Staten Island, NY June 2023

June 2023Happy Father's Day!

Happy June! This month is all about the men in our lives. As Father’s Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the role of fathers in our lives and show our appreciation for all they do. Whether it’s providing guidance and support, sharing wisdom and humor or simply being there when we need them… fathers have a profound impact on our lives. I personally am lucky that I have always felt safe in the presence of my dad and it’s something that has shaped me into the woman I am today.

Father’s Day is also a time to celebrate the diversity of fatherhood. Whether you’re a biological dad, stepdad, adoptive dad or a father figure in someone’s life… your love and presence make a difference. We honor and appreciate all types of fathers and the unique contributions they make to their families. They have an important role in shaping the future by teaching us important life lessons and setting positive examples.

In this issue, you can find a gift guide to help you pick out the perfect gift for Dad as well as some inspirational stories about the very men that live in this neighborhood.

To all the fathers out there, we want to say thank you. Thank you for your unwavering love and devotion, for the sacrifices you make and the hard work you put in day after day. Your dedication to your families is an inspiration to us all.

Happy Father’s Day!

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Brigitte McLaughlin | brigitte.mclaughlin@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Valerie Bianculli | valerie.bianculli@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Phil Tursi | phil@plugnewyork.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Mike Gloria

Corporate Team

CHIEF

CHIEF

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

Spring is in the air

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1-7: Community Resources Staten Island and Staten Island City Lifestyle participating in breaking the Guinness World Record for largest jigsaw puzzle in honor of Autism Awareness Month

A Taste of Italy

ARTICLE BY BRIGITTE MCLAUGHLIN & VALERIE BIANCULLI

Paul A. Campione Sr., Ingrid Campione and Paul A. Campione Jr.

P.A.C.’s Flowing Pipes

HOW ONE FAMILY BUSINESS IS MAKING A SPLASH

Living on Staten Island, I’m sure you are already familiar with P.A.C. Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning. Now let’s get to know the Campione family, the owners behind this notorious full-service company.

In this exclusive interview we sit down with father and son, Paul and Eric Campione to learn more about their journey from humble beginnings and hardships to becoming a successful family-owned business. They share insights into the many challenges they faced, the lessons they learned along the way and the importance of perseverance.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: FOR THOSE WHO MAY NOT ALREADY KNOW A BIT ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS, CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHAT P.A.C. DOES AND THE SERVICES YOU PROVIDE?

ERIC CAMPIONE: We are a plumbing, heating and air conditioning service company. We basically do maintenance, service and

installs for homes. Mostly residential and some commercial. We also do water purification, drain cleaning and indoor air quality. We service mainly Staten Island and New Jersey.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: DO YOU WANT TO TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU STARTED THE BUSINESS?

PAUL CAMPIONE: I came home from the service in 1969. I decided to get into plumbing since my father and uncle were both in the field. I started working for a plumbing company and got into the union. I did a 5-year apprenticeship program and I went from an apprentice to a journeyman to a foreman to a supervisor. In 1978 my father was separating from his business partner and since I had my plumbing license we got together and formed the family business. In 1993 my father retired and I added air conditioning services to the business. We had a family tragedy and then Eric came in and re-modeled the company. CONTINUED >

ERIC CAMPIONE: We had grown very large. When I came out of college my dad was one of the top Local 1 employers in the city. When I graduated in 2008, it was the worst possible time to look for a job. I was already working for the business since I was 15-years old. We had a lot of city funded projects. We, unfortunately, had a tragedy in early 2011 and two of my brothers passed away in a car accident while we were driving upstate. It took a huge toll on our family and we were in a position where we didn’t know what to do or where to turn. We had 60 employees working in the field and an entire office full of people and my dad was put in a difficult position because he didn’t want to give up on them but at the same time found it hard to go on. At the same time, the economy was crushing the construction market. There wasn’t much work and many union salaries had to be paid. We had just won a massive project at that time and felt that

Chris and Eric Campione

Paul A. Campione Jr. in a Trench Running Water Pipe

we would be creating economic suicide by taking on the job. We had to go back to our client and tell them that it was impossible for us to handle it at that time. A lot of companies thought we were going bankrupt and stopped paying us. I was 23-years old at the time and I worked pretty crazy hours from about 7am until 1am, but I gained a lot of field experience quickly. We were in a downward spiral, unable to pay our bills and knocking on death’s door as far as going out of business.

PAUL CAMPIONE: We were in a bad situation, psychologically as well as monetarily. We couldn’t think straight as you can imagine. We reached out to SCORE (a business counseling service on Staten Island) and John Amodio, a friend of ours who knew the situation came in and brought the whole company together. He created what was called P.A.C. is BACK. He designed the management system for us, an organizational chart, he helped us to get money from the bank and he inspired us. He helped everyone to believe that this was going to be a new beginning. Life started to come back to the company. Eric really stepped up and re-branded the company. We have employees that have been with us for 25 years. My wife, Ingrid was with me from day one when we first started working at the kitchen table going through debits and credits. In 1980 we brought computers into the business and we were one of the first. Ingrid was great at getting that going. We kept progressing as

time went on. We have coaches and organizations that we are part of to stay current and elevate our business.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: AS FAR AS MARKETING GOES, DO YOU WANT TO TELL US HOW YOUR MARKETING STRATEGIES HAVE HELPED YOU OVER THE YEARS?

PAUL CAMPIONE: We hired an advertising agency to give us our logo which was a pipe with a rag tied around it and a leak and it said “Call Paul.” It was on the back of our trucks and we had 6 billboards around Staten Island, we had ads in the newspaper and we kept pushing. The marketing techniques were exceptional. Peter Garcia would come in and take everyone’s opinion in the office and choose the best form of advertising. There is a saying that goes “Innovate or Stagnate” and you don’t want to stagnate so you got to keep going.

ERIC CAMPIONE: In addition to that, we focus so heavily on customer service and serving our client at the highest level at all times. It’s the biggest thing that we preach. Our 3 core values are: Powerful as a Team, Always Serving and Champion Reputation. We believe if you follow those 3 things and make sure that your customer service is always exceptional you will always make money. That’s something that sets us apart from the competition. When we re-focused our business we wanted to focus on the clients that helped us and supported us and provide them with the best service.

“Our 3 core values are: Powerful as a Team, Always Serving and Champion Reputation.”

-Eric Campione

PAUL CAMPIONE: We don’t sell anything, our job is to make you comfortable with the technician. We’re here to build relationships. With the mother, the father, the grandmother, the grandfather, the children, the children’s wives, their children and on and on. To me it’s like going out to a restaurant, I like to go out to eat and have a couple of drinks and I have my favorite restaurants. When I sit down someplace they know right away what I want to drink and that’s service to me. With our employees, it’s the same thing they build a relationship throughout the job. Connecting with the customer is very important.

STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE: ARE THERE ANY BOOKS YOU CAN RECOMMEND TO YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS?

ERIC CAMPIONE: There are so many. The first one without a doubt is How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. Your Next 5 Moves is also a great recommendation if you’re doing any business planning.

PAUL CAMPIONE: Work Smarter, Not Harder by Dale Carnegie is another great one. See You at the Top is also a good one by Zig Ziglar. The most important thing is being able to get up after you fall, business isn’t all fun and games. When we first started it was a rough path for us, I used to get daily inspirations about God and life and the troubles you have. Those also helped me to breathe easier.

Jaritza M. Lima, LMT, MLD-C

FROM COAST TO COAST

Unforgettable Men’s Travel Destinations in the US

ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI

Are you interested in exploring some of the best destinations the United States has to offer? This one is for the men! Whether you are seeking adrenaline pumping activities or a chance to unwind and relax, there is something here for everyone. From rugged outdoor adventures to city getaways, in this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top travel destinations. So pack your bags and get ready to discover some exciting getaways that don’t require a passport!

Jackson Hole, Wyoming Austin, Texas

New York, New York

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

Las Vegas is known as the entertainment capital of the world, and for good reason!

The city offers a variety of activities such as great shows, fine dining and nightlife. The shows in Las Vegas are world-famous and feature some of the biggest names in entertainment. Looking for a good meal? The restaurants in Vegas do not disappoint! Lastly, the nightlife is legendary and has bars and nightclubs that cater to all tastes.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

New Orleans is known for its rich history, unique culture and amazing food.

If you’re interested in history, there are plenty of museums and historic sites to visit, such as the National WWII Museum and the French Quarter. New Orleans is also famous for its food, including gumbo, jambalaya and po’ boys, making it a great destination for foodies. In addition, the city is home to some of the best music venues in the world, with jazz and blues performances every night.

CONTINUED >

“Whether you are seeking adrenaline pumping activities or a chance to unwind and relax, there is something here for everyone.”

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING

Jackson Hole is a prime destination for men seeking an outdoor adventure. With stunning natural scenery and endless opportunities for activities like hiking, fishing and skiing, Jackson Hole offers a thrilling escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Additionally, the town itself has a rugged and western feel, complete with cowboy bars and local breweries, making it a great place to unwind and soak up the unique culture of the American West.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

Chicago is a great destination for men who love sports and food. The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bulls. It is also known for its deep dish pizza and hot dogs. In addition, the city has several museums and cultural attractions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

AUSTIN, TEXAS

Austin is a popular destination for men who love music and outdoor activities. The city is known for its live music scene, with numerous music festivals and concerts throughout the year. Austin is also home to several parks and outdoor recreation areas, including Lady Bird Lake and the Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering opportunities for hiking, biking and water sports.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

If none of these suit you, why not make it a staycation? New York is one of the most desirable travel destinations for men due to its vibrant energy, iconic landmarks, and endless entertainment options. From catching a Broadway show to exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods, there’s something for everyone in the Big Apple. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at Madison Square Garden, while history buffs can visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. With world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife, New York City is perfect for any man seeking adventure and excitement and there’s no travel required!

“Las Vegas is known as the entertainment capital of the world, and for good reason! The city offers a variety of activities such as great shows, fine dining and nightlife.”

Las Vegas, Nevada

MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

PLAN A STAYCATION

You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

PLAY FRISBEE GOLF AS A FAMILY

Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.

SPOIL HIM WITH BREAKFAST IN BED

Breakfast in bed isn’t just for Mother’s Day. Dads can enjoy it too! Whip up some of his favorite brunch treats and start Father’s Day off the right way.

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HAVE A WINE AND PAINT NIGHT

Sign up for an artistic experience at a local wine and paint shop so Dad can let his creative side show and you can have a custom piece of art for years to come.

TACKLE A TASK TOGETHER

Is Dad a hands-on guy? Why not spend the day constructing a tree house or painting a birdhouse? Or better yet, help him organize the garage or start a garage redesign.

07 10

DO A FITNESS CLASS TOGETHER

Consider signing him up for a fitness class together. Whether he likes cycling, boxing or HIIT, encourage him to be adventurous and try something new.

08

COOK SOMETHING ADVENTUROUS

If some of Dad’s role models include Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay, consider thinking outside the box and create a meal with something you wouldn’t usually go for like bison burgers or grilled octopus tentacles. Tackling a complex recipe may seem challenging but the memories and the meal will be worth it.

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HAVE AN OUTDOOR FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

out after all your hard work.

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FIRE UP THE BACKYARD GRILL

There’s no greater way to get to a Dad’s heart than the word “barbecue”. Grab extravagant meats like a rack of ribs or wagyu beef burgers and go to town.

CONSTRUCT SOMETHING OUT OF LEGOS

Harken back to Dad’s childhood with a specialty kit of legos. Embark on a family project of helping Dad build models of favorite movie props like the Death Star or Hogwarts castle.

GO AXE-THROWING

Axe-throwing venues are still going strong across the country. Make an evening of it and practice your throwing skills!

HAVE A PIZZA PARTY

Everyone loves pizza. Make or buy some premade pizza dough and put different toppings in bowls and have Dad and the kids decorate it!

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HAVE FONDUE FOR DINNER

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ENCOURAGE DAD TO GO ON A GUY’S WEEKEND

Whether Dad enjoys golfing, fishing or hiking, encourage him to get away with the guys for a weekend.

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MAKE A TIME CAPSULE

Dig a hole in your backyard and have Dad help the kids gather items around the house (like a current newspaper or flyers) and put them in a waterproof bag.

GO CAMPING

Whether you choose to go old-school tent camping at a local (or far-off) park or do it by renting an RV, camping always brings the family tons of quality time and reminds Dad of his fire-building skills.

ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI

Father’s Day Gift Guide

Local Picks for Dad!

1. Cigar Gift Set from a Local Smoke & Gift Shop. Head over to a Staten Island Smoke & Gift Shop and browse their collection of cigars and cigar accessories. They offer a wide range of cigars from all over the world, as well as cigar cutters, lighters, and ashtrays

2. Craft Beer from Flagship Brewing Co. This local brewery offers a variety of beers, from hoppy IPA’s to rich stouts and everything in between. Create a custom six-pack of different flavors for him to try.

3. Grilling Accessories from Williams & Sonoma. They offer a wide range of grilling accessories, from spatulas and tongs to smoker boxes and grill covers. You can even find grilling cookbooks and spices to help him take his grilling game to the next level.

4 Men’s Grooming Products from TrueGents Barbershop. Put together a custom grooming kit for your dad with some beard oil, shaving cream and aftershave balm.

5. Sports Gear from Empire Heat Sports Cards & Memorabilia. Here you can find vintage sports cards, collectibles and autographed memorabilia.

6 Apple Watch from the Apple Store. Add a personal touch to this gift by customizing it with Dad’s initials or a special message.

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STATEN ISLAND CITY LIFESTYLE EDITORVALERIE BIANCULLI

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