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Volume 31 Number 4 May 2002 One Dollar A PRESIDENTIAL TEAM OPENS 2002 C.I.L.L. SEASON!

Photos by RICK DeWITT With Islander Tom Davis as Grand Marshal, the City Island Little League opened the 2002 season on April 13 with an enthusiastic parade down City Island Avenue. Dignitaries were on hand to pitch in, including the new Bronx Borough President, Adolfo Carrion, who threw out the first pitch, and New York State Assemblyman Stephen B. Kaufman. This year's opening day festivities were dedicated to the past presidents of City Island Little League, especially Mr. Davis, who dreamed of a club house and a batting cage when he was president from 1979 to 1986. Shown above (upper left, l. to r.) dedicating the new batting cage sign are the past and present Little League presidents, along with parade guests: Robert Whalan, Tom Vivolo, Tom Lyons, Tony Grimaldi, John Salacan, Bob Cortazzo, Chris McGuire, Tom Davis, Drew Davis, Ed Esposito, Walter Henning, Mr. Carrion and Frank Sena; kneeling are Dom DeMarco and Irwin Weinfeld. For the 2002 season, hundreds of boys and girls will participate in baseball, softball and T-ball on teams sponsored by City Island businesses and residents. Let the games begin! Page Two The Island Current May 2002 BRIEFLY... Police Investigate Home HI TEC ADVENTURE RACE SERIES returns to Orchard Beach, on Sunday, May 19. Six hundred racers will compete in biking, kayaking and running. Invasion on King Avenue Staging, start and finish areas are at the north picnic area. City Island Road and the Pelham By KAREN NANI Bridge are not part of the race route, but there will be some road closures from 7:30 a.m. On Friday, April 19, three men robbed where, according to Lieutenant Harris of to 2 p.m. Shore Road from Bartow Circle to the city line will be closed to traffic at that Islander Dan Pirraglia at his home on the 45th Precinct, the perpetrators used time. Golfers will have to access the golf course from Shore Road south from Pelham. King Avenue. The men, two Hispanic the same ruse to gain entry to a private Orchard Beach Road from the Hutchinson River Parkway to the Orchard Beach entrance adults and one teenager, are being sought home. They impersonated police officers and Park Drive from the City Island Circle to the Orchard Beach entrance will also be for criminal impersonation and what and told the owner they suspected an closed during those hours. Signs advising motorists of the road closings will be posted. police are calling a "home invasion." attempted break-in. After committing a Please call 718 430-1890 if you have any questions or require additional information. At around 9:30 p.m., two adults robbery, they fled the crime scene in a knocked on the door of 401 King Avenue blue minivan. The Bronx Masons will be holding a Blood Drive on Tuesday, BLOOD DRIVE: and identified themselves as police offi- The City Island crime is being investi- May 14, between the hours of 4 and 8 p.m., at the Trinity United Methodist Church, 113 cers, according to Sergeant James gated by the Criminal Impersonation Unit Bay Street. Almost anyone from the ages of 17 to 75, weighing a minimum of 110 pounds Mastricovo of the 45th Precinct. They told of the police department's Internal Affairs and in good general health can be a blood donor. Photo or signature ID and Social Security Number are required at the time of donation. Mr. Pirraglia that they had caught a Bureau, because the perpetrators pretend- teenager trying to break into his house. ed to be police officers. "It is an active PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES in black and white photography will be given After he let them in, "they pulled a gun on investigation. No arrests have been made by Ron Terner at the City Island Community Center starting in May. Ages 12 through 17 him, tied his hands and feet and demand- yet," said Carmen Melendez of the are eligible. The classes will explore the wonders of the camera and the darkroom. Printing ed money," Sgt. Mastricovo told The Deputy Commissioner's Public Infor- photographs, developing film, camera technique and printing negatives will be taught. Current. mation Office. Classes will be given on Mondays after school. The first series of classes are free to the When Mr. Pirraglia told the robbers Police reportedly knocked on the doors student. This is made possible from a grant given by COLONY and with public funds from there was no money in the house, they of neighbors on King Avenue and Ditmars the Bronx Council on the Arts through the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs forced him to call a friend to bring Street the day after the robbery to deter- Greater New York Arts Development Funds, Bronx President Adolfo Carrion and the approximately $6,000 in cash. The perpe- mine if they witnessed any part of the Bronx Delegation of the City Council. For further information call Ron Terner at 718-885- trators fled the scene with the cash and crime. 1403 or stop by the Focal Point Gallery. some jewelry. There were no reported On Friday morning, April 26, police injuries. activity was observed at Seafood City THE ALBERT EINSTEIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA will Police are conducting an active investi- Restaurant on City Island Avenue. present its season finale concert on Sunday, May 19, at 3 p.m. The program will include gation on several fronts. The crime is sim- However, no robbery appears to have Dvorak’s “Legends, Opus 59” and Brahms’s “Violin Concerto in D major, Opus 77.” The ilar to one that occurred earlier in April in taken place and no police incident report violin soloist will be Sergey Nazarov; the conductor and music director is Stephen the Throggs Neck section of the Bronx, was filed at the 45th Precinct. Moshman. The concert will be held in the Robbins Auditorium, Forchhiemer Building, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx. Contributions are arrival. suggested. For more information, visit the Web site www.einsteinorch.tripod.com. 45 BLOTTER 3/1 – Off-Island male, 41, arrested for Complaints reported from City Island to driving while intoxicated (DWI) at 11:45 “LEGAL CHECKUP” is a free presentation to be given at Pilot Cove Manor on p.m., at Bridge Street and City Island May 9 at 1 p.m. A volunteer attorney will explain legal procedures and documents that are avail- the 45th Precinct during March 2002. Unfounded complaints are not included in Avenue. able to help seniors make health care and financial decisions. Subjects will include the purpos- 3/7 – At 2 p.m., at 190 Fordham Street, es of the power of attorney and health care proxy and how they differ, how to choose an agent the list, nor are complaints for crime police report a harassment incident arising for the power of attorney or health care proxy, the different kinds of power of attorney and when occurring on the mainland. from a neighbor dispute over a dog. they are effective, what insurance, pension and financial documents should be maintained, why MARCH 3/27 – An off-Island male, 20, was a will is important, and procedures for organ donations. The program is sponsored by the New 1 – CRIMINAL MISCHIEF York State Bar Association’s Elder Law Section, funded by the New York Bar Association. arrested at 361 City Island Avenue at 1:15 (to a vehicle) a.m. after reportedly having a dispute with 2 – PETIT LARCENY (1 from person, 9/11 BRONX VICTIMS: The North Bronx Westchester Neighborhood another person. The defendant was 1 from vehicle) charged with criminal possession of a Restoration Association (NBWNRA) is seeking the names of Bronx residents who died in 2 – GRAND LARCENY (auto) the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, to be honored in a permanent memorial at the weapon. 3 – HARASSMENT Jacobi Medical Center grounds. The project, which is slated to be completed in time for the 3/30 – At City Island Avenue and 2 – LOST PROPERTY first anniversary of the World Trade Center tragedy, was made possible through funding Ditmars Street, an off-Island male, 35, 1 – DEAD ON ARRIVAL (DOA) secured by Senator Guy J. Velella. Anyone interested in registering a name for the Bronx was arrested for driving while intoxicated memorial should contact Donna Dechiaro at 718-823-7704 by Friday, May 31, 2002. 1 – LEAVING THE SCENE OF (DWI) at 11:30 p.m. ACCIDENT/ PROPERTY DAMAGE WANTED: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS to do community service at 1 – CRIMINAL POSSESSION OF Pilot Cove helping senior citizens with computer lessons. Please contact Helen or Tommy A WEAPON McMahon at 885-0448. 2 – DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED (DWI) Police report the following arrests and incidents for the month of March: 3/1 – At 6:30 p.m., at 104 City Island Avenue, an unknown person caused a vehicular accident by hitting a parked car and fleeing the scene prior to police

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EDITOR: Karen Rauhauser Nani CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Sara S. McPherson DISTRIBUTION: Emily Leni COPY EDITOR/WRITER: Barbara Dolensek SUBSCRIPTION: Rose Kolb ART EDITOR: Marguerite Chadwick-Juner ADVERTISING MANAGERS: Joan Ramftl, Margaret Lenz BUSINESS MANAGER: Judith Rauh STAFF: Bernard Witlieb, Dr. Fred Hess, Rena Hansen, Bill Clancy, Julie Ellis-Clayton, Maria Swieciki, Cheryl Koller, Ed Heben, Marsha Treiber, Jane Muller, Jane Protzman, Bill Stuttig, Tom Smith, Virginia Dannegger, Liz Montalbano, Alice Rotello, Nancy Lotrionte. PHOTOGRAPHY: Rena Hansen, Rick DeWitt. CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS: Russell Schaller Sr., Stephanie Ribaudo, Melissa Koller, Marge McNulty, Lorraine Nicoletti. Masthead and special artwork by the late Theodore J. Mazaika.

Typeset by Marguerite Chadwick-Juner, Witworks Studio Graphic Design, 33 Earley Street, City Island, N.Y. 10464 Printed by Hi-Speed Printing Co., 1123 Worthen Street, Bronx, N.Y. 10474 The Island Current (USPS 114-590) is published monthly except for January and August by the Island Current Inc., a not-for-profit organization. Subscription rate, $10.00 per year. Single copies, $1.00. All subscriptions, editorial, advertising and other correspondence must be mailed to: The Island Current, P.O. Box 6, City Island, Bronx, NY 10464. Display advertising deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication, call 885-0984, 885-1636 or 885- 0760. Copyright 2001 by The Island Current, Inc., 724 King Ave., City Island, Bronx, NY 10464. All rights reserved. SECOND CLASS POSTAGE PAID AT BRONX, NY. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Island Current, P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464. May 2002 The Island Current Page Three Islander's Twin Brother Found at Ground Zero By BILL STUTTIG The wait is over for Dan D’Allara, but covery of his brother’s remains. “Who the pain continues. The 47–year-old City could have believed that you would lose Island resident, who has spent most of his your brother in the largest, most horrific free time, including nearly every weekend, mass murder in the history of the nation? I overseeing the search for his twin brother keep waiting for it all to be over like maybe at Ground Zero, received the call he had it’s not real and life can be the same once been waiting for on April 11, exactly seven again for all of us. We want our life back months from the day when the worst of all but I know that is not going to happen.” nightmares began for him and his family. The horror of losing his twin, to whom Recovery workers had found the remains he had always been close, has rocked the of his twin brother. foundations of his life. Beyond helping Danny, a Bronx native who moved to other family members crushed by the City Island several years ago after marry- tragedy, including his parents and his ing lifelong City Island resident Angela brother’s wife, Carol, and their two boys, Booth, is one of 35 people in the nation to Dan has played a public role in helping lose a twin sibling in the terrorist attack on others remember his brother and the thou- Photos courtesy of DAN D'ALLARA the World Trade Center on Sept. 11. sands of other victims. Islander Dan D'Allara searched for seven His twin brother, John, a Bronx native Dan met and consoled other grieving months for his twin brother, John, a member of who was a frequent visitor to City Island family members at many public and pri- the New York Police Department's Emergency over many decades, was a member of the vate functions, and he played a supportive Service's Unit (ESU) Truck 3. John's body was New York Police Department’s Emergency role at many public events sponsored by found on April 11, 2002, at the site of the World Trade Center disaster. Shown above are the Service’s Unit Truck 2 for nearly 20 years the NYPD and other organizations honor- officers of ESU Truck 3, three of whom per- and served at countless rescues around ing the victims and those who gave their ished on Sept. 11, 2001: (l. to r.) Eddie Lutz, Jim New York City since joining the NYPD in lives trying to save others like his brother, Malley,Wally Weaver (deceased), John D'Allara 1982. John. (deceased), Jerome Dominquez (deceased) Dan said that John was literally count- When he was not at public events, Dan and Mike Wolf. Not shown is Vinny Danz, who also died when Tower 1 collapsed. Dan (left) is ing the days to retirement when the calm of was down at ground zero through the shown with his brother, John, on Dan's wed- a sunny late summer morning was shat- autumn, winter and into the spring. On ding day in 1993. tered at 8:46 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 11. most occasions, he was joined by his wife, “It was a beautiful morning, and I was as they both tried to help and encourage the signs of support, putting his arm on the the tremendous support he and his family arriving at work like so many other people. workers involved in the recovery efforts. grief-stricken twin just three days after the have received from their neighbors on City When I saw the planes hit on television, I When John’s remains were found on attack as he offered condolences and the Island. Dan particularly points to St. Mary knew that he would be there,” said Dan. A April 11, Dan and Angela, along with his prophetic assurance that the death of his Star of the Sea Church, its pastor Father short time later, as he looked with horror brother’s wife, were then joined by hun- brother and the other victims would not go Robert Moore and Sister Mary Shepherd when the buildings came down, Dan said dreds of John’s fellow officers and more unanswered. for many hours of comfort and prayers. he immediately feared the worst and knew than 100 firefighters and recovery workers Dan has spent hours in the office of for- He said that much support has also in his heart that his brother would have at the site, and together they carried the mer Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik come from the American Legion Post, been trying to save lives at the moment body from the exact location in the vicini- and was consoled numerous times by Mr. especially Commander Vinnie Hecker and those towers collapsed. ty of Tower 1 where he died saving the Kerik’s right-hand man, former First former Commander Bill Clancy. In the confusion of that terrible morn- lives of so many others. Deputy Commissioner Joseph Dunne. The But he said the greatest support has ing, Dan rushed to the work place of his Dan said he does not expect to find clo- support of the NYPD has been unbeliev- come from his in-laws and hundreds of his wife Angela, and the couple then got a cab sure with the discovery of his beloved able, Dan said, from police headquarters to neighbors on City Island, as well as local and went home to City Island. There Dan brother’s remains, but he is comforted by Highway One, which provided transporta- people who were part of the recovery frantically began working the phones, reports from colleagues and others who tion to and from ground zero on a regular effort, like City Islander Kevin Quinn and searching for any news of the whereabouts saw John before the towers collapsed. basis. The local precincts, particularly the his wife, Patty. Kevin is a firefighter who of his twin. They told Dan that they had seen John res- 45th and 49th Precincts, could not do was a constant source of support and infor- Finally at 11 p.m. on Sept. 11, Dan cuing dozens of workers from Tower 1 that enough for him and his parents, he said. mation as he monitored the recovery effort received a call from police headquarters morning, dozens of people who are alive Most importantly, many of his brother’s for months. that the prospect for survival did not look today because of John’s heroics. former colleagues with ESU provided the The hectic schedule continues for Dan. good. Dan and other family members were In the horror of his brother’s death, Dan most valuable support, assuring Dan that Recently he was asked to throw out the driven down to 1 Police Plaza. “That is said, he has found a great kindness in hun- his brother truly was a hero, not only on first pitch for a Washington Heights Little where it seemed I lived my life for the next dreds of people, ranging from some of the Sept. 11 but on many, many occasions League team named in John D’Allara’s several months,” Dan said. most powerful people in the nation to ordi- before that. memory. “I could never have believed that this nary citizens. Other famous people who reached out Dan called the last seven months a true would happen,” D’Allara said during an President George W. Bush gave Dan to the D’Allara family include New York learning process in which he experienced interview just a few days following the dis- and his family one of the most memorable Mets manager Bobby Valentine, who was the worst horror but also saw the greatest particularly supportive of each and every kindness and support from hundreds, many family during special events that the team of whom were complete strangers before ran for the children of victims in the imme- Sept. 11. Despite the overwhelming pain Island in the News diate aftermath of Sept. 11. Dan and his By BARBARA DOLENSEK caused by his brother’s death, he said he mother were warmly welcomed by the has been comforted by the knowledge of Viewers of Channel 2 have become for Chinatown markets and taking out people of Fresno, California, during a spe- how much his brother was loved and how accustomed to his face– Andy Sbare’s sport fishermen. cial tribute that the city had for the families many people were willing to help him and face, that is– which plays a featured role The literary set noticed with pride that of the victims. his family through the worst of all possible in the short piece CBS made on City Islander Roger Straus III was quoted at But perhaps most important to Dan is heartbreak and loss. Island some weeks ago as part of its series length in a profile of his father, one of last on New York places. Stay tuned; the piece of the great gentleman book publishers, in airs regularly. the April 8 issue of “The New Yorker.” FLEET WEEKEND Readers of “National Fisherman” were And City Island herself was the center Saturday, June 1: pleased to see another City Islander, lob- The annual Fleet Weekend celebration, of attention in the April 14 Real Estate • 8 a.m. Fun Run sterman Sal Comerico, as the subject of an sponsored and organized by IDEA, starts section of the Sunday New York Times. • 8:30 a.m. 5K Race, both sponsored article in the April issue, in which the on Friday, May 31, with the Maritime The reporter spent a good deal of time by Sammy's Fishbox interviewer praises the “King’s” persis- Heritage Awards Dinner, which will be going from one end of the Island to the • 10 a.m. Parade, sponsored by Senator tence in his chosen line of work in spite of held at the Morris Yacht Club, starting at next, noting not only available houses but Guy J. Velella and Borough President the lack of lobsters since the 1998 die-off. 6:30 p.m.. pointing out many of the advantages (and Adolfo Carrion; starts in front of Sal manages to stay in business by work- This year’s awardees are as follows: disadvantages) of living here. Sammy’s Fishbox ing harder than ever, catching blackfish Maritime Heritage Award: Jacqueline Kyle Kall; Keeper of the Harbor: Tom All day: McMahon, COLONY President; Lifetime • Children's Talent Show Achievement Awards: Marty Meienhofer • PTA Carnival and Mary Anne Clancy; City Island • Pony Rides School Hall of Fame: Ellen Funck; Grand • NYPD Sea Air Rescue Marshal: Betty Carman. • Scuba Diving Demonstration IDEA would also like to give special • Children's Boat Building Contest recognition “to our emergency personnel Afternoon: who responded on Sept. 11 and who pro- • Concert sponsored by Bronx tect us each and every day: The NYPD, Westchester Neighborhood Restoration the FDNY, the Port Authority Police Association Department and EMS.” Look for Fleet Weekend 2002 t-shirts The following events will be held on and come out and join the fun! Page Four The Island Current May 2002

Methodist Church. A collection of bril- Message to Dog Owners liantly crafted, painted and collaged rocks To the Editor: and face masks (actual face-castings of One of the favorite spots for young dozens of on- and off-Islanders) were dis- City Islanders is the playground next to played and brought to life through expres- P.S. 175. It is conveniently located mid- sive monologues, dance and songs, almost island and is a gathering place for chil- all performed by the City Island Teen dren to run around safely and securely in Center participants. a fenced-in environment. The performance was polished and Children enjoy sliding and climbing intelligent, genuine and professionally on the playground equipment, sitting and staged without the agonizing hemming resting on the benches and, until recently, and hawing and between-scene-time- playing on the grass. But dog feces now wasting one often experiences at amateur We welcome letters and opinions. Letters longer than litter the grassy area that makes up one- events. And the messages of the “talking 250 words will be edited, with every effort made to pre- quarter of this haven for young children. serve their substance. We reserve the right not to print heads,” written by the participants, were letters that are copies, libelous, inaccurate or in bad Apparently a few dog owners have mis- insightful and probing. (I will not list taste, or those that cannot be verified. Include your taken our community playground for their phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, them, but the program gives the names of pets’ personal toilet. but names will be withheld upon request. all the creators and organizers who did Most of City Island’s dog owners are such a bang-up job.) Robert’s Recovery conscientious in picking up after their Someone reported that a rap was not as dogs and would never, ever walk their dog To the Editor, tasteful as it might have been, but I heard in the playground. However, a few dog Thanks to all who showed their con- it told and I strongly disagree. What it owners apparently have no consideration cern and support during our son Robert’s lacked in masterful rap beat and style it for others. There are also some who allow illness. Your kind words and thoughtful made up for in genuine content: we are their dogs to roam the streets of City gestures were such an important part of certainly lying to ourselves when we give Island unleashed and unsupervised. Robert’s recovery. We are all thankful for in to drugs and other forms of masking Parents have witnessed these same wan- such good family, friends and neighbors. our pain and our reality. Is not rap the dering dogs entering the playground and The worst part of most illnesses is the straight-talking, idiomatic social com- leaving “deposits.” helpless feeling from uncertainty. mentary of our century? And for every The purpose of this letter is to pro- City Island has once again proven to vile and thoughtless rap I’ve heard, I can claim loudly: Shame on You!! As a pet be more than just a great place to live but match it with a profound and meaningful owner you must take responsibility for a great source of comfort and support one. (“Ain't no gangsters in paradise” is a your pet and be considerate of your fellow when we needed it most. We are truly line that constantly comes to mind.) And Islanders. More importantly, you should grateful. I’m driven to say it, but rap would be bet- take into consideration the health and Thank you all for your support. Robert ter than the loud, merciless Musak in our well-being of our children. Besides, it is is well on his way to recovery. local doctor’s office. unlawful for any dog to be unleashed, and The Leavy Family So, my City Island child, you have there is a “No Dogs Allowed” sign posted done it again. Just when I wanted to give at the entrance to the park. up on you, you make me proud to be your City Island, My Errant Celeste Zayas, Theresa Vitacco, Gina mother, sister, friend once again, and I And Beloved Child DiMarco, Reiko Shaw, Rena Ishihara, realize I will always hang in there and be Brenda Prohaska, Emily Markowitz, To the Editor: there for the duration. Susan O’Sullivan Yes, I view my City Island as a disap- Carmen Mason pointing but surprising child who always manages to redeem herself just when it Getting the Message seems too late. More and more ticky- To the Editor, tacky boxes going up everywhere, dis- Regarding your recent “Fair Winds or guised as safe and well-built homes; Foul” (March 2002 Current), we do not another fast food restaurant clogging all approve of graffiti, but we do approve of COTTAM traffic that heretofore managed to crawl the idea expressed: “Stop Hating!” its determined way to Johnny’s Reef; Rather than leaving a bad impression, fewer and fewer revenue-bearing visitors as you stated, it cheered us as we drove bothering to make the snail trek, so that onto City Island Avenue. not only all the businesses but Minneford Toby Z. Liederman Avenue too will suffer this blight. And then, just when I’m considering putting Thanks and Play Ball my Island up for adoption or taking myself to a foster home, I am surprised, To the Editor: heartened, given hope. I would like to thank the members of This rejuvenation came on Saturday the City Island Little League for the hon- night, March 16, and again on the after- ors bestowed on me on Opening Day. It noon of the following day, when the teens was very uplifting to me and my family. of City Island presented their Living Keep up the good work. Rocks performance at the United Trinity Tom Davis

BEEF, PORK, LAMB, VEAL HAM, WURSTS & COLD CUTS KARL EHMER QUALITY MEATS 110 CENTRE AVENUE, NEW ROCHELLE, NY 10801 For Registration Information Call: 914-738-1127

Tues., Wed., Thurs. 9-6pm (914) 632-1885 Church of Christ the Redeemer Fri. & Sat. 8-5:30pm Imported Specialties Closed Sunday & Mon. Homemade Salads May 2002 The Island Current Page Five Development Update Carrion Takes Over As By BARBARA DOLENSEK P.S. 175 Principal for a Day thing for the environment and the neigh- As City Islanders wait for the By KAREN NANI Department of City Planning (DCP) to pre- borhood. Thanks to Senator Velella, our sent its contextual zoning plan to residents, concerns were heard by the appropriate developers eager to build housing before agency, and we are very grateful to him.” restrictions are imposed on them are Tier Street Wetlands preparing to file plans for new construction, Haim Joseph, the owner of the property in spite of protests from neighbors. formerly part of the Muhlfeld estate When DCP published its Maritime between Tier and Ditmars Streets, has met Heritage Preservation Study of City Island with members of the community at the sug- in 2001, one of its recommendations to gestion of James Vacca, district manager of help preserve the historic character of the Community Board 10 and with the island was to rezone areas from R3-2 (resi- Department of City Planning to show his dential) to “lower-density contextual zones plans for the property. that better reflect the established built con- Mr. Joseph and his architect, Tony text.” The Bronx office of DCP is now Freda, have prepared plans for a three-story doing the ground work to change the zon- building containing 18 one- to three-bed- ing regulations in certain parts of City room units, plus a 36-car parking lot, to be Island, and it is hoped that the project will constructed behind the new houses on Tier be presented to the community within a Street at William Avenue. When asked matter of months. about encroaching on the designated wet- Photos by KAREN NANI In the meantime, several new high-den- lands that take up much of the property, Mr. Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion was Principal for a Day at P.S. 175 on April 19, 2002. He sity developments have already been con- Joseph indicated that he was discussing an took over the helm from Ena Ellwanger and led morning exercises (above), to the delight of all the structed in recent months, and more are in agreement with DEC for the site, but no students. Shown below with other special guests for the day are (l. to r.) Board of Education repre- application has yet been filed with DEC. sentative Sandra Lerner, PTA co-president Ed Rothschild, Mrs. Ellwanger, Mr. Carrion, Community the planning stages. Board 10 district manager James Vacca and Melissa Cebollero from the Borough President's office. East Bowne Street The property has been listed as a high- The owner of the property at the end of priority acquisition site for New York State east Bowne Street, Charles Monaco, may for several years because of its value as a have to redraft his plans for a condominium natural wetland habitat, but no offer has complex on the site to accommodate a rul- been made to the owner. ing made by the New York State Reville Street Department of Environmental Conserva- Rumors that the property at the corner tion (DEC), which has apparently deter- of Reville Street and City Island Avenue mined that the landfill that makes up the has been selected as a site for a 7-Eleven property was done illegally. According to convenience store are apparently without the office of State Senator Guy Velella, foundation, according to the 7-Eleven based on information received from the headquarters in Texas. Phil Mercogliano, DEC, the owner will be required to remove the owner of the property, had no comment all illegal landfill added to the site since for The Current when asked about the 1974, but Mr. Monaco told The Current rumors. The news of a 7-Eleven proposed that he believes DEC is wrong and negoti- for 3220 Westchester Avenue, in Pelham ations with the agency are in the hands of Bay, on a property owned by Monica Ena Ellwanger handed over the chalk to guests, including James Vacca, district his lawyers. Plantikow of City Island, elicited many Borough President Adolfo Carrion during manager of Community Board 10, whom Mr. Monaco’s plan is to have his devel- protests from the community, including a the Board of Education's Principal for a she credited with arranging for the bor- oper, Howard Loewentheil, construct a 20- public demonstration that attracted more Day program on Friday, April 19, 2002. ough president to come to P.S. 175; unit building on the site, and he says that he than 100 residents of the neighborhood. A Students at P.S. 175 reacted enthusiastical- Sandra Lerner, the Bronx representative to has had the building permits in hand since representative of 7-Eleven told James ly to the new principal, who led morning the central Board of Education; Dr. Ed August 2001, although the Department of Vacca on April 22 that the firm had no exercises and then visited each classroom. Rothschild, co-president of the P.T.A; and Buildings had no record of these. A permit plans to build or lease a store on City Mrs. Ellwanger began the morning by Melissa Cebollero, director of Inter- was issued in August for the demolition of Island. telling the students: “I am on vacation for a Governmental Relations for the borough the houses that were on the property, which Mr. Mercogliano has approached the day.” She then introduced Mr. Carrion as a president. took place on March 1. community through the City Island Civic politician who had shown early support for Being principal for a day capped off a A neighbor, Irwin Weinfeld, was cau- Association on several occasions asking for the school, especially by helping secure the busy week for the borough president, who tiously optimistic about the DEC ruling, ideas that would be acceptable to residents. portable classrooms to be constructed in threw out the first pitch at the City Island but was reluctant to celebrate until the He proposed several ideas, including an the schoolyard by September 2002. These Little League opening day game on building application has been filed. “It’s emergency medical station, a school and structures will help relieve some of the Saturday, April 13. He described both likely that the structure will still be larger high-density housing; residents have sug- crowding in the building, which now hous- these activities as “support for children and than we would like,” he told The Current, gested single-family homes and a commu- es 563 students. those who create nurturing environments “but at least the DEC has done the right nity theater. Mr. Carrion showed a quick grasp of his for them.” responsibilities by announcing report card It was also a busy week for the school. distribution, teacher absences, class trips On Monday, April 9, P.S. 175 teachers held and student birthdays. He led the assembly a demonstration in front of the school in in singing both “America the Beautiful” at concert with their union, the United the presentation of the color guard and Federation of Teachers. The purpose of the “Happy Birthday” after congratulating brief protest, held before the start of school those with birthdays that day and over the at 8:30 a.m., was to raise public awareness weekend. that New York City teachers have been He congratulated student Nicole working without a contract for a year and a Henning on being one of the citywide win- half. ners of the Women's History Month About 15 City Island parents joined the Contest. Nicole will be honored by Mayor protest to emphasize the need to increase Bloomberg next month, along with the teacher salaries in the city. They voiced other winners, at City Hall. Mr. Carrion support for a fair contract because “we are then introduced the morning vignette, a losing too many good teachers to the sub- sign language music presentation of “Let urbs,” said Dr. Rothschild. Mr. Carrion There Be Peace on Earth,” performed by also expressed his support for a new teach- students from teacher Ray Weis’s sign lan- ers’ contract, saying there is a “dire need guage club and the kindergarten class. that New York City children deserve equal Mrs. Ellwanger welcomed other special opportunities with the rest of the state.”

THE PIZZA PLACE

286 CITY ISLAND AVENUE • CITY ISLAND, NY 10464 • 718-885-0744

Open 7 Days Delivery from 5:00pm to Close Daily New & Improved Recipes Student Lunch Specials Page Six The Island Current May 2002 City Tax Lien Sales On or around June 1 each year, the City $9,436.69) of New York conducts a sale of tax liens • 100 Winters Street (William M. on certain real properties in the five bor- Rizzuto, $13,664.30) oughs. Sixty days in advance of the sale, • 239 City Island Avenue ( Lena If you have a new business, or if your old business is the Department of Finance publishes a list D’Amelio, $34,832.77) offering a new service, write to The Current, P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464 by the 10th of the month. On Saturday, May 11, we will be host- of the properties to give notice to the • 167 Rochelle Street (Virginia Cury, ing a slide lecture by Howard Hellman, owners and to lien holders who may be $8,944.68) City Island resident Julia Stewart,who author of Crown Thy Good,a fictional- interested in acquiring liens. • City Island Avenue (Virginia L. Cury, has run a personal training business here ized account of life in the Hudson Valley A tax lien is a legal claim to charges $3,874.68) for many years, now offers two new ser- in the mid-1800s. Mr. Hellman will share owed to the city as a result of the nonpay- • 53 City Island Avenue (Samuel vices in addition to fitness training: some of his research for the novel,which ment of real estate taxes, assessments and Chernin, $25,830.80) Certified Weight-Management Consult - he says touches on City Island. The pro- other related charges. The sale of tax liens • 247 City Island Avenue (Michael J. ing, which is individually tailored advice gram will be at 2:30 p.m. to private third parties is a common Jelgesen, $10,067.34) and support for people who are losing On Saturday, June 15, at 2:30 p.m. enforcement tool utilized by many munic- • 107 Carroll Street (Ruth Kroepke, weight, and Life Coaching. A coach is like Victor Mastro, a professor at Hudson ipalities nationwide. $1,403.33) a personal trainer for your life, in that she Community College and an expert in According to the Finance Department • 499 City Island Avenue (Village Mall helps you achieve your dreams by provid- Bronx history, will present “The Bronx: A Web site, “the Commissioner of Finance Associates, $11,616.67) ing unconditional support, challenge and Musical Melody Medley,” a visual and determines which liens are for sale based • 435 Hunter Avenue (435 City Island accountability as you do things you need aural collage, including a medley of the on several factors, including the mar- Corp., $28,647.43) to do in order to become who your really various types of music created by ketability of the parcel and the current • 500 City Island Avenue (Scungi’s want to be! The new business is called Bronxites, ranging from classical, swing, housing policy and financial goals of the Fish Market, $23,628.34) Your Life Part 2. Ms Stewart can be rock and roll to present day hip-hop. City. Tax liens cannot be sold to the gen- • 583 City Island Avenue (Compre- reached at 885-3409. Hope to see you at both events. eral public.” hensive Trend, $61,905.59) The Kathlyn Moses Gallery will pre- Neal Steinberg Once a tax lien is sold, the city no • 663 City Island Avenue (John sent a new exhibition in May, featuring Children’s Events longer controls the collection of the out- Persteins, $12,534.87) unique photography by Richard Meyer. Toddler Program for ages 18–36 standing debt, and the property owner • 699 Bridge Street (City Island Harbor Opening Reception is on Friday, May 10 months will begin every Wednesday in must make all future payments to the lien Ma, $19,478.31) from 7-11 p.m. The show will run through May at 10:30 a.m. Pre-registration is holder, because the city is no longer • 120 City Island Avenue (AABR June 2. Also on display are new works by required. involved with these delinquent charges. Realty Facilities, $1,179.80) Anita Bastone, Mary Rappold and Lois Picturebook Program is held every The sale of a tax lien does not mean that • 160 City Island Avenue (Minncy C Weingarten and furniture by Kathy Moses. Thursday at 3:30 p.m. the city or the lien holder has taken title to Inc., $6,561.24) Another new personalized fitness pro- the property. • Pilot Street (Minny C Inc., gram has just opened in the new building We will be offering an after-school This year, the tax lien sale will be held at 538 City Island Avenue: the A.J. Science Plus hands-on activities for every $1,372.24) on May 13. The following properties on Weight Loss Center,which has a well- student. Come and participate in this new • 414 City Island Avenue (Virginia L. equipped gym and will focus on a careful- program at the City Island Library on City Island are on the 60-day notice list- Cury, $16,290.41) ly designed combination of diet and exer- Tuesday, May 14, at 3:30 p.m. Pre-regis- ing published by the Department of • 139 City Island Avenue (135 City Island cise. One of the owners, Jack Valencia, tration is required. Finance on March 13. The owner’s name Ave. C, $9.218.16) offers an introductory special of 12 one- Arts and Crafts Program: Mother’s is given in parentheses, along with the • 232 City Island Avenue (John hour sessions with one of the three person- Day Crafts on Wednesday, May 8, at 3:30 total amount of unpaid taxes, water bills Persteins, $129,363.93) al trainers for $240, with a free consulta- p.m. and Spring Crafts on Wednesday, or other; otherwise, the names and For information about the tax-lien sale, tion and a guarantee of 10 pounds lost in a May 22, at 3:30 p.m. Pre-registration is addresses are listed exactly as they were call the Tax Lien Ombudsman in the month. A discount health-food shop and a required. released by the city. Department of Finance at (718) 694-0424. tropical juice bar are now being set up. For further information call the City • 67 Pell Place (Edward J. Carey, Call 885-3445 for an appointment, or just Island Library 885-1703. drop by. Children’s Librarian Evelyn Gerges “Images of City Island” will run from May 30 to June 30 at the Focal Point Gallery with an opening reception on Thursday, May 30, from 7:30 to 10 p.m. The places and people of City Island have HAPPY long been a favorite subject for artists. MOTHER’S DAY! Some of the artists exhibiting paintings, watercolors and drawings are Phil Basilone, Rick DeWitt, Rena Hansen, Marguerite Chadwick-Juner and Toby Z. Liederman. For further information, con- tact Ron Terner at Focal Point Gallery, 321 City Island Avenue, 718-885-1403.

127 Years and 4 Generations of Community Service

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www.ruggieroandsons.com after hours: (718) 885-2504

This firm is a family owned corporation whose only shareholders are Vincent & Robert Ruggiero - (NYC Dept. of Consumer Affairs) May 2002 The Island Current Page Seven SCOUTS ADVANCE AT BLUE AND GOLD DINNER

Photos by RICK DeWITT The annual City Island Cub Scout Blue and Gold dinner was held on Friday, April 12, at Trinity Methodist Church. This special evening features awards presentations and the Arrow of Light ceremony (above right), in which Webelos advance to the rank of Boy Scout by passing cer- tain required skills to the satisfaction of Scoutmaster Ed Esposito. Proudly holding their Arrow of Light certificates are the second year Webelos (above, kneeling, l. to r.): Tommy Lott, Jarod Godsey, John Devlin, Sean Cullen and Austin Gavila. Middle row: Keith Manfredonia, Michael Jaffe, Jack Masterson, Scott Connell, David Mooney and Anthony Valentino. Top row: leaders Kathy Devlin, Francisco Gavila and Penny Lyons. Not shown, Daniel Henning.

The first-year Webelos showing off their awards at the April 12 ceremony are (first row, l. to r.) Michael Sowa, Michael Zapata, Liam Flynn, Alex Skokas, Ryan Clark and Matthew Sasko. Back row: leader Doreen Zapata, assistant leader Peter Dinome and leader Laura Flynn.

Leader Regina Krieg stands behind her award winning Tiger Cubs: (kneeling, l. to r.) Dylan Cullen, Kyle Kreig, Joseph Fusco and Vincent Fusco. Standing are Christoph Dierenfeld, Haxhi Lajqi, Gregory Sexton, Tiernan Shanley and Andrew Clark.

Leader Toni Ann Conahan proudly presents her scouts, who completed their requirements to receive the Wolf badge. Kneeling (l. to r.) are Kyle Williams, Kevin Whelan and Daniel Masterson. Standing are Mitchell Santiago, Jack Clayton, Justin Conahan and Nicholas Ruggiero. Theatre Review ‘TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD’ By BARABARA DOLENSEK When Harper Lee’s only novel was was a special treat for this reviewer to published in 1960, it created a sensation. experience again the power of the story Not only did it sell over 2 million copies through the dramatic version presented in in its first year but it also won the Pulitzer April by the City Island Theater Group. Leaders Karin Durvell and Ann Butterworth flank the scouts who completed their require- Prize. Film rights were sold, resulting in Times have changed a great deal since ments to receive the Bear badge. Kneeling (l. to r.) are Chris Russo, Brandon Esola, David Gregory Peck’s Oscar-winning perfor- 1960, but this impressive production Butterworth, David Anderson, and Joseph Amoroso. Standing are Jack McCabe, Bryan Weis, mance as Atticus Finch in 1962. made the play (dramatized by Christopher Mark Lischinsky, Hart Deese, Ryan Pena and Salvatore Kulka. Not shown are assistant leader This response was significant because Sergel) as moving and relevant as it was Lisa Scotti, Michael Scott, Jose Inglesias and Nicky Peluso. it occurred just as the civil rights move- so many years ago. ment was getting under way and because Although this was clearly a coopera- the novel, set in 1935, dealt with a diffi- tive effort, the strength of the production cult subject– the trial in which a black would not have been possible without Bill man, wrongly accused of raping a white Castro’s superb performance as Atticus girl in a small town in Georgia, is defend- Finch. Not only did he convey the quiet ed by a white attorney. It is a tribute to the modesty of the main character, but he also author, who used Atticus’s young daugh- managed to read his lines as convincing ter, Scout, to narrate the story, that the dialogue rather than as sermonizing novel became a classic overnight. The speeches. influence it had on its own time can be The children in the story---Scout, her compared to that of Harriet Beecher brother Jem and their friend Dill (a char- Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” a century acter based on Truman Capote)---were earlier. beautifully played by three youngsters, Harper Lee’s novel is still widely read Emily Lomurno, Benjamin Marcus and today, but as a school assignment, and it Continued on page 12 Page Eight The Island Current May 2002

people who need our help. Organization News City Island Seniors On Tuesday, May 21, the chapter will News on this page concerning organizations, and events listed in, are submitted by representatives of those organi- The City Island Seniors meet the first sponsor a new South Jersey experience. zations. A limit of 150 words is requested for all news items submitted. In most cases news will be edited and every We will depart for a full luncheon and effort will be made to preserve the substance of longer items. News and calendar events must be received by no later Tuesday of every month at the Trinity than the 20th of each month except December and July. If the 20th falls on a holiday or Sunday, the deadline is the United Methodist Church Hall at 1 p.m. entertainment at the beautiful Omni 19th. Mail submissions to P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464. YOUR NAME AND PHONE NUMBER MUST BE Catering restaurant in South Jersey and INCLUDED. The next meeting is scheduled for May 6, at which time our speaker will be Cormac then go to the Hilton Hotel Casino in be held at Marina Del Rey on Friday, June McEnery. He will be glad to speak on Atlantic City for a four-hour stay, when- Current Calendar 14. There will be an open bar from noon anything that interests the members. rewe will receive the package of the day. MAY to 5 p.m. and music by Johnny Del. Come out and bring your questions. Reservations are being accepted for an Chairpersons for this luncheon are Gloria Thurs., May. 16, Community Board 10 The Maritime Day Trip (hosted by exciting five-day vacation trip to the beau- meets, 7:30 p.m., Middletown Plaza Senior Salacan and Florence Quinn. Please see Fred Hess) will be held on May 23 with tiful Cortina Inn in Killington, Vermont, Center, 3033 Middletown Road, Bronx. them for reservations. lunch beforehand from 11 a.m. to 12:45 and the Von Trapp Family Lodge from We have two great trips planned for the Aug. 19 to 23, 2002. Every day we will be Sat., May 18 and Sun., May 19, Cub Scout p.m. at the East Tremont Chinese Buffet, Annual Camping Trip to Alpine, N.J. To fall. On Thursday, Sept. 12, we are taking touring the famous sights and points of 3227 East Tremont Avenue. Signed-up attend, call Kathy Ciarletta before May 5 at a “Bateaux Cruise,” plus Imax Theater at interest in and around Vermont, including members will meet at Trinity United 885-2416 the Liberty Scenic Center. On the boat we a boat cruise on Lake Champlain. The trip Methodist Church at 10:30 a.m. for depar- will have a full sit-down lunch with music will include first-class accommodations, Tues., May 26, City Island Civic Association ture in designated cars. A photo ID is nec- meets,8 p.m., Community Center, 190 and entertainment. all meals, deluxe motor coach transporta- essary for entrance into the Maritime Fordham Street. On Thursday, Oct. 17, we will see the tion with a professional tour manager and Academy. play “Daniel’s” with dinner at the Good & much, much more. Fri., May 31, to Sat., June 1, Fleet Weekend Katherine Knapp will speak on 2002. See article this issue for events. Plenty Restaurant. For information, please Prices and more details for these events attend our meetings. “Tuning Into Your Intuition” at the June 4 will be discussed at our meetings, or call JUNE Marie Tirelli meeting. Tina De Cristofaro at 885-0865. Thurs., June 13, Garden Club Spring It is with regret that our director of Lucy Puglia "Luncheon by the Sea," 12 noon, City Island City Island Theater Group seven years, Andy Sbare, has turned in his Yacht Club on Pilot Street. For reservations, (CITG) has started rehearsals for its resignation due to poor health. We thank City Island Chamber Music call Ruth at 885-1361. “Hawaiian Kiddy Kabaret” production. him gratefully for his organizing, con- Our strong spring season continues with ducting meetings and making arrange- Garden Club This year the show will include a play, “The the appearance of the flute player Bart Stowaway,” written and directed by Laury ments for the wonderful trips we all Feller on May 5, along with supporting The Garden Club hosted a slide presen- E. Hopkins, with Stephen Marcus as musi- enjoyed over the years. We wish him bet- strings playing works by Mozart, Debussy tation and lecture given by Mike Ruggerio, cal director. It will run June 15 and 16 at ter health and happiness and look forward and others. head curator of the Peggy Rockefeller Rose Trinity United Methodist Church, and the to seeing him at future meetings. On Mother’s Day, May 12, pianist Sara Emrie Steiniger Garden at the New York Botanical Garden, price of admission will include a light lunch. Buechner will perform a Mozart piano at the City Island Yacht Club on Thursday, Details for this production will be forthcom- quartet, some Dvorak dances and some lul- April 11. We were happy to see so many ing in the June issue of The Current. Chapter 3303 AARP labies with mezzo Desirée Halac, cellist City Islanders come out for this very inter- The cast includes, but is not limited to Members of the Minneford Chapter, Ariane Lallemand, pianist Makiko Hirata esting program. Abigail Adams, Elizabeth Balfe, Jennifer AARP #3303 are constantly reminded of and others. The next meeting of the Garden Club Bosker, Jack Clayton, Dylan Cruz, Alexis the AARP motto “To serve, not to be May 19 will feature a string trio, violin- will be Monday, May 6, at 10 a.m. at the Cunzio, Molly Delaney, Ashley DelGuidice, served.” Ann Impelluso, chairperson of ist Ariel Shamai, violist Ori Kam and cel- City Island Yacht Club. New members are Bianca DelGuidice, Kristen Marie DeSantis, the Community Services Committee, list Wolfram Koessel presenting Mozart’s always welcome. Samantha Emmert, Marrisa Ferris, Amanda reports on the great number of members Divertimento for String Trio. Our “Luncheon by the Sea” will be held Ann Figueiredo, Sam Fischer, Kaylin who volunteer for activities outside the On May 25, a piano quartet featuring on Thursday, June 13, at the City Island Fitzpatrick, Liam Flynn, Cait Hennessey, chapter. She maintains a record of the some special guests will play Brahms and Yacht Club. Tickets are $23. Please call Nicole Henning, Gwyn Hopkins, Michael type of activity and the number of partici- Mozart. Ruth at 885-1361 or Dolores at 885-0918 Jaffe, Luke Kitagawa, Briana Lotrionte, pants in each category, and she includes June 2 will introduce some new artists: for reservations as soon as possible. Jillian Lotrionte, Gabriella Maldari, that information in our annual report sub- pianist Inessa Zaretsky, the violinist Jesse The Garden Club is again asking for Bernadette McMahon, Shannan Monaghan, mitted to the National AARP. It is edify- Mills and violist Kathryn Lockwood to contributions for our annual Beautification Blerta Muyjaj, Samantha Nagy, Blakely ing to see so many members giving their play Schumann’s piano quintet and other Fund Drive. Please send donations to Nagy, Jonathan Nagy, Marie-Louise time and effort and offering their services works. Kathy Gibbons, 183 Horton Street, City Nangle, Nader Nouraee, Ashely Odau, Sean to so many programs and activities. We Each concert begins at 12:20 p.m. on Island, NY 10464. Checks should be made O'Leary, Anthony Orzo, Samantha are very proud of these members, and by Sunday at Le Refuge Inn, 620 City Island out to The Garden Club of City Island. Pecoraro, Sophia Piscatelli, Maddie giving updated reports at our Avenue; admission is $16. For informa- Gardening hint: Why not put some aro- Piscatelli, Grace Ramos, Chelsea Rodstrom, meetings;,we encourage the other mem- tion, call 212-927-9194. matic foliage plants in your garden, such as Justin Rodstrom, Rebecca Rodstrom, bers to volunteer their services for the Wolfram Koessel lavender, rosemary, lemon verbena, sage, Imelda Rojas, Sarah Rothschild, Gregory thyme or mint? You can pick the leaves for Sexton, Emmett Shanley, Tiernan Shanley, cooking and dry the leaves for potpourri. Hannah Sheehey, Alex Skokos, Janae Phyllis Goodman Spinata, Rebecca Taffet, Elizabeth Vacca, Victoria Velez, Leah Weber, Sarah Williams, Chapter 318 AARP Aimee Zambrana and Stephanie Zambrana. Don’t forget that we meet the first and Please visit our Web site at: http://our third Wednesday of each month at the world.cs.com/Citheatergroup. Trinity United Methodist Church, 113 Joe Nixon Bay Street, City Island. Refreshments are served after the meetings. AFFORDABLE ROOFING Blood-pressure readings can be taken before the meeting on the first Wednesday of each month. Dick Sauter, a notary, will • Gutters • Flat Roof be available before and after meetings to • Siding Specialist notarize any documents free of charge. • Windows • Repairs Our next trip to Atlantic City is on Tuesday, May 14; the bus departs at 9 a.m. from 113 Bay Street, City Island. For Charlie 718-885-3555 reservations, please call Jean Ringel at Free Estimates Fully Insured 885-1479 or John Bonicoro at 885-1844. Our end- of-the-season luncheon will May 2002 The Island Current Page Nine Teen Center open, please call Jay Howard at 885-2192. Senior Nutrition Program: Held at Pilot Cove Manor, weekdays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All senior citizens are welcome; the cost is only 80¢ per meal. Call 885-0727 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. for your monthly calendar with daily lunch menus and sched- ule of visits to shopping centers. Dance classes for children and adults, Fridays at the Center! Preballet, jazz and tap for kids. Ballroom for adults at 8 pm. Call Linda at Dance Connection, 914 576-5515. Adult Tap Classes: Call Corinne If you wish to submit, for inclusion in this column, infor- Grondahl at 885-2011. mation regarding events and activities at the City Island Community Center, please call Laury Hopkins Photography Classes: Call Ron Terner at 885-3202 no later than the 15th of each month, at 885-1403 or inquire at Focal Point except December and July. Leave a message, includ- ing your name and phone number. Gallery. Photos by MONICA GLICK Announcements Step Aerobics Classes: Sundays 8:30 Elliot Glick of the Starving Artist Gallery taught basic jewelry-making techniques, on two Mondays Belly Dancing Classes will be given on to 9:30 a.m.; Mondays, Wednesdays and in April, to18 members of City Island Girl Scout Troop #1046. Pictured on top, earning merit badges Sundays from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. Beginning Fridays 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and Mondays for jewelry making, using wire, beads and pliers, are (l. to r.), Gabrielle Peña and Bianca McGovern getting help from Elliott Glick. Bottom right inset, (l. to r.), Alycia DaLoia-Moore, Bianca McGovern May 12. Everyone is welcome! Hip scarves and Wednesdays 7 to 8 p.m. Call Mary and Danielle Kaufman making jewelry. The top left inset shows the finished creations by members will be provided! Call Nadia at 885-9660 to Immediato at 885-0793. of Troop #1046. Under the direction of troop leaders Toni Conahan and Donna McGowan, the troop register. Yoga: Basic level Hatha Yoga classes also made jewelry boxes in which to keep their handmade treasures. Ongoing Events include yoga postures, deep relaxation and Monthly Meetings are held on the first breathing practices, and stress management Legion News brunch on Sunday, April 28, and will Tuesday of each month at 8 p.m. in the for peace of mind and physical well-being. sponsor another on May 19. The proceeds Community Center, 190 Fordham Street. Call Annette at 885-0724 for further infor- Spring is here, but as I write this will be used to defray the costs associated To schedule events at the Center, call mation. newsletter, it feels more like summer. The with bringing the New York Fire Laury Hopkins at 885-3202. Millennium Babies: A Moms and mercury has reached 96 degrees with Department Bagpipe Band to City Island Teen Center: Saturday evenings. To Babies Playgroup. Call Brenda Prohaska at more unseasonable weather predicted. I for the parade. We hope that Fire volunteer your time so that we can keep the 885-9040. assume that when this edition of The Department, Rescue 3, will honor us with Laury Hopkins Current reaches the newsstands, we will their participation. This decorated unit be back to normal. lost several members on Sept. 11. May is a busy month for the Post. On The captain and crew of the New York Sunday, May 5, at 10 a.m. at the Throggs City ferry American Legion have donated Neck Post, the County Blessing of the the ensign flown from the ferry on Sept. Colors will take place. On Sunday, May 11, requesting that it be carried in the 19, the Post will hold the annual parade. We are proud to honor their Memorial Service at the 10 a.m. mass at request. The flag will be carried by our St. Mary Star of the Sea. color guard. The Spring Dance, always held on the The parade will step off at 2 p.m. on Saturday before Memorial Day, will be Monday, May 27, at Belden Point. The Saturday, May 25, at the Morris Yacht good burghers of City Island usually line Club. Festivities will begin at 7 p.m. with the east curb of City Island Avenue, but a cocktail hour, followed by a roast beef there are three stops along the route where dinner. There will be an open bar and short ceremonies are conducted. They are Donald Kolb • Cathy Cebek • Maria Swieciki • William Nuesslein music. Tickets for this extravaganza can the WWI memorial at the City Island Bette Lacina • Eileen Scott • Kathlyn Moses • Kim Moran • Charles Lenhard be had by calling Rich O’Keefe at 885- Park, Hawkins Street, the Pelham Ann Butterworth • Victor L. Anderson Jr. • Dorothy Casa • Jean Anderson • Geri Seiter 1159, Joe Goonan at 885-1637, or Cemetery and the WWII memorial at the Commander Hecker at the Post, 885- bridge. The participants then retire to the 0639. Since we anticipate a large crowd, it Post, where food and libation are provid- would be prudent to get your reservations ed to the ravenous hordes. early. The price is $50 per person. We are in the process of replacing or The biggest Post event for the month reattaching brackets on more than 100 will be the annual Memorial Day Parade, poles on City Island Avenue. New flags which seems to get larger each year. will be available by Memorial Day. We William Clancy is responsible for getting could use a few more volunteers. Contact a contingent of marines or sailors to Russ Schaller at 885-2087. Flags are march with us; he has had great success in available, too, for $10. The price includes the past. Noel McIntyre, a sailor of repute a sturdy bracket. They can be purchased at who served in Her Majesty’s Navy, will the Post. contact our British friends and invite their Sick Call participation too. Richard Lindley is at Sound Shore We hope to have the float for this Medical Center. Captain Fred Lane is at year’s parade, since many of our Big St. Joseph’s Nursing Home, Yonkers. Deuce veterans have reached, or are push- William McGee is still at Prospect ing, 80 years of age and are unable to Heights Hospital in Hackensack. Don negotiate the one-and-a-half-mile trek. Varian is at home. Joseph DeLuca is recu- Several suggestions to make the voyage perating at home, as are Louis Probst and more palatable have been put forth, Howard Smith. Social member Malcolm among them a Porta-Potty and a keg of Hedley was hospitalized last week but Beck’s. Local residents and businessmen may be home by the time this edition goes Dan Pirraglia, Bob Pena and Chris to press. McGuire have assisted us in the past and Meetings Schedule we hope that they will be back on board Regular meetings: Monday, May 6 and this year. 20. Executive meeting: Monday, May 13. The Sons of the Legion sponsored a All meetings start at 7:30 p.m. Some members are still delinquent relative to their 2002 dues. Russell Schaller Page Ten The Island Current May 2002

June 21, last day of school. John Biebe, who is happily married to Public School 175 Donna (Mary McCormack). The town lives On April 11, at a star-studded event for the Saturday afternoon hockey games in which included celebrities Paul Newman which John plays. A former resident, sports- and Keir Dullea, the 2002 Red Apple Award caster Charles Danner (Hank Azaria), comes was presented to P.S. 175 for its dedication to town and proposes that the local team to children and their teachers, commitment play the New York Rangers, which has a to science and environmental education and predictable but enjoyable result. invaluable service to its community. James In 1999 Crowe gave his first Oscar-wor- Naughton acted as master of ceremonies for the event, which took place at the Maritime thy performance as scientist Jeffrey Wigand St. Mary, Star of the Sea Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut. P.S. in The Insider. Wigand is a whistleblower, The kindergarten children are showing a 175 was represented by Mrs. Ellwanger, Ms. convinced by producer Lowell Bergman (Al keen interest in gardens and the beautiful Vargas, Dr. Rothschild as co-president of the Selected Filmography Pacino), against his better judgment, to tell flowers and unusual creatures that can be P.T.A. and IDEA'S co-directors, Patricia Of Russell Crowe the truth about the tobacco industry on “60 Hennessy and Rose Rodstrom. found there. They are learning the songs for Russell Crowe made his starring cinema Minutes,” much to the horror of his unsup- their June 12 graduation. The kindergartners have just celebrated debut in The Crossing,a 1990 Australian portive wife, Liane (Diane Venora). The Grades 1 and 2 are reinforcing classroom Earth Day as part of their spring study. They tobacco industry exercises its considerable studies by using the computer to review let- will be planting magic beans and reading film in which he plays a young man in love with a woman whose former boyfriend clout on CBS, making life uncomfortable ters, numbers, sentence structure and match- many different versions of “Jack and the for Mike Wallace (Christopher Plummer) Beanstalk.” returns to town. Crowe moved into action ing skills. and the CBS news team. Although the facts The third grade is using downloaded Grade 1 will take a trip to the Bronx Zoo adventure in No Way Back (1995), as a are somewhat twisted, this is an extremely internet sites to create projects involving the after studying about animal adaptation. widowed F.B.I. agent and the father of a 50 states. The spring planting has paid off and the young son, who must redeem himself with powerful, thought-provoking film. In math, the fourth-graders are studying second-graders are amazed at how well their the agency and settle a score when his part- In Proof of Life (2000), Crowe is Terry measurement and time. They thoroughly plants are doing. ner is killed during an undercover sting. Thorne, a professional ransom negotiator, enjoyed their trip to Alley Pond in Queens Grade 3 is putting the finishing touches Two outstanding performances highlight who is hired by Alice Bowman (Meg Ryan) on the research reports and projects for and are now finishing up related studies of the Australian comedy-drama The Sum of and her sister-in-law, Janis (Pamela Reed) to Native American, West African and Latin International Day. Us (1994), which stars Crowe as Jeff save Alice’s husband, kidnapped dam engi- cultures. They will soon take a trip to The fourth-grade students are writing neer Peter (David Morse). The sexual ten- Phillipsburg Manor, in Sleepy Hollow, New and editing their autobiographies on class- Mitchell, a gay young man who lives in Sidney with his father, Harry (Jack sion that grows between Terry and Alice is York, a restored 18th-century Colonial vil- room computers. They are also becoming palpable (and indeed resulted in Ryan’s real- very accomplished interviewers, which will Thompson). Harry has not bought into his lage and commercial center. There the chil- life divorce from Dennis Quaid). dren will celebrate the holiday of Pinkster, assist them in completing their genealogy generation’s homophobia and is very accept- Crowe won a best actor Academy Award the arrival of spring, which both the Dutch projects. At the Easter break, the students ing and supportive of his son’s lifestyle. colonists and the slaves celebrated during took home their mealworms and saw the There are some wonderful comic moments for his portrayal of Maximus in Gladiator the 17th and 18th centuries. metamorphosis of the darkling beetle. in the film, which is also a poignant story of (2000), which (to my disbelief) won best Grade 5 is learning about sound and will Grade 5R is involved in many interesting love between father and son. picture. This is a dark, overlong film about construct simple instruments to form a band projects. Laptop computers are being used Crowe finally put himself on the map the Roman Empire’s conquests, corruption, to write beautiful spring poetry, watercolors in class. The students hope to take part in (and showed his facility with American immorality and utter lack of concern for “Switch-Off TV Week.” In computer class, are creating interesting patterns on kites and accents) with the Oscar-nominated film human life. the Multimedia Hyperstudio Program will in math the students are measuring every- On the other hand, Crowe definitely be used to create an "All About Me" project. thing in sight! This month's technology pro- L.A. Confidential (1997). In this excellent mystery thriller, Crowe plays L.A.P.D. should have won for his magnificent portray- The sixth-graders will do a report and ject is an identification card. Each student is al of Nobel Prize-winning mathematician in the process of making his/her own per- detective Bud White, a tough guy in love project on space and the constellations. The John Forbes Nash Jr. and his struggle with students will also look at water and its role sonalized card using MS Word and a scan- with a Veronica Lake look-alike, Lynn schizophrenia in 2001's best picture A and importance to planet earth. Working ner. Welcome to Ms. Perez, the new student Bracken (Kim Basinger), a high-priced call with a drawing program they will create and teacher, and congratulations to Anthony girl. This story of corruption, which has Beautiful Mind (which also garnered a best illustrate their own personal time lines. Maimone on winning first place in the "You subplots and twists galore, also stars Kevin director award for Ron Howard). Crowe’s In social studies Grade 7 is learning Are My Hero" contest. Spacey as Jack Vincennes, a police detective performance was the heart, mind and soul of about the United States Constitution and the The sixth grade is concentrating on Mali in cahoots with publisher Sid Hudgens the film, which also featured Jennifer in West Africa. They are reading about and first several presidents. For a women's histo- (Danny DeVito) in setting up arrests of Connelly as Nash’s wife, Alicia (who won ry report, the students will each have to discussing the Mali king Mansa Musa celebrities. The film also features Guy best supporting actress). How this brilliant interview a woman age 50 or over and try to (1312–1337), who expanded Mali influence man is debilitated and then deals with his come to an understanding of her life. over the large Niger city-states of Timbuktu, Pearce as by-the-book Lieutenant Ed Exley and James Cromwell as the enigmatic Irish demons is a wonder to behold. It is an origi- The eighth-graders are studying volca- Gao and Djenne. Through research the stu- nal film that shows Crowe’s extraordinary dents will learn that it was under Mansa Captain Dudley Smith. noes and earthquakes and will do a related talent. project. They are also preparing for the state Musa that Timbuktu became one of the Mystery Alaska (1999) is a sweet little And until next time, be safe, and happy science exam. The students will use Internet major cultural centers, not only of Africa, but film in which Crowe plays town sheriff, Explorer to create their own mock vacation of the entire world. Under his patronage, vast viewing. . . . to Orlando, Florida. They will research and libraries were built and Islamic universities plan all aspects of the trip, including lodg- were endowed. Timbuktu became a meeting ing, interesting sights, budgets and meals. place of the finest poets, scholars and artists Special dates for St. Mary's are as fol- of Africa and the Middle East. Mrs. White's lows: May 1, ELA state exam for Grade 8; class has just finished studying ancient May 3, First Friday Mass with liturgy pre- Egypt, and as a culminating activity the stu- pared by Grade 8; May 4, First Communion dents constructed their own pyramids, using at 10 a.m. in the church; May 7, various materials. They also wrote about the Confirmation at 4 p.m. administered by construction process and a short tale of Bishop McCarthy; May 7–8, Grade 8 state whom and what each pyramid contains. math exam; May 7 and 13, Grade 4 state The debate team for the seventh grade is math exam; May 9, school closed for back this year. The topic for this year's reso- Ascension Thursday; May 10, school lution is the following statement: "National closed; May 15, May crowning in church; Security is more important than the public's May 17, Greene Uniform Co. at school at 9 right to know." The team has not yet been a.m. to measure new and current students; selected. P.S. 175 would like to congratulate May 22, Sr. James Patrick is hosting the Nicole Henning, one of 100 citywide win- District 11B meeting; May 27–28, school ners for Women's History Month. She was closed; May 29, 30, 31, state science exams honored at the Julia Richmond Education for Grades 4 and 8; June 3, Grades 5, 6 and Complex on April 26 by the mayor's office. 7 will attend Medieval Times Dinner Class 8D is currently working on the Theater; June 5, Grade 8 state social studies social studies exit project. The students are exam; June 6, Grade 8 written part of state also looking forward to spending a wonder- science exam; June 7, First Friday Mass at 9 ful spring day at the Bronx Zoo after study- a.m. with liturgy prepared by Grade 5; June ing endangered animals. 10, school closed; June 12, Kindergarten The staff and students of P.S. 175 would graduation; June 13, Pre-K graduation; June like to congratulate Mrs. Ellen Funck on her 14, Grade 8 graduation at 7 p.m. in the retirement. We wish her lots of luck on the church; June 17–21, half days of school; golf course!!!

30% OFF Items Over $20. May 1st through May 12th. May 2002 The Island Current Page Eleven

Photo by RICK DeWITT Some of the many talented children and teens whose work was on display at Focal Point Gallery's Young Artists Exhibition in April. Shown at the gallery are (l. to r.) Fiona Kyle (held by mom, Cynthia), Jason Mangual, owner Ron Terner, Christopher DiMarco, Dylan Blake and Jamila Francis. WHY EAT ORGANIC? WHY EAT AT ALL? By NANCY DEAN, M.D., N.D. What is the purpose of food? Was it • The American Journal of Clinical designed to be the focal point of meetings Nutrition Sept. 2000 reported that 27 percent and gatherings, the way to someone’s heart, of our daily calories are derived from junk the way to forget one’s troubles or a cash food. crop for the fast-food industry? • North Americans spend 90 percent of I don’t think so. Here’s a clue. their food money on processed foods Food is the only source of raw material • 70 percent of processed foods have that grows and maintains our bodies. Our genetically modified foods in them. only source! Speaking personally, I want to • Dr. Abram Hoffer, the originator of make the raw material I eat as pure and as Orthomolecular Medicine along with two- healthy as possible. That means no junk time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling, says food, no genetically engineered food, a min- "Refined sugar and all refined foods such as imum of sugar and as much organic food as polished rice, white flour and the like are I can find. nothing less than legalized poisons." The term “organic” refers to methods of • Dr. Hoffer also asserts that "Sugar is an farming and processing foods that control addiction far stronger than what we see with weeds and pests by using environmentally heroin. It is the basic addictive substance sound practices that sustain the health of our from which all other addictions flow, includ- planet, and ultimately our own health. ing alcoholism." NOW AVAILABLE Organic farmers do not use pesticides, fungi- • The diet industry nets $40 billion dol- cides or fertilizers in an environmentally lars annually making money on our addic- LATEST LASERS FOR HAIR REMOVAL harmful manner but prefer a blend of old and tions. AND TREATMENT OF SPIDER VEINS. new technologies and scientific research • The World Health Organization gave a ALSO-BOTOX FOR WRINKLING such as rotating crops to improve soil fertili- health report card of 13 developed countries, ty and control pests, and by planning bushes and the United States rankings are as fol- and flowers that attract beneficial insects to lows: control unwanted pests. • 13th in low-birth-weight babies Superficially, most vegetables may look • 13th in neonatal mortality alike whether they are organically grown or • 11th in post-neonatal mortality not. According to the Firman E. Baer Report • 13th in mortality rate from Rutgers University, however, there is a • 11th for life expectancy in females huge difference in the mineral content of • 12th for life expectancy in males organic produce versus what is grown com- If we are what we eat, then most of us are mercially. The report indicates that the fast, cheap, and easy! And fat, too. But it organic vegetables studied contained two to doesn’t have to be that way. Our bodies are MANOR TEXACO three times more minerals than the commer- built to last a lifetime. They are programmed 135 SHORE ROAD cial varieties. by our DNA to be healthy and strong, but This report bears out my own research for only if we feed them the right building PELHAM, NY 10803 a book I am writing on the subject of mag- blocks. The right building blocks start with a 914-738-9851 nesium. In fact, I was astounded to find that basic healthy, organic diet that gives our commercially grown crops have very little of bodies a fighting chance. the dozens of minerals and vitamins that our The good news is that it is never too late bodies need and that we may think we are to make the switch back to basics, because getting in our food. What minimal amounts we now know that the cells of the body are Family owned and operated of nutrients they do contain after surviving all replaceable, even the neurons in the brain. Serving the community for over 10 years the rigors of early harvesting and long-dis- This means that in about seven years time tance shipping are further depleted when almost every cell in your body is new. And foods are processed. Just because you live on an island, don’t let yourself be with organic vegetables, fruit, free-range Chew on these acts about the current state poultry and meat, fish, and essential fats and stranded on one. of nutrition in America: oils, it can be a healthy body. We at Manor Texaco invite you to explore our shore, I will be writing more in future columns where everyone feels like a star. about how we can accomplish this recon- Here at 135 Shore Road you will find a haven for your struction project, but in the meantime, I car. Honest professionals taking pride in providing qual- encourage you all to start looking for organ- DAY SPA ic vegetables in your market and feeding ity and reliable service. them to yourself and your family. SPRING SPECIALS In the meantime, join the City Island • Free Shuttle Service, Pickup and Delivery CSA to purchase a share in an organic farm • Body Contour Wraps • State -of-the-Art Equipment (call 885-1104). There will be recipes and • Anti-Aging Treatments • Hunter Computerized Wheel Alignment, support for the kitchen-challenged and for • Facial Care SPX Engine Analyzer those hopelessly addicted to condiments. • Eyebrow & Lash Tint • NYS Inspection Islander Nancy Dean, M.D., N.D., is an • Speed Waxing • Service Reminders “We Remind You Before the Police” expert in alternative options and choices for • Aromatherapy-Massage • Quarterly Newsletter treating disease, but she prefers to educate • Tow Truck Service on Premises For more information people about staying well, which she does by • All Work Guaranteed CALL BRIGITTE TODAY writing for Natural Health Magazine,writing (718) 885-1472 health books, lecturing and teaching doctors ** Mention this ad and receive 10% off on any service** about alternative medicine. Page Twelve The Island Current May 2002

nies. mysterious Boo Radley. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Theatre Review As usual with these productions, a great Continued from page 7 (Burroughs); his brother, Robert, of Valley deal of care and talent went into the creation Forge, Pennsylvania; and his sister, Nader Nouraee, who missed not a single of the set, designed and built by Dorothy The Current will print obituaries free of charge upon Geraldine Babyak, of Austin, Texas. notification by a member of the deceased’s immediate line or cue and captured the heart of the Muccio with the help of Nicholas Perugini Three children, Mark Klages of San family. Call 885-0760 or write to P.O. Box 6, City audience. Eddie Ciarletta, age 14, played a and Emilio Soto. Norma Kerne, Carol Island, NY 10464, including your telephone number. Diego, California; Glenn Klages of small role as Walter Cunningham Jr. and McCabe and Carole Sullivan dressed the Claire E. Schumacher Columbus, Ohio; and Linda Muir of actors, who were made up by Laury Austin, Texas; and seven grandchildren, also handled the sound and lights. Clearly, Claire E. Schumacher passed away the City Island Theater Group doesn’t have Hopkins. The stage manager, Nicolas Sala, Feb. 17, 2002, at the age of 83. She had also survive him. handled with ease the complicated task of Captain Kluges was cremated and to worry about its future! been living in a nursing home in Atlantic moving many actors on and off stage, and interred next to St. Francis by the Sea Antonette Boiano played Maude Highlands, New Jersey, since suffering a the direction, by Eileen Marcus, was excel- Roman Catholic Church. The last time he Atkinson, the narrator in this stage version, debilitating stroke in July 2001. She was lent. was on City Island was for his 50th and her strong voice and presence set just a longtime resident of City Island and The production managers, Miriam Tyler Hill, Pennsylvania. reunion at P.S. 17. the right tone as one of the few reasonable citizens of the county. Miriam Schroder was Benitez-Nixon and Norma Kerner, deserve Ms. Schumacher was born in Dayton, our gratitude, not only for a fine evening of Ohio, and educated in Wisconsin. She Richard W. McCluskey a well-matched foil as silly Stephanie theater, but also for bringing this wonderful lived in Chicago, Berkeley, Manhattan, Richard W. McCluskey, age 74, passed Crawford, a stereotypical southern lady. drama to life again for all of us who remem- Paris and Florence. She worked for many away in San Diego, California, on March The difficult neighbor, Mrs. Dubose, was ber the book and the film version so fondly. years as a librarian at the New York 10, 2002. He loved City Island and fishing well played by Natalie O’Connell. Public Library and at Queens College. in Long Island Sound, but in 1993 he The two black actors, Crystal Cook as She retired to City Island, which gave decided to move to California to be near Calpurnia, Atticus’s housekeeper and her its own pleasures of place and com- his children. He never did like the fishing Kirkland Campbell as the accused, Tom munity. She is survived by her brother, on the West Coast, but that was a trade-off Robinson, successfully conveyed the diffi- John, and many nephews and nieces to to be near his kids. He is survived and cult feat of balancing the subservient whom she was devoted. Donations can be missed greatly by his son, Richard; behavior expected in 1935 and the great made in her name to the New York Public daughters, Lynn and Jackie; grandson, moral dignity of their characters. They Library. Richard John, and other relatives and showed not a trace of self-consciousness many friends. and lent a real credibility to the play. Donald J. Klages Jerry Demers was a fine judge and Captain Donald J. Klages died on Feb. Nicholas Perugini was a convincing sheriff, 27, 2002, at Hilton Head Island, South both of them respectable men trying to do Carolina. He was 74. the right thing in the wrong place at the A longtime resident of City Island and TowBOAT/U.S. City Island wrong time. High Island, he attended Public School Frank Siciliano, who can play comic 17, graduating in 1942. Captain Klages roles with the best of them, was a fine vil- graduated from the United States lain, so mean that he was booed as he took Merchant Marine Academy at Kings his bow at the final curtain. Susan Rauh as Point in 1950. He was an unlimited mas- ter mariner and also a captain in the U.S. his duaghter, was wonderful at Mayella Naval Reserve. He was president of one Ewell, the victim of the purported rape and DR. STEVE’S of New York’s largest stevedoring compa- beating. Although the audience was well APPLIANCE SERVICE aware of her false accusations on the stand, she managed to elicit feelings of sympathy for her pitiful status as Bob Ewell’s daugh- 1 Year guarantee on parts. EDMOND (Teddy) PRYOR ter. 25 Years of Experience on All Brands ATTORNEY AT LAW T. J. Meyers did well as one of the townsmen, and Tom Smith pulled off the 1925 Williamsbridge Road 300 City Island Avenue 671-0700 Bronx, City Island, hat trick of playing three different towns- New York 10461 New York 10464 men: the small-minded Walter Cunningham (718) 829-0222 Sr., the well-meaning Link Deas and the May 2002 The Island Current Page Thirteen

By JOHN SHERIDAN and MARIA SUTHERLAND

Consider The Trees thanks to the warm weather, this very old, It was with great interest that we read J. very large specimen bloomed 10 days early, B. Sinclair’s letter to the editor in last as did its younger fruit tree companions. month’s Island Current. J.B. makes a Tree pruners always recommend chopping strong case for placing all utility lines the tree down, but she never will, even underground, an idea that strikes us as long though the tree has clearly lost its value as a overdue. But we would like to make the calendar. case a little stronger by drawing our read- On the subject of favorite trees, we ers’ attention to the plight of many of our would like to share with you one of our Island’s trees. own: the star magnolia. The star-shaped It is a simple fact of a tree’s life on City flowers of this tree are creamy white, gently Island: when trees and telephone poles fragrant and delicate as a butterfly’s wing. meet, it is always the tree that must give. Like its cousin, the pink and white cultivat- Take a good hard look at some of the big ed magnolia, the star magnolia begins to old maples on City Island Avenue. Take a lose its blossoms soon after blooming, look at all they have had to give over the when the wind picks up. Fine, mature spec- years. The shapes are wrong. There is no imens of star magnolias are to be found on balance, no proportion. Bay Street (west) and Pilot Street (west). Then take a look at another tree: we have Also, there are two young “stars” in the in mind the American elm in Bridge Street grassy median next to the first traffic circle. Park. It is a big, beautiful, round, shade tree, Keep your eyes on these upstarts in the the way an elm is supposed to be. This tree years to come. had the good fortune of being planted in a Something to keep your eyes on in the park, but too many of our oldest trees have weeks to come are the daylilies. These not been so lucky. Because they grow on the orange side-of-the-road flowers multiply same side of the street as telephone poles like rabbits, which is probably fair consid- and utility lines, they have to be cut back ering that the life expectancy of a single and shorn away every so often. And the new bloom is a single day. In the wild, dayliles ones– the flowering pear trees that have not have been known to form fields that go on yet reached the height of the lowest power and on for acres. You can catch glimpses of lines–for these, it is only a matter of time some on your rides to and from the Hutch. before they too will have to give. That is, Or you can take a walk through the woods unless we get serious and do something next to the Orchard Beach parking lot. We about those utilities. did and came upon a field of daylilies as A neighbor on Tier Street tells us that vast and, one would assume, as old as the her favorite tree–a very old, very large cher- hills. ry tree–blooms every year, without fail, on Seek out something new and natural on April 27, the date on which she bought her City Island this month. As always, we await house 25 years ago. This year, however, your discoveries at [email protected].

917-335-5018

Rae Ann Petrone

Extended Hours: 4:30-5:30p.m. Thursday

NATHAN & ROCCAMO Certified Public Accountants •Certified Audits •Financial Statement Preparation •Income Tax Preparation •IRS Representation •Year Round Tax Planning 98-20 Metropolitan Ave., Forest Hills, NY 11375 Phone (718) 268-9226 Fax (718) 575-3955 On City Island 44 Hawkins Street (by Appointment Only) Phone (718) 885-1648 Page Fourteen The Island Current May 2002 May 2002 The Island Current Page Fifteen

• Cultivate and aerate the soil, which Drought will help dry soil absorb and retain rain- Emergency water when it does rain. Mayor Bloomberg has declared a • Pick up trash. Not only is it unattrac- drought emergency for New York City. At tive, but it also blocks rainwater from get- this time of the year, the reservoirs should ting to the ground. be at more than 90 percent capacity, when • Water your plants with gray water in fact; they are just above 50 percent. (leftover water from doing the dishes and New York City's Department of Parks & other household chores) in handheld con- Recreation will not be planting annuals tainers. ______- this year, because of strict restrictions on • Report open fire hydrants to the SPRING/SUMMER WEDDINGS: Uniquely SMALL JOB SPECIALIST: Carpentry- beautiful wedding pieces for pew decorations. A Remodeling-Repairs. Michael Vivian 885-1826. watering, and the department has many Department of Environmental Protection lasting keepsake using silk or dried flowers, rib- ______Available for consultation also! good suggestions for ways in which resi- (DEP) at 718-DEP-HELP. An open bons and lace. Can be color coordinated for 1 TV BASE, w/storage for cable box and dents may care for their own plants in hydrant expels one million gallons of your wedding. As seen in local bridal shows. VCR. 23” high, 35” wide, 18” deep. Asking water per day! ______SuSu 718-885-1834. ______$40 or best offer. 885-2184. spite of the drought. QUALITY CHILDCARE AVAILABLE: FT/PT. Am CLARINET, wood b-flat La Margus, Paris, In spite of the drought, the Parks • Spread mulch or wood chips in plant- ______well known on the Island. Call Carol at 885-1785. France. 2 boxes Mitchell Larig, Rubin book #1 ing beds to help plants maintain moisture. Department is offering a number of differ- PIANO LESSONS given by music director at excellent condition. Case included. $350. 885- • Weed the planting beds to relieve ent activities citywide this spring and trinity United Methodist Church of City Island. I ______2184. competition for water. summer. Please visit www.itsmypark.org am also a pianist composer and author of books AVON REPRESENTATIVE: Avon is not just or www.nyc.gov/parks to learn about of music. Children, adults. people of all ages cosmetics. Jewelry, clothes, vitamins, videos, and levels. In your home or at my studio. Call complete line of children’s gifts, toys and more. what's happening in the city's parks. Show ______Mark Grant at 885-2890. ______Ask for catalog. Call Emily at 885-2430. your support for parks by attending an PRIVATE HOUSE on the water to share with a DRIVING LESSONS given daily, cars for road event. "It's My Park!" Day will be held on woman and 2 cats. Own room, washer and tests, permit questions free. Special attention May 18, 2002. This is an opportunity for dryer, semi-furnished, non-smoker. $900 plus to nervous people. JoRae Auto School. 325- ______utilities and security. Call Mary at 885-1136. ______0494. groups and individuals to show their sup- MASSAGE THERAPY in the privacy of your HOUSE SERVICE: Painting, decorating, small port for New York City's parks. home. Gift certificates, references available. repair, clean-up house service, management. Experienced, responsible, effective consulta- ______John Raimondi, L.M.T. 885-0619. ______tions. 885-0673, Chris. FOR SALE: Beautiful cherry sleigh crib by Childcraft. Converts to a toddler bed. $300 PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR WOODWORK. Libraries, chairs, restorations, parlors and ______OBO Call Kim 885-2405. more. Call Chris at 885-0673. NORTHEAST PAINTING CO.: All phases of ______Interior & Exterior painting. Wallpapering and A-1 PLUMBING/HEATING: 24 hour service. removal by Dimitratos Brothers & Sons. In ser- Gas/oil/propane. Emergency service. 885-1969 vice since 1970. (718) 882-4176. For estimate ______or 917-692-3849. ______call (914) 576-4886. TUTORING: Co-ops, Latin, Elementary sub- FLOWER CLEARANCE SALE: Saturday, May jects, S.A.T., S.A.T. II Lit., S.A.T. II Writing, 11. Special on Mother’s Day plants, flowers and P.S.A.T., S.S.A.T., help with term papers. Call hanging baskets. 233 Fordham St. , City Island. ______Alice Rotello 885-0764. ______9 a.m.-12 noon. WINDOWS COMPUTER SYSTEMS $99+, APPLIANCE REPAIRS: Service on refrigerators Macintosh systems w/ printer $40+, laptops, and other major appliances. One year guaran- Windows 95/NT $35+, printers/monitors $10+, tee on parts. 25 years experience. Discounts for software & more. Repairs done. Wanted: server seniors and Islanders. Doctor Steve’s equipment, laptops, computers, software, etc. Wanted Any condition. (Pelham) (914) 738- ______Appliance Service. 671-0700. ______6830. 1 SOFA, charcoal gray, 100 inches, good con- CI HOUSE for sale $365,000. 4 br m/d 885- ______dition, $150 or best offer. 885-2184. ______0785. HARDWARE HELP WANTED: Machine shop. No experience WANTED TO RENT: Floor air conditioner-used necessary. Must have valid driver’s license. Will OK. For June thru end of Sept. 2002. Please HOUSEHOLD GOODS train. A perfect situation for a non-college bound ______call Mary at 718-885-3518. June graduate who can begin after school now. SPRING CLEAN-UP WANTED FOR PURCHASE: Large one or two Salary open. Call 718-885-2100 for appt. GARDEN SUPPLIES ______family house by couple. Pre-approved for PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES FOR SALE: Thomasville diningroom set. 6 mortgage. Serious Buyer. Call Jim (718) 792- chairs, 3 18” leaves, exc. condition. 885-3120, ______6773 or (917) 544-4761. ______Janet dentico, 16 Deepwater Way. BOAT OWNERS: Interlux KL990 antifouling YOUR LIFE PART 2: Hit the restart button on paint $39.99 gal., $13.99 qt. Customer parking. your life! Personal training, weight manage- Burck’s 526 City Island Ave., Bronx, NY, 718- ______ment, life coaching. Julie Stewart 885-3409. ______885-1559. SAIL A RHODES 19, fully equipped and ready LIFE VESTS, low prices; adult, children. Coast to race for only $1995. Telephone Dolphi Guard approved. Burck’s Boat Supplies, 526 ______Wertenbaker (718) 885-0331 or 885-9613. ______City Island Ave., Bronx, NY, 718-885-1559. WANTED: 3 bedroom+ house/2 family $49.99 buys men’s brown Sperry Topsider moc- house/land to build on City Island. Call Chris, casins. Master/Visa. Customer parking. Burck’s ______885-1741. __526______City Island Ave., Bronx, NY, 718-885-1559. Tennis Bubble Proposed For Orchard Beach By BARBARA DOLENSEK The New York City Department of Parks posal provide a detailed plan for the con- & Recreation has requested proposals for struction of “an attractive, well-designed, the construction and operation of a bubbled heated air-structure bubble.” This bubble, tennis facility to be located within the park- along with a clubhouse containing rest ing lot at Orchard Beach and to be used rooms and locker rooms, would be “We offer free pick- from October 1 through April 15, when the removed from April 15 through the month up and delivery” parking lot is virtually unused. of September. The Parks Department asks that the pro- All anchoring devices must be placed OWNED AND OPERATED underground so that no parking spaces are BY A lost for the beach season. No trees may be CITY ISLAND RESIDENT removed or damaged for this project, and no branches removed without explicit approval of the Parks Department. The term of the concession would be 10 years, with an additional 5 years at the city’s option. Proposals for this concession are due by May 24, 2002.

Pruning Removal

Dennis 718-885-9493 FREE FULLY ESTIMATES INSURED Page Sixteen The Island Current May 2002

Michelle and Ed. will celebrate their anniversary on May 12. Marine Street’s Matthew Butterworth with Happy fifth birthday to Lindsey with love Happy 80th birthday wishes to Frank love from your family. from Mom, Dad, Mikey and Grandma. Ring, who will celebrate his big day on May Happy Mother’s Day to Minnieford Belated happy birthday to Kim Zapata 16. With love from the gang at P.S. 175. Avenue’s Cathie Doyle with love from your and Baby Emily on her first birthday. Love, Good luck to the cast and crew of P.S. family. Grandpa Mike Carmody, Grandma and 175’s fifth grade on their production of Happy birthday on May 22 to Chuck Greatgrandma Terry Carmody. “Annie.” Break a leg! Butterworth with love from Ann and your CYO Girl’s Softball would like to wel- Happy first birthday on May 6 to Jaxson boys.

Information for the Talebearer must be received in come Mike Pryor on board as a Junior Shubert from your Mommy, Daddy and big Happy ninth birthday on May 21 to writing no later than the 15th of the month except Varsity coach. We’re looking forward to a sister Sami. Meaghan Strnad. July and December. Mail to The Island Current, P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464; include your name and fun and exciting season! Happy birthday on May 1 to Diane And to all our hardworking Moms and telephone number. Happy 10th birthday to Briana. May all Duryea from your friends at Atlantic Grandmas—have a wonderful, relaxing your dreams come true. You are very special Emeritus Realty, Inc. Mother’s Day! to all of us. With love from Mommy, Daddy, Happy 15th birthday on May 26 to Maria Swieciki Nicolette, Jillian and Amber Jo. Happy birthday to Marine Street’s John Michael—two years old already? Happy Mother’s Day, GG Bonicoro, Grammy Carol, Mommy Kim and Mommy Tracy. Love, hugs and kisses, Johnny and Jimmy. Belated April 17 birthday to Cousin Marie—proof that age is just a number! Love, Kathleen. Best wishes for continued happiness to the Sailmaker’s Judy and John Iovieno. who

Photo by RENA HANSEN Ed Conley, a resident of Pilot Cove, created an original "pilot" to stand watch over the entrance to Pilot Cove and the pilot house in Consolidated Shipyard. Happy 86th birthday on May 10 to Pilot Cove’s Mary Iovieno, with love from your kids and grandkids. Congratulations to Marine Street’s Tom Davis, who was the Grand Marshal of the Little League Parade on April 13. Love from your boys “next door.” Belated happy 13th birthday on April 12 to Sara from Grandma, and God bless you on your May 7 confirmation with love from Mom, Dad, David and Grandma.

Happy 21st birthday wishes to Jillian Photo by RICK DeWITT Moses with love from your family. Cub Scout Jack Clayton received his “God Congratulations to Pilot Cove’s Harriet and Me” religious medal from Pastor Sue Schmidt, who will celebrate her 90th birth- Chadwick on Palm Sunday at Trinity United day on May 10. Love, Holly, Charlie, Peter, Methodist Church. Thomas and Son 1731 E. Gunhill Rd. Bronx, NY 10469

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