Borough President Vito Fossella, Columbia University’s Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Richmond University Medical Centerhave partnered under the Cancer Prevention in Action (CPiA) grant to release an advertisement in the St. George Ferry Terminal about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
The ad will run on the screen over the main ferry gates through April 2. The ad focuses on the HPV vaccine’s ability to prevent cancer, and tells viewers that they can get the vaccine starting at age nine by talking to their doctor or school-based health provider. “The HPV vaccine is one of the few evidence-based tools in our tool box for preventing multiple cancers," said Dr. Ginny Mantello, Director of Health and Wellness for Borough President Fossella. "We owe it to our community, to parents, caregivers as well as their children to educate and update them on this valuable resource. We are grateful to the Columbia University Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center and RUMC for their partnership and help in moving this work forward and reducing the burden of cancer on Staten Island,” . HPV can cause six different types of cancers in men and women, and is responsible for almost all cases of cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine, typically administered as two to three doses for children and adolescents beginning as early as age nine, is cancer prevention. It prevents over 90% of these six types of cancer, including cervical, vulvar, vaginal, penile, anal, and oropharyngeal (back of the throat) cancers. Among New York City’s five boroughs, Staten Island has the lowest HPV vaccination rate for adolescents with only about 22% of 13-year-olds having completed the HPV vaccination series, as compared to around 60% throughout New York City. The Cancer Prevention in Action grant from the New York State Department of Health and Health has allowed this partnership to work together to provide education about HPV and the HPV vaccine to the Staten Island community. “The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at Columbia has been privileged to partner with Drs. Ginny Mantello and Ana Mendez and their extraordinary teams to develop and evaluate programs of outreach to reduce the cancer burden in Staten Island, which has some of the highest cancer rates and lowest HPV vaccination rates in New York State,” said Dr. Mary Beth Terry, Associate Director of the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement at Columbia University’s Cancer Center. Dr. Ashley Stephens, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, has given three grand rounds lectures to medical professionals with CPiA about the science behind the HPV vaccine and how to overcome vaccine hesitancy among patients. Two of these lectures were at Staten Island University Hospital to their medicine and pediatrics departments, and one was at the pediatrics department at Richmond University Medical Center. “The HPV vaccine is one of two vaccines that we have to prevent cancer, the other being Hepatitis B," said Dr. Stephens. "The vaccine is a very effective cancer prevention tool, and it’s so important that we equip health care providers with the tools to talk about this vaccine with their patients.” Dr. Stephens has also worked alongside Dr. Ana Mendez, Chief of Ambulatory Pediatrics at RUMC’s Patient Centered Medical Home, to bring HPV education to the RUMC patient population and to train school-based health center staff at high schools about how to offer the HPV vaccine, manage HPV vaccine hesitancy, and answer common questions about the HPV vaccine. “As healthcare providers, it’s our duty to educate our patients and their parents on the benefits of the HPV vaccine, providing them with the tools necessary to make an educated and informed decision on whether or not to receive the vaccination,” said Dr. Mendez. CPiA has also partnered with Project Hospitality to bring HPV education to a primarily Spanish-speaking population on Staten Island. Dr. Mantello connected CPiA to Project Hospitality’s health pop-ups, which she helped to organize. These events provide free health screenings, vaccinations -- including the HPV vaccination -- and resources to people who would be otherwise unable to afford or access care. They continue to partner with Project Hospitality on HPV vaccination education, along with skin cancer prevention education, which is also part of the work they do on Staten Island. “HPV vaccination and skin cancer risk reduction policy change and education are the core tenets of CPiA’s work. This year we plan to expand our partnerships with local organizations to work on reducing the cancer burden in Staten Island,” says CPiA Staten Island Project Director Maya Lipsman of Columbia University’s Cancer Center, Office of Community Outreach and Engagement. For more information about the Cancer Prevention in Action program in Staten Island or if you are interested in scheduling HPV education for your organization, please email Maya Lipsman or visit the Take Action Against Cancer website. Background: Columbia University’s Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (HICCC) was recently awarded a three-year grant by Cancer Prevention in Action (CPiA) of New York State Department of Health and Health Research, Inc. The award supports the HICCC’s work on skin cancer risk reduction and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination education in Staten Island. The HICCC is the first and only site in New York City to receive this competitive award by the CPiA program. HICCC has partnered with Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC) and the Office of the Staten Island Borough President to complete the activities of this grant. These partners make connections with local organizations to implement sun safety policies and deliver HPV vaccination education. Borough President Vito Fossella Reunites Joey DeRobertis, Mary Ansbro After Subway Serendate3/24/2023
Borough President Vito Fossella reunited Joey DeRobertis and Mary Ansbro in a small gathering in his office after their chance meeting on crowded subway car headed to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade led to a heartwarming serenade.
“What we saw last week between these two young wonderful people, it was a beautiful moment that brought joy to a lot of people,” said Borough President Fossella. “Most importantly to the families, we say thank you for giving us these two young, beautiful people. It is a reminder of how much in life is love and unity that conquers everything -- and of all places, on the subway.” Joey was singing while taking the R train to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade with his friends. Mary, a student at the Hungerford R. Hungerford School, who was on the train with her family, requested he sing a song with her name in it. Joey, a 2022 graduate of St. Peter’s Boys High School, was happy to oblige and had the perfect song at the ready: “The Wanderer” by Dion. Passengers on the subway car joined in the singsong with the line, “Oh well, there's Flo on my left arm and there's Mary on my right.” At the end of the song, Mary gave Joey a big hug. Borough President Fossella was so moved by the touching scene that he invited the duo into Borough Hall. He put Joey on the spot and asked him for a reprise. Without hesitation, Joey launched into “The Wanderer” as Mary sat behind Vito’s desk. Borough President Fossella said the act of kindness “hit home” on Staten Island. “It’s representative of and reflected in what we like to think our community is all about -- being there for each other, making someone smile, making someone laugh,” said Borough President Fossella. “Joey, you did that last week for Mary, and we wanted to take this moment on behalf of the half-a-million people here, and I am sure beyond Staten Island to thank you. Sometimes, we give a certificate of appreciation, but because this is a song-based, we’re going to give you a note of appreciation.” To Joey and Mary, we thank you for making us all smile. Borough President Vito Fossella and District Attorney Michael McMahon hosted a Vietnam Veterans "Welcome Home Breakfast" on Wednesday in the Hilton Garden Inn.
The breakfast was a way to finally say "thank you" to Vietnam Veterans, many of whom did not receive a warm welcome when they arrived back to the United States after their service. In a special touch, the breakfast took place on the 50th anniversary of when the last troops left Vietnam and the final group of American prisoners of war were freed and left Hanoi. "We would not have the life we have today if it were not for those who dedicated their lives to protect the freedoms and people of our great nation,” said Borough President Fossella. "Our Vietnam Veterans were not appreciated appropriately when they came home from war, but we are forever grateful for their service and heroism and will continue to thank them every chance we can." A “white table” was in the room to honor prisoners of war and soldiers who went missing in action. The table was set with silverware, a rose, a lit candle, a white tablecloth -- and an empty chair. Also in attendance were Korean War veterans and Lt. Anthony Aquaro, a 102-year-old World War II veteran and retired firefighter. At the end of the breakfast, the veterans were presented with a custom challenge coin as a symbol of thanks and appreciation. To all of our veterans and those still serving today, we offer our thanks. Vito announced the continuation and expansion of the veteran discount program during a press conference in Rab’s Country Lanes in New Dorp.
He was joined by Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC) President and CEO Michael Cusick and Staten Island Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Linda Baran, along with veterans and business owners. The veteran discount program was started in 2012 by then-Assemblyman Cusick. “One thing we all share on Staten Island, regardless of where you live or who you are, is that we love and cherish our veterans for their service to our nation,” said Borough President Fossella. “Our veterans are what makes this the greatest country in the world.” There are more than 200 participating businesses which provide veterans with discounts of up to 10% for goods and services. “Our businesses are very patriotic – they want to help our veterans,” said Assemblyman Cusick. Businesses wishing to participate can fill out this form on the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce's website. Veterans wishing to receive a discount card can call Bobby Aanonsen at the SIEDC at 718-477-1400, ext. 827 Borough President Vito Fossella, District Attorney Michael McMahon Announce Bread Of Life Food Drive3/16/2023
Borough President Vito Fossella was joined by District Attorney Michael McMahon and students from across Staten Island to announce the 32nd annual Notre Dame Bread of Life Food Drive during a press conference in Borough Hall.
For the second year, the food drive’s catchphrase is "Fight Hunger, Not Each Other," which gives students an opportunity to contribute to the community in light of recent violent incidents in schools. Students in both public and private schools will collect food for the drive, which will be distributed to 25 non-profit organizations on Staten Island that serve individuals and families in need of food. “We always hear about a handful of bad kids, but the vast majority want to help their fellow sister and their fellow brother,” said Borough President Fossella. “That is what the Bread Of Life Food Drive is all about. This has been a labor of love for us for so many years because it is so important to the people of Staten Island.” Across the country, 285 cities in 34 states participate in their own Bread of Life Food Drives. “It started right here on Staten Island and it became a national model by building on the love that is so strong here,” Vito said. District Attorney McMahon touched on the catchphrase. “Recently, there has been violence within and among the population of young people here in our borough and that is very concerning to us,” said District Attorney McMahon. “By focusing on the love between us and not the anger, this program is going to make sure we all have a bright future. I know that you are all leaders in your schools and will bring that message back.” Bread of Life Executive Director Joseph Delaney thanked the students who participate each year. “Last year, when we totaled up what we collected in the Bread of Life Food Drive, there was a 12% increase in school donations than the previous year,” he said. “I attribute a lot of it to this get together, to your impetus in getting this started and to this work that you are doing for us.” Claire Atalla, the CEO of Catholic Charities of Staten Island, one of the recipients of the food drive, said the nonprofit recently shifted one of its main priorities to food insecurity. “You would be surprised to know that many of your Staten Island neighbors are food insecure,” she said. “They are people who live paycheck to paycheck, who can barely make ends meet, who are disabled, who are single parents, who are the victims of domestic abuse, who are between jobs. It can happen to any of us at any time and our job is to rally around our neighbors to make sure we help each other out. ‘Fight Hunger, Not Each Other’ is a true testament to what we need to do.” Since its inception, the Bread of Life Food Drive has collected and distributed more than two million food items. This year, participating schools will collect non-perishable items through April 1. The food will then be boxed at Monsignor Farrell High School and delivered to the recipient organizations. Creativity, building, innovation, letting your imagination run wild -- that is what is behind the Department of Education’s Minecraft Education Challenge.
Borough President Vito Fossella announced Staten Island’s participation in the five-borough competition for public school students in grades K-12 during a press conference at Wagner College on March 8. He was joined by Department of Education representatives and Wagner College President Angelo Araimo. Also participating were students from Staten Island Tech, CSI High School for International Studies, New Dorp High School, Tottenville High School, Curtis High School, Susan E. Wagner High School, and McKee High School. In the Minecraft Education Challenge, students will build a space that answers the question: “How can we create a safe, connected, resilient, and sustainable borough that moves NYC forward without leaving anyone behind?” “Education can be exhilarating, it can be boring, it can be a lot of different things, but in this case, you can have as much fun as you want,” said Borough President Fossella. “This is a blank canvas. Be bold, be creative, be innovative.” To participate, Staten Island students can create a team and submit their design by April 5. The teams selected will move onto a qualifying round and compete against other borough schools in a live challenge. The winning teams from the qualifying round will compete for the Borough Champion on May 13 at Wagner College. That team will move on to the Mayor’s Cup and vie to become NYC Battle of the Borough’s Champion. “Let yourselves shine,” said Borough President Fossella. “There are no limitations to this, you have the freedom of you own mind to be your tour guide -- and at the end of the day, we want to bring a winner home to Staten Island.” Borough President Vito Fossella was surrounded by students from P.S. 78 to announce that the public playground adjacent to the school will be secured exclusively for their use during their recess.
The announcement came a month after the Stapleton school’s windows were pierced by bullets from a nearby shooting. Nobody was hurt in the incident. Securing the playground exclusively to the P.S. 78 students is a collaboration with the City Department of Education, the City Parks Department, and District Attorney Michael McMahon. “We walked around the playground and within a couple of days, thanks to the way government should work for the people starting with the mayor and all the way down to the Department of Education and the Parks Department, we were able to secure this facility for the children everyday between the hours of 9 o’clock and 2 o'clock for them to enjoy,” Borough President Fossella said during a press conference on March 8. Principal Jodi Contento said collaboration is one of the core values taught at P.S. 78. “Nobody could do it alone,” she said. “For me, this is about taking something negative that happened -- and we’re thankful that nobody got hurt -- and turning it into a positive. What happened was we were able to identify one of our needs. So, when the DA and the Borough President came, they asked us what it was that we needed. I told them that one thing that could be a quick fix is that we don’t have a playground. We don’t have a place that is just for P.S. 78." She said gates and signage will be installed to alert the community about the new use of the playground during weekdays. “This is a public playground, and of course we want the community to enjoy it, but we have to ensure that my 600 students who are going to come outside have a place to play that’s safe during these hours,” she said. The students passed around the microphone to talk about the importance of having a playground to call their own. “We need recess, because we have to take out all our energy, because in class we’re just sitting down and learning,” said Stanlee Uruchima, president of the third-grade student council. “We want to run around and play games and have fun.” Borough President Vito Fossella joined Councilman David Carr to announce a more than $3M renovation to the Midland Beach Playground announce a more than $3M renovation of the Midland Beach Playground, which is adjacent to P.S. 38. The renovations will feature new play equipment, a safety surface, seating, landscaping, and fencing.
He recalled walking by the park when he was a student at Egbert (I.S. 2) Intermediate School. “It’s a vital part of the community,” said Borough President Fossella. “I used to see this park all the time and nothing has really changed. It does serve P.S. 38, and it serves it well, but anybody who drives by here on a nice spring or summer afternoon knows that this is very well used by the Midland Beach community. This is why we come together because the public space, the parks, and the playgrounds make life just a little bit better, especially for young families who want to watch their kids enjoy aimless time instead of watching their phone.” The allocations include $2.4M in funding from Borough Hall and $1.8M in City Council funding. “It’s an investment that’s definitely needed because it’s been well over two decades since there was substantial investment to make this a truly operating playground,” said Councilman Carr. A community input meeting will be held in the spring, which will include students from P.S 38. “We like to meet with the kids because they’re the ones who give us the best ideas for what they want to see in their local playground,” said Joe Homsey, chief of staff to Staten Island Borough Parks Commissioner Lynda Ricciardone. Watch the full press conference here. (Photo courtesy of the Staten Island Advance/Paul Liotta) Borough President Vito J. Fossella celebrated "Ralph Lamberti Day" to thank our 12th Borough President for his powerful advocacy of Staten Island during an intimate ceremony with family and friends at Borough Hall.
Mr. Lamberti served as the Deputy Borough President from 1974 to 1984 and then as Borough President from 1984 to 1989. “There are so many memories,” said Mr. Lamberti, sitting at his old desk alongside former Borough President James P. Molinaro. “It wasn’t just about sitting inside -- but about going outside to make a difference for the public. The public was involved in everything we did.” Borough President Fossella said the role of the Borough President is to act for the improvement of Staten Island and to work across party lines. “No matter who we are or where we’re from, it doesn’t matter,” said Borough President Fossella. “The reality is that we all love Staten Island, and we just want to make this place better for our kids and grandchildren.” Mr. Lamberti's wife, children, and grandchildren spoke about his use of the term “we are family,” to incorporate all of Staten Island. “Recognition at this point is very meaningful,” said Mr. Lamberti's wife, Susan. “His life was devoted, and I was happy they mentioned ‘we are family,’ because I think that was the spirit that he shared.” As the ceremony came to a close, Borough President Fossella presented Mr. Lamberti with a framed portrait. “Your accomplishments are countless: You fought City Hall to expand services on Staten Island, created more parkland, and secured funding for the arts. As a student at Curtis High School, you played football for Andrew J. Barberi and later successfully urged NYC to name a ferryboat after the legendary coach.” Borough President Fossella also praised Susan for always championing Ralph’s efforts and making her own positive impact on the lives of Staten Islanders. “To Ralph and Susan, we thank you for your everlasting commitment to Staten Island,” he said. “You are true examples of selfless leadership.” Borough President Vito J. Fossella gathered his fellow elected officials and representatives from a number of city agencies to discuss traffic and transit issues plaguing Staten Island, as well as to share ideas about potential solutions, during a Transportation Summit in Borough Hall on Tuesday.
“It’s common knowledge that one of the most important quality-of-life issues on Staten Island is traffic and transportation,” said Borough President Fossella. “We thought it would be worthwhile to collect all the elected officials and representatives, as well as some of the major stakeholders who get things done, to highlight what we thought are the major priorities to improve traffic conditions, to enhance safety, to expedite the flow of traffic while maintaining safety and to speak with one solid voice on these priorities.” Here are the priorities they outlined:
Borough President Vito KJ Fossella kicked off the 27th annual “Readers Are Leaders” challenge at PS 8 in Great Kills on Tuesday, addressing the fourth-grade students about the importance of reading. “This program is to encourage and to inspire those who like to read, but it’s also trying to get to those who don’t necessarily like to read,” said Borough President Fossella. “Readers Are Leaders” challenges fourth-grade students in the borough’s public, parochial and private schools to read a minimum of five books in five weeks. Students then submit a report or interpretation in their own creative way on their favorite book read during the five-week period -- it could be in the form of a skit, a diorama box, video, interview with a favorite character, book report, or another creative way the student chooses. Each school then selects one “Super Reader” to receive an award at a ceremony in May. The challenge began in 1996 when Borough President Fossella was the Councilman representing Staten Island’s South Shore and it was later taken over by Borough Hall. Since its inception, fourth-graders graders have read more than 780,000 books for the annual challenge -- that amounts to over 29 billion words read. “It’s something we’re very proud of,” said Borough President Fossella. “It’s one of the better things I ever had the privilege of doing, and I just hope, even if it makes a difference in one child’s life, we’ve done good.” At the end of program, the PS 8 students wowed us with a dazzling performance of “A Backstreet Valentine’s Day.” We thank the students and staff of PS 8 for welcoming us into their school and we look forward to another successful year of reading for all of Staten Island’s fourth-grade students. Schools wishing to participate can email events@statenislandusa.com. Borough President Vito Fossella Helps NYPD Launch 'Digital Age:' Cyberbullying Workshops For Schools2/14/2023
Borough President Vito Fossella announced the launch of the NYPD’s “Digital Age,” a boroughwide cyberbullying workshop designed for students and parent during an assembly at Totten (I.S. 34) Intermediate School.
“It used to be if there was an argument or a fistfight in the hallway, it was over in about six minutes,” said Borough President Fossella. “People made up, they forgot about it, and who knows, maybe they became good friends for the rest of their lives. But social media now can take that hallway incident and put it around the school and beyond in three minutes. It could lead to tragedy.” “Digital Age” will bring specially-trained police officers into school classrooms and assemblies to educate students about the potential harmful effects of cyberbullying. There will be workshops for parents in the evenings to teach them how to recognize and react to the signs of cyberbullying, as well as the ways it can be prevented. Mental health resources will also be provided for students who are the victims of cyberbullying. Students and parents will be educated about the serious criminal charges that can result from cyberbullying, as well as the false sense of security that deleting posts or profiles completely removes them from browser history. “The continuing support of the Borough President is essential in helping our Too Good for Drugs program evolve as issues for young people do,” said Detective Derek Brown of Patrol Borough Staten Island. “Our youth are immersed in the digital world so it’s our team’s responsibility to make sure it is a safe space for them to grow as they step into the Digital Age.” Borough President Fossella called on students to take action when they witness a case of bullying. “For the life of me, I can’t fathom watching someone who is being hurt, abused, or pummeled and standing there and doing nothing,” he said. “I can’t imagine why you would want to videotape it and broadcast if for the world to see. If you’re ever in that situation, don’t be the one videotaping it -- step in and call for help instead of being a spectator. As much as technology has changed, one thing that hasn’t changed is the fundamental principle of treating somebody as you want to be treated yourself. If everybody does that in life, we wouldn’t have these issues of bullying and cyberbullying.” Schools interested in setting up a workshop should contact Detective Brown or Police Officer Kevin Moore at 718-667-2200. Watch the full press conference here. Borough President Vito Fossella was joined by Robin Vitale, Vice President of Health at the American Heart Society, and Rachel Volpe, Executive Director of the Staten Island Heart Society, in launching “Be the Beat,” a nationwide call-to-action to ensure every household has at least one family member trained in hands-only CPR.
“Be the Beat” provides free resource tools to help start and sustain hands-only CPR and AED training programs in communities to teach the lifesaving skill. Hands-only CPR -- which involves chest compressions, rather than mouth-to-mouth resuscitation -- is recommended by the American Heart Association as it increases the likelihood of people performing CPR in an emergency. “The fundamental truth remains that if we can administer and provide CPR in the first minute or two, we can save a life,” said Borough President Fossella during a CPR training session for staff members in the offices of Borough Hall, as well as those from the District Attorney’s office and court personnel. “The recent on-field cardiac arrest of Buffalo Bills’ player Damar Hamlin underscores the importance of this training in the event of an emergency.” Each year, 350,000 Americans die from cardiac arrest -- when the heart stops beating and the individual is unresponsive. About 90% of individuals who experience cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting will not survive. “We are challenging every family to train at least one person in hands-only CPR, and if possible, to be certified,” said Dr. Ginny Mantello, Borough Hall’s Director of Health and Wellness. “This is important because most cardiac arrests don’t occur in the hospital. They happen at home, or at work, or in the community. This very simple measure, this very simple training can potentially save the life of a loved one.” Watch the full press conference here. Borough President Fossella, NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue Cut Ribbon On Dugan Playground2/9/2023
Borough President Fossella joined NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue to cut the ribbon on the $3.72 million renovation to Gerard P. Dugan Playground in New Dorp.
“The playground has been a beloved mainstay in New Dorp since it opened in 1931," Vito said. "The brand-new features will ensure it remains a safe place for children to play and for the community to gather. It continues to serve as a wonderful tribute to its namesake, Gerard P. Dugan, a Marine Corps veteran who was a dedicated civic leader.” Renovations include new play equipment for children ages 2-5 and 5-12, large and small swing sets, and spray showers. Parks also installed new water utilities, ADA accessible seating areas, and game tables; planted more trees and shrubs; and provided more shade in the center of the site. (Photo credit: NYC Parks/Malcolm Pickney) Vito presented the Patrick F. Daly Award to two outstanding educators who exemplify the selfless leadership of the fallen principal.
Patrick F. Daly lost his life in a gang cross-fire thirty years ago in Red Hook, Brooklyn, while searching for a student who had left the school building. The award was presented to John K. Boyle, the principal of Totten Intermediate School 34, and Lisa Friscia, a K-5 English As A New Language teacher at P.S. 39, during a ceremony in Borough Hall. John K. Boyle was named the principal of Totten Intermediate School in 2011. Mr. Boyle is committed to ensuring that every day is “Just another Great Day at IS 34” for all of his students, faculty, and staff. He has been appointed both a Model and a Master Principal by New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks. He is a graduate of Monsignor Farrell High School and holds a master’s degree in Secondary Education from the College of Staten Island and a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Touro College. Lisa Friscia has been teaching for 14 years and currently works with new students entering P.S. 39 from around the world. She developed an interest in working with and supporting culturally diverse student populations while writing her thesis on shared reading strategies to support English-language learners. She currently serves as a NYS TESOL Advocacy Committee Member and as a mentor teacher for new classroom teachers and TESOL teaching candidates from Touro College. It was a wonderful and truly inspiring evening at Borough Hall. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating these two worthy educators. And a special thank you to the Port Richmond High School Culinary Department, the Susan Wagner High School Jazz Combo, and the St. George Theatre for their participation in making this evening special. Borough President Vito Fossella proclaimed "Impractical Jokers Day" in the Borough of Staten Island on Monday, Feb. 6.
The Impractical Jokers accepted their proclamations in front of 1,000 fans at the St. George Theatre, where they kicked off the 10th season of their TruTV show with a special screening of the first episode. Brian (Q) Quinn, Sal Vulcano and James (Murr) Murray have never forgotten where they come from and continue to show their love and support of their hometown. Borough President Vito Fossella Unveils Animal Education Workshops In Honor Of Tommy Monahan1/31/2023
Borough President Vito Fossella unveiled an animal education workshop for fourth-graders in honor of Tommy Monahan whose love for animals was so natural that he didn’t think twice when he ran into his burning home to rescue his Yorkshire terrier and lizard on Dec. 17, 2007. Tommy was 9-years-old when he lost his life in his heroic attempt to save his pets.
Pet Talk was launched as a pilot program yesterday at PS 36 in Annadale, where Tommy was a student. As part of the program, an educator from the Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) will visit fourth-grade classrooms to present interactive lessons that emphasize the emotional connection to our pets and the importance of pet adoption. "This is a test program. We’re going to learn and see what best works at PS 36, and then where it needs to be tweaked, we’ll do so," said Borough President Fossella. "Our goal is to expand it to every school on Staten Island, public and non-public, and then if the mayor and others in the Department of Education see the measure of success here, we’ll expand it citywide.” He was joined by Tommy’s family and representatives from ACC at PS 36. Tommy’s sister, Gabrielle Monahan, worked with the Borough President’s office to create the Pet Talk program soon after becoming a teacher. “I took that as kind of my brother saying he is going to follow me, no matter what I do,” she said. “My family is really excited for this next step in remembering him and building his legacy even more.” That legacy was also memorialized in October when Vito hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony in October for the renovated Animal Care Center in Charleston -- its lobby renamed for Tommy. Borough President Vito Fossella joined District Attorney Michael McMahon and the NYPD to announce a partnership that will allow Staten Islanders to anonymously upload home security videos, photos, and tips directly to the police through the Ring App.
The “Neighbors by Ring” app is free to download and can be used by any Staten Islander even if they don’t have a Ring system in their homes. “Videos and photos caught by security cameras are an important and effective tool for law enforcement to ‘catch’ criminals in the act,” said Borough President Fossella. “Working with DA McMahon and the NYPD, we are alerting Staten Islanders about this program. It makes sense to use the camera technology at our homes and businesses to obtain evidence and hopefully bring these culprits to justice. Folks should feel free to download the app and be part of this initiative to make our borough even safer.” To get the app, Staten Islanders should visit the App Store, download “Neighbors by Ring,” create an account if they do not already have one, and then they will be ready to share video, photos, and information. Staten Islanders can also visit ring.com/neighbors and follow the same steps. To share video, photos, or information, the App should be opened, and “Neighbors” selected, followed by the blue “Plus” button. They are then asked to answer what category the incident is and should select “Crime,” and then follow the remaining prompts. Once shared, NYPD executives in the area will automatically be able to see what has been uploaded and if necessary, can request to communicate directly to gain further information. They will not know your exact location and will not have access to your video in real-time -- they will only be able to see what you choose to upload. You will also be able to view crime and safety events posted by your neighbors within a radius of your home. “As Staten Island’s top law enforcement official and as a homeowner, I know that so many of us vigilantly capture footage from our home video systems to help us catch those who prey on our residences, vehicles, and property,” said District Attorney McMahon. “Yet sharing this video with law enforcement has sometimes been difficult. The fact is that police cannot monitor every group, page, and site out there, or physically retrieve every clip so this critical evidence sometimes never reaches our attention. That is why this partnership with Neighbors by Ring is so exciting. When a Staten Islander uploads photos or video either from their Ring or using the free app if they are not Ring subscribers, NYPD personnel will have immediate access to that footage, be able to communicate confidentially with the person who posted it, and strategically deploy police manpower to where it is needed most.” If you have questions about the program or the app, please contact info@rcda.nyc.gov or call your local NYPD precinct
Borough President Vito Fossella announced a new marketing campaign for our Borough, "Stay on Staten Island," during his first State of the Borough Address at Monsignor Farrell High School on Jan. 21.
Check out this video that kicks off the campaign and stay tuned for a special message from Staten Island's own Pete Davidson at the end. Borough President Vito Fossella highlighted the partnership between his office, City agencies, community organizations, and local elected officials who have worked together over the past year as a collective voice for Staten Islanders during his first "State of the Borough" address at Monsignor Farrell High School.
He spoke to quality-of-life issues and made announcements for upcoming projects in the pipeline. Some key points included:
Borough President Fossella ended his address with the announcement of a new marketing campaign for our borough -- Stay on Staten Island. Check out this video to see just some of the many reasons why we Stay on Staten Island. Borough President Vito Fossella, District Attorney Michael McMahon, and Councilman Joseph Borelli issued a call to action in response to the surge in car thefts across Staten Island, but particularly on the South Shore.
“There may be three of us here, but we think we represent about 500,000 people on Staten Island as it relates to what has become an unmitigated disaster as the number of car thefts have become more brazen, more pronounced, more horrific, and more dangerous," said Borough President Fossella during a press conference on Jan. 11 outside of the 123rd Precinct in Totttenville. “We don't care if it's here in Tottenville, Mariners Harbor, Randall Manor, or South Beach -- it doesn't matter," he continued. "If Staten Island was a bank and the cars were money, you can add up all the stolen cars and it would probably be one of the largest bank heists in New York State history. It’s not just one-by-one. It’s over 500. It’s going to get darn close to where somebody is going to get seriously hurt or even worse. We have to stand together as the people of Staten Island to say enough is enough. We need to stop this once and for all.” District Attorney McMahon said 126 vehicles were reported stolen from the 123rd Precinct in 2022, up from 65 in 2021. There were 513 vehicles stolen from across Staten Island in 2022, up from 282 in 2021. He said most of the perpetrators are under 18 and are primarily from New Jersey. They drive into Staten Island in one vehicle, seek out high-end vehicles, steal them one-by-one, and drive them back to New Jersey. “Some are out for a joyride, some are out to use the vehicles to commit other crimes, and some of the vehicles are being shipped overseas to be sold on the international market for a large profit,” he said. Borough President Fossella, District Attorney McMahon, and Councilman Borelli laid out a multi-pronged action plan which includes the following: Legislation from Albany which would raise the age for when suspects can be treated as adults rather than juvenile offenders; adding more police officers and detectives to borough streets, and obtaining more cooperation between regional partners, particularly the Port Authority to add license plate readers on the New Jersey bridges like those used on the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. They also called on Staten Islanders to be more be more vigilant in locking their cars and taking their keys with them. Additionally, an initiative will be announced in the coming weeks called “Island Safe,” which will create a central clearinghouse for Staten Islanders to anonymously share their cell phone videos and home security camera footage. Borough President Vito Fossella gathered with members of the Council of Jewish Organizations of Staten Island - COJO and a host of elected officials to light the menorah at Borough Hall on Wednesday --- the fourth night of Hanukkah.
The evening began with students from the Jewish Foundation School of Staten Island reciting the Pledge Of Allegiance, as well as singing the Star Spangled-Banner and Hatikva, the national anthem of Israel. “Listening to these young people sing, not only the national anthem of the United States, but of Israel, reminds us of how wonderful our future is and how we come together as all faiths to celebrate,” said Borough President Fossella. “When times are tough and when things are down, we know we have our faith to pull us through. I wish you nothing but joy and happiness in the season ahead.” District Attorney Michael McMahon thanked the NYPD and the Hate Crimes Task Force for their vigilance in stemming the tide of anti-Semitic crimes. “It was the light of oil lamps that led the way for Jews who fought against evil thousands of years ago,” said District Attorney McMahon. “It’s the light we see in the faces of these wonderful students. It’s the light we see all around as we bring the year to a close. We join together in love -- and it is that love that will help us fight against hate.” Prior to the lighting of the menorah, Rabbi Abraham Biderman of Congregation Oorah said the message of the candles should be celebrated all year, not just during the eight days of Hanukkah. “Stop, pause, and contemplate the miracles around us every day,” he said. “Those candles are our souls. Take a few minutes to nourish your soul and feed your spirit every day.” Borough President Vito Fossella questioned the government’s expected $600 million annual cost on the migrant crisis while basic needs for active military families are not met during a press conference on Dec. 15 at Fort Wadsworth
“The fundamental question is are we focusing on the people that matter the most, on the things that matter most and the priorities that matter most,” he said. “Or are we just throwing money into thin air on things that really don’t?” He said NYC recently submitted an invoice to the federal government for a billion dollars to care for those seeking asylum. "A billion dollars, yet our active military personnel are begging for food and diapers and wipes for their children,” he said. “Something’s not right with it.” Last month, Borough President Fossella and other local elected officials reported results of a financial analysis they requested from the Independent Budget Office (IBO) of New York City regarding the migrant crisis. They concluded that the city would spend about $600 million a year to shelter the 23,800 asylum seekers who have come to NYC. IBO estimated that a family of four who enters a shelter for a year and has two children enrolled in public school while receiving basic needs, and some health and legal services will cost $93,000 per year. “Where are our priorities?” he asked. “The amount of money the government is spending on the migrant crisis could assist all of these families who have trouble making ends meet.” Borough President Vito Fossella questioned the government’s expected $600 million annual cost on the migrant crisis while basic needs for active military families are not met during a press conference at Fort Wadsworth on Dec. 15.
“The fundamental question is are we focusing on the people that matter the most, on the things that matter most and the priorities that matter most,” said Borough President Fossella. “Or are we just throwing money into thin air on things that really don’t?” He said NYC recently submitted an invoice to the federal government for a billion dollars to care for those seeking asylum. “A billion dollars, yet our active military personnel are begging for food and diapers and wipes for their children,” he said. “Something’s not right with it.” Last month, Borough President Fossella and other local elected officials reported results of a financial analysis they requested from the Independent Budget Office (IBO) of New York City regarding the migrant crisis. They concluded that the city would spend about $600 million a year to shelter the 23,800 asylum seekers who have come to NYC. IBO estimated that a family of four who enters a shelter for a year and has two children enrolled in public school while receiving basic needs, and some health and legal services will cost $93,000 per year. “Where are our priorities?” he asked. “The amount of money the government is spending on the migrant crisis could assist all of these families who have trouble making ends meet.” Borough President Vito Fossella was joined by a special guest in lighting Borough Hall’s Christmas tree on Dec. 6.
“Wait, don’t light the tree without me,” exclaimed Santa Claus as he arrived by police escort. Before Santa’s arrival, the evening featured Christmas carols, dance performances, and book giveaways. Hot chocolate and cookies were also served. Performers included Miss Staten Island Outstanding Teen Nadia Anwar, Miss Richmond County Madison Gattullo, and Miss Richmond County Outstanding Teen Diana Eilenberg. Lina Fiscardi sang "The Christmas Song" and "Oh Come All Ye Faithful." Also performing were the students from MCDC-Miss Cheryls Dance Company. We also announced our partnership with the Ollis Family and PS 56 for “Operation A Hero Needs A Hero.” The tree inside the lobby of Borough Hall is a Giving Tree where the public are invited to take a tag from the tree to help veteran families of Fort Wadsworth and Fort Hamilton this holiday season. Donations can be brought to Borough Hall and we ask you call 718-816-2230 when arriving. The switch to light the tree was pulled by Vito, along with Santa, the Ollis Family, Maria Ribaudo, and Frankie the FerryHawk. Following the tree lighting, the guests were invited into Borough Hall to take photos with Santa. Thank you to our sponsors: Starbucks, Staten Island Community Television, Staten Island FerryHawks, and Glen Mancuso: Allstate Insurance. |
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March 2024
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