Unless it is a round number, most business anniversaries are not as noteworthy as, say, your wedding anniversary. However, tomorrow (June 26) marks an even dozen years since Kevin Boyle launched The Rockaway Times. This issue is Volume 13, #1. The RT is looking forward to a Lucky 13.
As the previous publishers noted in the Summer Guide, we are grateful that The Rockaway Times has been embraced with open arms by communities across the peninsula and Broad Channel. As a new publishing year begins, the RT team remains dedicated to honoring your faith in this paper. We will continue to work hard every week to make sure The Rockaway Times serves the community we love well.
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Summer officially began on Father’s Day at 4:24 a.m. Scientists will tell you that was when the Earth’s north pole had its maximum tilt toward the Sun. Rockaway residents have a different definition for when summer begins: The first day the thermometer reaches 80.
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The Rockaway Republican Club has two major America 250 events next week: Sunset Cocktails at the Wharf on July 1. Patriots Parade, a family event, on July 3. Details at is.gd/a250rrc
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Rockaway Warriors Weekend is July 9-12. Volunteers are needed for the AmpSurf surfing portion on July 10 and 11. Register as an instructor, water assist, beach support, booth help, and more. The schedule is expected to run from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. for volunteers, with in-water instruction from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sign up at https://bit.ly/3SUhVfx
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Last chance to nominate a home in the Rockaway Times’ Patriotic Decorating Contest. Send an email with the address (and perhaps a photo) to mail@rockawaytimes.com by June 28.
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Breezy Point will line the shore from the Lighthouse to the Bay House with flags and battery lights on July 4. Red, White and Beautiful!
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Speaking of red, white and beautiful, Team USA had a gorgeous 2-0 win over Australia last Friday and will advance to the knockout round regardless of what happens in tonight’s game (10 p.m.) against Turkey in Los Angeles.
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Not really a “freeway.” The DOT announced full roadway closings starting June 30 on Rockaway Freeway between Beach 38th and Beach 35th Streets and between Beach 105th and Beach 98th Streets. Plan accordingly.
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Next Monday, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy will resume its “Rockaway Refresh” beach cleanups, starting at Beach 87th Street on the Boardwalk. Look for more stewardship opportunities all summer.
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The first two champions have been crowned in Rockaway Little League. Congratulations to Walsh Properties, the victors in Minor Girls, and to Revived Residential, the victors in Minor Boys. Check out our story in this issue and more pictures and video on the RT website
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Congratulations to Natasha Carter, Founder of Flying 3Sixty. She was recognized for her work supporting domestic violence victims at the REMA4US annual Black Tie Gala on Juneteenth.
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The Heart of Rockaway Civic is the latest voice to call for an emergency PA system to be installed across the Rockaway Boardwalk.
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Patriotic Pumps! The Belle Harbor Property Owners Association and Rockaway Civic Association have teamed up with Mazzone Hardware to offer homeowners red, white and blue painting kits to spruce up fire hydrants ahead of the America 250 celebration. They will also partner with Rockaway W.I.S.H. Jr. to beautify the hydrants around Memorial Circle.
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The RT is getting ready for America 250. Watch for our special America 250 issue on July 2. It will be historic!
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After its well-received Christmas/Hanukkah Decorating contest last December, the Belle Harbor Property Owners Association is running a garden/flower decorating contest. If you live in BHPOA’s service area email belleharbor11694@gmail.com to nominate yourself or a neighbor.
