Rockaway Beach’s Memorable Memorial Day
The sunshine usually draws crowds, but this Memorial Day in New York brought rain and cooler temperatures, leaving Rockaway Beach quieter than usual. Locals and business owners, however, tried to make the most of it as the summer season unofficially kicked off.
Sean Aiken, 49, owner of Seanie Pizza, located near Beach 98th Street on the boardwalk, expressed concern about the economic impact of the dreary weather. “These major weekends—Memorial Day, June 1st, Independence Day—are crucial. We depend on them,” he said, noting that a good Memorial Day could yield around $12,000 in revenue, but this year, he was expecting only about $1,000.
“If it continues like this, it could be a tough summer for all of us,” he added, although he remains hopeful that conditions will improve.
Between Friday and Monday, nearly two inches of rain reportedly fell at JFK Airport, which is quite close to the popular Rockaway and Jacob Riis Park beaches, according to meteorological reports. As the rain started to taper off, the beaches were still devoid of anyone except for those living in the area.
“I’ve seen more people on the boardwalk today than over the past several days,” Aiken remarked.
At the Rockaway Beach Day Parade, a small crowd showed up, including locals Ray and Moe Otton. “Weather won’t cancel the Rockaways,” Ray declared. They were there to support the event, believing that their presence mattered, even on a dreary day.
Others braved the weather too, lending support to their community businesses. Krista Bauer, 56, enjoyed a drink with her husband Chris, 47, and their dog Rose at Bar 97 on the boardwalk. Krista admitted she thought it was too chilly but followed Chris’s lead. “Honestly, I just want to watch Netflix and relax,” she chuckled.
Aside from surfers who were enjoying some waves, few ventured into the actual water. In fact, 14-year-old Kevin Paskewitz from Breezy Point was the lone swimmer braving the cold. “It’s good for you,” he said, as he dove in, showcasing his resilience. “I swim all winter; this doesn’t bother me.”
Meanwhile, Justin, an 18-year-old lifeguard, sat bundled up in layers. When asked about getting into the water, he emphatically responded, “No way! It’s too cold!”
