Did you attend the NY African Film Festival at the Craft House Outdoor Patio, take advantage of FREE ADMISSION on Saturday for National Museum Day, attend the 2019 Raritan Bay Festival at Conference House Park Great Lawn or the 9th Annual Anthony D’Andrea Festa and Motori D’Italia at Casa Belvedere, or honor our military at the 5th Annual Global War on Terror Military Appreciation Day hosted by the Marine Corps League 246th detachment in partnership with Rolling Thunder Chapter 2 NY?
A few weeks ago, I took the long way home from the South Shore and arrived at one of the most beautifully-kept parks on Staten Island--Corporal Allan F. Kivlehan Park. I parked the car on New Dorp Ln. and walked to the end. I climbed the dunes, spotted fishermen at the water’s edge and a lone sunbather. Walked on the bike/jogging path for awhile. I marveled how Miller Field stood still in time with those dilapidated airplane hangars and wondered why after all these years that they couldn’t be re-purposed for something worthy. So much history at Miller Field! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miller_Field_(Staten_Island) Onwards to the park—the kiddies were running around in and out of sprinklers, on the swings, joyfully being a part of such a fine day at a great setting for families. I sat in the shade; meditated and “breathed” while taking in the warmth and peacefulness of the moment. As Staten Islanders, I hear many times, “I live on the South Shore. It’s too far for me to bring my kids to Snug Harbor or the Zoo or (fill in the blanks).” The same goes for the North Shore folks who will not venture to the South Shore for events at the Conference House, Blue Heron Park or Fresh Kills Park. Expose your children and yourself to events that will make a difference, events that may introduce them to the arts and/or cultures that are different than their own. Introduce them to volunteerism--a very important example that will build confidence and character for yourself and your offspring. Take a ride to New Dorp Beach and learn about this young man, Cpl. Allan Kivlehan, a New Dorp Beach resident, who enlisted in the Army, served in the Korean War and was killed at the age of 18.
On Saturday, 9/28 from 11–1, take this opportunity to volunteer with Max Wilde, Executive Director of Friends of Kivlehan Park, Inc. and her “Friends” to help maintain the Sandy Memorial Garden in New Dorp Beach Park.
Below are photos taken in New Dorp Beach.
Please read about the efforts being made to bring back the WWII Memorial to New Dorp Beach and kindly sign the petition.
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Participate in a Bird and Nature Walk: Brookfield Park on Wednesday, 9/25 from 10-12 at Brookfield Park, 575 Arthur Kill Rd. Explore the diverse species of wading birds, waterfowl, and raptors on this guided walk through Brookfield Park. This wetland habitat allows veteran birdwatchers to flex their knowledge, while novices begin to develop bird spotting and identification techniques. Meet in the parking lot off Arthur Kill Rd.
Bring the kiddies 3+ to Changing Color STEM Program on Wednesday at 3:30 at the Huguenot Library, 830 Huguenot Ave. Investigating how things change color is going to be amazing! Get ready to experiment with different things to see just how colors can change and how they mix together. Will we be doing something fizzy? Something with flowers? Something with milk? Or something else entirely? Sign up to find out!! ***Limited supplies. Pre-register at 718-984-4636 or it will be first come, first served. Sign in at the desk when you arrive!
Attend the Anti-Bully Support Workshop on Wednesday from 4-6 at the Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church, 584 Bloomingdale Rd. for children/teens experiencing any type of bullying (in-school, cyber-bullying, food allergy, etc) and parents looking for resources. All children and parents welcome including children/teens together who have lived through this experience. This is a safe place to share stories and brainstorm on how to handle the problem. Free refreshments. Please call Play it Forward NY to confirm 646-765-6531.
Participate in the Wednesday Night Group Hike from 6–9 at Greenbelt Nature Center in Blood Root Valley, 700 Rockland Ave. at Brielle Ave. Get motivated and moving on this weekly group hike that takes place in all seasons. This hike typically covers five miles. Bring a headlamp, hydration and sturdy shoes. Children who are accustomed to hiking this distance are welcome, as are dogs on a leash.
Extend your child’s learning through play at Open Play: Babies on Thursday 9/26 at 11:45 at the South Beach Library, 21-25 Robin Rd. Come to the library for a play date and meet other caregivers as we explore developmentally appropriate play materials in a safe, warm and joyful environment.
Bring the kiddies to Folktale/ Fable and Craft on Thursday at 3:30 at the South Beach Library, 21-25 Robin Rd. Children will listen to “The Parrot and the Merchant: A Tale by Rumi” and will make a beautiful bright parrot with colorful feathers! Afterwards we will discuss the moral and create a character from the story.
The family will enjoy Movies Under the Stars: Pokemon Detective Pikachu on Thursday from 7:30- 9 at the Naples Playground, Naples St. and Stanwich St. The world of Pokémon comes to life! The first-ever live-action Pokémon adventure, “POKÉMON Detective Pikachu” stars Ryan Reynolds as Pikachu, the iconic face of the global Pokémon phenomenon – one of the world’s most popular, multi-generation entertainment properties and the most successful media franchise of all time. The film also showcases a wide array of beloved Pokémon characters, each with its own unique abilities and personality. Come early, bring a share or blanket.
Member Bring a Friend to Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex, 625 Father Capodanno Blvd. on Friday, 9/27 from 5:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Members--come break a sweat and introduce a friend to the most state-of-the-art fitness facility in NYC! Limit one guest pass per member per month. Visitor cannot exceed 3 visits in a 12 month period. The visitor must be accompanied by a member at the time of redemption, sign in at the front desk and complete a waiver form.
Movies Under the Stars: Mary Poppins Returns takes place on Friday from 7:30–9:30 at Conference House Park, Hylan Blvd. & Satterlee St. Mary Poppins returns during Michael's most desperate hour to lend him a helping hand. With his house in danger of being repossessed, she whips up a little magic to remind him of the importance of family. Come early and bring a chair or blanket.
The Tavern Terrace Fall Concert Series continues on Friday, 9/27 and Saturday, 9/28 from 6–11 at Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave. including Craft beer, delicious food and lawn games and live music each Saturday. Friday, 9/27 features Sea Songs by Starlight. Staten Island OutLOUD will be celebrating Herman Melville’s 200th Birthday! Hear “In the Heart of the Sea” the story that inspired Moby Dick. Co-hosted by Island musicians Joan & Gary Moore. On Saturday, 9/28, enjoy Gules Music. Gules (pronounced jewels) is a finalist of the NYC Coffee Music Project. Her songwriting combines captivating melodies and chords comparable to Regina Spektor.
Participate in Out of the Darkness Walk, Saturday 9/28 from 9-1 at Clove Lakes Park, 626 Clove Rd. When you walk in the Out of the Darkness Walks, you join the effort with hundreds of thousands of people to raise awareness and funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy and support survivors of suicide loss. Online registration closes at noon (local time) the Friday before the walk. However, anyone who would like to participate can register in person at the walk from the time check-in begins until the walk starts. Registration is free and open to the public. For more information, contact: Kira Marshall & Susan Holden (nyc@afsp.org), 646-284-5790, Email: kiraafsp@gmail.com
On Saturday from 10-11, take a Saturday Morning Walk at Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center, 2351 Veterans Rd W. Learn about the flora and fauna in our Park or just get out, get exercise, and enjoy the fresh air! All ages welcome. Hike is at least a mile each week.
Fastnet Observational Drawing Workshop meets on Saturday from 10–12 at Freshkills Park Event Entrance, 350 Wild Ave. Participate in an artist-led observational drawing workshop in Fastnet, a shipping container converted into a studio and project space! This workshop will create a visual awareness of the landscape and foster an understanding of the consequences our actions have on the environment through discussion. For more info, call 212-602-5372.
Get rid of your harmful household products safely—automotive products, electronics, medical items, etc. at the Staten Island SAFE Disposal Event on Saturday from 10-4 at Midland Beach Park Lot, Fr. Capodanno Blvd. and Hunter Ave. Only NYC residential waste will be accepted. No commercial vehicles allowed. Residents MUST provide proof of NYC residency (NYS driver’s license, utility bill, etc.) For more info and instructions on how to package materials for the event, visit nyc.gov/safedisposal.
Bring the kids to the free Scarecrow Festival on Saturday from 11-4 at Blue Heron Park, 222 Poillon Ave. Make your own scarecrow from a kit-$10. Bring your own pants and shirts to make your own scarecrow with hay and materials provided. Games for children, crafts, face painting and more.
Come to the 69th Annual Fence Show on Saturday (rain date 9/29) from 11-5 at Snug Harbor Cultural Center, 1000 Richmond Terr., Bldg. A. Each year, the Fence Show transforms the Museum’s front lawn into an outdoor gallery featuring over 140 local artists and craftspeople. See paintings, ceramics, prints, jewelry and textiles and take something original home from this longstanding festival. The day features food trucks, activities for kids, and live music by Musical Chairs Chamber Ensemble.
The kiddies will enjoy Storytime and Activities Featuring “How I Met My Monster” at Barnes & Noble, 2655 Richmond Ave. on Saturday at 11. Ethan is sure his parents are playing a prank on him when he finds a note under his bed calling for a monster meeting. Soon, five colorful monsters are competing to become his favorite, but which one can win his affection by making him fall asleep the fastest? Activities to follow, plus, get a coupon from our Café for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4 (Café stores only).
The Family Emergency Preparedness Festival, sponsored by NYC Emergency Management and including free admission to the Children’s Museum, takes place on Saturday from 12-5 at the Staten Island Childeren's Museum, 1000 Richmond Terr. Meet emergency responders and check out their vehicles and equipment. Meet NYPD horses and dogs, Bounce House, DJ and balloon artist, food trucks and photo booth and more. Meet “Ready Girl” and receive a free collector’s edition comic book and other giveaways, while supplies last. Please note the Children’s Museum does not open until Noon on this day.
Bring your family and friends to the 4th Annual Lighthouse Point Fest, an Arts and Crafts Festival with Maritime Character, on Saturday from 12-6 at the National Lighthouse Museum, 200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point. Local arts & crafts vendors, free face painting and kids’ crafts, DJ with live music on the hour, and Soup Contest from 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Soup contestants pick a lighthouse from anywhere in the world and make a soup from that country. Your vote determines the People’s Choice winner. Suggested donations $3 includes Museum admission; Soup contest is $7 per participant. All proceeds help support the National Lighthouse Museum.
Children 8+ will enjoy Art in the Park: Twig Art on Saturday from 2-3:30 at Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center, 2351 Veterans Rd. W. Twigs are a versatile medium for creating beautiful sculptures! We will provide materials to make yarn-wrapped magic wands, picture frames, candle holders, and more!
There is still time to participate in Family Camping: Staten Island on Saturday from 6 p.m.–7 a.m. at Blue Heron Park Preserve in Blue Heron Park. Camp overnight in Staten Island's wild side! We camp to create lasting memories, connect with the natural world, and bond with our families. Camping affords us the opportunity to unplug from the diversions of everyday life and to laugh and play with our families. The Urban Park Rangers celebrate the tradition of camping and we look forward to welcoming your family. Please note: Space is limited and participants are chosen by lottery. To enter your family into the lottery, please visit the Urban Park Rangers' Event Registration page at https://www.nycgovparks.org/reg/rangers
Attend Movies Under the Stars: X-Men: Dark Phoenix on Saturday from 7-9 at Willowbrook Park, Richmond Ave. & Eton Pl. In this film, Jean Grey begins to develop incredible powers that corrupt and turn her into a Dark Phoenix. Now, the X-Men will have to decide if the life of a team member is worth more than all the people living in the world.
Meet your friends at the New Dorp Lane 2nd Annual Classic Car Show on Sunday, 9/29 from 9-3 at 10 New Dorp Ln. This classic, antique, custom and exotic car show will deliver automotive bliss to the tri-state area’s motorheads! This is a FREE family event that is great for all ages! There will be vendors, activities, children’s face painting, music from the the 50’s-80’s and all of the best merchants on the Lane!
Baby & Me Storytime Featuring Dinosaur Dance will take place at Barnes & Noble, 2655 Richmond Ave. on Sunday at 11. Join us as we read a book and participate in activities featuring sensory growth for your little ones 0-24 mos. Plus, get a free Starbucks tall, hot or iced coffee (Café stores only).
Bring the family to Movies Under the Stars: Shazam! on Sunday from 7:30–9:30 at Grandview Playground in The Big Park, Continental Pl. & Mersereau Ave. We all have a superhero inside us, it just takes a bit of magic to bring it out. In Billy Batson’s (Angel) case, by shouting out one word—SHAZAM!—this streetwise 14-year-old foster kid can turn into the adult Super Hero Shazam (Levi), courtesy of an ancient wizard. Still a kid at heart—inside a ripped, godlike body—Shazam revels in this adult version of himself by doing what any teen would do with superpowers: have fun with them! Can he fly? Does he have X-ray vision? Can he skip his social studies test? Shazam sets out to test the limits of his abilities with the joyful recklessness of a child. But he’ll need to master these powers quickly in order to fight the deadly forces of evil controlled by Dr. Thaddeus Sivana (Strong). Come early and bring a chair or blanket.
Want to know how to receive the GO!HEALTHY FOOD BOX? Every Tuesday through 11/19 between 4-6 go to Goodhue Center, 304 Prospect Ave. in New Brighton, and sign up and pay $10 Cash, credit/debit and Health Bucks! (or $8 with EBT or FMNP) at least one week in advance for $30 worth of fresh local produce. Come back the next week (same time, same place) to pick up your bag and taste the weekly recipe! Take advantage of the new member and referral discount. All participants who are brand new to our program will receive $2 off of their bag. Additionally, if a new member has been referred to our program by an existing member, we will also provide $2 off a bag to the existing member who made the referral. Check out what we received today. Notice how hard Beth and crew are working and always with smiles on their faces!
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