Thursday, October 1, 2026
The East Rockaway Chamber of Commerce held its annual holiday and networking party on Dec. 3, honoring two individuals and two businesses in the village. The event was held at the American Legion hall on Main Street.
The Chamber, headed by President Mike Hawksby of ROK Health & Fitness, honored Mayor Bruno Romano as its Man of the Year, and Deputy Mayor Theresa Gaffney as its Woman of the Year. Dr. Richard Selkowitz of the East Rockaway Veterinary Hospital and David O’Neil of Village Car Service were presented with Distinguished Business awards.
“The job of mayor in a small village is a tough job,” Hawksby said, presenting Romano with his award. “You couldn’t get paid enough for that job, with the effort that you put into it.” In return, Romano said that, as the new president, Hawksby has “a great vision, and will take us to the next level.”
About Gaffney, Hawksby said that the “clock doesn’t stop” for working women. Gaffney thanked the Chamber, her parents, her husband and her three children.
“When I first showed up 11 years ago,” said Selkowitz, “I didn’t know anyone … then Bruno came over and said ‘hello.’ I was a fish out of water,” he said. “It’s been a little bit of a struggle, especially after Sandy, but we’re always trying to find ways to make our businesses flourish. Hopefully we can all get bigger and better. We’re all in it together. It’s your award as much as it is mine.”
Hawksby said that Village Taxi owner David O’Neill was a very active member of the Chamber, runs a good solid business, and he’s a nice guy — a hardworking businessman.
“Thank you very much,” said O’Neill. “East Rockaway is a business-friendly village, and very proactive. They welcomed we with open arms.” He also gave kudos to his staff and co-workers. “You can work 100 hours — but you’re only as good as your workers.”
