ROCKAWAY TIMES 4-9-20

VOL. 6, NO. 42 - THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Easter/ Passover Is Canceled SAVED

Madelaine Chocolate Brings Sweets to the Frontlines See Page 16 S During A Bitter Time

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 2

The Rockaway Times

HEROES SALUTING HEROES Last weekend, the FDNY’s “The Big House” (Engine 264, Ladder 134, Engine 328) and “The Best on The Beach” (Engine 265, Ladder 121, Battalion 47), and the Inwood Fire Department lined the street outside of the St. John’s Episcopal Hospital (SJEH) Emergency Department with sirens blaring and a massive round of applause in a display of respect and appreciation to SJEH staff who are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We want to say thank you to the true heroes—the doctors, the nurses, the environmental services' staff, the cooks, and the entire staff at St. John’s,” Christopher Pisano, Battalion Chief of Battalion 47, said.

“This is the only hospital in the Rockaways and we want to show our love and appreciation! We will come through this pandemic together!”

Jerry Walsh, Chief Execu- Department’s display of gratitive Officer of St. John’s said, tude is much appreciated and “The FDNY’s and Inwood Fire is a huge morale booster to us.

“Our employees are working around the clock to ensure

that we are doing all we can to help our patients have a successful health outcome, and this act of kindness goes a long way!”

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The Rockaway Times

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

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The Rockaway Times

Contact The Elected

Temple Beth-El of Rockaway Park 201 Beach 121st Street 718-634-8100

On behalf of our members we would like to express our appreciation to the first responders, the doctors, nurses, medical staffs, EMT's, FDNY, NYPD, the custodians in the hospitals and all others who are contributing to overcoming the scourge of the Coronavirus. Your hours are long, and you are doing a magnificent job on the frontlines.

Rockaway has always come together in times of strife, 9/11, Superstorm Sandy and many other events. However, this virus is beyond anything we have had to handle in the past. As Rockawaites we know of your dedication and strength in trying times and Thank You for all you are doing.

Rabbi Matt Carl 'ERXSV .IʪVI] ;SPO

'ERXSV (IRRMW ;EPHQER 4VIWMHMYQ %PPIR +SPHFIVK 7XERPI] )MWIR 7XIZIR 8E]PSV

Congressman Gregory Meeks 67-12 Rockaway Beach Boulevard Arverne, NY 11692 Phone: (347) 230-4032 Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato 9516 Rockaway Beach Blvd Rockaway Beach, NY 11693 718-945-9550 City Councilman Eric Ulrich 114-12 Beach Channel Drive, suite #1 Rockaway Park, NY 11694 718-318-6411 State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. 88-08 Rockaway Beach Blvd Room 311 Rockaway Beach, NY 11693 718-318-0702 State Senator James Sanders Jr. 1931 Mott Avenue - Suite 305 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718-327-7017 City Councilman Donovan Richards 1931 Mott Avenue, Suite 410 Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718-471-7014 Assemblywoman Michele Titus 1931 Mott Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718- 327-1845 Community Board 14 1931 Mott Ave Far Rockaway, NY 11691 718-471-7300

Kevin Boyle PUBLISHER Pat McVeigh MANAGING DIRECTOR Katie McFadden MANAGING EDITOR Kami-Leigh Agard Marina Cregan REPORTERS Fred Marino, Frank Chimera SALES __________________________ The Rockaway Times 114-04 Beach Channel Drive Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Phone: 718-634-3030 • www.rockawaytimes.com • Email: news@rockawaytimes.com, mail@rockawaytimes.com

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Local Frontlines Hero Discusses the Battle of COVID-19

By Marina Cregan

“There is an earnest passion to fight this war,” says Belle Harbor resident, Theresa Uva. Uva would know.

She’s one of the many on the frontlines.

Uva is the Director of Patient Care Services for Nursing and Outpatient Oncology at the BronxCare Health System. BronxCare Health Systems has two hospitals in the Bronx. Uva recently spoke with The Rockaway Times to give some insight to the challenges healthcare workers are facing in response to COVID-19. The challenges are both personal and professional.

Uva herself is unable to visit her 88-year-old father for fear of getting him sick. “This makes me sad,” said Uva. There are many nights when Uva stays closer to the hospi-

tal to avoid the long commute back to the Rockaways. Many essential workers are staying closer to their places of employment, in an effort to save time and to keep their families safe. Uva said, “At home, I keep the standard six-foot separation and wear a mask.”

Some essential workers are even sleeping in their cars to avoid infecting their families.

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“At work, there is an energy that I have never witnessed before. Peoples’ strengths have flourished. All hands on deck...people are doing whatever they must to get the job done,” Uva said about hospital morale. However, one of the saddest parts of a nurse or doctor’s day during the COVID-19 pandemic, is watching a patient leave this life alone. Uva said, “Visitors have been barred from all hospitals, making the end of life a lonely time. This is traumatic for all involved, the patient when awake, the family, and the staff.” In order to cheer up some of the patients, iPads are being used on all units, so the sick can have virtual visits from loved ones. Those patients and families that do not have access to technology, are even being given iPads to use in the hospital’s chapel.

These iPads are just one example of the many supplies needed to care for the patients and to ensure the safety of all hospital employees.

Uva said that the hospital has a system for maintaining and releasing available personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times for all of the staff.

“We have started this from day one, so as to not run out of PPE. As of now, we have secured enough PPE to keep our employees safe,” Uva reported. She also said that an important aspect of keeping the staff safe is being able to provide the emotional care that is needed for all of the frontline staff. Uva said, “With this virus, the outcome is not always positive, and this has also impacted the professionals...It is not easy and at times very emoContinued on page 6

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

The Rockaway Times

BOYLEING POINTS

B.C. A long, long time ago, in 2020 B.C. (Before Corona), I was in Stop and Shop and in the mood for a snack and said to the store clerk, I guess a little too loudly—I’m looking for a blondie.

About twenty women spun around to look at me.

I couldn’t tell one from the other. Some of them looked a little offended. Sorry, sorry, I stammered. I’m not looking for a date. You all

look great but I, I just want a blondie, you know like a brownie but, but, but…

I was embarrassed so I just hustled away, quickly grabbing a box of Mallomars, and headed to the frozen food section where there were more blondes than Klondike bars (of which I grabbed two).

I’m not a suspicious type but I was thinking somebody in the hair coloring business was making a killing. I know

the toilet paper aisle is empty. Has anybody checked the Lady Clairol shelves?

Ya know, you get to a certain age and you can’t tell kids apart. Your friends’ kids grow so fast, you can’t keep up with their looks. You’re just happy, you kinda think you know who they belong to.

It’s kinda like that for me and blonde-haired women between the ages of, uhm, 35 and 65. I say hello to them all because I think I might know them. My hello is usually a little shaky because I’m just not sure. One night, I was in the Harbor Light talking to a few ladies and I thought I was talking to a team. The only one I called by name had brown hair. Or at least it was that night.

Not that there’s anything wrong with it.

The thing is, I was really starting to get to know some of these women by name but now this lockdown makes me wonder if I’ll know them when they emerge. I’m hear-

Page 5 ing stories of gray gone wild and brown is the new blonde.

People have asked if bars will be packed once the crisis passes or will it take some time before people feel comfortable. I’m wondering if there will be lines around the corner at beauty salons.

Or will gray stay?

I’m wondering if they’ll keep masks on just to remain anonymous until the dye does its tricks.

Hey, I know women aren’t the only ones who’ve been, uhm, artistic with hair. I used to see guys who went a little hard on the highlights and others who must’ve been color-blind because they actually left the house with a heavy purple tint, that I don’t think was the intention.

Like everyone, I can’t wait for this to be over. But boy, oh boy, things will be different. Still, you know what?

You’re all gonna look great, ladies and gents. It’s gonna be great to see you. But you might have to reintroduce yourself.

We can do this.....

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Friends of Memorial P.O. Box 940174, Rockaway Park, NY 11694

Stay safe and be well.

We can do this....

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 6

LOCAL FRONTLINES HERO DISCUSSES Continued from Page 4

thank you! we want to sincerely thank our wonderful community for all of the support that you've shown us throughout these hard times

PICK UP OR DELIVERY to

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tional. At BronxCare, we are fortunate enough to have an outstanding team of Mental Health Professionals that round each day on all units to provide counseling for staff.”

Uva had so much to share with The Rockaway Times in regard to patient care, planning, prioritizing of patients, and the hospital’s capabilities in fighting COVID-19. She said, “We will just keep caring for every person who comes through the ED (Emergency Department), and do the best we can to heal them, regardless of space. We have an extremely intelligent, talented group of physicians who are used to caring for a community of high-risk patients. The staff has become extremely adept at recognizing the symptoms and prioritizing who needs care first. Our treatment for COVID-19 has

The Rockaway Times been the best practice from the start. As for ventilators, we have enough to meet our present needs, and with new government processes, hospitals that do not need a high number of ventilators will be sharing with those that do.”

As this pandemic progresses, hospital employees continue to use CARE. This means they communicate with courtesy and compassion, acknowledge and take action, respect and reassure, and empathize and explain.

The nurses ensure medications are readily administered as needed, and they are handling the necessary tasks, so that doctors can just focus on the care.

Uva says through all of this, they are doing the best they can to make dignity a priority for patients. “We just keep giving the support as needed,” Uva said.

“Both doctors and nurses are emotionally willing to provide compassion toward patients.”

THE ROCKAWAY TIMES DELIVERY CHANGE

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We have encouraged everyone to work from home, if possible, and to respect social distancing guidelines and do whatever it takes to help flatten the curve.

In that spirit, we have decided to suspend door-to-door delivery of The Rockaway Times, and limit the number of bulk drops.

We encourage all our readers to subscribe FOR FREE to The Rockaway Times email edition.

It’s very easy to do and you just might get used to it. There are two ways to sign up.

Go to RockawayTimes.com and click on the Subscribe button. Or send an email to Mail@ Rockawaytimes.com with a request to subscribe. Easy! And free!

As for now, The Rockaway Times regular newspaper will be available at our news boxes in Broad Channel, the ferry dock, Stop and Shop, Beach 116th, Beach 108th, Beach 92nd, Beach 129th, and at The Rockaway Times office (114-04 Beach Channel Drive). For the time being, we will also be dropping papers at Deirdre Maeve’s in Breezy Point.

We know some people, seniors in particular, really look forward to our Thursday delivery, but we think this is necessary.

Here’s to everyone’s good health. We look forward to regular Thursday deliveries again!

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 7

St. John’s Hospital Successfully Treats More Than 120 COVID-19 Patients St. John’s Episcopal Hospital (SJEH) became the first hospital to treat a coronavirus patient in Queens, when an Uber driver sought out Rockaway’s only hospital for help on March 7. Within a few days, that man was successfully treated and sent home, and he wasn’t the only one.

Since that first patient, the local hospital says it has successfully treated and discharged more than 120 COVID-19 patients.

“We work hard to ensure that we are as prepared as possible to treat each COVID-19 patient, and have made significant investments to see that our patients achieve positive health,” said Donald Morrish, MD, Chief Medical Officer. “When we are able to successfully discharge a person, it brings us great joy, and also shows that there are people who have overcome COVID-19.”

To treat COVID-19 patients efficiently, the hospital has made, and is continuing to make, substantial investments including

purchasing additional beds and equipment to go from a 257-bed hospital to more than 326 beds; converting its fifthfloor outpatient specialty services practice to an inpatient unit; creating several negative pressure rooms which help prevent the spread of contagious diseases through a special ventilation system; converting existing beds to intensive care units (ICU); purchasing additional beds and stretchers; and hiring more staff.

Other hospital investments include the purchase of personal protective equipment; ventilators and other essential patient care equipment; and the implementation of a new telehealth/virtual visits system, which was rolled out in late March and allows patients to have a doctor appointment via a computer, phone, or tablet.

As SJEH is the only hospital on the Rockaway peninsula, serving more than 140,000 resi-

dents across Rockaway and the Five Towns, its service is more essential than ever. Mostly those with severe cases of coronavirus require hospital treatment. It is not clear how many coronavirus patients SJEH has seen, but as we go to press, according to data from the NYC Department of Health, the Rockaway peninsula has had more than 1,500 people test positive.

However, no matter the num-

ber of people that may cross SJEH’s door, the hospital remains ready to do what it can. “Our investments are helping people heal during this pandemic, and I want to see more positive outcomes. We will spare no expense,” said Jerry Walsh, Chief Executive Officer. “And, I have the utmost respect for our doctors, nurses, and entire staff who come to work each day to help those who need it most.”

NEW YORKERS:

STAY HOME TO STOP THE SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS New Yorkers working together and staying home can slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in New York City. When you go out for essential needs, work or to get fresh air, keep distance between yourself and others and take the following precautions.

PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS • Keep at least 6 feet between yourself and others.

• Wash your hands with soap and water often.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing.

• Do not touch your face with unwashed hands.

• Monitor your health more closely than usual for cold or flu symptoms.

IF YOU ARE SICK • Stay home.

• If you have a cough, shortness of breath, fever, sore throat and do not feel better after 3-4 days, consult with your doctor.

• If you need help getting medical care, call 311.

• NYC will provide care regardless of immigration status or ability to pay.

PROTECT THE MOST VULNERABLE • Stay home if you have lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer or a weakened immune system.

• Stay home and call, video chat or text with family or friends who have one of these conditions.

REDUCE OVERCROWDING • Stay home.

• Telecommute if possible.

If you do go out: • Stagger work hours away from peak travel times.

• Walk or bike.

• Do not gather in crowds.

Text COVID to 692-692 for real-time updates or visit nyc.gov/coronavirus.

Bill de Blasio Mayor

Call 311 to report harassment or discrimination. Call 888-NYC-WELL, text "WELL" to 65173 or chat online at nyc.gov/nycwell to connect with a counselor.

Oxiris Barbot, MD Commissioner

*Messages and data rates may apply. Check your wireless provider plan for details.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 8

Happy Easter and Happy Passover ***** Some good news: St. John’s Hospital reported on Tuesday that more than 120 COVID-19 patients have been successfully treated and discharged from the hospital. St. John’s had the first case of coronavirus in Queens (way back on March 7). ***** So, last week we encouraged all local businesses to apply for a $10,000 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). The Small Business Administration (SBA) said funds would be directly deposited within one to three days. It was right there on its website—until it wasn’t.

There’s no mention of the one to three days now (although the Empire State Development’s site still has it). The

SBA site still states: This loan advance will not have to be repaid. But we have zero faith in this now. Guess, the only good thing was, the application only took a few minutes. As for the Payroll Protection Loans, we’re just hoping it’s not another Build It Back. On television, we hear many millions have gone to small business. In real life, not quite. ***** Learn from home. John Reinhardt, maybe best known as a photographer (that was his shot of the USNS Comfort and the Riis Park clock on last week’s cover), but also he's an accomplished, long-time real estate pro. He’s offering access to hundreds of real estate courses online to agents and brokers. Contact him through email: johnreinhardt@fillmore.com or on Facebook for details. ***** We’ve suspended door-todoor delivery of The RT and will be making limited bulk drops for the time being. If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance

you got the paper by email.

Please tell interested friends and neighbors to sign up for our weekly email version. It’s a great way to keep ink off the fingers!

Want to get on the list? Drop us a note at Mail@RockawayTimes. com ***** In our article, "Spreading the Love With Hopeful Hearts" (April 2, 2020), it was mentioned that a Star of Hope had gone missing causing a bit of distress. Fact is, the star was put back in just a few hours.

It was actually “borrowed” to be used as a template to make more stars. The new stars were created to hang near important places like hospitals and even grocery stores, with messages of hope and inspiration. The good deed was done by Tom Jordan who was inspired by his daughter working in an Emergency Room. Bravo! ***** The Rockaway Times Photo Contest deadline has been extended until April 30. Our Summer Guide, which we normally produce on the Thursday before

The Rockaway Times Memorial Day, is another thing that’s on hold. We’re happy to say we’re still getting inquiries from advertisers, so there is optimism out there. So, there will be a Summer Guide and you’ll be the first to know when! ***** Governor Cuomo said on Tuesday that the NYS Department of Health has developed antibody tests for Covid-19 and is “working with the FDA to bring it to scale.” That is great news. This testing can go a long way in determining who is at risk and weighing how long stay-at-home protocols stay in place. ***** Thank you for the thank yous.

People in Shore Front buildings and on random blocks throughout Rockaway have taken to applauding essential workers at 7 p.m. each evening. We’ve been told it’s greatly appreciated.

So clap on! And if you miss it, we’re trying to post videos every night on our Rockaway Times Facebook page, so give us a follow if you’re not already!

Open for Delivery and Pick Up Friday, Saturday, Sunday For Lunch & Dinner Meals To Go (We comply with all NY State & City Regulations)

Hi To All Our Neighbors.....

At This Time We Are Offering Our Everyday Favorites & New Weekly Specials (to go meals).

We Are Also Offering Family Style Meals Such As Chicken Parmigiana & Pasta, Chicken Or Shrimp Caesar Salads.

The New Menu For Easter And Our New Weekly Menu Are Posted On Our Website As Well As Facebook and Instagram.

EASTER SUNDAY MENU We Will Be Having A Special Brunch & Dinner Menu – For Individuals and Family Style Items.

Orders Will Be Taken Good Friday For Our Easter Menu And Orders For Our Weekly Menu Will Be Taken Daily.

Stay Well & God Bless!

Happy Easter ·

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 9

This Week in History APRIL 9 Joan Fitzgerald Thompson was born.

Donovan Richards was born.

1963 - Winston Churchill became the first honorary U.S. citizen.

2003 - American Marines pulled down Saddam Hussein’s statue in Baghdad after U.S. commanders declared his rule ended.

2005 - Britain's Prince Charles marries Camilla Parker Bowles.

APRIL 10 Sandra Schunk was born.

Patrick O’Toole was born.

1912 - The Titanic set sail on its fateful voyage.

1970 - Paul McCartney announced the official split of the Beatles.

APRIL 11 Ann Lighthall was born.

Joe Kenel was born.

Kelly Werner was born.

Salk was called: "safe, effective, and potent."

2017 – Jim Cunningham appeared in The Word Search.

APRIL 13 Pesach Osina was born.

1970 - Apollo 13 announced, "Houston, we have a problem," when an oxygen tank burst on the way to the Moon.

1997 - Tiger Woods became the youngest person to win the Masters Tournament and the first African-American to win a major golf title.

APRIL 14 Peter Galvin was born.

1828 - Noah Webster copyrighted the first edition of his dictionary.

1865 - Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth.

APRIL 15 Michael William Coughlin was born.

1814 - Napoleon was exiled to the island Phil Goldfeder was born.

Kelly Kalisak was born. of Elba.

1968 - President Lyndon B. Johnson Catherine Murphy was born. signed the 1968 Civil Rights Act. 1912 - The Titanic sank off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada on its maidAPRIL 12 en voyage after it struck an iceberg.

Edwin Williams was born.

1947 - Jackie Robinson made his Charles Nopper was born.

Brooklyn Dodger debut and scored the Miriam Rosenberg was born. game-winning run. On April 15, 1997, 1955 - The polio vaccine of Dr. Jonas his number, 42, was retired.

NYPD: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRIMES DOWN SINCE CORONAVIRUS Though Governor Cuomo’s office says there’s been a 1520% uptick in reports of domestic violence (DV) statewide, here in NYC, the NYPD’s data shows the opposite.

DV cases have actually gone down, but local precincts are ensuring New Yorkers they’re there for those who need it.

The Rockaway Times reached out to the NYPD press office and received the following: Note that NYPD crime data shows that domestic violence crime has progressively declined since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and the protections put in place amid NYC’s declaration of a state of emergency. For example, DV crime is down 15.3% for the entire month of March 2020, compared to March 2019.

NYPD’s team of committed

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domestic violence officers are working vigorously to take reports and check in on New Yorkers in all five boroughs amid this ongoing coronavirus crisis. These skilled officers are conducting phone calls to supplant face-to-face visits, sharing safety plans and cell phone access with them and carefully setting code words for them to use as they survive in close quarters.

Our officers are continually following up with domestic violence assault victims as well as in cases where children are at risk and where there are elderly victims.

In addition to 911, domestic violence victims can also call NYC’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-621-4673 for help on safety planning, shelter assistance and community resources.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 10

The Rockaway Times

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The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 11

Happy Easter from Buckley's Restaurant To place your pre-order dinner for Easter please call 718-998-4222 by Friday, April 10th.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 12

The Rockaway Times

This Changes Everything

By Lou Pastina

As the greatest generation continues to ebb away from us, we confront the enemy of our time and it is silent, it is invisible, and it’s everywhere, but it is not undefeatable. Yes, many are falling victim, many paying the ultimate price, but so many are displaying courage and heroism simply by doing their everyday jobs. The doctors and nurses and medical staffs are nothing short of angelic in their determination and commitment. But so are the restaurant owners serving takeout and the delivery people getting it to our doors; the store owners coming in everyday and stocking their shelves; and, the people who make the city, state and federal government work. And by those, I mean our firefight-

ers, police, sanitation workers, transit workers, and post office workers. And let’s not forget the Amazon, UPS and FedEx workers. They are making us all proud.

The role that the vast majority have to play is a relatively simple one: stay home, wash your hands, cover your mouth, go out for only essentials and maybe for a walk (away from everyone else). This part saves lives. This is not a New York City thing or a China thing, it’s a world thing, and hopefully it pulls us all together like nothing before. It’s all about buying time, flattening the curve, giving the scientists time to develop vaccines, antidotes, antibodies—the tools we need to fight this head on.

Some of our leaders are displaying terrific leadership skills, some not so much. But this is all new territory. Even FDR didn’t jump right in to help defeat the enemy in 1939 or 1940. But once he was in,

he was all in. And I believe all our leaders, regardless of their political affiliation, are all in too and trying their best. Even the media seems to get it. They know that it is important not to instill fear, or to attack without purpose, and are trying to stay on message.

All the failed technology dot. coms from the early 2000s and the successes that grew out of that frenzied time period have come now to help keep us all connected. While the technology forced a mass dislocation of the job force, it also forced us all to accept the technology and re-invent ourselves. This has made us all appreciate the ability to use social media in positive, life affirming ways. It also gives us all an opportunity to reach out to friends and relatives we may not have been talking to and ask how they are doing.

Life will be different after this is all over, but that is always true. Some things will be different, not better, but I truly

believe that most things will be different for the better. We will all be able to manage our time differently, using technology to do things smarter, and allow us all to spend time with those we love, and to do the things we really want to do. This will be a great reminder that we need to be careful, but that time is not indiscriminately given, and that we need to live our lives when the opportunity arises.

I don’t think it’s an accident that this episode happened during the holiest times of the year for at least two of the major world religions. Perhaps it’s also a reminder that we share the Earth with many, and that we should be good stewards and leave it better than we found it. There is no doubt that this changes everything, and everything will be different. But one thing is for sure, the human heart, the human spirit, love will not be defeated. This we learned at the feet of the greatest generation.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

The Rockaway Times

DRINK MENU COCKTAILS TO GO All to-go cocktails are made fresh to order and served with no ice. They are designed to be ready to pour at home with the same quality as when our trained bartenders pour them in front of you at the bar!

DISCOUNTED COCKTAILS BELOW ANY COCKTAILS NOT LISTED BELOW ARE 20% OFF ................................1 cocktail/ 3 cocktails PICO MARGARITA Olmeca Altos Blanco Tequila, Patron Citronge, Lime, Salt .................................................. $8/22 SMOKY PICO Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Patron Citronge Lime ... 8/22 ROCKAWAY BEACH GIRL (under 150 cal.) Olmeca Altos Blanco Tequila, Truvia, Lime ................................................. 8/22 LOCO ROJO 1800 Coconut Tequila, Owney’s Blended Rum, Cilantro, Lime .............................................. 8/22 FIRE’S OUT Olmeca Altos Blanco Tequila, Lime, Jalapeño, Blood Orange Pellegrino 8/22 RASPBERRY LEMON DROP Smirnoff, Chateau Monet, Sugared Rim........ 9/23 PURPLE HAZE Figenza Vodka, PAMA, St. Germain, Sparkling .. 9/23 SMOKIN’ J Mezcal, Meletti Amaro, St. Germain, Angostura Bitters, Orange............................................. 9/23

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BRUNCH Serving Saturday and Sunday 12PM – 3PM STEAK & EGGS NY Strip Steak, Two Eggs, Frijoles Negros, Yellow Rice, Shoestring Onion Rings .....21 HUEVOS RANCHEROS Flour Tortillas, Two Fried Eggs, Guacamole, Frijoles Negros, Peppers & Onions, Pico de Gallo ............................13 BREAKFAST BURRITO * Scrambled Eggs, Smoked Bacon, Guacamole, Cheddar, Yellow Rice, Spicy Black Beans..........................................14 B.E.C. BURGER * Creekstone Farms Organic Burger, Fried Egg, House Smoked Bacon, Cheddar, Home Fries .............................14 • Sub egg whites +2

Page 13

It is only with the love and support of our amazing community that we can see through to the other side of all of this uncertainty. Thank you PICO friends and family for making sure we will continue to be here for years to come!

Closed Sunday, April 12th

Happy Easter and Happy Passover to all our friends!

TO START GUACAMOLE & CHIPS ..... 11/17 +Jumbo Lump Crab Meat ............. 15/22 +Roasted Poblanos & Toasted Pumpkin Seeds ........................................... 13/19 +Pico de Gallo ..................................... 3 ELOTE .......................................... 4.5 Corn on the Cob, Chipotle Aioli, Cotija Cheese, Smoked Paprika ENSENADA TACOS Guacamole & Pico de Gallo Pescado Asada (Fish) ........................... 6 Camarones Asada (Shrimp) .................. 6 House Smoked Brisket ......................... 6 House Smoked Chicken ....................... 5 Carnitas (Pork) ..................................... 5 Seasonal Veggies ................................. 5 Taco Flight-One of Each Above ........... 28 PICO PASTRAMI TACO........... 6 Habanera Jack, House Slaw, Chipotle SPICY CHORIZO TACO ............ 6 Guacamole, Pineapple BBQ Salsa QUESADILLA EN LA PLANCHA ..................... 12 Choose: Smoked Pork I Smoked Chicken I Smoked Brisket I Cheese Seasonal Veggies PICKLED CARROTS & JALAPENOS ................................. 5 NACHOS........................................ 12 Com Tortillas, Retired Beans, Aged Cheddar, Smoked Gouda, Parmesan, Jalapenos, Pico de Gallo, Crema

ENSALADAS Served with warm flour tortillas CAESAR ....................................... 11 Hearts of Romaine, Aged Queso Cotija, Pan Frita, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds HOUSE SALAD ......................... 9.5 Seasonal Greens, Vine Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Sweet Onions, Honey Ancho Vinaigrette, Toasted Pumpkin Seeds NAPA CABBAGE SALAD ..... 11 Radicchio, Crispy Tortillas, Scallions, Cumin-Ginger Dressing + Add CHICKEN +6 I PULLED PORK +7 SMOKED BRISKET +7 SHRIMP ASADA +7 / PESCADO +14

STREET FOOD CREEKSTONE FARMS ORGANIC BEEF BURGER, HOUSE SAUCE Single 11 +House-Cured Smoked Bacon ............. 4 +Aged Cheddar, Habanera Jack or American ............................................. 2 +Shoestring Onion Rings ..................... 2 Served with Hand-Cut Chili Seasoned Fries

L.A. BURRITO ............................ 10 Refried Beans & Cheddar Cheese Spicy Black Beans, Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, Yellow Rice & Crema +Smoked Pork, House Smoked Chicken, House Smoked Brisket .......................+4 Seasonal Veggies ...............................+2

Especial de la Casa ENCHILADAS Choose: Jumbo Lump Crab ................ 20 House Smoked Chicken ..................... 17 Oueso Oaxaca, Sweet Onions, Ancho Chili Sauce ENSENADA TACOS (taco Entree) Choose one: Shrimp Asada I Fish Asada I Smoked Brisket Smoked Pork I Chicken ...................... 19 Seasonal Veggies, Handmade Soft Corn Tortilla, Guacamole, Pico de Gallo & Crema,Spicy Black Beans, Yellow Rice, House Slaw SIDES: SPICY BLACK BEANS or REFRIED BEANS YELLOW RICE & BEANS CRISPY YUCCA, BANANA HABANERO KETCHUP CHILI SEASONED FRIES SAUTEED GREENS SHOESTRING ONION RINGS $15 Minimum on all Credit Card Charges

Sunday 12PM-8 PM • Monday-Wednesday 2PM-8:30PM Thursday 2PM-9PM • Friday & Saturday 12PM-10PM ·

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 14

The Rockaway Times

The Pet Impact: How Local Vets Are Dealing With COVID-19

By Katie McFadden

Earlier this week, the Bronx Zoo announced that one of its tigers tested positive for COVID-19, the same strain of the virus currently impacting humans across the globe. The realization may have pet owners wondering how their furry friends may be impacted by coronavirus. The good news?

There is no evidence that pets can spread the virus to humans. However, the case of the tiger and a few other findings around the world suggest that some animals can catch it from humans. We reached out to Rockawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local veterinarians at Rockaway Beach Veterinary Services and Animal Hospital of the Rockaways to address pet ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; concerns and to discuss the ways theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re continuing to be there for Rockawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pets in these confusing and constantly-changing times.

Despite having to limit hours, staff and services, Howard Hollander, a Doctor of Veteri-

nary Medicine and co-owner of Rockaway Beach Veterinary Services, and Dr. Shari Gaberman of the Animal Hospital of the Rockaways, are ensuring locals that they are here for Rockawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pets.

With news of the Bronx Zoo tiger spreading nationally, the number one question on pet ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; minds may beâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;how will coronavirus affect my pet?

With fears that misinformation may lead people to abandon animals, veterinarians want to make it clearâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;"You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get COVID-19 from your animals,â&#x20AC;?

Dr. Gaberman said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But they can get COVID from you.â&#x20AC;? Fortunately, according to findings,

it appears that when animals do contract COVID-19, they are minimally impacted and not all animals may be at risk. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dogs are not susceptible to this virus, however, recent articles suggest that cats are being affected. And though cats do contract the virus, the illness is very mild,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Hollander said.

According to Dr. Gaberman, there is some evidence that dogs might not be in the clear. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dogs can get it, but cats are more susceptible,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Note that other forms of coronavirus, not COVID-19, have been impacting cats for many years and can have more severe impacts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cats can get their own version of coronavirus.

They can develop Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) from it and unfortunately, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a death sentence,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Gaberman said.

But rest assured, this is not the COVID-19 that is currently impacting the world and mildly impacting animals in a very small number. Despite thousands of pet owners testing

positive for COVID-19 around the world, there are only a tiny number of cases of domestic animals testing positive.

Both vets agree that in any event, precautions should be taken when a pet is present in the home of a person who has coronavirus, to keep them safe. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Care should be taken in houses that contain felines with sick people. Those who are sick shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be handling their pets and precautions should be taken,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Hollander said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Social distancing is important. Everyone should wash their hands before coming in contact with their pets or pet items. They say not to kiss them or let them sleep with you. Have a plan in place. If you have coronavirus, maybe have another family member or friends take your pet temporarily,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Gaberman said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And if they have symptoms, call us.â&#x20AC;? At the moment, local vets do not have a way to test animals for coronaContinued on page 15

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

The Rockaway Times

THE PET IMPACT Continued from Page 14 virus, but there are ways to determine if it is a possibility. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If they have symptoms of lethargy and have a dry cough or trouble breathing, these may be symptoms. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll work them up for other possibilities, and if we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find anything, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re assuming itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coronavirus,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Gaberman said.

No matter what ailments may be facing pets, Rockawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vets are still here for the community.

However, things are being done a little differently.

One major adjustment that veterinary offices have had to make is limiting contact with pet parents, but it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keeping them from treating animals.

With the exception of staff, both offices are no longer able to let people into their facilities, but they are accommodating their clients by offering drop-off services, where pets can be brought outside the office and given to a staff member to take inside for treatment. To keep

and are providing any necessary vaccines. Both have had to cancel scheduled surgeries and are referring patients to other facilities for those services. Like human grooming, pet grooming services are also now on hold.

Opening hours have been impacted for both offices. As we go to press, RBVS is taking appointments on Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends. The Animal Hospital did have to close for 72 hours for a deep cleaning of the office, but are now operating on a general schedule of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Both offices are doing what they can to ensure that both their staff and animals remain safe. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all wearing masks and gloves when handling animals. If any animal is coming from a sick home, and we do discourage that, we gown up and make sure weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not exposing ourselves to unnecessary harm. But basically, gloves and masks are the norm from here on in,â&#x20AC;? Dr.

owners at ease, staff provide updates by phone. At RBVS, clients can pay for the services on the sidewalk, and at the Animal Hospital, only credit card payments are being accepted at this time.

As coronavirus impacts staff, both offices are functioning at limited capacity and have had to limit some services and hours. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Right now, probably half of our staff members are out with either illnesses related to the virus, or because they have a loved one at home with the virus, so weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re taking precautions,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Hollander said.

At the Animal Hospital, while they usually have two doctors working each day, they are now limited to one. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have our surgeon right now because Dr. Rogoff is stuck in Arizona. He went on vacation before this started and is now unable to return,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Gaberman explained.

With limited staff and due to requirements by the state, both offices have had to limit services. Both offices are limited to treating sick animals

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Page 15

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Hollander said. At the Animal Hospital, gowns are now part of the regular process. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re wearing PPE for everythingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; gloves, masks and gowns. We have surgical masks and isolation gowns for all encounters with animals, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for,â&#x20AC;? Dr. Gaberman said.

During such trying times, veterinarians say that pets need their humans as much as humans need them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It can be stressful for animals to be confined, so interaction between humans and animals, in a safe environment where no one is sick, is important,â&#x20AC;?

Dr. Hollander said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of attention should be given to our pets right now.â&#x20AC;?

If your pet is ill or facing an emergency, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to contact your local veterinarian. The Animal Hospital of the Rockaways, located at 11410 Beach Channel Drive, can be reached at 718-474-0500.

Rockaway Beach Veterinary Services, located at 92-02 Rockaway Beach Boulevard, can be reached at 718-408-7287.

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Page 16

The Rockaway Times

A Sweet Gesture MADELAINE CHOCOLATE BRINGS THE HOLY HOLIDAYS’ TRUE MEANING TO THE FRONTLINES able about our Rockaway area and neighbors,” Farber said.

The same could be said for Farber. “Jorge has always been a generous man. His business was very badly hit by Hurricane Sandy, yet his willingness to donate in the face of what’s going on, rather than make money, says a lot about who he is. The amount of chocolate he’s do-

By Katie McFadden

“Easter is canceled.” “Passover is canceled.” With coronavirus impacting some of the holiest days of the year, some may be feeling this way. For some, it was the response to learning that The Madelaine Chocolate Company would be closing in response to coronavirus. However, the local company that has become part of the holiday tradition for many households, is ensuring that Easter and Passover are not canceled, but instead, celebrated for their true meaning.

In the spirit of providing hope and rising above trying times, Madelaine’s is doing just that.

Despite being closed, the owners of the beloved Rockaway-based chocolate company, have spearheaded a mass effort to bring a little something sweet to those who are on the frontlines of the coronavirus fight and others who continue to keep New York going.

On March 16, The Madelaine Chocolate Company announced that it would be closing its store and factory to keep its customers and staff safe in the wake of coronavirus. For the longtime business that was just starting to bounce back in recent years after taking a hard hit by Hurricane Sandy, this was yet another blow. And it left the owners, the Farber, Gold and Kaye families, with another conundrum—what to do with all the chocolate.

That’s when an idea began.

Upon hearing the store was closed, Marilyn Harvey, a travel agent and owner of Breezy Tour & Travel, who says she regularly uses Madelaine chocolates as a gift for her clients, reached out to Madelaine’s President Jorge Farber, with an idea for how he could continue to sell the chocolate in a way that respects social distancing.

However, Farber had another idea. “I don’t want to sell the chocolate. I want to donate it,” Farber told Harvey.

Instead of making money, Farber wanted to do what he could to help those who need it most, in the way he knows how.

“Being that we are a chocolate manufacturer and none of our equipment or specialty lies in producing masks or any of the much-needed PPE, we wanted to do whatever we can with the resource we do have—which is chocolate,” Farber said. “There is something to be said for chocolate and sweets bringing comfort in difficult times—and if there is a small amount of relief and comfort that our chocolates can bring, specifically to those whose work is essential, as well as to their families who I am sure are anxious and concerned for their safety on a daily basis, we wanted to find a way to do that.”

With Harvey having so many connections around the neighborhood, Farber enlisted her help. Harvey quickly came up with a list of local hospitals, healthcare facilities, fire houses and EMS stations, police precincts, transit hubs, postal offices, military bases, and essential businesses like grocery stores. By the time she was done, she had as many as 60 locations, — and then she recruited volunteers. Leaders from the Rockaway Point Fire Department, the Point Breeze Fire Department, the Graybeards, The Rockaway Times and the Rockaway Point News,

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all people with strong connections to the community and a willingness to answer the call, volunteered in teams to pick up boxes of chocolate and drop them off to those continuing to work hard while everything else is shut down. On Monday, April 6, Farber opened Madelaine’s doors to the volunteers, and the effort began.

On Monday and Tuesday, the volunteers, as well as Harvey, made essential workers’ holidays a little bit sweeter during a bitter time. Madelaine Chocolate bunnies and more, hopped their way into places across the city from local firehouses, police precincts and businesses, to hospitals as far as Mount Sinai / South Nassau Communities Hospital on Long Island, Mount Sinai Brooklyn and New York-Presbyterian Medical Center in Manhattan. Farber says he has received many calls from those who have received chocolate, thanking him for the effort, and from others who have heard about it and could also use something sweet. In response, the list grew, and drop-offs continued into Wednesday.

Farber says the many local volunteers helping with the effort represents the spirit of Rockaway and Breezy Point. “They’re amazing and it’s not surprising.

We saw how the neighborhood and people reacted to each other and with each other after Sandy. We saw how hard we were hit by 9/11 and how quickly people jumped in to help when the plane crashed in Belle Harbor two months later. Now we’re seeing that again. The spirit of volunteering is immense.

There’s something commend-

nated is staggering. His mind is set on helping hospital workers, EMS, first responders and this really shows how much he appreciates what they do for your community, the city and state,” Harvey said.

For essential workers and those on the frontlines, Easter and Passover might feel a little more normal with Madelaine’s Chocolate in their baskets. But the effort of the Farber, Gold and Kaye families goes beyond what was delivered. “It’s not about an Easter bunny, but they do help sweeten the holiday when it’s a bitter time,” Harvey said. “It’s about your faith, your family and renewal. It’s not about the tangible things. We’re all in this together, staying healthy, staying safe and protecting our country. That’s what’s most important.”

For Farber, who celebrates Passover, Wednesday’s Seder was about focusing on those things that matter most. “We focused our thoughts and prayers for all of this to pass.

This neighborhood will stay strong. Let’s all stay safe and healthy. I wish everybody a Happy Easter and Passover.”

For more information about The Madelaine Chocolate Company, head to www. MadelaineChocolate.com.

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 17

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 18

The Rockaway Times

COVID-19: A Survival Manual For Everyone

By Dr. Mary Beth Andrews & Majida Ritter, LCSW

During this truly surreal time of enormous stress, fear, uncertainty and isolation, it is critical that we have some kind of emotional road map that can help us to stay focused, productive and calm.

(We toyed with the idea of calling this â&#x20AC;&#x153;Surviving Your Familyâ&#x20AC;? during the pandemic).

Many of us feel anxious and powerless, it is important to have balance and set a schedule for ourselves on a daily basis. The more of a routine we have, the more we feel some control, which in turn eases anxiety. Get up early.

The earlier the better without sacrificing a good nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep. Set a block of time to do work, household cleaning, family fun time and quality time for yourself. Pick a spot in your home, your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheshed,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Man-caveâ&#x20AC;? or any other quiet spot to focus on YOU. Important note: DO NOT start your day by surfing the web and engaging in social media unless itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job related. This may cause

you to become fatigued, unproductive or worse yetâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a â&#x20AC;&#x153;certified couch potato.â&#x20AC;?

Increase your Activity Level.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s critical to get as much movement in as possible. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scientifically proven that physical activity releases endorphins which are our bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural sedatives, our feel-good hormones. Walk, bike, skateboard, run, and be responsible. Five hundred milligrams a day keeps the Doctor away.

JBTW, the Olympics are postponed for a year, so we all have a shot. Be creative, learn a hobby, a new language, an instrument, a new recipe.

Managing Children's Stress The reality is that many children will be worried, sad, anxious, and oppositional; all the usual behaviors will likely be amplified. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how children often deal with stress. Help them to identify what they are feeling and allow them to express it.

What to Tell Children About CV-19 K- to Second-grade: Be honest, keep things simple. You can say,

â&#x20AC;&#x153;doctors are learning more about a new virus and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s making people sick. We have to stay home to keep the virus from spreading and be safe." You can ease their anxiety by using art as a way for them to learn & express.

Fourth grade & up: Talk to them about what they have read or heard. Emphasize how hard the doctors are working to come up with treatment. Let them know youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing everything possible to keep them safe. Be mindful of how much time they are tuning into social media so they arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overly saturated.

To avoid added anxiety, we recommend only watching the news ONE time per day, preferably late afternoon or early evening to keep informed. Be mindful of not having the news on constantly as it creates more distress.

Socializing for Adults Talk to friends on the phone, FaceTime, stay connected. When taking a walk; smile, wave and say hello. From a distance, of course. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stay calm & carry on," as our British friends say.

Food for thought: What we eat can affect our energy, mood, and our ability to manage stress.

J.E.R.F.â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Just. Eat. Real. Food.

Eat the Rainbow! Look for nutrient-dense foods.

Building Resilience: GEM Gratitude: What was one good thing that happened today? Who am I most grateful for and why?

What am I looking forward to tomorrow? Empathy: Emotional empathyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;"the ability to resonate and feel with the other."

Cognitive empathyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;often called perspective taking. Mindfulness: Stay present in each moment. Become more connected Five Senses Stress Management With Vision: Light a candle and watch the flame; walk on the beach; With Hearing: Listen to soothing music; pay attention to sounds of nature (birds; rainfall, waves). With Smell: Burn incense or use essential oils; bake cookies. With Taste: Eat some of your favorite foods; treat yourself to a dessert. With Touch: Pet your dog or cat. Hug a loved one.

SPOTTED: ANTIGUA, Butâ&#x20AC;Ś

!

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Boy, things have changed. We got this great photo of Steve Mangone in Antigua on April 1. Normally, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be jealous, but now we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still there (and wants to be) or if heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stuck there because of travel restrictions. We asked by way of email and are still in the dark. Steve you look awesome. The shirt fits nicely in Paradise. Just hope youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still as happy as you seem in the photo!

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 19

Zumba Queen Lisa G Wants You to Get Off the Couch & Dance Away the COVID-19 Stress

By Kami-Leigh Agard You may have joined in one of her Zumba classes at the Beach 108th hockey rink or at the Arverne YMCA, and now local, Lisa George aka “Lisa G The Zumba Queen” wants you to get off the couch, shake off your COVID-19 stress and join her free online Zumba dance party, yoga and meditation classes hosted every Monday and Wednesday at 7 p.m.

For George, beating COVID-19 is not just about surviving the pandemic physically, but also mentally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include fear about your own health and that of your loved ones, changes in sleep or eating patterns, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, worsening of chronic physical and mental health conditions, and increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. These are just some of the stressors affecting mental health amidst COVID-19, indicating that the pandemic is not just a medical tragedy, it’s also mental. However, one avenue the agency recommends to offset some of that stress and anxiety is through exercise, and Lisa George is inviting you to join her and fellow instructor, Michelle Rosas, right from the comfort of your home.

George said, “People are staying in their house in their pajamas all day long, constantly watching the news on TV or through social media. We all have to learn when to cut it off. When you get up in the morning, get out of bed, take a shower, change your clothes, do your hair, put on some makeup, whatever you can do to feel normal. That’s all part of keeping your mental psyche healthy. I even encourage people to get dressed up.

Open your closet and try on some clothes. You have to do things to break yourself outside of the cycle of being glued to the news broadcasting another COVID-19 update, absorbing more fear.

“Stress is a killer, and part of maintaining your mental health is finding healthy ways to relieve stress. The mental stress with COVID-19 weighing on people is

weakening their immune systems and making them even more susceptible to this virus. I don’t think people are taking that into consideration. People who have lost their jobs are worrying about how they’re going to pay their rent, mortgage and bills. Worrying if their lost job is going to open back up. Worrying that they can’t live off an unemployment check.

Worrying about their children being out of school and stuck at home doing their schoolwork online. And the big one—what’s going to happen when this is finished? Also, there are growing concerns about the increase in 911 domestic violence calls. Due to the mandate for everyone to stay at home, couples are fighting. This is all stress at its peak.”

George, as not just the Zumba Queen, but a tried and true fierce community advocate, is trying to do what she can to help relieve some of those stresses.

George is the office manager at Senator James Sanders' district office with whom she successfully launched the successful Caribbean Carnival in the Rockaways; president of Heart of Rockaway Civic; FitBK’s 2018 Inaugural gala honoree, celebrating her contributions and commitment to boosting health and fitness in the community.

In recent weeks, she has helped Sanders’ office with efforts such as delivering meals to local police precincts across Sanders’ district. The woman with more limbs than an octopus, seeming to be everywhere at once, is also running as a candidate for District 31 NYS Assembly seat. She’s known for always being at the frontlines on issues that affect her beloved Far Rockaway community, where she’s lived since she was 12 years old.

George knows that beyond food donation, Far Rockaway, with its ballooning number of positive coronavirus cases, is in need of even more help. She is now advocating for a no-script testing site, similar to the one currently being held at Aqueduct Racetrack.

“Far Rockaway desperately needs a no-script testing site, meaning people can just walk-in. I recently read an article that stated early data shows African-Americans have contracted and died of coronavirus at an alarming rate.

I’m getting upset because if data is showing that we’re dying at high record levels, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that we need testing sites here. Senator Sanders has called for a testing site in the parking lots on Seagirt Avenue near Beach 9th and Beach 15th Streets. I don’t know what it

is about the Rockaways, but we’re always the last to get services. This needs to stop,” George said.

Just this past Monday, George was featured on a CBS Channel 2 news segment about her efforts in helping the community deal with the stress effects of COVID-19.

George stated, “Taking care of your mental health and dealing with the stress through exercise will help you cope.”

“I want people to know that I am here to help. This is who I am, this is what I do. After Sandy, I offered exercise classes because I knew how devastated the community was. I know firsthand how stress can weaken the immune system and hurt the body. Just doing the class for one hour, twice a week can relieve some of the stress this time is causing. Exercise releases endorphins—which I call our happy pills. That’s how we fight back against the coronavirus. We can’t just sit there and let it take over our lives. How do we fight back? By taking care of ourselves.”

For the Monday class, besides Zumba from 7 p.m. to 7:40 p.m., George is also offering stress relaxation yoga from 7:50 p.m. to 8:10 p.m.; and on Wednesdays, Zumba from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. To join in, visit Lisa George on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LisaFor31Assembly

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 20

The Rockaway Times

P 718.945.2411 Susan Lavin • Kate Patterson • Peggy Moore • Ciji Stewart • Bronagh Rayder

TO ALL OUR DEAR CLIENTS AND FRIENDS WE ALL NEED TO DO OUR PART TO FLATTEN THE CURVE. THE NEXT TWO WEEKS ARE CRUCIAL AS WE HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE GOVERNOR AND BY DOCTORS. SO SHELTER IN AND MAKE YOUR HOME AS SWEET AS CAN BE. AS HOLY WEEK IS UPON AS, WITH GOOD FRIDAY, EASTER AND PASSOVER, AND ALL HOUSES OF WORSHIP ARE CLOSED, WE WILL TAKE THIS TIME TO PRAY IN OUR HOMES FOR US ALL: OUR ROCKAWAY COMMUNITY, ALL OUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS, THE DOCTORS, NURSES, HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS, EMT, FIRST RESPONDERS, PRIESTS, RABBIS, WHO ARE THERE ON THE SCENE EACH AND EVERY DAY. THEY ARE OUR HEROES AND THEY NEED OUR PRAYERS FOR THEIR SAFTELY AND WELL BEING EACH DAY. TO ALL THE PEOPLE WORKING AND HELPING US GET THROUGH THIS: FOOD STORE WORKERS, CASHIERS, DELIVERY PEOPLE, SANITATION, MAIL SERVICE, FOOD INDUSTRY, WHO COME TO OUR HOMES EACH AND EVERY DAY, TO HELP US, ALL OF US AT NEPONSIT REALTY SALUTE YOU FOR YOUR DEDICATION AND SERVICE. WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR ALL YOU DO TO HELP US STAY AT HOME AND REMAIN SAFE.

A FEW QUOTES I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE: “SINCE YOU CANT GO OUTSIDE, GO INSIDE, PRAY, MEDITATE AND REALIZE.” “I THINK WHEN THE DUST SETTLES, WE WILL REALIZE HOW VERY LITTLE WE NEED, HOW VERY MUCH WE HAVE, AND THE TRUE VALUE OF HUMAN CONNECTION.” SENDING YOU ALL OUR LOVE, PRAYERS FOR PEACE AND SAFETY. HAVE A BLESSED HOLIDAY AT HOME!

ROCKAWAY STAY STRONG!!

Bronagh Rayder 718-877-6324

Ciji Stewart 516-943-7356

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Kate Patterson 917-680-8051

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Susan Lavin 347-260-3891

Geri Lipsman 917-751-8476

The Rockaway Times

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 21

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

8 Year Member

Lic. Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson • Nia Casilla Lic. RE Agents: Ariana David • Colleen Brady • Tanya Bass • Joseph Magiera • Zachary Plattner

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

The Rockaprop Team

THANK YOU DOCTORS AND NURSES

My Sister, My Hero.

The Covid 19 pandemic hits home for me and my Team. Today we extend our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Carri DeBlasi, my sister and a real life hero. Carri is an ICU nurse and she and her colleagues are digging in and fighting like warriors They are on the front line, working tirelessly doing everything in their power to help the sickest patients in their care.

Carri uses her skills, her amazing bedside manner and her sheer devotion to bring healing and comfort not only her patients, many of whom are immobilized, afraid and lonely, but also to their families who can do nothing but stand by and wait…...

These incredible men and women carry on day in and day out while putting their own lives and the lives of their families at risk. Thank you.

Carri, you are amazing! I can’t even begin to express my admiration for your bravery.

You maybe my little sister but I always look up to you.

- Lisa Jackson

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 22

Sean Fitzgerald Lic. Broker/Principal Direct 917-860-6701 Office 718-318-5030 CoastalFitz@gmail.com

CoastalRENY.com

The Rockaway Times

Mary Beth Meade 347-426-8002 Ellen May Esposito - Banks 646-209-2744 Lic. RE Salespersons

The events of the past few months have brought about a renewed appreciation for some of the things in life we may have normally taken for granted.

We would like to THANK all those who work in the Medical Community; Nurses, Doctors, EMT’s, Paramedics, Biological Researchers, Home Health Aides and Support Staff for your selfless dedication and tireless efforts over the past few months.

Wishing you a Blessed Holy Week, Easter and Passover.

Faith, Family and Friends !!

THANK YOU !! ·

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

The Rockaway Times

By Beth Hanning

The New Normal So again, I will start with I know this is a horrible time and I hope everyone is well.

I hope to spread some smiles this week.

For those of you who read my column regularly, I am an old school teacher. I previously had never used Google Classroom until this pandemic. I hate it. I love a nice old “whiteboard” and a marker any day.

That was one piece of advance-

ment I enjoyed because I wear black every day and I constantly had chalk all over myself. But this Google Classroom stuff is awful.

Anyway, I hope everyone is keeping busy. I hope to come out of this pandemic super fit, but coming home from the walks and eating my weight in carbs might be counterproductive.

I have some new hobbies

since the pandemic started.

One of them, ironically, is related to technology. I am loving all of the apps that allow us to talk and see our family. We had a family “party” Saturday night. We got dressed up and did Facebook Messenger FaceTime. It was super easy and actually a lot of fun. Another app is Houseparty. Also super fun and again causing me to interact with people I usually would not be at a “house party” with on a regular Saturday night.

I am usually so anti this technology but when you are looking at your dog and speaking to him, it is a fun app.

Another one of them is talking on the phone. I have spoken more on the phone, more in the last few weeks, than since when I was a teenager. I have also spoken on the phone to people I have never spoken to EVER. If you text me, I do not text back…I call you. And if you do not pick up, you are in big trouble. Some people are so happy. My neighbor, John Martin, was a big caller for years; he hated texts. When the

Page 23 phone rang, you were like what does he want, can’t he just text me? Now I am like, “Hey, what’s up?” My husband said I need a pad to make doodles to truly become his mom from the 1980s. I also have a house phone and am using that a lot!

My other hobby is walking and exploring. I have lived in Rockaway my entire life, except one school year, and have never been to a few places I have ventured to in the past week.

The Bird Sanctuary in Broad Channel was quite amazing.

The path around the pond and the birds brought about a sense of tranquility in this crazy time.

Don’t worry, I was socially distant. I also went up to visit the horses in Fort Tilden. I used to take the girls there all the time and it was also a relaxing and enjoyable thing to do one day to pass the time.

I feel like Jerry Seinfeld: So if I walk six miles in X amount of hours, I get home at five, then I order dinner, then it is television time and then bedtime.

It’s like the day is quick!

Stay safe everyone.

Our office is in Brooklyn, but our homes are in Rockaway

Susan Natale

Lic. RE Salesperson

Alex Choi

Lic. RE Salesperson

Happy Easter & Happy Passover

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 24

The Rockaway Times

YOU CAN CONTINUE TO SIT BACK AND WATCH LOCAL HISTORY BE DESTROYED

OR YOU CAN CREATE YOUR OWN The former Wave Building is under new ownership and currently undergoing renovations. We are ƪ ơ built to suit work spaces. The building ơ ƪ with 4000 square feet for single or multi-use purpose.

Contact: Javed: 646-688-5633 • Ed: 516-405-5031 Leasing@TheWaveBuilding.com ·

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

The Rockaway Times

Ask the DOC

By Peter Galvin, MD

Keto Diet Today’s topic is a ketogenic, or “keto” diet. Before getting into the diet, however, I would like to lay a little groundwork. Glucose, a simple sugar, is the fuel that powers our bodies. Usually, glucose is produced by the breakdown of starches, or carbohydrates. Once produced, glucose is transported into cells by insulin. The human body needs a constant supply of glucose in order to function. When there are no carbohydrates available to breakdown, the body will revert to breaking down fat, or fatty acids, to produce glucose.

This occurs in the liver. A byproduct of the breakdown of fat-

ty acids are ketone bodies, or ketones. For example, ketones may be detected in the urine of someone who is fasting. This is normal. A lack of insulin, for example in Type I diabetes, causes a buildup of glucose and ketones leading to a potentially life-threatening condition called ketoacidosis, but that is a topic for another day.

The keto diet restricts the daily carbohydrate intake to 5%, or about 25 to 50 grams. This is an attempt to force the body to burn fat to produce glucose, thereby causing weight loss and the production of ketones. This diet was first used in the 1920s

to treat diabetes, before insulin was discovered. More recently, keto diets have been promoted as weight loss diets and to control blood glucose levels in prediabetic and diabetic patients.

Keto diets may lead to shortterm weight loss, but there is inconclusive scientific evidence that they are superior to other weight loss regimens in the long term. Claims of benefits of keto diets for cancer, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease are not supported by scientific evidence.

Keto diets can result in weight loss for those who use this strategy to reduce overall caloric intake by limiting all carbohydrate-rich foods like breads, rice, pasta, cakes, cookies, and colas.

Most fruits, legumes, and whole grains are also off limits. Foods that are acceptable include fullfat dairy products, meat and poultry, nonstarchy vegetables, olive oil, nuts and seeds, avocado, olives, and eggs. Long-term data is lacking on keto diets and cardiovascular and chronic disease risks. Low-carbohydrate diets have been linked to an increased risk of death.

Page 25 When starting a keto diet, it is common to experience fatigue during exercise, increased hunger, sleep disturbances, muscle cramps, constipation, nausea, and stomach discomfort. Over the long term, a diet in which only 5% of total calories come from carbohydrates makes it impossible to obtain optimum amounts of antioxidant phytonutrients from fruits and vegetables. In the first two weeks of the diet, there may be significant increases in urine production and fluid shifts that may require adjustment of medications for hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes. Always consult with your physician before starting a ketogenic diet. Major diet changes should always be done under the supervision of a physician and a registered dietician.

For more information go to: w w w. m a y o c l i n i c . o r g / healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/ in-depth/the-truth-behind-themost-popular-diet-trends-of-themoment/art-20390062 Questions and comments may be sent to editor@rockawaytimes.com.

Facts You Probably Don’t Need The plural nouns: ‘Big- When Namibia was unfoots’ and ‘Bigfeet’ are der German control, the both currently acceptable country was known as for Bigfoot.

“German South West Africa.” In 1990, after gaining The FBI created a file for their independence, they Bigfoot in 1976. changed their name to “Namibia.” The country we know today as “Sri Lanka” was once known as “Ceylon.” Several Roman Emperors, The name was given by the including Caligula, Titus, Portuguese when it was and Hadrian, fought as settled in 1505. In 1972, gladiators at one point.

24 years after gaining their independence from the British, they officially "Rudis" was was the name of the wooden swords changed their name. used by gladiators to train. In 2018, the King of Swaziland changed the coun- Braille was invented by a try's name to Eswatini. Es15-year-old. watini translates to “land of the Swazis.” In Welsh folklore, corgis were the preferred methUntil 1939, Thailand was od of transportation for known as Siam. fairies.

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Page 26

The Rockaway Times

COVID-19 Follow Up

By Peter Galvin, MD

It really boggles my mind when I think about how totally wrong the medical experts were about this virus. Early on, most experts and medical journal pieces opined that this virus would be a big nothingburger, which is why in early February I wrote that no one was likely to die from it. That turned out to be wildly inaccurate. It is becoming apparent that the experts believed the data coming out of China, which said that the virus was no big deal. It is also becoming apparent that China hid the truth from the world and its own people, and silenced medical experts who dared to tell the truth that this was highly contagious and deadly.

That is inexcusable.

Current media reporting places the death rate from the virus at about 2-2.5%. But the media and our govern-

ment officials are omitting two important facts. First of all, the number of cases being reported is cases confirmed by testing, but thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of people have gotten the virus and have not been tested. Many of them have had no symptoms or non-critical symptoms. Since they havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been tested, the number of people in that category cannot be measured, but when you add in an estimate of those cases, the fatality rate drops to about 0.5%, or about five times the death rate from the flu. The other number not being reported, and also difficult to measure, is the number of individuals who have recovered from the virus. That number is in the tens, if not hundreds, of thousands and is growing every day.

Lastly a word about the term, "high-risk," individ-

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uals. Many young people have failed to understand the meaning of this term. The term, "high-risk," refers to a high-risk of dying from the virus, not catching it. We are all equally at risk to catch this bug and, sadly, some low-risk young individuals will die from it. In addition, young people who ignore the social distancing mandate can catch it and

transmit it to family members who are high-risk and who may die due to the actions of their younger relatives.

So, we all need to stay home and follow the rules. At present, it would appear that, at least here in New York, this will be mostly over by the end of this month. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, thank God.

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Page 27

ACCEPTANCE Spending even more time with myself prompted me to think about “contentment” and how really hard it is when something colossal is going on.

Being content at where we are in our lives, the circumstances we find ourselves in, the people we have around us.

I am finding during this time that it is impossible to embrace the total feeling of contentment. Rather, I am feeling that I can be accepting of what is going on. I can accept that which I cannot control. By letting feelings arise, naming them and expressing how we are feeling is a way of bringing to the surface the personal effects of this so-hard-to-believe tidal wave. And this leads the way towards acceptance, which in turn brings a feeling of peace and ease.

A special person shared an

article with me when I acknowledged that I am practicing acceptance now. In it, the author interviews David Kessler, who is an expert on grief. He co-wrote the book on grief with Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, and wrote one on his own adding an understandable, hopeful, light aspect to the stages of grieving.

Kessler expresses that we are grieving—everything as we know it has changed, feeling a loss for life as we knew it, and we’re grieving all together.

And, because we do not know what is going to happen, how long this is going to be, who is going to get sick, who is going to die, the “anticipatory grief,” as he calls it, strips us of any safety net we have. He says, “Acceptance, is where the power lies.

We find control in acceptance.

‘I can wash my hands. I can keep a safe distance. I can learn how to work virtually.’” This hit home for me.

There are a few other pointers Kessler shares which taken all together, provide a recipe

for coping, then moving forward away from being stuck in the harsh realities. One is to “find the balance in the things you’re thinking.” Bringing the swinging pendulum to center: on one end my ___ is going to die to no one else is going to die because we’re all self-quarantining to somewhere in the middle.

The second is “to come into the present.” We talk about this in our columns over and over again. Be here now. Things have definitely slowed down, so just taking the time to look around, making a mental note of the objects, people, dogs, cats, plants, flowers, whatever is in the room with you—bringing your mind right back in to your body— and breathe. That’s what it means to be in the present and being fully present in most every moment and situation is a gift—a waking up to life no matter what the circumstances.

“Let go of what you can’t

control. What your neighbor is doing is out of your control. What is in your control is staying six feet away from them and washing your hands. Focus on that.”

“Stock up on compassion.”

Be patient with others—and give them some of these tools to work with, starting with naming the deep feeling as grief and going from there.

Kessler’s last stage: “Meaning.” Eventually we can find some meaning and light in the dark times. I have personally experienced some of these moments in these past weeks.

I wish for you the same.

(Interview from “That Discomfort You’re Feeling is Grief” by Scott Berinato.)

May you have some light moments filled with love and compassion. May you find some inner peace, some calming. May you connect with others in a deep profound way. May you find meaning in the simplest of things. May you be happy, healthy and whole.

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Page 28 Pg 26 use things to do header

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Send Us Your Shots

The Rockaway Times photo contest is still on! The original Normally this page would be deadline was April 11, but is full of events and happenings now To Be Determined. So around town. With Coronavirus send us your best shots to Phocausing most, if not all events toExpo@Rockawaytimes.com. and meetings to be cancelled, Categories are: 1) Boardwalk we can only list the events Life; 2) In the Water (swimtaking place remotely, or with ming, surfing, paddleboard, social distancing in mind. boating, etc.); 3) Humor/Fun; 4) Pets/Animals; 5) Rockaway Life—that great photo that Saving Jamaica Bay simply captures Rockaway.

Documentary Saving Jamaica Bay, an award-winning documentaCall for Artists ry about how the community The Friends of Seaside Playfought to keep Jamaica Bay ground are seeking proposals safe after Hurricane Sandy, has for a temporary mural at been screened at events and Seaside Playground, located festivals across the country. on Rockaway Beach Boulevard Now, it’s accessible without and Beach 109th Street. Artists having to leave your home. You are welcome to submit their can check out the film online ideas for the space until May 4. for free at www.jbrpc.org/ The selected artist will receive video. After watching, if you a $10,000 fee, plus a materials have any questions and want budget of $4,500 to complete to learn more, or if educators the work. Proposal winners would like to schedule videowill be chosen on May 25. For conferences with the filmmakmore information, head to

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friendsofseasideplayground. includes Rockaway’s churches) blogspot.com or email: friend- has called for all churches to be sofseasideplayground@gmail. closed. Funeral and marriage com. services are also suspended.

However, some churches are continuing Mass and holiday Get Crafty services by going virtual. For Locals are spearheading ways to keep kids (and adults) busy, instance, St. Francis de Sales’ priests have been streaming while bringing some color and services live on Facebook. positivity to the neighborhood.

St. Rose of Lima is streaming Rockaway WISH is encouraglive Masses on Facebook in ing kids to draw rainbows and English, Spanish and Polish, decorate their homes or winfor all of their parishioners. dows, to brighten up their new St. Camillus is also streamat-home school spaces. Snap a ing Mass on Facebook. Local pic of your creation and tag @ synagogues and temples are wishofrockaway on Instagram, also giving it a try. West End with the hashtag #WISHingonarainbow, and they’ll share Temple is holding services and even Passover celebrations your creation for all their on Zoom. Check out the West followers to see. After Sandy, there were Stars of HOPE hung End Temple Facebook page for login details. Other churcharound the neighborhood. es are getting more creative.

Now, neighbor Suzanne Riggs House on the Rock Church is has spearheaded a similar hosting a “drive-in church.” effort with the Hopeful Hearts On Sundays at 11 a.m., House Project. If you’d like to paint a on the Rock is inviting all to heart with a hopeful message, join for live worship, messages send an email to riggsysu@ of hope and family-friendly gmail.com activities, all from the comfort of your car. Follow HouseonThVirtual Spirituality The Diocese of Brooklyn (which eRockChNY on Instagram for locations.

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The Rockaway Times

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LEGAL NOTICES 86-63 77TH STREET LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/25/2020.

Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 477 Madison Avenue, Ste 240, NY, NY 10022. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

1245 PUTNAM LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/02/20. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 60-04 77th Place, Middle Village, NY 11379. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

TSUAN DDS PLLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 02/18/2020. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to 48-15 11th Street Apt #1F Long Island City NY 11101. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation: 82-03 172nd ST LLC, Art. Of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/26/2019. Office Loc.: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 137-08 31st Rd Apt #2C, Flushing, NY 11354 Purpose: Any lawful activity.

18 CAPITAL GROUP LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/26/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be ser ved.

SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 147-39 72nd Avenue Apt 1A, Flushing, NY 11367. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

VNBS PARTNERS LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 2/13/20. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be ser ved. SSNY shall mail process to 139-48 Queens Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11435 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business location: 139-03 Queens Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11435.

FOREST BROTHERS LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/04/20. Office: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 467 Woodward Avenue, Ridgewood, NY 11385. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of VANNE LLC, Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/06/2019. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to VANNE LLC, 4334 49th Street, Apt 2G, Sunnyside, NY 11104. Any lawful purpose.

GUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Square, LLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State (SSNY) on 01/22/2020. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process may be ser ved.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to 10 Halletts PT, Apt.1044, Astoria, NY, 11102. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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Page 30

‘Zoombombers’ Force DOE Teachers to Switch Online Learning Platforms

By Marina Cregan

Just as teachers and students were beginning to get used to the transition to online learning, on Friday, April 3, New York City officially banned all Department of Education (DOE) schools from using the online platform, Zoom.

“The DOE has received various reports documenting issues that impact the security and privacy of the Zoom platform,” Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza wrote to principals on April 4. Zoom, originally created for businesses and organizations, provides a reliable cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, collaboration, chats, and webinars. In order to set up a Zoom meeting, the host of the meeting is provided with a code and a password, and then shares that same code and password with everyone they wish to invite to the meeting. Once provided with the Zoom code and password, anyone with this information is able to join in that particular meeting. Because anyone with the code and password is able to access the meeting, that also allows hackers an opportunity to crash and join in on Zoom meetings. Additionally, any student or person who has the code can give it to others.

When the Mayor closed all school buildings on March 16, teachers quickly learned how to utilize online platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet/Hangouts, in order to continue teaching their lessons virtually. Google Meet only allows students registered on their Google Classroom by their teacher, to attend live video chats.

Unlike Google Meet, Zoom

grants access to live video chats via an access code and password, which can be given out and shared with anyone. Due to recent instances where hackers, also known as Zoombombers, have joined Zoom chats and were showing inappropriate racist and pornographic images in the middle of online school sessions, teachers are now advised to abandon all future Zoom meetings and learn another online platform, like Google Meet/ Hangouts or Microsoft Teams.

For some, the lack of privacy in Zoom is not surprising.

Occupational therapists and physical therapists are not permitted to use the Zoom platform, since Zoom is not compliant according to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 2018.

Fortunately, some teachers opted for other options from the start. A junior high teacher at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Academy spoke to The Rockaway Times about why she chose to use Google Meet over Zoom originally. She said, “Google Meet is much easier for my students for several reasons. Most importantly, they are extremely familiar with many of the Google Apps, including Google Classroom, Slides, and Forms, and they all have Google Chromebooks, making this a familiar platform to use. Additionally, when the students log onto the Google Calendar, all they have to do is click. They don’t need to input any codes or copy and paste any links. Since I do not need access to the whiteboard feature, like the math teachers do, there was really no reason to use Zoom. I also do not like the side chats in Zoom. In Google Meet, the

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LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation of Ken & Lan Realty LLC. Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/04/2020. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Ken & Lan Realty LLC, 52-80 70th Street, Maspeth, NY 11378. Any lawful purpose.

Faith 247 LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 2/24/2020. Cty: Queens. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 43-23 194th St., Flushing, NY 11358. General Purpose.

150 THEODORE CONRAD MEMBER LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/23/20. Office: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 28-12 Steinway Street, Astoria, NY 11103. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

teacher can see all the chatting and students can’t communicate among themselves.

I was never comfortable with the Zoom Waiting Room feature. Just like in a real-world classroom, I need to see what all my students are doing at all times in their virtual classroom, as well.”

In a similar fashion to how Google Meet and Google Hangouts relate to the Google Classroom App, Microsoft Teams is a hub for collaboration that integrates people and content through Microsoft Office. Local DOE Social Worker, Rory Efron, described her experiences using Microsoft Teams. Efron says, “First, you have to create a team and you create it with a certain amount of people. I have one with just my IEP office team and then I have a few different teams of class members and staff members. Once you create the meeting, you simply schedule a meeting or join a meeting that was scheduled by another team member. Once you are “joined in

Notice of Formation of Middway LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/24/2020. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Middway LLC, 35-02 150th Pl., Ste 104, Flushing, NY 11354. Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of GLS3085 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/28/20. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 48-18 190th St, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365. Purpose: any lawful activity.

145 5th AVENUE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/17/20. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 104-17 44th Avenue, Queens, NY 11365. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

the meeting” you can dial a parent’s phone number and they can join the meeting as well. It can be done through their email addresses, too.

A nice feature is that you get an alert from the team on your computer, so you don’t miss the meeting and you can ask questions to one another. This way we are always in touch with our teams.”

Whether using Google Meet/Hangouts or Microsoft Teams, one opinion is shared by all teachers and administrators. The security and privacy of all students is the number one priority.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 31

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The Rockaway Times

HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS DURING A PANDEMIC BY: KIMO’S KITCHEN STEP AWAY FROM THE APP. Uber Eats, GrubHub, DoorDash are all amazing for what they do. They offer a great service for restaurants that are new or new to delivery & wonderful convenience to customers who have the world at their fingertips. However, your favorite restaurant can pay anywhere from 20% to 30%, if not more, for this convenience. Often times the eatery you love is breaking even on your 3rd party App order but doing it just to keep you happy.

SOLUTION: Take a few extra moments, perhaps just a few seconds, to find your favorite restaurant’s website or personal online ordering platform, if available. This usually means the order is placed directly through the restaurant and minimizes fees. If your favorite spot doesn’t have online ordering capabilities, find their menu and call in to place an order. The fee savings will have a tremendous impact in the long run.

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The Rockaway Times

Page 33

Cori Meets Covid Early in the week of March 16, I began to play that game we all play as we feel a “little something” coming on. We feel that slight tickle in the throat, fight back that cough and ignore that ever so slight temperature.

We’ve all been there! Although, of course, when we were kids with those very symptoms, we would shrewdly tell mom about them the very second they appeared, almost guaranteeing a day out “sick” from school. Of course, as an adult, with a job to get to and bills to pay, I waged a fierce mental battle for almost three days. Winning battle after mental battle, until what I suspected was Covid-19, pulled out its secret weapon in the form of a 103-degree fever and rendered me a beaten man.

By Thursday evening, I was a shell of myself. Fever raging, head pounding and coughing with every third breath. I woke up Friday morning with a raging

headache, body on fire and coughing now on every second breath. Not sure if I had more than two hours sleep the whole night, but I knew I needed to get to a doctor.

I called BayView Urgent Care on Beach Channel Drive. To my surprise, they were able to take me right away. Out of caution, they scheduled me to come right in and directed me to wait in the rear parking and call them when I arrived. I called and was asked to wait just a few minutes for a call back. Within five minutes, my cell rang and I was directed to meet a fully protected nurse who brought me into a separate back entrance further down a long hall.

After a few quick questions, it was determined I should have a flu test. The flu test has a very immediate result and in five minutes it came back negative. It was then determined that I was a candidate for the Covid-19 test, which they fortunately had. Those who have had these tests know these are not pleasant, to say the least.

I described it in a very dramatic

By Shane Kulman

Lonely Lucy Dear Enchantress, I am bored. I live alone, thank God for my cat. I usually have a very busy life. I'm a teacher and I go on dates and have friends that I’ve known forever, and we are always doing things. The thing is, all my friends are living with their families, and I'm the only one in this quarantine alone. I feel insanely jealous, and well, also very alone. We all have a text thread, and have spoken a couple of times on the phone and Zoom, but they are always all distracted. I feel like I don't even know them anymore.

They also complain about being around their families, their parents and random family

members that are all together in this virus time. It's like I'm a stranger to them. Why do I even know them?

I feel like telling them they should be quiet and be so grateful that they have people around them. It's really hard to live this way. I don't know what I'm asking really, but if you have suggestions for me to not feel so alone, I would be grateful. Thank you for all you do.

Dear Lonely Lucy, This is such a great share. I love how you have so much gratitude and awareness of being thankful. I'm sorry you feel alone, and it makes sense

way to a friend of mine, like having an eyelash brush cleaning your eye socket by way of your nostrils. Ok, like I said, this was said to my buddy for dramatic purposes, it wasn’t that bad, but you get the picture!

As many have come to know, the Covid-19 test takes between three to five days for results. I was told by the doctor to watch my breathing very closely and if there was any trouble, to go to an emergency room. She prescribed an inhaler to me and sent me home to await the results. She made it very clear to treat what I had as if it were Covid-19. She said to quarantine.

So I did! For the next several days, I slept and coughed and ate Tylenol like they were Madelaine Chocolates, which really helped keep my temperature down. On Wednesday morning, I received my results that I was, in fact, suffering from Covid-19.

As much as I was expecting to hear those results, it was kind of a relief to know that I no longer had to sneak around and hide from this crazy virus that had been on

a slow three-month journey to my body from half way around the world.

The first week was not quite as hard to deal with as the flu that I had few years back, but Covid-19 did kick my butt pretty good. As I entered my second full week with the virus, I began to notice some very fast improvements, with my cough subsiding and my fever just about gone.

As I am writing this, I can say that I am 98% better, still a bit tired and a cough that pops up here and there, but feel a hundred times better than a few weeks ago.

For the most part, I’m glad it’s over, but I will continue to quarantine into the weekend.

The biggest takeaway for me, I know I would have had a much tougher time if I were just a bit older.

So please, let’s keep up this great job we are doing by social distancing. Keep it going for each other as long as it takes. And keep taking great care of one another.

(Editor’s note: John submitted this April 1 and is feeling even better now)

in this contrast of a time of freedom, that you are feeling disconnected from the people that you usually connect and relate to. It also makes sense that you would question your relationships with them. Thank you for being willing to look deeper and seek support, that is everything in this time.

We are in a collective grief, a universal trauma of sorts. All relationships are now under the super microscope. There are many levels and dynamics and stages of grief, anything that maybe was ignored beforehand will come up now. I sense you are feeling misunderstood and frustrated, and you are not alone in that, and that's the very thing you are feeling.

My advice here is for the short term, it's the "what can I do right now?" Here's a bunch and you choose what you feel even a slight bit curious about. Go to meetup.com, this was a site developed after 9/11 for people with common interests to meet. ***IMPORTANT—pick something fun. I teach on Wednesday at 3 p.m., a dance class. I recommend looking into www.

circleanywhere.com. It's a communication and connection practice that happens several times a day. Go to Facebook events, and see what virtual events are happening. Be picky, but not too picky, just show up and see what happens. Also, try your hand at writing poetry, doodling, drawing, painting or using whatever art supplies you have access to.

I am also personally inviting you into my FB group (it's pretty active, fun, positive and uplifting and magical) search: The Awkward Enchanted Coven.

There are Sisters that will welcome you, as will I. To have Enchantress Shane answer your question, email her at Love@enchantedembodiment. com. Learn more about Shane at www.enchantedembodiment. com

Want To Get In Touch?

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

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The Rockaway Times

A Palm Sunday Tribute to Our Spiritual 'Essential' Workers

By Marina Cregan

The government has posted a very clear list of our essential workers. They include those in the medical field, first responders, those involved in food distribution, pharmaceuticals, transportation, and those who work in utilities, communications and all of those others who keep this city and state functioning. However, the parishioners of St. Francis de Sales (SFDS) Parish have one to add to that list. What about our spiritual essential workers? As a way to thank the local priests who have kept the spirit alive during Holy Week and beyond, the parishioners of SFDS organized a drive-by thank you car parade, on Palm Sunday, for Rev. William (Fr. Bill) F. Sweeney and Rev. James (Fr. Jim) Cunningham. The parade was held on Sunday, April 5 in between the live streaming of the noon Palm Sunday Mass and the late afternoon Rosary.

Just before 3 p.m., the cars, which were processing west in front of the SFDS Rectory on Beach 130th and Rockaway Beach Blvd., stretched all the way below Beach 120th Street. Social media exploded with videos showing the cars decorated with “thank you” posters and Palm Sunday crosses. After parishioner Flip Mullen put out the call in the morning and Rockaway WISH shared the message, families worked tirelessly creating unique sculptures to adorn their cars, made out of shrubs and branches mimicking the palms that the churches were unable to distribute this year for Palm Sunday.

Several cars had posters filled with messages of appreciation, love, and Easter blessings. Some of the posters read: “Thank you for all the prayers, love, and faith.

We love you, Fr. Bill and Fr. Jim” and “St. Francis de Sales, Happy Palm Sunday! Thank you for keeping our faith and hope alive!”

Parishioner John Reinhardt posted the following on the St. Francis de Sales Church Facebook page, “Fr. Bill and Fr. Jim are excited and grateful to see so many people parading by the Rectory today!” Vivian Heaverly, who is one of many parishioners who are grateful to attend SFDS Mass virtually on Facebook add-

ed, “These two priests are so remarkable, and funny too! What a tribute!”

The only thing more enjoyable to see than the decorated cars, were the many children whose heads were popping out of windows and sunroofs, waving to their favorite priests. This was done in a similar manner to how the palms were waived at Jesus as He paraded through Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Fr. Bill and Fr. Jim always enjoy seeing the children. Fr. Jim got a special kick out of listening to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Academy sixth-grader Petey Franchock. Franchock narrated the cars as they processed by the Rectory. His impromptu oratorical skills mimicked that of a live sports announcer, joked Fr. Jim. The video of Franchock’s narration includes the following words: “Wow, look at the cars parading in front of St. Francis de Sales Parish. Lots of love and support for Fr. Bill and Fr. Jim. They have been working so hard keeping our community together and safe. God bless!”

Sunday's Palm Sunday car parade showed all of the community that merely closing the doors on a church, does not cancel the religious celebration. With Easter Sunday approaching, many parishioners have been disheartened feeling that Easter has been canceled. Fr. Bill and Fr. Jim continually remind us that Easter could never be canceled. Whether Mass is streamed at home or celebrated in a church, Jesus rose for all of us. This car parade showed that the parishioners of SFSD have heard this message loud and clear, as they rose to the occasion.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020

Page 35

When Cartoons Go Bad

As if we all don't have enough social justice issues to worry about, what with all the coronavirus issues we are presently faced with, Professor Holly M. Barker from the University of Washington, a highly educated academic with a B.A. in English, an M.A. in International Education and a PhD in Anthropology, has added yet another straw in what appears to be a never-ending attempt to cause all our heads to explode. Professor Barker, whose field of expertise at her university is that of sociocultural anthropology, recently published a paper wherein she has accused none other than SpongeBob Squarepants who, as we all know, lives in a pineapple under the sea along with his friend in the community of Bikini Bottom, and his friends, of promoting violence and racism.

Now, as a matter of due diligence, I have to admit that I am somewhat of a "SpongeBob" aficionado. It seems like only yesterday when back on an early Saturday morning in May of 1999, I was watching Nickelodeon with my two small daughters when we chanced upon episode one of the first season of SpongeBob SquarePants. Although my two girls loved it right away, I have to admit that I was somewhat confused with this new SpongeBob character, a hopelessly optimistic and resilient sea sponge, who lives in a pineapple under the

sea along with rather eclectic assortment of friends and neighbors in the community of Bikini Bottom.

Over a period of time, SpongeBob's personality, conscientious, optimistic and blind-to-the-faults in the world and all those around him, ultimately won me over, transforming me into a rabid fan of the series.

My family, especially my beloved Grace—"She Who Must Be Obeyed"—were not shy about expressing their concern about the mental health of this 49-year-old ex-jarhead who worked on Rikers Island and bounded out of bed each day singing SpongeBob's "best day ever" mantra.

As time went on and my SpongeBob mania became known to the kids on West 12th Road, I found my car being stopped by groups of children demanding a password to be allowed to proceed unhampered to the end of the block to my residence. I was only allowed to proceed after I yelled out the correct response which was, of course, SpongeBob Forever!

When asked by my adult friends about this cartoon fixation, I would simply state the obvious. The series is clever (without being impenetrable) to young viewers and goofy without boring grown-ups to tears. As far as I am concerned, it's the most charming cartoon on television, as well as one of the weirdest.

And it's also good, clean fun, devoid of the double entendres rife in today's animated TV shows, which makes sense because it is, after all, about a sponge.

SpongeBob’s relentless good cheer would be irritating if he weren't so darned lovable and his world so excellently strange, joyfully dancing on the fine line between childhood and adulthood, guilelessness and camp, the warped and the sweet. Just this month, the series celebrated

its 20th anniversary with the animated sponge continuing to spend his days getting into wacky adventures along with his buddies, Patrick Starfish, Squidward Tentacles, and Mr. Krabs. And, without speaking down to children, the lovable, absorbent square still doles out some life lessons along the way.

Apparently, the nexus between SpongeBob's show and Professor Barker's social justice outrage is that the good Professor has somehow come to the conclusion that SpongeBob's cartoon home in Bikini Bottom actually refers to the Bikini Atoll in the Central Pacific where natives were relocated by the U.S. government for nuclear testing back in the 1940s. According to Ms. Barker, SpongeBob and his friends have colonized Bikini Bottom without permission, promoting “racist, violent, colonial practices.” She adds, it is "disturbing that they did not realize that ‘Bikini Bottom and Bikini Atoll were not theirs for the taking...'We should be uncomfortable with a hamburger-loving American community’s occupation of Bikini’s lagoon and the ways that it erodes every aspect of sovereignty."

But Barker wasn’t done there. She accused the show of gender bias as well stating, “all of the main characters on the show are male.”

She claims Sandy Cheeks is only a token female character, only on the show to be female. Barker bemoans the song writing: “The first act of the song is to have children identify who resides in the pineapple house.” She adds, “The children’s response, repeated extensively throughout the song, affirms that the house and Bikini Bottom are the domain of SpongeBob. The song’s directives, ensconced in humor, provide the viewer with an active role in defining Bikini Bottom as a place of nonsense, as the au-

dience is instructed ‘If nautical nonsense be something you wish…drop on the deck and flop like a fish.’” Barker then claims that those who watch the show become “an unwitting participant in the co-opting of Bikini’s story and the exclusion of the Bikinian people.”

My takeaway from all this "nautical nonsense"?

1...

The academic credentials of a college professor are obviously no guarantee of faulty brain synapses or, in layman's terms, rendering one's critical thought process several french fries short of a happy meal. 2...Remember that the highly credentialed and french fry deficient academic is teaching your children, and finally, 3...That you are paying exorbitant tuition and other fees to have the brain-addled academic teach your kids at a college or university already awash with millions of dollars in federal subsidies.

As for me, I have personally reached out and spoken with SpongeBob, Patrick, Mr. Krabs and Squidward Tentacles and assured them that Broad Channel will always stand ready as a sanctuary community for the residents of Bikini Bottom should the politically-correct crowd become too much for any of them. Dan Mundy has assured me he will bring this up at the next civic meeting and foresees absolutely no problem with this issue.

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

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Life With Our “Artistic” Child

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Special Feature — Hear From Our Local Autism Spectrum of Voices As April is National Autism month, I wanted to use my column, "Life With Our ‘Artistic' Child” as a platform for local individuals on the autism spectrum to share their passions, interests and special view of the world. It’s becoming increasingly apparent that the explosion of newly diagnosed cases of autism (one in 54 children in the U.S./ one in 160 worldwide) has re-

sulted in a keen interest in the stories of autistic individuals, and many people are touched by knowing a family with an autistic child or adult. In this week’s installation, meet nine-year-old sailor, Michael Wolf.

Authored by Michael Wolf My name is Michael Wolf. I am nine years old. Last summer, I went sailing with daddy. I

steered the boat and I pulled a rope to move the sail. It was fun.

When you sail, you have to move zig-zag. I like to put my hand in the water when the boat goes fast.

Share your thoughts by emailing ourartisticchild@outlook. com or check out Rockaway Beach Autism Families on Facebook. Also, April is National Autism Awareness Month! We invite the community to Light It Up Blue! as part of the Autism Society’s campaign to “Celebrate Differences.” Designed to build a better awareness of

the signs, symptoms, and realities of autism, #CelebrateDifferences focuses on providing information and resources for communities to be more aware of autism, promote acceptance, and be more inclusive in everyday life. If you are interested in obtaining a set of blue lights for your home or business, feel free to reach out to Rockaway Beach Autism Families via email! Join us in “Turning the tide for our autism community, one wave at a time.”

Rockaway Times Photo Contest Start sending your photos now!

Final Deadline Now Thursday, noon, April 30

Participants can submit no more than 10 photos (2 per category)

500

Categories are: 1) Boardwalk life ize!

2) In the water r P d (swimming, boating, polar plunges, etc) Gran 3) Humor/ Fun 4) Pets/ Animals 5) Rockaway Life -- photos that capture Rockaway.

$

All photos must be high resolution and must be submitted to PhotoExpo@Rockawaytimes.com, along with your name and what category you’re entering. Photos submitted to other email addresses will not be considered.

Selected Photos will be displayed in poster-size along the boardwalk this summer. *The Rockaway Times may use any photos as they see fit, including for The Rockaway Times Summer Guide. Photo credit will be given.

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The Rockaway Times

Page 37

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

By Bob Leckie

By Marek Piechocki

By Marie Curcio

By Lillian Agosto

By Melissa Torres-Echevarría

By Kevin DeMatteis

By Martha Rossi

By Mark Eidinger

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KIDS' KORNER

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Page 39

SPANISH FLU HITS QUEENS, NY OCT. 1918 Old Bay Seasoning Shrimp Dish

By Sharon Feldman

to box directions.

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and add the shrimp, turning until almost pink. Add the tomatoes. Continue tossing. Let the tomatoes simmer for a few minutes. Sprinkle some parmesan on shrimp and tomatoes and mix thoroughly.

Drain the pasta and add to the pan. Toss until coated.

Plate and sprinkle the scallions as a garnish.

Serves: 2 Ingredients: 14 large shrimp, deveined 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ cup orecchiette pasta Handful of grape tomatoes, sliced in half 2 scallions, chopped, for garnish Handful of grated parmesan Reggiano

Katie Lucev is the daughter of the late Rockaway Beach Historian, Emil R. Lucev, Sr. (1933-2018)

Directions: Sprinkle shrimp with Old Bay Seasoning. Toss and cover and let sit for at least half hour.

Cook orecchiette according

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