Staten Island Parent May 2013

MAY 2013

.com SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PARENTING

STOP YELLING & START CONNECTING Find Out How YOU Can Regain Control

Violence Are Parents in the Dark?

Happy Mother’s Day!

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TABLE OF CONTENTS ADVERTISER INDEX 133

MAY 2013

COVER STORY

Video Game Violence COVER STORY Are Parents in the Dark?

Video games are a staple of entertainment for many kids, teens and even adults. The question parents are asking is “Which games are harmless and is there a link between violent games and violent behavior?”

Read more on page 70

ARTICLES

COLUMNS

32 Love & Marriage Series: Part 1 Just the two of us

36 A First Mother’s Day- From Tears to Cheers

by Joe LoVerde

Tickets Giveaway

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

42 Stop Yelling and Start Connecting!

86 Ask the Doctor

Build a better relationship with your children

by April C. Lee, MD

50 From Punky Kid to Powerful Mom

94 Parent & Child Time

Punky Brewster’s Soleil Moon Frye grows up

by Ann Clinton

56 A to Zen in Ten 26 ways to Moms to find more peace

98 GiGi’s World

62 Mother’s Day Gifts: Thinking Outside the Box What’s the most unique gift you’ve ever gotten?

4 Bon Jovi Concert

46 Dear Teacher

How a new mom’s view of Mother’s Day changes

by GiGi & Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker

64 S.I. Parents You Matter!

Tackling Youth Substance Abuse’s new initiative

68 Packing A Healthy and Fun School Lunch Fuel children at school with a healthy lunch

74 Saving on Home Improvement Projects Homeowners can trim home improvement costs

78 Tips for Raising Fiscally Smart Adults Helping your children financially

82 Returning Home With a Degree

S. I. LIVING 20 Community & School News 30 Star Worthy 61 Birth Announcements 100 Library Hours 100 Family Calendar

Is your college graduate planning to live at home?

88 Are You Freezer Friendly?

Save time and money

90 Tips for Teens on Celebrating Mother’s Day The wizard behind the curtain is your mom

CONTESTS & CLUBS

40 Good Sports

SPECIAL SECTIONS 60 OMG...I’m a Mom!

48 Father’s Day Giveaway 61 Noodle & Boo Giveaway 96 Contest Winners 97 Find the Hidden Cake 97 Facebook Cover Kid 119 Justin Bieber Ticket Giveaway 122 Birthday Club

FAMILY NEEDS 72 It’s In The Cards 124 Party Services 128 Family Classifieds 130 Professional Directory

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

Click on the Enrichment Tab for Creative Arts, Sports and Educational programs!

If You Can’t Get Out to Pick Up a Copy of S.I. Parent, View it Online Anytime at

www.siparent.com/digital_magazine.php

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Readers, Our feelings of safety have again been challenged with the news of the bombings in Boston.

Attending an exciting event like a marathon has turned into a tragedy for so many innocent people. Questions are again being asked about the world our children and grandchildren are growing up in. Violence is surfacing as a major concern for all of us. As you read our article "Video Game Violence" on page 70, what are your thoughts? Do you monitor the games your child is playing? Do you ask about the video games your child plays when visiting a friend?

If a violent game is requested on a gift list, do you discuss it with your child? Join us on Facebook to share your thoughts with our family of readers.

As parents, we constantly wonder about how well we are doing raising our children. My daughter, Nicole, recently shared the following thoughts about me to friends and family: “When I was 2 years old, while many mothers might have stayed home, she went out and started a magazine called Staten Island Parent magazine completely from scratch. It's hard to imagine from the outside just how hard that is to do all while being a fulltime mom to me and never once sacrificing being present for the many special moments in my life. She is an amazing mother and it is only fitting that after endless jobs, it was her calling to share the joys of parenthood through her work. My desire to be involved in the community, my ambition to succeed and better myself as a person, my work ethic and generosity have all stemmed from the example she has set for me. So thank you, Ma, for being such a great role model, this award is very well deserved and I'm glad I'm not the only one who sees how awesome you are!”

I cried. At 26, my daughter was sharing her gratitude for her upbringing. I was so overwhelmed and humbled by her words.

I hope that each one of you feel the same joy that resonates in my heart about being a mom.

Staten Islander and new mom Sarah Wieboldt shares her thoughts about her first Mother’s Day in the article "A First Mother’s Day: From Tears to Cheers" on page 36. What were your thoughts and feelings when celebrating your first Mother’s Day? Happy Mother’s Day to all our readers. Enjoy your day the way that you choose. You deserve it - you're a Mom! See you on Facebook!

WIN FOUR TICKETS TO BON JOVI IN CONCERT July 25, 2013 @7:30pm MetLife Stadium Enter Online at www.siparent.com

STAFF

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

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

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

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

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

www.siparent.com

Regi Now ster Sum for m & Sa er ve!

Register Now for Spring Classes!

Sports Center

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

2013

Photo by Sal-Mar Studios

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

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

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

20 Off

$

ANY CAMP PROGRAM With early camp registration. One coupon per family. Expires 5/31/13.

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

1/2 Off REGISTRATION New students only.

Expires 5/31/13.

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

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A CALL AWAY FOOT CARE www.ACallAwayFootCare.com • House Calls FOOT CARE FOR KIDS TO SENIORS WALK-INS WELCOME Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat – TOTTENVILLE D O C T O R S O F P O D I AT R I C M E D I C I N E

WALK-INS WELCOME Mon, Wed, Thurs & Sat – NEW DORP BOARD CERTIFIED American Board of Podiatric Surgery American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics American Board of Podiatric Medicine

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Fungal Nail Laser Surgery

$799

Not covered by insurance

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

TOTTENVILLE LOCATION

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

Custom Orthotics

$199

When not covered by insurance

NEW DORP LOCATION

MANHATTAN LOCATION

718-605-3333

718-980-2255

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

347 New Dorp Ln

115 E 61st St, Ste 3A

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

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

2955 VETERANS RD. W.

212-935-2330

A CALL AWAY FOOT CARE

*

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

MUG

$400 VALUE!

Initial visit with coupon only. Must mention at time of appointment. Excludes house calls. Expires 5/31/13.

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

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STATEN ISLAND DAY CAMP

LOCATED AT THE COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND

800.301.2267 ~CELEBRATING 33 YEARS!~ Spring into $avings! $100 Off At Our Friends and Family Day SATURDAY, MAY 18TH • 10AM-2PM AT COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND–BUILDING 1R (Five Day Program Only Five Weeks Or More)

g Celebratin Our 34th Year!

Not to be combined with other discounts.

NEW FOR 2013 SPORTS ACADEMY

Comprehensive sports clinics facilitated by NCAA Personnel.

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

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

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

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

ed Personaliz s Camp Tour Call for an ent Appointm

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

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K I D S

Helping Kids One Smile at a Time!

E D N S T A D I L K

y n It’s mmissio ld l i h a t son ur c per at yo expec e r to t would e to n as I omeo own s m t y !! trea ildren ch for p, me u tI ’s ti clean to e ng Spri d it’s timyour n a edule sch child’s . ning clea

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

DR. LISA LAZZARA Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Over 17 Years Specialty Experience

We treat children o f all ages, te ens, young ad ults and spec ial needs.

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

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

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

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

www.sidentist4kids.com Major Insurances Accepted. Visa/Mastercard Accepted.

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ATTENTION FORMER CAMPERS OF CYO DAY CAMP: We have special discounts and programs available for you and your families.

Call now or attend an open house for more info.

OPE HOUSN E

Satu & Saturday, May 4 th rday, M ay th 1 Meet D 2-4 PM 25 irec Enroll tors & Staff B Groups efore Fill!

Private, Air-Conditioned Facility

1075 Woodrow Road ALL SPORTS AND SWIMMING KARATE, FENCING, ARTS & CRAFTS & DANCE DAILY TRIPS & SPECIAL EVENTS

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

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

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

NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE!

PRIV PART ATE Y RO OM FOR OVER 100 PEOP LE

off 10% h this Wit ad.

350 DIFFERENT ROTATING ITEMS AT THE BAR

LUNCH $7.59

Open Mother’s Day

DINNER $10.99

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

$5.99

$8.99

10% Off

Lunch Buffet

Dinner Buffet

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

Requires purchase of a drink for each person. Up to 4 People. Not valid on holidays or on Sunday. Expires 5/31/13. SIP

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

Requires purchase of a drink for each person. Up to 4 People. Not valid on holidays. Expires 5/31/13. SIP

With Purchase of 8 or More Adult Buffet & 8 Drinks

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

Not valid on holidays.

Expires 5/31/13. SIP

CarnivalKids

The Greatest Party On Earth!

INDOOR BIG TOP CARNIVAL FEATURING

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

No Open Play On Your Special Day!

KIDS NIGHT OUT! Friday, April 19 from 7:00-9:30pm • $19.99 per child Kids ages 5 & up enjoy unlimited carnival games, dancing, pizza, refreshments & more.

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

718-356-4FUN (4386) • www.carnivalkidssi.com 971 Rossville Ave • Corner of Gunton Place ONE PARTY AT A TIME!

FREE

Kosher Parties Available

Make-up & Nail Art $140.00+ value!

With any package.

Your Princess and her guests will be pampered in a Hollywood style spa, elegantly decorated with the friendliest, professional staff.

A true ONE-OF-A-KIND experience!

Princess Party Package

2 hours, 12 children, free gift for party girl, 3 party hosts, manicure & pedicure, pizza, refreshments, snack mix, invitations. karaoke, games, prizes, paper goods. Starts at $349.99

Party Extras Manicure, pedicure, chocolate facials, hair with feather extensions, make up, glitter tattoos, make your own lip gloss and fragrance, design a shirt, spin art, face painting, custom charatcters and much, more!!!

Girl Scout Troop Parties Starting at $19.99 per girl.

Mon-Thurs. Minimum 15 girls.

Staten Island Brooklyn 4108 Hylan Blvd • 718.356.PARTY (7278) 8216 13th Ave • 718.238.PARTY (7278)

Boys Welcome

MAY 2013

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IVY URGENT CARE

Caring For You When You Need Us Most

Spring is around the corner, and that means allergies and sports injuriesIvy Urgent Care is also right around the corner, and that means we can help!

• Onsite Xray • Licensed Providers ALL Hours • Open 7 Days a Week Mon-Fri: 8am-8pm • Sat-Sun: 9am-5pm • No Appointments Necessary • All Ages • Most Insurances Accepted, Including Medicare Dr. Robert Malizia

CAMP & SPORTS PHYSICALS IMMEDIATE CARE FOR: Lyme Disease, Allergies, Sports Injuries, Fractures, Sprains, Asthma, Bites & Stings, Bronchitis, Bruises, Burns, Dental Problems, Lacerations, Skin Infections and More

718.987.4891 1551 Richmond Rd • Unit 1A Next to Es-Ca Restaurant

www.IvyUrgentCare.com 14

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ING BATTES & CAG TBALL E BASKOURT C AL RENT BLE A L I A AV

CALL NOW TO BOOK YOUR SWEET SIXTEEN IN OUR NEW BANQUET ROOM! COMPLETE WITH DJ & DANCE FLOOR Birthday Extravaganza!!

$575 $575

ADULTS FREE!

INVITE YOUR CLASS!!

SAVE $250 (ANY DAY OF THE WEEK!)

$$3389

N KID EW FOR DIE RIDES TODD BATM LERS SNOOAN, AND PY DINO

VIP PACKAGE SUN-FRI

9 4 3 3 W $ NO $

14 CHILDREN PLUS BIRTHDAY CHILD FREE

Includes 25 kids, 1 round of Lazer Tag or Virtual Reality Ride, Bumper Cars,

Includes VIP Room for 2 hours, 2 hostesses, pizza, soda, cake and 10 tokens per child. Coffee, tea and 2 free pies for adults.

Himalaya, Airplane, Mini Twister & Maze, 10 tokens for each child & 50 tokens for the birthday child. Pizza, soda, chips & cake. Coffee & tea for adults.

Includes invitations, paper goods and balloon centerpieces.

Nine packages to choose from.$2.95 per adult. $27.95 each additional child.

Eat, Play, Win

Club Friday Night

1 Large Pizza 1 Pitcher of Soda 50 Tokens 100 Prize Tickets

Unlimited Lazer Tag, Rides, Mazes, Club Music 7-11pm

$24.95

$19.95

$225 $225

ADULTS FREE!

2 Rounds of Lazer Tag, 1 Hour Unlimited Rides and Jungle Maze, Himalaya, Bumper Cars, Choo Choo Train, Airplane, Pizza and Soda.

Includes 10 children. $22.50 each add'l child. Monday thru Friday.

ABOVE PARTIES MUST TAKE PLACE IN MAY ONLY. IN THEATRE ROOM ONLY.

All specials not valid on holidays and school holidays. Ad must be presented at time of booking (no exceptions). Offers cannot be combined.

BUY $20.00 WORTH OF ARCADE TOKENS GET $5.00 WORTH FREE! THAT’S 100 TOKENS!

ALL NEW LASER TAG SYSTEM

BOOK ANY REGULAR PACKAGE & BIRTHDAY CHILD GETS

50 FREE TOKENS

Min 10 children. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Walk In Specials

$19.95* Includes:

$14.95* Includes:

2nd Child 1/2 Price!

2 Hours of Unlimited Rides

Unlimited Rides, 1 Ride on Virtual Reality, 1 Game of Lazer Tag & 10 Tokens

Must present coupon.

Must present coupon.

Unlimited Rides and 10 Tokens

Must present coupon.

$27.95 Includes:

2nd Child 1/2 Price!

*Rides Include: Himalaya, Bumper Cars, Twister, Airplane, El Paso Train & Gigantic Maze.

3555 Victory Blvd • 718.370.0077 WWW.FUNSTATIONSI.NET • WWW.FUNSTATIONDAYCAMP.COM

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OPEN HOUSE

NEW IN 2013 FREE DAILY LUNCH ******* FREE TRANSPORTATION & EXTENDED HOURS 7AM-7PM Now ting Accep d n TWU a 9 9 11 ers Memb

Saturday, May 11th & 18th 12-3pm FREE RIDES, GAMES & REFRESHMENTS

Karate, Dance, Karaoke, Arts & Crafts, Sports Instruction

Come hat see w ones ever y alking t been ! about

Movies, Skating, Bowling, Yankees, Liberty Science Center, Go-Karts, Medieval Times, Amusement Parks & More!

Register Now & receive 10% Off at Fun Station all year窶的ncluding b-day parties. Deposit for camp required.

70+ Arcade Games, 3 Level Maze, Airplane Ride, Bumper Cars, Toddler Village, Train Ride, Mini-Himalaya Roller Coaster, Virtual Reality Simulator, Lazer Tag, Professional Sized Basketball Court,5 Bating Cages and More! urs nal To Perso ble Availa quest e R Upon

JOIN THE

Chris Mancusi, Director

FUN

3555 Victory Boulevard 718.370.0077 窶｢ www.FunstationDayCamp.com MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News

A guide to community events

No wonder people use to dance around a Maypole - this beautiful spring weather has us wanting to celebrate, too!

How fitting that Mother’s Day is in the month when everything is in bloom and the cold winter is but a distant memory.

We wish all the mothers, grandmothers, and other special women in your family have a wonderful day!

Looking for ways to get out and enjoy the fine weather? Consider taking a spin on a carousel or a stroll through the newly reopened sea lion exhibit - it’s all happening on or around Staten Island this month!

U.N. Hosts Visitors from P.S. 30 A number of students from P.S. 30 visited the U.N. last month as featured speakers at the “Gandhi-King Season for Non-Violence” event. This opportunity, which is part of the Stand Up and Lead program, allowed the youngsters to be the first elementary students ever to be invited as featured speakers at the U.N. You can view the video and learn more at www.ps30.org.

Carousel Opening Day The Carousel For All Children is set to reopen for the season on Saturday, May 4. Kids of all ages have been enjoying rides on the old-fashioned, hand-carved carousel since 1999. The Carousel, which is operated by the Greenbelt Conservancy, is located in Willowbrook Park (Eton Place, off Richmond Avenue.) It is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in May from 11 am to 5:45 pm. (Extended hours are available during the summertime.)

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It costs just $1.50 to ride the Carousel, though you can purchase discounted multiple-ride vouchers--$25 for 20 rides—at the ticket booth. Enjoy!

Ready to Ditch the Training Wheels?

Learn to Ride — Kids is a free group class for children who are ready to ditch their training wheels and ride a twowheeler for the first time. Through a safe, easy, effective method, Bike New York’s experienced instructors help parents teach their kids how to balance, pedal, start, stop, and steer a bicycle. Most kids get it in one session, but even if they don’t, parents leave knowing an easy, crash-free, low stress technique that will have their kids riding independently in a short amount of time.

The program will run here on Staten Island on two Saturdays during May, May 11 & 25, from 11am-1pm at IS2 Playground (Midland Ave. & Mason Ave.). Link to the registration form online at www.siparent.com.

Creating beautiful, healthy smiles in Staten Island

DR. SALVATORE ESPOSITO DR. RICHARD SACCARO

TM

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF CARING FOR YOUR CHILDREN NORTH SHORE

SOUTH SHORE

718.698.4300

718.984.4545

81 Wyona Ave

Your Start ay. s Tod Brace ONEY NO M & DOWN 0% cing. a Fin n

3 Margaret St

(near CSI)

(across from Great Kills library)

FREE BLEACHING With Start of New Invisalign Treatment.

Dr. Esposito is the #1 Invisalign provider in Staten Island

Expires 6/10/13.

INVISALIGN TEEN • • • • CES RAN L OR U S N UL TI MOS TED AS F ENT. YM EP ACC RTIAL PA NCE? PA INSURA OUR OUT NO S AB ICE U K AS IN-OFF LAN. TP OUN DISC

Open 6 days a week Free New Patient Examination Children & Adults Invisible Braces, Invisalign, Braces

our love mily e W . Fa ents pati iscount d le. ilab ava ncing ina 0% f ilable. ava

FREE iPAD FOR ANYONE STARTING COMPREHENSIVE TREATMENT WITH BRACES OR INVISALIGN. Restrictions apply. New patients only. One coupon per customer.

Not valid with other offers and cannot be combined with reduced fee, insurance.Must bring coupon. Expires 6/10/13.

www.StatenIslandBraces.com AFTER SCHOOL, EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News Sandy Ground Museum Hosts Lincoln Exhibit Sandy Ground Historical Museum, located at 1538 Woodrow Rd, is set to host a portion of the New York Historical Society’s touring exhibition, “Lincoln and New York.” Nine panels of the original tour will be on display through June 7. The exhibit explores many of the facts, fictions, and controversies surrounding President Abraham Lincoln. History buffs will relish the chance of seeing the famous Mathew Brady photograph of Lincoln without his beard. Call 718 317-5796 for more info.

Happy Birthday, Verdi!

Buon compleanno to composer Giuseppe Verdi, who would have celebrated his 200th year this month. We think he’d like what the Riverside Opera Company has in store. On May 11, the singers will be presenting Concerto di Primavera at St. John’s University. If you are interested in singing along (or simply watching from the audience), contact Alan Aurelia maestroaurelia@gmail.com.

Battle of the Boroughs Tennis Challenge

Re l

PRENATAL & POSTPARTUM MASSAGE THERAPY is not only safe when performed by a Certified NYS Licensed Massage Therapist but proven to be beneficial for both mama and baby. Relax On Cloud 9, Inc. is the only Health & Wellness Spa with a completely Certified Massage Therapy Team on Staten Island.

To read more about the health benefits of massage therapy during pregnancy visit www.relaxoncloud9.com

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H

RELAX ON CLOUD 9

e

Prenatal Gift Certificate Massage Packages to fit every budget

nd Wel lnes s B e na gi n

er

ax

io at

Health & Wellness Spa

718.448.3412 694 Clove Road Staten Island, NY 10310 (Across from the SI Zoo)

Calling all tennis players! The Battle of the Boroughs Tennis Challenge will be held Saturday, May 11 at the College of Staten Island. The citywide championships will be in Flushing Meadows, Queens on Saturday, June 15. Teams, consisting of 6-8 players, 19 years and older, will compete against other teams in their borough before earning a slot in the citywide championships. For more information and to register for the challenge, visit eastern.usta.com/boroughs.

Baby Supply Pantry Christ Lutheran Church is sponsoring a Baby Pantry that will distribute FREE clothes, food, toys, diapers, wipes, and other items to parents in need of a little support.

Parents must complete registration forms that include birth certificate information to take advantage of this wonderful resource.

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What Kind of Future Do You Dream of For Your Child?

“A permanent life insurance policy can provide protection and income options that may be with your child throughout every stage of their life”

Loans & withdrawals help pay your child’s education costs

Or help pay for a wedding

Or provide a down payment on a first home

S.I. LIVING Community & School News The pantry, located in the Parish House Building of Christ Lutheran Church at 121 Cleveland Avenue, will be open on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 1pm.

Donations of NEW items are appreciated and accepted in the church office on weekdays between 10am and noon. For more information, call 718-984-6595.

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

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

YMCA Helps Those at Risk for Diabetes Are you at risk for diabetes, or know someone who is? The Staten Island YMCA is looking for participants for its new YMCA Diabetes Program. The year-long program, which would normally cost $350 to join, has received grant money from the Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance and the Centers for Disease Control so that for a limited time, participants can enroll for free.

The program, offered at both YMCA locations, includes 16 initial sessions with a trained YMCA lifestyle coach, then follows up with monthly progress meetings. The program does NOT focus on exercise or diet; rather, it concentrates on creating a supportive resource network to help individuals break bad habits, overcome obstacles, and get on the road to healthier lifestyles.

The YMCA Diabetes Program has helped well over half of its more than 400 participants successfully prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 Diabetes. For more information on this remarkable program, please visit www.nyc.ydiabetes.com.

Support for Sandy Survivors The Staten Island Mental Health Society (SIMHS) is sponsoring Project Hope, a confidential support group that is free to Staten Islanders who are struggling in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Meetings are held weekly at each of the following locations:

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25

CALM BIRTH RESEARCH STUDY

Pregnant Participants Needed

S.I. LIVING Community & School News • Mondays, 7-8:30pm @ Holy Rosary Parish, 100 Jerome Ave, South Beach • Tuesdays, 7-8:30pm, @ St. Charles Rectory, 644 Clawson St, New Dorp • Thursdays, 7-8:30pm, @ SIMHS South Shore Ctr, 3974 Amboy Rd, Great Kills Additionally, SIMHS offers a weekly group for the parents or caregivers of PS 38 students who were affected by Sandy. The group meets on Mondays from 9-10am at PS 38, 421 Lincoln Ave. For more information, please call 718-442-2225.

$12 Billion Unclaimed in New York State

Calm Birth is a mindfulness Meditation Program developed for pregnant women and designed to compliment current childbirth medicine.

If you are pregnant and over 18 and want to participate or learn more contact Jacqueline at 646.479.8068 or email jacquelineshall@aol.com

It isn’t exactly the same thing as hitting the lottery, but who wouldn’t love a little extra cash these days? There may be some waiting for you. Be sure to check in with the Office of Unclaimed Funds and see if there’s a rogue check just waiting to be cashed by you. Visit http://www.osc.state.ny.us/ouf/ - it’s as easy as typing in your name and town to see if there’s any unclaimed money out there with your name on it.

New York Aquarium Ready for Partial Reopening Welcome back, ocean friends! The New York Aquarium on Coney Island, which sustained severe damage during Hurricane Sandy, is set to partially reopen on Saturday, May 25. The Wildlife Conservation Society, which oversees the aquarium, has announced that the following exhibits will be reopened at this time: Glover’s Reef, Coral Triangle of Fiji, Great Lakes of East Africa, Flooded Forests of the Amazon, outdoor portions of the Sea Cliffs, and the fully remodeled Aquatheater, complete with a new sea lion demonstration.

Education programs will also resume on a limited basis, including the teen docent California Sea Lion exhibit space, program, summer camp, and educator Sea Cliffs, is set to reopen after training. For more information, please visit severe Hurricane Sandy damage. www.nyaquarium.com/sandy.

SI Tech Students Attack a Global Problem As noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Food and Drug Administration, overuse of antibiotics has lead to an increase of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and subsequently, ineffective antibiotics.

Addressing this global concern, local Staten Island Technical High School students, Chelsey Lin and Freeman Lou, participants in the Science Engineering Research Program (SERP), are seeking to raise awareness on the appropriate use of antibiotics. With the guidance of their teacher and mentor Dr. John Davis, they conducted research and created a pamphlet based on their findings. A brief survey of parents, both before and after reading the pamphlet, showed that 54% changed their opinion on when to take antibiotics as a result of the material they read.

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The students plan to enter the Quality of Life competition, where their efforts to improve community awareness will be assessed. You can help them and educate yourself at the same time by picking up a copy of their pamphlet, All

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News About Antibiotics, at one of the Staten Island pediatric clinics distributing them, or you can quickly and easily access it through a download link on our website, www.siparent.com.

PS 57 Recognized for Eco-Friendly Efforts

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The Clifton school has been recognized by the National Wildlife Foundation for its "exceptional achievement in conserving national resources and integrating environmental education into the curriculum." PS 57 is the first school in New York City to achieve this distinction, and only the 10th in all of the United States. It has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the NYC Department of Education.

Fairs and Festivals and Walks.

Oh My! ‘Tis the season for outdoor activities.

And what a great opportunity this season presents! You can fulfill your physical activity needs and support some great organizations at the same time! There are plenty of fairs and festivals, along with fundraiser walks and other great family events to make you feel good, inside and out! Visit www.siparent.com for a link to what is upcoming for a fun family day.

Find it on www.siparent.com: • Bike New York Registration form • All About Antibiotics Pamphlet

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Star Worthy

Do you have a story about a Staten Islander who has gone above and beyond for a fellow citizen or their community? Tell us about them so we can tell everyone!

Go to www.siparent.com and click on Star Worthy under the Contests & Clubs tab.

Kimberly McPartland When Teresa Taggart overheard her seven yearold son and his friends arguing over who had the best teacher, she wondered who this woman was that could evoke such admiration between second graders.

She soon found out when, along with other parents, she became a class mom.

It was in the classroom that she saw what made Kimberly McPartland from PS 45 in West Brighton, a superstar in the eyes of her students.

“Mrs. McPartland is fair, calm, creative and an overall great role model. She controls her class with justice, dignity and kindness," said Teresa Taggart. "She makes it her responsibility to make sure each child reaches his or her greatest potential intellectually, emotionally and socially.

Mrs. McPartland truly understands that it is her job as a teacher to teach and to make sure children understand to the best of their ability.

She takes responsibility for her students learning,” Teresa told us.

We salute you Mrs. McPartland for being a great teacher, role model. Thank you for your wonderful accomplishments with the children and your excellent teaching skills.

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Honoring Local Heroes Maria Cianci

Maria Cianci is a friend that can be counted on through thick and thin. That is what we learned from her neighbor and friend, Allison Tagliaferro. When Allison needs help with her four special needs children, it is Maria who is there for her.“Maria has been helping me by babysitting, giving me a few minutes to myself when I'm ready to break. She has been helping me clean my house out. With six people living in one bedroom, it's a clutter box! She has also helped me shop by showing me ways of buying meat in bulk that lasts for the whole month for all six members of family for cheaper then I have ever done on my own.”

Maria is known for dropping whatever she is in the middle of to help a friend in need. She has her own children, two are grown, a 9-year old son, and now a new granddaughter! She gives without expecting anything in return.

According to Allison,“She had a really terrible childhood and with battling those demon she has turned it around and made a wonderful life for her today even though she has a huge disability being cervical fusion from a rare tumor that shattered her spine back in 2005. She is still going very strong and getting stronger as far as I am concerned.”

Allison knows they will always be friends and supportive of each other. “That’s what friends are for,” said Allison.

Merari Garafola Raquel Sulsenti introduced us to her Star Worthy neighbor, Merari Garafola, a woman who goes above and beyond even for a stranger.

Merari has been working at a Great Kills High School for 12 years.

She also does respite work for an autistic adult on the weekends.

“Merari cares for this person as if he were her own child. She is patient, kind, nurturing and loving. Like me, Merari is a single working mother. She understands how difficult it can be to juggle everything and she is always finding ways to help, such as walking my dog on occasion and giving me advice and tips for my child with autism,” said Raquel.

Merari and Raquel both live by Great Kills Beach. During the hurricane, it was a Zone A. When Raquel found herself home alone with her son, Merari and her whole family stood with Raquel to ensure the safety of her and her son. In spite of the horrific conditions, such as not having electricity for two weeks, Merari helped others and us out in the neighborhood.

“She is an incredibly strong woman and I would love for everyone to know how amazing a person she is," said Raquel.

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& MARRIAGE Series Just the Two of Us

LOVE

Part 1:

I recently had the pleasure of doing a reading from the New Testament at the wedding of my daughter and son-inlaw. It began with the words “Let marriage be held in honor by all.” It emphasized communication, never defiling the marriage bed, keeping your life free from love of money, and being content with what you have. Not much has changed since the writing of the Bible.

After thirty-three years of marriage, I have found this quote to be a good summary: “Love is a little company of two; where joy is doubled, grief divided, and the road is traveled together.” I have also found that my marriage has provided me with a best friend for life. However, as in all good friendships, it takes work, devotion, and sometimes sacrifices.

Here are ten tips I can pass along about what I’ve learned is most important in a good relationship: 1. Communication is more than just talking. If you are not really listening to each other, small issues can grow to become problems. Things that seemed insignificant early on can become controversial, turning trivial matters into mass resentments. Avoid miscommunication traps. It is too difficult to live out marriage vows in the midst of flawed communication efforts. Learn how to communicate nicely without

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arguing, yelling, or talking over your partner. Never put each other down or say things you know will be hurtful. Once said, even though in anger or frustration, words cannot be unsaid. Remember this is your partner, your spouse, the one you cherish. Sometimes it’s enough to resolve to just accept each other’s quirks or to agree to disagree. Speak but always be prepared to listen. As couples mature, communication becomes intuitive. You will sense each other’s moods by mere presence.

It doesn’t just happen, though. It takes years of experience. Take the time now to learn.

Our ne timeless co our lives. depth, discover

NEXT MO Ide

In the early years of our marriage, my husband called me from payphones during the course of the day just to say, “I love you.” Because our jobs kept us from spending a lot of time together, phone calls were sometimes our major source of communication. There were times we had little left to say, but it meant a lot to me that he spent the dime just to stay connected. These days we have more time together and still enjoy sitting with a cup of coffee or a meal at the Woodrow Diner or any of Staten Island’s many fine diners where we talk, we listen, or we sit quietly and just be together.

ew three-part series examines how this ombination changes over the course of . As we age, its meaning develops more adds new layers. At each stage, we can r more about ourselves and the one we chose to spend our life with.

ONTH: Part II–Game Plan for Family. eas you can use now to keep those fires blazing amidst the kids, careers, household chores, and in-laws.

2. Trust is not just about believing your partner will be faithful to you; it is knowing that your partner will always be there for you- for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad.

Remember those words? Some couples have it right away. They are open and honest and have no trouble revealing their true selves. Others may have more trouble trusting, perhaps because of past deceptions or poor role models. They need to work hard at this. It is a fundamental part of a good marriage. I believe Ernest Hemingway put it best, “The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.”

3. Show appreciation everyday. An unexpected trip to Italy would be a wonderful surprise, but so would a love note taped to the bathroom mirror or in a lunch bag. Small acts of kindness every day make good habits you will never want to break. Regularly doing nice things for each other builds your marriage. The more you feel appreciated, the more you will want to show it in return. It’s a win-win.

4. Break your routine. It is natural to fall into routines and then feel a bit bored. Make an effort to plan fun things to do together. Re-simulate the experiences you had when you were dating and everything was fresh and new. Do not get too comfortable with each other. This may sound like a good thing, but it can lead to taking each other for granted. Keep up your appearance and good habits for each other. Never for one minute think that because you are married you can sit back and coast. That is flawed logic. It is actually more important now to remind your spouse why you are so lovable and so in love with each other. After all, now that you are living with each other, you know each other’s every flaw. If you want someone to put up with you, you had better give him or her reasons to stick around for the long haul.

5. Keep your finances in good standings. Be honest about bills, debts, and savings. These things have a way of wreaking havoc on a marriage when it is later discovered that there has been deceptions. Remember you are partners, not rivals, when it comes to money. No secrets. My grandmother always said, “It is not what you earn, it is what you save.” Never assume high salaries will last forever- save for that rainy day, save for the future and for the children. When unexpected expenses arise, the money you put aside will alleviate stress. Studies show that couples who were completely honest about money were happier than those who were not.

6. Don't lose contact with family and friends who were in your life before you met your spouse.

Continue to cultivate new friendships, but don’t lose touch with old friends who have shared your past.

Friends also help you keep a little space in your marriage; they provide different kinds of fun that are

important in life. Just never let your friends become more important than your spouse. Embrace each other’s family, even if they are different from your own family. These people will be in your lives forever so it is best to achieve harmony with them. Vive la différence!

7. Forgive and forget. My mother’s advice was, “Once you forgive, you must forget.” That is also true about what has happened before you two met. Everyone has a past and that is where it should be left. Romance movies and housewife shows are unrealistic. No one is paying to follow your life, so always act in the best interest of your marriage and each other. Don’t compare yourself to other couples. All relationships need to grow and for the couple to mesh together. Stop caring about superficial things. My husband and I have seen many marriages that were a façade of happiness fall apart. It is now you two as one, facing the world. By comparing yourself to others, you will waste the energy and concentration you need to make your own marriage work.

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.

- Unknown

8. Stick it out. Don’t be quick to throw in the towel. In our early years, we witnessed marriages falling apart all around us. Statistically, it was inevitable. However, we always asked ourselves, “Did they ever really try?” Remember, you got married for a reason; you took sacred vows. Those were not just idle words. It is in good times that you prosper, but in bad times that you grow. In a healthy marriage, you will always make time to work things out. You must remember that being married is new for both of you. It can be a tremendous change from the way you were raised or how you lived as a single person, but the priority now is to keep your relationship healthy. Learn to embrace each other’s differences. People will say my husband and I have nothing in common, and it is probably true. We embrace and respect each other’s differences. They make us unique. Our values, qualities, and love for each other keep us together. The bonds of friendship and intimacy that you develop will last longer than any physical relationship. Truth and stability, not excitement and adventure, allow a marriage to attain longevity.

That’s not to say you won’t have the latter—they are the rewards of first achieving trust and stability.

9. Honesty. In childhood, we sometimes learn to be defensive of our true feelings. When we spoke out too honestly, we may have gotten in trouble. We learn to hide our feelings to avoid being hurt or punished. Now as adults, we must learn to reverse the process. It takes courage to speak the truth, but in a good marriage the truth makes you free and leads to marital harmony. The key is to be kind as you communicate. You must accept the reality that some things can never be fixed or changed about a person. They must be left unfixed. Rather than trying to change each other, learn to love each other for exactly who you are. Understand that the issues each one brings into a marriage don’t magically disappear on the wedding day. Together you will help each other to be better people and face your imperfections together. Be there for meltdowns and provide a safety net for each other.

10. Don’t take yourself so seriously. Laughter is very beneficial to a relationship. It reduces stress, lifts your spirits, and can bring you closer through shared happiness. Laugh at yourself and with your spouse. Life is sometimes hard and will continuously deal us difficult blows. Humor softens some hardships and helps us to survive. If you can’t be funny yourself, rent a funny movie or watch a good sit-com on TV with your spouse. Share funny stories or jokes you find online.

Look for the humor in life. The best thing is: laughter is contagious. So, share the joy and your marriage will reap the rewards.

By Staten Island writer Marianna Randazzo, married March 22, 1980 ‘til death do us part.

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HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY FROM

Drs. Alecia Giovinazzo & Marie Vartolo Buona Festa Delle Madri!

Dr. Marie Vartolo with her grandson & Dr. Alecia Giovinazzo

Grandma Derenzo with pasta of course!

Dr. Alecia with her son James

I would like to personally extend my love and gratitude to my mother and grandmothers.

Mother’s Day truly is a celebration of generations who have empowered us all to become the women (& Mothers!) that we are today.

Dr. Giovinazzo with her mother Ann Marie Derenzo

Theresa Vergura with Joanne Derenzo-Liaconna (great grandmother and aunt of Dr. Giovinazzo)

Theresa Vergura with her daughter Anna Felicia Derenzo (great grandmother and grandmother of Dr. Giovinazzo)

723 Broadway • SI, NY 10310 718.494.2690 • www.aleciagiovinazzo.com MAY 2013

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35

NEW MOMS

>>>

A FIRST MOTHER’S DAY – FROM TEARS TO CHEERS

was eight months pregnant with my first child in October 2012. Nick and I had just moved into a beautiful apartment in Oakwood Beach and I was getting ready to take on the most important role of my life– that of a mother. The baby shower had been thrown; the birthing classes had been attended. I thought I had it all under control, but nothing could prepare me for what life had in store.

I

Living just a few blocks from the beach took a different twist with Hurricane Sandy approaching. We heeded the warnings, evacuated to stay with family, and prayed for the best.

A BABY CAN CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATIONS. In the morning, our landlord called us to say we should come and kind strangers–my little family has been able to blossom. to the apartment but didn’t go into detail. We rushed back to our apartment but by the time we got there, we quickly Mother’s Day is right around the corner and I am faced realized it had been destroyed. My stomach dropped and my with an astonishing notion: I am now a mother! It feels like heart sank as I waddled up to what used to be our home and just yesterday I was making homemade cards and bringing witnessed all of our belongings being washed away down home little potted plants for my own mother for this special the murky, brown street. All the gifts we received from the day. I must begrudgingly admit that in my teenage years I baby shower my parents hosted the previous weekend, found myself wondering why mothers get an entire day including the baby’s furniture, were ruined by the storm! when they are celebrated all year round. Thankfully, as I transitioned into adulthood, I now see just how foolish my From that day on my focus shifted from breathing thinking was. I am finally realizing the significance of this exercises and the workings of a breast pump to insurance holiday. Having been a mom for just a few months, I feel as companies and avoiding homelessness. In the true spirit of though I am seeing with a new set of eyes, loving with a new family love, Nick’s parents offered to let us stay with them heart. and, in a matter of days, turned their basement into a bedroom/nursery for us. I had a mere few weeks to rebuild I am looking forward to spending my first Mother’s Day my life and prepare for my daughter’s arrival. Needless to say, with my own daughter, of course, but also with my mother at that time I wasn’t envisioning what my first Mother’s Day and grandmother. I distinctly remember being a kid and was going to be like. My beautiful daughter was born on waking my mom up with a special Mother’s Day breakfast in December 6th and since then–largely due to family, friends,

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MAY 2013

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37

Pouch Day Camp

Owned and operated by Boy Scouts of America

Boy Scouts of America

A fun-filled outdoor experience consisting of 120 acres of pristine wilderness in the heart of Staten Island’s Green Belt. William H. Pouch Scout Camp has miles of hiking trails and a gorgeous 17-acre lake.

Pouch Day Camp is accredited by the Boy Scouts of America and regularly inspected by the NYC Dept. of Health. Children are supervised by well-trained counselors and accredited program staff.

William H. Pouch Scout Camp 1465 Manor Road 212.651.3073 • Marcelle Grant www.PouchCamp.org PROGRAM ACTIVITIES: • Theater Arts • Trains, Planes, Boats & Maps • Swimming • Crafts • Scavenger Hunts • Water Bottle Rockets • Fishing • Nature and Ecology Alpine’s • Field Sports/Olympics Cub World • Archery Weekend • Hiking Sleepover August • Climbing Wall 8th–11th • Knot Tying • Camp Olympics • Weekly Themed Activities • Friday BBQ WEEKLY TRIPS: • BounceU • S.I. Yankees • Aquarium FOR SCOUTERS: • Artist • Citizenship • Emergency Preparedness • Scientist

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bed. I could never understand why burnt toast and soggy cereal made her so happy, sometimes to the point of tears. Haven given birth to a daughter of my own, I suddenly have been granted an understanding of my mom and the significance of this day. She continues to make incredible sacrifices on my behalf; she recently gave up Rolling Stones tickets to take me to a doctor’s appointment! For many years, I tried to give her gifts comparable to my gratitude towards her and her selflessness. From my grammar school plant sale to homemade coupons promising certain chores and more recently, jewelry and nice dinners, I have finally discovered that with a card or even a certain look, I can let her know that while I am only scratching the surface of motherhood, I am astonished at the extraordinariness of it.

This year also marks my grandmother’s first Mother’s Day as a great-grandmother! At 95 years old, some may see only her advanced age, but I view this day as a celebration of her love that has spawned another generation of our incredible family.

When she holds my daughter, I can see her reflecting upon many years of raising her own family and can only imagine the pride that swells up in her heart. After all, I would not be here celebrating this day with my family if it weren’t for her.

I am honored to be joining the ranks of women who know the misery of morning sickness, the pains of childbirth, and the sweet scent of a dirty diaper. While my journey of motherhood has just begun, it is one like no other, and I take immense gratification in celebrating and acknowledging just how incredible it is.

Whether this is your first Mother’s Day as a mom or your seventy-fifth, I want to wish us all a day filled with potted plants and breakfast in bed.

We’ve earned every soggy cornflake!

By Sarah Wieboldt, a Staten Island freelance writer who is delighted to be celebrating her first Mother’s Day this year.

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39

GOOD SPORTS

by Joe LoVerde

WHEN THE My youngest is planning to umpire KIDS ARE sandlot baseball this season. I’m glad he’s IN CHARGE taking the initiative to earn some money, and sports officiating is a good employment option for a 16-year-old with his own sports and social calendar to work around.

But I do have concerns — like, how will he react the first time an adult voices displeasure with one of his decisions?

It’s a common dilemma in youth sports. It’s bad enough when adults’ ugly behavior at kids’ events is directed at another adult. When it’s directed at a teenager serving as the game official, however, it’s tantamount to bullying.

“It’s definitely difficult for a young person,” said Rhonda PadmoreDavis, a member of the board of directors for the Staten Island Soccer Referee Association, who officiated her first Staten Island Youth Soccer League game when she was a college student. “I started out reffing in Under 8 and Under 9 divisions, and sometimes that’s where the parents are the craziest.”

When a teenager is the head official at a youth sports event, it presents an uncomfortable dynamic. While these young men and women have been well-trained and are more than capable, they will occasionally make mistakes just as any official will.

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But, like any other official, that young person is in charge. And when an adult coach protests a young official’s call, the official has to balance treating that coach like an adult with keeping control of the game.

“You have to be confident in your call and make it, and don’t be intimidated,” Padmore-Davis said. “Be self-assured.”

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There are coaches, however, who will try to take advantage of the situation, according to Matt Granite, who began umpiring youth baseball on Staten Island as a 16-year-old.

“And some coaches have huge egos and think they know everything,” said Granite, now a teacher at New Dorp HS and the school’s junior varsity baseball coach. “Umpiring those games aren’t easy.”

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Both Padmore-Davis and Granite try to follow certain guidelines to help them be more successful in their roles.

“You need to show the coaches and parents respect, but also expect to be respected in return,” Padmore-Davis said. “You are mindful that you are dealing with an adult, but remember that you are the referee.”

Granite said that it is important for a young umpire to establish that respect before the game even starts.

“Show that you know what you are doing while going over the ground rules before the game,” Granite said. “Then during the game, make sure you hustle. If you are lazy, you are giving the coaches a reason to be unhappy with the job you’re doing.”

Granite estimates he has umpired some 300 games, and that 285 of them went without a hitch.

“The other 15, I wanted to quit afterward,” he said. “But you have to realize there are some people who are going to complain whether you are right or wrong.

You have to ignore them.”

Padmore-Davis agreed, “You have to let some things roll off your back.”

How should a young official react if the situation starts to spiral out of their control?

“If the parents on the sidelines get confrontational, speak to the coach and insist that they settle their parents down,” Padmore-Davis said. “And if that doesn’t help, use your (penalty) cards.”

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Even though the job can be difficult, Granite said being a game official is a great learning experience for a teen.

“Umpiring has made me a stronger person,” Granite said. “It helps you learn how to deal with people in the real world, how to settle disputes and deal with tough situations.”

Bottom line for parents: Coaches’ roles are to provide instruction for their players; parents’ jobs are to cheer. There are times when the youth sports coach can question an official, but abusing an official is never acceptable behavior.

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41

A NEW YEAR

>>>

STOP YELLING AND START CONNECTING–

ard work? The hardest there is, because you have to manage your own emotions.

But it's completely possible, no matter how much of a yeller you are. Like learning the piano, you start playing scales today, you practice daily, and soon you can pick out simple tunes. In a year you can play a sonata.

Here's how:

H

Take a public vow of “yellibacy.” Make an accountability chart for your fridge. Your child decides whether you get a sticker each day. Notice you can still guide your child -just respectfully.

FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS TO KEEP YELLING UNDER CONTROL.

Take care of yourself. If you're running on empty, how can you regulate your emotions when your child pushes your buttons?

“You're screaming because you wanted to do it yourself? Here, let's pull over the chair for you to climb up, and you can do it yourself."

Set limits before things get out of control while you can still keep your sense of humor. You’re only human, so of course you’ll yell once you get pushed over the edge. It’s your responsibility to stay away from the edge!

"I hear that whiny voice...this is a tired time of day, isn't it? Come, let's put you in the carrier so you can watch over my shoulder while I make dinner."

Remember that children will act like children. Their job is to test the limits and figure out how things work. Your job is to set the limits – kindly, calmly, firmly.

Stop yelling and start connecting. You're yelling because you want to change your child's behavior, right? Research shows it works better to set your limit with empathy. If you address the need or emotion behind the behavior, you change the behavior, without raising your voice.

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“You’re so tired of this homework, huh? It can be hard to focus after you’ve been in school all day. Let’s take a break and play catch for a few minutes, and then you can tackle this again.”

Model emotional regulation. Kids learn emotional regulation from our staying calm and empathic in the face of their upsets. When we say "You are so mad! But no hitting." to our toddler, he learns that being angry is ok, there's even a word for it, and Mommy understands how he feels. That helps him control his feelings, which is the first step in controlling his behavior.

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Play instead. Kids pick up on our stress. When we have an edge in our voice, they feel frightened, and move into "fight or flight" which means they start raising their own voices, arguing, or melting down. If, instead, you can respond to minor infractions with a sense of humor and playfulness, kids tend to relax and cooperate. So instead of "I told you to go take your bath right now!" try "I am the robot of the bath...I have come to carry you off to the bathroom" to get your child squealing with laughter and running ahead of you up the stairs.

Deactivate your buttons. Your child may be pushing your buttons, but they’re YOUR buttons, from your own early experiences. How did your parents handle your anger? Did you get yelled at? How did it make you feel? Surface those feelings, breathe your way through them, and let them go.

When you find yourself yelling, just stop, even if you're in the middle of a sentence. As soon as you notice your voice is raised, shut your mouth. Walk away. Breathe. After awhile, you’ll be able to do this before you stop yelling.

Remember, your child most needs your love when he least deserves it. If you're angry, don't try to teach your child "a lesson." You won't be teaching the lesson you're aiming for. Wait until you're calm. You'll teach so much more effectively then.

Why not take a vow of “yellibacy?”

Try it for a week. I'm betting you'll see a wonderful change in your family, one that will keep you going long after your experiment ends. In a year, you won't remember the last time you yelled.

By Dr. Laura Markham, author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting. • AhaParenting.com

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DEAR TEACHER

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

Question: My almost 4-year-old daughter truly hesitates between words and at the start of words when she is trying to tell us something. Then she becomes so frustrated that she falls to the floor and screams. It appears to me that she is beginning to stutter. How should we react to her speech? – Speech Problems

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Answer: Parents who notice that their young children may be beginning to stutter should seek help right away according to the nonprofit Stuttering Foundation. In the past, experts believed incorrectly that paying attention to a child's stuttering would worsen the situation. This is not true.

Here are the Stuttering Foundation's tips for talking with a child who stutters:

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1. Don't tell the child to slow down or "relax," but do make an effort to slow your own speech.

2. Speak with the child in an unhurried way, pausing frequently.

Wait a few seconds after the child finishes speaking before you begin to speak. This slows down the overall pace of convesation.

3. Use your facial expressions, eye contact and other body language to convey to the child that you are listening to the content of his/her speech and not how the child is talking.

4. Don't complete words for the child or talk for him or her.

You can get a better understanding of stuttering by obtaining the Foundation's free streaming video of "Stuttering and Your Child: Help for Parents" at www.stutteringhelp.org or www.tartamudez.org. Plus, the organization will answer your questions on their helpline at 800-992-9392, and for more information visit their website or e-mail info@stutteringhelp.org.

Question: The teacher said she was going to have the behavior specialist observe my son and develop a behavior modification plan for him. I need to know more about what this means and what is going to happen.

– Lacking Information Answer: When you don't understand what teachers are talking about, tell them. They are usually happy to explain in detail. If you don't say anything, teachers just assume that you understand.

The idea behind behavior modification is to change behavior.

To effect this change, either positive reinforcers (free time, privileges, tokens) or negative reinforcers (no recess, extra assignments) are used. To be effective, reinforcers must be ones students want or would not like to have imposed. The goal is to

have the behavior improve over a period of time so reinforcers no longer need to be used.

Your son has a behavioral issue in school that is disturbing in some way. To change it, the behavior specialist will observe your son in the classroom following the steps below: 1. Look for and identify the inappropriate behavior.

2. Observe the child in different settings and assess in which settings the behavior that needs to be eliminated occurs.

3. Write down the specific actions prior to the onset of the behavior, during the behavior and as a consequence of the behavior.

4. Talk to the students and others to assess the behavior indirectly with what they think happens before and after.

5. Take everyone's observations into account when writing the intervention plan.

6. Analyze if the student displays similar or different behavior in various settings.

7. Decide what the student avoids or gets as a result of the behavior.

8. Write an intervention plan addressing the specific behaviors that need to be changed.

9. Select a chart that the teacher will use to keep track of the behaviors and the reinforcers.

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Question: My daughter is just 9 and finishing fourth grade. She started in a private kindergarten. Then the public school had her skip first grade and go into second. We are ready to move again and wonder if we should hold her back in fourth grade. Is it too late to do this? Currently, she has no issues, but we are worried about middle and high school.

– Future Worries Answer: This will be your daughter's third change of schools.

Admittedly, the transition to both middle school and high school can be difficult for some students. Being able to survive and thrive in past changes is definitely to her credit. No one can predict the future and know if she will have trouble handling middle and high school. Most students who skip a grade continue to do well. Looking at research on this topic online could help to reassure you about your daughter's ability to handle more advanced schooling.

You say that your daughter has no issues. If this is really true, why are you concerned about her ability to cope well at school in the future? Three years ago you relied on the public school's decision to have the child skip a grade, and it seems to have worked out well. Retention is rarely a good option, so why not ask the new school to evaluate her academically to see if this grade placement is correct. You have the whole summer if she needs to catch up on any skills.

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

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FATHERS’S DAY

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SRP $79 • www.irislink.com The IRIScan Mouse is an all-in-one mouse scanner that digitizes your files in just a few swipes. Using OCR technology, the mouse converts text from scans into editable documents in Microsoft Office. Simply click on the scan button, swipe the mouse in any direction over the paper document and images will instantaneously appear on the computer screen. (PC compatible only.)

iDL45 Dual Charging Stereo with Lightning Dock by iHome SRP $99.99 www.ihomeaudio.com

Braven 650 SRP $189.99 www.braven.com The Braven 650 allows you to amplify your mobile life wherever you go. The 650 series is equipped with enhanced APTX audio, 20 hours of play, and crafted with aluminum for a classic designer look.

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SRP $249.99 www.krupsusa.com Krups’ Pump Espresso Machine features their patented Precise Tamp System, which compresses the coffee grounds perfectly, providing an optimal ground coffee tamp that produces uniform results every time. Equipped with lightweight powerful thermoblock for fast heat-up and a no-mess cake ejection for easy clean up.

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49

CELEBRITY MOM

>>>

FROM “PUNKY” KID TO A POWERFUL MOM: Soleil Moon Frye Grows Up

f you were a kid in the ‘80s, chances are you’ll remember a show named “Punky Brewster,” which starred a feisty young girl named Soleil Moon Frye. While Frye has long since traded up from the pigtails and bandanna-wrapped jeans, the same youthful exuberance is still there. In a world where child stars all too often grow up to be tabloid fodder, it’s refreshing to see that Frye is living happily ever after, and her new roles as wife, mother, and writer—she blogs at www.moonfrye.com and wrote a book called Happy Chaos— suit her well.

I

SOLEIL MOON FRYE IS PROOF THAT CHILD ACTORS CAN

I caught up with her at a GROW UP GROUNDED AND WELL-ADJUSTED. press event, where she served as spokesperson for million times better . . . I have an incredible community of Fleischmann’s Simply Homemade® line of easy-tofriends [including Melissa Joan Hart, Fred Savage, and Sara make bread mixes. Here are some of the highlights of our Gilbert] that also grew up in the business and that have all conversation: gone on to do incredible things . . . I just think we so often focus on the negative. . . but stories are endless of people I Q. Why aren’t there more shows like “Punky Brewster” feel like have turned out incredible and have grown up in the on network television? business and have evolved…

I know!!! It had so much heart and soul. It’s so funny--when I think of that time on television, there was so much love and Q. You weren’t the first kid in Hollywood to have a heart that went into it . . . during that time on television, there beautiful and unique name, but you’re one of the people were so many heartfelt stories, and it was amazing. When I whose names we always remember. Your daughters have think about the fact that this little girl lost her mother and unique names, too. father and then was adopted by this older man and it was a Poet and Jagger. Poet I came up with early on—we loved COMEDY…it just had such a strong sense of self and was so the name . . . [my husband and I] were still figuring it out, and much about being your own person … and those messages then we looked up, and there was a sign with a quote from are still so true today.

Edgar Allen Poe, and we always said we’d call her “Poe” for short. So that’s how Poet came out. And then with Jagger, she Q. Child stars today don’t have the best reputation. was so strong in my belly, and Jagger felt like such a strong What are your thoughts about growing up in Hollywood? name. And then it so was funny, because she came out, and You know it’s funny, every time someone will bring up a she was like the calmest, most Buddha baby you ever met. sad story, I’m like—I can name 10-15 more stories that are a But now she’s really a Jagger. She’s so sweet, but she’s MAY 2013 also strong.

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Q. Happy Chaos is the name of your first book. What does the phrase mean?

Yes! Happy chaos, you know it’s a sign—family operating at its best, in my opinion. I truly am all about the happy chaos. I like to say it’s chaos, but it’s happy chaos. It’s always happily chaotic at my home.

Q. What does happiness mean for your family?

[Happiness] goes along with the chaos. We are an incredibly close family.

We do tons of fun stuff together. We get messy, we crawl around and we do crafts, and we get on our hands and knees and we play and we have fun and we do puzzles and we read books and all of that…. I think that for so long people talk about the perfect elements of parenting and I feel like to me, it’s all the happily chaotic moments…

Q. Let’s talk about something not so happy: bullying. You’re part of something called The Mom Pledge.

Something that is important to me is to talk about it and at least create a conversation and talk about what it means to our kids and to our families.

Bullying is happening at all ages...it starts at an early age, but so often it goes on and on, and how do we educate our children to be kind to each other…it can be little things that you don’t think are hurtful . . . that ultimately can hurt another. How do we educate our kids to feel good about themselves, to have self-confidenece, but also to be kind to others.

A big part of Mom Pledge is pledging as parents, because so often we bully each other. I know that was one of the

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things that made me turn to social media was the fact that I felt as a new parent, I was like “okay, where are the other messy moms like me”—I couldn’t figure out how to open the stroller, I never seemed to have it all down . . . so I would share the stories on Twitter and Facebook, like “My kids drew on the wall with a Sharpie!” People connected to that, and I think we have to embrace each other instead of being so hard on each other.

Q. Obesity is a national epidemic.

How do we teach our kids that food is not evil, but it’s good in moderation?

My girls and I will do a lot of going to the farmer’s market together, picking out our fruits and veggies together. But we also love to indulge in treats, but I think it’s just all about moderation, like you said. I also feel like teaching them with measuring cups and teaspoons and tablespoons, making it fun, doing math with them, actually measuring out all these goodies together, working together with them to make it fun and engaging, they’ll be more aware of what they’re eating. So my girls really know what they’re putting into their body. So they know that salad is healthy, but they’re having fun [making it] . . . I don’t want them to feel guilty about eating [junk food], but I also want them to respect [food indulgences].

So there you have it. There IS such a thing as a child star functioning as a well-adjusted adult! Looks like any future chaos for Frye and her family will be of the happy kind..

Barbara Bellesi is a Staten Island freelance writer.

Her love of 1980s pop culture knows no boundaries

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JUST FOR YOU

>>>

A TO ZEN IN TEN: 26 Easy Ways for Moms to Find More Peace

s a mom, it is easy to become frazzled and stressed by meeting the many, sometime competing, demands in your life. Too often moms are last on their own list, claiming they do not have enough time to practice selfcare. It is time to rethink that.

Here are 26 quick ways to enter a more Zen state.

A

1. Ask for help. Let someone else be the giver for a change, it will make them feel better as well.

2. Deepen your breath.

Consciously take a deep inhale and a deep exhale before you start any activity or conversation.

Do this every time you remember, waiting in line, at a stop sign, starting your car.

QUICK WAYS FOR BUSY MOMS TO SELF SOOTHE.

3. Stretch like a cat. Get down on all fours. As you exhale, round your back to the sky, drawing your chin to your chest, belly to your spine. Inhale back to your starting position and repeat several times.

4. Move daily. Pick an activity you love and start doing it for 10 minutes each day. If you already move daily, can you add 10 minutes to your current routine?

5. Eat mindfully. Sit down to eat healthy, nourishing food.

Really look at your food, taste your food and give thanks for your food.

10. Start a success journal. Every day, jot at least one success you had and periodically review your successes.

11. Exercise kindness, starting with you. Treat yourself the way you treat your best friend.

12. Practice legs up the wall pose. Sit sideways against the wall and then swivel; swing legs up the wall and lie down, moving your pelvis away from the wall until you are comfortable. Stay 5 10 minutes, longer if you are comfortable.

13. Meditate. Set a timer, sit comfortably (yes, a chair is fine) and just watch what thoughts arise in your mind. Don’t judge, simply observe.

6. Forgive someone who has slighted you and move on 7. Giggle. Call a friend who always makes you laugh. Read or watch something funny.

8. Hydrate by drinking more water and less juice, coffee and soda. A hydrated body is more energetic and alert.

9. Ignore media for a day. No Facebook, no newspaper or television. How does it make you feel?

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14. Say no to a request for your energy or time that you are not excited about.

15. Open a spiritual or motivational book. Let the uplifting material soothe and buoy your soul.

16. Buy a pair of PJs that you love. Make sure your body feels cuddled and treasured wrapped in the fabric. Savor the feeling as you slip into them at bedtime.

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17. Quit all electronics 30-60 minutes before bed. Notice if it improves your sleep.

18. Pause before you react. Ask yourself, “Will this be important in 10 minutes? In 10 months? In 10 years?”

19. Lower your standards. If you are feeling stressed, does the floor really need to be vacuumed today? Use that time for you.

20. Commit to a regular time-out with your partner, children or family members to re-establish your connection. No electronics, no distractions, just shared focus for 10 minutes.

21. Turn your world upside down and change your perspective. Learn to do the yoga pose Downward-Facing Dog at www. yogajournal.com/poses.

22. Examine your volunteer commitments. Assess how much and how often is practical in your current life.

Be open to taking a break or choosing a new focus if you need to.

23. Take a walk. Start with 10 minutes.

Reconnect with nature and yourself.

24. Go eXtreme. What is the most decadent, delightful act you can think of?

Now go do it.

25. Add some yellow to your life. The color of the sun makes you cheerful and optimistic because your body releases more feel-good hormones when surrounded by yellow.

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26. Catch more ZZZZs; go to bed just 10 minutes earlier and see how that makes you feel.

Sue LeBreton is a freelance writer with two children. A trained yoga teacher, she is always looking for ways to increase the Zen in her life.

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Baby Bangs

Over the Top or Just For Fun? Just when you think you’ve seen everything, a new product comes out that makes you go, “Hmm.” There are some beauty products made specifically for little girls as young as 3 months. What do you think?

Are these products too over the top, or cute accessories for a baby to wear on a special occasion?

Head over to Facebook.com/siparent and let us know what you think.

Reviews

Baby Bangs have created the first ever ready to wear hairstyle headbands for the little girls who haven’t grown a full head of hair on their own yet. Baby Bangs are worn the same way traditional headbands are worn, with no metal clips or attachment pieces so it’s comfortable to wear. www.baby-bangs.com

Heelarious

Add some height to your daughter’s wardrobe with her very first pair of high heels from Heelarious. The shoes are actually booties made out of a soft fabric and the heels are designed for show only and collapse if any pressure is put on them. www.heelarious.com

Mustila Eau de Soin Spray

Mustela has designed Musti Eau de Soin Spray, an alcohol-free perfume for your little one. The perfume is scented with fruity and flowery notes and helps skin stay moisturized. It’s specially formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. www.mustelausa.com

Pregnancy Fashion Survival Tips Pregnant women no longer have to suffer through unattractive and old-fashioned maternity clothing.

Maternity fashion trends are now following straight off–therunway looks while still flattering an expanding belly.

Dresses that skim the body and show off your arms in animal prints, dark prints or stripes work best for day into night. Don’t be afraid to add a sequin dress to your wardrobe. Wrap style dresses flatter every shape. Stick to cotton fabric with a touch of lycra and side ruching for ultimate comfort and style. Finish the look with a skinny belt worn just below the bust.

Invest in fitted maternity t-shirts in white, black and bold colors that fit right below the buttocks. These versatile and comfortable t-shirts can be dressed up with a fitted blazer and the right accessories. Go casual in a fitted t-shirt with black leggings, a jean jacket, and a pair of Converse for errands. Dress up the look with slim or bootcut maternity jeans in a dark wash or colored cord with side elastic panels. Complete the look with chunky-heeled boots, gold cuffs and some long gold necklaces and you're ready for a night out. Provided by EncoreMaternity.com

5 Must Haves: 1. A pair of slim straight leg black pants.

2. A pair of dark wash maternity jeans for a slimming effect.

3. A long fitted white and a black t-shirt. V neck or scoop neck tees are most flattering.

4. Little black dress for day into night. Accessorize with gold bangles or classic gold hoops.

5. A versatile scarf in bold colors or patterns.

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Enter Online at www.siparent.com Click on the Contests and Clubs Tab Congratulations Laura Obermaier, winner of the Signet Complete Baby High Chair in last months issue!

Newbies Isabella Elizabeth Santiago July 27, 2012 6 pounds, 12 ounces Parents: Lauren and Eddie

Daniel Shpits May 12, 2012 7 pounds, 2 ounces Parents: Keri and Vlad

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Submit Your Baby’s Annoucement on www.siparent.com.

Click on the Contests & Club Tab.

MOTHER’S DAY

>>>

MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS: Thinking Outside the Box

fter two girly-girls, I was thrown unprepared into the world of sports and other boy things when my third child, a son, was born. “Having a catch” became a nightly ritual I couldn’t escape since my husband worked late most of the time.

Despite my daily practice, I unfortunately never improved and spent a good deal of time running after missed balls.

A

My Mother’s Day gift that year put a smile on my face and a groan in my heart. I wasn’t getting off the hook too easily! Now my excuse of being left-handed and not having proper equipment was a moot point. Here was a beautiful (?) new Mizuno left handed fielder’s glove, all properly oiled and tied with a rope to achieve a proper “pocket” (as if that would actually help my stats!) My hints for a leather fashion accessory were clearly misinterpreted.

A UNIQUE GIFT FROM YOUR CHILD = PRICELESS!

Years later, the groan has turned to bittersweet nostalgia whenever I think of my son’s optimistic idea, but the smile will always remain. ~ Gerri Friscia, who restricts her sports participation these days to cheering from the bleachers

“One year, I got to spend the whole day out shopping with my mom and sister at the Jersey Shore outlets. It was great to spend quality time with 2 women I love very much since everyday is spent with my 2 amazing kids that get my 100% attention, Hope we get to do it again this year.” ~ Susanne Sive Tornello

Mother’s Day is here and families all over Staten Island are thinking about what it will take to WOW mom this year. Are you the techie type who would love a website domain name of your own?

Or the sentimental type who would swoon over a personal poem written just for you?

“It’s little kids that always make mothers day special. I get breakfast in bed, homemade gifts & card, but the best gift ever is all the love I get all year from my 7 kids and hubby.” ~ Judy Faye Jordan

We asked our Facebook friends to tell us about their best, most creative, or most unusual Mother’s Day gift ever. Here are some of the responses: “A hug from my kids telling me I'm the best mother & they are lucky to have me” ~ Strawberie Sweetness

“A huge, beautiful red grill I name Rosie. Such wonderful things are created on her. Sigh.” ~ Marsha Jones-Ho “My daughter. She was born on Mother’s Day 2010.” ~ Dawn E. Lilenfeld-Saada “My granddaughters, Niki and Charlotte. I get the greatest gift every year just having them in my life.” ~ Marianne Faberzak

“It wasn't so much a gift ... I got a Birthday Card on Mother’s Day from my Mother In Law. Lol, but the real funny part is that she filled it out in front of me !” ~ Christine Nunno

“Couldn’t resist. My youngest son, John, was my Mother’s Day gift, born a few days before, but the best gift ever.” ~ Carole Stillman

“I spend the morning with my kids, then my hubby takes them to my in-laws and I get a much needed break!!! Every year, it’s the best present ever!!!!” ~ Lillian Roslokken-Cipoletti

"My boys took me to Great Adventure last year for Mother's Day. I hate rides, but had an awesome day! Front row on the runaway train with my 20-year old.....priceless!" ~ Carla Bono Line

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SUBSTANCE ABUSE

>>> S.I. PARENTS YOU

MATTER!

A new program to help parents and caregivers understand, and cope with, the epidemic of drug abuse that is sweeping the borough

ain killers, marijuana, alcohol, and Molly?

Ask a room full of Staten Island parents about which drugs the teens in their neighborhoods are abusing and the responses include some well-known answers and some that are not even on most parents’ radars: Molly (a street name for a very potent form of ecstasy, MDMA); Ice (Methamphetamine) and Vike (Vicodin).

P

These discussions are taking place as the Tackling Youth Substance Abuse (TYSA) Initiative rolls out its new SI Parents You Matter! program, STATEN ISLAND HAS THE HIGHEST RATES OF PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE which is working to help AND BINGE DRINKING COMPARED TO THE REST OF NEW YORK CITY. parents and caregivers understand, and cope with, the accurate picture of the problem. Amongst Staten Island’s epidemic of drug abuse that is sweeping the borough.

72,000 youth, approximately: “It is vitally important that parents and caregivers receive the tools they need to discuss drug and alcohol abuse with their children,” explained Carol Pisapia, Assistant Vice President at Richmond University Medical Center and a member of the TYSA Steering Committee. “Kids who learn about the dangers of drugs at home are significantly less likely to use them.”

“Parents DO matter” concurred Michael McBrearty, Outreach Coordinator for the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science at Staten Island University Hospital and another TYSA steering committee member. “Parents and caregivers are the ones teens turn to when they need help.”

The Tackling Youth Substance Abuse Initiative has commissioned Borough-specific research into attitudes and behaviors surrounding teen alcohol and drug abuse and compiled data from City and State sources to gain an

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• 10,584 have engaged in binge drinking • close to 14,000 have used Marijuana in the last 30 days • 5,832 have used prescription pain relievers without a prescription • 4,464 have used other prescription drugs without a prescription in the past year Mike McBrearty explains that: “Because so many children and teens are taking prescription drugs for issues, such as attention deficit disorder or for anxiety problems, they come to think of these medications as being safe, but these are very powerful and often addictive drugs. Sometimes kids share them with a classmate to help them study for an exam.

Kids are self-medicating to help them deal with the stress of school and work, problems at home and relationship issues.

The drugs that they misuse have changed along with the reason they misuse them.”

Carol Pisapia agrees: “The path to abusing hard drugs is much shorter and quicker than it used to be when

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Imagine a place where you can get paid for cleaning out your closets!

That place is Once Upon A Child. We buy and sell new and gently used children’s clothing, accessories, toys, furniture and equipment.

And we pay you immediately for all items accepted. Go through those closets and bring us your kids’ stuff today.

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What Parents Can Do The Tackling Youth Substance Abuse Initiative is urging parents to learn the facts about drug and alcohol abuse in their communities and to realize that it is not the same world that they grew up in. The Initiative offers a drug guide, developed by the Partnership at Drug Free.org, which has photographs and street names for many of the drugs teens are commonly abusing.

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youngsters would start off by smoking cigarettes and drinking beer then graduating to marijuana then cocaine before being drawn into heroin, meth or crack use. Prescription drugs are now the most commonly abused drugs among 12 to 13 year olds!”

• Frequently talk and listen to your teens about what is going on in their lives.

• Even if you’ve used drugs in the past don’t worry about feeling hypocritical about telling your kids not to use them. This is about them, not you.

• Know where they are and who they are with. Connect with other parents in your community so that you can collectively keep an eye on them.

For information or to request a SI Parents You Matter! workshop for your school or youth group, contact Adrienne Abbate at 718-568-3669 or adrienne@sipcw.org.

Provided by Tackling Youth Substance Abuse (TYSA) Initiative • www.sipcw.org.

For a link to watch the powerful video that is shown at the workshops, go to www.siparent.com.

MAY 2013

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HEALTH TIPS

>>>

PACKING A HEALTHY AND FUN SCHOOL LUNCH

s part of Emblem Health’s commitment to supporting New York City’s efforts to reduce childhood obesity, Dr. William Gillespie, a pediatrician and EmblemHealth’s Chief Medical Officer, offers these tips for packing a healthy and fun school lunch:

A

Give your kids a choice. If they get to decide, they are more likely to eat it. Make sure their choices are all healthy ones. Ask, “Would you like an apple or a banana in your lunchbox?” or “Do you want carrots or celery today?”

Know the rules. Some schools have rules about what children are and are not allowed FUEL CHILDREN AT SCHOOL WITH A HEALTHY LUNCH. to bring for lunch. Make sure you check with your child’s Use a thermos for warm foods. A healthy mac and cheese teacher before packing that peanut butter and banana made with whole wheat pasta and some small broccoli florets sandwich! is perfect for a thermos. A three-bean chili with carrots and zucchini works great too!

Add some veggies and dip. Kids love to dip foods, so add a dip to make veggies more fun. Try making a quick dip with Add a good source of calcium. Yogurt makes a great plain non-fat yogurt and garlic powder (or any other seasoning addition and so do small pre-made smoothies that can be you want). Raw or lightly steamed veggies like broccoli, found in the yogurt section of your grocery store. Low-fat string cauliflower, carrots, cucumber, and celery are all easy to dip! cheese is always a hit and low-fat milk is an easy go-to.

Make mini kebobs! Cube up low-sodium deli chicken or Opt for water instead of sugary drinks like juices and turkey or low-fat cheese and place cubes on pretzel sticks. sodas.

Alternate with grape tomatoes, and green grapes.

Switch to whole grains. Make a sandwich with whole wheat bread instead of white. You can also try whole wheat pita or tortillas to mix things up a bit.

Aim for baked chips. Or low-fat popcorn or whole grain crackers if your child likes something crunchy!

Use an ice pack to keep cold foods cold.

Slice it up! Kids are more likely to eat things in smaller bitesized pieces or slices. Cut up an apple or create a fruit cup with different melons. Slice up a sandwich into four squares.

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Make faces! Let your child make a “face” on their sandwich with ingredients like hummus, low-fat cream cheese and cut up veggies.

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COVER STORY Once school is out, many kids turn to video games to fill their extra free time. The question of what games are OK has taken on new urgency in the past year. A Harris Poll, taken after the shootings in Newtown, Connecticut, found that over half of all Americans believe playing violent video games is linked to violent behavior.

Unfortunately, deciding which games are unacceptable has the potential to create family conflict, not only between parents and kids, but also between spouses. The same Harris poll found that mothers were much more likely than fathers to make rules about video games, perhaps because they were less likely to be gamers themselves.

Many gamers believe that violent video games can be a healthy outlet for aggressive feelings. They point out that during the twenty years when video games have been popular, the rate of violent crime has actually decreased.

Although it’s true that most gamers do not become criminals, it is also true that these decades have seen a rise in other types of aggression, including bullying.

Dr. Craig Anderson, Director of the Center for the Study of Violence, in Ames, Iowa, believes the link between video games and aggression is indisputable. After analyzing 130 research studies, he found conclusive evidence that exposure to video game violence increases both aggressive thinking and behavior and reduces empathy and kindness.

“All games teach something,” Anderson observes, “and that ‘something’ depends upon what they require the player to practice.” At the same time, violence turns out to be surprisingly hard to define. Is it harmful to have an avatar that slays dragons with a sword? Is it damaging to pretend to be a football player who flattens another player? What’s the effect of taking the point of view of a soldier shooting enemy combatants? Obviously, the rules that make sense for video game violence change as children Josephine Vergo does not supervise her children while playing mature. For kids under 12 who are still developing a but is aware of what games they play. She has also set rules sense of right and wrong, it makes sense to exercise concerning the amount of time they are allowed to play. "I tight control. Seek out games that have educational prefer that they only play one hour but they sometimes break value and, whenever possible, pro-social values. up the time throughout the day. They are not allowed to play The non-violent games section of one hour before bed."

CommonSenseMedia.org is a good place to start.

VIDEO GAME

ARE PARENTS I

Josephine Vergo

Around middle school, many children, especially Mother of two boys, ages 5 and 8, who both have an Xbox in their room. boys, will lobby hard to play games that are popular with their friends. Although it’s tempting to ban certain games, that approach doesn’t necessarily give your son the tools he’ll need to evaluate games he encounters at the homes of friends or eventually in a college dorm "I don't know if there's a direct link between violent games room. and violent behavior, but obviously, all entertainment should be just that. Once kids become obsessed with hours of video game play a day, or if they're so immersed that they start blending fantasy with reality, then it becomes an issue. It's our job as parents to monitor our children."

Instead, talk to your child about what he or she hopes to get from the game he wants to play. A sense of camaraderie with friends? The thrill of doing something forbidden? The challenge of conquering difficult obstacles? Have your child make a case for Dawn Papandrea why the game is a good way to spend free time. Then Mother of two boys, ages 9 and 4. Her oldest son plays Nintendo DS and Wii. express your own concerns, being as specific as possible about why a particular game worries you.

Does the game endorse gang culture or criminal behavior?

Promote use of drugs and alcohol? Include language that is coarse or obscene? Encourage disrespect toward women or minorities? Include violence that is unnecessarily brutal or gratuitous?

Talking through these issues won’t be easy and in the end, you are likely to decide that certain games have no place in your home. Still, research suggests that the conversations are worthwhile because they help young people think critically about the content of video games and that, in turn, makes them less susceptible to their influences.

Here are other things parents can do at every age.

Play games together when you can. If you aren’t a natural gamer, let your child walk you through the game. Pay attention to things that are constructive—cooperation among players to get to a goal, strategic thinking, coordination. Notice the effect that the game has on your child. Does he or she become animated, aggressive, confident, discouraged, withdrawn?

Use ESRB ratings. They aren’t perfect, but they will protect kids from some of the most violent games. (For an explanation of the ratings, visit www.ESRB.com.) Supplement the ratings by talking to other parents and reading reviews from organizations that respect the values you are trying to instill in your children. If you have doubts about whether a game is suitable for your child, rent before you buy.

E VIOLENCE

IN THE DARK? Dawn Marconi does not worry about supervising her children while they are playing at home because she knows the games are age appropriate. But she does like to keep an eye on them if they are playing at their cousin's house. "When they visit their older cousins, I like to keep checking on them to make sure they aren't playing anything inappropriate."

Dawn Marconi Mother of two boys, ages 5 & 7, who play their computer, Nintendo DS, Wii and iPad.

"I think there could be a connection between violence and video games. But, I believe that it all depends on the kid. Every kid is different. I think it would have to do with various factors like maturity, emotional state, etc. I think there are kids who play certain violent games just for the fun of it. They will walk away when finished and go on to the next thing. And then there are kids that look at it on a deeper level and are intrigued by it. Depending on that child's personality or mental state (meaning if they are having issues of any kind) it might have a very negative affect on them."

Ramona Bonici Mother of two boys, ages 12 and 5. Her older son plays Xbox 360.

Teach healthy conflict resolution. From a young age, help your child express feelings and develop empathy for the feelings of others. Actively encourage your kids to resolve disagreements through creative compromise. Teach them how to release anger and frustration without violence. If your child is having trouble resolving conflicts peaceably in real life, restrict access to video games.

Enforce time limits. Research suggests that the aggressive spill-over from video games is less serious when kids have the self-discipline to step away from the game. Help your child develop that kind of self-control by establishing time limits for video games. If necessary, enforce the rules with parental controls. (A detailed stepby-step guide to controls for all gaming systems can be found in the ESRB booklet, available at http://tinyurl.com/5rwhuy.)

Finally, it’s important to remember that the powerful teaching capabilities of video games can be enlisted to promote cooperation and goodwill instead of aggression and mayhem. As an example, the award-winning video game, Journey, explores the human longing for companionship and provides a great game experience with arresting graphics and Grammy-winning music. If parents can encourage video game companies to develop more games like that, everyone in the family will be happy!

By Carolyn Jabs, M.A., a freelance researcher and writer who specializes in providing parenting advice in a digital age. Carolyn is the mother of three computer-savvy children and a veteran of many skirmishes over video games.

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YOUR HOME

>>>

SAVING ON HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

ith the economy still struggling, money is tight for many homeowners. That reality can present a problem to those who want to improve their homes without spending too much money.

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The cost of a home improvement project depends on a host of factors, including the scale of the project and the availability of materials.

Upscale projects like a full roof replacement will set homeowners back a substantial amount of money.

In its 2011-2012 "Cost vs. Value Report," Remodeling magazine revealed that the average cost of a such a project was nearly $38,000. However, a smaller project like a garage door replacement could be completed for fewer than $3,000.

HOMEOWNERS CAN TRIM HOME IMPROVEMENT COSTS BY BUYING THEIR OWN MATERIALS BEFORE HIRING A CONTRACTOR TO COMPLETE THE PROJECT.

When deciding if a home improvement project is within your budget, it's a good idea to consult such figures before choosing a project. For example, if your home is a fixer-upper, then one project may not be more urgent than another, something that may allow you to choose less expensive projects now while saving money for more expensive projects down the road.

It's also important for homeowners to know that figures such as those in the "Cost vs. Value Report" are just averages.

Some projects might cost more than the average, while others might come in well under budget. To ensure your project is one of the latter and not the former, consider the following ways to trim costs off your next home improvement project.

Avoid the DIY movement if you don't have adequate experience. Many homeowners fall into the DIY trap, feeling

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they can pull off a project without hiring a professional contractor. While this is an option for those homeowners with home improvement experience, it's an approach that's best avoided by those without such experience.

Homeowners who decide to go it alone on a home improvement project should know that mistakes are costly.

One mistake could have you paying for the same materials twice: once when you begin the project, and then again when you need to hire a contractor after your efforts didn't work out. A failed DIY project also costs you time, something homeowners hoping to sell their homes post-project cannot afford to waste.

Hire the right contractor. The best contractor for the job won't necessarily be the one who comes in with the lowest estimate. The right contractor will know how long a project will take and what the materials will cost. The wrong contractor, who might lack the experience of his competitors, might make empty promises that ultimately cost you more money via overrun costs. Find a contractor who comes highly recommended and is willing to provide references and show

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you his or her past projects like the one you're hiring him or her to undertake. If you hire the wrong contractor, the project may never be completed and you may find yourself in court, where the money you had budgeted for home improvements is being spent on lawyers instead.

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Consider supplying your own materials. If you diligently research your project, you should be able to buy the materials yourself, even if you plan on hiring a contractor to do the work.

Some contractors mark up the materials as a means of padding the bill. If you research the project and learn about the materials you want to use, you can save a substantial amount of money buying those materials yourself and then hiring a contractor.

Don't overlook recycled materials.

Buying recycled materials is another way to reduce home improvement costs. Bathroom fixtures, doors, flooring, and lighting are just a few of the materials that are commonly recycled and resold at a fraction of the cost of new materials. Shop around for stores in your area or peruse the Internet for recycled materials.

Homeowners undertaking a replacement project rather than a remodel might even be eligible for tax breaks if they donate their old materials.

Choose projects that provide more bang for your buck. Another way to save is to choose projects that provide a strong return on your investment.

The "Cost vs. Value Report" compares the cost of popular remodeling projects with the value those projects retain at resale. If money is a motivating factor behind your project, choose a project that will get you the most money back at resale.

While the economy has not necessarily been kind to the home improvement industry, there are still plenty of homeowners looking to improve their homes.

Savvy homeowners can do just that and save some money along the way by putting a few strategies to work for them.

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FINANCE

>>>

5 TIPS FOR RAISING FISCALLY SMART ADULTS

s children blossom into young men and women, most insist on planning and running their own lives. Parents worry about all the basic essentials for their kids’ independent living, like housing, eating properly, staying warm, being careful at night and more. But most parents forget to teach their youngsters one of the most important lessons of all – financial responsibility. The resulting turmoil can spell disaster for a child’s future.

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Consider this: The average young adult amasses $45,000 in debt by the time they turn 29, according to a recent PNC Bank report.

HELPING YOUR CHILDREN FINANCIALLY MEANS MORE THAN HANDING THEM MONEY.

“This generation of 20somethings was raised during an economically-thriving period,” says financial expert Mark Hansen. “Undisciplined spending habits, student and car loans, and a tough job market have stymied their financial growth. Perhaps the worst culprit is financial ignorance, but we can count this as a lesson for future 20-somethings.”

For young people, organizing finances can be intimidating to the point of prohibitive, he says.

“We need to have a curriculum in schools, from kindergarten through 12th grade, that ensures our kids graduate with financial literacy,” he says. “From balancing a checkbook to understanding what it means to pay – and earn – interest, kids need basic money management skills to survive in the world, and most aren’t getting them.”

Hansen says all teens should know about finances and practice managing their money so they can control their financial destinies:

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• Saving for dreams – the three-envelope method: Use the first envelope for your day-to-day expenses: gas or lunch money. Pause before blowing this money at the movie theater or a fast-food restaurant! Envelope No. 2 is for shortterm goals, which might be clothing or a new laptop. The third envelope is for long-term goals such as a car, college or a “future millionaire club” fund.

• How to create a budget: A budget lets us know what’s possible, and not possible, with money. There are six steps to creating a budget. 1. List all of your expenses. 2. List all income. 3. List monthly expenses. 4. Add up these lists separately. 5. Tweak your budget so you can meet your expenses with money left over for savings. 6. Review your budget every week.

• How to set and follow through on goals: First, figure out what your current finances are, then determine what they will be in the future -- one year out, then two years out, then four years later, etc. How will you get to your one- or two-year

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goal? You need a plan, and most of the time that means either earning more money, spending less, or a combination of the two. Finally, you have to stick to your plan in order for it to work.

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Mon-Sat 10am-6pm Credit & Debit Cards Accepted

• Understanding interest rates, such as credit cards: Interest is a fee paid for using someone else’s money. Simple interest is straightforward: 5 percent accrued in your bank account with $100 yields $5 in interest at the end of the year.

Compound interest, however, means ever-increasing amounts.

This is crucial to understanding debt you may take on from lenders.

Know what you are borrowing, and the terms thereof. Just as your money can work for you in a bank account, money borrowed can work against you if it is not paid back in a timely manner.

• How to write checks and balance a checkbook: These days, it’s easier than ever to review accounts online, which automatically tracks exchanges. HOWEVER, banks do make mistakes, which is why it’s wise to track your accounts independently. Ask. Don’t be embarrassed. Banks are putting a premium on service and want to establish a positive relationship with young customers. If you have a question, speak to someone at the bank. As you take control of your money, you’ll also take control of your life.

By Mark Hansen, a businessman and motivational speaker, who has dedicated his life to helping young people overcome obstacles and deal with the challenges of daily life. He is the author of “Success 101 for Teens: Dollars and Sense for a Winning Financial Life.”• www.success101forteens.com

FREE NEW PATIENT EXAMINATION

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• We provide orthodontic care for adults and children • All treatment chairs and instruments sterilized after every patient • State of the art self-ligating brackets in metal & clear • Invisalign 2013 preferred provider • Digital x-rays • Friendly and courteous staff • Family discount (not applicable with discounted insurance fees)

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PARENTING

>>>

RETURNING HOME WITH A DEGREE

he days when a college degree practically guaranteed employment are long gone.

While multiple studies have shown young adults with a bachelor's degree had a lower jobless rate than those with no college degree both before and after the recent recession, such research is not comforting to the bevy of recent college grads who still cannot find work in their chosen field or earn enough to live on their own.

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Just how many recent college graduates are living with their parents remains open for debate. In 2012, numerous news outlets cited IS YOUR COLLEGE GRADUATE PLANNING TO LIVE AT HOME AFTER GRADUATION? research that stated 85 percent of such graduates were living parents can easily revert to the days when they had to with their parents, though that figure has been widely establish household rules so kids would learn responsibility dismissed as inaccurate. The figure is likely closer to 21 and accountability. Adjusting to the new living arrangement percent, which was a figure a Pew Research study arrived at may not be easy, but all members of the family should when examining college graduates between the ages of 25 remain as patient as possible and give one another adequate to 34. Richard Fry, a Pew Research Center economist, has space. Parents won't want to feel like they have to get on recently noted that 45 percent of college graduates between their kids to clean up after themselves or be respectful of the ages of 18 to 24 are still living with their parents, which is other members of the household, and young adults won't considerably higher than just a decade earlier, when only 31 want to feel like they're being treated as children. Be patient percent of such graduates were still living with Mom and as everyone adjusts and don't allow any initial issues to Dad. escalate into an uncomfortable situation.

More and more young adults returning home after graduating college has proved inconvenient for many families. Though young adults moving back home after graduating might be inconvenient and less than ideal for all parties involved, there are ways to make it work.

Be patient. Patience is a virtue that all parties will need to embrace when an adult child is moving back in with Mom and Dad. The transition is bound to have its rocky moments, as young adults are used to living by their own rules while

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Set a time limit. While it's understandable for parents to want to help a child, your offer for a place to stay should not be indefinite. Discuss the length of stay with your child when he or she moves back in. This can motivate him or her to look for a job or develop a plan to improve employment prospects. Kids who think they can live at their parents' for as long as they'd like are bound to procrastinate with regard to finding a job or pursuing an advanced degree. You can always extend the time limit down the road, but young

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ST. JOSEPH HILL ACADEMY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Providing a premier Catholic education, Pre-K through Grade 8, to the Staten Island community for over 90 years.

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adults should not be allowed to look at moving back in to your home as an indefinite arrangement.

Address how young adults are going to earn money. While it might be difficult for recent college graduates to find a job in their chosen fields, they are still going to need income to pay their bills and finance other living expenses.

Discuss their plans to earn some money while they look for jobs within their professions or apply to graduate schools. Full-time work may hinder the job hunt, but young adults should find some source of income, and a job will get them out of the house and may even be an opportunity to network and learn about jobs in their fields. A situation where young adults move back into their parents' home and don't work is sure to become problematic and make things uncomfortable for all in the household.

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SAINT TERESA SCHOOL CURRENTLY ENROLLING GRADES PRE-K 3 TO 7TH

AdvancED Accredited • Safe Environment Smartboards in Every Class State-of-the-Art Science & Computer Labs Early Morning Drop Off and After School Programs • Supportive, Dedicated Faculty • Friendly Clergy • Academic Excellence • Family Traditions Shared • Christian Values • Healthy Habits • Good Friends Made

718-448-9650 • 1632 Victory Blvd • www.saintteresaschool.com St. Teresa Soccer program open to all Staten Island children.

Contact Brian at 917-921-1517

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Charge rent. To some parents, the idea of charging their children who can't find work within their field rent is like kicking a dog when it's down. But charging rent can prepare kids who will eventually be living independently. Rent might even be a motivating factor, as young adults might feel like their rent money could be better spent financing a place of their own as opposed to paying to live in the same room where they spent their childhood.

Families often find it difficult to adapt to a young adult moving back in with his or her parents. But there are ways to make such a situation easier on all parties involved.

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ASK THE DOCTOR April C. Lee, MD

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How much sleep does my teenager need?

Individual needs vary, so there is no “magic” number for the correct amount of sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, the suggested number of hours of sleep each person requires varies by age. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that teenagers need 8.5 to 9.25 hours of sleep a night. In comparison, newborns need 12 to 18 hours of sleep; preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years old need 11 to 13 hours of sleep and adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep a day.

Most teenagers do not get the recommended amount of sleep per night on a regular basis. According to the 2007 National Survey of Children’s Health, 17 million children and teenagers in the United States get an inadequate amount of sleep. On an average weekday, adolescents start their day early at school. Most teenagers are constantly on the run. Busy schedules that include schoolwork, friends, social activities, family responsibilities and part–time jobs add up to a long day for teenagers. They often stay up late to try to accomplish more. Getting one to two hours less sleep a night eventually adds up to much sleep loss over the course of weeks and months. As a result, many teenagers are typically chronically tired and sleep deprived.

Chronic sleep deprivation can cause serious problems.

These problems include decreased alertness, memory impairment, inconsistence performance, and delayed response time. For teenagers, sleep deprivation may lead to bad tempers, and problems in school. If delayed response or reaction time is coupled with decreased attentiveness, a teenager might be more at risk for accidents or injuries.

Certainly, they may be more at risk for driving accidents.

Changing sleep patterns are a common occurrence in adolescence. Teenagers may sleep late on the weekends in an attempt to “catch up” for sleep loss during the week. This irregular sleeping pattern can actually aggravate problems. It can become more difficult to go to sleep at an earlier hour during the school or work week.

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So, what can children and teenagers (and yes, adults) do if they are not feeling well rested in the morning or if they feel very sleepy? Fortunately, there are a few things we can change in our activities and behaviors to get a better, and hopefully, good night sleep.

Sleep Routines: • Go to bed the same time every night. Make a schedule and stick to it.

• Before going something relaxing.

to

sleep, read

• Take a warm bath or shower before going to sleep. Also, comfortably cool room temperatures may help to promote sleep.

• Turn the lights off. Melatonin is a hormone found naturally in your body. It helps to promote sleep. Your body produces more melatonin when the lights are low or dim.

• A quiet environment promotes sleep. Consider earplugs if the outside environment is too noisy and loud. If you must listen to music, try relaxing music and keep the noise level low.

• Manage your stress. Practice meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or other relaxing stress management techniques.

What to avoid: • Avoid long naps during the day.

• Avoid bright lights just before going to bed.

• Avoid caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol before bedtime.

• Avoid heavy or spicy food and strenuous exercise just before going to sleep.

• Avoid stimulating TV, music, or reading before going to bed.

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• Avoid cell phone use, Internet use and video games just before bedtime.

What else can you do? Check with your pediatrician. Make sure you can breathe easily at night. If you have congestions or obstructions, these can interfere with a restful night’s sleep.

Review any medications, or supplements as these can sometimes interfere with your ability to sleep at night.

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SAVE MONEY

>>>

ARE YOU FREEZER FRIENDLY?

e all want to put healthy food on the table, but time and budget restraints don’t always make it so easy, unless… you use the power of your freezer to save time and money, AND feed your family a healthy diet!

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Cut your meat bill in half! Invest in the one big meat special on the front page of the circular! When ground turkey goes BOGO (buy one get one free sale), I don’t just buy for this week. I get eight! I mark today’s date on the package with a permanent marker.

Once it’s in the freezer, the “sell by” date that originally came on the package has no meaning. I’ve just extended the expiration date by freezing! And I’ve invested at half-off, buying just the right number to get me through to the next BOGO! It’s amazing how many foods you can “invest” in when on sale, and save in your freezer!

USING A PERMANENT MARKER, WRITE THE DATE AND DESCRIPTION ON EACH ITEM THAT GOES INTO YOUR FREEZER.

Organic Milk. You’ll find much longer dates on organic milk than on conventional milk, due to being ultra-pasteurized, which extends the shelf life by twice as long as conventional milk. So if you find a sale on organic milk, you can stock up! Sometimes, the date is 6 weeks or more! To freeze, as in all liquids, pour off a little to allow for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight and shake it up before using.

When cheese is on sale, stock up! The package date tells you it’s good for up to 6 months. Plus, you can grate, then freeze, and use as needed. It actually saves time to grate the whole block any time you grate. Your freezer is your helper!

Stock up on summer produce at great prices. All are worth freezing for months to come. Most veggies require blanching, but here’s some of the easiest fruits and veggies to freeze: • Strawberries are easiest – Simply wash and remove stems.

• For plums and nectarines, remove pit, toss in simple syrup and freeze in airtight bags.

• Blueberries: Without washing, just lay out on a tray and freeze, then move to a recloseable bag.

• Raspberries and others, gently swirl in a colander in a bowl of water, drain, dry on paper towels, freeze on tray, and move to plastic bags.

Use the frozen fruit to make refreshing smoothies with juice or yogurt, or for baking cobblers or pies. Frozen fruit is a nice easy addition to a bowl of cold cereal, a topper for ice cream, or thawed

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into oatmeal or thawed and cooked into pancakes. You can also make a hot compote in the microwave to top waffles.

Make tomato cubes. When tomatoes are plentiful, red, ripe, and cheap, load up and make easy tomato cubes. Plunge them whole into boiling water. Once the skins begin to split, remove them with a slotted spoon and allow the tomatoes to cool on a cutting board, or plunge them into cold water. The skins will easily slip off, and you can even seed them quickly with a spoon or your fingers. Dice them up and put them into ice cube trays. Once the cubes are frozen, store them in closable bags and date them. If I’m in a hurry, I just dice raw tomatoes, skins, seeds and all, and put into the trays to freeze.

Whichever way you choose to freeze them, you can use in soups, chilis, sauces, casseroles, one or several cubes at a time. SO easy and fresh!

Make Your Mark! Using a permanent marker, write the date and description on each item that goes into your freezer. Keep a “Freezer Inventory Chart” on the door. For meat, since you’re investing in sales and buying more than one, record the number of packages. As you pull out one to thaw, mark an “X” next to that record on the freezer chart. Now you’ll know how many you have left, when to use it, and what to look for. Easy!

Get a “free” deep freezer. Many freezer-friendly gurus save enough to buy a deep freezer. A deep freezer rolls your savings into even more, and saves you trips to the store! And that’s a cool deal!

By Teri Gault, CEO and Founder of TheGroceryGame.com

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PERFORMANCE BY MISS THERESA’S DANCING SCHOOL & ZUMBA EXHIBIT MAY 2013

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FOR TEENS

>>> TIPS

FOR TEENS ON HOW TO CELEBRATE MOTHER'S DAY

his Mother's Day, along with the flowers, candy, brunches, and sweet cards, it may be wise to sit back and recognize the woman you call Mom. In The Wizard of Oz, the great wizard was an old man behind a curtain, pulling levers to make the great Oz look magnificent. In most of our lives, the one behind the curtain pulling levers to make everything look great or feel great (including us) is our mom. She has been there since our birth—providing for us, guiding us and trying to do everything within her power to make us the best we can be.

T

Mother & Son

NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO WITH YOUR MOM (WIZARD) ON MOTHER'S DAY, MAKE SURE YOU THINK ABOUT WHAT SHE WOULD LIKE.

There is an old saying that "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world" and indeed that is played out in every family almost every day. For the first time in U.S. history, the majority of families are single parent families—and the majority of those are run by moms.

She is at the peak of most advertising dollars and most day time TV shows adjust their venues to what will be appealing to mom. Moms are still 100% invested in their children and their children's welfare, even when they get a scowl from their children because they aren't being allowed to have the junk food they want.

are now, but also carries a sense of nostalgia with her. She looks at you and remembers how you were as her little baby.

That same face you give her at times, she remembers when it had only two teeth. She may feel "replaced" by your new active life and although she is proud that you are growing up into a healthy adult, she wishes she could wrap her arms around you and keep you safe in her care forever. These tips are going to help mom understand that you understand how great you think she is.

This year for Mother's Day, I have some ideas of how teens can make their moms feel really special. There is one premise they must understand as they go through this list. By the time you are a teen, your mom has a deep pride in who you

• Write your mom a letter and list 25 things you love about her. She will most likely frame this and nothing will make her day feel more right.

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Tips for Teens Celebrating Mom on Mother's Day

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• Tell your mom you are taking her on a "momcation." A momcation is typically a getaway for mom. Since you are busy with your own life, and when you are at home you are talking on the phone or doing homework, planning to get away with "just her" will make her feel special. It doesn't have to be overnight or expensive. Her momcation could be lunch at the park (make sure you make it), a coffee talk, even just a walk around the block—anything that gets you alone with mom where you are actively engaging with her.

Family & Long Term Discounts Avail.

• Make her favorite dinner or brunch at home (invite your dad and siblings too or invite her best friend). Moms love showing off their thoughtful teen.

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• If you are the artistic type, sketch a picture, make a mug or a pot for plants.

You could write her a song and then perform it for her. Moms watched and encouraged your interests while you were growing up, so they delight in seeing "hints" of the past in what you are doing now.

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No matter what you do with your mom (wizard) on Mother's Day, make sure you think about what she would like. No one has a mom like yours and what you decide may not be what Hallmark recommends, but it will be what she loves best! Have a wonderful day with your mom.

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• This is the most difficult one, but maybe the most important. If you feel that you have been disengaged or moody as of late, talk to your mom and try to explain what has been going on. No one will ever forgive or welcome your confession more than mom.

By Mary Jo Rapini, MEd, LPC, licensed psychotherapist and co-author of Start Talking: A Girl’s Guide for You and Your Mom. www.StartTalkingBook.com www.maryjorapini.com.

MAY 2013

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PARENT & CHILD TIME

By Ann Clinton

The colored glass on the kitchen windowsill shone brightly in the warm afternoon sun sending rays of reds, greens, and blues across the sill and onto the kitchen counter. In the center of the windowsill there was a plant in a pot of soft pink. No rays came from the potted plant. It did have something special though, that the colored glass did not have. The plant had green leaves and stems and, at the end of the stems, right at the top, lovely pink flowers were beginning to bloom.

Mother’s Day

Grandma really enjoyed doing dishes. She did not care if there were many, many pots and pans to clean, as well as glasses and dishes and knives and forks. She often said to herself, “I like doing dishes at my kitchen sink. I have a window to see the sun and birds and trees. And, I have a wide white windowsill with my plants and colored glass jars displayed on it.”

Grandma even enjoyed swishing her hands through the warm sudsy water as she washed her dishes. In the warm weather, with the window open, Grandma could hear the birds and the children playing in the neighboring yards. The pleasant breezes coming in through the window had ruffled Grandma’s hair and kept her cool so that she did not get sweaty. “What a pleasant way to do dishes,” she thought.

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Eleven-year-old Liam was the one who asked Grandma why she wasn’t at the dining room table with everyone else. “Well,” she explained, “I’ve finished eating and so have all of you. Everyone is talking and engaged in the interesting conversation, it seems to me, so I thought no one would miss me and I could start to clean up the kitchen.”

Liam looked at his Grandma and said, “Do you want me to help you? We have a dishwasher at home,” he said as he looked around the small kitchen. “I don’t see a dishwasher here.”

“You are right, Liam. The only dishwasher here is me,” Grandma replied laughing.

“Who got a new dishwasher?” Liam’s cousin, Philip, wanted to know as he came into the kitchen to get another glass of iced tea.

With a twinkle in his eye, Liam looked at Philip and said, “There is no new dishwasher machine, only a dishwasher person: Grandma.”

“You don’t have a dishwasher?” Philip asked like that couldn’t possibly be the case. Just about everyone he knew had a dishwasher–a machine one–not like Grandma’s, which was a human one!

Monica walked into the kitchen and asked, “What is everyone talking about?”

Philip answered her and said, “We were talking about dishwashers and the fact that Grandma has a human one.”

Monica seemed perplexed for a moment and then she caught on and laughed, “Oh sure. Grandma is the human dishwasher.”

718-390-3137 Liam looked at his cousins, Monica and Philip, and made a suggestion, “Well, guess what? In a few days it is going to be Mother’s Day and even though it says

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Mother’s Day, we also give gifts to grandmothers. So, why don’t we buy Grandma a dishwasher for Mother’s Day?” Philip looked doubtful and said to Liam, “I think dishwashers cost a lot of money.”

Erica asked as she walked into the kitchen, “Who needs a dishwasher?”

Monica answered her sister, “It is kind of a long story. We were mentioning that Grandma washed her own dishes. She doesn’t have a dishwasher.”

Erica looked around the kitchen. “I think this kitchen is too small. There is no room for a dishwasher.”

“Well, we could buy her towels to dry her dishes,” Ryan said from the doorway.

Looking at the four faces who could not believe what he had just said, Ryan quickly advised that he was only kidding.

“It might be nice to get a dishwasher, but I know Grandma likes flowers. Why don’t we buy her a big bouquet of flowers?” Liam suggested.

“That is a very good idea, Liam,” Erica agreed.

“Yes, I think so too,” Philip said, “That’s what I’m buying for Mother’s Day for my mom and Grandma Phyllis and Grandma Ann. My mom reminded me that Mother’s Day was soon, so I put some of my allowance in an envelope to buy the flowers.”

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“That’s a nice idea, Philip,” Monica said. “I think I’ll buy flowers, too. Right, Erica we’ll get Mom flowers and do our traditional Mother’s Day with breakfast in bed for Mom.” Before Erica could answer her sister, Liam said, “Gee, I wonder if they will have a plant sale at my school. It would be great if they do, because then I could get my mom flowers and some for Aunt Ann, Grandma, and Granny Rose.”

“So, Ryan, what will you do for Mother’s Day?” Erica asked.

“You know, I had not really thought about it but now that we are talking about it, I think I’ll take her out to eat.”

“Where will you go?” Monica asked.

“Hmm, I haven’t given it too much thought but maybe someplace special. I’ll think about it and I’ll ask Ali what she thinks,” Ryan replied.

“I think we are going to make our mothers and grandmothers happy on Mother’s Day,” Liam stated.

QUIZ

“I know they’ll be happy because I’m going to buy beautiful flowers,” Philip said with a smile on his face. “I know just the colors I want.”

1) 2) 3) 4) 5)

Who was the human dishwasher?

What did Ryan suggest they buy Grandma?

Where did Philip put his money for Mother’s Day? What was on the Grandma’s windowsill?

Who wanted to help Grandma with the dishes?

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

MAY 2013

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Celebrate Mom Bouquet: Michele Maye Jacqueline Cavicchio Vanessa Viera

Angelina Heeled Sandal: Dawn Padin

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Magnolia Bag: Gladys McCormack

Script Tall Tag Necklace: Elaine Muraca

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Join Our Weekly E-newsletter Sign Up @ siparent.com For • Exclusive Contests • Local Events • And So Much More

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Glider Scooter: Jennifer Ryan

Passover Books: Janet Malinov Larry Lederman Shoshana Myerson Susan Rosch Marcia Madero

Jean Callahan Audrey Batz Danielle Milone Roberta Carmelengo Joe DeVito

Parental Guidance DVD: Jennifer Long Tara Contrera Pat Fisch Marina Livshatz Asya Kogan

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

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TACHS/SHSAT 20 week program–2 Hour Sessions Curriculum is designed to prepare students for admission into Catholic High School & Staten Island Tech.

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SUMMER DAY CAMP at Big Bird’s Playhouse

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GIGI’S WORLD

by Giavanna and Gina Schrecker

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

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

9 Going on Sweet 16

Also on Site: DAY CAMP & DAY CARE (3 months-5 years old)

I've recently been doing a lot of daydreaming about getting older. It all started after we attended a family friend's Sweet 16. It was like a wedding … so extravagant and exciting! It was a masquerade theme, so we all got to wear these fun masks, and the birthday girl even made a grand entry atop a decked-out chair on a platform carried by men in her family. There were so many special touches to the party – amazing decorations, thoughtful favors like glow-in-the-dark sunglasses, keychains, and masks, masks, and more masks -- it made such an impression on me. My friend’s dress was one that she and her mom designed together; they had an amazing photo booth (which my little sister monopolized for most of the night); and I'm sure the gifts she received were equally fantabulous!

AMERICAN KARATE OF STATEN ISLAND

It got me thinking about my own Sweet 16. Oh, sure … that's almost seven years away, but you can never plan too early! I've already told my parents that I'd like a “Candy Land” theme, with tons of my favorite candies serving as decorations, favor ideas, and more. How awesome would it be to walk into a party that seems like you stepped onto the Candy Land game board? Mom and Dad say I may change my mind a few times before my big day, but I don't think so. I've already started to write out some ideas and draw up some pictures, which I plan to stash away safely so we can put them to good use when my own big day arrives.

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(Call or walk in after 3pm)

Mom says that although she had her own Sweet 16 party back in the day, it wasn't as huge as this party we attended, but she was OK with that.

It included all of her family and special friends and she got to wear a cool hat “like Debbie Gibson” (whoever she was!). Dad said that when my time comes to think about my own Sweet 16, we'll figure out something that will fit my personality. Of course, that made Mom a bit nervous since I have a big personality. But they have a few years to save their cash, so I don't see it being a problem. Right?!

For now, though, I guess I should focus on my first double-digit birthday in August. My parents say that 10 is too old to have a big party at Chuck E. Cheese or somewhere like that (as if!?!?!), which is A-OK. Especially since that means I can use the “I haven't had a party since I was a kid” card when my Sweet 16 rolls around! Bring on the chocolate river….!

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MAY IS:

FAMILY CALENDAR

Healthy Vision Month National Allergy/Asthma Awareness Month National Better Hearing & Speech Month National Mental Health Month National Moving Month National Physical Fitness & Sports Month

IMPORTANT DATES: National Pet Week May 5th - May 11th Cinco De Mayo May 5th

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR

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

TD Bank Five Boro Bike Tour May 5th PTA Teacher Appreciation Week May 6th - May 10th Solar Eclipse May 9th - May 10th Mother's Day May 12th Children’s Book Week May 13th - May 19th Shavuot May 15th - May 16th Armed Forces Day May 18th

LIBRARY HOURS & LOCATIONS

Memorial Day May 27th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

100www.siparent.com MAY 2013

THURSDAY, MAY 2

PLEASE NOTE: Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. We strongly suggest calling to confirm times, prices, ages, etc. before you attend.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1 Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Family Movie Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • All ages • Free Baby Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Ages 0-2 • Free Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free Children's Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free Bilingual Birdies (Spanish) St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 0-5 • Free • Register Mid-Week Bird Walk Wolfe's Pond Park/Lemon Creek 718-727-1135 10am • All ages • Free Manga Drawing Workshop Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free Meet Gustafer Yellowgold New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 4+ • Free Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 3-5 • Free NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free Arts & Crafts Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • All ages • Free • Register Silly Science West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 3-11 • Free

FRIDAY, MAY 3

ShopRite Kidz Cook S.I. Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2,3&4pm • Ages 2-10 • Free w/admission Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-4 • Free

Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free Baby Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free Teen Advisory Group New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free

SATURDAY, MAY 4

Opening Day Carousel For all Children Willowbrook Park 718-447-0605 11am-5:45pm • All ages • $1.50 Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Free Adult Knitting and Crochet Club New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am-12pm • Adults • Free Financial Independence - Getting to Point X New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30pm • Adults • Free Birding with Friends of Blue Heron Clove Lakes Park 718-981-4002 8am • All ages • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11am-1pm; 2-4pm • Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 • Read with Beverly the Therapy Dog St. George Library 718-442-8560 11am • Ages 5-12 • Free

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Photography Gallery Talk: New York as Subject Snug Harbor Campus 718-727-1135 2pm • Adults • Free

SUNDAY, MAY 5

Carousel for All Children Willowbrook Park 718-477-0605 11am-5:45pm • All ages • $1.50 Gone Fishing S.I. Zoo-Clove Lakes Park 718-442-3101 11am • All ages • Free w/admission Bird Hike with Mike (Easy to Moderate Hike) Blue Heron Park

SPRING FAIR

Saturday, May 4 The Reformed Church of Huguenot Park 10am-4pm All ages Free There will be a free children's carnival from 10am to 3pm. Enjoy fun games, prizes, and face painting. The fair will include vendors with wonderful items, raffles and 50/50, freshly baked goods, and a tour of the historical landmarked church. NYC Animal Care & Control will be on-site with dogs/cats for immediate adoption.

102www.siparent.com MAY 2013

7917-753-7155 1:30-3pm • All ages • Free The Sights and Sounds of Sunset Blue Heron Park 718-967-3542 6:30-8pm • All ages • Free

MONDAY, MAY 6

Computer Training for Adults New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30-11:30am • Free • Register Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • • Free

Read Aloud Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 4pm • Ages 4-12 • Free

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who was Rosie the Riveter?

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 9+ • Free

TUESDAY, MAY 7

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8

Teen Lounge

Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

Well Versed Urban World Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Origami Workshop for Kids Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register

Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Free

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

Threat Theat e l p re Tri Formerly The Jr. Talisman Players

Teens Present . . .

HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL Friday, May 3rd at 7 PM Saturday, May 4th at 3:30 PM & 7 PM

Juniors Present . . .

CALL FOR TICKETS AND LOCATIONS

SI Community Tennis Center At the College of Staten Island

6 INDOOR

AIR CONDITIONED COURTS 6 OUTDOOR COURTS

DISNEY’S THE JUNGLE BOOK KIDS Friday, May 17th at 7 PM Saturday, May 18th at 3 PM Sunday, May 19th at 3 PM Register now for our TTT Summer Intensive Weekend Camp Discount on September Musical Theatre Enrollment When You Register on Show Days

Classes in Drama, Song & Dance • Ages 5-12 & 13-17

917.754.8957 Producer & Choreographer: Dee Kanevsky Directors: Tina Montalvo & Anna Glenn Sparks

• Leagues/Random Courts • Junior Tennis Program (ages 4 & up • beginner-advanced) • Day ~ Evening ~ Weekends Available • Private or Group Instruction 718

982-3355 for info.

MAY 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free

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

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

Stories that Move and Sing Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 3-12 • Free

Make @ NYPL: 3D Printing and Design New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

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

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

Meet Gustafer Yellowgold St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 4+ • Free

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

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

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

Mythology Workshop New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 6-12 • Free • Register

OPENING DAY CAROUSEL FOR ALL CHILDREN

Mother's Day Craft Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 5-11 • Free • Register

Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 2-3 • Free • Register

Manga Drawing Workshop Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Meet Gustafer Yellowgold Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free

Sunday, May 4 Willowbrook Park 11am-5:45pm All ages $1.50 718-447-0605 www.sigreenbelt.org Since 1999, The Carousel For All Children has been bringing old-fashioned fun back to Staten Island. Kids of all ages can clamber aboard their favorite hand-carved wooden animal figure and enjoy one of yesteryear’s most popular pastimes in one of the Greenbelt’s loveliest settings. The Carousel is operated by the Greenbelt Conservancy, a not-for-profit organization that works in partnership with NYC Parks.

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THURSDAY, MAY 9

Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 Free Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free Zumba Workout New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 12:30-1:30pm • Adults • Free

FRIDAY, MAY 10

Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-4 • Free Toddler Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30am • Ages 1.5-3 • Free American Mah Jongg New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-4pm • Adults • Free

FRANCIS SCHOOL YOU CAN AFFORD PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD!

• Private School • Small Classes • Individual Attention • Safe & Friendly Atmosphere • Fully Accredited • Regents Are Not Required • Affordable Tuition Limited Space Available!

CALL NOW FOR INTERVIEW

718-967-0400

Accepting Students Grades 9-12

4240 Amboy Road Great Kills

DRIVER July 1 to August 16 EDUCATION $500 Includes Textbook REGISTRATION: WEDNESDAYS 9AM-5PM & SATURDAYS 9AM-1PM ONLINE @ WWW.FRANCISSCHOOL .COM

TER REGIS ODAY! ET ONLINACE IS SP D! LIMITE NOW REGISTERING FOR SUMMER CLASSES SUMMER AGES 4 & UP • BOYS & GIRLS

Session 1: July 8th-18th

Featuring "Beyond Ballet," "Beat-This" Hip Hop Intensive, “Contemporary Concepts” And More

Session 2: August 19th-28th

Featuring Specialty Teachers & Guest Teachers Providing Innovative Classes & Workshops Introducing "TRIPLE THREAT PROGRAM" - Available During Both Summer Sessions Learn to Sing, Dance, Act and Become a "Triple Threat"

24 Ellis Street (Tottenville) •

Spring Special

Summer Tuition

10% OFF With coupon. Must be enrolled by May 15.

New students only.

718.967.9723 • www.ladancenynj.com MAY 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free Children's Video Gaming West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Preschool Story Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Ages 2-5 • Free

TD FIVE BORO BIKE TOUR Sunday, May 5

Kid's Craft: Mother's Day South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free

SATURDAY, MAY 11

Recruit for Summer Volunteers Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3101 1pm • Ages 14+ • Free admission for interviewee + 1 adult Conference House Cabaret The Conference House 718-984-6046 8-10pm • Adults • $30

www.bikenewyork.org/ ride/five-boro-bike-tour

Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • KindergartenGrade 8 • Free Family Movies New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2pm • All ages • Free

The TD Five Boro Boke Tour presented by REI is America's largest cycling event.

The event provides participants the unique and fun experience to bike through all five boroughs. Please note that the VerrazanoNarrows Bridge will be closed for a duration for the tour.

106www.siparent.com MAY 2013

Forest Garden Friends Blue Heron Nature Center 718-619-5051 12-1:30pm • Ages 8+ • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 11am-1pm; 2-4pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Mother's Day Craft St. George Library

718-442-8560 3pm • Ages 5-11 • Free • Register Big Day Bird Count Staten Island Museum 718-483-7105 All Day • All ages • Free

SUNDAY, MAY 12

Ecology Walk: Mother's Day Walk Clove Lakes Park 718-483-7105 9-11am • All ages • Free Archery/UPR Willowbrook Park Archery Range 718-967-3542 11am • Ages 8+ • Free Ecosystems-In the Wild & in the Backyard Blue Heron Nature Center 718-619-5051 1:30-3pm • All ages • Free Natural Science Club: The Pioneers: Lichens and Mosses Blue Heron Park 718-967-3542 2-3:30pm • Ages 8-12 • Free Birding with Friends of Blue Heron: Mother's Day Walk Clove Lakes Park 718-981-4002 8am • All ages • Free

MONDAY, MAY 13 Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free Read Aloud Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 4pm • Ages 4-12 • Free Tween Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL

Start your child off on the right path!

Become a part of the Catholic school tradition.

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

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

Rolling Registration Call for an Appointment.

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

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

MAY 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

TUESDAY, MAY 14 Well Versed Urban World Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

RECRUIT FOR SUMMER VOLUNTEERS Saturday, May 11

Staten Island Zoo 1pm Ages 14+ Free admission for interviewee & 1 adult 718-442-3101 statenislandzoo.org

The Zoo is recruiting for Summer volunteers. If you like animals and enjoy working with children, this may be the perfect opportunity for an exciting and eventful summer. Come and find out if you’ve got what it takes!

Youngsters must be at least 14 years old to volunteer in The Children’s Center, or completing 10th grade to be a camp volunteer.

108www.siparent.com MAY 2013

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free The Hobbit Presented by the Traveling Lantern Theatre Company Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • • Free Yoga for the Young at Heart Blue Heron Nature Center 718-356-0106 3-4:40pm • Adults • Free Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30-5:30pm Math PreK-8 • Reading PreK-3

718-668-0413 1pm • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Free Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free Make @ NYPL: 3D Printing and Design New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

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

Preschool Program New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11am • Ages 2.5-5 • Free • Register

Children's Movie Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 4-11 • Free

Children's Movies St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 5-12 • Free

Preschool Story Time Richmondtown Library

DANCE STUDIO

ACCEPTING REGISTRATION FOR: Summer Camp,Toddler, Nursery and Universal Pre-Kindergarten classes (children born in 2009)

Come tour our facility!

Meet the teacher's and see classes in session.

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

Students can try classes & get ready for pre-school or kindergarten. Designed to give you an idea of class structure. May be helpful in the separation process.

We supply shoes, no dancewear purchase required.

r Registe !

Now

Fall Registration Begins May 1st Call for an appointment • 2 ½ through adult Kinder Combos • Ballet • Tap • Modern • Jazz • Hip Hop Dance technique with enrichment elements to create a confident, well rounded dancer.

Visit Our Friendly Family Atmosphere Studio Age Appropriate Music and Costumes Trophies For All • Sunday Dance Recital

718-727-2649 • 230 Livingston Ave (near Susan Wagner High School) Sandy Osgood, DEA Certified

www.silhouettedancestudio.net

Quality l o PreScho at able Reason s Rate

Low Child to Teacher Ratio

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

SUMMER CAMP

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

718-356-7795

Cannot be combined with other offers.

Expires 6/1/13.

MAY 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Preschool Storytime Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register Manga Drawing Workshop Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

THURSDAY, MAY 16 Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

ECOLOGY WALK: MOTHER'S DAY WALK Sunday, May 12

Clove Lakes Park 9-11am All ages Free 718-483-7105

statenislandmuseum.org

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free

Doodlebug FunTime-Series 1 Blue Heron Nature Center 718-227-8839 1pm • Ages 18 mos-4 yrs. • Free

Coffee Talk Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:30am • Adults • Free

Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

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

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

NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free Toddler Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 11am • Ages 1.5-3 • Free

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

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

Family Bird Day Clove Lakes Park 718-483-7104 10am-2pm • All ages • Free

Fun Fridays

110www.siparent.com MAY 2013

Coffee and Books Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11am • Adults • Free

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

FRIDAY, MAY 17

Families are invited to come along for a nature walk through Clove Lakes Park. Enjoy the sights and sounds of migrating songbirds and keep an eye out for nature's new mothers inhabiting the park.

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

Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-4 • Free Book Discussion New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30pm • Adults • Free

SATURDAY, MAY 18

Jr. Science Club: The Diversity of Reptiles Staten Island Museum 718-727-1135 10am-12pm • Ages 8-13 • $8/$5 Free Math Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 12-3pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Free Family Movies New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2pm • All ages • Free

Home of the Staten Island Special Education Parent Center

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

• • • • • • •

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

Find a list of spring events including basket auctions, fairs and fundraisers at siparent.com

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

If your organization is having an event, fill out our Spring Event form @ www.siparent.com/special_event_form.php

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

Founded and directed by parents of children with special needs.

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

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

STATEN ISLAND DIVORCE AND MEDIATION CENTER Law Offices of Lisa Giovinazzo

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

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Freshwater Fishing/UPR Clove Lakes Park 718-967-3542 11am • Ages 6+ • Free

Krafty Kids Blue Heron Nature Center 917-751-0071 1-2pm • Ages 4-10 • Free

Adult Knitting and Crochet Club New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am-12pm • Adults • Free

Walk Clove Lakes Park 718-981-4002 8am • All ages • Free

Let's Draw Together: Nature Drawing Series Blue Heron Nature Center 917-750-6364 2:30-4pm • All ages • Free

Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 11am-1pm; 2-4pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3

Kids & Kritters: Turtles Blue Heron Nature Center 917-751-0071 11am-12pm • Ages 5-7 w/parent • Free

THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF SUNSET Sunday, May 19 Blue Heron Park 6:30-8pm All ages Free 718-967-3542 preserve2.org/ blueheron

The woods of Blue Heron Park are filled with our nocturnal neighbors. Owls, moths, bats and deer enjoy the quiet hours between sunset and morning. When the sun goes down they wake up and busy themselves about the park. Join Cliff Hagen as he explores the dark corners in search of denizens of the night.

112www.siparent.com MAY 2013

MONDAY, MAY 20 Board Game Bonanza Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 5+ • Free

Board Games Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 3pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

SUNDAY, MAY 19

Read Aloud Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 4pm • Ages 4-12 • Free

Farm Day & Shear Madness Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3101 Noon - 3pm • All ages • Free w/admission

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

Gone Fishing S.I. Zoo-Clove Lakes Park 718-442-3101 11am • All ages • Free w/admission

Film Program West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 0-11 • Free

Magicicada Citizen Science Workshop Staten Island Museum 718-483-7110 1pm • All ages • Free w/admission The Sights and Sounds of Sunset Blue Heron Park 718-967-3542 6:30-8pm • All ages • Free Starting an Herb Garden Blue Heron Nature Center 718-356-9235 1-2:30pm • Adults • Free Limited Drawing and Flea Market St. Mary's Church Rosebank 718-576-8310 9am-3pm • All ages • Free

Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 8+ • Free Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

TUESDAY, MAY 21 Well Versed Urban World Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Specialized Care for YOUR Child

Phyllis G. Merlino, DDS Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

Staten Island Montessori School Over 45 Years of Quality Education

Openings Available

Call

Today • Infants • Children • Adolescents • Special Needs • Sedation Dentistry

PROGRESSIVE ELEMENTARY CURRICULUM

268 Todt Hill Road

Time for a Spring Check-Up

Corner of Westwood Ave Near Slosson Avenue

718.761.2090 www.DrMerlino.com

Child Friendly, State-of-the-Art, Modern Office

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

~NO RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION~ 4240 Amboy Rd • Great Kills 718.967.2196 • www.simontessorischool.com

GIVE YOUR PRESCHOOLER A BETTER TOMORROW Our highly qualified, state certified therapists will provide thorough evaluations and expert service for your child.

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS PROVIDING SPECIAL PROGRAMS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN!

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

Call 718.987.9400 for information or to arrange a meeting.

329 Norway Avenue • South Beach MAY 2013

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Preschool Fun Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11am • Ages 3-5 • Free Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • • Free Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free

LIGHTHOUSE BOAT TOUR Sunday, May 19 NY Water Taxi 11am-2pm All ages Free 855-656-7469

Lighthouse Boat Tours presented by the National Lighthouse Museum start with Circumnavigation of Staten Island.

Meet up at NY Water Taxi at Battery Park, where tour advisors will provide information and history of various lighthouses and points of interest along the way.

114www.siparent.com MAY 2013

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

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

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

Make @ NYPL: 3D Printing and Design New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Craft Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 4-11 • Free • Register

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

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22

THURSDAY, MAY 23

Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Free

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

Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 Free Wireless Wednesdays New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30-11:30am • Adults • Free • Register

Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 • Free

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free Zumba Workout New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 12:30-1:30pm • Adults • Free Family Matinee and Snacks Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 3-5pm • All ages • Free Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 3-12 • Free NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free

BUILDING BLOCKS MONTESSORI SCHOOL at beautiful Silver Lake

Summer Intensives July 8th-18th (Registration June 6th, 7th& 8th) Tap - Jazz- Lyrical - Hip Hop - Creative Movement

Preschool • Kindergarten Elementary Grades 1st - 5th

Complete Montessori Curriculum • Small Classes Individualized Instruction • Spanish • Yoga Art • Music • Gym • Multi-Cultural Studies REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2013 CALL FOR A TOUR

Flexible & Extended Hours • Convenient to Ferry NYC Licensed • NYS Accredited

Quality Education Since 1972

55 Forest Avenue 718-448-2992

www.buildingblocksmontessori.com

Award-Winning Dance Company Tryouts June 5th mandatory parent meeting June 13th try out class • June 15th audition

JAMZ5B (Cardio Ballet Barre) BOOT CAMP June 10th-20th–Get in your best shape before Summer starts!

Early Fall Registration!!!

Check out our new Fall schedule on our website.

1071 Targee St & Rome Ave (Next to PS 48) For More Information Call 347.466.4113 or email missjessica@missjessicasjamz.com

www.missjessicasjamz.com

MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

115

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 2-3 • Free • Register

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

Kids & Kritters: Pond Life Blue Heron Nature Center 917-751-0071 11am-12pm • Ages 5-7 w/parent • Free

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

Krafty Kids Blue Heron Park 917-751-0071 1-2pm • Ages 4-10 • Free

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

Doodlebug FunTime-Series 2 Blue Heron Nature Center 718-227-8839 1pm • Ages 18 mos-4 yrs. • Free

Kid's Craft: Memorial Day Wreath South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3pm • Ages 5-12 • Free • Register

Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-4 • Free

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

Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 11am-1pm; 2-4pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 •

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

FRIDAY, MAY 24

LITTLE RED'S HOOD Wednesday, May 15 Jennifer's Playground 10am All ages Free www.nycgovparks.org

Little Red's Hood is a fresh retelling of the classic "Little Red Riding Hood" tale updated with a modern sensibility that will appeal to kids.

The production features a dozen, hand-made marionettes crafted by the expert puppeteers from the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre.

116www.siparent.com MAY 2013

Puzzle and Coloring Hour West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Ages 0-11 • Free Sign Language for Kids South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 6+ • Free Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 Free • Register Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free Read Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free

SATURDAY, MAY 25 Basic Canoeing/UPR Clove Lakes Park 718-967-3542 11am-2pm • Ages 8+ • Free

SUNDAY, MAY 26

Explorers of the Wild: Natural Detectives Blue Heron Park 718-967-3542 2-3:30pm • Ages 6-12 • Free

TUESDAY, MAY 28 Well Versed Urban World Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Stay Well Exercise Program for Seniors New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 1-2pm • • Free Yoga for the Young at Heart-Chair Yoga Blue Heron Nature Center 718-356-0106 3-4:30pm • Adults • Free Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-18 • Free

Offering Over 60 Years of Quality Christian Education

UPK • PRE-SCHOOL THRU 8TH GRADE Christian Values • Small Class Attention Project-based Learning • Enrichment Classes Technology: Smartboards • Laptops • iPads • Smartpens • Pod-casts Title 1 Services Music Theory • Voice & Affordable Instrument Instruction Outdoor Playground/Indoor Gym Extended Day Program AM & PM Available After School Programs Including Sports Middle-School Preparation for all types of High Schools Middle States Accreditation

UPK Spots Available for Fall 2013 On-Going Registration for All Classes CALL FOR A TOUR!

www.stjohnslutheransi.org

663 Manor Road • SI, NY 10314

718-761-1858 • Fax: 718-761-4962

MAY 2013

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117

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4pm • Ages 1-11 • Free Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 • 3:30-5:30pm Math PreK-8 | Reading PreK-3 Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free • Register Children's Movie Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4pm • Ages 4-11 • Free

MEMORIAL DAY Monday, May 27

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

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

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

THURSDAY, MAY 30

Read Aloud Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4pm • Ages 3-8 • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30-4pm • Ages 12-18 • Free

Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4pm • Ages 3-5; 5-12 • Free

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11am • Ages 0-1.5 • Free

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

Family Fun Night and Snacks Huguenot Park Library 718-984-4636 5-7pm • All ages • Free

Free Math & Reading Tutoring Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 4-6pm • Kindergarten-Grade 8 • Free

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

Honor those who have served and continue to serve our country this Memorial Day!

Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 5-18 Free Make @ NYPL: 3D Printing and Design New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:30-3:30pm • Ages 12-18 • Free Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4pm • Ages 3+ • Free

118www.siparent.com MAY 2013

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

Reading Aloud Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 3-12 • Free NYPL Resources for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Ages 13-24 • Free

FRIDAY, MAY 31

Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Ages 3+ • Free Toddler Story Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Ages 1.5-4 • Free Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Ages 3-5 • Free • Register

S.I. Parent Has Bieber Fever!

Go to www.siparent.com’s home page for a link to more information!

r u o F Win ts!

Ticke

N EW D ORP CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 259 Rose Ave & 10th St (New Dorp)

tion” ve Excellence in Academic and S “Achie piritual Educa

$100 OFF REGISTRATION FIRST TIME REGISTRANTS ONLY.

COME VISIT US!

CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO TOUR NDCA Nursery School Classes for 3 & 4 Year Olds Extended Day Care Hours Also Available Full Day Kindergarten Through 8th Grade Christian Performing Arts Program K-8th Grade Computer Classes After School Activities • Safe Environment Discounts for Siblings • Free Bus Service Operating Since 1974

718.351.4442

MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

119

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Family Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3pm • All ages • Free Sign Language for Kids South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Ages 6+ • Free Board Games St. George Library 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Ages 5-11 • Free

HAVE YOU SEEN OUR

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

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

SPRING FLINGS Auctions & Walks & Fairs – Oh My! Spring is here and there is so much to do on the Island with your family. Be sure to visit www.siparent.com for a complete list of special Spring events!

120www.siparent.com MAY 2013

Check out all the Calendar Events!

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF CREATIVE LEARNING!

Registration Now For September • 2 Year Old Toddler Program • 3 & 4 year Old Classes • Half & Full Day Programs • State-of-the-Art Outdoor Playground • Large Indoor Gym • Certified Staff • Reasonable Rates

Including SMART Board Educational Technology

1657 Victory Blvd • 718-442-5350 www.castletonhillpreschool.com

DR. JENNIFER FALCONE

The Gentle Chiropractor

718.987.CARE 2375 Richmond Rd • www.falconefamilychiro.com • SAFE, GENTLE, EFFECTIVE NON-FORCE TECHNIQUE

Specializing

• Modern chiropractic for Treatment of in Pregnancy Autism and ADD/ADHD & Pediatrics • Specializing in the Webster technique • X-ray on premises • Specializing in ear infections, asthma/allergies, colic, eczema,torticollis, pregnancy related heartburn,sciatica, colds, low back pain, neck pain & headaches MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

121

Birthday CluB

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

May MAY 1 Kiara Ortega Valerie Leanza Maya Naomi Reyes Hana Ahmed Kathy Varriano Eric John Aynes Tom Barnes Isabella Spaventa Daniel Sergio MAY 2 Kaitlyn Reynolds William Chundgren Connor McCann Nicholas J. Perillo Thomas Daniel Fisher Rae Lynne Delamasa Rida Ahmed Nahjela Harrell Sean Thielman MAY 3 Ryan Schneider Alyssa Nicole Cannon Serena Lechner Larry Greco Julia Guzman Jared Guzman Joseph Scandiffio Vanessa Maguire MAY 4 Leanna Gustavsen Alexandra P Westfall Christoper J. Foote Dana Lucchese Behar Kolari Edward Jorge, Jr. Albert J. Zipprich Chasity Soto John Stillman MAY 5 Joshua Ng Raymond Cioffi Francesca Butler Adriana Chinappi Skyler Korkowski Eric John Ayne Keoni Samoy Jensen Siarrah Jensen Jamie Misiti Mia Norato Thomas McKernan Jason Benedetto Destiny Nobles Loren Lemberg Francesca Butler Kenneth Maira Meagan Brady Tyler O’Neill MAY 6 Brandon Kong Krystiana Busacca Joseph O’Rourke Jordyn Castagliola Synthia Cioffi Thomas McKernan Rocco Palermo Justin Fazio Leyana Hatcher

Daniel Previte Nicholas Previte Aiden Byrnes Matthew Palencia MAY 7 Zachary Behdaoui Kelly Cameron Kevin Uriel Gonzalez Kacie McAlarney Bernadette Dimaano Nicholas Pagliarulo Christopher Carrasquillo Adam Said Victoria Devico Victoria Kiell MAY 8 Joseph P. Pellecchia Jonathan Ellis Tatiana Watler Christopher D. Fowler Peter Berens Victoria Melendez Lori Recevuto Justin St. Clair Emily Dugan Ryan Macwan Taheem Matthews William Anderson James Nichola Foye Jaiveer Auluck Nicholas LePore Kacper Okapa Anthony Relucio MAY 9 Anthony Gonzalez Jennifer Calabrese Anissa Torres Anjana Pawa Claire Sterin Danielle Townsley Lacy Klayman Peter Berens Victoria Gilbert Anthony Feliciano Joseph Pellicane MAY 10 James E. Pipitone Nicholas Biagini Isaac S. Snitkoff Rosa Maria Perez Keoni Samoy Jensen Andrew Rainbolt Joshua Ng Antonio Duran Ashley Sharkey Azhan Ahmed Lyla Campagna MAY 11 Bonnie Kennedy Alyssa Casaliggi Christina Diana Sebar Halley Vasquez Alessandro Mercado Victoria Melendez Jessica Fontana MAY 12 Leo Michael Gilman Kayla Watler

Connor M. Stapleton Jessica Dantoni Laci Klayman Rachel DePinto Alexa Ray Guercia Julianna Grippo Mikey Grippo Michael Dirago Mya Padilla Cighanne Campbell Kennedy Kroski Jonathan Crockett Gabriella Dolce Laci Klayman MAY 13 Jessica Davies John James Figueroa Jr. Naomi Vasquez Kristin Sforza Emily Babilonia Litzy Perez Alexa Appel Hafsa Vanees Lily Saada MAY 14 Kenneth Barbosa Steven Scibetta Nicholas Lorenzo Thomas James Gleavy Frank Scafuri, IV Amanda Melian Brigitte Black Caitlin Garcia Michael Dorso Gabriella Zingaropoli Hagen Gundacker MAY 15 Louis Malchiodi John Auffredou III Jonathan M. Greenlinger Noelle P. Greco Justin J. Fermaint Lauren Elizabeth Festa Justin St. Clai Adriana Chinappi Charles D’Alessandro Hannah Nudelman Jonathon M. Greenlinger Frank Billera MAY 16 Corinne Gambardella Dana Caputo Katy Zilinski Allisyn Wise Jason Anthony Merlo Nicolette Palazzo Ashlee Hom Nicholas Joseph DeLuca Andrew Garcia Kayla Marsh Lucas DiCostanzo Fiona Walsh Sabina Kapkayeva MAY 17 Daniel Phillips Alexander Perez Danny Gurges Dia Marie Cascone Arianna Buccini

Eugenio Buccini Terraine Tabron Anthoney J. Wolven Jr. Timothy Becker Andrew Rainbolt Domenick DeLuca MAY 18 Emily D’Ambrosio Aaron Burgos Rosario Panarelli Aisha Siddiqi Lorraine Capasso John V. Bartocci Kaylee Johnson Lawrence Johnson Kevin Selby Peter Mena Arnaldo Barroso Alex Burgus Erika Grant Fischer Max Virginia MAY 19 Kevin Vincent Minks Corey J. Rabinowitz Louis Gambardella Dylan M. Dannecker Anthony J. Grillo Eric Szepietowski Amber Marie Ortiz Siarrah Jensen Jamie Stretton Gianna Granucci MAY 20 Megan Stiland Mary Janice Galanek Nikki Rubin Gabriel Wilson Kristen Cameron Juliana Marie Milano Liam James Maupin Chloe Sgroi Christian Sgroi Salvatore Sereno James Misiti Sabrina Sciabica Abigail Ippolito Justin Spallina Danielle Townsley Riley Cleary Joshua Cleary Alexandria Miccio Juliana Milano MAY 21 Stan Zahn Steven C. Schulman Ericka Cuevas Jessica A. Doyle-Yearwood Mary Attardo Alena Castagliola Karen Aguilas Alexa Manno Lori Recevuto Seyer Reyes Tunaysia Mayo Paul Joseph Malayandy Noah Roccanova Marco Romero MAY 22 Allison Cunzo

Renelle Wyke Patrick Connor Lynch Krystina N. Mandracchia Gabrielle Kilaras Patricia Riches Joseph Frances Riotta Francesca M. Gambale Jordyn Castagliola Justin Fazio Marc Joseph Dolce Soraya Lily Piccolo Alexis Cline MAY 23 Alayande Babatunde Giulia LaRosa Christopher Riccardi Katrina Miraglia James Paul Gardiner Ashley May Turitto Madison E. Sciarrino Regina Calderone Darius Robinson Sean Bowden Savannah Catalan Toriann Sullivan Venessa Popinara MAY 24 Joseph J Jasper Dane Anthony DeVito Joseph McCarron Elwah King Alexa Sokhon Israel Tapia Anita Sureshkumar Katherine Varriano Nicole Rivera Clare Rose Higgins Joseph Mendoza Skylar Korkowski Jake Levine Darrien Neville Samantha Loffredo MAY 25 Alanna Shea Joseph D. Bushman Raymond Mondello Senthil Anand Joseph M Gonzalez Anthony Ross Naya Che Fitzgerald Felicity Marie Cotto Megan Ewert Lynnmarie Cahill Monica ElDeeb Ashley Spurrell Angelina Esposito Gianna B. LaPeruta Madison Kravitz Luis Gonzalez Eddie Crespo, Jr. Kevin Garcia David Perez Andrew Spinosa MAY 26 Tyhera T. Harris Stephen Pasquale Jessica Lewand Stephanie Weiner Justin Spallina Hailey Vasquez

Jason Bassett Cassandra Mary Lugo Vienna Wiseman MAY 27 Johnny Martellone Zachary Eisenberg Bianca Scarlett Baez Anthony Quinones Vincent Paul Mandracchia Michael Remini Nicholas Maldonado Erin O’Rourke Steven Ciaccio Salvatore Sereno Christopher Catanzaro Alyssa Nicole Bishop Joseph Yannantuono Kaylee Aurora Nicolette Piscitelli MAY 28 Heather Raymond Raquel Fox Melanie Kathryn Tam Daniella Rose Certo Alexis Anna Ardolino Frank Michael Guercia Jessica Castellano Elena Barb Samantha A. Rodriguez Jessica Lewand Synthia Cioffi Steve Konivser Elisa Barbaria MAY 29 Thomas Celentano Brianna Marie Carroll Adele Buccigrossi Genevieve Buccigross Rebecca Gaudreau Mia Lynn Sgromo Megan Lin Aust Emily Dugan Sabrina Sciabica Mia Rose McCulloch Nicholas J. Russo Keith Monti Jordan Shapiro MAY 30 Marlon A. Ramos, Jr. Jaclyn Panepinto Alanna Riccardi Monica Huzinec Jenna Bartel Ava Rose Adinolfi Dale Carter Rocco Palermo Zoey Chui Yee Cheung Celine Sum Yee Cheung MAY 31 Shannon F. Henrich Kaitlin Marie O’Brien Trudy Wu Ricky Wells Matthew Russell Kevin Frances Brady, Jr. Jackelyn Diaz Dante Velasquez Madison Draheim

Birthday Club members are entitled to receive

10 FREE TOKENS AT FUNSTATION Funstation is located on 3555 Victory Boulevard • 718.370.0077 Good only for birthday club members on this list. Not to be combined with any other offers. Offer valid on child’s birthday only.

OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2013-2014 CLASSES SEATS ARE LIMITED–CALL TODAY!

www.cscofny.org e Fre fast k a Bre d/or ost an w C o e/L Fre Lunch

TUITION FREE PROGRAMS Full Day Special Needs & Integrated Classrooms • Full & Half Day Daycare Related Service Only Provider • CPSE Evaluation Site • Universal Pre-K

12 Month Progra ms

CREATIVE CURRICULUM:

Speech/Language, Learning Readiness Skills, Gross/Fine Motor Skills, Socialization, Academics; reading, math, science, social studies, Computer Program, Smart Tables, School Trips and Special Events, Enrichment Activities in gymnastics, yoga, art, theatre, music

ON-SITE RELATED SERVICES: Speech, Occupational, Physical, ABA/Behavior Therapy, Counseling LICENSED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND APPROVED BY THE NY STATE BOARD OF REGENTS NYS APPROVED PRESCHOOL (CPSE SITES) • NYS LICENCED CERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS ON- SITE FREE TRANSPORTATION THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFOR SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM ONLY

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

ELTINGVILLE LUTHERAN SCHOOL A Caring Christian Environment Pre-School 3 Year Old Thru Grade 8 FOR 50 YEARS WE HAVE BEEN: “Large enough to serve your child…

Small enough to know your child”

Join the World & Play

Most students are accepted to their first choice high school

Soccer ELS Soccer Club

ENRICHMENTS INCLUDE: Smartboard Technology, Spanish, Robotics, Laptops, Art, Band, Soccer, CYO Sports, Drama Program & Extended Day Available Pre-School 3 & 4 year old Program 2-5 full or half days available Extended Day Available • Reasonable Rates

Is Rostering Girls and Boys for Teams From 4 Years Old Through 8th Grade for the 2013-2014 Season in

CALL FOR A TOUR

STATEN ISLAND SOCCER LEAGUE

718-356-7811

300 Genesee Ave • SI, NY 10312 email: elselc@yahoo.com www.eltingvillelutheranschool.org

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

If you don’t know how to play, we will teach you!

Please call Kris at 718.753.9840 or email: elssoccerclub@aol.com for further information and registration forms.

MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

123

FAMILY NEEDS Party Services

CHARACTER-A-CISE Boogie with your favorite costume character.

Children’s Party Craft Parties Entertainment for All Ages Call

718-984-5546 or 732-360-1616

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

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

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

YOUR ONE STOP DJ & ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY

718-984-5546

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

partywithf2k.com 718.554.4780

Kids Dance Parties Call Sherry: 718-317-7439

PARTY TIME ENTERTAINMENT

Party With Us Now!

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

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

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

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

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

www.PartyTimeEntertainmentInc.com • 718.667.8998

124www.siparent.com MAY 2013

Carousel

Pirate Club

Birthday Cake

Monster Truck

Police Car

Modular Celebration

Jurassic Survivor

Bugs Life

Wild One

Amazon Extreme

ABC

Alcatraz

Titanic

Shuttle

Fire Truck

Kong

Sabre Tooth

Screamer

Crayon

Nick 5 in 1

Coliseum

Jurassic Adventure

Mutiny

Strawberry Modular 5 in 1

Skeeball

World Sport

Soccer Fever

First Down

Batter Up

Basketball Hoops

Defender Dome

Wrecking Ball

Alien Laser

Jacobs Ladder

Bungee Run

Gladiator Joust

Backyard Water Slide

Dunk Tank

Water Tag

Water Park

Surf and Slide

Monster Wave

Gauntlet

SCREEN SIZES FOR ANY EVENT OR VENUE: 9x12 15x26 40x50

Starting at $

39900

Premiere Indoor and Outdoor Movies With

Dalmation 5 in 1

Funhouse Moonwalk & Slide

Modular Slide Wet or Dry

POPCORN MACHINE

King of the Mountain Rockwall

718.979.9110 718.979.2350 VIEW OUR WEBSITE WITH OVER 500 PICTURES!

★

Water Rapids

★

★

★ THE PARTY VAN A Mobile Video Gaming Van with Xbox, Playstation 3, Wii & Mendella GX–a new virtual reality game!

Licensed in NY, NJ & PA 53 Years in the Industry

www.mickeysrides.com

FAMILY NEEDS Party Services “Every Little Detail" Rose Picarello, Owner

Full Service Event Planning & Dessert Design Company

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

718.637.7821 • 682 Forest Ave•2nd Fl

www.myeverylittledetail.net

Party on the Wild Side Live Animal Shows for Birthdays, Classrooms, and Summer Camps.

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

www.partyonthewildside.com

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

$100 OFF

FUNBELIEVABLE PARTIES

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

MAY 2013

PARTY PACKAGE Some exclusions apply. Call for details.

WWW.FUNBELIEVABLEPARTIESINC.COM

Visit Our Brand New Showroom

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

Showroom: 1761 Victory Boulevard

126www.siparent.com

10% OFF ANY

WE BRING THE 718.356.5FUN (5386) PARTY TO YOU!

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

FREE

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

10% OFF Any 4 Hour Party

Cannot be combined.

STATEN ISLAND HOT DOG

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

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

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

10% OFF

BIRTHDAY PARTY

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ANY

ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGES AVAILABLE

SERVICE WITH

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

THIS AD

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Established 1985

(Excluding Sweet Sixteens or Weddings)

c: 718-986-6510 • p: 718-698-2712

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

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Party Smarty 718-556-9475 Entertainment 718.556.9475

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

www.partysmartyentertainment.com

MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

127

FAMILY NEEDS Classifieds "THE LIFE YOU SAVE"

Protect Your Loved Ones. Learn CPR today!

SIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES CHILDREN AGES 6-12

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

Group Discounts Onsite or In Your Home

Small group setting

All ls materia d e id v pro

Fridays 11am-12:30pm in July & Aug

Research has proven that learning sign language at an early age improves vocabulary, memory & develops learning skills.

347.934.9742 www.comesignwithmeSI.com statenislandasl@gmail.com

917.836.9709

thelifeyousavecpr.com

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

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

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com

3 convenient locations.

Morning, afternoon & weekend classes.

www.SIFamilyMusic.com 718.207.1128 Mary Lee Aloia

347-215-2417 crlvsky@msn.com

128www.siparent.com MAY 2013

KAREN L. GOLDMAN, MA, LMHC-BC PSYCHOTHERAPIST & BEREAVEMENT SPECIALIST

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

SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY

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

718.259.4001

Carol

and Repairs

Director

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

WILSON READING PROGRAM MULTI-SENSORY APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM METHODOLOGY

Stroller and

dana@strollerspa.com Car Seat Detailing

MUSIC TOGETHER: The premier music enrichment program for babies, toddlers, 3, 4 & 5 year olds and their grown-ups!

PRECARE, SLP, PC

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

917.525.6230

Staten Island Family Music

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

Certified Private Tutor

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

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

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

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? CALL TODAY!

718.761.4800 x139 Be part of the S.I. Parent Family and watch your business grow!

Over 20 years of proven results!

ADVANCED TUTORING All Grades & Subjects K-12 NYS CERTIFIED TEACHERS READY TO WORK WITH YOUR CHILD

C: 718-755-3025

Non-Traditional Montessori Day Care

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

MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

129

FAMILY NEEDS Professional Directory

DIVORCE BANKRUPTCY

Family Court • Child Custody Spousal & Child Support Domestic Violence • Adoptions Name Changes • Annulments Separation Agreements Free Initial Consultation for Divorce Actions 24 Kurt T. Richards, P.C.

Hour Phone Service

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

AUDIOLOGY

CAN BRING YOU A BRIGHTER FUTURE—GET OUT OF DEBT TODAY!

KEVIN B. ZAZZERA 718.987.2700 www.yourstatenislandbankruptcyattorney.com

182 Rose Avenue We are a debt relief agency helping people file for bankruptcy

AUDIOLOGY ISLAND PROVIDES:

• Auditory Processing Disorder Screening and Evaluation (age 5+) • Auditory Brain Stem Response (ABR) testing • Complete Hearing Evaluation • Failed School Screening Follow-up • Ear Protection, Swim Molds and other Custom Ear Products • Hearing Aid Evaluation and Fitting

ORTHODONTICS

Specialist in Orthodontics

GENTLE, PERSONAL, QUALITY CARE FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS

• Special Needs Trusts • Guardianships • Parents’ Wills Call

JOHNSON & LANGWORTHY, P.C. Attorneys at Law

718.442.7004

COUNSELING SERVICES

NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

ORTHODONTICS

KAREN L. GOLDMAN

THE MEMORY AND ATTENTION CLINIC

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST, P.C. Dr. Michael Donato, Jr.

NYS Licensed Psychotherapist Bereavement Specialist For Individuals, Groups, Adults and Children • Play & Art Therapy • Anxiety • Grief & Loss Issues • Relationship Issues • Depression • School/Career Issues

Erik Moore, PhD, Director Ages 3 & Up

Neuropsychological Evaluations of: • ADHD • Developmental & Learning Disorders • School Problems • Autism Spectrum, Epilepsy & TBI Nervous System Impairments

Let Dr. Donato and his staff treat you to a quality orthodontic experience in a warm, caring & attentive setting.

Children • Adults • Invisalign™

2291 Victory Blvd

(718)987-7688 199 Clarke Avenue Richmondtown

(Evening & weekend appointments avail.)

Out of network & sliding scale plans avail.

www.straightteeth.net

PEDIATRIC DOCTOR

PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY

PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY

DR. RALPH K. MESSO, JR. FAAP, FACOP, FACP

LEAPS AND BOUNDS, PT

1076 Forest Ave • S.I. 347-850-2322

By Appointment • Day & Evening Hours

Board Certified Internal Medicine Board Certified Pediatrics

Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D.

Special Needs Children Need Special Plans for

Call for a FREE Consultation

MA, LMHC-BC

148 New Dorp Ln, 2nd Floor 718-980-0188 info@audiologyisland.com

ATTORNEY

ATTORNEY

ATTORNEY

Walk-In Care For All Ages Most Insurances Accepted No Appointment Necessary Minimal Wait • 7 Days a Week Mon-Fri 5-9pm Sat & Sun 12-4pm

718-876-0848

Insurance based pediatric physical therapy office where your child will receive the highest quality of care on a one on one basis 2460 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10314

EVALUATIONS INDIVIDUAL THERAPY SESSIONS GROUP MOTOR CLASSES MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAM Most Insurance Accepted Most Major Credit Cards Accepted

718.966.5556 www.drmesso.com 4143 Richmond Ave

LeapsandBoundspt.net

www.starspediatrictherapy.com

PSYCHOLOGIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Dr. Clifford B. Fisch, Psy.D. Licensed Psychologist

DIANE MILIO, L.C.S.W.

Kim Williams-Jenkins

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

LCSW-R, MSEd, CRC, CASAC

Psychotherapy for children, adults and couples

Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families

• Advanced Integrative Therapy • Indiv/Couples/Family • Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling • Special Needs/Identity/Self Esteem • Work & Educational Issues/ Abuse-Recovery • Autism/Aspergers

444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312

(718) 967-5213

Member American Association of Orthodontists

Approved RSA Provider Most Insurances Accepted 702 Bloomingdale Road Staten Island, NY 10309

917.705.5221

Over 25 Years Experience Most Insurance Accepted Evening & Saturday Appointments Available

718-477-1911

718.317.7030 3710 Richmond Ave

718.317.5782

2291 Victory Blvd • 10314

47 Lucy Loop • SI, NY 10312

917-613-4009

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

GEORGE TORRES & ASSOCIATES, LLC

Vickie Fossella, LCSW Adults, Youth, Families, Couples Psychotherapy, Life Coach

Licensed Psychotherapists • Evidence Based Treatments for Anxiety, Bereavement, Depression, Social/Peer Conflicts, Trauma (PTSD) • EMDR Therapy • Individual, Couples & Family Therapy • Play Therapy for Children • Bilingual • All Ages • Support Group/Anti Bullying Prevention & Education for Children & Teens Free phone consultation 347.782.9065

1082 Victory Blvd

Most Insurances Accepted

Treatment for Anxiety & Stress Disorders, Relationship Conflicts, Parenting / Family Conflicts Anger Management, ADHD, OCD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Gender Identity Issues, Social / Peer Issues ~Adolescent/Young Adult Group~ Out of network insurance.

Credit cards accepted.

646.872.0860

201 Bryson Ave • 774 Castleton Ave jkmvickie@gmail.com

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

1076 FOREST AVE. (corner of Manor Rd.)

718-447-5501 Certified professional, providing quality evaluations and treatment of adults and children for over 35 years.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES: Public Speaking Improvement, Accent Reduction, Corporate Speech Pathology & Lecturing

Sandra Mazzucco M.A., C.C.C.-SLP

NYS LICENSED SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults

• ASHA Certified • New South Shore Location: 465 Belfield Ave • Annadale Town North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave

718-815-6024

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY ASSOCIATES OF STATEN ISLAND, PLLC PROMPT TRAINED THERAPISTS SOS FEEDING APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM & WILSON TRAINED THERAPISTS EAROBICS

Individualized and Customized: Language Enhancement Programs, Auditory Training Programs, Fluency Enhancement Programs, Oral-Sensory-Motor Plans, Voice Treatment Programs, Accent Reduction Programs, Feeding Treatment Plans, Pediatric & Adult Clients We welcome NYC DOE clients, and we are now an associate of The Perfect Playground for all CSE cases.

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR

718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308 SPEECH PATHOLOGY 718-967-0359 • 3767 Richmond Ave www.brightstartspeech.com brightstart@si.rr.com

• Private practice with energetic & talented Speech Language Pathologists • Extensive experience • Full range of services (diagnostics & evaluations) • Occupational Therapy Now • NYS & ASHA Certified Accepting CPSE & RSA • Multi-Lingual Therapists

CLAIRE GUTTSMAN M.A., C.C.C. - SLP

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

FIND THE FUN IN FEEDING is a twelve-week feeding program, utilizing the SOS Approach to Feeding. It utilizes a non-invasive developmental model, that teaches your child how to interact, tolerate and eat a variety of foods in a non-stressful, supportive environment. Parent/caregiver training is a key part of this program to foster success at home.

A multidisciplinary approach is also utilized, incorporating the expertise of a feeding therapist, an occupational therapist, a nutritionist, a pediatrician or any relevant professional working with your child.

Speech & Language Pathology, P.C.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Offering Homecare

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS. FREE CONSULTATIONS.

CALL US AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE!

NEW LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR LOCATION 718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

SPEECH & OT

SPEECH, OT/PT

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

EVALUATION & TREATMENT OF PEDIATRIC SPEECH & LANGUAGE, FINE & GROSS MOTOR DELAYS & DISORDERS • Department of Education CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation • Most Insurance Accepted • Homecare and School Services Offered

718-608-1508

southshorespeechtherapy.com 520B Bloomingdale Rd SI, NY 10309 415 Route 34, Suite 218 Colts Neck, N.J. 07722

NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists, Occupational & Physical Therapists Evaluation and Treatment of Pediatric Speech, Language, Feeding, Oral, Fine & Gross Motor Disorders, P.R.O.M.P.T., Russian Bilingual Services, State of the Art Sensory Gym Dept of Ed Provider (CPSE & RSA) Top of Tertiary Tier Designation

718.605.4301 3767 Hylan Blvd (Great Kills) Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director

www.qualitycarespeech.com

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

Speech Language Pathology PC • Diagnosis & treatment of infants, toddlers, adults • Autism, learning and communication disabilities • Articulation, impaired language, stuttering or lisps • All major credit cards and insurances

PreCare, SLP, PC • Radmila Gurevich, MA, CCC-SLP

718-761-4800 x139

WWW.SLPMD.COM

718.259.4001 • 1829 Richmond Rd

MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

132

ADVERTISER INDEX A Call Away Footcare ......................................6

Ivy Urgent Care................................................14

Roller Jam ........................................................77

Academic Advantage ..................................53

J & J Academy ................................................85

School of Rock Stage Left..............................29

American Karate ............................................98

JCC Lillian Schwartz Day Camp ..................75

Seido Karate ....................................................92

Archdiocese of NY ..........................................23

JCC Family Fun Day ....................................121

Showplace Entertainment ............................39

Athletic Edge ......................................................5

Jenkinson’s/Breakwater Beach....................57

SI Academy ......................................................63

Babes in Toyland ............................................53

Kevin B. Zazzera................................................69

SI Braces ............................................................21

Barbara Rauch Tutoring ................................97

Kiddie Palooza/Am-bi-ance ........................65

SI Children’s Museum ....................................91

Big Bird’s Playhouse ..................................46, 98

Kiddie Wonderland ........................................47

SI Chinese Christian Church..........................44

Bricks 4 Kidz ......................................................29

Kids ‘N Shape....................................................31

SI Community Charter School......................94

Brienza’s Academic Advantage................107

Kids Dental ........................................................10

SI Community Tennis ....................................103

Building Blocks Montessori ........................115

Kidzrock ............................................................99

SI Day Camp ......................................................8

Building Blocks Speech..................................83

KIP Learning Center ........................................54

SI Dental ..........................................................134

Calm Birth Research Study............................26

LA Dance ........................................................105

SI Divorce ........................................................111

Carnival Kids / Spa Di Da..............................13

La Tourette Golf Course..................................84

SI Mall ..............................................................119

Casa Belvedere ....................................129, 132

Land of Make Believe ....................................95

SI Montessori School ....................................113

Castleton Hill Moravian Preschool ............121

LaVida Massage ............................................27

SI Pediatric Dentistry........................................58

Crib Outlet ........................................................43

Major League Screen Printing......................99

SI Pee Wee Football ......................................54

CSI Continuing Education ............................79

Master Curry Karate..........................................7

SI Physician Practice ......................................15

CSI Summer Camp ......................................103

Mastropiero Pools............................................54

SI Wrestling ........................................................22

D’Agostino & Associates ................................18

Mathnasium ....................................................55

SI YMCA Camp ................................................93

Dance Sensations............................................83

Medieval Times ..............................................117

Silhouette Dance Studio ..............................109

Dea Music and Art School ............................87

Melissa’s Dance Workshop ..........................76

SIMHS Teen Center ........................................107

Dr. Giovinazzo ..................................................35

Mini World Preschool ....................................91

Small World Dental..........................................41

Dr. Michael D’Anna, DDS................................81

Miss Caroline’s Dance Elite............................85

Small World Preschool..................................109

Dr. Michael De Simone ..................................91

Miss Jessica’s Jamz ......................................115

South Shore Auto Leasing..............................47

Dr. Michelle Giumenta....................................97

Monster Jam ....................................................85

South Shore Toddler Academy ..................25

E.J. Michael’s Catering ..................................66

Munchkin Manor Preschool ........................26

St. George Theatre..........................Back Cover

Ed Perpetua Tennis Academy ......................74

New Dorp Christian Academy ..................119

St. John’s Lutheran School ..........................117

Edible Arrangements......................................25

New Dorp Moravian Church ........................76

St. John Villa Academy ..................................66

Elizabeth Pouch Early Learning Center ......99

Notre Dame Academy ..................................51

St. Joseph Hill Academy ................................84

Eltingville Lutheran School ..........................123

On Your Toes ....................................................92

St. Paul’s School of Nursing..........................117

Evolution Dance Company ..........................25

Once Upon a Child ........................................66

St. Teresa’s School ............................................84

Eye Level Math & English ..............................67

Our Lady Star of the Sea..............................107

Suzanne’s Fashion Corner ............................80

Fairy Lice Mothers............................................80

Our Place School ..........................................113

The Child Study Center of NY......................123

Falcone Family ..............................................121

Papa Perrone’s Riceball Shoppe ................24

The Village Preschool......................................85

Fastbreak Basketball Center ........................52

Paramount Oral Surgery................................27

Therapy Pros ....................................................53

FasTracKids........................................................67

Parent to Parent ............................................111

Triple Threat Theater ......................................103

Field Station Dinosaurs ..................................46

Party Jam Party Centers ................................45

Tutoring By Christine........................................83

Financial Integrity Services............................24

Party Jungle......................................................59

Vanguard 529 Plan ........................................37

Francis School ................................................105

Phyllis Merlino, DDS........................................113

Victory Gymnastics ........................................86

Fun Station ..................................................16,17

Pole Position Raceway ..................................86

Vincent La Bella Painting ..............................40

Games on Wheels ..........................................28

Pouch Day Camp ..........................................38

Volunteers of America..................................109

Gateway Academy......................................115

Pottery & Glass Land ......................................40

Wagner ......................................................91 , 94

Genesis ..............................................................25

Rab’s Country Lanes ..............................19, 105

Wizard of Art......................................................76

Gingerbread Learning Center ..................135

Relax on Cloud 9 ............................................22

Words in Motion ..............................................95

Hibachi Grill ....................................................12

Richmond County Day Camp ....................11

Young Peoples Day Camp ............................9

High Hopes ......................................................28

Richmond County Savings Bank ..................2

Zion Lutheran ....................................................89

Inspirations in Dance......................................80

Richmond Hill Children’s Center ..................83

iPlay America ..................................................49

Rise Dance Studios..........................................53

CAN YOUR DENTIST DELIVER THESE SERVICES? • Intravenous and Oral Sedation • Nitrous Oxide “sweet air” • Painless injections with “The Wand.” One of only

• 38 years of experience with over 2,000 hours of continuing education • CPR and emergency management trained staff

four Dentists in the NY area to have this technology • Comfort care cleanings • Doctor’s cell phone number

• Always see the same Doctor

• Drill free dentistry

• One hour hygiene visit devoted to oral health

• 5 year warranty on dental work • State of the art oral cancer screening with Vizilite • Financing available • An overall heath approach with blood pressure and blood sugar testing • Be seen on time!

and comfort • Availability of topical gels for gum comfort during hygiene visits • Understand your dental needs; see it on TV with our intra-oral camera!

• Ask us about the 25 other ways we can help you!

• Evening and weekend hours

If your answer is “no,” you need to call

STATEN ISLAND DENTAL CARE 718.761.5757 Dr. Frederick S. Hecht, D.M.D., P.C. Crown Council Humanitarian Dentist award for overseas dental missionary trips

Special Web Offer! www.AfraidOfTheDentist.com 1520 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314 We are sorry but we are not able to accept Medicaid

134www.siparent.com MAY 2013

We are renovatin g the North Ga nnon Ave location to ser vice th better e childre n and fam ilies of Staten Is land

Gingerbread Pre-K Summer Program Registration I s Going On Now !

As per Section 4410 of Article 89 of the Education Law

• Group or Individual Curriculums at Your Home, Preschool or our Center.

• Diagnostic Evaluations and Therapy by Licensed Certified Professionals. Placement determined by NYC CPSE. • NYS Approved Preschool Evaluation Site.

• FREE TUITION AND TRANSPORTATION* * For all eligibile children. Funding provided through state and local agencies. Parent may transport for reimbursement.

• Developmental Areas: Behavior and Socialization,

Cognitive Development, Speech and Language Hearing Loss, Physical and Occupational Therapy.

• Two Convenient Staten Island Locations.

• Call or Visit our School & Pick Up a Free Brochure.

• For Information Concerning the Early Intervention Program Call 311.

WWW.GINGERBREADLCTR.COM ~Equal Opportunity Employer~

Ages 0-5 Programs Available 718 80 Woodrow Rd • 471 North Gannon Ave • 144 Bloomingdale Rd E-Mail: GingerbreadLearn@aol.com

5 Days - Full Day/Half Day

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

Extended Daycare Hours 7am-7pm Available MAY 2013

www.siparent.com

135

PRST STD

SOLUTIONS TO EVERYDAY PARENTING

1200 South Avenue • Suite 202 Staten Island, New York 10314

www.siparent.com

U.S. POSTAGE PAID STATEN ISLAND, NY PERMIT NO. 493