Nonprofit Takes Steps to Open Museum & Arts Center in Rockaway

By Kami-Leigh Agard

After two pandemic years that wrought havoc on everyday life, and politics further polarizing community relationships, there is one trailblazing arts organization committed to restoring hope, healing and connection to the thousands of residents who call the Rockaway peninsula and Broad Channel home. New up-and-coming nonprofit, Sol De Vida, aims to bring a brick-andmortar art museum and arts center for all in the community to not just visit and share, but also contribute to Rockaway’s unique cultural heritage through all mediums of art.

Sol De Vida’s co-founders, Helen Montero and Brandon Jeffries, are both well-known and accoladed on the peninsula for their collective philanthropic work. Montero, a community health manager and coach at St. John's Episcopal Hospital, is a member of Community Board 14, former youth program manager at Far Rockaway nonprofit, Queens Defenders, and co-chair of Far Rockaway Arverne Nonprofit Coalition (FRANC). Jeffries, presently a nonprofit community development consultant, was the manager of Far Rockaway’s Queens Public Library Teen Center for several years, director of youth services at Queens Defenders, and like Montero, served as co-chair of FRANC.

According to Montero, the seed for the idea of Sol De Vida Museum and Arts Center, was planted years ago when she and Jeffries both heard and witnessed the community's needs on the peninsula.

She shared, “I grew up in Rockaway, and Brandon has worked in the community for years. On many occasions, we always ended up working on the same community outreach projects, and together saw that whatever resources and assistance residents needed, always related to some sort of stress or trauma.

“We noticed that residents of all ages loved to do some sort of art as a creative outlet. Whether you're from uptown, Far Rockaway, in elementary school or living in a senior center, we all enjoy some form of art, and Brendan and I noticed that here in Rockaway, there's so many different ways that people want to express themselves, whether through painting murals, performing in concerts, and more.

“So, then we asked ourselves, ‘Why not have a center and museum on the peninsula?’ A physical space where everyone can come together, and enjoy the art they already do, yet learn more, and teach each other, while keeping the culture alive within the community by sharing it from one end of the peninsula to the other, and one generation to the other.”

Jeffries chimed in, “While Helen was serving the community from the health perspective, at the time, I was working as the Queens Public Library Teen Center coordinator, and baked in my mind were the wants, wishes and dreams these kids expressed. So, Helen and I constantly talked about how we could meet those needs. Rockaway has never actually had a center where people of all ages can just do and learn art. We envision an all-around holistic approach for the center and museum. What about youth who want to make art their profession? How do we get them to understand the business aspect of it? Also, what about a dedicated area where they can actually pilot their work or have a gallery exhibition/reception like Rockaway Beach Autism Families recently hosted, featuring local autistic artists, William Hernandez and Grace Moroney. Instead of going to Brooklyn or Harlem, why can’t Rockaway have its very own art center and museum, archiving all of the community’s past, present and even future creatives?”

According to Jeffries, Sol De Vida’s rollout is in phase one—community outreach—in which besides doing pop-up art activity events, they are documenting the community’s feedback on not just what programming, but physical accommodations the arts center and museum must have.

He said, “We are taking people's feedback. From contemporary or interpretive dance, spoken word, poetry, fine art, music, photography, sculpting, graffiti and more, every specialty has its criteria of needs on what the space needs to accommodate. For example, music artists need a space with proper acoustics. This is why we are seeking feedback on what the physical space must have to properly support each artistic expression. So, these community engagement popups are propelling us to phase two, which is identifying and securing a physical space for the museum/art center.”

In the interim, Sol De Vida is popping up at various events throughout Rockaway. Recently, the organization hosted their first community engagement at P.S. 197 The Ocean School in Far Rockaway, in which they not only sought community feedback, but also invited attendees to join in an art activity.

Jeffries said, “We literally had a crowd of youth running over, grabbing markers and expressing their thoughts and ideas visually.”

Montero added, “That day, we had so many, not just children, but also parents. One parent asked if we could host a cultural dance. Sol De Vida is here to make sure that the unique feel and culture of Rockaway is not lost. If people want to learn their family’s cultural dances or want to teach it to the children, or even host poetry and spoken word events, art exhibits—whatever medium of artistic expression—Sol De Vida will be that space for artists to not just create but archive their work. Even one of the school’s se- curity guards asked if we could host a similar event at their senior center. Our response? Of course, because seniors love art too! These pop-up events are giving us opportunities to see and learn what the community envisions for their very own centralized art center and museum.”

Both Montero and Jeffries believe art is the perfect medium to unite the peninsula’s and Broad Channel’s residents.

Montero stated, “Art is the unifier, and as community outreach volunteers, both Brandon and I can attest that there are many different ways people try to for example, combat gun violence, and other overwhelming challenges facing the peninsula. However, nobody tries art, a universal language that transcends color, socioeconomic backgrounds and other dividers. From photography, murals, cultural dances—you see so much art coming from both the east and west ends of Rockaway, and this art center/museum will incorporate the whole peninsula and Broad Channel.”

Sol de Vida’s next pop-up event will be on Hope Day—a day dedicated nationwide to bring hope through community engagement and transformation—Saturday June 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Goldie Maple Academy (365 Beach 56th Street). For more information, and to stay informed about Sol de Vida’s upcoming events, follow them on Instagram/Facebook: @SolDeVidaNYC. Also, for more information about volunteer or collaboration opportunities with the organization, email: SolDeVidaFR@gmail. com

Thank You, EMS

Dear Editor: cians (NAEMT) partners with the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) to lead annual EMS Week activities. Together, NAEMT and ACEP are working to ensure that the important contributions of EMS practitioners in safeguarding the health, safety and well-being of their communities are fully celebrated and recognized.

May 21-27, 2023, is the 49th annual National Emergency Medical Services Week.

Sports at SFC

Dear Editor: their daily routes changed without any notification. The streets were torn up to lay new pipes all the way to Beach 116th Street. This caused all sorts of havoc and dangerous scenarios, especially for the Seaside Elementary School and PS 47Q, which is housed in the former Stella Maris building.

I, as a now 13 years retired EMT with over 40 years of experience, give a shout out and salute to all past and present members of all Ambulance Services and Emergency Medical Service providers. Some are based within hospitals, others, within Police Departments, Fire Departments (both paid, volunteer, and "combined" services), community based (like my unfortunately disbanded Peninsula Volunteer Ambulance Corps, 1973-1996), and Private Proprietary Ambulance services, some of which are incorporated into local 9-1-1 systems.

(In response to last week’s Lazer Speaks.) I was a bit surprised that Lou Pastina did not make more of an issue about St. Francis College dropping their entire sports program. He said it was disheartening, however to me it may turn out to be disastrous for the school. Not only will student athletes on scholarship no longer have a team to play on, but physical fitness is an important part of school life. I attended Brooklyn College, where I was on the varsity swim team for four years. We swam against SFC and I made many friends on their team. I hope I am wrong, but I fear that the school cannot continue to exist without a sports program, not to mention any sort of athletic facility where students can work out on their own.

The increase in sirens, subway breakdowns and announcements, horns going off in the middle of the night and car congestion; it’s ENOUGH. There is already too much noise pollution.

Page 32

In 1974, President Gerald Ford authorized EMS Week to celebrate EMS practitioners and the important work they do in our nation's communities. This year's theme is EMS: Where Emergency Care Begins. The National Association of Emergency Medical Techni -

Richard C. Berger FDNY EMS EMT (Retired)

Peter Galvin

No More from Alma

Dear Editor:

My name is Denise Brown and, I am a life-long resident of the Rockaways. I presently live in the Surfside Development, 107-10 Shore Front Parkway.

We in the Rockaways already have evacuation issues—too many cars and people. Ferry and other public transportation have insufficient capacity for the present population. It was estimated that it would take 2,000 buses or more to evacuate all Rockaway residents in an emergency!

By Robin Shapiro

Summer Parking

Summer Effects

For some time, the landlord of our building complex, Alma Realty, has been putting forth plans to build, change and reconstruct our living spaces. Adding to this, there is constant construction in our small area of residence from Beach 100th Street to Beach 109th Street.

The danger of flooding is already present. There is NO bedrock on which any building is being constructed! We have an aquifer under our beloved peninsula that adds to our drinking water, but that is being polluted with the dust particles in the air and from the never-ending construction.

Historically, Rockaway, Far Rockaway, Broad Channel and Howard Beach have been filledin for building purposes. These areas were meant to be the environmental sponges to protect from flooding and other disasters.

provide enough material to have a “garage sale” and make some extra cash for the household.

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

Many Rockaway homeowners enjoy more frequent visits from friends and relatives during the summer. As we know, parking is at a premium –especially after May 15, when the regulations change on numerous streets. Everyone is aware of the standard parking solutions (help from neighbors, etc.), but there is one solution which many people overlook: homeowners with garages often use the garage for storage. Why not clean it out so that a car can be parked inside? A car spot can be worth approximately $100/month (or more). If you think of it in such monetary terms, then it might motivate you towards such action. Also, the garage might even

Spring/summer motivates some people to do work on their homes. It’s a good idea to remind workers to be especially careful with NAILS, which tend to end up in everyone’s tires! Horn blowing is another problem. Some people forget that car noises can be an annoyance to their neighbors. The Golden Rule is always a good guideline. The Jewish holiday of Shavuot begins Thursday night, May 25 and ends Saturday night, May 27. No work is permitted for the observant. Call me. Love, Robin.

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

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

Since 2006, when Belle Shores, Ocean Colony and the Medical Building were constructed, we have experienced an increase in population, water issues (no water, cold water-only), no heat, road work, power outages and parking problems to name several issues. The streets have been torn up to lay new pipes due to the Rockaway Hotel. By the redesign of Beach 108th Street, we were rerouted in all directions. The Rotary on Beach 108th Street, where the children’s roller/ice skating rink is located, had become a danger for those children because of all the heavy equipment. People driving had

Alma Realty is on a path to destroy our protection completely.

Denise Brown

Neponsit Best Block EVER! IN CONTRACT

This charming home features a tremendous front porch for entertaining, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, full unfinished basement. Two car garage, plus parking for 5 cars. Call for appointment. $1.5M

Legal Two Family Beach 124th Street

Belle Harbor - Unique two family on a beach block with spectacular ocean views. Six rooms, 2 baths with terrace over 6 rooms with 2 baths and front porch. Full basement with washer/dryer, large long driveway and garage. $1.249M

Sold

Belle Harbor - legal three family. Every apt is occupied. Large front porch on a beach block. First floor, 2 bedrooms, 2nd and 3rd floors one bedroom apt each. Long private driveway for 5 cars. Great for an investor. Call to take a look. $1.089M

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Summer Rental Commercial Space Available

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Available July - August or 4-5 months. $4,000 per month

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

Located on main thoroughfare, walk in store. Make it your own. 1,000sqft with bathroom. $2800 plus utilities.

Rockaway Park - Beach block, two bedrooms, fully furnished with parking, wi , utilities included.

House For Rent

Belle Harbor - beach block, six rooms, two bathrooms with additional den/playroom, w/d, use of backyard with built in bar, large terrace with ocean views, plenty of parking $4200. Available July 15th

Three bedroom, 1 bathroom, large yard.

Located on a block with open an beach.$12,000 for the season

Oceanfront two Bedroom, 1 bathroom

Rockaway Park - 80x100 -

Oversized Legal 3 on beach block

135 Beach 124 Street

Saturday, May 20th and Sunday, May 21st 1pm - 3pm

Legal Seven (7) family house in the heart of Belle Harbor Needs work. Call for details $1.5M

Brand New on the Market - Mint Belle Harbor Beach Block 60x100

3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms with an open layout, living room, kitchen, great room plus den. Two driveways, 2 car garage, in-ground heated pool! This property has gorgeous ocean views $2.1M

Belle Harbor – Legal 2 on 60x100 lot

Mint one bedroom apt w top 2 floors 6 bed and 4 baths Needs work! $1.3M

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

3 bed 2 bath duplex, 2 bedroom 1 bath plus 1 bedroom on top floor Needs work! $1.3M Call for details OFFER ACCEPTED

Building on Beach 116th Street with storefront. Think out of the box – Movie Theatre, Roller Rink. Create something great for the neighborhood!!! $2.8M

Belle Shores – Oceanfront duplex condo with open layout with galley kitchen, one large bedroom (can be made into 2), 2 baths plus large top floor terrace $799K

OCEAN VIEWS GALORE / NEPONSIT BEACH BLOCK

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

Apartments for Rent:

Saturday, 5/20 . 12-1:30pm 302 Beach 149th Street

This home has 4BR’s including 3 primary suites and 4 full BR. Desirable open floor plan,10’ceilings, inground pool and so much more. 60’ x 100’ lot. $2,000,000

Open House

Open House

Saturday, 5/20 . 12-1:30pm

190 Beach 134th Street

Stately 6BR, 5.5 bath home was recently renovated and has over 3,400 sq. ft. of delightful living space. Largest beach block home available. 80’x100’ lot. $1,950,000

Sunday, 5/21 . 12-1:30pm

414 Beach 143rd Street

Vaulted ceilings, 6 BR, 4 bath, LR/DR, EIK. Upstairs is a brand new addition to the home. High ceilings, recessed lighting and large attic for additional storage. 60’x100’ lot. $1,595,000

BROOKL YN MEMBER

Lic. Broker-Owner: Lisa Jackson Lic. Associate Brokers: Barbara Ferguson

• Nia Casilla

• Colleen Brady

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

Samantha Benanti • Jack Brandes • Nicole Switzer

• Tracy Czik

12 Year Member follow us on all social media platforms

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

Open House

Open House

Oceanfront Building

Open House

Renovated, A Must See!

Showing First Showing

Sunday, 5/21 . 12-1:30pm 525 Beach 125th Street

Customize this home to your liking, one car garage with a long private driveway, front porch, HW floors and a huge basement with high ceilings. 40’x100 lot. $950,000

Sunday, 5/21 . 3-4:30pm 118-20 Ocean Promenade (4A)

Head snapping ocean views await you upon stepping inside this fabulous oceanfront 2 BR, 2 bath Rockaway Park condo! Comes with deeded parking. $699,000

Sunday, 5/21 . 12-1:30pm 414 Beach 143rd Street

Charming 3 BR, 2 bath home, walking distance to shops, restaurants, transportation and school. Paved yard, pool and private driveway. $599,000

/ July & August

B. 141: High end and stunning 5BR, 3.5BA house w/ fin. bsmt. & private drive (LJ) .

B. 70th: 3BR, 1BA first floor apt with SS appliances and shared backyard (NS)

B. 118: Beach block 2BR, 1BA furnished apt w/ shared W/D and utils. included (CF) $3,000

B. 134: 2BR, 1.5BA apt with finished basement, backyard and W/D (JM) .

. . . . . . $3,000

B. 122: Beach Block 3BR, 2BA apt w/ SS apps, balcony & shared yard (BF) $3,000

ABTS: 2BR, 1BA duplex apt w/ private ocean view rooftop deck & home office (BF) $3,000

JUST RENTED JUST RENTED

B. 125: 2nd floor 3BR, 2BA apt w/ HW floors and over-sized terrace w/ city views (LJ) $2,900

ABTS: Beautiful 2BR, 2BA apt with ocean views and W/D in unit (SB) $2,750

B. 91: Newly renovated 2BR, 1.5 BA duplex w/ new SS apps and W/D (CF) . . . . . . . . . $2,450

JUST RENTED

JUST RENTED

B. 96: Corner 1BR, 1BA apt with views of Jamacia Bay and shared laundry (CF) $2,426

B. 114: Gorgeous newly reovated 2BR, 1BA apt w/ SS apps and backyard (SB) $2,300

B. 126: Walk in 1BR, 1BA apt with HW floors and summer weekend parking (BF) . . . . $2,000

ABTS: 1BR, 1BA bright & airy oceanfront unit w/ laundry & parking passes (JM) $1,950

Brooklyn: Spacious & bright 1BR, 1BA apt in Georgetown w/ EIK & closet space (TC) $1,900

Brooklyn: 1BR, 1.5BA condo unit w/ SS apps & custom window treatments (TC) $1,900

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

Associate Real Estate Broker

Hurricane Forecast is not very favorable this year! Everyone needs to get a flood policy!

Apartments

Studios available from.

Call Susan 347-260-3891

$1,100 - $1,400

JUST IN TIME FOR SUMMER!

OPEN HOUSE

216 Beach 136

Sunday, May 21st | 12:00PM - 1:30PM

Accepted Offer

Belle Harbor Charming

ONE FAMILY. Three floors of living space, includes; 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, large living room with wood burning fireplace, formal dining room, eat in kitchen, hardwood floors, semi finished basement, garage, deck and yard.

Asking $975,000.

Call Susan 347-260- 3891

Rockaway Park - Oceanfront two bedroom, two bathroom condo with indoor deeded parking spot. $675K CALL SUSAN 347-260-3891

BRAND NEW EXCLUSIVE LISTING

Beach 120’s – two bedroom, oceanfront w/terrace, no pets, pay electric. Available May 1st $2950

Call Susan 347-260-3891

Rockaway Park – beach block, 2 bedroom furnished unit with wifi, parking, use of yard

Call Susan 347-260-3891

Rockaway Park – 2 bedroom walk up. All utilities included.

Call Susan 347-260-3891

$3250

Beach Block Legal Two Owner apartment, 2 or 3 bedrooms, renovated kitchen, large living room and dining room, semi finished basement with half bath. Rental apartment: 2 bedrooms, large living room with terrace, and bonus space on top floor, 3 extra rooms. $965,000 Call Kate 917-680-8051

$1650

Summer Rentals: Call Susan 347-260-3891

• Belle Harbor, four bedroom home.

• B130’s – Studio, use of yard and parking

• Rockaway Park -2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom

• UPPER BELLE HARBOR Steps to Beach

3 bedroom sunny spacious, huge grounds, large private backyard, parking, Memorial thru Labor Day (possibly longer)

$13,200

• Beach Block - Steps to Ocean

2 bedrooms, eat in kitchen, terrace, ocean view. Memorial Day to Labor Day…..........$10,600

Call Kate 917-680-8051

Four bedroom house w yard and parking for one. Available May - September

- Walk in two bedroom on beach block. Totally renovated with seasonal parking

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