Staten Island, NY August 2023

The Kids & Pets Issue

After defining sophistication in Red Bank and Colonia, Le Malt is establishing a new stronghold in the heart of Staten Island. Le Malt Imperiale is here to welcome you to our premier New York City location. Imperiale is a stand-out luxury destination for our version of classic drinks and fine dining, where tradition is honored and elevated.

The Kids & Pets Issue

As the August sun continues to warm our hearts and homes, we are excited to bring you the latest issue of Staten Island City Lifestyle. This month we are focused on a theme that truly speaks to us: kids and pets.

Children are not only the hope for a brighter tomorrow but also the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment, and we are happy to highlight the best of the best in this issue for our Staten Island little ones!

Secondly, who could forget our furry friends? The companionship they provide can be a transformative experience for kids and adults alike. We pay homage to them in this issue with some pet friendly homemade treats.

Our goal this month is to celebrate the individual joys of raising children and the boundless love that pets bring into our lives. We believe that both kids and pets contribute so much to our community while enriching our experiences and bringing us immeasurable happiness.

Thank you for reading along! We appreciate you and hope you enjoy our August issue!

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Brigitte McLaughlin

brigitte.mclaughlin@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Valerie Bianculli | valerie.bianculli@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Giovanni Belotti | belottivevo@gmail.com, Kimberly Blaker, Rebecca Burns

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Mike Gloria

BRIGITTE MCLAUGHLIN, PUBLISHER

@STATENISLANDCITYLIFESTYLE

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Photography Credit: Le Malt

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @StatenIslandCityLifestyle

1-7: After defining sophistication in Red Bank and Colonia, Le Malt is establishing a new stronghold in the heart of Staten Island. Le Malt Imperial is a members only a stand-out luxury destination for our version of classic drinks and fine dining.

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab the kids, pack your bags and hit the town for some end of summer fun. Use our list for some family-friendly adventures that will do everything from raising your heart rate, excite the little ones, and create lasting memories together.

Our Picks for Family-Friendly Fun

THE STATEN ISLAND ZOO: The Staten Island Zoo offers a wonderful opportunity for children to explore and learn about animals. They can encounter a wide range of species. 614 Broadway, Staten Island, New York 10310

STATEN ISLAND CHILDREN'S MUSEUM: The Staten Island Children's Museum provides an interactive and educational experience for kids of all ages. The museum features hands-on exhibits, workshops and more. 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, New York 10301

CLAY PIT PONDS STATE PARK PRESERVE: Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve offers nature trails and guided hikes that are perfect for families with children. 83 Nielsen Ave, Staten Island, New York 10309

CAROUSEL FOR ALL CHILDREN: Located in Willowbrook Park, the Carousel for All Children is a delightful attraction. Kids can enjoy a whimsical ride on beautifully crafted carousel animals. Willowbrook Park, Eton Pl, Staten Island, New York 10314

THE STATEN ISLAND FUNPARK: The Staten Island FunPark offers an array of entertainment options for children. They can enjoy go-kart racing, mini-golf, batting cages, arcade games and more! 215 Schmidts Ln, Staten Island, New York 10314

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

Island Zoo

Photography: Odalis Corniel

Jaritza M. Lima, LMT, MLD-C

Beyond Balloons & Cake

Extraordinary Ideas for Unforgettable Kids’ Birthday Parties

ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

So your child’s birthday is just around the corner, and you don’t have time to plan and prepare the perfect party? Don’t despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids’ parties that’ll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup. Most importantly, your birthday child and guests will have a blast.

Try some of these party places for kids of all different ages. When you call, ask what amenities are available and included. Many sites provide invitations, food and cake, balloons and decorations, a private party area, a gift for the birthday child, and other special birthday services.

Skates & Blades  - Roller skating rinks are again gaining popularity, and most offer a choice of inline or roller skate rentals for today’s kids. Also, consider ice-skating and ice or a roller hockey party as a fun alternative.

Strike it Big – Bowling parties are a fun form of recreation for kids of all ages. Preschoolers can score every time with bumper bowling, while teens can go cosmic for glow-in-thedark fun. Add to the amusement by offering small prizes for low and high scores and the most and fewest gutters.

Pizza and Play –  Preschool and early elementary children thrill at invitations to these parties. They can play kiddie arcade-style games, win tickets for prizes, hop on coin-operated rides, and romp in soft play areas.

Water, Water Everywhere  – Head to a wave pool or water park where big kids can ride the waves, swish down water slides, take a plunge, and go on tubing adventures. What better way to cool off and party on a hot summer day? Indoor water parks are a fun alternative for the colder months.

CONTINUED >

Old MacDonald Had a Farm –  Check with your nearby farm, ranch, or apple orchard to find out what activities are offered. Many include hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, apple picking, and more. These are perfect for fall birthdays.

Recreational Romp –  Recreation and fitness centers offer a wide variety of activities for birthdays, including gymnastics, swimming, basketball, and arts and crafts.

You Should be Dancin’  – Check with your local dance studio for birthday party packages. Some offer professional dance instruction and allow food and party treats to be brought in, so the whole shebang is done right there.

Music Marvel –  Big kids will be in awe to see one of their favorite performers in concert. For young children, look for a kiddie musical adventure offered by an area musician or music center.

Craft Magic – Young kids love to create. So schedule a craft party at a fabric shop, craft store, or scrap-recycling center where kids’ activities are offered.

Cops and Robbers – Kids will thrill at testing their skills and cunningness in a game of laser tag. These centers often offer on-site party areas and birthday packages.

Fast Food Fun  – For a simple and inexpensive toddler or preschool party, McDonald’s, Burger King, and other fast-food joints are excellent choices. Children can crawl through a playscape and dive into a pool of balls while enjoying their favorites: hamburgers and French fries. Call ahead to make your reservation.

Putt-Putt & More – Family fun centers offer a variety of entertainment, including batting cages, miniature golf, video games, bumper boats, and go-carts.

Hands-on Science  – Kids of all ages will be thoroughly engrossed and entertained at one of the many hands-on science museums. The party-goers can try out gadgets, watch or participate in experiments, play instruments, construct, and much more.

CONTINUED >

Rock Climbing Adventures –  Daredevils won’t want to miss one of these exciting quests. Look for a rock climbing gym in your area where party guests can do rock climbing with a professional instructor.

Beach Party –  Give your teen some fun in the sun with a beach bash. Contact the park for information on volleyball equipment and to make a reservation for a covered picnic area. Look for a spot with horseshoes and plenty of sand, and don’t forget the beach balls, pizza, and cooler of pop.

Amusement Mini-Party – Theme parks make for big-time fun for older kids who are content to take only one or two guests. When planning the guest list, don’t forget to budget meals, snacks, and drinks, which add up quickly in theme parks.

Monkeyin’ Around  – Parties away from home don’t have to be costly. Reserve a shelter at a nearby park with a large, fenced-in, frontier-style playscape. Little ones can run, climb, and play to their heart’s content. Bring along your party supplies and set up under a pavilion. To keep things simple, call ahead for pizza delivery.

Row, Row, Row Your Boat –  An afternoon canoe excursion for teens is the ultimate outdoor fun. Contact canoe rental facilities for details. Bring along pop and a picnic lunch, and make sure the food stays in the chaperone’s canoe where it’ll be safe from tips. Don’t forget balloons for water balloon fights during rest stops.

Z is for Zoo – Zoos are an excellent source for birthday entertainment. Many offer party packages that include meals, cake, invitations, live animal presentations, and more.

PARTY TIPS:

When planning your child’s party, keep in mind what’s important is not how perfectly the party goes. Instead, it’s that your birthday child and guests have fun. To ensure success, follow these tips:

• Keep the guest list manageable to avoid chaos, confusion, and conflict. The number of guests should correspond with the child’s age or slightly over.

• Request an RSVP with a specific deadline, so there is time to invite others should the guest list fall short. Be sure to include your phone number and email address.

• Offer your child choices for the party, ask for input, and allow them to assist in planning.

• Send out written invitations. Verbal invitations are easily forgotten and make the invitee feel that he or she was an afterthought. Also, it can leave the parents of the invited child wondering whether the invitation was approved by the birthday child’s parents.

• Include all details on the invitation, including a start and end time, address and directions, phone number, and what guests need to bring, such as a bathing suit and towel.

• Play it safe, and set a rain date for outdoor parties.

• Keep the length of the party within reason. Unless it’s a sleepover or special event, preschool parties should be limited to one hour, and two to three hours for older children.

“There are plenty of fun places to hold kids’ parties that’ll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup. Most importantly, your birthday child and guests will have a blast.”

From Pasta to Pages: Valerie Bianculli

HOW ITALY’S FLAVORS INSPIRED CHILDREN’S BOOK, RICHIE SAVES THE DAY

In light of this month’s theme, Kids & Pets, we are delving into the world of children’s literature and the unexpected sources of imagination that they come from. Meet Valerie Bianculli, a creative mind (who also happens to be our Editor) who translated her love for pasta and adventures into the pages of a published children’s book that has captured the hearts and imaginations of young readers all around the world.

GIOVANNI: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHOR?

VALERIE: I was at a time in my life where I was unsatisfied with the work I was doing. 2020 had changed my perspective on everything as I’m sure it had done for many, and I came to a point where I was more interested in living a life with purpose and freedom. After I graduated from college, I worked multiple corporate jobs that didn’t feel fulfilling to me. In the summer of 2021, I booked a one-way ticket to Europe and resigned from my full-time job without much of a plan in mind. I don’t suggest anyone to do this but for me it just so happened to work out! It was then that Richie was born. I was eating a traditional Southern Italian plate of pasta called Spaghetti con Ricci.. which translates into sea urchin… when I came up with the idea of writing a children’s book about a sea urchin named Richie.

Valerie Bianculli

ARTICLE BY GIOVANNI BELOTTI

GIOVANNI: HOW DO YOU APPROACH THE CREATIVE PROCESS WHEN WRITING FOR CHILDREN? WHERE DOES YOUR INSPIRATION COME FROM?

VALERIE: I spend a lot of time with my two nieces who are now 5 and 7 years old. I love listening to their conversations with each other and the way their little minds work. They bring me a lot of inspiration as well as the places I travel to. Richie Saves the Day was inspired by my travels and my next book was also inspired by a trip I took earlier this year to Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

GIOVANNI: ARE THERE ANY PARTICULAR VALUES OR LIFE LESSONS THAT YOU TRY TO INCORPORATE INTO YOUR BOOKS FOR CHILDREN? IF SO, WHY ARE THESE IMPORTANT TO YOU?

VALERIE: One theme I love to incorporate is the importance of family values and friendship. In Richie Saves the Day, the main character saves his brother from a hungry fisherman and I think this message conveys a world to young readers where there is a strong sense of family bonds and an emphasis on love and togetherness.

GIOVANNI: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHORS WHO ARE JUST STARTING THEIR WRITING JOURNEY?

VALERIE: The best advice I can give is to embrace your inner child, tap into doing those things you enjoyed doing as a kid. Follow your heart. Be genuine! Authenticity shines through no matter what. Be persistent. Take rejections gracefully and keep honoring your craft.

GIOVANNI: WHERE IS RICHIE SAVES THE DAY SOLD?

VALERIE: You can buy it on Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Walmart.com and various other bookstores worldwide!

“ Richie Saves the Day was inspired by my travels and my next book was also inspired by a trip I took earlier this year to Jackson Hole, Wyoming.”

Peanutty Banana Pupcakes

Wholesome Canine Delights for your Furry Friend

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 Ripe Banana

• 1/2 Cup Natural Peanut Butter

• 1 Cup Rolled Oats

• 1/4 Cup Whole Wheat Flour

• A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for added flavor (avoid honey if your dog is under 1 year old)

DIRECTIONS:

01. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

02. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.

03. Add the peanut butter to the mashed banana and mix well until fully combined.

04. Add the rolled oats and whole wheat flour to the mixture and stir until you have a thick, sticky dough.

05. If desired, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a small drizzle of honey for extra flavor. Mix well.

06. Take small portions of the dough and roll them into bite-sized balls.

07. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.

08. Gently flatten each ball with a fork or your fingers to create a cookie shape.

09. Bake the treats in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and slightly firm.

10. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the treats cool completely.

11. Once cooled, the treats are ready for your dog to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI

Unleashing Joy

How Pets Boost Mental Health and Well-being

ARTICLE BY VALERIE BIANCULLI

Most of us already know that pets have a remarkable ability to bring joy, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives. Beyond their role as loyal companions, emerging research suggests that pets also play a significant role in improving mental health and overall well-being. Besides benefiting your mental health, caring for a pet can also give a sense of purpose and responsibility, which in turn promotes personal growth. Here we will explore some of the positive effects that pets can have on mental health and all of the various ways that they contribute to our emotional well-being.

One of the primary benefits of having a pet is the companionship that they provide. If you own a pet, you already know that their excitement when you arrive back home can alone spark so much joy. Pets offer unwavering loyalty and emotional support, which can help combat feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Whether you have a playful dog or cuddly cat, the presence of a pet can alleviate feelings of solitude and offer a sense of belonging. Studies have shown that pet owners often experience reduced levels of loneliness and have an increased sense of social support, leading to improved mental well-being.

Interacting with pets has been found to have a calming effect on individuals, helping to reduce stress levels. Studies have shown that the simple act of petting a dog or cat releases oxytocin, a hormone that is associated with relaxation and bonding. Spending time with a pet can trigger the release of serotonin and dopamine which

are neurotransmitters that are associated with happiness and pleasure. This interaction can help to lower blood pressure, decrease cortisol levels and promote a sense of calmness and ease. Pets can create a soothing environment, provide an escape from the demands of everyday life and offer a distraction from stress.

In addition to this, pets have a remarkable ability to lift our spirits and brighten our mood. Whether it’s the fluffy tail of your cat or the wet nose of your dog, the presence of pets can boost our mood and create a positive atmosphere within our lives. They offer a non-judgmental and empathetic presence which allows individuals to express their emotions freely and feel completely understood.

Having a pet also often encourages physical activity. Pets require exercise and playtime. Regular physical activity has numerous mental health benefits, including stress reduction, improved sleep and increased endorphin levels. Taking a dog for a walk, playing fetch, or engaging in interactive play with a cat not only benefit the pet’s well-being but also promote a healthier lifestyle for their owners. The combination of physical exercise and the companionship of a pet can contribute to enhanced mental and physical well-being.

If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, you can feel confident that the positive effects they bring extend far beyond wagging tails and playful antics. Embrace the joy that pets bring into your life and let them become an integral part of your mental health journey.

“Pets offer unwavering loyalty and emotional support, which can help combat feelings of loneliness or isolation.”

ARTICLE BY BRIGITTE MCLAUGHLIN

Back to School

Handpicked Items to Kick Off the New Year in Style

Welcome the new school year with a bang and make your loved ones feel extra special with our curated Back-to-School Gift Guide! Whether it’s your child, a student, a teacher, or even a friend heading back to the classroom, our gift guide is here to inspire you with thoughtful and practical gift ideas. Discover the perfect gifts that blend style, functionality, and a touch of excitement to make this back-to-school season a memorable one. Let our gift guide be your go-to resource for finding the ideal presents that will equip and motivate students for their academic journey ahead.

1. Sooez 3 Pack Pencil Box, Large Capacity Plastic Pencil Case Boxes, Hard Pencil Case, Crayon Box with Snap-tight Lid, Plastic Pencil Boxes Stackable Design, Supply Boxes for Kids Boys School Classroom – Amazon.com $9.99

2. Katie Jnyc – Girl’s Evan Smocked Ruffle DressBig Kid, Bloomingdales $88-$98

3. Bloomingdales – Hunter Unisex First Classic Boots, Toddler/Little Kid $65.00

4. Bloomingdales – Geox – Girl’s J Kilwi Sneakers, Toddler, Little Kid, Big Kid $85.00

5. Bloomingdales – Habitual Kids – Girl’s Pleated Romper – Big Kid $50.00

Bloomingdales – Psycho Bunny Navarro Ombré Sweat Shorts Little/Big Kid $75.00

6.

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“Whether it’s your child, a student, a teacher, or even a friend heading back to the classroom, our gift guide is here to inspire you with thoughtful and practical gift ideas.”

7. Bloomingdales – Psycho Bunny Navarro Ombré Hoodie Little/Big Kid $120

8. Bloomingdales – Joe’s Jeans – Boys’ Knit Denim Jogger Pants – Little/Big Kid  $44.00

9. Bloomingdale’s – Polo Ralph Lauren – Boy’s Denim Button-Down Shirt – Little/Big Kid $55.00

10. Bloomingdale’s STATE – Kane Kids Metallic Backpack $95.00

11. Bloomingdale’s STATE – Kane Kids Backpack in Camo $90.00

12. Jordan 1 Mid SE – Little Kid’s Shoes $75 Nike.com

7. 8.

9. 10.

11. 12.

Back to School picks from your local publisher, Brigitte McLaughlin

Backyard Chickens

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet, but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages.

There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low-maintenance. And bonus—unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things to Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple henhouse can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through spring and summer and into the fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor.

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own, or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com.

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

Dream Your Dreams

ARTICLE BY REBECCA BURNS

Discover the magic of dreams with this captivating poem that will ignite the imaginations of both children and adults alike. In this enchanting piece, the power of dreaming takes center stage as it weaves a tapestry of inspiration and wonder.

Dream Your Dreams

Close your eyes my little one

Close your eyes and dream

You can be anyone

Your can go anywhere

Do anything

Be anyone

Just close your eyes and Dream your dreams

Rebecca Burns

A Taste of Italy