High Tide

Unfortunately (or fortunately?), The Rockaway Times was not included in any high-level government text threads this week. We suspect they read the “McVeighing In” column a few months ago regarding a deep hatred for group chats.

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Aviator Sports and Events Center announced this week that it will officially close its doors on April 14 when its current contract with the National Park Service (NPS) expires. For many families on the peninsula, this is devastating news, as the complex serves a wide range of sports clubs and schools across the city. After enduring temporary closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, parents and athletes now face another challenge: the potential loss of the space entirely. Aviator is currently working with the NPS to keep its outdoor facilities operational through the fall of 2025 so that scheduled events and games can continue as planned. As for the complex’s future, the NPS issued a request for proposals earlier this year in January, with a submission deadline of March 10. So far, it appears the NPS has yet to select a successor for Aviator, and the process remains ongoing.

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Next month, the least consequential law of our lifetime will take effect — jaywalking is about to be legalized in NYC. It’s been a privilege to witness the peaceful protests against this draconian law happening on every street corner for decades.

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Advertiser Alert! Only 56 days until the can’t-miss publication of the year — the 2025 Rockaway Times Summer Guide! It hits the stands on Thursday, May 22, right before Memorial Day weekend. That means just a few more weeks to reserve your ad space. Don’t wait — secure your spot today in the peninsula’s go-to guide for everyone’s favorite time of year!

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Speaking of advertisers, we’d like to welcome Craig Simos, owner of American Cleaning Enterprises, as a new advertiser in The Rockaway Times! Check out their ad on page 22. They specialize in office cleaning, so if you need their services, give them a call — and don’t forget to mention you saw their ad in The Rockaway Times!

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RISE (Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity) is holding a raffle to support its incredible local programs. For just $100, you could win prizes from Vino By the Sea, Skudin Surf, Kennedy’s, or JetBlue — all while supporting RISE’s youth initiatives: Shore Corps, Living Classroom, and Environmentor. The drawing will take place on April 11 at 10 a.m. Get your tickets at riserockaway.org under “Events.”

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Feeling generous? Throughout April, when you purchase a $2.50 reusable community bag at Stop & Shop (112-15 Beach Channel Drive), $1.00 will be donated to RISE.

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Starting Monday, March 31, the NYC Ferry will have a new spring schedule. If you’re planning to ride, check for any changes to your route at ferry.nyc.

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Interested in becoming a court officer? Registration for the exam is now open through June 11, with testing dates set from September 10 to October 31. For more details and to register, visit ww2.nycourts.gov/Exampagecot2025.

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Submissions for The Rockaway Times 2025 Photo Contest are rolling in — and they’re looking great! Keep them coming. For contest details, see page 8. A reminder: Follow the rules! Submit your contest entries (up to four photos) to Contest@Rockawaytimes.com. For Local Color page submissions, send your photos to Mail@Rockawaytimes.com.