Rockaway Times 12-15-22

Photo by Tim Moriarty

Make a Family’s Season Bright

donation, you can have your name on a stocking, hung above the bar at a local establishment with care, and in turn, you’ll be helping Tan, who now suffering from a neurological disorder after serving this country for 30 years, has been given two years to live.

Scan the QR code to make a direct donation on the Hope for the Warriors website, or head to one of the participating businesses to hang a stocking: Pico, The Wharf, Bungalow Bar, Sugar Bowl, Margie’s, Happy Jack’s, the Harbor Light, Healy’s and the Knights of Columbus.

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Brandon Dodson and his family just enjoyed an incredible trip to Disney World thanks to money raised from last year’s Stockings for a Cause! Let this be a reminder that you can help do the same for U.S. Navy veteran Teddy Tan and his family this year. For a $20

Chanukah Around the Rock

Happy Chanukah! On Sunday, December 18, the Festival of Lights begins with the lighting of the first candle on menorahs across the globe. And there will be several local events happening to mark the occasion throughout the eight nights.

The first celebration takes place on Sunday, December 18 at 1 p.m. Head to 613 Beach 9th Street where Rockaway Nassau Patrol, Hatzalah, JCCRP and others will be hosting a Chanukah toy giveaway for all children. There will be gifts, doughnuts, fun and more!

Then, also on Sunday, December 18, at 3 p.m. is the Far Rockaway Menorah Lighting. Join RDRC at the Greenspace intersection of Mott Avenue and Central Avenue for the celebration. The Mitzvah Tank will be there distributing menorahs and candles to the community, plus there will be music and dancing.

And lastly on Sunday, Decem-

ber 18, at 6 p.m., West End Temple (147-02 Newport Ave) is hosting a Chanukah event with a musical celebration in the sanctuary, featuring their West End Band and kids followed by a latke dinner in the gym. Bring your menorah and a vegetarian side dish to share. To RSVP, call the Temple office at 718-634-0301 by December 16.

On Tuesday, December 20 at 5 p.m., Councilwoman Joann Ariola and the Rockaway Civic Association are teaming up to host the Beach 116th Menorah lighting. Head to Beach 116th (near City MD) for the lighting celebration. Temple Beth-El will be providing jelly doughnuts for all.

On Wednesday, December 21 at 7 p.m., Temple Beth-El will also be hosting a livestreamed Chanukah lighting with Cantor Jeff Wolk and his Latka Boys Band performing on the fourth night of Chanukah. To check out the service, see: bethelrockaway. org/live-stream

Contact The Elected

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

Phone: (347) 230-4032

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

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

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

State Senator 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

Boyle PUBLISHER

Katie McFadden MANAGING EDITOR

Mary Ellen Olsen MANAGER

Monica Clifford DIRECTOR

Fred Marino

SALES

The Rockaway Times 114-04 Beach Channel Drive Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Phone: 718-634-3030

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APPETIZER PLATTERS

Medium & Large

Tomato & Mozzarella $70/$90

Antipasto $90/$115

Cheese Platter $100/$125

Salads

A&S House Salad $55/$75

At the Harbor Salad $65/$85

Fruit Platter (medium platter) $75

PASTA

Half & Full Trays

Baked Ziti $55/$105

Stuffed Shells $55/$105

Penne Vodka $60/$115

Lasagna Rollatini $65/$125

Linguine & Clam Sauce $75/$145

Linguine Fra Diavolo

with Shrimp $85/$165

SIDES

Half & Full Trays

Potato Croquettes $50/$95

Christmas Rice balls

(Cheese only) $50/$95

Assorted Rice balls $50/$95

Mozzarella Sticks $50/$95

Sicilian Pizza $35

MEAT

Half & Full Trays

Meatballs in Sauce $65/$125

Sausage & Peppers $65/$125

Roast Beef in Mushroom Gravy $70/$135

Chicken Francese $70/$135

Chicken Parmigiana $70/$135

Chicken Marsala $70/$135

Chicken Rollatini $75/$145

Chicken Scampi $75/$145

Chicken Finger $70/$135

Sweet Sliced Ham & Pineapple $80/$155

Veal Marsala $90/$175

VEGETABLES

Half & Full Trays

Stuffed Mushrooms

(breadcrumbs) $55/$105

Stringbean’s Almondine $60/$105

Eggplant Parmigiana $60/$115

Eggplant A&S $60/$115

Eggplant Rollatini $65/$125

Broccoli Rabe $65/$125

FISH

Half & Full Trays

Frutti di Mare (Fish Salad)

$34 per pound

Mussels Red or White $65/$125

Baked Clams $65/$125

Fried Calamari $70/$135

Fried Shrimp $95/$185

Shrimp Oreganata $95/$185

Shrimp Parmigiana $95/$185

Stuffed Fillet Flounder (crabmeat)

$18 per piece

Fried Fillet Flounder $14 per piece

Flounder Francese $14 per piece

Homemade Crab Cakes with real crab meat $8 per piece

Lobster Tails (any style) Market price

Shrimp Cocktail Tray Market price Salmon A&S Market price

p

CHRISTMAS EVE PACKAGE | $500 + tax

SERVES 10-12 PEOPLE

Includes

Assorted Rice Balls & Potato Croquettes, House Salad, Italian Bread

Choice of One Fish Salad, Baked Clams, Crab Cakes

Choice of One Linguini & Clams, Linguini & Shrimp, Penne Vodka Choice of One

Fried Shrimp, Shrimp Parmigiana, Shrimp Oreganata Choice of One Fried Flounder, Flounder Francese, Chicken Scampi Choice of One Eggplant Rollatini, Stringbean’s & Potatoes, Stringbean’s Almondine

CHRISTMAS DAY PACKAGE | $450 + tax

SERVES 10-12 PEOPLE

Includes

Assorted Rice Balls & Potato Croquettes, House Salad, Prosciutto Bread

Choice of One Antipasto Platter, Mozzarella & Tomato

Choice of One Baked Ziti, Penne Vodka, Stuffed Shells

Choice of Two Chicken Rollatini, Chicken Scampi, Roast Beef In Mushroom Gravy, Sweet Sliced Ham & Pineapple

Choice of One Eggplant Rollatini, Stuffed Mushrooms (Breadcrumbs), Stringbean’s Almondine

Kevin

And there were in that same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them: and they were afraid.

And the angel said to them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

Luke 2:8-16

Maureen Walsh, Broker Walsh Properties, Inc. 718-945-6512

Lit

Beach 116th is looking brighter! On Wednesday. December 7, the annual lighting of the Beach 116th Christmas Tree was held, bringing holiday cheer to the block.

The event, hosted by Liz Hanna, Councilwoman Joann Ariola, Mazzone Hardware, Madelaine Chocolate Company, The Rock Church, the Rockaway Civic Association and The Knights of Columbus, was a big success. With chocolate goodies provided to kids, a visit from the Best Dressed Man in Rockaway and performances by the P.S. 114 chorus and Bella Piazza, faces were lit up with smiles all night.

The Jenkins kids, who lost their father in a motorcycle accident earlier this year, were given the honor of lighting up the tree along with Liz Hanna. The KofC provided the Nativity display along with the tree.

Photos by Mira Satryan, Katie McFadden and Councilwoman Ariola’s office.

Happy Hanukkah. The eight-day festival begins on Sunday, December 18. *****

Wow! It’s a pretty underrated fact that Rockaway produces some amazing swimmers. Tess Howley set national records at Sacred Heart High School and remains an Olympic-hopeful and will attend the University of Virginia starting in the fall of next year. On the boys’ side, a new bullet in the water has emerged. Sean Green, just a sophomore at Molloy High School, recently became the youngest swimmer to break the 15-minute mile this year with a 14:57.83 finish. According to SwimSwam.com, “That is the fastest mile by a 15-year-old dating back at least as far as 2001, the furthest that the USA Swimming database goes back reliably. Using the all-time top 100 lists, though, we can reasona-

bly deduce that he is possibly the youngest swimmer ever to break 15 minutes.” Like we said, wow! Sean is the son of Keith and Katie Green of Belle Harbor. *****

Rick Horan is selling tickets again. The Graybeard is doing his annual full-court press to get people to buy Pot-o-Gold raffle tickets which support The Graybeards, the non-profit which has done so much for Rockaway through the years. Last year’s winner-take-all raffle was like Rockaway Powerball as the pot surpassed $250,000. There’s a limit on ticket sales this year, so don’t miss out. If you or you and a couple of friends want to play (and help a great organization!) you can contact The Graybeards directly or call Rick Horan at 917-345-3700 and he’ll get a raffle ticket to you. A ticket is $100. *****

So, in one of the wackiest elections we’ve heard about in years, Stacey Amato is leading Tom Sullivan by one vote in the NY State Assembly race. More than 30,000 ballots were cast and at last count Stacey was leading by one vote.

The Courts are involved and after a decision on Tuesday, The Board of Elections must contact 94 voters to affirm/ cure votes that are in dispute. How long will this take? Will they find the voters? Are they in Florida? Are they alive? Will more lawsuits happen? It's a mess. We bet the Assembly Seat will be open until well after others are sworn in in January. In some states, they literally flip a coin to settle things! Sounds reasonable! *****

The Sand Bar, abandoned since Sandy, and the adjacent arcade building were demolished last week to make way for a mixed-use apartment building. We hope the oceanfront location will induce the owners to build something the neighborhood will approve. *****

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. is inviting talented Queens high school seniors interested in pursuing higher education to apply for African American Heritage Scholarships, to be awarded by the Borough President’s African American Heritage

Committee during Black History Month early next year. Deadlines, applications, and other info can be found at: queensbp.org/AAHCScholarshipApp/

On Tuesday, December 20 there will be a groundbreaking ceremony at Arverne By The Sea for a long-awaited Challenge Prep middle school. We will have additional info about the school in upcoming issues. *****

On Wednesday, authorities cracked down on the van selling marijuana by the Beach 108th ferry landing in recent months. Due to selling without a license, the seller was arrested and the van was impounded. *****

If you pass by Memorial Circle in Rockaway Park, those wreaths for the holidays didn't magically appear. Mike Honan, a Friend of Memorial Circle, recently let us know that local resident Flip Mullen contributed those wreaths as a holiday memorial for Rockaway's fallen servicemembers.

DECEMBER 15

Kevin Cashen was born.

Suzanne Valentine was born.

Kevin Manning was born. 1939 - The movie Gone With the Wind premiered in Atlanta, Georgia.

1944 - Band leader Glenn Miller disappeared in a plane crash over the English Channel.

DECEMBER 16

Elizabeth Hanna was born.

Stephen O’Sullivan was born.

Kevin Conlon was born.

1773 - The Boston Tea Party took place. 1944 - The Battle of the Bulge during World War II began in Belgium.

DECEMBER 17

Dylan Watton was born.

Gerard Pisano was born.

Kathleen Lalsie was born. Denis Koufos was born.

Jerry Scannell was born.

1903 - Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first flight in a heavier-than-air plane at Kitty Hawk, N.C.

DECEMBER 18

Bridget Carson Scala was born. Cindy Gold was born.

Irene Rocha was born. 1956 - Japan was admitted to the U.N.

2000 - George W. Bush received 271 votes in the delayed Electoral College balloting.

DECEMBER 19

Barbara Lev was born.

Jim Morton was born.

Brian Beehler was born.

1998 - President Bill Clinton was impeached on two counts by the House. 2003 - Muammar al-Qaddafi of Libya announced they would discontinue development of weapons of mass destruction.

DECEMBER 20

John F. Kimball was born.

Lou Romas was born.

1913 - The Mona Lisa was recovered in Florence after having been stolen two years earlier (August 1911) from the Louvre.

DECEMBER 21

Tana Drysdale Hickey was born. Eileen McBride was born.

1891 -The first basketball game, invented at Springfield College in Massachusetts by James E. Naismith, was played.

1988 - A terrorist bomb exploded aboard a Pan Am Boeing 747 over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing 270 people.

Community Board 14 Ends the Year on a Hopeful Note

By Kami-Leigh Agard

The last Community Board 14 meeting of the year was short but filled with yuletide cheer regarding the Arverne By The Sea community finally getting a school after years of unfulfilled promises, and the long-awaited Far Rockaway Queens Public Library’s construction nearing completion. Also, NYC Parks and Recreation with the Department of Design and Construction (DDC) were on deck to discuss Park’s pilot project for its new Rockaway maintenance garage and operational facility, which has been in dire conditions since Hurricane Sandy. Though an inadequate number of board members were at the meeting to call a quorum for any motions, CB 14’s last meeting of 2022 was quite informative.

First up, some bittersweet farewells. Sandy Doremus, a loved Rockaway local, who has represented Senator Joe Addabbo’s office as his Rockaway governmental liaison for over two decades, announced that she will no longer be attending the meetings due to Senate re-districting. Early this year, Senator Addabbo was sliced out of Rockaway due to redrawn district lines. Also, longtime CB 14 board member, Dan Mundy Sr., announced that he will be retiring from his post after years representing his community of Broad Channel. They will both be missed.

Regarding the long-awaited school Arverne By the Sea residents were promised years ago, CB 14 District Manager Jonathan Gaska announced that next Tuesday, December 20 will be the groundbreaking—to which the room boomed with applause. According to Gaska, as to what grades the school will serve, he said, “I think K through eight,

but I don't know if they're gonna go up to eight.” The location is on Rockaway Beach Blvd, currently a fenced-in vacant lot across from Congressman Meeks’ office on Beach 67th Street.

On the policing front, 100th Precinct NCO Lieutenant Powell and NYC Transit District 23 commanding officer, Captain Arsenio Camilo, who oversees all 12 train stations on the peninsula and Broad Channel, gave the following report: Lt. Powell said the 100th Precinct is up 40% in grand larceny, which includes car theft and credit card fraud. “We had one arrest that involved a non-fatal shooting. The arrest was made last week with the suspect charged with attempted murder,” Powell reported.

On the transit front, Commander Camilo warned, “When traveling on the train with your property, if you fall asleep and leave your bag at your side, you are opening an opportunity for someone to take your property. This is the season when individuals will be on the lookout to take your property. So, be careful.”

CB 14 board member John Cori asked the commander about homeless people sleeping on the trains. “At the last meeting, I brought up the problem about seeing people sleeping on the trains when I board at Beach 67th Street. You mentioned that the officers do an early-morning sweep at the Mott Avenue train station, but it’s not working. What’s happening?” Cori asked.

Camilo responded, “The Beach 67th Street train station is five stops from Mott Avenue, where we have our officers conducting an early-morning sweep of the trains. So, I’m proposing that I will send my officers to Beach 67th to look a look at what’s

COMMUNITY

BOARD 14 ENDS THE YEAR ON A HOPEFUL NOTE

happening. However note, that this is the rule. If individuals are sleeping on the train, we do not have the right to remove them. If they are outstretched over multiple seats, we ask them to sit up. We are not allowed to remove them. If you see an outstretched individual, speak to one of our officers directly.” The commander promised to again address the homeless issue at CB 14’s next meeting.

For some positive news on the law-and-order front, Dan Brown, representative for Queens D.A. Melinda Katz’s office, reported that at a gun buy-back event, hosted by the office this past November, 32 guns were surren -

dered at the 101st Precinct. Parks Rockaway Administrator Eric Peterson then made some announcements. Peterson said, “’Tis the season for people who are interested in being lifeguards next season to start taking the qualifying test, to start training, to start preparing, so they can do well in the test.” For more info about lifeguard jobs, visit: https://www.nycgovparks.org/ reg/life-guard-test

Mulch Fest is an opportunity for residents to wrap up the holiday season by bidding farewell to their Christmas trees. From December 26 to January 9, 2022, bring your tree to the dropoff only site at 94th Street and Shorefront Parkway. For more info about Mulch Fest, visit: https://www.nycgovparks.org/ highlights/festivals/mulchfest

During public speaking, local resident Eugene Falik gave his two cents on the LGBTQ community’s concerns about losing their beloved “People’s Beach,” due to construction priorities in Riis Park. Falik commented,

“We’ve had people from the LGBTQ community come here and talk about wanting to have proprietary interest in a city beach. Now, I don't think they should be discriminated against, but I don't think they should be discriminated for either.

“I think public facilities should be equally available to the public. And if they don't like that, they're welcome to buy some property, go somewhere else, I don't know. However, if there's a public beach, I think it needs to be available to everyone, and shouldn't be reserved for any particular group.”

Now for the exciting news regarding the tail-off of construction for Far Rockaway Library, this is the update. The library’s senior construction project manager said, “We are pretty much close to handing over the building to Queens Public Library, sometime early spring. This is just a forecast, as it could be sooner. At the moment, we are doing our regulatory phase, which is inspections for the ele -

vator, boiler, FDNY sprinkler and fire alarm. Unfortunately, we failed the boiler inspection and have to go back to the drawing board. However, we are close to taking all the construction barriers down, sometime early January.”

As for the final completion stages, it was stated that DDC will complete all work by spring 2023, and then it will take at least six months to outfit the library— meaning the much-awaited library won’t open its doors to the public until fall 2023.

Parks’ newly-minted maintenance and operational facility, which houses the department's Rockaway administrative offices, storage and workshop spaces, locker rooms, bathroom, multipurpose rooms and vehicles, on Beach 74th Street and Amstel, is in the beginning stages of planning, so temporarily Parks will operate out of a temporary location on Beach 80th Street. The entire project is estimated at $27.4M.

A Tree Glows in BC

Story and Photos

By Dan Guarino

Even with rain and chill, hundreds turned out for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 11, at the Broad Channel Athletic Club Field. Performances by BC Girl Scout Troop 04434 and the New Life Choir were followed by Santa’s arrival aboard a BC Volunteer Fire Department engine. With BCAC President

away!

Jack Allen, VP Joe Traegler, guests Monsignor Richard Ahlemeyer, Councilwoman Joann Ariola and Fred Lisena, whose garden center donated the tree, Santa led the countdown as BC Mardi Gras Mayor Robbie O’Hare hit the switch to light it up. Afterward the Big Man in Red stayed to chat, take photos and give a small toy to each child, and a few grown-ups, that came through, before dashing, dashing

Whaley Sad

Young Sperm Whale Dies in Arverne

By Katie McFadden

Where there's a whale, there's a way, but sometimes nature takes its course. After an attempt by surfers to save a young sperm whale that washed up alive around the Beach 74th jetty on the morning of Tuesday, December 13, the whale later died. At around 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, as staff from the U.S. Army Corps contractor Michels were hard at work on beach protection measures, a young 32-foot female sperm whale was spotted on the jetty rocks. Nearby surfers and the contractors teamed up to attempt to free the whale from the rocks and then spent at least half an hour in 49-degree water on the 30-degree morning, trying to push the animal back into deeper waters, but to no avail. About two hours later, the animal died. It is not clear what the cause of death was, but it is common for whales to come close to the shoreline when already sick or injured.

As the whale conveniently beached in a spot where Michels was working, members of their crew were able to help pull the deceased animal to shore. One contactor put on waders and spent several minutes attempting to lasso the whale’s tale with a heavy-duty rope, to attach it to a piece of equipment to drag it on to the beach. Once on the beach, members of New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, Army Corps of Engineers, and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation made sure to secure and monitor the area to keep spectators at a safe distance while members of the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society (AMSEAS) arrived to perform a necropsy on the animal to determine the cause of death.

A necropsy (animal autopsy) can take several hours, so with daylight running out, AMSEAS took measurements and photos in preparation of performing a full necropsy on the morning of Wednesday, December 14. As we go to press, AMSEAS did not release any preliminary results. Full necropsy results

could take a few weeks.

However, AMSEAS did provide some helpful information on Tuesday. “Sperm whales are listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, so conducting the examination and collecting as much information as possible about this animal is very important to AMSEAS,” the organization said in a Facebook post. “This whale marks the 6th large whale to strand in NY since October 20, 2022.”

This sperm whale stranding came just eight days after another sperm whale, a 12-foot baby, washed up dead on a beach just across the harbor in Keansburg, NJ. On Saturday, December 9, a 31-foot humpback whale washed up dead in Amagansett in the Hamptons, after previously washing up on two other LI beaches as early as December 3. Also on Saturday, December 9, a 30foot humpback washed up dead on Strathmere, appropriately named Whale Beach, in south New Jersey. On November 10, a minke whale washed up and later died in Southold on Long Island. In mid-October AMSEAS responded to a dead sperm

whale calf in Westhampton.

While some were impressed with the heroics of the surfers that attempted to push Rockaway’s sperm whale back into deeper waters on Tuesday, AMSEAS discourages this behavior, for the sake of the animal, and the people involved. “We urge everyone to be safe when observing whales, dolphins, seals or sea turtlesespecially stranded animals. These animals, when distressed, can be very dangerous,” AMSEAS posted to Facebook. Touching these animals is also illegal. Instead, they suggest leaving it up to the professionals. “In New York, report all stranded marine mammals and sea turtles to the NY Stranding Hotline: 631-369-9829. For all other states in the northeast, call NOAA’s marine mammal and sea turtle stranding hotline 866755-6622 to be directed to a trained responder,” AMSEAS said. “Please remember that dolphins, porpoises, and whales are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which makes touching, feeding, or otherwise coming into contact with these animals illegal. The best way to assist these animals, and keep them and

yourself safe, is by calling trained responders and maintaining a 150foot distance. Never attempt to return a large whale or other marine mammal back to the water without guided support from trained responders.”

Sperm whales are the largest of the toothed whales, and are recognized by their large, blunt heads. It's the same type of whale in the novel Moby Dick, which ironically mentions Rockaway Beach in the first chapter. They commonly dive in deep water, hunting for squid. According to the NYSDEC, “Sperm whales, known for their deep diving, are found off New York at the continental shelf break and occasionally in the shallow waters near Montauk and Block Island. They are the only toothed large whale and can dive to over 2,000 feet for up to 45 minutes. Sperm whales have the largest brain of any animal to have ever lived and are named for the waxy substance found in their heads (spermaceti) that was used in candles and ointments when whaling was still practiced.” Female sperm whales can grow up to 40 feet and weigh 15 tons, while males can grow to up 50 ft and weigh 45 tons.

After the necropsy is performed on Wednesday, it is likely the remains of the whale will be buried on site, as has been done with previous whales that have washed up on our shores. We will provide updates on the results in future issues.

By Katie McFadden

Another week, and still no winner of the election in Assembly District 23. But plenty has happened since.

Last we left off, a hand recount of the more than 30,000 ballots in the Assembly District 23 race between Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato and republican challenger Thomas Sullivan, was underway. After we put the paper to bed, it was announced that after the recount, Pheffer Amato was ahead by just ONE vote. But other factors are still at play.

On Monday, December 12, Sullivan had his day in appellate court after appealing the decision made by Queens Supreme Court Justice Joseph Risi on December 6, in which he ordered the NYC Board of Elections to include the 94 ballots that were previously invalidated because they were not sealed or placed properly in the ballot envelopes. The BOE had dropped the ball on these ballots

Latest in the AD23 Race

by not following election law and notifying those 94 voters about the ballots being invalid and giving them the opportunity to cure their ballot so it can be counted. For that reason, Hon. Risi decided all 94 should be counted toward the ballot.

Sullivan filed an appeal in Brooklyn with the New York Supreme Court Appellate Division: Second Judicial Department, in a case that was heard on Monday. On Tuesday, December 13, four judges of that court decided that the BOE should follow the election law “by notifying each of the 94 voters whose absentee ballots were invalidated on the basis of ‘Ballot Envelope Not Sealed’ or “Ballot Not in Ballot Envelope” of the invalidation of his or her absentee ballot, the reason for such invalidation, and the opportunity and procedure to cure the defect by filing a cure affirmation,” meaning those 94 voters will now have to be notified and given the chance

to cure their ballot, for them to be counted. Voters typically have up to seven days to mail their cure affirmation or return it in person to the BOE, for their vote to be counted. As we go to press, Sullivan has not publicly commented on the Appellate Court’s decision but did call for a special meeting for supporters to meet at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club on Wednesday, December 14 to hear the next steps.

Meanwhile, Pheffer Amato has already filed another lawsuit regarding another matter. On December 9, in the Queens County Supreme Court, where she filed her other lawsuits, Pheffer Amato filed a lawsuit requesting that 13 ballots that were not counted by the BOE, as they were treated as an “overvote” and three ballots that were voided due to having an “identifiable remark,” and requested that those 16 ballots be counted. This case will be held on Thursday, December 15.

Another piece of the count are

four affidavit ballots, that have not yet been counted toward the tally. According to a tweet by Zach Williams, a reporter for the New York Post, these four ballots remain sealed pending the end of litigation. Two are from registered Republicans, one is from a Democrat, and one is from an independent voter.

With Amato leading by one in the recount, Sullivan would need three of those four ballots to be for him to win, and that’s only if the 94 challenged ballots are not counted toward the final count.

In an interview with the Queens Daily Eagle, Sullivan had expressed that it was likely his only chance to see victory, “My path to victory is that those affidavits go my way and those 94 [absentee] ballots are kept out,” he told the Eagle.

With more litigation and ballots to be cured, the results will still be up in the air for an indefinite amount of time.

Jesus The

An Open An Open and Affirming Congrega on of The United Church of Christ

Join us for a festive, musical celebration in the sanctuary, featuring our West End Band and our kids followed by a latke dinner in the gym

Please bring your menorah & vegetarian side dish to share!

Facts You Probably D on’t Need

found the name too German.

SAVE THE BILLS!

By Robin Shapiro

SUMMER EFFECTS

When you sell your house, there can be some important tax consequences. It’s a good idea to check with your accountant because people are affected differently according to their income and deductions. The long-term capital gains rate is somewhere between 0 and 20% for most people, although it can be somewhat higher for the wealthiest citizens and/or people subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT).

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.

Construction improvements made to your home can improve your cost basis so that when you sell your home, the long-term capital gains will be reduced.

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

Save the bills! For example, if you purchased your home twenty years ago for 200k and make improvements of 100k over the years, then your cost basis is now 300k. If you sell the house for 900k, then your capital gain is 600k. However, this can be reduced by 500k (for a couple) or 250k per person. Therefore, the net long-term gain can be 100k. If your capital gain rate is 15% (based on your income) then you’d owe 15k tax on this example. By the way, mortgage origination may be tax deductible. Check with your accountant. Call me. Love, Robin.

 Eric Clapton grew up thinking his mother was his sister, his grandmother was his mother, and his step-grandfather was his father.

 The little boy who voiced Bambi became the youngest-ever drill instructor in the Marines and served three tours in Vietnam.

 In 1967, Paul McCartney let a stranger claiming to be Jesus Christ sit in on a Beatles recording session, saying, "Well, it probably isn't. But if he is, I'm not going to be the one to turn him away.”

 During World War II, hamburgers were called “liberty steaks” because Americans

 President Abraham Lincoln and Charles Darwin were both born on February 12th, 1809.

 The ‘D’ in D-Day stands for ‘Day’ so D-Day really means ‘Day Day.’

 The opposite of sparkle is 'darkle.'

 Cosmonaut Sergei Krikalev was in space when the Soviet Union was dissolved. He went up a Soviet citizen and returned a Russian citizen.

Facts from Sean McVeigh, factologist.

criminal justice reform

“One day, you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice…”, a verse from my favorite poem “The Journey” by Mary Oliver. This is a poem that speaks loudly and clearly to me. Without fear of change, letting go and starting a new beginning or perhaps a new chapter in life. The poem is all about transformation and not being afraid to live your life. The journey can be a beautiful tapestry if only you trust your intuition and gut. I am a true believer when the time is right, you will

know when to make changes in your life. It may not be easy and you may find yourself doubting your decisions but you must trust the intuition. This is the path!

Someone very close to me is traveling once again, alone, beginning a new journey, in a new place, far from home. At first, the unknown is scary and stressful. Then you begin to find your roots and know daring to live out of your comfort zone will help you grow and learn to be strong and independent. Choosing the road least traveled will help form a solid foundation. You will learn

The Journey

skills not taught in any home but rather must be experienced on the road. You will become YOU. You will form your own opinions and ideas. This will make all the difference.

I imagine all of us would like to step out of our comfort zones and live with a free heart. What prevents us from living from this space? We are taught from a young age what is expected of us in the world. But how do we find our calling? I believe with a steady practice of self-care, taking time for yourself to be alone, will help guide you on your path. The art of listening can be a powerful tool to tap into your inner world. Give it a try, go for a walk without your phone or sit in a room by yourself and allow yourself this sacred time to be still. There is healing in holding space

for whatever arises in your heart. Sometimes you will clear out the clutter and there will an Aha moment. When that happens, you will begin to find your way. It will not be easy but it will so worth it!

“When you cease to fear your solitude, a new creativity awakens in you. Your forgotten or neglected wealth begins to reveal itself. You come home to yourself and learn to rest within. Thoughts are our inner senses. Infused with silence and solitude, they bring out the mystery of inner landscape.” - John O’Donohue

May you connect to your soul, find happiness in the small miracles everyday as the sun rises and sets. It is a privilege to be here on this journey we call life. Happy Holidays to all. Be well, be happy, be you.

Travels with Bob Florida: The New Home for FRHS grads

By Bob Nesoff

While the Rockaways have always been a major summer destination for folks from throughout the five boroughs, Canada and the northern section of the East Coast, the towns around Del Ray Beach in Florida have become a major location for Rockaway Ex-Pats.

There is a regular group of grads from ’55 -‘57 that meets on Fridays at 10 a.m. for brunch. The numbers vary each week for attendance as the aging group tends to various ailments and medical issues. Those in attendance range from three to a dozen ad hoc members.

Discussions usually focus on days at Far Rockaway High School, the beach and the boardwalk. It also gives those in attendance an opportunity to share their latest surgeries and rehabs. Some have new knees. Others, treatment for eye problems.

But the bottom line is friendships that have survived over the decades. Regulars at the Poppies Restaurant Friday brunches include Larry Mazur who is the unelected chairman. Failing to let him know if you are coming or not will provide the offender with a sharp rebuke.

Regulars, mostly from the classes of ’55 - ’57 include Gene Stuttman, Larry Ramos, Fred Vanefsky (who, by the way, is still referred to by the nickname he was known by at P.S. 42 and FRHS, “Totsie.” Great name for an 84-year-old). Mike Laden is a regular and rarely misses a reunion be it up north or in Florida.

There are a few Snowbirds (such as this writer) who look forward to the weekly brunches. Marty Carr, who attended FRHS originally from Laurelton and then Howard Beach, comes occasionally. Carr moved to Lake Worth years ago and became a deputy sheriff. Now retired, he enjoys his expansive back yard and

screened-in, inground pool.

Over the years, there have been several reunions in the area catering to the large Rockaway population that now calls Florida a permanent home.

While those reunions of the recent past were held in a country club (and the area is littered with them), for some reason Poppies has become the go-to place.

A recent email from Helene Savit ’65, announced another reunion, this time at Poppies. It’s slated to be held on December 21 at noon.

Attendees from Rockaway South, gather from Del Ray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Lake Worth and various other locales. There is discussion about gathering all the

Rockaway ex-pats, seceding from Florida and establishing an independent state of Southern Rockaway. There’s enough military experience (ranging from a former Green Beret to a Marine officer) to train the militia. Then negotiations with Russia could commence to get them out of Ukraine and free the two Americans left behind in Russian prisons when a basketball star who refused to recognize the national anthem before games, was returned home.

RBAF Holiday Party

On Thursday, December 15 at 7 p.m., head to the Knights of Columbus (333 Beach 90th Street) for Rockaway Beach Autism Families’ holiday party featuring The Best Dressed Man in Rockaway, a visit from Santa, performances by Rockaway Beach Dance Company, the O’Malley Irish Dancers and the RBAF Parent Dance Team, plus more!

Far Rock Tree Lighting

On Friday, December 16 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., join RDRC at Beach 20th Plaza (1033 Beach 20th) for their annual tree lighting ceremony

Winter Birds & Wildlife Survival

On Saturday, December 17 at 10 a.m., head to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge to join the American Littoral Society for an Indoor Slide presentation followed by a walk around the ponds and gar-

dens to look for snow geese, owls and other winter birds. Kids Welcome.

Santa Sleigh Run

On Saturday, December 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., MakeMyMotherProud’s Santa Sleigh Run is coming through town, stopping at Redfern Houses at 11 a.m., Beach 41st Cornerstone at 12:45 p.m., Ocean Bay at 1:30 p.m., 71-15 Beach Channel Dr at 2:30 p.m., Hammel Houses at 3:15 p.m. and Beach 116th at 4 p.m. Toys and goodies for all kids.

Arverne Tree Lighting

On Saturday, December 17 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. head to Cardozo Playground between Beach 57th and 56th on Arverne Blvd. for a tree lighting. Light refreshments, hot cocoa, DJ, performances and more.

Movie With Santa

On Saturday, December 17 at 6

p.m., head to St. Camillus’ gym (180 Beach 100th) for a holiday movie night with the 100th Precinct Community Council and Santa Claus! Snacks provided. Kids 12 & under. If possible, bring an unwrapped toy to be donated to a charity.

Creating Jamaica Bay

On Sunday, December 18 at 12 p.m., head to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge to join a ranger and explore how the utilization of Jamaica Bay has affected the life within our great estuary. This is an all-weather walk, so please dress for the conditions. Space will be limited, so register by calling 718-318-4340.

Far Rock Menorah Lighting

On Sunday, December 18 at 3 p.m., head to the Greenspace intersection at Mott Avenue and Central Ave to join RDRC in lighting the Far Rockaway Menorah. The Mitzvah Tank will be there distributing menorahs and candles to the community with music and dancing.

Best Dressed Man Book Signing

On Sunday, December 18 at 6

p.m. head to the Rose Den (174 Beach 116th Street) to pick up a copy of Owen Loof’s Best Dressed Man in Rockaway Book, where he’ll be signing them.

Kwanzaa Celebration

On Monday, December 19 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., head to the Ocean Bay Child Center (57-10 Beach Channel Drive) for a Kwanzaa celebration with RDRC featuring poets, singers, dancers and more.

Beach 116 Menorah Lighting

On Tuesday, December 20 at 5 p.m., head to Beach 116th Street (near City MD) for the lighting celebration of Beach 116th Street’s menorah. Singing, goodies and more.

Fitness Class at RISE

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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, 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

MORNING STAR OF NY, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/23/22. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 119- 41 26 th Ave., Flushing, NY 11354, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

F&N 92 Enterprises LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/3/2022. Cty:Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 101-35 94th St., Ozone Park, NY 11416.

General Purpose

87-36 LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/15/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 87-36 126 St., Jamaica, NY 11418. General Purpose

Notice of Formation of ANIKSPRINT LLC., Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/4/2022. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to ANIKSPRINT LLC. 432 Beach 44th Street, Floor 1, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. Any lawful purpose.

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

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

No.:

CITATION

York The unknown distributees, legatees, devisees, heirs at law and assignees of MARIECHEN PICHIARELLO A/K/A MARIE PICHIARELLO, deceased, or their estates, if any there be, whose names, places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the petitioner and cannot with due diligence be ascertained A copy of this citation and the accounting, as well as all amendments to it, if any, shall be served on the Guardian Ad Litem, Christine Wallace, Esq. Being the persons interested as creditors, legatees, distributees or otherwise in the Estate of MARIECHEN PICHIARELLO A/K/A MARIE PICHIARELLO, deceased, who at the time of death was a resident of 353 Beach 48th Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11691, in the County of Queens, State of New York. SEND GREETING: Upon the petition of LOIS M. ROSENBLATT, Public Administrator of Queens County, who maintains her office at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, Queens County, New York 11435, as Administrator of the Estate of MARIECHEN PICHIARELLO A/K/A MARIE PICHIARELLO, deceased, you and each of you are hereby cited to show cause before the Surrogate at the Surrogate’s Court of the County of Queens, to be held at the Queens General Courthouse, 6th Floor, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, City and State of New York, on the 19th day of January, 2023 at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon, why the Account of Proceedings of the Public Administrator of Queens County, as Administrator of the Estate of said deceased, a copy of which is attached, should not be judicially settled, and why the Surrogate should not fix and allow a reasonable amount of compensation to GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., for legal services rendered to petitioner herein in the amount of $23,295.28 and that the Court fix the fair and reasonable additional fee for any services to be rendered by GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., hereafter in connection with proceedings on kinship, claims etc., prior to entry of a final Decree on this accounting in the amount of 6% of assets or income collected after the date of the within accounting; and why the Surrogate should not fix and allow an amount equal to one percent on said Schedules of the total assets on Schedules A, A1, and A2 plus any additional monies received subsequent to the date of this account, as the fair and reasonable amount payable to the Office of the Public Administrator for the expenses of said office pursuant to S.C.P.A. §1106(3); and why the petitioner should not be authorized to retain the sum of $35,000.00 to satisfy the contingent and possible claim of Gil Perez, Esq. and Ed Chesnik, Esq., for a period of 6 months from the date of the decree to be settled hereon; and why, upon service on the petitioner of an Order from the New York Supreme Court fixing the legal fees and commissions of Gil Perez, Esq. and Ed Chesnik, Esq. for services rendered to the decedent, petitioner should not be further authorized to pay Gil Perez, Esq. and Ed Chesnik, Esq., said amount not to exceed $35,000.00; and why if Gil Perez, Esq. and Ed Chesnik, Esq.. should fail to obtain an order form the New York Supreme Court fixing the legal fee and commissions for services rendered to the decedent within six months from the Notice of Entry of the Decree to be settled hereon, the amount retained by the petitioner shall be distributed as set forth in the petition; and why the claim from the NYC Human Resources Administration in the amount of $870,635.84 should not be paid to the extent of the net distributable estate. Dated, Attested and Sealed 17th day of November, 2022 HON. PETER J. KELLY Surrogate, Queens County Janet Edwards Tucker Chief Clerk GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ. (718) 459-9000 1981 Marcus Avenue, Suite 200 Lake Success, New York 11042

NOTICE: THIS CITATION IS SERVED UPON YOU AS REQUIRED BY LAW. YOU ARE NOT RE-QUIRED TO APPEAR; HOWEVER, IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR IT WILL BE ASSUMED YOU DO NOT OBJECT TO THE RELIEF REQUESTED. YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY APPEAR FOR YOU, AND YOU OR YOUR ATTORNEY MAY REQUEST A COPY OF THE FULL ACCOUNT FROM THE PETITIONER OR PETITIONER’S ATTORNEY Accounting Citation

File

2020-188/A CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY THE GRACE OF GOD, FREE AND INDEPENDENT To: Roolf Ihnen, Johanne Tjaden, Elfriede Daro, Karin Deckers, Folkert Heeren Stroman Ihnen, Marianne Veit Cornelius, Attorney General of the State of New

Ask the DOC

By Peter Galvin, MD

Informed Consent

The concept of informed consent is the keystone of medical ethics today. The word “informed” refers to the patient’s understanding of a procedure or treatment, meaning that the patient has been fully informed as to the pros and cons of a proposed method of treatment. Therefore, the patient is able to give or refuse consent based on full knowledge of the risks and benefits of a particular treatment or procedure. Technically, consent by the patient is required once the patient walks through the front door. Hospitals, ERs, and many other providers solve this by having the patient sign a general consent form upon arrival. This will cover all treatment up to anything invasive. Smaller offices use a concept of implied

consent. For example, a patient entering a doctor’s office for a sore throat will expect a throat examination. A separate consent is not required.

The problem is in today’s environment of rushed medical visits and high volumes of patients waiting to see the doctor, informed consent may fall by the wayside. Patients can feel “not listened to” and hurried without having their questions answered. This is especially true when you look at the standards of informed consent as developed by medical societies, state boards, and state legislatures. One of the central tenets of informed consent, especially as it applies to operative procedures, is that the person most fully in-

formed about and experienced with doing the procedure should be the person actually performing the procedure. And, just as importantly, consent from the patient should obtained outside of the OR setting and before any anesthesia is administered. This means that the surgeon him(her)self should obtain the consent prior to beginning the procedure, and the patient should have every opportunity to ask any questions and be fully aware of the risks and benefits of the proposed procedure.

Unfortunately, this rarely happens. Consent is often obtained in the OR after the induction of anesthesia, and often by a resident or nurse. Operating on a patient without consent or with improper consent can legally be deemed assault and battery. Many ethics experts are amazed that people are quite content to have substances and devices put in or taken out of their bodies without ever asking the most important question, namely “Why and will it do any harm?” Ultimately, it is or should be the patient who decides what should or

should not be done and the competent patient has the absolute right to refuse treatment, even if refusal will mean death.

The same concepts of informed consent apply to medication use. An unfortunate fact is that for many of us, aging means the usage of more and more medications. The (mis)use of multiple medications is called polypharmacy. This is when it becomes important that the patient and his/her caregiver fully understand the need for each medication, especially as new ones are added, what side effects may occur, and what medications may be discontinued. To enhance this knowledge and also allow the pharmacist to be more involved in supervising medication use to prevent polypharmacy, it is important to obtain all the medications from the same pharmacy. If a mail order pharmacy is involved, be sure that the local pharmacist is aware of these medications.

Please direct questions and comments to editor@rockawaytimes. com

Doctors

Sadhana Gupta, MD Zoya Koroleva, DO Stanislav Kaminyar, DO Alla Buzinover, DO

ROCKAWAY GOOD TIMES

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Make the most of the holidays with our guide of things to do in Rockaway, including menorah-lightings, live music, holiday shopping and more! Plus, get a festive kickoff to the season with Rockaway Beach Autism Families’ holiday party happening this evening! See our round-up below:

LIVE MUSIC

THURSDAY, December 15 7 p.m.

New biz, Rose Den, is making your holidaze rosier than ever with DJ Baroque spinning acid jazz, instrumental funk and soul every Thursday.

174 Beach 116th Street

7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Did you know that Bushwick, Brooklyn was historically home to a large German immigrant population, and dubbed, “The beer capital of the northeast?” Taste the history with Bushwick-based Kings County Brewers Collective, bringing their bier brews to Tap That.

111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd

FRIDAY, December 16 7 p.m.

Dueling Pianos are back at Bungalow Bar deliverin’ a high octane, part rock/part comedy show! Reservations a must. Call (718) 945-2100 or message @bungalowbarny on Instagram.

377 Beach 92nd Street

7 p.m.

Enjoy “a very loud” Hanukkah at Grind Time Skate shop! Spinning in the mosh pit? Say no more. Admission: $10. For more info, follow: @grindtimeskateshop on Instagram.

91-08 Rockaway Beach Blvd.

7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Don’t just walk, but rock in Bar Marseille’s Winter Wonderland with blues and roots man Kerry Kearney & Friends.

190 Beach 69th Street

8 p.m. to Midnight

Get ready to jingle bell rock with Uncle Jack Band at RBQ.

97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

8 p.m. to Midnight

Have the Fridayest Friday that ever Fridayed with Mike & Miley at Rogers.

203 Beach 116th Street

For show time, visit: @harborlightpub on Instagram.

Arturo Rivera brightens up your Fri-

day night at Harbor Light with some feel-good acoustic tunes. 129-18 Newport Avenue

SATURDAY, December 17

10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Roger the Elf is in town, here to make your spirits bright and entertain the kids while you enjoy brunch at The Wharf!

416 Beach 116th Street

8 p.m.

Jam to the joy of the season with Solshyne at RBQ.

97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

What are some Irish Christmas song favorites? Ask the Brooklyn Bards! They’ll be jamming at Rogers tonight.

203 Beach 116th Street

SUNDAY, December 18 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Tap into a Fun-day Sun-day with Meddle Juice juicing an eclectic medley of original folk and blues music, plus some recognizable American standards at Tap That.

111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd

5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Mike and Miley are back at Rogers closing off your weekend on a pitch perfect rock note!

203 Beach 116th Street

6:30 p.m.

Bask in picturesque bay views, heavenly food and brews with piano man/ singer-songwriter, inductee of NY’s legendary Songwriters Circle, Mike Tedesco, at Thai Rock.

375 Beach 92nd Street

For Show Time, visit: @harborlightpub on Instagram.

End your weekend above par with Greg Parr at Harbor Light.

129-18 Newport Avenue

MOVIE NIGHT

FRIDAY, December 16 8 p.m.

Friday nights—Let no man thirst for good beer and a movie at Tap That!

For tonight’s feature and to vote, follow: @tapthatrbny on Instagram.

111-04 Rockaway Beach Blvd

SUNDAY, December 18 3 p.m. to 5 p.m./ 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Indulge guilt-free in Coastal Yogurt’s heart-warming desserts, while watching family-friendly movie, “Elf!” (Two show times). To reserve a free spot to

see the movie, visit: eventbrite.com and search: Coastal Movie Night 12/18 - Elf.

108-19 Rockaway Beach Drive

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

RBAF 4TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY

THURSDAY, December 15 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This evening—from food, dance performances, a visit from Old Saint Nick to gifts galore—add to your 2022 Holiday memories with Rockaway Beach Autism Families 4th Annual Holiday Party at Knights of Columbus with Master of Ceremonies, The Best Dressed Man In Rockaway. EVERYONE goes home with a gift! Free. 333 Beach 90th Street

ST. ROSE OF LIMA CHURCH CHRISTMAS CONCERT

FRIDAY, December 16 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. St. Rose rejoices the reason for the season with the children’s chorus, singing songs you know and love. Admission: $10 per person or two people for $10. 130 Beach 84th Street

BHYC PRESENTS SHILELAGH LAW’S CHRISTMAS SHOW SATURDAY, December 17 7 p.m.

Get an early kickoff to your emerald green Christmas with Shilelagh’s Christmas show, "An Irish Miracle on Beach 126th Street” at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club. This is a ticketed event. For tickets, email: BHYCoffice@gmail. com. Doors open at 6 p.m. 533 Beach 126th Street

THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL MARGIE’S BRUNCH

WITH SANTA SATURDAY, December 17 & SUNDAY, December 18 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Whether you’re an adult or a child, who could resist having brunch with the jolly man in the red suit? Head to Margie’s at The Rockaway Hotel and find out if you were naughty or nice. For more info, visit: https://www. therockawayhotel.com/happenings 108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

ROGERS PUB TOYS FOR KIDZ WITH GERALD BAIR SUNDAY, December 18

4 p.m.

Add some sparkle to a child’s holiday by bringing an unwrapped toy to Rogers. Plus, get into the holiday swing with live music by Gerald Bair and friends.

203 Beach 116th Street

BEACH 116TH MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY TUESDAY, December 20 5 p.m.

Light up the third night of Hanukkah at Beach 116th Menorah Lighting Ceremony, co-sponsored by Councilwoman Ariola’s office and Rockaway Beach Civic Association. Temple Beth-El adds some sweetness to the celebration with jelly donuts for attendees.

Beach 116th Street

SPECIAL MENTION

THE BEST DRESSED MAN IN ROCKAWAY BOOK SIGNING SUNDAY, December 18 6 p.m.

Did you know that The Best Dressed Man in Rockaway is an author? Don’t miss him in his sartorial splendor at The Rose Den selling and signing his new book, “The Brooklyn Prep Years.” Plus, don’t miss this informal book reading club, in which you can share and learn some hilarious back stories about Brooklyn Prep. The Best Dressed Man is doing this for a good cause as book royalties go to a variety of charities he has longtime supported. For more info, follow @TheBestDressedManInRockaway on Facebook.

174 Beach 116th Street

SHOP LOCAL

THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL HOLIDAY MARKET

SATURDAY, December 17 & SUNDAY, December 18 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Get that special gift for that special someone (including you!) at The Rockaway Hotel’s two-day Holiday Market. After shopping, head to the rooftop or Margie’s for drinks and bites.

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

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

LOCAL COLOR: READERS SEND IN THEIR

PIX

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.

Andrzej Zbrog

Kevin Sautner

Jack Allen

Linda Anthonijsz

Mark Eidinger

Timothy Moriarty

Timothy Meagher

Maria Kaim

Santa Run Sleighs Again

On the morning of Saturday, December 9, you weren’t imagining the jingling and jangling down the boardwalk. It was the Rockaway Track Club’s Love Rockaway Santa Suit Run!

More than 100 people signed up to put on the red suit and go for either a 5K run or a one-mile run/walk on the brisk Saturday morning. They all gathered at Healy’s Pub to pick up their suits and numbers before taking to the boardwalk to start jingling all the way from

see: Rockawaytc.org

For more information about Rockaway Track Club

Beach 108th to 126th, to Beach 97th and then back to Beach 108th for the finish, where runners were given special Santa medals. All were then invited back to Healy’s to warm up with a complimentary beer.

events,

Photos by Katie McFadden

CHICKEN FRANCAISE

By Sharon Feldman

I’ve made this numerous times and different ways .. I think this way is the BEST!

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts, butterflied

½ cup flour

1 handful of fresh parsley

2 ounces Parmesan cheese

2 eggs

1 cup white wine

1 cup chicken stock

2 garlic cloves

4 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons of unsalted butter

½ lemon

Salt and pepper

Directions:

Crack eggs into a dish large enough to fit one chicken breast. Season eggs with salt and pepper, whisk together. Chop the parsley (keep a few whole sprigs for garnish) add to egg mixture. Grate all the Parmesan cheese and

add to egg mixture, mix well.

Get your wine and chicken stock portions ready. Add plain flour to dish. Peel the garlic and place in a garlic press or chop finely.

Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter to pan on medium heat. Coat the chicken with flour, shake off excess flour. Dip the cutlets into the egg mixture, and place in hot oil. Cook approximately 4 minutes per side (depending on thickness). Flip over once brown and cook the other side.

Transfer chicken to a hot place and rest. Add the wine, crushed garlic, half lemon juice, and chicken stock and chopped parsley. Add the remainder of butter and reduce for 2 minutes on full heat.

Return the chicken to the sauce and continue heating chicken on medium heat. Reduce the sauce until it looks a little thicker. Pour over cutlets and add remaining parsley.

By Keith Stephens Jr.

The Dolphins rolled to a 2-1 in the first week of PSAL play and the good start was capped off by senior Malakai Clark who was named PSAL Player of the Week for the borough of Queens as he averaged 26.6 points. Dolphins Congratulations to Malakai!

With three games on the docket for the second week of PSAL play, the Dolphins were primed to build on their success following week one. The first game of the week had the Dolphins traveling south to take on the Sea Horses of Far Rockaway High School. This game saw Beach Channel jump out to 20-8 lead after the first quarter with the Dolphins holding on to a 10-point lead at halftime. Third quarter was back and forth with the Dolphins having an 11-point lead at the end of the period. The final period had the fans of Far Rockaway High School in a

Beach Channel Hoops Dolphins Digest

frenzy as the Sea Horses fought back to cut into the lead. When the horn sounded, however, the Dolphins walked out victorious with a 62-58 win. Senior Malakai Clark finished the game with 24 points while Junior Jamell Fletcher added 18. Game two of the week was yet again on the road. The Dolphins traveled to Ridgewood to take on the Tigers of Grover Cleveland. This game saw the Dolphins have a 16-point lead at halftime and a 24 point cushion after three quarters. The game would end with the Dolphins victorious 78-60. Senior Malakai Clark finished with 28 points to lead the Dolphins. Juniors Jamell Fletcher and Dante Cummings would add 14 and 11 respectively. With this win, the Dolphins had now won four straight games on the road.

The final PSAL game of the week would come on Friday against the Lions of Richmond Hill. The Dolphins were pleased to finally be

back at home. This game saw the Dolphins up six points at halftime with an 8-point cushion after three quarters. The fourth quarter was a battle, but one that would end with the Dolphins taking the victory 71-68. Senior Malakai Clark would lead the Dolphins again in scoring with 25 points. Senior point guard George Hance would add 17 points while dishing out six assists. With this win, the Dolphins are now 5-1 in PSAL action with 12 games to play. Following PSAL action, the Dolphins of Beach Channel were proudly asked to compete on December 11 in the Francis Lewis Snowball Classic Tournament. The New York Knicks sponsored this tournament, and all players were gifted Knicks gear and merchan-

dise. The Dolphins would then take on the storied basketball school St. Mary’s of Manhasset. In an incredible game, and with the entire roster pitching in, the Dolphins would win this game 57-55. This was an incredible win for the Dolphins varsity program. Congratulations to Junior Jamell Fletcher who was named MVP of this game. Another victory saw the Dolphins program as the school who donated the most toys to the Snowball Classic’s Toys for Tots Drive. Go Dolphins!!!

ROCKAWAY’S COUNCIL DISTRICTS

The New York City Districting Commission published new City Council district maps which will be in place for the next decade. According to Dennis M. Walcott, NYC Districting Commission Chair, “The Commission spent over 100 hours redrawing these maps over the last

eight months. We’ve received over 13,000 submissions from your communities. We thank New Yorkers for your participation in NYC Democracy, which has made our new City Council districts.” Note that for Rockaway’s Council Districts 31 and 32, not much has changed.

This week, we start off with news from the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), as the list of injuries keep continuing within the promotion. We have news that Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre were both injured, during this past Survivor Series "War Games" Live Premium Event. Both Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre apparently have suffered from ruptured eardrums. At this time, both wrestlers are not expected to miss too

much time off. Drew McIntyre is currently scheduled to work the WWE's live events that will start right after Christmas. There is no news on when Roman Reigns will be back in action.

We shift over to New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), where they have recently announced several matches for their huge annual event "Wrestle Kingdom 17." What makes this event unusually special is that WWE Superstar Karl Anderson,

who is also the NEVER Openweight Champion for NJPW, is scheduled to defend the title against Hikuleo. Karl Anderson won the NEVER Championship this past June at NJPW's PPV Dominion, and made his return back to the WWE in October. It appears that WWE and NJPW, are working together to allow this match to happen. But will Karl Anderson still walk out as champion? I guess we will see.

Last week, we spoke about the

possibility of All Elite Wrestling returning to Universal Studios. Well, it’s now official, and they will be back on December 17 to tape their AEW Dark Show. It is unclear at this time who will be appearing, but as we last discussed the Dark Show usually books independent wrestling talent from around the nation in an effort to give wrestlers inspiring to become part of AEW, an opportunity to showcase their talents.

The Question of the Week comes Ronald M. in Far Rockaway and he asked, "I heard that AEW Superstar Ricky Starks expressed that he wanted to fight CM Punk for the AEW Heavyweight Championship?" Ronald, Rick Starks is currently scheduled to face the current AEW Heavyweight Champion MJF on December 14, 2022. He has expressed his desire to work with CM Punk, if possible down the line. If this match actually took place, it would not happen in AEW. So, unfortunately, it's something we would have to wait for.

Send your questions in to eavil183@yahoo.com, and have a great weekend!

All Major Insurance Companies Accepted

Reser vations star t: 4:00 pm - Last reser vation: 6:00 pm

CHRISTMAS C ATERING MENU 2022

Orders must be placed by Tuesday, December 20, 2022. Order pickup 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Christmas Eve All listed prices for half trays

HOT APPETIZER

Baked clams - 36 pieces $65.00

Oysters Rockefeller - 24 pieces $75.00

Mussels white OR red spic y $70.00

Calamari sauteed in arrabiata spic y sauce OR white wine sauce $75.00

Stuffed calamari $80.00

COLD APPETIZERS

Seafood salad $95.00

Oc topus salad $95.00

Shrimp Cocktail Jumbo @20pcs - U10 size $95.00

Clams on the half shell - 40 clams $70.00

Oysters on the half shell - 40 pcs $95.00

ENTREES

Shrimp: oreganata OR francese sauce U10 Wild White @20 pcs $95.00

Fillet of sole: oreganata OR francese $90.00

Flounder: scampi OR oreganata $95.00

Nantucket Island Sea scallops: oreganata OR scampi $1OO.OO

Salmon alla Bruno: grilled in lemon white wine sauce - 8 pcs $90.00

Seafood Fra diavolo: shrimp, calamari, mussels, clams with a full tray of fresh pasta $100.00

Baby lobster tail: Fra diavolo with a full tray of fresh pasta of your choice. (MP)

Mar yland Crab: sauce with fresh pasta $95.00

Scungilli: and fresh pasta spic y sauce $95.00

Linguine: in clam sauce $95.00

Stuffed Shrimp: in a risotto with lemon, white wine with a touch garlic sauce -15 pcs $95.00

Lobster tails: 8-10 oz per tail broiled with lemon, butter sauce (MP)

Fried Baccala Sicilian Style $85.00

Chicken Parmigiana with full tray of pasta $75.00

Fried Chicken Valdostano: fried chicken fresh mozzarella in mushroom valdostano sauce $90.00

Manicotti: stuffed with spinach and ricotta (half tray) $75.00

Stuffed Shells: (half tray) $75.00

Penne alla Vodka $65.00

Spic y Rigatoni: (half tray) $85.00

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