Staten Island Parent March 2013

MARCH 2013

.com SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PARENTING

F.D.N.Y.

Explorers Program for Staten Island High Schoolers

Camp Directory Inside

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TABLE OF CONTENTS MARCH 2013

ADVERTISER INDEX 129

COVER STORY

Day Camp: STORY COVER Preparing for Adventures Close to Home

For a great many Staten Island children, day camp is the very welcomed reward after a school year fraught with storms, bus strikes, frigid cold weather, homework, tests, and other stresses. It’s a time to unwind, have fun, make friends, learn new skills and just enjoy being a kid. In our cover story, Denise Yearian helps us to assess our options and choose the perfect environment to meet these needs.

Read more on page 66

ARTICLES 34 F.D.N.Y. Fire and Emergency Services Exploring Program Great opportunities for high school students

44 Buying the Proper Tennis Equipment Equipping your child with the right racquet can help him or her excel

50 Money Tight?

Don’t Raid Your Retirement Account Good reasons to keep your retirement intact during tough financial times.

54 Avoid Tantrums Triggered

by Food Dyes Synthetic food dyes can cause overactivity and aggression

74 Eleanor Roosevelt

COLUMNS 32 Good Sports

by Joe LoVerde

42 Ask the Doctor

by Hadassa Teitelbaum, SIUH

48 Dear Teacher

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

62 Parent & Child Time

by Ann Clinton

72 .Growing Up Online

by Carolyn Jabs

92 GiGi’s World

by GiGi & Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker

Remarkable facts about this inspiring First Lady

82 Spring Break Staycation How to have a great time with your tweens and teens

4 BabyBjörn Cradle Giveaway 28 Justin Bieber Ticket Giveaway 61 Born Free Feeding Set 90 Contest Winners 91 Find the Hidden Cake 124 Birthday Club

SPECIAL SECTIONS 60 OMG...I’m a Mom! 69 2013 Camp and Summer Program Directory

80 Amazing Women in History 88 Rebuild. Renew. Recover: Part III

S. I. LIVING 20 Community & School News 52 Easter Events and Activities

Make Sure You Check Out Our Camp Directory online @ siparent.com.

Click on the Camps Tab

CONTESTS & CLUBS

Spring Brings Forth New Life

FAMILY NEEDS 70 It’s In The Cards

61 Birth Announcements

118 Party Services

94 Library Hours

122 Family Classifieds

94 Family Calendar

126 Professional Directory

Winter is Coming...If You Can’t Get Out to Pick Up a Copy of S.I. Parent, Go to

www.siparent.com/digital_magazine.php

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Readers, I recently had the opportunity to meet Dan Miller, author of "Wisdom meets Passion" and “48 Days to the Work You Love.” As I was reading his book, I began to think of children attending summer programs or camps. Dan talks about living our lives and enjoying what we do each day. School provides our children with an education that is structured and, in many situations, designed so that children are able to pass standardized tests. So, from September to June our children conform to our educational system.

Ah….and now the opportunities of summer! What options do we have for our children? Staten Island families are fortunate because we live in a community that provides so many different choices of summer programs. They can try out a new sport or find their creative side in art, dance or a music program. Perhaps they can hone a new skill that they’ve always wanted to explore, but didn’t have the time. Summer programs and camps can open the door to things that might not have been available to them during the school year. As parents, let’s encourage them through varied experiences to find their own path that will bring them joy. Be sure to read about the F.D.N.Y’s Explorers Program on page 34 for unique opportunities in many fascinating fields.

Many working parents struggle with scheduling when there are breaks in the school year. Rather than seeing it as a chore, view it as an exciting opportunity. Start having dinner conversations about what you can do to make the spring break enjoyable for everyone. Need staycation suggestions if you are not planning a trip this spring? Read the article “A Spring Break Staycation with Tweens and Teens” on page 82 for some great ideas. You can also check out our listing of “Easter Egg Hunts and Activities” on page 52 and let us know on Facebook which ones you find interesting.

WIN THE BABYBJÖRN CRADLE

For those who are celebrating Passover and Easter at the end of this month, our team wants to wish everyone a very happy holiday.

It has been a long winter for all of us. I hope that the start of Spring on March 20 brings a new beginning to so many of our families who are still feeling the impact of Sandy.

The BabyBjörn Cradle is lightweight and portable and is specifically designed to turn baby’s own movements into gentle rocking.

The softly sprung movements help baby self soothe, relax and fall asleep. Transparent mesh fabric and a low height allow secure supervision, making it easy to check that baby is sleeping safely and peacefully. The airy and soft mesh fabric also allows baby to breathe through it, even if positioned close to the side.

A $349.99 value!!

Enter online at siparent.com

See you on Facebook!

Click the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

STAFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht SENIOR EDITOR/ DESIGNER Gerri Friscia PUBLISHERS Roselle Farina Hecht Luciano Rammairone DESIGNER Michelle Yannaco

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & FINANCES Linda Bellesi EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Elizabeth Thompson OFFICE ASSISTANT Carole Stillman

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen Bonnie Arciero Kitty Masi Janine Mulé Christine Fiorenza Cecilia Saccomagno TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Alex Levy

You can use a QR Code scanner on a smartphone to visit our website. Download one of the following free apps: QR Reader for iPhone, Barcode Scanner for Android and ScanLife for Blackberry S.I. Parent magazine is published 12 times a year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The publishers of this magazine do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or writers.

DISTRIBUTION Orlando Moreno

1200 South Avenue, Suite 202 • Staten Island, New York 10314 Advertising: 718.761.4800 x139 | Email: info@siparent.com

www.siparent.com

Regi Now ster Sum for m & Sa er ve!

Register Now for Spring Classes!

Sports Center

Newly Expanded 14,000 Sq. Ft Air-Conditioned Facility

2013

Photo by Sal-Mar Studios

At Athletic Edge Sports Center Summer Camp, children ages 4-12 will receive professional instruction in Gymnastics, Dance and Cheer Technique. Other activities will include: arts & crafts, basketball, soccer, football, baseball, hockey & martial arts. Our full time campers will also enjoy special days which include pizza, ice cream, water games and movies. Our camp will be indoors and outdoors (weather permitting). Our staff is full of trained professionals with the goal of teaching your child the sport of their expertise in a safe and fun environment. All employees are safety certified and trained in CPR.

JULY 1-AUGUST 9 • 1 to 6 Weeks • 2 to 5 Days a Week • Full Days (9-3) or Half Days (9-12)

YOU CHO OSE THE SCH ED ULE THA T WOR KS FO R Y OU! EXTENDED HOURS AVAILALBLE

20 Off

$

ANY CAMP PROGRAM With early camp registration. One coupon per family. Expires 4/30/13.

SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE 9:00-9:35am Morning Stretch • 9:35-10:15am Tumble Track & Vault • 10:15-10:50am Sports 10:50-11:25am Art & Snack • 11:25am-12:00pm Beam & Bars • 12:00-12:35pm Trampoline & Cheer 12:35-1:15pm LUNCH • 1:15-1:50pm Tumbling & Free Plays • 1:50-2:25pm Dance, Boys-Rings & PBars • 2:25-3:00pm Sports Conditioning • 3:00pm Pick-Up

1/2 Off REGISTRATION New students only.

Expires 3/31/13.

10 Nassau Place (Off Arthur Kill Road) 718.608.0100 • www.AthleticEdgeNY.com

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A CALL AWAY FOOT CARE

FOOT CARE FOR KIDS TO SENIORS

WALK-INS WELCOME Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat – TOTTENVILLE D O C T O R S O F P O D I AT R I C M E D I C I N E

WALK-INS WELCOME Mon, Wed, Thurs & Sat – NEW DORP WWW.ACALLAWAYFOOTCARE.COM

HOUSE CALLS

BOARD CERTIFIED American Board of Podiatric Surgery American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics American Board of Podiatric Medicine

DR. JEFFREY MILLER DR. JEFFREY KNEMOLLER DR. PAUL BETSCHART

MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED AS FULL PAYMENT • Guardian • Horizon • Locals • Medicare • Magna Care

• Aetna • BC/BS • Cigna • Empire Plan • GHI

• Multiplan • Oxford • 1199 • Touchstone • UHC • Emblem • Unions Health • 99% of All Insurances

Fungal Nail Laser Surgery

$799

Not covered by insurance

FEATURED ON T.V., NEWSPAPERS & MAGAZINES • State of the Art Facilities (NYC & SI) • Hospital & In-Office Surgery • X-Rays, Shock-Wave Therapy, Etc. • Whirlpool, Physical Therapy & More

TOTTENVILLE LOCATION

• All Foot Problems • All Age Groups • Diabetic Specialists • Shoes, Orthotic & Braces

Custom Orthotics

$199

When not covered by insurance

NEW DORP LOCATION

MANHATTAN LOCATION

718-605-3333

718-980-2255

Suite 2F, 2nd Floor (South Shore Commons Mall)

347 New Dorp Ln

115 E 61st St, Ste 3A

(Half Block From Hylan Blvd) (Ample parking in rear)

(Between Park & Lexington) Subways N, R, W, 4, 5, 6

2955 VETERANS RD. W.

212-935-2330

A CALL AWAY FOOT CARE

*

FREE OFFICE VISIT Includes Cutting Nails, Calluses, Corns, Whirlpool, Moisturizing Foot Massage, Routine Care.* FREE GIFT

MUG

$400 VALUE!

Initial visit with coupon only. Must mention at time of appointment. Excludes house calls. Expires 3/31/13.

STATEN ISLAND (TOTTENVILLE) 718-605-3333 • (NEW DORP) 718-980-2255 • MANHATTAN OFFICE 212-935-2330

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STATEN ISLAND DAY CAMP

LOCATED AT THE COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND

800.301.2267 ~CELEBRATING 33 YEARS!~ “FRIENDS AND FAMILY DAY” g Celebratin Our 34th Year!

March 9th • 11am to 2pm College of Staten Island • Building 1R Celebrate this special day with entertainment and a chance to win up to $75 off your family’s camp tuition (new campers only) PRIZES, FACE PAINTING AND MORE!

NEW FOR 2013 SPORTS ACADEMY

Comprehensive sports clinics facilitated by NCAA Personnel.

An unforgettable day of both a selected sport and the ultimate day camp experience!

& TECHZONE ACADEMY Expansive digital media workshops by dynamic collegiate level instructors.

An exceptional day of both “E”magination and the ultimate day camp experience!

Red Cross Certified Swim Instructors • Ages 5 - 13 • Optional Extended Day • Payment Plans Fully Equipped Air conditioned Indoor Facility • 50 Acre outside Facility on Staten Island Monday Interactive Day • Friday Professional Entertainment Day Door to Door Transportation Anywhere on Staten Island

$25 OFF

Coupon to be used via mail if you cannot attend our open house

Visit StatenIslandDayCamp.com to take a virtual tour Call 800.301.2267 for camp literature

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K I D S

Helping Kids One Smile at a Time!

D OPENING N A R !

G y n It’s mmissio ld l i h a t son ur c per at yo expec e r t d l to wou to ne as I omeo own s t my !! trea ildren ch

4864 ARTHUR KILL ROAD 718-356-KIDS (5437) SECOND LOCATION 1839 N. Railroad Ave Corner of Guyon Ave 718-667-KIDS (5437)

www.sidentist4kids.com

KIDS DENTAL State-of-the-Art Pediatric Dental Office Relax in our Submarine Waiting Room.

You can have treatment in the Underwater, Beach or Nautical Room.

• Have Your Child’s First Dental Experience be a Positive One • Your Child’s Happiness and Dental Health are our #1 Priority • Come to Either Location for a Unique and Gentle Visit

DR. LISA LAZZARA Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Over 17 Years Specialty Experience Major Insurances Accepted. Visa/Mastercard Accepted.

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We treat children of all ages, teens, young adults and special needs.

www.siparent.com

Your chil dw SMILE ill after a with Dr. Lvisit isa!!

OPEN HOUSE

PRE-SEAS O DISCOUN N T Less than $

th

9 Saturday, March24th ch & Sunday, Mar 11-4 PM nment Rides & Entertai& Staff Meet Directors Enroll at Discount Rates

30 WITH FREE 0 per week LU Based on NCH 8 week en an ro 2-7 weeks llment, als available o

Private, Air-Conditioned Facility

1075 Woodrow Road ALL SPORTS AND SWIMMING KARATE, FENCING, ARTS & CRAFTS & DANCE DAILY TRIPS & SPECIAL EVENTS MOVIES & BOWLING, SKATING, YANKEE GAME, MEDIEVAL TIMES AND MUCH MORE!

Larry Marantz, Director Adult supervision, full time RN, special diet lunches, CIT programs Free payment plans. Sibling discounts. No registration or hidden fees.

www.rcdaycamp.com • 718-761-1492 MARCH 2013

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Hibachi Grill and Supreme Buffet The Largest, Most Elegant Chinese, Japanese & American Cuisine Catering to All Families We have a HIBACHI section where you can pick and choose your own menu so we can cook it on the hibachi at s Senior0), 6 (over dents, stu college military & e c poli e receiv

NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE!

PRIV PART ATE Y RO OM FOR OVER 100 PEOP LE

off 10% h this Wit ad.

350 DIFFERENT ROTATING ITEMS AT THE BAR

Open Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday

LUNCH $7.59 DINNER $10.99

718.447.6888 • www.hibachigrillbuffetny.com 1501 Forest Ave • SI, NY 10302 (Forest Avenue Shopper’s Town–Next to T.J. Maxx)

$5.99

$8.99

10% Off

Lunch Buffet

Dinner Buffet

Wth this coupon. Dine in only. Cannot be combined with other offers or senior discount. One coupon per table/party.

Requires purchase of a drink for each person. Up to 4 People. Not valid on holidays or on Sunday. Expires 3/31/13. SIP

Wth this coupon. Dine in only. Cannot be combined with other offers or senior discount. One coupon per table/party.

Requires purchase of a drink for each person. Up to 4 People. Not valid on holidays. Expires 3/31/13. SIP

With Purchase of 8 or More Adult Buffet & 8 Drinks

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Wth this coupon. Dine in only. Cannot be combined with other offers or senior discount. One coupon per table/party.

Not valid on holidays.

Expires 3/31/13. SIP

CarnivalKids 20% DISCOU

NT

The Greatest Party On Earth!

FOR ALL BOY OR GSIRCHOOLS, CAMPS, SPECIAL NEL SCOUTS AND ED MON-THUSRPSARTIES

INDOOR BIG TOP CARNIVAL FEATURING Carnival games (skee ball, baseball toss, crazy cans, ring toss, darts, tip the troll, gone fishing, etc.), juggling, magic shows, hula hooping, fortune-telling, spin art, sand art, clowns, costume characters, face painting, ballon making, temporary tattoos, karaoke, corn dogs, lemonade, jellyapples, cotton candy, snow cones & more!!!

KIDS NIGHT OUT! Friday, March 22 from 7:00-9:30pm • $19.99 per child Kids ages 5 & up enjoy unlimited carnival games, dancing, pizza, refreshments & more.

Fully trained staff. Drop off so parents can relax and enjoy their free time. $5 charge for adults who choose to remain.

718-356-4FUN (4386) • www.carnivalkidssi.com 971 Rossville Ave • Corner of Gunton Place

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News

A guide to community events

College basketball fans are looking forward to the annual March Madness tournament later this month, but if your family has a busy schedule, chances are you’re in for some March Madness of your own!

As you shuttle the kids back and forth between dancing school, karate lessons, and various sports practices, be sure to ask them, “Are we having fun yet?”

Important March Public School Dates Please note: All of the following dates were correct as of press time. Please refer to the Board of Education website www.schools.nyc.gov and information from your children’s individual schools for up-to-the-minute information.

PRE-K INFORMATION SESSION: Thurs. March 7 at P.S 69 • 6pm SPRING PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES: Tues. Afternoon, March 12 - Elementary Schools Conferences Wed. Evening, March 13 - Elementary Schools Conferences Thurs. Evening, March 14 - High Schools Conferences Fri. Afternoon, March 15 - High Schools Conferences Mon. Evening, March 18 - District 75 Conferences Tues. Afternoon, March 19 - District 75 Conferences SPRING RECESS: March 25 - April 2. School resumes on April 3

Daylight Saving Time Sunday, March 10 at 2 a.m. begins Daylight Savings Time.

Remember to turn your clocks AHEAD one hour before going to bed on Saturday. Hooray for the return of longer days and more sunshine!

Set aside a day for checking the batteries in your smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, HVAC themostat,

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audio/visual remote controls and other electronic devices.

This is not only a good habit, but can be lifesaving for your family.

Five High Schools Withdraw from CYO Cheerleading Competition

A number of schools have withdrawn as competitors from this year’s CYO Cheerleading Competition, set to take place at CSI on March 2. Moore Catholic, St. Joseph By-the-Sea, Notre Dame, St. Joseph Hill, and St. John Villa have all decided to withdraw their JV and Varsity cheerleading teams from consideration this year in order to focus their training on the national competitions that are coming up this season. The schools will still be on hand at CSI to perform demonstrations of their routines, but they will not be eligible to win any trophies.

Potential Tax Credits for Working Families

Low- and moderate-income families may be in luck this year, thanks to federal and state tax credits to offset child care and other expenses. Through an outreach campaign from The National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), we are learning about credits this year that include an earned income tax credit of up to $5,891 for those who earned less than $50,270; a child tax credit of up to $1,000 per child; and a child and

STATEN ISLAND CHILDREN’S ACADEMY PRESCHOOL AGES 2-6 • OPEN 7AM-7PM

• High Tech Learning Facility with Interactive Smart boards, iPads & Computers • Highly Trained Certified Staff and Teachers • Small Classroom Size • Weekly Assessment of Every Child's Progress • Enrichment Programs • Language Program • Before and After Care Programs (including tutoring & homework helpers) • Our curriculum is aligned with the NYS Common Core Learning Standards to meet and exceed the Social, Cognitive, Linguistic, Emotional, Cultural & Physical needs of the Children • Our vision is to be recognized as a premier facility & to be a role model for other high quality centers.

• Our mission is simple: Happy Children, Happy Parents, Happy Teachers

• Top Security Features -Safe, Fully Covered Circular Driveway for Drop off & Pick up -Computerized Check In Stations featuring Biometric Fingerprint Scan at Entry -Private Security Guard on Site • State of the Art Facility -Air Quality system Utilizes Ultraviolet Light to Eliminate 99.9% of both Airborne & Surface Bacteria, Contaminants & Viruses -Cleanliness of our facility is Necessary for a Healthy Environment. A maintenance crew will be employed to deep clean our facility -Center will be Equipped with Automatic Defibrillator and CPR trained staff -Every Step Taken to Insure the Safety and Health of Every Student

COMMITMENT - ACCOUNTABILITY - RESPECT - EXCELLENCE

GRAND OPENING IN SEPTEMBER

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT Limited Enrollment Register NOW for September 2013 Classes

718.227.2500 50 Osage Lane Staten Island, NY 10312

www.sichildrensacademy.com Join us on Facebook Staten Island Children's Academy

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News a child and dependent care tax credit of up to $2,100 for those families who must pay for child or senior care in order to continue to work.

To learn more about these tax credits and eligibility, visit the NWLC online at www.nwlc.org/LowerYourTaxes.

S.I. Tech Senior is Intel Semifinalist

Congratulations to Christopher Micek, a S.I. Tech senior who was recognized as the Island’s only semifinalist in the 2013 Intel Science Talent Search. He is also only one of 300 students in the country to make it this far in the competition that is also known as the Junior Nobel Prize. Christopher teamed up with Michael Chiacchiero, PT, DPT from CSI’s Physical Therapy Department in a research project titled “The Effects of Physical and Motor Imagery Training Using the Wii Fit on the Maintenance of Standing Balance.” Very impressive!

HIGH HOPES 1298 Woodrow Rd • 718-317-8143

: OPEN M 6:30A TO M 6:30P

TENDER-LOVING CARE!

Flexible Flexible schedules schedules •• Age Age appropriate appropriate curriculum curriculum Half and Full Days available Half and Full Days available

INFANTS

6 Weeks - 2 Years

TODDLERS

2 Years - 3 Years

NURSERY SCHOOL 3 year old program Half days or Full days!

NOW ACCEPTING REGISTRATION SUMMER CAMP

CALL FOR A TOUR

FREE UPK For children born in 2009. Extended hours available.

AGES 2-6 • THEMED CURRICULUM: “LAUA,” “PAJAMA PARTY,” “BEACH PARTY,” AND MORE! OUTDOOR PLAY AREA

Get Ready to Read!

The 2013 “Readers are Leaders” challenge for 4th graders is set to take off on Wednesday, March 21. Borough President James P. Molinaro will be on hand to make the announcement at P.S. 45 in West Brighton. Also joining BP Molinaro will be board members from CTV, who are sponsoring the awards at the end of the challenge, and representatives from Barnes & Noble, the company donating more than 4,000 books to the program and to schools on the Island.

All 4th graders on Staten Island are challenged to read at least six books (at or above grade level) and write book reports on them during the five weeks between March 30th and May 4th. The student at each school who reads and reports on the most books will be recognized as a Champion Reader at an awards ceremony in June at the Petrides School.

This popular program, which was started in 1996 by Councilman Vito Fossella, has resulted in more than 500,000 books read.

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Staten Island Family Music 3 convenient locations!

North Shore, & South Shore nd la Is id M

Morning, Afternoon and Weekend Classes

MUSIC TOGETHER® The internationally renowned music and movement enrichment program for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, children with special needs and the adults that love them.

Spring Semester starting in April Register Before March 15th and Save $15.00!

Check out our Spring class schedule & register online at www.SIFamilyMusic.com FREE DEMO CLASS

Contact us at mary@sifamilymusic.com Mary Aloia, Program Director

S.I. LIVING Community & School News Coca-Cola Lovers, Rejoice!

Although Mayor Bloomberg has made it clear where he stands on sugary soft drinks, BP Molinaro has actually commended Coca-Cola for the company’s new obesity awareness campaign. Coke will be airing TV commercials for its no- and low-calorie beverages featuring individuals performing activities and sports to burn off calories.

Molinaro says, “Our nation is facing an alarming obesity crisis, and it is commendable that the number-one beverage company in the world recognizes the seriousness of this problem and is willing to do its part to help combat it.”

In addition to the new commercials, Coca-Cola will promoting its “Calories Count Vending Program,” posting labels on vending machines listing calories for each beverage, as well as further development of “Coca-Cola Troops for Fitness” program, supporting the hiring of military veterans to teach boot campstyle fitness classes.

Staten Island Smoke-Free Partnership

The Staten Island Smoke-Free Partnership is a community group that works to increase awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco use. Funded by grants from the Department of Health and Human Services and the New York State Department of Health, the group teams up with policy makers and community members to support a number of initiatives including limiting of tobacco advertising to young people, increasing the number of smoke-free outdoor spaces, and increasing the number of 100% smoke-free buildings.

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Senator Joseph Borelli and Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis are two local politicians who have shown their dedication to the fight against tobacco use. For more information, visit www.nycsmokefree.org/statenisland.

La “Tea” Da Presents

Tea

Easter

Me

, Bonnet & y n n Bu

Call today for reservations!

(718) 303-7074 visit www.lateadasi.com

Tutoring By Christine 917.748.9089 christine@tutoringbychristine.com

www.tutoringbychristine.com

TACHS & SHSAT Ongoing Registration for Summer & Fall Sessions.

Special Discount on Early Registration for TACHS & SHSAT Sessions Only.

Must Register by June 1st.

MATH GRADES 3-12 ELA GRADES 3-8 INTEGRATED ALGEBRA, TRIGONOMETRY, GEOMETRY, LIVING ENVIRONMENT AND CHEMISTRY REGENTS CLASSES AVAILABLE.

PRIVATE TUTORING AVAILABLE

25% ANY REGENTS CLASS. OFF Must mention this ad and register by March 30.

Classes begin April 22.

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News Island Student’s Artwork Featured in PAL Calendar

Congratulations to Zainab Olwhoga, a 6th grader from the Police Athletic League’s Port Richmond Center, whose artwork appears in the 2013 PAL calendar. The annual calendar features work from students all across the five boroughs.

This year’s calendar theme is U.S. Landmarks; Zainab’s drawing, which is featured on the page for October, depicts Wyoming’s “Devil’s Tower.”

Alana Sweeny, PAL’s Executive Director, said,“The Police Athletic League has been stimulating young minds and directing youthful energies into constructive pursuits since 1914.” For more information about PAL and the 2013 calendar, visit www.palnyc.org.

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library Wins Theater Contest The Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library Global Partners (GPs) are the winners of the Global Partners’ Urban Stages theater contest sponsored by the Mayor’s Office. The contest judged online participation, multimedia projects, and theater research that was posted on the GP website. The prize was a Kodak Digital camera.

Try Something New & Exciting this Summer

Under the tutelage of Senior Librarian Auria Morales and Information Assistant Sarah Ross, the following Staten Islanders made up the 2012-2013 Global Partners team: Adrian Rosales, Anjali Grobin, Kevin Tadrose, Nathalia Kuruwita, Netheli Kuruwita, Nicole Njarsek, Sarah Myrick-Pettersen, Yasmine Chokrane, and Yohannes Williams. (Special thanks to Chaplain Rev. Gayle Rabinowitz of International Center, who volunteered her time and knowledge of theater.)

Upcoming Basket Auctions Summ r at Segue ine

SEGUINE EQUESTRIAN CENTER invites horse loving children to enjoy an experience that includes all aspects of horsemanship, from riding to daily care.

Daily riding, hands-on lectures about horses, daily grooming lessons, arts and crafts in a beautiful setting.

One week sessions start July 8th on the beautiful grounds of the historic Seguine Mansion.

718.317.1121 for more info

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If SuperStorm Sandy distracted you during the holiday fair season last year, you’ll be happy to learn that a number of schools on Staten Island, including St. JosephSt. Thomas, 2380 Hylan Boulevard on March 7 and St. Christopher, 15 Lisbon Place on March 22, will be holding basket auctions (Chinese auctions) this spring.

Red Dress Campaign Congratulations to Staten Islanders Pauline Marella and Eva Palmer, who were featured in EHE International’s (a leader in preventative medicine) 100th year anniversary p h o t o kicking off their 10th a n n u a l Red Dress Campaign promoting heart health in women.

SPECIALTY SERVICES: Wisdom Teeth Removal • Dental Implants • New Teeth In A Day Cosmetic Procedures • 3D Cone Beam Imaging (CT Scan)

Daniel P. Sullivan, DDS Specialty Permit #5442

NEW TEETH IN A DAY™ A brand new smile in just one day!

FREE DENTAL IMPLANT SEMINAR Thursday, March 28th at 6:00pm Limited Seating...Call Now! or a Us F ry Call imenta l n p o i m at Co sult Con

Mo W. Rabah, DMD Specialty Permit #6015

718.839.6788 201 Edward Curry Avenue • Suite 101 Staten Island, NY 10314 www.paramountoralsurgery.com

Mohammed S. Erakat, DMD, MD Specialty Permit #6083

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To do list: in in 1. See Just gain!

Concert...a

r u o F n i W ! s t e k c i T

n 2. Have Fu . at Concert 3. Become r!!!!

Mrs. Biebe

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Do you have a story about a Staten Islander who has gone above and beyond for a fellow citizen or their community? We’d like to hear from you!

Star Worthy

Go to www.siparent.com and click on Star Worthy under the Contests & Clubs tab for more information about how to nominate a local star.

Honoring Local Heroes

Come Visit Us!

ST. JOSEPH HILL ACADEMY

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, MARCH 10 • 10:00AM-1:00PM PRE-K 3 THROUGH GRADE 7 (limited spots in Junior High)

A Blue Ribbon Nominated School Providing a premier education, Pre-K through Grade 8, to the Staten Island community for over 90 years.

718-981-1187 x9136 • 850 Hylan Boulevard • www.stjosephhill.homestead.com

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So, if you are the parent of a young athlete, do you have reason for concern? Will your child be tempted to take a short cut to athletic excellence?

Or (gasp!) are you a parent looking for the magic pill that will get Junior that college athletic scholarship?

Gary Miller, a strength and conditioning coach for 15 years who has trained athletes of all levels from 7 to 70, has been around the fitness scene long enough to have witnessed all scenarios. But Miller, 34 from Bay Terrace, wants to make one thing clear: It’s the wrong way to go.

“Society demands us to be great right now,” Miller said. “There’s so much pressure to excel. That’s why kids often turn to performanceenhancing drugs.”

The best way to success, he insisted, “is proper nutrition, proper training, proper recovery, patience and persistence.”

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Let’s start with nutrition.

Miller blames parents for allowing their children to make the wrong food choices, although he realizes it’s often difficult to make the right ones given most people’s busy schedules. “That’s the biggest reason kids are out of shape, though,” he said.

Too many candy bars, Big Macs and microwaved dinners and snacks are unhealthy for a child, inside and out.

“A home-cooked meal of lean meat, like turkey, chicken and fish, and fruit during the day,” Miller advised. “Also, children need to hydrate properly. Cut out the soda and the Gatorade. Pure water is the best option.”

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What about supplements, such as creatine or other so-called enhancers?

“Creatine is something the body already produces,” Miller said.

Besides an age-appropriate multi-vitamin, the most Miller would advise for those high school age and up is a homemade protein shake consisting of milk, a banana and a scoop of whey protein after a workout.

“A recovery shake helps your child get the nutrients necessary for the regeneration process,” he said.

And speaking of workouts, Miller said encouraging your children to be active from very early on is important.

“We weren’t meant to be sedentary,” Miller said. “The human body was meant to hunt, fish and climb.”

Although most of the street games that kept my generation in constant motion have given way to laptops, smartphones and video games, Miller said that signing up your 5-to-12-year-old children for martial arts, gymnastics, dance classes (his son is in a break dance class) and soccer is a good place to start.

“All of those activities teach balance and coordination, and there isn’t the kind of contact that leads to serious injury,” he said.

For teenagers, Miller recommends exercises like pushups and pull-ups, where one utilizes his or her own body weight, rather than the weight machines you see in the sports clubs.

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Miller’s belief of body-weight exercise is illustrated in a compact fitness tool he developed years ago that is currently being marketed online and may soon be in stores.

The Pro Unit (www.theprounit.com) allows individuals to utilize principals of effective training: total body strength, cardio conditioning, core power and flexibility.

“Full range-of-motion exercises are intended to work the body the way it was designed to be operated rather than using weight machines,” Miller said. “Nothing — not supplements, not exercise equipment — is as good as what God has already provided for us.”

Joe LoVerde has been coaching youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years.

He’s also a longtime newspaper editor.

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“The average number of pull-ups boys did was three, and the average for girls was zero,” he said.

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EXTRACURRICULAR

>>>

F.D.N.Y. The Fire and Emergency Services Exploring Program For Staten Island Youth

taten Island teenagers often say things like, “There’s nothing to do on this island!” And many parents agree. Our local teens need more constructive social outlets. Many extracurricular activities are extremely expensive and others lack structure or offer little personal reward.

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With a lot of kids choosing to socialize in co-ed group activities, the Boy Scouts of America’s (BSA) Exploring programs offer young people a unique opportunity to be involved in their community, and learn about career tracks such as fire and rescue, police work, law, health, engineering, and even aviation. Often these programs are sponsored by a government agency or business.

TEACHING YOUNG ISLANDERS THE VALUE OF FIRE AND RESCUE CAREERS.

On Staten Island, and across New York City, there is a unique opportunity for young people to be a part of The Fire and Emergency Services Exploring Program sponsored by the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). There are many community resources open to young adults, but few offer the career training and opportunities that are exlusive to this program. Its members interact directly with Firefighters and EMTs with volunteer work and training at the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island.

Appropriately termed, “New York’s Bravest,” New York City’s Firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) make daily sacrifices to ensure the safety of its citizens. In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, the importance of our emergency first responders has been highlighted in the media and amongst our friends and neighbors.

Volunteer Work and Career Training Open to high school and G.E.D. students between the ages of 14 to 20, Exploring is a unique opportunity for young adults to gain insight and firsthand experience into fire and emergency services and directly interact with local firefighters and emergency

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medical technicians (EMTs). Students learn in a work environment.

Explorer Post Advisors, such as Staten Island Firefighter John Trentacosti, are there to offer students guidance and instruction.

Explorers learn the skills, responsibilities, and education required to be firefighters and EMTs, enabling those interested in fire and emergency careers to plan for their futures. Students develop potential contacts within the FDNY, which may broaden later employment opportunities within the department.

Volunteer work is often done right alongside fire and emergency workers. From the washed-out devastation of Staten Island’s eastern shore to burned and flooded Breezy Point, firefighters, EMTs, and the students in The Fire and Emergency Services Exploring Program have provided an enormous service to our community. From assisting in the cleanup effort here on Staten Island, and passing out meals to the displaced residents of Breezy Point, the Explorers participated in real world, hands-on service to our community.

Perhaps most important, these experiences as Explorers help young people mature into responsible and caring adults.

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The website for the Fire Department of New York highlights many of the activities that Fire and Emergency Services Explorers do, including community service assignments, field trips to firehouses, fire and emergency trade shows, EMS stations, and the FDNY Fire Academy. Explorers receive instruction in the operation of Department tools and equipment, and in turn compete in the following: ladder raiser, hose advance, search & rescue, first-aid techniques, nonambulatory transports and more.

Competitions for Posts in the New York area are usually held Upstate in Poughkeepsie.

Students may also march in uniform in various local parades.

Explorers also learn basic first aid and receive CPR training, with many becoming certified in CPR. Many teens and young adults receive scholarships and awards due to their training and experience with the Explorers.

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The Fire and Emergency Services Exploring Program’s five areas of emphasis include career opportunities, life skills, leadership, service learning, and character education. Like many organized extracurricular activities, young adults are truly given a place where they belong. This sense of belonging is often the best alternative to negative activities including drug abuse and gang affiliation. The program provides a safe environment to develop career and personal skills, while focusing on cooperative relationships between adults and youths as well as service to others in the community.

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Some of the careers students may prepare for include Firefighter, EMT (EMS), Dispatcher, Inspector, Instructor, and even Fire Marshal.

The program’s website stresses that although many of these positions will require a promotion within the Fire Department of New York, the Department offers more career opportunities in addition to being a Firefighter.

Career Development and Fun With the Staten Island Post The Staten Island Post of the Fire and Emergency Services Explorer Program was without leadership for a year before a couple of Firefighters got involved to have the program reinstated in July 2012. Post Advisor John Trentacosti, a Staten Island Firefighter, had worked with the program previously and was very instrumental in bringing it back to

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Staten Island. From his experience with the Post, he feels the program builds confidence and social skills. He explained that it’s especially good for students who aren’t involved in sports or other extracurricular activities. It not only provides an outlet for socializing and recreation, but also a great experience to add to their resumes and college applications. Students from the Staten Island Post in particular have earned generous scholarships due to their involvement and their community service.

Since July, the Post has done over 1,000 hours of community service, and also participated in fun activities including trips to Great Adventure and the Fire Museum. Within a week of their first open house in July, new members already visited the Fire Academy for drills, and have visited at least half a dozen times since.

Parents are encouraged to get involved with the program, especially with competitions and other special events.

In his unique approach when recruiting at schools, Trentacosti asks prospective members, “Who wants to cut open a car?” The idea is to keep the program fun and interesting, but also educational. He stressed that students will also learn about the lifesaving skills used by fire and emergency workers, and how to perform CPR using dummies.

Trentacosti said that while at the Fire Academy with students, “I treat them as though they’re in the Fire Academy. They get a glimpse of what it’s going to be like.” The students very much enjoy the time at the Academy. He shared some of the activities students learn at the Fire Academy, including how firefighters do searches and breathe using air tanks. They also like the trucks, and to them, the Fire Academy experience feels genuine.

Trentacosti and other Post Advisors are volunteers. He likes working with young people and says that Advisors are part teacher, part trusted friend. He is proud when he speaks of a former student who went on to the United States Coast Guard using the leadership and career skills he learned as an Explorer. “You watch them grow.”

How Does My Child Become a Fire and Emergency Services Explorer?

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FDNY spokesperson Nafeesah Noonan, Deputy Director at the Office of Recruitment

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The program will improve our students overall academic abilities, and utilize various strategies to make cooperative learning interesting and challenging.

The program also includes arts & crafts, Bible stories, games, chess, and field trips.

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and Diversity, stated that the opening of new posts is very “strategic” and designed to meet the needs of the community.

Around 100 students across four boroughs are enrolled in the program. There are currently two posts each in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, and one in Staten Island. Meeting at Snug Harbor, the Staten Island post of The Fire and Emergency Services Exploring Program is part of the Greater New York Councils Exploring Program. This program falls under the umbrella of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA).

Although the Fire and Emergency Services Explorer Program is part of the BSA, the program is unique in that it is open to both boys and girls, and both receive equal training. According to Noonan, New York City’s program enrollment is currently about 60% boys and 40% girls.

By Jennifer Long, a Staten Island mom, freelance writer, and a former SCUBA Explorer. She lists her passions as family, fitness, fashion, and the Oxford comma.

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ASK THE DOCTOR Hadassa Teitelbaum, MD

What Can You Do To Prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?

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This is a question frequently asked by concerned loving parents who want to do everything possible to keep their infant safe. Fortunately, a large body of research has allowed the Pediatric community to provide parents with several steps that have been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS significantly. These apply to babies less than a year of age, and should be followed except in the rare case when a specific medical condition leads your doctor to advise otherwise: 1. Back to sleep: Always put your baby to sleep on his back.

This is the safest position. Once baby can roll over by himself it is ok to allow him to roll back and forth without changing his position. If he falls asleep in an infant seat of some kind, it’s best to take him out and place him on a firm surface.

Babies should be given plenty of time to play on their tummies while awake and observed to build their upper body skills and to avoid flat heads and bald spots.

2. Your baby’s crib (or whatever infant sleeping furniture you use) should have a firm mattress and should meet current safety standards. Babies should never sleep on chairs, couches, hammocks, or other soft surfaces such as pillows or waterbeds.

3. There should be no soft objects in a baby’s crib until at least one year of age. This includes pillows, stuffed animals, bumper pads, quilts and the like. These carry a risk of suffocation.

4. Babies who sleep in the same bed as their parents are at higher risk of SIDS. Therefore it is recommended they sleep in their own crib or bassinet. Having the bassinet in the same room, right near Mom and Dad, is a great way to facilitate breastfeeding, bonding and the ability to quickly respond to her needs.

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5. Studies show that breastfeeding lowers the risk of SIDS–one more of many reasons to breastfeed your baby for at least the first six months.

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6. Keep up with baby’s vaccines at the pediatrician’s office; there is some suggestion in the available research that this may lower the risk of SIDS. 7. Don’t overheat your baby with too many layers and keep the room at a comfortable temperature. A good rule of thumb is a maximum of one layer more than what you are wearing. Some people have suggested the use of a ceiling fan, which may be a reasonable way to avoid overheating, although it has not been proven to decrease the risk of SIDS at this time.

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8. You may have heard many pros and cons of pacifiers, but studies have shown that a pacifier can lower the risk of SIDS. 9. Avoid products advertised to prevent SIDS such as positioners, special wedges etc, these can cause suffocation. Similarly, home cardiorespiratory monitors, while they have their uses in certain medical conditions, have not been proven to reduce the risk of SIDS and should not be used unnecessarily.

10. This last one is VERY important: Protect your baby from second-hand smoke, which presents a serious risk of SIDS. If you smoke, you should try to quit. If you are smoking, at the very least it should be kept out of the baby’s environment: the house, the car and the clothing you wear when you hold the baby.

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>>> SPORTS BUYING THE PROPER TENNIS EQUIPMENT FOR A CHILD arents ofen ask, “what is the right racquet to buy for my child?” Unlike adult racquets, junior racquets come in different lengths to complement a child’s muscular development, eye/hand coordination, and skill level. Choosing the right size can make it easier to hit the ball, which of course makes the game more fun! Here are a few tips to help you choose a tennis racquet for a child.

P

Most kids under the age of 10 require a shorter racquet than the standard 27” length of a full-sized racquet. Starter junior racquets come in four common lengths: 19”, 21”, 23”, and 25”, and are relatively inexpensive, starting at about $20.

Most are made of lightweight aluminum and have the same grip size, which is fine for novices.

For more experienced players, graphite and composite racquets are “cooler” and add more power to shots. These racquets are at least double the cost however, and generally available only in the 25” and 27” sizes.

To determine the right size, consider the height of the child. If the height is unknown, you can use the child’s age as a guide. In general, tots 3-5 years old (or less than 40” tall) should start with a lightweight, aluminum 19” racquet. These are the racquets used for the citywide ”Pee Wee” tennis lessons.

Below are general guidelines for older children: 21” racquets for ages 5 and older or for those 41 – 44” tall 23” racquets for ages 7 and older or for those 45 – 50” tall 25” racquets for ages 8 and older or for those 51 – 56” tall So now that you have the right racquet for your child, how about the right tennis ball?

The standard, yellow tennis ball is not the only ball you can buy any more. Thanks to national initiatives led by the USTA, ITF, and the tennis industry, low-compression tennis balls are now widely available and recommended for young players. Like racquets, these balls come in various sizes and are designed to be slower and bounce lower than standard tennis balls.

The balls can be found in many sporting goods stores.

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Junior tennis balls are color-coded based on age and ability. For young children, especially kids ages 5 and under, a foam ball is recommended because it travels the slowest and allows the most time to track and hit. These balls are available in a standard and “grapefruit” size. The next step up is the red/yellow ball, which is the same size and feel as a tennis ball but moves slower and travels less distance. This is a good choice for most beginners, ages 8 and under. The next stage is orange/yellow, followed by green/orange. If you are buying as a gift, a safe choice would be purchasing several types that can be used progressively as the child’s skills improve.

“Dea” MUSIC AND ART SCHOOL

Finally, for the kid who has everything, lightweight portable tennis nets are now available from many tennis manufacturers, such as Head and Wilson, that can turn a driveway or street into a temporary tennis court in minutes.

With proper supervision, this can provide a fun alternative for parents and kids who like to practice or don’t live near a public tennis court.

Costs range from $60 – $150.

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Experience has shown that just having tennis equipment at home can make a big difference in whether a child wants to take up or continue playing the “sport for life.”

Good luck and hope to see you and yours in the parks this summer!

Provided by Mike Silverman, Director of Sports for City Parks Foundation. Silverman oversees free instructional programs for over 14,000 kids and seniors throughout New York City’s five boroughs, and is a certified Level 1 USPTR tennis teaching professional. To learn more about free sports & fitness programs offered through City Parks Foundation please visit www.CityParksFoundation.org.

Tennis Courts on Staten Island • Greenbelt Recreation Center 501 Brielle Ave • 10314 • Silver Lake Park Victory Blvd • 10301 • Skyline Park Arnold St • 10301 • Walker Park David Ave • 10310 • Willowbrook Park Victory Blvd • 10314 • Wolfes Pond Park 420 Cornelia Ave • 10312 Weather permitting, courts will reopen early April.

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SUMMER DAY CAMP at Big Bird’s Playhouse

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DEAR TEACHER

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

The Value of a Good Teacher Question: Nobody forgets the good teachers that they have had. Does having a good teacher give students a lasting benefit? Who do students think the good teachers in their schools are?

– Seeking Good Teachers

Solid Advice on Improving Children’s Basic Skills and Addressing Parental Concerns

Answer: The benefits of having a good teacher go far beyond the year or more that students spend with that teacher. In fact, having a truly excellent teacher actually leads, according to some research, to an increase in earnings later in life. Plus, good teachers have students who are more likely to attend college – even more highly ranked schools. Having a good teacher is also linked to learning more and receiving higher test scores in school.

When asked about the good teachers in their schools, students identified those with certain qualities. Believe it or not, the most mentioned quality was classroom management skills. Apparently, students want teachers who can keep order. Other qualities the students listed were: enthusiasm for their subject, a good sense of humor and an ability to explain clearly. Incidentally, most researchers believe that students do accurately identify the good teachers.

Media Use Rules for Children Question: As parents, my husband and I feel we should limit the amount of time that our middle-schoolers watch television, use a computer, iPad or iPod, play video games, and talk or text on their cell phones. How do we go about doing this without seeming like mean parents?

– Setting Limits Answer: It is very popular for parents to express concern about all the time their children spend using media. At the same time, not many are making a very serious effort to curb all this time. A study by the Kaiser Family Foundation showed that 8- to 18-year-olds spent more than a quarter of each day using entertainment media.

According to this study, the most time is spent on viewing television, closely followed by listening to music for older teens.

Plus, there is now media multitasking, such as using the computer and listening to music and watching TV and texting, which adds to the total time that children are involved with media content. It makes you wonder when children have time for other activities.

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The Kaiser study also points out that media use has really increased in the past five years. This can explained by the easy access children now have to mobile devices such as cell phones, tablet computers and MP3 players. Just walk down the street and

look at the people on their cell phones – either talking or texting. It is not just teens on cell phones; just as many young children are also using them. Twenty percent of all third-graders now have these phones. By the time children are in middle school, 83 percent will have cell phones. Unfortunately, a considerable percentage of older children are using them during class time.

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You, as parents, can definitely have an impact on how much time your children spend on media entertainment. About one in three parents have established rules. Setting rules can reduce heavy media use as much as 3 hours a day. Here are some popular rules: 1. No media of any type at meal times or during family activities.

2. No TVs in children's bedrooms.

3. Parents keep their children's iPods, iPads and cell phones during homework time.

4. A limited amount of computer and video-game time.

An excellent reason for making rules is that the less time your children spend using media, the better their grades are likely to be.

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Is Retention the Answer for Child Who Can’t Keep up?

Question: My daughter is 6 years old and in the second grade. She cries because she can't keep up with her classmates.

Is this a reason to hold her back next year? – Uncertain Answer: We rarely favor retention, as it does not help most students. Instead, we like to see interventions done as early as possible to bring a child up to grade level. Meet with your child's teacher immediately to get the teacher's perspective on your child's ability to handle the work. Find out what the school can do to get your child on track. Find out if a tutor would be a good idea. Find out what good opportunities there are in your area for more help this summer: summer school, college remedial programs, learning centers. Also, find out what you can do to improve your child's skills.

Your daughter would appear to be young for a secondgrader. On the positive side, young children change fast. Your daughter may suddenly catch up with some help.

Parents do need to think long and hard about enrolling very young children in kindergarten who just make the cut-off date.

This decision becomes very important later on if the young child encounters a lot of difficulty in the early grades, and retention is considered. Retention is almost always a traumatic event for children – on a par with losing a parent.

Parents should send questions to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ website at www.dearteacher.com.

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FINANCES

>>>

MONEY TIGHT? DON’T RAID YOUR RETIREMENT ACCOUNT!

uring challenging economic times, it can be tempting to forego contributions to your retirement account, or pull money out of an existing account to cover expenses.

“Some plans allow you to withdraw money for certain hardships (to prevent eviction or foreclosure, for instance), but there can be some pretty tough financial consequences for tapping or ignoring your retirement plan,” warns Claire Rosenzweig, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Metro New York.

D

Here are good reasons to keep your retirement savings intact (note these rules are regarding U.S. laws):

THERE ARE SEVERAL REASONS WHY YOU SHOULDN’T SPEND YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS.

Tax Liability—Unless you're over the age of 59 ½, you will not only have to pay income taxes on the amount you withdraw, you will be subject to a 10% tax penalty. In most cases, your employer will withhold 20% in federal taxes, so the amount you receive will be significantly lower than the amount you requested.

Opportunity Costs—The repercussions of withdrawing funds from your 401(k) could be enormous in terms of lost growth opportunity. For example, a 30 year old with a 401(k) balance of $20,000 can retire with $129,068 at age 62 (at an average annual rate of return of 6%), even if they do not make any additional contributions during that time. Even if you have a shorter time horizon, you will forgo significant savings opportunities by taking money out of your 401(k).

For a 45-year-old, that $20,000 can grow to $53,855 in 17 years.

Opening Assets to Creditors—Under the Bankruptcy Abuse Protection and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, your creditors cannot touch your 401(k) balance or similar retirement savings account, even if you file for bankruptcy

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protection. Balances in traditional and Roth IRAs are also protected up to a limit of $1 million. But if you take money out of your retirement plan through a loan or a withdrawal, your creditors can go after that sum.

You may be able to borrow from your 401(k) rather than taking a withdrawal. Some employers allow 401(k) loans only in cases of financial hardship, but others allow you to borrow for other purposes. As opposed to a withdrawal, you won't pay taxes and penalties on the amount you borrow, as long as the loan is repaid on time. Interest rates on 401(k) plan loans are consistent with traditional bank loans. The difference is that the interest you pay is generally credited to your own plan account; you pay interest to yourself, not to a bank or other lender.

To find out if you're allowed to borrow from your 401(k) plan and under what circumstances, check with your plan's administrator or read your summary plan description.

Provided by Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), who work together to promote investor education and fraud prevention.www.newyork.bbb.org or www.bbb.org.

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Easter Events & Activities

New Jersey Events Staten Island Events

21st Annual Easter Bunny Express 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ 07981 Sat. March 23, Sun. March 24 & Sat. March 30 • 1, 2, 3, 4pm

Egg-Stravaganza and Breakfast with the Bunny @ the S.I. Zoo 614 Broadway, SI, NY 10310 Sat. March 23 • 9am-11am

Children one year and under–FREE Children under 12–$8 • Children over 12–$13 973-887-8177 • www.whippanyrailwaymuseum.net tickets@whippanyrailwaymuseum.net The 45-minute round-trip ride along the Morristown and Erie Railway’s historic Whippanong Trail, departs from and returns to the Whippany Railway Museum site. The Easter Bunny will be on board to meet the kids!

Zoo Members–$20 • Non-Members–$24 718-442-3101 ext. 33 • www.statenislandzoo.org Admission includes breakfast, egg hunt, introductions to Zoo friends, and lots of Bunny hugs. Recommended for children 5+.

Easter Egg Hunt @ Williamson’s Farm 19 Reids Hill Road, Morganville, NJ 07751 Sat. March 9 • 11am

Children’s admission–$20 1st child • $15 each sibling 718-966-5990 • www.kidzrocksi.com Food, Beverage, Cupcake, Egg Decorating, Egg Hunt, Games, Fun, Prizes.

Special Visit From the Easter Bunny! Purchase tickets in advance.

Limited amount sold.

Free Admission 732-673-4981 Sponsored by the Gateway Church of Christ. Festivities include Easter egg hunt, bounce house, crafts, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and giveaways.

Easter Celebration @ Alstede Farms 84 Route 513 (Old Route 24), Chester, NJ 07930 Sat. Mar 23, Sun. Mar 24, Fri. Mar 29, Sat. Mar 30 • 10am–5pm and Mon-Thurs March 25-28 • 1pm– 5pm Cottaintail Pass & Hop-A-Long Pass–$10.95 kids • $3.95 adults Jack Rabbit Pass–$19.95 kids • $3.95 for adults 908-879-7189 Pony rides, moon bounce, baby farm animals, rides, Easter egg hunt, games, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and so much more.

Mad Tea Party & Easter Egg Hunt @ Dearborn Market 2170 Route 35, Holmdel Twp, NJ 07733 Sat. March 23 • 10:30am– 3:00pm Mad Tea Party–$5 • Easter Egg Hunt–$5 732-264-0256 • www.dearbornmarket.com Complimentary scones, cupcakes, tea, and cookie decorating at the Mad Hatter’s Spring Tea Party. Rabbits, sheep & ducks petting zoo, silly rabbit photo post, free facepainting, and much more.

Bunny Chase @ Terhune Orchards 300 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540 Sat. March 30 & Sun. March 31 • 1:00pm–3:30pm Children ages 2-8 Free 609-924-2310 • www.terhuneorchards.com Follow the treasure hunt clues and find a spring surprise at the end of the hunt.

Enjoy a bunny cookie and make a bunny to take home.

Easter Eggstravaganza @ KidzRock 8 Johnson Street, SI, NY 10309 Sun. March 24 • 4pm-7pm

Painting With The Easter Bunny @ Created By You 59 New Dorp Plaza, SI, NY 10306 Sat. March 16 & Sun. March 17 • 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm $25 per person 718-979-1841 • www.created-by-you.com Paint an Easter Plate, Story Time & Pictures with Easter Bunny (Bring your camera!), Cookies and Juice.

Easter Bunny, Bonnet & Me Tea @ La “Tea” Da 7485 Amboy Road, SI, NY 10307 718-303-7074 • www.lateadasi.com Color & decorate eggs. Tea Party with Easter Treats! Storytime and a visit from the Easter Bunny! Call today for reservations. Special event teas are by appointment only.

Easter Egg Hunt @ Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave, SI, NY 10306 Sat. March 30 • 12pm Children–$10 • Adults–$5 718-351-1611 ext. 281 • www.historicrichmondtown.org Bring a cardboard egg carton to transform into a fancy Victorian-styled craft. Afterward, hunt for eggs and meet the Easter Bunny. Prepaid reservations required.

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EASTER CANDY

>>>

AVOID TANTRUMS TRIGGERED

BY FOOD DYES

very spring, you buy an abundance of delicious treats and lovingly prepare your children’s Easter baskets. So, why do they sometimes repay your hard work by screaming, crying or wrestling with each other most of the day?

E

It is probably not your children who are to blame, but rather the colorful candies in those Easter baskets, according to Jane Hersey, National Director of the nonprofit Feingold Association (www.feingold.org), a charity that helps children with learning and behavior problems.

MANY POPULAR EASTER CANDIES MAY CONTAIN FOOD DYES “Research has shown that THAT CAN MAKE CHILDREN FEEL SICK. the synthetic food dyes used to make candies so attractive to synthetically colored foods to warn that these additives “may children are not nearly as innocent as they look,” said Hersey, have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.” who is the author of Why Can’t My Child Behave? In fact, numerous studies over the last forty years have shown that In 2011, a Food and Drug Administration panel also these colorings can trigger overactivity and aggressive concluded that synthetic food dyes can exacerbate the behavior. symptoms of ADHD in susceptible children but narrowly rejected requiring warning labels on foods containing the dyes.

A study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that 75% of children showed improved behavior when fed a diet free of “It is not surprising that these dyes can have such negative synthetic food dyes, and that when one of the dyes (Yellow 5) effects, since they are made from petroleum,” said Hersey, was reintroduced, the younger children had “constant crying, whose own daughter’s behavior was helped by removing the tantrums, irritability, restlessness and severe sleep disturbance.” additives.“Petroleum may be good for your car, but it's certainly Earlier research by the lead author also found that over 70% of not healthy to feed it to your kids! The synthetic dyes we use children put on a 6-week trial of the low-additive Feingold Diet today represent the latest in a long list of harmful substances demonstrated improved behavior. that have been used throughout history to color foods,” she said.

A later study, published in the prestigious British medical journal Lancet, found that synthetic food colorings can trigger In ancient Rome, wine was often artificially colored and hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity in all children, not sweetened with lead-based compounds. From the late 1700’s just those already diagnosed with attention deficit hyperacuntil the early 20th century, highly toxic lead, mercury, and tivity disorder (ADHD). This research was instrumental in arsenic preparations were commonly used to impart rich colors convincing the European Union to require labels on most to foods. The development of synthetic food colorings derived from coal tar in the 19th century, and later from petroleum, was MARCH 2013

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Staten Island Pediatric Dentistry rating 35 Years b e l e C ing for Your Childre r a C n of

once considered an improvement, but public pressure is growing to ban these dyes because of their association with hyperactivity and attention problems, as well as cancer.

Until synthetic food dyes are banned, Hersey recommends filling your children’s Easter baskets with natural versions of jellybeans, chocolate bunnies and other treats. (Many natural candies are listed in the Feingold Association's Foodlist & Shopping Guide and Mail Order Guide.)

She also suggests organizing special activities for Easter that take the emphasis off sweets. These activities, some of which may eventually become family traditions, include:

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· Hit the Trail. Walk with your kids on a nature trail at a state or local park to teach them about the rebirth of life in the springtime. Enjoy the newly blooming flowers and plants, as well as any rabbits, chipmunks or other animals that stray along your path. · Sing a Song. Lead your children in a rousing chorus of “Here Comes Peter Cottontail.” (You can find the lyrics in songbooks or on the Internet.) · Tell a Tale. Read your kids a chapter from the Tales of Peter Rabbit or one of the other books in this classic series by Beatrix Potter. · Hop Like a Bunny. Give your children rabbit ear headbands (available at many stores) and fluffy tails made of cotton, so that they can dress up like bunnies. Then hold a race to see who can hop the fastest.

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· Hunt Easter Eggs. Let the kids burn off excess energy (and calories) in a traditional Easter egg hunt.

Provided by The nonprofit Feingold Association (www.feingold.org • 800-321-3287) which helps families eliminate synthetic food dyes, artificial flavorings, and certain preservatives.

Note: Individual dietary needs vary and no one diet will meet everyone's daily requirements. Before starting any new diet, check with your doctor.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this press release is for educational purposes only and its author is not engaged in providing medical or psychological services or advice to individuals. This information should not be used to replace competent in-person medical, health or psychological consultation, examination, diagnosis, or treatment and no person should delay in seeking medical, health or psychological treatment in reliance on it.

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the Natural Way

This Easter perk up the holidays with beautiful Easter eggs dyed naturally. If you are using store bought eggs, you might want to wash them off with mild dish soap. Store eggs have a coating of oil on them that farm eggs do not. Washing the oil off allows them to hold the color better. If you choose to skip this step it will still work.

Natural ingredients & the colors they make: • Red Onion Skins - soft lavender to red, depending on how long you boil them or how many skins are in the pot.

• Red Cabbage Leaves - a lovely shade of robin's egg blue (yep, blue not red).

• Beet Juice or Cranberry Juice–different shades of pink.

• Dill seeds–brown - gold color • Grape juice–lavender • Strong coffee–different shades of brown • Yellow onion leaves, Turmeric, orange and lemon peels, cumin, carrots–yellow eggs • Paprika–orange eggs • Spinach–green eggs • Yellow apple peels–green/gold color • Blueberries–blue • Grass–green To dye eggs you can eat you’ll need: White vinegar, eggs, water and your choice of natural dye item

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Easter Eggs

Here's what you do: 1. Hard-boil your eggs.

2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar to a quart of water along with your natural ingredients. If it is a solid, like spinach, you can use up to 4 cups. For spices you will need about 4 tablespoons. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Let cool, then strain.

3. Dip the hard-boiled eggs into the dye. The longer they are in, the more colorful they will be.

Turn the eggs every so often so the color will come out even.

4. Allow to dry in egg cartons. Refrigerate eggs you intend to eat.

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Tommee Tippee

Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Wide-Neck Bottle SRP $10.99 • www.bestbottle.com Featuring vacuum-free feeding like breastfeeding, Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow bottles help reduce colic, spit-up, burping, and gas.

March is Colic Awareness Month Reduce Colic

Dr. Alan Greene, pediatrician, author and renowned health expert, and Born Free share the top ten tips to SRP $10.99-$24.99 • www.tommeetippee.us reduce colic: The Tommee Tippee features a patented air venting 1. Motion • Some families report relief with gentle movement, whether from a swing, a car ride, a ride in a system to reduce air bubbles in the milk, jog stroller, or a parent’s arms. which can cause colic in a baby.

2. Massage • Baby massage in general and belly massage in particular. A warm beanbag can be a nice tool for this. Some babies are helped with the addition of one of the infant vibrating products during massage.

3. Changing Mother’s Diet • For breastfed babies, eliminating certain foods could help. Cow’s milk, eggs, nuts, or wheat are the most likely to make a difference – especially if there is asthma, eczema or allergies in the family.

4. Changing To A Hypoallergenic Formula • For Formula-fed babies, the switch is sometimes powerful.

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6. Changing Feeding Technique • Switching from nursing at both breasts at each feed to prolonged emptying of one breast cut colic in half in one study.

Sucking on a pacifier or thumb between feeds can help whether a baby is breast or bottle-fed. Frequent burping after feeding can also help.

7. Soothing Noise • Heartbeat recordings, white noise machines, recordings of babies yawning, or the gentle voices of parents sshhing, humming, or singing a lullaby.

8. Herbal Remedies • Chamomile, fennel, and balm mint each decrease intestinal spasms and have been shown to reduce colic in some studies. But be sure not to give enough tea to decrease a baby’s intake of milk.

9. Probiotics • Compared to placebo, taking beneficial bacteria reduces crying for some.

10. Swaddling • Being wrapped snuggly comforts some babies.

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Enter Online at www.siparent.com Click on the Contests and Clubs Tab Congratulations Toni Marie Edwards, winner of the B.F.F. Bag by Ju-Ju-Be in last month's issue!

Newbies Vincent James Vitale

Jake Tito Romero

September 26, 2012 8 pounds, 11 ounces Parents: Peter and Christina

January 31, 2013 8 pounds, 10 ounces Parents: Nicole and Tito

Michaela Grace Minkowicz

Jordyn Savannah Hill

January 20, 2013 5 pounds, 2 ounces Parents: Kate and Martin

December 4, 2012 7 pounds, 4 ounces Parents: Selena and Jermaine

Olivia Nicole Milone

Gabriella Grace Florio

December 28, 2012 6 pounds, 11 ounces Parent: Danielle

December 12, 2012 8 pounds, 4 ounces Parents: Diane and Frank

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PARENT & CHILD TIME

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everyone had gathered at Grandma’s for bagels.

The first thing Monica noticed when she came into Grandma’s house was the big beautiful bouquet of brightly colored carnations. “Grandma, your bouquet is

POEMS, FLOWERS & ROBINS

lovely. It brings spring right into the house on this winter day.”

Grandma laughed and looked at the pinks, yellows, lavenders, and soft orange colors in the bouquet. “I thought the same thing, Monica. That’s why I bought the flowers.”

Erica, who had been parking the car, came into the house and said, “Brr, it is cold and damp outside. It feels good to be in this nice warm room. I even hope the bagels are hot,” Erica laughed as she walked further into the room. “Oh, Grandma, the flowers are lovely. They make such a pretty centerpiece on your table.”

Within 15 minutes, Liam and his mother had arrived. Erica’s and Monica’s mom had also arrived and last, but not least, Philip and Ryan came in with their mom and dad. Pretty soon it was quiet around the dining room table as the number of bagels

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on the platter got smaller and smaller, each person taking a favorite bagel and putting cream cheese or butter on it.

Liam finished his bagel and said, “Grandma, your flowers are real pretty. They look nice and spring-y.”

Philip finished the last bite of his bagel and said, “Spring – that’s right. Grandma are you going to say the poem about the robin? You usually say that poem around the beginning of spring.”

Ryan looked at his brother. “I think I know the one you mean – ‘The north wind doth blow and we shall have snow and what will the robin do then?’”

Grandma laughed and said, “That is the one. By the way, has anyone seen a robin yet this year?”

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“Oh, Grandma. I hope you don’t want us to go out today looking for a robin. It is way too cold,” Liam said.

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Erica said, “I’m not looking for a robin today. But, I do have a poem to offer.”

“You wrote a poem Erica?” Philip asked.

“No, Philip. I didn’t write a poem. The poem I have in mind is one I read to my students and they liked it.”

Liam chimed in and said, “I think I know which one you mean. It’s ‘The Raven,’ right?”

“Liam, that’s the poem I like,” Monica advised.

“Oh, I knew somebody liked it,” he replied.

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“Actually Edgar Allan Poe liked it,” Ryan offered.

Philip looked at his brother and asked, “How do you know?”

“Because he wrote it.”

“Does anyone want to know my favorite poem?” Erica asked.

Monica looked at her sister and said, “I think I have an idea which poem is your favorite.”

“So, what is it?” Philip wanted to know.

Before Monica could reply to Philip’s question, Liam said, “I think to get the right answer, we should ask Erica.”

“That’s okay, Liam. I’m interested to know which poem Monica thinks it is,” Erica responded.

“Well, I thought it might be the one Mom also likes. I think she had to study it in college.”

“Do you mean ‘Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening’”?

“Yes, Erica. That is the one. Mom read it to us a couple of times. I even know the poet’s name. The poet is Robert Frost.”

“We’ve mentioned several poems, but we still don’t know Erica’s poem,” Ryan noted. “I think it is time to tell us which poem you were talking about.”

Erica laughed and said, “I agree. My poem is by Robert Louis Stevenson. I read it recently and my students really liked it.”

“Okay, Erica. The suspense is getting to me. I know some of Robert Louis Stevenson’s poems but which one is the one you mean?” asked Ryan.

“The poem that I am talking about is called ‘My Shadow.’”

“That sounds cute. How does it go?” Liam wanted to know.

“I hope it’s not too long,” Philip said with a sigh. “Poetry is really not my thing.”

“It is four stanzas, but I only know the first stanza without the book.”

“Okay, we’re listening. Recite what you know,” Liam said.

Erica looked around the table and said, “Well, here goes.” “‘I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me,

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And what can be the use of him is more than I can see, He is very, very like me from the heels up to the head, And I see him jump before me when I jump into my bed.’”

Monica looked at her sister and said, “That poem is cute. I’d like to read the whole poem. Do you have a copy of it or the book it is in?”

Erica said, “I know where to find it.

QUIZ

Grandma came into the room and asked, “Anybody want another bagel?”

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Why Did Grandma buy the flowers?

Who asked about the robin poem?

How many stanzas in Erica’s poem?

What day of the week was it?

Who wrote ‘My Shadow’?

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Ann Clinton is a Staten Island grandmother who enjoys creating stories for her grandchildren.

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COVER STORY

DAY CAMP: PREPARING FOR ADVENTURES CLOSE TO HOME ummer day camp is a place where children can stretch their minds, exercise their bodies, develop new interests and forge lasting friendships. For young children, it is a good introduction to the camp experience. For older ones, it is a way to enjoy the activities without the overnight option. Day camp programs vary from one setting to the next. So, how can you help make the most of your child’s day camp experience?

S

1. Consider interests. Day camps offer a host of options that include everything from one centralized activity to a variety of traditional camp fun. Talk with your child about his interests and what he would like to gain from the experience. Would he enjoy an assortment of activities or does he want to concentrate on one skill, such as soccer or art?

2. Ponder program length. Day camps range from several hours to a full day and can run from one week to an entire summer. How long your child should participate in a program will depend largely upon his age, developmental level and previous camp experience. First-time campers would do well starting in a partial- to full-week program. Experienced campers may enjoy one that runs throughout the summer. Even if your child decides to stay at camp all summer, consider allowing a few weeks break between school and camp (and vice versa) for down time.

3. Look at location. If you choose a day camp close to home, commute time will be less and your child may already be acquainted with some of the other children. A day camp near your employer, however, would give you quick access to your child, in the event of an emergency. But if your child needs additional morning or afternoon childcare, you may want to consider a program close to your sitter.

4. Ask about staff. Find out what the camper-to-counselor ratio is.

Ideally it should be six campers to one counselor, as recommended by the American Camping Association. What experience and/or training do the counselors have? How are they selected? What is the camp’s discipline policy? Are they trained to take care of health concerns such as asthma, allergies and dispensing medicine?

5. Focus on the facility. Ask about indoor and outdoor facilities. Is there ample indoor space for children to play during inclement weather? What do they do if it rains all week? Are the outdoor equipment and grounds well maintained and safe? Are the children’s swimming skills tested before they are allowed to enter the water? Are staff members certified in lifesaving and present during water activities?

6. Cue in on cost.

Inquire about additional fees. Some day camps have a base price but charge extra for trips, special events and activities. If the camp you want to send your child to costs more than you can afford, find out if there is a scholarship program. Also ask about a refund policy in the event of an illness or family emergency.

7. Arrange a pre-visit.

Many day camps have open houses prior to season start up.

Find out if the camp you have chosen has one. If not, make other arrangements to introduce yourself to those who will be caring for your child. Since open houses are a good time to gather information, jot down any questions you have before leaving home. If they are not addressed during this time, ask to speak with someone before securing your deposit.

8. Fill out forms. During your pre-visit, you may receive forms to fill out.

When it comes to medical forms, be thorough and specific. If your child was on a medication during the school year but will be taken off of it for the summer, make sure the camp is aware of this as it could cause an extreme change in behavior. Insect and food-related allergies should be listed too. Equally important is to share other concerns, such as if your family is going through a divorce or has experienced a recent death, as this may affect how your child interacts throughout the day. Remember, camps look out for the physical and emotional needs of your child, so the more information you provide, the better equipped they will be.

You will also be asked to fill out an emergency contact form, which lists another designated individual to call if you cannot be reached in the event of an accident or illness. While it is imperative to have an appointed individual, equally important is that the person knows she is designated as such. Every year camps contact the emergency person listed and she was not informed she was “on call.” The best advice? Check with that individual before writing the name down.

9. Peruse policies & procedures. Camps should give you materials on camp policies, procedures and planned activities. If you and your child know what to expect and what is expected of you, the camp experience will run smoother. Most camps have a weekly schedule so parents know what the upcoming activities are. Talk with your child about what is planned. If she cannot participate due to health reasons, make sure you (not your child) inform the camp.

In recent years, many day camps have developed strict policies about leaving technology items – cell phones, handheld games and other tech toys – at home. Their philosophy is day camps are designed to be enriching experiences and the children should be engaging in these activities rather than playing with electronics. If restricted items are brought to camp, they may be confiscated and returned at the end of the day in hopes the child gets the message.

10. Keep the line of communication open. Talk about camp before it even starts.

Reassure your child of the positive experience he will have. At the end of each camp day, find a block of uninterrupted time where you can listen as he shares his adventures. Ask what he liked about camp and if there were any things he didn’t like. If he is having a hard time articulating what happened, break it down by activities—“What crafts did you do?”“Did you play any outdoor games that involved balls or running?”“Who did you play with at the pool?” “Who did you sit with at lunch?” Above all, encourage your child to always do his best, obey the rules and be respectful of others, and chances are, he’ll have a great time.

By Denise Yearian, a freelance writer and mother of three children, who are already looking forward to their day camp adventures.

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-up polic provide • How oft ies? re fe en rences? go? Is th will the campers ere incre ased sup take field trips? ervision W • What o in popula here do they the ted settin ice arena r resources are a gs? va , fa How ofte rm, hiking trails ilable to campe rs, such a , ropes co n will my sa u child be • Are lun able to p rse, archery, etc.? pool, ches and articipate /or snack in these? s provide • Do you d? offer befo re caring fo r my chil - and after-care? d?

Will it be the same • How oft staff en are th e facilitie • What alt s cleaned erna ? om and inclemen tive plans do you Go to www.siparent.c t weathe have for r?

CAMPS TAB

p Find the Perfect Cam on Staten Island for Your Child...

CLICK ON THE Information. for Videos, Photos &

BE PART OF OUR FACEBOOK FAMILY. Advice From Our Friends On Day Camps Day Camps! It’s the much-anticipated summer destination for many Staten Island kids. If you haven’t already secured a spot for your child in the camp of your choice, now’s the time to prioritize it on your to-do list!

Along with registering kids for their summer camp experiences comes shopping for camp related supplies.

We asked our Facebook friends to help us compile a list of “must-haves” for Day Camp 2013. Here’s some of their good advice: “Make sure all items are labeled with child’s name. Use a wrist band to list mom’s contact info and/or food allergies,” advises Kimberly Moskal Andruszkow. Jill Bergstrom agrees, adding “My daughter has severe food allergies but thoroughly enjoys her summer camp. She never leaves home with out her allergy alert medical bracelet and Epi-pen.” Yolande Rose is sure to include her child’s asthma inhaler.

Go to facebook.com/siparent and “Like” us!

Nearly everyone suggests sending bug repellant and sunscreen (Avon bug spray with sunscreen was recommended by Marianne Horch), water bottles, swimsuit, towel, baby wipes, lunch in an insulated bag, a hat, sneakers, cellphone, and of course a backpack to keep it all in. Maria Tirado lends her advice of sending a surprise—write a note, pack a favorite snack or tape a family picture to the inside top of your child’s lunchbox.

All good advice for sure, but we enjoyed Suzanne Stakofsky-Lutz’s tip: “I buy brown sneakers so they match the color of the dirt and don't look so beat up during the summer.”

The one thing viewers agreed should stay at home: gaming devices. Day camp is an opportunity for your child to get physical activity, make friends, try out new sports and have some good, old-fashioned fun!

To see a list of camps in your area, log on to www.siparent.com and click on the CAMPS tab!

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Vincent Acierno 718.517.9309 900 South Ave • Suite 100 • SI, NY 10314 acierno_vincent@nlvmail.com www.financialintegritystrategies.com Vincent Acierno is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Equity Services, Inc. Securities and investment advisory services are not offered solely by Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. 733 Third Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017 (212) 661-1600. Financial Integrity Strategies, Inc. is independent of Equity Services. Inc. 1. Policy loans and withdrawals reduce the policy’s cash value and death benefit and may result in a taxable event. Surrender charges may reduce the policy’s cash value in early years.

Benefits may not be mutually exclusive, and the use of one benefit may affect the availability of another. tc70346 (0912)

VISIT OUR CAMP FAIR ONLINE Click on the “Camps” tab on www.siparent.com For Camp Videos, Photos And More Information 2013 CAMP & SUMMER PROGRAM DIRECTORY Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Boulevard 718.816.4506 x 10 Ann Marie McDonnell www.aliceausten.org

JCC Lillian Schwartz Day Camp HKC Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road 718.475.5231 • Glenn Wechsler http://camp.sijcc.org

Art Lab, Inc. 1000 Richmond Terrace 718.447.8667 • Malissa Priebe www.artlab.info

Notre Dame Academy Summer Enrichment World of Exploration 74-78 Howard Avenue 718. 442.1139 • Jackie DeLucia www.notredameacademy.org

Boy Scout Pouch Day Camp 1465 Manor Road 212.651.3073 • Marcelle Grant bsa-gnyc.org/camping Church at the Gateway-VBS 200 Boscombe Avenue 718.966.4500 • DeVonna Drey churchatthegateway.org College of Staten Island Black Rocket Summer Camp 2800 Victory Boulevard • 2A-201 718.982.2182 www.csi.cuny.edu/continue Fastbreak Basketball Center 236 Richmond Valley Road 718.948.3710 • Lori Ceciliani www.fastbreakhoops.com Fun Station Day Camp 3555 Victory Boulevard 718-370-0077 • Chris Mancusi www.funstationdaycamp.com Gingerbread Learning Center 80 Woodrow Road 718.356.0008 • Dennis Mosesman www.gingerbreadlctr.com The Children's Aid Society Goodhue Center–Osborn Day Camp 304 Prospect Avenue 718.447.2630 • Katie A. LiVolsi www.goodhuecenter.org Greenbelt Summer Day Camp 200 Nevada Avenue 718.667.7475 • Martiza Cuevas www.sigreenbelt.org

Oakdale Academy 366 Oakdale Street 718-948-4220 www.oakdaleacademy.net Richmond County Day Camp 1075 Woodrow Road 718.761.1492 • Larry Marantz www.rcdaycamp.com Richmond Hill Children’s Center 501 Richmond Hill Road 718.494.7422 • Donna M. Bak www.rhccny.com St. Adalbert School 355 Morningstar Road 718.442.2020 • Diane Hesterhagen www.stadalbertschool.com St. John Villa Academy Summer Camp 57 Cleveland Place 718.447.4150 x156 • Mary Ellen www.sjva.org Seguine Equestrian Center 440 Seguine Avenue 718.317.1121 • Christine Carrieri Silhouette Dance Studio 230 Livingston Avenue 718.727.2649 • Sandy Osgood www.silhouettedancestudio.net Small World Preschool 144 Bloomingdale Road 718.356.7795 • Maria Schraidt Staten Island Academy Day Camp 715 Todt Hill Road 718.303.7845 • Darlene Crowe statenislandacademy.org/camp

Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718.273.2060 www.statendislandkids.org Staten Island Day Camp 2800 Victory Boulevard 800.301.2267 • Michael Halpern www.statenIslanddaycamp.com Staten Island Museum Earth Camp 75 Stuyvesant Place 718.727.1135 • Claire Arthurs www.statenislandmuseum.org Staten Island YMCA Day Camp at Pouch Camp 1465 Manor Road 718.227.3200 • Cynthia Bayiokos www.ymcanyc.org/statenisland Staten Island YMCA Early Childhood/Youth Summer Day Camps 651 Broadway • 718.981.4933 3939 Richmond Ave • 718 227-3200 www.ymcanyc.org/statenisland Talented and Gifted Camp at Staten Island Academy 715 Todt Hill Road 718.303.8682 • Kate Meyer statenislandacademy.org/camp The Village Preschool 76 St. Alban’s Place 718.967.5809 • Lisbeth Brandefine Young People’s Day Camp 3465 Victory Blvd (Nansen Park) 718 701-3600 • Keith Glauber www.ypdc.com Wagner College External Programs 1 Campus Road 718.390.3221 Sharon Guinta/Caitlin Miller www.wagner.edu/external Click on the “Camps” tab on www.siparent.com For Camp Videos, Photos And More Information ADVERTISING SECTION

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By now, most parents have heard of SnapChat, the phenomenally popular new messaging app that allows users to annotate and send photos and very short videos to their friends. Unlike other messages, Snapchats are supposed to disappear in ten seconds. Kids who are tired of having their lives searched and analyzed on Facebook love that spontaneity. As one college blogger put it, Snapchat is fun “without the terrifying permanence of the rest of our technology.”

Parents Shouldn’t Make Snap Judgments about SnapChat

In one way, this is good news for parents who have been trying to convince kids to be discrete about what they post on Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites. Most young people are keenly aware that Facebook can be reviewed by everyone from romantic partners to college admissions officers, employers and even law enforcement.

Timeline made it even more obvious that Facebook is a biographical record, and many people, including teens, started using it for what Jenna Wortham of the New York Times calls “success theater,” a cautious, curated version of their lives.

As everyone knows, real life is messier than that, especially in adolescence. Snapchat is appealing in part because it allows kids to share their ever-changing moods without having to worry that a fleeting moment will be held against them. Of course, any alert parent can see where this is going. 1) Part of what prompts all those moods is the awakening of sexual feelings. 2) You can never assume anything digital is truly gone.

Most of the 5 million messages being sent everyday on Snapchat are not sexual. Instead, they are quirky, momentary impressions of things the sender finds goofy, funny or touching. Sharing these tidbits with friends does deepen relationships. The youthful founders of Snapchat seem wise beyond their years when they write, “There is value in the ephemeral. Great conversations are magical… because they are shared, enjoyed, but not saved.”

The same thing could be said about romance and even sex. And that’s why Snapchat creates concerns for adults who can easily imagine impulsive teens using the service to send provocative or even obscene pictures of themselves. This is where parents need to take a deep breath. Despite media attention to the subject, sexting is not rampant among teenagers. The most authoritative research study from the Crimes Against Children Research Center at the University of New Hampshire found that, among children 10 to 17, only one percent had shared explicit images of themselves or others and only 7 percent had received such an image.

Some people worry that Snapchat will make such behavior more tempting because it promises to erase all evidence. Although parents may long to shove this genie back into its bottle, that’s not possible. Facebook has already introduced its own self-destruct program called Poke and there are other imitators in the work. A better strategy is to help children think through the rewards and risks of Snapchat and its competitors. Here are some suggestions:

Ask. Don’t assume your child is using Snapchat to send or receive provocative pictures. Download the program so you understand how it works. Then ask your child about his or her experiences. Are the kids at school using the app? What kind of photos does your child like to send? What kind of images has he or she received? Is the self-destruct feature exciting or annoying?

Encourage. There are many creative and constructive ways to use Snapchat. In fact, the vision described on the Snapchat website is actually quite wholesome: “We believe in sharing authentic moments with friends. It’s not all about fancy vacations, sushi dinners, or beautiful sunsets. Sometimes it’s an inside joke, a silly face, or greetings from a pet fish. Sharing those moments should be fun. Communication is more entertaining when it’s with the people who know us best. And we know that no one is better at making us laugh than our friends.” This could be a prompt for dinner table conversation or a quote that hangs on the refrigerator.

Inform. Be sure your child understands that anything digital can be replicated. Although Snapchat reduces the likelihood that a photo will be distributed without permission, it doesn’t eliminate it completely. The recipient of a message can always grab the screen shot. Yes, the sender will be notified if this happens but, if the image is compromising, the damage will be done. Recipients can also use another camera to surreptitiously capture a titillating image. The bottom line is that sending another person a photo of private parts is ALWAY ill-advised. There simply is no such thing as “safe sext.”

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718.448.9775 657 Castleton Ave. www.simhs.org Early Childhood Program services are funded by local and state taxes earmarked for special education and other services. Transportation for the Preschool Inclusion Classes available at no cost to parents.

Enforce. If you didn’t make rules when you gave your child a cellphone, now is a good time to be very clear about acceptable and unacceptable use. A sample contract is available at http://tinyurl.com/2au7l22. Modify it as needed to reflect your family’s values and your child’s level of maturity.

These conversations will go better if parents tune into the underlying appeal of Snapchat. Today’s kids intuitively understand that every photo doesn’t need to be saved. Every whim doesn’t need to be scrutinized. Every thought doesn’t deserve a permanent record. At the same time, as every happily married couple knows, sharing these transitory moments really can strengthen a relationship. As is so often the case, parents need to provide the information and structure that will allow children to harness the potential of Snapchat without stumbling into its pitfalls.

By Carolyn Jabs, M.A., who raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has written Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses conflict. Other columns are available at www.growing-up-online.com. @ Copyright, 2013. Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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WOMEN IN HISTORY

>>>

ELEANOR ROOSEVELT: A Remarkable First Lady

ew First Ladies have done for America what Eleanor Roosevelt has done— before she met FDR, during the 12 years she served as First Lady, and after President Roosevelt died in 1945.

F

Many younger Americans know very little about Eleanor Roosevelt, yet her words of wisdom are quoted on Facebook, Pinterest, and other social media sites. For example, “A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong she is until she's in hot water.”

Her triumphs are not only daring and legendary for her time and station, but today they continue to provide inspiration and aspiration. It is difficult to overstate the importance of this woman in relation to the achievements of women worldwide.

As a teacher, I have introduced Eleanor Roosevelt to my students at every grade level. Over the years, the students and I have created imaginary letters to her with answers based on facts and years of research. Although they are fictional, they are as historically accurate as possible. Here is an example of a letter from the collection: Dear Mrs. Roosevelt, I know you like to write because for many years you wrote a column every day called “My Day” sharing life experiences. I think you would have liked modern technology. They said you were a New Yorker but that you were seen everywhere, even in a coal mine in Ohio. How did you do it? Did you ever think people would still be talking about you today? ~ A Friend Dear Friend, I am flattered that anyone still remembers me. It was never my intention to be famous. I was born in NYC in my parent’s first home at 56 West 37th Street. I lived in many houses after that.

Unfortunately, I never felt like they were my homes. I was an orphan; my two brothers and I lived with my Grandmother Hall.

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A CLOSER LOOK AT ELEANOR ROOSEVELT. After Franklin and I were married, my mother-in-law, Sara Delano Roosevelt, had “twin houses” built in New York City for all of us to live in. They had doors that slid open from one house to the other.

Not much privacy, I’m afraid. Sara owned it and ruled it. Being young, shy, and inexperienced, I let her rule me as well. She did have that authority over me but not over Franklin. There were many arguments, but of course, there was also a grand bond of love between them.

I did visit the coal mines in 1935. That was the only way for me to see for myself the conditions these men were working in. In 1933, The New Yorker magazine did a cartoon of two coal miners expressing their shock at seeing me in a coal mine. Imagine their shock when I really did show up two years later!

As for getting around, I loved to fly. I actually had a student pilot’s license and a driver’s license. One evening, my dear friend Amelia Earhart and I flew around the White House! Although Franklin did discourage me from flying my own plane, I did fly to many parts of the world to act as his eyes and ears. As you may know, FDR had polio so it was difficult for him to travel.

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I imagine if I were alive today, I would enjoy social media. I’m sure I’d have a blog, a Twitter account, and a Facebook page.

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As a child, she never felt quite loved enough. She was not the beautiful, exuberant child her mother expected, actually earning her the undesirable nickname, ‘Granny.’

Her father, Elliott Roosevelt, was the love of her life and she never doubted his love.

However, he had an even greater necessity: alcohol. It took her a lifetime to realize this disease was more powerful than his desire to be a good father and husband. Elliot was President Teddy Roosevelt’s brother. By the time she turned ten, both of Eleanor’s parents were dead.

When Eleanor and her distant cousin Franklin got married, her uncle, President Theodore Roosevelt, gave her away. At the wedding, he received more attention than the bride and groom. His daughter, Alice Roosevelt Longworth described her father as such: “My father always wanted to be the corpse at every funeral, the bride at every wedding, and the baby at every christening.”

She was also known as saying, “If you haven’t got anything nice to say about anybody, come sit next to me!”

Eleanor had a hard time being a mother at first. She had six children within ten years and wanted to be involved in every aspect of their upbringing. Her mother-in-law, Sara Delano Roosevelt, a domineering woman, led her to believe that women of their social status did not do such things. Suffering from depression, the care of the children was left to nurses and governesses. Later on, she witnessed so many poor, destitute but loving families. Despite their poverty and misery, they seemed to have relationships with one another that were so much more bonding than her own. Her friend Helen Keller put it quite eloquently when she said, “Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.”

She was a champion fighter for women’s rights, as well as civil rights. When the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) refused to allow opera singer Marian Anderson to sing in Constitutional Hall because she was African-American, Eleanor resigned her membership with the organization. Later on, through Eleanor’s efforts, Marion sang on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, reaching over 75,000 people.

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On Your Toes

As first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt opened the world of journalism to women by permitting only female reporters at her press conferences.

Everybody's Talking About OYT’s Beautiful, 2,500 Square Foot New Location...

On April 12, 1945, our nation suffered a great loss with the death of President Franklin Roosevelt. He was beginning his fourth term in office. When Vice President Truman was sworn into office, he said, “Mrs. Roosevelt, is there anything I can do for you?” She thought about it for a moment and said, “Mr. Truman, is there anything we can do for you? You are the one in trouble now.” After that, they became very strong friends. He offered her a job as a delegate to the United Nations.

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After her twelve years as First Lady, Eleanor continued her missions. She defied threats by the Ku Klux Klan (KKK). She fought for two little African-American boys falsely accused of rape in a case known as the “Kissing Case.”

Her humanitarian efforts at the United Nations led to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. She fought for the inherent dignity and equal rights of all members of the human race.

It is no wonder that polls of historians consistently rank her as, by far, the most significant First Lady, and one of the most influential American women of the 20th century.

Eleanor Roosevelt will always be remembered as a wonderful First Lady of the United States and a Grand First Lady of the World.

“Remember, it is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”

CALL FOR A VISIT • ON-GOING REGISTRATION

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

A Multi-Sensory Approach to Learning

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FLEXIBLE PROGRAM SCHEDULE MONDAY- FRIDAY Half & Full Days Available

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Peanut Free School

By Marianna Randazzo a great admirer of Eleanor Roosevelt. For more about Eleanor www.facebook.com/pages/Eleanor-Roosevelt2011-A-New-Generation-of-Fans

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STATEN ISLAND SCHOOL: 33 White Pl (285 Clove Rd) • SI, NY 10310 • 718-442-8588 Se Habla Espanol BROOKLYN SCHOOL: 167 Clermont Avenue • Brooklyn, NY 11205 • 718-854-3710 MARCH 2013

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REVIEW

>>>

AMAZING WOMEN IN HISTORY

Condoleezza Rice: A Memoir of My Extraordinary, Ordinary Family and Me

by Condoleezza Rice SRP $16.99 • Young Adult In this memoir, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice tells the story of her life growing up in Birmingham, Alabama during the 1950s and 60s. She reveals how her early experiences sowed the seeds of her political beliefs and helped her become a vibrant, successful woman.

Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World's Fastest Woman

By Kathleen Krull; Illustrated by David Diaz SRP $7.00 • Ages 6+ Growing up with her leg in a brace, crippled from polio, Wilma Rudolph overcame all odds and was the first woman to win three Olympic gold medals.

by Tami Lewis Brown; Pictures by Francois Roca SRP $16.99 • Ages 4-8 At six-years-old, Elinor Smith took her first ride on an airplane and by the time she was seventeen she became the youngest licensed pilot in America. With talent, hard work and plenty of grit, Smith showed that a girl could climb to any height.

Joan of Arc

by Diane Stanley SRP $16.00 • Ages 4-8 Joan of Arc began hearing the voices of saints in her teens, commanding her to take arms and go to the aid of the prince of France. She accepted her mission, fought with unparalleled bravery and became a legend in the process.

Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart

Women of the Frontier: 16 Tales of Trailblazing, Homesteaders, Entrepreneurs, and Rabble-Rousers

by Candace Fleming SRP $18.99 • Ages 8-12

by Brandon Marie Miller SRP $19.95 • Ages 12+

Candace Fleming presents an honest portrait of the world’s most famous aviatrix, Amelia Earhart. Using photos, maps, and hand-written notes from Amelia herself, Fleming presents Earhart as a child, woman, and aviator.

The Bravest Woman in America

by Marissa Moss; Illustrated by Andrea U’Ren SRP $16.99 • Ages 5-8 The Bravest Woman in America tells the story of Ida Lewis, the most famous lighthouse keeper in America. Growing up she shadowed her father when he became the official keeper of Lime Rock Lighthouse, where she learned how to watch the sea for signs of trouble and how to row.

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Soar, Elinor

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Women of the Frontiers is a collection of abridged biographies of the 19th century women of the East who made the 2,000-mile trek to the West. These stories perfectly illustrate the enduring nature of the human spirit at a key moment in American history.

Girls Who Rocked the World: Heroines from Joan of Arc to Mother Teresa

By Michelle Roehm McCann & Amelie Welden; Illustrated by David Hahn SRP $9.99 • Ages 8-12 Girls Who Rocked the World profiles forty-six inspiring women who made their mark before they turned twenty. The book also profiles today's young women who are making a difference.

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Beautiful, Safety Surfaced Playground Easily Accessible • Plenty of Parking Licensed Experienced Teachers • Family-Like Atmosphere Licensed by the NYC Dept of Health Bureau of Day Care Open 6:30am-7:00pm Accommodating Working Parents Accepting Children Ages 2-5 for Our Toddler, Nursery & Pre-reading Skills Programs - P/T & F/T: 1 to 5 Days ENRICHMENT CLASSES: Tue, Wed & Thurs • 3:15 - 4:15

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June 24-July 19 Nurturing Pre-Schoolers for Over 30 Years! July 29-Aug 23 Register for 7 ~Discount to City Workers~ weeks & get the 8th week FREE! 144 BLOOMINGDALE RD. With coupon only. (off Richmond Pkwy- Pleasant Plains)

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SPRING BREAK

>>>

A SPRING BREAK STAYCATION WITH TWEENS AND TEENS

y 12-year-old daughter came home from school and announced that she was the ONLY one staying home for spring break this year. She went on to tell me how bored she would be, how lucky her friends were and how she would be stuck at home doing NOTHING. Poor girl!

M

Contrary to what your teens and tweens think, not everyone goes on a spring break vacation.

Finances, parent’s vacation time, and recent holiday travel are some of the reasons that a second vacation is not possible.

THERE ARE MANY FUN THINGS TO DO RIGHT AT HOME In order to keep your teen or OR IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD THIS SPRING BREAK. tween from driving you crazy, plan a week’s worth of activities choice of volunteering does not have to be limited to an that you can do around your own town. Enjoy a fun and organization. Plan to help an older neighbor clean out their relaxing week at home with a different theme for each day. garage or babysit for a new mom that can use another pair of hands.

Pajama Day – Most teens are exhausted by their constant on-the-go lifestyle. What they really need is a day off.

Adventure Day – Plan to do something you have never done Homework, extracurricular activities, social plans and family before. Enroll your teen in an adventure day camp in your area obligations leave little time to just hang out. Reserve a day with to try surfing, kayaking or scuba diving. Looking for an indoor no agenda. Let your child sleep in. Encourage a day of lounging activity? Check out your local sports complex to try a new on the couch in pajamas. Buy easy self-serve meals and use sport, go rock climbing or take diving lessons. For less sporty disposable plates. Spend the day recharging for the week teens, try a theater camp, cooking class or sing at an open mic ahead. night. Encourage your kids to try something new – even if it scares them a little. You are building their confidence for the Volunteer Day – Now that your teen or tween is well rested, next adventures in their lives. start your staycation by helping others. Preplan a day of volunteerism and spend the day with those in need. Start with Party Day – Have an Unbirthday Party like the Mad Hatter in a morning at a donation center or homeless shelter preparing Alice in Wonderland. Invite all your teen’s friends who are home breakfast or cleaning up from overnight. Move on to walking for spring break. Plan something as simple as a gathering place dogs at the animal shelter in the afternoon or play board for multiple friends to hang out. Order pizza, plug in the iPod, games with the residents at an assisted living home. Your and shut the basement door. Consider including some the

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SUMMER CAMP FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 4 AND UP

SESSION 2:

SESSION 1:

AUGUST 19TH-28TH

JULY 8TH-18TH

Classes Include, But Not Limited To:

GUEST TEACHERS, HOUSE TEACHERS HOSTING WORKSHOPS IN • “BEYOND BALLET” BOOT CAMP • “BEAT-THIS” HIP HOP INTENSIVE • “CONTEMPORARY CONCEPTS” • “TONE-TECH, TURNS & TOES”

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OUR P.L.A.C.E. SCHOOL School CALL FOR INFO ABOUT YOUR 3-5 YEAR OLD Our Place School was established in 1982 to serve Staten Island’s children with special needs • Licensed by the NYC Dept of Health, division of Daycare • Funded & Regulated by NYS Department of Education • Service provided at no cost to eligible children

Call 718.987.9400 for information or to arrange a meeting.

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ACADEMY OF THE ARTS AND SCIENCES

parents to stay and have a snack with you. Socializing with other parents is a great opportunity for you to get to know your children’s friends better.

Actor Children’s Theatre at Wagner College

proudly announces the production of Into the Woods, Jr.

Show Dates: Friday, June 7 at 7pm Saturday, June 8 at 7pm Sunday, June 9 at 2pm

Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by James Lapine Orginally directed on Broadway by James Lapine

Original Broadway production produced by Heidi Landesman, M. Anthony Fisher, Rocco Landesman, Frederick H. Mayerson, Rick Steiner, Jujamcyn Theaters

Originally produced by the Old Glob Theatre, San Diego,CA

Location: Wagner College Theatre • Howard Avenue, Staten Island Ticket Sales: Pre-Sale Admission $15 • At Door $20 How to order tickets: www.wagner.edu/external or call: 718-390-3221

SPECIALTY CAMPS JULY 8-AUGUST 16 ACT Theatre Dramatic Scene Study/ACT Musical Theatre /Art & Ceramics Chorals & Drums/Dance/Film Making/Lego Robotics/Mad Science /Photography Pre College Residential Program/Teen Career Explorations in Medicine, Health & Business/Video Game Design Visit us at www.wagner.edu/external or call 718-390-3221 for more information.

See the Local Sights Day – There are probably a few spots in your hometown that you have never been to before. Get suggestions from your friends and neighbors. Visit websites for tourist attractions as if you were visiting for the first time. Check out your local historical society, museum or a store that you have never gone into. Take your camera along and snap silly pictures of your family visiting the sights. Share with friends on Instagram.

Today’s the Day – How many times has your tween asked if they could do something and your answer is “Maybe another time?” Well, today’s the day!

Go to the pet store and take out a puppy to play with. Take your teen to the mall to get her ears double pierced. Stop for ice cream before dinner and spoil your appetites. Let your kids have a sleepover and stay up as late as they want. Show your kids that they cannot always predict what their parents’ answer will be.

Ticket Day – End your week on a good note. Get tickets to an event your tween or teen would love. Whether it is a concert, theatre performance or a sporting event, you can find something to do that your child will always remember. Better yet, they will have something to share at the lunch table when the vacationers ask what he did over spring break.

By Pam Molnar, a freelance journalist and mother of a teenager and two tweens who are all staying home for spring break this year.

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A nurturing and safe environment where children learn through hands on experience

2013 SUMMER & FALL PROGRAMS Free Universal Pre K: Program for children who turn 4 by 12/31/13 My Toddler & Me: 18-36 months (child accompanied by parent) Young Nursery: Program for children who turn 3 by 4/30/14 Nursery: Program for children who turn 3 by 12/31/13 Summer Program – 6 weeks – July 8 – August 16th Extended hours available Call for an appointment to register.

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Big Bird’s Playhouse Early Childhood Development Program

Register Now for Pre-School Free Extended Hours Available Registration from 6:30am-6:30pm With Ad Meals & Snacks Included Daycare & Pre-School 3 Months to 5 Years Before and Afterschool Drop Off and Pick Up at P.S. 58, P.S. 60, P.S. 69 & P.S. 861 Trained in First Aid and CPR • Low Tuition (Breakfast and Lunch Included) Register Now UFT, 1199, ACD & HRA Vouchers For Half Day UPK–Free for Children in Diapers Accepted children born in 2009.

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3,000 Squa re Feet

THEMED PARTIES AND FUNDRAISERS Palooza Prize Wheel, Stuff-a-Bear, Wii Machines, Xbox Kinect, Plasma TV’s, Star Stage, Karaoke Machines

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Once Upon a Time...

Summer Camp at The Foresight School June 24 to August 23 Half or Full Day Program 2, 3 or 5 Days a Week 9 Week Flexible Schedule ed ird nd ly B nt xte rs r E a E cou d ou ble Dis nrolle 9 H vaila 1 A E l i if Apr by

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Eltingville Lutheran School admits students of any race, religion, national or ethnic origin.

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REBUILD. RENEW. RECOVER.

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This three-months’ series explores how Staten Islanders are all in this together as the long process to full renewal and recovery unfolds.

Together we will rebuild our Island, forgetting no one along the way.

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When I decided to become a writer many years ago, I explored both fiction and non-fiction to determine how my writing career should develop. The cliché of wanting to write the great American novel tempted me toward fiction, but I discovered non-fiction as my strength: newspaper reporter, freelance journalist, essayist, book reviewer, manuscript critique writer, and editor.

As the character Friday would say on the vintage television show Dragnet, “Just the facts, ma’am.” The facts in my writing always give me a sense of making a difference, by believing the saying that the “truth will set us free.”

For this third series article, however, I find myself thinking how writing fiction for it would have been so much easier.

It’s March, Spring, and oh, how I would love to be able to write that the thousands on Staten Island who lost their homes are now able to find a new life, either in a fully restored home that had been destroyed, or settled in a new home from which to move on!

Unfortunately, the facts do not support this. It makes me sad, especially since the storm named Sandy that caused so much havoc happened at the end of October. Now it is more than four months later, and so many people are still in limbo, unable to restart their lives.

We learned from the storm our vulnerabilities. Now we need to know from Mayor Bloomberg and Governor Cuomo what the people we elected to represent us are going to do for people still having an unlivable home and stagnated by many more questions than answers.

In his proposed NY City Budget, Mayor Bloomberg issued this press release: “The Preliminary Budget includes an estimated $4.5 billion in storm-related costs. Of that, $1.4 billion is for emergency response and debris removal and is a part of the Expense Budget. The remaining $3.1 billion is comprised of long-term repair needs for damaged infrastructure that will be incurred over time in the Capital budget. The total Sandy-related expenses include: $310 million for the schools; $812 million for hospitals; $1 billion for housing; and $601 million for parks.”

J&J Academy

What does this mean for the tax-paying people without a place to live now?

What Mayor Bloomberg did do is choose Seth Pinsky to head a group of experts for rebuilding efforts after Sandy. Media reports Pinsky stating the timeline of giving his recommendations for recovery is in May.

718-698-0280 55 Wyona Ave, S.I. NY 10314 Just bring your little prince or princess and WE will take care of the rest!!!

Saturday & Sunday care available.

Check website for details.

Rebuilding recommendations seven months after the disaster to start answering questions for homeowners who lost everything seems a bit late. After all, that is only the recommendations. When, where, and how long will it take to implement programs after decisions are finally made?

NO REGISTRATION FEE, OR DEPOSITS.

FREE A.M. UPK • ACD Voucher accepted • FREE Breakfast & Hot Lunch are served • FREE weekly Chinese class

However, a seed of hope from Albany may help begin true renewal a bit sooner.

• New York State certified teacher, small class ratio, all CPR trained staff • Follow UPK curriculum for 4 years old • Open Mon to Fri 7:00am to 7:00pm • 4000sq. ft of playground

In his proposed NY State Budget in regards to Sandy relief, Governor Cuomo included the “Recreate NY Smart Home and Recreate NY Home Buy-Out Programs: The programs will ensure that New York rebuilds to modern building standards and, in locations where rebuilding is impractical, provide a voluntary home buyout alternative.”

“Provide Assistance to Property Owners to Mitigate or Sell Properties in Vulnerable Areas: The Governor announced that the state will use various strategies to assist home and business owners whose properties were damaged in Hurricane Sandy to mitigate for the future or, if they choose to do so, to sell their properties and relocate.”

Please visit our website: www.jjacademy.org for more information

michelle giumenta, dds Celebrating Over 10 Years Practicing

✬ Child friendly atmosphere will make your child’s dental visit a pleasant experience.

More details of this program can be found at http://www.governor.ny.gov/2013/rebuild-ny.

✬ On staff with Staten Island University Hospital, with Operating room privileges for over 10 years.

Will this spring begin to bring forth new life?

I honestly believe it will, but not in the way that, or as quickly as, I had originally hoped.

The recovery progress drags on, and with it uncertainty about how all the programs will play out. In my heart I have faith that the victims, with all their losses, frustration, and uncertainty now will get stronger, shedding the designation of victims to become survivors, and that their new lives will happen.

By Angie Mangino, a Staten Island writer who encourages all to continue to stand by those who lost so much from the storm. www.AngieMangino.com

✬ Practice is limited to children, young adults and those with special needs.

✬ Digital radiography ✬ Laser Dentistry available

718-979-6462 ✬ In office sedation Like Us On Facebook

2530 AMBOY ROAD • NEW DORP at Richmond Road & First Street MARCH 2013

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CONTEST WINNERS Hidden Cake: Jacqueline Gomez Britax Parkway SG: Stephanie Bedford Five Tickets to Ringling Bros.: Linda Westgate & Sharon Gales

Room for 16 Players Inside 8 More Players Outside (weather permitting) 2 PS3, 2 XBOX and 3 Wii Stations Extensive Game Library ~Heated & Fully Air-Conditioned For All Seasons~

~ Video Game Parties ~ KARATE HELPS INCREASE: Coordination • Strength Flexibility • Self-Esteem Confidence

Board Games: Rosemarie Kreitzman, Robert Vallone, Freya Donadelle, Jeannine Riggio, Stacey Owen, Jillian LaBella, Anne Divers, Stephanie Irons, Nancy Foreman, Charlene Stetter, Rosellen StPierre, Maria Vazquez, Josh Pesin, Palma Sereno, Laurie Nuzzi, Leanna Schuler B.F.F. Diaper Bag by Ju-Ju-Be: Toni Marie Edwards Harry Potter The Exhibition & Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!: Jacqueline Sorci & Vivian Trapani

FAMILY OF FRIENDS EXCLUSIVE CONTESTS Join our Family of Friends to be offered these exclusive giveaways. Sign up today at www.siparent.com Let’s Learn: ABCs & 123s DVDs: Jenn Ellefsen, Mary Ann Gambardella, Margot Higgins, Emilia Ortiz

NO CONTRACTS!

FREE

INTRO CLASS!

Seido Karate

Family & Long Term Discounts Avail.

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Isabelle Grace Necklace: Elizabeth Ensana Valentine’s Dinner Cruise: Suzanne Coca

OVER

718.207.3613

Visitor’s Center at Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace • Room G202 See Class Schedules on www.statenislandseido.com

VeggieTales DVD: Theresa Rosales, Elener McDonough, Karina Sanchez, Christine Cusato, Laurent Chavenet

Traditional Japanese Karate on Staten Island Since 1981

$1,500 IN PRIZES AWARDED!

FACEBOOK COVER KID & HIDDEN CAKE CONTESTS

Facebook Cover Kid Be Sure to Enter our Facebook Cover Kid Contest at www.siparent.com.

Click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

ACADEMIC ADVANTAGE Advanced Test Prep & Tutoring Services

Hidden Cake For a chance to win an 8-inch

Mother Mousse Cake 718.983.8366 3767 Victory Blvd • 2175 Hylan Blvd

find the cake (pictured above) in this issue. Then log on to www.siparent.com, click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab to fill out the entry form. One winner is chosen each month.

SPRING 2013 · SHSAT & TACHS · SAT · ELA & Math Grades 3 – 7 · Regents Review Classes *All Spring classes already in session will be prorated for new students!

SUMMER 2013 · SHSAT & TACHS – discounts available for Spring Students! · Summer Advantage: Reading, Writing, Math Grades 2 – 7 plus educational games!

Learning can be fun. · SAT Summer Classes!

ALL INSTRUCTORS ARE NYS CERTIFIED TEACHERS. OVER 14 YEARS EXPERIENCE. SEND YOUR CHILDREN WHERE THE TEACHERS GO….

WE PREPARE TEACHERS FOR STATE CERTIFICATION EXAMS!

718-351-3168 • 99 New Dorp Plaza (near the train) www.AcademicAdvantageSI.com MARCH 2013

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DANCE STUDIO

Visit Our Studio

Summer Classes Once a Week Tuesdays: July 9–Aug 20

r Registe ! w No

Students can try classes & get ready for pre-school or kindergarten. Designed to give you an idea of class structure.

May be helpful in the separation process.

We supply shoes, no dancewear purchase required.

230 Livingston Ave (near Susan Wagner High School) Sandy Osgood, DEA Certified

718-727-2649 www.silhouettedancestudio.net

Home of the Staten Island Special Education Parent Center

Does Your Child Have A Disability or Special Health Care Needs?

YOU ARE NOT ALONE! “WE CARE, WE’VE BEEN THERE”

Parent to Parent is a support network and is the Staten Island Parent Resource Center for children with Special Education Needs, Developmental Disabilities, Behavioral Challenges and Special Health Care Needs.

Founded and directed by parents of children with special needs.

For More Information Call 718.494.4872 Fax: 718.494.4805 1050 Forest Hill Rd • SI, NY 10314 Email: siptp@aol.com

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GIGI’S WORLD

by Giavanna and Gina Schrecker

Hi! My name’s Giavanna, but everyone calls me Gigi.

There’s so much going on in my life that I want to share with you. That’s why, with the help of my mom Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker, VP of Content Development and Social Media for The CollegeBound Network, I am writing a monthly kid’s-eye view of what it is like in my world.

Unfamiliar Territory…

I've always been pretty good at making friends, but I recently began to doubt myself in that area. You see, I started a new afterschool class in January. The girls in the class are really friendly but most of them are older than me and it threw me for a loop. They've also all been together since September, so me joining in January was another thing that intimidated me. I'm usually among the most outgoing in a group, so when mom watched me during that first class, cowering under a veil of shyness, she didn't know what to think. She said she felt her stomach drop in a way she'd never before experienced with me in a social setting. It was like she was afraid for me but didn't know how to help. She had never seen me unsure of myself, and tried her best to remind me to just be myself. "In order to make a friend, you have to be a friend," she'd tell me, giving me tips that the best way to strike up a conversation with someone was to compliment them on something I admire. Though I know she was right, it took me awhile to work up my confidence to do so.

The thing is, I really liked the class and although I was wistful about not having friends, I couldn’t wait to go back each week. Mom was worried I’d just throw in the towel, but I knew I had to keep at it. I was determined to make a friend, someone who greeted me by name and smiled when they saw me. It made me realize how much I took those things for

granted in my small school, with the group of awesome friends I've had since pre-school. Oh, sure -- I've started “new” things before with kids I didn’t know, but this was the first time I was quite this challenged. In all my other activities, I was either really young when I started and didn’t know better, or I already knew at least one person who was there with me.

This was something completely different and foreign – from the social challenge to the subject matter. It was an acting, singing, and dance class, all of which I’d dabbled in but had never fully explored. I was a dancing school dropout by the age of 6, and though I sing in my school plays and got the lead role in a church production when I was 7, I never pursued formal lessons before. Yet here I was in a room full of older girls, being asked to go through these spotlight exercises where I had to stand in the center of a circle and act out something specific. Mom nearly broke out in hives during the first class, she told me later -- one of the reasons I told her to just drop me off from that point forward. After all, I’d surely never make friends if I were the only one in the class whose mom stayed to watch (like I was a baby).

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The whole thing has been -- and still is -- a learning experience for me. One week I make no progress and get mad at myself for not trying harder to talk to someone, and then the next week I’m overjoyed at an exchange I had with a potential new friend. Mom continues to ask if I want her to come in and watch, or to observe so she can give me advice on how to make things happen in the friendship area. And each time I adamantly insist that, “No, I can do this.” Though I’m not always as successful as I’d like, I know I’m getting closer each week. I need to just be myself… I need to just be myself… I need to just be myself. Amazing how it’s sometimes so much easier to say than do.

I guess this is part of growing up, huh?

Staten Islanders Giavanna & Gina Schrecker invite you to write to them at editorial@siparent.com or post to www.facebook.com/SIParent

MARCH 2013

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MARCH IS:

FAMILY CALENDAR HAVE YOU SEEN OUR

American Red Cross Month Deaf History Month Irish American Heritage Month Music in Our Schools Month National Women's History Month Poison Prevention Awareness Month

IMPORTANT DATES: March 2 - Read Across America March 10 - Daylight Savings Begins at 2am March 12 - Girl Scouts of the USA Founding

ONLINE CALENDAR? Visit www.siparent.com’s home page and click on the “More Events” button under the calendar icon.

March 17 - St. Patrick's Day March 20 - Spring Begins March 24 - Palm Sunday Mar 26 - Apr 2 - Passover March 29 - Good Friday

LIBRARY HOURS & LOCATIONS

March 31 - Easter Sunday

NORTH SHORE PORT RICHMOND 75 Bennett Street • 718-442-0158 Mon 10-6 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 12-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

SOUTH SHORE DONGAN HILLS 1617 Richmond Road • 718-351-1444 Mon 12-7 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 12-7 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

SOUTH BEACH 21-25 Robin Road • 718-816-5834 Mon 11-6 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 11-6 • Thurs 12-7 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

GREAT KILLS 56 Giffords Lane • 718-984-6670 Mon 11-6 • Tues 12-7 • Wed 12-7 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

ST. GEORGE LIBRARY CENTER & CHILDREN’S ROOM/MEDIA 5 Central Avenue • 718-442-8560 Mon 8-8 • Tues 8-8 • Wed 8-8 • Thurs 8-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

HUGUENOT PARK 830 Huguenot Avenue • 718-984-4636 Mon 11-6 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 11-6 • Thurs 12-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

STAPLETON–CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS 132 Canal Street • 718-727-0427

NEW DORP 309 New Dorp Lane • 718-351-2977 Mon 10-6 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 12-8 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

TODT HILL-WESTERLEIGH 2550 Victory Boulevard • 718-494-1642 Sun 1-5 • Mon 10-6 • Tues 12-8 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 10-6 Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

RICHMONDTOWN 200 Clarke Avenue • 718-668-0413 Mon 12-8 • Tues 10-6 • Wed 10-6 • Thurs 10-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

WEST NEW BRIGHTON 976 Castleton Avenue • 718-442-1416 Mon 11-6 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 12-8 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

TOTTENVILLE 7430 Amboy Road • 718-984-0945 Mon 12-8 • Tues 11-6 • Wed 11-6 • Thurs 11-6 • Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-5

VIEW LIBRARY INFORMATION ONLINE, CLICK ON THE “RESOURCES” TAB

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Family Movie: Cinderella New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2pm • All ages • Free PLEASE NOTE: Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. We strongly suggest calling to confirm times, prices, ages, etc. before you attend.

FRIDAY, MARCH 1 Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free Board Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 2+ • Free Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Saturday Science SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-12:30pm • Ages 2-6 • $30/$50 Tales from Dr. Seuss Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 3pm • Ages 4-6 • Free Adult Knitting and Crochet Club New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am-12pm • Adults • Free Tibet & Tibetans On Screen Tibetan Museum 718-987-3500 2-3pm • All ages • $6/$4 Cabin Fever Arts & Crafts Fair Alice Austen House 718-816-4506 11am-5pm • All ages • Free admission

SUNDAY, MARCH 3 FrogWatch USA High Rock Park 718-351-3450 1pm • Ages 8+ • Free

Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

MONDAY, MARCH 4

Salt & Fresh Water Fishing Zimmer Club 718-948-9599 9am-12:30pm • Ages 10-17 • Free

Bullying: Detection, Prevention, and Intervention Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 5:30pm • Adults • Free

Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8

Sewing Workshop Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 3pm • Ages 12-16 • Free

Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12pm • Ages 50+ • Free Wii Gaming Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free Read Aloud Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 4pm • All ages • Free Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 5 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ • Free

Friendship Bracelet Club Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Ages 8-14 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 3:30-5:30pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Free Tax Preparation for Seniors Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11am-3pm • Seniors • Free Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free • Register

S.I. PARENT HAS BIEBER FEVER We're giving away four tickets to one lucky winner to see

Justin Bieber live July 31, 2013 at the Prudential Center. Go to www.siparent.com's "Contests and Clubs" tab and click on "Justin Bieber Tickets" to enter for your chance to win.

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Celebrate Dr. Seuss Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 3-11 • Free Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • Seniors • Free Writing Workshop New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30pm • Adults • Free

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6 Picture Book Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 9:45-10:30am • Ages 3 & 4 • $8/$6 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center

Teen Club New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-4:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admission Baby Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Ages 0-2 • Free Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free Family Movie Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • All ages • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Bilingual Birdies (Spanish) St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 0-5 • Free • Register Children's Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • All ages • Free

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

718-351-3450 11-11:30am • Ages 2 • $8/$6

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ • Free

Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 1.5-3 • Free • Register Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 10:45am • Ages 3 & 4 • $8/$6 Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admission Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission

CABIN FEVER ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR Friday, March 1 Saturday, March 2 Sunday, March 3 Alice Austen House 11am-5pm All ages Free admission 718-273-2060 statenislandkids.org Vendors will be offering a variety of goods, including: Homegrown herb and spice blends, crochet apparel and accessories, children’s toys and stuffed animals, fine art, greeting cards, stone and sterling silver jewelry, one of a kind jewelry derived from vintage pieces, scarves, and much more! There will also be various raffles and refreshments for sale!

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Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11am • Ages 50+ • Free NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 3-12 • Free Silly Science West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 3-11 • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 8

Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30am • Ages 1.5-3 • Free Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 0-4 • Free

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free • Register Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Preschool Story Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Ages 2-5 • Free Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free Board Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free

Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 2+ • Free

Preschool Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

HOLY CHILD P R ES C H O O L 71 8. 35 6. 51 59

for September Classes Limited Seats Available Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds

Over 45 Years of Quality Education

Openings Available

4 7 4 7 A m b oy R o a d S I , N Y 10 3 12

On-Going Registration

Staten Island Montessori School

PROGRESSIVE ELEMENTARY CURRICULUM Register for Parent & Me and Toddling Around May 1 & 2

• Pre-K, Kindergarten–8th Grade • Complete MONTESSORI Curriculum • Small Classes • Full Academic Program • Science, Cultural Subjects, Computers, Art & Music • Reading Specialist • Licensed by NYC, Chartered by NYS

~NO RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION~ Call or E-mail holychildprek@gmail.com for more information

4240 Amboy Rd • Great Kills 718.967.2196 • www.simontessorischool.com

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Job Recruitment with Workforce 1 New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10am-1pm • Adults • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 Family Movie: E.T. New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2pm • All ages • Free ssSecondssSaturdayssSnakes S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 12noon • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

FAMILY MOVIE: E.T. Saturday, March 9 New Dorp Library 2pm All ages Free 718-351-2977 nypl.org

Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Saturday Science SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-12:30pm • Ages 2-6 • $30/$50 Read with Beverly St. George Library 718-442-8560 11am • Ages 5-11 • Free

SUNDAY, MARCH 10 Yard Map Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 1pm • Ages 8+ • Free Ecology Walk Wolfe's Pond Park 718-727-1135 9am-11am • All ages • Free Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

MONDAY, MARCH 11

100www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12pm • Ages 50+ • Free Tween Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Read Aloud Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 4pm • All ages • Free Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 12 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ • Free

Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission

Wii Gaming Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4pm • Ages 10+ • Free

Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free

Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library

This timeless story follows the unforgettable journey of a lost alien and the ten year old boy he befriends. Come watch on our big screen and take home a free coloring sheet.

Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Free Tax Preparation for Seniors Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11am-3pm • Seniors • Free Preschool Story Time Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 1pm • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free • Register Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • Seniors • Free

PRE-K ADMISSIONS INFORMATION SESSION Thursday, March 7 P.S. 69 144 Keating Place 6-7:30pm 718 935-2009

If your child is turning 4 years old in 2013, you'll want to learn about the Pre-K admission process for the 2013-14 school year. Programs offered by NYC Dept. of Education are free, half/full day at public schools and some community-based organizations (CBO).

102www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Writing Workshop New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30pm • Adults • Free

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13 Picture Book Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 Family Movie Night: Frankenweenie Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free Mid-Week Bird Walk Clove Lakes Park 718-727-1135 10am-12pm • All ages Free Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free Preschool Program New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11am • Ages 2.5-5 • Free • Register Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admision Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free

Open Computer Lab Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12:30pm • Ages 50+ • Free • Register Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Teen Advisory Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30-5:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Preschool Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

THURSDAY, MARCH 14 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ • Free

Leprechaun Craft Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admission Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11am • Ages 50+ • Free

Preschool / Daycare / UPK FOR CHILDREN AGES 2-6 • OPEN 7:00AM TO 6:30PM

Grand Opening Speech and Language Pathology Practice Serving You and Your Children Our therapists have wide experience working with clients with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, PDD, Craniofacial Differences, Fluency Disorders, Apraxia of Speech, “Late Talkers,“ Hearing Impairments & Phonological / Articulation Disorders Most Insurances Accepted • CPSE and RSA

347.640.4SLP (4757) 188 Hylan Blvd • 10305

www.bbslp.org BILINGUAL CERTIFIED THERAPISTS

• • • • • • •

5 Spacious Classrooms • Academic Curriculum Large Outdoor Play Yard • Diapers O.K. • Seats Available

Register Now for Summer and September

NEW! 3 YEAR OLD TUE & THUR PM CLASS

Security Cameras Throughout the Facility.

Doors always locked.

No one enters without permission.

Check us out on www.siparent.com, Facebook and www.rhccny.com 718 494-7422 • 501 Richmond Hill Rd

Contested Divorce Uncontested Divorce Divorce Financial Analysis Collaborative Divorce Parenting Plans and Visitation QDRO’s Reproductive / Fertility Law

We know it isn’t easy to divorce, our goal is to help you maintain the integrity of your family while navigating the legal and financial challenges you may face as you end your current partnership, so that you concentrate on starting your new life.

STATEN ISLAND DIVORCE AND MEDIATION CENTER Law Offices of Lisa Giovinazzo

718.448.1600 176 Hart Boulevard • SI, NY 10301 www.SIDMC.com • www.statenislanddivorcemediation.com MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free

Read Aloud Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 3-11 • Free

Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 3-12 • Free

Zumba Workout New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 12:30-1:30pm • Adults • Free

Silly Science West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free • Register

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME Sunday, March 10

FRIDAY, MARCH 15 Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 0-4 • Free Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission St. Patrick's Day Craft South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register

Don't forget to change your clocks!

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m.

104www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Teen Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free Board Games Dongan Hills Library

718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Children's Video Gaming West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 2+ • Free Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Friday Afternoon Social @ the Library New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-4pm • Ages 40+ • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Jr. Science Club-Tracking Weather Staten Island Museum 718-483-7110 10am-12pm • Ages 8-13 • $5/$8 Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Saturday Science SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-12:30pm • Ages 2-6 • $30/$50 Music @ NYPL Presents Nylon Wound Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 2pm • Adults • Free Adult Knitting and Crochet Club New Dorp Library

We Specialize In: T-SHIRTS • HATS • SWEATS • TEAM & SCHOOL JACKETS TEAM UNIFORMS • TACKLE TWILL & EMBROIDERY

U P to the

STEP

Majors with... eady Get Ra mp! for CCamp Your & Logo Name our A On ll Y ar We Camp

Great for Bar/Bat Mitzvahs & Sweet Sixteen’s

OUR BUSINESS IS TO PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS

View Inventory & Request Free Quote @ www.imprintablefashion.com/majorleague

718-390-0969 • majorlge@aol.com 25 Rector St (Castleton Ave & Richmond Terr) Rush Orders Welcome All Work Done On Premises

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL

Start your child off on the right path!

Become a part of the Catholic school tradition.

“A Christ centered education with a value based curriculum” • Advance ED Accredited/NCA • NYS Certified teaching staff • High tech computer lab • Interactive Smartboard in all classrooms • Internet access throughout the school enabling students to research lessons utilizing laptops • Remediation program, school counselor & meeting room • NJHS Chapter; Student Government • Science, Engineering and Technology Club; • Mentoring program for Grade 8; Grade 8 Honors Math • Spanish Grades 3-8 • State of the art athletic center with two new Pre-K gymnasiums and an outdoor soccer field to 8th • Before and after care school program Grade • Full time school nurse

Pre K 3 Half Day: Tues & Thurs • 8:30-11:00 & 12:00-2:30 Pre K 4 Full Day: Mon, Wed & Fri • 8:30-2:30 Pre K 4 Half Day: Mon, Wed & Fri • 8:30-11:00

Rolling Registration Call for an Appointment.

SEED Success through Early Exploration & Discovery for 3 & 4 year olds!

To Register Call 718-984-5750 Irma Cummings, Principal or 718-984-0593 Debbie Emigholz, Parish Manager 5411 AMBOY ROAD • SI, NY 10312

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

718-351-2977 10:30am-12pm • Adults • Free

SUNDAY, MARCH 17 Leprechaun Hike Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 1pm • Ages 7+ • Free

Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Sunday Sing-a-Long with Patrick S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

MID-WEEK BIRD WALK Wednesday, March 13

St. Patrick's Day Parade Starting at Hart Blvd & Forest Ave. 718-987-1609 12noon • All Ages • Free

Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ • Free

MONDAY, MARCH 18

Preschool Fun Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11am • Ages 3-5 • Free

Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12pm • Ages 50+ • Free

Clove Lakes Park 10am-12pm All ages Free 718-727-1135

Join the Staten Island Museum for a walk through the park. It should yield late wintering songbirds, raptors, waterfowl, and, with a little luck, a few early spring migrants.

106www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Wii Gaming Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • All ages • Free

Friendship Bracelet Club Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Ages 8-14 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Free Tax Preparation for Seniors Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11am-3pm • Seniors • Free

Computer Program West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free • Register

Read Aloud Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 4pm • All ages • Free

Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • Seniors • Free

TUESDAY, MARCH 19

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20

Teen Lounge

Picture Book Time

The New Faces of

ISLAND HEIGHTS PEDIATRICS Dr. Diana Pintus-Emma and Dr. AnnMarie Grigoletto are pleased to announce two new additions to the medical staff of Island Heights Pediatrics!

Dr. Daniel DeLara was a friend and colleague of Dr Paul Aceto and is a Board certified pediatrician with over twenty years of pediatric experience.

Mr. Joseph DiMauro is a physician’s assistant with over 10 years of experience, most recently at Staten Island University Hospital Staten Island 3371 Richmond Ave Staten Island, NY 10312

New Jersey 3342 US Hwy 9 South Old Bridge, NJ 08857

718.984.2888

732.679.4362

L to R: Daniel DeLara, MD, FAAP, AnnMarie Grigoletto, MD, FAAP, Diana Pintus-Emma, MD, FAAP, Joseph DiMauro, RPA-C

At Island Heights Pediatrics, we provide the best in personal care to all pediatric patients from birth to twenty one years of age.

We are open seven days a week and same day appointments are available.

Camp, sports and school physicals performed. Most insurance plans accepted.

We are affiliated with Richmond University Medical Center and Staten Island University Hospital.

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free Teen Club New Dorp Library

JR. SCIENCE CLUBTRACKING WEATHER Saturday, March 16 Staten Island Museum 10am-12pm Ages 8-13 $5/$8 718-483-7110 statenislandkids.org

Learn to observe and predict short range weather changes and build a simple weather instrument.

718-351-2977 2:30-4:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admission Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Children's Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • All ages • Free

MARCH 2013

Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admission Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11am • Ages 50+ • Free Coffee Talk Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:30am • Ages 50+ • Free

Preschool Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free

Laptop Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30-11:30am • Adults • Free

Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 3-12 • Free

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

Silly Science West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ • Free Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

108www.siparent.com

Movement Fun New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 4-9 • Free

Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 1.5-3 • Free • Register

Cool Rain Forest Connections Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 4pm • Ages 4-10 • Free Read Aloud Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 3-11 • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 22 Toddler Story Time

PROFESSIONAL ACTING SCHOOL FOR PRE TEENS AND TEENS

SPRING TERM STARTS APRIL 13TH SPRING SHOW JUNE 8TH

REGISTER ONLINE AT

THEATERINTHEWOODS.ORG OR CALL

718-351-6134

THEATERINWOODS@AOL.COM

CALL FOR INFO ON OUR

SUMMER CAMP

JOANNA PETROULEAS, FOUNDER/DIRECTOR

2 HELENA ROAD STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. 10304

WWW.THEATERINTHEWOODS.ORG

THEATER IN THE WOODS IS AN INTIMATE ACTING SCHOOL DESIGNED FOR TEENS TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES THROUGH THE ART OF DRAMATIC THEATRE!

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 0-4 • Free Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Preschool Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE Sunday, March 17 On Forest Ave. up to Jewett Ave. 12pm All ages Free 718-987-1609 Starting at Hart Blvd. & Forest Ave. The 2013 Grand Marshal will be Agnes Quinlan, who is active with the Columbiettes, the Deborah League, St. Ann's R.C. Church and the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Ms. Quinlan's parade aides will be Greg De Forest, Richard Lyle, Thomas Gray, Linda Morano, Madeline Struthers and Grace Osborn. Ashley Mullarkey is Miss Hibernia for 2013, and her court is Emily Randall and Megan Newman.

110www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

Sleigh Bells in Springtime: Frogs Calling Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 11am • Ages 4+ • Free

Crafternoon Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register

Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

Board Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free

Saturday Science SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am - 12:30pm • Ages 2-6 • $30/$50

Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free

The Hobbit Presented by the Traveling Lantern Theatre Company Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 4+ • Free

Coffee and Books Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11am • Adults • Free Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 2+ • Free Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Book Discussion New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30pm • Adults • Free

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Read with Beverly St. George Library 718-442-8560 11am • Ages 5-11 • Free

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

MONDAY, MARCH 25 Looking Closely: Mammals Staten Island Museum 718-483-7103 10am-12pm • Ages 5-13 • $2 Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8

Spring Sing-Along with Patrick Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 1pm • All ages • Free

Special Needs Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11am • All ages • Free

Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Irishs Step Dancing with Dawn Daniels S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

Read Aloud Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 4pm • All ages • Free

Free Tax Preparation for Seniors Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11am-3pm • Seniors • Free

Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free

Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

Preschool Story Time Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 1pm • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12pm • Ages 50+ • Free Film Program West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 0-11 • Free

BASKET AUCTIONS Thursday, March 7

TUESDAY, MARCH 26

All Aboard: Ferry Tour for Kids!

Staten Island Museum 718-483-7103 10am • Ages 5-13 • $2

Friday, March 22

St. Christopher School 15 Lisbon Place 6pm • Ages 10+ $2 for children 10-16; $5 for adults 718-351-0902 Event includes big sweeps, raffles, door prizes, hot food, beverages, and more.

112www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Internet Basics New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30-11:30am • Adults • Free • Register

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ • Free

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27

Beatrix Potter Bonanza Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 11am • Ages 5+ • $8/$6

Picture Book Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

St. Joseph-St. Thomas Excelsior Grand 6:30pm • All ages • $65 347-866-4081 Dinner served at 7pm. Prizes include: Gucci, Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Dolce & Gabbana, Coach, Burberry, Vera Bradley, and more.

Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • Seniors • Free

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 •

Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free Winter is Gone Hike Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 10am • Ages 8+ • Free

$5 w/admission

Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free

Mid-Week Bird Walk William T. Davis Wildlife Refuge 718-727-1135 10am-12pm • All ages • Free

Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Outdoor Adventures-Nature Hike Clove Lakes Park 718-483-7103 10am-12pm • All ages • Free

AMERICAN KARATE OF STATEN ISLAND SPECIALIZING IN CHILDREN AGES 3 & UP

3 Year Old Karate Tots 6-10 Year Olds • Teen & Adult Classes D i s ci pl i n e • C on f i d e n ce Winter Sp e ec ia

l

At t e n t i o n S p a n • Free Intro Class 2 Week • Flexible Payment Plan Trial • Flexible Hours: 5-7pm • We Offer Beginner Classes at 5pm & 7:15pm For Ages 3 and Up Plus Free Unifor m • Ask About Our Classes for Special Needs Children With Sign Up VISIT US ON THE WEB FOR A VIRTUAL TOUR WWW.AMERICANKARATEOFSTATENISLAND.COM

2795 RICHMOND AVE • 718-761-7366 (In Stop ‘n Shop Center by the SI Mall)

(Call or walk in after 3pm)

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Walk-In Workshop Open S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admission

Pajama Story Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 7pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free

Teen Advisory Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30-5:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Teen Movie Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Kids' Wii St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

IRISH STEP DANCING WITH DAWN DANIELS

THURSDAY, MARCH 28 Colors in Nature S.I. Museum 718-483-7103 10am-12pm • Ages 5-13 • $2

Monday, March 25

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Ages 12+ Free

SI Children's Museum 2pm Ages 2-10 Free w/ admission 718-273-2060 statenislandkids.org

Clap to the beat of lively traditional Irish Step Dancing with Dawn Daniels and her dance troupe.

Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 1218 • Free Spring into Journaling Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 1pm • Ages 7+ • $6/$4 Walk-In Workshop S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am-4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

114www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Ages 2-4 • Free w/admission

Tot's Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am • Ages 1-5 • $5 w/admission Free Income Tax Prep. & Counseling Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11am • Ages 50+ • Free NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 1.5-2.5 • Free • Register Read Aloud Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 3-11 • Free Zumba Workout New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 12:30-1:30pm • Adults • Free

FRIDAY, MARCH 29 Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 0-4 • Free Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

Register Now for

SUMMER CAMP and UPK 2013!

Get ready for Sept. in our Summer Camp

• Ages 2.0 & Up • Half & Full Days • Universal Pre-K Provider • Music, Arts & Crafts, Science • 1/2 Acre Outdoor Play Area • Classrooms Individually Air-Conditioned Family Owned & • State-of-the-Art Operated Playground/Playscape Since 1983

THE

TANGLEWOOD SCHOOL

Quality Education for Young Children

15 Tanglewood Drive Corner of Arthur Kill Road

718.967.2424

DIVORCE • SEPARATION CUSTODY • VISITATION CHILD SUPPORT SPOUSAL SUPPORT ORDERS OF PROTECTION Aggressive Representation For All Your Family Law Needs Protect Yourself, Your Assets, Your Family Contact Us Today For Your FREE CONSULTATION

CONTI & KEEGAN, P.C. 347-273-1310 1110 South Avenue Staten Island, NY www.contikeeganpc.com Visa, MasterCard, American Express & Discover

MARCH 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Outdoor Adventures-Nature Hike Wolfe's Pond Park 718-483-7103 10am-12pm • All ages • Free

Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 2+ • Free

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3 & 4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission

Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free

American Mah Jongg New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-4pm • Adults • Free

Puzzle and Coloring Hour West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 0-11 • Free

ALL ABOARD: FERRY TOUR FOR KIDS! Tuesday, March 26 Staten Island Museum 10am Ages 5-13 $2 718-483-7103 statenislandmuseum.org

Learn about the history of NY Harbor from aboard the Staten Island Ferry.

Meet at Museum building for a walk to catch the 10:30am ferry. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

116www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR

NEW ONLINE CALENDAR? Visit www.siparent.com’s Home Page and click on the “More Events” button under the calendar icon

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

Family Movie: Dragons: Riders of Berk New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2pm • All ages • Free Up4Art SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1, 2 & 3pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Saturday Science SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11am - 12:30pm • Ages 2-6 • $30/$50 Dr. Seuss' Birthday Craft South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Register Stories that Move and Sing St. George Library 718-442-8560 3pm • Ages 4+ • Free

SUNDAY, MARCH 31 Introduction to the Trails High Rock Park 212-360-3300 1am • All ages • Free

Check out all the Calendar Events!

MARCH 2013

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117

FAMILY NEEDS Party Services PARTY TIME ENTERTAINMENT

STATEN ISLAND HOT DOG

We Carry a Variety of Sabrett Hot Dogs and Push Carts, Cotton Candy, Jelly Apples and More!

Home, Office, Businesses, Retail & Wholesale ~HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE~ Food John T. 646-932-4412 Vendors John P. 347.444.9140 Welcome www.StatenIslandHotDog.com

Party With Us Now!

• Disc Jockeys • Video Taping • Karaoke • M/F Dancers • Party Servers • Dancing Gorillas • Caricaturist • Magicians • Singing Telegrams • Celebrity Look-a-Likes

• Costume Characters • Clowns • Puppet Show • Petting Zoo • Theme Parties • Double Dare Mini Circus • Dress Up Tea Parties • Carnival Games • Cotton Candy

• Candy Carts • Ice-Cream Sundae Bar • Sno-Cone Machines • Hot Dog Wagon • Candy Sticks • Craft Parties • Sand Art • Spin Art, T-Shirts & Pictures

• Stuffed Bears • Airbrushed Tattoos • Wax Hands • Candle Art • Rides • Moon Walks • Ball Crawl • Super Slide • Dunk Tank • Gyro • Train • Carousel

• Jousts • Catapillar • Lazer Maze • Birthday Machine • Obstacle Course • Casino Parties • Photo Favors • Balloon Typhoons • Chair Rental • And More!

www.PartyTimeEntertainmentInc.com • 718.667.8998

“Every Little Detail"

Party on the Wild Side

Rose Picarello, Owner

Full Service Event Planning & Dessert Design Company

Mention S.I. Parent to Receive 10% Off a Package of Your Choice!

718.637.7821 • 682 Forest Ave•2nd Fl

www.myeverylittledetail.net

DJs, MCs, Vocalists, Dancers, Videographers, Photographers, Pro Light Shows, Intelligent Lights, Photo Booth, Live Animal Shows, Candy Carts, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Plasma TVs, Rides, Magicians, Clowns, Limousines, Karaoke, Costume Characters, Casino Night Tables, Fully Insured

$100 OFF With any DJ booking, cannot be combined.

YOUR ONE STOP DJ & ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY

partywithf2k.com 718.554.4780 CHARACTER-A-CISE Boogie with your favorite costume character.

Children’s Party Craft Parties Entertainment for All Ages Call

718-984-5546 or 732-360-1616

MOUSE-A-CISE WORK OUT WITH MR. OR MRS. MOUSE Childrens Party Entertainment Set to Music

118www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

718-984-5546

Live Animal Shows for Birthdays, Classrooms, and Summer Camps.

• Reptiles • Birds • Mammals 732-264-1879 • Bugs

www.partyonthewildside.com

PARTY PUPS

www.thepartypups.com Children and Pups Interact for an Exciting and Memorable Party!

SKATEBOARD RIDING DOG!

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Call: 718-816-0849

Michelle Rifkin-Mamaradlo L.M.S.W.

Featuring: Inflatable Rides • Popcorn • Cotton Candy Sand Art • Spin Art • Magicians • Caricaturists * WE SPECIALIZE IN PHOTO FAVORS *

10% OFF

BIRTHDAY PARTY

718

356-8723

ANY

ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGES AVAILABLE

SERVICE WITH

www.BeeLineEntertainment.com Sweet 16’s • Birthday Parties • Christenings Communions • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Confirmations Private Parties • Block Parties • Company Parties & More

THIS AD

COSTUME CHARACTERS Full Line of Costume & Cartoon Characters to Enhance Your Child’s Party DJ/Costume characters packages available for 1st birthdays & christenings

Kids Dance Parties Call Sherry: 718-317-7439

Specialty Gourmet Cakes, Cupcakes, Cookies & Sweets Free Delivery on Staten Island!

917.468.8380 buttercreamblue.com

Our desserts are made to not only be pleasing to your tastebuds but, incredible to your eyes.

Party People Promotions We love what we do and it shows. le R e l i ab bl e A ff o r d a e d nc Ex p e r i e r e d su F ul l y I n

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With coupon. Staten Island only.

Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

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www.partypeoplepromotions.com

Party Smarty 718-556-9475 Entertainment 718.556.9475

Affordable Party Packages Face Painting, Glitter Art Tattoos Sculpture Balloons, Temporary Tatoos, DJ’s, Entertainers, Karaoke, Rides, Spin Art, Sand Art, Candy Art, Arts & Crafts, Theme Parties, Stuff a Bear Parties, Candy Cart, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Snokones, Pretzels, Sundae Bar, Carnival Games, & More!

www.partysmartyentertainment.com

MARCH 2013

www.siparent.com

119

FAMILY NEEDS Party Services Photography

Say Cheese

ALL OCCASIONS Portraits, Photo Favors, Mention 3-D Images, Crystal S.I. Parent to Recieve Images, Props & Theme Backgrounds 10%

718.494.6402

FUNBELIEVABLE PARTIES

OFF

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SAND ART EDIBLE SAND ART FACE PAINTING BALLOON ANIMALS TATTOOS PINATAS CRAFTS MUSIC

SPIN ART KARAOKE COTTON CANDY POPCORN AIRBRUSH TATTOOS ALSO OFFERING: PHOTO FAVORS CENTERPIECES LAWN STORKS

10% OFF ANY

PARTY PACKAGE

WE BRING THE 718.356.5FUN (5386) PARTY TO YOU! Some exclusions apply. Call for details.

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THE SWEET 16 SPECIALIST! • Video Mixing & Video Candle Lighting Now Available • Choose Your Own Dancers • FREE Mixed CD Favors

Visit Our Brand New Showroom

$100 OFF

CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN! • Dancing • Crafts • Character • Balloon Visits Animals • Face Painting • Rock Band • Candy Carts • Magicians • Games • & More!

Deluxe Sweet 16 Package & 50 FREE Giveaways Add 2 Plasmas & Get Professional Before you book your party with another company check out Montage or www.feelthebeatpro.com or call 718.354.0431 Video Mixing JUST FOR YOUR CALL YOU WILL RECEIVE A FREE PROMO CD

FREE

Showroom: 1761 Victory Boulevard

Interested in Advertising?

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718.761.4800

Over 20 years of PROVEN results!

120www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

Established 1985

10% OFF Any 4 Hour Party

Cannot be combined.

(Excluding Sweet Sixteens or Weddings)

c: 718-986-6510 • p: 718-698-2712

statenislandpet.com For all things furry on Staten Island

Get the lowdown on dog walkers, pet sitters, parks, products, groomers, meet up groups and more...

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men’s grooming and lounge

Boys & Teens Haircuts 718.317.5000 2965 Veterans Rd South Shore Commons Plaza

www.modernmaleny.com MARCH 2013

www.siparent.com

121

FAMILY NEEDS Classifieds "THE LIFE YOU SAVE"

Protect Your Loved Ones. Learn CPR today!

Infant • Child • Adult CPR All classes taught by Critical Care RNs who are American Heart Association Certified Instructors.

Group Discounts Onsite or In Your Home

917.836.9709

thelifeyousavecpr.com

Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc. 6 WEEKS–12 YEARS • EARLY PRE-SCHOOL CURRICULUM OPEN 6AM-6PM (EXTENDED HOURS AVAILABLE)

• Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper • Over Nights & Weekends • Hablamos Espanol • Summer Camp & Recreational Activities • NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted LOCATIONS LOCATED OFF AVE, NEAR PS 22 718-954-4108 4FOREST

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com

Non-Traditional Montessori Day Care

- 6 children in 2 groups ages 2-3.5 & 3.5-5 - Mon-Fri • 7am-7pm English & - Montessori classes - Math, art, nature, music, iPads Russian - Dance, taekwondo, yoga & group fitness - "Gifted and Talented Preparation" - Etiquette and table manners - “Your Baby Can Read” program ages 2+ - Organic & natural meals 4 times a day 318 Jewett Ave • 646.752.2858 www.LittleCornell.com • daycare71@gmail.com

Does your little one’s strolller need a little love? Has their car seat seen better days?

CALL TO DETAIL OR REPAIR YOUR STROLLER & GET BACK THAT BRAND NEW LOOK & FEEL ~Round Trip Delivery~

917.525.6230

Stroller and

dana@strollerspa.com Car Seat Detailing and Repairs

Piano Lessons Highly Experienced Piano Teacher ~Conservatory Grad~ BM, MA in Music Offering Lessons in Your Home or Mine Unique, Effective Methods

ALL AGES/ALL LEVELS/ALL STYLES ~STUDENT RECITALS~ Marsha Ponce

447-1416

(718)

KAREN L. GOLDMAN, MA, LMHC-BC Psychotherapist / Bereavement Specialist

By Appointment Only • 1076 Forest Ave 347-850-2322 karengoldmansitherapy.com • kl.goldman@yahoo.com NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor Treating Adults, Teens, Children & Families for Over 20 Years Evening and Weekend Hours

Camp Good Grief Session in June To Register your child/teen call Director Karen Goldman www.campgoodgriefsi.org

“Help Bring Your Child’s Education to the Next Level” NYS Certified Teacher

ADVANCED TUTORING All Grades & Subjects K-12

PRIVATE TUTOR GRADES K-8

Specializing in Early Reading Development Phonics • Homework Help • Test Prep

718.490.1787 • mdorazio11@hotmail.com “Teacher of the Year” 2011-2012 school year

Certified Private Tutor DYSLEXIC and NON-DYSLEXIC Is your child struggling with reading, spelling, writing or comprehension?

WILSON READING PROGRAM MULTI-SENSORY APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM METHODOLOGY

Carol 347-215-2417 crlvsky@msn.com

122www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY

ADHD, Aphasia, CVA, Parkinson’s, PDD, Alzheimers, Stuttering, TBI, ABA, Autism, Language Deficit

PRECARE, SLP, PC

Pediatric, Toddlers, Teens, Adults & Geriatrics Computerized Clinical Equipment CPSE & RSA • Most Insurances Accepted

718.259.4001

R. Gurevich MA, CCC-SLP www.slpmd.com

NYS CERTIFIED TEACHERS READY TO WORK WITH YOUR CHILD

C: 718-755-3025 2 c = b + a 2

2

32 Years’ Experience Call Ed 718-979-2387

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Algebra • Geometry • Trigonometry Math Regents and SAT prep Junior High School Math All High School Entrance Exams Patient, Personable and Effective

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RETHOUGHT.REDESIGNED.RENEWED.

Birthday CluB

Join S.I. Parent Magazine’s BIRTHDAY CLUB! Log on to www.siparent.com and click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

March MARCH 1 Klarah Connae Mitchell Dylan McAree John Michael Pearson Nayalin Guzman Mark Chertkov Hadiyah Ali Isabella La Greca John Marfoglio Angelina Rose Frascona MARCH 2 Casey Gardiner Michael Robert O’Neill Kashayla Jackson Angelina Milata Allison Arazi Corianne Rallis Kaylina Garcia Austin Fraser Angeliah Negron Giordana Florio Marcus Payet Breanna Body MARCH 3 Shawn Kender Dylan Ivers Christopher Mazza Karon Eley Lauren Ventrone Brendan DiCerbo Alexa Geary Richard Longo Kayla Wagner Daniela DiBenedetto Keil Ortiz Jr. Antoinette Chow Josiah Montantine Christopher Allegretti MARCH 4 Anthony Curatolo Michael Curatolo Kerry Egan Carla Jimenez Jeremy Trigo William-Izaiah Eason IV Samantha Smith Billy Jernigan, Jr. Isaiah Pizarro Hiba Ahmed McKenna Whitney MARCH 5 Justin Mandracchia Leilani Jenkins Emily Guercia Sarah Rivera Christopher Redmond Kellie Betances Lena Lane MARCH 6 Kenyetta Cofield

T. Nicole Adragna John Anthony Serrapica BriAnna D. Davison Jason Osio TaJuan Martinez Justin Michael Louisson Justin Guaragno Amanda Rose Davies Timothy Aust Kayla Mulvey Kaitlyn Alavarces Shannon Delaney Justin Joiner Joseph Nerone MARCH 7 Jason Spallina Christian Adams Stefania R. Santoro Lauren Padula Joseph Gavin Nerone Aidan Doctor Adrianna Flynn-Taliercio Mateo Palacios Lucia Alfano MARCH 8 Steven A. Zaluk Samantha Faith Mazzei Steven Costigan Jr. Haley F. Chapan Sean Bosch Nicole Pepe Michelangelo Monterroso MARCH 9 Jaclyn Marie Columbia Ryan Siuffe Summer Kayla M. Fisher Caelen Ryan Jenna Dian Zaluk Bethany Werth Jason Dennis Mitchell Samantha Stein Matthew Jernigan MARCH 10 Lauren Fay Alexa Giammanco Angelina Fasulo Madilyn Rose Dolce Anthony LaMorte Haneen Ali Abigail Intravia Nicholas Cisak Julia Gabrielle Goldstein Nathaniel Jackson Peter Velotti MARCH 11 Bryan Rodriguez Jonathan Burrell Katie Schoenau John Rutherford Destiny De Jesus

Brianna Intravaia Emily Pollio Aidan Doctor Brianna Portney Chloe Sophia Antabi MARCH 12 Stephanie DeFazio Sarah Mauceri Victoria Rose Brescia Gianna Nicole Brescia Jianna Jackson Ryan Patrick Davies Derek Paul van Rouendal Joseph Sciarrone Joshua DiDonna Nicholas Rocchio Jenna Scalia Georgia Rose Correll Matthew Cocozello Vincent LaBella Liana Bowman Taylor Marie Billera Jonathan Crockett MARCH 13 Nicholas Crimi Bobby Velez Randy DeGregorio Carmine Mazza Sarah Mauceri Naveen Abdepuiahab Gabrielle Iacono Catherine Farley Cameron Bracker MARCH 14 Julia E. Lawrik Christopher Marchisotto Alexa Puzio Camryn Vitale Madilyn Dolce Joshua Elias Lyla Atlas Riviera Marie Occhipinti Gabriella Juliette Alonso MARCH 15 Shannon Kamini Cahill Miranda Drake Kaityln Sitro John Lopez Jodi Walters Ciara Dove Ryan Villamagna Joseph Ditre MARCH 16 Anthony V. Castellano Suzy Mark Isabella Delgado Fran O’Neill Michelle O’Neill Paul Hansen Anna Kalil

Samantha Weisselberg Isabella Marie Ramos Ethan Gorinshteyn Justin Vargas Breanna Rice Juan Hernandez MARCH 17 Anthony Laurella Natalie Nowlen Jenna Nicolosi A.J. Mistler Alyssa Bobchin T.J. Coyne Patrick Budge Steven Rivera Rocco Santiago-Vergo Sophia Bonsangue Patrick Cashin Santana Fonseca MARCH 18 Kayla Fegeley Victoria Fay Kaitlyn Hopkins Michael Fieros Michelle Bruno Samantha Troia Meleena Troia Chianne Montgomery Brianny Montanez Madison Rivera Danielle Parisi Isabella Rose Alba MARCH 19 Giulia Rammairone Lenor Arce Nicolas Purante Samantha Temkin Simone Waxman Hailley Dora Estevez Antoine Nicome Joseph Cuzzocrea Gene Gregoretti Andreas Romero Ryan Gould Eugene Gregoretti Isabella Moreira Thomas Patrick Moane Gabriella Grinberg Daniella Cordova Usha Lingala MARCH 20 Jalen David Boakye Janelle Dina Boakye Cayla Cruz Cassidy Cruz Matthew Piccione David Kurbalidze Zack Douhour Kaylie Portaro Ivanna Elkik John Santora

Ronald Gasparik Vincent Charles Villarreal MARCH 21 Michael Widmayer Brianna Laiacona Ryan Clinton Noel Torres Christina Nicole Fallon Jamie Pugliese Lauren Marino Kaylie Portaro Frank Paoli Mallory Colon MARCH 22 Vincent Gangemi Stephen Klein Meghan M. Wilson Brandi Rau Lauren Pilatsky Veronika Hirsch Vincent Grillo Lucas Velasquez Karinna Marie Ramos MARCH 23 Samuel M. Rodriguez Anthony Geocos Emily Maldari Arlena Marie Haley Matthew Geary Sabrina Warraich Anthony Santoro Marissa Mauro Anthony D'Alessandro Angela Dinkle Briaca Gosk Brian Edward Donges MARCH 24 Anthony Baetz Dante Gardner Mark Stroud Haley Ferri Victoria Roca Jessica Pavia Joseph Ferrandino MARCH 25 Vincent Michael Scelzo Christopher Quadrino Nicholas Quadrino David Shang Margaret Anna Smith Emily Enriquez Vinessa Vasquez Nikita Kasmauskas MARCH 26 Jaclyn A. Wise Jaclyn A. Horvath Chianne Jenkins Kaityln Valentino Jessica Agu

Joseph Devito Darby De Sapio Jayden Luke Alexandria Sicari Robert Goldstein Alexis Fox MARCH 27 Matthew Ryan Bennett Matthew Trimmer Christina Hernandez Najea Smith Dona Anna Kiriella Kasey Marie Malanga Michael Bassolino Stephania Gangemi Henson Cho Gianna Colon Julian Chapman MARCH 28 Annie Wyche Jonathan Konviser Benjamin Zarelli Jesse Deliberti Ryan Falco Anthony Naselli Maria Tirado Natalie Bland Samantha Bergstrom MARCH 29 Brianna Orloff Mark Egan Gianna A. Davide Vincent Mammi Adrian Rosales Alexandria Rodriguez Kayla Callahan Khamani Clapp Joseph Orlando Bryonna Pearson Dante DiPietro Sebastian Lopez MARCH 30 Joey Nemeth Michael Williamsen Amanda Nieves Antonio Brittain Jackie Rocchio Nicholas Pizzo Brian Badalamenti Anthony Siminson Jr. Jessica Orihara MARCH 31 Phil Castellano Gloria Danza Hailey Kohler Birttany Blacknall Paige Marie Campanelli Meaghan Harris Michael Pira Egidio Fioribello

Birthday Club members are entitled to receive

10 FREE TOKENS AT FUNSTATION Funstation is located on 3555 Victory Boulevard • 718.370.0077 Good only for birthday club members on this list. Not to be combined with any other offers. Offer valid on child’s birthday only.

CAN YOUR DENTIST DELIVER THESE SERVICES? • Intravenous and Oral Sedation • Nitrous Oxide “sweet air” • Painless injections with “The Wand.” One of only

• 38 years of experience with over 2,000 hours of continuing education • CPR and emergency management trained staff

four Dentists in the NY area to have this technology • Comfort care cleanings • Doctor’s cell phone number

• Always see the same Doctor

• Drill free dentistry

• One hour hygiene visit devoted to oral health

• 5 year warranty on dental work • State of the art oral cancer screening with Vizilite • Financing available • An overall heath approach with blood pressure and blood sugar testing • Be seen on time!

and comfort • Availability of topical gels for gum comfort during hygiene visits • Understand your dental needs; see it on TV with our intra-oral camera!

• Ask us about the 25 other ways we can help you!

• Evening and weekend hours

If your answer is “no,” you need to call

STATEN ISLAND DENTAL CARE 718.761.5757 Dr. Frederick S. Hecht, D.M.D., P.C. Crown Council Humanitarian Dentist award for overseas dental missionary trips

Special Web Offer! www.AfraidOfTheDentist.com 1520 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314 We are sorry but we are not able to accept Medicaid MARCH 2013

www.siparent.com

125

FAMILY NEEDS Professional Directory

DIVORCE BANKRUPTCY

ATTORNEY

ATTORNEY

Family Court • Child Custody Spousal & Child Support Domestic Violence • Adoptions Name Changes • Annulments Separation Agreements Free Initial Consultation for Divorce Actions 24 Kurt T. Richards, P.C.

Hour Phone Service

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

COUNSELING SERVICES

KAREN L. GOLDMAN MA, LMHC-BC

NY S Licensed Psycho therapist Bereavement Specialist For Individuals, Groups, Adults and Children • Play & Art Therapy • Grief & Loss Issues • Depression

• Anxiety • Relationship Issues • School/Career Issues

1076 Forest Ave • S.I. 347-850-2322

KEVIN B. ZAZZERA 718.987.2700 www.yourstatenislandbankruptcyattorney.com

182 Rose Avenue We are a debt relief agency helping people file for bankruptcy

Call for a FREE Consultation ORTHODONTICS

Let Dr. Donato and his staff treat you to a quality orthodontic experience in a warm, caring & attentive setting.

Children • Adults • Invisalign™

(718)987-7688 199 Clarke Avenue Richmondtown

www.straightteeth.net

PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY

PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY

LEAPS AND BOUNDS, PT

718-477-1911

ORTHODONTICS

EVALUATIONS INDIVIDUAL THERAPY SESSIONS GROUP MOTOR CLASSES MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAM Most Insurance Accepted Most Major Credit Cards Accepted

718.317.7030 3710 Richmond Ave

148 New Dorp Ln, 2nd Floor 718-980-0188 info@audiologyisland.com AUDIOLOGY ISLAND PROVIDES:

• Auditory Processing Disorder Screening and Evaluation (age 5+) • Auditory Brain Stem Response (ABR) testing • Complete Hearing Evaluation • Failed School Screening Follow-up • Ear Protection, Swim Molds and other Custom Ear Products • Hearing Aid Evaluation and Fitting

PEDIATRIC DOCTOR

DR. RALPH K. MESSO, JR. FAAP, FACOP, FACP

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST, P.C. Dr. Michael Donato, Jr.

By A ppo intment • Day & Evening Hours

Insurance based pediatric physical therapy office where your child will receive the highest quality of care on a one on one basis 2460 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10314

AUDIOLOGY

CAN BRING YOU A BRIGHTER FUTURE—GET OUT OF DEBT TODAY!

Board Certified Internal Medicine Board Certified Pediatrics

Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D. Specialist in Orthodontics

GENTLE, PERSONAL, QUALITY CARE FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS 444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312

(718) 967-5213

Member American Association of Orthodontists

Walk-In Care For All Ages Most Insurances Accepted No Appointment Necessary Minimal Wait • 7 Days a Week Mon-Fri 5-9pm Sat & Sun 12-4pm

718.966.5556 www.drmesso.com 4143 Richmond Ave

PSYCHOLOGIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Dr. Clifford B. Fisch, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist

DIANE MILIO, L.C.S.W.

Psychotherapy for children, adults and couples

Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families

Approved RSA Provider Most Insurances Accepted 702 Bloomingdale Road Staten Island, NY 10309

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Over 25 Years Experience Most Insurance Accepted Evening & Saturday Appointments Available

718.317.5782

917.705.5221

47 Lucy Loop • SI, NY 10312

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Kim Williams-Jenkins

Vickie Fossella, LCSW Adults, Youth, Families, Couples

LCSW, MSEd, CRC, CASAC

Psychotherapy, Life Coach

LeapsandBoundspt.net

www.starspediatrictherapy.com

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

• Advanced Integrative Therapy • Indiv/Couples/Family • Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling • Special Needs/Identity/Self Esteem • Work & Educational Issues/ Abuse-Recovery • Autism/Aspergers

2291 Victory Blvd • 10314

917-613-4009

Treatment for Anxiety & Stress Disorders, Relationship Conflicts, Parenting / Family Conflicts Anger Management, ADHD, OCD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Gender Identity Issues, Social / Peer Issues ~Adolescent/Young Adult Group~ Out of network insurance.

Credit cards accepted.

646.872.0860

201 Bryson Ave • 774 Castleton Ave jkmvickie@gmail.com

CLAIRE GUTTSMAN M.A., C.C.C. - SLP 1076 FOREST AVE. (corner of Manor Rd.)

718-447-5501 Certified professional, providing quality evaluations and treatment of adults and children for over 25 years.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES: Public Speaking Improvement, Accent Reduction, Corporate Speech Pathology & Lecturing

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Sandra Mazzucco

Speech Language Pathology PC • Diagnosis & treatment of infants, toddlers, adults • Autism, learning and communication disabilities • Articulation, impaired language, stuttering or lisps • All major credit cards and insurances

PreCare, SLP, PC • Radmila Gurevich, MA, CCC-SLP

WWW.SLMPD.COM

718.259.4001 • 1829 Richmond Rd SPEECH PATHOLOGY

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

Peter Rahanis, M.S. CCC-SLP Vicky Sorros-Verivakis, M.A. CCC-SLP Dept of Ed Providers (CPSE & RSA)

718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308 SPEECH PATHOLOGY 718-967-0359 • 3767 Richmond Ave www.brightstartspeech.com brightstart@si.rr.com

• Private practice with energetic & talented Speech Language Pathologists • Extensive experience • Full range of services (diagnostics & evaluations) • Occupational Therapy Now • NYS & ASHA Certified Accepting CPSE & RSA • Multi-Lingual Therapists

Offering Homecare

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS. FREE CONSULTATIONS.

465 Belfield Ave • Annadale Town

1847 Victory Blvd • 718-816-0330

North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave

www.thespeecharc.com

New South Shore Location:

718-815-6024

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY ASSOCIATES OF STATEN ISLAND, PLLC PROMPT TRAINED THERAPISTS SOS FEEDING APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM & WILSON TRAINED THERAPISTS EAROBICS

Individualized and Customized: Language Enhancement Programs, Auditory Training Programs, Fluency Enhancement Programs, Oral-Sensory-Motor Plans, Voice Treatment Programs, Accent Reduction Programs, Feeding Treatment Plans, Pediatric & Adult Clients We welcome NYC DOE clients, and we are now an associate of The Perfect Playground for all CSE cases.

NEW LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR LOCATION 718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

STATEN ISLAND SPEECH

• ASHA Certified Therapist • Specializes in Phonological and Articulation Disorders • Language Delays and Disorders • Prompt Trained • Children and Adults Welcome • Small Groups Welcome ~Insurance Plans Accepted~ www.statenislandspeech.com

Call for a free consultation

718-303-2062

SPEECH, OT/PT

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists, Occupational & Physical Therapists Evaluation and Treatment of Pediatric Speech, Language, Feeding, Oral, Fine & Gross Motor Disorders, P.R.O.M.P.T., Russian Bilingual Services, State of the Art Sensory Gym Dept of Ed Provider (CPSE & RSA) Top of Tertiary Tier Designation

718.605.4301 3767 Hylan Blvd (Great Kills) Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director

www.qualitycarespeech.com

CALL US AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE!

718-608-1508

520B Bloomingdale Rd SI, NY 10309 24 State Highway 34 South Colts Neck, N.J. 07722

• ASHA Certified •

EVALUATIONS INDIVIDUALIZED THERAPY FAMILY SUPPORT • DEDICATION FLEXIBILITY

Specializing in evaluation and treatment of pediatric speech & language, fine motor & gross motor delays & disorders.

Therapeutic Techniques such as: PROMPT, The Lidcombe Program, Earobics & Handwriting Without Tears.

• Department of Education CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation • Most Insurance Accepted • Homecare and School Services Offered

southshorespeechtherapy.com

Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR

SPEECH & OT

M.A., C.C.C.-SLP

NYS LICENSED SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

FIND THE FUN IN FEEDING is a twelve-week feeding program, utilizing the SOS Approach to Feeding. It utilizes a non-invasive developmental model, that teaches your child how to interact, tolerate and eat a variety of foods in a non-stressful, supportive environment. Parent/caregiver training is a key part of this program to foster success at home.

A multidisciplinary approach is also utilized, incorporating the expertise of a feeding therapist, an occupational therapist, a nutritionist, a pediatrician or any relevant professional working with your child.

Speech & Language Pathology, P.C.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

718-761-4800 x139

128 www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

ADVERTISER INDEX A Call Away Footcare ......................................6

JCC Community Health Advocates............87

Showplace Entertainment ............................45

Academic Advantage ..................................91

JCC Day Camp ............................................111

SI Academy ......................................................59

American Karate ..........................................113

JCC Early Childhood Education................117

SI Academy Camp ........................................51

Art Lab................................................................89

JCC First Foot Forward ....................................97

SI Children’s Academy ..................................21

Athletic Edge ......................................................5

JCC Reality Check ..........................................93

SI Children’s Museum ....................................76

Big Bird’s Playhouse ........................................85

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk & Casino Pier ........16

SI Chinese Christian Church..........................40

Big Bird’s Summer Camp ..............................48

Karina Nevarez Photography ......................42

SI Community Charter School....................109

Blue Man Group............................................117

Kevin B. Zazzera..............................................101

SI Community Tennis ......................................72

Brienza’s Academic Advantage..................85

Kiddie Palooza/Liquid Lounge ....................86

SI Day Camp ......................................................8

Bubbles Playhouse..........................................36

Kiddie Wonderland ........................................73

SI Dental ..........................................................125

Building Blocks Montessori ..........................81

Kids ‘N Shape....................................................53

SI Divorce ........................................................103

Building Blocks Speech & Language ......103

Kids Dental ........................................................10

SI Family Music ................................................24

Carnival Kids ....................................................13

Kidzrock ............................................................58

SI KIP Learning Center ....................................43

Casa Belvedere ............................................128

Kumon of Charleston ..................................115

SI Montessori School ......................................99

Catholic School Open Houses ....................18

LA Dance ..........................................................83

SI Pediatric Dentistry........................................56

Community Resources Preschool................93

La Tea Da ..........................................................25

SI Pet ................................................................121

Conti and Keegan, P.C. ................................115

Lee Sims Chocolates ......................................32

SI Physician........................................................15

Created By You ................................................32

Little Language Studio. ..................................43

SI Skating Academy/Prodigy Preschool ....37

Crepes Du Nord ..............................................63

Luxe Salon & Spa ............................................44

SI United Soccer Academy ..........................38

Crib Outlet ........................................................23

Major League Screen Printing....................105

SI Zoo................................................................109

CSI Summer Programs ................................113

Master Curry Karate..........................................7

Silhouette Dance Center ..............................92

D’Agostino & Associates ................................77

Mastropiero Pools............................................24

SIMH Teen Center ............................................48

Dance Sensations............................................76

Mathnasium ..................................................107

Small World Dental..........................................33

Dea Music ........................................................46

Mauriello Enterprises ....................................113

Small World Preschool....................................81

Delco Drugs......................................................99

Medieval Times ..............................................117

Spa Di Da ..........................................................39

DK Books ..........................................................29

Mini World Preschool ....................................62

St. Charles School ............................................49

Dr. Michael D’Anna ........................................65

Modern Male ................................................121

St. George Theatre..........................Back Cover

Dr. Michael Di Simone ....................................79

Munchkin Manor ............................................26

St. Joseph Hill Academy ................................30

Dr. Michelle Giumenta....................................89

New Dorp Christian Academy ....................72

St. Mary’s Home Care ....................................22

E.J. Michael’s ..................................................40

New Dorp Moravian Church ........................84

St. Paul’s School of Nursing............................97

Edible Arrangements......................................25

Notre Dame Academy ..................................47

St. Teresa School ..............................................64

Elizabeth Pouch Early Learning Center ......73

Oakwood Heights Nursery School ..............64

Stand Together for Autism ................................2

Eltingville Lutheran School ............................87

On Your Toes ....................................................78

Stepping Stones Preschool............................85

Enchanted Events ..........................................39

Once Upon a Child ........................................58

Suzanne’s Fashion Center..............................44

Evolution Dance Company ..........................62

Our Lady Star of the Sea..............................105

Tenth Annual Young Child Expo ................105

Eye Level Math & English ..............................75

Our Place School ............................................83

The Child Study Center of NY........................79

Fairy Lice Mothers............................................43

Paramount Oral Surgery................................27

The Foresight School ......................................87

FasTracKids........................................................75

Parent to Parent................................................92

The Sunnyside School ....................................79

Financial Integrity Services............................68

Party Jam Party Centers ................................35

The Tanglewood School ..............................115

Fun Station ........................................................41

Party Jungle......................................................57

The Village Preschool......................................78

Games on Wheels ..........................................90

Phyllis Merlino, DDS..........................................49

Theatre in the Woods....................................109

Gateway Vacation Bible Camp ..................27

Pottery & Glass Land ......................................42

Therapy Pros ....................................................68

Genesis Fertility ................................................91

Pro Master Gourmet ......................................25

Total Drama ......................................................36

Gingerbread Learning Center ..................131

Rab’s Country Lanes ......................................19

Traditional Contracting ..................................64

Hibachi Grill ....................................................12

Richmond County Day Camp ....................11

Tutoring By Christine........................................25

High Hopes ......................................................22

Richmond County Savings Bank ................17

Volunteers of America....................................81

Holy Child..........................................................99

Richmond Hill Children’s Center ................103

Wagner External ..............................................84

iPlay America ..................................................55

Ringling Brothers Circus................................121

Wiggle Piggins..................................................63

Island Heights Pediatrics ..............................107

Roller Jam ........................................................14

Wizard of Art......................................................44

Ivy Urgent Care................................................31

Seguine Equestrian Center............................26

Young Peoples Day Camp ............................9

J & J Academy ................................................89

Seido Karate ....................................................90

S.I. LIVING Online Resources www.siparent.com ADOPTION•ALCOHOL, SUBSTANCE & GAMBLING ABUSE CHILD & DOMESTIC ABUSE•CHILDBIRTH CLASSES CONSUMER/HOME SAFETY•FAMILY & CHILDREN SERVICES FOOD PANTRIES•HEALTH SERVICES•HELPLINES HOMEWORK HELP•LIBRARY HOURS OFFICIAL BUSINESS PARENT CLASSES & CLUBS PETS•RECREATION SENIORS•SPECIAL NEEDS SPORTS LEAGUES SUPPORT GROUPS TRANSPORTATION VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES YOUTH SERVICES

Visit www.siparent.com and click on the Resources Tab

TONS OF INFORMATION ONLINE TO HELP YOU FIND WHAT YOU NEED, WHENEVER YOU NEED IT!

130www.siparent.com MARCH 2013

we are renovating the north gannon ave location to better service the children and families of Staten Island

As per Section 4410 of Article 89 of the Education Law

• Group or Individual Curriculums at Your Home, Preschool or our Center.

• Diagnostic Evaluations and Therapy by Licensed Certified Professionals. Placement determined by NYC CPSE. • NYS Approved Preschool Evaluation Site.

• FREE TUITION AND TRANSPORTATION* * For all eligibile children. Funding provided through state and local agencies. Parent may transport for reimbursement.

• Developmental Areas: Behavior and Socialization, Cognitive Development, Speech and Language Hearing Loss, Physical and Occupational Therapy.

• Three Convenient Staten Island Locations.

• Call or Visit our School & Pick Up a Free Brochure.

• For Information Concerning the Early Intervention Program Call 311.

WWW.GINGERBREADLCTR.COM ~Equal Opportunity Employer~

Ages 0-5 Programs Available 718 80 Woodrow Rd • 471 North Gannon Ave • 144 Bloomingdale Rd E-Mail: GingerbreadLearn@aol.com

5 Days - Full Day/Half Day

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

Extended Daycare Hours 7am-7pm Available MARCH 2013

www.siparent.com

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1200 South Avenue • Suite 202 Staten Island, New York 10314

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