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Volume 38 Number 1 January-February 2009 One Dollar City Island Fights Fire with Fire By BARBARA DOLENSEK

access. There are also five yacht clubs and listened and provided no explanations to nine boatyards, with many boats stored on many of the questions raised. Borough land during the winter whose fires cannot be Chief Esposito announced that City Is- extinguished by Engine Company 70 alone, land’s engine would be getting an ad- as a letter from Mike Rauh noted, using the ditional firefighter, for a total of five, but example of a recent fire at the Stuyvesant residents were still concerned about the Yacht Club. fact that a search-and-rescue team would It was also pointed out that most of the be several minutes away off the Island. serious fires in the past several years have Ironically, Mr. Cassano spoke of the occurred at night, including the City Island danger in which Nicholas Vrettos, a local Nautical Museum (in a five story building firefighter, had recently put the community with 16 condominium apartments) and the by calling in a false alarm, but when he Morris Yacht Club. If it had not been for the was asked what kind of danger City Island quick response of the City Island firefight- would be in without a ladder, he had no ers, both of these fires would have increased answer. to dangerous proportions. Although the Fire Department offi- Petitions were signed at the town hall cials made no response to the commentary, meeting, speakers were on point and emo- press coverage was intense and a number tions ran high, but representatives of the of residents were interviewed and appeared Fire Department for the most part merely Continued on page 5 Jan. 6 Fire Fuels Islander Fears Photos by RICK DeWITT Islanders and local politicians rallied to protest the announced reduction in City Over Ladder 53 Removal Island’s fire coverage. First, residents voiced objections to the removal of Ladder By KAREN NANI Company 53 on Dec. 15 at a standing-room-only town hall meeting attended by about 300 residents at the Lido Restaurant (above photos). Then on Friday evening, Jan. 9, 2009, at 7 p.m., more than 200 residents gathered at Hawkins Park in the cold and walked peacefully to the City Island firehouse on Schofield Street, accompanied by James Vacca, City Council Majority Leader Joel Rivera, Deputy Borough President Earl Brown, Senator Jeffrey Klein, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Kenneth Kearns of Community Board 10 and union officers (above, right and on page 5). Marchers chanted “Save our ladder, our lives matter!” during the candlelight march. On Saturday, Jan. 17, 2008, the New as residents addressed their concerns, but York Fire Department, in an effort to re- appeared to be unmoved by the statements. duce its budget because of the city’s finan- Speakers included representatives of the cial crisis, closed Ladder Company 53 on NYC Firefighters Union and the Uni- City Island from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. except on formed Fire Officers Union, Community nights when there is extra personnel avail- Board district manager Kenneth Kearns, able to staff the ladder. The announcement president-elect of the City Island Civic As- of this cut was made on Dec. 4, 2008, 45 sociation Bill Stanton, retired firefighter days before the closing took place. Captain Edward Sadler, and many resi- Town Hall Meeting dents. According to the officials, the night- Residents of City Island immediately time closure of the ladder company was Photo by ED SADLER voiced objections to the closure of Ladder based on the low number of runs made by At 3:50 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009, a two-alarm fire destroyed the roof and sec- Company 53, and on Dec. 15, a standing- the City Island ladder, the lowest in the city. ond floor apartments at City Island Avenue and Schofield Street. The fire height- ened Islanders’ concerns about the city’s proposed removal of Ladder Company 53 room-only town hall meeting attended by Islanders pointed out, however, that this is between 6 p.m. and 9 a.m. about 300 residents was held at the Lido a misleading statistic, as the Fire Depart- Restaurant. The meeting was led by James ment does not allow the ladder company to one dog and several cats were killed in the Vacca, City Council Member for District Islanders’ fears surrounding the eve- leave City Island unless it is covered by a blaze, which appeared to break out in or 13 in the Bronx, and the City Island Civic ning removal of Ladder 53 intensified with substitute truck. the outbreak of a two-alarm fire on City Is- near the apartment above the former Island Association, supported by Community To statements that City Island is a “low land Avenue and Schofield Street on Jan. 6, Pub at 238 City Island Avenue. Board 10, the City Island Chamber of Com- rise” community with very few fires, resi- 2009. The blaze destroyed the entire roof Residents of Schofield Street reported merce and elected officials, including State dents responded by noting that the Island and most of the apartments from 232 to hearing people yelling shortly before 4 Senator Jeff Klein, Michael Benedetto and is isolated and difficult to access, with one 240 City Island Avenue, in spite of the fact a.m. and saw a man running toward the Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión, road on and one road off, and that most that it took place within view of the City fire house up the block from the blaze. Gary Nielson, who lives across the street, who lives on City Island. structures are wood-frame and close to- Island firehouse, which responded within a awakened to see flames spewing from the Representatives of the Fire Depart- gether and include a five-story senior citi- minute of the alarm. In addition to suffering extensive prop- upstairs window at the back of the two- ment, including Chief of Operations Sal- zen residence, a six-story apartment build- vatore Cassano and Bronx Chief in Charge erty damage, three Islanders were trans- story building. He also noticed a sparking ing, 34 restaurants and many three-story ported to Jacobi hospital and treated for electrical wire hanging dangerously from a James Esposito, spoke briefly and listened houses, most of them requiring a ladder for smoke inhalation. Tenants reported that Continued on page 5 Page Two The Island Current January-February 2009

briefly... Firefighter Arrested for WOMEN’S HERSTORY MONTH: There will be a celebration of Wom- en’s History Month on March 29, 2009, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Community Center, 190 Ford- False 911 Call ham Street, with an international potluck meal, music, dance, meditation, a short lecture and By KAREN NANI several other fun activities. For more information, call Susan Bellinson at 718-885-2109. Islander Nicholas Vrettos, age 30, The FDNY determined the call was a BLOOD DRIVE: The Bronx Masons will be holding a blood drive on Tuesday, Feb. was arrested on Dec.10, 2008, on a “malicious false alarm,” said Rose Gill 10, 2009, between the hours of 4 and 8 p.m., at Trinity United Methodist Church, 113 Bay charge of reporting a false emergency Hearn, DOI commissioner. The inves- Street. Almost anyone between the ages of 17 and 75 weighing a minimum of 110 pounds to 911, according to the NYC Depart- tigation alleges that the call was made and in good general health can be a blood donor. Photo or signature ID and Social Security ment of Investigation (DOI). The call from the location of the auto body shop number are required at the time of donation. was reportedly placed on Dec. 4, short- at 138 City Island Avenue that Mr. Vrettos also operates. SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER: Grace Church, on City ly after FDNY Commissioner Nicho- Island Avenue at Pilot Street, celebrates “Fat Tuesday” on Tuesday, Feb. 24, from 6 to 8 las Scoppetta announced partial night “Calling in a false alarm to 911 is p.m. Enjoy an old-fashioned pancake supper before the beginning of Lent. Cost is $5, pay- closings of fire units at four firehouses, not the way to protest a budget cut that able at the door. including Ladder Co. 53 on City Island prompted a partial closure. It defies be- where Mr. Vrettos works. lief that anyone, much less a firefighter, THE CITY ISLAND THEATER GROUP will open its 10th anniversary The arrest added further drama to would report a nonexistent emergency season with the classic romantic comedy “The Rainmaker” by Richard Nash, which will the ongoing controversy over the re- at a school, as alleged in this case,” said be performed on Feb. 27 and 28, March 5, 6 and 7 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 28 and 29 at 3 p.m. moval of Ladder 53 during evening Ms. Gill Hearn. Mr. Vrettos has been Please note that there is now a Saturday matinee. Call 718-885-3066 or e-mail tickets@ hours and the battle Islanders are fight- employed by the FDNY since 2002. cityislandtheatergroup.com to reserve your tickets for this fantastic show. ing with the city to keep Ladder 53 The defendant was charged with available around the clock (see story falsely reporting an incident in the first THE CITY ISLAND NAUTICAL MUSEUM, now open Saturdays this issue). degree, a class D felony punishable by as well as Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m., is featuring two special events during the month of up to seven years in prison. He was February. On Sunday, Feb. 8, Islander Jerry McCue will present a course in “dry sailing” According to the arrest report, the defendant allegedly placed a call to arraigned on Dec. 11 and pleaded not (that’s sailing without a boat) for those who would like to become true Islanders, and on guilty in Bronx Criminal Court, ac- Sunday, Feb. 15, Dick Sadler will give a talk on what it was like being a crew member 911 at 11:24 a.m. stating that there was on Ted Turner’s City Island-built yacht Courageous when she successfully defended the a fire in the school cafeteria at P. S. 175 cording to the District Attorney’s of- America’s Cup in 1977. For more information, go to www.cityislandmuseum.org or call at 200 City Island Avenue, while the fice. Mr. Vrettos was released on his 718-885-0507. school was in session. own recognizance and his next court Ladder 53 responded to the call date is scheduled for Feb. 18, 2009. and did not find any evidence of a fire.

Early 20th Century Painting of Shoeshine Boy and His Dog

Eileen Scott • Candy Mancuso • Debra Saulnier

THE ISLAND CURRENT Editorial Office: 718-885-0760 P.O. Box 6 Display Advertising: 718-885-1636 City Island, N.Y. 10464 or: [email protected] Subscriptions: 718-885-9268 www.theislandcurrent.com 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, Bill Clancy, Maria Swieciki, Carol Koschak, Ed Heben, Marsha Treiber, Jane Protzman, Bill Stuttig, Tom Smith, Virginia Dannegger, Monica Glick, Maria Sutherland, John Sheridan, Miriam Kleinberg, Paula Huffell and Teresa Teto. PHOTOGRAPHY: 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. Edward D. Heben Typeset by Marguerite Chadwick-Juner, Witworks Studio Graphic Design, 33 Earley Street, City Island, N.Y. 10464 CPA/ABV, CVA, AEP Printed by Hi-Speed Printing Co., 560 South Third Ave., Mt. Vernon, NY 10550 Partner 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, advertis- 709 Westchester Avenue ing and other correspondence must be mailed to: The Island Current, P.O. Box 6, City Island, Bronx, NY 10464. Display White Plains, NY 10604 advertising deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication, call 885-0984 or 885-0760. Copyright 2009 by The 914-949-2990 • Fax: 914-949-2910 Island Current, Inc., 724 King Ave., City Island, Bronx, NY 10464. All rights reserved. www.citrincooperman.com PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT BRONX, NY. [email protected] POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Island Current, P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464. January-February 2009 The Island Current Page Three Islander Saved from Drowning Nautical Museum Open Again By BARBARA DOLENSEK By BARBARA DOLENSEK Early in the morning hours of Wednes- was in the water, gave the address, and was day, Dec. 17, an Island resident fell into the transferred to the City Island firehouse. She icy water of Eastchester Bay, but thanks to the explained the situation again, got dressed and quick response and determination of Pat and ran from the Island Boat Club to the gate lead- Liz Montalbano, who live aboard the schoo- ing into Stelter’s. By the time she got there, a ner Amulet at the Island Boat Club, she was police cruiser pulled up, along with the lad- saved from drowning with moments to spare. der company. The police remained in their Pat and Liz were awakened that morn- automobile, as Liz convinced the firefighters ing by the sound of someone in the water to cut the lock on the gate and make their way calling for help, and they sprang into action. to the dock, where they found Pat holding the Pat pulled on his clothes and jumped into his victim, who was still in the freezing water. skiff, got his engine started, and headed over The ladder company team managed to to the dock at Stelter’s Boatyard, while Liz get the victim onto the dock. She was trans- called 911. He could not see anything in the ferred to Jacobi Medical Center, where she dark, but he tied the boat up at an icy dock and was treated for hypothermia. got out. He found the victim between two of The press was quick to respond to the in- the floating docks holding onto a bracket but cident and to praise the firefighters for their unable to pull herself out. part in the rescue, but it seems clear that Pat Liz told the 911 operator that someone and Liz Montalbano are the real heroes of this near-tragic story.

Photos by RICK DEWIT Museum trustees (l. to r.) Tom Nye, Jorge Santiago, Russell Schaller, Jane Protzman, Barbara Hoffman, Ed Sadler, Jeanne Pezone, Barbara Dolensek, Evyonne Baker and Julia Gleeson are joined by contractor Georg Grap of United Homesteads and the Rev. Patricia Phaneuf Alexander at the rededication of the City Island Nautical Museum on Dec. 14, 2008. A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE SINCE 1973

CALL FOR OPEN HOUSE & REGISTRATION2007 FOR 2009/2010

Treasurer Carol Stewart, volunteer Peter Klopfer, President Ed Sadler, and members Lorraine and Ducky Rauhauser enjoy some of the refreshments along with memories of City Island’s past at the reopening of the Nautical Museum on Dec. 14, 2008. the museum is now housed. The structure is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it was necessary for the restoration of the portico to be done as sensitively as pos- sible. Thanks to a grant from the New York Landmarks Conservancy, the owner of the building, Nautical Winds Condominium, Betty Lavelle-Esola, Sue Kawczynski, was able to hire the award-winning restora- tion architect Kaitsen Woo. The contractor, Gigi Lyons & Victor L. Anderson, Jr. United Homesteads, built the portico and also restored the interior, parts of which were seriously damaged by smoke and water. The museum has also recently begun to refurbish its Web site, www.cityislandmu- seum.org, which provides an on-line oppor- Curator Tom Nye puts a finishing tunity to sample the museum’s collection of touch on the sign outside the Nautical nautical artifacts, photographs and informa- Museum. tion about City Island and its yacht-building history. The City Island Nautical Museum re- The docent program is supported, in opened to the public on Sunday, Dec. 14, part, by public funds from the New York 2008, with an open house attended by near- City Department of Cultural Affairs and by ly 150 people. The museum, which is oper- the Bronx Council on the Arts through the ated by the City Island Historical Society, New York City Department of Cultural Af- had been closed for a year and a half, fol- fairs Greater New York Arts Development lowing a disastrous fire on July 13, 2007, Fund Regrants Program, Bronx Borough which destroyed the front of the building. President Adolfo Carrion and the Bronx The portico is now beautifully restored, Delegation of the City Council. The Com- much to the delight of Island residents, and munity Room exhibit and the photograph holiday spirit filled the museum as the Rev. program are also funded in part by public Patricia Phaneuf Alexander held a rededi- funds from the New York City Department cation ceremony and visitors admired the of Cultural Affairs. photographic exhibits and new installations The School Room, which has been closed in the Community Room and the Principal’s for about three years, will reopen by spring Office. and will be dedicated to the fourth grade of As of January, the Nautical Museum is P.S. 175, with a special presentation for the open to the public every Saturday from 1 to 5 current fifth grade, which raised a consider- p.m. as well as on Sundays, with a docent who able sum for the museum after the fire. will guide visitors through the collection. Vis- The museum is planning several other its at other times may be arranged by special events for the coming months, including a appointment by calling 718-885-0507. “dry sailing” course on Feb. 8, and Sunday The museum’s new look was made pos- afternoon “conversations with clamdiggers” sible largely by insurance funds but also during the month of March. Information through the generosity of many Islanders, about these programs will be available on including the students of P.S. 175, which in the museum’s Web site or by calling 718- 1976 replaced the P.S. 17 building in which 885-0507. Page Four The Island Current January-February 2009

Several locally specific factors also con- land at various times between 6 p.m. and 9 der company during the evenings and over- tribute to the community’s concern over this a.m. Please include estimates that take into nights, a total of 15 out of 24 hours day. plan: account delays caused by the opening of the Dozens of residents, along with elected City Island is among the most geographi- Pelham Bridge or the summertime traffic officials or their representatives, experi- cally isolated communities in the city. After backups associated with tourism at Orchard enced firefighters and their union repre- Ladder 53, the nearest truck company is four Beach and City Island. sentatives made one good argument after miles away and separated by a frequently 2. Does the FDNY have a contingency another about why removing the ladder congested highway, a winding set of two-lane plan should a bridge opening or traffic snarl company from the most isolated communi- roads, and the busiest drawbridge in the city, prevent an outside ladder company from re- ty in the city for nearly two thirds of the day which, on average, opens eight times a day. sponding to a major fire on City Island? Our would be a catastrophe waiting to happen. We welcome letters and opinions. Letters longer than understanding is that Engine 70 does not have 250 words will be edited, with every effort made to In the summer, roads surrounding City Island Some of the valid arguments offered in- preserve their substance. We reserve the right not to can be backed up for over a mile, due to the adequate equipment to conduct firefighting cluded the past history of devastating fires print letters that are copies, libelous, inaccurate or in bad taste, or those that cannot be verified. Include your popularity of both Orchard Beach and City and search-and-rescue operations simultane- on the Island, the heavy traffic to the island phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, ously. Which operation would FDNY proto- but names will be withheld upon request. Island; this congestion continues well into the during the warm weather months, the near- evening hours. City Island has its own engine col instruct the engine company to complete ly constant opening of drawbridges on the Re: Ladder Company 53, first? City Island, Bronx, NY and ladder companies precisely because the roads leading the Island, the fact that an es- absence of on-site fire protection could eas- 3. The FDNY cost-cutting plan pre- timated 10-minute response time from the A copy of the following letter dated Dec. 11, ily mean the absence of fire protection alto- sented to the City Council last month called nearest ladder company in Co-op City is a 2008, was received by The Current. gether. for the nighttime closure of “five engine com- best-case scenario (the actual response time City Island houses many structures that panies in firehouses where ladder companies can and likely will be much more), and the To: Hon. Michael Bloomberg pose a unique fire risk. City Island is home to will remain fully staffed,” indicating that lad- preponderance of restaurants and boatyards Mayor, City of New York hundreds of century-old, wood-frame homes; der companies would not be affected. What here, both traditionally a source of major City Hall 34 large restaurants serving tens of thousands influenced the decision to instead close three fires. New York, N.Y. 10007 of patrons weekly; over half a dozen marinas engine companies and one ladder company? The response to these arguments by the Which two engine companies were spared I am writing in regard to the Fire Depart- and yacht clubs storing highly flammable three high-ranking FDNY officials, includ- the ax and why? ment’s decision to close Ladder Company 53 materials; and a four-story, 131-unit senior ing the Chief of Operations, was silence. 4. FDNY officials have justified the on City Island between the hours of 6 p.m. citizen residence known as Pilot Cove Manor. Even as the gathering begged for answers closure of Ladder 53 by citing its low num- and 9 a.m., beginning Jan. 17. We feel the local susceptibility to a large fire and some reassurance, none came. ber of runs, yet a notification letter sent to The residents and merchants of City heightens the need for a ladder company with These are men whose basic knowledge my office on December 4 cites the three main Island fear this service cut will erode fire rapid, direct access to all corners of the Is- of their profession is that the most important criteria for determining which firehouses to protection in their community, placing their land. factor in preventing any fire from becoming close: “projected post-closing response time lives and property in jeopardy. Several fire City Island has recently experienced fires a catastrophic loss of life and property is the to the company’s first-due alarm boxes; the officials with knowledge of City Island have that required rapid response from a ladder time it takes the first companies to arrive. A number of occupied structural fires the com- also told me this cut would place lives in company. Ladder 53’s closure is based on low 10-minute response time from the nearest pany worked; and projected post-closing danger, which leads me to believe that this usage, yet when the ladder has been called ladder company is death and disaster wait- response time to the company’s second-due proposal was crafted without a full under- into action, its proximity has been pivotal. ing to happen, and they know it, yet they alarm boxes.” Please provide data explaining standing of City Island’s unique geography In just the past three years, City Island has choose to say nothing. how Ladder 53 compares to the next 20 least- and without consideration for its role as a seen major fires at a local pizzeria and pub, There is only one thing clear in this used engine and ladder companies in relation citywide destination for boating, dining, and a landmark schoolhouse-turned-museum and whole sad fiasco. There will be a major to the above criteria. tourism in general. condominium, and an historic mansion yacht structural fire on this Island. Whether it oc- 5. When comparing companies’ total On Monday, Dec. 15, at 7:30 p.m., I am club. In each of these instances, the absence curs next week, next month, next year or runs, does the FDNY give any consideration hosting a Town Hall meeting in concert with of a ladder company within minutes of the later, it is inevitable. And if the nearest lad- to the fact that Ladder 53 is prohibited from Bronx Community Board 10, the City Island initial alarm could have meant the difference der company is more than 10 minutes away, responding to fires outside of its coverage Civic Association, and the City Island Cham- between contained, rapidly extinguished that fire will likely result in widespread de- area, a category that can represent up to 20 ber of Commerce at Grace Episcopal Church fires, and uncontrollable blazes that could struction, injury and quite possibly death. percent of total runs for some houses? [later: the Lido Restaurant] at Pilot Street have spread to adjacent properties and endan- The blood of those victims, whoever they In closing, I want to say that I understand and City Island Avenue, to discuss this issue. gered more lives. might turn out to be, will be on the hands of these cuts are being proposed with the best The FDNY has agreed to send a representa- City Island has limited ambulance ser- our arrogant Mayor and his lackey FDNY intentions. Yet I also feel the FDNY has over- tive, but I would also like to share with you vice, meaning that Engine 70 responds to fire brass. looked important details about the role Lad- my community’s objections to this measure many medical emergencies. To reassure fear- Bill Stuttig der 53 plays on City Island. Our city is facing as well as some of the questions we feel re- ful City Island residents, the FDNY notes that perilous times, but I know you would agree More Ladder Co. Concerns main to be answered. Engine 70 will remain available at all times. Yet because of City Island’s isolation, Engine that our budget is nowhere near the point A copy of the following letter was received Our Objections 70 must often respond to medical emergen- where we are forced to place lives in danger. by The Current. In recommending the closure of Ladder cies, such as cardiac arrests and traffic acci- History shows that while the FDNY has 53, the FDNY’s main argument has been the dents. In the event that a major fire were to recommended Ladder 53 for closure several Dear Mayor Bloomberg: claim that this ladder company is the least strike at the same time Engine 70 were de- times in the past, most recently during the Bronx Community Board 10 is writing used in the city. That may be true, but our ployed elsewhere on the Island, the FDNY’s fiscal crisis of the 1970s, it reversed its po- to urge your office to rescind the decision objections are not based on usage; they are initial response time to that fire could be 10 sition each time after closer examination of to close Ladder Company #53 on City Is- based on access and the amount of time it minutes or longer, well above the citywide the facts on the ground. I am asking you to land, during the nighttime hours from 6 would take for the next-closest ladder com- target and surely, enough time for a small take the same course now, and I hope that the p.m. to 9 a.m. pany to respond to an emergency on City Is- fire to engulf a wood structure and begin to information above will help you do so. The Board understands that the FDNY land. spread to neighboring homes. Thank you for your time, and please do plans to staff Ladder Company 53 with not hesitate to call me if you would like to This is especially important because Town Hall Questions firefighters from other units when those Ladder 53 currently performs all search- discuss this issue further. units experience a surplus of staff, and only and-rescue operations on City Island, while To gain a better understanding of the FD- James Vacca, Council Member, when there is a surplus. This will result in Engine 70 focuses on extinguishing fires. NY’s rationale for closing Ladder 53, I have 13th District, Bronx Ladder 53 being staffed on a sporadic basis asked Commissioner Scoppetta to provide the Engine 70 is not properly equipped to per- Protesting the Firehouse Cut during the overnight hours. Staffing of this form both operations simultaneously, mean- following information in time for our Town nature for an island community is simply ing that under the FDNY’s plan, members of Hall meeting, either in writing or through his To the Editor: not sufficient. Engine 70 would need to wait upwards of 10 representative: On Dec. 15, I was one of more than 300 Recently, City Island suffered a major minutes before being able to enter a building 1. Please provide any studies the City Island residents who crammed into structural fire and Ladder Company 53 re- and search for victims, time that could very FDNY has conducted to determine how long the Lido catering hall to voice our grave sponded and successfully extinguished it. well prove the difference between life and it would take Ladder 61 of Co-op City and concerns to high-ranking Fire Department Ladder 50 of Throgs Neck to reach City Is- officials over the cutting of the Island’s lad- death. Continued on page 14 January-February 2009 The Island Current Page Five

occurred at the same time. Furthermore, the Some residents fear that the next step decision does not seem to take into account will be the complete closing of the fire- the real possibility that in the event of a fire house, and they are mounting a major let- on City Island at night, off-Island compa- ter-writing campaign addressed to Mayor nies may be busy at fires on the mainland. Bloomberg, who could reverse the Fire Department’s decision and who hopes to be reelected to his third term in the fall.

Photo by RICK DeWITT James Vacca (center) chants along with protest marchers. Photos by RICK DeWITT AND HELEN VAUGHAN sentative of the Borough President. Never- The devastating damage became clearly visible with daybreak. Ladder Company theless, all of the Council Members present, Continued from page 1 especially Mr. Vacca, were adamant in their on local news programs later in the evening support of City Island and made many good and during the following day. arguments why the ladder company should Candlelight March to the Firehouse remain open at night. Mr. Scoppetta explained that he had Two incidents occurred after the Fire been obligated to make cuts by the Office Department’s announcement, including a of Management and Budget, which called near-drowning on Dec. 17 (see story, page for every city agency to make the same per- 3) and a two-alarm fire on Jan. 6 (see story, centage of across-the-board budget cuts. page 1). Both incidents demonstrated that Council Member Tony Avella of Queens quick response time is essential for the sav- told Mr. Scoppetta in no uncertain terms ing of lives and the control of fires. Nev- that his responsibility as commissioner of ertheless, the Fire Department continued to the Fire Department called for him to refuse refuse to back away from its decision. to make cuts that affected the safety of city On Friday evening, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m., residents and should resign his post if he more than 200 residents gathered at Hawk- were forced to do so. ins Park in the cold and walked peacefully Mr. Scoppetta, who has served the city to the City Island firehouse on Schofield for over 40 years as an administrator, is not Street, accompanied by James Vacca, City a trained firefighter, and he turned to Mr. In an outpouring of support for those left homeless by the blaze, 150 residents and Council Majority Leader Joel Rivera, Dep- Cassano, his Chief of Operations, to answer guests attended a fund-raising “Fire Shower” at the Breakers on Jan. 16 to help those who lost their apartments and possessions during the blaze, including Charlie and uty Borough President Earl Brown, Sena- a number of technical questions relating Hank Boudreau, Peter Coyle and Mary Henry. tor Klein, Assemblyman Benedetto, Mr. to response time, the relative functions of Kearns, and union officers. Organized by engine and ladder companies and other is- 70) and utilizing off-Island companies. Ac- the Civic Association and supervised by the Jan. 6 Fire sues. He acknowledged, however, that Fire Continued from page 1 cording to the FDNY, response time to this 45th precinct, the march attracted a vocal Department regulations call for City Is- latest blaze was eight minutes by off-Island group of Islanders who carried flashlights land’s ladder company to be covered by an pole near the blaze. companies from Throggs Neck and Co- and candles and made their feelings clear off-Island ladder should it leave the island The truck and ladder from the City Is- op City. Residents of Schofield Street told about the Fire Department’s refusal to hear for training or another purpose. He also ac- land firehouse responded quickly after be- The Current that it took longer—at least 20 minutes before additional trucks arrived. their demands for equal rights to protection knowledged that the nighttime closure of ing alerted to the fire by the resident knock- ing on the door. However, according to Mr. When asked about the discrepancy, from loss of life and property as taxpaying Ladder Company 53 would double the lad- citizens of New York City. Nielson and other witnesses, it took 20 to FDNY officials stood by the eight-minute der response time from less than 5 minutes 25 minutes for the off-Island fire companies response time and said, “it may seem longer City Council Public Hearing to 9 minutes and 50 seconds. This response to arrive at the scene. By that time, the en- to someone watching the fire burn.” Because the Fire Department continued time is based on a situation in which there tire side of the second story was in flames. In addition to the damage to the apart- to ignore the public outcry of Island resi- is no traffic and when the Pelham draw- “It spread very fast,” one shaken eyewitness ments, the one operating business in the dents, U. S. Representative Joseph Crowley, bridge is down (it averaged 8 times a day told The Current. structure, the Island Deli, suffered water A total of 25 units and 106 firefighters damage. Longtime owner Moe Sel was not who had written a special plea to the mayor, in 1998, the last time drawbridge use was monitored). eventually responded to the scene, accord- allowed back into his store during the morn- organized with Council Member Vacca a ing to the FDNY. The blaze was contained ing on Jan. 6. “I hope I can move to another special meeting with Deputy Mayor Kevin After Mr. Scoppetta left the hearing, union representatives showed a film dem- by 6 a.m., but not before the roof and most of location on City Island and reopen for busi- Sheekey to discuss the matter. It was in the ness,” he told The Current. He was working onstrating that a small fire can spread de- the second story of the 75 by 30 foot struc- days after that meeting that the Fire Depart- ture were destroyed. Thankfully, no major with an insurance adjuster, who told him structively within less than five minutes if ment offered to allow Ladder Company 53 injuries occurred and the fire did not spread that it usually takes one to two months to to remain open if surplus firefighters were not appropriate controlled, an argument to other buildings on Schofield Street. Hank get assistance. available, a matter to be determined on a supported by the Fire Administration of the and Charlie Boudreau, who live at 234 and The other business, the Island Pub, was daily basis. Department of Homeland Security. 236 City Island Avenue, were awakened closed in October 2006, following a nine- The New York Times headlined this of- Ladder Company Closed by the smoke alarm in their apartments. month investigation into drug dealing at fer as a “reprieve for City Island,” but Mr. They rushed to get the other tenants out, the pub. Although the pub’s sign was still As of Saturday, Jan. 17, the ladder according to their sister, Helen D’Addario, in place at the time of the blaze, it never Vacca made it very clear that it was no such company was closed, as the Fire Depart- who was at the scene. Hank was treated for reopened after October 2006 and has been thing and that this compromise was not ac- ment had threatened. The ladder company smoke inhalation at Jacobi and returned to condemned by the Department of Buildings ceptable to the residents of City Island. did function on Jan. 18 and 19, because City Island about 10 a.m. for structural reasons. This point, and many others, were made available extra personnel clocked in, but it Following an investigation by marshals As this close-knit community is known at a Public Hearing of the Fire and Criminal was closed again on Jan. 20, although the at the scene, the fire was deemed “electrical to do in such instances, City Islanders Justice Services on Friday, Jan. 16. Four- information sent to city officials was not in nature, caused by an overloaded power quickly responded to the tragedy with sup- port for the residents who lost their homes teen City Island residents braved the ex- consistent, indicating that this process may strip,” an FDNY spokesperson told The Current. He added that the fire was not con- and possessions. E-mails and calls went out treme cold to attend the hearing, although not be completely reliable. Commissioner the Fire Commissioner left the room before sidered suspicious. quickly asking for clothing and donations. Scoppetta made clear at the Council hear- The fire occurred as the deadline of According to Islander Helen Vaughan, an hearing their testimony or that of the Com- ing that the extra personnel would eventu- munity Board district manager and a repre- Jan. 17 approached for removal of Ladder overwhelming amount of men’s and wom- ally be reduced in numbers through attrition 53 from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. (see story this is- en’s clothing had been collected by Satur- and that no new firefighters would be hired sue). “Thank God this didn’t happen two day, Jan. 10, exceeding the storage space City Island Deli until fiscal year 2011. Therefore, unless the weeks from now,” Fred Ramftl of the City available. & Pizza decision is reversed, it will not be long be- Island Civic Association said, echoing the A “Fire Shower” was then organized fore City Island’s ladder company will re- concerns of many Islanders over the reduc- by Ms. Vaughan, Gigi Lyons and Diane Catering For All Occasions main permanently closed at night. tion in coverage. Under the new schedule, Pena for Mary Henry and other residents Up to 8 Foot Heroes It seems clear, even to the Fire Depart- only Fire Engine 70 would have been ini- whose apartments were destroyed. The eve- ning event was held at the Breakers on City Try Our Full Line of Pizza, ment, that the City Island engine company tially available at 4 a.m. to fight the fire. Given that firefighters high in the Ladder Island Avenue on Friday, Jan. 16. Gener- Calzones & Take Out Dinners loses much of its effectiveness without the 53 basket were fighting the flames on the ous Islanders donated $2,000 and brought WE DELIVER! ladder company doing search and rescue roof of the two-story structure (see photo), household gifts to replace the sheets, tow- 520 City Island Avenue immediately after a call, and that its role as this seemed to validate residents’ concerns. els and furnishings lost in the fire. They 718-885-1083 a first responder to emergency medical situ- The city maintains that coverage will be thanked everyone repeatedly for their help ations would be compromised if two crises adequate by leaving one fire truck (Engine and continued support. Page Six The Island Current January-February 2009

menu. Friday, Feb. 6, sees the debut of sing- Arts and Crafts for Valentine’s Day: er-songwriter Joe Iadanza at 8 p.m. And on Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, the acoustic group Thieves Baby Story Program: Thursday, Feb. and Poets takes the stage, starting at 3 p.m. 12, at 1 p.m. Ages birth to 18 months. Songs from the Old School: A special Valentine’s “Love” Weekend will include a concert for children featuring original and special menu on the big day, Saturday, Feb. traditional songs. Monday, Feb. 23, 3:30 14, along with music fit for the occasion that If you have a new business, or if your old business is p.m. offering a new service, write to The Current, P.O. Box 6, day and the Friday before; check the Web Adult Programs Toddler and pre-school programs: To City Island, NY 10464 by the 10th of the month. site for specifics (www.starvingartistonline. Basic Computer Instruction: Tues- be announced. The February exhibition at the Focal com). On Sunday, Feb. 15, at 3 p.m. City day mornings at 10:30 a.m. Point Gallery (321 City Island Avenue; Island’s Skip Giacco (Lickety Split) presents Book Groups: People are invited to Young Adult Activities 718-885-1403; www.focalpointgallery. an “afternoon of standards,” accompanied by join our book discussion group. The next Yu-Gi-Oh: Every Wednesday at 3:30. Frank Pusani. On Friday, Feb. 20, at 8 p.m., book is entitled “Girlbomb.” Last week in com) will be a “Women’s Art Exhibition” Teen Time: Game On, every Thursday another singer-songwriter makes his debut, with paintings, drawings, mixed media February (date and time to be posted). from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and sculpture by Cheryl Brinker, Marian Pete Sinjin. That Sunday, Feb. 22, at 4 p.m., For information about any of the pro- Doherty, Nahiya Goldstein, E.B. Kierney, it’s the City Island Jazz Quartet led by the Children’s Activities grams above, call the City Island branch at Jennifer Kinford, Francine Marino, Mag- Island’s own Roger Scala and featuring the Picture Book Program: Every Thurs- 718-885-1703. gie Myers, Noemi Santana, Irina Smirnoff “jazz man,” Lou Volpe. Stop by the Artist to day at 3:30 p.m. Ages 5 to 11. and Lois Weingarten. The show will open find out details of our Mardi Gras celebra- with a reception on Friday, Feb. 6, from 7 tion on Tuesday, Feb. 24, starting at 7:30 to 10 p.m. and will be on view until Feb. 28. p.m. The month ends with our last-Friday- At the reception Pamela Sklar—Colorful of-the-month “Take the Stage” Open Mike Flute will offer music for solo flute by vari- Night; songwriters / comics / poets / actors ous composers, including Alan Hovhaness, are welcome, as are those who want to just C.P.E. Bach, Sergei Prokofiev and others; come and watch. And then on Saturday, Feb. see www.pamelasklar.com. 28, the acoustic jazz duo of Brian Conigliaro Welcome to the new owners of Bay and Gus Wieland, Two Guitars, are with Rose Nail Spa, located at 329 City Island us, starting at 8 p.m. Fill in more for the Avenue at the corner of Bay Street. Open month—and beyond—at our Web site. seven days a week, this full service spa offers silk, acrylic, UV Gel, waxing and chair massage. To welcome you, they are offering a special Spa Pedicure for $35 (see coupon in their ad). This special is from January to March 25, 2009, only. Manicures and pedicures have a special price of $23, Monday to Wednesday only. Call 718-885- 1970 or stop in and meet Amy and the staff. There’s a lot to love in music and art at Starving Artist Cafe & Gallery (249 City Island Avenue) this February, starting with a celebration on the first full weekend of the month. The Starving Artist himself, Elliott Glick, takes the stage on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 8:30 p.m. to celebrate the fifth anniversary Robert J. Leavy of the coffee-house phase of the Starving Engineer Artist, with the addition of music to the NYS Licensed January-February 2009 The Island Current Page Seven Relaunching Intrepid City Island Marathon Runners By JUDY RAUH

Photo by JUDY RAUH Islander Joanne Brogan on the flight deck of Intrepid. City Island’s Marathon Team The 2008 ING New York City Mara- by the New York Road Runners Foundation, Imagine being a part of a group hosting lators, the anchor chain room and fo’c’s’le, thon drew a record field of more than 39,000 the event included a 400-meter race for the very youngest “Mighty Milers” and a one- more than 25,000 visitors during your first or forecastle (pronounced folk-sell), all on runners for the annual five-borough race on mile run for the older kids. After the races, week of work, a crowd that included Presi- a beautiful parklike pier. The museum is a Nov. 2, 2008. Marilson Gomez Dos Santos of Mike hosted a question-and-answer session dent and Mrs. Bush, Bill and Hillary Clin- great reason to come to New York City for a Brazil completed the 26.2 miles in 2 hours 8 minutes 43 seconds. Paula Radcliffe of Great in which the children handed Mike their writ- ton, two astronauts and thousands of veter- visit. Britain repeated her New York City title in ten questions, and he elicited answers from a ans and current members of the military. But that is not all that the Intrepid Mu- 2:23:56. group of elite runners. It could only have happened at the In- seum is about. It is also part of the Intrepid Pictured here are the City island mara- These runners included the eventual trepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in New Family of Foundations, which care for mem- thoners: (left to right) Dave Kos, Marje Kos, men’s marathon winner, Marilson Dos San- York City during the first week of Novem- bers of today’s military. These foundations Charlie Morales and Mike Rauh holding cof- tos; the #1 wheelchair competitor in the ber 2008. have built 42 Fisher Houses on 18 military fee mugs from Mike’s collection. Mike com- world, Kurt Fearnley, who also won on Nov. City Island resident Joanne Brogan be- installations and 12 Veterans’Administration pleted his 31st consecutive New York City 2; and a number of other leading runners. The gan working at the Intrepid Museum just medical centers, where families of patients Marathon in 4:55:14. This was Charlie’s 11th biggest-name celebrity runner at the event five days before its grand reopening after a who are receiving treatment can stay free of New York City Marathon, and he crossed the was Grete Waitz, nine-time winner of the $120 million overhaul of the U.S.S. Intrepid charge. The foundations also help the fami- finish in 4:49:07. New York City Marathon. New York Road aircraft carrier and of Pier 86, where it is lies travel to the facilities with airline miles Once again, Marje and Dave were part of Runners honored the 30th anniversary of her docked. that have been donated for that purpose. the ham radio team, this time at the 25-mile first win in 1978 by inscribing on this year’s Ms. Brogan, as the new Director of The principal project of the Intrepid mark. In the past, they have both competed in finisher medals “Grete Waitz: the greatest Grant Management and Administration, Relief Fund is “Operation Mend,” a unique the ING New York City Marathon, as well as champion in NYC Marathon history.” joined an incredible team that moved moun- initiative that provides returning service several marathons in other states. Cablevision’s Bronx 12 filmed part of the tains to renovate a world-class museum dur- members with some of the country’s best Not pictured is Earley Street’s Lauren “Run With Champions,” and then interviewed ing the two years the ship was in dry dock. plastic and reconstructive surgery. This care Nye, who competed in the Hairy Gorilla Half Mike as a 30-time New York City Marathon The U.S.S. Intrepid was built in 1943. is provided at no cost by leading plastic sur- Marathon in Albany on Oct. 26. She finished competitor. The reporter took note of Mike’s She and her crew have a distinguished histo- geons, and the fund provides the soldiers her first half-marathon in 2:12:32. Lauren retirement career as a track and field an- nouncer and also mentioned his service as a ry of service, including tours of duty in both transportation and lodging costs. is a senior at the University of Albany. You Vietnam veteran. This clip was shown several World War II and Vietnam, making seven The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund will can bet we’ll see her in next year’s New York times on Oct. 30 and 31 as part of Bronx 12’s trips around the globe and surviving five ka- design and build the National Intrepid Cen- marathon. On Oct. 30, Mike emceed the “Run With sports coverage. mikaze attacks and one torpedo strike. The ter of Excellence, an advanced facility dedi- Champions” race in Central Park. Sponsored ship then served as NASA’s prime recovery cated to research, diagnosis and treatment vessel. of military personnel and veterans suffering Intrepid was decommissioned on from traumatic brain injury and psychologi- Island Votes: Something Old, March 15, 1974, and began a new mission: cal health issues. honoring our heroes, educating the public On Veteran’s Day, the day former Presi- Something New and inspiring our youth. New York City de- dent Bush visited, he spent nearly two addi- By KAREN NANI veloper and philanthropist Zachary Fisher tional hours visiting privately with members spearheaded a campaign to save Intrepid of our nation’s fallen heroes. No staff. No With the inaugural festivities and dent received the most attention from Island from the scrap yard, and the ship opened as media. He heard first hand how the Intrepid speeches still fresh in our minds, the Board voters, interest was also shown in the local a museum in 1982. family of foundations is providing much- of Elections recently reported the results for contests for New York State Assembly and In 1986 Intrepid was designated a Na- needed help to our wounded and deceased City Island in the November 2008 election. Senate. In addition, there was one ballot tional Historical Landmark. It served as the service personnel. He and Mrs. Bush were The majority of Island residents voted proposal in relation to additional civil ser- temporary headquarters for the FBI during extremely impressed and asked to come to return some familiar faces to local gov- vice credit for members of the armed forces the Sept. 11, 2001, attack investigations and back and get more involved in the efforts of ernment, as they joined with the rest of the of the United States. for weeks thereafter. the Intrepid foundations. country to put some new faces in Washing- The following table indicates the tal- The Intrepid Museum now has on dis- This was not just another week of work ton D.C. lies for Election Districts 60, 61, 62 and play 30 authentically restored aircraft, a on a new job. It was an incredible experi- Among the 2,543 registered voters on 63, based on the City Island vote total from British Airways Concorde, the Growler ence that Joanne Brogan will remember for City Island, 1,870 cast ballots, representing the Democrat, Republican, Conservative, submarine, a wonderful interactive educa- the rest of her life. voter turnout of about 74 percent. Independence and Working Families party tion hall named the Exploreum, flight simu- Although the national race for presi- lines. Race/Candidate # C.I. Votes % President/Vice-President Carmine W. DeDonato Obama/Biden 1026 55% Certified Public Accountant McCain/Palin 825 44 284 City Island Avenue Nader/Gonzalez 19 1 Bronx, New York 10464 National winner: Barack Obama/Joe Biden 718-885-9081 www.cityislandcpa.com New York State Senate Jeffrey Klein 1271 74% Income Tax Preparation Rapid Refunds Daniel Fasolino 450 26 Electronic Filing State winner: Jeffrey Klein Certified Audits Financial Statement Preparation New York State Assembly Accounting and Bookkeeping Michael Benedetto 1089 68% Financial and Tax Planning Raymond Capone 515 32 Business Incorporation and Startup IRS Problems and Representation State winner: Michael Benedetto Payroll Services Ballot Proposal Carmine W. DeDonato, CPA www.cityislandcpa.com Yes 154 66% 718-885-9081 No 80 34 Appointment Only State result: Ballot passed “The friendship of those we serve is the Islanders were relieved that lines were foundation of our progress” shorter at P.S. 175, the polling site for all residents, than elsewhere in the city Page Eight The Island Current January-February 2009 January-February 2009 The Island Current Page Nine SCENES FROM THE SEASON

Bartow-Pell mission to the museum: $5 per adult; $3 for seniors and students. Children under February Events 6 free. Registration requested: 718-885- The month of February starts in the 1461 or [email protected]. spirit of Valentine’s Day! On Saturday, Feb. At the end of February Bartow-Pell begins its annual Winter Lecture Series Photos by BOB BERENT, VIRGINIA DANNEGGER, 7, stop by the Bartow-Pell Mansion Mu- RICK DeWITT and CAROL FITZPATRICK seum from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to make your with the first of three talks. This year’s lecture series is focused on important The “Seasons Greetings” lights were own Victorian Valentine. Give one to your still welcoming visitors at the beginning women in American history. The first beloved or even keep one for yourself. With of City Island Avenue as this issue went the beautiful, romantic l’Orangerie as your in this series will be held on Thursday, to press, so why not reminisce with backdrop and music to set the mood, you’ll Feb. 26, at 7 p.m. and discusses So- some holiday scenes from Christmas be inspired to spread the love! Find out why journer Truth: “A Geography of Slavery and Hanukkah 2008? The City Island Girl we celebrate Valentine’s Day and where the and Freedom: Isabella Van Wagenen Scouts led off with a Christmas recital tradition originated. Light refreshments (Sojourner Truth) and Her Family.” Dr. on Saturday, Dec. 13 (top photo). The available. Appropriate for ages 3 and up. Myra B. Young Armstead, professor of menorah was lit on Dec. 21 by mem- bers of Temple Beth El and Assembly- Fee: $5 per person, including children ages history at Bard College, will examine Sojourner Truth’s experiences between man Michael Benedetto, while Santa 3 and up. Registration requested: 718-885- visited Lickety Split on Dec. 20 (middle 1461 or [email protected]. 1797 and 1843 through four kinds of spaces that were important in her life photos). At St. Mary, Star of the Sea Later in the month learn about the infa- Church, singers led by organist Ken and ideas: religious space, work space, mous Robert Moses during a presentation Farnum awed listeners at the Carols on Saturday, Feb. 21, at 1 p.m. on Robert residential space, and legal space. The Concert on Dec. 21 (bottom photo) and Moses and Pelham Bay Park. Many know lecture will be followed by light refresh- children presented their pageants at that Moses left an indelible mark on New ments. The fee for the program is $23 Trinity Methodist and Grace Episcopal York City, including the creation of Or- per person, $60 for all three dates, and churches (top left photos). Even the chard Beach. Bartow-Pell Mansion’s tour $45 for members for all three dates. decorated Christmas tree in Hawkins guide Tom Vasti and volunteer docent Doug Please register at 718-885-1461 or Park lingered as a warm memory from the season past. Hearle will do a lecture/presentation on [email protected]. how Robert Moses affected the Bartow-Pell These “Speakers in the Humani- historic site through demolitions and build- ties” events are made possible through ings in the surrounding areas of Pelham Bay the support of the New York Council for Park. Mr. Hearle was fortunate to be able to the Humanities, a state affiliate of the interview Moses in the early 1960s and will National Endowment for the Humani- share his insight from this interview. Ap- ties. Lectures are free; the charge is for propriate for ages 14 and up. Free with ad- refreshments. Page Ten The Island Current January-February 2009

Organization News News on this page concerning organizations, and events listed in, are submitted by representatives of those organiza- tions. A limit of 150 words is requested for all news items submitted. In most cases news will be edited and every effort will be made to preserve the substance of longer items. News and calendar events must be received by no later than the 20th of each month except December and July. If the 20th falls on a holiday or Sunday, the deadline is the 19th. Mail submissions to P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464. YOUR NAME AND PHONE NUMBER MUST BE INCLUDED. Current Calendar is the topic of the seminar conducted by Molly on Sunday evening Feb. 1, from 7 FEBRUARY to 8:30 p.m. Join us for this fascinating and extensive class. (Free to temple members; Tues., Feb. 10, Blood Drive, 4 to 8 p.m., $15 per session for non-members.) Trinity United Methodist Church, 113 Bay Then celebrate the New Year of Trees. Street. Come to our Tu B’Shevat Seder on Sunday, Tues. Feb. 17 to Fri., Feb. 27, Pre-K Feb. 8, at 5 p.m. Dress is casual but reser- through 8 Registration, St. Mary, Star vations for the seder are necessary. Fruits, of the Sea School, 580 Minneford Avenue nuts and wine or juice are featured at this (see School News). event. Vegetarian dishes are also welcome. Please call with your food contribution and Tues., February 24, Shrove Tuesday Pan- R.S.V.P. as soon as possible. Call Bob Ber- cake Supper, Grace Episcopal Church, 6 ent at 718-885-3098. to 8 p.m. Photos by BOB BERENT During February, the 75th Anniversary On Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009, members Tues., Feb. 24, City Island Civic Associa- Events Committee sponsors a canned-food of Temple Beth-El of City Island and tion meets, 7:30 p.m., Community Center, drive to benefit the food pantry of JCC of guests from Canaan Baptist Church in 190 Fordham Street. Pelham Parkway. At a time of need, let us Manhattan, braved 10-degree weather Sat., Feb. 28, POTS Program, St. Mary’s help each other. Canned food, Kosher and to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. With more than 60 in atten- School Yard, Minneford Avenue and Kil- non-Kosher, may be dropped off at Exotiqa, dance, all were inspired by the Canaan roe Street, drop-off between 4:30 and 5 280 City Island Avenue at Hawkins Street, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. Contributions men’s and women’s “Dance the Word p.m. Menu: beef stew. Ministry” (top photo). Speakers recalled may also be brought prior to services on MARCH Jewish participation in the Civil Rights Friday evenings from 7 to 7:30 p.m. movement and their personal experi- Sat., March 28, Temple Beth-El Anniver- With your help, we will have truly well- ences with Dr. King, including guests sary Dinner Dance, Lido Restaurant. stocked shelves ready for delivery when we Leon Harris, Minister Jean Hunter and celebrate Purim with Molly Karp on March the Temple’s treasurer, Dr. Edmund Grace Episcopal Church 8. It is the custom to send gifts to the poor, Rothschild (inset). Weekly worship schedule: Grace “mishloah manot.” For more information Church celebrates Holy Communion every or to volunteer, please call Mike, our chair- Sunday at 10 a.m., followed by coffee hour person at 718-792-3709 or e-mail michael- and Bible study; this class gives participants [email protected]. a “preview of coming attractions” by look- Our gala 75th Anniversary Dinner ing at the Gospel passage appointed for the Dance will be held at the Lido Restaurant following Sunday. Come and see! We also on Saturday, March 28. So save the date! offer Evening Prayer in the church every Visit our Web site: www.yourshulbythesea. Monday at 7 p.m., and Morning Prayer on org. Wednesdays at 10 a.m. For more informa- Bob Berent tion about Grace, please call the Parish Of- fice at 718-885-1080, or visit our Web site, Cub Scout Pack 211 www.gracecityisland.org. Cub Scout Pack 211 is doing great, and Here is an overview of what’s happen- as expected they have a lot to be proud of. ing at Grace Church during February: The pack dashed through the first major Sunday, Feb. 1, 10 a.m.: “The Souper snowstorm of this winter season and per- Bowl of Caring.” The children of our formed an outstanding Christmas carol con- Church School are fighting hunger locally, cert to the residents of Pilot Cove on Dec 19. and you can help! Our youth will be col- The scouts’ performance certainly brought lecting financial donations on Super Bowl on the Christmas spirit to all who attended. Sunday to help our neighbors in need. On Dec 23, Santa made a special visit to Cub Scout Pack 211 prepared for their holiday concert. Please join us, and please give generously! the scout’s Christmas pizza party to honor Sunday, Feb. 8, 10 a.m.: Children’s and show some appreciation for all the hard something we all need in these current dif- come to attend. Church School. All school-age children are work they have done throughout the year. ficult times. Sunday, Feb. 8, is National Scout Sun- invited to participate. Santa brought bags of gifts for all the Scouts “The Rainmaker” features City Island’s day. St. Mary’s will recognize the scouts Sunday, Feb. 15, 10 a.m.: Children’s and their siblings. own Elizabeth Paldino as Lizzie Curry at a Liturgy at 10 a.m. that morning. All Church School. The pack would like to take this oppor- with CITG regulars John Garcia as Star- scouts should see their scout leaders for Sunday, Feb. 22, 10 a.m.: Children’s tunity to wish everyone a belated Merry buck and Matthieu Regney as Noah. New details. Church School. Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New to the CITG stage are Scott Griffith as All are welcome to attend our monthly Tuesday, Feb. 24, 6 to 8 p.m.: Shrove Year to all. H.C., Christopher Meindl as File, Torrey Coffee Hour, which will be held in the rec- Tuesday Pancake Supper. Come join us as The pack has been especially busy lately Rodriguez as Jim and City Islander John tory after the 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday, Feb. we celebrate “Fat Tuesday” and enjoy an with community service and earning merit Schwam as the Sheriff. City Islander Maria 8. old-fashioned pancake supper before the badges. On Jan. 16, the scouts had their Provenzano takes on the duty of production The February meeting of the Parish beginning of Lent. Cost is $5, payable at annual Pinewood Derby Race. The atten- stage manager. Council will take place on Monday, Feb. the door. dance was incredible and the competition “The Rainmaker” will be performed on 23, at 7 p.m. in the rectory. Wednesday, Feb. 25, 10 a.m. and 6 was awesome. The scouts and their families Feb. 27 and 28, March 5, 6 and 7 at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, is Ash Wednesday, p.m.: Ash Wednesday–Services of Holy came in full force. Even the scouts’ siblings and Feb. 28 and 29 at 3 p.m. Please note the beginning of the holy season of Lent, a Eucharist, Rite I, and the Imposition of came with their own derby cars and com- that we now have a Saturday matinee avail- time of prayer and fasting. Masses on that Ashes. peted against each other. By the end of the able! Call 718-885-3066 or e-mail tick- day will be at 7 and 8 a.m., 12 noon and Rev. Patricia Alexander night all the scouts were winners. [email protected] to reserve 7:30 p.m. Ashes will be blessed and distrib- Angelo Bellocchio your tickets for this fantastic show. As we uted at all the Masses. Temple Beth-El celebrate our 10th anniversary, we look Save the date! St. Mary’s will hold a forward to presenting many more great, Temple Beth-El of City Island is an City Island Theater Group gala St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Dance on high-quality productions for the City Island Saturday, March 14, 2009, at St. Mary, Star all-inclusive egalitarian, multiethnic Jewish The City Island Theater Group (CITG) community! of the Sea School. Details will follow! congregation for all ages. We are located at will open its 10th anniversary season with Nick Sala Sr. Bernadette 480 City Island Avenue, between Beach and the classic romantic comedy “The Rain- Bowne Streets. We conduct Sabbath services maker.” Written by Richard Nash, “The each Friday night at 7:30 p.m. Our doors are Rainmaker” is a wonderfully thought-pro- St. Mary, Star of the Sea open to all. voking play that explores the reliance upon On Thursday, Feb. 5, there will an impor- We follow the Rabbi Marcia Prager dreams versus the acceptance of reality. This tant meeting of all parents whose children prayer book, primarily in English, with easy- classic American romance is a refreshingly are preparing to receive the sacraments of to-read typeface and singable Hebrew. heartfelt fable about a con man, a country Reconciliation and Holy Communion this On Friday, Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. our rab- girl and the way that love can overcome year. It will be held in St. Mary’s School binic intern, Molly Karp, leads a Kabbalat cynicism in even the most tired of souls. gym at 7:15 p.m. All parents involved are Shabbat service, with song and dance. She Nick Sala, the production’s director and urged to attend. also conducts a seminar and our Tu B’Shevat CITG’s president promises that this produc- Our monthly Holy Hour with exposition Seder this month. tion will make you believe in love and have of the Blessed Sacrament will be held on First, “How Judaism Views the Afterlife” faith in hope and the human spirit, which is Friday, Feb. 6, from 4 to 5 p.m. All are wel- January-February 2009 The Island Current Page Eleven

reservation! Sons of the American Legion tossed his wife to the firemen below and then executed a perfect swan dive into a net Weekly Schedule Squadron #156 held by the men of Ladder 53. YOUTH PROGRAM Members Bill and Billy Clancy, John We mourn the passing of James Lake Irish Dance: The Deirdre O’Mara Peters and Commander Todd Davis along and past member Jim Schollhamer. If any- School of Irish Dance teaches step danc- with others have been working hard on fin- one has been omitted from the list, they will ing in a fun, competitive environment for ishing the downstairs bathrooms at the post be included next month. all ages. A confidence-building and cultural and have made huge progress. Furthermore, The following are members on sick call: experience for all who participate. Wednes- they also insulated the exterior wall on the days after school. Call Deirdre at 201-679- Vincent Hecker and Randy Peterson. parking lot side of the building which will A select group of officers is attending For additional information about the Community Cen- 1450 or visit www.deirdreomara.com. ter, or if you are interested in conducting classes here Tae Kwon Do: Traditional classes to lower the heat bill during these cold days. the Bronx County Mid-Winter Conference please call 718-885-1145. benefit you physically, mentally and spir- The annual pig’s-knuckle party will be in Albany. They promise a scintillating Open Monthly Meetings of the Board itually. Some benefits include improved held on Saturday, Feb. 28. Swing by the Post report at one of our regular meetings. are held on the first Tuesday of each month cardiovascular health, better focus and con- for more details. Work is now in progress on the new at 7:30 p.m. in the Community Center Main centration, increased flexibility and lean This year, the Post will be celebrating its restrooms (a.k.a. latrines or heads). Room at 190 Fordham Street. All members body mass. Children will learn courtesy, 90th anniversary. This is truly a milestone, Meetings for February are: regular are encouraged to attend. For up-to-date integrity, perseverance, self-control and not just for the Post but for our community meetings Monday, Feb. 2 and 16; executive information visit www.cityislandcommuni- indomitable spirit. Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. and as well. board meeting Monday, Feb. 9. tycenter.com. Saturdays 11 a.m. $10 per class, twice Membership Vice Commanders Fred The SAL pig’s-knuckle party will be weekly. Call 718-885-3702. Ramftl and Scott Murphy remind all mem- ANNOUNCEMENTS Sally’s Playground Ages birth to 5 Saturday, Feb. 28. $25 charge, well worth The City Island Community Center years. Mondays and Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. bers that dues are $30 and are now past due. it! Board Members would like to acknowledge to 12 p.m. $7 per child, $4 for siblings. Buy They can be left in the SAL box at the Post. Until next month, at ease… and thank Alfie of Fella’s, Brian Dempsey’s, a five-visit card and get one visit free. Call We are looking for a few good members. Russ Schaller, Sgt. Emeritus Crab Shanty, IGA, JGL Liquors and To-Go Sally at 718-885-0349 for more informa- Any male descedant of a male veteran is eli- Express for their generosity, community spirit tion. gible to join. Anyone interested can call Fred City Island Republicans and the exquisite cuisine they generously Drama Club Thursdays 7 to 8 p.m. $1 Ramftl at 347-680-7695 or Scott Murphy bestowed on the City Island Community dues per week. Ages 8 through 14. Starts at 646-314-1000 or stop by the Post for an We hope that everyone is staying warm Center members and fellow Islanders at our Jan. 15. Community Center membership is application. during these cold days. Additionally, our 2008 Holiday Party. We hope we can look required for these classes. Call Laury Hop- prayers are with the victims of that terrible forward to it again next year, along with your Our next meeting will be on Feb. 12 at 8 kins at 718-885-3202 to sign up or for more p.m. at the Post. Please come and bring your fire a few weeks ago. attendance! It was a great evening and many information. Leave a message! The City Island Republicans would like to thanks go to each of you and your establish- ideas. Youth Center: Saturday evenings 7:30 clear up one misconception that City Island- ment. Your contributions were extremely to 10 p.m. Please call Jay Howard at 718- Hope to see all around the Post! generous and greatly appreciated. We could Fred Ramftl, Jr. ers have about the club. We are not a young 885-2192 or Deana Weyhrauch at 917-418- Republican Club and we welcome any one of not have done it without your help. 1377 for more information. We are looking any age. Another Thank You: Special thanks for volunteers to staff the nights. If you are Legion News to the City Island Civic Association for the interested in helping out, PLEASE CALL! The club is now three years old and, donation of 40 brand new chairs for the Another year has passed into oblivion and despite what the liberal media may want you Center. They are beautiful, functional and ADULT PROGRAM for many it wasn’t the best of times. A new to believe, the party is still alive and our club comfortable. Much needed—wow! Salsa Dance: Dance your stress away president has been sworn in, the first Afri- is still growing. to the basic beats of salsa. No partner neces- City Island Physical Therapy: Licensed can-American and a relatively young man There is not much activity right now sary. $50 per month or $15 per class. Friday physical therapist with private office space. full of moxie. Let’s hope the two major par- although from what I have heard, we will For an appointment call Janine Mantzaris at nights, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Call Nilsa at 917-838- ties will bury the hatchet and work together 6501. be having a special election to select a new 917-577-1752. to make us a better nation. Belly Dancing: Shimmy by the Sea. borough president. The date has yet to be set NEW CLASSES Theresa Mahon (a.k.a. Salacia) teaches the The Post Christmas party was a big suc- by the Mayor, if indeed the current Borough Art Classes with Laury: Story and oldest documented dance in the history of cess. Many members and their wives were President receives an expected appointment Picture: Six classes for grades K through mankind—Egyptian belly dancing. It is a present, as were VIPs from other posts. All in Washington. Most likely, the election 2. Mondays 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. on Jan. 26, low-impact way to get in shape and tone partook of the delicious fare and the usual would be held in late March. Feb. 2, 9, 23, March 2, 9. Limited to eight your body while having lots of fun. Terry has libations. The City Island Republicans stand with students. $50 fee. A second series of classes been a professional belly dancer for 23 years Post members supported the efforts to will continue on March 16, 23, 30, April 6, the rest of our community in calling on the and a teacher of the art for 15 years. Classes retain Ladder Company 53 between the Mayor to keep Ladder 53 staffed at all times. 20, 27 ($50). Build a Beast Workshop: Nine are held every Monday evening at 7:30 pm. hours of 6 p.m. and 9 a.m. Myriad epistles We have been talking to a few of our contacts classes for grades 4 through 8 on Tuesdays The fee for each one-hour class is $15. Call from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on Feb. 3, 10, March were dispatched to our mayor and his com- to see if they can do anything to put a stop to 845-358-0260. missioner. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, April 7, 21 (28-make-up). TNT (Tuesday Night Tap): Adult Jazz/Tap this safety hazard. Some Island octogenarians may remem- Limited to six students. $120 fee. Portfolio Classes. Thursdays, 7 to 8 p.m. Call Corinne Our first meeting of 2009 will be held in Prep: Nine classes for grades 5 through 8. Grondahl at 718-309-8041. ber the Club Tavern fire circa 1947, when a April. Stay tuned to the April edition of The Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 3, Aerobics with Mary: Monday, Wednes- three-story structure burned to the ground. Island Current for meeting information. And 10, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, April 7, 21, day, Friday: Half-hour low impact at 8:30 Only the quick thinking of Jim McGee saved stay warm! (28-make-up). Limited to six students. $100 a.m. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Fri- his family. He kicked out the window frame, Fred Ramftl, Jr., President fee. Storytime Art: Six classes for pre- day: 9 to 10 a.m. Call Mary Immediato at schoolers with an adult on Thursdays from 718-885-0793. New class added: Saturday, 9 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. on Jan. 22, 29, Feb. 5, a.m. 12, 26, March 5. Limited to eight students. Yoga: A beginner to intermediate class $50 fee. New series will continue March 12, that includes Hatha and Namaste yoga with 19, 26, April 2, 23, 30. Experimenting with some Saroope (restorative yoga). Also tai- Materials: Nine classes for grades 3 and 4 chi, which will help balance immune system on Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. on Jan. and reduce pain. Please contact Marc Kaplan 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 26, March 5, 12, 19, 26. for inquiries at [email protected] or call Limited to eight students. $80 fee. Call Laury 718-885-2445. Hopkins at 718-885-3202 to sign up or for FAMILY PROGRAM more information. Leave a message! & MIXED AGE GROUPS Anyone interested in losing weight? Vilma’s Music Together: Music and If you would like to join a weekly weight- movement for children ages birth through 5 loss group, one will be starting soon at and adults that love them! Saturdays 10 to the Community Center, tentatively sched- 10:45 a.m. For more information, call 718- uled for Thursday evenings. Call Deana 882-2223, visit www.funtimemusictogether. Weyhrauch at 917-418-1377. com or e-mail info@vilmasmusictogether. Bosu Balance Training: Every Tues- com. day and Thursday at 9 a.m. for an hour. Chess Club: Monday evenings from 7 $15 per class. One-on-one personal train- to 11 p.m. For ages 13 and up. No need to ing is also available. Call Janet at 646-544- register, just show up! Call Bill at 718-541- 4292 for more information or to make your 3995 for more information. Amy Gottlieb Page Twelve The Island Current January-February 2009

nominated for his performance. another social issue, the exploitation of in the film and transformed into a ghost. Nurse Betty (2000) is a very quirky film Mexican illegals and the working poor is Frank is worried that a human-rights law- in which aspiring nurse Betty Sizemore explored. This is a surprisingly deep and yer (Billy Campbell) is after the money (Renee Zellweger) witnesses a grizzly complex film. of his widow, Gwen (Tea Leoni), and murder and proceeds on a cross-country Little Miss Sunshine (2006) is a bit- employs a dentist, Bertram Pincus (Ricky trip to meet the man of her dreams, Dr. tersweet comedy about an unconventional Gerwais), who can see ghosts, to take care David Ravell (Kinnear), a character in a family that goes on a road trip to take their of her. The repartee in this charming film soap opera. Charlie (Morgan Freeman) daughter, Olive Hoover (Abigail Breslin), is reminiscent of such cinema classics as and Wesley (Chris Rock) are introspective to the rather appalling “Little Miss Sun- Topper (1937). hit men who follow her. This is a surpris- shine” beauty pagent. The other passen- Flash of Genius (2008) stars Kinnear A Selected Filmography of ingly deep and droll film. gers on the relic VW bus include her father, as real-life electrical engineer Bob Kearns, Greg Kinnear Someone Like You (2001) has always Richard (Kinnear); his wife, Sheryl (Toni the man who invented and patented the been a guilty pleasure for me. In this Collette); Sheryl’s suicidal brother, Frank intermittent windshield wiper. His inven- Greg Kinnear made a great start in romantic comedy, Kinnear plays Ray (Steve Carell); teenage son Dwayne (Paul tion is stolen by major Detroit automakers, 1995 as an actor in the sweet remake of Brown, the charming romantic interest of Dano); and grandfather (Alan Arkin). which triggers an obsessive 10-year quest the Humphrey Bogart, William Holden, a television talent booker Jane Goodale In Ghost Town (2008) Kinnear plays for credit and recompense. Audrey Hepburn film, Sabrina (1954). (Ashley Judd). When life doesn’t go as Frank Herlihy, a yuppie who is killed early And until next time, happy viewing. . . He plays David Larrabee, the good-look- planned, Jane bitterly ends up moving in . ing playboy whose brother, Linus (Har- with womanizing co-worker Eddie Alden rison Ford), is a workaholic for the family (Hugh Jackman). Ellen Barkin is wonder- business. When Sabrina (Julia Ormond), ful as her celebrity boss, Diane Roberts; the chauffeur’s daughter, returns from and Marisa Tomei is on hand as Jane’s best Paris, she is transformed into a beauty friend, Liz. who captures the eye of both brothers. Auto Focus (2002) tells the very dis- In Dear God (1996) Greg Kinnear turbing story of the life of Bob Crane, a plays Tom Turner, a con man who deals television sitcom star of “Hogan’s Heroes” with the boredom of working in a dead- who is preoccupied with pornography and letter post office by reading mail sent to is eventually murdered. Kinnear portrays God, Santa and Elvis. When Tom decides the title role as an affable man undone by to answer a letter, his co-workers Rebecca fame and compulsion. Willem Defoe plays (Laurie Metcalf), Herman (Tim Conway) his very creepy friend, John Carpenter. and Vladek (Hector Elizondo) are swept Stuck on You (2003) is a totally up into answering some prayers. delightful film about two brothers, Walt Kinnear’s finest performance comes as (Kinnear) and Bo (Matt Damon) Tenor, a gay artist Simon Bishop in As Good as it pair of conjoined twins. Although promos Gets (1997). His lives across the hall from for the film looked rather ridiculous, it is the verbally abusive writer Melvin Udall a clever, kind-hearted humorous movie (Jack Nicholson), who is plagued with about how one can live a happy life liter- obsessive-compulsive disorder. Udall will ally joined at the hip with another person. only eat his meals at a restaurant where There are several minorities in the film he is served by wisecracking Carol Con- whose treatment is refreshing. Jack Nich- nelly (Helen Hunt), the mother of a severe olson, Jay Leno, Cher and Meryl Streep asthmatic. Udall becomes involved in the have entertaining cameos. This is among lives of both Simon and Carol, and they my favorites. are all forever changed. Shirley Knight is I haven’t had a burger since I saw Fast delightful as Carol’s mother, and director Food Nation (2006). Kinnear plays the Harold Ramis puts in an acting appear- decent yet slightly sleezy Don Anderson, ance as Dr. Martin Bettes, who is sent a fast food executive sent to the Colorado to save Carol’s son. Hunt and Nicholson ranch to investigate reports of contami- won Academy Awards, and Kinnear was nated meat. In a parallel plot addressing January-February 2009 The Island Current Page Thirteen

ture details. St. Mary’s is delighted to have received a donation of excellent professional quality microscopes from a local hospital, thanks to the gracious efforts of a school parent. The children are enthusiastically investi- Question: Have you made any New Year’s resolutions for 2009? If so, have gating all specimens, from prepared slides you managed to keep them (or it) so far, or do you think you will manage to to items in nature around the school. keep them? We wish all The Island Current readers a St. Valentine’s Day full of love and a Mike Rauh St. Mary, Star of the Sea happy Presidents’ Day. Resident of Centre Street The New Year has started off with a I tend to volunteer for too many jobs. I am the treasurer of the flurry of activities. During the second and Public School 175 American Legion and also of the Stuyvesant Yacht Club, where I am third weeks of January, the fourth- and December was filled with exciting edu- on the board of directors; I’m a member of Adolfo Carrión’s Veterans’ eighth-grade classes took the New York cational activities. Third-graders went to Advisory Council; I accompany P.S. 175 on its annual Camp Green- State English-Language Arts exam. Then the Lehman College Center for the Per- kill trip; and I work as a sports announcer within the stadium for Track the entire school took mid-term exami- forming Arts to see a production of “The and Field events, as well as being the voice in the webcast. nations, which end the second marking Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” As My resolution: No new jobs! period. Report cards will be distributed on part of the fourth-grade social studies Feb. 5. curriculum, students went to Gracie Man- Tommy Nye Catholic Schools Week ended on Jan. sion, which tied into their study of historic Resident of Earley Street 31. The theme this year was “Catholic buildings and landmarks in New York City Schools Celebrate Service.” As a Catholic My resolution is to become more organized and less procrastinat- and afforded them the opportunity to visit school, St. Mary’s has a rich tradition of ing. So far so good. I work at UK Halsey Sailmakers, and I get origi- the residence of New York City’s former incorporating service projects to deal with nal orders and orders for work in progress. I’ve tried to organize all mayors. social issues into the curriculum, teaching the papers so that my work goes much more smoothly. So far so good, Seventh-graders attended a wonderful students the value and responsibility of but it’s early days yet. Also, at the City Island Nautical Museum, performance by the Boston-based Cham- helping others as an expression of faith it’s been very difficult finding room for everything, but we’re mak- ber Theater Group of classic short stories and good citizenship. Along with Catholic ing good progress, thanks to the fact that we have more volunteers at Purchase College. Included in the per- Schools Week we celebrated Spirit Week involved now. It is definitely true that many hands make light work. formance were “The Fall of the House of here at St. Mary’s. Usher” by Edgar Allan Poe, “The Open On Jan. 31, we engaged in the festivi- Window” by Saki, “The Most Dangerous Kim Nye ties of the 20th annual St. Mary’s Interna- Game” by Richard Connell, “The Ransom Resident of Earley Street and student at SUNY Albany tional Luncheon. Our students in Grades of Red Chief” by O. Henry and “The Lady My resolution is to be more productive with my free time. So far I 3 through 8 brought dishes representing or the Tiger”? by Frank Stockton. Our haven’t done so well, but when I get back to school I hope I’ll be able their own heritage or that of a culture or eighth-graders visited the Botanical Gar- to balance my time between school work, my job and my social work region they are studying in school. Classes den to do some preliminary work on their . Whatever free time is left I’d like to try to be more physically active pre-K through Grade 2 brought in desserts science exit projects. and to spend more time studying. for the school to enjoy. The feast was The Hollyrock Game Show returned shared by all classes with the eighth grade for its annual trivia competition. The stu- Cheryl Berent as the Class of Honor; the seventh–graders dents in grades K through 8 were asked Resident of Pilot Street served and teachers and parents joined in trivia questions in various subject areas I resolve to spend more time with my family and to put them on the repast. In addition, the school had an and participated in physical challenges. It the calendar first. So far we’ve already been to a wedding and I am assembly with performances by each of was great fun and very informative. planning to go sailing with them more later this year. We are also the grades. Finally, on Dec. 23, P.S. 175 got into planning a trip to Florida. Unlike last year, I am able to leave the work Other Spirit Week activities included the holiday spirit with our annual Holiday at my job (as a Mount Vernon Public Librarian) when I come home. Crazy Hat Day, as well as Color Day, Sing. Children in Grades K through 8 sang for which each class picked a color and some of the great holiday classics, which Celeste Shanahan adorned their uniforms in creative ways is part of our rich tradition at P.S. 175. Resident of King Avenue with items of that color. That and bingo for This ended our year on a high note! I resolve to get back to exercising because I need to do it for my each of the classes ended the month with January was just as exciting. The Sports health and because I feel better mentally after I work out. Exercising some fun and a little silliness. & Arts in Schools Foundation After- gives me a whole different and more positive outlook on life. Open House at St. Mary’s is Sunday, School Program resumed for fifth- through Feb. 1, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will eighth- grade. Students are participating in be guided tours of the school for parents a variety of activities, including cook- Janie Blanks interested in enrolling their child and an ing and baking, athletics, art, games and Resident of Tier Street opportunity for them to speak with the homework help. In the weeks to come, principal, Mrs. Jane Dennehy. If you are students will also have the opportunity to My main resolution is to give back to the community where I interested in enrolling your child at St. create books that will be submitted to the live and try to take care of the environment, because we need to take Mary’s but can’t make the Open House, Ezra Jack Keats National Book-Making care of our natural resources. So far I have been feeding the birds in please call Mrs. Dennehy at the school competition and to work on set design for my backyard and cleaning up litter in my neighborhood. I have just (718-885-1527). Information on registra- our fifth-grade play, “Willy Wonka Jr.” been elected recording secretary of the City Island Civic Association, tion, which will begin on Feb. 17 and The Citizens-of-the Month for Decem- which is the organization that represents our community and protects continue through Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. to ber were: Wesley Hranyczny and Isabel our interests. Everyone should come to our monthly meetings (last 12 noon, will also be available at the Open Whalen (kindergarten), Nicole Masi and Tuesday of the month). That would be a good way for all of us to give House. Sarah Stark (first grade), Claudia Kimmel back to our community. If you are considering registration in and Madelyn Ploch (second grade), Nich- St. Mary’s for your child during our Presi- olas Capalbo and Dino Esposito (third dents’ Week dates above, please be sure grade), Christine Rice and Paige Brown to bring the child’s birth certificate, bap- (fourth grade), Katie Moore and Chloe tismal certificate (if applicable), record of Brelsford (fifth grade), Ruben Caamano immunization, latest report card from the and Catherine Graves (sixth grade), Alana last school attended (if applicable) and a Pecorelli and Jonathan Dyal (seventh $75 registration fee. We offer the Cardi- grade), Brian Devlin and Marlyn Sanchez nal’s Scholarship, an income-based award, (eighth grade). for incoming kindergarteners and for any We have begun our sale of P.S. 175 student in Grades 1 through 6 coming apparel. Available for sale to students, from a public school. parents and the greater City Island com- Last October the school was paid a visit munity are P.S. 175 T-shirts, zippered by Chris Godfrey, the former guard for fleeces, sweatshirt hoodies, hats and flan- the NFL’s New York Giants. When Chris nel pajama bottoms, all either embroi- retired from football, he founded Life Ath- dered or silk-screened with the school letes, Inc., an organization that attempts to logo. Please join us in sharing the P.S. 175 reach the hearts of young people, inspiring school spirit! Anyone outside of P.S. 175 a commitment to integrity, purity and a interested in making a purchase should respect for life. He spoke to the students contact our general office. about building good, healthy relationships, The P.S. 175 family is excited about taking responsibility for their actions and all of the opportunities that we are able making good decisions in life. Chris will to offer our students that enable them to be back to conduct an in-service program explore educational as well as enriching for parents on Feb. 10. pursuits. Family Movie Night will take place on (914) 760-1106 Feb. 27. See the Church Bulletin for fea- Page Fourteen The Island Current January-February 2008

down tables, Billy M. for selling all those Box 6 raffle tickets, the band A/K/A “The Second Continued from page 4 Is Your Medicine Cabinet Safe? Coming,” which played at a huge discount The building was destroyed, several people (gas money) and whose members include The subject of alcohol and drug abuse abuse, and don’t assume that just because were hospitalized and a number of pets lost Terry Dunphy, Frankie Strazzera, Tony Di- is being discussed a great deal these days, it is approved by the FDA that it is safe. their lives. This fire could have been much orio, Johnny Valenti, Frank (Gootch) Greco and everyone knows about the dangers of The non-medical use of certain prescrip- worse if this ladder company had not been and “Quiet” George. heroin, cocaine and other illegal substanc- tion drugs can lead to addiction. present on City Island to suppress it. The team and coaches would also like es. But how many of you are aware of the Prescription drug abuse is not always Last night, Jan. 22, an oil barge contain- to thank everyone who braved the weather perfectly legal but in some cases equally deliberate. Studies report that older per- ing millions of gallons of highly flammable and purchased raffles. dangerous substances that exist right in sons regularly consume an average of two heating oil ran aground near Hart Island, Bob Carmody, your own home? Here are a few tips to to six prescription medications, in addition which is adjacent to City Island. Fortu- 18U Manager/Coordinator keep useful drugs from becoming harmful to over-the-counter drugs. And one in five nately, the oil did not leak out of the barge to you or your family. older Americans may be affected by com- and the matter is being taken care of by the First, make a list of the drugs that are bined difficulties caused by the misuse of Coast Guard. However, if a fire occurred, now in your medicine cabinet. On the list alcohol and medications. it is conceivable that Ladder 53 could have put the name and strength of each medica- Fourth, dispose of any medications been called to assist in its suppression. This tion (both prescription and over-the-coun- that are unused or have expired. Before you would not be possible if the Ladder Com- ter); include the date the prescription was throw them away, mix them with used cat pany was deactivated on that evening. filled and the date the drug expires, as well litter, coffee grounds or sawdust to make If Ladder Company 53 is not staffed as the original quantity. Count the pills them less appealing than simply throwing during the nighttime hours, the nearest Fire once a week and mark the number on your bottles in the garbage. Department unit to respond to a City Island- Martin Luther King Day list. Educate yourself and your family by related fire or emergency is based in Co-op To the Editor: Second, be sure to keep all prescrip- discussing the use and abuse of drugs. City. It would take this company upwards We always seek a celebration on the tion drugs out of the reach of young chil- More than 1.5 million American kids have of 10 to 20 minutes to reach City Island. anniversary of Dr.King’s birthday. All have dren and teenagers. The non-medical use admitted to using prescription drugs, and This would result in City Island having the been inspiring, but none has been more of medications by teenagers has steadily many more undoubtedly do so. The Fed- longest response time in the City of New inspiring, more inspiriting and more com- increased, largely because these drugs are eral Drug Abuse Warning Network reports York for a fire. forting than the one on Jan. 15, 2009, at easily accessible in the family medicine that emergency visits due to abuse of pre- Once again, the Board is formally re- Temple Beth-El of City Island. cabinet. scription drugs are greater than the number questing that the decision to close Ladder The speakers had so much to tell us. Third, never increase or decrease the of visits caused by abuse of marijuana and Company 53 be rescinded. The Board be- Mr. Leon Harris had been a Black Panther, recommended doses for yourself without heroin combined. lieves that the FDNY can identify other ar- converted to non-violence by meeting and consulting your doctor. Ask your doctor if Remind seniors in your home that eas of their operations where savings could listening to Dr. King. Minister Jean Hunt- any prescribed drug has the potential for many medications do not mix well with al- be realized, such as purchasing, contract- er told us of her call to be a minister. Dr. ing, eliminating leased space and reviewing Edmund Rothschild told us of his deep in- personnel practices. volvement with the civil rights movement Kenneth Kearns, District Manager, in the South and of actually administering Community Board 10 an aspirin to Dr. King, who was suffering with a headache. Knowing Thanks We were swept away by the Dance the To the Editor: Word Ministry of Canaan Baptist Church You know who you are and we are of Christ; first two men and then a group of grateful for your thoughtfulness and gener- women expressed their deep feelings in un- osity. Many thanks! forgettable dances. We are so grateful to the Monica, Steve and Steven Schmitz temple for giving us this tribute to a great humanitarian. He led us in accomplishing Softball Fund-raiser Thanks a great social revolution. He brought about non-violent change. To the Editor: Carol and Jack Ullman The Pelham Bay Girls 18U softball Inge Unger team fund-raiser did take place despite frigid, icy weather at Breakers Sports Bar on Jan. 10. Although it was a smaller crowd than usual, the team did raise money for their upcoming season. The team and the coaches would like to thank the Salzarulo Family for hosting the party at Breakers and paying for the live band; Brian Dempsey’s Restaurant,the Black Whale, AER Property Management and the Tree House for donating prizes; Chrissy T. for keeping the “spirits” flow- ing, Jeff B. for setting up and breaking

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • ALTERATIONS • EXTENTIONS

PAINTING SPECIAL: EXPIRES JUNE 30TH, 2009

TowBOAT/U.S. City Island January-February 2008 The Island Current Page Fifteen

Island Tapas Restaurant (435 City Is- How Do I Love Thee, City Island? land Avenue). No matter the destination By MONICA GLICK you picture, fear not, O’Sullivan’s Travel ([email protected]) has the just the ticket Elizabeth Barrett Browning may never Michelle recommends “hearts on fire” red you need! have lived on City Island, but she would for this Valentine’s Day. The ladies at Lina Arts and Entertainment. Both music have found it easy to count the ways to love Petite Salon (474 City Island Avenue) are and art find a home inside the Starving our Island home, thanks to our galleries, also waiting to help you look just marvel- restaurants, cafes, antique stores, unique ous! There are nails being done as well at shops and businesses. So let’s count to 10 Nail Island (462 City Island Avenue) and and watch the love grow, as we prepare to Nails on the Bay (329 City Island Avenue). celebrate another Valentine’s Day! Or if the stress is what you’d like to shed, Timeless Treasures. Glimpse into the spend some time with Debra Fatone, a Seafood feast at the Lobster Box door of Early Ruth Antiques (319 City New York State licensed massage therapist Island Avenue) and travel through decades (718- 885-3430). end of the Island, and The Lobster House of memories and magic. But don’t stop (691 City Island Avenue), JP’s Restaurant there; stop by Quality Antique Furniture (703 Minnieford Avenue), Sea Shore Res- (270 City Island Avenue), Silver Arrow taurant (591 City Island Avenue) and The Antiques (275 City Island Avenue), or Harbor (565 City Island Avenue) at the Midtown Antiques (310 City Island Av- north end. Smack in the middle is the Crab enue) for even more gifts from yesteryear. Shanty (361 City Island Avenue). Check And while you’re in Midtown Antiques, out the photo memories on their Web site; say hello to two treasured folks, Mort and it’s a trip down memory lane! And if you Violet Ellis! And don’t leave out a Sunday want your fish fast, there’s always Seafood afternoon visit to the newly reopened City City (459 City Island Avenue). Island Nautical Museum (190 Fordham Forbidden Love by Don Nester at Starv- You Can Hurry Love. You can find what Street) with its new, well-stocked gift shop ing Artist you want to eat—and get it fast—at several now open every Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. spots on City Island. If it’s a no-nonsense Photography by Ron Terner at Focal Artist Café & Gallery (249 City Island as well as on Sundays. breakfast or a sandwich, stop in at Papa Point Gallery Avenue), where February offers must-see Flights of Fancy. Create marble from John’s Deli (325 City Island Avenue). paper sculptures by Don Nester on the paint; make your wall a mural. That’s the There’s also Chef Rafael’s To-Go Express Picture Perfection. Look into the pos- walls—including a cute-as-can-be Cupid— magic that Mary Colby of Fe Fi Faux (415 City Island Avenue), the City Island sibility of capturing your new look, or the and talented musicians and songwriters on Studio & Gallery (276 City Island Av- Chinese Restaurant (84-86 City Island most tender of family moments, by visit- the stage, including owner / musician El- enue) weaves; sometimes, she’s even in Avenue) and Dunkin’ Donuts (636 City ing Ron Terner at Focal Point Gallery liott Glick. A meal at Ohana Japanese there painting or helping others learn how. Island Avenue) for some fast but fine bites. (321 City Island Avenue) to arrange your Hibachi Seafood & Steakhouse (500 City Fantasy toys and creations from countries If you have some time, chill at the Island next family portrait or to photograph your Island Avenue) is pure entertainment, not to of the world are part of what you’ll find Café (205 City Island Avenue). To chill and next family wedding or other event. Check mention a treat for your taste buds. There’s at Exotiqa International Arts (280 City relax and maybe even shoot some pool, the out the artwork while you’re there too! Or an art to a good cigar, and City Island’s Ci- Island Avenue), not to mention the nauti- Island offers two hot spots: Breakers (247 you can picture the Mediterranean inside gar Store (470 City Island Avenue) wants cal, wicker and stained-glass wonders of City Island Avenue) and Fella’s Bar (522 The Tree House (273 City Island Avenue) to show you their top smokes. There’s also Corona’s Hidden Treasures (327 City City Island Avenue). And “loving thanks” where the food is from that part of the fine art to a good cup of coffee, prepared Island Avenue). There are also artisans in to Joe of the Breakers, who provided that world. The shunka wrappers are a classi- with Arabica Coffee (90 City Island Av- residence on our island, Cheryl Brinker location for two fund-raisers in January! enue). And never forget the “art of a good at her studio / gallery (282 City Island Av- Full-Service Menus. How about dinner time and a good meal,” both of which can enue) and Toby Z. Liederman of Ceram- and a movie? Maybe you’d rather Sunday be found at the City Island Diner (304 ics…and More (30 Pilot Street), each set brunch? Perhaps it’s a special occasion par- City Island Avenue) and at The Snug next to dazzle with their fare. ty? The Black Whale (279 City Island Av- door (302 City Island Avenue). The latter Pampering Possibilities. Want a new enue) can fit all those possibilities and even provides a new menu nightly, from Italian look? Stop by The Art of Beauty Salon offers gift certificates for you to pass that to Mexican, burgers to free wings. (413 City Island Avenue) for a new hairdo love on to those you love! At Artie’s Steak Kitchen Creativity. Everything you or to get just the right polish on those nails. & Seafood (394 City Island Avenue), you need to prepare the perfect romantic meal can taste the love in every offering on its at home can be found in one of our Island extensive lunch and dinner menus. A light markets: the IGA City Island Market and deliciously satisfying treat is the grilled (385 City Island Avenue) and Connie’s Shunka wrappers at The Treehouse New Way Market (307 City Island Av- enue). And while you’re at Connie’s, ask cally delicious treat! Stop by that establish- Sara for her favorite recipes for romance! ment’s Euro Café across the street, and If you forget something, and it’s late, don’t check out the scene there. Perhaps Italian worry: the City Island Sunoco gas sta- is what you’ve got in mind. Try the food at tion convenience store (410 City Island Portofino (555 City Island Avenue) or at Avenue) is open 24 hours. If you’re plan- the southern end of the Island at the Lido ning on staying in, then bring in a bottle Restaurant (101 City Island Avenue). Or Art of Beauty Salon of the bubbly from JGL Wines & Liquors you can stay in the middle and try City (358 City Island Avenue) to celebrate your home-cooked meal. And try some fresh fruit and vegetables from Island Produce Broiled tuna salad at Artie’s (292 City Island Avenue). To end the night, maybe you’ll snuggle under the covers and watch a flick from JTs Island Event tuna and shrimp over mixed green salad, (294 City Island Avenue). The City Island COTTAM served with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Pharmacy (290 City Island Avenue) can And to offer others the chance to dine and provide some snacks to munch on, plus shop locally, stop by Chase Bank (207 City cards, candy-filled hearts and other Valen- Island Avenue) for a gift card from the full- tine treats to exchange with your honey. service and friendly staff. Nautical Delights. To make sure you’ve A House and an Inn. How does a pint got what it takes for a high seas adventure, of your favorite ale and fine New York sir- stop by Island Bait & Tackle (632 City Is- loin sound? Look no further than Brian land Avenue) or Jack’s Bait & Tackle (551 Dempsey’s American Ale House (288 City Island Avenue). Capt. Mike’s Diving City Island Avenue), another of our Is- (530 City Island Avenue) can provide tips land’s newest eateries. Say hello to Brian for taking trips on the waterways. Remy’s Dempsey when you’re there, and ask about (272 City Island Avenue) will make sure other special events, including music offer- you’ve got the goods to set sail come the ings. And at the end of the day (or rather at spring. And for your hardware needs, on sea the end of the winter, since it is closed until or dry land, check out Buddy’s Hardware the first of April), it’s good to know we’ve (260 City Island Avenue) and J. J. Burck got a place to lay our heads, Le Refuge Bed (526 City Island Avenue). If you’d rather & Breakfast (586 City Island Avenue). leaving the fishing to others, there are great How do we love thee, City Island? In catches at several restaurants on our Island. many, many ways! For each of us, then, it’s Try a seafood feast at The Lobster Box (34 really Happy Valentine’s Day all year long! City Island Avenue). There’s also fine fish fare at Sammy’s Fish Box (41 City Island Avenue) and the Shrimp Box Restaurant (64 City Island Avenue) at the southern Page Sixteen The Island Current January-February 2009

containers for collection. Because we do not than six feet in length in any public place, And All that Trash have regular street cleaning services from ei- including parks, and every dog owner must By BARBARA DOLENSEK ther the city or the private sector, this rule is clean up dog feces from the street, sidewalk, a very important one to the quality of life on gutter or other public property. Most residents of City Island know that material into the trash; put the empty metal City Island. Two miscellaneous city rules that resi- garbage is collected twice weekly—on Mon- paint can in recycling. See the Sanitation Another rule often neglected is the one dents may not be aware of: 1) Owners of days and Thursdays—and that recycling is Web site for waste-prevention tips and for stipulating that it is illegal to place notices vacant lots are required to keep the lots collected on Monday. But many people are places where paint may be donated. of any kind on street trees, utility poles, bus clean, sanitary and free of debris and litter. unaware of the many rules and regulations Recycling Garbage shelters, city garbage bins, mailboxes, traffic If the owner fails to comply with this law, connected with garbage collection and the signs, etc. Violations will be issued for each Sanitation may provide for the cleaning of cleaning of public property. These are all Metal should be recycled in clear bags incidence. It is also illegal to place handbills the premises at the expense of the property clearly stated on the Sanitation Department or blue-labeled recycling containers. Place on vehicles. owner. 2) It is illegal to prune or cut down or Web site (www.nyc.gov/sanitation), and one bulk metal next to recycling bags or bins. All residents with sidewalks must clear kill a street tree without permission from the may call 311 with questions, but the follow- Empty all cans, bottles and jars and rinse them of snow and ice within four hours after Department of Parks. ing information will answer most questions them. The following items can be recycled: a storm has ended (or by 11 a.m. for a storm If you do not find the information you that Islanders may have. The specific rules metal cans (including empty aerosol cans, ending after 9 p.m. at night). If the ice is dif- seek in the above paragraphs, call 311 or and fines are available on line at http://nyc. dried-out paint cans with no lids), aluminum ficult to remove, sand or salt must be laid visit the Department of Sanitation Web site gov/html/dsny/downloads/pdf/rules/digest/ foil wrap and trays, bulk metal (furniture, down and the ice cleared as soon as it melts. at www.nyc.gov/sanitation. digest.pdf. cabinets, appliances, except those with CFC Every dog must be on a leash no more gas), glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles Regular Garbage and jugs, beverage cartons and drink boxes. Regular garbage is picked up on Mon- Paper should be recycled in clear bags or day and Thursday except on holidays (see green-labeled recycling containers. Flat- below), sometimes early in the morning. If ten and bundle large pieces of corrugated you put out your garbage the night before cardboard and tie them with twine or place collection, wait until after 5 p.m. to do so. them loose in your container. The following From Oct. 1 through March 31, garbage paper items can be recycled: white, colored may be put out at 4 p.m. It is against the law and glossy paper (staples are okay; no spi- to put it out earlier. ral bindings); mail and envelopes; wrapping Garbage must be placed in a garbage paper (no tape or ribbon); smooth cardboard receptacle with a securely fitting lid or in (food boxes, shoe boxes, paper towel tubes, a securely tied opaque plastic bag (black etc.); paper bags; paper egg cartons and or brown, no clear bags). Do not use lit- trays; newspapers, magazines, catalogues; ter baskets placed on the street by the De- phone books, softcover books, comic books partment of Sanitation; these are designed and corrugated cardboard (flattened boxes). for use by pedestrians. Do not mix leaves, Do not recycle: hardcover books; nap- pruned plant materials, ashes, earth, stone kins, paper towels, tissues; soiled paper cups or bricks with regular household waste but or plates; heavily soiled paper; paper with a put them in separate containers. You may lot of glue and tape; plastic or wax-coated dispose of small amounts of noxious waste, paper (candy wrappers, takeout containers); such as bleach, paint thinner and pesticides, any plastic items other than jugs and bottles; but soak it in kitty litter or sand to prevent it Styrofoam (cups, egg cartons, etc.). from leaking and injuring children, pets or Collection Schedule sanitation workers. Asbestos, medical waste and other hazardous materials must be dis- There is no garbage or recycling collec- posed of in accordance with the law. tion on City Island on the following holi- There is no need to make a special ap- days: Thursday, Feb. 12 (Lincoln’s Birth- pointment for bulk collection, except for day), Monday, Feb. 16 (Presidents’ Day), refrigeration appliances (refrigerators, air Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day), Mon- conditioners, etc.) containing CFC/Freon day, Sept. 7 (Labor Day), Monday, Oct. 12 gas. Bulky items that are too large for your (Columbus Day) and Thursday, Nov. 26 garbage can should be placed beside your (Thanksgiving). regular garbage on any regular collection For pickups delayed by a holiday, set days. Each collection day you can discard out garbage after 5 p.m. on the holiday so up to six pieces of bulk, which includes bags that it can be collected the following day, of plaster, broken rock, or dirt (maximum as the collection time may be earlier than weight 60 lbs.); bundles of wood (no longer normal. Set out recyclables for collection on than four feet, nails removed); or rugs (tied Monday of the week following the holiday. in five-foot lengths); and any other non- During snow emergencies, residents may metal items too large for your can. experience disruption in service. Before discarding a refrigerator, the Sidewalks and Streets doors must be removed and a special ap- Although most of the information in pointment must be made for the removal of this article relates to residential rather than CFC/Freon before the refrigerator will be commercial garbage collection (which has picked up by Sanitation. Call 311 to make its own set of rules), all property owners, in- an appointment. cluding both stores and residents, must keep The following items must not be put the sidewalks in front of their property and into regular garbage at all: household batter- an area of 18 inches into the street clean. ies; rechargeable batteries; automobile oils; Sweepings must be picked up and placed in fluorescent light bulbs (including the new energy savers); mercury-filled thermostats and thermometers; paint and automobile tires. To enable residents to dispose of these items, the Department of Sanitation oper- ates a Self-Help Special Waste Drop-off Site in the Bronx at Hunts Point, which is open on the following days: Feb. 7, 14, 21, 27; March 7, 14, 21, 27; April 4, 11, 18, 24; May 2, 9, 16, 23, 29; June 6, 13, 20, 26; July 11, 18, 25, 31; Aug. 8, 15, 22, 28; Sept. 5, 12, 19, 25; Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 30; Nov. 7, 14, 21, 27; Dec. 5, 12, 18. Special Waste sites will not be open July 4, Aug. 1, Dec. 25 and 26. Residents may return used automobile batteries, motor oil, transmission fluid, car tires and rechargeable batteries to retail- ers that sell them. Home Depot has a dis- posal site for energy-saver fluorescent light bulbs. Full, unopened cans of paint may be re- turned to the point of purchase; latex paint cans can be taken to any Special Waste Drop-Off Site. For partially full cans, open the can, let the paint dry out and place it in regular trash. Or you may pour the paint into a non-recyclable container and put it in the trash, and put the empty metal paint can in the recycling bin. A third option is to pour the paint into absorbent material like kitty litter, sand, rags or newspaper, and put the January-February 2009 The Island Current Page Seventeen Oil Barge Hits Rocks Near Hart Island By BARBARA DOLENSEK

Photo by BARBARA DOLENSEK A barge carrying 5 million gallons of oil was damaged by hitting an unidentified object near Execution Rocks on Jan. 22 but the oil was transferred to other vessels without spilling.

During the evening of Thursday, Jan. that it suffered three cracks and a 40-foot 22, a barge carrying more than 5 million tear on the starboard bow but was not dis- gallons of heating oil from the New York charging any oil. City area to Boston struck an unidentified After the salvage plan was reviewed object in Long Island Sound near Execu- by the Coast Guard and a representative tion Rocks. Although the vessel took on of the state Department of Environmental water, no oil spill occurred, according to Conservation, an oil spill removal compa- the U.S. Coast Guard. ny, Miller Environmental, put a 3,500-foot The master of the commercial tug protective boom around the barge as a pre- Meredith C. Reinauer told the Coast Guard caution and transferred the oil to other ves- that the barge was taking on water and took sels. After the transfer was completed Fri- it to anchor off nearby Hart Island. Divers day morning, the barge was taken to Staten examined the hull of the barge and reported Island to be put into dry dock for repair.

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This firm is a family owned corporation whose only shareholders are Vincent & Robert Ruggiero - (NYC Dept. of Consumer Affairs) Page Eighteen The Island Current January-February 2009 Five Ways To Know You Are Doing It Right The Current will print obituaries free of charge upon notification by a member of the deceased’s immediate By Bruce Nieves family. Call 885-0760 or write to P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464, including your telephone number. Do you ever wonder just how effective simple. your workout routine really is? Maybe you One of the best ways to stay consistent saw great results when you first started to with your routine is to do your workout at exercise, but now those results have come the same time every day. We are creatures to a screeching halt. Do you want to know of habit, so once your exercise schedule why? has been firmly set, you will find that the If the following five statements accu- process will become automatic rather than rately describe your exercise routine, then an occasional afterthought. fear not-you’re doing it right. If they don’t 4. You seek a challenge. Just like hair- describe your exercise routine, however, styles, exercise routines quickly become then listen up. There is no better time than outdated. That is why the best routines now to rev up your routine. are dynamic, and the worst routines never 1. You make the most of each move. change. How do you know when your rou- Gone are the days when workouts lasted tine needs to be updated? Alice Payne more than an hour and you had time to You’ll know how effective your routine single out each muscle individually. Nowa- is by the results you experience, or by the by three years as an Ediphone operator at days time is of the essence, and compound lack thereof. If you feel that you are sim- Union Carbide and several years as a secre- movements deliver excellent results in less ply going through the motions, then stop tary at the Jewish Theological Seminary. time than ever before. wondering about the effectiveness of your routine and start doing something new. She married James O. Payne on April Are you not sure whether your routine 5. You’re having a blast: Do you 1, 1939, and moved to City Island. After includes compound movements? Any exer- cise that uses two or more joints is consid- dread the very thought of going for a jog taking time off to raise her family, she re- Richard DeLuce ered to be a compound movement. Squats but force yourself to do it simply because turned to the work force as a clerk for the and lunges are great examples. If you want you’ve no other ideas for exercise? Stop Richard DeLuce Department of Corrections on Hart Island. to pack even more benefit into each move, right there. Exercise is an enjoyable activi- Later, she worked as a clerk for 20 years try adding a shoulder press with your squats ty, especially when you find the form that is Richard DeLuce, a City Island resident at the City Island branch of the New York and a bicep curl with your lunges. best suited for your personal preferences. for more than 35 years, died on Dec. 25, Public Library before she retired in 1980. 2. You keep it intense. Let’s be honest; If you don’t like exercise, there is a 2008, at the age of 56. In 1969, Alice Payne and her husband, at one time or another you’ve spent time in good chance that your technique needs He was born in the Bronx in 1952 Jim, published a book about local history the gym “exercising” without ever break- help. I pride myself in showing my clients and graduated from Evander Childs High entitled “City Island—Tales of the Clam ing a sweat. Maybe you drifted from one the fun side of exercise. Yes, exercise is fun! School. He worked as a plumber for many Diggers.” Her daughters republished the machine to the next or joined an aerobics If your routine includes all of the above, years. book in 2004, and the City Island Nautical class for a few minutes, but the bottom line was that your heart wasn’t into it. congratulations! You are doing it right. As son, brother, husband, father, uncle, Museum hosted a book signing that was at- Workouts that lack intensity are prac- You’re consistent, you challenge yourself and friend, he left an indelible impression tended by many Island residents. tically a waste of time. Your body craves and you’re seeing results. However, if your with his charm, sense of humor and gen- After she retired, Mrs. Payne volun- a challenge, and you see the best results routine doesn’t include the above, you now erosity. Richard was an accomplished teered at Aging in America, where she when you keep your intensity high. Keep have the blueprints to do it right. sportsman who enjoyed bow hunting and taught tai chi for more than 20 years. She your workouts concise and push yourself Do you want a routine that incorpo- fishing. was also in a dance group called the Acad- with each exercise. rates everything you need to reach your fit- He is survived by his daughter, Krys- emy Seniorettes, which performed at hos- 3. You’re consistent. Anyone can have ness goals? Call or e-mail today to set up tal, 26, and by two sisters, Janice Calella pitals, nursing homes and Lincoln Center one great workout, but one workout won’t a consultation, and I’ll show you how to of Lafayette, New Jersey, and Candy Man- senior programs. Mrs. Payne also taught translate into killer results. Only consis- get amazing results in less time than you think. cuso of City Island, and a brother, Robert tai chi and dancing at Trinity Methodist tency will do that for you. Exercise must DeLuce, of Long Island. Church on City Island. be a part of your daily routine, plain and His family would like to thank every- Her other interests included putting one for their genuine expressions of sympa- ships in bottles and oil painting and col- thy. Those of you who attended his services lage; her work was exhibited at art shows enabled the family to remember Richard in in Greenwich Village and New Rochelle. a very special way, through the eyes of his Predeceased by her husband, who lifelong friends and neighbors. A memorial passed away in 1989, Mrs. Payne is sur- service will be held in the spring. vived by her daughters, Dorothy Payne of City Island and Virginia Letourneau of Alice Payne New York City. Alice Payne, a longtime Island resi- She will be very much missed by Is- dent, passed away suddenly on Jan. 19, landers for the contributions she made to 2009. She was 94. her community. As she wrote in her jour- She was born Alice Nelson in the nal: “Look forward with optimism and en- Bronx on Nov. 30, 1914. She began her ca- joy each day” and “Enjoy life and be kind reer as secretary to the president of the Pro- to others.” peller Club of the United States, a position A well attended memorial service was she held for 10 years. This was followed held at Trinity United Methodist Church on January 24, 2009.

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PINEWOOD CHAMPS

______FINE ART PORTRAITS: Studio on City Island. PHOTO RESTORATION: Take old photographs More than 30 years of photographic experience. and have them restored like new. Copies made ______Call Ron Terner at 718-885-1403. from negatives or prints. Framing available as MOVERS! No job too big or small! Van or Truck. ______well. Call Ron 718-885-1403. Free Estimates. Call Rich, the Mover: 718-650- TOYS, GAMES, PUZZLES, PUPPETS, craft kits ______7515. & more! Now at Exotiqa 718-885-3090 or shop MAURA’S DAY CARE/PRESCHOOL PROGRAM: online______at www.themagicofgifts.com. ______ONE SPACE AVAILABLE! Call 718-885-9351. PASSPORT PHOTOS taken at Focal Point Gal- CITY ISLAND HOME FOR SALE BY OWNER: lery 321 City Island Avenue. Call Ron at 718- 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, deck, New gas ______885-1403. boiler,Membership in Private Beach Assoc. 718- PORTRAIT PARTY FAVORS: Make your next ______864-7386/917-526-9930. event memorable for your guests. Add a portrait RESUMES WRITTEN, EDITED, LAID OUT: From station to your next special events. Every guest actors to lawyers. Concise, professional, supe- will go home with a framed full color portrait of themselves. Our professionally prepared and pre- rior. Get to the next level. Call Katie 718-885- Photos by ANGELO BELLOCCHIO 2929. sented color portraits are party favors that will be ______On Jan. 16, 2009, Cub Scout Pack 211 held its annual Pinewood Derby Race. Tiger EUROPEAN WOMAN CLEANS ON CITY cherished for years. Call 718-885-1403 or stop ISLAND: Thorough work, excellent references. ______by Focal Point Gallery, 321 City Island Avenue. trophy winners (l. to r.): second place Brandon McGaughn, first place Paul Mazzella, ______Call 347-603-2834. Jewelry designed & repaired: Gold, silver, third place Gerald Mazzella. NOT JUST SMALL JOBS: Carpentry-Remodel- ______pearl & bead re-stringing. Exotiqa 718-885-3090. ing-Repairs. Doors, windows, furniture repair, Yardman and assistant needed for sea- ______painting, locks, etc. Michael 718-885-1580. sonal hauling/launching of boats. Must be PIANO LESSONS: Lifetime experience teaching experienced operating travel lift, hydraulic boat children and adults. My home on a Steinway trailer and fork lift. Salary @ a per foot rate Grand Piano. Flexible hours. Call Diana 718- to be negotiated. Job description available, 885-2091. call 718-885-9814 or email contact@morrisybc. ______com. AVON REPRESENTATIVE: Avon is not just ­­______cosmetics. Jewelry, clothes, vitamins, videos, CITY ISLAND HOME FOR SALE BY OWNER: complete line of children’s gifts, toys and more. Completely Custom Renovated. $515,000 718- ______Ask for catalogue. Call Emily 718-885-2430. ______­885-0504. Serious Inquiries Only. WEBSITES CREATED: Effective, great-looking LEARN DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY: Photoshop websites from scratch or your old website fixed 7 or black and white photography, developing up. Easy, affordable, quick. Call Katie 718-885- film, printing, camera techniques. Call Ron 718- ______2929. ­­______885-1403. CLASS OF 1956 ST. MARY’S AND PS 17 VOICE LESSONS: Ages middle school through REUNION NEWS. Write, call, or e-mail: Diana adult. My home studio. Suffering from sleep Murphy Nye, 62A Marcoe St. N. Fond du Lac, apnea? Singing strengthens your throat mus- Wisconsin 54937. 1-920-926-9767. dmn1943@ cles, which helps eliminate the effects of apnea. ______sbcglobal.net. ______­Flexible hours. Call Diana 718-885-2091. THERE’S A COMPUTER GURU right in your LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE MALE: Wishes neighborhood. City Island resident with over ______­home care assignment 203-274-1717. 25 years of computer experience can repair CITY ISLAND SOUVENIRS: Mugs, sailboats, Webelos I winners: first place Casper Pederson, second place Frank Guadio. any software or hardware problem. Instruc- life rings, teddy bears & post cards. Exotiqa tion available for all new PC owners. I even ______718-885-3090. make house calls. References available. Call FOR SALE: New Construction 2 family 76A & ______“Joe, the Computer Guy” 718-885-9366. 76B Winter Street City Island, with detached 2 MASSAGE THERAPY in the privacy of your ______car garages. Call for details 718-994-9533. home. Gift certificates, references avail- HOUSE FOR SALE ON CITY ISLAND: New con- ______able. John Raimondi, L.M.T. 718-885-0619. struction. Duplex with 3 bedrooms, 1-1/2 baths, KEYBOARD PLAYER AVAILABLE: I play smooth living room, dining room, full basement, wood and gentle music for special events. References floors, central air/gas heat, granite countertops, ______available. Call Diana at 718-885-2091. mahogany deck, center of town, beach access. ­­______Call 347-920-1567.

touches the lives of almost everyone in the SOCIAL country. Test your knowledge by answer- SECURITY ing the following questions, and check your accuracy by visiting our Web site using the 5.8 Percent Benefit links provided. Increase for 2009 If you are an average wage earner, how Monthly Social Security and Supple- much of your pre-retirement earnings will Webelos II trophy winners: second place Michael Bellocchio, first place Nicholas mental Security Income benefits for more Social Security replace? about 20 percent, Gvonaj, third place Jack Green. than 55 million Americans will increase 5.8 40 percent or 70 percent? (Answer at www. percent in 2009, the Social Security Admin- socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10035.html) . istration recently announced. The 5.8 per- In 1940, a 65-year-old male could ex- cent increase is the largest since 1982. pect to live another 12 years, but today it is Social Security and Supplemental Secu- 10 years, 12 years, 16 years, or 25 years? rity Income benefits increase automatically (Answer www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/back- each year based on the rise in the Bureau of ground.html). Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index for How many years of earnings will your Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers basic Social Security retirement benefit be (CPI-W), from the third quarter of the prior based on? Your last 10 years of earning, your year to the corresponding period of the cur- highest three years or earnings or your high- rent year. est 35 years of earnings? (Answer at www. The 5.8 percent cost-of-living adjust- socialsecurity.gov/OACT/COLA/Benefits. ment (COLA) will begin with benefits that html) . more than 50 million Social Security ben- How much is the average Social Secu- eficiaries receive in January 2009. Increased rity benefit—about $507, about $1079, about Bears winners: first place John Tomsen, second place Joseph Kramer, third place payments to more than 7 million Supple- $1201 or about $2024? (Answer at www.so- Joseph Gvonaj. mental Security Income beneficiaries will cialsecurity.gov/pressoffice/factsheets/cola- begin on Dec. 31. facts2008.htm) . Some other changes that take effect in If you don’t retire at your full retirement January of each year are based on the increase age, will your eventual benefit be higher or in average wages. Based on that increase, is it final once you reach your full retirement the maximum amount of earnings subject to age? (Answer at www.socialsecurity.gov/re- the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) tire2/delayret.htm). will increase to $106,800 from $102,000. Of How many baby boomers are expected to the estimated 164 million workers who will reach retirement age over the next 20 years— pay Social Security taxes in 2009, about 11 about 20 million, 50 million or 80 million? million will pay higher taxes as a result of (Answer at www.socialsecurity.gov/pressof- the increase in the taxable maximum. fice/pr/babyboomerfiles-pr.htm). Information about Medicare changes for But remember this: you don’t have to 2009 can be found at www.Medicare.gov. answer all the questions right to be a winner. Just go to www.socialsecurity.gov, where the Test Your Knowledge of prize is an informative and easy-to-use Web Social Security site. Wolf winners: first place Joseph Leni, second place James McGaughn, third place Social Security is a vital program that Aiden Saulnier. Page Twenty The Island Current January-February 2009

Information for the Talebearer must be received in writ- ing no later than the 15th of the month except July and December. Mail to The Island Current, P.O. Box 6, City Island, NY 10464; include your name and telephone number.

Does anyone remember this charming young pair photographed just a few years ago on City Island? If you think you know who they are, drop a line to The Island Current, Box 6, City Island NY 10464.

Ben and Virginia DiGregorio with two of FREE ESTIMATES FULLY INSURED their great grandchildren, Ben and Julia Henning. ENS BRO born on Dec. 8, 2008, weighing in at 9 lbs. W S 5oz. Proud parents are Karen (Ulmer) and O Tr e e Se r v i c e . Ryan Kratzer. Cameron was welcomed home by her big sister Allison Grace. * Tree Removal Family Owned Proud grandparents are Linda and John & Operated For Ulmer of Earley Street • Trimming Ethan Heben married Catherine Xecom- Over 50 Years inos-Taylor at the Naval Academy Cha- Congratulations to two former City • Stump Grinding pel in Annapolis, Maryland on Dec. 13, Islanders Edward T. Nilon of Pilot Street Bronx Located 2008. and Lori Vogt of Bridge Street on their recent engagement on Christmas Eve at www.owensbrostreeservice.com Happy birthday wishes on Feb. 1 to her parents home in Spring Hill, Florida. 718-885-0914 Bay Street’s Virginia DiGregorio, with A late Spring or Summer wedding is love from your family and friends. planned. Lots of luck & happiness to them Happy belated birthday(s) to Michael from her parents, Richie & Marlene Vogt. Mancuso on Dec. 7 and to his big sister, Sr. Alaura Mancuso, who celebrated her big Ed and Bette Heben of City Island day on Dec. 29. With love from your fam- are happy to announce the marriage of ily. their son, LTJG Ethan Heben (“E”) to Friends and family gathered at the Ms. Catherine Xecominos-Taylor of Bal- Lobster House on Nov. 22, 2008 to cel- timore. The ceremony was officiated at ebrate the 60th wedding anniversary of the Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis, Virginia and Ben DiGregorio, who were Maryland, on Dec. 13, 2008. Having also celebrating their 80th birthdays. served more than two years with the Congratulations across the miles in the Pacific 7th Fleet, “E,” a 2006 Naval Acad- Netherlands to former Islanders Magda emy graduate, left an ensign and returned and Austin Dooley, who became the from Japan a lieutenant just two and a proud parents of twin girls, Emma Paula half months ago. He will now be joining and Megan Sophia, on Dec. 19. Thrilled his ship on a tour of duty in the Arabian grandparents are Paula and Austin Dooley Sea. Catherine, a CPA graduate of the of Earley Street and Aunt Siobhan. College of Notre Dame, the University of Birthday greetings go out to to Bay Baltimore and a CPA candidate, will be Street’s Lucy Zec, who will celebrate her employed by KPMG. Godspeed to Ethan, big day on Feb. 26. his captain and crew in this new assign- Goodbye and good luck to Rae Ann ment and “fair winds and following seas” to the newlyweds during the voyage of Petrone, who recently retired from City “We offer free Island’s Chase Bank. We will all miss their lifetime. you. And a warm welcome to Eric Garcia, Best wishes for a speedy recovery to pickup and Chase’s new manager. Frank Ring, who is recuperating after sur- delivery” Congratulations to Peter Vincent and gery for a pacemaker and a new knee. He Eric Girardi on the opening of their new is at home at 454 City Island Avenue and Ow n e d a n d Op e r a t e d restaurant, Valentina’s, in Carmel, New welcomes visitors. Stop by and say “hi.” York. We wish you both the best of luck Happy 79th birthday on January 22 b y a in your new venture. Love, Mom and to Walter Huffell, with LOVE from your Ci t y Is l a n d Re s i d e n t Dad, Michelle and Ed. wife, Paula. It’s a girl! Cameron Avery Kratzer was Maria Swieciki

PLEASE COMPLETE THIS FORM AND RETURN TO: MOVING? ISLAND CURRENT, P.O. BOX 6, CITY ISLAND, NY 10464 NAME______OLD ADDRESS______APT. #______CITY______STATE______ZIP______NEW ADDRESS______APT. #______CITY______STATE______ZIP______PLEASE ALLOW 6-8 WEEKS FOR CHANGE TO TAKE EFFECT.