Rockaway Times 12-22-22

Finally Breaks Ground on School

After nearly two decades of waiting, a middle school is finally coming to Arverne By The Sea. On Tuesday, December 20, Rev. Dr. Les Mullings welcomed a crowd that gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking for the new Challenge Charter middle school that will rise at 190 Beach 67th Street in Arverne By The Sea. “We look forward with great excitement to serving students and families

in this area on the peninsula,” he said. Mullings said the school should open in June 2024. The Reverend also praised City Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers for helping with crucial financing and Gerry Romski, CEO of Arverne By The Sea, for years of support for the school that had been years in the planning.

The 3-story school will accommodate 350 students, Romski

said. “This is very exciting for Arverne By The Sea and really good for all of Rockaway as it will provide another excellent educational option for students.”

Challenge has had a Far Rockaway presence on Hartman Lane since 2010, serving more than

1,100 students. Mullings said “We are bursting at the seams in our current buildings, so we have been interested in another location for some time. We look forward with great excitement to serving students and families in this area on the peninsula.”

100 Pct Nabs the Grinch’s Getaway Vehicle

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

You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch, but you’re no match for the 100th Precinct. For a few weeks, a real-life Grinch in a U-Haul was going from Arverne in Rockaway to Howard Beach, stealing people’s packages ahead of the holidays.

Local NYPD Precincts had the U-Haul’s number on their radar, and when officers from the 100th Precinct spotted it parked outside of a home on Beach 68th Street,

they made their move. Unfortunately, the vehicle was unoccupied at the time, so no arrest was made, but the officers were able to confiscate the entire U-Haul full of people’s packages.

The NYPD then brought them to the appropriate precinct areas so the officers could deliver the packages to their rightful recipients in time for the holidays. Way to go, officers!

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

Kevin 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

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

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So, I’m like Dick Van Dyke or Bob Barker or Sally Jesse Raphael. Yo u’re surprised I’m still around. Well, I’m not dead and the only thing I’m gonna bury is the lede.

As someone well-skilled in Irish exits, I’m not one for long goodbyes. Nothing worse than when you’re trying to go home and your friend, your spouse, your ride, tells you they just want to say goodbye to a couple of people. But you know, it’s not a goodbye, it’s a hello. And you’re going nowhere anytime soon.

I’ve gone outside and sat in a car, waiting, and then waiting some more, slowly steaming, taking deep breaths, thinking if it’s time I go back in there and make a scene. Can we please effin go?

But you know that’s such a bad play, you just can’t do that. You might go back in and hope the murderous vibe coming from your eyes and every pore is enough to get the long goodbyer to wrap it up. But it’s tricky.

You gotta try to send that vibe without anyone else noticing. But after a minute, you realize your

telepathic game is weak. You feel your angry tomato face start to form. But you really don’t want anyone saying, oh look, he’s mad. Then you’re the bad guy. Then the 45-minutes goodbye is nothing compared to the embarrassment you caused. It’ll be a terrible ride home.

Anyway, I’m 250 words deep in this column and I feel the vibe. Some of you are already in the car starting to steam up. When’s this guy gonna get to the point?

Well, goodbye. I’m gone. Done. Kaput. Retired (more or less).

The Rockaway Times was born eight and a half years ago and now I’m handing off the paper to a family of locals I love.

Why? It’s time. Which happens to be a repeat of the first ever headline in the first ever edition of The Rockaway Times back in June 2014. It was time to start a paper then, and it’s time now to tell my story walking.

Pat McVeigh was my right-hand for the most important years of the paper as The Rockaway Times got its legs. I couldn’t be

more trusting of her and husband, Tom, their son Sean, her sister Jeanne and brother-in-law, Jay Ferriola, as they become the new publishers of The Rockaway Times.

I owe it to all of you to leave The Rockaway Times in the best of hands.

Your support and loyalty has meant the world to me. And I’ll always remember those who were there at the start (especially Kathy Boyle). And so many who joined along the way. Truly.

Of course, it wasn’t always a happy rainbow bus ride. I’ve lost some readers along the way. When I said men who wear button pajamas might be serial killers…when I said my mother’s pork chops looked like they came from Chernobyl…and when I said The Big Bang Theory sitcom is not funny (at all, ever), some people never spoke to me again. In some cases, I’ve been happy for the silent treatment.

Anyway, as I slink away, if I’m not Dick Van Dyke, I’ve been the aging ballplayer who’s been carried by the all-stars around him. My staff– Fred, Katie, Mary Ellen, and Monica¬–will carry on, without having to carry me.

So, what’s next? I dunno. Maybe I’ll bike cross country. Maybe I’ll look for a job–though why look for another when I’ve had the best job here. I plan on writing occasional Boyleing Points and I’m hoping to see my name in the Word Search one day.

What else? I suppose, to start, I’ll navel gaze (there’s a lot of lint in there), think about playing pickle ball, and get crazy crushing beers and discussing Medicare A, B and C all day long (as long as the day ends before dark). That’s one way of saying, the void ahead is a void. Might as well limp into it, full steam ahead.

That’s all I’ve got, except to say….

I wish I could give you all a hug. Only kidding. Hold the hugs but see ya around.

A Blessed Christmas Lighting for SFDS

Albeit chilly, it was a blessed evening at the St. Francis de Sales Prayer Garden on Wednesday, December 14, as crowds gathered around for the annual lighting of the church’s memorial Christmas trees, angels and live-size Nativity scene.

The SFDS Choir, life-sized by Music Director Michael Fontana, led the crowd in carols to start off the night. Shortly after, Santa Claus arrived with some help of the Point Breeze Volunteer Fire Department

and greeted all of the children in attendance. Then St. Francis priests Fr. Bill Sweeney and Fr. Jim Cunningham led a prayer and said a few words. In honor of his 50th wedding anniversary with his wife, Isabella, Deacon Vincent LaGamba had the special honor of pushing the button to illuminate the large display after a countdown.

Following the lighting, all were invited to enjoy cookies and hot cocoa across the street.

Photos by Katie McFadden.

Merry Christmas! Our fingers are crossed for everyone who has travel in their plans. The weather looks more messy and wet than white. Well, look on the bright side, the days are now getting longer with the sun shining about a minute longer each day until June. *****

Madeleine’s Chocolate is a much-loved specialty at holiday time. The store on Beach 95th Street hasn’t operated since Covid but our friends at Madelaine tell us the delicious chocolate is still available at The Gift Is Love shop on Beach 116th Street. Which reminds us, there’s still time to shop local. Online scams and unreliable delivery times are a thing this

time of year. Avoid those potential pitfalls and shop Rockaway. *****

Last week, Governor Kathy Hochul vetoed Senate Bill 6980B, which would have enabled FDNY personnel to receive credit for any time they served as an EMT member prior to becoming firefighters. Councilwoman Joann Ariola was not pleased. “This was something that drew support from both sides of the aisle, both at the city and the state level. The governor’s decision to veto a bill that would have helped a huge number of FDNY personnel is nothing short of a slap in the face.” *****

The New York City Dippers Club is doing a triple holiday dip! On Dec. 24, 25 and 26, they'll be taking the plunge at Beach 67th at 9 a.m. The 26th is host Graham Cullis' last day in NY. Bring a potluck brunch item to enjoy! Plus join them again on New Year's Day!

*****

Happy Kwanzaa! The celebration begins December 26 and ends January 1. *****

Well, that’s pretty viral. Our Facebook video (shot by Timothy Moriarty) of people attempting to save a sperm whale last Tuesday was viewed more than 7 million times and reached more than 10 million. Ten million! Too bad the story had a sad outcome as the whale died sometime later. *****

On Tuesday, supporters of Challenge Charter School gathered for a groundbreaking in Arverne by the Sea for a new middle school that was a long time coming. The expected, hope-for school opening is June 2024. *****

You know what they say about advertising. You have to repeat it to make it effective. So, we’re back to remind you that 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 winnertake-all raffle was like Rockaway Powerball as the pot surpassed $250,000. 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. *****

The never-ending State Assembly race between incumbent Stacey Amato and Tom Sullivan won’t conclude this year. Some 94 ballots have to be cured (if they can be) and those that are will be hand counted on January 4 at the Board of Elections. There are some other ballots in dispute and both sides are waiting for a court ruling or two. *****

Here’s a reminder to not put your garbage out before 4 p.m. A local recently got a $100 fine for doing so. And starting April 1, you won’t be able to put your garbage out until 8 p.m.

A Mitzvah on Beach 116 th Street

a ceremony for the lighting of the Beach 116th Street Menorah.

A small crowd gathered around the menorah and enjoyed treats like jelly donuts and chocolate gelt provided by Temple Bethl-el, plus other goodies like dreidels and blue light tubes provided by the Rockaway Civic Association for the celebration.

By Katie McFadden

Oh Hanukkah, Oh, Hanukkah, Rockaway came to light the menorah. On the third night of Hanukkah, Tuesday, December 20, Councilwoman Joann Ariola, the Rockaway Civic Association and Temple Beth-el teamed up to host

Rabbi Matt Carl of Temple Bethel provided a few words at the event, held just after sunset and said traditionally the menorah is lit as soon after the sun goes down as possible, as opposed to later in the night. “One, it’s a mitzvah, we enjoy it, we want to rush to do it. But you might think since it gets darker later, wouldn’t it be more important to have light when it’s darker? But this gives us a really nice value to appreciate in our lives, which is, it’s not about waiting exactly for the right time, but we provide light at the very moment that we need it, and sometimes we don’t even realize when we need it.”

On acoustic guitar, Cantor Jeffrey Wolk then led the crowd in singing Hanukkah songs before the third candle of the menorah was lit for the night.

After the lighting, Councilwoman Ariola said, “No matter what background or where we’re from, we must all celebrate each other’s religions and traditions and con-

tinue them going,” she said, adding that the Beach 116th lighting was typically held by the late District Leader Lew Simon and the late Noni Signoretti of Brown’s Hardware, as well as Liz Hanna who couldn’t be there on Tuesday. The Beach 116th menorah is dedicated in the memory of both Signoretti and Simon.

This Week in History

DECEMBER 22

Emma Wresch was born.

Rita Regan was born.

1864 - During the Civil War, Union general William T. Sherman sent a message to President Lincoln saying, "I beg to present you as a Christmas gift the city of Savannah."

2010 - President Obama officially repealed the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" military policy.

DECEMBER 23

Paul Thomas was born.

1823 - The poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" ("'Twas the night before Christmas"), written by either Clement C. Moore or Maj. Henry Livingston, Jr., was published in the Troy Sentinel of New York.

DECEMBER 24

Ryan Atwood was born. Elizabeth Gardner was born.

Steve Feuer was born 1814 - The War of 1812 between America and Britain ended with the signing of the Treaty of Ghent.

1943 - Gen. Dwight Eisenhower was appointed supreme commander of Allied Forces by Pres. Franklin Roosevelt.

DECEMBER 25

Jesus was born.

Dorothy Dunne was born.

Kristen Brady was born.

1776 - George Washington crossed the Delaware River and surprised the Hessians.

DECEMBER 26

Brian Boyle was born.

Nicole Frontera was born.

1865 - James H. Nason received a patent for a coffee percolator.

DECEMBER 27

Sean Kelleher was born.

1979 - The Soviet Union took control of Afghanistan, installing Afghan politician Babrak Karmal as president.

2001 - The U.S. announced plans to hold Taliban and al-Qaeda prisoners at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

DECEMBER 28

Marty Keating was born.

1832 - John C. Calhoun became the first vice president in U.S. history to resign from office.

1945 - Congress officially recognized the Pledge of Allegiance.

1981 - Elizabeth Jordan Carr, the first American test-tube baby, was born in Norfolk, Va.

Facts You Probably D on’t Need

On December 16, 1965, the song 'Jingle Bells' made history by becoming the first song to be played in space during NASA’s Gemini 6A space flight.

The 2018 animated version of 'The Grinch' is the highest-grossing Christmas film of all time.

Hallmark holiday movies only take 2 weeks to film.

Brenda Lee, the original singer of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” was only 13 when she recorded the song in 1958.

The first Rockefeller Center Christmas tree was put up by construction workers who were laboring at the site in 1931. It was 20 feet tall and had no ornaments.

Christmas trees were banned by President Teddy Roosevelt in the White House in 1901 because the President was concerned about the environmental effects, but his sons decorated a small tree cut on the White House grounds and hid it in a closet until Christmas morning. 



Many people abbreviate Christmas “Xmas,” which is actually based upon X being the first letter of Jesus Christ’s name in Greek. 

Nearly six million dollars are spent during the holiday season on ugly Christmas sweaters

Facts by Santa Claus, the holiday factologist.

Far Rock Celebrates Hanukkah

In a quick speech on the chilly afternoon, Renee Williams, COO of RDRC said, “We thank you for allowing us to celebrate and commemorate this auspicious occasion with you. Happy Hanukkah!” Deputy Inspector Richard Taylor of the NYPD Community Affairs Borough and Captain Timothy P. Schultz of the 101st Precinct spoke on behalf of the police department. “Happy first night of Hanukkah, the donuts are delicious,” Captain Schultz said.

neighbors, we live together, and it is so special for me personally to be able to celebrate our holiday together,” she said. Others shared the same sentiments, as community members of various organizations, races and walks of life came out for the event. Far Rockaway resident Pesach Osina said it was one of the best turnouts he’s seen. “This is the largest Hanukkah lighting that I’ve seen down here and that’s a testament to all the organizations that put this together,” he said.

By Katie McFadden

A light glows in Far Rockaway. On Sunday, December 18, the first night of Hanukkah, the Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation (RDRC) brought together the Far Rockaway community and local organizations to the intersection of Mott Ave and Central Ave for the biggest lighting of the Far Rocka -

way Hanukkah Menorah yet.

Sunday's celebration included representatives from RDRC, the Bayswater Jewish Center, the Bayswater Civic Association, the 101st Precinct, the Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula (JCCRP), Rockaway Nassau Patrol, Rockaway Kosher Supermarket, Russo’s Pharmacy, the Rockaway Business Alliance and the Mitzvah Tank.

Jelly donuts, chocolate gelt, hot coffee and hot chocolate were provided to all guests at a table set up by RDRC. The Mitzvah Tank was also on hand, providing menorahs and Shabbos candles to all who wanted them.

Allison Deal, executive director of JCCRP, spoke about the turnout and collaboration for the evening’s event. “I love this community, I live here, I work here. I really feel like we’re not just friends, we’re family, we’re

Members of the Mitzvah Tank led in song, dance and games as the menorah was lit for the first night of Hanukkah.

Rockaway’s Masseuse to the Queen of Christmas

and then back to New York City for the final shows. And after not seeing each other since 2016, Cintron says it was a sweet reunion. “The first time Mariah saw me after not working with her for six years, she was so happy. She said to me, ‘Sam, where have you been? We’ve been looking for you.’ She mentioned how grateful she was that I was there. She then proceeded to take my arm and show me what type of pressure and where she wanted me to massage her specifically. I said to her ‘you’re pretty good at this.’ She said, ‘Yeah, I know. Thank you.’ It was a somewhat surreal moment,” Cintron said.

the Four Seasons. After Mariah did two shows in Toronto, it was back on the bus to NYC, where Cintron stayed at The Peninsula Hotel on Fifth Ave. “I got to stay at some really nice luxury hotels, got to eat well, got to work out in the gym,” she said

But for Cintron, the most rewarding part was the experience she got. Although ever humble despite her talents, Cintron acknowledged what it means being chosen for this special opportunity. “Not everybody gets to say I’m Mariah Carey’s personal massage therapist,” she said. “I’m grateful.”

By Katie McFadden

Each holiday season, singer Mariah Carey gets “defrosted,” coming out of hiding to perform her iconic song, “All I Want for Christmas is You” at various events. And when it comes to thawing out, the Queen of Christmas sometimes needs a little help to warm up, and she only demands the best. That’s where Samantha Cintron, professional massage therapist and owner of Rockaway’s Nurture U Wellness comes in. When Mariah was gearing up for this year’s holiday tour, all she wanted for Christmas was for Cintron to join her, serving as her personal massage therapist. And it wasn’t the first time. Now with more than 20 years of experience giving massages, Cintron’s role as occasional masseuse to the stars began during her days working for the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group from 2009 to 2011, followed by the Waldorf Astoria and the Carlyle. As luxury hotels in New York City, they’re a go-to for celebrities and Cintron has massaged plenty, from Lady Gaga, to actor Billy Crystal to Yankees pitcher Mariano Rivera, and of course, Mariah.

Just as Cintron had left the Mandarin in pursuit of doing her own thing, the Mandarin’s head massage therapist called her, saying she had a job for her that she wasn’t available for in the Hamptons in 2012, and without men-

tioning the client, asked Cintron if she would be interested. Cintron had the time and accepted the job. And then learned that client was Mariah Carey.

Cintron left a lasting impression with her massage, and began working more gigs with Carey, from the Hamptons to California and even out of the country. “After her massage therapist couldn’t work that week in the Hamptons, she continued to call me and a couple other people from the Mandarin, and we’d switch off and work with her almost on a daily basis from July 2012 until February 2016,” Cintron said.

It was at that time that Cintron decided to really follow her dream of doing her own thing. “I opened up Nurture U in 2016 and Mariah’s team tried calling me between then, but I was growing my baby over here,” she said. But after seven years of running a successful business, with a reliable, hardworking staff, Cintron found herself having a little extra time to spare when out of the blue, Mariah’s team reached out to her around Halloween and asked if she’d be interested in providing services again on the pop singer’s upcoming holiday tour. “I thought this would be a good opportunity to get back into it,” Cintron said.

So, on December 5, Cintron joined Carey’s team in Philadelphia for rehearsals ahead of the tour that would go on to Toronto

And then the hard work began. Cintron says she provided rehabilitative massage, reflexology, medial massage, stretching and manual lymphatic drainage for Mariah throughout the tour, to make sure her body was in tip top shape to perform. “Depending on what’s going on, any given day you can do a combination of those. It’s not your traditional hours and it’s a different way of working,” she said. Cintron provided both pre- and post-show services for the Christmas Queen, for which Mariah was grateful. “She is a kind person, a generous person. Always saying thank you and please,” Cintron said. But during their sessions, as it is with most clients, there was limited talking.

While hard at work, Cintron did get to enjoy a few perks from luxury hotel stays to quality meals and of course, tickets to Mariah’s shows. After arriving in Philly, Cintron got to take a ride on a luxury bus to Toronto, where she then stayed at

Equally rewarding is getting to share parts of that experience with her loved ones. As Mariah Carey had two shows at Madison Square Garden, on December 13 and December 16, Cintron was able to snag some pretty sweet floor seats. After holding down the fort at Nurture U while Samantha was on tour, Cintron invited her fellow massage therapist Christina Cruz for the Tuesday show. “She was crying, saying ‘why did you pick me?’” And on Friday, Cintron took her brother, her sister and her sister-in-law to see the Queen of Christmas perform “All I Want for Christmas is You” and other tunes live. “They were just so excited,” Cintron said. “It helped us all start the Christmas season.”

If you’d like to treat yourself after this holiday season and book a massage with the massage therapist to the Queen of Christmas at Nurture U, located at 120-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd., check out: https://nurtureuwellness.com or call 347-727-7014.

CHRISTINA AND SAMANTHA AT MARIAH'S MSG SHOW.

hear the music coming from the Santa Sleigh. On Saturday, December 17, Make My Mother Proud’s

Santa Sleigh Run ran from Far Rockaway to Rockaway Park, bringing Christmas cheer to all in its tenth year.

Starting at the Redfern Houses, to Beach 41st Cornerstone, Ocean Bay Cornerstone, Carleton Manor, the Hammel Houses and Beach 116th Street, it was hard not to notice the festive sleigh featuring everyone from Santa Claus to Mrs. Claus, his elves, Frosty and a DJ playing fun music. At each stop, Santa and his elves handed out toys to every child that came out to visit the Sleigh.

This initiative was originally started by Lakia Echols of Make My Mother Proud, but as she’s currently on a deployment in Kuwait with the U.S. Army, her team made it happen, with Antoneke Weatherspoon carrying on the effort with a sleigh full of volunteers. Photos by Katie McFadden.

By Robin Shapiro

IF NOT NOW, WHEN?

SUMMER EFFECTS

Year-end holiday time reminds me of what Hillel said: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? If not now, when?”

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!

institutions and Juvenile Diabetes. I give to the United Way, The Sam Fund for Cancer Survivors, Mount Kenya Trust (Africa), etc.

When my friends and clients need a favor, I am usually THERE for them. I’ve taken in mail, attended to gardens, picked up ice for parties, put out garbage for sanitation workers to pick up, acted as a babysitter, shopped for food/ clothes, shoveled snow, etc. Along with The Rockaway Times, I support the WINTER COAT DRIVE for the One Warm Coat Foundation.

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.

In the spirit of community service my husband donates time as a volunteer high school math tutor –he has maintained his NYS teacher certification. A few years ago, he tutored students at The Scholars’ Academy. He tutors some of my clients’ kids for free, although he was somewhat restrained during the pandemic.

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.

I donate money to many groups: Rockaway Little League, Hadassah, the local Rockaway religious

Call me, Love, Robin. 718-490-9463

We plan to continue such good works in 2023. We’d like to wish all our Rockaway friends and neighbors a very Merry Christmas. Call me. Love, Robin.

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By Jonathon Ahl Intern for the National Park Service at Gateway

If you live in Rockaway, you’re sure to have heard of Fort Tilden. You may be aware of the many roles it held in its lifetime; coastal defense, Nike missile site, and, prior to its official establishment in 1917, naval airfield. However, did you know that Fort Tilden played a small but crucial part in aiding a sixteen-year, citywide manhunt for one of the most notorious criminals in New York history? Sixty-six years ago, Fort Tilden served as the disposal site for the incendiary devices of the original “Mad Bomber,” George Metesky.

Metesky, a disgruntled ex-employee for Con Edison, built dozens of pipe bombs and set them to detonate in public spaces around Manhattan, hoping to draw attention to his alleged wrongful firing by the company. From 1951 to 1956, his homemade explosives rocked the city, spreading fear

throughout the population. While few were seriously injured and none died, Metesky’s bombs could appear anywhere, from rental lockers to movie theater seat cushions, and in such heavily trafficked areas as Grand Central Station and the Radio City Music Hall.

Despite Metesky’s scheming, public vigilance combined with sheer luck sometimes uncovered the bombs before they could explode. On Dec. 24, 1956, when a New York Public Library employee bent down to retrieve a fallen dime, they discovered a bomb stuck to the back of a phone booth. They alerted the police and averted disaster. However, their call raised another question: where do you take a bomb in a city of over 7.8 million people? The answer lay fourteen miles south, at Fort Tilden.

In the 1940s, Fort Tilden served as a key point in New York’s coastal defense, protecting the harbor from naval and air invasions. Bunkers casemated with cement dotted the grounds, and while they

were originally meant to protect the soldiers inside from falling bombs, the principle worked just as well in reverse. Members of New York’s still relatively new bomb squad removed the bomb from the library and transported it to the fort in a truck comprised of woven steel mats. Once there, soldiers secured the bomb in a special plastic container and placed it in an unused bunker to await study and controlled detonation. The same process occurred with unexploded devices discovered at Penn Station and the Paramount Theater.

Of Metesky’s thirty-two improvised bombs, seven were either duds or safely removed before detonation. The opportunity to study their construction gave NYPD detectives vital information to narrow down the manhunt. In

the end, officers arrested Metesky at his home in Waterbury, Connecticut in 1957. He confessed to his crimes, but a judge declared him mentally unfit to stand trial. His commitment to a psychiatric hospital ended the story of the truly “Mad” Bomber, and New York breathed a sigh of relief. As peace returned and the events slowly faded from mind, Fort Tilden remained, overlooked but ever vigilant, to protect the city from threats both foreign and domestic.

The 100th Precinct Community Council had themselves a merry little Christmas with the community at their recent Movie with Santa night.

Families from around the pen -

A Movie Night with Santa

the 100th Precinct Community Council, and sweet treats provided by Democratic District Leader Jeanette Garramone and her daughter, Kadence who helped out as elves for the night.

Following the movie, Santa Claus himself arrived to distribute toys and candy and take photos with all in attendance.

The 100th Precinct Community Council gives a special thanks to Monsignor Richard Ahlmeyer of St Camillus Parish, Paul Connelly, Jeanette and Kadence Garramone, Liz Wood Gerraghty, Maureen McGee, Siobhan O'Sullivan, Mary Ann, Serenity Screen, the 100th Pct NYPD Explorers and Poilice Officer Lauren Haber of 100th Pct Community Affairs, for making it possible.

insula gathered at St. Camillus on Saturday, December 17 for the screening of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” All in attendance were treated to pizza, chips, and beverages provided by

The 100th Precinct Community Council Board: Kathy Heavey, Andy McGee, Ozzie Edwards, Keisha Cunningham, Lynda Connelly and Jean Daouphars wish all a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!

There Used to Be a Schoolyard Lessons and Memories of Old P.S. 44

By Jean Caligiuri McKenna

For three decades, from the 1960s through the 1980s, the abandoned schoolyard behind Peninsula Library on Beach 94th Street and Rockaway Beach Boulevard, curiously evinced a melancholy air of a manor-less estate, wistfully lording over cracked cement weeds, rusty hoops, and fences of another era. For nearly 70 years, Public School 44, dutifully stood guard over this site, stalwartly casting a sublime shadow over its genteel era from 1898-1964.

Dominating the entire block, its impressively ornate Victorian façade of stone and masonry gave it a Buckingham Palace-like air, while its judicial brown-brick annex, added in the 1920s, complemented its formidable presence. Flanked by dueling corners of a Police Station and Fire House, a courtly National Bank, and a World War I Soldier statue, its mere location lent an assuring sense of prominence to its aura.

Since the horse and buggy era, it had been a staple of Rockaway childhoods, providing idyllic refuge for those wonder years of 5-14, just like my very own from 1939-48. Hearkening to a time when teachers were benevolent parent figures to trusting children eager to discover the world, it possessed a singular quality that could often turn ordinary musings and lessons into poignant and lasting memories. One of my earliest remembrances of this feeling was watching my 2nd grade teacher, Miss Lengle, powdering her youthful face every day before lunch hour in the wall mirror alongside my desk. I was fascinated by her round orange cosmetic box labeled ‘Coty’ and soon became enamored with its fragrance. With no older siblings at home and Mama not a user of perfumes, I would look forward to returning from school lunch

hour each day with anticipation to quietly delight in the sprinkled powdered dust on my desktop by dabbing it on my cheeks. Filled with enchantment as only a young child could be, I was convinced that my school harbored a novel magic all its own. With wide hallowed-like marble hallways, roaming them alone could seem daunting, especially to the tender-aged student assigned with the important task of “class messenger.” Being entrusted with the urgent delivery of confidential notes between teachers had all the palpable tension of a top-secret mission, but whenever chosen, I took the task seriously, treading carefully through the silent corridors.

The line of stout, long-windowed classroom doors always gave off a distinguished smell of aged wood as their egg-shaped brass doorknobs officially engraved; ‘Public School City of New York’, conveyed an absolute authority about them. Timidly knocking at my destination, all eyes would suddenly look up, and deafening silence would fill the class in session as I opened the door, entering with heart pounding to safely deliver the note in front of the classroom. Initially overwhelming, these errands would prove valuable in building confidence and a strong sense of duty.

Framed in traditional stage and standard piano setting, the auditorium of P.S. 44 was the navel and soul of its hull. As the ceremonial gathering place throughout the year, it was where all grades could festively welcome winter with Merry Christmas and “Old Jack Frost” jingles, while heralding Spring with Flag Day and “Old Glory” recitals.

Once a week, we would faithfully hold Thursday Assembly in the auditorium, complete with color guard, Star Spangled Banner, Psalms, and Hymns. In the

years during World War II, this hall room became a stronghold of God, Flag, and Country, fostering as much patriotic morale as any festooned war bonds rally. With colorful song and costume, our educative and stirring student plays, celebrating Francis Scott Key and Americana songs of Stephen Foster gave us a chance to participate and feel united in national pride.

Presiding in his trademark gray tweed suit, our Principal, Mr. Ritter, would also organize student paper drive campaigns, where we would eagerly gather after school, collecting newspapers for the war effort with the same sense of duty and purpose we carried out as class messengers.

With its French mansard roof and smoking brick chimneys, P.S.44 stood out in the neighborhood as a rock-steady presence from where the town’s pulse and rhythm seemed to flow. And for the passersby, especially those of us budding in juvenescence, it evoked a comforting beauty and solidity. Whether in its lit silhouette glowing through dark gloom mornings, or in the majestic classroom windows of its peer edifice, reflecting the Atlantic Ocean on crisp sunny days, it resonated as a shining beacon by the sea that would resonate as a staunch guardian of youth for the whole of its lifetime, and most remarkably, throughout our ongoing school years. (Part 2, The Schoolyard Days, next week).

Junior Ranger Guided Hike

On Saturday, December 30 at 2 p.m., head to the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge for a guided walk around one of the trails and learn what it takes to become a Jr. Ranger! Children will use their different senses as we explore all that the refuge has to offer. Program followed by an official Jr. Ranger "swear-in" ceremony.

Creating Jamaica Bay

On Sunday, December 31 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 718318-4340.

Morning Moves at RISE

On Mondays at 11 a.m., head to the RISE Center (58-03 Rockaway

Beach Blvd) to join Ann Fosteris’ Fitness to You class. Masks required inside RISE.

Chair Yoga at Rise

On Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., head to the RISE Center (58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd). for a free chair yoga class with Certified yoga instructor Ruth Graves. All are welcome! From beginners to seasoned practitioners. Masks required inside RISE.

Free Winter Classes

The Peninsula Adult Leaning Center, Queens Library (92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd.) begins its winter semester classes on Jan.

9. GED (High School Equivalency), YALP (Young Adult Literacy Program 16-24), ESOL(English for Speakers of Other Languages), Citizenship, Adult Basic Education. Register Now – Contact Peninsulalearning@gmail.com Or 718-945-7058

Everyone is welcome Absolute faith in not a requirement in our church. An open heart is.

Come join us as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. And you may just find that faith is the greatest Christmas present of all.

Rockaway Beach Blvd Rockaway Park, NY11694

4

eryone is welcome Absolute faith in not equirement in our church. An open heart is.

Come join us as we celebrate the birth of Christ. And you may just find that faith is the greatest Christmas present of all.

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

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.

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

File No.: 2020-188/A CITATION

CITATION

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.

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.

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.

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

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

The unknown distributees, legatees, devisees,

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 York

heirs

Ask the DOC

By Peter Galvin, MD

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It damages the protective covering around nerves in the brain and spinal cord, causing the nerve impulses to be slowed or blocked. Our nerves have a layer of insulation around them much like today’s electrical wires. If that insulation is removed or degraded, then the wires may touch each other and short out. It is estimated that the USA has about one million people with MS. Worldwide, that number is about 2.8 million. First described in 1868 by French physician Jean-Marie Charcot, it is now recognized that inflammation is a significant factor in MS,

as it is in all other autoimmune diseases. Again, as in other autoimmune diseases, the precipitating event(s) are unknown but viral infection is suspected. Age of onset is typically 20 to 30 years of age. Women are nearly three times more likely to develop MS than men, a fact as yet unexplained. Other risk factors include certain genetic factors, low vitamin D levels, low levels of sunlight exposure, prior Epstein-Barr infection, and cigarette smoking.

Symptoms of MS include fatigue, blurred vision and eye pain (optic neuritis), weakness or changes in sensation in parts of the body, dizziness, balance difficulty, impairment in memory or thinking,

and problems with bladder control. Also common are depression and anxiety, whether from the disease itself or in response to symptoms. The most common type of MS is relapsing-remitting MS, where symptoms appear rapidly (relapse) followed by a period of complete or near-complete recovery (remission). Over time, periods of remission become shorter, with remission eventually disappearing (secondary progressive MS). Those with primary progressive MS have symptoms that progress over time without relapse or remission.

There is no specific test to diagnose MS (like a biopsy). Diagnosis is usually made using the McDonald criteria, a mix of clinical, laboratory, and radiologic signs. Management and treatment usually require a team approach using neurology, physical therapy, and psychology specialists. Treatment is usually directed at blunting the immune system response, with high-dose steroids used early in sudden relapses, while bearing in mind that MS is

incurable. As with other autoimmune diseases, researchers are finding ways to use monoclonal antibodies to lessen the impact of the body’s own immune system. Depending on which treatment is used, disease-modifying therapies can decrease MS relapses by 30 to 70%. It is estimated that up to 50% of MS patients seek alternate means of treatment because traditional medical treatments often have little impact in relieving MS symptoms. People with MS should avoid cigarette smoking (it creates inflammation). They should also be encouraged to engage in physical activity, which is associated with fewer MS symptoms and decreased depression and fatigue. Lastly, pursuit of intellectually challenging activities may be associated with improved cognitive function for those with MS.

For more information go to the website of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Please direct questions and comments to editor@rockawaytimes. com

Doctors

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

By Gille Ann Rabbin, Esq., CIPP/US By Gille Ann Rabbin, Esq., CIPP/US, CIPP/E

With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, we’re heading full speed into the holiday season and its proliferation of scams. Be cautious when sharing information online and take precautions to avoid holiday frauds.

Fake charities reach out this time of year to take advantage of goodwill (and the desire for yearend tax deductions). Confirm the legitimacy of any charity before donating. Don’t donate through a link or provide information to a caller. Instead, support charities through their official websites or by initiating a call.

Phishing aims to obtain personal information through an email appearing to come from a legitimate business. The mail

Look Out for Seasonal Frauds

contains a message urging you to click on a link to provide information or conduct a transaction. Seasonal phishing attempts include messages asking for a child’s sensitive info to send a letter from “Santa” or appearing to come from a friend requesting that you buy holiday gift cards.

Be cautious with messages that seem trustworthy. A legitimate business will never request sensitive info by email. And never click on a link in a dubious email for any reason. You could end up downloading malware.

Holiday e-cards can also be scary. They can contain viruses and other malware. Before you open an e-card from a friend, check that your friend actually sent it.

Fraudulent retail websites abound during the holidays. Those offering sales too good

to be true are likely scams. To place an order, type the site’s official address into your browser (don’t get to it through a link), then check the address carefully: typosquatters take advantage of typos to get us to land on their scam sites and transmit financial information. Consider paying by PayPal or a reputable credit card to take advantage of their protections if something goes wrong.

Don’t participate in promotions or contests as these can be ruses to capture personal info.

Gift cards are popular gifts. If you purchase one at a store, check that its activation code isn’t exposed; if it is a thief could have stolen the number with intention to use the card when it is bought and activated. (It may be safer to buy a gift card online through a merchant’s website.) Check also for any fees the card may have, for example, for nonuse, which can eat away at the value of the gift until it reaches $0, and that the card hasn’t ex-

pired.

Take steps when sending a gift to ensure the delivery service doesn’t leave it on a doorstep to be stolen. Alert the recipient that a gift is coming or ask them beforehand where they’d like it sent so that it arrives securely. Consider using a shipping method that requires the recipient’s signature.

A missed package delivery note could be fake even if it looks legit. So could a text or email requesting that you click on a link to get an update or for other reasons related to the delivery. Don’t follow up through contact info in the note; visit the company’s site to find contact information.

Have a happy and fraud-free holiday season!

The information contained in this column is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Original publication date: December 2, 2021

Rockaway Celebrates Kwanzaa

a cultural holiday, meaning people from all different religious backgrounds, including African spiritual traditions, celebrate.

By Theresa M Racine.

On Monday, December 19, RDRC and the Rockaway Cultural Group hosted a Rockaway Kwanzaa celebration at the Child Center of NY on Beach 57th Street.

Dr. Richard Severing, professor of African History at York College explained to the children about the Spirit of Kwanzaa. He explained that the colors of Kwanzaa, are black for the people, red for their struggle and green for hope for the future. The Kinara,

the seven-branched candle holder is lit throughout Kwanzaa. The seven candles (Mishumaa Saba) represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

The principles of Kwanzaa are: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith). Kwanzaa is

At Monday’s celebration, the Children of Ocean Bay performed the “O Kwanzaa” song. Tamara Hayes performed a powerful representation of authentic African dance. There was sharing of music and instruments and how they were made. Rosalyn Temple, who gave the history of an ancient African instrument the kalimba, performed a beautiful instrumental. Morris Holmes, a member of RCG performed drumming.

There was also a short video presentation representing children from Redfern CCNY, Ocean Bay CCNY, Beach 41st street CCNY, and greetings from Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson.

Rockaway Cultural Group is led by president Brenda Temple, vice president Vernelle Robsinon and treasurer Kimberly Comes. RCG does not only host Kwanzaa, but shares the rich history of African/African American culture throughout the year through performance and art. For more information, email: rockawayculturalgroup@gmail.com

ROCKAWAY GOOD TIMES

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Make the most of the holidays with our Rockaway Good Times guide of things to do in Rockaway, including live music, an ugly sweater party, caroling and more! Plus, with New Year’s just days away, start planning where and how you’re ringing in a spectacular 2023. See our round-up below:

LIVE MUSIC

THURSDAY, December 22 7 p.m.

New DIY cocktail bar, food, art and entertainment space, Rose Den, hosts its first annual holiday party featuring the one-and-only, Mikal Hameed a.k.a. DJ Baroque. Hameed (of Rustwoods fame) is known for his ‘talk-of-the town’ fetes. This will be epic!

174 Beach 116th Street

FRIDAY, December 23 6:30 p.m.

Time to tune up and turn up at Bobby and Jenna’s annual hilarious Christmas sing-a-long at Bungalow Bar.

377 Beach 92nd Street

FRIDAY, December 23 7 p.m.

Festivus with the rest of us at Connolly’s First Annual Festivus Miracle Party. With DJ Paddy Tubz waxin’ the vinyl, and Paul Bryn slingin’ some seriously adult holiday bevies—add to your 2022 holiday memories at Connolly’s.

155 Beach 95th Street

FRIDAY, December 23 7 p.m.

Do beer and ugly sweaters pair perfectly? Find out at Rockaway Brewing Co.’s Ugly Sweater Party Competition. Win beer prizes for ugliest sweater, funniest sweater and best homemade sweater! Plus, Meddle Juice will be juicing his eclectic medley of original folk and blues music, and a sing-a-long to Christmas classics. Also, ’tis the season for giving! Bring some non-perishables for the Rockaway Mutual Aid community fridge.

415 Beach 72nd Street

FRIDAY, December 23

7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Can’t carry a tune? Don’t worry, ‘cause all welcome at Bar Marseille’s

Christmas caroling session with Cat Nip Band, also jamming your favorite classic and alternative rock. 190 Beach 69th Street

FRIDAY, December 23

8 p.m. to Midnight

Bring your dancin’ shoes to RBQ and rock with family jam band, The Mighty Quinn, celebrating band member, Larry’s birthday. Plus, special guest, Gary Colter, on bass. 97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

FRIDAY, December 23

It’s the eve of Christmas Eve, so get an early start to the holiday weekend with rock/soul/pop/folk/country acoustic guitarist and singer—Frank Persico at Kennedy’s. For showtime and reservations, call: (718) 945-0202. 406 Bayside, Breezy Point

SATURDAY, December 24 7 p.m.

Wine up on Christmas Eve at Sayra’s Wine Bar, featuring a live DJ spinning your favorite holiday tunes. 97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

WEDNESDAY, December 28 7 p.m.

Tonight, NYC-acclaimed guitarist and singer, (also known for his thrilling podcast, Fireside Mystery Theatre) Silbin Sandovar a.k.a Gustavo Rodriguez, steps in for Niall Connolly at Sayra’s Wine Bar. 91-11 Rockaway Beach Blvd

HOLIDAY MENTIONS

ages! Go Breezy for Christmas at The Sugar Bowl’s Christmas Spectacular featuring the gray-bearded man in the red suit, Roger The Elf, live DJ, games and The Sugar Bowl’s popular Christmas mugs!

15 Bedford Ave, Breezy Point

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES PARISH—“WELCOME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!”

FRIDAY, December 3 p.m.

What is the reason for the Christmas season? Bring a friend and join parishioners at St. Francis De Sales’ at its Christmas Eve program featuring the children’s choir at 3 p.m., folk group at 4:30 p.m. and adult choir at 6 p.m.

129-16 Rockaway Beach Blvd

NYDC TRIPLE DIP

On Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the day after, December 24-26, the New York Dippers Club will be meeting at Beach 67th Street at 9 a.m. for an invigorating dip into the Atlantic. Consider bringing a potluck brunch meal to share! Beach 67th

ST. VIRGILIUS CHURCH VIGIL MASS & CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

SATURDAY, December 24 3:30 p.m.

Commemorate the reason for the season at St. Virgilius Children’s Pageant featuring performances of the nativity and more, followed by Christmas Eve mass at 4 p.m. 16 Noel Road

NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS

Kickoff 2023 on a plucky note at The Rockaway Hotel’s annual polar plunge on Beach 108th Street. Prior to the plunge, indulge in bagels and bubbly, then after your polar dive, warm-up at the hotel’s outdoor saunas and heated pool. Tickets are $40 for adults and $10 for individuals under 21 years old. Also, plungers and non-plungers alike are welcome to join the post-plunge party hosted by DJ Paddy Tubz. Twenty-five percent of ticket proceeds will be donated to Rising Tide Effect, a not-for-profit that teamed up with The Rockaway Hotel to provide free swim lessons and water-safety education for Rockaway’s youth. For tickets, more info, including the day’s schedule, visit: https://www.therockawayhotel. com/happenings

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

BELLE HARBOR YACHT CLUB

NEW YEAR WHITE PARTY SUNDAY, January 1 3 p.m.

Who says you can’t wear white after Labor Day! Wear your yacht whites at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club’s New Year White Party on the first day of 2023. Rockaway’s #1 party band, Wine With Sue, rocks the stage from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., then from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., DJ Drews inserts old-school 8-tracks playing the “best songs ever made!” $10 cover.

533 Beach 126th Street

SPECIAL MENTION

DREDSURFER’S 1ST ANNUAL TOY DRIVE

FRIDAY, December 23 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Be the gift that keeps on giving by bringing an unwrapped toy to DredSurfer Grill’s (Beach 17th concession) first annual toy drive, co-hosted with Far Rockaway daycare and after-school program, Cribbs Angels Daycare, and Ashcon Transportation. Plus, bring the kiddos and get into the spirit of the season with live entertainment, cotton candy, popcorn and more!

16-27 Seagirt Blvd, Far Rockaway

SUGAR BOWL CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

FRIDAY, December 23 3 p.m.

Calling children and adults of all

RING IN THE NEW YEAR AT THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL’s ROOFTOP

SATURDAY, December 31 8 p.m. to Midnight

With New Year’s Eve just a week away, start planning your celebrations to ring in 2023 on the rooftop at The Rockaway Hotel. Dance to live music with DJ Johnny A, indulge in exquisite bites, cocktails and a champagne toast, while watching the ball drop. Tickets are $100. For tickets and more info, visit: https://www. therockawayhotel.com/happenings 108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL’S 2ND ANNUAL POLAR PLUNGE

SUNDAY, January 1 12 p.m.

SATURDAY, January 7 6 p.m.

Take a trip into Manhattan to support local Dan Brown with his new off-the-peninsula production, “Eleven Story Drop—An Evening of Monologues, Music, Dance and Redemption,” at the Chain Theatre. Reception at 6 p.m. with light bites and wine. Show begins at 7 p.m. For tickets, visit: https://elevenstorydrop. eventbrite.com

312 West 36th Street, 4th floor

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

RBAF Holiday Party—'the Funnest Ever!’

of Special Events, Venus Ramos, for truly going above and beyond, and committee members, Matt Wolf, Patricia Harvey, Christine Dydzuhn, Rojo Rasoari, Rado Rafiringa and the Best Dressed Man in Rockaway.

For Agard, the holiday party is about providing a safe space for the autism community to celebrate the holidays with friends and family. “I want the general public to see autism is not something to be wary about or feel you have to steer clear.

The spectrum is so broad, and our autistic community has so much to contribute to society. RBAF’s goal for the New Year is procuring employment for autistic individuals. I’m calling on Rockaway’s business owners to please give them a chance.”

For more information about RBAF, visit: Rockaway Beach Autism Families on Facebook/ Instagram, or rockawaybeachautismfamilies.org.

Last Thursday, December 15, the Knights of Columbus was packed with folks dancing up a storm at Rockaway Beach Autism Families’ 4th Annual Holiday Party. With food, gifts generously donated by local businesses and residents; a visit from Old Saint Nick; master of ceremonies, the Best Dressed Man in Rockaway, and dance performances by Rockaway Beach Dance Company and O’Malley Irish Dance Academy—families were again comfortably celebrating the holidays in a judgment-free environment. And as one autistic 10-year-old boy said, “This is the funnest party ever!”

Though Santa Claus in tow with his sack of toys from the North Pole was the marquee segment of the evening’s program, Rockaway Beach Dance Company and O’Malley Irish Dance Academy electrified the Knights’ dance floor with not just their dance presentations, but also, getting children and adults up to dance! One mom said, “I never thought I would be dancing with my son. This is a moment I’ll forever remember!”

In September 2016, Rockaway local Kami-Leigh Agard started penning her Rockaway Times column, “Life With Our ‘Artistic’ Child” about parenting a child on the autism spectrum. To Agard’s surprise, her column got notice and parents of autistic and special needs individuals started reaching out. Soon she

was hosting monthly parent support group meetings, and thus, Rockaway Beach Autism Families was born. Fast track to today, RBAF hosts not just monthly meetings, but a plethora of educational and recreational activities; geared to build autism awareness and acceptance, plus provide a nonjudgmental space for families and the general public to share, learn and have fun.

Agard said, “Rockaway is a gift that keeps on giving. RBAF’s small parent committee pooled our resources to make this party happen, but without the support from local individuals and businesses, we couldn’t have pulled together this event so beautifully. Locals from all walks of life jumped in and donated gifts, and even attended. Plus, tremendous props to Richie and Barbara Knott, and the rest of the crew at the Knights of Columbus. For the fourth year, Richie not only generously gifted us the space, but he and his crew were all hands on deck serving us. Also, the Best Dressed Man in Rockaway, Owen Loof, always adds some sparkle to our event with his presence and generous spirit.

“So many entities helped make our party a success, including The Rockaway Times, Robin Shapiro Realty, Rockaway WISH, Belisario Cruz Reyn Team at Compass, John Gillespie (Santa Claus) and many more. (See ad on page x). Plus, a colossal shoutout to RBAF’s Vice Chair

Travels With Bob

You’re In The Army (Museum) Now

By Bob Nesoff

They often say, “You can’t go back.” That’s partially true. I recently tried on a visit to the National Museum of the United States Army, recently opened at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

I spent some time there back in the dark ages for training with the Combat Engineers. We built bridges in some forlorn section of the massive fort property in the morning, across a ravine. In the afternoon we dismantled them. Then, just for fun, they gave us half-pound blocks of TNT and we spent the time blowing things up.

I’m sure the same activities are still going on in the “Boondocks” of Fort Belvoir, but today the facility is a modern military camp. And it is home to one of the most amazing museums in the country…The National Museum of the American Army.

The modern building that houses the museum belies what is inside. There are displays ranging from the early days of our country to the modern conflicts our Army troops are involved in.

To some visitors looking at the mannikins sitting in Jeeps, atop tanks and in Revolutionary War uniforms and gear do a dou -

ble-take and a step back. Each and every mannikin has the face of a living person, bringing a far more personal touch that virtually any other museum in the world, sans Madame Tussauds.

A call went out while the exhibits were being created for volunteers to submit to the process of creating the exhibits, using their likenesses. It truly brings the exhibits to a far more personal touch.

But that’s not all. There is a World War II tank on display, with a tank commander standing in the top hatch, that actually fought in the Battle of the Bulge. And the face of the commander might actually be someone you know or someone who fought in the tank corps.

One of the more interesting highlights regarding the tank. It had been left in Europe and stood, unused, unappreciated for nearly six decades when museum representatives learned about the historic war machine. The museum made arrangements to have it shipped back to the States and brought to Fort Belvoir. It was restored and today looks much like it did in 1945 and is ready for another tour of duty.

SFDS Christmas Champs

The 7th Grade SFDS squad were the winners of the 2022 St. Francis de Sales Christmas Tournament. They defeated St. Patricks and St. Agnes along the way to take home the championship long-sleeves. The champions pictured from

left to right are Jack O’Grady, Ty Duffy, Coach Joe Visco, James McMahon, Michael Charitano, David Graves, Hugh Courtney, Brian McKinnon Doyle, Coach Rich George, Timmy Nichtern, and Jack Hayes.

and pepper and toss with a fork until well combined.

Sweet Potato Latkes

By Sharon Feldman

Makes approximately 24 small latkes.

Ingredients:

2-3 very large sweet potatoes (about a pound), peeled

1 large onion, quartered

¾ cups all-purpose flour

3 large eggs

3 teaspoons kosher salt

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon ground pepper

1 cup of vegetable oil

Directions:

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

Combine potatoes and onions with the flour, eggs, salt, baking powder

Pour a cup of oil in a pan and heat until sizzling. (You can test this with a sprinkle of water using your finger) With a fork, scoop 12 small latkes into the pan and flatten a little. Let cook on medium high heat until brown (approximately 6-8 minutes) check before flipping to see that they are brown) and cook another 6-8 minutes until done.

Transfer to a cooking rack lined with paper towels or paper bags to drain the oil.

Serve with applesauce, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and some smoked salmon.

Tis The Season!

Beach Channel Hoops Dolphins Digest

By Keith Stephens Jr.

Coming into the week at 5-1 in PSAL action, the Dolphins were prepared for two more away games on the PSAL docket. It was time to travel to Flushing and Jamaica for two tilts against PSAL foes on the other side of the Queens A Division.

The first game of the week had the Dolphins traveling to Flushing to take on the Red Devils of Flushing HS. The opening of this game saw the Dolphins jump out to a 17-7 lead after the first quarter and then turning it up for a 34-15 lead at halftime. The game would continue to roll the Dolphins way as they outscored the Red Devils 21-9 in the third quarter. When the horn sounded, the Dolphins would beat the Red Devils of Flushing by the score of 60-29. Malakai Clark would finish the game with 19 points with Jamell Fletcher and George Hance pitching in 16 and 15 points respectively.

The second game of the week had the Dolphins traveling into Jamaica to take on the Hawks of Hillcrest HS. The first quarter would come and go with the Dolphins staring up at the scoreboard down three. The second quarter was different as the Dolphins had an

offensive explosion. They would outscore the Hawks 28-11 in the second quarter to take a 43-29 lead at halftime. The third quarter was much the same as the Dolphins outscored the Hawks 21-4. In the end, the Dolphins defeated Hillcrest 82-54. Senior Malaki Clark was the leading scorer with 24 points. Senior George Hance had 13 points with eight assists. Junior Dante Cummings pitched in with 11 points and five rebounds. This win catapulted the Dolphins to 7-1 in PSAL play, with a firm hold on first play in the division.

On Saturday, December 17, the Dolphins were asked to participate in the Campus Magnet Holiday Basketball Tournament. The Dolphins would take on Manhattan Center for Science and Math. This is a Manhattan AA Division squad from Harlem. This game was a wire-to-wire victory for the Dolphins as they led big throughout. When the horn sounded, the Dolphins defeated the Rams of Manhattan Center by the score of 59-26. Pictured are Head Coach Rich George and Assistant Coach Mo Johnson. Winning the Sportsmanship Award plaque was Senior Rahje Theophile and taking the Game MVP trophy was Senior Malakai Clark. Go Dolphins!!!

I want to take this moment to wish all of the fans of Wrestle Talk, a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Let's dive into the latest wrestling news!

Last week, we spoke about current WWE Superstar Karl Anderson, who is also the New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) Never Open Weight Champion, who is defending his title at this year's Wrestle Kingdom annual event, scheduled for January 4, 2023. We now

have confirmed that former WWE Superstar Sasha Banks, whose real name is Mercedes Varnado, will be also be appearing at Wrestle Kingdom. We also have confirmed, through several sources, that she is expected to confront KAIRI, who is the NJPW Women's Champion at the annual event. This is huge news, because it was highly anticipated, that Mercedes would return to the WWE. Now, we couldn't confirm for how long

she would be working at NJPW. But with her star power, she is definitely expected to be a huge draw in Japan.

Former WWE Superstar Chris Masters has been rumored to be making a guest appearance, at next year's Royal Rumble Live Premiere Event in 2023. This past week, Masters was seen posting to his Twitter Account "10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.......@WWE." The countdown is a reference to the

Royal Rumble, when the next participant in the Royal Rumble is preceded by a countdown timer. The 2023 Royal Rumble event will be held on Saturday, January 28 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

WWE Superstar Matt Riddle was recently suspended by the WWE for apparently violating their Wellness Program for the second time. But there are reports out there stating that the WWE has not officially acknowledged Matt Riddle's suspension. So, we will keep you posted on this developing story.

The Question of the Week comes from Razor Ramon in Habana, Cuba, (Yes, that's how the email came to me) and he asked "Hey Yo! There used to be a fake Razor Ramon, is he still around?

Hey Razor, I'm sorry to say I have no idea. Thanks, for the question.

Thank you for all the questions sent in this week. If you have a question or comment, please send them in to eavil183@yahoo.com. Happy Holidays!

All Major Insurance Companies Accepted