Rockaway Times 3 26 15

the

Rockaway !

The Local Weekly

!

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Times

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VOL. 1, NO.40 - THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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See Page 7

Page 2

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder has stood firm in his stance that he will not vote for a budget that doesn’t include Education Investment Tax Credit (EITC).

As first reported by NY1 News, Assembly Democrats, the GOP Senate majority and the governor failed to come to an agreement that would allow for EITC’s inclusion in the budget. If they fail to find a way to include EITC, Goldfeder will vote against the budget.

The plan for EITC is to bundle it with the DREAM Act, which would

provide college assistance to noncitizens, under the new budget.

The DREAM Act has been passed by the Assembly but has run into a roadblock with the GOP-controlled senate. Thus, the Democrats have moved for Cuomo to table DREAM so that EITC stands a chance.

In his State of the State Address Governor Cuomo had pledged support of EITC and said that it would be included in the $142 billion budget proposal. EITC would provide a state tax credit for classroom supplies, classroom projects, arts, music, sports, and scholarships.

Kyle Kimball, president of the New York Economic Development Corporation, which calls itself New York’s “primary engine” for economic development, is resigning.

The New York Times reported that Kimball was resigning for “personal reasons.”

Kimball took over as president of the EDC in the last months of the Bloomberg administration. It was somewhat surprising that he kept the post when Mayor de Blasio was sworn in. Heading The EDC is a plum spot and new mayors often select their own agency leaders.

Despite its clout, The EDC is a

relatively unknown entity partly because it has few direct connections with private citizens. But private citizens are affected by EDC actions and inactions.

The EDC, under Kimball, did little for Rockaway. He was president when the Rockaway ferry was discontinued. The failed “Game Changer” in which $18 million dollars was earmarked for Rockaway projects fell apart under Kimball.

And the EDC also partners with the Parks Department on the notoriously slow boardwalk rebuild.

The Mayor has not named a replacement.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has released its latest Noise Complaint Map. The map shows how many noise complaints were filed in the areas surrounding Newark, La Guardia, and John F. Kennedy Airport.

JFK by far evokes the most complaints of the area’s three airports.

According to the Port Authority, almost 2,300 noise complaints were filed because of noise at JFK, while only 587 were filed near La Guar-

dia and less than 20 at Newark.

Surprisingly, most of the complaints about the noise caused JFK air traffic do not come from the neighborhoods directly surrounding the airport. Rather, the majority of the compaints come from southern Nassau County, nearly 20 miles away.

As for Rockaway, people don’t seemed to be too bothered by the noise as less than 20 complaints came from residents of the peninsula.

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The Rockaway Times

SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE ROCKAWAY TIMES

The Rockaway Times

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

By Kevin Boyle

What’s Cooking?

I know most of my readership is limited to the Golden Age Clubs.

If somebody got their AARP card when Laugh-in and The Dating Game were hit shows, chances are they check this space regularly.

(Don’t worry fans I’m working on the big print version!). Some don’t read Boyleing Points as much as monitor it. They lay in wait to see if I’m gonna trash my mother’s cooking.

For those just tuning in, I once wrote a column about growing up not knowing pork chops had meat.

I thought they were burnt bones

covered in applesauce. It was around the time the book Angela’s Ashes hit the bestseller list. My column was about Helen’s Ashes coming from the kitchen stove.

Millions came to her defense including my siblings – all of whom said she was a great cook who made lemonade out of lemons. I remember differently, I think she made lemonade out of Windex. The general reaction was: How dare I?!

But others were thankful for sharing. Support groups sprouted up throughout Rockaway as people got together to talk about how they

28 Days

had to “clean the plate” before getting up from the dining room table.

Those were the days when dining rooms were used.

More than a few said I was lucky: at least you got applesauce, they said. They wouldn’t go public but they told me they were served ketchup on spaghetti. Wow, at least we got Ragu or Chef Boyardee.

People still bring up that column, though it has to be fifteen years ago. I haven’t written about my mother’s cooking since, but I can tell you I give her a copy of The Rockaway Times with the Recipe Swap column ripped out lest she get any ideas.

Before I got sidetracked with cooking I was going to write about sports.

With age comes wisdom – which is why you can feel smart while reading a dummy like me. See, I’m dumb enough to still get sucked into watching sports. I hate sports.

But then March Madness starts.

Like my readership, I’m old enough to know better. I shouldn’t give a hoot. But then I enter a pool and start picking teams. I don’t know anything about the talent or the match-ups but convince myself that I can become expert in a snap.

I watch every game.

But first, I gotta look at the names of the colleges. Valparaiso is a college? It sounds like a special at an Italian restaurant. But people call it

Valpo, which sounds like dog food.

I’ve heard of Butler, Davidson and Robert Morris but can’t tell you what states they’re in. And Wofford?

Wofford’s a college?

Doesn’t matter, I can become expert and figure out who’s gonna win. I read a little, watch the pundits, and then use my usual method. I look at the names of the two teams playing each other and hope for a vibe. I have no other method than waiting for the name of one team to shout louder in my head than the other.

That’s my system.

When I win, you’re all invited to dinner at Helen’s.

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If you hadn’t guessed by now, we like publishing pictures of people with Rockaway Times t-shirts (or reading the paper in faraway places).

The shirts have shown up in Taiwan and the pyramids of Egypt. But it’ll be tough to top Goody’s, the legendary barbecue place on 70th Street.

A few years back Barbara Hillary traveled to the North Pole and took her Goody’s t-shirt with her and snapped a photo. We have a bet with Goody’s we can top that. Know any astronauts? ***** You can’t tell a book by its cover but it’s enough to turn people off, we guess. We just about never get returns from newsstands and thousands view our website each week.

Just a few weeks ago we put Mayor de Blasio on the cover and the papers gathered dust. Our website had the fewest views that week than any since the summer. The next few weeks the papers flew off the stands and our Top 10 Things about Rockaway was one of the most viewed arti-

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

cles we’ve ever had. It could be a coincidence but it’ll be a while before the Mayor is back on the cover. ***** Speaking of our Top 10 article, we caught some flak for not mentioning this or that. We didn’t make the list, we reported on what readers said.

Like they say, you can’t complain if you didn’t vote. Anyway, what we found out is, there are more than 10 great things. Keep an eye out for our next Top 10. Top 10 pizzas (that’s sure to start an argument); Top 10 entertainers; Top 10 surfers; Top 10 most annoying people (only kidding—we couldn’t limit it to ten!). ***** Another sign that Rockaway is recovering and getting back: there are more complaints about dog crap not being picked up. If you’re responsible enough to own a dog you should be responsible to your fellow citizens. ***** There’s a polar plunge this Saturday and nobody’s getting off easy

with the water temperature still in the thirties. This plunge helps the Special Olympics and it’ll be held at Riis Park at noon. You don’t have to jump in to help. Go to PolarPlungeNY.org/Rockaways to donate. ***** We hesitate to use the word hip but hip it is. Lola Star, a souvenir boutique on the Coney Island boardwalk operated by someone named Lola Star, will be opening a place on Beach 116th Street in April.

The shop will be selling Rockawaythemed t-shirts and the like. We’re wondering if Lola will be a personality, so to speak. Among other things, Lola started the Save Coney Island Organization to fight a developer’s plans to destroy parts of the Coney amusement area in favor of condos. And she opened the Dreamland Roller Rink in an abandoned boardwalk building. It remains to be seen if whatever Lola wants, Lola gets. ***** According to the blog Queenscrap (queenscrap.blogspot.com) the National Park Service is trying to get public input about how to improve Fort Tilden and have turned to hipsters for feedback. Queenscrap, a fun and informative site, writes: ***** The NPS sought public input before construction begins, but have only heard from area residents and local fishermen, according to a

Parks spokeswoman, Daphne Yun. Yun said she hopes to get the input of other groups that use the beach like day visitors from around the city who tend to flock during the summer months. We checked with Daphne and yep, it’s true. ***** Never miss an edition of The Rockaway Times. Whether you’ve moved away, or you’re just a snowbird, or you couldn’t find one because they flew off the racks, you can get the full edition by email. It’s easy to scroll through and you can even zoom in for big print. One reader, Bob Friel wrote, “Love the new PDF format in my inbox. Makes reading your publication so much easier. I even like the ads!!” Get yours by sending your email to Mail@RockawayTimes.com or go to our website Rockawaytimes. com and give us your email there. ***** Congratulations to Cuisine by Claudette! The wonderful eatery and catering specialist celebrates its third anniversary this week. You open, then Sandy comes, you open again! ***** Next Wednesday, April 1st, there will be hundreds of people keeping a close eye on Jamaica Bay hoping for a glimpse of Jaime a sea serpent spotted annually.

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Page 7

Rockaway Taco Closing... TACOWAY BEACH is Born

By Kevin Boyle

ROCKAWAY BEACH SURF CLUB ANDREW FIELD Field said he started thinking about a solo endeavor a couple of years ago. Once Rockaway Taco shut for the season in October, he had himself convinced and started scouting locations. He met with Brandon d’Leo of the Surf Club and soon the plan fell in place.

“I really admire Andrew for his incredible work ethic, vision and creativity. I think there’s a direct correlation between successful businesses and owners who are

CLOSED ROCKAWAY TACO

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Continued on page 35

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The gasp you’re about to hear is from Williamsburg: Rockaway Taco is closing. Yea, really. The place with the long, long lines on Beach 96th.

Will it be the Taco the town? The day the hipster cried?

No, no, no. Hold onto your skinny jeans and ironic eyewear, you’ll still be able to get a taco to die for because the guy behind the counter since 2008 when Rockaway Taco first launched, Andrew Field, is taking his talents to the Rockaway Beach Surf Club on Beach 87th Street.

Starting May 1st, you can head to Tacoway Beach, the new joint’s working name. Tacoway Beach will be its own separate business but call the much-loved Rockaway Beach Surf Club home and replace the food truck which served patrons last summer.

Although day trippers who make up the familiar, crazy lines made Rockaway Taco famous, locals knew it as a place for delicious fare – just better served before noon. Field, who lives in Rockaway, hopes to get the same locals to venture to the new spot just off the Rockaway Freeway on Beach 87th.

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The Rockaway Times

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It’s That Time of Year

See page 37

The Rockaway Times

Page 9

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Come Back to Build it Back

By Katie McFadden

Build it Back is on a mission to bring clients back. Although initially off to a rough start, the City’s Sandy recovery program for homeowners is on the right track and organizers are encouraging those who gave up, to come back to the program.

In a meeting sponsored by Councilman Donovan Richards, Build it Back Director Amy Peterson, representatives from the program and several Sandy recovery nonprofits, came out to St. John’s Baptist Church in Arverne on Monday, March 23, to give residents updates on the program and assistance with their individual cases.

“We’re doing a lot of things to try to get more money to you and to get the work done faster, by bringing on more resources. We’re also going to try to reach out and get everyone who signed up for the program originally, to come back,” Peterson said to the crowd of about 40 people. “A lot of people got frustrated and dropped out. Now is the time for them to come back to the process.”

Peterson started by discussing the program’s progress. As of this week, more than 3,000 reimbursement checks have been sent out

around the city, with $6 million worth of checks going to those in the local area so far. The program has also started construction on close to 1,100 homes around the city and more than 500 homes have been fully repaired.

Things are only expected to get better with the program. With more CDBG money pouring in to Build it Back, gone are the days of the priority lists. Peterson says there is enough money to assist everyone who is eligible for the program’s options. “We have enough money. We’ve made a commitment to serve everybody,” she said.

The program is also hiring more contractors and in partnership with Workforce1, more people are being trained with the skills needed to repair and build homes.

A representative from Small Business Services was on hand to discuss the Sandy Recovery Workforce1 program. “We’re directly matching people to the jobs with the employers that will be doing the recovery work for Build it Back,” the SBS rep said. In addition to offering jobs to qualified local workers, Workforce1 will also launch a pre-apprenticeship training program in which they’ll give out vouchers to Sandy impacted residents who may be interested

in a job in the unionized construction industry. Workforce1 is still in the process of developing these programs, but will soon hand out vouchers to those who are interested. “I want nothing more than for these vouchers to go those in the 11691, 11691, 11693 and 11694 zip codes,” Peterson said. Those interested in a job are encouraged to register at www.sandyrecoveryopportunities.com.

Peterson spoke about each option offered to single-family homeowners through the program, saying that reimbursement is the most popular at this point.

“Sending out checks is a process we’ve gotten to work pretty well,” she said. “People should be getting their reimbursement checks.

The checks can get out the door quickly if you’ve had your damage assessment and chosen your benefits.” Those opting to have their homes repaired are also seeing the process run more smoothly.

Another option is to repair a home and elevate it, which Peterson says the city is also getting a good handle on. Those with substantially damaged homes, or those having their homes completely rebuilt, are eligible for elevation. “If you’re eligible, it’s the way to go. It will help with your

flood insurance premiums,” Peterson said. “We’re working with the city to move elevations forward more easily. There were a lot of issues with people elevating their homes and having to cut a small part of the home off. We’re trying to get to a place where people can elevate their home to the way it was before the storm.” All homes being rebuilt through Build it Back are being built two feet above the Base Flood Elevation level established by FEMA. Those who want to raise their homes even higher, say to park a car under it, can pay the additional costs to have it raised higher. Those eligible for a complete rebuild are homeowners whose homes were completely destroyed or had to be demolished Continued on page 36

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Page 10

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Something Stinks

No Idle Joke

Dear Editor: Your article Boyleing Points (regarding Councilman Richards idea to take video of idling cars) was “very interesting” but not a joke. Didn’t that happen in Europe in the 1930’s when people were encouraged to turn in their neighbors which led to the phrase “today they come for your neighbor, tomorrow they’ll come for you”.

Anna Marchese

Nothing Better To Do?

Dear Editor This is outrageous. In a City with a myriad of serious problems someone in City government decides that banning or regulating boogie boards should be a priority? How’s about focusing on real issues like fixing the pothole craters so that riding around Rockaway is not equivalent to traversing the surface of the moon? Perhaps the hierarchy of the Parks Department ought to focus on BASIC things, like ensuring that the garbage (in City parks and beaches) is regularly picked up before they pursue a stupid initiative that is bound to create problems and ultimately fail. I cannot think of a dumber issue for City bureaucrats to concern themselves with than boogie boards (but I am sure they will make me re-think that statement in not too much time).

Wayne Welsome

A Rockaway Favorite

Dear Editor: Great article on what we love about Rockaway. I would have listed Running in Rockaway in my top ten. Rockaway offers mile of traffic free running routes. Sure, parts of our main routes - the boardwalk and Shore Road in Fort Tilden await reconstruction - but that’s the beauty of running in Rockaway, there are many alternate routes. Take a scenic run over the Marine Parkway Bridge, or through the trails of Fort Tilden.

In the summer there is no cooler place to run than on the beach at low tide. Thanks, Paul Richter

If I Might Add

Dear Editor: If I can add my 2 cents to the Top 10: FISHING! We have some of the best action anywhere from the surf and beach. Four-wheel drive access in the fall, kayak fishing in the bay, night surf fishing from just about anywhere. Oh the joy!

HIKING- we have some very special areas to walk through from Breezy through Ft. Tilden and beyond. I can think of at least five peaceful walks where I’m unlikely to see another person and very likely to see some cool wildlife from snakes to snowy owls. Of course, the walks are better with a 4 legged friend Justin Berman

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CONTACT THE ELECTED Congressman Gregory Meeks

City Councilman Donovan Richards

67-12 Rockaway Beach Boulevard Arverne, NY 11692 Phone: (347) 230-4032

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

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder

Assemblywoman Michele Titus

214 Beach 96th Street Rockaway Beach, NY 11693 718-945-9550

1931 Mott Avenue Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718- 327-1845

City Councilman Eric Ulrich

Community Board 14

115-06 Beach Channel Drive Suite 103 Rockaway Park, NY 11694 718-738-1083

1931 Mott Ave Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718-471-7300

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. 88-08 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Rm 311, Rockaway Beach, NY 11693, 718-318-0702

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kevin Boyle REPORTER Bianca Fortis CONTRIBUTORS Jules Verdone Kat y ouisSALES PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kevin Boyle Fred Marino SALES Frank Chimera CONTRIBUTORS Fred Marino Kat leen alsie ri a Farrell ART DIRECTOR Katie McFadden Erika Farrell REPORTER DESIGN AND LAYOUT DESIGN AND LAYOUT Michael Leboff Dragon y rap ics Printing Services, LLC Richner THE TIMES THE ROCKAWAY ROCKAWAY TIMES 114-04 Beach Channel Drive, Rockaway 1144 Beac annel Drive oc a ayPark, ar NYY11694 11694 Phone: 718-634-3030 • Email: news@rockawaytimes.com one 718-634-3030 e-mail ne s roc a aytimes com

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Dear Editor: Why SBS (Select Bus Service) and not a superior transit railway option, the New Queens Crosstown to Midtown Manhattan on the old Rockaway Beach Line?

We need the Queens Rockaway Beach Line, the unused train tracks two to six blocks east of Woodhaven Boulevard, the New Queens Crosstown that some of our leaders refused to consider.

I wonder why?

A 43 minute train option from south Queens to Manhattan or a 60 minute SBS option from South

Queens to Woodside, Queens.

We are going to spend $200 million dollars to take away a traffic lane on Woodhaven Boulevard instead of reusing an unused train track that has more capacity, faster, cleaner and travels from south Queens to central Queens to Midtown Manhattan.

And we might spend at least $200 millions dollars on a QueensWay trail that will destroy a train track, a north/ south transit corridor.

Something stinks in City Hall and Queens Borough Hall.

Philip McManus

KAWAY M publishes publis esevery everyThursday. ursday Ad Ad space THE ROCKAWAY TIMES space reservations reservationsbyby Monday12 12noon, noon preceding preceding date publication ditorial submission must be made Monday, dateof of publication.

Editorial submission must be

by Monday preceding date ofdate publication made

by Monday,M3 P.M., preceding of publication. letters KAWAYTIMES M should s ouldbe bebrief brief and and are are subject AllAll letters totoTHE ROCKAWAY subjectto toediting editing.

Writers s ouldinclude includeaafull fulladdress addressand andhome ome // office of ce telephone telep one number Writers should number.AnonyAnonymous lettersare arenot notprinted. printed Name ame withheld it eld on uest mous letters onre request. o sucadad any partthereof t ereofmay maybe bereproduced reproduced without it out permission No such oror any part permissionofof THE KAWAY M The publisher e publis erwillillnot notbe beresponsible responsible for ROCKAWAY TIMES. for any any error errorininadvertisadvertisbeyondthe t ecost costofofthe t espace spaceoccupied occupied by by tthe e error rrors must inging beyond error. Errors mustbe bereported reported KAWAY M within it infivevedays daysofofpublication. publication Ad to to THE ROCKAWAY TIMES Ad position positioncannot cannotbe be guaranteed unlesspaid paidprior prior to to publication. publication guaranteed unless KAWAY M assumes assumes liabilityfor forthe t e content content or THE ROCKAWAY TIMES nonoliability orreply replytotoany anyads ads. e advertiser assumes liability e content and repliesThe advertiser e adverThe advertiser assumes allall liability forfor thet content ofof and allall replies. tiser agrees old M itsand its employees armless from all agrees to holdto THE ROCKAWAYKAWAY TIMES and employees harmless from all costs, costs e penses liabilities and damages resulting from causedby by the t e publication expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or or caused publication placed t eadvertiser advertiseror or any any reply reply to placed bybythe to any any suc suchadvertisement advertisement.

The Rockaway Times

Page 11

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Beach Channel Drive: DOT Safety Solution Or Bigger Mess ?

By Katie McFadden

If you’ve ever tried to cross Beach Channel Drive to get to the Bungalow Bar, Thai Rock or McDonalds, you know it’s not an easy task. Residents have long known the dangers of that intersection, with traffic coming from multiple directions. At the request of the community, the Department of Transportation has been developing a plan to make crossing the street safer, but early renderings have locals and business owners feeling uneasy.

During a February 5 Rockaway Beach Civic Association meeting, the DOT presented its early safety design plan to make the intersection at Beach 92nd street and Beach Channel drive safer. Project Manager Alice Friedman presented the plan of creating crosswalks at the intersection and installing a traffic light so that pedestrians could cross safely. However to do this, the DOT said it would have to close off Beach 94th Street to reduce the number of directions cars can come from.

Currently, traffic can enter the intersection from both directions on Beach Channel Drive, the exit ramp from the Cross Bay Bridge,

Beach 92nd Street, the tiny parking lot in front of Thai Rock and the Bungalow Bar, and Beach 94th Street. The DOT’s original plan suggested turning Beach 94th Street into a dead-end street with two-way traffic to eliminate additional traffic coming from that area, allowing for a traffic light.

Those at the meeting recall the DOT saying the plan would eliminate parking spots on Beach 94th Street, which would negatively impact surrounding businesses and organizations like Thai Rock, Bungalow Bar, McDonalds, Denis O’Connor Funeral home and the First Congregational Church.

“Bungalow Bar is all for safety on Beach Channel Drive. We’re all for slowing down traffic there for pedestrian customers to cross safely,” Terence Tubridy, co-owner of the Bungalow Bar told the Rockaway Times. “But I don’t think shutting down a whole block to do that makes sense. Eliminating even one parking space in Rockaway is a bad idea.”

Another gripe would be that those living near the beachside would have less access to Beach Channel Drive if Beach 94th Street was closed off. “As far as coming from the south, if you live from

Beach 91st to 96th street, you would have no access north of the Rockaway Freeway. You’d have to go to 98th Street, diverting more traffic onto an already crowded Rockaway Beach Boulevard,” Tubridy said.

Tubridy summed up how the closing of Beach 94th Street would impact local restaurants financially. “If we look at the economics of this, during the summer we’re looking at a decrease of $30,000 per week for Bungalow Bar and Thai Rock, which means less jobs, less tax base. They should be making more access to the bayside, not limiting it,” Tubridy said.

On Sunday, March 22, Thai Rock owner Robert Kaskel created an online petition, asking the DOT not to close 94th Street.

The petition read, “The NYC DOT is presenting a plan to aid cyclists by eliminating streets, adding bike lanes and new traffic signals.

Show Alice Friedman, Project Manager, DOT — Greenways that we want a better alternative that improve traffic and parking issues and prevents our streets from closing without plans to replace lost parking and access for cars.” The DOT’s original safety design also included the addition of bike lanes

on the closed Beach 94th Street, leaving some feeling like the DOT is taking outside cyclists into more consideration than motorists and pedestrians that live in the area.

In just three days, the petition had more than 600 signatures.

Tubridy said the DOT’s plan might not be so bad if they found ways to add more parking to the area instead of taking it away.

“Let’s make more parking first and then we’ll talk about closing 94th Street,” Tubridy said.

He may be getting his wish. Taking input from the February meeting, the DOT was advised to come up with a revised plan, which they presented to the Rockaway Beach Civic Association on Wednesday, March 25. Since the Rockaway Times was on deadline, we could not attend the meeting, but we requested some information from the DOT in advance. When we inquired about closing off Beach 94th Street, a DOT spokesperson said, “The road closure helps organize traffic and reduce conflicts and is necessary to install the cross walk and signal. This enhances safety for residents and visitors alike crossing between on-street parking available on Beach 94th St Continued on page 17

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Select Bus Service En Route

By Michael Leboff

A Select Bus Service route for Woodside/Cross Bay Boulevard has been selected. The plan was unveiled this week by New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Polly Trottenberg and will be based on the existing Q52/53 limited bus route that extends from Rockaway to Woodside.

According to the DOT the Q52/53 bus route carries 30,000 daily bus riders over a 14-mile stretch every day. DOT and City officials believe that the new SBS route will be vital to the thousands of commuters in Rockaway and Central Queens.

Senator Charles Schumer has been lobbying the federal government to include NYC DOT’s project in its New Starts funding through the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). The New Starts program provides federal resources for local transit capital investments. If selected, the Woodhaven Blvd. Bus Rapid Transit plan would be eligible for up to $100 million in funding. The total cost of the project is estimated to be around $200 million.

“The Woodhaven Boulevard corridor has long suffered from a lack of adequate transit options and the City’s innovative and exciting Woodhaven Boulevard Bus Rapid Transit

plan can be just what the doctor ordered for long-suffering transit riders from the Rockaways to Howard Beach to Woodhaven to Woodside -- who now suffer one of the worst transit slogs in our city. This ‘Bus Rapid transit’ plan can turn this corridor from a transportation desert to a transportation oasis for tens of

thousands of Queens residents, and also be a boon for local property value and area businesses,” Schumer said.

According to a release, DOT and MTA developed three design concepts with the goals of providing faster and more reliable bus service, safer streets for pedestrians

and drivers, and maintaining traffic flow. The design concepts were presented to the community and after one year of meetings, open houses and workshops, Design Concept 2, a “transit-oriented boulevard” where buses travel in designated lanes in the main roadway, was selected.

Continued on page 32

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Rockaway Brewing Company Continues to Grow

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It may be hard to believe when standing in Rockaway Brewing Company’s beautiful facility, but it all started in a Far Rockaway bungalow.

That’s where co-founders Ethan Long and Marcus Burnett developed a friendship thanks to a shared passion.

“We were neighbors,” Long said.

“And we both brewed our own beer in our backyards so it just worked.”

In the beginning the two of them brewed for family and friends but after rave reviews they decided to take the next step and in 2012 they obtained the necessary license to sell their flagship beer, the Rockaway ESB, at the concessions along the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk.

They were so encouraged by the results in places like Caracas, Rippers, and Low Tide that they decided to take their hobby and turn it into a living.

Burnett and Long didn’t seek out investors for RBC because they wanted to have total control over their vision, which makes sense since the two California natives worked behind the camera before they started making beer.

Using their own savings, the duo built out their brewery in a former meat packing warehouse on 5th Street in Long Island City.

At first the outfit operated out of a small space, but expanded next door to meet demand. Last summer, the team started a KickStarter campaign to raise $30,000 for a new canning line.

The craft beer phenomenon really got its start in the late 1970s

when Congress passed a law that repealed federal restrictions on homebrewing.

At the time of their opening Rockaway Brewing Company was one of just 12 craft breweries in New York City, a far cry from preprohibition New York City. In fact according to the New York City Historical Society, beer has been brewed in The Big Apple since the days of European settlers who used the suds as a source of nourishment and tax revenue. During the mid-19th century New York was the country’s largest producer of hops. After prohibition, the industry basically vanished from the area and Long wants Rockaway Brewing Company to be one of the flag bearers in the effort to bring it back.

“There’s beer everywhere you go in New York City,” Long explained.

“But very little of it is being made here. We want to change that.”

Now a few years into the operation, the brewery continues to grow and has its eye on a return to the place where it all began.

RBC has been exploring options to bring the brewery to the Rockaways and have been approached by different interested developers on the peninsula.

Rockaway beer will once again be on sale along the boardwalk when the concessions open up shop for the summer season. Until then, you can try their beer at the Rockaway Brewing Company tasting room at their Long Island City headquarters or buy it at restaurants and markets throughout New York City.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Rockaway Film up for Festival Award

By Katie McFadden

A Rockaway movie is up for an online film festival award. Peter Rowan’s film called “A Rockaway Summer” is one of the entrants in the Brooklyn Audience Now Film Festival.

Rowan’s short film takes place in Rockaway in the summer of 1967. A synopsis reads, “Bobby Brennan wants no part of his father’s dream of college after high school. Instead, Bobby wants to open up a surf shop like Tom’s – much to the annoyance of Bobby’s father.

What Bobby doesn’t understand is that things are not always like what they seem, and nothing in life comes easy. All good things require work and sacrifice.”

“More than just a slice of life, the film is a love letter to Rockaway, New York, which has always been referred to as ‘one of New York’s best kept secrets.’ It’s easy to understand why. Although the film is set in the Rockaway of 1967,

it could be set there today as well.

Rockaway was and always will be one of the best places to raise a family. One wonders if the phrase ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ began there. Whether 1967 or today, Rockaway is comprised of a community of solid citizens and families, always striving to help and support one another,” the synopsis adds.

Rowan’s 39-minute short film can be watched in its entirety at http://brooklyn. audiencenow.org/ short-film/a-rockaway-summer/.

Rowan stars in the film himself along with several other actors, and you may recognize some of the scenes filmed on Beach 116th Street, Playland, Pier 92 (the old Bungalow Bar), the A train station, and of course, the beach. If you like what you see, click on the “heart” icon above the film to cast your vote. “A Rockaway Summer” is one of more than 50 short films featured in the Brooklyn Audience Now film festival.

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Between the Bridges in Broad Channel

By Peter J. Mahon

A Tough 590 Days Ahead As Sherlock Holmes would say, “The game is afoot!” At 12:09 am last Monday morning, United States Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) announced his entry into the 2016 Presidential race with the following Tweet: “I’m running for President and I hope to earn your support!”

The literal translation of Senator Cruz’s tweet can be summed up as follows: now we all can expect the next 590 or so days to bring us a seemingly never-ending stream of televised political ads, YouTube videos, Tweets, unsolicited emails, stacks of campaign related snail mail, annoyingly tacky bill boards and similarly tacky lawn signs. On the bright side there will also be no shortage of political jokes. Then again, the problem with political jokes is that they sometimes get elected. Our present Commander in Chief is even floating the idea of making voting mandatory, but more on that next week.

My only advice to you as we enter this Twilight Zone of political theater is to try and distinguish the politicians from the Statesmen. The politician is only looking towards the next election while a true Statesmen or woman is looking to the next generation. If that fails, vote for the guy or gal who promises the least. He or she will be the least disappointing.

Who knows, maybe Kevin Boyle will decide to throw his hat in the ring for 2016 as a third party candidate? “If politics makes you recoil in disgust- Boyleing Points will restore your long lost trust!”

Finally, keep in mind that in Mexico, the people call an air con-

ditioner a “politician” because it makes a lot of noise and doesn’t work very well.

The Broad Channel VFW Post #260 on Shad Creek Road was rocking Saturday evening into the wee hours of Sunday morning with the great sounds of Walker and the Brotherhood of the Grape. The event was a great success and the guys and gals from the VFW extend their sincere appreciation to Walker, all the other bands and everyone who attended.

Keep in mind that the Christ Presbyterian By The Sea Church will be hosting a Penn Social fundraiser on Saturday, March 28th starting at 6:30 pm with a $10 entry fee. All proceeds benefit Relay for Life sponsored by Brian’s Buddies.

To reserve a table contact Nicole Keller at 347-967-9162. There will be a DJ, raffles and 50/50’s.

The Broad Channel American Legion will be holding a Palm Sunday Brunch on March 29th from 10 am to 1 pm with breakfast “cooked to order.” All proceeds from the brunch will go benefit the Legion’s many programs.

Everyone is invited to enjoy breakfast with the Easter Bunny on Sunday, April 5th from 10 am to 2 pm. There’ll be eggs, pancakes, sausage, bacon, coffee, tea and juice with some 50/50 and raffles just to keep things interesting!

As always, the St. Virgilius Golden Age Club meets every Thursday at the American Legion Hall in Broad Channel. At 12:30 pm.

Broad Channel, why would anyone want to live anywhere else?

Contact Information: Email – rtbetweenthebridges@gmail.com

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Love Us? Like Us? Hate Us? We want to Know!

The Rockaway Times

Page 15

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Tiki Talk: Rockaway Hilarity

By Bert Sanders

Jack Paar, Johnny Carson, Jay Leno, David Letterman, Jimmy Fallon, John Sica, Conan O’Brien, Jon Stewart…….

Wait did you say John Sica?

That’s right! Rockaway’s very own John Sica has joined the ranks of the great talk show hosts with his new hit show: Tiki Talk. The show’s most recent guest, Kevin Boyle, recognizing a hit when he sees one, will be projecting episodes of the webcast on the side of The Rockaway Times building after dark over the next couple of weeks.

The show is filmed, produced, and edited by a motley crew of Rockaway characters. Each episode they are joined by uniquely qualified special guests who can speak their language.

Backing up John Sica is the show’s sidekick, Dave Bledsoe, a master of subtle jabs, quick wit, and well fitted t-shirts.

The editor, soundman, and cameraman, Brian Sica is the brains of the operation. As he sipped his Jack and Coke, I asked him if he ever dreamed of being part of such an incredibly creative project. “I dream in triple twenties, jump serves, and solid internet videos. Tiki Talk is solid internet video.”

The show has many running gags.

One such gag is the lack of a true role

for Bobby Butler, who has appeared as a guest, a sidekick, and the soundman. “He is remarkably talented and creative,” said host John Sica, “too bad he can’t seem to find any rhythm in other aspects of his life. He is good for the show though, so we keep him around.” Butler also wrote the show’s theme song, which he co-produced with Phil Kadet.

The show lends insight into the Rockaway Beach community. Unlike most shows, Tiki Talk has no specific time frame. The theme song proclaims, “[we] run until the fridge is empty.” This loose atmosphere, which includes a healthy dose of onscreen alcohol consumption, often results in guests and cast alike letting it all out. It is not uncommon for stories to be argued and challenged during the show. In the end, guests and cast alike never allow the truth to get in the way of a good story.

The tales of growing up in Brooklyn in the sixties often leave older viewers feeling nostalgic, and younger viewers feeling jealous. In one episode, guest Bobby Bruns and John argue about the good old days. They tell tales about hitching to see The Grateful Dead in Buffalo, as well as the corrupt nature of the Kingsborough Community College security forces of old.

Actor, comedian, and legendary DJ, Pat Tubridy popped in for an episode that explores tales of New Orleans, Rockaway, and Fort Lauderdale. In true Tiki fashion, it ends with John making an Irish Exit, causing chaos and confusion. Pat’s ability to improvise may have saved the show.

Artist Geoff Rawling strutted in for the longest episode of the season. “There was no stopping him.

He was on a roll,” said sidekick Dave after the show. Geoff’s life as an English street artist living in New York City’s punk scene painted an incredible picture. It even goes on location to Rockaway’s Playland Motel, where Geoff puts some finishing touches on his incredible art work.

The season also features two special edition episodes. The “Midnight Edition” features Tiki Bar regular Kenny Kearns. While it is by far the most alcohol-influenced episode of the season, the tales of Marine Park Bridge jumping are hilarious.

The “Blizzard Edition,” filmed during this winter’s “blizzard,” features Mike Gambino. Before the filming, he extended the first official sponsorship to the program. His commercial for “The Game of Mike,” features local actors, as well as another song from local attention seeker, Bobby Butler. “It feels good to give back to the Sica’s after all these years,” said Gambino after the paperwork was completed.

The Tiki Crew says it looks forward to the next round of episodes that will start filming in May. “Ending the season with such a high caliber guest as Kevin Boyle may just put us on the map,” proclaimed John Sica “If not, at least I’ll be in Puerto Rico.”

“Tiki Talk” is a web series that can be found online at www.tikitalk.net.

The brand new webpage includes the entire first season, and begs the question: To Tiki, or To Not Tiki?

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Beach Channel Drive Continued from page 11

and commercial sites on the north side of Beach Channel Drive. Further, this plan adds about 50 new parking spaces on Beach 94th St and more than five parking spaces on Beach Channel Drive.”

The DOT originally said the plan would eliminate parking spaces, so we asked for explanation of where the “50 new parking spaces” would come from. “Seven spaces on Beach 94th St between Beach Channel Drive and Rockaway Freeway will be removed as part of the signal installation; however, up to 30 new spaces will be installed on Beach Channel Drive at the same intersection,” the DOT said. A reputable source said those spaces would be under the Cross Bay Bridge, taking advantage of

unutilized space that restaurant owners have been requesting to be used as parking space for years.

“An additional 50 parking spaces on Beach 94th south of Rockaway Freeway will also be installed,” the DOT added. “The overall project impact is a substantial increase in available parking for residents and visitors.”

No matter what the DOT’s early plans are, the agency promises to hear the community’s concerns as they work on coming up with a sensible and safe solution. “We are committed to continuing our discussions with the local community, including the local civic associations and the Community Board, to get their feedback on this safety proposal,” the DOT said.

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Promenading for a Good Cause Prom season is right around the corner and there are many local charitable events taking place related to the school tradition.

If you have any dresses lying around that you’re looking to get rid of, We Care New York is looking to collect them for a prom boutique that will be held on April 18.

If you have a new or gently used dress that you want to donate, you can drop it off at Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder’s office at 214 Beach 96th Street (Entrance on Rockaway Beach Boulevard) from now until Wednesday, April 1.

Prom isn’t just for the kids.

MakeMyMotherProud will be holding its third annual Adult Prom Masquerade Ball at 10 p.m. on Saturday, April 25. If you never got to experience prom in school or you just want to relive the memories, this event is your chance. The adult prom is not only

SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR OVER 50 YEARS

a chance for adults to have fun; it’s also a fundraiser. Regular tickets are $50 and VIP tickets are $60 and the funds raised go toward helping underprivileged high school seniors pay for their own prom, graduation dues, college applications and other fees.

The event is hosted by Lakia Echols, a United States Army Reserve Veteran, who founded MakeMyMotherProud and is competing in the Ms. Veteran America competition to raise awareness of homeless female veterans, so five percent of the VIP ticket costs will go toward female veteran charity, Finale Salute.

The Adult Prom will be held at Occasions Banquet and Catering Hall at 127-08 Merrick Boulevard in Springfield, NY. Tickets can be purchased of donations can be made at https://mmmp2015adultprom.eventbrite.com/

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Page 18

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Reactions to the Top 10 ter Sandy using his own monies to rebuild. He has been wonderful to our neighbors here, especially after the hurricane. He greets everyone himself when they come to his establishment and has donated monies to local church’s and organizations,” Kathleen said. Another reader mentioned The Rock NYC, Rockaway’s latest wine bar that also serves international tapas and has live music every Saturday night.

We didn’t even get into pizza places. That in itself could be its own Top 10 list, but we’re proud to have Boardwalk Pizza, Elegante and Ciro’s on Beach 116th Street as advertisers. We didn’t mention specialty food stores like Cuisine by Claudette or Currans, but they’re big supporters of the Rockaway Times and we frequent them often. We could go on and on

about the bar scene. Although the list focused on Rockaway, Breezy Point has its own great spots like Kennedy’s.

Point is, the Top 10 list was something meant to be fun and lighthearted. It was a way for our readers to interact with us and let us know what it is that they think makes Rockaway one of the greatest places in the world. It was meant to get people excited for warmer weather and get them thinking about all of the things to do around town. The list wasn’t ours. It was yours. And we all know that there are more than 10 great things about Rockaway.

And keep an eye out. We’ll be asking for more Top 10 things soon!

PLEASE PATRONIZE OUR ADVERTISERS

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With spring just getting started, (well officially, but not according to Mother Nature), the Rockaway Times asked its readers to start thinking about good things. We asked readers, in the paper and on Facebook, what their favorite things about Rockaway are. We received a lot of great responses and used them to compile a list of the Top 10 Things To Do in Rockaway.

The list we came up with included the beach, the boardwalk, ride a bike, eat and drink, going to the concessions, watch the sunrise and sunset, see a show at the Rockaway Theatre Company, listen to live music, surf and watch the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. We gave brief explanations or examples of why those things were chosen as part of the Top 10, listing specific things that our readers mentioned.

Last week’s edition of the Rockaway Times seemed to be received well, with papers flying off of shelves and more than 600 people opening an online version that we sent through e-mail for the first time. The Top 10 list reached more than 20,000 people on Facebook, was liked 100 times and shared 45 times. We got some terrific re-

sponses including some saying they can’t wait to visit Rockaway this summer.

However, the list also reiterated the fact that you can’t please everybody. When it comes to eating and drinking, some residents were upset that we didn’t mention this place and that place. We didn’t mean to disappoint anyone and we didn’t leave any businesses out on purpose, although we were accused of doing so. As a reminder, the list we came up with was based on feedback that we received from our readers and the restaurants or bars we mentioned were ones that our readers mentioned. We could fill an entire newspaper, talking about how great the restaurants are. However with a list that focused on more than just eateries, there was only so much we could fit into a page and a half.

Someone pointed out that we didn’t mention Goody’s BBQ Chicken & Ribs, a West Indian spot at 7018 Amstel Boulevard, that boasts “the best BBQ in town,” and we believe it. A woman named Kathleen pointed the Belle Harbor Steakhouse on Beach 116th Street as another favorite. “Jimmy the owner has been here for 10 years. He opened two months af-

008

By Katie McFadden

The Rockaway Times

Page 19

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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Wood flooring throughout the main level and second story.

Third floor has new carpeting enclosed carport, secluded back yard, large front porch, new heating and electrical system move in condition.

HOMES FOR SALE BUILD YOUR DREAM BEACH HOUSE LOCATION: ONE OF NEPONSIT’S MOST DESIRABLE BLOCKS BUILDING SIZE: 25x37 PROPERTY SIZE: 42x100 THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Beautiful Panoramic Bay Views! 3 bedrooms,3 baths, Den,EIK,living room with ledge stone wood burning fireplace, formal dining room and a huge semi finished basement.

Price is negotiable.

$795,000

$825,000

$549,000

$850,000

Second block from the beach; around the corner from retail shopping and mass transit.This home has all new electric and heating system.

Three bedrooms, LR, DR, EIK,one full bath and a large front porch. Priced to sell!

Post sandy Build your own dream house This home needs a family ready! Willing!

And able!

To comlpete it’s renovation.Heating and electric have been replaced.

$1,299,000

$305,000

$649,000

Asking $345 Heart of Belle Harbor contemporary. This home has it all,five bedrooms,three full baths,state of the art EIK; FDR & LR w/ WBFP, glass enclosed sun room,home office, large family room w/ additional WBFP, craft and game room,laundry room, private driveway and beautiful park like grounds.

CO-OP / CONDOS 136 Beach 117th TWO BEDROOM CONDO WITH BALCONY AND ONE CAR PARKING TWO FULL BATH ROOMS MASTER BATH WITH JACUZZI. SPACIOUS LIVING ROOM AND DINNING ROOM, BAMBOO FLOORING,WASHER AND DRYER. THE OCEAN GRANDE HAS 24-HOUR SECURITY STATION,STATE OF THE ART GYM,BEAUTIFUL PARTY ROOM WITH A FIREPLACE AND BAR.

$450,000

Bay 25th New Exclusive 40 x 100 One Family 3 Bedrooms, one full bath, EIK, DR, LR, Full basement, Driveway - 2 Car Garage Beautiful Bay Views/ City Skyline

Asking $400

LOT FOR SALE 117-12 Ocean Promenade ROCKAWAY PARK OCEAN FRONT COOP VERY SPACIOUS ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT WITH BEAUTIFUL VIEWS OF MANHATTAN SKY LINE AND JAMAICA BAY. LOW COMMON CHARGES AND MOVE IN CONDITION!

$189,000

One family 40x100 Three bedrooms One full bath EIK, DR,LR, Full Basement Private driveway Two car garage

430 BEACH 130 STREET BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME IN THE HEART OF BELLE HARBOR. BEACH 130TH STREET 40X100 PROPERTY LOT PRICED TO SELL! $325,000

00876RT

3 bedroom 2.5 baths new EIK Very large finished basement new heating and electrical system Move in condition.

Price is negotiable.

Beach 69th New Exclusive!

Page 20

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Alice O’Connor Lic. Associate RE Broker

Louis Calemine Licensed Real Estate Broker

625 Gravesend Neck Rd. Brooklyn, NY 11223

www.calemine.com

(718) 998-1100

For Sale:

Rentals:

Arverne By The Sea

Arverne By The Sea Belle Harbor 3bd/2.5ba---$2,700 2bd/2ba---$2,500 2bd/1ba---$1,800 2bd/1ba---$1,750 2bd/1ba---$1,700

Rockaway Beach 1bd/1ba--$1,500 1bd/1ba--$1,300

2bd/1ba---$1,750 Beach Block

Neponsit House Rental 3bd/2.5 ba---$3,200 Furnished and renovated, hwd floors, upgraded appliances, long, private driveway. Immaculate.

“Clients come first at Calemine & Co.” JANET REDMOND HOGAN

Century 21 Amiable Realty Group II, Inc.

Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker

mwagnerrealtor@aol.com | www.c21amiable2.com

Breezy Point, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, gorgeous and modern home, $950,000w

Margaret A. Wagner • Associate Broker • (347) 236-2018 Member of the Long Island & Queens Multiple Listing Service Serving the Broad Channel Community for over 18 years!

917.559.8646 • janet@breezypointhouses.com breezypointhouses.com /janetredmondhogan

Rockaway Point, parking behind and two screened in porches!

Asking $360,000.

Breezy Point vacant lot in the wedge.

LOWERED PRICE $235,000 Rockaway Park, beautiful top floor apartment, all new, too much to list! $450,000

NEW EXCLUSIVE WATERFRONT LISTING 50 X 100 Lot, Brand New Living room, kitchen, bath, radiant heat, granite counter tops,3 bedrooms, 2 full baths Large outside deck, pool, garage.

Great Sunset Views!

Roxbury 3 bedrooms with basement, modern kitchen and baths. Beautiful bay views. Asking $595,000.

Roxbury, 2 bedrooms, bay view.

No water on first floor.

Asking $360,000.

Breezy Point, Vacant lot on a street. $495,000

Rockaway Point, 4 Bedroom, Partial Bay View $550,000.

Rockaway Point Gutted home with new electric. $299,000

Rockaway Point, Oceanside, beautifully renovated!! 5br w/open view. Asking $849,000.

Rockaway Point On a street. 3 bedrooms. Partial bay view!!! Big lot! $595,000

Breezy Point, loft home in the wedge 3/4 bedrooms LOWERED PRICE $430,000.

Rockaway Park three bedroom, two full bathroom beautiful home.

Fully renovated six years ago, all new kitchen and baths, finished basement $570,000

Rockaway Point, Vacant lot on a walk. $225,000

WATERFRONT HOUSE FOR SALE 2 Bedrooms, Hardwood Floors, Washer & Dryer, Outside deck House Listed at $225,000.00

Generations Living And Working In The BP Community

Rockaway Point

Spacious 3Bdrm, 2 Bth home.

Everything new on 1st floor.

Parking in rear front and back trex decks.

Find out what your home is worth today!

Carolyn Redmond, Broker 718.474.6722

RT 008

Rental season has started! We Have several customers looking for summer rentals.

Please contact us today if you are interested in renting your home.

COMMERCIAL BUILDING FOR RENT Great office space for architects, engineers, contractors. $3,500 per month

New Point Real Estate

NEW EXCLUSIVE!

Rockaway Point Charming 4 bedroom, 2 bath home, close to stores and bay! $605,000

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!

Check out this Waterfront Beauty!

Completely Renovated Living room, Dining room, Kitchen and Bathroom 3 Bedrooms, Master with Balcony, Central Air, Trex Decking, storage shed & pool.

00833RT

New exclusive! Rockaway Point!

Beautiful 3 bedroom all new interiors!

A must see! $440,000

BROAD CHANNEL ISLAND

Reduced $499,000 LICENSED REAL ESTATE SALESPERSONS Bill Daly 718-945-9445 • Maryellin Carroll 917-693-7123 Artie Mattor 917-626-1851 • Eddie Carroll 917-716-7400 Virginia Turchlano 917-533-0613

008 8RT

Rockaway Point Gorgeous 4 bedroom home. All new! $675,000.

00872RT

Breakers Sec., 2-Family Admiralty II 2 Bedroom, 1 full bathroom, open layout~~over~~3 Bedroom, 2.5 BA duplex. MBR Suite w/walk-in closet.

Garage, driveway and yard space.

Property delivered fully vacant.

Asking $640K

Belle Harbor Retail/Office Space 700-1,100 sqft.

Page 21

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

NEPONSIT REALTY inc

Licensed Real Estate Broker Geri Lipsman

P 718.945.2411

www.neponsitrealty.com

Licensed Sales Agents Susan Lavin Kate Patterson Jamie Hogan since 1986

SELLER’S MARKET! BUYERS WAITING! LISTINGS NEEDED! HOUSES & CONDOS FOR SALE

COOPS FOR SALE

NEW LISTING – GREAT OPPORTUNITY CT

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Adorable Bright and Sunny 2 Room / Studio Coop, with Hardwood Floors, High Ceillings, Pleanty of Closets, New Kitchen Appliances and Low Maintaince $474.00 Asking $129K Call Susan 347-260-3891

One Family Rockaway Beach 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, living room, dining room, hardwood floors throughout, back deck, full basement, semi attached.

O always satisfied with our

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performance and the ability to get the job done!

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HEART OF BELLE HARBOR

Adorable L shaped Studio unit, move in, Murphy Bed, hardwood floors, plently of closets, great outdoor space/terrace, low maintenance

Call Susan 347-260-3891 $144K

109th - Studio, Adorable Bunglow, pay all utilities. Must have Good Credit. Call Susan 347 260 3891 $1150 118th - Renovated, ss appliances, granite, 3 double closets, $1400 Ocean & Bay views..

123th - Great boardwalk building, excellent condition, $1350-1500 parking extra, pay G&E 124th - LR/DR combo, terrace, pay elec

$1400

Call Susan 347 260 3891

$258K

124th - First floor unit, use of backyard, upgraded, storage, $1600 parking, pay G & E NEW TO MARKET

Corner property sits on 80 x 60, Brick & Stone, 3 bedrooms, plus extra room can be used as 4th bedroom. 2 Full baths, large living room, WBFP, EIK, dining room, basement unfinished, spectular water views and sunsets.

Integrity

ONE BEDROOM

Call Susan 347-260-3891

Belle Harbor Center Hall Ranch

of

APARTMENTS

$290K

Beach Block, Steps to Ocean One bedroom, one bath, hardwood floors, new kitchen, & appliances, many closets, living room combo, sliding doors to terrace, w/d room, roof deck, low common charges

Call Us!

Call Kate 917-680-8051

NEW EXCLUSIVE CONDO

Tradition

00862RT

The Rockaway Times

Move right in this one bedroom coop unit. Large living room and dining area, galley kitchen, six closets, great views of Manhattan. Can make a deal with furnishings.

$189K

137 Waterviews, Nice size rooms, plenty of closets, parking

$1400

for 1 car. No pets. Pay electric and gas.

$1500

140 - 2nd level, furnished, includes all util. th

140 - living room, work kitchen, utilities all included th

$1300 141 totally renovated, living room, gorgeous bay views, $1500 pay electric th

$850K Reduced to $795K

TWO BEDROOMS

60 lst floor, no pets, EIK, pay all util. RENTED $1300 th

OCEAN FRONT COOP

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OCEAN GRANDE CONDO Extra Lg 2 BR & 1.5 bth, Bright & Airy, with Open Floor Plan with Large Terr, with Ocean & Bay Views.

New Appls., W/D, Indoor Deeded Parking Spot, Fitness Ctr, Concierge, Rooftop Deck. Pet Friendly Bldg.

Must see. Call Susan 347-260-3891

E SIV

Move right in to this one bedroom unit,totally renovated to perfection, granite, stainless appliances, five closets. Exceptional value!

Let’s Make A Deal!

$179K

Arverne By The Sea - units available, mint, pay all utilities

$1600

108th - brand new with new appliances. Bunglow like having your own little house. Pay all Utilies, Call Susan 347 260 3891 $1800

117th 2nd level, new appliances, terrace, parking,

Asking $430K

water views, all util included

$1550

123 Ocean views every room, completely renovated, rd

A BEACH HAVEN COOP

LEGAL 2 FAMILY

50x100, Immaculate, 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, newly renovated, eat-in kitchen, den, laundry room. Rental apartment, 2 bedroom, all new.

$785K

HOWARD BEACH BEAUTY

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One family, Aluminum siding, two bedrooms, one bath, updated EIK, large living room, new boiler and electric, back deck with storage Call Kate 917-680-8051

Asking $265K

TURN KEY, one BR, new appliances, spacious, 5 closets, VERY LOW MAINT. IMMACULATE, AFFORDABLE AND COMFORTABLE. Great views, skyline and Sunsets.

$179K

HOUSE RENTALS BELLE HARBOR, BEACH BLOCK, GREAT SIZE, 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHS, LIVING ROOM, DINING ROOM, BASEMENT, YARD, PLENTY PARKING, PAY ALL UTILIITES ..........................................................................$2500 BELLE HARBOR, 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATH, WORK KITCHEN, PRIVATE PARKING, PAY ALL UTILITIES....$2000

terrace, pay elec.

Call Susan 347 260 3891

$1800

124th - Oceanfront Coop w/ terrace. Need good credit. $1800 Pay G&E. No parking

THREE BEDROOMS 122

nd

BEACH BLOCK, RENOVATED, new kitchen, bath,

w/d, hook up, parking, pay all util

$2000

129 Walk-In Brand New Sunny Apartment, Close to All, New Kitchen, 1.5 Bath, Large Yard, Parking. Need Good Credit. Pay Gas & Electric Only.

Call Susan 347 260 3891

Rent $2200

129 Brand New Sunny Apartment, Close to All, Nice Terrace, Parking. Pay Gas & Electric. Need Good Credit.

Call Susan 347 260 3891

Rent $1800

Page 22

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

The Rockaway Times

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

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

The Rockaprop Team

3 Year Member

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

BRAND NEW EXCLUSIVE

BRAND NEW EXCLUSIVE

Neponist Center Hall Colonial

Belle Harbor Center Hall Colonial

Custom built home with a sweeping open floor plan which features gleaming marble tiles, Schonbek chandeliers, custom kitchen and bar with high end appliances, 5 spacious BR's, 4 baths, 2 car garage plus additional 10 car parking. $1,749,000

Spectacular home exudes the quality and style that every buyer is dreaming of! Impressive in size with over 4500 sq.ft of luxurious living space with 4 BR's, 3.5 baths, custom kitchen, massive bsmt and fabulous yard with saltwater in-ground heated pool. $1,350,000

TWO EXCLUSIVE OPEN HOUSE TEASERS!!!

Stay Tuned For Dates In Next Weeks Ad.

• • • • • • • •

No expense was spared on this LEGAL 2 FAMILY Rockaway Gem! Newly renovated home with two master suites, plus an additional 3 large BR's, 4 covered porches, full finished basement and attic.

Private parking plus 2 car garage. A must see! $1,195,000

This sprawling split level home is located on prestigious Neponsit Avenue and situated on a gorgeous corner 60'x100' property with back patio and 2 car garage. Large LR/DR combo, 4 large BR's, hardwood floors and large walk in finished basement. $1,085,000

Our Seller Services

Our Buyer Services

Marketing strategies guaranteed to bring buyers to your home #1 Broker on Zillow and Trulia, full representation on Realtor.com Our 7 licensed, full time agents are all members of Brooklyn MLS Immediate response to all inquiries from potential buyers We fill your home with buyers at a First Showing Open House launch Guidance and advice for proper home preparation prior to listing Property valuation through market analysis using current comparables Trusted, expert representation from contract to closing

• • • • • • • •

Prompt, knowledgeable response to all inquiries Full time office staffed by 7 licensed agents Explanation of the steps involved in the home buying process Guidance with pre-qualification process and mortgage application Listen to buyers needs and present appropriate properties to view Market analysis of buyer’s selection of properties Representation during negotiation, inspection and beyond Provide a list of attorneys, home inspectors and contractors

The Rockaway Times

Page 23

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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

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

The Rockaprop Team

3 Year Member

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

BELLE HARBOR

Oceanfront 84’x100’ Over 5,000 sq ft. of sumptuous living space in this 5BR, 5.5 baths home.with a Gunite in-ground pool and massive basment. $3,999,999

BELLE HARBOR

Oceanfront 100’x100’ Proven to be Hurricane proof. Legal 2 Family with stunning ocean views 4 BR, 3 baths and parking for 12 cars comfortable. $2,800,000

BELLE HARBOR

ARVERNE BY THE SEA

UPPER BELLE HARBOR

BELLE HARBOR

Oceanfront Two Family!

The only oceanfront legal 2 family home for under a million!

Buy your own slice of beachfront with the Atlantic ocean in your front yard. $895,000 Will Hold Financing Up to 300K BEACH BLOCK 140’S. All Brick, large 4 BR, 2 bath. Private parking and garage. Motivated seller. Present all offers. $790,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Legal 2 Family Semi-attached home with 3 cozy BR’s, 2 baths, LR/DR combo, HW floors and private terrace and family room. 2 BR rental apartment. $535,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

114 School District Fully renovated and MINT 2 BR sun drenched condo has a fireplace, gorgeous kitchen with SS appliances, HW floors, W/D and private terrace. $459,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Belle Shores Condominium Gorgeous walk in duplex.

Newly renovated 2BR/2.5 baths with HW floors.

Two deeded parking spaces, exclusive for this unit only. $399,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Oceanfront Co-op Fifth floor 2 BR apartment with HW floors, gorgeous new kitchen, SS appliances, sliders to direct private ocean view terrace. $299,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New Exclusive!

FANTASTIC 1 BR CONDO at a price that will make you wonder why you are renting.

With low common charges and private parking. $209,000

Spectacular Oceanfront Owners unit 2BR including a HUGE master suite, 2 baths, upgraded kitchen, rooftop deck. 3BR rental 2 baths,W/D and parking. $869,000 Legal 2 Family MOTHER DAUGHTER Immaculate legal 2 family on a 50’x100’ lot in Belle Harbor. 5BR, 3 bath home, large back deck. Plenty of parking! $785,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New Exclusive WATERFRONT 3BR, 1.5 Bath home with amazing views of the Manhattan skyline from your Kitchen, LR, DR and Master BR. Private Driveway $525,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Modern Oceanfront Building Large 2BR, 2 bath with LR, dinette area, modern eat in kitchen,SS appliances, private ocean view terrace and private parking. $445,000

BROAD CHANNEL

Turn Key Home Fully renovated, 4 BR, 2.5 bath home. Open layout, granite counter top, private deck with Jamaica views and a decked yard with pool. $389,000

UPPER BELLE HARBOR

Fully Upgraded Co-op Gorgeous 2 BR 1.5 bath apartment with stunning HW floors and a HUGE private patio. Parking is available, motivated seller $289,000

BELLE HARBOR

Why Bother Renting?

This apt features old world charm, arched doorways, high ceilings and hardwood floors throughout.

Gorgeous sunsets. $199,000

NEPONSIT

2nd Home From the Beach Live luxuriously in this immaculate Neponsit home with ocean views from almost EVERY room. 4+BR’S and 3.5 baths. 71’ x 100’ lot. $2,799,000

BAYSWATER

A Beautiful Tree Lined St Beautiful 5 BR, 3 bath home on a spacious 100’ x 170’ property.

Move in condition with private parking and 2 car garage. $850,000

UPPER BELLE HARBOR

Fully Renovated No expense was spared on this fabulous all brick 2 family. Heated paved driveway and stairs; no shoveling required! 5BR, 5.5 bath $1,600,000

ARVERNE BY THE SEA

Legal 2 Family - Mint Condition Semi-attached home features 3BR’s, including master suite, fabulous ocean views & a rooftop terrace. 3 BR Rental. $799,000

BELLE HARBOR

Incredible 100’x75’ Corner All brick gorgeous new custom kitchen & baths, 2 fireplaces, sun room, 2 car garage and beautiful HW floors.

This home was built to last. $1,099,000

UPPER BELLE HARBOR

Beautiful Water Front Ranch Brick and field stone home has 3 spacious BR’s, 2.5 baths, WBFP, HW floors, EIK with SS appliances, office/den and private parking for 4 cars. $795,000

ARVERNE BY THE SEA

ROCKAWAY PARK

ROCKAWAY BEACH

BREEZY POINT

ROCKAWAY BEACH

ROCKAWAY PARK

ROCKAWAY PARK

New To Market Mint condition home nestled in the “Breakers”.

Large3BR,2.5baths,ocean views, rooftop terrace and HUGEyard.1BRrentalunit for a guaranteed income. $749,000

Investment Opportunity!

Tremendous 2 family home, upper unit has 6 BR’s, 2.5 baths and rooftop patio. Lower unit has 2 BR, 1 bath/ Rent roll of $46,500 per year. $515,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Ocean Grande Condominium 2BR, 2 bath unit has many upgrades. HW floors, granite kitchen counters, SS appliances, W/D plus private terrace with ocean views! $445,000

EDGEMERE

New To Market - Legal Two Move in ready 3BR’s, 2 bath, great outdoor space with stack stone and granite steps, private parking and a 1 BR rental. Motivated seller! $359,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New To Market Enchanting beach front apartment with ocean views that stretch to the horizon from daybreak to sunset. $269,000

FAR ROCKAWAY

Edgemere - Beach 40’s - 26’ x 95’ Lot Adorable and fully restored 2 BR bungalow.

HW floors, SS appliances, spacious rooms and fenced in backyard. The perfect starter home! $179,000

Legal 2 Family Home Brick home on large corner lot! This 3BR 2 bath has EIK with granite counters, FDR, LR, 1 car garage, PS114 school district. $699,000 New To Market Newly renovated home is in a great location.

Very close to parking and stores. Updated Kitchen with stainless appliances and granite counters. $499,000

Belle Shores Condominium Beautiful condo by the sea, spacious 2BR, 2 full bath middle unit, private storage and private parking.

Call today for private showing! $425,000

BROAD CHANNEL

Long Private Driveway!

Rare find, newly renovated 3 BR home with an open floor plan and PRIVATE DRIVEWAY! Beautiful kitchen, new deck and fenced in yard. $339,000

ARVERNE GEM

80’x100’ - Fully Upgraded Legal 3 Family Savvy home buyers, finally it is your chance to own a money maker!!!

Live free and clear from the profits from the 2 rentals on the grounds. $599,000 Luxurious Oceanfront Stunning panoramic ocean views from this contemporary 2BR, 2 bath oceanfront apartment. Comes with parking and storage room. $479,000 Priced to Sell!

TOP FLOOR OCEAN VIEW 3BR 2 bath condo with a private southwest facing rooftop deck. HW floors, cathedral ceilings, skylights and private parking. $419,000

ROCKAWAY PARK

Brand New Construction Fabulous 3 BR, 2 bath, middle unit with HW floors, ss appliances, laundry in unit, private terrace and parking available. $335,990

UPPER BELLE HARBOR

ROCKAWAY BEACH

BELLE HARBOR

ROCKAWAY PARK

Bay Views Galore!

Beautiful 2BR apartment with huge 32’ water view deck, perfect for summer cookouts and parties with your family and friends. Parking available $249,000

Location, Location, Location!

This adorable L-Shaped Studio is located in a great spot! Close to the beach and all stores! H/W Floors, Low maintenance! $129,000

Old World Charm Attached 2 family is in need of restoring.

Currently being used as a 1 family.

Full basement and high ceilings! $245,000

Oceanfront Building Enjoy living at the beach in this cozy 1BR, maintenance fee’s are a 40% write off on your annual taxes.

Bike and storage area available.$125,000

Page 24

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Flood Insurance Changes Come April 1

DON’T MISS OUR UPCOMING SHOWS

Flood insurance changes will kick in on April 1 as a result of both the Biggert-Waters Act and the Homeowner’s Affordability Act. Although rates are capped at 18 percent annually, some homeowners have seen their premiums jump quite a bit more thanks to a surcharge on some policies. Owners of multifamily houses with 2 units or more get socked with a $250 surcharge.

New York City has yet to adopt FEMA flood maps but is inching closer. In the meantime, the City is promoting the idea that consumers should contact at least three insurance brokers for price quotes. The City is also promoting an informational website: FloodHelpNY.org.

The site is a helpful guide for homeowners trying to get a grasp of this complex issue. (Editor’s note: the

rwnewyork.com

Legends of Hip Hop 4/18

Cigars Under the Stars 5/1

os Star Meet Sopran store a P t n Vince

Slick Rick, Kid ‘N Play, Doug E. Fresh and others!

EMTs Save Non-Breathing Baby

Disco inferno 5/16

The Commodores 6/6

Things toDo Thurs, Mar 26, 7:30 p.m.

Sun, Mar 29, 1 p.m.

Queens Public Transit Committee Meeting

An Irish afternoon of Songs, Stories, Humor & More

Knights of Columbus 333 Beach 90th Street Discuss local transportation issues.

Sat, Mar 28, 12 p.m.

Rockaway Polar Plunge

HAROLD MELVINS BLUE NOTES, FRANCE JOLI, DOUBLE EXPOSURE and others!

Jacob Riis Park Beach Plunge in the water to support Special Olympics. Registration from 10 to 11:30 a.m. After party at Bungalow Bar.

Sat, Mar 28, 6 to 9 p.m.

Opening Reception for R AA Spring Exhibits Studio 6 & 7 Galleries, Fort Tilden Check out Young American Emerging Artists and the Human Form. Live music and light refreshments.

Sun, March 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Over 5,000 Table Game & Slot Machines!

MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER TO PLAY THE NEW YORK LOTTERY GAMES. PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY. 24-hour Problem Gaming Hotline: 1-877-8-HOPENY (846-7369).

Maritime Forest Tree Planting

008 8RT

110-00 Rockaway Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11420 rwnewyork.com • 1-888-888-8801 In Queens Near JFK Airport.

Locate Your Free Shuttle: RWRedExpress.com

fact the The City is recommending people shop around for insurance quotes speaks to the fact that the landscape is unclear. Because policies will vary from homeowner to homeowner the site is worth a visit).

The National Flood Insurance Program, an extension of FEMA, must be reauthorized by Congress periodically to continue providing flood insurance. It is currently authorized through September, 2017.

FEMA has come under fire for its handling of thousands of flood claims as a result of Sandy. The agency was previously slammed for poor mapping and calling for flood premiums in some cases that were set to rise to $30,000 a year. It is expected that both Houses of Congress will engage and challenge FEMA in advance of the reauthorization.

5803 Rockaway Beach Blvd Help plant trees along the shoreline.

T-7 Gallery Fort Tilden Continue to celebrate the St. Patrick’s season with the Rockaway Artists Alliance. Refreshments and beverages available.

Wed, April 1, 12 p.m.

Public Hearing: No to Port Ambrose

Steps of NYC City Hall Stand together to protest Port Ambrose LNG

Wed, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Free Tax Services Mobile Food Truck RV 2010 Mott Avenue Requirements: maximum income $53,000, w2 forms and SSN. 2013 returns recommended.

Thursdays, 6 p.m.

Cub Scout Pack 147 Meetings Fort Tilden, Building T-149 Open registration. Ages 6 through 10

The Rockaway Times

Page 25

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Rally To Urge Cuomo to Veto Port Ambrose LNG

Three Years Strong For Claudette’s

By Michael Leboff

They say timing is everything.

Tell that to Claudette Flatow, the owner of Cuisine by Claudette, on Beach 116th Street, because just seven months after opening her new eatery, Hurricane Sandy made landfall. The storm forced Claudette to close the business for about two months while the neighborhood recovered. In fact, she even thought about closing the business for good.

“I thought about it,” Claudette said. “But I didn’t want to set a bad example for my children. So we had

to fight through it.”

Now two years and five months later, Cuisine by Claudette (known simply as Claudette’s) has overcome some steep odds and will celebrate its third anniversary on Saturday.

Prior to opening her take-out/casual style restaurant, Flatow offered cooking classes in the neighborhood. When Flatow began to look into going brick-and-mortar she entertained the idea of setting up shop in Manhattan or Brooklyn. In the end, she couldn’t leave home.

“There was not just one reason [to stay in Rockaway],” Flatow said.

“I live in this neighborhood and could not leave the people who supported me.”

It is an accomplishment for any business -- let alone a restaurant -to make it to their third anniversary these days. And when one considers the profound effort it took for Claudette and her staff to overcome the obstacles to make it to this point, it is definitely cause for celebration.

On Saturday night Claudette’s will be celebrating their success with a party from 6-9 PM at the restaurant.

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The public comment period for the Liberty Natural Gas Port Ambrose LNG project may be closed, but the mission to urge Governor Andrew Cuomo to veto the project continues. On Wednesday, April 1 at 12 p.m., all are invited to the steps of City Hall to speak out against the floating liquefied natural gas project that Liberty Natural Gas is hoping to build 16 miles south of Jones Beach.

The U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Maritime Administration have closed the public comment period for the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the project, but those against the project will have a chance to speak in favor of Resolution 549 on Wednesday. The resolution, which was introduced by Councilman Donovan Richards, calls for the governor to veto the project. It is supported by 19 councilmembers in total, including Councilman Eric Ulrich.

The rally on the steps at noon will be followed by a 1 p.m. public hearing at the City Council Chambers in City Hall.

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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BACK IN THE DAY

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The Rockaway Times

Mark Boyle at Riis Park in 1964.

Can’t help but notice all the empty garbage cans and all the garbage on the beach! Mark doesn’t seem to mind.

THE BELLE HARBOR YACHT CLUB

Goody’s Tops The Rock Times

We’re making rent this month.

What would you do with your refund?

We like to show folks rocking their Rockaway Times t-shirts in various spots but Goody’s will be tough to beat. Barbara Hillary took her Goody’s t-shirt to the South Pole!

You may be eligible for up to $10,000 from tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Call 311 or go to nyc.gov/taxprep for ways to file your taxes for FREE.

Text “Refund” to 97779* and join #GotMyRefund conversations on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. *Message and data rates may apply. Check with your service provider.

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The Belle Harbor Yacht Club was opened in 1905 on the bay front, north of Cronston Avenue (Bayside Drive) in between Pel-

ham and Orienta Avenues (Bch. 126th & Bch. 127th Street). Workmen in this 1906 view are preparing the foundation for the future Cronston Road or Avenue, a continuance of Bay Road in Rockaway Park.

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By Emil R. Lucev Sr. & daughter, Katie Lucev

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Time to Vote! Participatory Budget Ballot Revealed

By Katie McFadden

How should $1 million be spent on the community? After several weeks of collecting and reviewing ideas, Councilman Eric Ulrich’s office has put together a participatory budget ballot. Now it’s up to the community to vote on their favorite ideas.

Since 2012, certain council members have set aside $1 million of discretionary funding for participatory budgeting, a program in which the residents get to have a say in how the money should be spent on their community.

Councilman Ulrich, representing District 32, was one of four council members that began the program three years ago. This year, 24 council members are using the program. The 32nd district South covers Breezy Point, Roxbury, Fort Tilden, Neponsit, Belle Harbor, Rockaway Park, Rockaway Beach and Broad Channel.

In addition to setting aside $1 million for the Rockaway/ Broad Channel Community, Ulrich also allocates $1 million to the north end of his district as well. The funds can be used for physical improvements to a neighborhood and each year, the people who live

in the neighborhood get a say in where it should go.

A group of residents, called Budget Delegates, volunteered their time to collect ideas from the neighborhood and after several weeks or review by the delegates and city agencies, Ulrich’s office has come up with an official ballot of 10 possible funding projects for Rockaway and Broad Channel.

Although there are 10 choices, voters can only select their top five.

Voters must reside in the 32nd district and must be at least 16 years old or enrolled in high school. You can only vote one time and ballots marked with more than five choices are considered invalid. A ballot must be filled out in pen and each choice should be marked with an “X.” The results of the vote will be announced before May 1, 2015.

The projects with the most votes, up to $1 million, will be included in next year’s city budget and the projects will be built or implemented over the next few years.

Voting will begin at local civic meetings this week and voting locations and times will be announced at a later time. Voting will go on at least through the first week of April. Follow the “Rockawaypb32” Facebook page or call

Eric Ulrich’s office at 718-738-1918 for voting locations and times. The ballot items are as follows: 1. Repair center medians along Cross Bay Boulevard in Broad Channel between 1st and 5th roads: $500,000 2. Improvement to 9/11 Tribute Park in Rockaway Park to include a decorative arch entry gate: $300,000 3. School Upgrades: $345,000: a) P.S. 47 Tech Equipment: $50,000 b) P.S. 317 Electrical Upgrades: $70,000 c) P.S. 114 Media Center: $75,000 d) Beach Channel Campus Mobile Laboratory Cart: $80,000 e) Scholars’ Academy Tech carts/ ID swipe station: $70,000 4. Remove asphalt in All-American Park in Broad Channel to allow for creation of another baseball/ softball field: $175,000 5. Bus countdown display clocks

Good News Travels Mickey & Minnie hanging out with Glenn and Laura Pfister as they catch up up with hometown news with The Rockaway Times while in Orlando.

KENNEDY'S Management & Staff Thank All Our Loyal Customers Who Have Shown Such Incredible Support Since We've Re-Opened.

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at 4-5 stops along Q22 bus route: $100,000 6. Rock Climbing wall constructed in Rockaway Beach adjacent to new boardwalk: $200,000 7. Installation of badminton courts for badminton or pickle ball along Shore Front Parkway in Rockaway Beach adjacent to the new boardwalk: $350,000 8. Community Information boards with maps of local area, businesses and civic group information at approx.. Beach 73,86,98, 108, 116, 129 Streets: $200,000 9. Repair center medians along Rockaway Beach Boulevard between Beach 102-105 Streets: $200,000 Adult exercise equipment installed along Shore Front Parkway adjacent to new boardwalk in Rockaway Beach: $200,000 10. Adult exercise equipment installed along Shore Front Parkway adjacent to new boardwalk in Rockaway Beach: $200,000

Students Present Progress in Childcare Training Program

On a chilly evening in Far Rockaway earlier this month, the Business Outreach Center Network’s Child Care Means Business Class led by Annette Cohen, gave a warm welcome to Councilman Donovan Richards at the training center at Blanche Daycare. Richards joined the class as a guest for the evening, and each of the 15 participants in the class had the opportunity to present their “2-minute pitch” for their childcare business to Richards.

The members of the current class started training on January 12 and will continue through April 16. Now in its 12th years, the Child Care Means Business Class is a 60-hour, free program that teaches people how to expand a home-based childcare business. At the end of the program, the participants will be certified in business management, nutrition and early childhood development. The program is made possible due to funding made available by Richards.

The Rockaway Times

Page 29

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Introducing New Medicare Advantage Plans from AgeWell New York Depending on the plan, benefits may include: • $0 Plan Premium • $0 or Low Co-Pays for Doctor Visits • $0 Co-Pay for Generic Drugs • $0 Prescription Drug Deductible • Dental & Vision Care/Hearing • Transportation Benefits • Over-the-Counter Pre-Paid Cards up to $75/month • Your Doctors & Hospitals in Our Network

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Page 30

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

ROCKAWAY GLIDERS

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In April look for "open afternoon hours" – use the gym as you like. More Info Soon!

***Runners Up: The Rockaway Running Series continues with The Spring 5 & 10 Miler on 4/11 and the Mother's Day Half Marathon on 5/9. Registration and info at www.rockapulcorun.com *****

DONATION YOGA

This Saturday March 28th at 10:00 am and 11:30 am. Rockaway Gliders will be hosting Donation Based Yoga Classes:

10am led by Bridget Killian Sirgiovanni 11:30am led by Helen Kilgallen All proceeds will go to Love Your Brain, an organization committed to brain injury prevention and recovery.

114-04 Beach Channel Drive, Rockaway Park, NY 11694

718-945-2063 • www.rockawaygliders.com Email: mary.rockawaygliders@gmail.com

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The Rockaway Times

Ask the

DOC Beware of Diet Supplements

By Peter Galvin, MD

Today’s column is about diet supplements. I’m sure you know someone who spends a ton of money on vitamins and supplements. I read recently that the NY Giants punter takes over 30 vitamins and supplements every day.

But for most of us is this really necessary?

Believe it or not in 1994 Congress passed the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act which defined what a dietary supplement is. That might lead one to believe that dietary supplements are well regulated by the government but they are not. While the FDA regulates supplements it treats them as food, not medication. There were no industry standards and no guarantees that what is in the bottle matches what is on the label until 2007 when the FDA issued Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) for dietary supplements. If you take a supplement the manufacturer should indicate on the label that it follows the FDA’s GMPs. If it’s not on the label don’t take it.

Supplements are not intended to be food substitutes. Whole foods offer three advantages over supplements – first, greater nutrition as whole foods are complex, secondly, whole foods contain dietary fiber which can help to prevent diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease as well as help prevent constipation and thirdly, whole foods contain protective substances like phytochemicals

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

which are thought to prevent many diseases. So in general if you are healthy and eat a wide variety of foods you don’t need supplements.

But some people should take supplements. Pregnant women should take prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid and iron. Adults age 50 and older should eat foods fortified with vitamin B-12 or take a multivitamin with B-12 and adults over 65 should take at least 800 IU (International Units) of vitamin D. In addition adults with poor diets, vegans, vegetarians, those with a history of weight-loss surgery or intestinal diseases should take supplements. Always check with your doctor before starting a supplement. Some may interfere with a medication you take or a disease you might have.

Always read the supplement label carefully. Avoid megadoses and look for one that provides 100% of the Daily Value (DV) of all the vitamins and minerals it contains.

Check expiration dates and discard expired supplements as they can lose potency. In addition always read food labels carefully as more and more foods are being fortified with vitamins and minerals.

For further information go to: NIH Office of Dietary supplements: ods.od.nih.gov/healthinformation; FDA: fda.gov/food/ dietarysupplements; Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living; Please direct questions and comments to editor@rockawaytimes.com.

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We know, sometimes you just can’t find The Rockaway Times.

Maybe you’ll be out of town. Sometimes copies fly off the shelves and sometimes they’re hidden under a stack of other newspapers. And everybody’s talking about something in the paper but you didn’t get your copy. What to do? Get The Rockaway Times by email.

Of course, it’s a FREE subscription. A free, crystal clear, easy-to-

read full version of The Rockaway Times will arrive in your inbox every Thursday. Even if you like the feel of a newspaper and prefer your Rockaway Times the old fashioned way, it’s always good to have a backup.

Sign up is a snap at Rockawaytimes.com. Or you can just email your request to Mail@RockawayTimes.com Thanks for your amazing support.

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Page 32

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Select Bus Service Continued from page 12

Median transit stations with shelters, seating, and real-time bus information will be constructed as part of the design. The design will have new medians for pedestrians and physical separation of local and thru traffic. Like other SBS routes, the Woodhaven/Cross Bay Boulevard route will have off-board fare collection and transit signal priority treatment.

The design also has the support of NYC Councilman Eric Ulrich.

“Select Bus Service on Woodhaven Boulevard will improve the flow of traffic on one of Queens’ busiest corridors and make the road safer for pedestrians and drivers alike,” Ulrich said.

Trottenberg called the plan, which is projected to cut travel times by 25-35 percent, “the biggest, boldest, and most ambitious design concept the City has attempted for Select Bus Service.” However, some local transportation activists think otherwise.

“I’m glad that Senator Schumer wants to improve transportation in Queens. We are very grateful,” local public transportation activist Philip McManus said, but he doesn’t think it will be enough. “We need real transit improvements in Queens and

the region, not half measures. The Rockaway Beach Line is an unused railway that is only two to six blocks east and parallel to Woodhaven Boulevard. This train route originally started at Penn Station and Brooklyn and would travel through central Queens to South Queens. This same route could also be connected to the North Queens subway lines E F G R M V and 7 trains plus the J and Z trains on Jamaica Avenue, the A and Shuttle trains, LIRR lines, numerous buses, JFK Airport and our parks, beaches and shopping centers.”

Allan Rosen, a writer for local blog Sheepshead Bites, also questions the sense behind the move, citing that bus riders only account for 33 percent of the users of Woodhaven and Cross Bay Boulevard and that when all commuters are considered, more time will be lost than gained.

There are currently seven existing SBS routes for the city: Fordham Road, First/Second Avenues, 34th Street, Hylan Boulevard, Webster Avenue, Nostrand Avenue, 125th Street-LGA. This spring, DOT will have blockby-block design workshops for the SBS route to get community feedback.

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The Rockaway Times

Random Poles Seek Reason To Be This is Rockaway so it’s not all that surprising that sawed off telephone poles suddenly sprout up in the middle of sidewalks. Phil Goldfeder said he’s been told they might eventually be bike racks which will make us ask – what are bike racks doing in the middle of the sidewalk?

There are several of these poles in the Beach 90’s. Apparently they were installed as telephone poles when the sidewalks were being replaced or no sidewalk existed.

When new sidewalks were installed, the poles remained.

After posting pictures online of these orphan poles, readers chimed in with suggestions. Many suggested that local artists start carving; some suggested totem poles. We like the one from Terence McNicholas who posted a picture of “distance from here” picture.

We can see the various signs: 50 Feet To Boarders. 25 Feet to CROM, 350 Feet to The Ocean; 1.2 Miles Rockaway Times. 1596 Miles To Rincon

Facts You Probably Don’t Need As for the facts below, we don’t verify. They might not be facts at all but the Internet says they are! ☛☛☛ ☛ The first men’s college basket-

ball game was played on January 18, 1896 between the University of Iowa and the University of Chicago. The final score was a mind blowing 15-12. (There weren’t a lot of slam dunks and fast breaks back then). ☛ The first women’s college basketball game was played on April 4, 1896 in San Francisco between Stanford and Cal. Stanford won the game 2-1, which was played with much different rules from modern basketball. There were nine players on each side and players could only play in certain areas of the court.

Women weren’t allowed to steal the ball from each other because it was considered “unladylike” and they had to wear clothes that covered every part of their body except their hands and face! ☛ Pistol Pete Maravich is college

basketball’s all-time leading scorer.

He scored 3,667 points during his

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THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

three seasons at LSU, where he averaged more than 44 points per game from 1968 to 1970. (And that was before the 3 point line). ☛ One fast food hamburger may

contain meat from 100 different cows. ☛ The twists in pretzels are meant to look like arms crossed in prayer.

(Really?) ☛ Apples float in water, because

25% of their volume is made of air.

Rockaways Polar Plunge 2015

By Artie Wallace Count down to the big Plunge.

The responses to the March 5 story about the Plunge raised some good questions. I hope this answers most of them.

Plunges for various fundraisers date back as far as 1904 (in the US).

One of the largest Plunges, raising funds for Special Olympics since 1998, is right here in New York and on Saturday, March 28, many will take the plunge right here in Rockaway.

The Special Olympics, which is supported in part by the Polar Plunges, started out with Camp Shriver which was founded in 1962

by Eunice Mary Shriver (sister of John F. Kennedy). It then emerged into the Special Olympics in 1968.

Special Olympics NY was organized by Dorothy Buehring Phillips in 1969.

As of the 2013 census, the Special Olympics had 64,659 registered athletes and participants, 4,663 coaches and 5,336 competitions.

Besides the programs available for the athletes, the Special Olympics has programs for those too young to compete. With competitions in track and field, basketball, bowling and much more, there are so many things for those with special needs to be a part of. Each and every one of them is a winner for giving it a try and doing their best.

Locally, the Special Olympics has had a big impact through its programs with St. Camillus/St. Virgilius Parish and St. Rose of Lima School. My research shows

At Press Time: Port Ambrose on Pause Those against Port Ambrose LNG may not yet have stopped the project, but they have slowed it down. The US Coast Guard and the Maritime Administration were so overwhelmed with comments in response to the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed liquefied natural gas project, that they have put

☛ Volkswagen named several of its

cars after wind. Passat - a German word for trade wind; Golf - Gulf stream; Polo - polar winds; Jetta jet stream.

stopped the clock on the approval process.

The Coast Guard sent a letter to Liberty Natural Gas COO Jason M. Goldstein, saying that they need more time to look at and take every comment into consideration before they can come up with a Final EIS. They said they received more than 10,000 comments.

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☛ We have only explored less than

5 percent of the Earth’s oceans. In fact, we have better maps of Mars than we do of the ocean floor (even the submerged half of the United States).

Joe Featherston to be the founder of these programs. I tried to reach out to Mr. Featherston for his input on the Special Olympics and fundraisers like the Polar Plunge, but was unable to get in contact with him. I hope to bring you more on Mr. Featherston and his work with the Special Olympics and the Rockaways at a later date.

Polar Plunges like the one in Rockaway on the 28th take about three months to organize. In addition to Amy Monahan and Kaitlin Brennan, there are as many as 40 volunteers who help on the day of the event and many sponsors who show support.

With a few days left, this year’s Polar Plunge still has a way to go to reach its goal. Anyone wanting to donate can do so online at http:// PolarPlungeNY.org/Rockaways, You can also sign up to take the Plunge on the website.

Everyone else is asked to come out to the beach for support. There will be a band performing during registration (from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.) and the after-Plunge Party will be at the Bungalow Bar on Beach 92nd Street and the bay.

The Plunge will take place on Saturday, March 28 at Jacob Riis Park at 12 noon.

Once at Riis Park, follow the signs to the Plunge. For additional information you can visit their website or contact Amy Monahan amonahan@nyso.org or Kaitlin Brennan kbrennan@nyso.org 212-6615217.

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Page 34

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Ginger Garlic Fish in Parchment

By Sharon Feldman

Parchment paper 4 (6-7 ounce) portions of sea bass (or any white fish) Salt and freshly ground pepper 1 bunch scallions cut into 3” pieces on an angle ½ pound shiitake mushrooms (or Portobello mushrooms), stemmed and sliced 3-4” knob ginger, peeled and thinly sliced 3 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 3 tablespoons tamari sauce (or low sodium soy sauce) Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Tear off 4 pieces of parchment

to form packets each about 12 inches long. Season fish with salt and pepper. Place a piece of parchment in a shallow dish then in the center of the paper stack ¼ of the scallions and shiitakes, layer with slices of ginger and garlic and top with fish. Combine the honey, vinegar and tamari and pour ¼ of the sauce over the fish. Fold over the top of the parchment paper then roll the sides to form a sealed pouch. Repeat with remaining parchment and ingredients. Arrange the pouches on a baking sheet and roast in hot oven 12-15 minutes.

Goes great with whole wheat pearl couscous or rice.

Serve with vegetables or a salad.

CROM ROLLS AGAIN

LIFE IS . . .

My Dad, Larry Mancuso, wrote this several years ago when he was in his early 80’s. Would like to share it. He called it “Life Begins at Forty.”

“Life begins at forty, not really but this is when we know what life is about. You see, life begins at inception, at being born. A new life, a human being, a miracle of evolution to carry on the families into the future. We are born into families of tradition, background and religion. From day one, we are nurtured and cared for to become men and women. As infants to adulthood, each of the times of ours is unique.

From one to 10, we observe, we see and hear. A time we are loved and helped to grow properly. From 10 to 20, we become teenagers.

Our minds and sexuality explode.

Finishing high school and entering college to form our futures. All of a sudden, now we know everything.

We stop listening to our parents, and almost everyone around us.

We know what we are doing, and we are going to do it.

From 20 to 30, we are fully grown, and become self-assured, macho men and beautiful women.

What a time of life, just great. We pursue, in great earnest, our way of life, our profession and possibly

HOT & FRESH MAKES US BEST!

marriage, a home and children to make the most of it. Learning how to live, and gradually becoming good at what we are doing.

From 30 to 40, we are in full swing. We are getting there and enjoying the fruits of our lives. Not that we haven’t all this time, but with the ups and downs, we come through it.

But when we reach 40, a devastating year, a number in our lives, when suddenly, we stop and think.

Who am I, what am I, where am I??? And in an instant we know, we understand that is the meaning of life. It does begin at 40. All the teachings, all the experiences, all the moments, good and bad, come to mind. Be forceful and pass some of your knowledge to the younger people that you know. Encourage them and guide them to become persons. This will continue for the rest of your life. You have made your mark.

Now you know this is the life.

MAKE THE MOST OF IT . . .”

When I read this, I think about the circle of life and whatever meaning we absorb from it comes from what we make of it. Thanks Dad. Question/comment: Email us at BeWellBeHappy2@gmail.com.

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division. Joselito Collado and Jefferson Palma, both part of CROM’s scholarship program won silver medals.

Notable performances were put on by CROM fight team members, Mark Marrero and Allan Stoffel.

The team proved once again that #allittakesisheart.

00

CROM Physical Culture headed back to Richmond, VA March 20th for the 2nd year in a row to put Rockaway on the map at the WKA (World Kickboxing Association) North American Championships.

Junior fighter Jeanette Esposito and Craig Young were crowned champions, winning their weight

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Page 35

Order At The Courthouse

Special This Saturday, you are all invited to Riis Park. Why Beefchip, I have my own beach and Volleyball doesn’t start for a few months? I’m glad you asked. Folks, this Saturday we are “Freezin’ For A Reason.” That’s right, we are taking the plunge into the frigid Atlantic for our friends at the St. Camillus Special Olympics, specifically in honor of Emily Hutton. For anyone that knew Emily, you lost a little piece of your heart the day our Angels called her home. And for those of us left behind, it is our duty to keep her memory alive.

And the way that starts is by supporting her friends at the Special Olympics.

I would like to tell you a little bit about the St. Camillus Special Olympics. For nearly 20 years, Joe Featherston, a Rockaway Legend, has been at the helm of this organization. In keeping with our theme from last week, Joe is an “ordinary guy that does extraordinary things.” Twenty years ago, what started as a program with 5-10 athletes, has grown exponentially to over 75 active athletes.

I have been witness to something majestic. Now that sounds cliché, but I can only be honest. Because there is nothing more beautiful than seeing the smiling faces of the athletes who come back week in, week out. For what Joe has given the athletes, it can only be matched by the pride and honor it has given some of his veteran coaches. People that do not seek out accolades, even stifle at them, but deserve every bit of recognition for making this COMMUNITY what it is. Again, “ordinary people that do EXTRAORDINARY things.”

Men like Peter Brady, who brings as much honor to the gym each week as he did to his storied FDNY career. Or Jim McVeigh, who brings as much pride and grace each week, as he did crossing the finish line in first place, in

nearly every Jack Murphy/Ocean Run when I was coming up. Women like Susan Brady, newly retired but perpetually devoted. Kathy Clarke and Rose Gurry, who have provided decades of loving charm and motherly warmth to athletes and coaches alike. Marie Huber and her son Mike, and guys like Russel Hauk all bring the spirit every Monday night. I look at Sean and Christine Parchment, where commitment to the program inevitably lead to a loving com- The scaffolding is down. The For mitment in marriage, and three Rent signs are up. Two years after beautiful children.

Mayor Bloomberg announced that Of course, no examination of the Harmony Group developers the St. Camillus Special Olympics would pour $10 million to transform program would be complete without a nod of prideful admiration to the athletes themselves. I think all the coaches and volunteers are in agreement on one certain- Continued from page 7 ty. That is that they are a spoke on 100 percent hands-on, executing a non-stop wheel. The athletes their vision. This is Andrew. The make up the rest of the wheel, and guy’s a tireless workhorse full of the coaches and volunteers are great ideas. We couldn’t be more just along for the ride. excited to be partnering with him.

I only ask this, if you have a few Plus, he lives local, surfs well and shekels lying around and want is a great guy to be around. So...we to put it to good use, you can get are stoked,” d’Leo said. more info about the event and The Surf Club locale will be a after party, or make a donation different setup than the 96th street at http://www.polarplungeny. shack. With a sizable side yard, org/Rockaways. There are sev- the Surf Club will allow taco loveral different teams and you may ers a place to sit. And the same see some familiar names that crowd can now avail themselves of you would like to support. That adult beverages, if they so choose. is highly encouraged. At the end (We can’t remember if they carry of the day, we are all trying to ac- Pabst). The exact layout (where complish the same goal. From the lines will form, for instance) is a outpouring of support I have seen work in progress but those are just so far, I gotta say, I love this town! pesky details. The real news is that As of press time, Team Cyclops it’s happening. has yet to make a donation. But Field sounds ready. “Mexico he assures me that it will be done was and still remains a huge part of by the after party. Stay tuned to my life. I am a pretty simple human next week’s column to see if he being and If you have tacos and made good on his promise, or if surfing in one place, you can probhe needs to find a new Beefchip. ably, rest assured, know that I will As always for feedback, sugges- be quite content. In Mexico, Tacos tions or love, you can reach us at are what you eat six and a half days BeefChipTeamCyclops@gmail. out of the week. It is such a dynamic com food that can be eaten fast and frequently and is best enjoyed in an outdoor environment. Just as I arrived in Rockaway Beach eight years ago, timing was everything. I anxiously showed up to work every single day with the goal of serving the freshest food I could possibly serve.

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an old municipal courthouse into a medical center, the first signs of action occurred earlier this week. It’s been almost 40 years since the building has been occupied.

Rockaway Taco Closing Teaming up with the Surf Club to try out new things, but maintaining the spirit of Rockaway Beach, is about being in the right time and the right place. The right time, I was ready for a change. The right place.

My girlfriend and I own a house four doors down. Talk about simplifying the commute! It’s going to be a great summer.”

Rockaway Taco was undeniably one of the forces that made Rockaway Beach hip and attractive to newcomers who’d never before set foot on the peninsula. When historians chart the revival, they’ll say Boarders surf shop got there first.

Taco and Bungalow Bar came next in 2008 and made the neighborhood hot ever since.

So wait, is Rockaway Taco just poof, gone? Well, yes, but not quite. Field’s partner in Rockaway Taco, David Selig, said he is building a “mobile shack” that he’ll take cross country (and maybe end up in Rockaway Beach, Oregon).

“Rockaway Taco can grow in lots of ways.”

He said a business will open in the 96th Street shack but details were still being worked out.

He also says Rockaway Taco will be back for the summer of 2016 (though where and in what form remains to be seen).

Until then, people can chew out a rhythm as they wait in line: tactac-tac, Tacoway Beach.

Page 36

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Build it Back due to Sandy.

The last option available to those whose homes were completely destroyed or “substantially damaged” is acquisition for redevelopment. “Substantially damaged” means that the damage is 50 percent or greater of the value of the building structure. In a part-

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nership with New York State, some owners have to option to sell their home to the state, with the state determining the home’s worth. Peterson called this option a “complicated process,” but added that “it is a real option. For some of you, it may be the right option.”

Peterson also spoke about the City’s new temporary relocation

WE STAND BEHIND WHAT WE SELL!

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Continued from page 9

Accepting Major Credit Cards

program. “If you hear neighbors say they can’t afford to vacate their home during construction, we’re now going to pay for their rent,” she said. Through the program, homeowners will be reimbursed for their temporary rental costs for the time they’re out of their home during Build it Back construction, as long as it’s longer than 30 days.

“Homeowners will be reimbursed for that amount up to a certain level, for example $1,500 a month for a one family household,” she said.

“This is exciting. It’s important and we’re trying to make it as simple as possible.” With this option becoming available in April, Peterson advises property owners to start advertising apartments that they’re willing to rent out on a short-term lease, since these rental options are not always easy to come by and many will be looking for them soon. Since the rent will be reimbursed, Peterson said people who can’t afford it upfront, can work with nonprofits to obtain loans.

This led to questions from the audience, with one asking if the re-

location program would also cover the rent for tenants, to which Peterson said no. Rent would only be reimbursed for homeowners. This lead to a questions from another audience member who asked if Build it Back would pay their mortgage after they lose their tenants during the construction process. They were also told no.

Following Peterson, Councilman Richards addressed the crowd saying, “We don’t intend on building this community back to the same place it was before the storm. We hope to build it better.

We still have a lot of work to do, but I’m grateful for the partnership we have with Build it Back.”

In its effort to recruit people back into the Build it Back program, residents who gave up can expect to start receiving calls and letters from representatives. Build it Back will also have two more info sessions in April. They will be at the Rockaway YMCA from 6 to 9 p.m. on April 13 and at Battalion Pentecostal Church at 7 p.m. on April 22.

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Page 37

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Home Improvement: It’s That Time of Year

Spring Clean Your Home with a Fresh Coat of Paint too-concentrated stream could allow water to seep into your home or soak in beneath the siding. If you are not comfortable using the power washer, you can hire a professional to do it for you.

If you do the preparation yourself, use a detergent solution to clean the surface and a mildew preventer to disinfect it. You can purchase a mixture of detergent and mildew preventer or make your own solution by mixing a quart of bleach with three quarts of water. Be sure to rinse the surface thoroughly when the washing has been completed.

Scrape away any loose paint after the surface is clean and dry. Use a wire brush to remove any paint that is peeling, flaking or lifting away. You do not have to scrape all the way to the bare wood as long as the old paint is in good shape.

The next step is to use a surface repair compound to fix any obvious surface flaws. Choose a compound

rated for exterior use and apply it according to the instructions on the package.

Remove any old caulk around the door trim, windowsills and other areas, then repair and reputty the windows. Remove all the old putty before applying the new glazing. Be sure the putty is completely dry before you start to paint.

You will also need to make sure drop cloths are in place to protect shrubbery, flower beds and other exterior elements of the landscape.

Once you are ready to start painting, prime the bare wood and any spots you have repaired and start applying the paint. Depending on the size of your home you may need to break the job up into several sessions to get it done. Just be sure to clean and store your brushes after each use and cover the paint cans to prevent spillage and environmental contamination.

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The constant temperature swings and humid air of winter can really take a toll on your home’s paint job.

If you have not already done so, you should take advantage of the next nice day to thoroughly inspect the paint protecting your home. If you notice peeling or cracking, it is time to give the exterior of your home a good spring cleaning and a fresh coat of paint.

As with any home improvement task, the right preparation will make a huge difference in the success of your home painting project. Painting your home is a tough job. If you do it right, the paint job will last many years. If not, you could find yourself back on the ladder in just a season or two.

No matter what the size of your home, safety is an important consideration. It is obviously easier (and safer) to paint a one-story home

than a two-story one, but even a low fall could result in serious injury. Before you pick up a single paintbrush, you need to make sure your ladder, scaffold and other equipment is in good repair. If you have any doubts about the safety of your equipment, add a new ladder to your home improvement shopping list.

Whether you need a new ladder or not, you will need to pick up a supply of rollers, brushes and paint.

If you are unsure of the color, take a picture with your smartphone and use it to select the right shade. You may want to purchase extra supplies so you do not have to run back to the store in the middle of the project.

You will need to make sure the painting surface is properly prepared before you start applying a new coat of paint. If you have access to a pressure washer, clean the exterior thoroughly. Be careful when selecting the nozzles - applying a

00

By Robert Viscardi

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

The Rockaway Times

How To Rebloom Your Orchid Plant

By Elaine Shein and Linda Kelly

RT

Page 38

Those of us who are a little more mature can remember when a four star occasion was honored with the receipt of a cattleya orchid. Orchids were mysterious, exotic plants grown by detective Nero Wolfe in his rooftop green house.

How times have changed! Every supermarket and big box store has superlative orchids for little more than the cost of a bouquet of flowers.

We often keep these orchids when they’re in bloom and give up on any idea of reblooming them. They can be rebloomed with little trouble, but first, let’s talk about how to care for them when they are in bloom.

The most common orchids sold in the supermarkets are the phalaenopsis. These are low-light plants. To care for them, imagine the rainforest. They live epiphytically, a long word which simply means they live above the ground with their roots anchored onto a bark or stone, not soil. The rains come. They’re drenched and they dry out completely. Put your fin-

ger in the mix. If it’s dry, water with lukewarm tap water. Don’t let your plant sit in water. Your orchid needs indirect north or eastern light. Think about the lower part of a rainforest. Think bright light behind a sheer curtain.

Direct sunlight causes the leaves to yellow and burn. The leaves should be a nice, fresh green.

In the rainforest, your plant is fertilized by the debris that comes with the rain. You have to give it the same weak feeding every couple of weeks.

Dilute a regular house plant fertilizer and feed the orchid every two weeks or so.

After your bloom is done, cut the flower’s scape (stalk) off and let your plant rest in indirect light for three to six months. Continue to feed it half-strength fertilizer every couple of weeks. If you’re lucky, you will see new, fresh, green buds and new flower scapes forming. Good luck and let us know if you have any questions!

Send questions and comments to editor@rockawaytimes.com and he’ll forward them to us. Thanks!

The Rockaway Times

Page 39

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

How to Repair a Hole in a Plaster Wall

By Patrick Walsh

Plaster walls are inexpensive to install, easy to clean and generally very durable. Even so, even the sturdiest wall is subject to damage, and plaster walls are no exception.

Holes are among the most common problems with plaster walls, but there is no need to panic if you have one.

You do not have to be a home improvement expert to repair and replaster your walls. All you need is a few simple supplies and a bit of spare time. The supplies you need to fix that hole and make the wall look like new are: • Fresh plaster mixture • Putty knife • Fiberglass mesh • Wipe cloth Once you have your supplies assembled, just follow these simple steps to repair the hole, apply the plaster and restore your room’s former good looks.

Step 1 Start by cleaning and scraping around the interior edge of the hole. Use the putty knife to remove any excess plaster and other debris. Use a clean cloth to wipe the area thoroughly and remove any leftover dust from the scraping.

Step 2 Small holes can be repaired quite easily without any type of bridging material, but holes larger than ½” will typically require bridging to hold the repair. If you are dealing with a large hole, start by peeling the backing off a square of adhesive fiberglass mesh, then press it firmly over the gap.

Step 3 Once the hole has been covered, you will need to apply the new plaster mixture. A quick-set plaster is best; it will reduce the amount of time the project takes and make any required repainting easier.

If you needed to apply a fiberglass mesh, firmly but carefully press the new plaster through the holes in the mesh. Be sure that the mesh square around the hole is completely covered. Use the putty knife to spread the plaster mix evenly across the hole. If you are filling small holes, you can simply apply the new plaster mix and smooth it down with the putty knife.

Step 4 Allow the plaster mixture to dry completely before proceeding to the next step. You can consult the packaging to estimate drying time, but you might want to allow

a few extra minutes to be sure. Once you are sure the plaster mixture is dry, sand the area around the repair lightly and apply a second layer over the first one. If the hole is very large you may need to apply several more layers of plaster mixture to complete the repair.

Step 5 Prepare the room for painting if you need to repaint the wall. You will want to protect the floors and any furniture in the room with drop cloths or covers. If you are unsure what shade of paint to use, take a picture of the room and consult the paint experts at the local home improvement store.

Be sure you have everything you will need laid out and within easy reach before you start. If the paint job is a fairly recent one, you may be able to simply touch up the area around the hole repair. If the paint is badly faded, it is probably best to repaint the entire room.

Protect Your Walls Going Forward Repairing a hole in a plaster wall may not be a difficult home improvement project, but it is probably not your favorite thing to do. Now that the repair has been completed, you will want to protect your walls and avoid future damage.

If chairs or other furnishings are sitting against the wall, move them out a few inches. The constant rubbing could damage the plaster and make it more susceptible to breakage. If you have kids, warn them about the dangers of horseplay and other activities that could put holes in the wall. The better you protect your plaster walls, the less time you will have to spend repairing the damage.

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Page 40

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Spring Cleaning Tips

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1. Want a truly transparent window? Wipe it down with a coffee filter.

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4. Want the most shine out of your silver? Blend together a paste of banana peels and water and then buff!

5. Get rid of musty smells by adding a few cedar chips to your winter clothing storage bins.

6. To get your stainless steel in top form, buff it with a few drops of olive oil.

7. Got some kitchen stink?

Simmer a pot of water, cinnamon, and baking soda.

8. To get your garbage cans to smell a little more friendly, sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom of the can.

9. Spruce up the caulk seal around your sink

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

Page 41

It’s Not Too Early To Start Projects That Can Reduce Your Summer Cooling Costs

By B. Conrad

Now that the long winter is finally over and spring is on its way, it is time to get going on the home improvement projects you have been putting off. The winter season is not conducive to home improvement projects, but the spring season is the perfect time to get started.

Even better, the right home improvement projects can save you money when summer arrives. Far from costing you money, these home improvement projects can pay for themselves in lower summer cooling costs.

Replace the Filters in Your Air Conditioners Replacing the filters in your air conditioners is one of the simplest spring home improvement projects you can do, but it is also one of the most effective.

The dust and dirt of a hot summer can leave your air conditioner filters clogged and dirty, making the units less efficient and more costly to operate.

If you use window air conditioners to cool your home, take a few minutes to remove each filter and inspect it. If the filter is

clogged or dirty, you can try to clean it with a blower or ShopVac. If that does not work, buy a new filter and install it. Your electric bill will thank you.

If your home has a central air unit, now is the time to have it cleaned, serviced and inspected. HVAC technicians are often less busy in the spring, and getting the unit serviced now could avoid a costly breakdown or expensive repair later.

Check the Weatherstripping Around Your Doors and Windows The moist air and frequent temperature changes of winter may have left your weatherstripping brittle and cracked. That could mean higher cooling bills once the hot days of summer arrive.

Spring is the best time to inspect the weatherstripping around your doors and windows and make sure it is still in good shape. If the weatherstripping is in reasonably good shape, just give it a good cleaning and call it a day. If not, buy some replacement strips and a few supplies and get going.

Installing new weatherstripping should take only a few

hours, and it is easy to do for most homeowners. All you need is a measuring tape and a few simple supplies to make your home weathertight and energy efficient.

While you are checking your windows, take a few minutes to feel for air leaks. If warm air is leaking out, cold air will soon be leaking out. Putting down a new line of caulk can seal the gaps and keep the cool air where it belongs.

Replace Your Old Thermostat If you have not replaced your old-style thermostat with a new smart version, make this the year you finally make the switch. A smart thermostat could save you hundreds of dollars a year in heating and cooling costs while keeping your home

more comfortable.

Smart thermostats are easy to install and simple to operate, and your energy supplier may even provide a rebate or other incentive for installing one. Check with your energy company about rebates, then add a new smart thermostat to your home. Once it is in place, you can set it to turn the air conditioning off when you leave for work and back on just before you arrive home. That simple change could reduce your summer cooling bills significantly while keeping your home comfortable all summer long.

You may have been putting of needed home improvements because of their cost, but the right improvements to your home could actually save you money.

Better still, a one-time investment of cash could mean savings month after month all summer long.

Page 42

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

The Rockaway Times

Attention Local Residents!

YOU MAY NOT HAVE TO MAKE YOUR NEXT TWO CAR PAYMENTS,

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The Rockaway Times

Page 43

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2015

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