Rockaway times 12 24 15

VOL. 2, NO. 27 - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

‘Twas The Day Before Christmas Forget The Deep Freeze We’re Expecting 68 Degrees INSIDE: CHRISTMAS PLANNING - THINGS TO DO ON NEW YEAR’S – LOTS MORE! Photo By Nancy Herman

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 3

There’s A Harbor Light At The End Of The Tunnel

Architect’s rendering of the future Harbor Light Truth be told, we thought we’d be putting this in the paper months ago. But good things come to those who wait. And something good is going up on Newport Avenue and Beach 130th Street.

Steel beams mean progress

Thanks to the incredible perseverance of the Heeran family, The Harbor Light, the iconic restaurant that was a like a second home to many in Rockaway, is rising from the rubble more than three years after Sandy.

First opened in 1980, The Harbor Light’s comeback was delayed by red tape and other matters but as Billy Heeran said in July of 2014, “Folding up and going away was never an option.”

Steel beams went up on Monday

and a full skeleton of the new place should be in place within a few weeks.

Well-wishers gathered to applaud the sudden burst of activity. Someone passing by called out to Bernie Heeran, “Are you taking reservations?”

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There are 14 community boards in Queens and a total of 59 citywide, with each board having up to 50 unsalaried members and each member serving two-year terms.

All Queens community board members are appointed by Borough President Katz, with half of her appointees nominated by the City Councilmembers for the respective community board districts. Community boards serve in an important advisory role on issues including land use and zoning, the city budget, and more. Being a community board member is strictly voluntary and there is no monetary compensation.

All Community Board appointees are required to re-apply at the conclusion of each two-year term and are subject to review and reconsideration by local elected officials. The deadline for returning applicants is Jan-

uary 22, 2016; new applicants is January 29, 2016. For the upcoming round of appointments, the two-year term of service will begin on April 1, 2016. For more information, visit www.queensbp.org/community-boards or call the Borough President’s office at (718) 286-2900.

Kevin Boyle PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Pat McVeigh MANAGING DIRECTOR Katie McFadden ASST EDITOR Dylan Watton REPORTER Fred Marino Frank Chimera 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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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 5

Kennedy's

New Year's Eve Celebration

By Kevin Boyle

Just get me socks and underwear. Preferably new.

Or a pair of gloves. Those’ll be good, until I lose them.

Honestly, I really don’t want anything for Christmas. If you get me something I’m gonna feel like a bum for not getting you something. You don’t want to make me feel guilty this time of year, do you?

I might like the shirt you get me even though I would have never picked it out for myself.

In fact, it might become my favorite shirt but I probably won’t remember I got it for Christmas. Truth is, if I like the shirt enough I’ll convince myself that I bought it.

I don’t know how you Christmas shoppers do it. Some of you see something in July and buy it and then hide it for months, until the big day. That is the kind of discipline that impresses me as much if you flapped your arms and flew away.

If I bought a Christmas gift in July I’d wind up cracking and give it to someone for Labor Day. We probably wouldn’t have Christmas without my wife, Kathy. If it were left to me, I’d hand out a few cards with money in it. Maybe turn the TV on to the Yule log channel.

I’m not bah-humbugging.

I’m good with the lights and festivities and Christmas carols in the air. I just can’t take gift buying. The pressure is unbearable. Just tell me what you want. I’ve tried going to jewelry stores. Each time it was brutal.

Does your wife like thick or thin bracelets? Does she like silver

or gold? Would she like a ring or earrings?

Uhh……uhh…..

It’s the same feeling as taking a big test for which you didn’t do a lick of studying. Then another thought creeps in my head. How do I know this stuff is even real?

Maybe I’m traumatized by the story of my father buying my mother an iron for Christmas. Yeah, an iron. Brand new.

That went over big. I think she used it to part his hair. Would a blender have been better, honey?

I’ve seen people open presents and do nothing to hide their disappointment.

I’m paralyzed by these memories.

I know I’m not alone. Some of you can’t read the Rockaway Times today because you’re out shopping on Christmas Eve. You need the pressure, you work better on deadlines.

So you say. But you’re only out there because you can’t be empty handed on Christmas.

There’s the stress of buying versus the self-loathing you’ll feel if you don’t have gifts to give.

It’s the thought that counts.

And I’m very generous in my thoughts. Ridiculously, overthe-top generous. I’m not cheap, I just don’t know what to get.

I’m the one who started passing around the fruitcake no one’s ever eaten. At least it’s something.

Merry Christmas everyone. If I stiffed you on a present, please remember it’s the thought that counts and I’m really, really thinking good thoughts of you!

I hope that works better than an iron.

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Page 6

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

The Rockaway Times

***** On Monday we spotted a huge crane on Beach 130th Street.

Smiles were in abundance as steel beams were being set for the Harbor Light! Many people say the Sandy recovery won’t be complete until this neighborhood icon is reborn. ***** Mary Edwards is a certified personal trainer and the founder of Rockaway Gliders Fitness Studio (114-04 Beach Channel Drive). She’s just developed a great website. Check out FoodandFitnessbyMary.com ***** Speaking of websites, any WordPress WooCommerce experts out there? We have a small job for you. Please send us an email at mail@rockawaytimes.com ***** A nice Christmas present.

Thanks for the love, er, likes.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 We just passed a Facebook milestone. Five thousand people have liked The Rockaway Times page. And we’re just shy of 1,300 followers on Instagram and our full paper is emailed weekly to 2,961 people. Thank you all for the awesome support. We might as well keep this going in 2016. ***** More than a few people were skeptical about one part of last week’s story in which we reported the $5 million sale of the Beach Club property. The new owner said plans were not yet set. To that, the skeptics replied: Five million and he doesn’t know what he’s doing?

Ha. ***** Congrats to the new Word Search winners this week: Carol Sheets, Bill Gehlhaus, Karen Betts, Lynne Light, and Dan Holland. New rules say – previous winners are not eligible – we want to share the t-shirts far and wide. If you haven’t gotten your t-shirt, play this week’s puzzle and you may be one of the first ten.

***** Much was made of Steve Harvey mistakenly calling the runner-up the winner of the Miss Universe pageant. Well, it might have been a disappointment for Miss Colombia but if a runner-up was ever going to be able to cash in, this’d be the time.

Miss Colombia, is not to be confused with Rockaway’s Ms. Colombia often seen wearing a green or orange beard walking the beach or marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. ***** Kudos to all the people working on securing the Rockaway ferry, slated to return in the mayoral election year of 2017. Here’s a challenge to our local elected officials: get the mayor to make a minimum commitment of five years. That’d show he’s sincere about his efforts to make the ferry system a real part of the transit system. ***** The holidays are upon us but just ahead is a transportation committee meeting of Community Board 14. On January 6, the committee will at the Bayswater Jewish Center at 7

Page 7 pm. There will be a presentation by the Department of Transportation regarding downtown Far Rockaway (streetscapes, traffic) and a proposed safety plan regarding the intersection at Beach 62nd Street and Rockaway Beach Boulevard. ***** Sign of the times. Last week, our reporter, Dylan Watton, called the Young Israel of Wavecrest and Bayswater Center last week for a quote for the neighborhood profile article. A representative returned a call asking if he was taking photos of the building last week and Dylan said yes. The rep then said he was relieved because they had filed a police report because “in this day and age of heightened security and fear” they were worried he might be up to no good. ***** You might have noticed that some locals get ink in the This Week In History column. When you work at The Rockaway Times and suffer in our little cold cube, you get a shout out in The High Tide: Happy Birthday, Pat McVeigh!!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

FDNY Rescues Man From Chilly Bay The FDNY is credited for rescuing a man who had fallen into Jamaica Bay on the evening of Saturday, December 19.

According to a report by the NY Daily News, two firefighters donning water suits jumped into Jamaica Bay to save a man who had fallen in while working on his boat near Beach 87th Street at around 5 p.m., the FDNY said.

The firefighters who performed the rescue were Christopher Russell, 35, of Engine 266 and Christopher Barbara, 23, of Ladder 121. Russell has been on the job for 12 years, while Barbara has been a firefighter for three years.

Together, the men pulled

out the victim, believed to be in his 40s, who was holding onto a boat connected to a dock. The man was overcome by the chilly water temperature and was unable to pull himself out.

He was in the water for approximately 15 minutes.

The man, who was in serious condition, was transported to St. John’s Episcopal Hospital to be treated for hypothermia. An FDNY spokesperson says the man was in “bad shape an unresponsive,” but it is believed he is okay.

Eight land units, helicopters and a fireboat were also involved. They responded within four minutes.

The Rockaway Times

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 9

The Lazer Speaks The Off Button: A Wish for 2016 I recently had someone very close to me completely surprise me, in a good way. They finished an evening of partying, early. When I asked them why did they end early, surprised and happy at the same time, they told me they had finally discovered the “off button.” I could not have been happier.

We all know that nothing really good happens between the hours of midnight and 4 a.m., but it doesn’t stop many from going full throttle at those hours. Usually, these activities are accompanied by cellphones that seemingly have no ability to respond to phone calls. Although I am sure that every iPhone has an answer button. I have experimented myself, purposely staying up past midnight and calling myself. Apparently for some, the answer button

can mysteriously disappear from the icon menu between the hours of midnight and 4, sometimes 5 a.m. Who knew!

The “off button” is one of life’s greatest inventions.

Sometimes people don’t know that they have access to it, and finding it can be tricky.

But once found, it can be applied to almost any situation.

With the holidays upon us, knowing about the “off button” is more important than ever. Why? Well, consider that “last drink,” not the ones preceding it, but really that last one. That’s the one that always gets us in trouble by allowing us to say or do something that we really should not have. Having access to the “off button” prevents us from taking that last drink.

For some the last drink is the tenth, others the second, and still others it’s really the first.

I have undying admiration

for those that understand it is the first one. They have usually found this out the hard way, and have spent considerable time searching for the “off button,” and have after repeated failures, finally found it. They are admirable because they understand what happens when the “off button” is not flipped, and don’t want to be that person anymore.

The “off button” doesn’t just apply to drinks or drugs, it applies to anything that can take us over the edge of poor behavior and get us in trouble. For me the “off button” is usually, although not limited to, that quip or cutting comment that sounds so smart in my head, but winds up hurting someone’s feelings, generally not mine but the people closest to me. In those situations, I think that I am being insightful, but really I am just

taking the easy way out by being obvious and stupid.

So with Christmas upon us, maybe this is the time of year to flip the “off button” and to spread good cheer by knowing ourselves, and being mindful of others. I guess being mindful requires active listening, and really understanding what others are trying to tell us. Even at Christmas I find this hard to do, because it requires turning off the inner voice, and listening to what the other person is saying. I always think the inner voice is telling me something really important. Not always the case! But if flipping the “off button” is done well, it gives us tremendous insight into others and the ability to be better human beings. Personally, this one is on top of my list for 2016. Here’s hoping we all find our “off buttons” for 2016!

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By Lou Pastina

Page 10

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Star Wars Love Reawakened In Rockaway

By Dylan Watton

The cultural and historic importance of any particular thing can be measured by whether there is a pre-thing and a post-thing. For instance there is a pre-Beatles music landscape and a post-Beatles music landscape. There’s certainly a pre-Sandy Rockaway and a post-Sandy Rockaway. In the world of movies this ruleof-thumb can be applied to a few flicks such as Casablanca or The Godfather. But no movie quite fits the bill like Star Wars.

When the seventh feature film in the series, The Force Awakens, opened in theaters last week, the post-Star Wars world was in full view as it shattered box office records, consumed local and national news, and sold us fast food and cars and toys, toys, and more toys. When a movie becomes a cultural phenomenon beyond compare, it’s earned its place as a landmark of American

achievement where all things before become irrelevant and all things after are judged to its standard.

I remember first seeing the original film, which debuted in 1977, when it was rereleased in theaters 20 years later. The films had been rooted in my family since its premier—my mom Lisa Fernandez was pulled out of school by her mother to see it on the day it opened (May 25) at the Ziegfeld Theatre. Instantly I loved it—the buzzing lightsabers, the Vader voice that I could replicate so well before my tonsils were taken out, Chewbacca and R2D2. My love went so deep that I had a Darth Vader piggy bank that played the Imperial March and told me that I wasn’t a Jedi yet despite how much I paid him.

My brother Matt Watton and I inevitably saw Empire Strikes Back when it was released, then Return, then Phantom Menace, and so on. “It was

good that we saw the original movies first. You’re not going to be a fan of the all movies if the first one you saw was Phantom,” Matt said.

“I was in high school and I must have been a freshman or a sophomore when I first saw the original movies,” Remy Krakaeur said. In subsequent years the three of us and several of our other friends would congregate in Remy’s basement and watch the films on a loop. “I realized they came out in the ‘70s and ‘80s and I wanted to see what all the hype was about. The technology that went into making all the special effects was mind blowing.

It really did a good job of putting you in a different world.

They had an established universe and made you think that you were experiencing it.”

For my generation, even objectively bad movies like the three prequels (the aforementioned Phantom plus Attack of the Clones and the not-

so-bad Revenge of the Sith) represent an important part of childhood. Movies that we see in our formative years, as in the rest of pop culture, stay with us the longest and create lasting bonds to bygone innocence and a pre-cynical time.

“We were as young as Anakin when the prequels came out,” Matt said. “And only as we got older we realized those movies sucked. They still created a viable and sustainable culture that could be passed on.”

So with an unruly amount of hype and expectations I saw The Force Awakens on Saturday night in Manhattan, a rare time I’d see a movie on opening weekend (and an even rarer time that I’d travel two hours just to see one). Without spoiling anything, the movie was everything it needed to be and more. Director J.J. Abrams delicately strikes the perfect balance between nostalgia and newcomers, and the film’s

Continued on Page 11

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STAR WARS Continued from Page 10 action scenes, while not as innovative as its predecessors were, are exhilarating. Character development and dialogue are better than they’ve ever been, and the movie’s magnificent closing shot left me immediately craving more.

“I hope it’s amazing,” Remy said. He will see the movie over Christmas weekend. “I really hope that they continue developing the original characters in Luke, Leah, and Han Solo and I hope they do a good job developing the brand new characters.” Matt expressed concern that the new film will deviate from George Lucas’s original vision. “It’s a story about justice, fighting imperialism, a number of people maltreated or neutral going to fight against a cultish, mystical Empire, or whatever the dark side is.”

Maybe it was inevitable that the new film would turn out to be the behemoth that it has quickly become. After all it was created in a post-Star Wars world.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 11

Local Musician to Appear on Talent TV Show viewers will have a chance to vote for Persico as “Star of the Day.” There are three performers per episode. The performer with the most points wins “Star of the Day” and advances to the next episode. There are also four judges. Any contestant who earns four “Star of the Day” scores, automatically earns one of 12 spots in the finals. Also, the more public votes a contestant gets, the more likely they’ll be in the finals. The grand prize

winner takes home a new car, a deal with a major record label and the title of “NY’s Star of the Day Grand Champion.”

In the episode that will air on December 26, Persico, of Ozone Park, sings one of his original songs called “Let’s Stay Home.”

Be sure to watch the show and then head to www.newyorkstaroftheday.com/vote/ to pick Persico or your favorite contestant. Votes can also be casted on Twitter and Facebook.

Frank Persico

You may have seen him play at Dalton’s, the Community House or Thai Rock, but now local musician, Frank Persico is getting a showcase off the peninsula. He has a chance to be named a citywide “Star of the Day.” A few weeks ago, Persico filmed a performance for FOX Channel 5’s “New York Star of the Day” with Ernie Anastos.

On Saturday, December 26 at 5:30 p.m., the 30-minute episode will be aired on FOX and

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times Drivers: Why?

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Dear Editor: (Regarding the Neighborhood Profile: Bayswater).

I’m Carol (Solomon) Marston, vice president of The FRHS Online Alumni Association. I grew up in Bayswater and loved every second of living there. I left the year I graduated (1956, and yes, I graduated with Bernie Madoff, but didn’t know him) to move to Chicago due to my dad’s job transfer.

I read your article, “Rockaway Neighborhoods: Bayswater” and noticed one error. I posted a comment at the end which corrected the error, which deals with the year Far Rockaway High School was built. (The building seen today opened in 1929).

Thanks so much for this lovely tribute to my old home.

We really can’t go home again…it’s gone. The last time I visited was in 1997 and stood in front of my old house with tears flowing. The new owners had modernized what had been a lovely Victorian home… made it into a tenement complete with fire escape.

The house (to me) has lost its charm. They replaced the shingles with aluminum siding, fenced the yard, which did away with the semi-circular sidewalk which allowed entry from two sides of the property; cut down the two gorgeous pine trees and paved the driveway (under which I’d buried a jar of pennies in the 40s!) I hate what they did to the entrance above the front steps. It is phony-looking and (to me) heartbreaking. Kind regards, Carol Marston

Dear Editor: Yes we have speed cameras popping up all over the City which of course includes Rockaway. People constantly go back and forth with comments that they are just money makers for the City which also includes the red light cameras. Then there are some who say they like the cameras especially near their children’s schools. Then you have many people who would like signage that reads “Speed Cameras Ahead” slow down or whatever way the City words them.

Why do so many people speed, why do so many people go by stop signs like there not even there, and why do people pass the red lights as if they were colored blind? At times when I’m sitting in my living room watching television I have a perfect view of the traffic light on Rockaway Beach Blvd and Beach 125th street.

I actually will say to my wife very often “There goes another one right through the red light”. I even say this very often, “There goes another one right through the red light and also speeding.”

I do see the NYPD on occasions stop these vehicles when in the area and issue them summonses. Well no matter what your thoughts are on speed cameras, red light cameras or Signage, please obey these traffic control devices before you or someone else are injured or killed.

Danny Ruscillo

Use Smarts Dear Editor: I really do not mind speed cameras, just put in SMART LIGHTS! Smart Lights are lights that have a motion sensor, and will change the light if there is traffic that needs to be moved, otherwise the light stays green for the busiest of the two roads.

Paddy Tubridy We accept email at Editor@ RockawayTimes.com and through our website RockawayTimes.com Comments section.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 13

LOCAL CHURCHES AND BUSINESSES PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS Christmas time is here, as Charlie Brown and friends sing annually. While Charles Schulz based his Peanuts people on the wholesome Minnesota town he grew up in, the joy and good feelings of the holiday season are universal, not only confined to a place where footballs arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t kicked and adults talk like theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re stepping on a wah-wah pedal. Much of Rockaway has strong Irish Catholic roots, making the religious and cultural aspects of Christmas all the more important.

St. Francis de Sales on Beach 129th Street has been open since 1906, serving as one of the primary outlets for Christian worship and Christmas cheer on the

peninsula. This year they started a new tradition of planting and lighting 100 Christmas trees in the prayer garden on Rockaway Beach Boulevard across from the church. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We lit [the trees] with a big ceremony that 1,000 people came to,â&#x20AC;? Monsignor John J. Bracken said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also have a Christmas nativity set on 129th Street and the boulevard. They had carols and cookies and hot chocolate. People are in awe of how pretty it looks at night.â&#x20AC;?

This year Monsignor Bracken said that the church is switching up their schedule for the holiday slightly to be more accommodating to all age groups. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be changing our Mass schedule to make it more family friendly.

Continued on Page 32

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Contractor Charged with Stealing From Breezy Sandy Victims Someone is on the naughty list. Long Island Contractor Andrew L. Troiano and his corporation, Alt Design and Construction Consulting Inc., have been charged with stealing more than $175,000 from victims whose Breezy Point homes were destroyed by Hurricane Sandy and who had contracted with the company to build new homes.

According to a Queens DA press release, on December 16, Troiano, of Maple Grove, NY, and his corporation were arraigned on a criminal complaint charging each of them with violating New York State Lien Law 79-A-1 (second- and third-degree misappropriation of funds of trust), second-, third- and fourth-degree grand larceny and first-degree scheme to defraud. Troiano, who faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted, was released on his own recognizance and ordered

to return to court on February 2, 2016. Conviction of a felony is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 or double the amount of the illegal gain.

A Breezy Point couple on Graham Place hired Alt Design and Construction as their contractor on July 23, 2013, to purchase and construct a modular home.

The payment of the contractor’s price was spread out over time based on specified acts listed in the contract. For example, it is alleged that a payment of $63,750 was due to Alt Design upon completion of the concrete foundation by a subcontractor.

When the couple received an invoice from Alt Design for the completed foundation, it is alleged that they paid Alt Design $63,750 for the foundation job only. According to the criminal charges Troiano hired Malbro Construction as a subcontractor in November 2013 to install the concrete foundation and per-

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form other construction services. During the job, Malbro Construction allegedly received a partial payment of $13,000 from Alt Design, but when the job was completed on April 30, 2014, Alt Design still owed $49,182 to Malbro Construction. Despite demands from Malbro, Alt Design has still not paid the money owed.

Another couple on Fulton Walk, whose home was destroyed by fire, hired Alt Design on July 19, 2013, to purchase and construct a modular home. The couple made all of the payments from the deposit to the delivery and set up of the home, totaling $270,000. The job was completed in May 2014. After completing the job on or about May 31, 2014, Malbro Construction requested payment of $66,500 from Alt Design and the company allegedly never paid. For this job, Alt Design also hired Masonry Services, Inc., for crane rental services. Masonry billed Alt Design $10,248 for this job and was allegedly never paid. It is alleged that Masonry Services placed a lien on the Fulton Walk property due to Alt Design failing to pay for the work done by Masonry Services.

A third couple who lost their home on Hillside Avenue hired Alt Design on January 27, 2014 to construct their modular home. As per the construction contract, Alt Design was obtaining the modular house from Apex Homes Inc. After making the first two payments ($30,000 and $15,975,) with the next payment ($30,650) payable upon the issuance of

building permits, the couple was allegedly contacted by Troiano, who told them that they could fast track the construction of their home by paying the amount or a portion of the amount due for the ordering the house. The couple allegedly paid Alt Design $55,000 of the $76,625 due for the ordering the house. Apex never received any payment.

The couple also paid Alt Design $7,150 for a soil test, foundation design, wetland study, boring samples and a survey and again had to pay A-1 Testing $1,500 to release the soil test report because they never received money from Alt Design, thus paying twice for the soil test.

A forensic review of Alt Design’s bank records allegedly revealed that a total of $178,750 was received from the three Breezy Point homeowners and credited to the defendants’ account but no payments were ever made to the subcontractors. It is further alleged, that after the Breezy Point couple living on Hillside Avenue paid $55,000 to Alt Design for the ordering of their modular house, the money was used by the defendants for unrelated matters, including cash withdrawals totaling more than $8,000, payments for unrelated jobs (for electrical contractors at the Fulton Walk property, for example), payments to attorneys, Cablevision, Verizon Wireless, Goodyear Auto and purchases at various liquor stores and restaurants.

The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 15

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Page 16

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Ringing in the New Year Around the Rock

By Katie McFadden

The ball may drop in Times Square, but glasses of champagne will be raised around Rockaway to celebrate the New Year. You don’t need to leave the peninsula to say goodbye to 2015 or ring in 2016. Several local bars and restaurants are hosting events on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, in addition to the popular ocean polar plunge, which may not be so chilly.

New Year’s resolutions will start in 2016, so why not splurge on the last night of the year?

Several spots will be hosting special dinners on New Year’s Eve. Uma’s (92-07 Rockaway Beach Boulevard) will have some special dishes like chicken Kiev and roasted leg of lamb, plus the regular menu and they’ll be holding a champagne toast.

The Community House on Beach 102nd Street will have a five-course dinner including appetizers, Caesar salad, pasta, an entrée and dessert for $65 per person from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. A special children’s menu of chicken fingers, pasta or sliders with fries, plus dessert will be available for $19. Reservations are required for dinner (347-619-9417). Later at night, from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m., there will be open bar and appetizer options, plus a DJ. The domestic bar package including champagne, bottled beer, house wine and shots and an appetizer buffet is $65 per person, or $45 if purchased before Christmas. A premium bar package includes champagne, premium liquor, wine, craft and bottled beer and appetizers for $100 per person or $80 before Christmas.

If you want to spend your New Year’s Eve by the bay, Thai Rock will have a special party which includes all you can eat Thai treats, live music by The Mike Frost Band featuring Lauren Meccia, a champagne toast, New Year’s hats, noisemakers, gifts and surprises for $50 per person if purchased in advance or $75 at the door. Check out www.thairock.us or call 718945-5111 for reservations.

Dalton’s Seaside Grill (10802 Rockaway Beach Boulevard) will be hosting its annual New Year’s Eve Gala from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. For $80 per person, you get a prix-fixe five-course meal, which includes an appetizer, salad, intermezzo, an entrée and dessert, plus an open bar, a DJ, a champagne toast, noisemakers, balloons and more.

Call 718-634-4384 for reservations.

Playland Motel will have a four-course prix-fixe dinner for $50 per person or $75 for the surf and turf option. The meal includes a sparkling wine cocktail, an appetizer, salad, entrees and dessert. Come out for the party, which includes a DJ and a free champagne toast. There is no cover, but there will be drink specials like $25 bottles of New York-made sparkling

wine all night and two open bar options from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The options are $30 for well liquor, Budweiser and Bud Light or the $60 option that includes everything behind the bar.

There are a few options for those looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve on the west end. If you want to ring in the New Year by the beach, the new Riis Park Wildfeast is the place to go.

They are holding a “Cocktails and Caviar” buffet including cuisine from land, farm and sea from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. for $65 per person. A four-hour top shelf open bar (‘til 1 a.m.) package is $35. DJ Italiano Frankie will be playing tunes from 10 p.m. until closing. RSVP is suggested at wildfeastfoods@gmail.com or 718-964-7554.

Even further west, Kennedy’s (406 Bayside) in Breezy Point will have a special New Year’s Dinner menu, followed by a party starting at 9 p.m. with a live band, a champagne toast, hats and noisemakers. Make your reservations by calling 718-945-0202.

Some spots are all about the party. Brendan’s Bar (112-08

Continued on Page 28

Merry Christmas!

May I take this opportunity to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas! Yep, I said itâ&#x20AC;Ś â&#x20AC;&#x153;Merry Christmas!â&#x20AC;? Not Happy Holidays or Happy Winter Solstice.

Not Happy Festivus or Merry Yuletide Season. Not Happy Winter Break or some other politically correct and utterly inane nonsense. My wish for a Merry Christmas is sincere and goes out to everyone without exception, including all those politically correct, safe space seeking, and overly sensitive, special snowflakes out there who get out of bed each day secure in the fantasy that the world and life in general revolves around them.

Christmas is a time that provides all of us an opportunity to reflect upon all that we and our families have to be thankful for. We should all keep in mind Thanksgiving and Christmas 2012 when we celebrated, as best we could, amidst our Sandy ravaged homes with turkey dinners at the American Legion, Santa Claus and toys for children and at the VFW. Our first post-Sandy was perhaps more memorable than any other holidays past, as each of us had the opportunity to realize just how much we had to be thankful for and were encouraged with the knowledge that we were all pulling together to restore our community! I think most of us were keeping â&#x20AC;&#x153;farm

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 hoursâ&#x20AC;? back then, up and about at sunrise working, cleaning up and liberally bleaching anything that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t move in the house and then crawling back into bed at sunset.

Four Christmases have now passed since that wicked witch Sandy visited our fair town. As terrible as the days following Sandyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visit were, there was something good that came of it as well. Together we shared laughter, tears, frustration, elation, sorrow, hope, food, drink, showers, towels, soap, deodorant, clothes, tools, cell phones, gasoline and much more. But most importantly, we all endured the Nightmare Before Christmas of 2012 and came away from that experience with a new sense of hope and community spirit, that only a small, close knit community such as Broad Channel could engender.

Although many of us are still struggling with the stormâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aftermath, today when the sun sets over Jamaica Bay, Broad Channel transforms itself and takes on an almost fairytale ambiance with bright festive lights hung across Cross Bay Boulevard accented by the myriad Christmas lights and decorations which adorn the homes of our town, many of which were uninhabitable not so long ago. People who are out and about greet each other with warm smiles that seem to be reserved solely for this time of year.

The local VFW and American Legion halls are busy with holiday charity events and parties and our Broad Channel Vollies are out and about making sure that Santa Claus visits the children of our town who are, after all, our most precious commodity.

Christmas is truly a special time and should be shared by all of us. If you have a neighbor who is alone, elderly or infirm on this Christmas, you might want to give some thought to playing Santa yourself and drop in to see how they are doing and check to see if they need anything.

Remember, a little smile, a word of cheer, a bit of concern from someone near, a little gift from one held dear, best wishes for the coming year all serve to make a Merry Christmas!

Broad Channel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Why would anyone want to live anywhere else?

Page 17

â&#x20AC;&#x153;So glad I advertise in The Rockaway Times.

Great customer service and the ads work!â&#x20AC;?

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The Rockaway Times

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Page 18

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Witness to a Transportation Tragedy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Part II

By Marty Ingram

This is the final installment of a two-part series on ideas for preventing traffic jams in and around Rockaway.

Two of our local heroes, Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder and New York City Councilman Eric Ulrich, immediately called a meeting of all pertinent parties to resolve some of the problems and to prevent a reoccurrence. NYPD, Gateway, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority were invited. My good friend Dan Ruscillo and I serve as Co-Chairs of Community Board 14â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trans-

portation Committee and we were invited. The elected officials facilitated the meeting and everyone worked in a positive manner to find root causes to prevent a replay.

We found out the traffic light south of the Belt Parkway allowed priority to the pedestrians and bicyclists crossing Flatbush Avenue. The volume of crosswalk traffic caused a near continuous red light to north and south vehicular traffic on Flatbush Avenue.

Many of our motorists came without E-ZPass and the cash toll booths became rapidly jammed. The southern off ramp to Gateway had a recently

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installed traffic light at the base and this predictably caused a back-up on the bridge.

There was an insufficient amount of parking attendants assigned to collect the parking fees. This also contributed to the grid lock. With the lack of hospitals on the peninsula we were lucky that we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have many serious medical situations. Our conversations even discussed the possibility of overflow parking at Floyd Bennett Field with a shuttle connection to the Rockaways. We also discussed the need to have helicopter medevac support for the peninsula. The agencies acted swiftly to correct these problems and fortunately we did not experience a reoccurrence. What about the future?

There are several factors that are coming together that we need to anticipate. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Renaissance of the Rockawaysâ&#x20AC;? is real and it started before Hurricanes Irene and Sandy hit our shores. Jamaica Bay is being restored to its pristine nature and we are getting some trendy restaurants. The recovery work from Hurricane Sandy ironically is giving us a facelift and contributing greatly to the Renaissance. In 2017 our boardwalk will be completed which will be an even greater attraction to the area. We are fortunate that we have the ferry service starting in 2017. It is obvious to me that we need to develop two transportation plans for the area, one for our residents and the other for our visitors or tourists.

Our visitor plan should ensure that the quality of life issues for our residents are not adversely affected. I have checked around for some average numbers and found that cars carry on the average 1.5 people, busses with seats and

standees carry approximately 70 people and a ten-car train can carry approximately 1000 people. The ferry will vary and is dependent upon the amount of life preservers onboard.

Hopefully, they will schedule a vessel that can handle the heavy loads of a summer weekend. The seasonal influx of visitors will be a boom to small businesses and to property values.

Right now we still have a lot of work ahead of us to handle the anticipated crowds. Our roads and sidewalks remain in poor condition and present a hazard to pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. Seasonal visitors to the peninsula should be encouraged to use mass transit. Rockaway has an inadequate supply of parking and mass transit.

The Resident Transportation plan should include a variety of options and should be able to allow our people to travel to their work and school locations in an efficient manner.

We need to support the Queens Rail Line and to take a critical look at the proposed Select Bus System. A sound intermodal transportation plan for residents and visitors is vital to the future success of the Rockaways.

(Martin J. Ingram is the CoChair Transportation Committee, Community Board #14 and a member of the Queens Public Transit Committee).

Got an idea for Smarter Transportation? Send your article to: RickHoran@SmarterStreets.org

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Facts You Probably Don’t Need The world’s largest parking lot is at the Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport. The number of spaces is 42,000. In 1977, Argentina sent a pregnant mother to Antarctica in an effort to claim a portion of the continent. The boy became the first human known to be born in Antarctica. The most dangerous job in America is being President.

Over 9 percent have been killed in office. The job with the next highest on-the-job death rate is loggers.

Forest growth in the US has exceeded harvest since the 1940s, and the US has more trees now than at any time in the past 100 years.

An exo-planet known as J1407 is a planet with a ring system so huge that it is 200x larger than Saturn’s. If it took the place of Saturn in our solar system, its rings would be brighter and more prominent than the moon in the Earth’s sky.

The Guinness Book of Records recognizes the presidential election of 1927 in Liberia as the most fraudulent election reported in history. Although there were only 15,000 registered voters in Liberia at the time, Charles D.B. King received 234,000 votes and won.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

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The Rockaway Times

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

There’s been lots of complaints about noise and beach access designs from the reconstruction of the Rockaway boardwalk. Of course every neighborhood within earshot will hear and feel the banging of the pile driving as the process slowly drags on. As slow as it seems to be going and as annoying the whole process is, I am amazed that in just six short months we will all be able once again run, walk or bike the entire six-plus mile stretch which makes up the Rockaway boardwalk.

Just think about how awesome it will be to jump on a bike at any beach on the boardwalk and ride to either end to Beach 9th or Beach 126th without ever leaving the boardwalk.

Prior to the devastation to our old boardwalk, I always wondered why, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey has always held the distinction of the longest continuous boardwalk in the world. The distinction

Page 21

has always confused me, especially when ours was over six miles and Atlantic City’s comes in at just 4 1/2 miles.

I guess the Rockaway boardwalk never had the distinction of worlds longest due to the fact that between Beach 9th and 21st has always been a sand level concrete promenade.

Similarly the wood boardwalk from Beach 109th to 126th was also called a promenade as it was nearly at sand level as well.

In 2017 we will have a fully completed continuous boardwalk that will be close to 6 1/2 miles long with 5 1/2 miles of it at the same height and exact same decking. Even though it will be made of concrete, I believe it’s time to stop the insanity of Atlantic City having the Guinness Book Of World Records distinction of having the longest boardwalk in the world and the Rockaway peninsula should take its rightful place as having the world’s longest boardwalk.

The Rockaway boardwalk’s time has come!

Holy Number 2

This little mishap took place last Thursday on Cross Bay Blvd as a Call-A-Head truck found itself on top of a barrier.

We were going to have a cap-

tion contest but we knew readers couldn’t keep it clean. The slogan on the side of the truck: We’re Number 1 at Picking up Number 2. We’ll leave it at that.

Page 22

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

The Real Diehl Gift Ideas From A Bad Santa

By MJ Diehl

CRAP GIFTS. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all given and received them. Rockawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garage sales thrive on this junk. And, no matter what we tell ourselves, when it comes to gifts, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not always the thought that countsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;especially when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an afterthought. The road to hell may be paved with good intentions, but the holidays are not. Strategic gifting is an art form, and mastering it gets you the ultimate gift in returnâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an authentic thankyou smile to warm your heart better than a hot tub of hot chocolate. So, whether your shopping list is lagging, or you simply need a little help cracking the code of the crap gifts youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received, hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a little insight into the most common present pitfalls: THE HATE GIFT: If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

got the Christmas Balls to do it, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that gift you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to give, to that person you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re obligated, anyway. Sample recipients include: the teacher who made your kid sit on the bench all year; the drunk uncle who confuses your rose bushes for a urinal; your jerk-boss who spends 100k for a month of sailing in the Caribbean, but â&#x20AC;&#x153;canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford a one-percent raise in these difficult economic timesâ&#x20AC;?. This â&#x20AC;&#x153;Handle with Careâ&#x20AC;? gift takes strategy and diplomacy worthy of a world leader. However, if you actually want to keep the relationship going, give a classy gift-card. If not, I suggest the Duane Reade sale display, Family Dollar Store, or a very insightful â&#x20AC;&#x153;For Your Own Good Giftâ&#x20AC;? (see below) THE â&#x20AC;&#x153;FOR YOUR OWN GOODâ&#x20AC;? GIFT: This gift is

goodâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in theory. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thoughtful. It shows youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re aware of the recipientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;issuesâ&#x20AC;?. But, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what tissues are made forâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; not the holidays. If your spouse needs to lose a few, I hope you bought her a NutriBullet or Fitbit HR, rather than a Weight Watcherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Membership. One gift says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I support your newfound, healthy lifestyle choicesâ&#x20AC;?. The other says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re making a dent in the couch that competes with the Grand Canyonâ&#x20AC;?. (See â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good intentionsâ&#x20AC;? clichĂŠ above).

THE RE-GIFT: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not opposed to passing on a gift you had no use for. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efficient and eco-friendly. For example, I have well-intentioned, kid-less friends and semi-senile relatives, that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize that children grow, and come in â&#x20AC;&#x153;boy and girl stylesâ&#x20AC;?.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still getting boy-themed onesies for my nine-year-old

daughter. Rules of the re-gift: age appropriate, no sweat or under-arm stains, and the recipient can not have given you the gift-- at least in the past two years.

THE GIFT CARD GIFT: When you care enough to shop the very least. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re 40 and getting carded at a bar, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretty cool. But, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re 40 and getting carded as a gift, not so much. Classy gift cards are the exception; especially for people you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know intimately, such as distant relatives and colleagues you actually like.

Remember, whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re giving or receiving, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better to look a gift horse in the mouth than the other way around. Happy holidays!

(Rockaway native, MJ Diehl is an acclaimed designer, writer and artist. For more on her work: www.HouseofDiehl.com).

Uncle Louie Gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of

%$ * + !) "$# ' ( % &(# â&#x20AC;Ś.and of course our premium

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 23

Merry Christmas!

NEW EXCLUSIVE HIDDEN GEM

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Call Susan 347-260-3891 to set up p appointment. pp $279K

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Summer parking. Pay electric & cooking gas. $1700 Arverne By The Sea – units available, mint, pay all utilities $1800-$2200 120th Open floor plan, deck, LOFT , pets ok, parking, W/D, pay all utilities. PET OK, $1700. $1700 Call Susan 347 260 3891 121st large Loft style, 2 baths, small terrace, year round parking, W/D, PET OK, $2150 Call Susan 347 260 3891

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Must have good credit.

Call Susan 347 260 3891 $2500

Page 24

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

B R O O K LY N M E M B E R

4 Year Member

Lic. Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson • Nia Casilla • Gail Opromalla Lic. RE Agents: Melissa Carrington • Ariana David • Colleen Brady • Alla Pankevich • Jenny Dantone

417 Beach 129th St • (718) 634-3134 • Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

It’s a Sellers Market!

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Give us a call today, we can help you get started! $699,000 Come see this great house and toast to the New Year! $899,000 NEPONSIT

It’s a Double lot 120’ x 100’T C DOUBLE R ADOWN on T this amazing home N hands down, COand R you win the biggest and most desirable DE N property on the market U today! $1,975,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Move In Condition T C WATERFRONT 3BR, RA T 1.5N Bath home with COamazing views of the R Manhattan skyline from E your Kitchen, LR, DR D and Master BR. Private UN Driveway $525,000

BROAD CHANNEL

New To Market!

CT LovelyR A home with bay has 3BR N T2views baths. Close to COand public transportation, R the beach of the DE N Rockaway shoreline.

U $375,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

New Construction Condo’s T ACUnits At Only R Two T This Price!

NBR, 2 bath,Beautiful middle CO2unit with HW floors, R E laundry in unit, D terrace and parking UN inc. $299,000

NEPONSIT Beautiful Tree Lined BlockT AC Victorian ClassicR4BR T Gem! Updated with Nered ceilings, inlaid COcoff H/W floors, crown E R moldings, gourmet D kitchen and in-ground UN pool! $1,125,000

ARVERNE

Steps From Surfer BeachT C Spacious R A3BR 2 bath T upper with private N and driveway COgarage R parking plus your E own backyard.

Lower D unit is a 2BR 1 bath.

UN $499,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New Construction T C Fabulous R A 2 BR, 2 T bath, top floor unit N HW floors, ss COwith appliances, laundry R E in unit, private terrace D and parking available.

UN $369,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

New Construction Condo’s T ACUnits At Only R Two T This Price!

NBR, 2 bath,Beautiful middle CO2unit with HW floors, R E laundry in unit, D terrace and parking UN inc. $299,000

BELLE HARBOR Mother/Daughter - 60’ x 100’T Celd stone Beautiful R Afihome, T and brick LR, N 3BR’s, 3 brand CODR, new baths and E R finished bsmt. Front D porch plus detached UN garage. $850,000

ROCKAWAY BEACH

Spectacular Ocean ViewsT C STUNNING R A ocean T views N from 2 balconies.

3BR, 2 COContemporary R bath condo with W/D E included and gorgeous D finishes throughout.

UN $495,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New Construction T C Fabulous R A 2 BR, 2 T bath, top floor unit N HW floors, ss COwith appliances, laundry R E in unit, private terrace D and parking available.

UN $369,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Oceanfront Apartment T C Completely R Aand stylishly T renovated N with gorgeous and tall cabinets, COkitchen granite counters, R E backsplash and gleaming D hardwood floors.

UN $225,000

BRAND NEW EXCLUSIVE

Gorgeous 40’ x 100’ - Legal 2 Family T AinCto this 2BR Move right R over open layout N T2BRfireplace and COwith R beautiful 1 BR in law E suite in the basement D with private entrance.

UN $799,000

ARVERNE

Solid Brick 40’x100’ T C Impressive R A all Brick T 2,400 ft. legal two N sqhome with a COfamily R 3BR apartment over a E 3BR. Long private drive D and separate utilities.

UN $429,000

ROCKAWAY BEACH Brand New Exclusive T C Townhouse R A style with 2 T BR,N finished basement, great large COlaundry, backyard, low taxes R and private drive Don’t DE delay, own for the price UN of renting! $325,000 ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New Oceanfront Exclusive T ACA DEAL! STEALROF Fab Oceanfront!

N T1BRmaintenance COLow and excellent E R fees building financials.

D Parking available.

UN $199,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Huge All Brick Two Family T ACget it, this Come R and T brick beauty won’t last N 4BR, 1.5 bath, COlong.

R terrace over a 3BR, 1.5 E bath, front patio and D large bsmt. Parking for UN two cars. $579,000

ROCKAWAY BEACH Jamaica Bay Views!

3BR duplex apartment L D a lovely 1BR sitsOover S apartment. New Trex S T Deck in Yard and PVC J U fence. New Roof, siding, plumbing and Washer/ Dryer. $425,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New Construction T C Fabulous R A 2 BR, 2 T bath, unit N HWmiddle floors, ss COwith appliances, laundry R in unit, private terrace DE N and parking available.

U $299,990

BROAD CHANNEL

Adorable Bungalow T C Spacious R Aliving room, T newly renovated N 2BR’s and CObathroom, eat in kitchen.

E R an Private fenced in yard D with garage. Motivated UN Seller! $199,000

Highest sales volume in Rockaway...Visit our office and see what we do that's different!

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 25

B R O O K LY N M E M B E R

4 Year Member

Lic. Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson • Nia Casilla • Gail Opromalla Lic. RE Agents: Melissa Carrington • Ariana David • Colleen Brady • Alla Pankevich • Jenny Dantone

417 Beach 129th St • (718) 634-3134 • Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

Our Seller Services • • • • • • • •

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Prompt, knowledgeable response to all inquiries Full time office staffed by 9 licensed agents Explanation of the steps involved in the home buying process Guidance with pre-qualification process and mortgage application Listen to buyers needs and present appropriate properties to view Market analysis of buyer’s selection of properties Representation during negotiation, inspection and beyond Provide a list of attorneys, home inspectors and contractors

     Happy Holidays & Season's Greetings      UPPER BELLE HARBOR Oceanfront Land For Sale Imagine waking up to this fabulous Belle Harbor ocean view every morning, well this dream view can be a reality! Just give us a call. $1,850,000

ROCKAWAY PARK Unique 100’ x 100’ Zoned R4A, C of O reads, Medical offices, Doctor and Dentist suite, one dwelling 4 BR unit and 6 off street parking spaces. Parking for at least 12. $899,000

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This turn key 2BR 1 bath bungalow on a double lot will wow you! Perfect for a family just starting out or looking to downsize. $390,000

BROAD CHANNEL

Brand New Exclusive T C Renovated R A 2BR with T amazing sunsets and N of Manhattan.

COviews new walkway, E R Brand siding, roof, kitchen, D BR, floors, electric and UN plumbing. $375,000

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Gorgeous 60’x100’ corner property with patio, private parking and garage. $1,125,000

BELLE HARBOR Turn Key Gorgeous!

D T Emaintained Impeccably P 4BR home. Italian C Ebrick floors and open ACtile R oak staircase. Large EIK with granite counters FE F and private parking.

O $859,000

NEPONSIT One Block To Beach Newly renovated 3 BR, 2 bath home with HW floors, full finished basement, front porch, spacious yard, garage and private driveway. $749,000

ROCKAWAY BEACH Spectacular Ocean Views D T E ocean STUNNING P views C E from 2 balconies.

3BR, 2 ACContemporary R bath condo with W/D E included and gorgeous F finishes throughout.

OF $499,000

ROCKAWAY BEACH Legal 2 Family Charming 2BR, 1 bath with a front and back deck over 2BR, 1 bath. Centrally located between the most popular restaurants. $399,000

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BROAD CHANNEL Brand New Construction Beautiful 2BR/1.5 bath home. Quartz counter tops and Hand Made Cabinets, HW thru and CAC! Large backyard. $399,000

BRAND NEW EXCLUSIVE Surfer’s Delight E D Block TBeach Perfect PCondo E 2BR Steps C Surfer Beach In ACFrom R The New Community E Of Water’s Edge F At Arverne By The OF

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Sea.

$239,000

Page 26

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Spotted: Rocking The Rockaway Times Tee Our first Word Search winner and legendary typo catcher, Helen V. Johnson, came by The Rockaway Times booth looking very stylish in her Rockaway Times tee. We just had to take a picture! And in the background Santa has a t-shirt under his red coat!

CT

TRA N O C IN

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 27

Cashless Bridge Tolls Are Coming – At A Price

By Katie McFadden

Cashless tolls are coming to Rockaway’s bridges. On December 17, AM New York reported that no cash will be accepted at the Marine Parkway and Cross Bay Bridges starting in the second half of 2016.

The Rockaway Times reached out to the MTA for further detail on the program. A spokeswoman said that there is no set timeline for when a cashless toll system will be implemented, but confirmed that Rockaway’s bridges will be the next crossings to see the program that is already established on the Henry Hudson Bridge.

The AM New York report claimed that a spokesperson said the plan would be adopted after a public comment period ends in April. A spokesperson told the Rockaway Times that there is no set date, but more information would become available at a later

You won’t see that CASH lane much longer time and referred us to past MTA information regarding how the plan works on the Henry Hudson crossing. The MTA is planning to eventually establish cashless or all-electronic tolling systems on all of its crossings. “This is the

future for all of the MTA bridges.

We’re bringing it in, a little bit at a time and we’re testing it out in the Rockaways next,” the MTA spokeswoman, Amanda said.

The Henry Hudson pilot began in January 2011. The first phase

was to eliminate gates from all of the E-ZPass lanes on the bridge so E-ZPass users didn’t have to wait for a gate to go up. Cash was still collected at the cash lanes during the first phase, which proved suc-

Continued on Page 36

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H4922_AWNY_MAR16_4002 File & Use 10042015

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Beach 92nd Street) started a tradition of Purple Day, in honor of their employee, Emily Hutton, who passed away in August 2014. Purple was Hutton’s favorite color, so guests are encouraged to wear it that day. A portion from the proceeds will go to the St. Camillus Special Olympics in Emily’s honor. Last year, the Bungalow Bar raised $1,100. The 2nd Annual Purple Day kicks off at 12 p.m. There will be a brunch and lunch menu available and a DJ. To show their support for the NYPD, Jameson’s Pub (421 Beach 129th Street) will be hosting Blue Day. There will be food and music and discounts will be available to those with an NYPD ID. A portion of the proceeds goes to the NYPD Widows’ and Children’s’ Fund.

If you’re just looking for some good music on New Year’s Day, popular band Wine With Sue is playing at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club (533 Beach 126th Street) at 4 p.m. The event is free and tickets aren’t required. If you want to skip the party scene, you can ring in the New Year with a beach walk.

Join Mickey Maxwell Cohen and Don Riepe on a two mile hike around the beach and woods, starting in Fort Tilden at 11 a.m. Look for Saw-whet and Snowy Owls and warm up with refreshments after. Call 732-291-0055 for info.

If you’re one of those thrill seekers, the annual New Year’s Day ocean plunge is expected to take place at various locations along the beach. One of the biggest events is Beach 145th Street, with Beach 127th being a close second. These plunges take place around noon. It’s too early to predict the weather for New Year’s Day, but current forecasts say the air temperature will be in the high 40’s, with the water temp about the same.

Over Years

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Rockaway Beach Boulevard) has a great New Year’s Eve deal of $25 per person for beer, wine, soda and rack drinks, plus a champagne toast, party favors and a DJ from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Sayra’s Wine Bar (91-11 Rockaway Beach Boulevard) is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve Masquerade Party starting at 6 p.m., with half-off champagne bottles and glasses, for those wearing a mask.

If you’re saving your celebration for New Year’s Day, the 1st is all about colors and brunch.

The Wharf started a tradition more than 30 years ago with Red Day. In its 36th year, those who wear red to the bayside bar and restaurant will receive half-price drinks. Other bars have caught on to the tradition and will be holding their own color days. Brendan’s Bar will celebrate Green Day and those who wear green will get drinks at happy hour prices.

There will also be a DJ from 4 to 8 p.m. at Brendan’s. Last year, the Bungalow Bar (377

Some places will have special New Year’s Day brunch special and all-day deals. Riis Park Wildfeast brunch starts at 11 a.m. Playland Motel will have all day 2-for-1 brunch cocktails and $25 bottles of NY sparkling wine, as well as brunch specials like make-your-own lobster tacos, filet mignon and eggs and lobster benedict. The Community House will have brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., which includes $5 bloody Marys, Mimosas and screwdrivers.

From 3 p.m to 6 p.m., there will be live music by The Andy Mac Band, which plays today’s hits and Irish music. There will be a free appetizer buffet from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. and a DJ to close out the night. Although more of a bar, there will be a brunch buffet at Healy’s Pub (108-07 Rockaway Beach Dr) and halfprice drinks until 6 p.m. Some other popular brunch spots are Pico and Dalton’s and many other bars and restaurants may have specials for New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, but they were not confirmed by press time.

S

RINGING Continued from Page 16

The Rockaway Times

60

ty

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 29

DISHING THE DIRT The Scary Truth About Food My inspiration for this week’s topic came from an NPR article I read a few days ago titled, “How the Food Industry Helps Engineer Our Cravings.” Now is the perfect time for this discussion because the end of the year is approaching and we are beginning to think of how we can better ourselves for 2016.

Most people will choose to lose weight or exercise more. Ultimately that leads to one goal, which is to live a healthier lifestyle. But why is it that so many of us will fail to reach our goals and wind up making the same resolutions year after year? Understanding what food does to us, and the role food companies play in our consumption, will help us to create a plan that will make us more successful.

and fat) that creates the most amount of craving for more.

Google “bliss point” and you will be shocked at how much research has gone into making us fat. If you are apprehensive at all about Big Brother controlling us, this should be setting off alarms for you. While you are consuming that bag of Doritos, someone is in a lab trying to figure out how to get you to eat more of them. Food just doesn’t satisfy us anymore. After a snack we are still hungry and looking for something else to munch on.

You may be thinking, so I’ll just reduce my intake of junk food then. Unfortunately, the food companies weren’t satisfied with junk food and created bliss points for foods like breads and dairy. These days, you can’t find any items in the supermarket aisles without sugar and salt added. Have you

ever looked at a yogurt label?

Many of them have more sugar than cookies. I don’t know about you, but if I were to eat badly, I’d rather eat cookies than yogurt.

In order to achieve our health goals, we must attempt to eat as many whole foods as possible. Vegetables and fruits should take up most of our diets. You won’t ever find a diet that can argue this. When eating processed foods, remember that they are not all created equal. If you want to eat peanut butter then read the label. The ingredients should be ground peanuts and that’s it. Read labels and try not to eat foods with more than five ingredients, especially if they contain ingredients you don’t recognize. Save your sugar allotment for a delicious homemade apple pie. It will taste that much better.

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By Antoinette DeMetropolis

Historically, when people consumed mostly whole foods, consumption was limited. You bought enough to satisfy your family and no matter how good the food was you weren’t going to increase your purchase.

Food companies were forced to compete with each other, fighting for the biggest piece of that pie. But then one day they realized they could actually increase the size of the pie.

Welcome obesity. They hired brilliant scientists to study our habits and engineer products that caused us to become addicted, craving more even if that negatively impacted our health.

Sound familiar? It’s the same strategy used by cigarette companies years ago.

The industry even has a name for this, the bliss point, which is the perfect combination of ingredients (usually sugar, salt

Page 30

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Rockaway Neighborhoods: Roxbury This is the last of a series of articles profiling Rockaway neighborhoods. We’ve talked to residents and business owners about their little slice of the peninsula.

This week is Roxbury.

Roxbury was mostly barren on a rainy but warm Tuesday in December. Some people were walking their dogs along the perennially sandy streets while delivery men made last-minute Christmas drop-offs. Bereft of any vehicles, the streets of the quaint neighborhood were se-

rene, and if not for the bay on the north side the community looked like it could be taken right out the Saturday Evening Post.

Roxbury is directly north of Fort Tilden and is in fact an inholding of the Gateway National Recreation Center, meaning it is privately-owned land within the boundaries of a national park. As part of the Breezy Point Cooperative, Roxbury is a private community with its own security and gates at the entrance, a singular sanitation service, and a board of directors that makes rules and regulations for the area. In order to move in to the community prospective residents must first be recommended by three current members of the co-op and then approved by the Board of Directors. While residents own their homes, the cooperative owns the entirety of the area and residents hold the shares in the co-op. The co-op was founded in 1960, but like its sister neighborhood, Roxbury has a long history as a summer getaway spot for

mostly Irish Catholic families.

Many of the homes in Roxbury still retain the classic bungalow look, but even more now look like the two- and three-story homes found elsewhere on the peninsula. Roxbury has a volunteer fire department and is served by St. Genevieve Roman Catholic Church. There’s a baseball field, basketball court, and a playground on the west end of the area. Roxbury eschews the numbered grid found in most

Continued on Page 41

Sanja anjaay ay S. S. Kirtan irtan ane, nee, MD, MD, FACC, C, FCCP FC CCP is committed mitted to superior su cardiacc care with th nnewl eew wly eex wl expannndded expa ed and con conve nvenient nie office hours. hours

Util tilizin zing the extensive resourc es urces of North Shore-LIJ Health System, stem, Dr.. K D Kirtane provides person pe sonalized, preventive cardiovascularr care car in his Rockaway Park offi hi ffic ce and at Long Island Jewish Med Medical Center.

In addition, Dr. Kirtan ane is afffiliated with South Nassa assau Communities Hosp pita pi ta and St. JJoh tal ohn’s Episcopal Hosp spital where he was “Physician cian of the Year” 2009.

Dr. Kirtane D Ki Kir is cu urre rrently accepting new ew patients.

NSLIJDoc ocs.com

Learn rn more m about Dr. Sanjay S. Kirtane and D North Shore-LIJ Medical Group.

Call now for an appointme pointment: (718) 318-1029 029 North rth Shore-LIJ Medical ical Group Sanjay S.. Kirtane, Sanja Kirtane MD, FACC, C FC FCCP 114 14 -12 1 Beach Channel Drive, Suite 7 Rockaway Park, New York 11694 Most insurance plans accepted Translation services available Handicapped accessibility

01809RT T

Dr. Dr r Kirtane is wide w dely recognized for hiss ex expertise rtise and is board certified in cardiovasc ascula ular disease, nuclear car cardiolog ology and internal medicine.

He has re recei eived numerous awards, ard inc including New York Super Doctors 2013–2 –201 015 and Castle Connolly nol To Top Doctor 2002–2015.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 31

Women of Rockaway: Liz Smith-Breslin and Jeanne Jamin of The Blue Bungalow

By Katie McFadden

Who runs the peninsula? Women. A large number of local businesses and organizations are owned and operated by females or female co-owners. And they deserve recognition. As part of an ongoing series, the Rockaway Times is profiling local female entrepreneurs each week. This week is Liz Smith-Breslin and Jeanne Jamin, owners of The Blue Bungalow.

Growing up in the area, Liz Smith-Breslin and Jeanne Jamin always drew inspiration from the beach. Both Smith-Breslin, of Belle Harbor, and Jamin, of Breezy Point, were also born with creative sides and in 2007 the local ladies came together to bring Rockaway The Blue Bungalow gift shop, which features beachy chic items, most of which are handmade by the ladies themselves.

“I always used to go out to the Hamptons and I loved the shops out there,” Jamin said. “I was making things like beach writings out of my home for about a year before,” Smith-Breslin said. “It was always a dream to open a store.

With both of us being so creative, we wanted to make a place where people didn’t have to leave the peninsula to get a one-of-a-kind gift. In 2007 we chatted about it and went looking for a space.”

The ladies first opened a shop on Beach 113th and Rockaway Beach Boulevard, where rent was a bit more affordable for a startup. In 2009, The Blue Bungalow moved to its current home at 165 Beach 116th Street. At the shop, you’ll find unique beach-inspired items like starfish ornaments, jewelry, wine glasses, candles, flags made out of shells, picture frames and more. Jamin’s specialty is painted beach signs and driftwood work, while Smith-Breslin’s personalized beach writings and flag photo are also a big hit. Smith-Breslin’s major projects were inspired after losing close loved ones. “I started beach writings after my brother died in 1999. I did one with his name in a thank you card and it took off. It’s probably one of our best sellers. After 9/11, I

Jeanne(left) and Liz of The Blue Bungalow

took a photo of a flag on a jetty in memory of my boyfriend, Mike, who died on 9/11,” Smith-Breslin said. Mike Andrews worked for Cantor Fitzgerald. He was also Jamin’s brother. “I’m no stranger to people dying. There have been a few deaths in my life but it motivates my heart and inspires me,” Smith-Breslin said.

The Blue Bungalow served as a career change for both women. Previously, Jamin was doing marketing and promotions for Billboard Magazine. “I worked there part time while I was raising my daughters, but I wanted to go out on my own,” Jamin said. She gained experience as a business owner while owning Carvel on Beach 116th Street. “An opportunity came up at Carvel and I took it, so I could be close to home with my kids,” Jamin said. She owned Carvel for about 10 years, until July 2014. Smith-Breslin previously worked in education. “I was a teacher for eight years and a guidance counselor for seven, so 15 altogether. I had the pleasure of teaching Nicki Minaj,” she said.

Smith-Breslin says she left teaching after marrying Kevin Breslin and having her son, Quinn. “I left because I was an older mom at 40,” she said, but it wasn’t long before she started her new venture. “I think we started talking about the store when Quinn was just three months old,” Jamin said. “I could never just be home.

When Jeanne and I discussed it, I thought this was a good idea,”

Smith-Breslin said. With Jamin’s experience owning Carvel, she knew what they would be getting into. “I wasn’t afraid to go into business. I knew a lot of hard work was involved,” Jamin said.

With the exception of some local sales associates, Jamin and Smith-Breslin run the store on their own. “From traveling and getting furniture from secondhand places,” Jamin said, “to making everything, gluing, ribboning, pricing, stickering,” Smith-Breslin added, “the two of us do it on our own.” “It’s always been that way,” Jamin said. They may not always be at the store themselves, but Smith-Breslin and Jamin are always working. “We do our own social media, we make our items, we run the business. I don’t think people realize what happens behind the scenes with making everything and operations,” Smith-Breslin said.

However, when the ladies are at the store, they make sure everyone is treated like family and they provide a personalized experience. “A lot of people know us and we know them,” Smith-Breslin said. “When people walk in, we’ll ask how their parents or kids are doing,” Jamin said. “We not only take care of our customers, but we connect with them.”

The ladies try their best to accommodate customer requests.

“Some guy came in recently and he had a bag of shells that meant something to his fiancé and said, ‘What can you do with this?’ I

took the shells and went down to the beach and created a heart with the shells and wrote their names and wedding date inside.

It’s that personal touch that you can’t get elsewhere. I was able to make something that meant a lot to him,” Smith-Breslin said. “We truly appreciate the people who come in and support us throughout the years. We couldn’t do it without them,” Smith-Breslin added. As a bonus, the ladies offer daily discounts to their customers, so no one ever pays full price on items.

Besides connecting with their customers, the ladies do what they can to connect with the community. “We’re very community based. We try to connect with local artists and sell their stuff.

This year we’ve also done a lot of cross promoting. For instance, we had shopping pop-ups with new stores like Lola Star and Zingara Vintage at Thai Rock and the Community House to try to connect newer businesses with older ones and promote them. We also hold community events and donate to fundraisers. Rockaway is one of those places where if you ever need help, everyone comes together,” Smith-Breslin said.

Smith-Breslin and Jamin have been successful, but are always improving. “I love creating new products and keeping my mind creative. It’s very refreshing to come up with something new,” Smith-Breslin said. The ladies are also working on improvements to their website and wholesale line so that other stores can carry their items. They expect to launch these improvements in January.

Many of the items you’ll find at Blue Bungalow include positive, inspirational sayings, like “Love Life,” which the ladies stick by.

“Life is stressful. We’re not saving lives here, so you can’t get too stressed. We’re just creating an environment that’s nice and visually appealing, where you can buy something nice for yourself or as a gift.”

The Blue Bungalow is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. For more information check out www.thebluebungalow.com.

Page 32

LOCAL CHURCHES Continued from Page 13 Christmas Eve masses are now at 4:00, 6:00, and at 10:00 p.m. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to appeal to all of the ages.

The childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choir will sing at 4:00, an adult folk group leads singing at 6:00, and the traditonal choir sings at 10:00.â&#x20AC;? The church will eschew the typical midnight mass in favor of the 10 p.m. service. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There was no interest in staying up until midnight. People in Rockaway waned something a little bit earlier,â&#x20AC;? Monsignor Bracken explained.

At the joint parish of St. Camillus-St. Virgilius in Rockaway and Broad Channel the season has been underway for weeks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re finishing up [Tuesday] with distribution of food and toys early enough so that family can put them under the trees,â&#x20AC;? Father Richard J. Ahlemeyer said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We contact the parents to see what toys they need. We then try to distribute them in time for the holiday.â&#x20AC;? The previous night students at the school took part in their annual Christmas concert. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The school had a Christmas play on Monday night that all of the

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 grades participated in,â&#x20AC;? Father Ahlemeyer said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone from the universal pre-K to the eighth graders did something. The band played and each grade did a song or some sort of a skit.â&#x20AC;? St. Virgilius will hold Christmas Eve mass at 4 p.m. with the adult choir and a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pageant, and later at St. Camillus Church mass will be held at 5:30 p.m. Similar to St. Francis a 12:00 a.m. mass isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feasible for the parishioners at the church. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It just doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fly to have a midnight mass here,â&#x20AC;?

Father Ahlemeyer said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too tough for the elderly who worship here.â&#x20AC;?

Rockaway has certainly been firmly on the path of rebounding from the damage Hurricane Sandy incurred just before the holiday season in 2012, but things still arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t completely back from where they once were. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year turned into a good year for business, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still way off for normal Christmases,â&#x20AC;?

John Moroney of the Mini-Mall said. For over 35 years his bike repair and plant shop has turned into a hub for Christmas trees, wreaths, and accessories around

this time of year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nobody buys bikes until around St. Paddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day at least. People donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize how seasonal it really is in Rockaway. For Christmas I try to guesstimate whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to sell, and if I guess correctly then I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have anything left over.â&#x20AC;?

Maroney said he is grateful for his loyal customer base this time of year and is hopeful business will rebound to pre-storm levels. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Until this point nobody was really doing much of anything.

When the boardwalk comes back we have to hope business will come back too,â&#x20AC;? he said.

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The Rockaway Times

Despite the lingering struggles from Sandy, Christmas should serve as a reminder of what is positive in the community, Monsignor Bracken said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about putting the past behind us and looking to the future. Rockaway has gone through so much that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enough looking back. Christians should be people of joy, not of sadness. Pope Francis reminded us of that at a recent talk in Rome. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a big part of what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to do at St. Francis.

You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t curse the darkness.

We are trying to light a beacon of light this time of year.â&#x20AC;?

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2015

The Rockaway Times

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Page 33

The Rockaway Times

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Page 34

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Make an Old Table Look New

By Artie Wallace

Don’t throw out that old table because it’s starting to show it’s age and wear. Turn it into something your friends will envy. Giving an old table a new look can be a lot easier than you would think. Follow these simple steps and that old table will look like new.

Start off by painting the legs and supporting edges using either Rust-Oleum or a marine paint. Then apply a clear coat using polyurethane. Caution: If you use a lacquer or shellac, be sure to apply thin, even coats and allow proper drying time between coats.

For the top you can buy oak planks. Most major stores will cut them all to the same size for you. Apply the planks to the top of the table first using wood glue.

Once everything is in place, apply a straight line of finishing nails, one-inch finishing nails should work fine. Apply

two nails per board in a row across the outer edges (about 3” in from the edge), Then one row down the middle. You can draw a light line with a pencil to keep your nails in a straight line.

Using a sandable wood fill, fill all the seams or cracks between the wood planks. For a nice added touch you can sand the edges using a piece of 80 grit sandpaper.

To finish the top, use any stain and clear coat in one.

Apply multiple coats until you get the desired color. Be sure to allow proper drying time between coats. Once you achieve the color you like apply two to three clear coats to protect the surface. Now that old table you were ready to throw out has a whole new look and is ready to use.

Tell me what you would like to read about in future DIYer articles, email me at rocktimesdiy@gmail.com.

The Rockaway Times

This Week in History DECEMBER 24 Ryan Atwood was born.

Elizabeth Gardner was born.

1818 - “Silent Night” was composed by Franz Joseph Gruber.

1943 - Gen. Dwight Eisenhower was appointed Supreme Commander of Allied Forces

by President Franklin Roosevelt.

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.

DECEMBER 25 Jesus of Nazareth was born.

1776 - George Washington crossed the Delaware River and DECEMBER 29 Chris Boyle was born. surprised the Hessians.

James Hasset was born.

DECEMBER 26 1845 - Texas became the 28th Brian Boyle was born. state in the United States.

Nicole Frontera was born 1851 - The first Young Men’s Jessica Lepore was born.

Christian Association (YMCA) 2004 - In the Indian Ocean, a opened in Boston.

9.0 magnitude earthquake, the largest in 40 years, triggered a DECEMBER 30 tsunami that ultimately killed Pat McVeigh was born!

Katie French was born. more than 220,000 people.

1940 - California’s first freeway DECEMBER 27 1932 -Radio City Music Hall in opened.

1993 - Israel and the Vatican New York City opened. signed an agreement of mutu2001 - The U.S. announced al recognition to put an end to plans to hold Taliban and Jewish-Christian hostilities.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken

By Sharon Feldman

8 oz sliced mushrooms 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

Ingredients: Instructions: 1/4 cup Italian salad dressing 1. Mix together dressing, bal3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar samic vinegar and honey in 2 Tbsp honey a measuring cup.

1 lb chicken breast tenderloins 2. Heat 1 Tbsp of the oil and 3. Remove the vegetables from 2 Tbsp olive oil the pan, add the remaining sauté the mushrooms for ½ tsp Kosher salt and pinch oil and the chicken tenders.

4 minutes until they have freshly ground black pepper, to Sprinkle with salt and pepstarted to brown, then add taste per and sauté until brown the green beans and cook 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed on each side. for another 4 minutes or of tough ends, chopped into until the green beans are 4. Remove from the pan. Add 2-inch pieces or sugar snap in the sauce and stir for a crisp-tender. peas

couple minutes until thickened into a glaze consistency. Add the chicken, green beans, and mushrooms back into the pan and add the tomatoes. Stir to coat everything evenly with the sauce.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

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Page 36

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Shine Your Light

CASHLESS BRIDGE Continued from Page 27 cessful, as there was a 25 percent increase in the number of vehicles that passed through during peak hours. The second phase, which launched in November 2012, is when the Henry Hudson became completely cashless. This phase included eliminating gates from all lanes, so that no cars would have to stop at the toll crossing and any car could use any lane. Those with an E-ZPass continue to use it as normal and those without an E-ZPass, or those that would typically pay cash at a booth, are instead sent a bill in the mail. Photographs are taken of these cars’ license plates and the registered driver receives the bill of the current cash value of the crossing.

The idea behind cashless tolling was to allow traffic to move more smoothly. The long lines for the cash lanes on Rockaway’s bridges on hot summer days show that a fix is needed, but elimination of cash lanes may catch some beachgoers by surprise, especially when they receive an $8 bill for entering and leaving the peninsula, with the current price for both bridges being $4. It’s $2.08 for E-ZPass users and $1.36 for residents with E-ZPass.

It has also been found that many motorists simply don’t pay the bills that are mailed out. In the first year of the pilot program on the Henry Hudson Bridge, 30 percent of drivers never paid their bills within the 30 days that they had to pay it. The MTA sent out violations, tacking on a $5 late fee to the bill, but most still didn’t pay within 60 days. The MTA then sent out more violations, upping the fine to $50, but the MTA can’t collect.

The NY DMV and Governor Andrew Cuomo recently proposed harsher punishment for toll evaders. A proposal was made to suspend the registration of drivers who fail to pay five tolls, fees, and other charges resulting from violations on different days, within a period of 18 months. Persistent violators will have to pay the toll or have the charges dismissed in order to avoid registration suspension. The proposal is undergoing a public comment period which is set to end on January 4 and the regulation is expected to be enforced in the spring.

The Rockaway Times

By Paulette Mancuso

As the year approaches its closing, we are reminded of all that happened in 2015 personally, in our community, in our country and in the world. We may be disconcerted and concerned, and maybe feel that there is nothing we can do to make positive changes come about. I, for one, do not believe that. I believe that the light that originates in the heart center can make all the difference in the world.

There is much more good than there is evil. There are many more good times than bad times. There is much more full heartedness than heartache. We must be overwhelmed by the good and not the bad. We must not succumb to that which tries every cell in our bodies. Our hearts, minds

and bodies go through a lot in our lifetimes – just think about it – illnesses, grief, imbalance – yet we are still here. Our bodies are resilient, our minds are durable, our hearts are strong.

From that perspective, we can imagine our feet grounded to the earth – unshakeable – and a warm bright light from within the center of our beings. That is what makes each of us unique.

Take time during the passing from 2015 to 2016 to feel what it is that makes you, you. What is your individual gift? What is your individual light? It could be as simple as making someone feel good or as grand as having the knowledge and skill to save a life. One is not better than the other. It is all goodness coming from the light within.

The only way to move forward in this world is to foster the goodness within ourselves and those around us. Recognize the goodness in someone else and call attention to it. Let the judgments fall by the wayside, let

the past be the past. We make our lives to a certain extent, and then part of life just unfolds. It is what we do with that part, that makes us stand out as human beings. The inner light can take front center and direct how we react. There is no mystery, it is our consciousness and our ability to feel deeply. Take some time to ponder these thoughts and rest your body, mind and heart. Just rest, for a little while.

Be the light that changes the world. May the New Year bring you peace, joy and love. May you be happy. May you be free.

May you be grateful for all you have and do not have. May you let go of things that do not serve you. May you have inner peace.

SIDEWHEEL STEAMERS TO ROCKAWAY

By Emil R. Lucev, Sr. & Daughter, Katie Lucev Sidewheel steamers with walking beam engines such as the “Grand Republic” shown today were built in the late 1870s for the Commodore White Line located in Manhattan.

Along with her sister ships, “Columbia” & “General Slocum” (to name a few) many trips were made to Rockaway Beach docks in Jamaica Bay from Manhattan and Brooklyn piers. Each vessel could carry upwards of 3000 passengers who were treated

to a very large variety of entertainment including band music, snack bars & restaurants and of course a bar!

Round trip excursion fare was fifty cents with better first class accommodations available on the triple deck steamers.

In Jamaica Bay stops were made at various docks located at Beach 116, 105, 104, 103, 102, 98, 92, and Beach. 87 streets.

Steamers ran to the Rockaways up until 1926. The opening of Crossbay Road brought automobile and bus trips to the beach and steamboats revenues dropped sharply!

In later years a few modern boats came to the Playland dock at Beach 98 Street, but died out over time. The first steamers ran from the Canarsie dock in Brooklyn to Seaside dock at Beach 103rd Street after the Civil War in 1866.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 37

A Train Improvements Coming

Broad Channel Station last summer. suring that crews will be available for on-time train departures.

Timetables will also be adjusted to better reflect actual running times in the morning peak and on weekends to provide more even A train spacing.

The review also noted the opening of the South Channel Bridge south of the Broad Channel station in Jamaica Bay is a major cause of delays on the A, as well as on Rockaway Park Shuttle trains. While there are currently short periods of time during the morning and evening rush hours during which the bridge is not opened for maritime traffic, NYCT will work with the U.S. Coast Guard to expand these moratorium periods to cover more of the rush hours to reduce delays.

Long-term plans call for improved communications infrastructure on the A/C lines. The review recommends prioritizing these planned communications upgrades, pending capital funding, with real-time information in upper Manhattan, new dedicated announcers in Downtown Brooklyn, and expanded information about the three A terminals in Queens with a focus on connections to JFK Airport.

The line review uncovered opportunities to make entering and leaving stations more convenient at some A/C stations.

NYCT will improve station access by reconfiguring entry and exit turnstile layouts, widening stairways, and opening new or currently closed entries and stairways, based on capacity needs, potential time savings, and the availability of capital funds. If funding is identified, NYCT will look to reopen closed entrances at the Franklin Ave, 168 St, and 50 St (southbound) stations, where existing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance makes such work relatively cost-effective.

Planned capital improvements include upgrades to signals, train-tracking infrastructure, and the replacement of subway cars that are among the oldest in the system. The older cars that run on the A/C (R32s

built in 1964 on the C and R46s built in 1976 on the A) lack features found on newer cars but are still in a state of good repair, and the review noted car problems are not a major cause of delays. As part of the line reviewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recommendations, NYCT has already swapped approximately half of the C train fleet for the newer R160s. Upon delivery of R179 cars that are currently on order, the entire C fleet and a small portion of the A fleet will be replaced with the new cars.

The remaining A R46 fleet will be replaced with the upcoming car order of R211s included in the current proposed 2015-2019 capital program.

For the full review, check out http://web.mta.info/nyct/service/AC_LineReview.htm #FBDI UI 4U "SWFSOF /FX :PSL

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Anyone who has taken the A train knows that it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always the most convenient ride. From crowded cars to tardy trains on the longest line in the city, the A train has its fair share of issues and the MTA knows it. New York City Transit (NYCT) recently completed a comprehensive study of the A and C lines to determine ways that service, reliability, regularity and customer convenience can be improved.

The study found several problems and NYCT has already started to implement some changes.

The A and C lines serve 800,000 customers a day. The A train connects with every subway line, except for the 6. The A runs from 207th Street in Inwood and ends at three terminals including Ozone Park-Lefferts Blvd, Far Rockaway-Mott Av, and Rockaway Park-Beach 116 Street. The trip from Inwood to Mott Ave is 32 miles, the longest line in the New York City subway system.

Among the findings, it was discovered that the average A/C customer loads and service frequencies follow NYCT loading guidelines, with some exceptions. It was found that there is weekday crowding on the Manhattan-bound A at Hoyt-Schermerhorn Street in the late morning peak time of 9 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. The A has long scheduled headways on the Far Rockaway A in the early midday on weekdays. To fix this, NYCT has adjusted the timing of peak A service to meet increased ridership demand in the late morning peak and to even out customers loads. By the end of 2016, timetables will be adjusted to decrease headways in Far Rockaway.

In order to improve reliability on both lines in the coming weeks, NYCT will facilitate on-time terminal dispatching through new internal communications tools. Platform controllers will also be deployed to Hoyt-Schermerhorn Street in the morning peak to minimize dwell times. By mid-2016, additional crews will be added to the A Line, when feasible, further improving reliability by increasing the amount of time at terminals crews will have to make their return trips and en-

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Page 38

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 Friday, January 1, 9 a.m. til late RED DAY AT THE WHARF 416 Beach 116th Street Wear red for half-price drinks.

Friday, December 25, All Day

Thursday, December 31, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT BRENDAN’S Brendan’s Bar 112-08 Rockaway Beach Blvd DJ, Champagne toast, party favors, beer, wine, soda, well drinks, $25.

Tuesday, December 29, 3 p.m.

TEEN MOVIE AFTERNOON Peninsula Library 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd See 2015 movie “Pixels.” Teens only.

Thursday, December 31, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT WILDFEAST Riis Park Beach Bazaar DJ, $35 open bar package.

Thursday, December 31, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA Dalton’s Seaside Grill Open Bar, 5 course meal, DJ, party favors, champagne toast, $80.

Thursday, December 31, 9 p.m NEW YEAR’S EVE AT KENNEDY’S 406 Bayside, Breezy Point Party with live music, party favors, champagne toast.

Thursday, December 31, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THAI ROCK 375 Beach 92nd Street Thai treats, live music, champagne toast, party favors, $50 advance, $75 at door.

Thursday, December 31, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT PLAYLAND 97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd No cover, DJ, champagne toast. $30/$60 open bar packages.

Thursday, December 31, 11 p.m. to 3 a.m.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT COMMUNITY HOUSE Community House Beach 102nd Open bar and appetizer packages $60/$100, DJ.

Friday, January 1, 11 am. To 1 p.m.

NEW YEAR’S DAY BEACH WALK Fort Tilden, Building 1 Meet at Fort Tilden for a hike along the beach and woods. Look for Saw-whet and Snowy Owls. Enjoy light refreshments afterward at the Rockaway Artists Alliance building.

Call (732) 291-0055 for more info.

Friday, January 1, 11 a.m. til late BLUE DAY AT JAMESON’S 421 Beach 129th Street Wear blue to support the NYPD.

Friday, January 1, 12 p.m.

NEW YEAR’S DAY PLUNGE Beach 145th/ 127th/ Other Ring in the New Year my jumping in the chilly Atlantic.

Friday, January 1, 12 p.m.

PURPLE DAY Bungalow Bar 377 Beach 92nd Street Wear purple in memory of Emily Hutton and help raise money for Special Olympics. Brunch specials.

ffrom rro rom m

The Rockaway Times Friday, January 1, 4 p.m.

WINE WITH SUE PERFORMS Belle Harbor Yacht Club 533 Beach 126th Street

Wednesday, January 6, 7 p.m.

TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING Bayswater Jewish Center 2355 Healy Avenue Discuss DOT plans.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.

AL-ANON First Congregational Church 320 Beach 94th Street

Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.

FREE ZUMBA WITH LISA G 8-21 Bay 25th Street Call 917-446-9986 for more info.

Tuesdays, 8 p.m.

KERRY HILLS OPEN MIC 115-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd All musicians/singers welcome.

Thursdays, 6 p.m.

CUB SCOUT PACK 147 MEETING Building T-149 Fort Tilden For boys ages 6-10.

Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.

BOY SCOUT TROOP 147 MEETING Building T-149 Fort Tilden For boys ages 11-18.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 39

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Page 40

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

New 2016 Jeep

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Cherokee

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Latitude 4x4 Stk #JT813, Auto, 4 cyl, MSRP $25,690. $2995 down pymt + 1st mo. pymt +$0 sec. dep. + $0 per bank fee = $3144 due at signing + tax, tags & mo mv fees. Ttl pymts/residual: $5811/$13,358.

39 Lease mos Includes $500 Black Friday Bonus Cash & for $1000 lease conquest^, subj. to tax. $3144 due at signing + tax, tags & mv fees

$

149

Stk #JT1124, Auto, V6, MSRP $32,620. $2995 down pymt+ 1st mo. pymt+$0 sec dep. +$0 bank fee = $3194 due at signing + tax, tags & mv fees.

Ttl pymts/Residual: $7761/$16,310. Includes Lease $1000 NECGA Bonus Cash, $1000 Lease Cash & for $1000 lease conquest^, subj. to tax. $3194 due at signing + tax, tags & mv fees

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RAM 1500 Tradesman

Cherokee LTD 4WD

Stk #CA199, Auto, 4 cyl, MSRP $34,880. $2995 down pymt+ 1st mo. pymt+$0 sec dep. +$895 bank fee = $4119 due at signing + tax, tags & mv fees. Ttl pymts/Residual: $8244/$13,603. Includes $1500 Black Friday Bonus Cash, $3000 Lease Cash, $500 Chrysler Capital Bonus & $1000 lease conquest^, subj. to tax.

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Crew Cab 4x4 Stk #DT199, Auto, V8, MSRP $44,135. $2995 down pymt+ 1st mo. pymt+$0 sec dep. +$0 bank fee = $3294 due at signing + tax, tags & mv fees. Ttl pymts/Residual: $11,661/$23,391. Includes $500 Lease Cash, $500 Chrysler Capital Bonus & $1000 lease conquest^, subj. to tax.

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The Rockaway Times

NEIGHBORHOODS Continued from Page 30 of Rockaway for streets and instead there are names of former residents, the community itself, and its natural surroundings.

The community is almost entirely residential, as an auto repair shop and a closed-for-the-winter food shack make up the main extent of the commercial business in Roxbury.

The beach at the bay is pristine—no garbage, no lifeguard

chairs, no surfers, just flat water and uninterrupted views of the Marine Parkway Bridge and the iconic Coney Island landmarks.

Tall sand dunes and a pile of rocks serve as the main protection from the bay since the bay wall ends closer to the bridge.

Tom Durante made summer trips to Roxbury from Glendale for the entirety of his youth and moved to the community full time 15 years ago. “My mother’s parents owned a bungalow there before the Breezy co-op was formed,” he said. “What don’t I like about living there? Between family members we probably have 15 homes down there. I can walk down block and see my parents. In a hop skip and a jump I can walk to the ocean on one end, the bay on the other, and everywhere in between.”

Like many Breezy residents commented, Durante likes the small-town aspect of Roxbury. “I know the name of every neighbor. It has everything, and the schools are good. It’s what I was looking for when I had kids.”

A resident who was walking on the beach and only wanted to be credited as Mrs. R said that scenery is unmatched. “I have a view

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 like no other,” she said. She has lived here for 35 years and her husband for nearly twice that length of time at 69 years. Mrs. R stated that Roxbury, like everywhere else in Rockaway, was walloped by Hurricane Sandy.

“It was hit hard. We lost a number of houses on the bayfront which fortunately have mostly been rebuilt.” Indeed Roxbury was thankfully lacking in copious amounts of construction vehicles and boarded-up property like Breezy Point has.

Many of the homes look like they have fresh siding and are structurally sound despite the extremely close proximity to the water.

Change has been minimal for the most part over the years.

“Sometimes the personalities of people change, but the basic group here have houses handed over from generation to generation,” Mrs. R. said. “It went from a majority summer community to a majority winter community. It’s better in many ways for my children and the sports programs since they have more kids.

They might not have had that years ago. When I was younger as a summer kid I always felt bad for the kids that lived here full time because I thought they had nothing to do in the winter. All in all, it’s one of the only communities left in the city where you can go in and say it’s what most people want out of where they live.”

We hope you’ve enjoyed this series on Rockaway neighborhoods! Any questions, comments, or future neighborhood story ideas can be sent to dylan@rockawaytimes.com.

Page 41

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 43

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Page 44

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Diary of A Fat Man

Pols To Mayor: Don’t Screw Up Ferry

No End In Sight

By Bruce Bernfeld

I think I may have crossed the line.

I had been worrying that my weight loss journey was going to end up like the other diets that I have gone through in the past. After a period of losing a lot of pounds and dropping a few sizes, the maintenance kicks in which leads to a bit of cheating which leads to a lot of cheating...and BOOM, all the weight comes back and then some. It had me terrified But... there are some telling signs that this time is going to be different. I am eating to live... not living to eat.

Food is no longer the center of my existence. My life doesn’t revolve around it. Yes, I enjoy a good meal or restaurant but I enjoy many things in life.

I have entered uncharted ter-

ritory for myself and it is very exciting.

I have taken home half my meal at a restaurant. I am getting more turned off to meat every day. I can’t even imagine myself eating a piece of cake and as far as I can tell, I don’t miss it at all.

I wish I knew what clicked in my brain, because then I can tell you how to change your mindset as well. I am no longer afraid of gaining my weight back. It is a remarkable feeling.

People ask me when I am going to stop? What is my goal?

I have been answering: “Stop what”?

There is no end to healthy living.

And after all the preaching is done, and all the diet hints are put out there and after all the noting of accomplishments it really all boils down to one

thing: It makes you feel good.

And isn’t that the real goal?

Wishing all my Rockaway peeps a Merry, Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and fulfilling New Year. Enjoy this time with your family and friends.

“May you always have walls for the winds, a roof for the rain, tea beside the fire,(NO OREOS!!) laughter to cheer you, those you love near you, and all your heart might desire.”

The scoreboard: June 9. 288 lbs July 6. 275.

Aug 5 259.

Sept 9. 247.

Oct 7. 236.

Nov 4. 226.

Dec 2. 217 Dec 9 213 Dec 23. 209

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Concerned City Councilmembers sent a letter to Mayor Bill de Blasio detailing their worries regarding the imminent selection of an operator for city-wide ferry service. A New York Daily News report states six lawmakers from waterfront districts said that the operators must establish a consistent, reliable schedule and organize a fleet of ships large enough to accommodate any riders who want to take the ferry.

“If the operator cannot guarantee scheduled service, passengers will abandon the service, return to their previous commuting patterns and the ferry network will not thrive,” the letter stated.

The council members also requested that the existing East River ferry routes be merged with the new routes in an efficient manner with free transfers. City-wide ferry service is expected to begin in 2017, with a ferry operator being selected in Winter 2016.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 45

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

Page 47

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

The Rockaway Times

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