By Katie McFadden
The spirit of Cristin Mullen lives on through the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Academy CYO program. On Friday, October 28, St. Rose honored the late athlete and celebrated the ways in which the proceeds of the Cristin Mullen Run are benefitting young athletes at the school.
As described by Bobby Steiner, head of the CYO Program at St. Rose, Mullen was a tremendous athlete herself. “Cristin was a Rockaway resident. She grew up in Belle Harbor and attended St. Francis de Sales grammar school where she played several sports in the CYO program. She then attended Bishop Kearney High School where she participated in swim and track. From there, she moved on to St. Francis College on a full scholarship where she ran track and swam for college. She was a lifeguard for 16 years at Riis Park. After completing college, she ended up getting her teaching certification and she taught as a special education teacher for the Board of Ed in District 75. She ran the NYC Marathon for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. She was a volunteer coach and a participant in several organizations,” Steiner said. “Unfortunately, she also battled epilepsy for over 16 years and fell victim to a massive seizure that
took her life at age 35.”
Mullen passed away on December 17, 2020. Since her tragic passing, the Mullen family has found ways to honor their daughter and continue her legacy through something she loved—running. For the past two years, the Cristin Mullen 5K has served as an event to honor her memory, and to raise funds for St. Rose of Lima, a parish near and dear to the Mullen family. The ceremony on October 28 was a prime example of the ways in which the Cristin Mullen Run helps the parish.
“Her mom and her family do a
right out of the parking lot here at St. Rose, so this year, St. Rose was the recipient of all the proceeds that were raised and all of the proceeds that came from that go directly into our program,” Steiner explained. “Every one of our kids is gonna get a warm-up shirt in addition to their uniform this year, which is paid for from the Mullen family donations. All of the coaches are wearing warm up jackets that are paid for through the donation from the Mullen family. All the food and drinks that your kids are about to devour are paid for by the Mullen family," Steiner said.
Steiner then called the Mullen family up to present St. Rose basketball jackets to them. “Cristin’s mom spoke about her daughter and what a fierce athlete she was, and she could not be any more grateful that the money they do-
nated is going to a CYO program and a good cause here,” Steiner said. “I want you to keep in mind as we go through this current season that this was made possible through these donations, and it just doesn’t happen by itself.”
Donations like that from the Mullen family are a huge help to CYO programs, according to Steiner. “CYO programs across the city struggle financially because they have to be self-independent, so without donations or people participating financially, they don’t have the ability to be successful. Every once in a while, you get a donation that helps out or alumni from a program come back and they make some donations for the equipment because a lot of times without that, the coaches are in their pockets buying equipment, buying basketballs, buying lunches for kids on the way home, gas, all that stuff. This year, we were very fortunate that the St. Rose of Lima CYO program was the recipient of a donation from the Cristin Mullen Run.”
Congressman Gregory Meeks 67-12 Rockaway Beach Boulevard Arverne, NY 11692
Phone: (347) 230-4032
Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato 9516 Rockaway Beach Blvd Rockaway Beach, NY 11693 Email: amatos@nyassembly.gov 718-945-9550
City Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers 1931 Mott Avenue, Suite 410 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 • 718-471-7014
City Councilwoman Joann Ariola 114-12 Beach Channel Drive, suite #1 Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Email: joannariola32@gmail.com 718-318-6411
State Senator 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
Katie
McFadden MANAGING EDITORMary
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Story and Photos
By Katie McFadden
On November 12, 2001, American Airlines Flight 587 came crashing down in Belle Harbor, killing all 260 people on board a flight headed for the Dominican Republic, and five neighbors on the ground—Helen Concannon, Thomas Concannon, Kathleen Lawler, Christopher Lawler and Franco Pomponio.
On Saturday, November 12, just after remnants of Hurricane Nicole passed by and the sun came out, those who lost loved ones 21 years ago gathered at the Flight 587 Me morial on Beach 116th Street to re member the fallen.
Reverend Deacon Bienvenido Valdez led the ceremony with a prayer. A moment of silence was held at 9:16 a.m. to mark the time the plane crashed. Then Genesis Ramirez, Berenice Matos and Karla Saavedra read the names of the 265 people who died that day. Domin
ican Consul of NYC Eligio Jaquez and Belkis Lora of the Flight 587 Committee provided remarks. Lora made sure to acknowledge the late Freddy Rodriquez, the artist who created the Flight 587 Memorial, who died just a week ahead of the ceremony. Mayor Eric Adams was invited to speak but being at the SOMOS Conference in Puerto Rico instead, Adams sent his chief of staff, who provided remarks.
Following comments, the families were invited up to the memorial wall to places roses near the names of their family members.
Advertiser and reader re minder: Next week is a short week for us. Deadline is Tues day, November 22, 12 noon for ads. The paper will be delivered on Wednesday and the email version of the paper will go out Wednesday morning. Still hav en’t signed up for The Rockaway Times email blast? Subscribe (it’s free!) at Rockawaytimes. com or just shoot us a quick email telling us to sign you up and we’ll take care of the rest. Send an email to: Mail@Rocka waytimes.com *****
And with next week a short one, put those orders in now, make those reservations today. And start by checking the pag es of where else? The Rockaway Times!
*****
Stacey Pheffer Amato ,trailing Tom Sullivan by a couple hun dred votes in the NYS Assembly race, has filed a lawsuit, first reported by The Wave, to do a ballot recount. The absen tee ballots were to be count ed through this past Tuesday. Military ballots can be counted through November 21, accord ing to the State Board of Elec tions. Counties are expected to certify vote totals by December 2. The State certifies on De cember 15. By the time this is done, candidates will be gearing up for the 2024 race! *****
Speaking of things political, Danny Ruscillo gets some credit for going online and asking peo ple who put up political signs (es pecially on trees and light posts) to take them down now. Wheth er your candidate won or lost. By now, it’s litter and an eyesore. *****
Job well done. The Graybeards and RIBS conducted their an nual food drive and collected
more than 1,600 bags of food items that were distributed to St. Mary’s in Far Rockaway and at other food pantries. These guys get (and share) the Thanksgiving spirit! *****
Robin Shapiro sends thanks to those who dropped off coats, hats, mittens and more. Robin Shapiro Realty (with an assist from The Rockaway Times) is sponsoring a coat drive through December 1. Hats, scarves, and mittens happily accepted. A box or bin will be set up in the lobby of The Rockaway Times office at 114-04 Beach Channel Drive. Any questions, please email Robinshapirorealty@gmail.com *****
And you can contact Robin if you love flowers. The Shore Garden Club is looking for new members who are interested in gardening, floral arrangements, herbs and nature! The group meets once a month for a Mon day afternoon luncheon. Inter ested in joining? Give Robin a call: 718-490-9463
*****
Connolly’s says it’s opening by popular demand. The iconic sum mer hangout is opening this Mon day, November 21 for the US World Cup match and will show games (except for Thanksgiving) through November 27. That means Con nolly’s is open for Thanksgiving Eve, too.
More than a few people took note that Mayor Adams was a noshow at the Flight 587 ceremony that took place last Saturday, No vember 12. The previous mayor was known for being late but not known for being absent at the Beach 116th Street tradition. Ad ams was at the SOMOS Confer ence in Puerto Rico instead.
Attention all passengers, this tweet comes via the 100th Precinct: You will start to see more of your 100 Precinct officers in the subway stations & on the platform. We are here to keep you safe Rockaway. Don’t hesitate to say hello when you see us. Be vigilant & stay safe. You see something, say something!
NOVEMBER 17
Marie Marrone Moriarty was born.
Lauren Raphael McCallion was born.
Jaime Jordan was born.
Bob Moran was born.
Finbar Devine was born.
1973 - President Nixon said "I am not a crook."
NOVEMBER 18
Dylan Courtney was born.
Annie Graves was born.
Jim McDonald was born. Christy Cook was born. Colleen Brady was born.
1928 - Mickey Mouse made his debut in Steamboat Willie.
1978 - Jim Jones, a U.S. pastor, led 914 of his followers to their deaths at Jonestown, Guyana, by drinking a cyanide-laced fruit drink. Cult members who refused to swallow the drink were shot.
NOVEMBER 19
Tom J. McVeigh was born. John Edwards was born. Bobby O’Hara was born. Scott McCarthy was born.
1863 - Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the national cemetery on the Civil War battlefield of Gettysburg, Pa.
1985 - Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gor-
bachev met for the first time in Geneva.
NOVEMBER 20
Maureen Blue-Kraus was born.
1945 - The war crimes trials of 24 German World War II leaders began in Nuremberg, Germany.
1962 - President John F. Kennedy agreed to lift the American blockade of Cuba, ending the Cuban missile crisis.
Maribel Araujo was born. Brian Dickesheid was born. Elizabeth Feeney was born. Frak Gulluscio was born.
1922 - Georgia's Rebecca Felton was sworn into the U.S. Senate, becoming the first woman U.S. Senator.
NOVEMBER 22
Thomas Tyne was born. Grace Acquafredda was born. James Dionne was born. Maureen Hagner was born. Dan Mirkin was born.
1497 - Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama became the first navigator to sail around the Cape of Good Hope in his search for a sea route to India.
1963 – John F. Kennedy was assassinated.
"My feet feel like they're on fire". "Each step feels like I'm walking through wet paint". "I live in constant fear that I'll fall". "I can’t sleep, my hands and feet tingle all night".
What do all of these people have in common? They suffer from Peripheral Neuropathy. It is estimated that more than 20 million people in the US have peripheral neuropathy. Unfortunately this figure may be significantly higher as the disease is often misdiagnosed because of its wide array of symptoms.
being 'the last resort with the best results'."
According to Frankie's test results, she has seen a 74% improvement in pain and functionality, which is on par with a majority of our patients. "But more important than those test results is the joy she's expressed being here and hearing about all the amazing things she's able to do because she feels great!
Jennifer Beltrani, of Acupuncture and Wellness of Rockaway Beach shares this belief. "I've been treating neuropathy, in all its various forms, and so often my patients come to me because of symptoms, not because of the diagnosis.
Frankie M testified to this . " I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and I saw a woman running just outside our neighborhood. I was so envious-I just kept thinking 'I would give anything just to walk again. My primary care doctor told me my troubles with pain and balance were just symptoms of old age and gave me a prescription, I was so depressed."
"Almost all of our patients come to us with a similar story to Frankie's. They have been everywhere else. They've been told they have no hope. They have been told its just part of getting older". Jennifer stated, "It breaks my heart but I know how much I can help people like Frankie so I'm always so happy when they walk through the door".
Those diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy often face a very grim reality. Western medicine declares that there is no solution. Jennifer Beltrani at Rockaway Acupuncture and Wellness prides herself on
Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves and this damage is commonly caused by lack of blood flow in the hands and feet. A lack of blood flow results in a lack of nutrients; the nerves then begin to degenerate and die which causes pain ranging from discomfort to debilitating. Because neuropathy is a degenerative condition, once those nerves begin to deteriorate they will continue to do so until they are completely expired, leaving those suffering with crippling balance issues. "In this case, the absence of pain is not necessarily a good thing, " shares Jennifer Beltrani, Licensed Acupuncturist. "This usually indicates that your nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread".
So how exactly is Jennifer able to reverse the effects of this degenerative disease?
"Acupuncture has been used to increase blood flow for thousands of years which helps to get the necessary nutrients to the affected nerves. But the real magic happens when I integrate ATP Resonance BioTherapy(TM). This technology was originally developed by NASA to expediate recovery and healing."
By seamlessly blending the ancient science of acupuncture with modern medical solutions, Jennifer has a 88% success rate in reversing the effects of neuropathy. She starts each patient with an initial consultation during which a sensory exam is performed.
"This not only aids in making a proper diagnosis but helps to define just how much nerve damage has occurred". "This is important because if a patient has suffered more than 95% damage, there is little that I can do to help them. I'm familiar with the medical miracle but I know my limits as a practitioner and the limits of my medicine."
When it comes to treating peripheral neuropathy, regardless of its origin, early detection greatly improves your chances of a full recovery.
If you or someone you love are suffering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling or "pins and needles" or you've recently been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, it's important to know there are
718-433-7972 to schedule an initial consultation or visit Rockaw.com for more information.
When going through a trying time, it’s all about who’s in the waiting room. Those people, when you’re sick, that are in the waiting room, waiting to see how you’re doing or to take you home. Those people who you’ve formed authen tic relationships with throughout your life, that are there for you the most. For some, those relationships don’t come built in. For Neal Gold stein, who grew up in Far Rocka way with a childhood burdened by hardships, and went on to become a successful lawyer, those authen tic relationships in his life made for the ingredients of a successful turn around. And in a newly published part biography/part guidebook, Goldstein shares how he did just that and how it can help others.
Although he lives in Long Beach, Goldstein, a personal injury attor ney, recently opened an office in the old Wave building on Beach 88th Street. But he’s no stranger to Rock away. It’s where his story begins. In the beginning chapters of his book, Who’s in the Waiting Room? Cre ate the Life You Want Through the Power of Authentic Relationships, Goldstein reflects on his childhood growing up in Far Rockaway.
While he expresses the joy of growing up near the beach, Gold stein’s childhood was anything but beachy. When he was a child, he had to navigate the world of hav ing a mother who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Goldstein can recall a few fond memories of his mother being active, but it wasn’t long before she was wheel chair-bound and required care herself. This was paired with a fa ther who was abusive and ultimate ly walked out on his family when Goldstein was 12, and two older brothers who were involved in their own lives and mostly absent as well, leaving Goldstein as the primary caretaker and advocate for his mom, and having to grow up fast.
Goldstein tried to navigate the motions of a normal childhood, pri marily, by continuing with school, while dealing with the struggles of a broken home and an impoverished life. He went to I.S. 53 and then went
on to Far Rockaway High School, but felt he never really fit in and wasn’t cut out for school. A few weeks into the 10th grade, Goldstein had his mother sign the paperwork and at age 16, he officially became a high school dropout.
While those things could set up a lifetime recipe for disaster, Goldstein was able to turn his story around, through meeting the right people and forming meaningful connections.
One important one began at the old Hartman Y, meeting the teen director of the program, Phil Gold berg, who passed no judgment when Goldstein explained why he wasn’t in school. Goldberg quickly became a mentor and friend, who helped Goldstein make more con nections in the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization. Though not particu larly religious, Goldstein found his people within the Jewish youth group, became an active mem ber and eventually went on to be come president of his chapter. Plus through Goldberg, and a young girl who he met, Goldstein was able to find the motivation to go for his GED, through night classes at Beach Channel High School. And so the high school dropout would go on to become a college graduate, a suc cessful lawyer, a father of four and a husband to a girl from Belle Harbor
who believed in his potential from a young age.
After going through such turmoil to such success, Goldstein’s story was one made for a book. He just needed some inspiration. “When I talked to my mother’s healthcare aide, who was with her for 21 years, she said to me, ‘I remember when you were 26, you said to me, you were going to write a book.’ I knew for a long time I wanted to write a book, but it wasn’t until about five years ago when I decided to put pen to paper and do this,” Goldstein said.
“Initially it was for my kids, as a way to leave a legacy to them about who I am, what I went through and even though they knew I had a dif ficult background, they needed to know a bit more and how I navigat ed those challenges.” However oth ers saw the potential of Goldstein’s story. “Some said to me that some other people might get something out of this as well. So I decided to open up the book a little more to whoever wanted to read it,” he said.
Goldstein’s book not only tells the story of his own life, his strug gles, and how he overcame them through the help of connections he made with other people, but it shows why those kinds of relation ships are so important. “Through out my life, I met people like that, where humanity crossed the divide,
regardless of age, sex, color. Human beings that were just there to help me and fortunately, I was able to help them at some point,” Gold stein said. “What drove me was other people supporting me and I’m not in any way trying to mini mize self-reliance, but I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of other human beings. I’m not talking about Facebook friends, but genuine, authentic people. This book is about how we can start cre ating those genuine, authentic re lationships, how we can continue them and what we can expect out of those things. We’re not born into this world to be alone. Self-reliance is important, but that doesn’t mean we have to be on this journey by ourselves.”
Who’s in the Waiting Room? Cre ate the Life You Want Through the Power of Authentic Relationships was officially published on Novem ber 1 and is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Target. Gold stein’s story is one that could write itself, but this well-written work is one worth picking up and not put ting down until the end. And with out giving too much away, though she died in 2000, Goldstein’s moth er lived long enough to see the out come of signing her son’s papers to drop out of high school.
For a direct link to Goldstein’s book, available in hardcover and on Kindle on Amazon, see: https:// tinyurl.com/NealsBook
On Veterans Day, Friday, November 11, the Daniel M. O'Connell Post 272 of the American Legion brought the community together to honor those who have served this country.
A small crowd gathered at the Doughboy Monument on Beach 94th Street, where members of the American Le-
gion, including president Mike Honan, led prayers and speeches. U.S. Army Veteran Brian Galarza then played Taps on the bugle. The ceremony ended with the crowd coming together to sing “God Bless America.”
Photos by Katie McFadden.
Middle School students use code 262S
High School students use 97X (College Prep) or 97A (Research, Technology and Robotics)
Before crushing that turkey on Thanksgiving, why not crush the pavement and burn a few calories beforehand? And what better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than do ing something for a good cause? On Thursday, November 24, the Rocka way Track Club is hosting its annual Turkey Trot 5K and this year, it's being held in honor of a very special boy, who for the past two years, has been crushing cancer—Jimmy O’Neill.
On Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24, all are welcome to join in this fun run on the boardwalk. Day-of registration begins at 8 a.m. on the boardwalk at Beach 126th Street, until 9 a.m. The run kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on the boardwalk from Beach 126th to Beach 97th and back. For those who want a shorter course, there will also be a one-mile run/ walk from Beach 126th to Beach 116th and back. All participants, while supplies last, will be given a special Jimmy “The Crusher” O’Neill t-shirt. Proceeds from the run go to ward supporting the battle against childhood cancer, and it’s all in hon or of a local boy who is facing that battle himself.
In May 2021, then eight-year-old Jimmy O’Neill was diagnosed with Wilm’s Tumor, a rare kidney cancer that primarily impacts children. In August 2021, he had surgery to re move one of his kidneys, which was paired with chemotherapy treat ments through November of last year. On his ninth birthday on De cember 14, Jimmy had his port re moved. “He received a clean bill of health, and we were all happy and just relieved and felt very blessed that he got through it,” his mom, Kerrie Culhane O’Neill said. Jim my, who hadn’t been to school at St. Francis de Sales since May 2021, was able to return at the end of Decem ber for fifth grade.
However, in June of this year, the family received news they never wanted to hear. “Unfortunately, we received the devastating news that he had a reoccurrence in June. That’s when the tumor had returned in the exact same spot as it was previous ly,” Kerrie O’Neill said. “So he again
had to start chemo treatments for the second time and had additional surgery in August to remove the tu mor and this time around, we went through radiation as well in Septem ber of this year, to really address the reoccurrence,” she said. Jimmy has been receiving treatments through Cohen’s Children’s Hospital. “The doctors and nurses there have been amazing, especially during such a difficult time,” she said.
Among his treatments, Jimmy has to go through seven cycles of chemo therapy this time around, which ranges from three days a week of in patient treatment to five days a week of outpatient treatment. “We have another three cycles of treatment to go, and we pray and have faith that this will be it and he will be done
with this by January, God willing,” she said. “Hopefully he can return to school sometime at the end of Janu ary or beginning of February.”
But in the meantime, everyone from Jimmy’s school to family, friends and the Rockaway/ Breezy Point/ Broad Channel communities, have been showing support for the family, and showing Jimmy that he isn’t in this alone.
Until his diagnosis, Jimmy was an active kid, playing soccer, basket ball, baseball and swimming for St. Francis. And while he can’t be on the field right now, his team mates have made sure he’s part of the game. Just last week, the fifthgrade girls’ basketball team at St. Francis wore headbands saying “Jimmy Strong” while they played. Last year, friends made Jimmy “The Crusher” O’Neill wristbands to show support and the soccer team had a patch made with a soccer ball and Jimmy’s number, 33, to add to their jerseys. His soccer team even went on to win the championship, even though their goalie was on the sidelines, but they made sure to dedicate the win to him and give him an award. His baseball team also went on to win this spring, and even though Jimmy couldn’t make it to the final game because of this re occurrence, a friend told him, “Jim my, it was a great game, but it wasn’t the same without you.”
It is those small victories, plus
the community coming out strong to help the family with things like picking up laundry, providing gift cards for dinner, giving donations and more, that have helped the family through this unimaginably difficult time. “It’s just been amaz ing. Anything to boost our spirits, people have done. Through this or deal, we’ve been very blessed and humbled by the unbelievable kind ness we’ve received from family and friends and we’re very grateful for all of it. We can’t thank people enough,” Kerrie O’Neill said.
That gratitude also radiates through Jimmy, who each night in his prayers, thanks those who have been there for him. “I’ve had some difficult times and I’m get ting through it. I can be mad some times and nice sometimes and I can do some things and some things I can’t, but I’m really appreciative for everybody who’s been so nice and kind to me over the past two years,” Jimmy O’Neill said. “I always, in my prayers, thank everybody who has been so kind to me. I’m so grateful and I cannot thank them enough be cause that’s what’s been getting me through this tough time. I’m lucky to live in Rockaway and have such a great community.”
On Thanksgiving, the community is expected to come through once again for the Turkey Trot 5K in Jim my’s name. Some of Jimmy’s friends and family will be participating , and as long as Jimmy’s counts are okay for the week, he’ll be on the side lines cheering everyone on. “It’s crazy how many people have signed up and I’m so grateful that people are doing this because I didn’t think there would be that many people but there’s a very good amount and I’m thankful they’re doing it for me,” Jim my O’Neill said. “It means a lot and I really appreciate that.”
“It’s great for Jimmy to get the sup port, but also, it’s awesome that this is going to such a great cause and hopefully more kids don’t have to go through something like this,” Kerrie O’Neill said.
For more details or to pre-register for the Jimmy “The Crusher” O’Neill Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day, see: RockawayTC.org
It’s been a whole year in Rockaway without Lew Simon. On Thursday, November 10, 100th Precinct Deputy Inspector Carlos Fabara, a dear friend of Lew, brought the community together for a candlelight vigil to remember the late Democratic District Leader who fought for everyone.
On November 6, 2021, Lew Simon left this world. And the lack of the presence of Rockaway’s fiercest advocate has been felt ever since. At the vigil, candles were lit while friends, elected officials and Fabara spoke of that loss and who Lew was.
“Passionate, dedicated…a royal pain in the ass,” Senator Joseph Addabbo said to the crowd, as they broke into a chuckle. “Very few people that we know in our lives, or we cross paths with, we find is as dedicated and passionate about this peninsula. He kept us elected officials on our toes. I love Lew but
who else could be at my wedding in 1998 and then my opponent in 2001? Who else, but Lew?
“He leaves a legacy of accomplishments here on the peninsula and in Broad Channel, a legacy of knowing what we need to do on this peninsula, working here to-
gether, putting politics aside and doing what we need to do for better days on the peninsula. That is what Lew Simon leaves behind. That inspiration to do more and to work with everyone. As you remember Lew, let’s go forward as a community, and hope for better
days ahead in his honor,” Addabbo said. “God Bless Lew Simon.”
“Lew deserves this,” Councilwoman Joann Ariola said. “He deserves to be forever remembered because he never forgot anyone. No matter how much time passed, he would say to me ‘how is your mother, how are the boys, how are the grandkids?’ He’d remember them by name. And that is something that is so unique because he
didn’t just ask you arbitrarily— he cared. It was terrible to watch him get sick, but even from his hospital bed and his bed at the rehabilitation center, he was calling and advocating for people who needed food dropped off to them, needed to be taken to the doctor, needed to be taken to Stop and Shop, and who could do it for them.
“He’s greatly missed,” Ariola said. “I don’t know one thing we’re fighting for now, whether its public safety, quality of life or education for our kids, that Lew wouldn’t have been at the forefront with a sign, protesting, being in favor of, fighting for it and making sure it happened. Senator Addabbo was right. He didn’t see any differentiation in party. He just saw people and he wanted to make sure people were taken care of, so his memory is a blessing, it remains blessing and it will forever be a blessing.”
Female Democratic District
Leader Jeanette Garramone said, “He’s very missed. As all of us know, people used to say the ‘but,’ ‘I love Lew, but..’ everyone talks about that. But now? This one year passing? There’s no longer a but. Everybody misses him. We feel the difference. But he’s with us. Just by the people who are here. We all hold a special place in our heart for Lew. So keep fighting for what you believe in. And keep fighting for what Lew believed in you.”
Deputy Inspector Fabara, who organized the vigil said, “Lew was many things to many people. He was a friend and a neighbor. And he was an advocate for people in this community who didn’t have a voice. Lew was their voice. And I remember his voice distinctly be-
cause he would call so frequently. Barely a day went by where he didn’t call advocating for one person or another and I remember thinking, how does Lew know so many people that need help? I don’t even know that many people at all. When you get to know Lew, you’d realize how he knew so many people… because he would talk to anyone that would listen long enough and he made every single one of them feel like they were the most important person in the room. That was the way he was and it was very special. He really made it feel like he cared about you.
“Not only was he an advocate for the community but he was a friend to the police department,” Fabara continued. “He really, truly appreciated what we did. Behind closed doors, he would hold my feet to the fire, but in public, Lew would be the first one to defend us and it meant a lot to us and that is really why I wanted to take this opportunity to honor him and to remember him. I think it’s really special that you all came out for this because he was a special per-
son,” Fabara said. “You all meant a lot to him, and he meant a lot to us.”
Thinking on the many phone calls he received from Lew, Fabara explained he recently came across some voicemails he had from Lew Simon, that he wanted to share with the crowd. “When I happened across a couple of voicemails that Lew left on my phone, they brought a smile to my face so I want to play them for you quickly, so we’ll be able to hear Lew’s voice one more time,” Fabara said.
He then played two voice messages from Lew through the speaker of a police vehicle. As people listened to Lew’s voice, it brought tears, laughs and a final message from the man that his friend Richard Berger described as “You love him, or you hate him, but everyone on the peninsula knew who the hell he was.” As the final message played, the crowd heard some familiar words from Simon—“I love you.”
A street co-naming ceremony for Lew Simon, on Beach 116th and Rockaway Beach Blvd., is expected to be held next summer.
Dear Editor:
My wife and I had a new voting experience this year. For many years, we voted at PS 225 on the Boulevard and Beach 110th St. Then, redistricting sent us to PS 114, and again we voted there for many years. Both facilities were roomy, airy, and had accessible parking. This year, our voting site was changed again, this time to the Public Library on the Boulevard and Beach 117th St. Conditions there were abominable.
There was no nearby parking. All voting activities were stuffed into a room not much larger than 12 ft by 24 ft. The room was stifling hot with no air circulation. Into it were stuffed desks, voting booths, voting scanners, and at least 30 people. I complained to a woman who seemed to be in charge. She agreed with my assessment and said her complaints to the Board of Elections fell on deaf ears. We have always believed that there should be an election DAY, not election month or election season, which is why we always vote in person. Mail-in ballots should be reserved only for those truly unable to get to their polling site, as it had been until recently. Has the Board of Elections embarked on a new strategy? Namely, making in-person voting such a miserable experience that people would
prefer to mail in their votes? It would seem so.
Peter and Maryellen GalvinDear Editor: Katie’s article on Veteran James Cavanagh was spot on - thank you for sharing “Jimmy the Kids” amazing life with your readers. It was so well written that I felt I personally knew this wonderful gentleman.
Ann LundonDear Editor: Katie, thanks so much for the most enjoyable article about James Cavanaugh. Excellent! Your writing and stories are always cohesive and well-researched and, most importantly, you capture the subject. Now I know him.
You provide a needed lift for me and others in the community.
Maureen McNelis
The 100th Precinct sent out alerts regarding two shooting incidents within the confines of the precinct this week.
On Wednesday, November 9, at approximately 9:21 P.M., during a dispute, two males were shot in the area of Beach 60 Street and Beach Front Road. The victims transported themselves to an area hospital where they received treatment for their injuries that are non-life threatening.
On Sunday, November 13 at approximately 7:48 P.M. officers from the 100th Precinct responded to a 911 call for a male shot in the vicinity of Beach 81st Street and Beach Channel Drive. Upon arrival,
officers discovered one male with a gunshot wound to the leg who was transported via EMS to St. John's Hospital. Shortly after, a second victim walked into St. John's hospital with a gunshot wound to his left arm. At this time both victims are expected to survive. Ballistics from at least two different weapons were immediately recovered at the scene.
Anyone with information regarding either incident is urged to contact the 100th precinct detective squad, at 718318-4233. Those who wish to remain anonymous can utilize the Crime Stoppers tip line at 800-577-TIPS.
The floor plan offers grand rooms 7 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. There are 10 ft ceilings, hardwood flooring, antique wood beams, and custom millwork throughout.
The first floor boasts a large foyer, enormous living room, spacious oceanfront family room, formal dining room with dual fireplace, large chef’s kitchen, and two half bathrooms.
The second floor includes four spacious bedrooms with ocean views and 1 full bath. The third floor has three additional bedrooms and a full bathroom. There is also a full basement with a bathroom.
Additional amenities include a beautiful large covered front porch with ocean views, a long double driveway, a new gas heating system, and a Huge 60 ft ocean-facing side yard perfect for beach entertaining and plenty of room for a pool.
Restore this original single-family or build it to bring your vision to life.
Spacious Newly Renovated ground floor corner apt. Two bedrooms, one and a half baths,large living room, formal dining room. Outdoor terrace, one car parking. Beautiful views of the Bay and City skyline.
By Robin Shapiro
Some homes have basic plastic light switches and plugs. It is relatively easy to upgrade the light switch covers. The best places to do this are bathrooms, kitchen, master bedroom, and at the front entrance. Some older homes do not have GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets. These outlets (they have a red reset button) are used whenever proximity to water increases the risk of shock. To improve safety and increase home value replace regular outlets with GFCI’s in the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, and anywhere possibly exposed to water.
The summer season has mixed effects on the Rockaway real estate market. On the one hand, we are a beachfront community and the draw of the summer activities does bring people here for: beaches, swimming, cycling, running, surfing, organized teams for kids and adults (although the pandemic may crimp some of these this year; thankfully the “end” is in sight). On the other hand, some sellers are reluctant to sell during the summer because they enjoy the aforementioned activities and don’t want to give them up so fast!
It can be harder to sell real estate during the summer due to vacations by buyers and sellers alike. Summer activities can also occupy people instead of allowing them to focus on the home sale process.
The spring season has been generally good for our real estate market. There has been action across the board in all price categories with an emphasis on the range below $1 million (approx). Prices have firmed up within the framework of recent comparable sales and in some cases are creeping higher. Inventory levels remain very low. Call me, Love, Robin. 718-490-9463
Dimmer switches are also a nice
touch to add in bedrooms, hallways, and living rooms. It is important to minimize clutter if you are getting ready to sell. You want your prospective buyers to feel comfortable, to “feel at home.” This is more likely if overflowing laundry baskets aren’t visible. It’s a good idea to put extra stuff in the attic or the garage, as long as it’s out of the way and out of view. A good handyman can help with quick touchups or minor repairs. I have a good handyman if you need one.
We are looking forward to Thanksgiving next week. Have fun getting ready for this great holiday. Call me. Love, Robin.
Story and Photos
By Theresa M Racine
Sunday, November 6 was a very special day for many expecting mothers. Detective Fred Washington, organizer from the NYPD Community Outreach Division brought
a community baby shower to the Rockaway YMCA. This initiative first started in one borough. Now the NYPD brings it to all five boroughs. The goal was to give expecting mothers free necessary baby items at an event featuring food and raffle giveaways. At the same time,
the event serves to let people know that the NYPD is there to provide safety for their families. The event included resources that let soon to be mothers know about different services available in their neighborhood provided by state, city, and local agencies.
Image Caption: Aerial view of Fort Tilden and Rockaway Naval Air Station, 1919
There are nearly two centuries of military fortification history on the Rockaway Peninsula. And with it comes the story of changing placenames.
Fort Decatur was built in 1814 by the U.S. Army as the first defensive system on the peninsula. The blockhouse—named after Captain Stephen Decatur, who commanded naval ships during the American Revolution—was designed to protect New York Harbor from a potential British invasion during the War of 1812. It was situated at the then western end of the Rockaway Peninsula (modern day Beach 137th Street) and dismantled within a year after the conflict. However, Rockaway’s strategic defensive location led to future fortifications.
Between the 1880s and 1910s, the shifting sands of Rockaway’s westernmost point were filled in, and the peninsula extended westward. An immense bulkheading process ensured the peninsula’s present form.
In February 1917, as U.S. involvement in WWI loomed certain, the Army purchased 306 acres on Rockaway from New York City. The new landfill provided the foundation for Camp Rockaway, which was incorporated as part of the Harbor Defenses of Southern New York. Included in the new fortifications and adjoined to the Army’s Camp Rockaway was the Rockaway Naval Air Station.
After the U.S. entered WWI, Camp Rockaway was renamed Fort Tilden on July 24, 1917, in honor of Samuel Jones Tilden (1814–1886). Tilden served as Governor of New York from 1875–1876 and ran as the Democratic candidate for President of the United States against Rutherford B. Hayes in 1876. De-
spite winning the popular vote, Tilden conceded to Hayes in the now-infamous Hayes-Tilden Compromise, which effectively ended Reconstruction in the South.
In 1919, Rockaway Naval Air Station was the departure point of the world’s first transatlantic flight. However, in 1930, the air station was decommissioned, and operations were relocated to Floyd Bennett Field. Today, Beach 169th Street is renamed U.S. Navy Seaplane Division One Way to commemorate that pivotal moment
that connected Rockaway to the Golden Age of Aviation.
Fort Tilden was increasingly armed and fortified until 1948, when its weaponry was deemed obsolete. But the site continued to play a role in national defense.
In 1950, Fort Tilden was incorporated into the Army’s Air Defense Artillery Branch and renamed Site NY-43. As the Cold War tensions grew, in 1955, Nike–Ajax missiles were installed, and in 1958, they were converted to the nuclear-capable Nike-Hercules missile. Fort Tilden, as Site NY-43, remained armed with nuclear weapons until the Nike–Hercules system was deactivated in 1972. After which, Fort Tilden was decommissioned and incorporated into Gateway National Recreation Area.
Although the pandemic seems to be on the wane and vacationers are swarming out of their cocoons much like the legendary seven-year locusts (Really 13-year Cicadas) airlines and resorts are gearing up for the coming flow. But be careful where and how you go.
Airline fees are, in many instances, going as high as the aircraft. This is an obvious attempt to recoup what was lost over the past two years.
Obviously, the war in Ukraine has had an impact and our “Friends” in Saudi Arabia and their cohorts in OPEC (Oil Producing and Exporting Cartel, which, by the way, includes Vladimir Putin, has opted to cut oil production by 2 million gallons of oil per day. That has had an immediate effect on prices at the pump.
In the past, when prices went up, people opted for day trips or vacations close to home. With the price of gas, that’s thrown a monkey wrench into many plans. But Americans have always been resilient and roll with the punches. Despite the skyrocketing prices, most airlines have seen dramatic increases in fares. So take heart, and with a bit of research, you can still enjoy that getaway. Just be prepared to pay more.
The best time to look for an airline ticket to anywhere is usually
on Wednesday. Business travelers are normally on the go from Thursdays through Monday or Tuesday. So, family travelers are what the carriers look to for bookings mid-week.
The first thing to do is contact your favorite airlines and check on the price. Then ask if there is a cancelation fee and, if so, in what time frame must it be concluded.
Once that is done, go to several of the discount providers. No name given here, but it should be easy enough for you to find a couple of them. Now that you know your departure dates, destination and cost from the major airline, see what the discounters have to say. If you go with them, you will still earn miles and if you use the appropriate credit card, miles for the purchase as well.
Then go back to the major line and make sure your cancellation is well within the time frame they have confirmed. You can save literally hundreds of dollars sometimes.
There are also credit cards that will make the arrangements for you. But these are upper-end and elite cards. They charge a handsome fee for membership, but if you are a frequent traveler, you can make up that fee in one trip.
Some people opt for the “cash back” cards. That’s a personal choice. Our choice is to accrue miles because the cash back usually does not amount to much but
accruing miles can be a blessing when figuring out the cost of a trip.
Another money saver, by using the airlines’ credit card is about $50-$100 dollars. That’s the charge for a checked bag. Most airlines will comp a checked bag or two per passenger charged on its card.
And while some airlines make charging for extra somewhat akin to a parlor game, others take it to the extreme. United, which for years has been our airline of choice, followed others and began charging for checked bags (except as noted above), seating at bulkheads and emergency doors for the extra leg room. They, and some others, have now developed a new class of passenger. That’s what might be classed as “sub-economy.” There you are seated in the least desirable loca-
tions and pay even for carry-on. That was pioneered by our least favorite airline, what we have called “Spiritless Airlines.” About the only thing they did not charge for was breathing. Well, maybe inhaling was free but there might have been a fee for exhaling.
Fortunately, Spirit is on the way out through merger with Jet Blue, one of the more passenger friendly airlines. We’ll have to wait and see how that plays out.
So, the caveats for travel this winter and spring are relatively simple. First, get all of your shots and boosters. That won’t stop you from contracting Covid, but it will be as mild as a head cold (and I speak from experience). Then, some simple due diligence as suggested above. You could save considerable vacation money and have a memorable trip.
Go. Enjoy.
On Friday, November 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., join women’s group Rockaway WISH at the Belle Har bor Yacht Club on Beach 126th for a general membership meeting and cocktail celebration for the group’s 16th anniversary. RSVP to: EDuffy@rockawaywish.org
On Saturday, November 19, the Rockaway Track Club is hosting a half marathon and 5K. Check in at Beach 115th street at 8 a.m. Pickup Bib tag, chip, and T-Shirt. Both 5K and ½ Marathon start at 9 a.m. on the boardwalk at 115th Street. To pre-register, see Rockawaytc.org
On Saturday, November 19 from 11 am. to 1 p.m. at Broad Chan nel American Park on West 22nd Rd, join Jamaica Bay Rockaway Parks Conservancy for a November CleanSweep cleanup. Gloves, bags,
and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encour aged to wear weather-ap propriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. Event is rain or shine. Questions? Email info@jbrpc.org.
On Saturday, November 19 at 12:30 p.m., head to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and join a park ranger to try a few easy outdoor meditation techniques, take a re laxing stroll, and connect with na ture in a calming new way. This is an all-weather walk, so please dress for the conditions.
On Sunday, November 20 at 2:30 p.m., head to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge for this children’s program featuring a guided walk around one of the trails at the Ref uge and learn what it takes to be come a Jr. Ranger! Children will use their different senses as we ex plore all that the refuge has to offer. Program followed by an official Jr. Ranger "swear-in" ceremony. All
weather. Register by calling 718318-4340.
On Tuesday, November 22 at 10:30 a.m., join a Park Ranger at Fort Tilden to see Osprey, Merlin, Bald Eagles and more during the peak fall bird migration, weather permitting. For more info call: 718318-4340
On Tuesday, November 22 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., head to Bagel & Ba rista Station on Beach 116th Street where Santa will be waiting in an afternoon featuring hot cocoa, cookies, face painting and more. Hosted by Councilwoman Joann Ariola and the Queens Chamber of Commerce.
On Thursday, November 24, con sidering running this turkey day 5K on behalf of Jimmy O’Neill, a lo cal 10-year-old boy who has been battling cancer. Day of registration begins at 8 a.m. and the race starts at 9:30 a.m. on the boardwalk at
Beach 126th Street. Pre-register at Rockawaytc.org
On Thursday, November 24 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., head to the 100th Precinct at 92-24 Rockaway Beach Blvd. for a free Thanksgiving meal. If disabled or a senior, meals can be delivered. Contact Officer Victor Boamah at 917-783-5215 or Victor. Boamah@nypd.org
Save the date! Christmas comes early this year. On Saturday, No vember 26, head to 144-03 Nepon sit Ave for the annual lighting of the Little North Pole. Pre-show starts at 3:30 p.m. Show starts at 4 p.m.
On Mondays at 11 a.m., head to the RISE Center (58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd) to join Ann Fosteris’ Fitness to You class. Maska required inside RISE.
Got events? Send an email to ka tie@rockawaytimes.com with de tails for consideration to be listed.
31-39 83rd Holdings LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/4/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 69 Pheasant Run, Roslyn, NY 11576.
General Purpose
Notice of Formation of 6910 34 AVE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/02/22. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: c/o Citizens Development Co., 111-15 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills, NY 11375. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
Notice of formation of 71-32 ROOSEVELT AVE LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/25/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: 8425 Elmhurst Ave., #6V, Elmhurst, NY 11373. Purpose: any lawful act.
Notice of Formation, H2Z Family Holding LLC. Articles of Org. filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/30/2022. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copies of any process served against the LLC to: The LLC, 141-07 20th Ave - STE 303,Whitestone, NY 11357. Purpose: any lawful purpose or activity.
Notice of Formation of Native Craft’s LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/14/22. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Native Craft’s LLC, 23020 58 th Avenue, Apt 1, Oakland Gardens NY 11364. Any lawful purpose
DION REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/19/2022. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Constantina Frangakis, 14710 11th Avenue, Whitestone, NY 11357. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
Suri’s Smoke Shop LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/24/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Neera Dukhi, 111-50 143rd St., Jamaica, NY 11435. General Purpose
CAVALIERE 80 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/20/22. 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, 6906 Grand Avenue, Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
2528 LOR LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/30/2020. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 18-33 41st Street, Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
Notice of Formation of the Sunnyside Piano Studio LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State on 8/25/2022, Office located at 39-60 54th St. #5A, Woodside, NY (Queens). The Secretary of State of New York has been designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The lawful purpose of the company is to provide piano instruction.
Aran Mor LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 9/8/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 75 22 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village, NY 11379. General Purpose
My son shared some helpful advice he received from one of his bosses who happens to be 89 years old and yes, is still working in a job he loves. Inspiration is often found in one’s life lessons when passed down to the next generation. I thought I would share some of the words of wisdom in this column.
When you meet someone new, treat that person as a friend. Assume he or she is a winner and will become a positive force in your life. We often wait for someone to prove themselves before giving them an opportunity to be part of our circle. Sometimes you will be disappointed, but you will broaden your network by following this mindset.
Read all the time. Don’t just do it because you are curious about something, read actively. Have a point of view before you start a book or article and see if what you
think is confirmed or refuted by the author. If you do that, you will read faster and comprehend more.
I think it’s important to always be open minded and fair.
Get enough sleep. Seven hours until you’re sixty, eight from sixty to seventy, nine thereafter, which might include a one-hour nap. Sleep is everything and yet so many have difficulty resting.
Evolve. Try to think of your life in phases so you can avoid burn-out. Do the numbers crunching in the early phase of your career, then try developing concepts later on. Stay at risk throughout the process.
Travel extensively. Try to get everywhere before you wear out. Attempt to meet local interesting people where you travel and keep in contact with them throughout your life. Meet up with them again when you return to the place.
Try to relieve pain rather than spread joy. Music, theater and art museums have many affluent supporters, give the best parties and can add to your social luster in a community. They don’t need you. Social service, hospitals and edu-
cational institutions can make the world a better place and help the disadvantaged make their way toward the American dream. I hope you choose the path of service.
Try to be comfortable with who you are. Be kind and likeable. This could take a lifetime for some of us but in the end it’s all that matters. Be kind and honest.
Don’t try to be better than your competitors, but rather try to be different. There is always going to be someone smarter than you, but there may not be someone who is more imaginative. We are all artists in our own special way.
When seeking a career as you come out of school or making a job change, always take the job that looks like it will be the most enjoyable. If it pays the most, you’re lucky. If it doesn’t, take it anyway. Often the jobs that pay the least turn out to be the best investment.
There is a perfect job out there for everyone. Most people never find it. Keep looking. The goal of life is to be a happy person and the right job is essential to that.
Find someone younger to men-
tor. It is very satisfying to help someone steer through life’s obstacles, and you’ll be surprised at how much you will learn in the process. We are all here to help and support one another.
Every year, try doing something you have never done before that is totally out of your comfort zone. It could be running a marathon, attending a conference or retreat that interests you on an off-beat subject that will be populated by people very different from your usual circle of associates and friends or travel to an obscure destination ALONE. This will add to the essential process of self -discovery.
Never retire. If you work forever, you can live forever. I know there is an abundance of biological evidence against this theory, but I’m going with it anyway.
Hoping that you enjoyed some life lessons from a very successful, happy human being. We never know how long we have to live but we do know it’s not that long! So live, love, dance, do what makes your heart sing. May you live with ease and comfort.
When one thinks about child hood and diabetes, type I, or insulin-dependent diabetes, is usually what comes to mind. In sulin is made in the pancreas and is vital in facilitating the trans port of glucose into the body’s cells, where glucose is the fuel of life. Type I diabetes, now known to be an autoimmune disease, is caused by the immune system attacking and killing the cells in its own pancreas that produce insulin. The inciting factor that triggers the immune system is thought to be a virus, which is as yet unidentified. The onset of type I symptoms is often sud den, resulting in the child being hospitalized for diabetic ketoac idosis, a life-threatening occur rence. According to the CDC, there are about 210,000 new cas
es of diabetes in chil dren and adolescents each year. But of that 210,000, a little more than 10%, or about 23,000 cases are type II diabetes, and that number is ris ing each year. Unlike type I, type II diabetes comes on gradually, with symptoms (weight loss, ex cess urination, and thirst) some times taking years to become apparent. Type II is strongly as sociated with obesity. While the pancreas continues to make in sulin, fat cells act like a sponge for insulin, absorbing it and re moving it from the blood, there by raising serum glucose levels. The incidence rate of child hood type II diabetes is highest in American Indian/Alaska Na tive, Black, and Hispanic/Lati no children and adolescents. These are also the groups with the highest rates of childhood obesity. The unfortunate reality is that these young people have an increased risk of high blood
pressure, high cholesterol levels, and nonalcoholic fatty liver dis ease. This means that, over time, if not treated properly, these young people with diabetes can have bad health outcomes, in cluding heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, kidney failure, and blindness, not to mention shorter life expectancies. In September, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) published an article in which they reviewed current studies to determine whether or not chil dren and adolescents should be routinely screened for type II di abetes. Screening, as in adults, involves a blood test to meas ure either fasting blood glucose (FBG) or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Fasting blood glucose is measured at least eight hours after not eating or drinking any thing with calories. FBG should be 125 or lower. HbA1c measures a person’s average blood glucose over the previous two to three months and does not require
fasting. HbA1c should be 6.4% or lower.
The USPSTF concluded that there was insufficient evidence to recommend routine screen ing for type II diabetes in chil dren and adolescents. One of the reasons for this conclusion is that there are no studies done to date that looked at the potential harms of screening. Potential harms could be false positives with side effects from medica tions, low blood sugar, nausea, and vomiting. This is the first time the USPSTF reviewed this subject, so as per their routine, they will look at it again in four to five years. Remember though, that this study looked at routine, across-the-board screening for all children and adolescents. Fo cused screening, for example on obese children or those with di abetic symptoms, should still be performed.
Please direct questions and comments to editor@rockaway times.com
By Owen Loof
I kept going to the shore waiting and waiting for the return of my mermaid, but to no avail. Final ly, one day when I arrived, there was a message in a bottle from my mermaid. It read as follows: “I am sorry, but my time on land with you must end. You are a very spe cial person, and my time with you was the most enjoyable that I can remember. However, you over stepped boundaries that I can not ignore, and this is the last com munication I will have with you. Please respect my wishes and do not try to find me. I also believe I have found love here in the sea with my own kind, and I hope you can too. Goodbye and good luck.”
As I read with my heart shrink ing, I tried to think of what the boundaries were and where they existed. I was saddened that she decided to end our time together instead of trying to work through
my mistake since our love had been so strong. So, although I have many fond memories and still hold out some hope, I must accept that my mermaid is gone, and I will not see her again. My mermaid’s happiness is all I ever wanted for her, and I hope she finds it along with peace of mind in the future. Au revoir my love— because au revoir does not mean goodbye forever.
I miss holding you so tight
I miss your loving touch
I miss kissing you good night I still love you so much I am laughing on the outside But inside I know I cry I hope you will come back to me one day And that’s the reason why There’s just no forgetting you I wish I could say That the memory of your love Will fade one day
There’s just no forgetting you Even though I should
But with all of the love we shared I only wish I could
John F. Kennedy, C.S. Lewis, and Aldous Huxley all died on November 22, 1963, within a few hours of each other.
Only five Olympic athletes have ever won more than eight gold medals. Four of them have won nine. Michael Phelps has won 23.
Woodrow Wilson signed into law the first permanent peace time federal income tax in U.S. history.
Maria Anna Mozart, sister of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was also a talented musician, but once she reached a “marriage able age,” her parents would no longer permit her to show her artistic talents.
The first ever speeding ticket in the U.S. was given to Harry My ers in Dayton, Ohio in 1904. He
was going 12 MPH.
In 1978, Charlie Chaplin’s body was stolen and held for ransom. His widow refused to pay the demand of £400,000 and the body was found two months later.
Coca-Cola never patented their “secret formula” because doing so would require them to dis close the ingredients.
The Eiffel Tower was originally supposed to be in Barcelona, Spain, but the project was re jected for being too expensive and an eyesore.
Facts by Sean McVeigh, factolo gist.
By Katie McFadden
On Tuesday, November 15, the Belle Harbor Property Owners Association met for its last meeting until March, at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club.
The Army Corps of Engineers was expected to attend to provide updates on the ongoing beach protection work, but bailed out a few days ahead of the meeting, without giving a reason. The National Park Service was also expected to attend to provide updates on the upcoming revitalization of the Riis Bathhouse, but all parties decided it was best to wait until the next meeting to provide the most up-to date information.
Barbara Larkin provided some updates on an ongoing issue with neighborhood trees, including a tree that was destroyed in a car accident and dead trees that require removal by the City. After being given the runaround by various agencies, Councilwoman Ariola’s office assured her that the trees will be removed by the spring.
BHPOA president Paul King then dove into the recent election results. King acknowledged his own loss in the congressional race and discussed the ongoing issues in the Assembly District 23 race, which has not yet been decided, as absentee ballots still have to be counted and Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato has since filed a lawsuit demanding a recount for the race. “They’re both good people and we don’t need them slinging mud at each other, we just need to know who won,” King said. He also praised the community for a high voter turnout for a midterm election.
Since the Army Corps was MIA, King and others did their best to give updates. “We’re looking at a difficult summer in 2023 with groins being built. They’re gonna finish 120th and we could’ve done 125th and 130th before beach season, but now it’s looking like we’re going to have construction going on around summer,” King said. And for the dune wall construction, King spoke on how instead of picking up where they left off in the
Beach 140s, USACE has started another section of dune wall at Beach 136th Street. “They’re gonna leave a gap there and if they don’t coordinate this well, it’s going to be a frustrating beach season for us,” he said.
Another USACE issue is the recently released New York New Jersey Harbor and Tributaries (NYNJHAT) Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) Feasibility Study that offers further options for coastal protection around NY and NJ. The 569-page study offers various alternatives, but the one USACE recommends is alternative 3B, which would entail 12 storm surge barriers with shorebased measures. Rockaway’s closest sea gate would be placed at the opening of Jamaica Bay, near the Marine Parkway Bridge. The entire study is available on the USACE website and public comments are welcome through January 6, 2023. Comments can be sent to: Cheryl R. Alkemeyer, PMP, ENV SP, NEPA Lead, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - New York District, Planning - c/o PSC Mail Center (Room 17-420), 26 Federal Plaza,
New York 10278 or via email to: nynjharbor.tribstudy@usace.army.mil
The ongoing demolition of the Neponsit Home was discussed briefly. Currently, the contractors are doing prep work such as controlling vermin and asbestos before demolishing the buildings. King also discussed visitors of the Bay 1 area of Riis Park expressing concerns over the future use of the space, which under the deed, must be a healthcare facility or parkland, and will be turned over to NYC Parks when demolition is complete. “At Community Board 14, activists who use Bay 1 come and say this is bad for them and we aren’t letting them talk about what they’d like to see. We’re trying to work with these people who are complaining, and they don’t want to be good partners. It's disheartening that people are trying to go behind the community’s back instead of working with us,” King said.
The meeting ended with wishing everyone a happy holiday season as the next BHPOA meeting won’t be until March.
’Twas the week before Thanksgiving when all through the Rock, every creature was dreamin’ of the feast a-comin’. Shake off your Turkey Daze with a Rockaway Good Times crawl. See event guide below.
THURSDAY, November 17
7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fever Dream sultry duo—Julia Her and vocalist/guitarist Solsticé—fires up Tap That with their steamy blend of pop, rock, hip-hop and dance music. 111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd
FRIDAY, November 18
7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Who runs the world? Girls! Breezy’s Pointers salute with a sizzling retro rock and pop performance at Bar Marseille.
190 Beach 69th Street
8 p.m.
It’s Fri-yay! Time to go make memories with the Rock-A-Wades at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club’s upstairs lounge. 533 Beach 126th Street
8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Cat Nip Duo brings back their electrifying lineup of classic and alternative rock at Kennedy’s. 406 Bayside, Breezy Point
8 p.m. to midnight
Get on the welcome wagon to the weekend with The Creeps packin’ in your favorite rock classics at RBQ. 97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd
9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Tonight, join the Jack Pack for several rounds of rock classics with The Uncle Jack Band at Rogers. 203 Beach 116th Street
SATURDAY, November 19
7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
It’s Saturday night! So, pour—toast— dance—repeat—at Tap That’s classic rock jam starring the Rock-A-Wades. 111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd
8 p.m. to midnight
Mixed Bag is back at RBQ driving your Saturday night fun into Sunday morning with good ol’ fashioned rock
and roll.
97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd
9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Join the shenanigans as Wine With Sue rolls through Rogers with another raucous night of rock—straight up, no chaser.
203 Beach 116th Street
SUNDAY, November 20
2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
It’s Sunday, so do nothing but chill, eat, drink and sing-a-long with the Rock-A-Wades at Harbor Light!
129-18 Newport Avenue
3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Don your cowboy hat and boots as Roadkill Country Outlaws stomps in Anabas Boat Club. $30 admission includes live music, food and drinks. For more info, follow: @anabas_boat_club on Instagram.
18-20 Channel Road, Broad Channel
5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
End your Sunday! Funday! on a high note with bair as in Gerald Bair at Rogers.
203 Beach 116th Street
FRIDAY, November 18 8 p.m.
Join the Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department for Turkey Karaoke—a fun night of terrible singing and dancing with DJ Miltey and everyone’s favorite bartender, Joey O’Hare—at Grassy Point Bar & Grill. Door admission: $5. Plus, grab a chance to score a Stop and Shop gift card at a raffle to help offset holiday food costs.
1802 Cross Bay Blvd, Broad Channel
November 23), Connolly’s hosts an epic bash with DJ Brother Rich waxing the vinyl. For opening hours and more info, follow: @connollysbar on Instagram or call: (718) 474-2374. Note Connolly’s is closed Thanksgiving Day. 155 Beach 95th Street
WEDNESDAY, November 23 7 p.m.
Head to Rocco’s for the ultimate TGE fest with DJ Matt Finley spinnin’ classic disco to classic house—and everything in between!
115-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd
7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Before Turkey Day, ignite your Thanksgiving fun-a-thon at Tap That with The Kearney Brothers’ red-hot brews of Southern rock and NYC blues and roots.
111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd
8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Kickoff your Thanksgiving narrative with Ireland’s Cork-born renowned folk songsmith, Niall Connolly, at Sayra’s. Plus, enjoy half-off bottles for Wine Wednesdays.
91-11 Rockaway Beach Blvd
9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Rogers celebrates the season of giving thanks with a foot-stompin’ rock feast with Hell or High Water.
203 Beach 116th Street
10 p.m.
Hit the dance floor at Pico as DJ Cash gets the party poppin’! Plus, from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., $5 tequila shots from Hornitos Tequila.
419 Beach 129th Street
SATURDAY, November 26 9 p.m.
RTC PRESENTS “A FEW GOOD MEN”
LAST weekend!
The Rockaway Theatre Company presents its final show for 2022—“A Few Good Men.” Show dates: November 18, 19, 20 Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets, visit: www.rockawaytheatrecompany. org.
T4 Post Theatre Building, Fort Tilden
SATURDAY, November 19
GUEST CHEF POPUP AT BEACH 97TH CONCESSION
5 p.m. / 9 p.m.
This evening, head to the Beach 97th Street concession for special guest chef pop-up, Alex and Oliver, serving up a delicious feast, “inspired by the sea,” plus live deejayed music on the boardwalk until 9 p.m. Ongoing until December 4, this collaboration with concessionaires, Brothers and La Fruteria, is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with their popular breakfast and lunch food fare, plus—Friday burger nights, special guest chef popups and live music. For more info, follow @brothersrockaway on Instagram. Beach 97th Concession
TOM PETTY TRIBUTE AT THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL
7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
MONDAY, November 21 to SUNDAY, November 27
Soccer and American football fans— this week only, Connolly’s is open! Besides Thanksgiving week, it’s also kickoff to World Cup 2022, and with the U.S. back for a goal to redemption since 2018’s crushing blow, the longtime, popular pub is open daily for folks to watch games, have a beverage and indulge in Seany Slices’ seriously decadent pizza until his dough runs out. Plus on Thanksgiving Eve (Wednesday,
Work off that turkey stuffing with Anthem Acoustic—full band—dishin’ out a full feast of classic rock at The Sugar Bowl.
15 Bedford Ave, Breezy Point
FRIDAY, November 18 8 p.m.
Movie Night at Tap That has been such a hit, looks like it’s more than a Friday night fling. For tonight’s feature, follow: @tapthatrbny on Instagram.
111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd
The Rockaway Hotel presents band, Refugee, honoring the legacy of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. If songs, “American Girl,” “Free Fallin,’ and “Runnin’ Down a Dream,” are on your list of favorites, Refugee delivers all the hits and deep cuts—a truly authentic concert experience. Tickets: $30. For tickets and more info, visit: https:// www.therockawayhotel.com/happenings
108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive
SHOP LOCAL SATURDAY, November 19 7 p.m.
For one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, check out Rockaway Beach Dance Company’s Holiday Pop-Up Shop! 112-20 Beach Channel Drive
Got info on local live music, arts and more? Email: editor@rockawaytimes. com
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.
The St. Francis de Sales soccer season has ended with the 4th, 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls’ teams walking off the field as Diocesan Champions. The 3rd grade boys were victorious as well. Before we head into basketball season, we wanted to highlight two of the championship teams.
On Saturday, the 6th grade girls claimed their third title in four years. The championship game victory, over Blessed Trinity, capped off back-to-back undefeated seasons. Such continued success requires a total team effort, and commitment, by all 20 players.
In two playoff games, the girls totaled 14 goals. The scoring was led by spectacular forward play, most notably from: Taryn Martin, Niamh Mullen, and McKenzie Doyle. Also contributing to scores were: Lily Warnock, Annie McCormick, and the O’Sullivan twins. The midfielders: Reese Dennis, Molly Gallagher and Sadie Corvi, controlled the flow of the games, and always outworked their opponents. The defense has been suffocating all season long, allowing only five goals total. They are led by: Jane Bender, Hannah LaPrice and Maeve Murphy. Finally, goalie Teagan O’Rourke played fearlessly and made clutch save, after clutch save, after clutch save,
with one final save to seal the title game.
The 8th grade girls, in their last two games as SFDS soccer players, were able to end their careers as champions. Coach Maura O’Sullivan said: “Please thank the parents and fans for their constant support, and Bella Harkins for her help. This was a team that didn’t even score a goal for two years, never mind win a game. Coach Youngberg had faith and led the girls until they became a championship team. So sad this was their last game, but so happy for them!”.
In the semifinal game, a 1-0 win over Hope, the defense led the
way. Nicolette Deriggi and Rosemary Tubridy were relentless. The name of the game on offense was ball control and Siobhan O’Sullivan and Tegan Curley were up to the task.
On Sunday night, in the championship game, the team walked away with a 2-1 victory over Saint Anastasia. Erin Hogg was incredible in goal, Cordelia Monahan, despite an injury, held strong on defense, and the game winning goal was scored on an amazing shot by Maggie Wynne.
Congratulations to all of our SFDS teams, players, coaches and parents, on a memorable season!
By Eric Jayden
I want to say thank you to the many fans that have flooded my email box with great questions this past week. So, let's get to some of them!
The First Question of the Week comes Claire K. in Rockaway Park and she asked, "Who do you think will win between Jordynne Grace and Masha Slamovich for the IMPACT Knockouts Title?" Well, Claire, I have to say I am a fan of both wrestlers, and Jordynne Grace was the one who beat Masha Slamovich, and ended her undefeated streak which lasted one year. This is a tough one, but I'm going to say Masha beats Jordynne for the IMPACT Knockouts Championship on November 18, 2022 IMPACT PPV "Over Drive." Either way, this will be a great match to watch. The Second Question of the
Week comes from Raymond W. in Howard Beach, and he said, "I read your column last week regarding Nick Aldis, is it true he left because he was let go? I'm reading he was very unhappy with the NWA?" Raymond, so far, we know that Nick Aldis gave his notice, that he was leaving the NWA via his social media page on November 6, 2022. The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) took action against Nick Aldis and suspended him from in ring performance. Nick has taken to his Instagram page to address his concerns with the promotion and its owner and president Billy Corgan. I have no further information on whether Nick will return to the NWA, or if he is officially moving on from the promotion.
The Third Question of the Week comes Kevin S. in Rockaway Beach and he asked, "Are the rumors true about a possible
Stone Cold Steve Austin return?" Steve Austin made his return at this year's WrestleMania 38 event, and as from what I'm being told, he enjoyed his return so much and it was very well received by both fans and the WWE, that we might see another Steve Austin return very soon. Sources are saying he might possibly return before the next scheduled Wrestlemania event next year in Los Angeles.
The Last Question of the Week comes from Timothy V. in Far Rockaway and he said, "I haven't seen Kevin Owens lately on TV, is he still working for the WWE?" Yes Timothy, Kevin Owens does still work for the WWE. From what has been reported, he suffered a knee injury working a live
WWE event against WWE Superstar Austin Theory. According to Dave Meltzer from the Wrestling Observer, Kevin Owens’ injury is an MCL Sprain, he may be out for an undetermined amount of time.
Thank you all for the great questions sent in this week. Please keep sending those questions to eavil183@yahoo.com and have a great weekend!
