Staten Island Advance Living News

Living, parenting, health & more from the Staten Island Advance

• BIRTHS
BOONE -- a son, Charles J., to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Boone (nee Nicole Savasta, Great Kills) of Great Kills, Aug. 30.

• 'Girl at the Edge of the World,' a Yurok Indian legend
Umai, a restless and dreamy young woman, lived with her people, the Woge, on the far edge of their world, a flat plate that floated upon the Ocean Within the World. The Woge were the first people, those who formed the geography of the Earth, the World Within the World.

• SURVIVING AUTISM
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- According to several autism advocacy organizations, 80 percent of married couples raising autistic children get divorced, mainly due to the stresses involved. While the challenges of marriage compounded with caring for a special needs child can be incredibly overwhelming, some couples manage to keep their marriage and family life intact and as normal as possible.

• Getting the words out
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As a teenager, the sound of a ringing phone sent Tony Troiano into a panic. The thought of having a conversation with someone on the other end of the line was unbearable.

• Medical Society continues to advocate for Staten Islanders
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- I am privileged and humbled to be the 202nd president of the Richmond County Medical Society and would like to thank the past presidents, officers and members of the Richmond County Medical Society, as well as the dignitaries, elected officials, guests, friends, staff and family who shared with me in the events of the election meeting; especially our immediate past president, Dr. Ralph Messo, whose tireless efforts to improve healthcare for Staten Islanders still continue.

• Come to the 'Cabaret for the Crown'
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Miss Staten Island Scholarship Organization will hold its annual "Cabaret for the Crown," Thursday, Oct. 23, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Chinese Garden room, Hilton Garden Inn, Bloomfield. The event is a fund-raiser featuring performances by past Miss Staten Islands and the introduction of this year's contestants. In true Cabaret style there is no dinner, but a cash bar will be available. Tickets are $20 each. For reservations, call Jim Smith, pageant executive director at 718-816-5508.

• Golf gathering to honor fallen soldier
The Lt. Nick Lia Foundation will hold a golf outing Monday, Oct. 20, at the Richmond County Country Club, Dongan Hills. Registration is at 9:30 a.m.; shotgun start at 11 a.m.; cocktails at 5 p.m. with dinner and art auction following at 6 p.m. in the grand ballroom of the main club house. The cost is $250 each; dinner only is $125. Mail checks payable to Lt. Nick Lia Foundation, c/o Drs. Galligan & Villa, 4143 Richmond Ave., Staten Island, N.Y., 10312. For more information, call 718-984-7700.

• Golf outing to honor slain police officer
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Staten Island Help Our People Excel (H.O.P.E.) is holding its first Police Officer Gerard Carter Golf Outing, Friday, Oct. 17, at the Silver Lake Golf Course. The day will start at 7 a.m. with registration and a continental breakfast, followed by tee time at 8 a.m. and a deluxe barbecue at 1 p.m. Donations are $150 per person for a round of golf and barbecue; $30 per person for barbecue only; and $100 for a hole sponsorship or any amount donation. All donations go toward the Gerard Carter Scholarship Fund for college students. Make a reservation by next Sunday for golf outing. For more information, call LeEric Hampton at 718-415-5916, Victor Wilson at 347-743-9833 or Plinnie Morris at 917-868-7696.

• Gym Class Heroes
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- No, Gym Class Heroes were not created by Fall Out Boy. Their only record is not "As Cruel As Schoolchildren." And no, they are not a typical hip-hop group -- they are a BAND!

• Honduran cardinal will be honored by international humanitarian group
The Hope For A Healthier Humanity 2008 Humanitarian Award Dinner will be held Thursday, Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. in the executive offices of Ropes & Gray, FOX News Building, 1211 Avenue of the Americas, 38th Floor, Manhattan. Ticket cost is $350 per person, and can be purchased online at www.hopeforahealthier-humanity.org or by calling 718-966-4750.

• Meg O'Connor, 16, Westerleigh
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Meg O'Connor is managing editor of the school newspaper, and wants to make writing her career. She loves rock music, reading and Disney movies. Her personal motto is: "I'd rather believe the best in everyone and be disappointed sometimes, than believe the worst in them and be right."

• Psychic Night will help fund 'Relay'
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Psychic Night Dinner will be held Saturday, Oct. 25, from 7 to 11 p.m. in All Saints Episcopal Church, 2329 Victory Blvd., Willowbrook, to benefit the American Cancer Society. Tickets are $50 per person, and include a pasta dinner with salad, bread, beverage -- and up to a 20-minute reading from a psychic. For more information, call Karen Goss at 347-393-5538.

• Society for Children to host masked ball
Seamen's Society for Children and Families will be hosting its fourth Black and White Masked Ball at the Excelsior Grand, New Dorp, on Thursday, Oct. 30, beginning with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m., followed by dinner, dancing and a silent auction. Tickets are $150 per person. For reservations, call Linda Herschfeld at the society, 718-447-7740, ext. 4269.

• Support soldiers at a 'Battle of the Bases'
Staten Island Supports Our Soldiers will present "Battle of the Bases" softball tournament on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Richmond County Youth Sports Complex, South and Travis avenues. Admission is $5 per family. Beer, soda, snacks, entertainment for the kids and a 50/50 raffle will be available. For more information, call Chris at 718-273-5707. For information on forming a team, call Joe Obermaier at 917-609-7411.

• WEDDINGS
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Our Lady of Mount Carmel-St. Benedicta R.C. Church, West Brighton, will hold its 69th annual Spaghetti Dinner fund-raiser on Tuesday, Oct. 14, with lunch from noon to 3 p.m. and dinner, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the school cafeteria. Takeout dinners will also be available. Tickets cost $10 per meal for adults, $5 for children, and can be bought in advance, or at the door. For reservations and more information, call the rectory at 718-442-3411.

• Anthony and Dorothy Schiumo
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Schiumo of South Beach were surrounded by family as they celebrated 60 years of marriage. The gathering was hosted by their children and held in the Manalapan, N.J., home of their son, Robert Schiumo.

• Churches to bless pets today
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Feast of St. Francis of Assisi will be celebrated with animal blessings at several Staten Island churches today.

• Island native elected order's vicar general
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Sister John Agnes Barone, a native of New Brighton, has been elected vicar general of the Sisters of St. John the Baptist.

• Judge not according to appearance -- John 7:24
Q: My dearest friend died suddenly. She was my wife. I pray to her every night and tell her of my love. Does my message get through to her?

• Summerfield to host program of music, poetry
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Summerfield United Methodist Church will present a program of music and poetry at 3 p.m. Oct. 12 as a celebration of the congregation's 169th anniversary.

• WEDDINGS
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Louise Sbarra was 8-years old when she met Vincent Conti, who was then 15.

• Real-size style
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A St. George resident wants to create a fashion revolution on Staten Island for women who don't aspire to wear size zero.

• Children's service for Yom Kippur
Temple Israel Reform Congregation will have a Yom Kippur Children's Service at 1:30 p.m. Thursday.

• Favre fever? Get a Fathead!
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE -- The whole coming-out-of-retirement thing was a bit hard to watch but Brett Favre's early season with the New York Jets has been a beautiful thing. Last Sunday he tied Joe Namath's team record for the most touchdown passes in a game -- six -- leading the Jets to a 56-35 win over the St. Louis Cardinals.

• Star, League of Women Voters team up for registration drive
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE -- The actress Virginia Madsen has teamed up with the League of Women Voters to urge women to turn out in November.

• Using his 'golden hands' to give back
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- When Yaacov Lazarus offered to do some interior renovations at Congregation Beth Yehuda, "we were thinking about a couple of pieces of sheetrock," said Avram Lawrence, son of Rabbi Shimon Lawrence. "But what he did was amazing."

• Golden Delicious squared off against Red
STATEN ISLAND, NY -- GRYMES HILL -- Olivia Limone of Westerleigh used "fancy" scissors to cut the pastry lattice that topped her pie, a custard-like version topped with flaky dough crisscrosses. Her creation, otherwise known as entry No. 5, was among the winners in Notre Dame Academy's 11th Apple Pie Contest held at the school's annual Family Day last Saturday.

• Kielbasa: A sausage for all suppers
STATEN ISLAND, NY -- RANDALL MANOR -- Wanda Krasnicka pulled a cranberry-pineapple babka from the oven of her Randall Manor kitchen. The perfume from the cake rivaled savory scents from her freshly baked babeczki, miniature babkas made with spinach and onion.

• Anticipate autumn with light and airy sweets
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Creamy layers of chocolate cream are paired with ready-made pastry dough in these Napoleons, making it a far easier dessert to bring to the table than they look.

• Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with festive recipes
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The beginning of the Jewish calendar's Days of Awe -- extending from Monday night's start of Rosh Hashanah until Yom Kippur on the night of Oct. 8 -- is the time for observant Jewish families to take the time to try to pursue a higher level in dealing with others as a way to start a better new year.

• Chef offers suggestions for an at-home Oktoberfest menu
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- When it comes to celebrating Oktoberfest, no city has come even close to the success of Munich, Germany, in lauding the smorgasbord of beers produced around the world.

• Fall cocktail uses apples
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- You can almost smell the apple orchard, you say?

• Festive desserts sweeten afternoon tea time
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Once a working plantation, the historic Seguine House in Prince's Bay, has undergone various changes since it was built in 1837. Restored by George Burke with period furnishings and art work to some of its former grandeur, the mansion occasionally is used by Burke as a backdrop for elegant events.

• Great gazpachos
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- With the last of the harvest still ripening on the vines, or on a sunny windowsill, it's time to find new uses for the bumper crops of tomatoes and cucumbers coming from your garden, or purchased at the St. George Greenmarket.

• New restaurant opens at Manhattan church
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Exotic foods and decor create a feast for the senses at Inside Park, a new restaurant in a newly renovated church hall in Manhattan.

• Stepping back in time
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A dozen long-time intimates stepped back in time a fortnight ago -- at the invitation of a mutual friend -- to take part in a formal Victorian-style tea and guided tour of one of Staten Island's remaining Greek-Revival mansions -- the Seguine House in Prince's Bay.

• Birth announcements
LEWIS-McGILL -- a son, Toriano Deshawn, Jr., to Aicha McGill and Toriano Lewis of Stapleton, Aug. 26.

• THE GAME IS CHANGING
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- For Joe, a 16-year-old high school student, marriage and family are definites. He plans on being in a monogamous relationship and wants to have several children, most likely by adopting. Joe, who is gay, believes these goals are attainable.

• 'Tiger Man,' a tale from India
Once upon a time, a tiger was roaming through a village when a storm suddenly descended. The tiger rushed for shelter beside a small house. The wild storm raged and lightning streaked across the sky, and the tiger could see nothing at all in the relentless downpour. From inside the house, he could hear a woman wailing, "What shall I do to save myself from constant dripping. Someone save me from constant dripping! Help!"

• Make sure you buckle up your kids in the car correctly
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- There are times when I'm not much of a fan of statistics. You probably know the kind I'm talking about. They're not real statistics but just real numbers put into a different perspective.

• Resident physician training programs have improved
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The last 25 years has brought remarkable improvements in the quality and scope of resident physician's training.

• What's cooking?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Cheryl Maffeo sat by the stove, watching chicken fry in a pan until it turned a crispy golden color. Every few minutes she turned the pieces over to make sure they were just right. In the oven, potatoes roasted.

• COMING EVENTS
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Apparel from Emily's Boutique of Staten Island will be showcased at the Dinner-Fashion Show hosted by the Women's Auxiliary of the Elizabeth W. Pouch Center for Special People, on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at the Richmond County Country Club, Dongan Hills. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $65; contact SIMHS Director of Community Relations Frances Hogan at 718-442-2225.

• Cross Road Foundation will stage fashion show
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Cross Road Foundation, Port Richmond, will hold its 15th annual fashion show, "It's a Small World," on Thursday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m. in the Hilton Garden Inn, 1100 South Ave., Bloomfield. Tickets are $55 per person, including dinner, live entertainment and a display of women's and men's fashions. For tickets and more information, call Cross Road at 718-556-3474.

• Joe Ryan Memorial dinner will support high school sports
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Fifth Annual Joe Ryan Memorial Awards Dinner will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, in the Old Bermuda Inn, 2515 Arthur Kill Rd., Rossville, with the cocktail hour beginning at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $55 per person. Mail checks to: Joe Ryan Memorial Committee, 43 Fingerboard Rd. Staten Island, N.Y. 10305. For reservations and more information, call Tom Killeen at 917-361-2462 or Bob Ryan at 718-984-7718.

• Lights, camera, ACTION!
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A good action film keeps the viewer on the edge of his seat as the thrills come racing from the screen. So, are you in need of some excitement in your life? Check out some of these classic adventure films available on DVD. Each film listed here is part of a series, so if you're really looking for adventure, take the time to watch each series in its entirety!

• Orah Club hosts fashion show
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Orah Club of Na'amat USA will host a fashion show and dinner Thursday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m. in Congregation B'nai Jeshurun, 275 Martling Ave., West Brighton. Catering is by Kaplan, fashions by Coldwater Creek. Tickets are $36 each. For tickets call 718-981-5550.

• Raise rescue funds at Doggie-and-Me Tea
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Doggie-and-Me-Tea Party fund-raiser will be held at La Tea Da, 7485 Amboy Rd., Tottenville, to support No More Tears Rescue, Sunday, Oct. 5, noon to 4 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person. For tickets, send a check to No More Tears Rescue, P.O. Box 61356, Staten Island, N.Y., 10306. For more information, call 718-448-9355.

• St. Paul's will host British Flower Festival
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Florists and garden centers will decorate St. Paul's Episcopal Memorial Church, Stapleton, for its 10th annual British Flower Festival Friday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 5. The festival will include a gala opening cocktail reception Friday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $60 each. Saturday will include both a blessing of the animals at 1 p.m. and a "Trash or Treasure" appraisal at 2 p.m. for $10 each. The festival will close on Sunday with a concert and traditional English tea at 3 p.m. Tickets are $30 each. For information and tickets call Ann Witkowski 718-273-1523.

• University Hospital pediatric unit will cash in on casino night
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- To benefit the redesign and renovation of the pediatric unit at Staten Island University Hospital, the Joseph Maffeo Foundation will present "Casino Night 2006!" on Friday, Oct. 17 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m.; Nicotra's Ballroom, Hilton Garden Inn, Bloomfield. Tickets are $125 each and include Buffet dinner, open bar and 50 gaming chips. Reserve by Oct. 10; call 718-227-0812 or e-mail MaffeoFoundation@aol.com.

• ANNIVERSARIES
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In the 1940s Staten Island's shore communities, such as South and Midland Beaches, were the place to be -- the beach during the day and the amusement rides, a dance pavilion and outdoor movie at night.

• 'Blue Mass' tonight at St. Thomas R.C.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- St. Joseph-St. Thomas R.C. Parish will celebrate a "Blue Mass" for all those in the uniformed services this evening at 6 p.m. in St. Thomas the Apostle R.C. Church, Pleasant Plains.

• Calvary Chapel treats firefighters to a night out
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Calvary Chapel and its sponsors treated 125 firefighters and their spouses or guests to dinner and a movie Thursday night.

• Gerard and Nicolette Brierley
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Former Oakwood residents Nicolette and Gerard Brierley of Lexington, S.C., celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with festivities on Staten Island that included renewing their wedding vows at their daughter's wedding and a family party.

• Mass in honor of Cardinal Cooke
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The 25th anniversary of the death of Cardinal Terence Cooke will be commemorated with a mass at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 6 at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan.

• New church meeting at Mount Loretto
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- CrossBridge Community Church, which has been meeting in a private home since its start-up last year, now has services every Sunday at 11 a.m. in PS 25 on the grounds of Mount Loretto in Pleasant Plains.

• Can t-shirt sales predict election outcome?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- For months, polls have been trying to predict who's going to be the next president. Turns out, they might want to look toward the T-shirts.

• Charity's founder expands his horizons
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Milton Pfeiffer is a purist when it comes to the Mi Shebeirach, but he also knows a fund-raising opportunity when he sees one.

• 'Pre-emptive bathroom spray' eliminates odor, embarrassment
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- This is a subject my father would have called indelicate, and no one could have disagreed with him. But the makers of Poo-Pourri recognized a need when they saw one.

• Stand-in candidates to debate the issues
The Men's Club of Congregation B'nai Jeshurun will sponsor the "Presidential Surrogate's Debate" at 2 p.m. Oct. 19 in the West Brighton synagogue.

• Voter chic
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Elephants and donkeys are taking over the fashion world.

• Voter chic
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Elephants and donkeys are taking over the fashion world.

• 3 drinks for warm fall days
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Although the autumn season according to the calendar, has only just officially started, there's bound to be warm days ahead. Remember, Indian Summer doesn't actually occur until after the first frost.

• Catch of the day
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "It will all be ready to go -- mise en place -- in the outdoor kitchen on the deck behind my house," said Chef/owner Adam Lener of Portobello Cafe in Great Kills.

• Culinary contest looking for creative kids
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A $25,000 scholarship fund is waiting for the grand-prize winner of the seventh annual Jif Most Creative Peanut Butter Sandwich Contest.

• Foodies flock to annual 'Harvest in the Square'
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Manhattan's Union Square has become a destination for foodies and that was never more evident than last Thursday at the annual Harvest in the Square.

• Many great-tasting wines come from Oregon
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Directly above California lies the beautiful state of Oregon, bordered by breathtaking mountains and surreal coastlines. Although wine has been produced in Oregon for over a century, its modern era of wine didn't begin until the late 1950s.

• Not everyone follows the party line

• Tips for pairing beer with cheese
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In the huge tented beer halls in Munich, Germany, at this time of year -- usually mid-September into October -- artisan cheeses, crispy roast chicken and mammoth two-liter, glass steins of beer are wolfed down by thirsty Oktoberfest visitors.

• TO MARKET
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Charlie Bishop is best known by shoppers at the St. George Greenmarket for the various types of garlic he grows on his farmland in Unadilla, N.Y.

• Tour introduces chefs to unique dishes for making in restaurants or at home
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Each year. chefs from the Olive Garden chain of restaurants travel to Italy in hopes of being inspired to create new recipes. This year, several new dishes have been added to their menus, each based on a unique interpretation of a regional specialty.

• West Brighton chef plays host to Food Network
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "Fill out a form, answer a casting call and you never know who will be at the other end of the line when the telephone rings and the call you've been waiting for finally comes through."

• 'Bellerophon and Pegasus,' a Greek legend
Long ago, in the city state of Corinth, there lived a young man named Bellerophon, son of King Glaucus, though some say Bellerophon's true father was the god of the sea, Poseidon.

• Birth announcements
ARENA -- a son, Vincent Paul, to Mr. and Mrs. Paul Arena (nee Sandy Athanasiou, Fort Lee, N.J.) of Annadale, Sept. 5.

• Making amends
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- If you and your sibling haven't spoken for years and the silence makes you miserable, reach out with these tips from Barbara LeBey, author of "Family Estrangements: How They Begin, How to Mend Them, How to Cope With Them" (Bantam).

• THE SIBLING TRAP
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "I love him like a brother."

• A close-up look at celiac disease
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In December 2006, the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute published a statement on the diagnosis and management of celiac disease. Several important facts for Staten Islanders and their physicians are found in this report:

• Camp Adventure brightens the lives of young campers affected by cancer
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- At camp, Matthew Mascari played sports, made friends with other teens his age and bonded with counselors. He enjoyed a carnival and participated in nightly activities. For one week this summer, 13-year-old Matthew was away from his parents.

• Can you recognize the signs and symptoms of a concussion?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Even though at least 1.4 million people are hospitalized due to concussion each year in the United States, the numbers of people actually suffering a concussion are much higher. According to experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the numbers could be as high as 3.8 million concussions each year.

• Where hope lives
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- For one year, Larry Lin trudged two hours into Manhattan through the rain, snow and hot weather. Like many other Staten Island commuters, he took the train to the ferry to the bus. But Lin faced another obstacle along his route: cancer.

• Alternative rock with Finger Eleven
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Finger Eleven has been around for more than a decade. This band from Ontario, Canada, has an alternative rock sound, and will occasionally throw in a funky instrument. Some heart them, some don't.

• CSI alums to dine, dance and salute school's head
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The College of Staten Island (CSI) Alumni Association will hold its second annual Alumni Dinner Thursday, Oct. 2, at 6:30 p.m. in Nicotra's Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn, 1100 South Ave., Bloomfield. Cost is $125 per person and includes cocktails, dinner, dancing and entertainment. Checks should be made payable to the CSI Foundation, and along with the names of alumni, their guests and graduation year, should be mailed to the CSI Alumni Association, 2800 Victory Blvd., Building 1A-111, Staten Island, 10314, or call the Alumni Office at 718-982-2290 for information. The gala is open to alumni and friends of CSI, as well as the former Richmond College and Staten Island Community College.

• Heart Society golf outing will honor memory of judge
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Staten Island Heart Society will hold its annual Heart Golf Classic Friday, Oct. 3 at LaTourette Golf Course with registration and lunch at 11 a.m. and shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $150 per golfer, which includes golf with cart, driving range, welcome package, embroidered shirt and hat, barbecue lunch buffet, unlimited beer and soda, food station by Canlons and Tommy Bahama Rum Station, course activities and buffet dinner with open bar at the Staaten. Sponsorship packages are available. Dinner only is $60 each. For more information, contact Donna Dixon at the Staten Island Heart Society at 351-3115 or 917-821-9706 or e-mail DonnaDixon22@aol.com.

• Is a big party really necessary?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- I love parties just as much as the next teenager, but there is a time in which a party is just not worth the money. Do you really need an over-extravagant Sweet 16 party to "wow" your guests? Do you really need exotic foods that no one has ever tasted ? Do you really need a dance floor that is the same size as Madison Square Garden?

• Lost-and-found inventory builds after a wedding
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The perfect dress has finally been found and the invitations have been sent out. Flower arrangements have been ordered and the groom's tuxedo fitted.

• 'Miracle Babies' to be stars at Cooley's Anemia fashion show
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Staten Island Chapter Cooley's Anemia Foundation will celebrate its 25th anniversary at its "Miracle Babies" dinner and fashion show at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Bloomfield. Tickets are $50 each; call Cammie Brandofino at 718-761-5380; for journal ads call Terri DiFilippo at 718-983-6004.

• Picnic aids scholarship in football player's name
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The third annual James M. Vurckio Memorial Scholarship Fund-raiser will take place Sunday, Oct. 5, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Nansen Park, Travis, rain or shine. Adults $50; children, 6 to 14, $15 in advance; children under 6, free; call 718-816-0549.

• Sea View Auxiliary putting Rock & Roll in fund-raising
Sea View Hospital Rehabilitation Center & Home Auxiliary will hold its 28th annual Rock & Roll Review on Saturday Oct. 4, beginning with cocktails at 7 p.m., dinner at 8 p.m. in Sea View Colony Hall. Framboise, which provided catering services for this year's Olympics in China, will cater this event. Tickets are $150 per person. For more information and reservations, call the auxiliary office at 718-317-3349.

• Support children's aid with friends of Joe Mandarino
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A benefit will be held on behalf of the Joe Mandarino International Children's Foundation Thursday, Sept. 25, 7 p.m. at Edgewater Hall, 691 Bay St., Stapleton, sponsored by David Ettore Mazzei and staff of Chez Vous Caterers. The ticket donation is $65 per person, including free valet parking. For more information or to make a donation, visit online at www.joemandarinofoundation.org or mail check for the event to: The Joe Mandarino Foundation, 23 Conyingham Ave., Staten Island NY 10301.

• Tee off with Eger Foundation
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Eger Foundation will hold its 10th annual golf outing, Monday, Oct. 6, at the Richmond County Country Club in Dongan Hills; $300 per person includes golf, lunch, cocktail hour and dinner; $125 for cocktails and dinner only. Registration and breakfast are at 9:30 a.m.; shotgun start at 11 a.m.; awards dinner at 6 p.m. For information and reservations, call Vienna Profeta vice president for resource development at 718-989-3087.

• Wagner offers wedding-planning course
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- An eight-week, 40-hour course in wedding planning will be given Oct. 15 to Dec. 10 at Wagner College through its External Programs Division. The class will meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 to 10 p.m.

• Weather or not, county fair goes on
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The 29th annual Richmond County Fair at Historic Richmond Town drew some 1,300 on its first day, which was bedeviled by rain. But there was sunshine on the second and concluding day, and about 10,000 thronged the critical fundraiser for the cultural institution. Featured were kiddie rides, contests, crafts and more.

• What do your dreams mean?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Dreams can mean a lot of different things.

• When 2 receptions have advantages over 1
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Varied scenarios prompt couples to have two different celebrations. Sometimes there are two different cultures involved. Other times families are in different countries.

• Young 'stars' to shine at CYO brunch
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) will host its second annual "Shining Star" Youth Brunch Saturday, Oct. 4 at 10 a.m. in the Hilton Garden Inn, Bloomfield. Tickets are $55 per person. For information contact Julie Greco or Jennifer Oliver at 718-448-2907.

• Allen and Johanna Hooker
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A riverboat cruise featuring dancing and dining with family and friends was part of the 60th wedding anniversary celebration of former Concord residents Allen and Johanna Hooker.

• Anthony and Ella Nora Bulla
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- When Anthony Bulla was home on leave from the Merchant Marines in 1942, he stopped by the Salvation Army's Cherry Street Settlement, where the ministry was helping to care for his younger brothers after the death of their mother.

• Back from Rome, priest returns to his Island roots
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Staten Islanders will have a chance to reconnect with the Rev. Dennis J. Billy next month at the first-ever reunion planned for all graduates of St. Christopher's School in Grant City.

• 'Jihad in the 21st Century' to be topic of Sept. 29 lecture
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Aminah Assilmi, a convert to Islam who served on President Clinton's Commission on Race Relations, will give a talk on "Jihad in the 21st Century" at 1 p.m. Sept. 29 in Wagner College's Spiro Hall, room 2.

• Robert and Ellen Tatar
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A family picnic in Monticello, N.Y., was the scene of the first meeting between Ellen Donnelly and Robert Tatar. Ellen was on vacation from nursing school when her father, who was a friend of Robert, invited him to the family get together.

• Banish the bra strap with Straptinis
Let's be frank: Bra straps were never meant to show.

• Curvaceous women invited to flea market and fashion show
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Curvy girls and women, listen up: From noon to 8 p.m. on Sept. 27, plus- size fashionistas are invited to a Curvy Girl Flea Market and fashion show at The Cup in Stapleton.

• Lecture on spirituality to open Jewish Culture series
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "Making the Jewish Spiritual and the Spiritual Jewish," will be the opening lecture in the Wagner College Chai Society's fourth annual Jewish Culture Series, co-sponsored by the Jewish Community Center of Staten Island.

• Shopping benefit tomorrow at Macy's
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Macy's will host the third national "Shop for a Cause" day tomorrow to benefit thousands of charitable organizations, including more than a dozen on Staten Island.

• Thinking beyond the clutch
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE -- The designer Vivienne Tam and the computer maker Hewlett Packard have teamed up to provide something new in fashion: A digital notebook disguised as a clutch bag.

• Annual Grand Central Oyster Frenzy this weekend
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Chefs Peter Fu of St. George, Anthony Walton of The Boat House in Central Park, Lee Ann Leichtfuss of Ralph Lauren, Kyle Deming of Starfish Restaurant in Toronto, Canada, and Fine Living Network's host Stephen Phillips will all be shucking and slurping at the Grand Central Oyster Frenzy in Manhattan this Saturday.

• A TASTE OF STATEN ISLAND
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It's not unusual for a talent in baking or cooking to be passed down in a family.

• Heart-healthy recipes part of the Mediterranean Diet
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Start switching to a Mediterranean Diet by stocking your pantry or kitchen cabinets with the right foods and a collection of easy-to-make recipes, advises Executive Chef/co-owner Jean Paul Desmaison of La Cofradia restaurant in Coral Gables, Fla.

• Making a sandwich lighter in fat and calories
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In answer to the demand for convenience products that are more nutritious, food manufacturers are flooding trade shows and eventually store shelves with items designed to win over health-conscious consumers.

• Research proves, mom was right!
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "Eat your vegetables; have another piece of fruit. No, there'll be no dessert until you've finished your dinner!"

• Revolutionary machine for coffee-loving masses
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Coffee history is being made by two Staten Islanders, one cup at a time, at the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan.

• SIPPERS
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As always, the recent Republican and Democratic National Conventions stirred up new controversy on several levels. The 2008 presidential campaigns isn't any different from those of the past -- they just revolved around this year's set of issues and supporters.

• Swirling wine in glass releases aroma, reveals clues
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- There are two main reasons for swirling wine.

• Birth announcements
BLUMENBERG -- a son, Gavin M., to Mr. and Mrs. Michael Blumenberg (nee Lindsay Link, Dongan Hills) of Sunnyside, Aug. 14.

• FRIEND OR FRENEMY?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "David Letterman knows what 'frenemies' are! I barely know!" a blogger posted on Gawker.com a few months back.

• 'The Misunderstood Man,' a West African folktale
Once upon a time in the hills of Ghana, there lived a young man named Kofi. People called Kofi "Know-It-All" because he was forever bragging about how much he knew. No matter what anyone said, Kofi tried to outdo him.

• Pilates goes green
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Standing on her feet eight hours a day (12 during holidays) in her Dongan Hills flower shop battered Judith Silver's body. Hunched over as she meticulously designed floral arrangements, her shoulders stiffened, back ached and legs weighed her down like lead.

• SIUH cardiac rehab center within easy reach of most Staten Islanders
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- If it could be harnessed, it would be a unique form of renewable energy, although the heat it produced would add rather than subtract from global warming. And it is here, on Staten Island!

• Take antibiotics only when needed and exactly as prescribed

• Bingo! with diabetes foundation
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Staten Island Branch of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation will be holding the seventh annual Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Bingo Night Thursday, Sept. 25, from 7 to 11 p.m. at Ariana's Catering Hall, New Dorp. A ticket is $45 and includes dinner, soda, coffee, dessert and all bingo games. For reservations, call Kathy Zazula at 718-273-8534.

• Italian group to welcome members at tea
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Staten Island chapter of the American Committee on Italian Migration (ACIM) will hold its annual membership tea Sunday, Sept. 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. at La Bella Restaurant, Great Kills. Reservations are $25; $30 at the door; call 718-984-2347.

• Morning madness
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It's 6 a.m. Your alarm clock starts playing your favorite music station, but, exhausted from the day before, you hit the snooze button. Once, twice, three times ... until finally it's 6:30 -- and you're late for school. You scramble to get ready, and leave the house unorganized and unprepared, already starting the day off on the wrong foot.

• NAACP will honor activists at annual brunch
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Dominic Carter, political reporter for NY 1 News, will be guest speaker at The Staten Island Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Freedom Fund Luncheon, featuring the annual William A. Morris Humanitarian Awards on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 11:30 a.m. in the Staaten, West Brighton. In addition to lunch and dancing, a ticket for $75 includes a year's membership and a subscription to Crisis Magazine. For information, call Eileen Hyman at 917-309-6018.

• Realtors will recognize service to the community
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Staten Island Board of Realtors (SIBOR) will honor three community activists at its 93rd Annual Dinner Dance on Thursday, Sept. 25, at 6 p.m. in the Grand Plaza, Great Kills. A ticket is $90; call AnneMarie Izzo in the SIBOR office at 718-928-3223.

• Skylight Center will celebrate 20th anniversary
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Skylight Center will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a gala at the Richmond County Country Club, Dongan Hills, on Tuesday, Sept. 23, beginning with cocktails at 6:30 p.m. and dinner to follow. Al Lambert will provide the entertainment for the evening. Tickets are $175 each. For reservations, call Carol Berardi at 718-448-1398 or Sky Light Center at 718-815-9283.

• SUN, SUN, SUN, HERE IT COMES
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• Support hospital, dance 'Under the Harvest Moon'
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC) will host its second annual gala, "Under the Harvest Moon," Friday, Sept. 26, 6:30 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 1100 South Avenue, Bloomfield. Tickets are $275 per person and can be purchased by mailing a check to: RUMC Development Office, The Second Annual Gala, 355 Bard Ave., Villa Building, Staten Island, N.Y. 10310. For more information, call 718-818-2195. Journal ads are available from an $150 business card-sized to $12,000 for the outside back cover.

• ANNIVERSARIES
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Sun, fun, and family were part of the 60th wedding anniversary celebration for former Westerleigh residents Thor and Edna Bugge.

• 'Death and Dying' series at Christ Church New Brighton
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A new adult education series on "Death and Dying" will begin tomorrow at 9 a.m. in the Parish House of Christ Church New Brighton.

• Firefighters invited to dinner and film
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Calvary Chapel is inviting firefighters and their spouses or significant others to dinner and a movie on Sept. 25.

• See 'Julie from Staten Island' at St. Andrew's Silent Auction
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- You don't have to go to Manhattan to see "Julie from Staten Island," a one-man show written and performed by Julio Vincent Gambuto, formerly of Rossville.

• First solo exhibit for Willowbrook artist
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Thursday will mark the solo exhibit debut of Willowbrook artist Caryl Herzberg at the Art @ the J Gallery at the Joan and Alan Bernikow Jewish Community Center in Sea View.

• Signs of spring
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE -- Call it the season of the drape.

• Biggest designers show off their stuff today and tomorrow
STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE -- Fashion Week heads into the home stretch with its last two days of shows today and tomorrow.

• Former Islander is artist of a different kind
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Sandy Linter has her mother to thank for her incredible career as a makeup artist to the stars.

• Cooking with kohlrabi
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It's not unusual for a shopper at the St. George Greenmarket to reach out for a fresh vegetable displayed at a farm stand, turn it over in their hands a few times and then casually ask the vendor: "It's beautiful, but how will I cook it?"

• Dongan Hills restaurant owner enjoys educating his patrons
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "People should understand the importance of eating plum tomatoes in season. Just look at them -- they are vibrant red, shiny and juicy; their skin is tender and they have lots of flavor," said Chef/owner Vittorio Asoli of Trattoria Romana in Dongan Hills. "When you make a sauce from tomatoes in season, it tastes much better than at any other time."

• Do you like your politics straight up, or with a twist?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- With the conventions over and the presidential election still months away, a peak into many Washington, D.C., restaurants proves the city is already living, breathing, eating and drinking the election.

• Magazine recognizes Pasticceria Bruno bakery
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- "Modern Baking" magazine, the national trade magazine for the retail, in-store food service and specialty wholesale bakery industry, has named Staten Island's Pasticceria Bruno its 2008 Retail Bakery of the Year.

• SIPPER
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- To toast Mexican Independence Day next Tuesday, Kahlua -- the coffee-flavored liqueur -- seems an appropriate choice simply because it originated in the Yucatan region.

• Three decades ago, sommeliers' decision stunned wine lovers
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The movie "Bottle Shock" might be called this year's "sequel" to "Sideways" in the fact that it focuses on the California wine industry -- poking fun at some of its vagaries, while elsewhere attempting to charm wine lovers.

• Wineries in New Jersey and upstate New York begin harvesting grapes
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- While California wine country has captured the imagination of American wine drinkers, regions closer to home are harvesting their grapes now as well. Consider Long Island's wineries as well as those in upstate New York and New Jersey.

• 'Angel Dance,' an Indonesian folktale
Once upon a time, there lived a prince named Arif, the only son of the king and queen in the kingdom we call Sulawesi.

• Birth announcements
CARROLL -- a daughter, Emma Grace, to Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Carroll (nee Kristine Guarneri, Brooklyn) of Annadale, Aug. 6.

• Just dumped? Pour your heart out online
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Megahn Perry wanted to get rid of some old jewelry she had lying around from past relationships. She went to a pawn shop and was offered little money for her belongings. Her next stop was a consignment shop that would sell the jewelry for her -- and maybe she'd get a cut of the profit.

• THE SWING
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- When I made reservations to stay at the Hilton Garden Inn on Staten Island last year, all I knew was it's near the nursing home where my mother was a reluctant resident. When the airport shuttle pulled up to the hotel, I was relieved: Not only is the place attractive, but it has a friendly staff -- and I was going to need all the good cheer I could get.

• Do you know when it's safe to pass a school bus?
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It's no secret that Staten Island roads become a morning and afternoon nightmare of cars and crowds when school is back in session.

• EMT class now forming
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Training Institute for Medical Emergencies and Rescue will start its fall semester on Sept. 15. The course will be held at the South Beach Psychiatric Center, Ocean Breeze, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., with select weekend day classes.

• Seven years later ...
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Seven years later, the signs are still visible.

• Treating kidney stones
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- If your doctor has determined that you have a kidney stone that is likely to pass out of your body on its own, and you do not have signs of infection or urinary tract blockage, you will probably be told to to wait for the stone to pass in your urine.