High Tide
You know what they say, September showers bring October Indian summers? After some truly apocalyptic downpours, the weather has taken a turn for the gorgeous, bringing some of the nicest days of the year.
*****
As can only be expected with that much rain, flooding was seen throughout the peninsula. Many spent the first half of the weekend pumping out their basements. We hope any damage sustained was not too bad. New Yorkers are encouraged to report damage to their property and file service requests by calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115) or by accessing the 311 Severe Weather page.
*****
One place that suffered a great amount of flooding last Friday was Floyd Bennett Field, which New York city and state officials plan to use to house at least 2,000 migrants. Although there was a hearing scheduled for Tuesday, October 3 on the injunction filed by Councilwoman Joann Ariola and Assemblywoman Jamie Williams and other plaintiffs fighting Floyd Bennett Field’s use, on Monday, October 2, the Corporation Counsel for the City of New York removed the Floyd Bennett Field injunction case to the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of New York, and thus removing the scheduled October 3 court date from the calendar. The plaintiffs intend to continue the fight in federal court, bringing on attorneys specializing in natural resource law to bolster their case.
*****
The Graybeards’ annual blood drive will be on Sunday, October 8 in the St. Francis de Sales gym. Volunteers are still needed. If you are interested in helping out, please contact the Graybeards’ office or Phil Hughes at pmckl@verizon.net
*****
The next Community Board 14 meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 10 at the Knights of Columbus. Please note the meeting will be starting at 7:00 p.m. instead of the regular time of 7:15 p.m.
*****
It seems that Rockaway now has some competition. Manhattan’s first beach opened this past Monday at the Gansevoort Peninsula in Hudson River Park, west of the Meatpacking District. The sandy urban oasis — along with some beautiful weather — was taken advantage of by droves of Manhattanites and tourists alike. Swimming in the Hudson River is not permitted and don’t worry, the PEP — “Green Men” — have been on hand to ensure compliance.
*****
Dogtoberfest, sponsored by Pawlacio Pets, which was postponed last week, will take place on Sunday, October 8, at 11:00 a.m. The parade will take place on the boardwalk at Beach 108th Street and end at Beach 95th Street.
*****
Even though it’s fall, don’t forget the concessions are still open. So, if you want to get out for a walk or bike ride to enjoy the fall weather, head to the boardwalk concessions or the Riis Park concessions. They have food vendors open and music/events scheduled throughout the fall.
*****
If you are taking the ferry — maybe to a beach in manhattan? — there’s a new seasonal beer garden open at Sovereign Surf, located at 111-30 Beach Channel Drive, from Wednesdays to Sundays until December 17. They are serving beer, wine, cider and sake, as well as hot dogs with fun toppings, and outside food is welcome.
*****
Councilwoman Joann Ariola is partnering with the Howard Beach Columbus Day Foundation to bring a Columbus Day celebration to Howard Beach. From noon to 8 p.m. on October 8, revelers can enjoy Italian music, games, and more along Cross Bay Boulevard between 158th Avenue and 159th Avenue.
