Category Archives: The Arts and Entertainment
Got Activism? Clearwater Festival 2011 Breaks Records
They say that rot is rampant in the social fabric, and all the heroes have died. A decade ago, columnist Russell Baker commented aptly that the few American heroes left in sports, politics and business all “came down with terminal … Continue reading
It’s Spring–When a Boy’s Thoughts Turn to Baseball (Unless He’s Anthony Weiner)
At this time of year, I always realize how much I miss our family baseball years. When my son played Little League, for three months straight, our lives were structured by those dates scribbled on a sheet by the coaches. … Continue reading
Won’t You Marry ME, Will?
The press was agog this week about soon-to-be-royal Kate’s trousseau shopping expedition–to (gasp) a discount store! There were even photos of three modest frocks she purchased for the honeymoon, all priced in the $100 range. Since Prince William’s mom, Princess Diana, was married in a dress that cost … Continue reading
In the Still of a Cold Rockaway Night, Oldies Bid Goodbye
The Five Satins did not appear. But their standard, “In the Still of the Night,” showed up twice. The audience at Beach Channel High School’s 18th Anniversary Doo Wop Spectacular on Saturday, March 26, heard one version of the song from Manhattan Skyline, … Continue reading
Sinners and Saints–Your Choice This Week!
In case you’re not a fan of beer drinking, here’s a novel way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day—by reading a great book about the history of Ireland. “How The Irish Saved Civilization,” the first title in Thomas Cahill’s “Hinges of … Continue reading
One 5K Race, One Parade, One Beer
In the category of “only in Rockaway,” St. Patrick’s Parade Day this year featured a 5k running race on the boardwalk, starting at 9:45 a.m., with an after-party at Connolly’s on Beach 95 Street. One free Guinness on tap was … Continue reading
Oy Vey Rockaway Stats–2010 in review
Thanks readers! You helped me get “Oy Vey Rockaway” off the ground by visiting my site. It’s been very entertaining to write for you and I look forward to sharing more pictures and stories about local life in the New Year! The statistics gatherers at … Continue reading
How to “Rock Shop” for the Holidays (c) 2010 Vivian R. Carter
The last few shopping days before Christmas have arrived; it’s liberating to assiduously avoid going anywhere near a mall. There are many great Rockaway businesses where you can buy thoughtful and unique gifts. First stop is to browse The Beach Gallery at Sunlites Stained Glass … Continue reading
Election Day Jitters for RAA Board Candidates
They are not running for President of the United States, but being a board member of the Rockaway Artists Alliance is a pretty prestigious slot. Over the past few weeks, the politicking within the arts community on the Rock has intensified–it’s starting to look … Continue reading
Red Hook to GWB or Bust! Hudson River Sloop Clearwater’s 2010 Pumpkin Sail
The group’s tagline is: “Creating the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders.” You can say that again! Since its maiden voyage in 1969, the 106-foot long Hudson River Sloop Clearwater has welcomed aboard more than half a million young people and hundreds of … Continue reading
Oy Vey Rockaway 