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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Fresh Start Locals Plunge Into 2021

Photo by Megan McMahon Hughes

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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St. John’s Welcomes First Baby in 2021 St. John’s Episcopal Hospital happily embraced its first delivery of the New Year. Entering the world on January 2 at 6 lbs., 12 oz. and 19.5 inches long, baby girl Treasure Storm Witcher was born healthy and strong to proud parents, and Rockaway residents, Taniqua Dicy Bradley, and fiancÊe Thomas

Franklin Witcher. Moving to the Rockaways seven years ago, the Bradley-Witcher family has witnessed the positive changes happening locally, beginning with SJEH’s updates to the facility and healthcare options— primarily women’s health.

Diagnosed with preeclampsia, a potentially dangerous pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure, Ms. Bradley turned to the team at SJEH to provide her with the right prenatal care from the start. “St. John’s provided all the right and necessary tools for a successful pregnancy,� Ms. Bradley said. She went on to state, “For me, it was important to see a hospital like St. John’s offer a Labor and Delivery unit available to the people on the Peninsula.

As a patient, you become like family. Otherwise, I would have had to trav-

el far to deliver my baby which would have been very challenging!� Regretfully, Ms. Bradley lost her father to complications of cancer and COVID-19 in the month of April, during the height of the pandemic, but the surprising news of her pregnancy gave her comfort and the joy of life after the loss of her loved one.

SJEH showered baby Treas-

ure Storm with gifts to celebrate the momentous occasion of her arrival. Gifts included diapers, baby care essentials, a diaper bag filled with clothing and other helpful infant goods, along with a baby monitor, courtesy of Jzanus–a Long Island-based company. Ms. Bradley is excited to return home with baby Treasure Storm to meet her three sisters and happy dog, Lucky.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Taking the Plunge into Love

The Rockaway Times

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

Kevin Boyle PUBLISHER Pat McVeigh MANAGING DIRECTOR Katie McFadden MANAGING EDITOR

City Councilman Eric Ulrich 114-12 Beach Channel Drive, suite #1 Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Email: eulrich@council.nyc.gov 718-318-6411

Fred Marino, Rick Horan, John Onorato SALES __________________________ 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

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. 88-08 Rockaway Beach Blvd Room 311 Rockaway Beach, NY 11693 Email: addabbo@nysenate.gov 718-318-0702 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

One local took taking the plunge to another level on Beach 119th by diving into the Atlantic and then diving into commitment. After the dip, Timmy Dunne rang in the new year by dropping to one knee and popping the question, officially asking Clare Higgins to make a splash with him. Congrats to Timmy and Clare on their engagement!

Thanks to Kathleen O’Connor for snapping this special moment!

Community Board 14 1931 Mott Ave Far Rockaway, NY 11691 Email: QN14@cb.nyc.gov 718-471-7300

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One local is in a longtime commitment with polar plunging.

On Friday, January 1, Pete Brady took the plunge on Beach 133rd while his grandkids, Jack, Mara and Pete cheered him on. But this guy is a regular. Brady has been jumping into the ocean once a month for the last 25 years and has been taking the New Year’s Day dip since the 1970s!

Photo by Peter Brady.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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Shivering In the New Year Boy, those kids look cold! Many youngsters got into the plunge action to ring in the New Year on Beach 137th Street on January 1. While the adults are well-seasoned plungers, the kids couldn’t hide their feelings—it was a cold one! With a low of about 30 degrees, even the water was a relief at 45 degrees. But these brave souls took on the challenge with smiles!

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 7

INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION FILL 100TH PRECINCT MEETING

By Katie McFadden

The latest 100th Precinct Community Council meeting was a source for information and inspiration. Just ahead of the new year, on Wednesday, December 30, the 100th Precinct Community Council held its monthly Zoom meeting, which featured guest speaker, retired NYPD Chief Joe Fox, who after a 38-year illustrious career, now serves as life coach and motivational speaker.

Fox opened by thanking Reverend Joyce Dugger, Pastor of the First Congregational Church of Rockaway, for the impact that churches have on communities. He then thanked 100th Precinct Community Council President Kathy Heavey for holding a moment of silence for TJ Curley, a 12-year-old boy who tragically died in a fire on December 7, 2017, as TJ was a neighbor of his. “TJ was a special kid who never failed to yell ‘Hi Chief’ no

matter how many times I told him to call me Joe,” he said. He then thanked the 100th Precinct Community Council for all that it does. “We don’t police the community, we police with the community,” Fox said.

Fox also recognized some of Rockaway’s local NYPD leaders, Captain Carlos Fabara of the 100th Precinct and Deputy Inspector Ronald McCall of Transit District 23.

Fox then spoke about his own experiences and his work as a motivational speaker before providing some words of inspiration to the group, though he said motivation really comes down to the people. He stated

that it’s up people themselves to feel motivated and inspired and to feel good about their lives. He spoke of the importance of having strong leaders in the NYPD, but also rooting out the bad apples. “You can try to build all the morale you want and be wonderful…but if you are not taking care of a cancer, someone bringing the command down, then none of that other stuff matters,” he said.

Fox spoke about some of the challenges he faced in his 38year career, from seven officers who died on the job to facing 9/11 as an officer and how his work never finished despite retiring. “Many have told me I failed at retirement,” Chief Fox said. His role as a motivational speaker took on even more meaning through the Covid pandemic as people sought help and through a time when morale was down in the NYPD. In response, he teamed up with Thank You NYPD to make visits to precincts across the city, giv-

ing them meals and words of inspiration. The Chief stressed that the people who are supportive of the police should continue showing it as the officers are appreciative.

The Chief himself says he has found a secret to staying a happy person. He repeats to himself: ”I am ever mindful of the purposefulness of the purposeful moments of my purposeful life” as his mantra. “Whatever your method of accessing your mindfulness, we should all access those purposeful moments,” the Chief advised.

Chief Fox was followed by Crime Prevention Officer Lauren Haber, who spoke about holiday scams and avoiding drinking and driving on New Year’s Eve. Susan Lavin followed up by letting the community know about My Turn college classes, which are available to those 60 and older, for free, virtually through Kingsborough College, plus a Continued on page 8

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***** Army Corps / Jetties/ Groins update: “We are on schedule to complete the groins near Beach 32 and Beach 36 in March. We intend to start construction on the groins near Beach 149th and Beach 145th in February. In the next few months, we will have more information to provide on the next construction contract that will provide for the reinforced dune, beach sand, and dune crossings.” ***** Speaking of the beach, we don’t blame you if you avoid it this time of year. But, we’re just saying, you might miss out on a few things. You can still see dozens (hundreds?) of surfers on some days, you can see the jetties being built with big machines, and you

INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION Continued from Page 7 guest speaker series with specialists in different fields every Wednesday. Those who are interested in learning more can contact Lavin at 718-368-5079 or thelavinfamily@verizon.net.

Deputy Inspector Ronald McCall of Transit District 23 followed and shared some good news. “We had a pretty busy year. We didn’t take too many crimes, but we solved a lot of them. We haven’t taken a crime since September 3,” he said. So instead, he used his time to go deeper into his background as an amateur boxer, which Chief Fox had mentioned earlier.

Captain Fabara spoke next and announced that Community Affairs officer Claudio Diaz was moving on, following Captain Louron Hall to the 104th Precinct. “A lot of times when people get promoted or move, they take their best people with them and Captain Hall definitely did that,” Fabara said, but he added that there are very prom-

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

The Rockaway Times

might see somebody getting engaged. On January 1 when lots of people jumped in the ocean, one man really took the plunge. Timmy Dunne went in the water, came out, got down on one knee and proposed to Clare Higgins.

Congrats! ***** Young women of the Rockaway Youth Task Force (RYTF) caused quite a stir when several went public alleging that RYTF founder, Milan Taylor, was guilty of sexual and emotional abuse. The charges, many posted on social media, are quite explicit. Taylor, a former member of Community Board 14, was arrested in 2014 for throwing a female victim onto a couch in the RYTF office and then choking her. He was sentenced to eight weeks of anger management in a plea deal. In response to the latest allegations, many elected officials came out in support of the women and are urging law enforcement to investigate.

***** Rockaway makes its way into a lot of publications but it was still a surprise to see it make National Geographic. The famed magazine did a story on all the whale sightings around New York.

Rockaway (and the American Princess, the whale watching boat) are prominently mentioned. Scientists say the clean water and a “brimming buffet” of bunker make the place irresistible to humpbacks and other whales. It so happens, The Rockaway Times had a front page photo of a school of bunker on the cover just a few weeks ago. ***** The National Risk Index

by FEMA is an online tool to help illustrate the nation’s communities more at risk of natural hazards. The index combines 18 natural hazards (hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanoes, etc) with socioeconomic and other factors. Los Angeles is the riskiest place to hang your hat. Three of

the five boroughs are in the top 10 (but not Queens!) though we’re “high risk.”

The index is supposed to encourage communities mitigate factors as they can. ***** Restaurants and most service industries have had a challenging time to say the least but an overlooked business facing lean times are auto body places. There’s less traffic with no place to go (and there are fewer places to go, for sure!). So less traffic, less fender benders. ***** Don‘t forget you can still buy a Pot-a-Gold ticket to support The Graybeards.

Last year’s winner won a whopping 50 grand. Please consider purchasing one or more tickets as it’s the Graybeards’ most important fundraising effort. Contact Rick Horan and he’ll make things easy for you. Email him at Rick@horan.me or give him a call at 917-3453700. The big drawing is set for January 30.

ising prospects being interviewed to fill Diaz’s shoes.

Fabara then gave a breakdown of recent crimes in the last 28-day period, bringing mostly good news. “We’re down in murder, rapes and robberies,” he said. Though, there has been an uptick in felony assaults, burglaries and grand larcenies, but grand larceny auto is down. He said the felony assault uptick is due to domestic incidents and there have been arrests in four of the five cases.

Of the grand larcenies, Fabara said they mostly involve phone scams and advised people to be aware of such scams.

The floor was then opened to questions. Darrell Wilson, vice president of the Hammels civic, spoke about quality of life issues with people lingering and drinking in the shopping plaza where CVS and Popeye’s is. The captain assured him that they are on top of it.

“People are hanging out there, drinking and being disorderly in general. It’s a priority for me and I’ve been taking enforcement actions over there. Our

enforcement is up and it’s going to continue to be up,” Captain Fabara said.

The Rockaway Times brought up a recent claim from Whitney Aycock of Whit’s End, who posted on Facebook that an employee was given a summons before the holidays for playing music on his phone.

Fabara said he was not aware of such summons. “That’s not something we would do, but that location has been problematic for us,” he said, adding that they have responded to numerous complaints at the business.

“We’ve taken enforcement action in accordance with the law,” he said.

Next, a woman brought up a recent article featured in Gothamist, which claimed Captain Fabara was promoted to his position as captain despite having 57 complaints filed against him in his 21-year career, and asked him to address it. Fabara said he can’t speak much on the matter and referred the person to the NYPD press office, DCPI, but did offer some explanation. “Sometimes we deal with situations

that are enforcement encounters and even in those situations, we can always have a pleasant interaction as long as the person is cooperative and not combative.

Sometimes we have to change up how we’re addressing an incident based on the circumstances but we’re really looking to have a close working relationship with everyone who is willing to work with us,” he said. As Chief Fox is retired, he offered more insight into complaints and defended Fabara, saying that in many instances, 11 different complaints can come from just one incident, and that Fabara has long worked in high enforcement fields including anti-crime and narcotics, where officers make multiple arrests in their careers.

“Carlos did not get to the point where he was recommended as a commanding officer without his superiors considering a lot of factors,” Fox said.

As the community council will take a winter break, the next meeting will be Wednesday. February 24 at 7 p.m.

Email vp100pctcc@gmail.com for login info.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

A Fresh Start on Beach 127th Coronavirus may have canceled some official plunges like those in Coney Island, but nothing could stop people from plunging into the ocean, especially for the annual New Year’s Day dip marking a fresh start after a rough 2020. Groups popped up all around the beach on Friday, January 1, but one of the largest groups came out on Beach 127th Street with dozens of friends and family, some even bearing unique outfits, kicking off 2021 in the 45-degree ocean.

Photos by Liz Gatto, Megan McMahon Hughes and Kevin Boyle.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

This Week in History JANUARY 7 Dennis Cook was born.

Patrick Clark was born.

Sarah McGonigle was born.

Augusta Marino was born.

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

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

JANUARY 8 Jill Brady was born.

tablished diplomatic relations after a 117-year break.

JANUARY 11 Sylvan Klein was born.

1973 - Baseball's American League adopted the "designated hitter" rule which allowed another player to bat for the pitcher. 2002 - The first al-Qaeda prisoners arrive at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

JANUARY 12 Caitlin Boyle was born.

1958 - Bobby Fischer won the United States Chess Championship for the 1773 - The first public musefirst time at age 14. um in the U.S. was established in 1964 - President Lyndon Johnson Charleston, S.C. announced his War on Poverty.

1915 - The U.S. House of Representatives rejected a proposal to give JANUARY 9 women the right to vote.

Paula Ann DiGioia was born.

1861 - Mississippi became the sec- JANUARY 13 ond state to secede from the Union. Walker Hornung was born.

1952- Jackie Robinson became the Scott Ruscillo was born. highest paid player in Brooklyn Dodger history.

1999 - Michael Jordan announced his second retirement from the NBA. JANUARY 10 1863 - The first underground pas- He would "unretire" again in 2001. senger railway, the Metropolitan, 2002 - After 17,162 performances, The Fantasticks ended its almost 42opened in London.

1984 - The U.S. and the Vatican rees- year off -Broadway run.

The Rockaway Times

Covid-19 Tracker 12/29-01/03 As parts of Rockaway have seen increases in Covid-19 cases, it’s important to keep track of how the neighborhood is doing with coronavirus. Robby Schwach of Councilman Eric Ulrich’s office has been hard at work, tracking down the details for each Rockaway zip code.

We are sharing this info each week.

As Schwach was readying Ulrich’s office for to offer free testing on Monday and Tuesdays (9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 114-12 Beach Channel Drive), this week’s stats were sent a little early.

The latest info represents changes between 12/29/2020-01/03/2021.

In 11691, positive cases increased by 181 from 4,048 to 4,229. There was one new death, bringing the total at 383.

In 11692, cases went up by 49, from 928 to 977. There were no new deaths and the total remains at 94.

In 11693, cases rose by 30 from 529 to 559. There were no new deaths and the total remains at 29.

In 11694, there was an increase in cases by 58, from 1253 to 1311. There were no new deaths and the total remains at 87.

In 11697, cases rose by 19, from 346 to 365. There were no new deaths in this period and the total is at six.

The seven-day rolling average of positive tests by zip code: As of December 31, 11691 is 12.55%, 11692 is 8.56%, 11693 is 9.23%, 11694 is 7.29%, 11697 is 9.64% Please remember to wear a mask, particularly indoors and where social distancing is not possible.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

CB 14 VIRTUAL MEETING IS TUESDAY The Community Board 14 monthly meeting is set for Tuesday, January 12 from 7-9 p.m.

The meeting will be conducted online via Zoom.

The agenda is as follows: Approval of December 8, 2020 meeting minutes ; correspondence; Report of the Chair ; Report of the District Manager and Elected Officials call-in. Public speaking (limit is 3 minutes per speaker) will follow.

Anyone interested in taking part in speaking must request the time in advance of the meeting by email. To be included you must send an email to QN14@CB.NYC. GOV and most importantly include the phone number from which you will be calling in from. These requests

Page 13

Couple Killed in New Year’s Hit and Run

must be received by Tuesday noon, January 12. If you do not provide the requested information you will not be able to part of the public speaking segment, The meeting will also have Committee Reports: Parks and Public Safety which will include a presentation regarding Thursby Basin Park (a capital construction project at Beach 62nd and Beach 63rd, a new park).

The Mayor’s Office and The New York City Parks Department will make a presentation for a mini soccer field at Bayside Playground, 320 Beach 104th Street, adjacent to Scholars’ Academy.

Old and new business matters will be discussed and the meeting then adjourned.

A Far Rockaway couple was killed in a New Year’s morning hit-and-run.

On Friday, January 1 at around 5 a.m., Thelma Reid and Donovan Gibbon, were on their way to JFK airport after being called in to work, when their blue Nissan Rogue was T-boned by a gray Dodge Ram under the Rockaway Freeway near Ocean Crest Blvd, according to NYPD. Both were pinned in the vehicle. After medics responded, they were rushed to St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.

The driver of the Dodge Ram left the vehicle, fled the scene and was being sought.

Two other people in the vehicle were treated and one man was charged with disorderly conduct for impeding the investigation. Another was hospitalized for injuries to his leg and head. As we went to press, the NYPD said there were no updates of further arrests.

Reid and Gibbon, both immigrants were married for eight years, according to ABC 7. Reid is survived by her two daughters.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

The Rockaway Times

Jackie Needs a Hero Her Hero Could be YOU! At the height of the holiday season, five-year-old Jackie was diagnosed with a rare and deadly form of childhood leukemia.

Her only chance of survival is a bone marrow transplant.

JACKIE NEEDS A DONOR NOW. • Anyone in the country between the ages of 18-60 could be Jackie’s donor • The test for a match is a simple cheek swab: quick and painless • Please share this info with your all of your friends, family, and networks, nationwide

Sign up now! If you are Jackie’s match, you could be a lifesaving superhero!

https://join.bethematch.org/TeamJackie To advertise in The Rockaway Times call 718-634-3030 · ads@RockawayTimes.com

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 15

RYTF Founder Milan Taylor Accused Rape, Abuse

By Katie McFadden

Milan Taylor, long looked up to as a leader for local youth in Rockaway as the founder of the Rockaway Youth Task Force (RYTF), is now facing accusations of using his position to “prey on girls and young women of color,” according to former RYTF member Andrea Colon, who released a message alleging that he abused and raped her.

On December 30, Colon took to social media to write, “MILAN TAYLOR is a violent predator who has a decade-long history of using his position at the RYTF as a platform to prey on girls and young women of color. The abusive and toxic behaviors exhibited by Milan Taylor became unbearable. Milan Taylor groomed, manipulated, gaslighted, bullied, harassed, sexually, emotionally, and verbally abused me. At the age of 17, on February 24th, 2018, after midnight at the RYTF Office, Milan Taylor gave me alcohol and raped me despite my pleas. His predatory actions have had a detrimental impact on my mental health, causing episodes of depression and anxiety, which has only added to the inherent traumas of being a woman of color.”

Taylor founded the RYTF in 2011, serving as its Executive Director since its founding.

Taylor also held a position as a member of Community Board 14 since 2013.

Colon says after she and fellow RYTF member Tamera Jacobs made attempts to hold Taylor accountable by urging him to resign from his position as Executive Director of the youth organization, she resigned herself from her position as Lead Organizer on September 23, 2020, along with Jacobs.

“Tamera and I believe that young girls and women of color deserve a space where we feel safe, respected, affirmed, and valued. We are dedicated to fostering a space that is truly by and for women of color.

Under Milan’s leadership, this was literally impossible, and we were forced to submit our resignations as we feared for

our physical safety and preserve our mental health,” Colon explained in her post. Colon added that she recently found the courage to address her allegations, adding, “I have finally found the strength to speak up about my experience in efforts to stop the ongoing mental and sexual abuse that he has never been held accountable for.

I publicly stayed quiet for so many years for the well-being and preservation of the organization.”

Colon’s statements quickly garnered traction on social media, with other RYTF members showing support and coming out with their own claims of Taylor’s behavior toward them.

Several local leaders also released statements in response to the allegations and pushed for investigation.

“These allegations against Milan Taylor are deeply troubling,” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said. “The RYTF gives a platform for young women and men to amplify their voices, catalyze protests and movement, and produce change in their neighborhoods. I am very sorry for all the youth who endured insurmountable pain because of Milan’s actions. I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to learn young women were endangered and unsafe while working with the RYTF, and I believe the brave young women who came forward. There must be immediate thorough investigation.”

Congressman Gregory Meeks said, "I'm deeply disturbed by

the accusations levied against Mr. Taylor by multiple young women. I strongly believe that we should listen to women and protect them at all cost. With such serious allegations, we cannot be silent and we must take action to ensure that young women are not abused, intimidated or taken advantage of by people that are supposed to be leaders in the community. There should be a swift and thorough investigation, and if these allegations are true, Mr. Taylor must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

"I am deeply disturbed to hear about the allegations involving the Rockaway Youth Task Force, an organization that mentors young people in the community,” Senator James Sanders said.

“Anyone who does not understand that exploiting women is wrong needs to go. I encourage anyone else who has been victimized to come forward. These charges are serious and need to be investigated to ensure appropriate action is taken and justice is served."

Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson, a former member of the RYTF, said, “The allegations by young women of the RYTF against Milan R. Taylor has overwhelmed me with agonizing sadness. I commend the bravery of the survivors who already have come forward to share traumatic accounts. I denounce in the strongest terms possible the behaviors they have brought to light. There can be no excuse for workplace bullying, abuse or violence. RYTF was born to

become a beacon of hope and promise for our young people seeking an avenue to improve our community. We all have an interest to make sure it remains a safe space for our young people of color. Our office has been working with law enforcement to investigate the reported allegations, and we are committed to continue that cooperation to see that justice is done.”

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato shared her support saying, “I fully believe Andrea Colon’s account of Milan Taylor’s abuse and predatory behavior. I also commend her bravery in sharing this painful account, which I can only imagine hurt everyday she had to bear it alone. Andrea deserves swift and meaningful support and justice. Andrea’s truth is a disgusting account of a man who used his position of power to take advantage of young people who looked up to him, and used their dreams and passion for a sick and despicable purpose.”

Following Colon’s statements, many called for Taylor’s removal from the RYTF. According to a statement released by the organization on December 31, Taylor resigned from his position as Executive Director of the organization in October and Jazmine Outlaw, a longtime RYTF member and the mother of Taylor’s son, has taken over as the new Executive Director.

According to follow-up posts by the RYTF on Twitter, Taylor is no longer affiliated with the organization.

In a statement posted to RYTF social media accounts, Outlaw said, “RYTF takes all allegations of harm seriously, especially those of sexual harm. As an organization primarily composed of young women of color, there is absolutely no place for any woman to feel unsafe or at danger while working for or volunteering with RYTF. RYTF is taking multiple courses of action to ensure that nothing like this ever happens again. We are working with multiple consultants to improve organizational culture and ensure that RYTF is a place Continued on page 18

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Page 16

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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

The Rockaway Times

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 17

WE ARE OPEN! APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE Email AmstelAutobody@gmail.com or call us! 718-634-0651

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 18

RYTF FOUNDER MILAN TAYLOR Continued from Page 15 for everyone, especially young women of color, to thrive.”

In addition to allegedly being removed from the RYTF, Community Board 14 District Manager Jon Gaska says that Taylor has not been on the board for close to two years.

The Rockaway Times reached out to Taylor to respond to the allegations. Taylor referred us to his attorney, Jeffrey Lichtman, Esq., who has represented big names such as John Gotti Jr. and El Chapo. In response to the RT, Lichtman said, “So far we’ve seen a massive online public relations push — but no corroborating evidence of any rape. No immediate visit to the police.

No hospital visit or request for medical attention. Instead, my client dated Andrea Colon for a year after the date she now claims she was raped. In addition, these allegations of rape come conveniently after Colon sought my client’s removal as director of the RYTF and her

A Plunge on 101

own unsuccessful elevation to director of the organization, as well as the denial of unemployment benefits and loss of her medical insurance coverage.”

According to The Queens Daily Eagle, the NYPD’s Queens Special Victims Unit is investigating the claims made against Taylor. The RT reached out to the NYPD for confirmation, but in a statement, NYPD spokesperson Detective Sophia Mason simply said, “The NYPD takes sexual assault and rape cases extremely seriously, and urges anyone who has been a victim to file a police report so we can perform a comprehensive investigation, and offer support and services to survivors.”

This is not the first time Taylor has been in hot water. In 2014, Taylor was arrested and charged after then RYTF member Riána Sherwood accused him of attacking and choking her in the RYTF office. Taylor denied the charges but accepted a plea deal for disorderly Those on Beach 101 were having some fun on New Year’s Day. conduct and was sentenced to A small group took to the beach mid-afternoon to carry on the eight weeks of anger manage- tradition of jumping into the water to ring in 2021. ment.

Beach 146th Takes the Dip

Rockaway Park High School

for Environmental Sustainability Rockaway Park High School for Environmental Sustainability is founded on the principles that reflect our selfless, deep-seated commitment to create a culturally rich environment that develop constructive values and critical thinking, and allow for students to confidently pursue knowledge along a journey full of exploration, imagination and friendships.

Our Mission: Rockaway Park High

School for Environmental

Sustainability’s (RPHS) mission is to transform students by providing a rich, qualitative educational experience, preparing them for higher education and the working environment of the 21st century.

We are dedicated to ensuring learners at RPHS develop a lifetime of constructive values and critical thinking, are patient, confident and goal oriented. We make a commitment to transform student’s lives by connecting academics to profession, to the world that sustains them.

School Codes: Q36A • Q36G

Unique Features:

• NEW Dance Studio • NEW Music/Recording Studio

• Personalized SMALL School Environment • A Construction & Trades Carpentry Program • Guitar (Beginner through Advanced) Music Program • Advanced Placement & College Now Courses • Excellent Sports Programs What do students learn?

Students take standards based, college preparatory academics and learn 21st Century skills through hands-on projects and acƟviƟes, cooperaƟve learning, community volunteering and work-based learning that integrate real-life situaƟons.

What type of High School is RPHS? A college preparatory school that prepares students for higher educaƟon through a rigorous academic curriculum.

What’s different about us?

RPHS is a new school, founded in 2010. We have designed small learning environments to deliver content rich, academic programs integrated with real-life situaƟŽns to enlighten, engage, enrich and moƟvate all students.

Why is Sustainability important to know?

Students should know they each have the power to impact and change the world, and understand how their choices affect our living environment.

OPEN HOUSE

DATES

The Rockaway Times

January 7 • 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM January 9 • 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM January 14 • 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM January 16 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

PSAL Sports Teams: Boys: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Track, Tennis

Girls: Basketball, Lacrosse, Track, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Volleyball

Open House links are on our website: www.rockawayparkhs.com For More Information Contact Mr. Recio (718) 938-0526 Email: Jrecio@schools.nyc.gov

ROCKAWAY PARK HIGH SCHOOL HS

100-00 Beach Channel Drive, Rockaway Park, NY11694

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

Covid couldn’t keep away the polar bears of Beach 146th Street on New Year’s Day. While Beach 146th usually dominates the polar plunge crowds, this year’s group was a bit smaller as groups spread out, but Brian Sullivan got this great drone shot showing a good number of folks who took the dip in Neponsit.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

The Rockaway Times

Page 19

P 718.945.2411 Susan Lavin • Kate Patterson • Peggy Moore • Ciji Stewart • Bronagh Rayder

TWO FAMILY FOR SALE

OFFER ACCEPTED

Great Investment 149 Beach 128 St

New Exclusive Belle Harbor Condo One bedroom, one bath with LR and large terrace with ocean views.

Asking $415,000 Call Bronagh 718 877-6324

RENTAL Steps to the beach Two Family Home, offers 2 apts w/ 2 Bedrooms 1 bath, renovated kitchens and baths with private entrances, seperate mechanicals and washer & dryer in each apartment, plenty of private parking, nice-sized yard, lovely terrace w/ocean views. Excellent location.

Asking $965K Contact Susan 347-260-3891 One Family 195 Beach 129 St Call Susan 347 260 3891

IN CONTRACT

Lovely BRICK CAPE with much charm located on great block in Belle Harbor. A great front porch for relaxation with beautiful water views. Walk into a cozy living room with French doors and stunning wood burning fireplace. Newly renovated eat in kitchen, has separate den and large bedroom on first level, with 1.5 baths on main level.

Second level can accommodate two bedrooms with storage space. Basement can be renovated for a perfect mother/daughter suite which has a full bath.

Back deck with above ground pool.

Call for private viewing, contact Kate Patterson 917 680 8051

LAND FOR SALE Neponsit Beach Block

80x100, Land for Sale Beach 142nd St. Reduced to $1.8M Approved plans Call Susan 347 260 3891

Rockaway Park – Bright and sunny 1 bedroom,1 bathroom with office.

Summer parking for one car. Heat included ....................................$1,700 Call Bronagh 718 877-6324 B100s Adorable One bed Bungalow.

Pay all utilities .............................$1450 BH – Newly Renovated 2 Bed 2 Bath, HW floors, 2 Terraces, Washer / Dryer, 1 Parking Spot. No pets. Pay all utities. Rent ................................ $2200 Available February 1st.

Call Susan 347 260 3891 Belle Harbor – Belle Harbor Bright & Sunny 2 bedroom apt, 1 Bath , lovely terrace, 1 parking spot. Heat included ................................... $2,000 Call Susan 347 260 3891 BH – Beach 130s 2 Bed 1 Bath, Summer Parking, Heat included.

No Pets. Summer weekend parking 1 car ............................ $2000 Call Susan 347 260 3891

Bronagh Rayder

Ciji Stewart

Kate Patterson

Susan Lavin

Lie.RE Salesperson

Lie.RE Salesperson

Lie.RE Salesperson

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Geri Lipsman Lie. RE Broker

718-877-6324

516-943-7356

917-680-8051

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Neponsit Realty complies with Federal, State and Local Fair Housing Laws that protect individuals from housing discrimination. See:www.dos.ny.gov/licensing/docs./fair housing notice_new.pdf

·

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 20

The Rockaway Times

All Sold December 2020 It's a Seller's Market!

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Winter can be the BEST time to sell your home and this winter Ćʼn Ģĩ äŰÚäłőĆĩĢ͠ HĢŪäĢőĩŅű Ćʼn ěĩū ÁĢà ūä ĂÁŪä ʼnäŅĆĩŖʼn ńŖÁěĆƈäà buyers, ready to purchase homes in all price ranges.

Don’t wait until Spring – get ahead of the crowd and let us bring our buyers to you today!

Interested in knowing the value of your home or looking for ways to increase it’s worth? Call us today for a private consultation, there’s no obligation and it’s completely FREE of charge.

417 Beach 129th St • (718) 634-3134 To advertise in The Rockaway Times call 718-634-3030 · ads@RockawayTimes.com

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 21

Wishing You All The Joys Of The Holiday Season As the end of the year quickly approaches, we would like to thank all our clients, past and present, for allowing Rockaway Properties into your homes and helping to achieve your real estate dreams.

We intend to continue our tradition of providing the BEST customer service, based on honesty, integrity and trust.

From our home to yours, we wish you peace, joy, health and happiness in the New Year!

Warm Regards, Lisa, Barbara, Nia, Colleen, Zachary, Joey, Kristin, Amanda & Katie ¡

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 22

The Rockaway Times

Sean Fitzgerald

Mary Beth Meade 347-426-8002

Licensed Broker/Principal

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Direct 917-860-6701 Office 718-318-5030

CoastalFitz@gmail.com

coastalrealestateny.com

Ellen May Esposito - Banks 646-209-2744 Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

Wishing all a Healthy and Prosperous 2021 NEW TO -!2+%4 Rockaway Park Multiple Dwelling 12 units on 80x100 lot, PS 114 S/D Beach block with two driveways

IN

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.EVÛSNÛ-AQJESÛ Rockaway Park renovated 3 bedroom, 2 baths. Hardwood throughout. Large back deck.

Finished basement. /ÞEQEDÛASÛ

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SOLD 2NCJAVAXÛ0AQJÛ Newly renovated legal 2 family on 60x100. Over 3500 square feet of living space /ÞEQEDÛASÛ

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with

#KARRICÛ"EKKEÛ(AQBNQÛ#NKNMIAKÛNMÛ W ÛKNS Û

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D piro a L h O S S Robin

.EVÛSNÛ -AQJESÛ Rockaway Park.

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/ÞÛ-AQJES Belle Harbor Renovated 3 bedroom, 3 bath Colonial. Call for a Private Walkthrough. /ÞEQEDÛASÛ

SOLD .EVÛSNÛ-AQJES Belle Harbor Beach Block Beauty /ÞEQEDÛASÛ

2NCJAVAXÛ 0AQJÛ Fully Renovated Spacious 2 BR with Terrace and Parking. ÛOKTRÛ TSIKISIER

SOLD Rockaway Park Beach 124th Street Oceanfront 2 bedroom unit.

Brand new Kitchen and bath.

(AQDVNNDÛà NNQRÛSHQNTGHNTS Û Private Oceanfront terrace.

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 23

We are Rockaway!

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Ariana David, Lic. Real Estate Salesperson • Deborah Brennan, Lic. Real Estate Salesperson • Emily McNeil, Lic.Real Estate Salesperson Evelyn O'Dea Henglein, Lic. Real Estate Salesperson • Michael Valention, Lic. Real Estate Associate Broker • Naruetai (Fon) Tongsomboon, Lic. Real Estate Salesperson Shirley Velez, Lic. Real Estate Associate Broker

t s Ju

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·

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 24

ANIMAL HOSPITAL of the Rockaways Proudly Serving the Community for over 40 years

On-site Surgical Services, Radiographs, Dentals, Ultrsounds, Day Care, Grooming & Boarding

Appointments by Phone or Online Monday Tuesday Thursday 9am - 7pm Wednesday

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Our Doctors and Staff wish you a safe and sunny summer!

Dr. Rogoff Dr. Whittred Dr. Gaberman Elizabeth - Hospital Manager

NOTICE OF A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING of the Franchise and Concession Review Committee and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation (“NYC Parks”) to be held remotely via a Microsoft Teams dial-in on Monday, January 11, 2021 at 2:30 p.m. relative to: INTENT TO AWARD as a concession for the renovation, operation, and maintenance of three (3) outdoor cafes, one (1) beach shop, and the operation of up to twenty (20) satellite units along Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk, in Queens, for a fifteen (15) year term, to Rockaway Beach Bazaar, LLC (“Licensee”). Compensation under the License Agreement will be as follows: Licensee shall pay to City license fees for each Year, consisting of an annual fee according to the following schedule: Year 1: $300,000.00; Year 2: $309,000.00; Year 3: $318,270.00; Year 4: $327,818.00; Year 5: $337,653.00; Year 6: $347,782.00; Year 7: $358,216.00; Year 8: $368,962.00; Year 9: $380,031.00; Year 10: $391,432.00; Year 11: $403,175.00; Year 12: $415,270.00; Year 13: $427,728.00; Year 14: $440,560.00; Year 15: $453,777.00.

The public may participate in the public hearing by calling the dial-in number below. Written testimony may be submitted in advance of the hearing electronically to Gregg.Alleyne@mocs.nyc.gov. All written testimony must be received by January 8, 2021. In addition, the public may also testify during the hearing by calling the dial-in number.

The dial-in information is below: Dial-in #: +1-646-893-7101 / Access Code: 477 697 212 / Press # on further prompts A draft copy of the agreement may be obtained at no cost by any of the following ways: 1) submitting a written request to NYC Parks at concessions@parks.nyc.gov from December 28, 2020 through January 11, 2021.

2) download from December 28, 2020 through January 11,2021 on Parks’ website. To download a draft copy of the agreement, visit https://www.nycgovparks.org/opportunities/concessions/rfps-rfbs-rfeis 3) by submitting a written request by mail to NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, Revenue Division, 830 Fifth Avenue, Room 407, New York, NY 10065. Written requests must be received by December 29,2020. For mail-in request, please include your name, return address, and License # Q163-SB-2019.

A transcript of the hearing will be posted on the FCRC website at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/mocs/reporting/agendas.page For further information on accessibility or to make a request for accommodations, such as sign language interpretation services, please contact the Mayor’s Office of Contract Services (MOCS) via e-mail at DisabilityAffairs@mocs.nyc.gov or via phone at (646) 872-0231. Any person requiring reasonable accommodation for the public hearing should contact MOCS at least five (5) business days in advance of the hearing to ensure availability.

The Rockaway Times

Facts You Probably Don’t Need In Greek Mythology, it In 2011, a woman was believed that redbrought a "non-visible" heads turn into vampiece of art for $10,000. pires when they die. In 2014, a pair of under- The scientific name for the Western Lowland pants donated by the Gorilla is Gorilla GorilMayor of Brussels was stolen from The Brusla Gorilla. sels Underpants Museum. West Side Story was originally called East In Spanish, the word Side Story. "esposas" means both "wives" and "handcuffs." If you search for "askew" in Google, the content When Montenegro bewill tilt slightly to the came independent right. from Yugoslavia, its internet domain name Facts from Sean went from .Yu to .ME. McVeigh, factologist.

Our office is in Brooklyn, but our homes are in Rockaway Our Office Locations: Susan Natale

Lic. RE Salesperson JUST LISTED!

625 Gravesend Neck Rd., Brooklyn 61-43 186th St. Suite 579, Fresh Meadows 60 E 42nd St. Suite 4600, Manhattan 900 South Avenue Suite 300, Staten Island

138 Beach 92nd St., #1A (parking included) $449K

Steps from the boardwalk. Great 2 bedroom/1.5 bathroom modern reverse duplex condo with a deeded parking space. Featuring a lovely open floor plan living/dining/kitchen space w/stainless appliances, granite countertops, tiled backsplash and beautiful wood cabinetry. There's hardwood and ceramic tile flooring throughout the unit. Two generous sized bedrooms, a full bath and laundry closet complete the main level. A spiral staircase leads down to a big, wide-open space currently being used as a family room and home office. You'll find a window allowing light and fresh air as well as a half-bath on the lower level as well. Endless possibilities for alternate uses such as a guest suite, 3rd bedroom, home office, fitness center, etc. There is also a separate entrance to the lower level from outside. Listed exclusively. Call us for an appointment.

SOLD

6612 Seaspray Ave. Listed $949K - SOLD at FULL ASK!

SOLD

Freeport-Fully upgraded owner’s unit along with a 2-bedroom tenant’s unit. This clean, well-cared for house backs up to a pocket park and features panoramic ocean views from the rooftop terrace.

Direct access to the park from the pavered backyard.

Grand Bahama-Nicely upgraded and immaculate owner’s unit with a 1-bedroom tenant unit that features an ocean-view balcony. This semi-detached house offers lots of great outdoor space including an oversized backyard and rooftop terrace.

IN CONTRACT

6518 Seaspray Ave. $980k Freeport- 2-family home in the oceanfront community of Arverne by the Sea in booming Rockaway! This lovely Freeport model in the Dunes section is located only one block from the boardwalk and beach. The owner's unit is a 3-bed, 2.5 bath duplex featuring a huge bedroom with ensuite bath along with two other big bedrooms on the second floor. Tenant unit is a spacious 2-bedroom apartment features stainless appliances and a step-out balcony.

Rockaway Park Rentals 1bd/1ba w/ parking on beach block - $1,700

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

6403 Ocean Ave. N. Listed $980K - SOLD above ask at $995K!

IN CONTRACT

140-04 Cronston Ave. $1,349,000 Big, bright and beautiful 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath duplex plus an additional 1-bedroom in-law suite. This big house is on a corner property with 2 driveways and water views. House is in flawless condition. All rooms are big, bright and modern. Must be seen to be fully appreciated.

Arverne By The Sea Rentals

3bd/2ba duplex w/ yard - $2,800 2bd/1ba duplex w/ roof terrace - $2,300 2bd/1ba w/ step out balcony - $2,150 2bd/1ba - $1,850 1bd/1ba - $1,750

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

The Rockaway Times

PROMISES TO KEEP

Dear Editor: Thank you for another wonderful year of The Rockaway Times, which kept us close to our community in this challenging time of social distancing. I wish you and your staff a very happy new year. 2021 promises to be a better year.

Hope this new year keeps its promises to you and all of my dear friends out there. Here is a poem I wrote for my students a few years ago, but I would like to share it with all my friends in our community, during these difficult times.

Fondly, Joan Diehl

The New Year has promises to keep She listens to the silent prayers that we have buried deep The New Year has a fickle hand That you, dear friends, can guide Grasp it firmly with good faith and keep her on your side Point it steady to the places where you want to go And magically the seeds will blossom that you tried to sow The New Year rides on winds of change And, Good things, Bad things—rearrange What was THEN, is gone for good Though, some things, we’d keep if we could But, we can’t stop the windy stream So, embrace the New Year my dear friends— And Dream! – Joan Diehl

Page 25

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-$50,000 Price Improvement Now $999,999 525 Beach 131st St Belle Harbor, NY. 11694

Contract Out: $425,000 164 Beach 122nd St. Unit 3B Rockaway Park, NY. 11694

In Contract: $1,295,000 439 Beach 139th St. Belle Harbor, NY 11694

Sold: $650,000 719 Shad Creek Rd. Broad Channel, NY. 11693

Sold: $1,100,000 218 Beach 142nd St. Neponsit, NY. 11694

Sold: $885,000 424 Beach 136th St. Belle Harbor, NY. 11694

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Louis Belisario Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker louis.belisario@compass.com M: 347.702.3316

Joe Cruz Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker joe.cruz@compass.com M: 917.459.7681

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Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intende d 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 measureme nts and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be const rued as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. All Coming Soon listings in NYC are simultaneously syndicated to the REBNY RLS. Compass makes no representation or guarantee that Coming Soons are available in you r region, or that its use will result in the benefits described herein.

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Page 26

The Rockaway Times

Estate Planning Answers

By Nancy J. Brady

We often discuss why it’s important to have a Last Will and Testament in place when you pass away. Keep in mind that any property or financial assets titled in the name of a joint owner, or with beneficiary designations will pass to those joint owners or beneficiaries.

Let’s look at what happens when a New Yorker dies with assets titled in his or her name alone (with no joint owner or beneficiary named) and has left no Last Will and Testament in place.

When a person dies leaving no Will, he or she is said to have died “intestate,” and his/ her property is distributed according to the law in New York found in the Estates Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL 4-1.1) EPTL 4-1.1 lays out a list of relatives who will inherit from the person who died (decedent). The relatives so entitled to inherit from the de-

and the predeceased child ceased person are known as had children, those grand“distributes.” children will inherit their • Basically, if the decedent deceased parent’s share. has a spouse and no children, the spouse inherits • If the decedent left a spouse and children behind, the everything owned by the desurviving spouse will inherit cedent at the time of death. $50,000 first, then half of the • If the decedent has no balance of the remaining spouse, but has children, estate, and children inherit then the children would the other half. inherit everything. If the decedent had a child who • If an unmarried person with no children passes, that predeceased the decedent,

person’s parents, if surviving, will inherit.

• If an unmarried person with no children or surviving parents passes, the decedent’s siblings inherit.

• If any of the siblings have predeceased, the predeceased siblings’ children will inherit.

The statute continues to carry out the level of relationship to inherit up to and including first cousins once removed.

If there are no living relatives up to and including first cousins once removed (that would be the children of one’s first cousins) at that point the State of New York would be entitled to the assets of the deceased person.

So, reviewing this information, we can see the benefit of joint ownership (when appropriate as with spouses) and beneficiary designations.

These assets will pass directly Continued on page 27

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ESTATE PLANNING ANSWERS Continued from Page 26 to the person named with no need to look for a Will, or in the absence of a valid Will, there would be no court involvement necessary to determine who the distributes are and prove the relationships with a court proceeding known as an Administration. However, it is not always the case that all assets are accounted for in this way. People have different reasons for not titling property jointly with another person (for example if someone is unmarried). An individual might have had the misfortune to have passed as the result of medical malpractice, or in an accident that might necessitate legal action, and may result in a monetary award which would pass according to the distributees outlined in the EPTL. When clients who are married come to our office, generally, the spouses wish to leave everything to each oth-

er, and on the passing of the first spouse, (again generally) spouses wish to divide the assets among their children. A Last Will and Testament would avoid the surviving spouse being left only the first $50,000 and half of assets titled in the decedent spouseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name.

Wills are also useful in the event there are minor children (under the age of 18), disabled relatives who should not inherit outright, as well as family members who the decedent would have preferred to leave less than their intestate share. There are many other ways having a Last Will and Testament can accomplish oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estate planning goals, rather than leaving things to chance, and not having a Will in place, we will discuss this topic in more detail in our next article.

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Page 27

Silva Nabs Endorsement New York City Council District 31 candidate Manny Silva has been endorsed by Queens United Independent Progressives (QUIP). QUIP cites Silvaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience as a long-term Community Organizer, Youth Civic Engagement Coordinator and Community Board Member among the top reasons for their endorsement.

Silva served as Chief of Staff to City Councilman Donovan Richards who has since become Queens Borough President.

Silva will be running in the District 31 City Council special election race. Silva, 30, is a self-described social democrat who believes that the government should aim to serve people before corporations. His campaign is funded entirely on grassroots donations. At the core of Silvaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s candidacy are issues concerning environmentalism, police reform, dignified housing and educational equity.

QUIP is a non-profit political organization that prides itself as being composed of grassroots or-

ganizers who â&#x20AC;&#x153;envision Queens with an informed, engaged and empowered electorate.â&#x20AC;? The organization was birthed out of the Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez 2018 Congressional campaign and the NO IDC NY movement that is responsible for ascending a number of progressive candidates into the NY State Senate and Assembly. Previous QUIP endorsements have assisted in electing Assembly District 31â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Khaleel Anderson and Assembly District 36â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zohran Kwame Mamdani. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am proud to have the endorsement of QUIP, a people-powered organization that in recent years has become a tremendous force in helping to empower communities to elect more progressives in local seats. Together, we are going to build a New York City Council that is accountable, more transparent and not afraid of taking on the status quo through bold actions,â&#x20AC;?

Silva said.

New York City District 31â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special election, is scheduled to be held on February 23, 2021.

Joseph F. Keenan Attorney At Law 114-04 Beach Channel Drive Suite 9 Rockaway Park, New York 11694 Phone: (718) 747 8850 jfkeenan@joekeenanlaw.com

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Page 28

Ask the DOC

By Peter Galvin, MD

Our heart, like the hearts of all vertebrate animals, is an extremely strong pump. The heart keeps blood flowing properly, thereby supplying much needed oxygen and nutrients to the body’s cells and removing toxins and carbon dioxide from the cells. In its resting phase, called diastole, the heart fills with blood, which it pumps out to the body when it contracts during systole. The heart contraction during systole produces a heartbeat. Sometimes the heart muscle becomes stiff or weak which compromises the heart’s ability to pump blood.

This condition is called heart failure (HF), aka congestive heart failure (CHF). The term “heart failure” is a bit of a misnomer because the heart has not “failed,” but rather its ability to pump blood efficiently has been compromised. HF causes blood and fluid to back

The Rockaway Times

Heart Failure up in the body, including in the lungs, abdomen, and legs.

HF affects about 40 million people worldwide. It can be caused by many things, but the most common risk factors are untreated high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and heart attacks, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and genetic factors.

When HF occurs in younger people, it is sometimes caused by a viral illness which attacks the heart muscle, causing it to weaken. This is called a cardiomyopathy. Signs of HF include weakness or decreased energy, trouble breathing on exertion (dyspnea on exertion, or DOE), trouble breathing when lying flat causing one to need to sit up to breathe (orthopnea), weight gain, leg swelling, and abdominal swelling or fullness.

Clinicians may use a number of tools to diagnose HF. A detailed history is performed to look for any changes in overall health and lifestyle. The exam looks for signs of excess fluid such as enlarged neck

veins (jugular vein distension or JVD), fluid in the abdomen (ascites), and fluid in the legs (edema). In HF, the heart enlarges which can be seen on chest X ray and detected on EKG. An echocardiogram, or ultrasound of the heart, looks for heart enlargement plus it measures the ejection fraction, or EF. The EF is the amount of blood the heart pumps out during systole. Normally, the heart pumps out between 60 to 65% of the blood that fills it during diastole. The EF in HF may be 40% or below, while severe HF may be below 20%, which often necessitates a defibrillator to be implanted in the chest to correct sudden, often fatal arrythmias and may eventually require a transplant. HF is classified using the NYHA system from class I (mild symptoms) to class IV (severe symptoms with EF < 20%).

Basic HF treatment includes regular exercise, quitting smoking, losing weight, and treating diabetes, high blood

pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea. One of the mainstays of treatment is removal of excess fluid with diuretics.

Lowering blood pressure, including causing arteries to widen (vasodilation), improves HF. The goal is to keep patients out of the hospital. Treatment includes ACE inhibitors (i.e. lisinopril), ARBs (i.e. losartan), and beta blockers (i.e. metoprolol). More severe cases may benefit from an angiotensin receptor-neprolysin inhibitor (Entresto) or a mineralocorticoid inhibitor (spironolactone and Inspra). Finally, those with type II diabetes and HF may benefit from SGLT2 inhibitors (known as gliflozins) such as Steglatro, Invokana, Jardiance, or Farxiga.

For more information go to the National Library of Medicine at medlineplus.gov/heartfailure.html Please direct questions and comments to editor@rockawaytimes.com

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

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2021 So many words come to my mind as I think of our past year and the upcoming 2021! Adaptability is at the top of my list. Being able to flow with the changes. Resilience, patience, compassion and love are significant words that have become our mantra.

Grateful is an emotion that overcomes me as I write my column. I am grateful for my family, friends and Ocean Bliss Yoga community. There has been a huge disconnect in human connection and I feel blessed that my

business partner, Paulette, and I had the persistence to set up virtual yoga for our studio. Never in a million years did we think we would set up a livestream so our community could be together.

The students have supported us from day one and we thank you.

One day we will all be together, shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart and prove to be stronger than ever. For now, we must be patient and support one another in this difficult journey.

January is a time for resolution and starting fresh. It is a time to

reflect on the past year, let it go and move forward with good health and positive intentions.

Perhaps letting go of our limited beliefs that we just canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do this anymore or we are not enough.

What can you do to feel better in 2021? Moving slowly and carefully into 2021, we must continue to be diligent in protecting ourselves from the virus. The vaccine is here and I for one will volunteer to take it if it means protecting those with a compromised immune system and allowing everyone to live freely. I miss hugging people and laughing together, face to face.

The human being is not meant to be behind a screen communicating with one another. While it has been a life saver, it cannot replace the intimate connection of human interaction.

My intentions for a new year are almost always the same.

Clean living, be kind, help those who need my services and be content. This year, I am trying to be present and listen more. Judge less, forgive all and be compassionate to everyone I meet. The body always needs be cleaned of

Page 29 toxins but maybe the mind needs to be cleared as well. Empty the stories I have been telling myself since I was young. Rewrite the story starting with, I am enough and I have this one life to live.

ONE. For those of you who are alone, reach out to someone for company, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really important to have this human contact. If there is anything we have learned is that we all need one another. Reach out to someone who is lonely and depressed. Simply be with them and listen. Your presence can be powerful beyond words. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love is based on our capacity to trust in a reality beyond fear, to trust a timeless truth bigger than all our difficulties. Sometimes love means standing firm.

Sometimes love means letting go.

Sometimes love means letting be.

Love blossoms whenever we step beyond our fears and rest in the generosity of the heart.â&#x20AC;? - Jack Kornfield.

My wish for you is to be generous in spirit, love and compassion. We are all inter-connected.

May you be healthy, happy and free of suffering.

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Page 30

The Rockaway Times Are you a senior or disabled person who lives from Arverne to Neponsit and unable to get food during the pandemic? Contact Lew Simon or Jeanette M. Garramone for help at 718-945-1216. If you are able to donate any canned goods or food items on Thursby Basin Park and a to this cause, you can also soccer field at Bayside Play- reach out. ground and more. Zoom Meeting ID: 444 520 8115.

Rock Away Pens Passcode: 817721 Writing Workshop Get Tested Serious about writing? The Think you have Covid-19? Rock Away Pens, a creative Find out. To find testing sites, writing workshop, now on head to Nyc.gov/covidtest Zoom, has two openings. or text COVID test to 85548. Each week the group criCouncilman Eric Ulrich’s tiques two members' suboffice (114-12 Beach Chan- missions as the writers pronel Drive) is also offering gress towards publication. self-testing services on Mon- The workshop is free. Fore days and Tuesdays from 9:30 more info, email: Rockawaya.m. to 4 p.m., for free. Results pens@gmail.com available in 24-48 hours.

Got events?

Food Help for If you have a free event you'd Seniors/ like us to list, please email kaDisabled tie@rockawaytimes.com

Some Things to Do Normally this page would be full of events and happenings around town. With Coronavirus causing most, if not all events and meetings to be canceled, we can only list a limited number of events that are virtual or with social distancing in mind.

Coastal Scavenger Hunt On Saturday, January 9 at 1 p.m., join the Urban Park Rangers on Beach 86th Street to explore the ecological diversity of our coastal shorelines. You never know what you may observe on this exploration of clues left behind Rockaway Beach by some of the species that Civic call this area their home.

Association The RBCA is holding their Masks and social distancing monthly Zoom meeting on encouraged.

Thursday, January 7 at 7 p.m.

Community There will be updates from loBoard 14 cal leaders and special guest The next CB14 meeting will Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. Zoom Meeting be Tuesday, January 12 at 7 ID: 856 6388 2073. Passcode: p.m.. There will be updates from the Park Committee 856012.

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The Rockaway Times

Page 31

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LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Qual of GAMETIME AUCTIONS LLC, Authority filed with the SSNY on 12/14/2020.

Office location: Queens County.

LLC formed in DE on 08/11/2020.

SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 11-11 44th Drive , Long Island City, NY 11101. Address required to be maintained in DE: 8 the Green, Ste A, Dover, DE 19901. Cert of Formation filed with DE Div. of Corps, 401 Federal St., Ste 4, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

VISION TO VERB LLC Articles. of Org. filed with NY Sec. State (SSNY) on 10/20/2020. Office in Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 35-05 72nd St APt 6E Jackson Heights, NY 11372. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of QUEST FOR PERFECTION ENTERPRISE, LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/01/20. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to QUEST FOR PERFECTION ENTERPRISE, LLC., 114-74 204 ST, ST. ALBANS, NY 11412. Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Urban Plant Club LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/20/2020. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Urban Plant Club LLC, 1680 Madison St, Ridgewood

Seathos Swim LLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 8/13/2020. NY office location: Queens County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Seathos Swim LLC Att: Kate Cunningham, 43-10 Crescent Street, Apt 416 Long Island City, NY, 11101. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

A Novel Fix LLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 11/12/2020. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 3258 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11106. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

CAJADA LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/04/21. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 11525 227 Street, Queens, NY 11411. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Go Steinway LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/23/2020. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 21 21-68 Steinway St., Astoria, NY 11105.

General Purpose.

Notice of Formation of Celtic Hell’s Kitchen 608 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/9/20. 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 LLC, P.O. Box 864045, Ridgewood, NY 11386. Purpose: any lawful activity.

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The Rockaway Times

LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation of a domestic Professional Service Limited Liability Company (PLLC).

Name: BODY HACK HIGH PERFORMANCE PT PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secy. of State of NY on 08/06/2020. NY office location: QUEENS County. Secy of State is designated as agent upon whom process against the PLLC may be served.

Secy of State shall mail a copy of any process against the PLLC served upon him/her to THE PLLC, 99-72 66 RD., APT. 1 T, REGO PARK, NY 11374. Purposes: PHYSICAL THERAPY LORIT 35TH AVENUE REALTY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/08/20. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 617 Peconic Street, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of PlaneEnglish, LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/14/2020. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to PlaneEnglish, LLC, 1281 Win Hentschel BLVD, West Lafayette, IN 47906. Any lawful purpose.

Bot Dealers LLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 11/16/2020. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 14312 38th Avenue, Flushing, New York 11354. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Sunshyne Naturals LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/09/2020. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Sunshyne Naturals LLC, 177 10 129th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434. Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of 'Chiq Sauce LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/21/20. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to 'Chiq Sauce LLC, 37-23 Little Neck Pkwy, Little Neck, NY, 11363 any lawful purpose.

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The Rockaway Times

Hearty Split Pea Soup

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 33

er meat you chose) until slightly browned. Put to the side. In the Dutch oven, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the peas. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover for 45 minutes- to an hour.

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The Rockaway Times

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 35

Putting the Brrrr in Breezy As Breezy Pointers rang in 2021, there was a small but solid effort by a few brave souls to take the plunge on the bayside. With the Manhattan skyline as their backdrop, the Breezy Bruins Polar Bear Club ran into the bay to start the New Year off fresh.

Photos by Mike Schramm.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 36

The Rockaway Times

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.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

The Rockaway Times

Page 37

MORE 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.

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By Robin Levy

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021

Page 38

Enjoy Breakfast & Brunch on the Bay Serving Breakfast 9AM - Noon Everyday Saturday - Sunday Brunch from 9AM - 3PM We continue to follow all Phase II protocols.

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The Rockaway Times

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The Rockaway Times

Page 39

Beach 98th Views

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In the early 1990s, this street view showed just empty lots where the famous Rockaway Playland once stood. Now, looking north towards the bay, Beach 98th Street and Shorefront Parkway offers a quite a different view. New homes went up in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. You can see one of the Bay Towers in the distance in both photos. And in the older photo, a corner of St. Camillus can be seen.

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The Rockaway Times