High Tide
It’s hard to believe summer is already winding down. Next weekend is Labor Day, and then it’s back to school for teachers and students. But don’t pack it in just yet — there’s still plenty happening across the peninsula, as you’ll see in this week’s paper. So get out there and soak up this weekend before summer really does slip away.
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We now have our Top 10 finalists for the Rockaway Times Photo Contest! Check out who made the cut on pages 14 and 15. Our judges — from the NYC Parks Department, NYC Ferry, Jamaica Bay–Rockaway Parks Conservancy, and The Rockaway Times — worked tirelessly to narrow down the field from an impressive Top 30. Congratulations to our finalists, who are all eligible for the $500 grand prize and, of course, eternal bragging rights.
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The Top 30 photos remain on display along the boardwalk, while the five honorable mentions can still be seen at the ferry landing — but not for much longer. If you haven’t yet, be sure to check them out this weekend. The contest winner will be crowned next Thursday, August 28, at The Rockaway Times office, and featured in the September 4 issue.
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Starting tonight, Thursday, August 21, through Sunday, August 24, don’t miss Shakespeare on the Rocks performing “Romeo and Juliet.” The show begins at 6:30 p.m. each evening at the Amphitheater between Beach 94th and Beach 95th Streets. Bring a beach chair, blanket, and cooler for a perfect night under the stars. For details, visit shakespeareontherocks.org or follow them on Instagram.
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Next Friday, August 29, head to the St. Francis de Sales schoolyard for what’s become a beloved summer tradition — the 3 on 3 By The Sea Basketball Tournament. Founded by Rockaway legend Clare Droesch and carried on in her memory, the tournament is one of the highlights of the summer. More info can be found on pages 7 & 33.
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The Rockaway Film Festival kicked off Wednesday, August 20, and continues through Sunday, August 24, with five days of screenings at the Arverne Cinema (72-02 Gouverneur Ave.). This year promises a strong lineup. For the full schedule, visit rockawayfilmfestival.org
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On a less celebratory note, you may have noticed the dreaded spotted lanternflies making their way across the peninsula — and much of New York. Experts continue to stress that the most effective way to stop them from spreading is simple: if you see one, smash it.
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And because one insect invasion isn’t enough, beachgoers may have noticed a new arrival: the eastern cicada killer wasp. These burrowing insects — sometimes mistakenly called sand hornets — make their homes in the sand and, true to their name, hunt cicadas. A quick Google search confirms they rarely sting unless provoked and typically stick around an area for 60 to 75 days.
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Meanwhile, the surf has been feeling the effects of Hurricane Erin this week. A reminder: only swim when and where lifeguards are on duty. That advice applies every day, but with rougher waters, it’s especially important. Be smart. Be safe.
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Locals Helping Locals is hosting a Back to School Drive and giveaway at 12 p.m. on August 31 at GrindTime Skate Shop (202 Beach 91st Street). Please donate books, pens, pencils, backpacks, notebooks.
