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VOL. 1, NO. 1 — THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
ivering D l e D oo
The North Shore Local Makes Its Debut
oor oD rt Photo by Dan Guarino
AND WE'LL BE BACK EVERY WEEK! Photo Courtesy Of NYC Parks
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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Welcome To Jody’s
Mary and Jody Haggerty By Dan Guarino
Jody is sorely missed. But his spirit lives on at Jody’s Club Forest – the place that bears his name, the place that’s like a second home to so many in the neighborhood. “It’s a warm, very welcoming place,” Terence Haggerty says about the establishment founded by his mother and father. “You come in as a stranger, and you leave feeling like a regular.” On his desk he keeps a color photo of his mom and dad, Mary and Joseph ‘Jody’ Haggerty, which he looks up at every day. His dad, of course, is the Jody in Jody’s Club Forest bar and restaurant on Forest Avenue, a North Shore institution since 1976. Whether it’s your first time in or you’re a longtime regular, Jody’s is built to make you feel comfortable. The long wooden bar over to one side stretches nearly from the front door to the back of the room. The sweet smell of food being prepared fresh for lunch and dinner comes from the large kitchen on the other side of the wall. That good food is ready to be served to diners at tables to the right. A small ramp just past those opens onto a full yet relaxed feeling dining room. Beyond that, towards the back, there is yet another room suitable for parties and other events. The feeling of hominess is accented by polished wood throughout. There is even a little sign that assures customers
that the wooden ceiling fans are there in winter to drift the warm air down to them as they’re dining. Whether stopping in for a drink or for a meal, Jody’s has something for everyone. For lunch they offer a wide range of appetizers, sides and salads. Thick hot sandwiches run from juicy burgers to Reuben’s and cheesesteaks with mushrooms, peppers or onions to marinated London broil or filet of sole. A sample of the dinner menu includes dishes like Cajun or Shrimp Caesar Salad, Seafood Fra Diavla, Tortellini Primavera, Shell Steak with Grilled Shrimp and Chicken Sorrentino. Lunch menu sandwiches are also available. All can be topped off with an Irish coffee or other hot beverage or something from the bar. Haggerty, who took over running the family business after Jody’s death in April, gets plenty of help from sister, Mozie, who waits tables on busy nights. Their aim is to make sure people feel at home and that included when they expanded and added a second dining room “When my father and I were building it, we didn’t want it to be table on top of table. “This way nobody feels ‘Oh, I have to get up. They need the table.’ People can sit, enjoy their meal, relax. No rush. “He got to see us finish it, which is something I will always cherish.” He credits both his mother and father for the business’ suc-
cess. “My mother has always been the brains behind the operation. I don’t know where we would be without her.” In fact, when they first opened 40 years ago, on June 1, 1976, it was with the help of Mary’s mother and father. Both from County Kerry, Ireland, at the time they owned two bars. “My Dad was only 27 when they opened,” Haggerty recalls, first as a bar, selling mostly beer and whiskey. “It wasn’t easy. There were a lot of tough times in the beginning.” Then in 1985 a fire almost put them out of business. “It burnt the whole building to the ground. We were closed for a year and a half.” When they did re-open, they added sandwiches to their fare. In 1991 they decided to open a kitchen in a compact 15 by 10 foot space just off the bar. It was slow going at first. “We were lucky to serve 20 dinners on a Friday night. There was a lot of learning as we went along.” Now Haggerty says, besides the steaks, chicken dishes and pasta, “a lot of the original stuff is still on our menu.” In 2015 they took over the for-
4th of July.” The original bar’s backroom also became a state of the art kitchen, Jody’s third and largest. Some things will always be a part of the place Mary and Jody started forty years ago, even through the many changes. Sadly, Jody passed away on April 28, 2016. There was a standing ovation for him during his eulogy at Our Lady of Good Counsel R.C. Church in Tompkinsville. At the funeral and later at the bar that night there was a rousing singalong of “Sweet Caroline,” his favorite song. “Everybody knows each other here,” Terence Haggerty says. “Everybody cares about each other. “When my Dad died, it was a big loss to us. But it was a big loss for the neighborhood, too. Besides his family, there is nothing he loved more than this neighborhood.” Terence recalls a customer who recently told him, “Every time I come here I think of your Dad.” Terence replied, “I think of him, too. Every time.” Looking around Jody’s Club Forest now getting ready for
Photo by Dan Guarino Terence Haggerty
mer dry cleaners next door and built the second dining room nearly from the ground up. “We had to take it all the way down to the screws.” The expansion also meant expanding the business. “Now we do parties, christenings, first birthdays. We actually did our first wedding this year, on the
lunch, he says he is always aware of his father being an inseparable part of the place. “He’s gone,” he says, “But I always feel like I’m just watching it for him.” Jody’s Club Forest is located at 372 Forest Avenue. For more information call 718-727-6338 or go to www.jodysclubforest.com.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
The North Shore Local
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The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Petty Cache ***** It is indisputable that the North Shore has the best pizza around. It is therefore no surprise that Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria & Restaurant is branching out and set to open a location on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. After gracing Staten Island with its famous thin crust for nearly 60 years, it’s only fair to give another borough a slice of the pie. ***** The North Shore’s very own Niall Sullivan’s band, Take 2, will be playing at Joe Broadway’s Billiards & Sports Pub, 2178 Forest Avenue on Friday, February 3. Stop in for a bit and cheer them on. We hear Niall gets his musical talent from his father, Mike. ***** The number of Staten Islanders who have succumbed to drug overdoses is staggering. Authorities say that the spray, Narcan,
has saved the lives of dozens of our own loved ones. ***** Looking for love? Go see Love Letters at the Little Victory Theater, 4089 Victory Blvd. This humorous and touching play about the powerful connection of love told through a lifetime of correspondence, directed by Fred Grieco, opens tonight and continues through Sunday, February 5. For more info call (718) 6703243 or see story on Page 23. ***** Speaking of love, are you getting heartburn thinking about what to get your significant other for Valentine’s Day? Why not declare your love publically in a North Shore Local Ad. Call 718979-6700 for rates. ***** Have those winter love handles taken hold of you yet? Well, why not get a grip on them and shape up with a free Zumba class at McDonald Park, 128 Myrtle Avenue at 9 a.m. on Sunday, February 5. ***** Sadly, the Hylan Movie Theater has closed its doors for good to make room for a multi–million
dollar shopping center. It might not have been a state-of-the-art theater, but if the movie was a dud, there always was the dance of the swirling trash in the outside corner to entertain you. ***** Ladies, early detection of breast cancer saves lives! The Mobile Care Clinic is providing free digital mammograms and clinical breast exams to women 40 and over who have not had a mammogram in the past 12 months. The Clinic will be at 780 Post Avenue on Friday, February 3. For an appointment call (877) 628-9090. This event is hosted by Office of Council Member Debi Rose and P.S. 19. ***** Good news for ferry commuters! The Nicholas Street ramp self-park is now available. Drivers are able to enter and exit the garage using the Nicholas Street ramp. More than 800 spots are available on a daily basis. So drive yourself to the ferry and let your significant other get a little extra shut-eye! ***** Why not light up your night with a bit of cabaret? On Sat-
Page 5 urday, February 4, the National Lighthouse Museum will present its Lighthouses are for Lovers (and Friends), an evening of cabaret style entertainment featuring Kim Grogg Marin & Friends. Besides great entertainment, there will be hors d’ oeuvres, signature drinks, silent auction and fun. For more information, visit www.lighthousemuseum.org. ***** BP Oddo and DA McMahon recently visited the Red Hook Community Justice Center, the nation’s first multi-jurisdictional community court, and were quite impressed with what they saw. The courthouse is the hub for an array of unconventional programs designed to help people who continue to cycle through the criminal justice system stop their negative behaviors. We hear our leaders are committed to bringing a similar facility to Staten Island. ***** Want the North Shore by email? We deliver to your inbox every Thursday morning. Sign up is a snap: go to statenlocal.com
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
The North Shore Local
Clove Lakes Health Care and Rehabilitation Center is pleased to announce the Expansion and Grand Reopening of Island Rehabilitative Services Dialysis Facilities At Clove Lakes Health Care & Rehabilitation Center 25 Fanning Street – South Gannon Entrance Staten Island, New York 10314 The Island Rehabilitative Services – Clove Lakes Dialysis Extension Facility offers patients the finest quality of care and state-of-the-art equipment in an ultra-modern and comfortable setting. For information regarding short term and long term care services for Hemodialysis Patients at Clove Lakes Health Care and Rehabilitation Center, please call Jane Harris at 718-289-7892.
Meeting Room Available for The Staten Island Community
The Hemodialysis facility is licensed by the New York State Department of Health and is staffed by a dedicated, experienced team of Nephrologists, Registered Nurses, Certified Technicians, Licensed Renal Social Worker and Registered Renal Dietician. Island Rehabilitative Services is always ready to accommodate the needs of patients and families. The entrance to Hemodialysis at Clove Lakes is located to the left of the front of the building on South Gannon Avenue with ample parking. For Appointments and Information: Phone: (718) 987 – 5942 or (347) 671 – 8399
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The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Hello From The Local
There’s no toll to read these pages – The North Shore Local is free. And it makes sense we’re launching on Ground Hog Day because like the movie, we’ll be doing the same thing over and over. But unlike the movie, we know the plot will change from week to week! Now, we know a newspaper is a bit old-fashioned. That whole Internet thing looks like it’s here to stay. But that’s ok. The North Shore Local is like the North Shore itself. We’re a little bit of a secret and we’re a bit of an underdog. But, look out, we’ve got great potential. Fact is, plenty of people still like holding a newspaper. Especially if it’s
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about their neighborhood. And that will be our focus. We love our North Shore neighborhoods and The North Shore Local will reflect that. And here’s something we must share: The North Shore Local is a joint venture with YOU. We recognize that we’ll only be as strong as our readers. Your voice, your concerns, your interests will find a home in The Local which is what we’ll call ourselves. We’ll look to inform and aim to entertain. We’ve enlisted the services of some homegrown talent who will contribute stories and
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columns with local flair and perspective. And we hope you’ll send us letters and comments to Mail@StatenLocal.com. The future is uncertain yet exciting. We know change is coming. There’s the Ferris Wheel and a mall and who knows what else. Local folks should all have a say in that change. We’re sure to stumble and suffer some growing pains but we can’t worry about that. We’ll just keep at it until we get things right. But we’ve got a favor to ask. Please tell our advertisers you saw their ad in The Local. They’ve shown faith in us and we need you to let them know their faith is justified. Finally, in this, our inaugural edition, we have one main editorial position we want to make clear: We love the North Shore and Locals Rule!
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017 AV
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The North Shore Local
X A V E R I A N VISIT US Spend a day on our campus as a “Clipper for a Day” and experience what life is like as a Clipper A Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory school in the tradition of the Xaverian Brothers since 1957, Xaverian offers: ● A cutting edge, one-to-one learning environment with iPads for every student
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XAVERIAN NOW OFFERS PARENT TOUR THURSDAYS. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE AT 718-836-7100 X117
● Project and problem-based learning through hands-on classroom experiences within the Michael T. Strianese ‘74 STEM Program, Xaverian’s highly acclaimed Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math curriculum in conjunction with Project Lead the Way ● College counseling and Internship Program ● College credit opportunities available through numerous AP, St. John’s University, and Syracuse University courses
● College placements at prestigious schools such as Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Georgetown University, Macaulay Honors at CUNY, New York University, Princeton University, University of Notre Dame, University of Pennsylvania, US Military Academy at West Point, and US Naval Academy, with the class of 2016 earning $36,880,924 in scholarships! ● Unique extracurricular offerings, including the renowned MAX (Music at Xaverian) Program, as well as a competitive athletic program for boys and girls
For more information, please contact Xaverian’s Office of Admissions at (718) 836-7100 x117 or admissions@xaverian.org 7100 Shore Road, Brooklyn, NY 11209 | www.xaverian.org/admissions | TACHS #011
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The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Page 9
T.L.C. Staten Island North
T.L.C. Staten Island South
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1100 Clove Road Suite GC
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Phone: (718) 816-6500
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Main Phone: (718) 816-6500
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Loose Cannon
By Mark Cannon
As I sat across from the Borough President, he gave me a look that I know I have seen before. We were discussing my retirement from my position as prosecutor with the New York State Attorney General’s (NYSAG) office and starting my new gig as a weekly columnist for my friend’s fledgling North Shore newspaper. James Oddo’s face contorted into a look of what I
The North Shore Local
The Look
can only describe as “compassionate incredulity.” It said without actually saying, “I can’t believe this poor schmuck. He has no idea what he’s doing.” My mind flashed back to January 1989, to a large room filled with people at New York Law School (NYLS). That’s when I had first seen this look. I was there for orientation for the evening program in the time honored study of the law. I had spent the past forty eight hours completely turning my life inside out - but I had made it! Just two days before I was rappelling on a rope off the roof of a five story building at Randall’s Island, in my fourth week of training as a “Probie” in the New York City Fire Department. Many months before, I applied to NYLS while still employed as a Special Investigator at the NYSAG’s
office. The idea was to work during the day and get a law degree at night. Heady plans for a guy who had mastered the art of doing the absolute minimum to get through Msgr. Farrell High School and later Pace University. After applying to law school, I was placed on the waiting list and, well, waited. After what seemed an eternity, I was told I didn’t make the cut - I assumed my chances were finished. Three months later, the FDNY called from a test I had taken years before. I accepted. Did I want to be a fireman? Well I don’t know but again who doesn’t like it? Doesn’t everybody love it? Well, yes they do. Unfortunately, I didn’t. I started the Fire Academy on a frigid December day. When you first walk in, there is a large inscription on the
wall overhead, “Let no man’s ghost come back and say my training let me down.” Every morning that made me feel uneasy. The bottom line is I was a lousy Probie. Afraid of heights, smoke, fire and being yelled at, I struggled every single day. My last day I rappelled off the building. It was by far my finest moment because to do so I overcame a mind numbing fear. I then did it five more times - the last couple I almost enjoyed (yes there is a net but it was small and far away and gave me little comfort). Going home that night I finally felt like I belonged at the Academy. Then the phone rang. It was the Admissions Director at NYLS. “Mark, I have a spot for you.” Thinking next September, I replied “I just
Continued on page 11
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The North Shore Local THE LOOK Continued from Page 10 started a new job, when does school start?” “Two days” he responded “and to be perfectly frank, with your grades and test score this might be your only shot.” I asked him for a few hours to make up my mind. I then asked my wife, a real life lawyer - she, probably tired of me whining about my lack of firefighting skills, was emphatic go for it. I called my old boss at the Attorney General - he assured me he would take me back at my old job if the Fire Department didn't work out. I called the admissions guy back and told him - I’m in. But what about the FDNY? After all I just had my best day. I would see if they would make some accommodation. Surely they want smart guys like me, right? Well no, as it turns out, they didn’t. Not while you’re still a Probie. Don't let the door hit you on the way out. I resigned. I know I’m probably the only guy in history who voluntarily quit that job. Firemen friends of mine were aghast - have you lost your mind? Firemen non-friends were less kind. I have the utmost respect for the men and women who do that job, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice, some of whom were friends. Anyway, full steam ahead, I’m promised my old job back and I’m going to law school at night! I entered that room in 1989 full of confidence, sure I was making the right choice. I took a seat at a table next to a serious looking young guy who introduced himself as Jim. We talked. We found out we were both from Staten Island -The Rock- a kinsmen! We kept talking. We found out we were both Lions! Graduates of The Monsignor Farrell High School. Sure, I was seven years older but still this had to be fate! I was ecstatic! The stars were aligning! I said “Jim, there are a lot of people here. I didn't know night school has so many people.” That’s when I saw it for the first time. The look: Compassionate incredulity. He said,
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017 and I remember it like it was yesterday, ”This isn't night school, this is the mid-year program. It’s a full-time day program.” My jaw dropped. Surely I didn't just quit my job for the full time day program? You can’t work full time during the day and go to law school during the day - can you? No, you can’t. I had never bothered to ask the admission guy if the spot was in the evening program. I applied to the evening program. Why would they put me in the day program? Well, they did. Fortunately, it all worked out in the end. My old boss kept my job open while I went to school full time for the first semester. My lovely wife supported me - God, may she rest in peace. I transferred to the night program, got my day job back, actually applied myself, eventually graduated and passed the bar. The Attorney General then made me a prosecutor. Jim became Chief of Staff to a City Councilman and eventually ran for that position himself. After winning, and serving as minority leader for over a decade, he ran for Borough President. He won that election handily. We have been friends since that first inauspicious meeting. Anytime he meets someone who knows me he tells this story and chuckles about the guy who couldn’t tell night from day. Since I am, if nothing else, shameless, I tapped into that friendship to score an exclusive interview for my new gig at The North Shore Local. I only hope he doesn't keep that look on his face the whole time.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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The North Shore Local
The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Page 13
THE ACTORS HOME IN WEST BRIGHTON Opened on May 10, 1902, by the Actors’ Fund of America, a mansion on Clove Road housed elderly entertainers who wished to spend their retirement years together. The 14-acre site was adjacent to Clove Lakes Park near Martlings Pond and occupied what is now part of St. Peter’s Cemetery and the parking lot for the Staten Island Zoo. In April of 1928, the New York City government took the property using eminent domain law, to enlarge an adjacent city park. That year, the residents were moved to the former mansion of American businesswoman Hetty Green in Englewood, N.J., but the West Brighton mansion stood until July 1938, when it was demolished. ( When the Staten Island location closed in 1928 there were 33 “guests,” as the inhabitants were called.) The West Brighton Actors’ Home stood on what was originally the 20-acre estate of Col. Richard Penn Smith, a Civil War hero. It was built in 1877. The house, a three-story stucco building, must in its day have been the epitome of royal elegance, with wings whose facades
were decorated in an Elizabethan beam-and-plaster motif, gables and wide rustic porches. The house was so large only a few additions were needed. Interior and papering work were furnished and handsome furnishings from R.H. Macy were installed. The ground floor had a number of salons, a spacious dining hall, a billiard room and a parlor set up with card tables. On the second and third floors were some 50 bedrooms, many with private baths. The old Smith mansion served the retired performers well, both functionally and socially, according to all accounts. The guests often performed in “Old Timers’ Night” vaudeville shows at the Palace Theater in Port Richmond. The legendary showman George M. Cohan, who was among many well-known personalities who came to those performances, was reputed to be the biggest tipper of the celebrities. (Note from the author: Being a native Staten Islander, I thought I knew all about this Island. In my later years I became very interested in the Island's history. I wondered about all the things I was told about Staten Island but never had the opportunity to personally see. It was my love of Staten Island and a desire to see again how the island used to look that led me to start a website called "Old Staten Island" that has had close to 400,000 visitors, create a facebook page with 25,000 LIKES and write eleven books about the island).
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, February 2-4, 8 p.m. Sunday, February 5, 2 p.m. LOVE LETTERS - Play Little Victory Theatre, 4089 Victory Boulevard Featuring Stephen J. Ryan, Kimberly Simek. Directed/ produced by Fred Grieco. Tickets/info: call 1-718670-3243/email richcountytickets@gmail.com
Snug Harbor, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A Free with Museum admission. Ongoing art workshops for the whole family! For info call: 718-727-1135
Friday, Sunday, February 3 & 5, 1-4 p.m. Tours of the Conference House Conference House, 298 Satterlee Street Historic house where Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Edward Rutledge met with the British to end the Revolutionary War. Free. Info: www.conferencehouse.org or call 718984-6046 for more information.
Saturday, February 4, 6 & 8 p.m. Tavern Concert : Harbortown fet. Bob Wright Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Avenue Songwriter Bob Wright and friends perform songs about our Island and its harbor heritage. For info call: 718-351-1611
Friday, February 3, 8 p.m. Tavern Concert : Sly Scott Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Avenue Get a little Sly with All That Jazz. For info call: 718351-1611 Saturday, February 4, 1-3 p.m. 1st Saturday Family Art Workshop: Sailors' Valentines Staten Island Museum at
Saturday, Sunday, February 4, 5, 1-4 p.m. Art Studio Staten Island Children's Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace. For info call: 718273-2060
Saturday, February 4, 1-5 p.m. Meditation and Tai Chi Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art 338 Lighthouse Avenue. For info call: 718-987-3500 Tuesday, Thursday February 7, 9 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Tot's Time Plus Staten Island Children's Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace Pre-schoolers create artwork, sing along and listen to stories. For info call: 718-273-2060
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Wednesday, February 8, 1:30–4:30 p.m. Clay Day Staten Island Children's Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace Satisfy a "knead." Work with air-dry clay. For info call: 718-273-2060 Wednesday, February 8, 2- 3:30 p.m. Meditation 101 Staten Island Museum at Snug Harbor, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A Free with Museum admission. Guided meditation in our Infinite Compassion Gallery. Thursday, February 9, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. The Story Museum Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Avenue Stories, crafts, music, dancing and singing. For info call: 718-351-1611 Thursday, February 9, 1:30–4:30 p.m. Paint Day Staten Island Children's
The North Shore Local Museum, 1000 Richmond Terrace Experiment with paints and other media! For info call: 718-273-2060 Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, February 11, 12 & 22
Classic Puppet Shows: The Emperor’s New Clothes Little Victory Theatre, 4089 Victory Boulevard Call for tickets/showtimes: 718 -524-8467 Wednesday, February 15, 10:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. Bird and Nature Walk Mount Loretto Unique Area, 6450 Hylan Boulevard Free/donations welcome. 1-2 mile guided hike through one of the Island's beautiful green spaces. Wednesday, February 15, 7:30 p.m. Community Board 1 Monthly Meeting All Saints Episcopal Church, 2329 Victory Boulevard
The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017 what’s going on. Anyway, I just wanted to say good luck and can't wait to see the first edition. Jack Schaefer Be Alert
Dear Editor: Congratulations on the start of your new newspaper. There is a lot of great stuff going on in the area and I hope you give the North Shore the attention It deserves. I hope you cover sports because sports is like a religion to some people around here and they like to keep to up on the action. Another thing that’s great about a paper is that you can let people know what civic groups are doing especially if people work a lot and can’t get to meetings but still want to know
Dear Editor, A word to the wise especially if you live on Grymes Hill! Lock your car doors and watch your deliveries as there have been reports of theft especially in the overnight hours. One such incident was reported on January 17 in the early morning hour of approximately 3 a.m. Police would be interested in CLEAR face shots from security surveillance. J. Fahey What About Us?
Dear Editor, I recently heard that a Staten Island fast ferry with a stop in Bay Ridge is being touted as a great way to give Stat-
en Island commuters a way to enjoy “Brooklyn’s hottest new neighborhoods.” What about giving Staten Islanders a more civilized commute into Manhattan? Yes, the ferry ride itself is perfectly okay but what about getting to the ferry? What about when you get off the ferry? If a citywide ferry system is going to be a new option for different neighborhoods why not enhance ferry service here as well? Why not have a ferry from Staten Island to Chelsea pier on the West Side or East 34th Street? The Wheel is sure to attract millions but if some of those
Page 15 tourists got on boats in midtown the regular ferry won’t become ridiculously overcrowded which I expect will happen. A fast ferry to Bay Ridge is not going to help the nightmare faced by thousands of us who commute into Manhattan daily. Moreover, why would we want to lure Staten Islanders to Brooklyn hot spots in light of the economic development we are hoping for on the north shore? Pat DeMarco Send letters and comments to Mail@StatenLocal.com.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
The North Shore Local
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
The North Shore Local
Chuck Takes Center Stage
By Dan Guarino
The Local had already gone to press before Staten Island Chuck emerged from his burrow at the SI Zoo to predict a lasting winter or an early spring. His emergence coincided with our own. But if Chuck can predict, so can we. We predict that beyond a shadow of a doubt this Groundhog Day, February 2, all eyes were on this most
prominent North Shore resident. How good is Chuck, or, more formally Charles G. Hogg? “He has an 85 percent accuracy rate,” the Zoo’s Executive Director Ken Mitchell told The Local. By comparison, he says, Pennsylvania’s Punxsutawney Phil comes in at less than 50 percent. “Mayor Bloomberg named Chuck the city’s number one meteorologist.”
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In fact, he has been accurate in predicting winter’s duration for 28 of the past 32 years. Brian Morris, Marketing and Development VP at the zoo, explains that if Chuck sees his shadow it means more winter. Groundhogs come out in February to see if it’s safe. If they are frightened by their shadow, they go back underground and back to hibernation for six more weeks of cold winter. If they don’t see their shadow, they venture out to find food and a mate. Spring is coming. Since ancient times it was believed that hibernating animals could predict the planting seasons. In the 1700’s, German farmers brought the tradition to America. Though the details were unavailable as we had gone to press, several hundred people were expected for Chuck's big day, with many arriving as early as 6:30 a.m.
This Week in History February 2 Sam Russo was born. Beth Selitto was born. Stephanie Sussex Murray was born. 1709 – Scottish sailor Alexander Selkirk, the inspiration for Daniel Defoe's book, Robinson Crusoe, rescued after four years alone on an island off Chile’s coast. 1876 - The National League of Professional Baseball Clubs was formed. February 3 Melissa Anne was born.
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The woodchuck of the hour was scheduled to emerge at 7:30 a.m. The festivities were slated to include a performance by the PS 45 chorus. Students at the school “will also be our Chuck Weather Checkers,” Mitchell noted, charting each day above or below 40 degrees to see if his prediction was right. “We were the first zoo in the country to have education in its mission.” Planning for the event, sponsored by Investors Bank, included Deputy Borough President Edward Burke as emcee, and John Franzreb III, dressed in traditional garb, to blow his trumpet to herald Staten Island Chuck’s appearance. Whether turning up the thermostat or unpacking summer clothes, we predict people will be talking about Chuck’s predictions for weeks to come. Photo by Dan Guarino
1913 - The 16th Amendment, establishing federal income tax, was ratified. 1959 - Rock singers Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and The Big Bopper died in a plane crash. February 4 Kevin Murray was born. 1789 - George Washington and John Adams were elected president and vice president of the United States. 1974 - Patricia Hearst, granddaughter of newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst, was kidnapped by the Symbionese Liberation Army.
February 5 Jimmy Max Restaurant was opened. 1811 – King George III was declared insane. Prince of Wales became Prince Regent of England, later George IV. 1937 - FDR proposed increasing the Supreme Court justices to as many as 15 justices. February 6 Matt Long was born. Maureen Marotta was born. Kerri Bringslid was born. Robert Chi was born. 1935 - The board game Monopoly went on sale for the first time. 1952 - Princess Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain. February 7 1926 - Carter G. Woodson founded Negro History Week, which later evolved into Black History Month. 1964 - The Beatles arrived in the U.S. for the first time. February 8 Christina Cardone was born. Kerri Hall Hicks was born. 1870 - The National Weather Service was established under the U.S. Army Signal Corps. 1915 - D. W. Griffith's controversial film, The Birth of a Nation, premiered in Los Angeles.
The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Page 19
The Idea Guys From The John To Riches
By Chris Boyle
Ideas. Like Jimmy Durante used to say, “I got a million of ‘em.” What we don’t have is the time, ambition, or inclination to turn these uncut gems of genius into cold hard cash. For years, a small cadre of friends has made a cottage industry of regaling each other with the next great idea that “is gonna make us a boatload of dough!” We have rarely tried to take these nuggets beyond barroom dreams. In fact, we take a certain pride in NOT wanting to go through the drudgery of turning ideas into practical realities, even if it could mean an early retirement. We find joy in the hunt for the next great idea. Solving some simple problem that the world seems unable
Deminic
to cope with. And we’re not delusional enough to think our bright ideas have never been thought of before. That’s not the point. WE’VE never thought of them before, so they SEEM new and revolutionary to us. Since we’re not going to follow through on them, what’s the difference? And we’ve have found that almost anyone you mention your “great idea” to will shoot back an equally fabulous, if unrealized, innovation that they’ve been carrying around like a Secret Santa, waiting to present it with a smile to anyone who will listen. So we dedicate this column to all you closet Thomas Edisons. All the Ralph Kramdens whose minds keep scheming for a better way to “core a ap-
ple.” We want to create an open source marketplace of ideas. You’re welcome to run with ours, get rich off them, discard them, improve upon them, or just chuckle to yourself and think, “I got a better idea…” Here's one to start. The problem: Ladies, what’s your biggest complaint about men in a shared bathroom? And no, we don’t mean tear inducing odors. We all know what the answer is: men leave the toilet seat up. This leaves every woman we know to complain that they almost went for a swim last time they absentmindedly followed a man into the throne room. Hey, guys don’t like to touch that nastiness any more than the fairer sex! Lifting once upon entry (usually with your
foot) is as far as most of us want to go! The big idea: garbage can style foot pedals for the toilet. A simple lifting mechanism that a man could step on to lift the seat, just like when tossing out some paper at the office. Take your foot off, and the seat retreats to offer a comfy poolside repose for the next customer. Use suction cup attachments for tile floors, and a simple version could be sold at grocery store checkout counters for easy retrofitting. Catchy name: the Pee Whiz. We could sell a million of ‘em! Got any great ideas? If you do, and don’t mind someone else getting rich off it, send it to us at Mail@StatenLocal. com
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
The North Shore Local
The REAL Story REAL ESTATE ON STATEN ISLAND
George Wonica By George Wonica Jr.
For the last 26 years, I’ve been involved in local Real Estate on Staten Island. I’m a second generation REALTOR and more importantly, a second generation Staten Islander. Staten Island is not only where I work. Staten Island is where I live. Staten Island is where I raise my family. Staten Island is where I help others
find the homes in which they will raise their families. Staten Island is where I help others with the sale of what is probably, their largest asset. Staten Island is where I help educate people on the Real Estate Market. Yes, you read that correctly. I educate. Why do I feel that I educate you might ask? Because real estate markets change. Sometimes very quickly. People need to understand that many market factors can either aid or hamper their purchase attempts. And they need to consult a professional. Now listen, Cousin Joe might be great at fixing things around your house and always gives the best advice, but if he’s not a REALTOR, you might lose a house because of it. It is the worst feeling in the world as a professional to see
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So the REAL Story on Real Estate in Staten Island…Make sure you use a Realtor! Have a question you want to ask about Real Estate? Visit me on my social platforms: On Facebook – Search Staten Island; On Snapchat – gswonicasells On Twitter - @gswonica; On Instagram – Search Staten Island; Or my website – SearchStatenIsland.com and finally, you can send me email at gswonica@wonicarealtors.com
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someone lose a house because they received bad advice from someone that had no clue what the market is. When a buyer loses a home, and EVERY home they look at they compare to the one they lost…… it’s difficult. Especially for me. But…sometimes, that’s part of the education. No house is the same. No transaction is the same. Foreclosures, Estates, Short Sales. All are different and handled as such.
The Staten Island Ferry is charting new waters as it sailed to record breaking levels last year. According to the latest data, the ferry took on another 800,000 passengers above the ridership high-water mark reached in 2012. Compiled during the 12 months between July 2015 and June 2016, the numbers show 23.1 million people rode the ferry from SI to Manhattan. In 2012, 22 million riders were welcomed aboard. The SI Ferry information was released as part of the NYC Mayor’s Management Report which breaks down the numbers for a wide range of city operations. Borough President James Oddo has pointed to new legislation that “required no more than half hour wait times between boats so that the sched-
ule would stop acting as a de facto curfew on Staten Islanders (travel).” This, according to Oddo, is a big part of the jump in ridership. Oddo proposed the legislation in 2013. It was adopted by the City Council later that year. Continuing developments along the North Shore, such as the New York Wheel, Empire Outlets, the Lighthouse Point project and the Urby luxury apartments’ opening, have certainly helped boost ridership as well. A Community Board 1 report adds that about 13,000 tourists take the ferry on weekends. The 5.2 mile cruise from St. George to Whitehall is one of the most popular attractions in the city. So the next time your commute seems a little more crowded, keep in mind there are now another 800,000 people riding with you!
The North Shore Local
ŵ
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RETIREMENT
PAT BRENNAN
Facts You Probably Don’t Need The most expensive liquid in the world is scorpion venom at $39,000,000 per gallon. Sergei Bubka repeatedly and deliberately broke the world pole vault record by the smallest possible height so that he could cash in on a Nike bonus with each new record. In a two year span, he broke his own world record 14 times. The loudest known noise was created by a volcano which created sound waves that altered air pressure on earth for 5 days and ruptured the ear drums of sailors 40 miles away from the blast. London only reached its preWorld War II population level in January, 2015. Colin McGregor, brother of Star Wars actor Ewan McGregor, is a British RAF pilot and goes by the call sign "Obi Two." Microsoft Solitaire was developed by a summer intern
Council Corner :
NEWS YOU MIGHT USE FROM COUNCILWOMAN DEBI ROSE City Councilwoman Debi Rose frequently updates her Facebook page. Here’s from a recent post: “It is not too late to get involved in Participatory Budgeting in the 49th District! Our Participatory Budgeting delegates have been working hard over the past four months! They have conducted site visits at schools, NYCHA developments, major transportation hubs and city parks throughout our district to identify the need, feasibility, and impact of the projects that you submitted this fall. Now that they have submitted the finalized projects to the city agencies, Vote Week for PBNYC is just around the corner. In preparation for our PB Get Out the Vote (GOTV) efforts, we are looking for organized, motivated and passionate people to serve as ‘Super Volunteers’ for the district. These individuals will support the district and ensure that those who want to vol-
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From your loving family & friends
Page 21
unteer during Vote Week and in the weeks leading up to it get on board. Responsibilities include supporting the logistical planning and staffing of local poll sites, managing and placing poll worker volunteers during Vote Week, and responding to volunteer inquiries as they come up during GOTV and Vote Week. Time commitment includes a two-hour training in early February; a two hour training in early March and a dedicated 5 (or more) hours a week welcoming and preparing new volunteers from mid-February to Vote Week - March 25 to April 1. Expect to dedicate at least 20 (or more) hours to this role during Vote Week itself. The first local GOTV Super Volunteer training will take place on February 8 at noon in Lower Manhattan. If interested please email Isa Rogers at irogers@council.nyc.gov.”
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named Wes Cherry. He received no royalties for his work despite it being among the most used Windows applications of all time. In 1904, Carl Pettersson, a Swedish sailor, was shipwrecked on an island in Papua New Guinea inhabited by cannibalistic tribals. He was carried to their king, whose daughter fell in love with him. He married the king's daughter and after his death, became king of the island. Cats only meow towards humans. In the wild they never meow. Anderson Cooper has no formal training as a journalist and interned at the CIA before taking up the profession. Christopher Nolan's (Director of the Dark Knight) brother is a convicted hitman, currently imprisoned in Costa Rica for murder.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
The North Shore Local
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The North Shore Local
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Stand Up and Cheer! THE LITTLE VICTORY DEBUTS ‘LOVE LETTERS’
By Dan Guarino
The curtain is rising on more than the North Shore Local on Thursday, February 2. Also making its debut is “Love Letters,” the newest production at The Little Victory Theatre. Presented by The Richmond County Repertory Company, the humorous and touching play will grace the stage with performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, February 2, 3, 4 at 8 p.m. and on Sunday, February 5, at 2 p.m. Love Letters, nominated for a Pulitzer Prize for Drama, was written by A.R. Gurney, and has been on Broadway many times since premiering in 1989. It has starred the likes of Kathleen Turner, Julie Harris, Carol Burnett, George Segal, Christopher Walken, and Brian Dennehy, and most recently toured nationally with Ryan O'Neal and Ali MacGraw. While preparing for its Staten
Island run, director and resident Fred Grieco described Love Letters as a “portrait of the powerful connection of love told through a lifetime of correspondence. I picked
Page 23
of the Rockaway Theatre Company. His bio explains how Ryan spends most of his off time “either traveling, writing and sometimes writing while traveling.” In 2014 he won the Manhattan Repertory Theatre's Winter One Act Festival with A Beautiful Mourning, a play he wrote, produced and directed. Kimberly Simek’s stage credits include Gypsy as Louise/Gypsy, Crossing Delancey, Moon Over Buffalo, Lend Me a Tenor, Brighton Beach Memoirs, Urinetown, Annie Get Your Gun, The Odd Couple, Lost In Yonkers, and others. Director Fred Grieco himself has been involved in community
Stephen J. Ryan
this play because I felt it was a perfect two character examination of long term relationships.” His cast features community theatre veterans Stephen J. Ryan and Kimberly Simek as the letter writers, Andrew Ladd III and Melissa Gardner. Ryan is a full-time teacher and part time performer, writer and director. Besides performing locally he is also a proud member
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theater for more than 25 years. His acting resume is filled with performances in many well-known plays
and musicals. Behind the scenes he has worked as Assistant Director on many of the Brooklyn-based Strivelli Players productions, and previously directed Cabaret. Now he is bringing Love Letters to the North Shore. He told The Local, “I've been doing theater around the area for nearly thirty years and it's been my experience that the most difficult part of doing good community theater is finding space. “That's why the recent opening of the Little Victory Theatre is so important to Staten Island. The Little Victory Theatre has been putting on plays and musicals since early 2015 and has different productions, including children's shows, monthly. (It’s) already an important resource and destination for Staten Islanders seeking live performances.” With Love Letters, Grieco, the cast and company, are writing a fitting P.S. to the romance between SI and live theatre. Anyone interested in Love Letters can call 718-670-3243 for reservations and information. The Little Victory Theatre is located at 4089 Victory Boulevard.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
The North Shore Local
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
In Memoriam
The North Shore Local
She is survived by her loving children, Paul A. and AnnMarie Tatar, Stephen J. Tatar, Barbara and Noel Elizabeth Perillo Death Notices Mella, and was the beloved grandJanuary 26, 2017 mother of Steven M., Michael V., Arrangements under the direc- Christopher N., Juliann C. and PatRaymond L. Palma tion of Harmon Funeral Home, rick R.; devoted great-grandmother January 28, 2017 of Olivia and Madison. Arrangements under the direc- Staten Island, NY. 571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY Funeral arrangements are tion of Harmon Funeral Home, 10310 / 718-442-5056 through Cherubini-McInerney FuStaten Island, NY. neral Home, 1289 Forest Avenue 571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY Constance Falciano (formerly Meislohn-Silvie). (718) 10310 / 718-442-5056 January 30, 2017 442-9047 Arrangements under the direcCatherine ‘Kay’ Larlee (nee Daly) tion of Harmon Funeral Home, Angela E. Caruso January 27, 2017 Staten Island, NY. Angela E. Caruso, nee Fama, 74, Arrangements under the direc571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY died peacefully on January 11, 2017 tion of Harmon Funeral Home, 10310 / 718-442-5056 surrounded by her loving family. Staten Island, NY. Born in Brooklyn, NY, she moved to 571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY Obituaries Staten Island and worked as an Ex10310 / 718-442-5056 ecutive Assistant for a moving comHilda M. Tatar pany. Angela loved to host family Frank Murphy Jr. Hilda M. Tatar (nee Semmling), and friends at warm celebrations January 29, 2017 93, passed away on Jan. 21, 2017. in her home. She enjoyed traveling Arrangements under the direcBorn in Hartford, Conn., Hilda to Europe, cooking, and swimming tion of Harmon Funeral Home, moved to Staten Island, where she at Brady's Pond, which her home Staten Island, NY. graduated from Port Richmond overlooked. 571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY High School and became a maAngela is survived by her loving 10310 / 718-442-5056 chine operator for a cosmetics husband, Joseph Caruso; loving company. She enjoyed shopping daughters Lauren (James) VaccaJessica Lugo and baking, and Hilda truly loved ro and Heather (Stephen) Caruso January 25, 2017 to host holiday gatherings with her Brown; dear sister Santa L. El-DaArrangements under the direc- family. She will be deeply missed by da; grandchildren Peter Joseph, tion of Harmon Funeral Home, her family and friends. Amanda James, Sophia Frances, Staten Island, NY. Hilda was predeceased by her and Stephen Angelo; and two niec571 Forest Ave, Staten Island, NY husband, Gabriel; her son, Robert es and a nephew. G., and her grandson, Paul G. Tatar. 10310 / 718-442-5056 Funeral arrangements are
through Cherubini-McInerney Funeral Home, 1289 Forest Avenue (formerly Meislohn- Silvie). (718) 442-9047 Ruth Lambiase
Ruth Lambiase (Hudack) passed away at home peacefully on January 10, 2017. Born in Bayonne, NJ, Ruth moved to Staten Island and had been a resident ever since. She enjoyed life to the fullest. Her hobbies included gardening, antiquing, baking, crafting and spending time with her grandchildren. Ruth is survived by her loving children, Cynthia Lambiase, Cathleen Lotito and Michael Lambiase, Jr.; Beloved sister of Arlene Siemietkowski and devoted grandmother to Michael Pedersen, Cheryl Bollenbach, Robert Pedersen, Anthony Picciano, Candice Clites, Cassandra Lotito, Justin and Juliana Lambiase. Also survived by her eight adored great grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are through Cherubini-McInerney Funeral Home, 1289 Forest Avenue (formerly Meislohn- Silvie). (718) 442-9047 The North Shore Local can only accept obituary information sent through a funeral home or cemetery. It cannot assume responsibility for any incorrect information provided to it or printed here.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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BP Offers Direct Connect at Mount Loretto
Photo by Dan Guarino Good crowd at the Direct Connect event By Dan Guarino
You could mingle. You could schmooze. You could hobnob and rub elbows. And best of all you could make a direct connection at the fourth annual event hosted by Borough President James Oddo. Direct Con-
nect is what the Borough President calls a day of outreach, a day designed to “bring Borough Hall to the community.” He’s opted for this style event in lieu of the more traditional State of the Borough address. On Sunday, January 29 at the Mount Loretto CYO Center
hundreds of visitors were able to pick up literature and speak directly with representatives from dozens of agencies, groups and organizations. The diverse array included the FDNY, NYPD, NYC Parks, SI Community Boards, the New York Road Runners, The Tibetan and Staten Island Museums, Makerspace NYC, NYC Veterans, the Girl Scouts, the Society of Dyslexia, the American Red Cross, Tobacco Free SI, Historic Richmond Town, Carl’s House and more. This was the first such event at Mt. Loretto. “Due to the additional space afforded by the location change,” the Borough President’s Office noted, they were “able to invite more city agencies and community organizations to talk about their work and help with any constituent issues from the public.” Throughout the afternoon Oddo himself spoke one on one with many residents as they lined up to ask direct questions and raise concerns.
Staffers were also on hand to talk about current projects, new initiatives and issues they are addressing. In an adjacent room tables were set out where officials such as Director of Health & Wellness Dr. Ginny Mantello and others could answer questions and speak with constituents directly. Large table presentation displays covered such topics as education, improving Staten Islander’s health, engaging youth, welcoming more tourists, tackling substance abuse and increasing job opportunities. There also was a demonstration of BP Assist, an app that enables Staten Islanders to quickly report quality of life issues, such as potholes, graffiti, and more. “In past years, ‘Direct Connect Sunday’ has been a great success,” BP Oddo said, “so we’re happy to take this event on the road and expand it.” Judging by the size and activity of the crowd, the State of the Borough looks healthy.
Contact The Elected Congressman Dan Donovan 265 New Dorp Lane, 2nd Floor Staten Island, NY 10306 Phone: 718-351-1062 Fax: 718-980-0768 Borough President James Oddo 10 Richmond Terrace Borough Hall, Room 120 Staten Island, New York 10301 718-816-2000 Assemblyman Matthew Titone 853 Forest Avenue Staten Island, NY 10310 718-442-9932 Assemblyman Michael Cusick 1911 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314 718-370-1384 State Senator Diane Savino 36 Richmond Terr., Suite 112 Staten Island, NY 10301 718-727-9406 State Senator Andrew Lanza 3845 Richmond Ave., Suite 2A Staten Island, NY 10312 718-984-4073 City Councilwoman Debi Rose 130 Stuyvesant Place 6th Floor, Room 602 Staten Island, New York 10301 718-556-7370
Grace Acquafredda Co-Publisher Kevin Boyle Co-Publisher Dan Guarino Editor Mark Cannon Columnist/Sales The North Shore Local 212 Cromwell Avenue Staten Island, NY 10305 718-979-6700
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StatenLocal.com Email: News@StatenLocal.com, mail@StatenLocal.com THE NORTH SHORE LOCAL is published every Thursday by North Shore Local LLC, 212 Cromwell Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305. Ad space reservations by Monday, 12 noon, preceding date of publication. Editorial submission must be made by Monday, 3 P.M., preceding date of publication. All letters to THE NORTH SHORE LOCAL should be brief and are subject to editing. Writers should include a full address and home / office telephone number. Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without permission of THE NORTH SHORE LOCAL. The publisher will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to THE NORTH SHORE LOCAL within three days of publication. Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication. THE NORTH SHORE LOCAL assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold THE NORTH SHORE LOCAL and its employees harmless from all costs, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication placed by the advertiser or any reply to any such advertisement. © 2017 The North Shore Local LLC.
This Week’s Helpful Hint By Tommy Carrera
The Westerleigh Witch asks: Do I need to replace my CO detector? Great question! CO alarms do not last forever. Everyone knows, or should know, you change batteries on smoke detectors once a year, but few people realize detecting mechanisms will lose their efficiency after 5 to 7 years and may no longer detect carbon monoxide. Major manufacturers recommend that after 5 years any detector be replaced with a new CO alarm. Check the back of your CO alarm for a build date or an expiration date. If there is no date REPLACE IT! Remember CO is odorless and colorless and it can kill you. CO is the offgassing or fumes produced
any time you burn fuel in autos, small engines, like generators, stoves, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges, or furnaces. You should have one on every floor especially just outside sleeping areas. When the carbon monoxide alarm senses a dangerous level of carbon monoxide the alarm will sound very similar to a smoke alarm. The unit will emit a loud pattern. Should one go off in your home immediately move to fresh air and call 911. This is not to be confused with a low battery alarm/chirp which will be one beep every 30 to 60 seconds. Thanks for your question Westerleigh Witch and remember don’t start your broom in your house! (Send comments or questions Mail@StatenLocal.com)
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Wednesday, March 1 9:30 AM Early Childhood and Lower School Open House for Students entering Pre-K3 through Grade 4
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
Page 29
Fore ! Golf Is A Winter Sport
John Strandberg By John Strandberg
This is the time of year we stockpile ice melt, dig out the snow shovels, and inventory our hats, boots and gloves. Most golfers have packed away their clubs, or shipped them off to Florida for their winter vacations, but for many hearty men and women, golf hasn’t ended for the season. The “Winter Game” is in full swing at the local public golf courses! Of
course, the play is a bit different. Think two pairs of socks, a base layer underneath winter pants and top, then maybe another top and jacket. Let’s not forget the winter golf gloves, which serve the dual purpose of keeping your hands warm and providing good grip on your clubs. A good quality ski cap and hand warmers can come in quite handy as well. Sub forty degree days are surely different than the summertime high temperatures. The changes in equipment performance and course conditions that present themselves during the winter months require you to utilize every club in your bag and truly test your shot-making ability. I asked regular winter golfer Dan Pizzuto, President of the Staten Island Golf Association (SIGA), what is the appeal of winter golf here on Staten Island? Dan tells us “Well, the main thing is to just be out there, keeping the rust off. When it’s cold the ball doesn’t travel as
far, so club selection is different than the summer months. One day the ground may be soft, and the next it’s frozen hard. It’s challenging to adjust to the changing course conditions. The pace of play is excellent during the winter, it is easy to play 18 holes in three hours or less. The bottom line is, if you want to keep your game sharp, you cannot let the clubs gather dust. It’s great to be out there with your friends regardless of the weather.” Speaking of winter golf, golf course maintenance doesn’t end when the thermometer plummets. Doug Johnstone, golf course superintendent at Silver Lake Golf Course says, "These cold months allow golf course superintendents the opportunity to address issues that arise on the golf course. The decreased amount of play enables superintendents to plan and implement both major and minor projects. These projects can include building new tee box-
es, adding additional drainage solutions to problem areas, and removing invasive plant species" During the winter months, much work is going on behind the scenes for the spring and summer golf season. Golf club and golf league schedules are set, golf outings are booked and planned, and competitive high school and junior golf leagues and tournaments are solidified. The clubhouse at the course is a meeting place for friends, old and new, to share a meal and drink. Where those who love the game of golf come and marvel at the stalwarts on the course. So, if one morning you wake up, maybe with a little cabin fever, remember where you packed away your clubs, get your warm clothes on and head out to the course. You will not be alone, and you will be glad that you did. See you on the course! You can contact me: john@silverlakegolf.com (Staten Island’s Home of Golf #SIHOG)
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
All-Time Hoopsters Honored
On Sunday January 22, 2017 at halftime of Monsignor Farrell’s victory over Kennedy Catholic, the school honored eight of its all-time great players. These eight were all recipients of the prestigious Jaques Award given each year to the Island’s best high school basketball player. From left to right - Bob Mahala ‘78, Kenny White ‘88, Steve Rossiter ‘79, Chris Bernsten ‘91, Brian O’Neill ‘71, John Semerad ‘75, James Hett ‘07 and Nick Corbett ‘16.
Lion’s coach Mike Dunn, himself a recipient of the award (St. Peter’s 84), said, “It's always important for the players to know who came before them, and to understand how important playing ball at Farrell was for them and the values carried throughout their lives. As these guys spoke to the kids before the game, you could see and hear the passion they still have for both the school and the game.”
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Congratulations to the North Shore Local on your inaugural issue, from all the guys on the Staten Island Storm basketball team. It's your first season and it's our last. We hope you are as fortunate as we've been. We'll be rooting for you!
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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' s l a c o L e Th m o o R g n i v Li 372 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10301
Jody's Club Forest 372 Forest Avenue • Staten Island, NY 10301 • 718-727-6338 ·
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2017
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