High Tide

That day—and so many that followed—was filled with tragedy. Loved ones were lost, and many were left devastated both financially and emotionally. We remain proud of the peninsula’s resiliency and remarkable recovery. That said, the devastation of Sandy can still be seen throughout Rockaway today. The storm’s lasting effects are still with us, thirteen years later.

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Now is a good time to check your batteries, review evacuation plans with your family, and look in on neighbors and seniors who may need extra help during an emergency.

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Early voting begins Saturday, October 25 through November 2. Election Day is November 4. Depending on your address, early voting sites include Sorrentino Recreation Center, The Rockaway YMCA and Jade Events Space. Don’t forget to turn the ballot over for the proposal questions.

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Last weekend was a beauty weather-wise, and many were out enjoying the Fall Freedom Fest on Beach 129th Street and at the Harbor Light. It was another great success—thanks to everyone who made it happen, especially our friends at the Harbor Light, Callie’s, Pico, Jamesons, and Panini Rustico–Baya Bar.

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Before it gets too dark and cold, this is the perfect time of year to snap some photos for the annual Rockaway Times Photo Contest. We always welcome pictures for our Local Color page (when space allows), but keep in mind that the contest will be coming up in just a few months.

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On Tuesday, October 28, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., St. Rose of Lima (130 Beach 84th Street) will host an arts and crafts club where you can make a cork wreath. For more information, contact Theresa Racine at 646-408-1200.

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Rockaway Wish will hold its annual Ladies Who Brunch on November 15, from 1 to 5 p.m. at The Rockaway Hotel. Tickets are $125. For more information, email info@rockawaywish.org

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The First Congregational Church of Rockaway Beach (320 Beach 94th Street) will host a thrift sale in the church basement on Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find new and used fall/winter items, Christmas items, holiday décor, pet items, jewelry and more. Proceeds benefit the church.

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The family shelter at 43-18 Rockaway Beach Blvd. in Edgemere—currently housing 72 families—is now set to be converted into an adult-only male shelter for 135 individuals as soon as tomorrow, October 24. Community Board 14, notified of the change only last week, sent a letter to the Department of Social Services objecting to the lack of community input and noting the site’s proximity to the planned new location of P.S. 106 on Beach 39th Street, just four blocks away.

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The 2026 Broad Channel Historical Society calendars are now available! Inside, you’ll find beautiful photos, holiday and civic meeting listings, community events, and—most importantly—daily high tide times (so you know when to move your car!). They’re only $10 each and make great gifts. Get yours today by contacting Margaret Wagner at margaretwagner.re@gmail.com or Dan Guarino at Workingstories@aol.com

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The Rockaway Film Festival will celebrate new works by local filmmakers at a Local Filmmaker Showcase next Saturday, October 25, at 5 p.m. at the Arverne Cinema (72-02 Gouverneur Avenue). The event features a free screening of five new short films at 5 p.m., followed by one feature film at 7 p.m.

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The 100th Precinct is hosting a Children’s Parade and Trunk or Treat next Saturday, October 25, from noon to 3 p.m. The parade steps off at noon at the Boardwalk and Beach 102nd Street and will be immediately followed by the Trunk or Treat at the precinct.