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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected] 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. Borough President Vito Fossella and Kamillah Hanks Council Member-D49 around the former site of Staten Island Hospital in Tompkinsville, which has been cleared for redevelopment. Nearby, the Department of Sanitation garage on Jersey Street is set to close soon. They called this a chance to improve and enhance the area for generations to come. “We have a golden opportunity that comes along not just once in a generation, but rather once in several generations to help reshape and positively transform a historic piece of Staten Island,” said Borough President Fossella. “We look forward to working with Council Member Hanks and other community residents to begin to map out the future of this site. I also wish to thank and commend Mayor Adams for bringing this 50-year odyssey to a positive conclusion.” They discussed possibilities for the site, including building a new educational facility with additional school seats, as well as accessible housing for young people. “I understand the significance of the site to the people of Staten Island, and I feel the best way to honor the site is to ensure its future development reflects the needs of our community,” said Council Member Hanks. “We are losing our young people to cooler, hip places like Hoboken. This site presents a great opportunity to begin to turn that tide and provide housing for young people so they can begin to build a future for themselves on Staten Island." Built in 1890, it was initially named the S.R. Smith Infirmary after a local doctor, Samuel R. Smith, and was built in the shape of a castle. It was eventually renamed Staten Island Hospital and additional structures were added. When Staten Island Hospital moved to its present-day site in Ocean Breeze in 1979, the structures fell into disrepair. The City Buildings Department declared it a hazard in 2011 and demolished it a year later. Borough President Vito Fossella and Councilmembers Joe Borelli, David Carr, and Kamillah Hanks announced Sunday that it will cost the city $580,090,000 to shelter the 23,800 asylum seekers who have come to New York City. This includes shelter stays, public school costs, basic health services, and immigration legal assistance for those who entered the city from April through early November. There will be an additional $16 million of fixed costs that the city will incur, and it is not guaranteed that any asylum seeker will be able to meet the requirements for granting of asylum.
In September, Borough President Fossella, along with the Councilmembers, penned a letter to the Independent Budget Office (IBO) of New York City to request a financial analysis on asylum seekers entering New York City. They said the model of handling this crisis is completely unsustainable citing that constant cuts are made to the current city budget. The letter reads: “It is clear that New York City finds itself dealing with a challenge not of its own making, but nevertheless our first obligation is to our citizens and to understanding the budget implications of thousands of these individuals coming to New York City amid a potential budget crisis. This comes at a time when City Hall has ordered cuts to agency budgets, which obviously will have a negative impact on the delivery of services. In addition, there are some who predict a possible recession. Moreover, the stock market downturn will have a significant effect on the New York City Retirement system. In fact, Comptroller Brad Lander projects that poor investment returns will require the City to contribute an extra $6 billion to the New York City Retirement System (NYCERS). This cascade of budget challenges will have dramatic impacts on all New Yorkers.” “We said then that this was a problem the people of Staten Island did not create. But somehow, it became a problem that the people of Staten Island, and by extension New York City, have to solve and pay for as of now,” said Borough President Fossella. “It was no surprise that when the numbers came in, that they were not low. There are priorities for taxpayer money -- to build a boardwalk, to build a park, to build roads. All that is established in a budgetary process. Taxpayer money pays for these things, and very often, we’re told, there’s no money. So, one question I would like to ask is where did this $580 million come from?” He presented other options for the money to be spent: “This invoice should be forwarded to the federal government to pick up the tab that they created. The federal government can step up and provide more people to review these cases so we can solve this problem faster and so this tab doesn’t grow at its present rate. For those of us who are more fiscally conservative, we would prefer to send a check. There are about 165,000 households on Staten Island. We would like to send a check for about $3,500 to every household. So, we ask the people, would you prefer to spend the $580 million on this situation or to send a check for $3,500 to every household on Staten Island?” “This is money that could be used to keep our city retirees from losing their current health plan, people who have worked tirelessly for years paying their taxes with the dream of retiring one day,” said Minority Leader Joseph Borelli. “Individuals cannot be allowed to continue to take advantage of our city’s generosity, of our absurd sanctuary city laws, our state’s right to shelter requirement and continue to run up the tab that could be going to Staten Islanders and other New Yorkers,” said Council Member David Carr. “The reality is we do have other needs in this borough that we are fighting to meet each and every day. This is just simply not sustainable, and it is not fair to our borough and our city.” Here are a few highlights:
Find the full report here: https://www.ibo.nyc.ny.us/iboreports/ibo-asylum-seeker-letter-and-memo-november2022.pdf Once Borough President Vito Fossella heard the news that a man tore down an American Flag displayed outside Ariemma’s Italian Deli, he had his office call deli owner Mario Ariemma and assure him that he would be getting a new American Flag and that this vandalism of his property and our nation’s flag would not go unanswered.
Borough President Fossella was joined by Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, Assemblyman Mike Tannousis and Councilman David Carr this morning to present a flag to Mr. Ariemma. “This is an act of vandalism against one of our respected small businesses and an act of desecration of the American Flag,” said Borough President Fossella. “We have provided a new American Flag to Mr. Ariemma. It demonstrates that we ‘have the backs’ of our small business owners and we have respect for the flag.” “Our American Flag is a symbol of freedom and hope for so many around the world and in our community,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. “It’s shameful and saddens us that someone would vandalize Mr. Ariemma’s property and our beautiful flag. I’m happy to join my colleagues in replacing the flag for this small business that is a staple in our community.” “For someone to tear down and destroy the American flag is disgraceful and a slap in the face to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives to protect our nation,” said Assemblyman Tannousis. “This type of despicable behavior will not be tolerated in our community. I commend my partners in government for standing up against this type of behavior and replacing the flag so it can be displayed proudly.” “The American flag represents the freedoms and democratic ideals this country stands for. Our community will not stand for flag desecration or theft,” said Council Member David Carr. “Thank you to BP Fossella for providing a new flag to Ariemma’s Italian Deli so it can once again proudly wave over this corner of the community.” There were 24 lives lost, neighborhoods devastated, homes destroyed, boats ripped from their moorings, vehicles submerged under water, and precious photographs gone forever when Hurricane Sandy slammed into Staten Island’s shores on Monday, Oct. 29, 2012.
In the days, weeks, and months that followed a resiliency grew with neighbors, strangers, community leaders, and the brave men and women of the FDNY, NYPD and Sanitation Department uniting to clean up debris, distributing food, clothing and water, offering shelter and finding words of comfort amid the rubble and the grief. Borough President Vito Fossella commemorated the 10 years that have passed with a solemn ceremony at Miller Field, once a staging ground for recovery operations. He was joined by Mayor Eric Adams, a contingent of elected and city officials, those on the frontlines, and those impacted directly by the storm.A lone violinist played, her music a symbol of the last 10 years: Reflection, hope, and renewal. “There’s a handful of events in life when you can say you remember where you were, and Superstorm Sandy is one of them,” said Borough President Fossella, standing on the beach. “Today, we remember not only where we were, but we remember those we lost.” He then read the names of the 24 victims, some from the same family -- a father and daughter; a father and son; a sister and brother; a couple married for 26 years, and the youngest, brothers Brendan Moore, 2, and Conner Moore 4, who were swept away from their mother when a wall of water flooded their SUV on Father Capodanno Boulevard. “When a storm hits our shores, we are not Democrats or Republicans,” said Mayor Adams. “Some of those storms come from the sky as in a hurricane, but they also came in a form of terrorism on 9/11, they came in the form of COVID, they came in the form of monkeypox, and they come in the form of the financial challenges that we're facing today. When you sit down and do an analysis of who we are, sometimes we’re going to take different roles, but we all want one destination -- we want a strong and healthy New York and a strong and healthy America." We commend Mayor Adams and his announcement today for stating that the thousands of migrants flooding New York City is completely unsustainable. We said the same weeks ago.
In fact, I and three of our council members of the Staten Island delegation sent a letter to the New York City Independent Budget Office asking for a cost analysis of migrant families coming into the city who will impact the boroughs’ resources. We are pleased the Mayor has stated strongly how this will impact all New Yorkers and cost us upwards of $1 billion, if not more. This is a problem our city did not create. It is a federal issue which requires a federal solution. If the city expects to spend at least $1 billion on this crisis, by our math, that’s almost $60,000 being spent per person for the 17,000 migrants NYC has accepted so far. As we await a final report from IBO, we will continue to seek to work with the Adams administration to get to a solution that steers into a different direction. This report is expected to be complete within the next two weeks. There isn’t a more generous country than the United States and the people of Staten Island are always willing to help those in need - whether it is food, clothing, or shelter. It is not about this notion of a lack of compassion or understanding, but that Staten Islanders are forced to deal with an issue they did not create. Earlier this week, our office stood with Congresswoman Malliotakis, Councilmembers Carr and Borelli, and members of the Travis Civic Association outside the Comfort Inn in Travis to oppose the stay of migrant families who were placed in the neighborhood without notice. We reiterated, as we had done in the letter to IBO, that the instability of this approach is the beginning of no end in sight. City Hall recently announced that city agencies have to cut their budgets and inevitably will translate to cuts for Staten Island and other New Yorkers. The Mayor has issued a warning to the federal government, and to state and fellow citizens that we need a course of action immediately. We need better answers, we need a better solution, and we stand ready to work with Mayor Adams to solve this problem New York did not create. Borough President Vito J. Fossella and fellow elected officials have sent a letter to Department of Education Chancellor David Banks and Department of Mental Health & Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan requesting that they reconsider the COVID-19 guidance for parents and students as the new school year begins next week. Currently, unvaccinated parents are prohibited from coming into a DOE school building and unvaccinated students are not allowed to play in after-school sports programs.
In the letter, they cite how important parent involvement is needed, especially after almost two years of interrupted school sessions due to the pandemic. It states: “While well-intentioned and noble, some of the decisions in the past have negatively affected many children. Evidence suggests that cases of mental illness in school-aged children are on the rise and low-test scores are sadly becoming the norm. We urge you to reconsider and reverse the policies regarding unvaccinated parents and children. Unvaccinated parents have not been in their child’s school for over two years and have missed out on critical moments including meetings, events, award ceremonies, and graduations. NYC DOE student enrollment is down, and parents are showing their opposition to these overreaching policies by removing their children from DOE schools. Furthermore, unvaccinated children who have been welcomed back to school are prohibited from participating in many after school sport programs, which is proven to be instrumental for a well-rounded education.” They also refer to when New York City lifted restrictions for other activities and locations where large gatherings can take place. “Months ago, New York City rightly relaxed all of its in-person restrictions for the unvaccinated to attend indoor sporting events, concerts, all entertainment venues, or to simply enjoy indoor dining or going to the gym. As the DOE COVID-19 guidance stands now, unvaccinated parents are not allowed into their child’s NYC DOE school building for back-to-school events, socials, PTA meetings, parent-teacher conferences, fundraising, parent workshops, or any in-school events with their child.” The letter was signed by Congressmember Nicole Malliotakis; Senator Andrew Lanza; Councilmembers David Carr and Joseph Borelli; Assemblymembers Michael Reilly and Michael Tannousis. Borough President Vito J. Fossella is pleased to announce his appointment of Aaron Bogad as the Staten Island representative to the Panel for Educational Policy (PEP).
The Panel for Educational Policy (PEP) consists of 15 appointed members and the Chancellor. Each borough president appoints one member, CEC Presidents elect one member, and the mayor appoints the remaining nine members. The Chancellor serves as an ex-officio non-voting member. Aaron Bogad is the immediate past president of The Staten Island Federation of PTAs and has held that position for the last 5 years. Mr. Bogad has been a member of the Community Education Council 31 since 2015, three of those years as President of the CEC. Previous positions include President of the District 31 High School President's Council, and a member of the District Leadership Team where he represented families on the Chancellor's Parent Advisory Committee. For the past 13 years, Mr. Bogad has held many positions, including PTA President and PTA Treasurer, and has been a part of many working groups within the district and DOE Central. He also has been involved locally, previously serving as a board member for 5 years at the Arden Heights Jewish Center. For the past 12 years, Mr. Bogad has coached youth softball where he remains a USA Softball Certified Coach in his daughter’s travel softball organization. Mr. Bogand and his wife have three daughters, one of them who attends a New York City public high school. “We are pleased that Aaron has accepted this appointment, and are confident he will work well with us to make the best decisions for our school community,” said Borough President Fossella. “Our priorities for Staten Island include robust academic achievement, enhanced school safety, expanded sports programs, innovative education, and public/private partnerships to help our students. Additionally, I thank Jaclyn Tacoronte for her service on the PEP.” “After suffering career ending injuries on September 11, 2001, while working as a NYC EMS Emergency Medical Technician that responded to the World Trade Center, I decided that I needed to do whatever I could physically and emotionally to make things better for my daughters as well as the children in our district,” said Mr. Bogad. “I thank Borough President Fossella for the opportunity to continue my work supporting our schools. It has been and remains to be a huge honor and a privilege to serve our community.” We gathered under solemn skies at the Postcards Memorial on Sunday to remember those lost in the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and the First Responders who have died in the years since due to their work at Ground Zero.
“I am honored to continue this tribute of remembrance and reflection,” said Borough President Vito Fossella. Bishop John O’Hara, the Episcopal Vicar of Staten Island and southern Manhattan, delivered the invocation, and the Rev. Dr. Victor Brown, the Pastor of Mount Sinai United Christian Church, delivered the benediction. Gov. Kathy Hochul offered remarks. There were musical selections throughout the evening and an FDNY Marine Division boat sprayed water in the harbor. Bells tolled during the 9/11 Tribute Readings and the First Responders Tribute Readings. A moment of silence was held. “There’s an old saying ‘make a memory every day’ -- tragically one thing 9/11 did was to prevent and destroy so many possible memories for so many families from being made,” said Borough President Fossella. “In fact, it’s been 7,671 days since that fateful day. If you take the number of those who perished and add up all those days, you get close to 2 million. That’s 2 million memories that didn’t occur -- memories like that of a newborn child, a first birthday, a first day of school, a graduation day, a first job, a walk down the aisle or something as simple and precious as a walk in the park.” As the ceremony concluded, roses were placed between the silhouettes of the Postcards Memorial and on the rain-slicked panels of the First Responders Memorial. Several residents brought attention to an approved traffic conversion on Swinnerton Street during a recent Tottenville Civic Association Meeting. The conversion would change the street’s one-way traffic pattern to a two-way street. Residents said that they were never notified of the conversion and its approval, and were displeased at this process.
DOT Borough Commissioner Roseann Caruana said she was unaware of this approval and would investigate. Within one day, the Commissioner was able to identify the miscommunication among the neighborhood, and stopped the conversion altogether after listening to the concerned residents of Swinnerton Street. We are very pleased and thankful for Borough Commissioner Caruana’s swift and positive response to a community concern. The evidence of a job well done came from the residents, primarily of Swinnerton Street, who were grateful to the DOT team for their actions. Commissioner Caruana and her team deserve credit for reacting so quickly and responsibly to the matter. ![]() BIDs across the borough a priority in budget for cleanup efforts Borough President Vito J. Fossella was joined by Department of Sanitation Commissioner Jesscia Tisch today to announce $70,000 in discretionary funds from our office to business improvement districts and merchant associations across Staten Island for beautification of their corridors, particularly in the removal of litter. A Business Improvement District (BID) is a geographical area where involved businesses oversee and fund the maintenance, improvement, and promotion of their commercial district. There are over 70 BIDs in New York City with approximately $160 million invested in NYC neighborhoods annually. All Staten Island BIDs maintain the public spaces within their district, including any clean up of their corridor, and program their district with events that directly impact the surrounding neighborhood. The entities that received the funding include the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC) and their various neighborhood development projects, the South Shore BID, Forest Avenue BID, and the West Brighton LDC. This funding is part of a broader citywide commitment to cleaner streets, and comes on the heels of an unprecedented $40 million investment by the Adams Administration that took effect earlier this year. These funds take street cleanliness significantly beyond pre-pandemic levels, and will cover 50,000 more litter-basket collections per week, new Precision Cleaning teams in the districts with the greatest need, and ongoing efforts to keep vacant lots from becoming filthy eyesores. “We are grateful to have the opportunity to use taxpayer money to invest in several of Staten Island’s business improvement districts for their cleanup efforts, beautification services, and so much more,” said Borough President Vito J. Fossella. “These funds not only strengthen the economic landscape of the borough, but also give us a chance to show that cleaning up our borough is one of our top priorities, from West Brighton to Tottenville. I want to thank DSNY Commissioner Tisch for not only joining us today, but also supporting the work of our businesses and the vitality they provide to all of Staten Island.” “New York’s recovery hinges on clean streets, and that’s going to take a real investment from every part of government,” said Jessica Tisch, Commissioner, NYC Department of Sanitation. “I want to thank Borough President Fossella for this investment, and look forward to supporting the various Staten Island BIDs in their important work of bringing New York back clean, healthy, and safe.” "One of the most frequently identified needs of Business Improvement Districts and merchant associations is beautification and maintenance. The appearance and general cleanliness of an area can make a significant difference in its ability to attract shoppers," said Gina Gutman, Interim President of the SIEDC. "We're very thankful to Borough President Fossella for his support of our commercial districts and particularly the funding he provided for work in Rosebank, Graniteville and North Hylan.” “Staten Island’s Business Improvement Districts have made significant investments in their communities, and we are thrilled to see their efforts supplemented by Borough President Fossella and DSNY Commissioner Tisch,” said Linda Baran, President & CEO of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. “This investment not only works toward beautifying our commercial corridors, but also ensures that our shopping districts are safe and welcoming for customers.” “On behalf of the West Brighton LDC and the Forest Avenue BID we are thankful to Borough President Vito Fossella for providing funding for sanitation and beautification of the Forest Avenue Business Improvement District commercial corridor. Having a clean corridor not only supports the local economy, it enhances the quality of life for our neighborhood businesses and residents,” said Nina Flores, Executive Director of West Brighton LDC and Forest Avenue BID. Watch the full press conference here. |
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June 2024
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