’ve spoken to our councilmember, and they have told me they’ve urged DEP to install devices such as duck bill flappers. I’m a plumber, so I understand how water works. I have six vehicles out of commission from that flood and this all could’ve been avoided. Look into installing electrically operated knife gates. These things are available,” John said. “And the next time one of your engineers suggests lowering the elevation of Beach Channel Drive by two feet, give them a swift kick in the ass.

You cannot lower the elevation of the roads in Rockaway. When you drive toward the bridge on Beach Channel Drive, all of the old elevation was dry. All of the new work that DEP paid millions for was drenched in two feet of water.”

The issue of water coming up from catch basins was brought up repeatedly at the meeting. “On December 23, the water didn’t come from the ocean, and it didn’t come over the bay wall. I watched with my own eyes; it came out of those catch basins. It cost $2.5 million to put duck bills in and we had no water come up from one corner. But they fixed the one corner but on 128th and Cronston, the water was backed up at 6:15 a.m. It needs to be fixed. Far Rockaway to Neponsit is experiencing this,” a man named Mike said. With so many questions about catch basin problem areas directed at Sapienza, Sanders suggested that DEP provide a phone number for specific concerns. The community affairs number was provided: 718-595-3496

Another big concern that came out was Rockaway’s evacuation routes. A woman named Ms. Jones said, “There’s three exits out of the peninsula and they were all flooded. Who was the rocket scientist that decided that they’re going to take away lanes and reduce them from three to two and put parked cars in the middle of the street? On a hot sunny day, you cannot get off this peninsula. You go the other way to the bridge and that’s gone from two lanes to one. Then you decided to overdevelop the peninsula. Who is the rocket scientist behind overdevelopment? When is the evacuation meeting?” A city official responded saying. “When the flooding is happening, that is not the time to evacuate. You need to sign up for Notify NYC and pay attention to public messaging.”

Many other residents had specific questions about their unique situations, however, due to limited time, as guests had to be out of the auditorium by 8:30 p.m., those residents were directed to speak directly with city officials that were providing advice in the neighboring gym.

CB 14 Gets Heated About Housing

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Some view the month of January as a kickoff to a new start—but at Community Board 14’s meeting last night at the Knights of Columbus—it was a kickoff to more rancor over adding new housing units on the peninsula—whether it’s 2,330 by Alma Realty in the Seaside area or 40 in Far Rockaway with the developer being a local. Also, with the devastating flooding that consumed homes and cars, shutting down Christmas for many residents up and down the peninsula—the atmosphere at the Knights did not exude positive vibrations for the new year.

First the announcements. Senator James Sanders Jr.’s representative, AnnMarie Costella, announced that the Senator's sponsored, Foreclosure Process Abuse Prevention Act (FPAPA), has been signed by Governor Kathy Hochul. FPAPA institutes a six-year statute of limitations for which lenders can initiate legal action in foreclosure suits, preventing banks from indefinitely bringing foreclosure lawsuits against borrowers. Costella said, “With FPAPA, banks no longer can come after your house after a certain period of time. So, there's now a six-year moratorium. If your house is in foreclosure, the bank has six years before they can come after you. Senator Sanders always said that it was ridiculous because the only law that we have in New York where there’s no moratorium is murder. This is a big weight off the shoulders of a lot of homeowners.”

Next, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato’s office rep shared that “after a long two months with the state assembly election results still not concluded between Amato and her opponent, Tom Sullivan, Stacey has been reelected to another two-year term in the Assembly.” It took nearly two months, but the election was finally decided last Wednesday, January 4 with the incumbent Amato crowned the winner in the District 23 Assembly race by 15

votes. In addition, Pheffer Amato’s rep announced that the assemblywoman has been appointed the chair of the Government Employee Community Assembly, overseeing the pensions and retirement plans of civil service employees including police officers, firemen, teachers, transit and sanitation workers.

Councilwoman Joann Ariola’s office rep announced that the councilwoman has put in legislation for mile markers along Cross Bay Blvd. Also, applications are open for the Discretionary Funding Expense Application. This means that non-profit organizations who wish to apply for funding from the City Council can do so by filling out the forms. Submission deadline is February 21. Ariola’s office is also hosting a candy drive for veterans. For more info, contact Councilwoman Ariola’s office at (718) 318-6411.

During public speaking, local Bobby Zimmer, accompanied by other residents, came out to express his exasperation over Alma Realty’s plan to bring 2,300 additional residential units to Rockaway. Zimmer and other residents asked CB 14 to not support Alma’s plan. Currently, Alma manages several buildings along Shore Front Parkway in the Rockaway Park area.

Zimmer said, “Alma Realty wants to bring 6,000 more people to an already crowded area. The community doesn't have the infrastructure to support that or enough emergency services to take care of residents. We don't have another hospital. We don't have a way of getting people 'outta here in a hurry in the advent of a major storm. My heart goes out to the people in this audience, who suffered property damage from the most recent flooding. The sewers invited water into houses, and cars trying to get out, created waves on the streets. As a result, many people lost property. That should never happen. They could put man on the moon. They should know what they're doing on our streets.”

Another resident added, “On Beach 108th, currently we can park on both sides of the street, but what about when an emergency vehicle has to come through. Now we want to bring in more cars? The other issue is that Alma is having meetings not open to the public. Several residents sat in on a meeting at The Rockaway Hotel, which was not public. They said we can sign up for following meetings. Twenty-five of us signed up, yet no one was contacted.”

The next hullabaloo over housing was about a local Far Rockaway resident, who owns a lot located at 2546 Far Rockaway Blvd. For over five years, he has been trying to get the necessary zoning approval to erect a five-story residential building, producing 40 housing units, 10 of which would be affordable housing with 22 parking spaces. The resident developer was accompanied by his lawyer and an environmental consultant. The lawyer stated, “We're seeking to turn an R4-1 zone to an R-6E.” The character of R6 districts can range from neighborhoods with a diverse mix of building types and heights to large-scale “tower in the park” developments.

The lawyer stated, “Mr. Multry is an African American man. He's the owner, developer, and general contractor on this project. He has owned this property as well as other properties in the area for the past 30 years. His father was a pastor of the local church for over 45 years. The Multrys plan to hire local at-risk youth for every aspect of the construction, as well as partner with local Stop the Violence programs to aid in the recruitment of those in need of training in all aspects of the construction project.”

It is at this point, that emotions ran high and select words were exchanged at CB 14.

One board member said, “During the first part of our meeting, we talked about the peninsula itself and the flooding and sinking. What’s going on? I'm still trying to figure out why people are still trying to build more and more on

top of land at this point in time. What do you all know that we don’t? Why do people still want to build these high-rise buildings out here, knowing the current condition and what the condition for the next 10 to 15 years is going to be. What are we missing?”

Another piped up, “What does this get us? Nothing other than more development. We're talking about it on the east end and the west end. Now, developers are working in the middle of Rockaway.”

One board member expressed her indignation about those not in support of the proposed project. “I know the city is giving you a hard time with the R5 to R6 rezoning. Now you're committing yourself ‘cause you said you're gonna manage this property, right? And you're committing yourself to providing jobs for this community. It’s a shame that we've been through a lot of developers here who built hundreds and thousands of units, yet you're getting the rough deal of it with just 40 units, not to mention you are a black man from the Rockaways,” she said.

Folks wrestled back and forth, but in the end, CB 14 moved to oppose the developer’s request to up-zone the property to R6-E, but support R5-E, and also request that the adjacent properties be removed from the rezoning.

BELLE HARBOR PROFESSIONAL BUILDING

114-10 Beach Channel Drive -

Animal

Founded in 1977, generations of people and families have entrusted their pets’ care to the animal hospital located in the Rockaways for forty-four years.

Now it can be your privilege and honor as a veterinarian to lease this office at the same familiar, convenient location nestled between Jamaica Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Give building owner, Walter T. Gorman, a call today at 917-710-6298 to schedule a walk through appointment.

Immediate Occupancy

Ideal location in the middle of the Rockaway Peninsula, in Queens, NY at the top of Beach 116th Street. Surrounding communities include Far Rockaway, Bayswater, Edgemere, Arverne, Rockaway Beach to the east; Rockaway Park, Belle Harbor, Neponsit, Roxbury, and Breezy Point to the west; Broad Channel and Howard Beach to the north over the Cross Bay Bridge.

At top of bustling Beach 116th Street * Rear parking lot * Short walk from Q22, Q35, Q53 bus stops, A, S subway station, Municipal Parking Lot, NYC Ferry * 20 minutes to JFK * Waterfront views of Jamaica Bay and NYC skyline * Near ocean, beach, boardwalk, shopping, dining.

be balanced

A BLISSFUL LIFE byJenniferKelleher

Self-Care

I invite you to take a pause and bring your attention to the breath in your body. Consciously begin to make your inhales a bit fuller, and your exhales a bit slower. Let the full, slow, circular breath massage and calm the inner workings of your body and mind. Sweetly repeat to yourself, “I have arrived, I am home.”

Let’s take a moment to reflect on self-care. Oxford defines “self-care” as (1) the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health; (2) the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in par-

ticular during periods of stress.

There are so many ways to practice self-care, and what we need at any given time varies based on what is going on in our lives. Let’s reflect: As you survey your life, what area is most calling out for your love, compassion, care, and priceless attention? Another way to pose the question is: What is currently holding you back the most? Does it involve your physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual?

The innate reaction is typically to push away, ignore, or numb out annoyance, discomfort, and pain. However, for the density to pass and

balance to restore, what is actually required is the opposite of our initial response: loving presence. The parts of us that suffer want to be seen, held, comforted, and invited in.

As scary and foreign as it may seem, give yourself space to feel your feelings. Studies show that if you take the time to feel the strong emotions as they arise, they will pass in 90 seconds. When it comes to discomfort, resistance leads to persistence. The more we try to push something away, the longer it sticks around. If we want to create a change, we have to surrender and confront what is coming up through presence with trust, patience, and compassion.

Also, look at your day-to-day schedule, lifestyle, and habits. What throughout your day fills your cup and what empties it? To be balanced, vibrant, and lush in body, mind, and soul it is important to make sure you are regularly filling your cup. What are some of the things that replenish you? The answers to this question are incredibly individual, as they largely depend on your personal constitution and conditions. As you reflect,

I invite you to imagine your answers as your tools. Tuck them into your imaginary tool belt. Being aware of what rejuvenates you prevents reactivity, and using these tools in the moments you need them increases your personal power and the control that you have over the course your life takes.

There is so much to say about selfcare, but to keep it simple we can care for ourselves well by continuously opening our awareness and taking aligned action. To conclude, keep in mind that your answers are in your body. Spirit talks to the body, and the mind is a magnifying glass. Quiet the mind of its chatter and place its attention on your body so that your body can reveal to your mind what is needing your attention. A good mantra for this practice is, “I listen, I trust, I honor.”

We invite you to join us at Ocean Bliss Yoga Studio for daily classes and monthly workshops geared to fill your cup, bringing ease, flow, and balance to your body, mind, heart, and life. Sign up at oceanblissyoga.net.

By Robin Shapiro

SUMMER EFFECTS

FREEZING PIPES

Special attention should be paid to pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls, especially if there are openings which allow cold outside air to reach pipes. Cable, television, and telephone lines can allow cold air to reach pipes through entry points. Vulnerable pipes which are accessible can be fitted with insulation sleeves or wrapping. Cracks and holes near water pipes can be sealed with caulking.

The summer season has mixed effects on the Rockaway real estate market. On the one hand, we are a beachfront community and the draw of the summer activities does bring people here for: beaches, swimming, cycling, running, surfing, organized teams for kids and adults (although the pandemic may crimp some of these this year; thankfully the “end” is in sight). On the other hand, some sellers are reluctant to sell during the summer because they enjoy the aforementioned activities and don’t want to give them up so fast!

It can be harder to sell real estate during the summer due to vacations by buyers and sellers alike. Summer activities can also occupy people instead of allowing them to focus on the home sale process.

The spring season has been generally good for our real estate market. There has been action across the board in all price categories with an emphasis on the range below $1 million (approx). Prices have firmed up within the framework of recent comparable sales and in some cases are creeping higher. Inventory levels remain very low.

A dripping faucet during extreme cold weather can prevent a burst pipe. The open faucet may provide relief from pressure built up by an ice blockage. Both HOT and COLD water lines can freeze

Call me, Love, Robin. 718-490-9463

– the faucet drip should come from both lines. If dripping stops while the faucet is open, then a pipe may be frozen. The line may still need pressure relief; It may be a good idea to leave the faucet open – BUT keep an eye on turning it off when temperatures rise, and the water starts running.  If an open faucet produces no water, then call a plumber. Adam Magniccari of Solo Plumbing is my plumber: 917-589-3363. If a pipe bursts, then turn off the water at the main shut-off valve. Monday, January 16 is a Federal Holiday – Martin Luther King Jr. Day.  Banks, post offices and schools are probably closed. Call me. Love, Robin

Sean and Sarah have 200 guests attending their wedding. Tables can sit 8 guests or 10 guests. If you have to have some tables of 8 and some tables of 10 AND each table has no empty seats, what is the least # of tables needed? What is the greatest # of tables needed?

Thank You

Dear Editor:

Happy New Year, Kevin Boyle!

Over these many years you have done a great job publishing The Rockaway Times. As you are "stepping down" we wish you the best and wish your successors equal excellence.

Thank you for all the years you served the Rockaway community. We look forward to reading your paper and cannot thank you enough. Again, thank you Kevin and we wish you well. God bless you.

Catch Basin Catastrophe

Dear Editor:

I live on Cronston Avenue and have been complaining to the NYC DEP for over ten years about the storm drains, officially called "catch basins," on my corners. My basement was flooded with two feet of salt water during Hurricane Irene back in 2011 and the water rose directly from those catch basins. I'll skip over Sandy because we all know what happened.

Stacey’s Sworn In

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato was sworn into her 4th term as a member of the New York State Assembly earlier this week.

Pheffer Amato was met by applause and a standing ovation in the Assembly chamber when it came time to seat her. The full Assembly voted unanimously to seat the Assemblywoman.

“I am honored to return to the Assembly and fight for the people of the 23rd Assembly District. I love my community and am committed to ensuring that their voices will be heard! My sleeves are rolled up and I look forward to continuing to solve problems, bring resources to the people, and pass legislation that helps New Yorkers,” Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato said.

On December 23, 2022, I personally witnessed the water backing up and rising from the eight catch basins on my corner on Beach 128th Street and Cronston Avenue at about 6:15 a.m. The rest of Cronston Avenue, and the side streets in my vicinity seemed okay at that point, with no flooding, but as the water continued to rise from Beach 128th Street, eventually many more streets became flooded. It became so bad that many of my neighbors and I had to scramble and place sandbags to protect our driveways from flooding our basements again. As high tide peaked at about 7:15 a.m. that morning, most streets were flooded. I believe that there was just too much water at that point for any of the catch basins to handle.

I've learned over the years that the catch basins are connected to pipes that run underground and empty along the bay wall on Beach Channel Drive. You can see them at low tide if you look over the wall. When it rains, the water flows from the street into the catch basins, runs through the pipes, and empties into Jamaica Bay.  (Kind of gross, but that's another story).

Many of these pipe openings, or "outfalls" contain what the DEP calls "duck bills" or "flap gates" which are devices that enable rainwater runoff to drain but are supposed to prevent tidal waters from back flowing.

I believe that many of these pipes are either exposed with no protection or that many of these devices are malfunctioning.

DEP completed a big project in late 2017/early 2018, where they added many of these duck bills along Beach Channel Drive be-

tween Beach 117th Street and Beach 143rd Street. Since that project, I no longer see backups on my east corner of Beach 127 Street. However, the problem has continued on my west corner of Beach 128 Street.

Now this is not a common occurrence. In fact, the last times I noticed the catch basins back flowing on Beach 128th Street was in 2018 during two Nor'easters that year (March 2 and October 27). In my experience, once the high tide reaches eight feet, the catch basins begin to backflow. If the tide is over nine feet, like it was on the morning of December 23, the streets become significantly flooded, putting personal safety and property at risk.

I suspect this problem is occurring with many of these catch basins throughout the entire peninsula. Not only on Cronston / Beach 128 Street.

I attended the Emergency Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, January 5, at the Goldie Maple Academy, and there were several others across the peninsula complaining that the tidal flooding had come from these catch basins. DEP Commissioner Sapienza was in attendance and even stated that it was a possibility.

On Dec. 23, the water in Rockaway did not come from the ocean meeting the bay, nor from the bay breaching the bulkhead/ bay wall on BCD, nor "from the ground." It came from the catch basins.

I hope the Rockaway Times can publish this letter.  I would love for there to be more community attention and discussion of this matter.  Thank you.

Mike Doyle

Gratefully,  Sisters Pat Walsh, Pat Chelius and Paul Marieta

Dear Enchantress,

I am awkward and dorky, I’ve always been, and now I’m completely frustrated. I am ok looking, and have a good job, but when I try to flirt, I’m a mess. I end up mumbling or avoiding the exact person that I’m attracted to or smiling from far away. How am I ever going to get in a relationship? How will I ever get married, and have a family? I worry about this, so I go to social dances and creative classes, and I practice the guitar, sometimes at open mic and once in a while I’ll sing a song I wrote. How can I be a better flirt? I’ll take any help in meet-

By Shane Kulman

ing someone who thinks I’m attracted to them!

Dear Flirt Failure,

I am finding you adorable in writing this, and I also feel your longing to be understood and recognized. I have a great way for you to “flirt.” I’ll share that in a moment, but I want to define flirting in a way that may be helpful. Flirting is you enjoying yourself and sharing that with another. It’s NOT doing something to get someone to know you are attracted to them. You can flirt with animals, babies, random people, even yourself. Flirting is having fun, being

PAW PRINTS byTerriEstes

WELCOME TO PAW PRINTS!

This is where we will discuss all our furry, feathery, slippery and scaly friends! Pets are important members of our family. They come in all shapes and sizes. They love us unconditionally and enrich our lives every day. Studies have shown that having a pet in your life is linked to several health benefits including decreased blood pressure and cholesterol. Pets can help us fight depression and loneliness and can ease anxiety. They can also increase our opportunities to exercise and socialize.

Every week we will pick a different kind of pet to talk about but for the first few weeks we will focus on dogs! The dog is the first

species to be domesticated by man over 15,000 years ago. The two species have evolved together to form an inseparable bond. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 199 different breeds. They are broken up into seven groups based on the function the breed was originally bred for. These categories are the Working, Hound, Sporting, Non-Sporting, Toy, Terrier and Herding groups.

Tune in next week as we begin the first article on a specific breed of dog and their unique characteristics. Can you guess which breed it will be?

Don’t worry, we love ALL dogs and will talk about mixed breeds too! Requests are welcome!

present and having NO agenda. The use of flirting to get something is an unhealthy manipulation.

SO, with that being said, I give you this fun homework. Go flirt with folks you are NOT interested in attracting, as practice. Flirt with the postal worker, flirt with the bodega guy, smile and enjoy moments in connection with another being. Stop pressuring yourself, it’s OK to realize who you are attracted to, but once you set your focus and “try” to do something, you’ll most likely fail.

Here is the secret line I love and have seen someone use; and it worked, get ready, here you are: you tell the person “I’m trying to flirt with you.” BRILLIANT!!! I know you might balk at it at first, but it’s the truth, and the truth is sexy and fire. Happy Flirting!

If you have a question for The Enchantress or want to work with her, email her at love@enchantedembodiment.com

MAKING THEIR WAY IN THE WORLD

By Jeanne DuPont, RISE Executive Director

RISE (Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability & Equity) welcomed back Shore Corps alumni to speak with current high schoolers about their college experience and professional careers.

The alumni have gone into a wide range of fields, including neurosurgery, urban planning, acting, environmental health sciences, and anesthesiology, at some of the best colleges in the United States (Sophie Davis Biomedical Education at CUNY School of Medicine, Yale Univer-

sity, University of Southern California, SUNY at Purchase, SUNY at Albany, Columbia University).

Most of the alumni had been in the RISE internship program, Shore Corps, throughout their four years of high school. They reflected on the life skills they gained and the passion that led many to pursue careers in public health, city planning, and science research.

It was nice to have them back to give advice and tips to the next generation of high schoolers. The Rockaway community should be proud to have these young people paving the way and making the world a better place!

Creating Jamaica Bay

On Sunday, January 15 at 12 p.m., head to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge to join a ranger and explore how the utilization of Jamaica Bay has affected the life within our great estuary. This is an all-weather walk, so please dress for the conditions. Space will be limited, so register by calling 718-318-4340.

Winter Wildlife Hike

On Sunday, January 15 at 10 a.m., head to Beach 86th and the boardwalk to join the Urban Park Rangers in search of animals that call Rockaway Beach their home, including waterfowl, shorebirds, mammals, invertebrates, and even the occasional seal.

Ocean Safety & Etiquette Panel

On Sunday, January 15 at 6 p.m., head to the Rockaway Beach Surf Club (302 Beach 87th) to join the Yeasty Boys for a panel on ocean safety and etiquette on the water featuring surf experts and lifeguards. Plus a raffle for Laru Baya.

FEC Town Hall Meeting

On Tuesday, January 17 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., head to Beach 41st Cornerstone (426 Beach 40th Street) to learn about the new Family Enrichment Center.

Rockaway Winter Bird Outing

On Saturday, January 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., meet at RISE (5803 Rockaway Beach Boulevard) and join for a winter birding tour of Edgemere, led by RISE's knowl-

edgeable and experienced staff and NYC Plover Project. Come see sea ducks, grebes, common and red-throated loons, Northern Gannets, and other winter birds on the Edgemere shoreline. All levels of birders are welcome!

Valentine’s Day Half Marathon or 5K

Save the date and start practicing! On Saturday, February 11, the Rockaway Track Club is hosting the V-Day 5K and Half Marathon. Check in at Healy’s Pub at 8 a.m. and race starts at 9 a.m. on the Beach 108th Boardwalk.

Morning Moves at RISE

On Mondays at 11 a.m., head to the RISE Center (58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd) to join Ann Fosteris’ Fitness to You class. Masks required inside RISE.

Chair Yoga at Rise

On Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., head to the RISE Center (58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd) for a free chair yoga class with certified yoga instructor Ruth Graves. All are welcome! From beginners to seasoned practitioners. Masks required inside RISE.

Cardio Punch

On Saturdays at 11 a.m., head to Seaside Library (116-15 Rockaway Beach Blvd) to join for a total body, non-contact workout fit for all levels. Punch, hook, and kick to motivating, high-energy music that progresses into heart-pumping combinations. Through April 1.

Got events? Send an email to katie@rockawaytimes.com with details for consideration to be listed.

LEGAL NOTICES

Notice of Formation of 21-61 46TH STREET REALTY, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/20/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Efstathios Giannoutsos, 1919 Lee Allen Ln., Wilton, CT 06897. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of 42-41 155th Street LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/26/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 29 West Main St, Oyster Bay, NY 11771. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of Crypto Assets LLC. Articles of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State (DOS) on 20210510. Office location: Queens County, DOS is designated as agent upon whom process may be served. DOS shall mail service of process to Registered Agents Inc. at 90 State St. STE 700 Office 40AAlbany NY 12207. Registered Agents Inc. is designated as agent for SOP at 90 State St. STE 700 Office Albany NY 12207. Company is organized for any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of TRIPLE R&Z MANAGEMENT LLC, a limited liability company. Art of Org. filed with the Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/01/2022. Office located in QUEENS. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to c/o TRIPLE R&Z MANAGEMENT LLC. 1547 208TH ST BAYSIDE NY 11360. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of 39 FLUSHING PROSPERITY LLC, Arts of Org. filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 01/03/2023. Office location: QUEENS. SSNY design. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy to 133-27 39TH AVE, APT. 9E, FLUSHING, NY, 11354, USA. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Miani 247-1 LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/17/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 204-08 Jamaica Ave., Hollis, NY 11423. General Purpose

Notice of formation of CORONA 111 ST LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/27/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: 6633 Commonwealth Blvd., Little Neck, NY 11362. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of Formation of Silver Laurel, LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/21/2022. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail a copy of process to 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 210, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

ETSEA, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/21/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Registered Agent Solutions, Inc., 99 ashington Ave., Ste. 1008, Albany, NY 12260. General Purpose

Notice of Formation of PUNCHIENELLA LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/11/2022 Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to PUNCHIENELLA LLC, 9610 57th Ave, Apt. 4M, Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of vis ta vie picnics LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/14/22. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to vis ta vie picnics LLC, 208-10 Cross Island Pkwy, #222, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

ALAN TANSEY ARCHITECTURE PLLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect'y of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/30/2022. Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: The LLC, 3515 78th St., Apt. 53, Jackson Heights, NY, 11372. Purpose: Architecture.

To advertise in The Rockaway Times call 718-634-3030 · ads@RockawayTimes.com

The said property has been stored and is located at the respective address below. Units up for auction will be listed for public bidding on-line at www.StorageTreasures.com beginning five days prior to the scheduled auction date and time. The terms of the sale will be by lot to the highest bidder for cash only. A 10-15% buyer’s premium will be charged per unit. All sales are final. Metro Self Storage LLC reserves the right to withdraw any or all units, partial or entire, from the sale at any time before the sale or to refuse any bids. The property to be sold is described as “general household items” unless otherwise noted. All contents must be removed completely from the property within 48 hours or sooner or are deemed abandoned by bidder/buyer. Sale rules and regulations are available at the time of sale.

By Peter Galvin, MD

Meningitis

The word “meningitis” has been known to strike fear, if not terror, into the hearts of many, especially to the parents of young children. The term actually refers to inflammation of the meninges, which are the tissue-like membranes that cover the outside of the brain and spinal cord. Thankfully, only about 8% of meningitis cases are caused by bacteria. Symptoms of meningitis can include neck pain, stiffness, headache, eye discomfort with bright light (photophobia), confusion, drowsiness, seizures, nausea, and vomiting. Meningitis can be associated with a viral infection like the flu, but viral meningitis is rarely fatal and rarely

causes brain injury. On the other hand, bacterial meningitis can be fatal and can cause long-term brain issues and brain damage. Bacterial meningitis typically results from infection that spreads throughout the blood and carries the bacteria to the meninges. Less commonly, direct bacterial invasion of the meninges can occur following an ear or sinus infection or a skull fracture.

About 72% of bacterial meningitis cases are caused by Streptococcus and 11% of cases in those 16 years and older are caused by Neisseria meningitididis (Meningococcal vaccine protects against N. meningitidis). Newborn infants are most at risk of bacterial meningitis as compared to other age groups. People who are immunocompromised (e.g., HIV positive) or are taking immunosuppressive drugs (i.e., to treat an autoimmune disease or are organ donor recipients), those without a spleen, and those who have recently under-

gone brain or spinal cord surgery are at increased risk. Outbreaks of meningococcal meningitis can occur in group settings (such as college dormitories) and travelers to certain parts of the world are at risk of acquiring bacterial meningitis. Some people are carriers and have bacteria in or on their bodies that does not make them ill but can be spread to others and cause meningitis. Others (pregnant women, newborns, those aged 65 and older, and immunocompromised individuals) are at higher risk of developing meningitis from food contaminated with Listeria bacteria, which is sometimes found in unpasteurized dairy products, contaminated produce, or sliced deli meats. Newborns can acquire group B streptococci bacteria during passage through the birth canal. Meningitis is diagnosed by performing a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to obtain samples of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF).

Patients are usually treated with intravenous antibiotics, which are given as soon as possible, and, in certain cases, intravenous high-potency steroids (dexamethasone) may be given as well.

Prevention of bacterial meningitis can involve vaccination against the most common bacterial agents (Strep, N. meningitidis, H. influenzae), testing and treating pregnant women for group B strep prior to delivery, and avoidance of certain foods (unpasteurized dairy, deli meats) during pregnancy. The CDC recommends that close contacts of those with meningococcal meningitis receive antibiotic prophylaxis, as well as giving prophylaxis to those at risk who may have been exposed to meningitis.

For more information, go to the CDC website at: www.cdc.gov/ meningitis/bacterial.html

For questions or comments about this article, please contact editor@ rockawaytimes.com

Go Green

CLIMATE CHANGE: A YEAR IN REVIEW AND A LOOK AHEAD

By Tom Last

As 2022 ends, it is important that we review the year from an environmental perspective and look ahead to what mother nature may have in store for us in 2023. Most importantly, we need to reflect on how we ourselves can take steps to change our behavior to help reduce our carbon footprint and avoid the most lethal effects of a warming planet.

Most recently, Buffalo was hit with 66 inches of snow in November, with a record 21.5 inches dropped in a 24-hour period. This was followed by another daily record snowfall of 30.4 inches on the evening of Christmas Eve. This latest storm was responsible for the deaths of 27 people in Western New York alone. During the November storm, Governor Hochul announced “the state needed to take precautions to prepare for such storms, as climate change has appeared to make extreme weather more common."

Storms - In addition to the snowstorms that pummeled Buffalo, major storms in 2022 caused deaths and destruction with crippling floods in Missouri and Kentucky along with unprecedented flooding in Yellowstone National Park. A deadly collection of 83 tornadoes tore across the south and let’s not forget Hurricane Ian that left tens of billions of dollars of damage in its wake.

Heat - In the U.S. in 2022, we had the sixth warmest August, the fifth warmest September, the fourth warmest October, and the ninth warmest November in 143 years. Record setting heat days have outnumbered record setting cold days 2 to 1 in 2022. Overall, 2022 was the third-hottest U.S. summer on record in the past 128 years.

Drought - One of the major effects of climate change is drought. In the U.S., the past 22 years have seen the worst drought in hundreds of years. Lake Mead, in Nevada, and Lake Powell, in Utah

and Arizona, have reached a ‘dead pool’ status as they continue to shrink. These conditions will continue to impact regional water supplies and other resources, such as hydropower, recreation, and ecological goods and services.

Wildfires - 7,772,995 is the number of acres burned by wildfire in the U.S. as of Dec. 23, according to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). To put that number into perspective, Rhode Island is only 700,000 acres. Alaska alone saw more than three million acres burned in 2022, New Mexico experienced record wildfires this spring, and other states such as Texas, Oregon and Idaho saw hundreds of thousands of acres burned too.

The human and financial costs of these climate related disasters – Hurricane Ian was the deadliest catastrophe in the U.S. with at least 131 people killed. Overall, there have been more than 350 deaths in the U.S. attributed to climate and weather-related disasters in 2022. The financial costs of these storms are staggering with Hurricane Ian estimated at more than $100 billion alone. In the last eight consecutive years the United States has experienced 10 or more billion-dollar, weather-related disasters each year.

A look ahead – Well, as I am writing this article on January 1,

it is a balmy 54 degrees here in the Rockaways, about 15 degrees warmer than the norm with similar weather expected for the rest of the week. The bigger picture –most scientists and governments around the world have predicted that the extreme weather conditions of 2022 will be the norm with worsening climate effects over the next decades, unless we reverse the course of climate change.

Optimism in the fight against climate change – In 2022 a number of key events occurred that give us hope in combating climate change and avoiding its most disastrous effects. First, the U.S. government passed the ‘Inflation Reduction Act’ that will invest $370 billion on energy efficiency and in combating climate change. This investment will keep us on target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of our commitment to the Paris Agreement. The Bill will make green energy solutions more affordable for U.S. companies and consumers.

I feel the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference was the second most important event to occur in 2022 that will have a positive effect in fighting climate change. This event was attended by diplomats from over 200 countries who stressed the need to take immediate action to fight climate change. We believe each nation that attended the Climate Change

Conference will be more committed to fighting climate change this time around due to the dire climate conditions experienced by all.

Another important event that took place in 2022 was the agreement between the U.S. and China to restart climate change talks. As the two largest emitters of greenhouse gases, it is important for both countries to take the global lead in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to help in creating and supplying green technology solutions for the world.

You can make an immediate impact on reducing your carbon footprint by following any of the following tips.

• Lower your thermostat a degree or two during the winter.

• Close your blinds, shades, and curtains at night to keep heat in your house. Keep them open during the day to catch the sun and warm your house.

• Go vegetarian one or two nights a week and cut down on beef and dairy overall.

• Leave the car at home whenever possible. Walk, bike, use mass transit, or carpool instead.

• Don’t waste food.

• Eliminate single use plastics. Use a re-usable water bottle and coffee mug.

• Compost and recycle.

• Use LED lightbulbs.

• Lower your water heater to 120 degrees.

• Only wash full loads of laundry and dishes.

• Turn off gadgets and devices like laptops and tablets when not in use.

• Insulate your home better by using weather strippers and sealants.

Climate change can be a difficult topic to broach and the year in review seems stark. However, there is hope for the future! Start acting now to fight climate change, so we can leave a healthier world for future generations.

Remember there is no Planet B.

Life With Our “Artistic” Child

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Helping Adult Autistic Individuals Leap Over the ‘Services Cliff’

By Kami-Leigh Agard & Venus Ramos, Rockaway Beach Autism Families

What is the number one concern for adults on the autism spectrum

once they turn 21? Ask them and their caregivers, and most will state the much-dreaded “services cliff.” This is the common catchall phrase to describe the drop-off

in support after high school graduation, when federally mandated government services abruptly end, and few opportunities (if any) for upward mobility such as education and employment exist.

autism ever do so. Hence, it’s not surprising that in addition to in autism, many adults also suffer from anxiety and depression.

Spotted: Livin’ It Up in the Caribbean

In a March 2017 “Spectrum News” article, “The twenty-something free fall,” parent Kiely Law, also research director of the Interactive Autism Network, perceptively summed it up—“We’ve done a great job of raising awareness about autism in children, but we’re really missing this adult piece.” However thankfully, many organizations nationwide are working to change the narrative. In this three-part column series, Rockaway Beach Autism Families (RBAF) board member, Venus Ramos, and I introduce readers to remarkable individuals steadfastly working to help autistic adults leap over the “services cliff,” and live purpose-driven lives. Also, we layout the case, why local businesses should consider hiring autistic adults. For example, if loyalty, detail-oriented and lower turnover risk are priorities for any businesses’ employee recruitment pool—autistic adults tick off all the boxes! All they need is a chance to wow you. However, first—here are the grim statistics.

In fact, a 2010 study found that once adolescents leave school, any improvement they had shown in repetitive behaviors, reciprocal social interactions and communication basically stalls. Meanwhile, those who had shown progress in problem behaviors such as self-injury and aggression backslide.

If you work or live near the Rockaway Times office, you might have been wondering where our favorite UPS delivery man has been. Alister Charles has been spotted, taking a well-earned vacation with his family in St. Vincent in the Caribbean. Glad to see he brought his Rockaway Times t-shirt with him. Looking good Alister and son, Alister Jr.!

Researchers estimate that about 50,000 young people with autism turn 18 every year. More than 66% of young adults on the spectrum do not secure a job or enroll in further education during the first two years after high school. Even two to four years later, nearly half are still not working or in school, according to the “2015 National Autism Indicators Report,” produced by Philadelphia's A.J. Drexel Autism Institute. And they struggle in other ways: one in four young adults on the spectrum is socially isolated; more than half receive no vocational or life skills at all in their 20s; and only one in five works full time with average earnings of about $8 per hour. Whereas the majority of young people with language impairments or learning disabilities live independently, less than one-quarter of young adults with

These individuals work really hard at school, plus the rigorous therapeutic services they receive after school. Sometimes I’m in awe of how much work my daughter and her peers put in every day. From speech, occupational, applied behavioral therapy, and more—it’s a long day, every day. These kids put in the work, and to see their glee when they reach a goal is priceless. Also, immense props to the teachers and therapists. Working in the special-needs field is not a clock-in/clock-out job. These professionals put a lot of heart in their work, and emotions run high, especially when they witness their students’ progress. So, isn’t it a shame that once autistic individuals phase out of high school, the momentum just abruptly drops? How can this be turned around? The answer is to continue the momentum with support, services and opportunities.

In the next installation of this series, don’t miss our interview with longtime Staten Island disability advocate, Burak Uzun, who through S.O.C.A. (Supportive Online Classes for Achievement), helps his students gain control of their emotions using meditation and breathing techniques, learn appropriate workplace behavior and online interaction, the basics of finance and more. Uzun will speak at RBAF’s support group meeting, happening on Thursday, January 19, 7 p.m. at Knights of Columbus (333 Beach 90th Street). For further info, email kami@rockawaybeachautismfamilies.org or visit Rockaway Beach Autism Families on Facebook/Instagram.

Facts You Probably D on’t Need

In 1893, a U.S. Constitutional Amendment was proposed suggesting that the country be renamed “The United States of Earth.” 



Since 1950, 93% of all shark attacks have been on men. 

El Salvador has the highest per capita consumption of Worcestershire sauce in the world. 

Don Featherstone, the creator of the famous plastic garden flamingo, wore matching outfits with his wife every day for 35 years.  

Steven Spielberg, Robin Williams and Dustin Hoffman did not take salaries for the movie “Hook.” Instead, they

split 40% of Tristar pictures’ gross revenues. 

The Cowardly Lion costume in “The Wizard of Oz” was made of real lion fur, skin and human hair. It sold at auction for over 3 million dollars. 

President Calvin Coolidge enjoyed pushing the emergency buzzer on his desk and then hiding when the secret service came running in.

Pork Cutlets in Marsala Wine

By Sharon Feldman

Serves: 2 (with a little leftover)

Ingredients:

• 1 package center cut pork cutlets, very thin (about 6 cutlets)

• 1/3 cup flour

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon garlic salt

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• 3 tablespoons herbed butter (or unsalted)

• ¼ cup olive oil

der, and oregano together in a medium bowl. Add pork cutlets and toss until well coated.



Barry Manilow didn’t write his hit song “I Write the Songs.”

Facts by Sean McVeigh, factologist.

• 1 package sliced fresh mushrooms (I use Portobello)

• 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced

• ¼ cup marsala wine

• ½ cup chicken broth

Directions:

Mix flour, salt, garlic, garlic pow-

Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place cutlets in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally until both sides are browned. Add the mushrooms and minced garlic and stir.

Stir in the wine and chicken broth. Cover and simmer over medium heat until pork is tender and sauce is thickened, about 15 minutes.

By Kami-Leigh Agard

NYC may be experiencing a snow drought, but our little slice of heaven is pouring with live music, arts and more. So, plan your Rockaway crawl with the peninsula’s best listing of what’s happening using our guide below!

LIVE MUSIC

FRIDAY, January 13 7 p.m.

Rock-A-Way to Breezy as The RockA-Wades usher in their rollickin’ singa-long classic rock jam at the Breezy Point Bay House.

500 Bayside Drive, Breezy Point

FRIDAY, January 13 9 p.m.

You can’t buy happiness, but you definitely can buy a beer and toast to Arturo Rivera’s acoustic tunes at Rogers. 203 Beach 116th Street

SATURDAY, January 14 6 p.m.

Join Dead Heads as they celebrate local, Brendan’s birthday with Grateful Dead tribute band, Rainbow Spirals, at Rockaway Brewing Co.

415 Beach 72nd Street

SATURDAY, January 14 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Beer and music—that's why you should be here, jammin’ to roots and blues with The Kerry Kearney Band at Tap That.

111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd

SATURDAY, January 14 9 p.m.

Encore! Welcome Crossfade Nights back at Rogers, playin’ your favorite music from the days you rocked a mullet or a perm.

203 Beach 116th Street

SUNDAY, January 15 1 p.m.

Don’t miss the chance to come out and do yo’ thang at Harbor Light’s Sunday Jamboree hosted by the Rock-A-Wades. This monthly open mic sheds a light on Rockaway’s untapped talent! Plus, a chance to eat, drink and be merry in good company.

129-18 Newport Ave

ROCKAWAY GOOD TIMES

SUNDAY, January 15 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Don’t be a bloody eejit and miss Kevin Rooney closing out Rogers’ weekend frolics with a grand evening of tunes.

203 Beach 116th Street

SUNDAY, January 15 6:30 p.m.

From Hall & Oates, Paul Simon and more, music man Chris Tedesco gets the work-week vibes right at Thai Rock.

375 Beach 92nd Street

ONGOING

Motivation MONDAYS 7 p.m.

Missing the nostalgia of old-school board games? Well, Rockaway Brewing Co. is bringing it back! Bring your favorite games or use the Brewery’s on stock, drink artisan beers, and play to win!

415 Beach 72nd Street

Tunesday TUESDAYS 7 p.m.

Why are Tuesdays at Rockaway Tiki Bar known as Suzeday! Get the 411 from DJ Tony from Naked NY as he jams your fave music videos on the big Tiki screen.

67-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

Wine WEDNESDAYS 7 p.m.

“What happens at Tiki karaoke, stays at Tiki karaoke...and lives on the Gram!” Channel your inner Spice Girl at Rockaway Tiki Bar's karaoke night.

67-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Bask in an evening of rhythmic storytelling with Ireland’s Cork-born renowned folk songsmith, Niall Connolly at Sayra’s.

91-11 Rockaway Beach Blvd

Thirsty THURSDAYS 7 p.m.

Rose Den is the new buzzing local spot, and with DJ Baroque spinning acid jazz, instrumental funk and soul— Thursdays will borne a new regular.

174 Beach 116th Street

Selfie SATURDAYS

7 p.m. until closing

Elevate your weekend fun on the

rooftop at The Rockaway Hotel. From live DJ, craft cocktails, lite bites, and soaking in ocean and Manhattan cityline views—forever memorialize your slammin’ Saturday!

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

8 p.m. to Midnight Bar Marseille brings Manhattan chic to Rockaway with a lounge-inspired DJ set, dancing, adult bevies and endless selfie moments. Plus, don’t shy away from their French-Mediterranean food menu. Ooh la la!! 190 Beach 69th Street

THEATER

RTC PRESENTS MTI BROADWAY JUNIOR REVIEW: “RAISE YOUR VOICE”

Starting on JANUARY 27 2 p.m. / 7 p.m. Rockaway Theatre Company Young People’s Theatre Workshop presents, “Raise Your Voice.” Launched in 1996 by Music Theater International (MTI), Broadway Junior musicals are condensed, author-approved versions of classic musicals, Disney favorites and modern works, custom-tailored and performed by youth. For example, “Raise Your Voice,” includes musical performances from the popular film and Broadway production, “Sister Act.” Show dates are Friday, January 27 at 7 p.m.; Saturday January 28 - 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Jan 29 - 2 p.m.; Friday, February 3 - 7 p.m. and 2 p.m.; Saturday, February 4 - 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, February 5 - 2 p.m. For tickets and more info, visit: https://www. rockawaytheatrecompany.org/

SPECIAL MENTIONS

RBQ PRESENTS PSYCHIC NIGHT DINNER

THURSDAY, January 11 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. With 2023 just beginning, find out what’s in store at RBQ’s Psychic Night Dinner with a one-on-one private reading with one of New York’s leading psychics. Also, included at just $75 per person, enjoy RBQ’s supreme threecourse dinner. Spots are flying, so reservations are required. Call (718) 3187427. For more info about this night of fun and enlightenment, visit: www. espconnection.com/ 97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

LADIES ANCIENT ORDER OF THE HIBERNIANS JIG & SWIG FUNDRAISER

FRIDAY, January 20 8 p.m.

LAOH Division 9—“Our Lady of Knock”—beckons you to their Jig & Swig Fundraiser in Brooklyn! From music by The Brooklyn Bards, Irish dance lessons from O’Malley Irish Dance Academy, tasty food, drinks and fantastic raffle prizes, plus 50/50s—get ready for a night of emerald green fun at Knights of Columbus Council #126. $40 admission includes hot buffet, beer, wine, soda, coffee, tea and desserts. For more info, and reservations, contact Rita Carron at (646) 249-5751.

3051 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn NY

DUELING PIANOS HEADLINES

BHYC YOUTH FUNDRAISER

FRIDAY, January 27

7:30 p.m.

The Belle Harbor Yacht Club hosts this fundraiser for nonprofit, Belle Harbor Youth & Community, featuring Dueling Pianos. Proceeds from this part rock/part comedy show benefit a 501C3 organization that hosts and sponsors local community events and sports teams. Limited seating with tables up to 12. Tickets are $25 for members, and $30 for nonmembers.

533 Beach 126th Street

DATE NIGHT VENUES

Looking for a local place to dine and be merry with company? Every week, we’ll spotlight an option. Keep checking in, and support local!

Margie’s

at The Rockaway Hotel

Impress your date with Margie’s elegant atmosphere yet comforting American cuisine classics and seaside staples. Each day of the week offers specials, for example Sunday “Parm Nights” or Wednesday’s irresistible $2 oysters and half-price craft beer. If you’re looking to complement your food gourmand experience with live music, check out Thursday’s standards and classics or Friday night jam sessions. For more info, including their menu and reservations, visit: https://www.therockawayhotel.com/dining/margies

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

Got info on local live music, arts and more? Email: editor@rockawaytimes. com

LOCAL COLOR: READERS SEND IN THEIR PIX

Betty Anne Henning

Lillian Agosto

Gary Barteldt

Mark Eidinger

Rich Levy

Andrzej Zbrog

Linda Anthonijsz

Drew Capul

Team RISE, Take Two!

By S. C. Samoy, RISE Director of Operations & Communications

RISE (Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability & Equity) will be making its second appearance at the 2023 United Airlines NYC Half Marathon on Sunday, March 19, 2023. It was chosen again as an official charity partner of the 13.1-mile run, which means five slots were made available for individuals who enjoy the long course and who love to raise money for a worthy cause.

Twelve people put in their names to represent Team RISE, and it was a tough selection process because everyone had good reason: from being a fan of RISE, to advocating for climate resiliency, to being a parent wanting this for her child, to having a love of running.

In the end, Rumbi Bwerinofa-Petrozzello, 49, Fay Schneider, 26, Ella DeBode, 24, Shafaath Khan, 21, and Juliana Rodas, 19, made the cut.

Bwerinofa-Petrozzello raised $1,589 for RISE last year and is recommitting herself to running the half-marathon again this year. “I live here. RISE is a core support of the Rockaway community and environment!”

Schneider said, “I am originally from Minnesota but have lived in Rockaway with my partner, Pat, for going on four years. Pat passed in a sudden hiking accident last winter, and I began running to honor his love for the sport and to physically work with my daily grief. The opportunities for civic engagement and education RISE brings to the Rockaways help further the natural integrity of our community. Because of their meaningful work, I am honored to represent and help raise funds for RISE and our Rockaway community in the 2023 United Airlines Half Marathon.”

DeBode lives in Manhattan and was recommended by Rockaway Track Club Coach Jim McVeigh as one of the top twenty-six runners. “Although I’m not a Rockaway resident, I am ecstatic to rep -

resent RISE in the United Airlines NYC Half and say thank you to the neighborhood that has inspired me so much this past year.”

Khan ran for RISE last year and brought in $975 for the organization. “It was a fantastic experience. One of the best ones of my life!” As for this year’s half-marathon, Khan said, “I want to run for RISE be -

cause I have been part of their program for the past four years. I was also a youth leader during the summer Shore Corps. During my time as a student and a leader, I have seen others and myself benefit from this program. Running for RISE is a way for me to give back to this nonprofit youth organization.”

Rodas said, “I was raised in the

Rockaways and have lived here all my life. I would love to run for RISE to show my love for them. They have given me such amazing opportunities, and I would be more than happy to support them.”

Team RISE could use some love as they train and raise funds for programs that benefit our beloved community. Go to www.riserockaway.org, click on Events, then Current Events, and scroll down to Team RISE @ 2023 United Airlines NYC Half.

Pro Wrestling Updates

Hey, Wrestle Talk Fans! I hope all of you had a Great Week! Let's dive into the world of pro wrestling news!

Vince McMahon is back! Yes, you heard it right, and this is not going down well, with many fans and talent alike. Vince McMahon resigned last year as he was accused of using company profits as "hush money" payments that involved him having a relationship with a staff member. But his return to the WWE doesn't appear to be for him

to take charge of the company. Vince's return is to oversee the sale of future television rights and ultimately, the sale of the WWE. The day-to-day operations have not changed at all and now, the talk is when the WWE will be sold. We will keep you updated.

We have an update on the apparent knee injury that was suffered by WWE Superstar Seth Rollins on January 2, 2023, in a match against Austin Theory. It was revealed that Seth did not suffer a knee injury

as previously reported. The injury was a work and part of the storyline.

Former WWE Superstar and now AEW Superstar Saraya, formerly known as "Paige," revealed on a recent interview that WWE COO Triple H had spoken to her on why she left the WWE and a possible return. She stated that Triple H offered her an on-screen general manager role with the possibility of wrestling again.

Speculation is running high on whether or not Ronda Rousey will stay on wrestling with the WWE, as she is no longer the Smackdown Women's Champion. Rumors are saying that she wants to do a run for the Women's Tag Team Championship with her friend Shayna Baszler. Ronda has also been vocal, about the WWE pushing Shay-

na Baszler to get a bigger role within the WWE ring.

The Question of the Week comes from Kenneth F. in Rockaway Beach, and he asked "Do you feel Mercedes Mone aka "Sasha Banks’" debut in New Japan Pro Wrestling was impactful? Can, she be a top star in Japan?" Great Question Kenneth! I do feel that Mercedes Mone will have an impact in NJPW. Her debut at Wrestle Kingdom wasn't what I expected, but give it time and the Japanese fans will grow to like her. Also, there is no WWE programming in Japan so many fans might not know her because of that. Let's give her some time and I believe she will do just fine in NJPW.

Keep those questions coming in to eavil183@yahoo.com and have a great weekend!