High Tide

Chag sameach! Happy Hanukkah! The eight-day Jewish festival begins this Sunday, December 14.

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The Beach 116th Street Hanukkah Celebration and Menorah Lighting is Tuesday, December 16 at 5 p.m.

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It may be getting dark early these days, but with all the holiday tree and menorah lightings across the peninsula, it’s not hard to find a little light in the darkness.

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If you’re looking for last-minute holiday gifts, hosting a party, or heading out to celebrate the season, look no further than The Rockaway Times. Many of our loyal advertisers are offering great holiday specials and events. When you take advantage of those deals, be sure to mention that you saw their ad in The Rockaway Times—we’d greatly appreciate it!

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A local family needs your help! John Zdyrko, a beloved neighbor and friend to many, is in urgent need of a liver transplant. If you’re in good health, between 18 and 60, O blood type, and willing to be evaluated as a living donor, one call could make all the difference. For more information, see the ad on page 7. To see if you are a match, contact the Living Donor Line at NYU Langone at 212-263-8133 or email LivingLiverDonorTeam@NYULangone.org

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Hark! The Rockaway Shakespeare Company’s first production, Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale,” is coming to the Scholars’ Academy stage this weekend. Directed by Fiona Ross of England’s Royal Shakespeare Company, this drama/romance/comedy will be performed Friday and Saturday, December 12 and 13, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, December 14, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 cash at the door. The cast includes many local actors, including The Rockaway Times’ own Dan Guarino.

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The 2026 District 23 Assembly race is beginning to take shape as contenders throw their hats in the ring to succeed Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato in next year’s election. So far, Democrats Pesach Osina and Mike Scala have entered the race, along with Republican Thomas Sullivan, returning for another run at the seat. As it’s still early, more contenders may emerge in the coming weeks.

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Bishop Brennan celebrated the 11:30 a.m. Mass this past Sunday at St. Camillus Church. If you’d like to help save St. Camillus, you are encouraged to write to the Bishop to share your support for the parish, and fill those pews!

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The best bartender in town is back in action! The legendary Brendan Jones is now bartending at the upstairs lounge at the Belle Harbor Yacht Club. Stop by tonight, Thursday, December 11 (or sometime in the future) to order a drink and say hello!

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Beautiful ornaments created by the sixth-grade class of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Academy were selected by the National Park Service to decorate a tree representing New York State at the White House. Well done to the students and to their teacher, Nancy Re.

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The Rockaway Track Club is holding its annual Santa Suit and Grinch 5K run/walk this Saturday, December 13, on the boardwalk at Beach 108th Street. For more info and to register, see: www.rockawaytc.org

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Empanada on the Rise and Rim Rokaz are collecting toys and sensory items (new and unwrapped) until December 22 to benefit the Special Olympics and RBAF. To schedule a pickup or learn where to drop off, contact Jacob at 516-614-9326.

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Heading into the city by ferry? Check the updated schedules and new routes that went into effect Monday, December 8, at www.ferry.nyc

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The Remembrance Tree has returned for the holidays. Stop by Beach 106th Street to pick up a shell, write a name, and hang it on the tree in memory of a lost loved one — or create your own to add.