While We Wait

While we wait for our elected officials to start doing something noteworthy in our community, the residents of this peninsula are making things happen. It’s through the effort and determination of Rockawayites that some great things are occurring in our area.

Most of the events we enjoyed this summer came about because your neighbors made a decision to make a difference. For example, the Dancing Under the Stars at Beach 84 street every Tuesday night received funding from Sweet N’ Low (Barbara and Marvin Eisenstadt – Rockaway residents) and organized by locals. Many seniors and families take to Shore Front parkway and the boardwalk for an evening of dancing, music and lots of fun!

Rockaway Music and Arts Council sponsored a series of summer concerts, thanks to the members who support the organization. Many Sunday evenings were spent by Rockawayites (and visitors) this summer enjoying the great tunes and treats offered by RMAC.

The 100 Precinct Community Council’s Night Out Against Crime was a night out for the entire family – with games, rides, clowns, a sandcastle contest and painting of a lifeguard shack (thanks to the Rockaway Artists Alliance). The fireworks were postponed until Sunday, September 3, when the Chamber of Commerce will be hosting Viking Sail 2000. This is quickly becoming one of the most exciting events to hit Rockaway in years. Viking ships will dock in Rockaway for one day, giving Rockawayites and many visitors an opportunity to see these ships and speak with the sailors. The day will include performances by a Native America tribe, country music, arts and crafts, games, and children’s activities.

This weekend, the Deerfield Area Association will sponsor an Intergenerational Festival at Bayswater Park on Saturday; residents of Gateway boulevard in Far Rockaway will have a street festival and dedication by the 101 Precinct that same day; and on Sunday the Beach 129 Street Merchant’s Association will have a street fair.

Then there’s the Irish Festival, the many events sponsored by the Rockaway Artists Alliance (such as outdoor movies and art exhibits), and performances by the Rockaway Theatre Company.

So, while we wait for the "Powers That Be" to revitalize our community, we are starting our own mini-renaissance. It requires a dream…It requires a passion…It requires a goal…It requires hard work…It requires follow through, follow up and dedication to the point that others share the dream, the passion and the goal. Maybe our elected officials can learn something from our local residents who make Rockaway the beautiful community that it is.

We’ll keep making Rockaway a great place to live, work and play while we wait for the politicians to get their acts together…