Rockaway Times 2-9-23

A Dream Trip for the Tans

By Katie McFadden

The Tans are going to Disney. During the annual Graybeards Dinner on Saturday, February 4, those who helped support the 2022 Stockings for a Cause got to see the result of their donation unfold at The Rockaway Hotel. When local resident Eugene Brennan launched Stockings for a Cause in late November, he had a big goal in mind for the Tan family. This year’s honoree, Teddy Tan, served with the U.S. Navy for more than 30 years, going on several deployments to conflict zones, including multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. After his last deployment, Tan came back severely ill and no longer physically able to stay active in the military. His illness, an aggressive immune response attacking his cerebellum, left him wheelchair bound, and with loss of his speech and fine motor skills. Even worse, Tan’s diagno-

sis is terminal, and he was given less than two years to live. Moved by his story, Brennan wanted to raise as much money as possible to give the Tan family a dream trip to Disney World, so they can create memories that will last a

lifetime, and then some more to help support Tan’s two elementary-age boys.

The Stockings campaign that involved raising donations at local bars and restaurants throughout the holiday season, was a huge success. At the Graybeards event, Teddy’s wife, Laura Tan, was on hand to accept a check on behalf of the family. “The Tans got their wish to go on a fully funded Disney vacation which will happen in April and on top of that we raised $35,000 for them,” Brennan said.

As he is undergoing treatments, Teddy was unable to make it to the event, but Brennan was able to touch base with him. “It was an amazing night at the Graybeards dinner,” Brennan said. “The Tan family was so appreciative. I was able to FaceTime with Teddy while he was in Walter Reed and saw the look of gratitude on his face.”

Brennan is overjoyed by the community support and being able to pay it forward to the Tan family. “It’s an amazing feeling!  I just want to thank everyone who donated this year, and hopefully we can keep making an impact on our soldiers every Christmas!”

Super Specials for Game Day 2023

By Katie McFadden

Sunday’s the day! Super Bowl LVII is on Sunday, February 12, and whether you’re watching the big game or opting for the Puppy Bowl, there are plenty of local options for those game day snacks.

The big game will kick off at 6:30 p.m. and will be broadcasted on FOX. This year, the matchup is between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles in Glendale, Arizona. Besides the game, there will be commercials galore, a halftime performance by Rihanna, and plenty of snack breaks. Our advertisers are offering big deals for the big game made for parties of all sizes.

At Beach 116th deli Bagel & Barista Station, it’s all about party heroes, wings and beer! Get a three-foot chicken cutlet hero, three pounds of side salads, a half tray of wings (buffalo, bbq or General Tso's) and a 12 pack of Bud or Bud Light for $125 or a six-foot chicken cutlet hero, six pounds of side salads, a full tray of wings and a 12 pack of Bud or Bud Light for $250. In store pickup only. Order in advance by calling 718-3180828.

Bishops Barn in Roxbury has all your catering favorites like meats, wings and pastas, and things you didn’t even think about like baby back ribs and a variety of unique egg rolls such as Irish, Philly cheesesteak and buffalo. Order online by February 11 at www. BishopsBarnCatering.com.

Caterer A & S at the Harbor has everything you can dream of with a variety of appetizer, pasta or meat trays. They also have three package choices starting with the big $395 package featuring a two-foot chicken cutlet, roasted peppers and fresh mozzarella hero, a twofoot roast beef hero with caramelized onions, fresh mozzarella and Peter Luger Sauce, a half tray of wings, mac and cheese, spareribs, rice balls and potato coquettes, plus a choice of two: potato salad, macaroni salad or cole slaw. Their

$275 special includes a threefoot Peter Luger sandwich, a full sampler tray, a half tray of buffalo wings and a choice of two: potato salad, macaroni salad or cole slaw. Their smaller $220 package includes a three-foot chicken cutlet hero, and a half tray of buffalo wings, rice balls and croquettes, plus a choice of two side salads. Pickup only at 533 Beach 126th Street. To order, call 718-634-4939 by February 10.

Perhaps nothing goes better with football than pizza. La Sorrentina on Beach 129th is offering a package that includes a large regular pie, five wings and five garlic knots for $24.95. Call 718474-1775 to order.

Over the bridge in Broad Channel, Delio's Food Truck (18-17 Cross Bay Blvd.) has the Half Time Four package with your choice of four sandwiches, four orders of fries, two orders of mozzarella sticks, one order of corn fritters and four sodas for $69.99 (using the coupon on Page 10). Call 917733-5102 to order.

Italian eatery Rocco’s of Roc Beach (115-10 Rockaway Beach Blvd.) is offering catering specials including 15-piece heroes, half trays of appetizers, salads and pastas and of course pizza. Plus, they have packages including heroes, appetizers, salads and pizza, ranging from $159 to $499,

Continued on page 4

SUPER SPECIALS

Continued from Page 3

depending on how many mouths you need to feed. To order, call 718-799-5050 by 4 p.m. on Friday, February 10.

If you’re looking for big heroes, 101 Deli (101-16 Rockaway Beach Blvd.) has sandwich packages for 12 people. Opt for a three-foot Italian or American hero, a half tray of buffalo wings and chips with salsa and guac for $129.99 plus tax; or a three-foot chicken cutlet, roasted peppers and fresh mozzarella hero, or a three-foot roast beef, mozzarella and gravy on garlic bread, half tray of wings and chips with salsa and guac for $149.99 plus tax. Call 718-4747607 to order.

Sorrentino’s Market (99-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd.) is also offering some nice packages including the First Down featuring a three-foot Italian or American hero, two side salads and a pickle tray for $79.95, the field goal package with three half trays of wings, Italian meatballs, pigs in a blan-

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023

ket, stuffed mushrooms or fried ravioli for $159.95, plus bigger packages. Call 718-843-9800 for more info or to order.

Happy Jack’s (108-13 Rockaway Beach Drive) has a sweet deal of a bucket of wings, six bacon cheeseburger sliders, tortilla chips with queso, and a two-foot chicken cutlet and bacon hero for $80, enough to feed four people. Extras can be added. Email orders to happyjacksbb@gmail.com by February 9.

If you’re in the mood for Mexican, PICO on Beach 129th has packages featuring guac, pico de gallo and queso with homemade chips, wings, tacos and more fit for parties of six to eight, to 18 to 20 people. Email: picorbny@ gmail.com for info and to order by February 10.

The MeatUp Grill on Beach 116th Street has specials on onion ring and fry boxes, chicken tenders, wings, sliders and mac and cheese, ranging from $38 to $46. Pre-order online at TheMeatUpGrill.com or call 718-2102506.

SERVING LUNCH

Monday to Saturday 12:00PM - 3:00PM

Sunday Brunch 11:30AM - 3:00PM

SERVING DINNER

Contact The Elected

Congressman Gregory Meeks

67-12 Rockaway Beach Boulevard Arverne, NY 11692

Phone: (347) 230-4032

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato 9516 Rockaway Beach Blvd Rockaway Beach, NY 11693

Email: amatos@nyassembly.gov 718-945-9550

City Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers

1931 Mott Avenue, Suite 410 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 • 718-471-7014

City Councilwoman Joann Ariola

114-12 Beach Channel Drive, suite #1 Rockaway Park, NY 11694

Email: joannariola32@gmail.com 718-318-6411

State Senator James Sanders Jr. 1931 Mott Avenue – Suite 305 Far Rockaway, NY 11691

Email: sanders@nysenate.gov 718-327-7017

Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson 19-31 Mott Avenue, Suite 301 Far Rockaway, NY 11691

Email: Andersonk@nyassembly.gov 718-327-1845

Jeanne Ferriola and Sean McVeigh PUBLISHER

Katie McFadden MANAGING EDITOR

Mary Ellen Olsen MANAGER

Monica Clifford BILLING/ LEGALS

Tom McVeigh and Fred Marino SALES

Kevin Boyle

FOUNDER/PUBLISHER EMERITUS

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

THE ROCKAWAY TIMES is published every Thursday by Double Nickel LLC (USPS # 16930), 114-04 Beach Channel Drive, Rockaway Park, NY 11694. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Rockaway Times, 114-04 Beach Channel Drive, Rockaway Park, NY 11694. Periodical postage paid at Rockaway Park Post Office, 11694.

Ad space reservations by Monday, 12 noon, preceding date of subject. Editorial submission must be made by Monday, 3 P.M., preceding date of publication. All letters to THE ROCKAWAY TIMES should be brief and are sub– ject to editing. Writers should include a full address and home office telephone number. Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without permission of THE ROCKAWAY TIMES. The publisher will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to THE ROCKAWAY TIMES within five days of publication. Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication.

THE ROCKAWAY TIMES assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold THE ROCKAWAY TIMES and its employees harmless from all costs, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication placed by the advertiser or any reply to any such advertisement. © 2015 Double Nickel LLC.

MARDI GRAS SPECIALS

• Starters •

Andouille Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms 15 smoked, spicy pork sausage stuffed into marinated mushrooms topped with mozzarella

Pickle Fries 12

crispy fried pickles served w/remoulade sauce

• Entrees •

Cajun Red Snapper 31 pan seared topped w/lump crabmeat and cajun cream sauce

Shrimp Creole 28

sauteed shrimp w/peppers, mushrooms, onions in a spicy red sauce over rice

Jambalaya 28

shrimp, andouille sausage, chicken over rice

Shrimp Po-Boy 21

crispy southern fried shrimp on a French hoagie w/lettuce, tomato, cajun remoulade sauce served with fries

Smothered Pork Chops 28

sauteed pork chops w/mushrooms & onions smothered in a buttermilk gravy

LIVE MUSIC

Midnight Society | Friday, February 17th

Crossfade Nights | Saturday, March 11th

Knobs Acoustic | Sunday, March 12th

RockawayWades | Friday, March 17th

Winston McBoogie | Sunday, March 19th

Wine with Sue | Friday, March 24th

Sunday - Thursday 4:00PM -9:00PM Friday and Saturday 4:00PM - 10:00PM Thank you for thinking

Gregg Parr | Sunday, March 26th check social for times Check

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

McVeighing In How I Really Feel

This has been a strange winter. One day it’s cold, the next it feels like spring is right around the corner. This weekend was cold. Real cold. Friday night, my family decided to brave the elements and go out to dinner. We’re adventurous like that. We were able to pack into one car and we hit the road.

Cars these days are amazing. Upon entering some of them, you feel like an astronaut boarding a spaceship. Screens bigger than my computer, heated everything, Bluetooth, hotspots, you name it. Heck, they can even drive themselves

By Sean McVeigh

now. Well, one of the not so novel features, that’s been around for a while, is cars can tell us the temperature. I recently learned that it is not actually a thermometer but rather a thermistor. The difference being a thermistor relies on metal semi-conductors rather than mercury in a thermometer. But that is very much beside the point and sounds like something that should be in Facts You Probably Don’t Need.

On this blistery Friday night, the car had a temperature reading of 16 degrees. Being the astute ob-

server that I am, I opined on how cold that was. In response to my canny comment, I received what I would consider to be the universal retort: “Yeah, but the real feel is more like X.”

Before I continue, let me preface with saying that I am usually among the first to spit out that reflexive remark. So, who am I to throw stones? I would also like to say that I have not studied the alchemy-adjacent field of meteorology in its entirety, but I am a fan of Mike Woods’ work. But as St. Augustine said, “Right is right even if no one is doing it; wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it.”

In short, I think “RealFeel” temperature is horse pucky! There should only be one temperature. Wherever you are, whatever the thermometer (or thermistor, I guess) reads, that is the temperature. Why does it have to be more complicated than that? How can it be more complicated than that? “Well, what about the wind chill, Sean?” What about it?! If I am standing on the beach holding a thermometer and there is a nasty

south wind whipping in my face, why wouldn’t that thermometer read the same temperature that I am feeling? Is that not the real feel? No, it’s the temperature!

I apologize to meteorologists everywhere, but I think you have the easiest job out there. I guess apologies aren’t really in order. More so congratulations. Very rarely can you be wrong. Throw any sort of qualifier in the mix with your prediction and voila, you’re covered.

The whole idea of “RealFeel” just seems made up to me. Maybe there is some very scientific explanation behind it but in my five minutes of intensive and extensive research I came up with mostly definitions along these lines: “The RealFeel Temperature is an index that describes what the temperature really feels like.” You don’t say? Can we all just stop making things up. Keep it simple, will ya? This weekend is supposed to be much nicer than last. Get out there and enjoy it. I hear it might hit 50 degrees and who knows what it will really feel like?!

Happy Valentine’s Day to all our readers and advertisers! We sure do love you all! If you are going to buy your sweetheart balloons this year, please make sure that they are not Chinese spy balloons. *****

Please keep Father Jim Cunningham of St. Francis de Sales in your thoughts and prayers. He is currently in the hospital at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Irving Medical Center. If you have O+ blood and would like to consider becoming a living kidney donor, please visit: https://columbiasurgery.org/ kidney-transplant *****

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced this week that effective tomorrow, February 10, the Covid-19 vaccination will be-

come optional for current and prospective city employees. The decision is being made as 96% of city employees are already vaccinated. This leaves big questions about the almost 2,000 city workers who were fired from their positions as a result of refusing to get the jab. As of now, City Hall has announced that these jobs will not be given back and that they must be reapplied for.

*****

We have received word that The Animal Hospital of the Rockaways’ building on Beach Channel Drive will no longer be empty. Good news for pet owners! Dr. Simon plans on reopening the hospital in the same location!

*****

Local A train straphangers are in for a treat! The MTA is unveiling new, state-of-the-art subway cars and the A/C lines are going to be the first to get a taste of them. The new cars will include, among other things, wider doors for an easier boarding process, more informative digital displays, and

security cameras on every car. The MTA has ordered nearly 1,200 of these new trains and hope to have the first of them in service by the end of the year. *****

This week, we received a beautiful essay from Isabella Donovan, a 16-year-old high school student. It is a wonderful description of her memories spending the summers in Rockaway. Please check it out on page 28. *****

The Graybeards Dinner Dance was once again a huge success. This year’s winner of the PotA-Gold took home a whopping $300,000! Congratulations to the winner and the Graybeards, who we know will be able to do a lot of good with their share of the winnings. There’s always next year, folks, but remember, you have to be in it, to win it! *****

If you have no plans for a Valentine’s celebration, get out on Saturday morning, February 11, and join the Rockaway Track Club & Healy’s for their Valentine’s Day

Half Marathon or 5K run. Bring your Valentine, or if you don’t have one, who knows, you may just meet yours on the boardwalk or at Healy’s after! *****

Just a reminder that this month’s Community Board 14 meeting will be on Wednesday, February 15 and not the usual Tuesday due to Valentine’s Day. *****

Rockaway might have some competition this year. Manhattan’s first beach is planned to open this summer along the Hudson River, just north of West 12th St., in the Meatpacking District. There is one major catch here, though. There will be no swimming or wading allowed. Another beach is planned to be opened along the East River in Williamsburg. This beach, which is projected to be opened in five years, will include swimming and wading. For those wondering why the city would build these beaches: officials say that the water in New York Harbor is the cleanest it has been in 100 years!

St. Francis Celebrates Four Chaplains on 80th Anniversary

The Four Chaplains will not be forgotten. On Sunday, February 5, St. Francis de Sales Church held its annual Mass to honor the Four Chaplains of the troop ship Dorchester, which was sunk by a torpedo from a German U-boat on February 3, 1943. The Four Chaplains perished after giving their life jackets to others. Among them was Pvt. Daniel O’Connor, who lived in Rockaway and had attended St. Francis de Sales Catholic Academy. Each year, the parish remembers their sacrifice with a Mass, and a

plaque remains outside of the church in tribute to the Four Chaplains.

Sunday’s 80th anniversary Mass was celebrated with the Rockaway American Legion Post 272, Breezy Point Post 1847, Broad Channel Post 1404, Roxbury New York Veterans of Foreign War Post 8540, American Legion Woman’s Auxiliary, Cub Scout Pack 147 and members of the community.

Photos by Brian Galarza.

This Week in History

FEBRUARY 9

William "The Boss" Edwards was born. John Henley was born.

1861- Jefferson Davis was chosen as the president of the Confederate States of America.

1964 - The Beatles made their first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.

FEBRUARY 10

Kenny Good was born. Heather McElhinney was born.

1942 – Glenn Miller received the first-ever gold record for selling a million copies of "Chattanooga Choo Choo."  1996- IBM's computer, Deep Blue, beat the world chess champion, Garry Kasparov, in the first game of their match.

FEBRUARY 11

Joanne Smith was born. Michael McGee was born.  Chickie Belford was born.

1809 - Robert Fulton patented the steamboat.

2012 - Pop star Whitney Houston died at

1999- The Senate voted to acquit President Clinton on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice.

FEBRUARY 13

Rita Martin was born.

Kathy Mullen Blum was born.

Eric Ulrich was born.

Chris Urciuoli was born.

1935- Bruno Hauptmann was found guilty of murder in the Lindbergh kidnapping case. 1960 - France set off its first atomic bomb.

FEBRUARY 14

Jackie Corney was born.

Susanne Blum was born.

Rob Clifford was born.

Frank Full Time Plumber was born.

1929 - Members of Al Capone's gang killed rival gang members in the St. Valentine's Day massacre.

FEBRUARY 15

Maureen Doherty was born.

Kathleen Fraser was born.

1965 - The Maple Leaf Flag officially became the new national flag of Canada.

FEBRUARY 16

Dina Hanning was born.

MARCH 4TH 3pm-THE IRISH MUTTS-DJ

SAVEDTHE ATE

By Katie McFadden

A Real-Life Disney Princess

you’ve seen Chloe’s beautiful face somewhere while shopping or browsing through circulars. Maybe you’ve even seen her on TV or in an online commercial for brands like Nike Jordans, NBC news, Claire’s and even a commercial for peanut-allergy medication, Palforzia. At just 10, it’s clear Chloe has an impressive modeling and acting portfolio.

But this week, she made her debut as something many 10-year-old girls may dream of being—a Disney princess. Since she was about six, Ali had started doing shoots for professional photography couple, Regis and Kahran of CreativeSoul Photography. CreativeSoul has also built an impressive portfolio, with much of their work focusing on children of color, and being featured on the Steve Harvey Show, Teen Vogue, Glamour magazine, the BBC and more. As a regular, CreativeSoul had Chloe in mind when they wanted to do a special project about two or three years ago.

A local little girl can now call herself a real Disney Princess. Arverne resident Chloe Ali served as part of the inspiration behind a new line of reimagined Disney Princess dolls released just in time for Black History Month.

On a regular day, Chloe Ali is a fifth grader at Peninsula Prep Charter School who works extra hard to excel at those tough subjects like math to make the honor roll, plays the trumpet for the school’s music program and even does some theater work. But in between getting those good grades, you can often find Chloe in front of a camera, as a model and actress. Since she was four years old, the now 10-yearold has been a star of some big advertising campaigns. From print ads and posters for companies like Target, Gap, Nike, New Balance, Macy’s, Steve Madden and regularly for The Children’s Place, chances are

With an idea for reimagined Disney princesses in mind, the couple set up a photoshoot in their studio in Atlanta, with four young girls of color modeling as their vision of Cinderella, Snow White, Princess Tiana and Rapunzel. “They wanted to show children that look like us that they can be princesses too,” Chloe's mom, Sheba Ali, said. Using custom African fabrics and jewelry and highlighting their naturally textured hair, the girls would be transformed into classic Disney princesses seen in a new light. And when it came to their favorite princess, Cinderella, they knew just the girl for the job.

Chloe and her mom flew down to Atlanta for the fun photoshoot. They dressed her in an African-inspired Cinderella dress and spent an hour alone on her hair to get the look just right. “It was very fun,” Chloe Ali said. “I had that poofy dress and the hair and when they shined the light on me, I felt like I was on

stage or something.” At the time, there were whispers of the fun photoshoot perhaps leading to a Hasbro doll, but the Alis didn’t know just how far it would go.

As CreativeSoul’s beautiful photos of their reimagined Disney princesses made the rounds, Disney themselves got word of it and decided to take it further, using the photos to create their own line of dolls as part of a CreativeSoul special edition series. On February 3, that line of dolls was officially launched at Epcot’s International Festival of Arts. Chloe and her mom were flown down to Orlando, FL for the event, where they got to first see the doll that was made in Chloe’s likeness from the CreativeSoul photoshoot a few years prior.

Not only did Chloe and Sheba get to see the doll that nailed every little detail of Chloe's Cinderella look, they were surprised to find that Chloe's real photos are featured on the doll’s packaging. The launch event also featured the outfits the girls wore during the photoshoot on mannequins. CreativeSoul was on hand to do doll signings and the girls got to meet some of Disney’s top executives. “I felt very proud of myself,” Chloe said about seeing her doll. “It made me feel really happy. My dad always calls me his little princess and now I actually am a princess.”

Chloe’s mom was impressed with the attention to detail of the doll made based on her daughter. “I’m still shocked. I didn’t expect it to look like this, with every aspect of the attire she had on during the shoot, down to the baby hairs on her head. Everything she had on that day is on the doll,” Sheba Ali said. “She’s been on toy boxes before but never like this. This is special. You would never expect someone that looks like us to be a Disney princess,” Sheba Ali said. “Rockaway has a princess now.”

Back home, Chloe’s teachers, bus staff and classmates at PPA are thrilled to personally know

a Disney princess. While Chloe remains ever humble, those around her have been celebrating this unique opportunity. “Today one of my teachers and the woman who walks us to the bus said they were gonna get the doll and have me sign it,” Chloe Ali said. This came after one of Chloe’s teachers asked her mom if they could share the news. “Yesterday my teacher put the pictures on a TV and showed everyone and everyone was really happy for me. Maybe five or six of my friends said they’re gonna buy my doll,” Chloe Ali said.

Since February 3, everyone who visits a Disney Park can find the CreativeSoul dolls in stores, and the dolls are available for purchase online at: ShopDisney.com/CreativeSoul

In the meantime, while relishing in her newfound royalty, Chloe is focusing on what’s next, including a post-Valentine’s Day photoshoot for Target and a New Balance campaign for their spring and summer line, with some of the photos already popping up at DSW shoe stores. As far as the future goes, Ali has big dreams. “I hope I get very famous and do a fashion show. I want to be a fashion designer so I can make clothes for other models and model as well,” she said. Also, finding inspiration through another Far Rockaway native, “How to Get Away with Murder” actress Amirah Vann, Ali says she hopes to have her own TV show one day.

But for now, she’s most focused on smaller roles. As part of Black History Month, Chloe will be playing Dorothy in a school production of “The Wiz” and will be playing trumpet at an upcoming concert. And she’ll continue to focus on what’s important—spending time with family and doing well in school. “I love math and I love playing with my siblings,” she said.

For updates on Chloe’s work, follow her on Instagram at: chloe_ali.j

Local H.S. Students Get a Lesson in Military History at Floyd Bennett

seeking to break records. Twenty-six around-the-world or transatlantic flights started or ended at FBF between 1931 and 1939, including historic and even fatal missions by Amelia Earhart, Jimmy Mattern, Wiley Post and Howard Hughes. Between 1941 and 1971, FBF served as New York’s Naval Air Station, playing an integral role in the defense of NYC and the U.S.A. at large.

Born in 1890, in Warrensburg, NY, Floyd Bennett was an American pioneer aviator who piloted the explorer Richard E. Byrd on the first successful flight over the North Pole on May 9, 1926. For this feat, both Bennett and Byrd received the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor. In 1931, Floyd Bennett Airport was named for him.

life. It's a huge project, yet they’ve been able to restore, get every single part that they need to rebuild each vehicle, then have it here to display for us.”

By Kami-Leigh Agard

How can schools introduce fresh perspectives with thoughtful exchanges about America’s fight for freedom with military veterans? This past Thursday, February 2, achieved just that, with students from New Visions Humanities IV Charter High School meeting up with military veterans of the Historical Aircraft Restoration Project (HARP). According to Jane Lake, New Visions STEM/living environment teacher and college advisor, this three-hour tour resulted in not just students learning about Floyd Bennett Field’s illustrious aviation history, checking out refurbished war planes, missiles, motors, the control tower, photos and more, but also America’s ascent to becoming the world’s super power. However, according to these students, though America’s history does document its labor pains, this tour instilled pride in being a product of what countless veterans fought for, with some even sacrificing their lives.

Floyd Bennett Field (FBF) was NYC’s first municipal airport. Later it became a World War II naval air station. Today, this area includes more than 1,300 acres of grassland, salt marshes, tidal mudflats, a marina, and the former airfield, including a control tower and terminal that is now the William Fitts Ryan Visitor Center (Ryan Visitor Center). FBF was a popular site for aviators,

Fast forward to today, walk into Floyd Bennett’s Hangar B and be prepared to be impressed by how these HARP veterans meticulously refurbished military airplanes, helicopters, missiles, old army jeeps, medic vehicles; and even how they built scaled versions of military war ships, airplanes and more used in World War I, World War II, D-Day and Korea. There is also a Wright Brothers exhibit, a functioning 1950s switch operation telephone board, and so much more.

Longtime Rockaway local, Paul Garcia, a U.S. Navy veteran and HARP volunteer, who led Thursday’s tour, said he got hooked 22 years ago after driving past the area one day. “I saw the airplanes while driving past Floyd Bennett, and I wanted to find out more. I was an aircraft mechanic when I was in the Navy, so of course I gravitated to the work here,” Garcia said.

New Visions High School students were inspired by the veterans' passion to rebuild and restore Floyd Bennett’s history. The students were split up into two groups, where they got to physically enter the planes and get up-close information about each craft’s history.

Steven Xol-Quevedo, a Beach Channel campus student council representative for New Visions High School said, “I think it's really cool that we get to learn how everything works, and amazingly see how these guys brought these machines back to

Students Ciara Baez and Chelsea Santiago shared that they were both inspired to further pursue their Navy service ambitions. Baez said, “When we heard that we were coming here, we weren't that excited because we thought it was going to be boring, but it's not as boring as we thought. It's interesting to see how the planes evolved throughout history, and what each aircraft has been through.”

Santiago added, “Every airplane tells a story, and I think that keeping all these aircrafts here is definitely something that should be conserved. To think that this plane was flown during WWII is pretty awesome.

“It’s also great for the youth because when we get older, there’s gonna be kids asking us what happened during these wars. Then we can only show them what's told in textbooks, but these military vehicles visually tell the history,” Santiago continued.

As for why New Visions teacher and college advisor Jane Lake, selected FBF’s Hangar B for students to visit, she shared, “History's amazing, yet sometimes it's challenging to bring it alive for students. World War I and World War II are so distant for a lot of the students. For them to understand that these military airplanes were flown by 18-year-olds, not much older than them, could be

daunting. Also, to meet these veterans, who not just served, but now dedicate their time to refurbishing these aircrafts to educate their next generation is such an inspiration.

“Also, for the students to see how these veterans are mechanics bringing these aircrafts back to life is so valuable. Wood shop programs no longer exist in most high schools, so for them to be exposed to HARP’s work might prompt them to want to learn about how things mechanically work.”

Floyd Bennett Field's Historical Aircraft Restoration Project (HARP) is staffed and operated by National Park Service volunteers. The airfield and former Naval Air Station are now a part of NPS's Gateway Recreation Area in Brooklyn. Admission is free, but donations are accepted and more than welcome. Visitors are welcome Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more info, visit: https://www.nps. gov/gate/learn/historyculture/historic-aircraft-at-hangar-b.htm

Don’t Miss Out

Your Son or Daughter for Little League

Rockaway

Baseball or Softball in 2023

**Registration Closes on Sat., March 4th**

Register Online Today: We have a new website address! www.rockawaylittleleagueny.net

Rockaway Little League

Adams Rescinds Vaccine Mandate for City Workers

It’s over. As of February 10, city workers will no longer be required to have the Covid vaccine. On Monday, February 6, Mayor Eric Adams announced that the city will make the vaccine optional for current and prospective city workers, as well as for guardians entering school buildings for events and activities.

“With more than 96 percent of city workers and more than 80 percent of New Yorkers having received their primary COVID-19 series and more tools readily available to keep us healthy, this is the right moment for this decision. I continue to urge every New Yorker to get vaccinated, get boosted, and take the necessary steps to protect themselves and those around them from COVID-19,” Mayor Adams said.

Beginning February 10, the city will make the COVID-19 vaccination requirement optional for city employees, in addition to New York City Department of Education (DOE) employees. At this point, the city has fully processed and issued decisions for all pending reasonable accom-

modation appeals. While the approximately 1,780 former employees terminated for failing to submit proof of vaccination will not be able to automatically return to their previous positions, they will be able to apply for positions with their former agencies through existing city rules and regulations and hiring processes. The city will also end the vaccination requirements for nonpublic school, early childcare, and daycare staff.

The vaccine mandate for city workers had been in effect since October 2021, when former Mayor Bill de Blasio put it in place. When Adams was inaugurated in January 2022, he kept the mandate in place. The Common Sense Caucus, made up of council members, fought against the mandates for several months and celebrated Monday’s decision.

“This news will come as an incredible relief to thousands of city workers and their families, and the parents and guardians who have been barred from attending their children’s public school events. There is more to be done for those workers who were un-

justly fired for making personal medical choices, but this is a tremendous step toward righting the wrongs of the previous administration’s misguided pandemic policies,” the Caucus said in a statement. “We are grateful to the Mayor and this administration for listening to us, to their constituents, and to common sense.”

Local Councilwoman Joann Ariola, who is part of the Common Sense Caucus, was also relieved by the news.

“Today’s announcement to suspend mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements for all city workers proves that we’ve been correct all along,” Ariola said. “From the very beginning of this pandemic, my colleagues and I have opposed these requirements. Every single day, my office has worked to hold city agencies accountable, and ensure that vaccine non-compliant employees were given proper accommodations. Today, all of those vaccine non-compliant individuals who remain on the workforce will no longer be subjected to weekly tests, and new hires will no longer be required to prove their vaccination status. This

opens up a pool of potential employees to fill in the manpower gaps that have opened since 2020. Not only that, but unvaccinated parents and guardians will again be able to attend functions and activities at DOE schools, enabling them to fully participate in the extracurricular lives of their children once more.

“This is a tremendous step forward for our city and will undoubtedly bring about benefits all across the board,” the Councilwoman added. “What we are seeing now is proof that we should never stop fighting for what we know is right, and we should never give up on the spirit of New York. It’s been a long three years to get to this point, but we have arrived, and we can finally begin putting the chaos and confusion of the COVID-19 era behind us. That said, there is still more work to be done. We will not forget about those who lost their careers as a result of these unjust mandates, and I will not stop fighting until each and every one of those men and women who were removed from service is reinstated.”

Baisley Boulevard Jamaica, NY 11434

Our Mission:

Our mission is to cultivate a STEAM learning environment strengthened by social-emotional and academic supports that incorporate our core values of P.R.I.D.E: Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, & Excellence to promote lifelong learning.

OPEN

HOUSE DATES

Friday, February 10th at 6 p.m. (Virtual)

Saturday, February 18th at 10 a.m. (In-Person)

Friday, March 10th at 6 p.m. (Virtual)

To RSVP to a virtual open house, email us at AMS4admissions@charter.newvisions.org or call (718) 525-2041.

Through an advisory structure, we ensure a strong connection between the school community and families.

We offer scholar supports that fosters life skills beyond graduation; by way of courses focused in College & Career Readiness, Entrepreneurship, Health & Wellness.

Our grade-level school counselors loop with scholars from 9TH grade through 12TH grade and a social worker designated to lower house (9TH & 10TH grade) and upper house (11TH - 12TH grade).

Along with sports we also have programs such as My Sisters Keeper, Masters of Excellence, Helping Hands, Gay Straight Alliance. These programs are designed to promote scholar voice and acknowledge diversity.

Find us online! www.newvisions.org/applyAMS4 newvisionsams4

156-10

Located in South Jamaica, Queens!

Big Night for the Graybeards

They sure do clean up nice! The gentlemen of local nonprofit The Graybeards and many other locals had a grand time at their biggest fundraiser of the year—the annual Graybeards Dinner Dance.

On Saturday, February 4, all gathered at the Rockaway Hotel for a night of charity, appreciation and an all-around good time. This year’s honorees included Lynda

Collins, who was presented with the Don "DH" Hart Award for her many years of service to others throughout the Rockaway community. The DeMatteis family was awarded the Tom Ryan Special Recognition Award for their many years of philanthropic endeavors throughout the peninsula. “Both honorees had a huge turnout with many family members and friends

on hand to celebrate the evening,” Graybeards President Tom Morgan said.

The evening also included a presentation of a $35,000 check, plus an all-expenses paid dream trip to Disney World for the Tan family, as a result of donations collected from the Stockings for a Cause effort. And the Tans weren’t the only big winners.

The coveted Pot o’ Gold 50/50 raked in a $300,000 jackpot that went to one lucky local, and to the Graybeards so they can continue the great work they do for the community. “The fundraiser was a huge success, and it will allow The Graybeards to continue to help those in our community in their time of need,” Morgan said.

Photos by Jessica Woods.

Sean Fitzgerald

Direct 917-860-6701

Coastalfitz@gmail.com

Licensed Broker/Principal

Office: 718-318-5030

coastalrealestateny.com

Mary Beth Meade

347-426-8002 Licensed

Ellen May Esposito - Banks 646-209-2744 Licensed

BELLE HARBOR NEW CONSTRUCTION LEGAL TWO FAMILY

Two Duplex Apartments. Each unit has 3 bedrooms and two full baths, gas fireplaces, laundry. Central Air throughout. Hardwood floors, Electric Vehicle Charge ready. Private driveway. Offered at $1,395,000

Rockaway ParkNew to Market

Large Studio. Top floor with unobstructed views of the bay and Manhattan skyline. Offered at $220k

Rockaway Park Multiple Dwelling 12 units on 80x100 lot, PS 114 S/DBeach block with two driveways

$1,300,000

Belle Harbor Short Term Rental

Available now through April. Three bedrooms, terrace, yard, private d/w.

$2800

Off-Market Legal Two Family 50x100 lot, Brick, Two Car Garage

$975,000

Belle Harbor

Renovated Large One Bedroom

H/W floors, Central Air, Laundry, Summer Parking.

$1900 Includes utilities.

Ocean One Mint 2 BR, 2 Bath Condo. Unobstructed ocean views from every room. Laundry in unit. Private balcony. Offered at $685,000

New to Market Belle Harbor Legal Two Family Offered at $805,000 SOLD

Arverne By The Sea

“The Nautilus” Building

2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Condo. Private Terrace with Ocean and Bay Views. Offered at $360,000

Happy Valen ne's Day

BH OCEANFRONT

NEW EXCLUSIVE

One family, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, dynamic ocean views from every angle. One of the FEW Oceanfront homes available. Call for appt. Must see $4.650M

BH EXCLUSIVE ONE BLOCK TO BEACH!

Rare and unique mother/daughter home in BH. Features 6 rooms, 2 baths for the owener. Rental is a large two bedroom with sliders to large patio. Utility room, garage, parking for 6 cars. $1.259M

SUMMER RENTAL

House for RentBeach block $25,000 p/mo

Beautiful renovated Studio

July & August $5500

BH Upper - Six rooms, 2 bathrooms in a two family house. July & August $6,000

Neponsit

Pocket ListingPhoto Shy

One family, 60x100 on the best block

Asking $1.550M. Call for appointment and info.

Belle Harbor - one bedroom apt. July & August $6,000

WINTER RENTALS

Neponsit - Adorable bungalow, 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, use of backyard, driveway, parking.

$2,800

INSIST ON MLS

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

This former hotel on a beach block features 14 rooms plus a commercial space that is rentable. The property could be a Spa or Restaurant or anything our community needs. According to the owner the building can be raised four additional floors!

Asking $2.8M Call for viewing.

Belle Harbor - 6 rooms, two baths with w&d ...........................................................................$2,900

Rockaway Beach - One bedroom, beach block with laundry

BH Upper - 4 rooms, 2 large bedrooms, w/d and parking. Available 3/1. ...........................................................................$2,700

Belle Harbor - Large studio beach block

Belle Harbor - 4 rooms, renovated with parking.

Rockaway Beach - 1 bedroom bungalow

Belle Harbor - 6 rooms, 2 bathrooms. Use of basement and yard ...........................................................................$3,300

Belle Harbor, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, beach blk, includes heat and cable ...........................................................................$2,600

Belle Harbor 3 large rooms, very charming, cable included .......................................................................... $1,800

Rockaway Park - 6 rooms, 1 bath, granite kitchen, hardwood oors, full size w&d. .......................................................................... $3,000

Rockaway Park - 2 bedrooms with loft! Unique set up parking included ........................................................................... $2,200

OFFER PRESENTED

Commercial Building on Beach 116 Street

Storefront plus 2 offices. $999 firm

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY Building on Beach 116th Street with storefront. T f the bo vie T Create something great for the neighborhood!!! $2.8M

OFFER PRESENTED Belle Shores - O yout with galley

h bloc

2 bedroom 1 bath plus 1 bedroom on top floor Need Call for details

OCEAN VIEWS GALORE / NEPONSIT BEACH BLOCK Move right in! Great room w/ wbfp, EIK plus den, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, finished basement, in-ground & heated pool & spa, long private driveway, 1 car garage. $2.6M

Apartments for Rent:

Lic. Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson • Nia Casilla • Colleen Brady • Tracy Czik Lic. RE Agents: Joseph Magiera • Zachary Plattner • Carol Feintisch Samantha Benanti • Jack Brandes • Nicole Switzer

ROCKAWAY PARK - CALLING ALL VETERINARIAN'S Move right in to this fully functioning veterinarian space. $8,920

ROCKAWAY PARK - 40'x100' - R7A - C1-3

Renovate or develop a new building, choice is yours!Condo's? Apartments? $2,800,000

ROCKAWAY PARK - FREE BUILD OUT! Large office space with a private parking lot! Approximately 4,400 sq ft that can be subdivided.

ROCKAWAY PARK - FREE BUILD OUT!

Attention Entrepeneurs! Come bring your ideas to fruition in this 1800 sq. ft. open space with 2 bathrooms. $4,500

ROCKAWAY PARK - TURN KEY OFFICE SPACE! Fully renovated, just under 2000 sq.ft. with the option to subdivide into two smaller spaces. $6,435

FAR ROCKAWAY - MEDICAL OFFICE AVAILABLE! Walk right into this prime medical space fit for any medical practice! Recently renovated! $5,500

ROCKAWAY PARK - FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY

Perfectly sized office space that can be custom designed to fit any business needs! Comes with parking. $2,400 · · · AVAILABLE PROPERTIES FOR SALE · · ·

ROCKAWAY PARK - FULLY RENOVATED! Located right at the top of the main business district on Beach 116th St. Parking in the rear. $2,115

417 Beach 129th Street • (718) 634-3134 • 217 Beach 116th Street

(TC) . . . . . . . . . . . $3,250

B. 125: 3BR, 2BA apt with large terrace, SS appliances and ocean views (LJ) $2,900

B. 134: Fully furnished 3BR, 1BA apt available November through April (ZP) $2,800

B. 118: Modern 3BR, 1BA apartment with W/D in unit and 1 car parking (ZP) $2,800

B. 123: Renovated beach block 2BR, 1BA apt with W/D and SS appliances (JM) $2,700

B. 117: 2BR, 2BA condo unit with ocean views and washer/dryer in unit (SB) . . . . . . $2,650

RENTALS

ABTS: Ocean view 2BR, 1BA apt, stackable W/S and ocean view terrace (NS) . . . . . . $2,450

B. 96: 1BR, 1BA corner apt. with views of Jamaica Bay, laundry on lobby (CF) . . . . . . $2,426

B. 70: 2BR, 1BA updated apartment with SS appliances and HW floors (NS) $2,300

B. 70: 3BR, 1BA apt in a quiet building with hardwood floors throughout (ZP) $2,100

Brooklyn: 1BR, 1.5BA condo, SS appliances and custom window treatments (TC) $1,900

B. 96: 1BR, 1BA apartment in elevator building with parking available (CF). . . . . . . . $1,813

B. 120: Newly renovated 1BR, 1BA apt with HW floors and W/D in building (SB) $1,800

B. 120: Spacious 1BR, 1BA apt with HW floors and W/D in building (SB) $1,800

B. 120: Newly renovated 1BR, 1BA apt with HW floors and SS appliances (SB) $1,719

B. 93: 1BR, 1BA charming apartment with HW floors throughout (SB) $1,657

B. 120: Newly renovated studio apt with HW floors and SS appliances (SB) . . . . . . . $1,056

Lic.

Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson • Nia Casilla • Colleen Brady • Tracy Czik

Lic. RE Agents: Joseph Magiera • Zachary Plattner • Carol Feintisch

Samantha Benanti • Jack Brandes • Nicole Switzer

BROOKL YN MEMBER

12 Year Member follow us on all social media platforms

Century 21 Amiable II

Margaret A. Wagner

Associate Broker

(347)236-2018 cell | (718)845-4700 / www.c21amiable2.com

BEACH BLOCK BARGAIN

OWNER SAYS SELL!!! $699K

This owner occupied legal four family home has over 2,500 sf of nished space, large un nished basement, pvt drive for 6 cars, solar panels and commercial overlay. Currently two studio apts and two 2 bedroom apts. Three out of four apts delivered vacant and for this the owner has reduced the price to an unbelievable price. Proof of funds and mortgage pre-approval required at acceptance of o er. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!

Apartments for Rent

Rockaway Park - One bedroom includes all $1,500

Rockaway Park - Walk in two bedroom on beach block. Totally renovated with seasonal parking $2,500

Belle Harbor-Two bedroom with w&d and seasonal parking $2,350

Rockaway Park - Studio for one person $1,100

Prayer for our troops. Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protecttheme as they perform for us in our time of need. Amen. No documents or exclusive agreements are required for homebuyers to receive services

Newly Built Raised Colonial - 2 bedrooms, one full bath, one half bath, new kitchen, laundry room, large yard, walk to stores, parks, tennis courts, library, train & express bus, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Near Rockaway beaches & ferry, 15 minute drive to JFK Airport. Listed for $575,000

Waterfront New Home - 2 bedrooms, one full bath, one half bath, 98 x 80 property, large driveway, pool, driveway, storage room, spectacular sunrises from the outdoor deck, walk to stores, parks, tennis courts, library, train & express bus, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Near Rockaway beaches & ferry, 15 minute drive to JFK Airport. Listed for $675,000

Raised Colonial with 3 bedrooms, 1 full bath, 2 half baths, large open living room, kitchen and dining room, full basement with a laundry room, play room & lots of storage. Front balcony, large deck off the dining room, hot tub & pool. Listed for $629,000.00

By Isabella Donovan

Fifteen degrees out today—maybe down to 8 degrees this weekend. The first measurable snowfall of the season in New York City. Porch season in Rockaway seems so far away! Being inside my apartment in Brooklyn day after frigid day makes me miss that front porch more and more each day. My dad purchased the house in Rockaway after Hurricane Sandy so that we could have a beach house that is walking distance to my grandmother's house in Belle Harbor. After the devastating natural disaster, everyone’s mental state was in shambles, and being with family became more important than ever. The life altering hurricane put things into perspective for my dad and made him realize that he has to treasure every moment with his family.

My dad purchased the Rockaway home with the intention of spending every summer there, and we have done exactly that—and more. Everything about the house is personal and special to my family, but

Burnt Memories

almost all of our favorite memories have been made on the front porch. Almost every night, from June to August, even if my sister and I are not home, my dad makes a fire on the front porch. One thing he will almost never do, is put the fire out. No matter how many hours the fire has been running, or how late in the night it is, my father will sit outside, in his big comfortable recliner, and wait for the simmering flames to evaporate into the air until all that is left is smoke. Sometimes he will fall asleep out there and we can hear him come up the stairs to bed at 4 a.m. Even early in the morning, you can find my father, legs crossed, resting on his chair, with a baseball cap loosely thrown on his head, a coffee in his left hand, and a “Rockaway Times” newspaper in his right. Thankfully, he usually gets bagels for us too while we sleep the mornings away, like typical teenagers. The front porch is laid out with two small couches and two recliners topped with enormous fluffy red and gold cushions and pillows. Our corgi, Sundance, always resorts to sitting in

her designated seat in the corner of the left couch, near my dad’s feet. She might like the fires even more than he does! Next to each couch is a wooden side table, with remnants of s’mores stuck to the corners and sides. Ignoring the sticky substance, we still use the table as a homework stand, leaning on it to write, when we open the house near the end of each school year and when school starts up again in September. Frequently, I find myself getting distracted by a smack of smoke seeping out of the steel, cylindrical, fire pit, temporarily blinding me. The fire pit is the centerpiece of the porch, standing about four feet tall with a small oval opening on the lower end, stuffed with wood, charcoal and sticks. Across from the fire pit itself, is a rectangular wooden console, which stores all of the wood, and sticks for next time.

Some nights, the flames are accompanied by marshmallows on wooden sticks, the crunch of graham crackers, and laughter roaring from our cousins and friends. Other nights, the fire is accompanied by silence, as we

close our eyes and relax, listening to the crickets of the night, the distant roar of the ocean and the soft crackling of sparks. The warmth from the fire kisses our sunburn, after spending eight hours on the beach earlier that day. Unaware of the fact that we have Hershey's chocolate smeared on our lips and chin, we “cheeeeeseeee!!” for my dad’s photographs. The sand, still stuck in our hair, tickles our scalps, and falls onto the floor, preparing to get uncomfortably stuck to the bottom of our feet. The sound of distorted and indistinct voices of kids playing basketball down the street, accompanied by the neighbors who are also on their porch, conversing about sports or politics, each clasping a beer or wine glass in their hand, play through my ears. Everyone has a different concept of peace, but simply sitting on that front porch, with wood in the fire pit and a s’mores stick in hand, is my family’s idea of perfect relaxation.

(Editor’s Note: Isabella Donovan is a 16-year-old high school student who sent this piece in for your enjoyment.)

By Robin Shapiro

SUMMER EFFECTS

LOCAL BROKERS VERSUS OUT-OF-TOWNERS

The summer season has mixed effects on the Rockaway real estate market. On the one hand, we are a beachfront community and the draw of the summer activities does bring people here for: beaches, swimming, cycling, running, surfing, organized teams for kids and adults (although the pandemic may crimp some of these this year; thankfully the “end” is in sight). On the other hand, some sellers are reluctant to sell during the summer because they enjoy the aforementioned activities and don’t want to give them up so fast!

Periodically, out-of-town brokers try to get a foothold in Rockaway. This is not a new phenomenon. Over the years, this has been UNSUCCESSFULLY tried before. The experienced local brokers have tremendous advantages over the interlopers.

down. They know the local “players” – the investors, the families thinking about upsizing or downsizing. They know the parameters and specific desires /needs of these local players. They even know many of the appraisers who frequently appear in Rockaway. Sometimes they can get an appraiser’s “ear” and explain why the house should “comp” out so that the buyer can obtain the necessary mortgage to do the deal.

It can be harder to sell real estate during the summer due to vacations by buyers and sellers alike. Summer activities can also occupy people instead of allowing them to focus on the home sale process.

The spring season has been generally good for our real estate market. There has been action across the board in all price categories with an emphasis on the range below $1 million (approx). Prices have firmed up within the framework of recent comparable sales and in some cases are creeping higher. Inventory levels remain very low. Call me, Love, Robin. 718-490-9463

The intelligent local brokers know the history of most houses –not just the sale records available on the internet. They know houses which have been on the market before and have been unsuccessfully marketed – and they know WHY the old listings were unsuccessful. They know who made offers on houses and why offers were turned

Out of town brokers are wrong if they imply any special access to out-of-town buyers.  Websites are almost universally viewed by potential buyers making buyers generally very knowledgeable. There’s no special “hocus pocus” access to unknown buyers. There is specific special local knowledge privy to local brokers.

Call me. Love, Robin

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

718-843-3211

161-11 Crossbay Blvd

Valentine’s Day Half Marathon or 5K

On Saturday, February 11, the Rockaway Track Club is hosting the V-Day 5K and Half Marathon. Check in at Healy’s Pub at 8 a.m. and race starts at 9 a.m. on the Beach 108th Boardwalk. Pre-register at Rockawaytc.org

Valentine’s Makers Market

On Sunday, February 12, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., head to the Rockaway Brewing Company (415 Beach 72nd Street) and shop some goodies for your Valentine from local vendors.

Community Board 14

On Wednesday, February 15 at 7:15 p.m., head to the Knights of Columbus (333 Beach 90th Street) for the monthly community board meeting. Hear updates on Sanitation and Gateway National Recreation area and more. If you wish to

speak, sign up before the meeting begins.

Fight With Your Smile Fundraiser

On Friday, February 17 at 6 p.m., head to the Belle Harbor Yacht Club (533 Beach 126th) to help support the Fight With Your Smile campaign for LLS. Music by The Rockawades and Brooklyn Bards. Music starts at 6:30 p.m. $20 entrance. Bring cash for cash bar and raffles.

Morning Moves at RISE

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

JASA Weekly Yoga

On Mondays at 11 a.m. and Fridays at 11:30 a.m., adults 60+ are welcome to JASA Rockaway Park Older Adult Center (106-20 Shore

Front Parkway) for weekly Yoga with Cynthia. Open to Adults 60 +; To register, please call 718-6343044.

JASA Weekly Arts

On Thursdays at 10 a.m., adults 60+ are welcome to JASA Rockaway Park Older Adult Center (10620 Shore Front Parkway) for weekly painting/ Arts and crafts. Let your creativity be free! RSVP and for more details: 718-634-3044.

Core on the Floor

On Mondays from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., head to the RISE Center (58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd) for a free core and lower body class with Ann Fosteris of Fitness to You. All are welcome! Bring a mat. Masks required inside RISE.

Cardio Punch

On Saturdays at 11 a.m., head to Seaside Library (116-15 Rocka-

way Beach Blvd) to join for a total body, non-contact workout fit for all levels. Punch, hook, and kick to motivating, high-energy music that progress into heart-pumping combinations. Through April 1.

Animal Activist Support Group

Want to help advocate for animals? This virtual support group will be facilitated by Jill Lauri and meet monthly via Zoom. Scholarships are available. Space is limited, and registration is required. For more information and to register, please visit https://HealingWithAnimals. com/Animal-Activist-Support-Group.

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

LEGAL NOTICES

PARC RE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/29/22. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 33-20 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of VVR LLC. Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 1/26/23. Office location: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served SSNY shall mail process to: 157-25 82nd St, Howard Beach, NY 11414. Purpose: any lawful activities

Notice of Formation of 22GRAFFICS

LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/04/2023. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 88-16 212th Place, Queens Village, NY 11427. Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of 39 FLUSHING PROSPERITY LLC, Arts of Org. filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 01/03/2023. Office location: QUEENS. SSNY design. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy to 133-27 39TH AVE, APT. 9E, FLUSHING, NY, 11354, USA. Purpose: any lawful activity.

HERKIMER BRIARWOOD LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 1/10/23. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 36-35 Bell Blvd., Bayside, NY 11361.Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

TIFFANY ROSE CERTIFIED REGISTERED

NURSE ANESTHETIST PLLC, a Prof. LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/13/2023. Office loc: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: The PLLC, 7011 108th Street, Apt 3K, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: To Practice The Profession Of Registered Professional Nursing.

Notice of Formation of ISIDOR LAW, PLLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/05/2023. Office location: Queens, NY.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to ISIDOR LAW, PLLC, 9605 40TH RD, Corona, NY 11368. Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of CORONA 111 ST LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/27/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: 6633 Commonwealth Blvd., Little Neck, NY 11362. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of Formation of Silver Laurel, LLC, Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/21/2022. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail a copy of process to 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 210, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

410 MAIN STREET LI LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/02/2023. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Simon Blitz & Daniel Gazal, 11-11 44th Drive, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

ALAN TANSEY ARCHITECTURE PLLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect'y of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/30/2022. Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: The LLC, 3515 78th St., Apt. 53, Jackson Heights, NY, 11372. Purpose: Architecture.

JUPITER JIE, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/07/22, with an existence date of 01/16/2023. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as gent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 28 Steven Street, Plainview, NY 11803. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of DivineEnergyNYC

LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/22/22. Office location: Queens, NY.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to DivineEnergyNYC LLC, 3114 82nd Street East Elmhurst, NY 11370. Any lawful purpose.

LEGAL NOTICES

Be Rockaway Enterprises LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 1/04/2016. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 114-04 Beach Channel Dr., Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

2 digit number s are

a) How

which the sum of the digits is equal to 12?

Charlotte Abbott LLC Articles of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/01/23. Office: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Charlotte Abbott LLC, 577 Onderdonk Ave, Apt 2R, Ridgewood, NY 11385. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

b) How many 3 digit number s are there in which the sum of the digits is equal to 12?

Solution:

:

PAW PRINTS byTerriEstes

Dalmatian

Say hello to the Dalmatian!

Famed for their spotted coat, this breed was recognized by the AKC in 1888 and is a member of the non-sporting group. The Dalmatian should stand 19-24 inches at the shoulder and weigh 45-70 lbs. All Dalmatians are white with black or liver brown spots. It is believed that the breed is named after Dalmatia, the coastal region of Croatia, where the breed originated. All Dalmatians are born white, and their spots develop later.

Also known as the Coach dog, or Firehouse dog, the Dalmatian was bred to protect horse drawn carriages. These dogs have an affinity for horses and were used by firefighters to run in front of their horse drawn fire rigs to clear the path to fires, and then guard the horses and equipment while the firefighters battled the fire. However, the Dalmatian is best known for its starring role in Disney’s 101 Dalmatians.

This breed is highly energetic and needs plenty of exercise. They are good with older children but may be too energetic for the little ones. They are very loyal to their own family but can be reserved with strangers. The Dalmatian’s beautiful, unique spotted coat is low maintenance and needs little care. If you are looking for a loyal companion to take on your morning jogs or hikes through the park, then this may be the dog for you!

be balanced

A BLISSFUL LIFE byJenniferKelleher

Be Gentle With Yourself

I recently found myself listening to Danielle LaPorte speak about her new book, “How To Be Loving” in a podcast interview and, while she said many things that hit home, the following was particularly resonant to my own journey and life: “You heal by learning to be gentle with yourself.”

I invite you to take a moment to sit with this. Close your eyes and bring your attention to the lower part of your trunk, beneath the navel. Soften your hips and imagine that you have a sandbag in

your pelvic bowl. Gently and lovingly encourage your breath cycles to be slow, circular, and easy. On the smooth, unhurried breath, sweetly repeat to yourself, “I heal by being gentle with myself.”

When something in our body or life becomes dense, painful, or traumatic, it is a calling for us to pause and reprioritize how and where we are dividing our attention. Density and pain sprout from imbalance. When we let things go too far, either because we are unaware or because we are ignoring,

situations or circumstances that our mind judges as uncomfortable come in to slow us down and ground us.

It is important to remind ourselves that we have the choice to bring awareness in difficult situations. When something challenging arises, are we going to wallow in it and let it consume us? Are we going to try to push it away, ignore it, and keep doing what we were doing? Or are we going to pause and go inward to gain deeper understanding and then use that new awareness to guide how we move forward?

Jane Lee Logan writes, “Sometimes what looks like an obstacle in your path is actually a gift meant to move you in a better direction.” Yung Pueblo says, “You are the key to your healing, not time. What heals is self-love, learning to let go, self-awareness and building new habits.”

I believe that at our core, we are all love. By surrendering the mind and landing the love that we are here in this present body that is experiencing whatever it is expe-

riencing, we heal. By not judging our body, life, or circumstances as good or bad, fair or unfair, and simply landing and loving with patience and compassion, we heal. All that our ‘hurts’ want or need is our gentle and kind love and attention.

In closing, I invite you to sit with the question, “How can I be gentler with myself?” Perhaps for you it’s in your thoughts and self-talk. Or maybe, in how you care for your body. As you start to see the areas of your life that could use more of your attention, think about how you can prioritize your newly discovered needs so that healing can happen. What can you do to love yourself more? What do you need to let go of? How can you begin building new habits?

I invite you to join me at Ocean Bliss Yoga Studio on Wednesday, February 15 at 7 p.m. for a Sonic Alignment Sound Bath. Come experience how sound and frequency can heal your body, mind, and life. No experience needed, newcomers welcome! Reserve your space at oceanblissyoga.net

Life With Our “Artistic” Child

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Helping Adult Autistic Individuals

Leap Over the ‘Services Cliff’— Part 3

Business owners! Who is your dream employee? Someone spending more time texting than doing their job? Maybe, a young buck looking at the job as a three-month gig until he lands something better? Or, perhaps a lovely, but “chatty Kathy,” who spends more time chatting up your customers as opposed to actually working? If these are not your ideal employee candidates, there is an amazing group of “different-abled” Rockaway residents you should consider—working-age locals on the autism spectrum. In part three of this four-part column series, citing credible sources, I lay out the case why autistic employees will be an asset, not a liability, on a business’ bottom line.

Though each person with autism is different, (when you’ve met ONE person with autism, you’ve met ONE person with autism)—there are a plethora of strengths associated with autism that will be a godsend to employers. In a 2021 Spectrum News article, clinical psychologist, Kate Cooper, pointed out that “when viewed from a different angle, many so-called negative traits associated with autism can be strengths. It’s more about how individuals apply these traits and in what context.” For example, hyper-focused attention to detail translates to autistic employees making fewer mistakes than their

but how they’re viewed from the outside. A 2020 Zeno communications agency study found that when businesses have a strong humanitarian purpose, consumers are four times more likely to trust the company, and six times more likely to defend the company from criticism.

bled Access Credit and Architectural/Transportation Tax Deduction.

To conclude, business owners would be pleasantly surprised to witness the alluring benefits of including an autistic workforce. If you own a local business or can recommend one, please reach out!

neurotypical counterparts and is one of the desirable traits that make employees on the autism spectrum invaluable team members. This is why preconceived notions about autism should be thrown out.

Next, autistic individuals are known for their impenetrable honesty. Due to the way the autistic brains work, these individuals say exactly what they think. Wouldn’t an employee who doesn’t make excuses, reports to work on time and is completely truthful about their activities be a refreshing addition to any business?

Autistic individuals are also creative problem-solvers. A 2020 study found that “some individuals with ASD are better at creative solutions; ultimately, helping employers think outside the box,” thus— introducing cutting-edge ideas. Also, autistic workers are known to be reliable when it comes to following the rules of professionalism and will unlikely take advantage of an employer’s trust. Autistic workers tend to flourish in a structured environment, where they are expected to follow rules and abide by a routine. This makes them an invaluable resource in a business setting, where workers are expected to perform a set number of tasks.

Another bonus with hiring autistic individuals is it just doesn’t just boost businesses’ internal image,

As for autistic worker retention, a 2022 Forbes magazine article, “Five Benefits To Hiring A Neurodiverse Workforce You Might Not Know About,” identifies a major problem business owners face today is the “Great Resignation.” Just in 2021 alone, 38 million people quit their jobs. On the flip side, these employers discovered that autistic employees have a retention rate upward of 90%. Needless to say, lower worker turnover is beneficial because employers don't have to spend critical time and resources training new workers—hence, avoiding loss of productivity.

Also, businesses who hire autistic individuals can take advantage of federal tax incentives, including the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, Disa-

A 2023 goal of Rockaway Beach Autism Families (RBAF) is to serve as an employment agency for autistic individuals. We’re not only going to provide training, but also an onsite community liaison at each job site, making it a productive and sustaining union for both the employee and employer.

Save the date! On Sunday, April 23, RBAF is hosting Rockaway’s first-ever “Walk for Autism Awareness” on the boardwalk, kicking off at Beach 126th Street! To register (free!), visit: rockawaybeachautismfamilies.org. All welcome to attend. For further info, email kami@rockawaybeachautismfamilies.org or visit Rockaway Beach Autism Families on Facebook/Instagram. “Join us in turning the tide for the autism community, one wave at a time.”

Facts You Probably D on’t Need

 The odds of being dealt a royal flush are 1 in 649,739.

 Midway through the Great Irish Famine, a group of Choctaw Indians collected $710 and sent it to help starving Irish. It had been just 16 years since the Choctaw people had faced their own starvation during the Trail of Tears.

 George Washington was worth $525 million in his day (adjusted for inflation).

 The prestigious Michelin Star, an award that the world's best chefs work their lives to attain, began as a marketing ploy by Michelin Tires.

 Scipio Africanus, the Roman

soldier who would go on to lead the army that defeated Hannibal and won the Second Punic War, first survived several of Rome's greatest defeats including battles at Ticinus and Cannae.

 In WWII, the Japanese bombed Saskatchewan, Canada. No one was hurt and the only property that was damaged was a fence.

 The full national anthem of Greece has 158 verses.

 Humans are one of the few species of mammal that don't produce their own vitamin C due to a lack of a certain enzyme.

Facts by Sean McVeigh, factologist.

By Peter Galvin, MD

Ask the DOC Fentanyl

I have no doubt that by now, most readers have heard of fentanyl, which is a synthetic opioid. Fentanyl that is prescribed and used by the medical profession is called pharmaceutical fentanyl. It can be given as a pill, lozenge, spray, skin patch, or injection. Primarily, fentanyl is used for anesthesia, often given with other anesthesia agents like propofol and thiopental. Fentanyl is frequently used in obstetrics where it is given via a spinal route. It is also used in palliative and endof-life care because it has fewer side effects than other opiates like hydromorphone and, because it has a short half-life, it can be controlled and reversed quickly

if needed. Fentanyl was created by Paul Janssen (founder of Janssen Pharmaceuticals) in 1960. Pharmaceutical fentanyl is not part of today’s opiate epidemic and continues to be used safely in medical settings.

In 2021, the CDC reported 71,238 deaths from fentanyl overdosage. Fentanyl overdoses have risen dramatically since 2013 and are due to nonpharmaceutical fentanyl, which is made illegally, mostly in China, then transported over our porous southern border by Mexican drug cartels. In each of the last several years, enough fentanyl in powder and pill form to kill every person living in the U.S. was intercepted at the border. And the amount that is caught is only a small fraction of the total amount entering our country. Fentanyl is often combined as a powder or liquid with illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin. Fentanyl is about 50

to 100 times more potent than morphine. But illegal fentanyl is only the tip of the iceberg. Fentanyl analogs, chemical relatives of fentanyl, also called fentalogs, are rapidly becoming a big problem. Drugs such as acetylfentanyl, furanylfentanyl, carfentanil, and U-47700 can be more potent than fentanyl itself. For example, carfentanil is 10,000 times stronger than morphine. More and more fentalogs are being used to create designer drugs. Currently, there are more than 1,400 known fentalogs.

As with other opioids, signs of an overdose include small, constricted (“pinpoint”) pupils, choking or gurgling, cold and/or clammy skin, loss of consciousness, and slow, weak, or absent breathing. More potent opioids like fentanyl can cause “wooden chest” syndrome, where the chest and diaphragmatic muscles become stiff and rigid and breathing ceases. Again, as with other opioids, naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the effects of fentanyl and restore normal breathing within

two to three minutes. If given in a timely manner, naloxone can prevent death from opioid overdose, and can be administered by people with no medical training. It can be given by nasal spray of injection into muscle or skin. It is short-acting so it usually must be given more than once. It is available in pharmacies without prescription and is carried by many emergency personnel, including EMS and police.

Obviously, the best way to avoid fentanyl overdose is to never use illicit drugs and avoid prescription pills through social media or e-commerce platforms because they may contain lethal amounts of fentanyl or methamphetamine. The CDC recommends that people taking prescribed daily doses of pharmaceutical opioids including fentanyl should have naloxone available at all times, and those who use illicit drugs are urged not to use these drugs when alone. The life you save may be yours.

Please direct questions and comments to editor@rockawaytimes.com

Travels with Bob

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN ARMY

By Bob Nesoff

Of the many firsts in American military history, the United States Army can claim to be in the forefront.

The Army was the first military unit formed at the Revolution. It was the first to use unconventional tactics that took the British, who attacked in formation, making them targets as in an arcade game. The Americans attacked from behind trees, from cover, rarely ever standing in formation.

They were the first to make use of what today is called “Special Forces.” Their guerilla tactics befuddled the enemy. Much of what they adopted came from the Indian population that attacked, ran and attacked again.

The modern Army was the first to create such an outfit and called it “Special Forces,” the fabled Green Berets, considered by many to be the most elite of American fighting forces.

The best way to experience any of this history, aside from enlisting in the military, is to stop over at the Museum of the American Army located off I-95 South at Fort Belvoir in Virginia.

The painstaking detail that has gone into the exhibits, the reverence given to the individuals who served and the units in which they served, gives the visitor, even civilians, an almost personal connection to the U.S. Army.

A unique feature that may be exclusive to the museum is the facial features of the mannequins on duty throughout. Each one has the face of a real person. When they were being constructed, museum officials enlisted any number of volunteers. Masks were made of their faces and then they became the actual faces of the volunteers on the mannequins. A visitor may recognize Uncle Charley or Cousin Harold and be taken aback by the likeness.

A slow stroll through the various exhibit halls brings into focus the Army’s early days. There are sol-

diers holding muskets, chow wagons ready to feed hungry troops, tents for the combat weary to rest.

In fact, should a soldier from the 18th century walk through the exhibits, he would think he had come home. So realistic are the displays.

Some of the artifacts on display have an amazing history of their own. There is a famed Sherman tank, the workhorse of WWII. The tank, a war machine that brought dread into the hearts of the opposing enemy as they heard its treads rumbling toward them, one of some 53,000 produced for the war. The one on display, named the “Cobra King,” was actually the first tank to break through German lines at the Battle of the Bulge.

Too often, the Biblical adage of “Beat the swords into plowshares,” had no foresight to future needs or historical context.

Unfortunately, too many implements of the wars were consigned to junk yards or melted down. Some were saved through the diligent efforts of those who valued history. There is a Higgins Boat that actually landed troops on the beach at the Normandy invasion. It’s a rarity as one of only six since known to still exist.

Named for designer Andrew Higgins, the troop carrier brought thousands of troops onto the beaches in Europe and then in the Pacific Theater. It carried more troops than any other transport vehicle throughout the war. It could carry either 36 combat ready soldiers or 12 with a jeep on board. It was able to deposit the troops and/or vehicles on the

beach and make a rapid turnaround for another load.

The M-1 on display was carried by Pvt. Martin J. Teahan and has his name carved into the stock. Teahan carried this rifle as he parachuted into Normandy early on the morning of June 6, 1944. Tragically, he and more than half of the men in the 508th Infantry Regiment were killed in the operation.

Most of the modern exhibit features were actually used in combat. There is the M-1 Garand, the .30 caliber workhorse of the infantry in both Europe and the South Pacific. It carried an eightround clip and made a loud pinging sound as it emptied and was ejected from the weapon. That, unfortunately, sometimes told the enemy that the soldier had to reload. It is the weapon used by a journalist in basic training in 1957. Soon after that, the military began to upgrade and modernize its individual weapons and troops were issued automatic rifles.

There is a saddle used by Green Berets in Afghanistan, made famous by the movie “12 Strong.”

The Special Forces troops wreaked havoc amongst the enemy on a mode of transportation ended after the First World War. That put the “Special” in Special Forces.

The Green Berets were trained to infiltrate behind enemy lines and set up opposition forces amongst the locals. They were medically

trained and set up dispensaries to help the local populations. They never sought publicity and were always happy to work behind the curtain. The author especially enjoyed the depiction of the Green Berets as the final unit where he served as a staff sergeant, was Green Beret.

Aside from the saddle, there is a helmet worn by Alvin York in WWI. He was presented with the Medal of Honor for the capture of more than 130 German soldiers. In a misunderstanding in the civilian population, the comment is often he “won” the Medal of Honor. It is presented, not won.

On an upper floor is a gallery of MOH recipients. The combined gallantry on display here is of incalculable heroism. Medal of Honor recipients are entitled to a hand salute from all in the military in spite of rank.

The entrance to the museum features a wall with the emblems of a variety of military units. The walk is lined with inscribed bricks honoring those who donated to help make the museum a reality.

When one talks about “Living History,” the Museum of the American Army tops the list. It’s impossible for a visitor to go through the exhibits and leave without a profound sense of awe and gratitude for the men and women who served in the American Army.

St. John’s Pharmacists Present Findings at Dubai Conference

St. John’s Episcopal Hospital’s Pharmacists were recently represented at the Dubai International Pharmaceuticals & Technology Conference & Exhibition (DUPHAT). The presentations by Piao Zhuge, PharmD, BCPS, and Ruby Rajkumar, PharmD, BCGP focused on the St. John’s Pharmaceutical team’s findings on the Impact of a Pharmacist-Driven Antimicrobial Stewardship Program in a Community Teaching Hospital and the Remdesvir Impact on Readmission & Mortality in Acute Care.

DUPHAT is a three-day annual conference and known as the largest gathering of Pharmaceutical professionals in the Middle East and Africa. This year’s conference boasted an attendance of over 20,000 and exhibited the top 100 global pharmaceutical brands. The exhibition is a place for industry insiders to network, attend specialized workshops, and to learn and share best practices with other professionals from around the world.

"It was an honor for the pharmacy department to represent St. John's at the DUPHAT International Pharmacy Conference and share the quality initiatives we have been doing here with the global pharmacy community,” Zhuge said of the experience. “The opportunity to present our research and exchange ideas with pharmacists all over the world was truly special."

The St. John’s Pharmacy Department is a 24/7 department that provides medications and clinical services to all hospital patients. In addition to medication dispensing, medication education, and intervening on medication-related issues, the pharmacy focuses on quality improvement initiatives such as antimicrobial stewardship, intravenous to oral medication conversions, anticoagulation monitoring, and automatic substitution for medication administration to patients on enteral feeding tubes.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023

Directions:

Whisk vinegar, oil, shallots, mustard, salt and pepper into a small bowl to combine. Place salad greens in a large bowl. Add half of the dressing and toss.

Cobb Salad Ala Sharona

By Sharon Feldman

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 10 cups of mixed green salad

• 4 frozen breaded chicken strips, cooked

• 2 large hard boiled eggs

• 2 medium tomatoes, diced

• ½ English cucumber, diced

• 1 large avocado, diced

• 8 slices of bacon, crumbled

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or blue cheese) … optional

Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoon finely minced shallots

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Divide the greens among four plates. Arrange equal portions of the chicken, egg, tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, bacon and feta cheese (or blue cheese) on top of the lettuce. Drizzle the salads with the remaining dressing.

++You could use shredded rotisserie chicken instead. You can also substitute individual cups of guacamole.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023

ROCKAWAY GOOD TIMES

By Kami-Leigh Agard

With the Super Bowl happening this Sunday and Valentine’s next Tuesday, the peninsula’s bustling food, beverage and arts establishments are popping! So, plan your Rockaway crawl with Rockaway Good Times. Plus, if you’re looking to cater food for the Super Bowl or debating where to go for Valentine’s Day, don't forget our advertisers!

LIVE MUSIC

FRIDAY, February 10 8 p.m.

It’s Fri-yay! Time to go make memories with the Rock-A-Wades at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club’s upstairs lounge.

533 Beach 126th Street

FRIDAY, February 10 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Come see for yourself why The Irish Independent compared Irish Corkborn folk songsmith, Niall Connolly, to early Bob Dylan for “the strength of his voice and the potency of his words.” Happening tomorrow at The Rockaway Hotel’s “Folk Friday Series.”

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

FRIDAY, February 10 8 p.m. to Midnight

Enter Rogers and cruise to an awesome weekend with The Knobs jammin’ your hottest alternative rock favorites.

203 Beach 116th Street

FRIDAY, February 10 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

These girls are on fire! Don’t miss Breezy’s Pointers tonight at Bar Marseille!

190 Beach 69th Street

SATURDAY, February 11 4 p.m.

Rockaway Tiki Bar presents Patsy & The Heavy Set! So, do as Patsy does and show up for a night of pleasurable surprises. Plus, the heated Tiki tent is now open!

67-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

SATURDAY, February 11 8:30 p.m.

Blackstone stomps into RBQ with their flamin’ lineup of Southern rock and blues.

97-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

SATURDAY, February 11 9 p.m.

Get an early kickoff to your Big Game fiesta with Anthem Acoustic dishin’ out a full feast of classic rock at Rogers.

203 Beach 116th Street

SUNDAY, February 12 5 p.m.

Bring your mates and go face-to-face with your football foes for tonight’s Big Game at Rogers.

203 Beach 116th Street

SUNDAY, February 12

6 p.m.

It’s Big Game Sunday, and while you wait to find out if the Chiefs or the Eagles take home the coveted trophy, gear up for the ultimate showdown party at Knights of Columbus.

330 Beach 90th Street

ONGOING

Wine WEDNESDAYS

7 p.m.

Channel your inner Spice Girl at Rockaway Tiki’s karaoke night.

67-20 Rockaway Beach Blvd

8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Bask in an evening of rhythmic storytelling with Ireland’s Cork-born renowned folk songsmith, Niall Connolly, at Sayra’s.

91-11 Rockaway Beach Blvd

Thirsty THURSDAYS

9 p.m.

DJ Baroque boasts one of the most enviable record collections known and unknown within the funk and soul scene, so tonight, don’t miss him spinning acid jazz, instrumental funk and soul gems at The Rose Den.

174 Beach 116th Street

8 p.m. to Midnight

French-Mediterranean restaurant, Bar Marseille, brings Manhattan chic to Rockaway with a lounge-inspired DJ set, dancing, adult bevies and endless selfie moments. Ooh la la!!

190 Beach 69th Street

Sweet SUNDAYS

12 noon

Whether you’re in the mood for brunch or lunch—The Chef’s Table

has got you covered, including live music kicking off at 12 noon. For reservations, call (718) 318-5100.

268 Beach 116th Street

SPECIAL MENTIONS

THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL “ROCK WITH US” ROLLER SKATE PARTY

SATURDAY, February 12

7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Skate with love this Valentine’s weekend at The Last Resort Artist Retreat’s (TLRAR) Rock With Us event at The Rockaway Hotel—an evening of roller skating, featuring a DJ set by Papi Juice & Friends, and the unveiling of the hotel's roller rink popup! Proceeds from this event go directly to future programming at TLAR, an artist residency that “subscribes to the concept of leisure as therapy for the Black creative.” Tickets are $75 to $100, and include open bar (7 p.m. to 9 pm, cash bar afterwards), passed appetizers and skate rental (limited supply). Feel free to bring your own. For tickets and more info, visit: https://www. therockawayhotel.com/happenings

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

ONGOING—THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL ROLLER ROCK

HAPPENING selected dates in February

Roller Rock for the month of February! With theme nights, live DJs, food and drink offerings, and skating rink, get your wheels oiled up for a good time!  Skaters must be 10 years or older to skate, and guests under 18 years must be supervised by an adult. Pricing varies. For parties of 12 guests or more, email: Hello@TheRockawayHotel.com for special packages, including food, open bar & more! For reservations, and more info, go to: www.therockawayhotel.com/happenings

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

LOCAL VALENTINE’S DAYVIBRATIONS

TUESDAY, February 14 4 p.m.

Awww, why not make your kiddo your Valentine at Jameson’s Children’s Valentine’s Day? From cookie decorating with Meg’s Sweet Treats, coloring and dinner—much love to be shared! For reservations, call (718) 474-9364.

421 Beach 129th Street

TUESDAY, February 14 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

If you want to truly make your love feel special on love day, consider making Margie’s at The Rockaway Hotel your romance destination. From a special prix-fixe menu crafted by Executive Chef Chris Tyler, paired with love reggae vibrations by Jah Stix, even a special night at one of the hotel’s elegant rooms with breathtaking views—make Valentine’s 2023 one to remember forever. For reservations, visit:  https://www.therockawayhotel.com/ happenings

108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive

TUESDAY, February 14 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Fall in love at La Sorrentina with their $37.99 two-course pre-fix special this Valentine’s Day, while live music will swoon you away. Call 718474-1775 for reservations.

420 Beach 129th Street

TUESDAY, February 14 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Make Breezy Point your spot for romance with a gorgeous sunset at Kennedy’s. With a special four-course menu and live music by Jojo, love will be in the air during this candlelight dinner. For reservations, call 718-945-0202.

TUESDAY, February 14 6 p.m.

It’s love day, so whether you’re dateless or datefull—all welcome at GrindTime Skate Shop to rock in the name of love to music by bands: Drop Dead Gorgeous, Mother Cabrini, Plastic Baby Jesus and Nnico Laaaaiii! 91-08 Rockaway Beach Blvd— Backyard

SHOPPING

ROCKAWAY VALENTINE’S MAKERS MARKET

SUNDAY, February 12

12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Put the love back in “lover’s rock” at Rockaway’s Makers Market’s first shopping extravaganza of the year at Rockaway Brewing Co! With a milelong list of vendors and Jamaican food from Doran Edwards—party hearty with the Brewery’s specially curated beer, wine and kombucha. Plus, the RatCatz’S jazz will get your heart all shook up.

415 Beach 72nd Street

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

LOCAL COLOR: READERS SEND IN

THEIR PIX

We might be a little biased, but we think some of the best photographers in the world live in Rockaway. Here are some shots that readers shared with us this week. Send your photos (limit to 2 per week) to mail@rockawaytimes.com and we’ll do our best to print them (space permitting). We do receive more than we can print.

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

Adelle Balfe

Paul Richter

Jennifer Nicholasi

Tom McCabe

TJ Moriarty

Tom McCabe

Gary Barteldt

John Moore

MORE LOCAL COLOR: READERS SEND IN THEIR PIX

We might be a little biased, but we think some of the best photographers in the world live in Rockaway. Here are some shots that readers shared with us this week. Send your photos (limit to 2 per week) to mail@rockawaytimes.com and we’ll do our best to print them (space permitting). We do receive more than we can print.

Dolphins Digest

By Keith Stephens Jr.

The first game post-break for the Beach Channel Dolphins was against a tough Thomas Edison team. In a back and forth contest, the Inventors defeated the Dolphins by a close three point margin. Jamell Fletcher and George Hance both scored 21 in the loss. The next game was against the Fighting VeeBees of Martin Van Buren. This game ended in a loss for the Dolphins.

Hance scored 19 and Fletcher scored 14 in the defeat. Following this loss, the Dolphins would travel to Epic South to take on the Jaguars on MLK Day. This game ended with a third straight loss. The Dolphins would lose by seven despite co-captain George Hance scoring 26 points during the matinee. This three-game losing streak would put the Dolphins at 9-4 overall in the division and 11-4 overall. But this loss would also be the last loss of the regular season!

Following the three-game losing streak, the Dolphins would regroup and take on the Knights of Franklin K. Lane. This game would end with the Dolphins winning 70-57. Junior Jamell Fletcher finished the game

with 24 points and nine rebounds. Senior co-captain George Hance had 17 points and nine assists.

The following game had the Spartans of John Adams traveling to the bay to take on the Dolphins. The Dolphins were victorious 64-61 behind the 22-point scoring of co-captain Malakai Clark. His co-captain George Hance had 14 points and eight assists. The next game would be the Battle of the Peninsula as the Dolphins hosted Far Rockaway HS. The Dolphins led this game wire to wire and were victorious by a 12-point margin. Malakai Clark had 18 points and eight rebounds while Jamell Fletcher had 17 points and 12 boards.

The next game was supposed to be a home PSAL matchup against Grover Cleveland for Senior Night. Cleveland wound up forfeiting, giving the Dolphins the division win, but an opponent was needed for Senior Night. Adams Street Academy stepped up and came to take on the Dolphins for Senior Night. The Dolphins celebrat-

ed eight seniors: George Hance, Malakai Clark, Joseph Janvier, Matthew Boyland, Tyler Daniels, Rahje Theophile, Paul Brock, ansd Devon Eddy. The game and crowd was electric as the Dolphins defeated the Eagles of Adams Street 71-53. BG to the Moon with a huge six-point outburst in the victory. Big thanks to DJ’s @ Work for providing the best entertainment and to the parents for providing postgame pizza and cupcakes.

The final game was on the road vs. Richmond Hill on their Senior Night. The Dolphins were down 43-29 at half and were down 61-53 after three quarters. This didn’t faze the Dolphins as they came back to win 70-67 to beat the Lions on their Senior Night. Jamell Fletcher had 27 points and 12 rebounds in the win. This game ended the regular season with the Dolphins 14-4 in the division and 17-4 overall.

Please follow the Dolphins on Instagram @bcdolphinshoops to keep up with playoff information. Go Dolphins!!!

Andrzej Zbrog

Mark Eidinger

Linda Anthonijsz

ROCKAWAY

SPOT

RIP Lanny Poffo & Hulk Hogan's Health

By Eric Jayden

We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of former World Wrestling Federation (WWF) Superstar Lanny Poffo, known throughout the world as "Leaping" Lanny Poffo and "The Genius."

Lanny Poffo, born on December 28, 1954, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, was a former superstar with the World Wrestling Federation, before they became the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The

younger brother of "Macho Man” Randy Savage, he started his career in 1974, wrestling for the now defunct All South Wrestling Alliance (ASWA) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Known for his high-flying style, Lanny became a favorite with wrestling fans all over the mid-south. In 1985, Lanny made his debut for the WWF and he would spend seven years working for the promotion, primarily as a babyface. He was one of the first wrestlers to use the "Senton Bomb" and the "Moonsault."

In 1989, Lanny would change characters and turn heel to become "The Genius," a highly intelligent and arrogant bad guy, who wore an academic cap and gown into the ring. He would also play the role of executive consultant to former WWF Superstar "Mr. Perfect" Curt Henning. Lanny would go on to perform for the WWE and many other promotions, finally retiring in 2020. He was indeed a pleasure to watch, and I enjoyed, all of his performances. Unfortunately, Lanny passed away on February 2, 2023, due to heart failure. Rest in Peace Lanny, we know you are with your brother, the Macho Man, in that big ring in the sky. We have reports on former WWE Superstar Hulk Hogan's health. In his podcast, former WWE Superstar Kurt Angle revealed that Hulk Hogan's health was bad, and that the former wrestling champion had no feelings in his legs. He further went on to say that Hulk couldn't walk without the assistance of a cane. Hulk Hogan, now 69 years old, went on social media to counter those reports. Hulk said

he is a "little stiff, a little sore, but doing ok." Right now, it appears that this may have been a misunderstanding between Hogan and Angle. We will keep you posted.

The Question of the Week comes from Zack H, in Arverne and he said, "I believe that the WWE will be bought by AEW Owner Tony Khan. I wanted to know your thoughts?" Zack, I get this question asked on a weekly basis. The latest news regarding this topic, comes from Tony Khan himself. Tony has indicated, in the past and currently, that he is interested in being involved in the sales process of the WWE. He stated during the Mark Hoke Show, that "We'll have to see what that process is, and who exactly they'll let get involved in it. Certainly, I'm interested in it very much." Now, with that being said, will Tony and his father, Shad Khan, be able to pay the high price that the WWE will be asking. It will be very interesting to see. Thank you for the great question!

Send any questions and comments to eavil183@yahoo.com, have a great weekend!

All Major Insurance Companies Accepted