Greetings friends and neighbors. Our guest speaker this month will be Linda Perez from NY Methodist Hospital. She will be speaking to us about the warning signs of stroke, something about which we all need more awareness. Whether it’s your own health, someone in your family or a neighbor, it is important that we recognize the warning signs early and take action quickly. Come. Protect yourself. Learn.
Next month our guest speaker will be Department of Transportation Borough Commissioner Tom Cocola. Mr.Cocola will be talking to us about the traffic situation in New Dorp with emphasis on the Safe Streets for Seniors program that was first implemented in our community.
There are three things I would like to talk about briefly.
First, Spring cannot get here too quickly. Enough of winter. Enough of snow… at least from my perspective. I enjoy the seasons. Each has its own special characteristic. Yet this winter seemed to drag on and on and the late season snowstorms made it all that more oppressive. (And when Groundhog Day comes next year I’m thinking I will need to very carefully measure the indication given by Staten Island Chuck. He wasn’t even close this year.)
Second, we seriously need for our economy to pick up. Walk up and down the Lane and the Plaza. I have not seen this many empty stores in a decade. Many people are being careful with their money as they wonder about their jobs or continue searching for jobs. As long as the credit markets remain cautious the stores will reopen slowly as more of our people weigh very carefully the wisdom or opening a new endeavor. These are trying times. Look for opportunities to spend your money in New Dorp.
Third, I cannot remember when our roads have been in such poor shape. Moonscapes. Roads that were recently fixed are already cratered. Seams where new roads were joined together are scarred with holes. What happened? Yes, I know it snowed. It snows every year. Never before have I seen such widespread cratering. What gives? Has the mixture of asphalt they use changed over the past year? Or are the crews less skilled ? Or are they more rushed? Why is every trip down the road a challenge?
We need to look beyond the “traditional walls” that define our association. Meetings and newsletters remain a vibrant part of our outreach. However we recognize that there are new ways that we must reach out if we are to remain relevant in our community. Check out our newly updated and redesigned webpage at http://www.ndcca.com/. Along with http://www.ndcca.blogspot.com/ and our email account at newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com. We are reachable in many ways. Oh yes, our telephone still works at 718-979-6011 or our Post Office box at PO Box 060245, SI, NY 10306.
Plan on attending a meeting and bring a neighbor. Can’t you give two hours a month to your community? Think about it.
Lastly, never forget that an important part of this dynamic is your feedback and participation. We need your comments, your concerns, your suggestions, your complaints. It is your neighborhood. What is on your mind?
Let us know at 718-979-6011, newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or comment on the blog. Check us out at http://www.ndcca.blogspot.com/ for continuous updates.
I need you to sing aloud the need for civic involvement and invite your neighbors to join. The more voices the smoother and richer the sound. Thank you for your interest in our neighborhood. You live here. You know why it is a respected and desirable community. Be proud of it.
See you around the neighborhood.
Joe Markowski
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Monday, February 15, 2010
Meeting on Thursday 2/18
As I wrote these words I was thinking back to Staten Island Chuck’s claim on Groundhog’s Day that we will only have two more weeks of winter. Well between the last storm and the fact that it is snowing again, what am I to think of Chuck? Thank goodness that by the time our meeting rolls around on Thursday, February 18, 2010 we will be rolling in Spring. As per Chuck!
It will be our first meeting for 2010. Mark your calendars. Plan on attending and bring a neighbor. Can’t you give two hours a month to your community? Think about it.
Our guest speaker this month is Juliette Lewis from the Consumer Affairs Dept of ConEdison. Ms. Lewis will share a presentation with us that focuses on efficient use of electricity. In this day and age we need to consider every opportunity to save money.
Future speakers will be Linda Perez in March from NY Methodist Hospital speaking about the warning signs of stroke and DOT Boro Commissioner Tom Cocola in April speaking about the traffic situation in New Dorp.
So what’s been happening? Councilman James Oddo relocated to South Avenue and we attended his Civic Roundtable in January where Mr.Oddo introduced us to his staff, updated us on the budget challenges the city faces, possible FDNY closures, MTA service cuts and more water rate hikes.
What else? The MTA will hold hearings March 2 at CSI concerning the upcoming service cuts. Yes, I know. You think it is a waste of time and that their minds are made up. And although that may be true, it is definitely true that no things will be changed if no one comments or complains. Let your voice be heard. Attend the hearing. Speak up!
As mentioned last month we will continue collecting useful items for our troops. See the list elsewhere in this newsletter and give us a call. We will even pick them up.
I would like to have a few people who take public transportation (buses, trains, ferry) serve as our eyes and ears and share their experiences with us so we can advocate on behalf of improved transportation in our area. If you would be willing to participate, call 718-979-6011 and leave your name and number and we will reach out to you.
We need to look beyond the “traditional walls” that define our association. Meetings and newsletters remain a vibrant part of our outreach. Our blog recognizes that there are new ways that we must reach out if we are to remain relevant in our community.
Never forget that an important part of this dynamic is your feedback and participation. We need your comments, your concerns, your suggestions, your complaints. It is your neighborhood. What is on your mind?
Let us know at 718-979-6011, newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or comment on the blog. Check us out at http://www.ndcca.blogspot.com for continuous updates.
Lastly, I need you to sing aloud the need for civic involvement and invite your neighbors to join. The more voices the smoother and richer the sound. Thank you for your interest in our neighborhood. You live here. You know why it is a respected and desirable community. Be proud of it.
See you around the neighborhood.
Joe Markowski
It will be our first meeting for 2010. Mark your calendars. Plan on attending and bring a neighbor. Can’t you give two hours a month to your community? Think about it.
Our guest speaker this month is Juliette Lewis from the Consumer Affairs Dept of ConEdison. Ms. Lewis will share a presentation with us that focuses on efficient use of electricity. In this day and age we need to consider every opportunity to save money.
Future speakers will be Linda Perez in March from NY Methodist Hospital speaking about the warning signs of stroke and DOT Boro Commissioner Tom Cocola in April speaking about the traffic situation in New Dorp.
So what’s been happening? Councilman James Oddo relocated to South Avenue and we attended his Civic Roundtable in January where Mr.Oddo introduced us to his staff, updated us on the budget challenges the city faces, possible FDNY closures, MTA service cuts and more water rate hikes.
What else? The MTA will hold hearings March 2 at CSI concerning the upcoming service cuts. Yes, I know. You think it is a waste of time and that their minds are made up. And although that may be true, it is definitely true that no things will be changed if no one comments or complains. Let your voice be heard. Attend the hearing. Speak up!
As mentioned last month we will continue collecting useful items for our troops. See the list elsewhere in this newsletter and give us a call. We will even pick them up.
I would like to have a few people who take public transportation (buses, trains, ferry) serve as our eyes and ears and share their experiences with us so we can advocate on behalf of improved transportation in our area. If you would be willing to participate, call 718-979-6011 and leave your name and number and we will reach out to you.
We need to look beyond the “traditional walls” that define our association. Meetings and newsletters remain a vibrant part of our outreach. Our blog recognizes that there are new ways that we must reach out if we are to remain relevant in our community.
Never forget that an important part of this dynamic is your feedback and participation. We need your comments, your concerns, your suggestions, your complaints. It is your neighborhood. What is on your mind?
Let us know at 718-979-6011, newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or comment on the blog. Check us out at http://www.ndcca.blogspot.com for continuous updates.
Lastly, I need you to sing aloud the need for civic involvement and invite your neighbors to join. The more voices the smoother and richer the sound. Thank you for your interest in our neighborhood. You live here. You know why it is a respected and desirable community. Be proud of it.
See you around the neighborhood.
Joe Markowski
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Update on "Safe Streets for Seniors" by DOT Borough Commissioner Tom Cocola
At this morning’s CB2 meeting of the Aging Committee, DOT Borough Commissioner Tom Cocola gave us an update on the preliminary results of the “Safe Streets for Seniors” program. Based on the initial stats the number of pedestrian and vehicular injuries over the first eleven months of 2009 were significantly lower than the average over the preceding six years.
Specifically, there were 9 pedestrian injuries in 2009 in this area compared with the average of 18 from 2003 to 2008 – a decrease of 50%. And there were 53 vehicular injuries versus an average of 100 per year – a decrease of 47%.
Clearly the numbers show a wonderful improvement within the areas impacted by this “Safe Streets for Seniors” initiative.
There was also discussion of the choice of bollards used in this project, as well as studies currently being conducted near various schools in our area and discussion of the tragedy on Thanksgiving Eve by Our Lady Queen of Peace Church.
> Joe Markowski
Specifically, there were 9 pedestrian injuries in 2009 in this area compared with the average of 18 from 2003 to 2008 – a decrease of 50%. And there were 53 vehicular injuries versus an average of 100 per year – a decrease of 47%.
Clearly the numbers show a wonderful improvement within the areas impacted by this “Safe Streets for Seniors” initiative.
There was also discussion of the choice of bollards used in this project, as well as studies currently being conducted near various schools in our area and discussion of the tragedy on Thanksgiving Eve by Our Lady Queen of Peace Church.
> Joe Markowski
Monday, January 11, 2010
2010... This and That... Outreach... and You!
Happy New Year! I hope you had an enjoyable holiday season. I know I had a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season.
As we move into 2010 I want to remind you that we will not have a meeting in January. We will be putting out a newsletter and our first meeting for 2010 will be on Thursday, February 18, 2010. Mark your calendars and plan on attending and bringing a neighbor. Can’t you give two hours a month to your community? Think about it.
So what’s been happening? Councilman Oddo relocated to South Avenue, Uncle Vinnies Comedy Club continues bringing laughter to our neighborhood, the new cafes on New Dorp Plaza – Andrew’s and Domenick’s – are offering fine foods, Ocean3 has been replaced by Francesca’s Steak House, winter has delivered us some very cold weather, and there are a host of programs being offered for our entertainment and to expand our knowledge.
Over the next few days we will be talking about those and other topics. What should you do if you see a deer in our neighborhood? Has Gene’s Deli really closed? Have the changes on Hylan Blvd made that road safer to cross? What will become of Cedar Grove?
And did you notice the interview with Theresa Myrhol on the NYPL’s web page? Remember Theresa? She managed our branch library on New Dorp Lane for years and is now the Seward Park Library Network Manager. Theresa makes an interesting observation when she states: “One has to think beyond the traditional four walls of the library. Embracing the opportunities that social networking brings is essential. It is a vehicle that fosters new relationships with users while strengthening existing partnerships. Blogs, Twitter, Facebook and video will continue to shape and expand ways to share the wealth of information The New York Public Library has to offer.” We too need to look beyond the “traditional walls” that define our association. Meetings and newsletters remain a vibrant part of our outreach. However as this blog recognizes, there are new ways that we must reach out if we are to remain relevant in our community.
An important part of this dynamic is your feedback and participation. We need your comments, your concerns, your suggestions, your complaints. It is your neighborhood. What is on your mind?
Let us know at 718-979-6011, newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or comment here on the blog.
See you around the neighborhood.
> Joe Markowski
As we move into 2010 I want to remind you that we will not have a meeting in January. We will be putting out a newsletter and our first meeting for 2010 will be on Thursday, February 18, 2010. Mark your calendars and plan on attending and bringing a neighbor. Can’t you give two hours a month to your community? Think about it.
So what’s been happening? Councilman Oddo relocated to South Avenue, Uncle Vinnies Comedy Club continues bringing laughter to our neighborhood, the new cafes on New Dorp Plaza – Andrew’s and Domenick’s – are offering fine foods, Ocean3 has been replaced by Francesca’s Steak House, winter has delivered us some very cold weather, and there are a host of programs being offered for our entertainment and to expand our knowledge.
Over the next few days we will be talking about those and other topics. What should you do if you see a deer in our neighborhood? Has Gene’s Deli really closed? Have the changes on Hylan Blvd made that road safer to cross? What will become of Cedar Grove?
And did you notice the interview with Theresa Myrhol on the NYPL’s web page? Remember Theresa? She managed our branch library on New Dorp Lane for years and is now the Seward Park Library Network Manager. Theresa makes an interesting observation when she states: “One has to think beyond the traditional four walls of the library. Embracing the opportunities that social networking brings is essential. It is a vehicle that fosters new relationships with users while strengthening existing partnerships. Blogs, Twitter, Facebook and video will continue to shape and expand ways to share the wealth of information The New York Public Library has to offer.” We too need to look beyond the “traditional walls” that define our association. Meetings and newsletters remain a vibrant part of our outreach. However as this blog recognizes, there are new ways that we must reach out if we are to remain relevant in our community.
An important part of this dynamic is your feedback and participation. We need your comments, your concerns, your suggestions, your complaints. It is your neighborhood. What is on your mind?
Let us know at 718-979-6011, newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or comment here on the blog.
See you around the neighborhood.
> Joe Markowski
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Meeting Update ! Water, Pouch and Winners !
Wow! What a great meeting tonight. There were representatives from Councilman Oddo’s office – Michelle Melamed - and from Assemblywoman Janele Hyer-Spencer’s office – Stanley Mroz.
Mr.Mroz spoke about the threat that upstate drilling could pose to NYC’s water supply. He circulated a petition opposing such drilling.
Greenbelt Conservancy President Kathy Vorwick spoke to us about the urgency of protecting Pouch Camp from development and she urged everyone to call or write to their elected representatives and express their desire to protect all the 140 acres from development. Pouch Camp is a critical piece of the Staten Island Greenbelt.
The membership voted to send letters to our elected officials opposing development of the Pouch Camp property.
The holiday basket was won by Theresa Troiano and the 50/50 was won by Ann Finnerty (not George Vorwick).
Lastly, we collected about 10 bags of goods that we will provide to S.I. Project Homefront for our troops overseas.
Mark your calendars - there will be no meeting in January and we will resume our monthly meetings in February on the 18th.
Look for our newsletter in January and check us out here on the blog regularly.
In the meantime you can share your comments, concerns, information and whatever with us here on the blog or by calling 718-979-6011 or sending an email to newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com.
Everyone… Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Holidays!
> Joe Markowski
Mr.Mroz spoke about the threat that upstate drilling could pose to NYC’s water supply. He circulated a petition opposing such drilling.
Greenbelt Conservancy President Kathy Vorwick spoke to us about the urgency of protecting Pouch Camp from development and she urged everyone to call or write to their elected representatives and express their desire to protect all the 140 acres from development. Pouch Camp is a critical piece of the Staten Island Greenbelt.
The membership voted to send letters to our elected officials opposing development of the Pouch Camp property.
The holiday basket was won by Theresa Troiano and the 50/50 was won by Ann Finnerty (not George Vorwick).
Lastly, we collected about 10 bags of goods that we will provide to S.I. Project Homefront for our troops overseas.
Mark your calendars - there will be no meeting in January and we will resume our monthly meetings in February on the 18th.
Look for our newsletter in January and check us out here on the blog regularly.
In the meantime you can share your comments, concerns, information and whatever with us here on the blog or by calling 718-979-6011 or sending an email to newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com.
Everyone… Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Holidays!
> Joe Markowski
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Rose, Cedar and Our Meeting
Just a few quick things...
The speed bump requested for Rose Avenue by the residents of that block was approved by Community Board 2 last night. The concern centers around New Dorp Baptist School and the children who enter and leave that facility. The request will now be forwarded to the Department of Transportation who will conduct their study on the feasability and need for that item.
The letter to Commissioner Benepe of the NYC Department of Parks by our elected officials has not yet been responded to.
And we will be having our monthly meeting Thursday night at 8pm in the Kells-Grennie American Legion Post at 2750 Amboy Road. During that meeting we will be celebrating the holidays following our conduct of business.
If I don't see you (and even if I do) have a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Holidays!
> Joe Markowski
The speed bump requested for Rose Avenue by the residents of that block was approved by Community Board 2 last night. The concern centers around New Dorp Baptist School and the children who enter and leave that facility. The request will now be forwarded to the Department of Transportation who will conduct their study on the feasability and need for that item.
The letter to Commissioner Benepe of the NYC Department of Parks by our elected officials has not yet been responded to.
And we will be having our monthly meeting Thursday night at 8pm in the Kells-Grennie American Legion Post at 2750 Amboy Road. During that meeting we will be celebrating the holidays following our conduct of business.
If I don't see you (and even if I do) have a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Happy Holidays!
> Joe Markowski
Friday, December 11, 2009
Our Electeds Challenge the Commish
The ball now appears to be in the court of the Commissioner of Parks. Our elected officials – Congressman McMahon with Councilmen Jim Oddo, Vin Ignizio and Ken Mitchell – have sent a letter to Commissioner Benepe asking him to delay the eviction order for a minimum of a year.
I wanted to share their request with you. As you can see in the following letter our electeds are in vehement disagreement with this action. Here is their letter:
December 9, 2009
Mr. Adrian Benepe, Commissioner
NYC Parks Department
Central Park – The Arsenal
830 Fifth Avenue
New York , NY 10065
RE: Cedar Grove Beach Club
Dear Commissioner Benepe:
We would like to take this opportunity to address the termination of the license agreements for our constituents in the Cedar Grove Beach Club. As you may or may not remember, we had written you on August 11th requesting a five year extension for the inhabitants. We received your written response on September 18th in which you stated that “once you received a briefing from your legal department you will be able to more fully address this situation”.
Apparently, that briefing has taken place because our constituents received certified letters dated December 1st from Staten Island Parks Borough Commissioner Thomas Paulo informing them that their license agreements have been terminated effective December 31st, 2009. Additionally, New York City Parks is mandating that they remove all of their personal belongings no later than the end of this month.
While we vehemently disagree with your decision to terminate these agreements at this time, it is even more outrageous that the Parks Department is essentially evicting these families with less than one months notice. It is patently unfair to demand that they be expected to remove their personal items during the holiday season. Our constituent Edith Holtermann summed it up perfectly in today’s edition of the Staten Island Advance:
“They are Scrooges to do this at this time of year, when we are so busy and it's so cold there. To go and try and get everything out at this time is so difficult," said Edith Holtermann, who has spent all her 72 summers at Cedar Grove Beach .
As you well know, this community has existed for over 100 years and many of these homes have passed down from generation to generation. You just cannot expect them to pack up all of that history without ample notice. Additionally, we would like to know what exactly NYC Parks has planned for this site. These property owners have maintained these grounds impeccably at their own expense. NYC Parks has been maintaining the adjacent properties ( New Dorp & Oakwood Beach ). We encourage you to go take a look and see who has done a better job. In the same article I referenced above in the Staten Island Advance; a NYC Parks spokesperson stated, “The plans are not ready to release. I do not have the details”.
Therefore, we would like to request that you rescind your termination of these license agreements. The residents should be granted an extension at a minimum of one year with the understanding that NYC Parks is planning to open this property up to the general public in the future. NYC Parks simply needs to communicate with our offices and these residents in a much more open fashion regarding the future of this property. The families that have invested so much to that community deserve a certain level of communication and honesty in return.
We would like to thank you for your re-consideration of this matter and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you regarding the future of this property in greater detail.
Sincerely,
Michael E. McMahon Vincent Ignizio
Congressman, NY-13 Councilman, 51st District
James S. Oddo Kenneth C. Mitchell
Councilman, 50th District Councilman, 49th District
CC: SI Borough Commissioner Thomas A. Paulo
*************************
How will the commissioner respond?
Share your comments with us.
Comment on this blog, call us at 718-979-6011 and leave a voicemail or email us at newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com.
> Joe Markowski
I wanted to share their request with you. As you can see in the following letter our electeds are in vehement disagreement with this action. Here is their letter:
December 9, 2009
Mr. Adrian Benepe, Commissioner
NYC Parks Department
Central Park – The Arsenal
830 Fifth Avenue
New York , NY 10065
RE: Cedar Grove Beach Club
Dear Commissioner Benepe:
We would like to take this opportunity to address the termination of the license agreements for our constituents in the Cedar Grove Beach Club. As you may or may not remember, we had written you on August 11th requesting a five year extension for the inhabitants. We received your written response on September 18th in which you stated that “once you received a briefing from your legal department you will be able to more fully address this situation”.
Apparently, that briefing has taken place because our constituents received certified letters dated December 1st from Staten Island Parks Borough Commissioner Thomas Paulo informing them that their license agreements have been terminated effective December 31st, 2009. Additionally, New York City Parks is mandating that they remove all of their personal belongings no later than the end of this month.
While we vehemently disagree with your decision to terminate these agreements at this time, it is even more outrageous that the Parks Department is essentially evicting these families with less than one months notice. It is patently unfair to demand that they be expected to remove their personal items during the holiday season. Our constituent Edith Holtermann summed it up perfectly in today’s edition of the Staten Island Advance:
“They are Scrooges to do this at this time of year, when we are so busy and it's so cold there. To go and try and get everything out at this time is so difficult," said Edith Holtermann, who has spent all her 72 summers at Cedar Grove Beach .
As you well know, this community has existed for over 100 years and many of these homes have passed down from generation to generation. You just cannot expect them to pack up all of that history without ample notice. Additionally, we would like to know what exactly NYC Parks has planned for this site. These property owners have maintained these grounds impeccably at their own expense. NYC Parks has been maintaining the adjacent properties ( New Dorp & Oakwood Beach ). We encourage you to go take a look and see who has done a better job. In the same article I referenced above in the Staten Island Advance; a NYC Parks spokesperson stated, “The plans are not ready to release. I do not have the details”.
Therefore, we would like to request that you rescind your termination of these license agreements. The residents should be granted an extension at a minimum of one year with the understanding that NYC Parks is planning to open this property up to the general public in the future. NYC Parks simply needs to communicate with our offices and these residents in a much more open fashion regarding the future of this property. The families that have invested so much to that community deserve a certain level of communication and honesty in return.
We would like to thank you for your re-consideration of this matter and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you regarding the future of this property in greater detail.
Sincerely,
Michael E. McMahon Vincent Ignizio
Congressman, NY-13 Councilman, 51st District
James S. Oddo Kenneth C. Mitchell
Councilman, 50th District Councilman, 49th District
CC: SI Borough Commissioner Thomas A. Paulo
*************************
How will the commissioner respond?
Share your comments with us.
Comment on this blog, call us at 718-979-6011 and leave a voicemail or email us at newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com.
> Joe Markowski
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Bullets and Cedar Grove
It seems that news in New Dorp runs in cycles and we are now amidst one of those cycles.
You could talk about bullets being shot through the front windows of two stores across from Miller Field. During the early morning hours. Sure seems strange. Fortunately no one was hurt. But it still seems strange. And there was no cause? No message being sent? It was motiveless?
And then there was the news about the Cedar Grove Beach property and the city’s intention to oust the current tenants and make changes.
My first question is… to what purpose? And other questions come to mind… Why end the leases now? What is the plan for the property? And was it really necessary to give them only 30 days notice to vacate? What are the plans for the property? If this is something that they have been considering for a while then they must have a number of options in mind. Why the secrecy? Telling me that they want to link Oakwood and Midland Beaches tells me little. That is the view from 30,000 feet. But how does that look at the street level? What exactly will happen? What will we see? And how soon? Was it necessary to evict the tenants to achieve those goals? And where will the money come from? Parks did not have enough money to plant a wide variety of flowers in New Dorp Beach Park as they did the first year and they will now be undertaking this?
Yep… still too many questions.
That’s what I think. What do you think?
> Joe Markowski
You could talk about bullets being shot through the front windows of two stores across from Miller Field. During the early morning hours. Sure seems strange. Fortunately no one was hurt. But it still seems strange. And there was no cause? No message being sent? It was motiveless?
And then there was the news about the Cedar Grove Beach property and the city’s intention to oust the current tenants and make changes.
My first question is… to what purpose? And other questions come to mind… Why end the leases now? What is the plan for the property? And was it really necessary to give them only 30 days notice to vacate? What are the plans for the property? If this is something that they have been considering for a while then they must have a number of options in mind. Why the secrecy? Telling me that they want to link Oakwood and Midland Beaches tells me little. That is the view from 30,000 feet. But how does that look at the street level? What exactly will happen? What will we see? And how soon? Was it necessary to evict the tenants to achieve those goals? And where will the money come from? Parks did not have enough money to plant a wide variety of flowers in New Dorp Beach Park as they did the first year and they will now be undertaking this?
Yep… still too many questions.
That’s what I think. What do you think?
> Joe Markowski
Friday, December 4, 2009
Library Offerings
The New Dorp Branch Library at 309 New Dorp Lane offers a host of programs for all ages. Make sure you take advantage of these great offerings right here in our neighborhood. What programs you ask?
1. Children’s Programs
- a pre-school program for ages 2.5 to 5 and caregiver on 12/11 at 9am
-“Science of Toys, Play Time!” ages 6 to 12 explores the science behind classic toys – 12/10 at 4pm
- winter stories and movies for ages 4 and older on 12/17 at 4pm
- toddler rhyme time for ages 13mos to 24mos and caregiver 12/18 at 1030am
- “tween scene” – holiday craft for ages 8 to 12 on 12/22 at 4pm
2. SCORE – Service Corps of Retired Executives on 12/15 from 6 to 8pm
- want to start your own business? Want to expand the business you have? Free and confidential business consultations. Call 718-351-2977 to schedule an appointment.
3. Stay Well Exercise Program for Senior Citizens
- an exercise program geared for all seniors, ranging from the fit to those with disabilities. The curriculum includes aerobic exercises as well as routines designed to enhance balance, build muscle strength and aid in performing daily tasks. Classes last 40-50 minutes.
4. Free Basic Computer Training for Seniors (Pre-registration required)
- “introduction to computers” on 12/10 at 1030am
- “word processing” on 1/14/2010 at 1030am and 1/28 at 1030am
- “internet” on 2/11/2010 at 1030am
- “on-line shopping” at 2/18/2010 at 1030am
- “on-line communication” on 3/4/2010 at 1030am and 3/18 at 1030am
5. Book Discussions
- 12/11/09 - All My Sons – Arthur Miller
- 1/29/10 – Martha Quest – Doris May Lessing
- 2/26/10 – August: Osage County – Tracy Letts
- 3/19/10 – The Road – Cormac McCarthy
- 4/23/10 – The Book of Salt – Monique Truong
- 5/14/10 – The Professor and the Madman – Simon Winchester
- 6/18/10 – The Moneychangers – Upton Sinclair
If you have any questions about any of these programs call the branch at 718-351-2977… and tell them the Civic Association sent you.
1. Children’s Programs
- a pre-school program for ages 2.5 to 5 and caregiver on 12/11 at 9am
-“Science of Toys, Play Time!” ages 6 to 12 explores the science behind classic toys – 12/10 at 4pm
- winter stories and movies for ages 4 and older on 12/17 at 4pm
- toddler rhyme time for ages 13mos to 24mos and caregiver 12/18 at 1030am
- “tween scene” – holiday craft for ages 8 to 12 on 12/22 at 4pm
2. SCORE – Service Corps of Retired Executives on 12/15 from 6 to 8pm
- want to start your own business? Want to expand the business you have? Free and confidential business consultations. Call 718-351-2977 to schedule an appointment.
3. Stay Well Exercise Program for Senior Citizens
- an exercise program geared for all seniors, ranging from the fit to those with disabilities. The curriculum includes aerobic exercises as well as routines designed to enhance balance, build muscle strength and aid in performing daily tasks. Classes last 40-50 minutes.
4. Free Basic Computer Training for Seniors (Pre-registration required)
- “introduction to computers” on 12/10 at 1030am
- “word processing” on 1/14/2010 at 1030am and 1/28 at 1030am
- “internet” on 2/11/2010 at 1030am
- “on-line shopping” at 2/18/2010 at 1030am
- “on-line communication” on 3/4/2010 at 1030am and 3/18 at 1030am
5. Book Discussions
- 12/11/09 - All My Sons – Arthur Miller
- 1/29/10 – Martha Quest – Doris May Lessing
- 2/26/10 – August: Osage County – Tracy Letts
- 3/19/10 – The Road – Cormac McCarthy
- 4/23/10 – The Book of Salt – Monique Truong
- 5/14/10 – The Professor and the Madman – Simon Winchester
- 6/18/10 – The Moneychangers – Upton Sinclair
If you have any questions about any of these programs call the branch at 718-351-2977… and tell them the Civic Association sent you.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Best of Times; Worst of Times
The best of times… the worst of times. How else can I describe the past few days here in New Dorp?
The worst of times. Peter and Lillian Sabados killed on New Dorp Lane as they crossed the street on their way to Our Lady Queen of Peace Church on the eve of Thanksgiving. With so much to be thankful for, we are deprived of that joy as we mourn this tragic event.
Much less tragic but troubling nonetheless is the threat to Pouch Camp and its integral part of our Island’s Greenbelt. But how do we protect that land in these difficult financial times?
But wait. All is not lost.
It is also the best of times. The holiday season is upon us. New Dorp Lane is decked out with new holiday lights – brighter and more numerous than ever! What a magnificent scene at night! Make sure you journey on the Lane at night during this holiday season.
And new street toppings for some of our roads. First Street. Rose Avenue. Eighth Street. We can all do without extra bumps and potholes.
Our meeting in December will be on the 17th. We will review these and other issues of the neighborhood and celebrate the arrival of the holidays with a little party and good cheer. Instead of the usual holiday grab bag I am asking everyone to bring some items for our troops overseas. But more on that in the next blog entry.
Have news to share? Concerns? Comments? Email us at newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or call 718-979-6011.
> Joe Markowski
The worst of times. Peter and Lillian Sabados killed on New Dorp Lane as they crossed the street on their way to Our Lady Queen of Peace Church on the eve of Thanksgiving. With so much to be thankful for, we are deprived of that joy as we mourn this tragic event.
Much less tragic but troubling nonetheless is the threat to Pouch Camp and its integral part of our Island’s Greenbelt. But how do we protect that land in these difficult financial times?
But wait. All is not lost.
It is also the best of times. The holiday season is upon us. New Dorp Lane is decked out with new holiday lights – brighter and more numerous than ever! What a magnificent scene at night! Make sure you journey on the Lane at night during this holiday season.
And new street toppings for some of our roads. First Street. Rose Avenue. Eighth Street. We can all do without extra bumps and potholes.
Our meeting in December will be on the 17th. We will review these and other issues of the neighborhood and celebrate the arrival of the holidays with a little party and good cheer. Instead of the usual holiday grab bag I am asking everyone to bring some items for our troops overseas. But more on that in the next blog entry.
Have news to share? Concerns? Comments? Email us at newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or call 718-979-6011.
> Joe Markowski
Sunday, November 22, 2009
The History of Staten Island
Thinking about catching up on your knowledge of Staten Island? Then you want to look into these programs being offered by the SI Institute of Arts & Sciences:
The Staten Island Museum invites you to attend:
The History of Staten Island Part II
(Participation in The History of Staten Island Part I – NOT necessary!)
Sign up for the series or sign up for individual programs!
Tuesdays, January 5th – Transportation Staten Island Style: The Staten Island Ferry
Tuesday, January 12th – Institutionalization on Staten Island
Tuesday, January 19th – Our Environmental Past: The Museum, Parks, & Preserves
Tuesday, January 26th – Cultural Institutions and Historic Preservation on Staten Island
Tuesday, February 2nd – Historic Movie Houses/Movies Made on Staten Island
Programs begin at 7:00 p.m. at the History Archives & Library of the
Staten Island Museum, Building H, Snug Harbor Cultural Center Campus,
1000 Richmond Terrace
Led by Staten Island Museum Curator of History, Patricia M. Salmon. Advance registration is required. Series cost: $12/$8 Museum members per program or $50/$30 Museum members for the series of five. Advance payments can be mailed to: Staten Island Museum , 75 Stuyvesant Place , Staten Island , NY , 10301 . Credit card payments accepted at 718/727-1135.
The Staten Island Museum has been fostering and sustaining the scientific and cultural heritage of Staten Island since 1881.
So mark your calendars and catch up on some of these programs.
> Joe Markowski
The Staten Island Museum invites you to attend:
The History of Staten Island Part II
(Participation in The History of Staten Island Part I – NOT necessary!)
Sign up for the series or sign up for individual programs!
Tuesdays, January 5th – Transportation Staten Island Style: The Staten Island Ferry
Tuesday, January 12th – Institutionalization on Staten Island
Tuesday, January 19th – Our Environmental Past: The Museum, Parks, & Preserves
Tuesday, January 26th – Cultural Institutions and Historic Preservation on Staten Island
Tuesday, February 2nd – Historic Movie Houses/Movies Made on Staten Island
Programs begin at 7:00 p.m. at the History Archives & Library of the
Staten Island Museum, Building H, Snug Harbor Cultural Center Campus,
1000 Richmond Terrace
Led by Staten Island Museum Curator of History, Patricia M. Salmon. Advance registration is required. Series cost: $12/$8 Museum members per program or $50/$30 Museum members for the series of five. Advance payments can be mailed to: Staten Island Museum , 75 Stuyvesant Place , Staten Island , NY , 10301 . Credit card payments accepted at 718/727-1135.
The Staten Island Museum has been fostering and sustaining the scientific and cultural heritage of Staten Island since 1881.
So mark your calendars and catch up on some of these programs.
> Joe Markowski
Monday, November 16, 2009
Meeting Notice, Streets, Cafe's and Laughs
Our monthly membership meeting will be this Thursday at 8pm at the Kells-Grennie American Legion Hall at 2750 Amboy Road. Our guest speaker will be from the 122 Precinct Community Affairs Department and will be speaking about holiday safety. Plan on attending and bring a neighbor.
We’ve seen a few of our streets milled in preparation for re-surfacing. Let’s hope the re-surfacing gets done before the cold and nasty weather gets here.
By the way, any deer sightings lately?
Have you had a chance to visit any of the new cafes on the Plaza? Dominick’s Bakery & Cafe and Alan & Andrews Café now provide a light dining option for us. Try them.
Speaking of dining, we dined at Restaurant on the Plaza on Thursday the 12th. It was part of our Dining Through New Dorp program. Wow… it was a wonderful night filled with good company and plenty of food. Thanks to Chris and his staff for making it such a joy.
And speaking of joy, Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club opened in the Lane Theatre on Friday the 13th. They also had two shows on Saturday. Did you get a chance to go? What did you think of the way the theatre looks? What did you think of the experience? Speak out. Let us know.
Have information you want to share with the community? Send us a email at newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or a voicemail at 718-979-6011 and we will help you spread the word!
> Joe Markowski
We’ve seen a few of our streets milled in preparation for re-surfacing. Let’s hope the re-surfacing gets done before the cold and nasty weather gets here.
By the way, any deer sightings lately?
Have you had a chance to visit any of the new cafes on the Plaza? Dominick’s Bakery & Cafe and Alan & Andrews Café now provide a light dining option for us. Try them.
Speaking of dining, we dined at Restaurant on the Plaza on Thursday the 12th. It was part of our Dining Through New Dorp program. Wow… it was a wonderful night filled with good company and plenty of food. Thanks to Chris and his staff for making it such a joy.
And speaking of joy, Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club opened in the Lane Theatre on Friday the 13th. They also had two shows on Saturday. Did you get a chance to go? What did you think of the way the theatre looks? What did you think of the experience? Speak out. Let us know.
Have information you want to share with the community? Send us a email at newdorpcentralcivic@yahoo.com or a voicemail at 718-979-6011 and we will help you spread the word!
> Joe Markowski
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)