Rockaway Times 1-26-23

Missing Woman

Have you seen Jane?

On Monday, January 23, the 100th Precinct shared a post to social media about a 70-year-old woman named Jane Brittan who was missing from the Park Inn. She was last seen at 115-02 Ocean Promenade on January 23 at 4:48 a.m., wearing a long trench coat,

long dress and a beanie hat. Brittan uses a walker. On Monday, the precinct had search crews including dogs and a helicopter searching for the missing woman. As of Wednesday afternoon, January 25, she was still reported as missing. Anyone with information can call 800-577-TIPS.

Monday

12:00PM - 3:00PM

Sunday Brunch 11:30AM - 3:00PM

- 10:00PM

Dr. Ritu Saini is Proud to be part of the FDNY - The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP)

Dr. Ritu Saini is the ONLY Double Board Certi ed Dermatologist in both Dermatology and Mohs Surgery on the peninsula. She is the Surgical Director of the Dermatology Residency program at St. Johns Hospital and Assistant Professor at NYU. We are offering a new service for 2023Whole Body Contouring and Skin Tightening

A native New Yorker, Dr. Ritu Saini received her medical degree with an honors distinction in biochemistry at the New York University School of Medicine after graduating magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania. She then went on to complete a dermatology residency at the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. A board certi ed dermatologist, specializing in Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic dermatology, dermatologic and laser surgery, Dr. Saini obtained a dermatologic surgery fellowship under the direction of world-renowned Mohs micrographic surgeon, Dr. Perry Robins.

Dr. Saini is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a member of many medical societies including the American College of Mohs Surgery, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery. She also currently holds a highly regarded position, as the Director of Dermatological Surgery for St. John’s Episcopal Hospital’s dermatology research program, in Far Rockaway, New York.

Throughout the years, Dr. Saini has also been published in many peer-reviewed journals and currently serves on the Medical Editorial Review Board for the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. She has lectured both nationally and internationally, and has made several media appearances as a spokesperson for the Skin Cancer Foundation. She is considered a world-renowned expert in the treatment of cutaneous cancer, as well as the aging face and body. Dr. Saini attends medical conferences and trainings throughout the world to implement the newest techniques for her patients. In addition, she is known for her advanced expertise in hair loss using the latest innovative topical, systemic, and procedural treatments.

Dr. Saini also spends time as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the prestigious New York University’s Department of Dermatology and enjoys teaching dermatology residents and medical students.

info@skincarenyc.com

We now offer convenient evening and weekend hours to accommodate all. Same day appointments and walk-ins are welcome!

Army Corps Meetings on Coastal Protection Study

feedback on this tentative plan selection to manage coastal storm risk in the Study area.  The Draft Integrated FR/Tier 1 EIS is posted to the Study website at https:// www.nan.usace.army.mil/NYNJHATS.

Contact The Elected

Congressman Gregory Meeks 67-12 Rockaway Beach Boulevard Arverne, NY 11692

Phone: (347) 230-4032

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

As reported by The Rockaway Times last week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) New York District is hosting more meetings on its New York New Jersey Harbor and Tributaries (NYNJHAT) Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) Feasibility Study, both virtually and in person.

The purpose of these meetings is to inform the public of the NYNJHAT Study Draft Integrated Feasibility Report (FR) and Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the Tentatively Selected Plan (TSP), and to solicit public

There will be virtual meetings on Wednesday, February 1 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Monday, February 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join virtually at: https://usace1.webex. com/meet/bryce.w.wisemiller or by phone: +1-844-800-2712 US Toll Free, Access code: 1995 71 9950

An in-person meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 21 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Rockaway YMCA (207 Beach 73rd Street).

As a reminder, public comments on the Study are being accepted through March 7 and can be sent to: nynjharbor.tribstudy@usace. army.mil

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

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

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

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

Tom

Katie

McFadden MANAGING EDITOR

Mary

Ellen Olsen MANAGER

Monica Clifford BILLING/ LEGALS

McVeigh and Fred Marino SALES

Kevin Boyle

FOUNDER/PUBLISHER EMERITUS

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

Phone: 718-634-3030

www.rockawaytimes.com Email: news@rockawaytimes.com, mail@rockawaytimes.com

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Jeanne Ferriola and Sean McVeigh PUBLISHER

By Sean McVeigh

Whose idea was it to take over the Rockaway Times in January? Rockaway is an amazing place. January in Rockaway is… interesting. We’re a beach town! And while the beach is beautiful 365 days a year, there is no question that it’s harder to appreciate its beauty in the winter months. Days are shorter, darker, and duller. The Rockaway Times exists because there’s so much going on all over this peninsula but in the dog days of winter, things seem to freeze up a bit.

Don’t get me wrong, there are still few places I would rather be. I mean, doesn’t everyone feel this way? January can’t be all that great in other places like Arizona or Puerto Rico or San Diego or Aruba or wait…

My fiancé is from Arizona. She is all Rockaway, all the time now, but those first few winters were a shell shock. “Why would anyone

Dull Ideas

choose to live like this?” My only answer for that question was a truthful and empathetic, “I don’t know.” Why did people choose to make places that aren’t paradise their homes? Why have places like London and New York been the centers of the world of the past few centuries? Was it not knowing what else was out there? If the King of England knew he could have ruled from *insert beautiful tropical island here* wouldn’t he have? England even went so far as to claim these beautiful places as their own and still chose to stay in damp, cold London. New York is no better! New Yorkers are free to live anywhere in the US they want! Businesses are free to call sunny San Diego or phenomenal weather Phoenix their home whenever they so choose. It seems like people are starting to realize that now. Maybe it’s just natural for us to be a little north of Eden, but I digress.

On top everything going on (or lack thereof) in January, you have the “Dry January” crowd. Let me say loud and clear for the people in the back to hear, I am not a fan of that crowd. What is not drinking one month of the year going to do for you? And if you are going to not drink for one month, why January? Are you a masochist? Do it in July when there are a million other things to do instead. And if you do it in July, I will be sure to tell you to stop killing everyone’s vibe and do it in January when it won’t bother me!

Luckily, this is Rockaway, it does not take much looking to find a good time (only a glance at the Rockaway Good Times section in The Rockaway Times, in fact). There is nothing dull about this place regardless of the month. I don’t care how much snow we do or do not get each winter; Rockaway is Rockaway! Before you know it, Johnny

strikes up the band, you have a cold beer in your hand, and it’s Memorial Day Weekend once again.

*****

Many on the peninsula were on edge all last weekend worried about Karly!  In case you missed it, Karly is a recently adopted dog, who had surgery last week, and escaped from her home on Beach 117th on Friday afternoon. There were numerous social media posts of her spotted running on Beach Channel Drive towards the Marine Parkway Bridge with her blue surgical collar around her neck. After many locals searched Fort Tilden and other areas looking for her all weekend, Karly returned home on Sunday morning. We love a happy ending!  *****

Happy belated Lunar New Year! 2023 is the year of the rabbit. It is certainly not the year of the chicken… Have you seen the price of eggs?

*****

While we are on the topic of belated things… The Rockaway Times would like to wish its founder, Kevin Boyle, the happiest of birthdays! Boom!  *****

Need some ideas for a day trip into NYC? Our new column, “A Ferry Good Time,” by Tracey McCormick, will provide a monthly round up of places to go and things to see and do that are easily accessible via the NYC Ferry. Check it out on page 14. *****

Speaking of the ferry, rumors are that ferry pics will be much appreciated in the upcoming RT photo contest. *****

Stuck in the doldrums of January? Can’t stand the thought of February? Well, guess what... Rockaway St. Patrick’s Day is only 37 days away! *****

The 21st annual Graybeard Din-

ner Dance is once again sold out! But you can still be part of the fun by getting in on the winner-take-all pot of gold raffle that is likely to be more than $200,000. You can call the Graybeard Office at 718-6346812 to get in on the raffle or give Rick Horan a call, 917-345-3700, and he’ll deliver them personally. It’s $100 per ticket. *****

Congratulations to Lucas Allen of St. Francis De Sales Catholic Academy for being named one of four finalists from the Brooklyn & Queens Diocesan Regional Math Bee. He will go on to compete at the Diocesan Finals on February 14. *****

New York State has decided that NYC’s ban on the sale of foie gras (stuffed goose or duck liver) within the metro area is a violation of State law. But fear not, the City will not let this dire issue fall by the wayside and will be suing the State in court to keep the foie gras ban. It’s easy to sleep well at night knowing we have our priorities in order.

*****

The Rockaway Hotel is bringing back its Roller Rock this February. With theme nights, live DJs, food & drink, and a roller-skating rink what more do you need? Check out their website for tickets. *****

As we were going to press, NYC’s snowless streak continues to inch closer and closer to the record reaching 321 days. If the trend continues, the record of 332, set in 2020, will be broken. We have seen plenty of bad weather in the recent month, but the temperatures have not been low enough for snow accumulation.

*****

According to figures from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, 64,577 New Yorkers exchanged their NY driver’s licenses for Florida licenses last year. This new record breaks the one set just the year before when 61,728 New Yorkers made the same switch.

Local Dog Whisperers Work to Bring Karly Home

By Katie McFadden

Thanks to the actions of some local “dog whisperers,” Karly the Bernadoodle is back home safe after a two-day escape.

When Karly’s parents took to social media, asking neighbors to keep a lookout for their newly rescued two-year-old pup from Pennsylvania, Rockaway stepped up. Just after being spayed on Monday, Karly had escaped during her walk on Friday, and so the dog hunt began. Locals immediately started tagging Breezy Point resident Kim Fraser of Sasha’s Mission Animal Rescue in the social media posts, knowing her as the woman for the job when it comes to tracking down lost dogs. Simultaneously, Fraser already had eyes out on her behalf. Officers from the U.S. Park Police contacted Fraser to let her know they spotted a dog running around the Fort Tilden area.

That information tracked, as Karly’s daily walk route is from her home in Rockaway Park to Fort Tilden. “I’ve done a lot of lost and found work with the Park Police and when dogs get lost, they usually gravitate towards brush or water when they wind up in Fort Tilden or Riis, or on the outskirts of those areas. It helps knowing a dog’s route because after that initial chase that spooked her, we knew she would stay in an area that she was most familiar with,” Fraser explained.

With a base location to start from, Fraser teamed up with Broad Channel resident Sloane Quealy-Miner of Zion’s Mission Animal Rescue and the two got to work. “We started searching on Friday and set up a trap on Saturday after Kim had confirmed sightings from people in the Fort Tilden area,” Quealy-Miner said.

“We then found her footprints, confirming where she was coming and going from. When a dog is a new rescue from out of state, when they get lost, they find a space that they’re comfortable with. When I got in touch with her mom, Mary, I asked where she came from. Being from Pennsylvania, I figured a wooded area would be a safe spot

for her,” Fraser said. After the trap was set in the suspected location, Fraser and Quealy-Miner sat in the Fort Tilden area for several hours, waiting to trap Karly, and made arrangements for her owners to switch places at some point, so they could search around the outskirts. While there was no sight of Karly, they did receive signs of hope. “They stayed until 6 a.m. on Sunday and when I came to relieve them, the food that was leading up to the trap was gone, so we knew she had been there,” Fraser said.

As Karly’s owners went home, they stayed in touch by phone, and more good news came. “I was on the phone with Mary, and she said there’s a dog on the boardwalk. She got closer and confirmed it was Karly!” Fraser said.

While hiding behind a nearby car, Fraser directed Karly’s owners on how to handle the situation. “Mike approached her, and she wanted to come to him, but she got spooked. I told them the best thing to do was to lay flat on the ground and wait for her to approach him,” Fraser said. Meanwhile, in order to stay quiet, Fraser said she didn’t even breathe during the tense moment. But it was worth it.

Karly took the bait, approaching her owner Mike, as he laid on the ground. “He slowly got up and I was shocked, as she had no collar at that point or anything for him to grab, but she slowly walked off the boardwalk with him and once they got to the ramp, he put his arms around her and held her, so I looped a leash for Mary and told her to slowly slide it over her head, and she was led right home,” Fraser said. That was 6:30 a.m. on Sunday morning, right around the time Karly is used to being walked from her Rockaway Park home to Fort Tilden. She had just made the walk herself and decided it was time to go home.

Seeing Karly reunite with her owners made the two-and-a-halfday ordeal and lack of sleep worth it. “We cried. I started to breathe again. Another half hour, and I knew the boardwalk was going to be crowded and she would bolt

again, and we’d have to start this from scratch, so I was happy to see her and happy for her owners. They were distraught the whole time,” Fraser said.

As for Karly, she was pampered as soon as she got home. A vet tech came to check to make sure she was OK, and although her inflatable collar from the surgery had fallen off at some point during her escape, her stitches were still intact. Karly got a bath, enjoyed some carrot cake and went to sleep, as if nothing had happened.

As for Fraser and Quealy-Miner, yet another successful mission came as a relief. “We do a lot of abuse cases and sad rescues, so when it’s something like this and we can make the owners happy in the end, it’s a breath of fresh air,” Fraser said. “It’s wonderful. It keeps you going,” Quealy-Miner said.

Quealy-Miner says if someone loses a dog, Kim Fraser is the one to call. “Kim is Rockaway’s dog whisperer,” she said. For Fraser, rescuing animals is in her blood. “It’s something I’ve always done. When my sister and I were kids, we would drag every lost animal home and birds with broken wings and my mom would say, OK, we’ll handle it.’ And my dad would find dogs on the way home. It’s just in our blood,” Fraser said.

Fraser has gone as far as helping people in other states find their lost dogs, but if she’s unavailable, there are some tips people can use while trying to locate their lost pet. “Don’t chase. It’s hard because it’s the first thing you want to do, but it can make matters worse,” Fraser said. “If you’re looking for a dog, ask for sightings, but don’t give the locations out to people who are just nosy. Everyone puts locations on social media, and they think they’re helping, but it can make it harder when you have more people around,” Quealy-Miner added. Also, keep the animal’s routine in mind. “Dogs have internal clocks. They get accustomed to getting up for walks at a certain hour and that’s most likely the time you’ll spot a dog along their route,” Fraser said.

In the meantime, you can help Sasha’s Mission and Zion’s Mission continue the great rescue work that they do. They’re currently working to help a mother dog and her puppies and could use some financial help. “All of the donations go toward helping a new family. We’re spaying the mom and getting shots for the puppies and trying to get dad neutered,” Quealy-Miner said. To donate, head to: www.zionsmission.org/makeadonation

This Week in History

JANUARY 26

Diana Cinicola was born

1979 - Former Vice President Nelson Rockefeller died in New York at age 70.

1988 - Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera opened on Broadway. It would go on to become the longest-running Broadway show.

JANUARY 27

Rob Rochelle was born. Ruth Graves was born. Chris Cori was born. Molly McNulty was born.

1945 - The Russians liberated Auschwitz concentration camp, where the Nazis had killed over 1.5 million people.

1951 The U.S. Air Force started atomic testing in the Nevada desert.

JANUARY 28

Esther Grillo was born.

1915 - Congress passed legislation creating the U.S. Coast Guard.

1986 - U.S. shuttle Challenger exploded 72 seconds after lift-off, killing all seven crew members aboard.

JANUARY 29

Sunshine Hastings was born. 1886 - Karl Benz received a patent for the

first

JANUARY 30

Frank Blum was born. Terence Moriarty was born.

1948 - Gandhi was assassinated.

1972  - British troops opened fire on civil rights marchers in Northern Ireland, sparking the "Bloody Sunday" massacre.

JANUARY 31

Lori Healey-Wasson was born.

1865 - The House of Representatives approved the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which abolished slavery in the United States.

1940 - The first social security check was issued to Ida Fuller for $22.54.

FEBRUARY 1

Maryellen Galvin was born. Eileen McDade was born.

2003 - The space shuttle Columbia disintegrated as it tried to reenter the Earth's atmosphere after a sixteen-day mission in space. All seven members of the crew were lost.

2004 - Janet Jackson's famous "wardrobe malfunction" occurred at Super Bowl XXXVIII.

successful gasoline-driven car. 1936 - Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson, and Walter Johnson were the first players elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.

“We owe a lot of our success to the Rockaway Times and the advertising. The weekly paper delivered for FREE to every doorstep in the community was the best advertising we could have asked for. COUNTLESS people have come in to our business over the years saying they saw our specials in the Times. For that, we are EXTREMELY GRATEFUL.”

Don’t Miss Out

Alma Realty Hit With City Lawsuit

As Alma Realty readies to propose more development on top of the Surfside buildings in Rockaway Park, the City has filed a lawsuit against Alma for code violations on other properties. On January 6, Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix announced that the city has filed two lawsuits against landlords Alma Realty Corp. and Empire Management America Corp. for allowing thousands of residents to live in dangerous conditions as a result of thousands of code violations.

According to a press release, the suits seek to improve the living conditions of the thousands of tenants in more than 20 buildings collectively owned by the two landlords. Additionally, the City’s Law Department entered into a separate agreement with a third landlord — Sentinel Real Estate Corporation.

“All New Yorkers deserve to live in safe, clean homes, which is why we will not tolerate landlords who repeatedly flout the law and put the

health and wellbeing of tenants at risk,” Mayor Adams said. “Alma Reality, Empire Management America, and Sentinel Real Estate allowed thousands of code violations to go unchecked for years, endangering the well-being of thousands of residents. These lawsuits and agreement underscore our administration’s commitment to more aggressive enforcement actions against bad actors and deterring this sort of negligence in the future.”

One lawsuit alleges that Alma has maintained dangerous and unsanitary conditions in 13 buildings, where more than 800 violations remain uncorrected. Some of the worst conditions in these buildings include deteriorating facades, defective electrical wiring, missing fire doors, lead-based paint hazards, and infestations of rats and mice. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) also previously sued Alma over two of these buildings.

MUTTS-DJ

Ongoing Flood of Issues for NYCHA

By Katie McFadden

While the December 23 storm gave many residents a taste of flooding again, some of Rockaway’s most vulnerable residents have recently been dealing with plumbing issues flooding their homes. For almost a week, the first-floor residents of the New York City Housing Authority’s (NYCHA) Hammel Houses building, located at 81-01 Beach Channel Drive, have been unable to use their showers or toilets, and have spent the week sweeping sewage water from their apartments, with a slow and insufficient response from NYCHA.

On Sunday, January 22, Broad Channel resident Cathy Presti called The Rockaway Times to reach out for assistance after her friend, Theresa Ortiz, who lives in the Hammels building on Beach 81st, had been dealing with water coming up from her bathtub and toilet, flooding her entire apartment since the evening of Wednesday, January 18, and no one seemed to be helping. While flooding issues are a major headache for anyone, it made matters worse for Ortiz who is extremely ill, recently having surgery. She’s also a single mother of two girls, one who is autistic. “They left them days without a bathroom and water overflowing from the tub and toilets,” Presti said.

The residents of the first floor and Presti said they made several attempts to notify NYCHA, but their pleas for help allegedly went ignored. Pamela Gokhul, another resident on the first floor, says the super for the building came to her apartment on Thursday, January 19, saying the smoke alarm had to be fixed and she told him about the flooding. “He never reported it to the management office. I called management on Monday, and she said she never knew about it,” Gokhul said.

In the meantime, the residents and Presti say they had been making complaints to NYCHA’s emergency service line. “They gave us an emergency number. We called them many times. What did they

do? They closed the ticket after 24 hours. I wrote the ticket numbers down,” Gokhul said. “The overnight emergency team came Saturday and said if we didn’t call and complain, he would’ve never come. But he came and left, and my mats were still being soaked.”

“I asked to speak to a supervisor, so I spoke to them and called the next day because my friend said the issue stopped around 12 on Saturday, but then started again on Sunday,” Presti said. “When they came, they said they were fixing it, but it started again. We were in the hallway at around 2 in the morning and the water continued and continued. Everything was full of water, the hallways, the elevators,” Ortiz said. Instead of resting after her recent surgery, Ortiz spent her weekend on her feet, sweeping sewage water from her apartment floors. “The first day, I fell next to the door while trying to take the water out,” she said. “My feet are so swollen, and I’m scared of falling because I’ll have to call 911 and who’s going to take care of my kids if that happens?”

Presti says more should’ve been done to help the first floor residents. “They should’ve shut the water off or took the people and put them in a hotel until it’s fixed. How do you leave families like that? Theresa is in organ failure and is a mother with two children. She has no family around here,” Presti said. Fed up with the seeming lack of action, Presti started calling local elected officials on Sunday. She was able to get in touch with Councilwoman Joann Ariola, who put her in touch with Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers’ office, as the Hammels building falls within her jurisdiction. “Anthony from Selvena’s office called and he was very helpful. As soon as I got in touch with the right people, they showed up to try to fix it,” Presti said. On Monday, emergency crews were at the Hammels building, allegedly trying to address the problem.

In a statement regarding the

flooding, a spokesperson for NYCHA told The Rockaway Times, “The conditions affecting residents at this development were caused by a stoppage in the sewage pipe feeding into the development. The issue was reported on Saturday and NYCHA staff worked throughout the weekend to clear the obstruction, deploying Technical Services specialists to assist staff with repairs. There are currently no flooding conditions and staff are visiting apartments throughout the development to ensure plumbing fixtures are in working order.”

But the alleged fix brought little relief to the residents. “They were still working on it yesterday and it still looks like the water in the bathtub comes and goes,” Ortiz said on Wednesday. Asked if there was still water on her floors, Ortiz said, “No, but the guy told me he is not sure it’s not going to happen again.” Gokhul said this issue goes beyond the past week’s flooding. “I’ve been here for more than 10 years and every three months, we’re having this flood. I even went to court and the judge ordered NYCHA to fix the problem and they haven’t done anything,” Gokhul said. “There was a big flood here before and everything in the apartment was damaged. They never gave me back anything. I’ve slipped and fallen a few times and hurt my back and they never do anything about it.”

NYCHA in general has been heavily criticized for alleged lack of care when it comes to its buildings and residents. Reports came out this week, that NYCHA only collected 65% of the rent it charged over the past year, the lowest percentage in the history of the Authority. According to The Real Deal, this left NYCHA behind

$500M in funding. One third of the rent money NYCHA receives is reserved for operations and maintenance. “Without money, we can’t do anything else,” interim CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt said according to The Real Deal. “We can’t fund the much-needed repairs. We can’t handle emergencies.”

The nonpayment of rent seems to stem from the Covid pandemic, leaving some tenants unable to afford rent, and a two-year eviction moratorium, leading some residents to believe that they didn’t have to pay rent. NYCHA seems to be making cuts to try to recoup some funds. This came with the announcement on Wednesday, that NYCHA Chairman Gregory Russ is stepping down from his position that pays $258,000, the same salary as NYC Mayor. According to The City, when Russ was hired as CEO and Chairman in 2019, his salary was $430,000, until NYCHA split the roles in September. Now it appears they’re trying to eliminate Chairman as a paid position altogether, and the next person to take it on will be serving voluntarily, except for a $250 stipend to attend board meetings.

All Aboard for Ferry Good Times

By Tracey McCormick

Rockaway for me, like most of you, is filled with my big family, lifelong friends, tight knit community, and always feels like home. However, since moving to Manhattan for college over a decade ago, the city, along with its 1.63 million strangers, dynamic cultures, crowded subways, and skyscrapers, has come to feel like home, too. Sometimes, (particularly on Sundays in the summer when you’re peeling yourself off the beach) Rockaway can feel like a world away from The Upper East Side, where I live. The journey can feel daunting, but once you’ve

made it onto the NYC Ferry and the skyline gets closer, the hour flies by and I am reminded just how close the two are.

A few weeks ago, my friends took the ferry into the city from Rockaway to meet for brunch at Malibu Farm, a SoCal-style restaurant located on Pier 17. It was their first time there, and with its convenience to Pier 11, we wondered how many other people had taken the ferry into Manhattan but had not really ventured around the area. Thus, “A Ferry Good Time” was born. From Pier 11, you can easily get to historic New York City sites like

Ellis Island, The Statue of Liberty, and 9/11 Memorial - things you already know about and have likely already seen. “A Ferry Good Time” hopes to provide you with a monthly roundup of unique things to do, places to go, and new sights to see.

So, we’ll start where the idea began, Pier 17. Pier 17 plays a pivotal role in the history of Downtown Manhattan. Known as the “Street of Ships,” it was NYC’s biggest hub for international shipping, maritime activities, and the wholesale fish trade. After many transformations, the newest iteration of the pier provides a perfect reason to make the trip into the city.

Now through February 12, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy prix-fixe lunch or dinner menus from restaurants across the five boroughs ranging from $30- $60 per dinner. On Pier 17, Malibu Farm, The Fulton, and Carne Mare are all participating. Not interested in a three course meal? The Tin Building, formerly the Fulton Street Fish Market, has been reimagined by restaurateur Jean-Georges, and transformed into a European inspired marketplace, filled with a variety of counters, kiosks, stalls, retail, and traditional

sit-down restaurants. After you’ve eaten, walk over to Seaport Square and Skate the Skyline. Ice-skate under an overhead light installation, "Aurora," inspired by the Northern Lights. Rink admission is free if you bring your own skates, skate rentals start at $23.

If you’ve got your sea legs, Governors Island has recently made itself a year-round destination and is a 10-minute ferry ride from Lower Manhattan. From December through February, the island hosts a Winter Village with winter themed lawn games, sled and bike rentals, twinkling lights, fire pits, and a 7,500-square-foot skating rink. Governors Island also boasts an outdoor panoramic spa, QC NY. It is a full wellness experience. Guests can spend the day enjoying infrared beds, themed saunas and steam rooms, in addition to massage treatments and their famous sunset aperitivo. You can get a Governors Island bound ferry from the Battery Maritime Building, located at 10 South Street. Tickets are $4 for Adults and free for Seniors over 65 and Children under 12.

Don’t let the winter temperatures deter you, adventure awaits- just a ferry ride away!

Thank You

Dear Editor:

Thank you, Sean, for bringing the lifeguard requirements to our attention. My father has been expressing the very same concerns to very deaf ears for the past 20 years. We did attend the meetings when the Y first came to the Peninsula. It was met with deaf ears stating that they needed basketball courts more than they needed a pool, to quote a "community official." Bottom line, it is far more cost effective to build basketball courts than swimming pools.

We appreciate your concern, but were you at the community meetings and voiced your concerns? We hope that you were because more people need to get involved. We appreciate your article but again this is coming 20 years too late. Also, I don't know if you were familiar with the debacle at Beach Channel HS about 40 or 50 years ago, unfortunately, the architect drew a straight line on the plans rather than a sloped line and the pool that was meant to teach swimming, scuba diving, etc. for the "Oceanography program” was a modified bathtub. All swim teams needed to go to Far Rock HS to practice and compete.

Thanks again for all your help though maybe someone will listen to you. Thanks again!

Adriana Sullivan

Opposition to Alma Development

Dear Editor: Dayton Towers Board of Directors is writing to express strong opposition to the development currently proposed by Alma Realty on its Surfside property found between Beach 105th to 108th Streets and from Shore Front Parkway to Rockaway Beach Blvd.

The proposed development intends to construct 20-story buildings and more than 2,000 additional housing units added to their existing buildings. For perspective, Dayton Towers—already listed as one of NYC’s largest Mitchell/Lama Co-ops—has 1,752 units over two properties with almost twice the physical footprint of Alma’s proposed development. Shoehorning that much housing into such a small footprint portends Social and Urban planning problems that would harm the community. Though Alma proposes parking, it will not cover the marked increase in vehicular traffic in the area, which will lead to traffic congestion, and parking problems for every Rockawayan. Further, a building this size will draw tremendously on the community infrastructure and undermine safe evacuation from the peninsula due to population density increases. Everything from street drainage to the electrical grid will be stressed. Further, Alma’s record as a good corporate citizen and landlord is wanting. As recently as Jan. 6, 2023, New York Law School reports Mayor Adams along with the Corporation Counsel filed two lawsuits against them for hundreds of violations including, “…defective wiring, missing fire doors, lead paint, rodents, and deteriorating facades. Alma has previously been sued by the Department of Housing Preservation and Development twice.” — Veronica Rose, City Law Fellow, NYLS Grad, Cityland

With this record of neglect, matched with an undeniable

exercise in corporate profit grabbing over responsible urban planning. It is far more likely that Surfside will mirror Florida’s collapsed Champlain Towers than resemble the utopian presentation Alma promotes this project with. It is no small irony, that profit inspired disaster in Florida occurred in a town named Surfside.

To understand Rockaway, be in possession of a modicum of wherewithal and knowing the long established, shameful record of Alma, should lead any clear-thinking person to oppose Alma’s plans. Dayton Towers Board of Directors' opposition to Alma’s proposal is resolute. This hyper-development is dehumanizing in social terms, bad for Rockaway’s infrastructure, safety and it follows: bad for our future. Upon learning of the full scale and scope of Alma’s proposal, the Dayton Towers Board of Directors voted unanimously to reach out to elected officials, news media organizations and our community board to affirm our position, which is: Alma Realty should withdraw its proposal and divert whatever capitol it has accumulated to sate the needs of the residents in the buildings it currently runs. Failing that, civic leaders, elected officials and the community join us to say, “No.” to Alma for all the rationales provided above.

Thomas Kerr, President Dayton Towers Board of Directors

Cheers for Alistair!

Dear Editor: Thank you for putting in the photo of the best UPS man around, Alistair! He goes out of his way each day for his customers. UPS should be proud of his work ethic and dedication. Thank you, Alistair, for being the best and thank you Rockaway Times!

Beth Hanning

Jamaica Bay Sea Gate

Dear Editor:

I would like to thank Katie McFadden for an informative article about this massive project. I have many questions about the use of sea gates to control flooding during a severe storm and the ecological impact on Jamaica Bay. I am not an engineer but it’s obvious that a tremendous amount of water would be funneled through two relatively small openings on each tide cycle which occurs twice a day. The current at the open gates would be tremendous as the tide change occurs. It would most certainly create a navigation hazard for commercial barge shipping and pleasure craft. The fisheries would also be impacted in ways we cannot know. How could all of the marine life that inhabit Jamaica Bay navigate this barrier?

Finally, the water flow restriction would prevent a full flush of the back bay areas, causing the water to stagnate. Last but not least, who is going to maintain the sea gate and pay the cost of upkeep?

Dennis O’Kane

St. John’s Receives $150K For Maternal Health Program

helping to achieve the healthiest, most satisfying birth experience possible.

St. John’s Episcopal Hospital (SJEH) was recently awarded a $150,000 grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation (MCHF) to support expansion of the hospital’s Maternal Health Doula Services Program. Through this program, pre- and postnatal women in the Rockaways will have the opportunity to receive free-of-charge access to a professional doula who will assist them throughout the childbirth process; providing physical, emotional, and informational support to mothers,

Jacqueline M. Marecheau, MD FACOG, Chairperson, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at SJEH said, “There are significant public health concerns in the U.S. regarding racial and ethnic disparities where Black mothers are three times more likely to die in childbirth. Most modern maternal-child health practices encourage continuous support, a constant presence if you will, throughout the birthing process. In Far Rockaway, these disparities exist at a much higher rate than in other areas of Queens and New York City. Thanks to the MCHF, the women in this high acuity community have the access that is needed. It levels out the playing field in an effort to transform the social determinants of health in the Rockaways.”

To a growing number of women of color, doulas can be a potentially lifesaving advocate during child-

birth. The benefits of a doula-assisted birthing experience are many and include a lesser likelihood of a C-section birth or other birth complications and a greater outcome for breastfeeding success. The doula’s role as communication advocate between mothers and health care providers also helps women to feel more comfortable advocating for themselves before, during and after labor.

The Doula Services program was first launched as a pilot program in July 2022 through a crowdfunding campaign led by the hospital’s ICARE Foundation. Funding received from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation will allow SJEH to expand upon this program to serve a greater number of women in the Rockaways and provide the community with workshops about the advantages of doula assisted births.

“To complement its statewide grant making efforts and improve the health of underserved and vul-

nerable New Yorkers in a truly impactful way, this year the Foundation is continuing its commitment to strategic, long-term grants to address key issues of health equity and access as they impact low-income and vulnerable populations,” said Kathryn Connerton, President and CEO of Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton and Chair of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation’s Statewide Grants Committee overseeing strategic grants.

The MCHF grant will also support continuing education for hospital staff, including what the doula’s role is in the birth process and how to create a shared decision-making process with patients and their families. This program in is an integral part of a larger initiative by SJEH to create a hub for women’s health and exemplifies the hospital’s intentions to continue to improve maternal health outcomes for women in the Rockaways. The phone number to inquire about Doula Services is 516-308-2479.

Ariola Organizes Clean Up Operation

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In recent weeks, Councilwoman Joann Ariola has organized cleanup operations throughout District 32, living up to her commitment to enhance the quality of life for all area residents.

“The people of District 32 should not be seeing piles of trash when they leave their homes,” Councilwoman Ariola said. “From Rockaway to Woodhaven, my staff and I have been working closely with the Department of Sanitation to clean up eyesores throughout the district. I would like to give a special thanks to my staff for staying so on top of these things, and for being so diligent in following up with the

DSNY to make sure these places get cleaned and remain as such.”

DSNY crews, in the last two weeks, have paid several visits to dump-out sites along Shore Parkway, as well as to the Rockaway Freeway and the Holland Avenue shopping center. In each instance, crews loaded multiple bags of trash and other debris into their vehicles and pledged to make return visits to ensure those locations remain tidy.

If anyone sees any illegal dumpouts or unpicked-up trash in the district, the Councilwoman urges residents to contact her office at 718-318-6411.

BEACH BLOCK BARGAIN

OWNER SAYS SELL!!! $699K

This owner occupied legal four family home has over 2,500 sf of nished space, large un nished basement, pvt drive for 6 cars, solar panels and commercial overlay. Currently two studio apts and two 2 bedroom apts. Three out of four apts delivered vacant and for this the owner has reduced the price to an unbelievable price. Proof of funds and mortgage pre-approval required at acceptance of o er. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!

Apartments for Rent

Rockaway Park - One bedroom includes all $1,500

Rockaway Park - Walk in two bedroom on beach block. Totally renovated with seasonal parking $2,500

Belle Harbor-Two bedroom with w&d and seasonal parking $2,350

Amato Named Chairwoman of Governmental Employee Committee

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato was appointed as the new Chairwoman of the New York State Governmental Employee Committee. Pheffer Amato is the second woman to be appointed Chair of this Committee in the history of New York State. The Committee serves as the leading legislative authority on all public employees in New York, including retirees. In her role, she will now preside over and facilitate legislation and policies for public employees that range in pensions, retirement benefits, and health insurance. Pheffer Amato has been publicly praised for her commitment and strong support of public employees.

The appointment, a historic moment in New York, came at the discretion of New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie. "I am proud to have appointed Assemblywom-

an Pheffer Amato to serve as chair of the Committee on Governmental Employees," Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said. "She has always been an invaluable asset to the Assembly Majority and New Yorkers, and I know that as chair of the Governmental Employees Committee, she will be a tireless champion for the hard-working men and women of this state."

“I am honored and thrilled to Chair this Committee and thank Speaker Heastie for his remarkable dedication to our State’s public employees. I appreciate all the confidence and support from our public employee unions throughout our State, cities and counties. I look forward to leading this Committee and supporting legislation for our public employees and their families,” Pheffer Amato said.

Prayer for our troops. Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protecttheme as they perform for us in our time of need. Amen. No documents or exclusive agreements are required for homebuyers to receive services

SUMMER EFFECTS

SPACE HEATERS

By Robin Shapiro

Space heaters usually include safety features which reduce the risk of fire. This does not mean that all of them are riskless. I’ve read that a study from a few years ago determined space heaters caused about 20,000 home fires/year and 6,000 emergency room visits per year at that time. Approximately one third of home fires were caused by space heaters. Some homeowners’ insurance companies frown on using them.

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

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be functional.

• Look for a testing lab label – UL, ETL, or CSA, which verifies compliance with U.S. safety standards.

• Don’t leave it unattended while “on.”

• Use on a flat surface where children and pets can’t reach it.

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

Many people use space heaters due to extreme weather. A well know publication commented on their use:

• Higher electric bills can result.

• Fuel burning heaters are more dangerous than electric.

• Don’t use it in a child’s room, on top of furniture, near combustible materials such as paint cans, bedding or curtains.

The spring season has been generally good for our real estate market. There has been action across the board in all price categories with an emphasis on the range below $1 million (approx). Prices have firmed up within the framework of recent comparable sales and in some cases are creeping higher. Inventory levels remain very low. Call me, Love, Robin. 718-490-9463

• Keep air intake and exhaust clear.

• Don’t use in a damp area unless it’s designed for this.

• Don’t use if other devices in the same outlet can cause overheating.

Call me. Love, Robin

future is

A BLISSFUL LIFE byJenniferKelleher

Creating Space

I invite you into a conscious space. Uncross your legs and lengthen your spine. Land your attention on your breath in your body. Keep your mind completely focused on the natural inhale and exhale for a number of breath cycles. Feel your shoulders drop, and your hips soften their grips. Remain focused on the breath. Softly repeat to yourself Thich Nhat Hanh’s mantra: “I have arrived, I am home.”

Over the past months, I find myself prioritizing the importance of consciously creating space in my daily life. As a single mother, new business owner, and teacher (to name a

few), my schedule has gotten pretty full. I am blessed and grateful to be genuinely passionate about almost everything that keeps me busy. The opportunities in my life are wonderful and, as with any opportunity, they come with big responsibilities. Taking time to consciously create space (and not unconsciously fill it) has been monumental in helping me to keep my cup full and remain present and focused as I move through my days.

The beauty of space is that it is formless and there are so many ways that we can bring it into our lives. For example, we can make space in our

environments by going through our things, clearing out, organizing, and cleaning up. Space in our surroundings naturally creates space in our bodies and minds. By keeping our homes tidy and peaceful, we become more tidy and peaceful inside. We can also make space by doing something to counterbalance whatever we are spending the most time on in our day-to-day. For example, if you work a 9 to 5 desk job every day, space could look like walking outside during your lunch break and attending that evening yoga class. Yet, if you work a very physical job, you may need an evening salt bath and time on an acupressure mat to decompress and neutralize. We can always quickly and effectively bring space into our bodies and minds with a few deep and conscious breaths (never underestimate the power of the breath). Space can look like turning off electronics, lighting a few candles, and sitting in silence. Journaling is another beautiful practice to create space.

As we can see, there are many ways to make space, but why do it? If we do not pause and take space, we continue moving forward without giving

ourselves the opportunity to discern if our actions are helpful or harmful. In space, we get to let the dust settle and observe where it lands. It gives us the opportunity to reorganize our game plan and move forward in a more intentional way. We can have a goal and work toward it, but consistent pauses and reevaluations are essential for success. After all, I don’t want to achieve a goal only to gravely ignore and compromise another area of life. Space increases awareness and awareness increases success.

Profound healing happens in space. Whether our struggles are physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, or a combination, space allows us to come home, sink into our bodies, and listen to the guidance and wisdom of our cells. Space enlightens us with clarity and alignment.

Creating space is a choice. We invite you to find your space in ours. Ocean Bliss Yoga Studio, located on the 3rd floor of the Belle Harbor Yacht Club, offers daily classes and monthly specialty workshops designed to bring calm and balance to your body, mind, and spirit. Join our studio at: oceanblissyoga.net.

Teen Shot Near 100th Precinct Three Women Shot at Vigil

On the morning of Friday, January 20, at around 10:20 a.m., a teenager was shot just a few blocks from the 100th Precinct.

Officers responded to the call right away, reporting to Beach 91st and Rockaway Beach Boulevard. When police arrived at the scene, they found a 16-year-old male victim with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the shoulder.

Sources say the shooting stemmed from a fight on a Q52 MTA bus. The bus carrying 20 passengers was

struck by a bullet during the shooting and a bullet hole could be seen in one of the windows. No passengers were injured. The young victim was expected to survive.

The officers were able to quickly apprehend a suspect and recovered a firearm at the scene. Charges are pending. There are no other perpetrators. A span of blocks from Beach 90th to Beach 94th was closed off for a few hours on Friday as an investigation took place.

Photo from the 100th Precinct.

PAW PRINTS byTerriEstes

Irish Setter

Let’s welcome the beautiful IRISH SETTER to Paw Prints!

The Irish Setter became a recognized breed of the AKC in 1878 and is a member of the sporting group. Males’ average height is 27” at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller averaging 25”. The average weight is 60-70 lbs. The average lifespan is 12-15 years. All Irish setters have a red, chestnut or mahogany medium length coat with fine feathering on legs and tail. This stunning red coat requires moderate grooming and should

be brushed at least two times per week to look its best.

A Setter is a dog that was bred to find birds in the brush and then set or crouch down when their target is located. The Irish Setter’s history can be traced back to Ireland in the early 18th century, where these dogs were bred to flush out grouse and quail.

This charming redhead is known for his tireless energy and enthusiastic personality. They tend to mature late and keep their puppy-like ways until around three years old. The

Three women were shot and wounded at a memorial for a homicide victim in Far Rockaway on Tuesday, January 17.

The shooting occurred at around 9 p.m. at the memorial at Evntz on The Rock, a rentable event space located at 14-25 Central Avenue. According to police, a suspect fired into the crowd of people. It is not clear who the target was, but three women were wounded in the shooting, including a 48-year-old, a 46-year-old and a 26-year-old, the

Irish Setter LOVES to run and they need plenty of exercise. A well exercised Irish Setter will make a great family member who will offer hours of entertainment for the whole family.

They are great with kids and other four-legged family members when properly socialized. They have sweet dispositions and are eager to please, but they are also big clowns and love to be the center of attention. Without proper exercise, they can get bored and frustrated and become destructive. A generally healthy breed, they can have problems with hip dysplasia, PRA (progressive retinal atrophy) and skin

New York Post reported. They suffered from injuries to their legs and feet. The victims were taken to the hospital and are expected to survive.

According to QNS.com, the event was allegedly a vigil held after the memorial service for Quayshawn Samuel, who was killed in a police-involved shooting in Arverne on December 29.

No arrests were made, and police are still searching for the gunman involved in last week’s shooting.

allergies. If you think this is the breed for you, we recommend finding a reputable breeder that offers a health guarantee.

Iconic New York

By Lou Pastina

Last week, I wrote about Manhattan, specifically the difference between the Lower East Side and the West Village. One still depressed, the other vibrant and lively. Basically, a tale of two cities. This past weekend, rather than escaping to the mountains or Florida for the long weekend, we escaped to New York again, to indulge in iconic New York, to see if it was still there!

We decided to test Broadway as we were given a very generous gift certificate by our lovely niece. But what show to see? There are some very strange shows on Broadway these days, and we weren’t into being “looped” or “educated,” so we opted for a revival of the musical comedy “Some Like it Hot.” And we were richly rewarded with a terrifically entertaining show. A spectacular song and dance story with so many laughs and a sweet twist, updating the gender bending story that Billy Wilder brought to the big screen decades ago. The two leads were so good together and the supporting cast so well-rehearsed that I could not understand why critics had handed them lukewarm reviews. We saw a matinee and were exhausted by show end, only to realize the cast had to do it all over again in mere hours. Broadway actors are truly amazing. We left with a warm, feel-good glow. We can report that Broadway is alive and well. We did wear our masks as we sat for the show, even though it was not required. We felt with the current surge, why not be extra careful? It was an easy thing to do for two and a half hours.

We ate not far from the theater at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. We had

been to one of these restaurants before in Charleston, and were amazed at how good the steaks were, but had never been to the New York outpost. Housed in a hotel first floor, the ambience is not all that special, but the steaks were as good as we remembered. Not inexpensive, but by New York steakhouse standards, as good, if not better, than most and worth a splash.

Speaking of not inexpensive, we also ventured to the Carlyle Hotel on Friday night to visit the iconic Bemelmans Bar. This bar boasts some of the very best martinis in all of Manhattan and is known for its painted walls by the famous author who exchanged his art for a free stay. Trust me, you can’t get that deal anymore. Let me recommend that you not visit this bar on a Friday or Saturday night unless you are prepared for at least an hour’s wait. While it is worth it, you can probably be seated in the afternoon or a Sunday night more quickly than our wait. This is one of the few bars that still offers a piano player and is noted for its most famous one: Bobby Short. If you want to get dressed up and do Manhattan right, this is a must do first stop. You can stay longer but remember to bring plenty of moolah!

Our last adventure for our getaway weekend was the Museum of Natural History on Central West. This museum, which was recently made famous again through the Ben Stiller movies “A Night at the Museum,” is a must for young and old. I miss the beautiful Teddy Roosevelt statue removed from the front because of some interpretation that was unintended. But the Museum is still worth the time and

trouble. We were lucky enough to be there with our granddaughter and watch her amazed face as she ran to every exhibit. This place is a kid magnet, and they have free reign to run all over. It’s a delight to watch their faces as they come face to face with lions and tigers and bears! It is truly a New York gem! If you have the time, go across the street to the New York His-

torical Society. This place is truly fascinating and illuminating. Even though it's cold, Central Park is beautiful for a stroll this time of year too!

So, New York is alive in some places and struggling in others. Pick your spots, do your research, be safe, but get out there, and live and enjoy the greatest city in the world, our home: New York!

Facts You Probably D on’t Need

On August 21, 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre by Vincenzo Peruggia. He believed that since it was painted by an Italian artist, it belonged in an Italian Museum. It was kept in Peruggia's apartment for two years before he was caught trying to sell the painting to a gallery in Florence. He spent six months in prison. 

Pablo Picasso and French poet, Guillaume Apollinaire, were both brought in for questioning as suspects in the theft of the Mona Lisa in 1911. Both were acquitted after Peruggia was caught. 

In 1948, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game had to devise a plan to move large

numbers of beavers to a nearby protected area. Using WWII parachutes, they dropped boxes of beavers from airplanes. Out of 76 beavers, all except one survived the fall. 

39% of people have an extra bone in their knee called "fabella's bone." One hundred years ago, only 11% of people had this bone. 

Genuphobia is the fear of knees. 

Before Sir Thomas More was beheaded in 1535, he made sure to move his long beard to the side saying it "had never committed any treason."

Facts by Sean McVeigh, factologist.

FEC Town Hall Meeting

On Tuesday, January 31 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., head to Beach 41st Cornerstone (426 Beach 40th Street) to learn about the new Family Enrichment Center. Discuss locations, names, programs and more.

Family Movie Night

On Sunday, February 5 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., head to Beach Dunes Eats & Arts (45-19 Rockaway Beach Blvd.) to watch Wakanda Forever. $10 cover includes all you can eat bbq pulled chicken or mushroom sliders and juice.

Rockaway Republican Club Meeting

On Tuesday, February 7 at 7 p.m., head to the Belle Harbor Yacht Club for the first general

meeting of the Rockaway Republican Club since before the pandemic. Republican candidates Tom Sullivan and Paul King will be speaking.

Valentine’s Day Half Marathon or 5K

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

Community Board 14

On Wednesday, February 15 at 7:15 p.m., head to the Knights of Columbus (333 Beach 90th Street) for the monthly community board meeting. If you wish to speak, sign up before the meeting begins.

Morning Moves at RISE

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

JASA Weekly Yoga

On Mondays at 11 a.m. and Fridays at 11:30 a.m., seniors are welcome to JASA Rockaway Park Older Adult Center (106-20 Shore Front Parkway) for weekly Yoga with Cynthia. Open to Adults 60 +; To register, please call 718-6343044.

Core on the Floor

On Mondays from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., head to the RISE Center (58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd). for a free core and lower body class with Ann Fosteris of Fitness to You. All are welcome! Bring a mat. Masks required inside RISE.

Cardio Punch

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

Rockaway Writers Workshop

Rock Away Pens is gearing up for their next 12-session writers' workshop for writers working on a project for publication or production. Free. Meetings weekly on Zoom. For information, contact: rockawaypens@gmail.com

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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

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

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

Notice of Formation of 22GRAFFICS LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/04/2023. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 88-16 212th Place, Queens Village, NY 11427. Any lawful purpose.

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

HERKIMER BRIARWOOD LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 1/10/23. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 36-35 Bell Blvd., Bayside, NY 11361.Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

JUPITER JIE, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/07/22, with an existence date of 01/16/2023. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as gent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 28 Steven Street, Plainview, NY 11803. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

TIFFANY ROSE CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE ANESTHETIST PLLC, a Prof. LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/13/2023. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: The PLLC, 7011 108th Street, Apt 3K, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: To Practice The Profession Of Registered Professional Nursing.

Notice of Formation of ISIDOR LAW, PLLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/05/2023. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to ISIDOR LAW, PLLC, 9605 40TH RD, Corona, NY 11368. Any lawful purpose.

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SSNY shall mail process to DivineEnergyNYC LLC, 3114 82nd Street East Elmhurst, NY 11370. Any lawful purpose.

Ask the DOC

By Peter Galvin, MD

The Aorta

The aorta is the major artery, or high-pressure blood vessel, in the human body. As an artery, it carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body. It starts at the top of the heart at the aortic valve and initially travels upward toward the head. It then curves downward, forming the aortic arch. Several major arteries branch off from the aortic arch. These arteries supply blood to the upper body including torso, arms, neck, and head. Then, it travels towards the feet, passing through the diaphragm into the abdomen. In the abdomen, major arteries

branch off to supply the liver (hepatic artery), intestines (mesenteric arteries), and the kidneys (renal arteries). Then the aorta forms two branches, the femoral arteries, that supply the legs and feet.

Like all arteries, the wall of the aorta is elastic, expanding and contracting with each heartbeat. In some people, over time the inner lining of the aorta, or the endothelium, may stiffen and thicken. This may tear, which allows blood under pressure into the intima, or inner wall of the aorta. This may cause the outer wall to expand, forming an

aneurysm. If the aneurysm forms in the abdomen, it is known as an abdominal aortic aneurysm, or AAA. Most patients with an AAA have no symptoms, and while an AAA may be felt as a pulsating mass in a thin person, it is undetectable in most. While AAAs typically take years to form, they may sometimes expand quickly and burst. A ruptured AAA is a life-threatening event requiring rapid diagnosis and treatment. Even with today’s modern medical capabilities, a ruptured AAA is often not survivable. So, the key to addressing AAAs is to diagnose and treat them before they rupture.

Risk factors for AAA include male sex, older age (average age at diagnosis is 65 to 75 years), cigarette smoking (80% of patients with AAA have a smoking history), presence of aneurysms in other blood vessels in the body, family history of AAA, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and peripheral arterial disease. Smoking cessation and control of blood pressure and cholesterol decrease risk. Both the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the Society of Vascular Sur-

geons recommend that men aged 65 to 75, who are current or former smokers, have an abdominal ultrasound to screen for AAA. In this group, about 5% of screenings are positive. Sometimes, an AAA is detected on CT screening of the abdomen when the test is done for other reasons (this is called an incidental finding).

Management of AAA depends on its size, location, and rate of growth. Typically, smaller AAAs are monitored with ultrasound or CT over time to ensure that they are not growing. AAAs that enlarge to 55 mm in diameter in men and 50 mm in women or are rapidly increasing in size (>5 mm in 6 months or >10 mm in one year) have an increased risk of rupture and are usually referred to a vascular surgeon for repair. Repair can be either an endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) which uses catheters, or an open surgical repair, which replaces the aneurysm with a graft. Those who undergo EVAR typically recover faster, but longterm survival is about the same for both treatments.

Sadhana Gupta, MD Zoya Koroleva, DO

Ramblings From A Vacant Mind

By Bob Nesoff

Every so often, and this is one of those times, thoughts turn to what you may do while traveling. Watch TV in the hotel, read a book, see a movie and whatever else.

There’s a whole new crop of movies on the big screen. Instead of sitting in front of the tube, get out, have some popcorn and enjoy something larger than your 55-inch Sony.

The third season of “The Rookie,” starring former soap opera star Nathan Fillion, has debuted. Nathan has come a long way from his soap days and has become an accomplished actor. From his last gig as crime novelist “Castle,” he’s now a cop patrolling Los Angeles with an interesting cast to back him up.

sleeve. A second curious note. But what the heck, it’s TV.

A new show, a spinoff called “The Rookie: Feds” follows Fillion. That one stars Niecy Nash. The question here is “Why?”

Her acting talent is just north of a bagel. Her main attribute seems to be displaying her more than ample cleavage. In the first installment, when her father suggests she close her blouse one more button, she declines, thus telling the audience what’s important.

As a rookie, she constantly upstages the supervisors and always seems to come up with the solution to a crime. She regularly disobeys orders and loves the phrase “We’re Feds.” If J. Edgar Hoover were still the FBI dictator, he would have fired her the minute he saw her cleavage, which shows far more than her acting talent. Her voice is akin to a fingernail on a blackboard. Hopefully, this will not last beyond the season.

dience holding its breath. It ties up a couple of loose ends from the original and the audience seemed quite pleased.

I may be in the great minority regarding “Avatar.” Despite its box office smash, raking in billions, it was way too long at more than three hours. It also seemed to be almost identical to the first iteration. The CGI (computer generated images) were spectacular, but way overdone. At least forty-five minutes to an hour could have been cut with no loss. The movie gods are now well into production of “Avatar 3.” God help us.

A new sitcom, “Abbott Elementary” made its debut and seems to have caught on. The cast meshes excellently. Its star and creator, Quinta Brunson, is perfect for the role. Trade publications credit her with “Saving the traditional sitcom.” For her part, Brunson says: “I really just want to make a good TV show.” She has succeeded.

One popular show cut at the end of last season, the remake of “Magnum,” has been brought back, but on a different station. Cut by CBS for some reason, it will be back on NBC on February 19. It’s difficult to talk about a show that has not yet been broadcast, but the previous one looked excellent. Starring Jay Hernandez and Perdita Weeks, it appears to be picking up where it left off when CBS dumped it. The same cast of characters also return, and they play off each other excellently. Magnum is now a Navy SEAL, which he was not in the original years ago. TV seems infatuated with the SEALS, a bone of contention with a former Green Beret. But what can you do? They seem to have an excellent PR department which the Green Berets never wanted. But that being said, “Magnum” fans should be excited.

That being said, a few interesting details have cropped up, none of which harm the show. But to the critical eye, they raise questions. He is no longer a rookie, but now a training officer with his own rookie. Quite a jump. He also sports two chevrons on his

The long-lasting procedural, “NCIS,” surprised many people, especially devotees of the 20-yearold show, when Mark Harmon left, and they thought it had run its course. Gary Cole took over the lead and, in what would have been realistic, he had to win over the team. It didn’t go smoothly, but it has caught on and should last another few years.

The two most hyped movies, Tom Cruise’s new “Top Gun” and the sequel to “Avatar,” have been setting box office records.

Cruise acquits himself as usual with a stellar performance and action that’ll have the au -

a) How many 2 digit number s are there in which the sum of the digits is equal to 12?

b) How many 3 digit number s are there in which the sum of the digits is equal to 12?

Dear Enchantress,

I am a painter, and I have not been feeling creative or excited about painting. I was doing well during the pandemic, and then since we started to join the world again, I have not touched any of my work. My tools sit there and it's like I'm purposefully ignoring them. I have not even put them away! The brushes look at me and now all the art space just looks like furniture and I'm not sure how to move forward. Some people have bought my art online and I've shipped it to them, and it feels like I'm giving clothing away to the Salvation Army. When I used to package my art up, it was a whole experience and now it's like BLAH.

By Shane Kulman

Help!??!?  How do I get started again?

Amy

Dear Art Avoider, You are NOT alone, and even though I say THAT a lot, this is a personal one for me that I resonate with. SO, here are my secrets. First of all, I want to invite in the perspective that you are right, and this shut down time is a time that work that you are not even aware of is percolating. Oooh, now isn't that interesting? That there are creative aspects to your work that have not even been revealed to you yet?! That's what's amazing about art. I will give you some actual suggestions, but this idea and mindset of wonderment and curiosity are the fuel to

“Tangible Nature” Exhibit at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

the actions I'll offer. Then I want you to see LIFE as a CREATION. You create meals, outfits to wear, and even in this email message to me, you've chosen specific words to use.

Next, here are some practical ideas. Clean up like you work in your house and clean the items, organize them and that's it! Open a window and let the stagnant air around your art materials out. You can run wild with this, and dance near them or with the brushes, some kind of movement of your body in the space that you paint. You can also move the furniture around in that space, make it look NEW. On another day, give yourself permission to make crappy art. Make bad art that no one will see, make it so bad you can hardly stand the experience!

These two actions: the cleaning and charging up the space with your energy will lead you to making the crappy art, after that it's up to you. It's your choice, and I want you to know you can give up art, you can give all your materials away and never do it again.

What's that like to read? What did your inner voice have to say

about you giving away all your stuff and never painting again? Can you find that interesting? I want to encourage you to get the book, "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron.

If you want Shane as your mentor and coach, or you have a question for her to answer here, email her at love@enchantedembodiment.com

“Tangible Nature,” an exhibit of photographs by Dean Moses, is on view at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center through March 31. The exhibit documents the interaction of the park’s diverse visitors as they participate in outdoors activities including observing nature, beach cleanups, kayaking, and hiking. The Visitor Center is open 10 am to 4 pm, Friday through Monday.

Moses is an author, award-win-

ning photographer, and freelance journalist. His photography has appeared in numerous New York based newspapers, including AM New York, Queens Courier, and Canarsie Courier. His photographs explore the relationship and rapport humans can have with nature.

Originally from the United Kingdom, Moses now considers himself a proud New Yorker. He lives in NYC with his wife and four cats.

Chicken Cutlets with Artichoke, Tomato, Spinach and Mozzarella

By Sharon Feldman Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets

• 1 or 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced in circles

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs (I substituted corn flake crumbs)

• 1 egg, whisked

• 4-5 marinated artichokes, sliced

• Handful of baby spinach

• 4-6 slices of mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Salt and pepper the chicken cutlets. Place cutlets (one at a time) in the beaten egg. Dredge in flour. Add to egg mixture again and then into the breadcrumbs.

Heat frying pan with 3 table-

spoons of olive oil. Add the cutlets until browned, approximately 4-5 minutes depending on thickness. Turn and brown other side.

Spray a baking sheet and put the cooked cutlets on it. Add the sliced artichokes to the chicken cutlets. Then put slices of the tomato on top. Add a few pieces of spinach and top with mozzarella cheese.

Bake in a 375-degree oven for 15-20 minutes. Turn the oven to broil and let the mozzarella brown a little. Remove from oven and plate.

ST. CAMILLUS / ST VIRGILIUS BASKETBALL MVPs

OF THE WEEK

Mara led her team to a 7-point win by dropping 21 points out of the team total of 45. Nine of those 21 coming down the stretch in the all-important fourth quarter. Mason led his

team to a 12-point victory, scoring 20 points, which was exactly half of his team's total, scoring from everywhere on the court, including inside, the foul line, and beyond the arc. Sal

also led his team to a win, not only by scoring 22 of the team's 45, but also showing tremendous strength underneath and totally dominating the boards.

The St. Camillus/ St. Virgilius basketball program is underway with 150 local kids from 4th grade to 8th grade, playing in the Girls, Junior Boys and Senior Boys leagues. Here are some standout players this week.

Mara Brady Girls League

Mason Hance Junior Boys League

Sal Nicchitta Senior Boys League

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Baby—it’s cold outside, but inside the peninsula’s bustling food, beverage and arts establishments—it’s absolutely sizzling! So, start planning your Rockaway crawl with our Rockaway Good Times guide below.

LIVE MUSIC

FRIDAY, January 27 8 p.m.

Slide into the weekend with Margie’s comforting American classic and reinvented seaside cuisine as Irish Cork-born, indie folk artist, Niall Connolly takes the stage at tonight’s “Folk Fridays Series.” 108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

FRIDAY, January 27

8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

If you’re longing for music to set your soul on fire—head to Bar Marseille for award-winning Kerry Kearney & Friends, jammin’ Psychedelta—their own brand of music, boasting an upbeat mix of American roots, blues and rock.  190 Beach 69th Street

FRIDAY, January 27 9 p.m.

What better place to experience house music than overlooking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, Jamaica Bay and the Atlantic Ocean? The Rockaway Hotel’s Rooftop! Every last Friday of the month, resident DJs—Danny Lynch, John Said, and Roland & Brother Rich— hosts NYC’s premiere house music experience right here in Rockaway! Plus, cocktails and light bites served. For more info, including reservations, visit: https://www.therockawayhotel.com/dining/the-rooftop

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

FRIDAY, January 27 9 p.m.

Back in Irish Town is punk-influenced Folk ‘n’ Irish band—The Gobshites—paintin’ Rogers green!

203 Beach 116th Street

SATURDAY, January 28

7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Who runs the world? Girls! Tonight, The Pointers’ ladies salute with a sizzling retro rock and pop performance at Tap That.

111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd

ROCKAWAY GOOD TIMES

SATURDAY, January 28 9 p.m.

With two-day, back-to-back performances—last chance to get ‘Irished’ this weekend with The Gobshites at Rogers.

203 Beach 116th Street

SUNDAY, January 29  3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Soak in the last drops of the weekend at Tap That with Meddle Juice’s eclectic medley of original folk and blues music, plus some recognizable American standards.

111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd

SUNDAY, January 29 4 p.m.

Don’t worry, ‘beer’ hoppy, as the Rock-A-Wades brew your favorite rock classics at Rogers.

203 Beach 116th Street

ONGOING

Motivation MONDAYS 7 p.m.

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

415 Beach 72nd Street

Tunesday TUESDAYS

7 p.m.

Why are Tuesdays at Rockaway Tiki known as Suzeday? Get the 411 from DJ Tony from Naked NY as he plays your favorite music videos on the big Tiki screen.

67-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

Wine WEDNESDAYS

7 p.m.

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

67-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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

91-11 Rockaway Beach Blvd

Thirsty THURSDAYS

9 p.m.

DJ Baroque boasts one of the most en-

viable record collections known and unknown within the funk and soul scene, so tonight, don’t miss him spinning acid jazz, instrumental funk and soul gems.

174 Beach 116th Street

Selfie SATURDAYS

7 p.m. until closing

Elevate your weekend fun on the rooftop at The Rockaway Hotel. With live DJ, craft cocktails, lite bites, and soaking in ocean and Manhattan cityline views—forever memorialize your selfie Saturday!

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

8 p.m. to Midnight

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

Sweet SUNDAYS 12 noon

Whether you’re in the mood for brunch or lunch—The Chef’s Table has got you covered! For example, brunchers—be totally smitten with their corn flake-crusted French toast. Lunchers—what about Maine lobster rolls or freshly-made eggplant meatballs? Live music begins at 12 noon. For reservations, call (718) 318-5100. 268 Beach 116th Street

RTC

THEATER

PRESENTS MTI BROADWAY JUNIOR REVIEW: “RAISE YOUR VOICE”

Starting this FRIDAY, January 27! 2 p.m. / 7 p.m. Rockaway Theatre Company Young People’s Theatre Workshop presents, “Raise Your Voice,” a musical showcase of performances from the popular film and Broadway production, “Sister Act.” Show dates are Friday, January 27 at 7 p.m.; Saturday January 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Jan 29, 2 p.m.; Friday, February 3, 7 p.m. and 2 p.m.; Saturday, February 4, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, February 5, 2 p.m. For tickets and more info, visit: https://www.rockawaytheatrecompany.org/

SPECIAL MENTIONS

DUELING PIANOS HEADLINES

BHYC YOUTH FUNDRAISER

FRIDAY, January 27

7:30 p.m.

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

533 Beach 126th Street

JAMESON’S LOVERS LANE GALENTINE’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

FRIDAY, February 3 7 p.m.

Guys and gals—get an early start to love day at Jameson’s Lovers Lane Galentine’s Day celebrations, featuring charcuterie board, cocktails and Meg’s Sweet Treats. Live DJ starts spinning at 7 p.m. Call (718) 474-9364 to reserve your table. Note, starting February 1, Jameson’s love day specials are ongoing through Valentine’s Day.

421 Beach 129th Street

THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL GALENTINE FLORAL WORKSHOP

SUNDAY, February 5 2 p.m.

Grab your pals, and sip on Prosecco as Sherleen Bruno, founder and lead floral designer of Brooklyn-based floral design boutique, B Luxe Blooms, guides you in curating a Valentine’s themed floral arrangement at The Rockaway Hotel. During this two-hour experience, guests design their own unique floral arrangement while enjoying light bites, Prosecco and great company. Learn the fundamentals of designing a beautiful arrangement, facts about various flowers, and strategies for keeping your florals fresh. Admission is $105 and includes vases and materials (excluding cutters), personal arrangement, Prosecco, 10% dining discount at Margie's pre- or post-workshop. Just bring your lust for fun, creativity and sweet-smelling vibes. For tickets and more info, visit: https://www.therockawayhotel.com/happenings 108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

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

LOCAL COLOR: READERS SEND IN THEIR PIX

TJ Moriarty

Andrew Stangel

Gynnette Lopez

Roberta Chiffriller

Ken Lavery

Andrzej Zbrog

Brenda Burns

Mark Eidinger

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.

Joe OBrien

Bill Blulite Louw

Mike Balfe

Tom Stray

Timothy Meagher

Susan Natale

Andrew Stangel

Andrzej Zbrog

RIP Jay Briscoe

There comes a time when you meet someone in your life, and although it was briefly, they leave a lasting impression. For me, that was Jay Briscoe, one half of the Ring Of Honor (ROH) 13-time Tag Team Champions. Jay unfortunately passed away on January 17, 2023, due to a car accident in Laurel, Delaware. He was 38 years old.

Jay Briscoe, real name Jamin Pugh, started his wrestling career at a very young age, along with his brother Mark Pugh. Both he and his brother would videotape themselves doing

training techniques, then rewatch it in order to correct themselves, so they could do the training techniques right. They were eventually trained by Eddie Valentine, Jim Kettner and Glen Osbourne. They debuted in 2001 for various promotions such as Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW), Jersey All Pro Wrestling (JAPW) and Ring of Honor (ROH) which eventually became their home promotion. Young and hungry, the Briscoes slowly became one of the top tag teams working in the independent circuit. They have wrestled every top wrestling

tag team in the United States and abroad.

It wasn't long before the Briscoes started winning Tag Team Championships in pretty much every single promotion they worked in. Through a working relationship between ROH and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), the Briscoes made their debut in Japan on January 4, 2016 at the Wrestle Kingdom 10 Event in the Tokyo Dome, where in a 6-Man Tag Match, they defeated the Bullet Club to become the inaugural NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Champions. This would start a very successful run with NJPW for the majority of 2016, and eventually seeing the Briscoe Brothers becoming NJPW Junior Tag Team Champions. They would lose those titles on October 10, 2016, at the NJPW King of Pro Wrestling Event to the tag team

of Tonga and Loa, members of the Bullet Club.

One of the Briscoe Brothers’ biggest achievements was becoming the ROH Tag Team Champions for 13 times, between the period of 2016 and 2023. A record that no other tag team has been able to achieve. The Briscoe Brothers were very well respected and Jamin was a leader in every locker room he entered. I was privileged to work on a couple of shows where Jamin and his brother were also performing and I learned a lot from watching them perform. When they were in the ring together, their moves and performances were an honor to watch. Jamin's professionalism, along with his down-to-earth demeanor, is what many of his friends in the business loved the most about him. We here at Wrestle Talk would like to send our deepest condolences to his family and friends. You will be missed Jamin.

If you would like to send your support to the Pugh Family. You can go to: givesendgo.com/pughlove

Questions or comments? Please send them to eavil183@yahoo.com, have a great weekend!

All Major Insurance Companies Accepted