Rockaway Times 1-2-20

VOL. 6, NO. 28 - THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

2020 Hindsight 2019 Rides off Into the Sunset

Year in Review See Page 16

Also Inside: Remembering Michael McDonnell Hot Yoga Celebrates 10 years Photo by Conor MacCourtney

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 2

The Rockaway Times

Crime Scenes Of Newly-Released Bail Reform Inmates

On January 1, 2020, bail reform officially went into effect. After the law passed over the summer, the Queens

District Attorney’s office released a map of what that would mean for Queens communities, when those incar-

cerated at Rikers Island were released under this law. The accompanying map shows the areas where some of those inmates who were released on Wednesday, allegedly committed their crimes. In Rockaway, that showed about 30 locations.

Along with the map, the Queens DA’s office released the following statement: "On January 1, 2020, New York State judges will no longer be able to set bail on residential burglaries, robberies ‘aided by another’ (both of which are classified as violent felonies), all but one of the most serious narcotics felonies, most non-violent felonies (including manslaughter in the second degree and other crimes you may consider violent) and most misdemeanors. Based on a snapshot we did of the Queens Rikers pop-

ulation on June 6, 2019, we estimate the new laws, if in effect today, would result in the release of approximately 363 inmates currently incarcerated on Rikers Island who committed the above types of crimes in Queens County.

These inmates have an average of six prior felony arrests, five misdemeanor arrests, two felony convictions and six misdemeanor convictions.

On January 1, 2020, the people charged with these crimes will walk out the doors of Rikers Island. The attached map is designed to allow you to see where they allegedly committed the crimes they are charged with. Each blue pin shows the location of the crime they are currently incarcerated for.”

For more information about bail reform charges, head to www.queensda.org/

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

The Rockaway Times

Page 3

Tossing Away the Christmas Tree Christmas has come and gone, and you might be wondering, what do I do with the Christmas tree? If you have a real tree that you need to get rid of, the city is here to help.

Starting Monday, January 6, the Department of Sanitation will be picking up trees left on the curb to be composted.

The trees are chipped, mixed with leaves, and recycled into rich compost for NYC’s parks, institutions, and community gardens. Be sure to remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel and plastic bags from your tree; trees that still have these items attached will be collected as garbage. Do not bag your tree. Trees will be collected from curbs for composting through January 17.

If you discard your tree after this date, it will be collected as regular garbage.

Another option is to par-

ticipate in the Parks Department’s MulchFest, in which trees are chipped and participants can take home a bag of mulch to use in personal gardens. It will take place on Saturday, January 4 and Saturday, January 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at nearly 80 locations across the city. Unfortunately, the closest chipping sites are Marine Park (East 33rd and Avenue U) and Brookville Park near Rosedale. There are also designated drop-off sites where trees will be picked up for MulchFest. The only local drop-off location is Beach 94th Street and Shore Front Parkway. You can drop off your tree here until January 11.

For more information on Christmas tree collection and recycling or MulchFest, visit www.nyc.gov/dsny, www.nyc. gov/parks or call 311.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 4

The Rockaway Times

Homeless Shelter Gets DHS Approval, But Activists Say It’s ‘Not a Done Deal’ As expected, the Department of Homeless Services has approved the proposed shelter for 226 Beach 101st Street. However, those fighting back against it, says the fight is not over yet.

In a letter to the Mayor and to Community Board 14 on December 20, the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) said it was approving the proposed shelter at Beach 101st Street. The letter also included their extensive Fair Share review, a nearly 30-page document demonstrating the need for the shelter to be placed within a community. The City is required to provide this to each community board ahead of a shelter opening.

In DHS’ letter to Community Board 14, they explain their desire to approve Rockaway’s shelter. “In proposing to shelter homeless at the Site (226 Beach 101st) DHS carefully considered such factors as the community’s needs for service, the efficient and cost-effective delivery of ser-

vices, the concentration of similar facilities in Community District 14, and the effects of the site on the neighborhood's character.

As previously stated, the law requires DHS to shelter all homeless individuals and families on immediate basis, DHS must meet fluctuations in shelter demand caused by economic and other factors outside its control. DHS must therefore ensure the availability of sufficient temporary, emergency shelter spaces and be able to accurately predict future capacity needs. Given the City’s legal obligation, DHS has an immediate need for all immediately available and suitable space for its clients, including the site. As demonstrated in this Fair Share Analysis, DHS has determined that its use of the site pursuant to the contract is appropriate and consistent with the criteria for the location of City facilities.”

According to DHS, the facility at Beach 101st Street will provide capacity for 108 single adults

“experiencing homelessness” and “closer to their support networks” with “priority to those who have roots in Queens, particularly those from Community District 14.”

Before going to press on Monday, The Rockaway Times contacted the Community Board for comment and possible strategies but did not receive a reply by press time.

Despite this DHS approval, those from Rockaway Solutions Not Shelters (RSNS), the group that organized to fight against the shelter, says that this approval comes as no surprise, and they’re ready to take whatever steps are necessary to continue the fight.

“This approval is not surprising,” Torey Schnupp, an activist behind the organization said. “This is going as planned and we’ve been preparing for it all along.

This is not a done deal. Rest assured, we’re on top of it.”

Although the shelter has DHS’ approval, a contract for nonprof-

it, Black Veterans for Social Justice, to run the shelter, has not yet been signed by NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer, meaning it has not yet received the funding to operate. According to Schnupp, who says their group is in close contact with Stringer’s office, as of Friday, December 27, the contract had not even reached Stringer’s desk yet to be reviewed.

However, the group says they’re ready for anything. Community activist John Cori, another organizer behind RSNS, added that he believes DHS might look to place people in the shelter by the third week of January. “We are going to court,” he said.

Schnupp says this means community support will continue to be needed. Future fundraising efforts will take place to help fund their efforts to fight against the shelter. (Follow Rockaway Solutions Not Shelters on Facebook for any updates, or to see the complete Fair Share review report from DHS).

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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 718-945-9550 City Councilman Eric Ulrich 114-12 Beach Channel Drive, suite #1 Rockaway Park, NY 11694 718-318-6411 State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. 88-08 Rockaway Beach Blvd Room 311 Rockaway Beach, NY 11693 718-318-0702 State Senator James Sanders Jr. 1931 Mott Avenue - Suite 305 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718-327-7017 City Councilman Donovan Richards 1931 Mott Avenue, Suite 410 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718-471-7014 Assemblywoman Michele Titus 1931 Mott Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718- 327-1845 Community Board 14 1931 Mott Ave Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718-471-7300

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

BOYLEING POINTS

Go Big or Go Homer I was reading up on some overthe-hill jocks whose motto is, “Add years to your life by adding life to your years. Play basketball.”

Which reminded me of the old Mae West line, “It’s not the men in my life, it’s the life in my men.”

Which reminded me of another clever twist, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste. And a waist is a terrible thing to mind.”

Sometimes such wisdom is lost on me. When the going gets tough, the tough get going; and I go home or under the covers.

I figured there must be a name

for these literary or rhetorical twisters, and there is. But no one in the history of the English language has ever spoken this word. No one. No way, no how.

Even drill sergeant grammar nuns with knuckle slapping yardsticks would not know this one.

The word is antimetabole. Tell me that doesn’t look like some micro-organism that might kill you. Or something you’d see in the Ask The Doc column.

I still don’t know how to say it and even if I could, I wouldn’t.

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It’s like the tree in the forest. Is a word really a word if you can’t say it?

Anyway, while doing deep, deep research for this column (I hope you’re still reading. I probably would have bailed as soon as I saw antimetabole), I came across another word, diacope, which if you say fast, sounds like a one-calorie soda.

Give me a slice and a diacope.

This word, also never used by any English-speaking person, is from a Greek word meaning "cut in two." Which allows me to plug a book by Mary Norris, “Greek to Me.” If I had any sense of timing, I would have plugged it during the holiday shopping season.

Mary is a mostly-summer resident of Rockaway and is the best-selling author of “Confessions of a Comma Queen” and worked for a longtime at the notoriously persnickety copy department at the New Yorker magazine. I hesitated to tout her new book lest someone show her this column. That’s all I need, another comma queen in my life. I like sentences like

my drinks. Short and neat. I don’t need no stinkin’ commas.

But tout I must. If you like words, some Greek history, and enjoy a few laughs, you’ll fancy “Greek To Me” so get yourself a gift. You might feel dumb while reading it but you’ll feel smarter having read it.

Oh, and for the three English majors still reading, an example of a diacope is To Be or Not To Be. Basically, it’s a repeat of words that are separated (cut in two). Run, Toto, Run is another.

If all the Greek stuff seems esoteric (I did something clever there), you can stay local and buy books by Dan Guarino, Jill Eisenstadt, Howard Schwach, and Larry Racioppo. You can buy those while you wait for upcoming books by Tom O’Callaghan and Mark Healey. Just do the google and you’ll find the books.

I don’t know if any of ‘em have antimetaboles. Which reminds me. The thing is, (irony alert) you can’t say the word but you can’t get them out of your head.

"I am stuck on band-aid, because band-aid's stuck on me.”

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 6

The Rockaway Times

Hot Yoga Rockaway Beach Celebrates 10 Years of Sweet Sweat

By Kami-Leigh Agard

After opening a decade ago, Hot Yoga Rockaway Beach is not losing any steam. On Wednesday, January 8, the yoga studio will celebrate its 10-year anniversary with a special sweat schedule, in which all classes will be offered at just $10 each—and what’s even sweeter? The studio will pay it forward by donating 100 percent of the proceeds to local nonprofit, The Graybeards. Now, before you start thinking that you can’t possibly survive the class and perhaps should just donate the $10, this Rockaway Times reporter took it upon herself this past Saturday to try the studio’s signature Hot26 class, which provided an unbelievable physical, spiritual and mental release.

When you walk into the studio, you immediately are struck by the diversity of people. They range in ages, genders, yoga experience and fitness levels, which was reassuring to see, especially as this was my first class. Hot Yoga Rockaway Beach’s owner, Anita Ruderman, was at the desk checking folks in and making sure they were well hydrated and arrived with an empty stomach, which are a must because your body will definitely be pouring buckets of sweat and you don’t want to feel uncomfortable with a belly full of food. That day, the class was packed, and felt like a room full of family as folks chatted with each other about the holidays. As one participant and also a yoga instructor

at Hot Yoga RB for the last nine years, Jeanne Orzano, said, “I’ve taught at a lot of yoga studios. What sets this place apart is there is no ego. Though the class is intense, Anita fosters a light atmosphere, where people of all fitness levels gather together to learn and improve their practice and health. There is no competition.”

After greeting each other and sharing humorous sides with Ruderman, participants entered the room, which is hot, and I mean, hot! Hot Yoga rooms are usually heated to above normal room temperature. The heat can be set to whatever the yoga instructor desires, though it’s typically between 80 and 100°F. Ruderman is quite thoughtful though because as the class progressed, at intervals she would open the door or a window to make sure her students were indeed feeling the heat and sweating, but not to the point of overheating.

Ruderman was the instructor that day and her personality is larger than life. From the way she instructs the class, immediately you can tell that she is no newbie yogi. Ruderman has been teaching yoga for over 30 years, and way back when, locals may remember her yoga classes at Belle Harbor Health & Fitness on Beach Channel Drive. She was introduced to hot yoga about 25 years ago. As she shared in a 2015 Rockaway Times article: “I took this class down in Florida and I didn’t know it was hot yoga, so I had long pants and long sleeves because I figured it would be air

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conditioned, and I walk in and people were wearing bathing suits. There were nine electric heaters in the room and I thought I was gonna die, but I went through with it and I was hooked. Once I found hot yoga that was it for me. I thought, ‘How can nobody be teaching this in New York?’”

In January 2010, Ruderman brought Hot Yoga Rockaway Beach to the peninsula, and according to her, since opening, almost 3,000 people have walked through the doors.

From taking her class, you can see that Ruderman truly loves teaching and her passion to guide others on a healthy path shows. She constantly circulates around the room, watching her band of yogis with an eagle eye, giving guidance when someone is not executing the pose correctly, and if she deems they are ready to go deeper in the stretch. She also shares the health benefits of each pose. Besides burning calories, hot yoga has been scientifically proven to build bone density, reduce stress, ease depression, reduce blood pressure and blood glucose levels, improve circulation and digestion, boost mood levels and even help with chronic ailments such as migraines and knee injuries. Also, though each pose requires serious work and focus, Ruderman’s humor is in-

fectious and even encouraging, because though you feel you are about to do the impossible, she encourages you like a drill sergeant having fun with her troop.

For one hour, we were led through a course of 26 poses. The first one, Pranayama (Standing Deep Breathing)

sounds easy, but it’s not! As you inhale and exhale with short squirts of breath, you actually feel your heart rate slowly speeding up as your abs contract, utilizing optimal lung capacity. Ruderman explained that a deep inhale and a deep exhale are practiced to provide the body with oxygen, increase circulation, and improve focus.

Then in the next 25 poses— (Half Moon, Awkward, Eagle, Standing Head-to-Knee, Standing Bow-Pulling, Balancing Stick, Standing Separate Leg Stretching, Triangle, Standing Separate Leg Head to Knee, Tree, Toe Stand, Corpse, Wind Removing, Sit Up, Cobra, Locust, Full Locust, Bow, Fixed Firm, Half Tortoise, Camel, Rabbit, Head-to-Knee Pose and Stretching, Spine Twisting, Blowing in Firm)—I felt my body becoming more limber, enabling me to go deeper in the stretch. As the poses are repeated twice and held for 10 to 30 seconds, I felt stronger and more confident in holding the poses, though admittedly, toppling over a few times just added to the light atmosphere shared in the room. Then after the class, yes, we were all crawling for a water bottle, but feeling refreshed and glowing with a sense of accomplishment.

Interested in taking a class?

Visit: hotyogarockawaybeach. com for the full schedule of classes which include, Hot26, Iron Yoga, Hot Vinyasa and special pop-up classes. Also, join Ruderman and her staff in celebrating their 10th anniversary on Wednesday, January 8 by attending their $10 special classes to support the Graybeards.

For Ruderman, celebrating 10 years of bringing hot yoga to the community in which she loves and lives in, would not be possible without all the people who have walked through the studio’s doors and the amazing teachers who helped build the practice. “The teachers and students are what make this studio great, and of course our beautiful Rockaway community,” Ruderman said.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Online Poll Reveals Top New Restaurants of 2019

By Katie McFadden

Rockaway is ever-changing and 2019 was no different, with the addition of several new eateries throughout the year.

Popular local Facebook group with nearly 30,000 members, Friends of Rockaway Beach, recently held a poll, asking folks which is their favorite restaurant that opened in 2019. With so many choices, plus the addition of the new Harbor Light, the decision was a tough one.

In the FoRB poll, the Harbor Light came on top for favorite restaurant that opened this year. However, some commented that the Harbor Light’s comeback story of burning down during hurricane Sandy and taking seven long years to be rebuilt and open again, was a factor that skewed the poll. Even those who are invested in the Harbor Light chimed in saying, “I’m not a fan of the poll. All of these places are amazing, and we have the best community support. All awesome for different reasons. Support them all.”

If Harbor Light was not in the running, that would leave new Arverne by the Sea barbecue joint, Batesy’s as the front runner, closely followed by the new predominantly-breakfast spot, Bernadette’s on Beach 96th Street. This was followed

by Mediterranean café, Kimo’s Kitchen in Rockaway Beach, the addition of the Rockaway Farmers Market BBQ, Thank You café, The Dropout (although this is their second season at Riis Park), the new Plum Tomato, La Sorrentina, Te Quiero, Locals Collective and Scott’s Corner in Broad Channel. Some also voted for Classics to Go, which came and went within a few months in 2019, but surely made an impression. Others chimed in with their favorites in general, which were not new in 2019,

such as Tiberio, Whits End, Belle Harbor Steakhouse and others. People also had the ability to vote for more than one choice. Some choices may have also been left out. Although not a restaurant, new bakery, Georgina’s, was not an option on the poll, and neither was the new Taco Bell in Far Rockaway.

The results of the poll may have been skewed, but it showed one thing—that Rockaway has many great new additions to choose from. And next year’s poll is already looking like another tough one. Some new restaurants that may be coming in the next year include a Brennan & Carrstyle sandwich stop on Beach 129th Street. Possibly called “The Carving Board,” the small place, formerly occupied by Breezy Dogs, will serve up hot roast beef sandwiches and more. The former spot of Paninico on Beach 116th is expected to have South American cuisine. Arverne by the Sea will also see some new additions.

Signs up in the new development, The Tides, which saw the addition of Vino by the Sea, Claudette’s and Locals Collective, will soon have even more to choose from—Bar Marseille and Super Burrito. Super Burrito has proven popular at its boardwalk concession spot on Beach 97th Street for the past two summers. Now it looks like they’re going brick and mortar.

Bar Marseille is expected to be a long-awaited seafood restaurant.

With all of the development going on in Far Rockaway and around the peninsula, we’re sure 2020 will offer plenty more new options, which is a good thing that new gyms, the new Gliders and Orangetheory Fitness on Beach 116th, are joining the mix of other great workout facilities such as the YMCA, Crom, Burn Fitness, Hot Yoga, Ocean Bliss and more!

Page 7

Look at all the GREAT STUFF Happening in January 2020!

Reiki Level I Certification ~ Judi Hamsa Spagnola Sat Jan 4th & Sun Jan 5th ~ 11:00am-5:00pm ~ $225 A week-end of empowerment to get in touch with your inner warrior. Reiki is a spiritual discipline and a hands-on, non-manipulative method of energy work, promoting personal awareness and spiritual connection. Reduce stress, balance energies in your body and relieve pain and discomfort. Learn about the chakras (energy centers) and easy self-treatments.

Feel better and heal yourself, your loved-ones and your pets.

Save the date: Reiki Level II Certification Jan 25th & Jan 26th

We're Celebrating 10 YEARS on Wed, JAN 8th IT’S UNBELIEVABLE! We are grateful and blessed for this awesome community of Hot Yogis.

Please come celebrate with us & catch that Yoga Buzz…

Special Schedule ~ 7:30am HotVinyasa ~ 9am Hot26 ~ 5pm IronYoga ~ 6:30pm Hot26 Special Price ~ All classes $10 ~ All proceeds will be donated to The Graybeards.

Special Raffle ~ Just take class and 10 Students will be automatically entered to win a FREE WEEK to keep or gift away...

Warm Yummy Yin

Christine Walker Thursday 7:30pm • Jan 9th & Jan 23rd

This “quiet, meditative” yoga is unique in that you relax in a pose, soften the muscle and release closer to the bone and joints. Postures are held for sustained periods of time, allowing muscles to relax and the deep connective tissue to be gently stretched. Gain more flexibility in the joints and connective tissue, calm and balance the mind and body and improve your hot yoga practice. Perfect for the beginner and advanced yogi.

Transformational Breath® Workshop Christine Walker

Sat, Jan 18th 12-1:30pm $50 prepaid/$60 at the door, if there’s space People only get a small percentage of air/lung capacity causing physical and emotional stress and tension.

Transformational Breath® is an empowering and effective self-healing technique that connects with conscious breathing to: Increase physical well-being ~ Create more vitality Stimulate circulation ~ Balance the flow of energy ~ Expand awareness ~ Elevate emotional health Reduce anxiety ~Promote deep relaxation ~ Appreciate happiness and joy. Don’t miss this. No heat for this event. Class size limited.

The Workshops usually sell out so we recommend you pre-register to guarantee your space.

Please reach out to us with any questions or concerns.

We want to make you happy.

181 B 116th St. - 2nd Fl 718. 945.YOGA HotYogaRockawayBeach.com ·

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 8

***** Today is January 2. How are those resolutions holding up? ***** We went to press on Monday, December 30, so we couldn’t publish any pictures of all the wacky people who jumped in the ocean to mark the new decade. We’ll play catch up in next week’s edition. The early finish also explains the year 2019 recap features in this edition! ***** Speaking of new years and decades, some (very few!) people believe the new decade starts next year because there was not a Year Zero. Picky, picky, picky. Decade might mean ten but we say The Roaring Twenties includes 2020, the Gay Nineties includes 1890, and the Fabulous Fifties includes 1950. ***** The NY Times had an arti-

cle about why the city remains so lit up at night. There are a number of factors, of course.

As people live in some of the tall buildings, and some work must be done at night, the FAA requires buildings over 200 feet to be lit in some way and sometimes movie companies request building owners leave on the lights for cinematic purposes. The article reports that City Councilman Donovan Richards tried passing a bill to get buildings to go dim or dark for conservation purposes. The bill never saw the light of day, so to speak. ***** The Wave building has sold.

In December 2018, the building at 88-08 Rockaway Beach Boulevard was listed for $2.495 million. A year later, December 2019, public records indicate the building sold for just $1.4 million. ***** HipHopGoldenAge, a platform promoting and preserving hip hop culture, has named Summer Classics by Bobby J (aka Bobby Joseph) as one of

the Top 10 Hip Hop albums of 2019. The title, Summer Classics, is inspired by the summer basketball league held at St. Francis de Sales every year.

The site called Bobby J’s work “GREAT” in all caps and “an album you need in your collection.” ***** Councilman Eric Ulrich’s office sent us a notice that the road that feels like the surface of the moon (Beach Channel Drive and Beach 116th Street) was getting repaved on Friday. We were told that “the New York Paving Company was out, not just re-patching areas identified by the DDC Inspector, but fully repaving, ensuring a safer and more stable roadway.” Well, we can say that new blacktop was applied but it sure looks like a patch job. Or worse. We sometimes think crews do a lousy job just so they get called back. ***** Attention snowbirds. Don’t miss what’s going on in Rockaway while you stay nice and toasty in Florida or Rincon. Sign

The Rockaway Times up for The Rockaway Times email. Subscribe at Rockawaytimes.com or just send a note to Mail@Rockawaytimes.com.

More than 3000! people get The Rockaway Times delivered to their email inbox each week! ***** We’re thrilled to report that Marina Cregan, born and bred in Rockaway, will be joining The Rockaway Times team as a reporter. ***** When we’re amused, we sometimes share, so it’s with amusement we note that Sarah Miller said she was pleased with making This Week In History a couple weeks back but her true goal is to make the Facts You Probably Don’t Need column. Well, uhm, it’s a fact she made the High Tide column. ***** The funeral Mass for beloved local, Michael McDonnell, who died on December 23, will be on January 13, 11 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales. Many may remember the local as a Hurricane Sandy hero.

St. Francis de Sales 129-16 Rockaway Beach Blvd.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

This Week in History

%RDUGZDON

JANUARY 2

1914 - Henry Ford introduced the $5-a-day minimum wage.

1972 - President Nixon ordered the 1935 - The Bruno R. Hauptmann trial development of the space shuttle. began for the kidnap and murder of the Lindbergh baby.

JANUARY 6 1994 - Rudolph Giuliani is inaugurat- John Carrington was born. ed as New York City’s mayor.

1759 - George Washington married JANUARY 3 Martha Custis.

Kathleen Byrne was born.

1994 - Figure skater Nancy Kerrigan Janet Racy was born. was clubbed on her leg by men, inDan Kirk was born. cluding husband of rival skater Tonya Harding.

1870 - Construction of the Brooklyn Bridge began.

JANUARY 7 1959 - Alaska became the 49th state Dennis Cook was born. in the United States.

Patrick Clark was born.

1962 - Pope John XXIII excommuni- Sarah McGonigle was born. cated Fidel Castro.

Augusta Marino was born.

Carolyn Butler was born.

JANUARY 4

Tom Greene was born.

Katie McFadden was born.

Jen Linehan was born.

Robert Donohoe was born.

1965 - President Lyndon B. Johnson outlined his "Great Society" in his State of the Union address.

1999 - Former wrestler Jesse Ventura was sworn in as Minnesota's governor.

JANUARY 5

Mary Ellen Blum Olsen was born.

1927 - Transatlantic commercial telephone service began between New York and London.

1953 - President Harry Truman announced that the U.S. had developed the hydrogen bomb.

JANUARY 8

Jill Brady was born.

1958 - Bobby Fischer won the United States Chess Championship for the first time at age 14.

1964 - President Lyndon Johnson announced his War on Poverty.

Page 9

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 10

The Rockaway Times

Queens Hurricane Relief Task Force Reflects on Lessons Learned With Melinda Katz's tenure as Queens Borough President coming to a close, as she will be assuming her new elected position as Queens District Attorney on January 6, she recently reported on the work of her Hurricane Relief Task Force, a group of government agencies, elected officials and community leaders who collectively developed and implemented solutions to problems that had previously hindered and plagued the borough’s recovery from Hurricane Sandy. Katz prioritized the recovery efforts by forming the task force within weeks after taking office in 2014.

The group consisted of many Rockaway residents and local pols, including Frank Iori of the Belle Harbor Owners Properties Association, Dan Mundy Jr., and Dan Mundy, Sr. of the Broad Channel Civic Association, Denise Lopresti Neibel and Christopher Norton of the Breezy Point Cooperative, Inc., Congressman

Gregory Meeks, Senator Joseph Addabbo, Senator James Sanders, Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato, Assemblywoman Michele Titus, Councilman Donovan Richards, and Councilman Eric Ulrich.

They first met nearly 16 months after the storm wreaked havoc across the borough. The objective was to address what many found to be an excruciatingly slow process for repairing the damage wrought by Sandy and for getting thousands of displaced Queens residents back in their homes.

The Hurricane Relief Task Force connected communities most impacted by the storm directly

and regularly with city, state and federal agencies and elected officials on the multi-year recovery effort. This helped to ensure a reliable channel of communication between officials and the community residents who had “on-the ground� knowledge of recovery-related problems. The Task Force also facilitated interagency cooperation by empowering community leaders to create innovative ways with elected officials to enhance the efficacy of recovery and resiliency efforts. “The community-driven Task Force model should be used as a guide for how we respond to future major disasters, especially in this time of climate change,�

Katz said. “A natural disaster of Sandy’s unprecedented scope requires a coordinated response that minimizes bureaucratic red tape and empowers impacted communities to work directly with government to launch and

complete the Herculean task of recovery.�

Since February 2014, the Task Force has inspired a citywide zoning amendment to facilitate reconstruction of Sandy-damaged homes, streamlined issuance of necessary permits, cleared roadblocks regarding the U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan applications, spearheaded outreach to Build it Back applicants, and improved coordination between the Broad Channel street-raising initiative and the Build it Back program.

The Task Force also helped to reduce delays in elevating homes, supported legislation to speed up the Buildings Department’s permitting process, prompted the aggressive investigation and resolution of construction delays.

Katz will be inaugurated as Queens District Attorney on Monday, January 6 at St. John’s University’s Carnesecca Arena beginning at 5:30 p.m.

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The Rockaway Times

Local Music Duo Aerial Acoustics, Plays The White House WHAT AN HONOR! Aerial Acoustics, an acoustic musical duo, featuring Dorothy Wagner of Belle Harbor and Dennis Smith of East Brunswick, NJ, were recently invited to The White House in Washington, D.C. to play at The Spirit of America open house

Christmas celebration.

Aerial Acoustics is often seen at the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Tribute Park each September and at other local venues.

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Page 11

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The Rockaway Times

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Register now, seating is limited. Classes fill up quickly once application period begins. 2020 NYS Court Officer Three Session Class Locations & Dates: civilservicesuccess. com/nys-court-officer-registration/ *Town Hall: There will be a Town Hall Meeting at P.S. 333 (Goldie Maple Academy) on January 13, 6 - 7:30 p.m. All District 27 parents are welcome. Come and meet Chancellor Richard Carranza. The

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 13

A Christmas Miracle

school is located at 3-65 Beach 56th Street. *STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) event: In recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, NYS Senator James Sanders Jr. will host a STEM education event called, “Blueprints for Success.” Attendees of the event will engage in workshops, and hear panel discussions geared towards exposure to future opportunities.

The goal of this tech event is to promote economic growth, job creation, and provide career transitions that benefit all of Southeast Queens. This event is for the whole family. Everyone is encouraged to attend! You must RSVP. Please call Senator Sanders’ office at 718-523-3069 or 718327-7017 to reserve your seat.

Date: Monday, January 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: 10-45 Nameoke Street, Far Rockaway.

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In a post shared to social media on Christmas Eve, NYC Fire Wire wrote: “On Monday, December 23, Ladder 134 responded responded 1st due to a house fire in the Bayswater section of Far Rockaway.

After making entry into the house, Lt. Thomas Daly, of Ladder 134,

fell through a floor collapse into the basement. Members rushed to the basement, packaged and removed him. He spent most of his Christmas Eve admitted in the hospital, bruised up but recovering. Members of Ladder 134 spent the day with him and helping his family. Get well quickly, Lieu! Merry Christmas brother.”

NYC Fire Wire followed up during the late afternoon, saying that Lt. Daly was on his way home to be with his family for Christmas.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 14

The Rockaway Times

Remembering Michael McDonnell his longtime landlord, Bruce up with the idea of getting Bavasso and his wife, Janet, some ropes together to make a When Jim DiBenedetto and next door, to his childhood tether,” DiBenedetto recalled.

Katie Cregg moved in to their home, now occupied by his “He already had a plan,” Cregg Beach 130th home in 2011, they were welcomed to the neighborhood in an unconventional way, by a man with a personality too big for this world. “On the second day we were here, I looked outside the window on my deck and there were two men sitting on the porch, having a cigarette.

One of them opens up a fridge outside, pulls out two cans of beer, and they sit there, drinking,” Jim DiBenedetto recalled.

“I walk outside and say hello.

They introduced themselves.

One was Michael McDonnell, and another was a neighbor from across the street. They explained that they had been coming here for years to have a cigarette and beer. What a heck of a way to meet your neighbors.” Curiosity ensued.

“I opened up a beer and sat down,” DiBenedetto said. It was in that initial conversation, that he learned his seemingly intrusive new neighbor, McDonnell, had grown up in the house that DiBenedetto just bought, and old habits died hard for this man who was now living in an attic apartment next door. But the laughs that ensued from McDonnell’s Michael McDonnell (left) and Dylan Smith (right), helped save Katie stories made DiBenedetto reCregg and Jim DiBenedetto (middle) and four other neighbors during alize that McDonnell, would Hurricane Sandy. Photo from People Magazine/David Yellen. become more than a neighbor.

From there, a deep friendship new neighbors and friends, Jim said. Using rope that had been began that led McDonnell DiBenedetto and Kathy Cregg. used to tie down their porch to calling his new neighbors But as the fire spread, jump- furniture, McDonnell began by another title—“he started ing to Beach 130th Street and constructing his rope ladder, calling us his other parents,” consuming his current home, but it wouldn’t be enough to DiBenedetto’s wife, Kathy and then his childhood home, reach across the street. So, the Cregg, said. It wouldn’t be long McDonnell didn’t hesitate on next idea? Extension cords.

The group entered the DiBeneafter they moved in, that the what would come next.

Neighbors across the street detto’s basement and gathered DiBenedettos would give McDonnell another title—a hero. alerted the Bavassos, the what they could to extend the On the night of Hurricane DiBenedettos and McDonnell rope.

What came next was the coSandy, as the ocean met the to join them in their homes, bay and floodwaters filled the untouched by the flames. nundrum of how to get the streets, the last thing on peo- However, as the fires raged, so rope across the street. That’s ple’s minds happened—fire. did the floodwaters, creating a when another would-be hero, Flames broke out on Beach river with a strong current that Dylan Smith, came paddling 129th and as they did, Beach could sweep them under while out on his surfboard from his 130th resident, Michael Mc- trying to cross Beach 130th home across the street.” Dylan Donnell, got to thinking, and Street. How would they safely showed up on his surfboard he immediately sprang into ac- get across? Michael McDon- and brought the line across the tion. At first, he helped guide nell had the answer. “He came street to Tommy Cann’s house,”

By Katie McFadden

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DiBenedetto said. Then, one by one, the group started to make their trek across the road.

As Cregg waited her turn to cross, she tried to take action by pulling herself across. Instead, she was met by McDonnell, who found time to make her laugh in the midst of chaos.

“I’m pulling and kicking and he goes ‘Stop pulling so hard!’

He was worried that the cables would come apart. I remember laughing and he said, ‘I’m taking you across personally.’ In the midst of all of this, he still found a way to make you feel special,” Cregg said.

He also had time to remember things that would later come in handy. “He said to me, ‘did you get your insurance papers out of the house?’” DiBenedetto said. “It’s the last thing I was thinking of at the moment, but that was Michael. He could react to any situation and think of all of the angles.” As fire engulfed the porch, Smith and Bavasso’s son, worked to put it out, so that DiBenedetto could make it to the attic to grab his insurance papers.

All in all, McDonnell and Smith’s quick thinking and actions, helped them bring six neighbors to safety. As they huddled together in the Cann house, McDonnell noticed Cregg’s distressed expression.

“I said, the cats are still in the house,” Cregg recalled. McDonnell was ready to spring back into action to retrieve the felines. “Where are they?” he said. But as the DiBenedettos watched their house burn beyond repair, Cregg knew it was too late. “He was so ready to leave right then and there, but I told him no,” she said.

While saving the cats was an impossible task, McDonnell didn’t stop making sure everyone else was okay. “He was like the captain of the ship,” Cregg said. “He helped everyone stay calm,” DiBenedetto added. And once he knew everyone inside was ok, McDonnell continued his work. “He left all night long. He checked on all Continued on page 15

The Rockaway Times

REMEMBERING MICHAEL MCDONNELL

Continued from Page 14

of the neighbors on the block,” DiBenedetto said. “And he came back with a bottle of liquor every now and then,” Cregg added.

On the night of Hurricane Sandy, Michael McDonnell was no doubt, a hero. Seven years after the storm, on December 23, 2019, that hero’s tragic tale came to an end. At age 58, after a 25-year battle with skin cancer, Michael McDonnell died. The date was as significant as October 29, 2012. Seven years earlier, on December 23, 2012, McDonnell’s co-hero, Dylan Smith, died while surfing in Rincon, Puerto Rico. Forever united in their efforts to save neighbors on the night of Hurricane Sandy, the heroes were once again connected by the date of their deaths. The connection did not go unnoticed by their neighbors. "It's very peculiar, but special. I think Michael would be very happy with sharing that with Dylan,” Cregg said. “I think there was a connection there. I think it was that Rockaway surfing connection,” DiBenedetto said.

In the seven years that the DiBenedettos got to know Michael McDonnell, they learned that he, like Dylan Smith, had a love of surfing. It was a hobby that brought McDonnell to try out the waves of California, Hawaii and beyond. The DiBenedettos believe all that time in the sun may have also contributed to McDonnell’s longtime battle with skin cancer. In the later stages, that cancer would lead to a series of intense surgeries, including a forehead transplant. McDonnell was often seen with a face covered in bandages, but to anyone who spent time with McDonnell, those bandages became invisible as his personality shined through, even in his battle. “He was sometimes self-deprecating because he wanted to give people something to laugh at.

He called himself Frankenstein,” Cregg said. “But within three seconds, you didn’t even notice it because of who he

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020 was. He had such a great personality that you got over it immediately.”

“He knew how to make lemonade from lemons,” DiBenedetto said. “He always had that attitude that things would be good. He faced a 25-year battle with cancer, but he never lost his drive, his optimism, and his sense of humor, and he

Bruce Bavasso, McDonnell’s landlord prior to Hurricane Sandy, who knew him and his family since McDonnell was in his 20s, spoke about the many hats he wore. “He was a great fisherman,“ Bavasso said.

“He’d be by the bay, right up against the railing. He knew exactly when to go and where to go. That’s how he was,” add-

was as funny as you can get.”

Giving an example, DiBenedetto recalled the Christmas after Hurricane Sandy, when they were relocated. “We were in Brooklyn, and on Christmas day, he came through the door, and immediately found a place to hang up a hilarious gift to us,” DiBenedetto said.

The gift? A Santa Claus that could climb a cord hanging from a light fixture. The gift served as a reminder of having to climb McDonnell’s rope bridge to get to safety on the night of Hurricane Sandy.

As the DiBenedettos demonstrated the gift a few days after Christmas, they recalled more memories of the man who always had them laughing when they had him over for dinner, while watching Yankees games, or simply to enjoy a drink with them, even though he had moved off of Beach 130th Street.

ing that McDonnell wouldn’t hesitate to share the day’s catch with neighbors.

McDonnell was always full of surprises, and even shared his talent of magic with his neighbors. “He was a magician,” Bavasso said. “He had the doves and the rabbit and he was always doing something to make his magic better for parties and the shows he did. The dedication and passion he put into it was amazing,” Cregg said.

Although he had no children of his own, Cregg says McDonnell knew how to entertain the kids in their family or his nieces or nephews. “He just had with the kids. He left their mouths agape, wondering what he was going to do or say to make them laugh. He charmed them.” That charm would have an effect on everyone.

“He had the gift of gab. He

Page 15 never spoke a bad word about anybody,” Bavasso recalled.

“Michael could sell you sand in the desert.” That ability made him success as a sales manager for Chefs Diet, which he mostly did prior to Hurricane Sandy.

A few years after the storm, McDonnell put his skills as a handyman and painter to work, something he mastered.

“He was meticulous,” Cregg said. “He was always there when you needed something.

He was a very strong person.

Through all of his illnesses and cancer, he never complained.

He’d have a surgery and he’d be up the next day, painting houses. Nothing stopped him,” Bavasso said.

While painting kept him afloat, in 2018, after McDonnell underwent an intense forehead transplant, DiBenedetto started a GoFundMe campaign for his friend. Knowing McDonnell’s story of heroism, Rockaway rallied. “We raised closed to $14,000 in three weeks. The people in Rockaway were amazing in coming together for him,” DiBenedetto said.

However, Rockaway came together for a man they knew well. “He was the epitome of a Rockaway guy,” DiBenedetto said. Upon hearing the news of McDonnell’s passing, locals flooded social media pages with words describing the man they would see driving around in his blue pickup truck, riding his bike, or frequenting one of his favorite establishments like Rogers or the Harbor Light.

"Kind," "the biggest heart," "positive," "friendly" were among some of the most used.

Those sentiments were shared by his neighbors, who say Michael McDonnell, will truly be missed. “It’s going to be a little quieter here. There will be a little less laughter. But as I said, after we lost the house, they can take away your house, but they can’t take your memories.

We have those memories of Michael and he will always live on in our minds,” DiBenedetto said.

A memorial Mass for Michael McDonnell will be held on Monday, January 13, 11 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Church.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 16

The Rockaway Times

A Rockaway Times Year in Review Hindsight is 2020. So let’s take a look back at the year that was—2019. Here are some highlights from each issue of The Rockaway Times (RT) last year.

for 226 Beach 101st Street. The neighborhood rallied around Bridget O’Connor as she faced a life-threatening ordeal. The St. John’s Home for Boys was causing concern after a series of break-ins involving its resiJanuary 4: Seals aplenty were seen in Ja- dents. maica Bay. The New Year’s Day February 21: plunge was a little easier with The homeless shelter issue 60-degree weather. had residents heated and protests began. Khaleel Anderson, January 10: Walker Hornung, Indaculture 23, announced his run for State and Wine With Sue were gear- Assembly in the 31st District. ing up for the South Queens February 28: Ball.

Rockaway was getting ready for the annual St. Patrick’s Day January 17: The government may have Parade. The local American Lebeen shut down, but Elegante gion continued the tradition of was busy serving up free food hosting funerals for indigent for federal employees. Sorrenti- veterans. The homeless shelter no’s Meats was getting ready to was a big issue at the monthly make its Rockaway debut.

January 24: Local businesses were feeling the brunt of city and state mandates on small businesses.

Broad Channel remembered the life of the late John Schmitt.

Glenn DiResto wrote an editorial about the repercussions of the proposed Peninsula Hospital development.

feature writing from the New York Press Association. CB14 voted for the DOT to install traffic calming measures around Beach 61st Street to reduce speeding.

Longtime Ciro’s Pizzaman said, "Arrivederci!" to Rockaway as he retired home to Italy.

March 21: The Community House property was in contract to be sold.

Councilman Ulrich led a protest in front of DHS Commissioner Steven Banks’ home in Brooklyn. Eric Peterson was selected to replace Portia Dyrenforth as Parks’ Rockaway Administrator.

April 18: USACE began its sand replenishment project for Rockaway Beach.

A company called Shelter Inc raised alarms with a permit to build on Beach 115th but the owners claimed they were building market rate condos.

The RT’s Kami-Leigh Agard was recognized as a Woman of Distinction by Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato for her work with the Rockaway Beach Autism Families group. Pheffer Amato announced that the Cross Bay Bridge rebate program would be extended to all Queens residents starting in spring 2020. Tom Morgan was elected the new president of the Graybeards.

March 28: Rockaway brought the shelter protest to City Hall. New taco joint and juice bar, Te Quiero, opened. Construction seemed

April 25: St. John’s Hospital was impacted by a data breach. The Rock Away Pens debuted their first play festival.

January 31: Carlotta Peters started the Pay it Forward movement to help neighbors in need.

February 7: The Rockaway Times launched its fourth annual photo contest. State lawmakers passed legislation to curb Menhaden fishing, a big food source for whales. Capital One announced it would be closing both Rockaway branches in May. Riis Park’s MeatUp Grill was making headlines for its cheese wheel pasta. Uncle Louie G transformed into Mara’s Ice Cream Parlor. Councilman Eric Ulrich was running for Public Advocate

Services. Dayton Beach Park shareholders filed a lawsuit against The NYCHPD for its lack of oversight in regulating the DBP’s board of directors. Residents expressed deep concern over speeding issues around Beach 61st Street.

Community Board 14 meeting.

March 7: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced an emergency plan to replenish the eroded beaches from Beach 92nd to Beach 103rd. Many got a sneak peak of the new Harbor Light on parade day. Locals let their anger be heard at a 100th Precinct meeting over the break-ins involving St. John’s Boys. Demolition began on the Far Rockaway Shopping Center to make room for affordable housing and new retail space.

February 14: March 14: Saint Camillus Catholic AcadCB14 held a special meetemy announced it would be closing at the end of the school ing on the proposed homeless year. A homeless shelter for shelter and requested an audit 110 single-men was proposed of the Department of Homeless

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May 2: The Rockaway Times named its top 30 photos from the photo contest. Locals got ready for anto be in full swing at the Beach other Taste of Rockaway. JCCRP 91st Courthouse. proved it does what it can to ensure Holocaust survivors are April 4: not forgotten. Felix Cavaliere’s Concern grew when tar was Rascals closed off the annual discovered along the beach, Bugalou concert series. particularly In Riis Park. USACE began dredging of the sand in May 9: the East Rockaway Inlet, that The community celebrated would fill Rockaway Beach. the centennial of the first transStained-glass master, Patrick atlantic flight, which took off Clark, was working on a big from Rockaway, with a cereproject to restore a more than mony and exhibit. Arker Com100-year-old Rose Window. panies presented their latest The Rockaway Youth Chess plan for the Peninsula Hospital Club made its debut. Hurricane site. The Williams NESE PipeSandy fire victims were cleared line project got a necessary apto proceed in the lawsuit against proval from the Federal Energy LIPA and National Grid.

Regulatory Commission. Traffic lights and crosswalks finally arApril 11: rived at the busy intersection of RT Editor Katie McFadden Continued on page 17 earned a first place award for

The Rockaway Times

A ROCKAWAY TIMES YEAR IN REVIEW

Continued from Page 16

Beach 92nd and Beach Channel Drive.

May 16: Mayor de Blasio was in town to celebrate USACE finishing its sand replenishment project ahead of the beach opening.

Local officials were fighting for local businesses like Last Stop to remain in the MTA’s property on Beach 116th. Locals ran in memory of Breezy Point resident and Xavier coach, John Kelly. CB14 voted against a developer’s plan to build a 17-story mixed-use development on Beach 9th Street.

May 23: Neighbors were raising funds for the upkeep of Memorial Circle. Youngster Connor Rodriguez, who has Down syndrome, was making an impact with Connor’s Cupcakes. Neighbors were on high alert over rumored plans to turn a property on Beach 120th Street into a SRO.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020 graduated as the school officially closed. The Queens DA Democratic primary was held, but the results were still unclear. Bands were getting ready to play the Two Bridges festival at AB Studios. CB 14 held a special meeting about the proposal for the Peninsula Hospital Redevelopment (Edgemere Commons). CB14 disapproved the plan and made several recommendations. A cellphone tower popped up at the site of the Neponsit Home, which concerned some neighbors. Teacher, Sonya Lamonakis, was helping her school, PS/MS 183Q, get a new playground.

July 4: Street construction along major thoroughfares were causing traffic backups and headaches.

Ulrich unveiled a newly refurbished hockey rink in Broad Channel. Locals were angered to learn that the Pickle People would not be allowed to sell their pickles at the boardwalk craft fairs.

Yacht Rock charters launched, providing sailing trips around Jamaica Bay and beyond.

May 28: July 11: The beaches were open for Robbie Salmon and Rich Ponthe season. Joe Hurley was getting ready to host his All-star tieri were training to duke it out Rock Revue at the Irish Festival. at Thrilla in Camilla. Solshyne member and former Rockaway Times reporter Pat Morgan June 6: The Riis Park clock was re- died. The Rock!Away! festival turned after undergoing ren- was coming to town. A couple ovations. Kimo’s Kitchen and drowned on Beach 9th Street breakfast spot, Bernadette’s, in Far Rockaway. Avoid the Day book store was looking to go opened in Rockaway Beach. brick and mortar.

June 13: July 18: Rockaway was gearing up for Hope for the Warriors came to the Rockapulco Gold Music festival and Rockstock and Barrels. town to enjoy a weekend of fun Queens District Attorney candi- in Rockaway and Breezy Point. dates came to Rockaway to de- The kite festival was back and being held in memory of the bate. late Billy Taylor, who helped start the event. The first LGBTQ June 20: The Rockaway Times cele- Pride Block Party was held. A brated its 5th anniversary. The new bakery, Georgina’s, opened Parks Department accidental- on Beach 116th Street. ly snipped a surfer’s bike lock, July 25: sparking a rumor that bikes Marty the Robot landed in the were no longer allowed to be chained to the boardwalk. Arverne Stop & Shop, reporting AmpSurf was gearing up for a spills in aisles. The Department of Transportation was seeking major fundraiser. feedback on a new dollar van service along Shore Front ParkJune 27: The last class of St. Camillus way. The general consensus

was it would be a bad idea. The DOT announced that Lime’s dockless bike share pilot would come to an end at the end of the summer. A new food cart, TheCradleNYC, opened on the boardwalk, serving up Nigerian cuisine. The Pickle People announced a pop-up at Connolly’s was in the works.

Page 17 tique shop, Lu Bella, opened on Beach 129th Street. The first Miss Colombia Walk was held in Riis Park.

September 5: Labor Day weekend was bookended by anti-Semitic graffiti at the Silver Gull Beach Club and in the sand. Despite undergoing renovations, TribAugust 1: ute Park was going to be used to John Munoz, a teen from host the annual 9/11 Ceremony.

Brooklyn, became the fourth victim to drown in Rockaway’s September 12: waters in 2019. A Lime bike Rockaway remembered 9/11, that was tampered with burst 18 years later. The late Clare into flames. Annie McMahon, a Droesch’s memory lived on at Breezy Point summer resident, the 3 on 3 by the Sea. Batesy’s died after a long battle with BBQ opened in Arverne by the Cystic Fibrosis at age 22. After a Sea. Surf was up for the 15th recount, Melinda Katz was de- Annual Richie Allen Memorial clared the winner of the Queens Surf Classic.

DA Democratic primary.

September 19: August 8: A team of locals went to The Rockaway Times Sandcas- Manhattan to plead their case tle Contest was another big hit. against the proposed Beach Maintain Odozi, 15, drowned in 101st homeless shelter at a Jamaica Bay. Burglars burrowed Contract Hearing. An elevator into RBNY Physical Therapy’s inspection was holding up the Beach 86th location and stole opening of the Harbor Light. property. Opera on the Beach The Dropout opened for the debuted at Rustwoods. season with a pig roast. Engine 268/ Ladder 137 firefighter August 15: Mario Polit starred in big screen The Rockaway Beach Volley- hit, “Hustlers.” ball season came to an end.

American Princess Cruises September 26: launched sunset whale watchThe Poseidon Parade, sponing tours. National Grid’s mor- sored by The Rockaway Times, atorium on new gas hookups was a success. The Vans Duct was holding up the opening of Tape Festival and Surf Invitanew restaurant, Batesy’s, and tional was coming to town. A other residences and business- bottlenose dolphin washed up es. Eighty-eight-year-old Dora dead on Beach 102nd Street.

Helwig was preparing to leave Far Rock Strong was inspiring her bayside paradise home. youth through basketball and mentorship.

August 22: Wine With Sue celebrated October 3 their 25th anniversary. VincenTwo more teens, Gabriel Rice tia “Toots” Becker celebrated and Adedayo Adewale, drowned her 99th birthday. Sunset Cove, off of Beach 96th Street, making a new ecological and educa- the sixth and seventh drowntional park overseeing Jamaica ings of the season. Chef RhineBay, opened in Broad Channel. hard Stih was impressing with The Rockaway Times took a ride his creations at Rockaway with the FDNY’s Marine 3 sum- Farmers Market.

Religious mer detail. leaders and the NYPD met to discuss ways to address local August 29: anti-Semitism.

Emily McNeil’s photo was chosen as the grand prize winOctober 10 ner of the RT Photo Contest. The The Harbor Light was set to newly-rebuilt Sandpiper Play- open after seven long years ground on Shore Front ParkContinued on page 28 way finally opened. New bou-

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 18

Sean Fitzgerald Lic. Broker/Principal Direct 917-860-6701 Office 718-318-5030 CoastalFitz@gmail.com

CoastalRENY.com

The Rockaway Times

Mary Beth Meade 347-426-8002 Ellen May Esposito - Banks 646-209-2744 Lic. RE Salespersons

HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2020 Rockaway

Park Legal Two Family

SOLD

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

The Rockaway Times

Page 19

r a e Y w e N y p p a H

3 Susan Lavin • Kate Patterson • Peggy Moore • Ciji Stewart • Bronagh Rayder

NEW EXCLUSIVE BEACH BLOCK BELLE HARBOR ONE FAMILY &KDUPLQJ EHG EDWK IURQW DQG EDFN SRUFKHV 0DVWHU %HGURRP Terrace, Eat in Kitchen, 1HZ 6WDLQOHVV 6WHDO $SSOLDQFHV /LYLQJ URRP 'LQLQJ URRP )XOO ÀQLVKHG %DVHPHQW lovely yard, and long private drive.

CALL SUSAN 347 260 3891 ............................... $995K

Belle Harbor House Rental

PRICE REDUCED EXCLUSIVE BEST BEACH BLOCK 80 X 100 /2&$7(' ,1 1(3216,7 35,9$7( 75(( /,1(' %/2&. 2:1(5 +$6 $33529(' %8,/',1* 3/$16 )25 $ %($87,)8/ +20( CALL SUSAN 347 260 3891‌..$1,900,000

EXCLUSIVE GRAND NEPONSIT BEACH HOME

166 BEACH 142 St. STEPS TO THE OCEAN•60 X 100 3226 SQ FT

EHG EDWKV 6SDFLRXV URRPV Z ORWV RI VXQOLJKW /DUJH OLYLQJ URRP Z ÀUHSODFH GHQ RIÀFH )RUPDO GLQLQJ URRP ([WUD ODUJH HDW LQ NLWFKHQ )LQLVKHG basement w/ bath and guest quarters, Long private driveway, Two car garage, Lovely grounds w/ SRUFK WHUUDFH DQG ODUJH EDFN\DUG IRU HQWHUWDLQLQJ $1.950,000. CALL SUSAN 347 260 3891

SHORT TERM FURNISHED RENTALS 120’s One bedroom, parking, use of yard, all utilities included. Call for details Call Susan 347 260 3891...............................$1800 BELLE HARBOR PRIME LOCATION SHORT TERM OR YEAR ROUND - Center hall , large living with fireplace, formal dining room, kitchen offers, Viking stove, sub-zero Fridge, and extra state of the art refrigerator in basement, 3 great sized bedrooms, 3 full baths, porch, terrace, garage and lovely grounds. Pay all utilities, Call Susan 347 260 3891...............................$4000

APARTMENTS ONE BEDROOM

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101 Furnished available from nov to april.

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CALL Kate 917 680-8051..................................$1100

CALL SUSAN 347 260 3891.........$5K PAY ALL UTILITIES

EXCLUSIVE LEGAL TWO FAMILY ONE OF A KIND This beautiful home offers open living space, huge living room, HDW LQ NLWFKHQ FXVWRP EXLOW FDELQHWV VN\OLJKWV /RYHO\ KDUGZRRG Ă RRUV WKURXJKRXW 7KUHH H[WUD ODUJH EHGURRPV EDWKV ZDON LQ FORVHWV EHDXWLIXO GHFN RYHUORRNLQJ VXQVHWV DQG FLW\ VN\OLQH Basement perfect for mother/daughter situation. Private entrance to rental apartment, one bedroom. Private outdoor VSDFH DQG ORYHO\ JURXQGV SULYDWH SDUNLQJ DQG JDUDJH &DOLIRUQLD FHGDU VLGLQJ CALL GERI 917 751 8476 ....................................... $1.200,000

COMMERCIAL SPACE PROFESSIONL SPACE B 102 SANDS POINT 1800 sq ft VW )ORRU ZDON LQ /DUJH 2SHQ Ă RRU SODQ KDQGLFDS DFFHVVLEOH SULYDWH EDWKURRP DQG RIĂ€FH VSDFH DOO XWLOLWLHV LQFOXGHG Z GHVLJQDWHG SDUNLQJ VSDFHV Call Susan 347 260 3891 1250 sqt VW Ă RRU 'RFWRUV RIĂ€FH VHW XS :DONLQ KDQGLFDS DFFHVVLEOH SULYDWH EDWKURRP DOO XWLOLWLHV LQFOXGHG Z GHVLJQDWHG SDUNLQJ VSDFHV Call Susan 347 260 3891

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CALL SUSAN ................................................................................$3500

COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE ROCKAWAY PARK 875 SQ. FT ............................................... $1800 ROCKAWAY PARK 1375 SQ. FT .............................................$2300

TWO BEDROOM 120’s Large 2 Bed apt w/ terrace, lots of sunlight , parking, washer /dryer. 3rd floor walk up. Pay utilities

YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS SEEING THIS CLASSIC NEPONSIT BEACH HOME!

NEW EXCLUSIVE BELLE HARBOR GRAND 2 FAMILY HOME WITH ADDITIONAL STUDIO GUEST APARTMENT

6W à RRU ZDON LQ EHGURRP EDWK DSW DQG *XHVW 6WXGLR $SW 2ZQHUV $SDUWPHQW QG UG à RRUV NLWFKHQ GLQLQJ URRP OLYLQJ URRP Z ÀUHSODFH DQG EHGURRPV EDWKV Two terraces with great bay views. Large Yard and double driveway with garage.

CALL SUSAN FOR VIEWING 347ďšş260 3891.....ASKING $1.295,000

OCEANFRONT LAND %(//( +$5%25 ‡ [

Call Susan 347-260-3891 ...................... $2450 120’s Walk in unit, one block to beach. EIK, w/d hook up, 1 car summer parking, weekend only. Pay all utilities. Available Dec. 15th.

Call Kate 917 680 8051 .................................. $2200 120’s Small two bed w/ terrace and summer Wknd parking. Heat included.

No smoking. No pets. Available December 15th.

Call Susan 347 260 3891.................................$1600 B120s Beach block 2 bath w/ terrace, washer/dryer, parking 1 car. No pets. Pay all utilities

$2,300,000.00 CALL SUSAN 347 260 3891

Call Susan 347 260 3891 ....................... $2200

BELLE HARBOR BEACH BLOCK ONE FAMILY

140s 3 bed, 1bath, kitchen , dining room, livingroom w/

Be on vacation every day in this lovely home by the Sea. Spacious and welcoming, this home offers 3 Bedrooms and 2 Full Bathrooms. Large living room, dining room, EIK, new washer and dryer. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets and ocean views from the second level balcony.

CALL KATE TO SCHEDULE APPT. 917 680ďšş8051 REDUCED PRICE $895,000 BELLE HARBOR ONE FAMILY

$OO %ULFN [ OLYLQJ URRP GLQLQJ room, beautiful granite CO BROKE NLWFKHQ EHGURRP EXCLUSIVELY WITH EDWKV ÀQLVKHG EDVHPHQW BELLE HARBOR Two zone central a/c.

REALTY

$1.399M

THREE BEDROOM

fireplace , unfinished basement for storage and washer and dryer unit, long private driveway.

Call Susan 347-260-3891 120s loft apt, Lots of windows, Hardwood floors, Walk up, 1 spot, Washer /dryer in building Call Susan 347 260 3891 ........................$2450 140’s Grand and newly renovated to perfection. 2 bath, large rooms, huge living room, EIK, terrace, W/D hook up, share yard, parking .................$3900 $3500

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 20

The Rockaway Times

Lic. Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson • Nia Casilla Lic. RE Agents: Ariana David • Colleen Brady • Tanya Bass • Joseph Magiera • Zachary Plattner

417 Beach 129th St • (718) 634-3134 • Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

BELLE HARBOR

Supreme Legal 3 Large 9 legal 3 family currently 0 1 used as 2 a 1 family. 6 BR’s, L D 4.5 baths, fireplace O S and all massive rooms. Priced to sell! $1,299,000

Legal 10 Family Solid 9brick beach 1 block money 20 maker!

New D L windows, new roof, S O common laundry area and parking. $2,000,000

BELLE HARBOR

NEPONSIT

Beach Block First Showing!

Eagleton 9 family on a desirable 0 1 Beach block.

2 80 x 100, detached L D garage and plenty of S O parking for all with private Oceanview terraces. $1,900,000

SH 1s OW t IN G

ROCKAWAY PARK

SH 1s OW t IN G

NEPONSIT

Selling Fully Furnished This 9Mediterranean 5 0BR1 home exudes 2 beauty! Parking classic D L for 7, ocean views, inO S ground pool, Jacuzzi and so much more. $2,900,000

BELLE HARBOR

NEPONSIT

Legal 2 Family - 60' x 100' Bright 9and airy 6BR 1 retains its home 2 0 charm original with L D deep crown moldings, O S gorgeous french doors, large stained glass window. $1,300,000

Gorgeous Block - 60’ x 100’ Lot Large 9 country backyard, outdoor 01 2 shower and huge L D two tier deck. Quaint O S 3 BR’s, 3.5 bath, front porch and full fin. bsmt. $1,290,000

ARVERNE BY THE SEA

ARVERNE BY THE SEA

TOTTENVILLE

ARVERNE BY THE SEA

UPPER BELLE HARBOR

ROCKAWAY PARK

BELLE HARBOR

Penthouse with Ocean Views!

Gorgeous s plus 1 9 2BR’master an 0incredible 2 suite with it’s own L D private terrace. Living S O space offers skylights, HW floors and private parking. $720,000

High End Finishes 2BR, 2 9bath, cathedral 1 ceilings, skylights, 2 0 wood Mahogany floors, D L Granite counters. Full S O fin bsmt w/ BR. Private garage parking for 3 cars. $649,000

·

1

NEPONSIT

45’ x 100’ Corner Lot Unique9 5BR home 1 filled sunlight, 2 0 with open layout HW D L floors, catherdral S O ceilings. Detached 2 car garage. Steal of a deal! $799,000

COMMACK

Executive Ranch On 9a beautiful 1 sprawling acre 20 property 3BR, D L 3.5 baths, paved S O driveway and 2 car garage. $789,000

ARVERNE

Large Corner - 42' x 100' Legal 9two family, 1 a 3BR, large owner 2 0 hascombo LR/DR with D L loads of closets and S O stand up attic. A 2BR rental,W/D hookup. $625,000

To advertise in THE ROCKAWAY TIMES call 718-634-3030 ads@RockawayTimes.com

1

Priced to Sell - 60’x100’ Open floor 9 plan with 4BR, 0 12.5 baths, stone 2 spacious dining L D fireplace, area and kitchen. HW O S floors, granite counters and master en suite.

Private drive. $999,000

Head Towards the Beach!

Mother/ 9 Daughter 0 1 4BR, 3 bath, features 2 floors, high L D HW ceilings, spacious living S O room/dining room, terrace and detached garage. $899,000 OW st IN G

Oceanfront - Legal 2 Enjoy a9front row seat 1 unobstructed with 2 0 views ocean plus a L D private rooftop terrace.

O S Each unit has 3 BR’s, 2 baths and private parking. $995,000

Oceanfront Penthouse!

Filled with and 1 9s, sunlight has 2.5 baths, 2 03BR’ 2 pairs of sliders leading L D out to a spectaular and O S spacious oceanfront balcony and private parking. $845,000

BELLE HARBOR

Price Just Reduced!

Open1floor 9 plan, 3 BR's, 0 master suite, 2.5 huge 2 loads of upgrades L D baths and large ocean S O view roof top deck.

Tenants unit has 2 BR's and 1 bath. $899,000

OW st IN G

1

ROCKAWAY PARK

Legal Two Family H/W1 9 floors and a 0 tremendous master 2 D suite, walk in closet.

L Tenant has a 2 BR, S O 1 bath apartment.

Paved back yard. $965,000

SH

Spacious Legal 2 Family Bright 9and spacious 1 bath home 4BR, 2 0 3.5 with open L D floor desirable plan, private O S driveway and bonus studio rental. $855,000

OW st IN G

With Over $47 Million in Sales and Over $10 Million Under Contract, We Are Rockaways Top Producing Realty Company.

BELLE HARBOR

Priced to Sell!

Completely 9 renovated, 0 1 and cozy 2 cute 2 bungalow with L D BR private backyard S O and parking may be the perfect solution. $549,000

SH

It’s a Wrap!

SH

BELLE HARBOR

Spectacular Tudor - 50’ x 100’ TURN 9 KEY FOR 1 UNDER 2 0 2/3A BR, MIL. Beautiful 2.5 D L bath Belle Harbor home.

S O Finished basement, finished attic, private parking $995,000

Corner 60' x 100' Lot Massive9 EIK with 1 island, SS oversized 20 appliances, FDR and D L full fin. bsmt, family S O room and office.

Parking for four cars. $1,600,000

BELLE HARBOR

Amazing Curb Appeal - 60x100 Large 9front porch, 1 high LR with 2 0 ceilings, fireplace, HW floors, D L 6BR’s, 3 full baths.

S O Large basement with high ceilings, plenty of parking. $1,400,000 SH 1s OW t IN G

NEPONSIT

Beautiful Reverse Floor Plan Spectacular ocean 9 views 0 1 in the areas 2 where you'll spend the L D most time. 3BR, 3.5 O S baths, open floor plan, fin. bsmt and parking for 8. $999,000

NEPONSIT

Beach Block Sprawling 9 80x100 Six0 1 bedroom home 2 on a beautiful L D desirable block just S O steps from the beach. $1,800,000

BELLE HARBOR

Center Hall Colonial Spectacular 9 colonial, gorgeous paved 01 2 D backyard with InL ground heated pool, S O two private driveways and a detached garage. $1,400,000

The Rockaprop Team

BELLE HARBOR

Brand New to Market First floor 9 2 BR, 1 bath.

Upper 0 1level has 2 BR, 1 2 with radiant heat.

L D bath Master BR with Juliette O S balcony.

Finished bsmt. and a private garage. $819,000

BAYSIDE

Detached Brick Ranch Home 9with private 1 drive 1 car 2 0 inanda wonderful garage D L neighborhood, tons S O of potential! Huge unfinished basement. $735,000

NEPONSIT

40' x 100' Bungalow Quaint93 BR, 2 bath 1 which needs home 2 0 tender your love and D L care. Call us today S O for your private showing! $699,000

BELLE HARBOR

Brand New to Market All brick 9 bright and beautiful 0 1 3BR, 2.5 2 bath, gorgeous kitchen L D with massive storage, O S high ceilings and oak flooring throughout. $989,000

ARVERNE BY THE SEA

Brand New Home - Ocean Views!

Custom9 built, never 1 s, 3 Baths, lived 2 0 in, 5 BR’ luxurious ocean view D L master suite with a S O spacious rooftop ocean view deck. Tax abated until 2034. $929,000

BELLE HARBOR

Beach Block - Legal 2 3 BR,1 92 baths, H/W floors 2 0 & terrace with D ocean views over a L 2BR rental. Newly S O paved yard & full private radiant heated driveway. $899,000

FANTASTIC BUY!

Legal Two Family - 46’x100’ Bright 96BR, 3.5 bath 1 the PS 114 located 2 0 inDistrict.

School HW L D flooring, full fin bsmt, O S garage and plenty of private parking! Low Taxes $849,000

BELLE HARBOR

Solid Brick - 1 Block to Beach!

Main level 9 has an open LR/DR 0 1room, EIK, office, 2 full bath and high L D ceilings. 2nd level has O S 3 nicely sized BR’s and a full bath. Detached garage. $875,000

ROCKAWAY BEACH

Penthouse Condo Spacious9 3BR duplex 1 HW floors, with 2 0 master large suite w/ D L amazing ocean views, S O comes with parking spot. $599,000

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

The Rockaway Times

Page 21

Lic. Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson • Nia Casilla Lic. RE Agents: Ariana David • Colleen Brady • Tanya Bass • Joseph Magiera • Zachary Plattner

417 Beach 129th St • (718) 634-3134 • Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

FAR ROCKAWAY

Legal 3 Family LEGAL 9 3 FAMILY 1 CORNER OF ON0THE 2 SEAGIRT! This victorian L D offers a spacious lot S O size, private parking & each apt. has 2BR's 1 bath. $550,000

CALLING ALL SURFERS!

Wateredge Condo Check out 9 this fabulous, mint 0 1condition condo 2 literally steps to the L D water. There's room for O S your family and friends with 3BR, 2 bath plus 2 car parking. $495,000

BROAD CHANNEL

Spectacular Water Views This 3BR 9 home has everything, 0 1 beautifully 2 renovated kitchen, L D expansive bi-level Trex O S back deck. Launch your boat or kayak from your home. $439,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Oceanfront Building Here is9 a great 2BR 1 apartment ocean 2 0 facing waiting for your fresh D L decorating ideas. Private S O terrace, HW floors and laundry in building. $425,000

ROCKAWAY BEACH

Investment Opportunity!

This 1910 9 large MultiFamily 0 1 home has 2 2 duplex apartments.

L D Amazing Bay Views, S O 4 bedrooms and 3 baths and low taxes. $499,000

FAR ROCKAWAY

Semi Attached Legal 2 Family Both 9 apartments 1 have 2BA. 2 0 3BRs and Unfinished basement D L with half bath and dual S O entry. Full back yard and private driveway for 3 cars. $499,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

ROCKAWAY PARK

Boardwalk Building Large 19bedroom 5th 1 floor with 2 0 apartment tons of potential.

D L Bring your remodeling S O ideas to this spacious apartment. $229,000

ARVERNE

Waters Edge Condo Turn key 9 3BR, 2 bath condo 0 1with open floor 2 plan, master suite, L D 2 balconies, private O S back yard, garage and private driveway! $549,000

Lisa Jackson

ROCKAWAY PARK

ROCKAWAY PARK

ROCKAWAY PARK

Oceanfront Penthouse Amazing 9 panoramic ocean views 01 2 from this upper D L 1 BR penthouse S O apartment. Set of sliders allows a guest bedroom. $569,000

You have my promise!

ROCKAWAY PARK

Beach Block - Rare Find Spacious9 2BR, 1BA 1 hardwood co-op 2 0 with floors, easy floor plan, D L ocean views and O S parking. Just steps to the ocean! Priced to sell. $249,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

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2 spacious bedrooms, 1 9 throughout, HW 0floors 2 a massive waterview L D terrace and a price S O that's way below market value! $185,000

Rockaway Beach Spacious 2BR 9 01 apartment with 2 terrace and L D private ocean views from S O EVERY window! Call today! $325,000 New To Market Large 2BR, 9 2 bath low maintenance Condo 01 2 with spacious rec room D L and beautiful grounds S O with BBQ Area in a Doorman pet friendly Building. $269,000 Ocean View 5th floor, 9 1BR condo with 0 1an ocean view 2 terrace! A deeded L D parking spot in the O S gated lot is included and LOW monthly charges. $239,000

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 22

A Train Upgrade Dear Editor: I enjoyed your Jesus story (One Crazy Commute, 12/5/2019 issue).

The last two years of working for the city of New York, one of my bosses informed me I was being transferred from Queens to Manhattan, 34th Street.

So I took the A Train three of four mornings a week. A gravelly-voiced man would say, "Good Morning ladies and gentlemen.

I’m trying to get myself together.

Anything you could spare would be appreciated. A quarter, a dime, a nickel, a penny.” He was African-American, was poorly dressed and just looked awful.

And people gave him money.

One day, after leaving work, I was waiting for the A Train, sitting on a bench. An African-American man sat down on the bench. He was wearing a nice sports shirt, an expensive blazer, a nice pair of slacks and loafers. He looked familiar for some reason. After glancing at him a few times, he said with a gravelly voice, “Hi, how you doing?” I was shocked. It was him—The guy begging for money every morning. He knew I recognized him, as he smiled at me.

I related this story to a friend, who told me a lot of those people do quite well for themselves.

James Murray Georgina’s a Gem Dear Editor: Come one! Come all!

Georgina's Bakery is very new on Beach 116th Street, near Claudette's. I went in wanting a cake with writing for my mother's 95th birthday. Behind the counter, Josephine, the head lady, was so touched, she made up a free bag of cookies for Mom, "Wishing Her Well."

I can say the white tiered cake was the best I ever tasted, and next day I went back to tell her so. The shop is the most clean, new and appealing. Everything looks fresh and tempting.

Hope you will come out and support our new neighbor, a great addition to the Renaissance of Beach 116th Street.

Glenn Lawson Edgemere’s Future is Bright Dear Editor: (As first published in the Queens Eagle) After years of blight stemming from the closure of the old Peninsula Hospital, Edgemere’s community has suffered from missed opportunities and delayed investment, while the rest of the Rockaways has blossomed. But the residents who lived around the abandoned lot, demanded a new development that would revitalize the area, alleviate rent-burdened families with affordable housing and serve future generations. They made sure we—as the devel-

The Rockaway Times oper and the local council member—would bring positive change to an ailing neighborhood they call home. Now, we are on the cusp of building a new project, which would represent millions of dollars in investment in Far Rockaway and transform the former Peninsula Hospital into a vibrant economic hub.

We worked day-in and dayout with the Edgemere community, building upon a vision that would serve local needs—one that would create jobs for the neighborhood, be resilient, and bring business to an economically underserved area of the Rockaways.

Now, after years of community input, negotiations and a vote of support by the City Council, our vision for Edgemere Commons can become a reality and the future of Edgemere has never looked brighter. We can say confidently that the legacy of Edgemere Commons will be one of revitalization and renewal that will Continued on page 23

Happy New Year!

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WE GET EMAIL

Continued from Page 22 reshape the future of the Peninsula.

As Edgemere Commons moves forward, it will become the largest, affordable housing development led by a private applicant advanced under the de Blasio administration, delivering 2,050 units of affordable housing to the people of Edgemere. Providing critically needed new housing for a community that is too short on affordable options.

It will deliver a financial boost to the Edgemere neighborhood, serving as an economic anchor with thousands of square feet for commercial and retail space for restaurants, businesses and more. Not only that, but it will also bring a new supermarket, Western Beef, to a neighborhood that is currently a food desert. In total, Edgemere Commons is expected to generate $1.486 billion of economic growth for the City and will elevate the financial

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020 circumstances of many by creating 650 permanent quality jobs.

But this project is about more than just economic growth, it’s about community.

Edgemere Commons will give the community a place to live, work and play together. Public open space will be dedicated to a children’s playground and a public plaza will allow for special events, regular programming and community engagement and enjoyment.

We are designing a community center with and for the local residents to ensure people have a place of their own.

And finally, as the consequences of climate change continue to shape our environment, Edgemere Commons will be built to handle the worst of storms, featuring innovative resiliency and storm preparedness measures including bioswales, bioretention rainwater systems, solar panels, green and gray water infrastructure and extended tree pits.

The future of Edgemere is

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Greg Valvo The Belisario Team at Compass 718.795.6263 gregory.valvo@compass.com 32-06 Bayswater Ct. Bayswater, Far Rockaway | Coming Soon | $449,000 Located in a quiet corner of the Bayswater area this is a great 3 JOMæ JBsV zWsV bWpVOM JBpOaObsà Kitchen and bathroom currently being renovated using our Compass Concierge Program.

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

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bright, but more work has to be done.

Currently, the median income for Edgemere sits at $30,400, the lowest income on the peninsula. But that will not be the reality forever. Edgemere Commons has all the ingredients needed to shape the neighborhood renewal and with continued community investment in the outcome of this project, we can raise that median income.

The often-overlooked residents of Edgemere now have a

Page 23 seat at the table and will have increased access to resources, like a new supermarket, community space, and a business center they’ve demanded for years.

Our hope for this project is that others will look back and see that this pivotal vote by the City Council and community partnership was one that began the revival of Edgemere and opened doors of opportunity for generations to come.

Councilman Donovan Richards and Daniel Moritz

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MAIL@ROCKAWAYTIMES.COM

Absolutely MINT 1 bedroom CO-OP in the Belle Harbor section of the beautiful Rockaways. This unit is completely updated with fully restored wood floors, brand new kitchen with stainless steel appliances and new paint. Tons of closet space.

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·

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 24

Ask the DOC

By Peter Galvin, MD

The use of insect repellents is strongly recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to prevent infectious diseases transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks. Insect repellents applied to exposed skin or clothing should be used together with long pants and shirt sleeves, plus avoidance of outdoor activities during peak mosquito-biting times. Mosquitoes can transmit Zika, chikungunya, dengue, West Nile, Eastern equine encephalitis, yellow fever, and malaria. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease, rickettsial diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and viruses such as Powassan virus.

One of the most effective insect repellents is N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET). It is highly effective against both mosquitoes and ticks. It is avail-

The Rockaway Times

Repellents

able in concentrations from 5 to 99 percent; higher concentrations provide longer-lasting protection, however concentrations above 50 percent do not improve efficacy. Reviews of DEET indicate that it is generally safe to use. Toxic and allergic reactions are uncommon, although it may feel oily or sticky on the skin and may damage some synthetic fibers and plastics. It may be used on children in concentrations up to 30 percent and on infants over two months old. It may be found in products by Cutter, Off!, Sawyer, Ultrathon, and Repel 100.

Picaridin provides protection against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, fleas, and chiggers. It is available in concentrations between 5 and 20 percent and is safe for children in concentrations up to 10 percent. It is as effective as DEET. While it may cause eye and skin irritation, it is not oily, and is colorless and odorless.

It will not damage clothing or plastics, but may stain leather and vinyl. It is available in prod-

ucts by Cutter, Avon Skin So Soft, Natrapel, and Sawyer. IR3535 is a synthetic version of the amino acid alanine. It is available in concentrations of 7.5 and 20 percent. It repels mosquitoes, flies, and deer ticks. Several studies found the 7.5 percent concentration to be ineffective.

It may cause eye irritation and may damage clothing and plastics. It is safe on children over 2 months old. It is available in products by Avon Skin So Soft and Coleman.

Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) occurs naturally in the lemon eucalyptus plant and is synthesized for commercial use as a repellant. It repels mosquitoes, gnats, ticks, flies, and biting midges. Lab studies have found it as effective as DEET for mosquitoes.

It may cause eye and skin irritation and may trigger allergic reactions (citrus allergies). It is not recommended for use in children under three. It can be found in products by Off!, Coleman, and Repel. A relatively

new repellent is 2-undecanone and is derived from the wild tomato plant. It is available in a 7.75 percent spray formulation called HOMS Bite Blocker. It can have a strong odor. Less effective repellents are essential oils obtained from botanical materials and citronella oil-based repellents. Both may cause skin irritation and must be re-applied frequently. Lastly, a synthetic repellent called permethrin may be applied to clothing and is highly effective against ticks. It remains active for several weeks.

One final point—avoid using products that combine a repellent and a sunscreen because the ingredients have different re-application intervals. If using both products separately, apply the sunscreen first. Putting sunscreen over insect repellent renders the repellent ineffective.

For more information, go to: www.medicalletter.org Questions and comments may be sent to editor@rockawaytimes.com.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Let There Be Light!

December 21 marked the winter solstice, the darkest day of the year and the start of days getting longer. Minute by minute there will be more sunlight streaming through our windows on the cold winter days, marching toward our favorite time of year here in Rockaway.

According to Forever Conscious, "The winter solstice celebrates the longest hours of darkness or the rebirth of the sun and is believed to hold a powerful energy for regeneration, renewal and self-reflection.”

After the holiday celebrations, let this winter solstice give you permission to take some time with your quiet energy to examine where you are in your life and what you want for your life. Allow the increasing light day by day be your guide to go within, feel/think and come to a peaceful place to start anew. With the start of a new decade, it is a time to reflect on who we are and what we want. Life is short, anything can happen, and we don’t know what is in store, so why not spend some time thinking

about what we really want— what would make us happy?

It isn’t easy because “reality” always seems to come in. We see the obstacles along with the wishes, so we never think we can change or get there. But we can. Obstacles are meant to be cleared. We can make small strides, small changes to start building momentum for the bigger things.

Setting intentions is tied to this time of year: new year, new decade, new beginning.

It is a time to let go of the past, make personal changes to move forward. Someone shared an experience she had with Ram Dass, an inspirational spiritual teacher, who passed just a few days ago. She was at an ashram in India and when she was getting ready to leave she went to say goodbye to him. She said, “I’m afraid we have to go back now.” He smiled sweetly and said, “You never go back, you are always moving forward.”

So, as the days get longer, let the light in and focus on what makes your unique light shine

Page 25 brightly and how you can be happier inside. Get out of your comfort zone and think of one thing to do or change— something small—and do it. See how easy it is. Gain the courage to create your life instead of letting it just happen starting with small things if that works better for you. When we set some intentions or wishes or goals from a place deep within, you may find that people come into your path who might encourage you, or you may receive something that will make it happen. Things start to align; help, in whatever form, starts to cross our paths. It only happens with clear, inner-created intentions. Moving forward into 2020, let this be your new beginning. Start to live a mindful creative life and let the light shine in you!

May you be happy. May you be free. May you be compassionate. May you be grateful.

May you let go of things that do not serve you. May you have inner peace.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 26

Italiano, Prego

By Lou Pastina

So, if you hadn’t noticed it, Plum Tomatoes on Beach 129th Street has changed owners.

Not much to notice from the outside but there are changes on the inside. Plum Tomatoes used to be a pizza place that also served dinners. You could get slices and hang out on the side at a table. There was a wall that kind of separated the slice eaters from the diners. The various types of pizza slices were

displayed under a glass case at the counter.

The new owners have renamed the place La Sorrentina and have made changes, and I have to say, I like them. La Sorrentina is now an Italian restaurant that happens to also sell pizza. And that tells the main difference. The wall separating the areas is gone, and each table is adorned with a white tablecloth and setting. There are waiters who are attentive to diners and wine bottles are

everywhere. In other words, the place has transitioned from a pizza parlor to an Italian restaurant, and when you think about it, what other real Italian restaurants do we have on the peninsula? Yes, there is the old stalwart Tiberio’s on Beach 116th Street, and there is Elegante on Beach 92nd Street, and while their food is excellent, it’s not a sit-down place to eat, more of a take-out kinda place.

I have eaten twice at La Sorrentina and have enjoyed my meal both times. I found the portions to be plentiful and tasty, however be aware of the garlic, it will get you later! They have a wine list, and the ambience is warm and inviting. I wish them luck in their new endeavor, as the block already has Mexican, Chinese and pubstyle food establishments.

I understand the prior owners of La Sorrentina didn’t always endear themselves to the neighborhood, at least that’s what I understood from the scuttlebutt. But they made the investment when no one else

The Rockaway Times did and they stayed the course for many decades, and I wish them well. And I understand that the new owners have made it clear that the new place is not a hangout for the pre-teens to pile their bikes outside, or to buy a coke and sit for hours inside and kibitz.

And that some of the kids are asking their parents to boycott the place. But I think that is really unfair. These folks made an investment too and are focusing on serving adults, and well, being an adult, I side with them!

I am excited by the prospect of another place opening up right on the corner of Beach 129th Street. Again, my sources tell me it’s to be a Brennan & Carr-type place with roast beef au jus. Perfect! Add that to the newly-opened Harbor Light around the corner and it makes cooking almost an afterthought.

How lucky are we living in the greatest place, in the greatest city on Earth? Happy New Year Rockaway. Can’t wait to begin the third decade of the 2000s!

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

liquid as possible.

Combine potatoes and onions with the flour, eggs, salt, baking powder and pepper and toss with a fork until well combined.

Pour a cup of oil in a pan and heat until sizzling. (You can test this with a sprinkle of water using your finger). With a fork, scoop 12 small latkes into the pan and flatten a little. Let cook on meBy Sharon Feldman dium high heat until brown (apMakes approximately 24 small proximately 6-8 minutes. Check before flipping to see that they latkes are brown) and cook another 6-8 Ingredients: 2-3 very large sweet potatoes minutes until done.

Transfer to a cooking rack (about a pound), peeled lined with paper towels or paper 1 large onion, quartered bags to drain the oil. ¾ cups all-purpose flour Serve with applesauce, sour 3 large eggs cream or Greek yogurt, and 3 teaspoons kosher salt 1-1/2 teaspoons baking pow- some smoked salmon. der ½ teaspoon ground pepper 1 cup of vegetable oil

Page 27

Sweet Potato Latkes

Directions: Coarsely shred potatoes and onions together. I used a food processor but you can use a box grater. Transfer mixture to a clean dish towel and squeeze and wring out as much of the

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 28

A ROCKAWAY TIMES YEAR IN REVIEW

Continued from Page 17

of rebuilding after Hurricane Sandy. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced that their protection plan would include 19 new jetties up to Beach 149th. Thank You CafĂŠ opened on Beach 116th Street.

The MTA finally released the Rockaway Branch Feasibility family. Joe Murray was hoping to take down Melinda Katz in Study. the Queens DA race.

October 17: November 7: A cyclist was killed by a veVFW Post 260 was getting hicle on Cross Bay Boulevard.

Community House was closing ready to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Melinda Katz offifor good. cially won the Queens DA race.

The Parks Department put out October 24: Rockaway marked the sev- a Request for Proposals for the enth anniversary of Hurricane beach concessions.

Sandy.

November 14: Demolition began on the Park October 31: Happy Halloween! The Rock- Theater on Beach 116th Street. away Times shared a story of Rockaway marked the 18th anthe Beach 116th Street fire- niversary of the crash of Flight house ghost. The Harbor Light 587. The Beach Channel Dolfinally opened, putting an end phins Football team made it to to a long chapter for the Heeran the playoffs.

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November 21: Stockings for a Cause kicked off. Vino By The Sea was hosting a “Worst Thing About Living in Rockaway� party at Whit's End to celebrate their first anniversary.

November 28: Students participated in a safety rally, expressing their concerns over the proposed Beach 101st homeless shelter.

The Silver Gull Beach Club joined the Simon Wiesenthal Center and the National Park Service to announce an initiative to fight back against hate after the Labor Day graffiti incident.

ca Bay Wildlife Refuge. Siobhan O’Sullivan, a young girl battling cancer, led the SFDS tree lighting.

December 19: Rogers was getting ready for its 100th Anniversary celebration. A downed wire left Beach 116th in the dark for several hours. A group of locals led a bartending fundraising effort for Siobhan O’Sullivan. Longtime Scholars’ Academy Principal Brian O’Connell announced he was moving on to Lawrence Woodmere Academy. Local, Theresa Racine, who was adopted, found her birthmother after 54 years.

December 5: December 26: Broad Channel resident, MorFather Jomar Legaspi was pregan Allen, was getting ready to ship off boxes of elves to de- paring for his final Mass at SFDS ployed service members to after joining the parish a year ago. The community gathered spread Christmas cheer. for the annual Beach 116th Menorah lighting—a last for West December 12: The Little North Pole lit up End Temple Rabbi Marjorie for the season, debuting a new Slome, who will be retiring. The surprise of dancing lights. Jayne Far Rock National Pan-HellenHolsinger brought her exhibit, ic Council led a successful toy “National Parks� to the Jamai- drive.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Facts You Probably Don’t Need

The average four-year-old child asks over four hundred questions a day.

Times Square revelers observed a moment of silence at midnight instead.

Humans shed 40 pounds of skin in their lifetime, completely replacing their outer skin every month.

Two thousand pounds of confetti are dropped in Times Square.

More than 2,500 left-handed people are killed every year from using equipment meant for right-handed people.

Instead of a ball, Miami, Florida rings in the new year with an orange, while over in Key West, a drag queen descends in a shoe.

The song traditionally sung on New Year's, “Auld Lang Syne,� means “times gone by.�

The total weight of all the ants on Earth is greater than the total weight of all the humans on the planet.

The annual tradition of • gathering in Times Square for New Year's started as a party to celebrate the opening of The New York Times building in 1904.

Over 200,000 people attended. Wartime restrictions put the tradition on pause in 1942 and 1943.

It’s not just Americans who fall short on knowledge quizzes. In a 2008 survey, 58% of British teenagers thought Sherlock Holmes was a real guy, while 20% thought Winston Churchill was not.

Protect your world Auto • Home • Life • Retirement

Page 29

Beach 116th Street Gun Activity Alerts Lead Nowhere

What was going on Beach 116th Street on Sunday night?

According to NYPD and local business owners, not much.

Locals were on alert after receiving multiple notifications of activity taking place on Beach 116th Street that allegedly involved a weapon. On Sunday, December 29, in the evening, an alert came in about gunshots heard near the beach block of Beach 116th. This was then followed by an alert of a person spotted with a firearm.

A few hours later, another alert reported an armed robbery at an address for Pizza D’Amore.

However, there was little follow up to any of the reports.

The Rockaway Times reached out to the NYPD for more information, which responded that they found nothing out of the ordinary.

“On Sunday, December 29, 2019 at approximately 1850 hours, police responded to a 911 call of shots fired in front of 124 Beach 116 Street within the confines of the 100th Precinct.

Upon arrival, officers were informed by a 62-year-old female witness that she heard what sounded like gun fire. A canvass was conducted of the immediate area and it was negative for victims or ballistics. No injuries are reported as a result of this incident.�

Rumors has spread that the gunpoint robbery took place at new cafĂŠ, Thank You, and others said Pizza D’Amore, but both owners denied it. “No gunpoint robbery happened,â€?

Maribel Araujo, owner of Thank You, said.

In this case, no news, is good news.

' % % " " % $ # Get your tickets now so you can share the love at Christmas!

Instead of the usual bottle of wine, consider giving a Graybeards 50-50 Pot o’ Gold ticket to that special someone. Last year’s winning ticket was worth over $50,000 cash! The Graybeards, a 501(c) QRW IRU SURɽW ZDV IRUPHG LQ DIWHU WKH WHUURULVW DWWDFNV DQG WKH FUDVK RI $$ 7KH PLVVLRQ ZDV VLPSOH KHOS ORFDO SHRSOH LQ QHHG )RU DOPRVW \HDUV ZHȅYH EHHQ DEOH WR DFFRPSOLVK that goal because of the generous support of the Rockaway community and people like you.

Please consider purchasing one or more tickets for the Pot o’ Gold drawing, our largest fundraising HYHQW RI WKH \HDU 7KH GUDZLQJ ZLOO EH KHOG DW RXU DQQXDO GLQQHU GDQFH RQ -DQXDU\ You do not need to be there to WIN! Buying Tickets is Easy! &DOO RU 7H[W PH DW RU VHQG DQ H PDLO 5LFN#+RUDQ PH 7LFNHW V FDQ EH KDQG GHOLYHUHG SLFNHG XS RU PDLOHG 3: Payment can be made by cash, check, credit card or PayPal Thank you for your continued support and good luck!!

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Some people think Allstate only protects your car. Truth is, Allstate can also protect your home or apartment, your boat, motorcycle - even your retirement and your life. And the more of your world you put in Good HandsÂŽ, the more you can save.

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Proudly serving our community for over 25 years.

Insurance subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Indemnity Co., Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co. Life insurance and annuities issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE, Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Northbrook, IL. Š 2010 Allstate Insurance Co.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 30

Saturday, January 4, 10 a.m.

WINTER NATURE HIKE Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Have you ever wondered where all the animals go in the winter? Search for cardinals, yellow-rumped warblers, white-throated sparrows, and more. Learn about the birds that make their winter home here and the techniques they use to survive the cold.

Saturday, January 4, 10 a.m.

SHORELINE CLEANUP Rockaway Community Park Almeda Avenue and Beach 58th Street Join JBRPC and help clean up the shoreline! Gloves, bags, tools and warm refreshments will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Event is rain or shine.

Sunday, January 5,

8:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.

BLOOD DRIVE St. Camillus 180 Beach 100th Street Donate blood and save a life.

Ages 16-75, minimum 110lbs, bring ID. No tattoos in last 12 months. All of those who donate will be entered into a raffle for a trip to Cancun.

Thursday, January 9, 6:30 p.m.

KAYAK CAPSIZE! Ryan Visitor Center Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn Learn how to get back in your kayak after you've fallen out and how to help another paddler. Practice on dry land to know what to do when you capsize on the water. Dress in comfortable clothes. Space is limited; call 718-338-3799 to make a reservation.

Friday, January 10, 4:30 p.m.

FULL WOLF MOON SUNSET WALK

The Rockaway Times

finger plays, and more! All ages Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Take a nighttime hike around are welcome to participate.

West Pond with a National Park Ranger. Learn more about Saturdays, 11 a.m. the nocturnal residents of the SHAPE UP: ULTIMATE Refuge. Call 718-318-4340 to CARDIO FOR ADULTS reserve a spot. Wear sturdy Seaside Library shoes and dress for the weath116-15 Rockaway Beach Blvd er.

Shape Up NYC instructor Gloria leads this total body Tuesday, January 14, 7:15 p.m. workout that incorporates COMMUNITY BOARD 14 techniques such as kicks and Knights of Columbus punches that move to a rapid 333 Beach 90th Street pace to promote cardiovascuMonthly CB14 meeting. Show lar fitness, strength, muscular up early to sign up to speak. endurance, and flexibility using high energy and motivatFridays, 11 a.m. ing music. Wear comfortable BABY AND ME clothes and sneakers; bring a Peninsula Library 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd water bottle and towel. First Babies (3-17 months) and their come, first serve. parents and caregivers are welcome to join for bounces, Mondays-Fridays, nursery rhymes, stories, and 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. more!

STACKS: HOMEWORK CENTER Fridays, 11:30 a.m.

Peninsula Library MORNING STORYTIME 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd.

Peninsula Library Homework Center for grades 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd 1-8. Help with homework and Join for an all ages storytime. projects in all subjects.

Read books, sing songs, do

Joseph F. Keenan Attorney At Law

Phone: (718) 747 8850 jfkeenan@joekeenanlaw.com

9;

114-04 Beach Channel Drive Suite 9 Rockaway Park, New York 11694

LASZLO KOVACS Congratulations To The Winners Of Our Annual Christmas Giveaway!

ALL TYPES OF DEPARTMENT OF BUILDINGS SERVICES

Grand Prize - Karen Carey Second Prize - Alexi Stathis Third Prize - Maureen Lynch Fourth Prize - Christine O'Connor Fifth Prize - Patricia Sweeney

Thank You To All Our Customers For Your Patronage and Support Have A Blessed New Year!

Please Note: Lana's Loft will be closed on Mondays Through March For Maintenance.

114-04 114 4-0 Beach Channel Rockaway, NY 718 945 5885 Tues-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm.

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ExpeditorNY@aol.com

917-294-6540

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

The Rockaway Times

Page 31

BUSINESS DIRECTORY ATTORNEY

Victor Re Attorney At Law Accidents • Criminal • DWI’s Also Other Matters

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 32

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation: EYSTONE LLC. Arts of Org filed with Sec. of State of New York (SSNY) 10/29/2019.Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to the LLC, 3901 Main St STE 610, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: General Notice of Formation of NOVEL 3 LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/28/2019. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Novel 3 LLC, C/O Allen Michel 11627 225th Street Cambria Heights, NY 11411). Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

REGAL QUEENS PROPERTY LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/13/19. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Ken Huang; Norman Lui 3808 Union St Ste 8A Flushing NY 11354. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of 4612 Queens Blvd. LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/13/19.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o The Jemstone Group, Attn: Joseph Jemal, 358 5th Avenue #1405, NY, NY 10001. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of Respect Queens Holdings LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/09/19.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY esignated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Telos Legal Corp, 99 Washington Ave., Ste. 805A, Albany, NY 12210. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Qual. of LOTCONFIDENCE LLC, Authority filed with the SSNY on 12/12/2019. Office loc: Queens County. LLC formed in DE on 12/10/2019.

SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, Attn: Tamer Farooqui, 80-73 Park Lane, Kew Gardens, NY 11415. Address required to be maintained in DE: 160 Greentree Dr., Ste 101, Dover, DE 19904.

Cert of Formation filed with DE Div. of Corps, 401 Federal St., Ste 4, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

The Rockaway Times

Notice of Formation of I-Care Revenue Management LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY SSNY on 11/12/2019.

Office is located in Queens County.

SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 92-41 214th Place Queens Village NY 11428. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

Articles of Organization (DOM-PROF. LLC).

Design Innovations for Architecture, PLLC filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/18/19. Office loc.: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent of DOM-PROF. LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address SSNY shall mail copy of process to 28-48 42nd St., Floor 2, Astoria, NY 11103. Purpose: The practice of architecture.

EAM RENTALS LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/15/2019. Cty: QUEENS. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to ISABEL MERCADO & ELCIDO VICTOR MERCADO, 105-33 DITMARS BLVD., EAST ELMHURST, NY 11369. General Purpose.

Notice of formation of Floral Parkwewell LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the secretary of state of New York SSNY on 10/15/2019.

Office located in Queens County.

SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 195-18 42 Ave, Flushing, NY 11358. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation, Tea Time NY LLC. Articles of Org. filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/21/2019.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copies of any process served against the LLC to: The LLC, 8553 66th Road, Rego Park, NY 11374. Purpose: any lawful purpose or activity.

1259 PLACE LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 12/29/2016.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 88-08 Liberty Ave., Ozone Park, NY 11417. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Tics Bar & Restaurant LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 12/11/2019. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Vijays Tax Services, 12716 Liberty Ave., South Richmond Hill, NY 11419.

General Purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: HELL'S GATE PROPERTY SERVICES, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/14/19, office location Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC, 22-34 24th Street, Astoria, New York, 11105. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Go Merchandise LLC Arts of Org. filed SSNY 9/13/19. Office: Queens Co. SSNY design. agent for process & shall mail to Legalinc Corp Srvcs Inc. 1967 Wehrle Dr #1-086 Buffalo, NY 14221. General Purpose.

SPEC'D STUDIO LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 12/3/2019. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Stella Chang, 57-20 Catalpa Ave., #3R, Ridgewood, NY 11385, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

PARAGON TRANSPORTATION SERVICES LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY)11/13/2019. Cty: QUEENS. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to MICHAEL LEVINE, 25-11 41ST AVENUE, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. General Purpose.

382 BURGER LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 07/23/19. Off. Loc.: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 20807 42nd Ave Bayside, NY 11361. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

Jose L. Nieves and Associates, PLLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 08/27/2019. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 213-37 39th Avenue, Suite 184, Bayside, NY 11361-2071. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

CHROMATIC FAS LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/15/2019. Cty: QUEENS. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 6762 79TH ST., MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY 11379. General Purpose.

SUNNYSIDE CONDO RELIANCE LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/10/2019. Cty: QUEENS. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 84-11 256TH ST., FLORAL PARK, NY 11001. General Purpose.

GET SPOTTED! PLACE YOUR T-shirts AD HERE!!! available online Call

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www.rockawaytimes.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

The Rockaway Times

Page 33

2019 Covered 2019 was another big year for Rockaway. From the home- the opening of the Harbor Light, the year was jam-packed less shelter proposal, to celebrating the centennial of the first with activity. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a look at some of our big front pages from transatlantic flight, to more sand replenishment and finally, 2019.

VOL. 5, NO. 43 - THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2019

Pump It Up!

VOL. 5, NO. 40 - THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2019

VOL. 5, NO. 46 - THURSDAY, MAY 9, 2019

History Revived

Rockaway Beach Sand Replenishment Begins See Page 2

Photo by Katie McFadden

Ceremony Marks 100th Anniversary Of First Transatlantic Flight

Photo by Laura Deckelman

See Page 10

VOL. 6, NO. 4 - THURSDAY, JULY 18, 2019

, JUNE 20, URSDAY . 52 - TH VOL. 5, NO

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2019

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Avery Hellman saluted the warriors with her buddy Liam Courtney, as Hope For The Warriors came into town.

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See Page 12 For More Photos

Photos

_

by Katie

McFadden

VOL. 6, NO. 24 - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

VOL. 6, NO. 16 - THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019

CHEERS!

19 JETTIES COMING - NEPONSIT and BELLE HARBOR GETTING THEM, TOO See Page 3

The Harbor Light To Shine Again See Page 13

Broad Channelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Morgan Allen is Sending a Surprise to Make Soldiers' Spirits Bright

See Page 14

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 34

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Happy New Year! It’s 2020 and Rockaway is already ahead of the game, teeming with a variety of live music, arts and theater. So keep reading The Rockaway Times to get a round-up of what’s happening up and down the peninsula and Broad Channel.

LIVE MUSIC: Friday, January 3 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Continue your New Year’s celebrations at Bungalow Bar’s always fabulous Friday Acoustic Nights. This evening, Winston McBoogie takes the stage jammin’ his boogie-down lineup of classic rock, Motown classics and more!

377 Beach 92nd Street Friday, January 3 8 p.m. to Midnight What better way to celebrate the start of a new decade than with Rockaway’s Irish son, Walter Ensor, at RBQ performing his signature moving folk tunes and melodies. Sláinte!

97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd.

Friday, January 3 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Seal a peaceful start to your New Year with LL Duo at Kennedy’s. As you lap up the picturesque restaurant’s bayside views, delectable food and beverages, feel the love flowing from powerful songstress— Linda Lorenzo, and her hubby musician—Paddy Lorenzo— unforgettable lineup of blues, classic rock and soul.

406 Bayside Walk, Breezy Point Saturday, January 4 8 p.m. to Midnight Continue to ring in 2020 with The Brooklyn Bards at RBQ. These guys hail from Brooklyn, but from their music, you can tell their blood pours pure green as they transport you to the Emerald Isle with clas-

SAVE THE DATE! sic and contemporary Irish war marches, slides, rebel and Saturday, January 18 love songs. Sláinte chuig na fir 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. agus go maire na mná go deo!

In two weeks, the Second An(Health to the men and may the nual South Queens Ball is hapwomen live forever!) pening again at the American 97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd Legion Post 1404, and folks—the entertainment lineup is smokSaturday, January 4 ing! Featured acts are Walker 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Sensational award-winning Hornung of Brotherhood of the American blues and roots man Grape with Eddy Joe, IndaculKevin Kearney spices up Thai ture’s Bobby Butler and DanRock even more with his wail- ny Mulvanerty, John Scarpuling, testifying guitar riffs and la, Randy Miritello, Chris Solo, rhythms. Be prepared to be Kyle Wade, The Porrettos and spellbound with the music Katie Mitchell-Condon. Each man’s talent for touching fans singer/songwriter will perform with his honest and untam- their original material acoustically, and sing songs by a bepered acoustics. loved departed legend. Spoiler 375 Beach 92nd Street alert! Expect to hear homages to Ireland’s Dolores O’Riordan of Sundays The Cranberries, Prince, David 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

It’s all about that jazz with The Bowie and more! Plus Joe Valva Mike Severino Trio Sunday Jazz is filming the event for QPTV’s music program, “Just Jamz.”

Sessions at Whits End. This special music extrava97-02 Rockaway Beach Blvd ganza is all for a good cause WHY NOT RING IN 2020 as proceeds go toward helpON A HEALTHY NOTE! ing the American Legion make Ok, this page is all about much-needed repairs to their what’s going on music and arts space including the hall’s air wise in The Rock. However, why conditioning, floors, roof and not seize the chance to detox much more. Admission is $20. and shake off the baggage of Tickets are only available the 2019 than with local yoga spot, day of show, at the door.

209 Cross Bay Blvd, Broad Hot Yoga Rockaway Beach! It’s their 10th anniversary! This Channel class will make you sweat out BUGALOU IS BACK WITH the indulgences of the holidays ITS THIRD SEASON! and commence your 2020 jourGet ready to Bugalou in 2020! ney feeling not just hot, but revived to take on new challeng- The popular concert series kicks es—physically, mentally and off its third season in February spiritually. (See their special with a chock-full three shows anniversary schedule below this winter and spring all here in Rockaway at St. Camillus and article on page six).

Springman Hall! A special disWednesday, January 8 — counted season pass to all three SPECIAL SCHEDULE ~ Bugalou shows is available now for $100 by email to bugalou7:30 a.m. — HotVinyasa music@gmail.com. Tickets for 9 a.m. — Hot26 individual shows are already on 5 p.m. — IronYoga sale at www.bugaloumusic.com 6:30 p.m. — Hot26 All classes $10. And for the February 28 special anniversary, all proIf you like The Band, you'll ceeds go toward The Graybeards. love THE THE BAND Band (TTBB), the only nationally SPECIAL MENTIONS — touring band dedicated exclu-

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The Rockaway Times

sively to the accurate reproduction of The Band's music, bringing it to life with authentic, true-to-form renditions of their extraordinary repertoire.

Don’t forget, this was one of the most well-received shows from Bugalou's inaugural season!

TTBB will once again provide an unforgettable, rich sound on The Band classics: Up on Cripple Creek, Stage Fright, The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, The Shape I'm In, Ophelia, The Weight, and more.

But first, Real Young and Lazy Horse kickoffs off the night with a celebration of music legend, Neil Young. Real Young and Lazy Horse has quickly gathered a devoted following here in Rockaway, off of outstanding performances at local spots: Rockaway Brewing Company, Rippers, Rockaway Beach Surf Club—just to name a few.

Friday, April 24 Eagles fans—Desert Highway brings in their tribute, blending harmonies with ringing guitars on songs including Hotel California, Take It Easy, Already Gone, Lyin' Eyes, One of These Nights, and many more! Get there early, ‘cause Fools Night Out sets the tone on this April night with Danny Moran, Mark Magliaro and company—bolstered by the addition of Alan Gabay, back in Rockaway after many years in the Miami music scene.

Friday, June 19 Bugalou's third show will be quite the summer party, as Finnegan Blue flies in from San Diego with their unique, soulful blend of Irish/Americana/ jam music fronted by the ever fabulous Fleming family. Indaculture’s Danny Mulvanerty and Bobby Butler will be on deck to ring in this sweet jammin’ June night with guests to be determined—and note The Butler and Mulvanerty never disappoint!

Got info on local live music and art? Email: editor@rockawaytimes.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

The Rockaway Times

Page 35

LOCAL COLOR:

READERS SEND IN THEIR PIX We might be a little biased, but we think some of the best photographers in the world live in Rockaway. Here are some shots that readers shared with us this week. Send your photos (limit to 2 per week) to mail@rockawaytimes.com and we’ll do our best to print them (space permitting). We do receive more than we can print.

By Conor MacCourtney

By Jacob Semel

By Joe Harrison

By Therese Tully

By Jill Desiano

By Louisa Guzman

By Ken Lavery

By Zahir Shadick

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020

Page 36

The Rockaway Times

From The Writers’ Club At PS/MS 114 OH DEER! WHO’LL PULL one last thing before Wilbur SANTA’S SLEIGH NEXT YEAR?! drops the mic: All the animals Fantasy is fun. It fuels the im- behind me just got spiked!

Sincerely, agination. So, I assumed the Wilbur Oinksteir persona of “Chief Thistle-Blow(Mia Capasso) er” of The North Pole and leaked inside information to my fifthgrade writing students of PS/ MS 114Q: Santa’s reindeer are taking a much-needed vacation next year. So, Santa is seeking some temporary replacements.

The kids ran with this idea and wrote cover letters to Santa, applying for the job. Pigs, falcons, bison, cats and even fireflies, applied. And, as you can see, their pitches were quite persuasive. Whom would you pick?

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season. -Joan Diehl, Dear Santa, Writing Teacher, PS/MS 114Q I’m Nicolette the Pig. I’m a beautiful, kind, sweet pink pig, Dear Santa, Some say pigs can’t fly, but I as pink as watermelon. I heard soar through the sky like a jet that your reindeer are taking a flying high. I’m Wilbur the Pig, vacation next year and I know born and raised in Porkland. that I am the pig for the job.

I'm not wimpy like my friend People think pigs just love to eat from Charlotte's Web. I always and roll around in the mud, but have the upper hand. Some- we are very smart animals and times, my friends say I think you’ll need someone smart to who I am, but in my opinion I'm get you around the whole globe just a ham. I’ve been written in one night. Some say I’m as about, marveled at, and talked wise as an owl. I can name all about. Do you know that book fifty states! Now I know you’re “Where the Wild Things Are?” probably thinking that pigs It's a biography about the well- are too chubby to fit down the known, marvelous star—moi. chimney, but not me. I’ve been Now Santa, I've heard rumors working out every day at the that your reindeer are softer Reindeer Gym. Santa, I would than your ooey, gooey cookies. really love this job because I Forget Rudolph and the rest of want to help all of the kids get his crew, because old Wilbur’s their presents next Christmas. the best one for you! A Saber In fact, I was born for this job.

Jet is what those farmers com- My name is Nicolette because I pared me to, saying it looked was named after you, St. Nichlike I was a mere grain of sand, olas! If I guide your sleigh next a speck in the picture blurring year, people will finally get to the land. Hey! Hear me out: My see pigs fly!

Sincerely, nose isn’t red and uptight, but Nicolette the Pig my personality is cuddly and (Alexa Russo) bright. Kids will be wanting more and more of fabulous old me with products like Wilbur Dear Santa, Mugs, plushies, and merchanI am Freddy the Firefly, and I dise galore. It’ll all sell out at your local retail store. I’m like am applying to be a substitute a cute pink compass that can for Rudolph the Red-Nosed guide your sleigh. I can ride Reindeer next year, because I straight be it night or day. I’ll believe I am the ideal choice. have confidence, I’ll teach kids Just like Rudolph, I can light up to have self-esteem, instead of like a candle and lead your way the weak reindeer Rudolph and on the dark nights of Christmas his sappy sad dream. Oh, and Eve and early Christmas morn-

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ing. Also, sometimes I and my same species can synchronize our flashing, so you will have the ultimate bright guide. In addition, we can change to different colors of your preference. Though I am as tiny as a pebble compared to your Rudolph, do not underestimate my strength. Flick me a tiny bit of your wonderful magic, and I will carry your ssleigh ca y you e g with t tthe e

help of the other firefly substitutes, like I’m carrying a grain of sand. Not only that, but I already fly, so I will be as tactical and smart as a pilot in war, and I will follow the directions of my commander. I would like the job because I have always loved to fly. I would be honored to work for you, and I want to make my family proud. If I had the choice, I would like to stop at my home first, which is the backyard of James and Lily.

They have always been nice to my family and me, so I would like to stop there first. I will also be good at delivering presents because I can easily fit down the chimney and remember, I fly so I won’t set a foot on the creaky floors; I will be as silent as a mouse. This is why I think I am the ideal substitute for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Sincerely, Freddy the Firefly (Aiden DeBoer) Dear Santa, A little birdie (who I ate right after) told me that your reindeer are taking a vacation next year, so I have a proposition: My army of cat brethren and I can pull your sleigh! So, now

you’re probably wondering, “Why should I let some furry little puffballs take charge of Santa’s sleigh?” Well, I’ll tell you why. First off, cats are very agile, with excellent lateral movement and jumping skills.

Cats also think for themselves and are great problem solvers so long as there are no loaves of bread around (I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten stuck in those). My kind can also adapt fairly well to new environments. Cats are also, objectively, very cute. I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but I think cats would attract more little children. Cats can be as sweet as your aunt when she makes you cookies, but also as

fierce as a half-shark, half-lion, so it would be great for business. When we ride off into the night pulling the sleigh with all our might, we’ll first stop in the U.S. This is because it is where my owner, Elizabeth, lives.

Then we can head off to the other 160 countries that celebrate Christmas. Most cats can also fit down a chimney (maybe not my brother, George, but you get the idea), so Santa you won’t have to break your back trying to do that. We can also blend into the shadows and be harder to find than a pin in a haystack. Our stealthy abilities mean we can sneak around like fuzzy little ninjas and put the presents under the tree with ease. Finally, I (Sophia) will be replacing Rudolph.

Why? I’m the most responsible cat out of all my army, and I am the strongest. All of us can see in the dark, but I have the best overall vision, like Continued on page 37

The Rockaway Times

FROM THE WRITERS’ CLUB

Continued from Page 36

an eagle and a telescope had a furry little baby. I am also the youngest, so I have a lot of endurance and many years of service to come. I will lead the way for everyone and make sure all of the kids get their toys in time for Christmas Day next year.

Sincerely, Sophia Soto, The Cat Dear Santa, It’s so nice of you to send your reindeer to Hawaii to relax next year! However, I wonder how you are going to deliver presents to all the boys and girls in the world without

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2020 your flying machines. Here is where I come in. I am the fastest bird in the world. I am the Peregrine Falcon.

I have a heart of gold. I would not want any child to be sad and cry a river of tears on Christmas. Santa, you need a replacement animal that can get the job done quickly in one night. I can dive towards houses the same way I dive towards my prey at two hundred miles an hour. We can dip down chimneys in seconds and never be seen. My species can live in different climates, from the tundra to the desert, therefore bad weather won’t stop me from delivering presents.

I know how to fly very high in the sky, so I can keep your sled hidden from view. We will look like dots in the sky. I will fly like lightning house to house, quiet as a mouse but strong as an ox.

Santa, we will dance across the sky next year, I promise you.

Sincerely, Tyrone the Falcon (Tyrone Sperling)

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Page 39

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