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Let Them Eat Cake

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Creative Media



Jimmy Max

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical


and the story of the bond between a child and her stuffed animal

I still have and actively hug the Teddy Bear I had growing up.  There I said it.  Hi, my name is Nanine Iengo and I still love my Teddy Bear.  Do I need an intervention?  Hopefully not because it would be very hard to part with him.  He may be the reason I pushed so hard to name our son Teddy.  Oh well, I guess I can have worse vices right?  It seems that I am not alone in remembering such a loved and meaningful friend, errr, stuffed animal.  This ...


The Most Well Traveled Squirrel


Breathes New Life into the Meaning of the Holidays

As a teacher, I had a special library for my special times of the year books.  Winter Holidays, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s/Father’s Day, I even had a book I would read around Labor Day (Bruno the Tailor by Caralyn Buehner.) These books would show my students what was going on in the world around them.  Now the world is getting much smaller, much closer with the use of the internet and their worlds are no longer limited to what is in front of them or down the ...


Calling all Staten Island Small Businesses


There is still plenty of time to advertise in our Holiday Gift Guide!

One of the things I know many people on Staten Island want to do is support their local Small Businesses this year.  What better way to help them do that by bringing you to them, fast and easy. 

I started the Holiday Gift Guide on November 28th, but there is still plenty of time to get involved!  If you or someone you know wants to be a part of this fantastic way to reach out to over 1000 local families and help them shop local this Holiday Season, then contact ...


Disney on Ice


Dare to Dream

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of an invitation to see Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream with Teddy and my two sisters.  The last time I saw an Ice Show with either of my sisters one wound up in the bathroom talking to the bathroom attendant for about 2 hours.  This time it was much different.  It was magical.  I was able to share in the characters that Teddy loves so much come to life right there in front of his eyes.  His eyes were wide open ...


This Week's Picks:


November 29th through December 4th

Tuesday, November 29 - Music with Patrick at Jimmy Max

Music with Patrick is returning to his post singing music while Families make their own pizzas
Where: Jimmy Max Pizzaria, 280 Watchogue Road
When: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Who: Music with Patrick at Jimmy Max
How: Come on in!
Cost: Free child's pizza with paying adult.

Wednesday, November 30 - Funky Forensics

Explore forensic science in this hands-on look at crime scene investigation. Participants use the Case Stamper to stamp out a mystery on a case card and discover the science of tracking. Got clues? With the Spynoculars, stealthily observe clues from afar. These build-your-own binoculars are used to test the limits of magnified observation and are a sneaky way to refine observational skills. Presented by Mad Science of Staten Island.
Where: 1617 Richmond Road (between Seaview & Liberty Aves.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: Dongan Hills Library
How: For ages 6 to 12 years old. Limited to 20 participants
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 351-1444

Friday, December 2 - Annual Grand Illumination

The Conference House Association invites you to our Annual Grand Illumination. Join us in singing Christmas carols while the windows of the house are lit with candles. Come for free hot cider, cookies & a special gift! Dress warmly, as the festivities take place outdoors.
Where: 298 Satterlee Street
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Conference House Museum
How: In case of bad weather, the event will be cancelled.
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 984-6046.

Saturday, December 3 - Tree Lighting, Holiday Party and Food Drive

Come to the annual tree lighting at Snug Harbor! 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Holiday Party at the Carpenter’s Shop and C-Hall, featuring: live music, dancing, holiday "spirits" and snacks.Tree lighting at the Carl Grillo Glasshouse open to the public with music by the Helluva Choir and the Harbor Lights Theater Company
Where: 1000 Richmond Terrace
When: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Snug Harbor Cultural Center
How: Please RSVP by 11/30.  Don’t forget to bring your non-perishable food items for Snug Harbor's food drive
Cost: Tree Lighting Ceremony is free; the holiday Party is $10 per person
For more info: [email protected] or call 718-425-3517

Sunday, December 4 - Christmas Tree Lighting in Historic Richmondtown

It's Christmas season in the Village! Watch as glittering ornaments are made by the Tinsmith, take your won photos with Santa, hear young carolers present holiday songs, or listen to lively storytelling session; tour the village, decorated in its holiday finery. Visit the Courthouse for greenery, home-baked goodies, and holiday gift items for sale.  Traditional Tree Lighting: 5pm
Where: Richmond Road and Arthur Kill Road.  Parking on Clarke Avenue
When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: Historic Richmondtown
How: Join your neighbors and friends for a cup of hot cider under the tree.
Cost: Admission to Courtroom is $2, Tree Lighting is Free!

This Week's Calendar:


November 28th through December 11th

Monday, November 28 - How the Beaver Got Sharp Teeth & Other Native American Tales

Stories presented by LuAnn Adams. For children ages 4 and older
Where: 21-25 Robin Road (at Ocean Ave. & Father Capodanno Blvd.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: South Beach Library
How: For ages 3 to 12 years.  First come, first served
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Tuesday, November 29 - Baby Space at St. George Library

Join us for songs, rhymes and simple picturebook stories for babies, followed by playtime. Meet other parents and babies! For babies from birth to 18 months and their caregivers.
Where: 5 Central Avenue
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: St. George Library
How: Pre-registration required. Please sign up in person or by phone. Join our email list at the Children's Information desk
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Tuesday, November 29 - Funky Forensics

Explore forensic science in this hands-on look at crime scene investigation. Participants use the Case Stamper to stamp out a mystery on a case card and discover the science of tracking. Got clues? With the Spynoculars, stealthily observe clues from afar. These build-your-own binoculars are used to test the limits of magnified observation and are a sneaky way to refine observational skills.
Where: 976 Castleton Avenue
When: 4:00 PM
Who: West New Brighton Library
How: Presented by Mad Science of Staten Island. For ages 6 to 12 years old. Limited to 20 participants.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Wednesday, November 30 - Tree Tots

Join us for our Fall session of the Greenbelt Tree Tots. Sit with your tot and enjoy stories and activities centered around nature and our animal friends in the cozy atmosphere of the Greenbelt Nature Center. Registration required. Space is limited. Ages 3-4
Where: 700 Rockland Avenue
When: 9:45 AM
Who: Greenbelt Nature Center
How: Please call to register
Cost: $4
For more info: 718-351-3450

Wednesday, November 30 - Greenbelt Peepers

Join us for our Fall session of the Greenbelt Peepers. Sit with your tot and enjoy stories and activities centered around nature and our animal friends in the cozy atmosphere of the Greenbelt Nature Center. Registration required. Space is limited.
Where: 700 Rockland Avenue
When: 11:00 AM
Who: Greenbelt Nature Center
How: Call to register
Cost: $4
For more info: www.sigreenbelt.org, 718-351-3450

Thursday, December 1 - Picture Book Time

A librarian will share favorite picture books, providing children with the wonder of books and the joy of reading.
Where: 2550 Victory Boulevard (past Willowbrook Rd.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library
How: For ages 3 to 12 years
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Thursday, December 1 - Game on Huguenot Park

Family gaming at the library. Got the gaming moves? Show off your skills with the controller and challenge your friends to a game in the library. Play against mom or dad too!
Where: 830 Huguenot Avenue (at Drumgoole Rd., East)
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Huguenot Park Library
How: Come on in and prepare to win!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Thursday, December 1 - Flight of a Thousand Cranes: Origami Club

Come to the library on Thursdays and meet with our Origami Club, a group of kids and young adults who are interested in Origami. Origami is the art or process, originating in Japan, of folding paper into shapes which turn into decorative objects. Our goal is to fold 1000 paper cranes, which is a sign of good luck, and give them to a local hospital or charity.
Where: 1617 Richmond Road (between Seaview & Liberty Aves.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: Dongan Hills Library
How: Come on down!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Friday, December 2 - Toddler Story Time

Toddlers from 13 months to 30 months old and their parents/caregivers can enjoy interactive stories, action songs, and fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood.
Where: 309 New Dorp Lane
When: 10:30 AM
Who: New Dorp Library
How: Pre-Registration is required and starts November 25th.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Friday, December 2 through Monday, December 5 - Drawing Contest Workshop

Friday, December 2, 2011, 3 - 4....For ages 13 to 18 years Monday, December 5, 2011, 3 - 4.....For ages 5 to 12 years Sketch Or Draw At One Of Our Workshops Or At Home. Drawings Should Be Submitted By December 19, With Your Name And Phone Number On The Back Of Your Drawing.
Where: 75 Bennett Street (at Heberton Ave.)
When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Port Richmond Library
How: Winner Will Be Announced December 21. THERE WILL BE A SMALL PRIZE FOR THE WINNER, ONE CHILD AND ONE YOUNG ADULT
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 442-0158

Friday, December 2 - Preschool Craft

Hands-on projects using a variety of skills for ages 3-5.
Where: 56 Giffords Lane (at Margaret St.)
When: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Great Kills Library
How: Pre-registration is required by calling the library
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 984-6670

Saturday, December 3 - Educator Holiday Shopping Event

Educators come on in for special sales and events!
Where: 2245 Richmond Avenue
When: 8:00 AM
Who: Barnes and Noble
How: Come on in and bring a bag!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.bn.com, 718-982-6983

Saturday, December 3 - Winter Storytime

Our weekly Storytime will be about winter, all about winter games and sports and things that you can do during winter.
Where: 2245 Richmond Avenue
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Barnes and Noble
How: Come on in!
Cost: Free
For more info: 718-982-6983

Saturday, December 3 - Kids & Kritters

All programs take place on Saturdays, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. Dress your child weather appropriate. (Coats, hats, gloves and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty) Part of these programs will take place outdoors. All programs will include a craft, story or game indoors. Holiday Wild Bird Treats – Join us for a holiday wild bird treat workshop. Make one to hang here, one to take home. Happy Holidays!
Where: 222 Poillion Avenue
When: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Who: Blue Heron Nature Center
How: Please call to Register
Cost: A donation is always nice
For more info: Nancy Zawanda, 917-751-0071

Saturday, December 3 - Krafty Kids

Join Nancy Zawada Clair and wiggle, hop or fly over to the Nature Center and join us for some Saturday afternoon crafty fun.
Where: 222 Poillion Avenue
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Blue Heron Nature Center
How: Please call to register
Cost: Free
For more info: 917-751-0071

Saturday, December 3 - Music @ NYPL presents The Hibernian Festival Singers

Formed in 1980, the Hibernian Festival Singers is comprised of a group of local artists who have dedicated themselves to fostering the Irish culture through music. The Hibernian Festival Singers are a wonderful and talented group. Come and hear the beautiful choral arrangements
Where: 200 Clarke Avenue (at Amber St.)
When: 2:00 PM
Who: Richmondtown Library
How: Come On Down!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Sunday, December 4 - Explorers of the Wild

Explorers can learn a lot about the environment from Clay Wollney. Clay is a Naturalist, a science teacher at Staten Island Academy, & a featured columnist for the Staten Island ADVANCE.  Things to do with Plastic Bottles - Don’t toss out all those plastic soft drink bottles you used to recycle. From birdfeeders with baffles to earthworm terrariums there are many alternative uses for empty bottles other than the trash bin. Bottles will be provided but participants are encouraged to bring one and two liter bottles of their own as well.
Where: 222 Poillion Avenue
When: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Blue Heron Nature Center
How: CAll to register
Cost: Free
For more info: 718-967-3542

Monday, December 5 - The Tortoise and the Hare

An adaptation of the classic Aesop fable about a great race between a loveable tortoise and an arrogant hare. Presented by Puppets to Go for children ages 3 and older.
Where: 7430 Amboy Road
When: 4:00 PM
Who: Tottenville Library
How: For ages 3 to 12 years. First come, first served
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 984-0945

Monday, December 5 - Read Aloud

A librarian will share favorite picture books,providing children with the wonder of books and the joy of reading
Where: 830 Huguenot Avenue (at Drumgoole Rd., East)
When: 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Huguenot Park Library
How: For ages 5 to 12 years
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Tuesday, December 6 - A Christmas Carol

A play presented by the Traveling Lantern Theatre Company based on Charles Dickens' classic tale of the old miser, Ebenezer Scrooge. Recommended for children ages 5 to 12 years old.
Where: 976 Castleton Avenue (at N. Burgher Ave.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: West New Brighton Library
How: For ages 5 to 12 years.  First come, first served
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 442-1416

Wednesday, December 7 - Preschool Storytime

Preschoolers from 3 to 5 years old and their parents/caregivers can enjoy new and classic picture books, and related activities, and meet other preschoolers in the neighborhoodPre-registration is required.
Where: 2550 Victory Boulevard (past Willowbrook Rd.)
When: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library
How: Pre-registration is required.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Wednesday, December 7 - A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" is a story that is both timeless and universal. It is the delightful tale of the miser, Ebenezer Scrooge, and his clerk, Bob Cratchit. Through visits from the spirits of the season, Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas. Presented by Hampstead Stage Company.
Where: 200 Clarke Avenue (at Amber St.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: Richmondtown Library
How: Recommended for children ages 4 and older. First Come, First Served.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Wednesday, December 7 - A Christmas Carol

A play presented by the Traveling Lantern Theatre Company based on Charles Dickens' classic tale of the old miser, Ebenezer Scrooge. 
Where: 56 Giffords Lane (at Margaret St.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: Great Kills Library
How: Recommended for children ages 5 to 12 years old.
Cost: Free
For more info: ww.nypl.org

Thursday, December 8 - Story Museum

Step inside a world filled with the magic of stories, crafts, music, dancing and singing.
Preschool children up to age 5.
Where: 441 Clarke Avenue
When: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Who: Historic Richmondtown
How: Please call to make a reservation
Cost: Kids $3/Adults Free
For more info: (718) 351-1611 x 280

Thursday, December 8 - Toddler Story Time

Toddlers from 18 months to 3 years old and their parents/caregivers can enjoy interactive stories, action songs, and fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood.
Where: 56 Giffords Lane (at Margaret St.)
When: 11:45 AM
Who: Great Kills Library
How: Pre-registration is required by calling the library.
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 984-6670

Thursday, December 8 - Youth Eco-Exploration

Want to have fun learning more about the earth and the environment? This series will have children actively exploring the seasons through nature observation and imaginative play. We’ll meet at the Nature Center, and then take a fun and invigorating walk on the trails to get a first-hand glimpse at local plant and animal species. In case of rain, we’ll do a nature craft, such as seashell and sea glass mandalas, rain sticks, etc.
Where: 222 Poillion Avenue
When: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Blue Heron Nature Center
How: Please Pre-Register
Cost: Free
For more info: Call John Paul Learn: 718-619-5051

Thursday, December 8 - Radical Reactions

Can an orange power a clock? We'll find out, and then build our own batteries. Then we will use electrolysis to break apart water molecules. We'll learn about the role of catalysts and make a colorful chemical reaction to take home. Presented by Mad Science of Staten Island.
Where: 21-25 Robin Road (at Ocean Ave. & Father Capodanno Blvd.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: South Beach Library
How: For ages 6 and older. Limited to 20 participants
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Thursday, December 8 - The Tortoise and the Hare

An adaptation of the classic Aesop fable about a great race between a loveable tortoise and an arrogant hare. Presented by Puppets to Go for children ages 3 and older.
Where: 309 New Dorp Lane
When: 4:00 PM
Who: New Dorp Library
How: For ages 3 to 12 years.  First come, first served
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Friday, December 9 - Doodlebug Fun Time

Kick off the weekend early with some Friday afternoon fun. Join Kathleen Hagen for storytelling, music & crafts.
Where: 222 Poillion Avenue
When: 1:00 PM
Who: Blue Heron Park
How: Registration is a must in order for us to have a craft project for each little one. Please restrict registration to one series only.
Cost: Materials charge is $1.00 per child.
For more info: 718-227-8839

Friday, December 9 - Holiday Craft

Children make Holiday related arts and crafts. For ages 4 and up.
Where: 1617 Richmond Road (between Seaview & Liberty Aves.)
When: 3:30 PM
Who: Dongan Hills Library
How: Pre-registration is required
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 351-1444

Friday, December 9 - Polar Express Storytime

Special Children's Storytime Event. A Reading of the Polar Express!
Where: 2245 Richmond Avenue
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Barnes and Noble
How: Come on in and wear your jammies!
Cost: Free
For more info: 718-982-6983

Saturday, December 10 - 8th Annual Holiday Craft Workshop

Join resident artist Kathy Trimarco as she leads a family craft workshop in which participants create pieces inspired from natural objects.
Where: 700 Rockland Avenue
When: 1:00 PM
Who: Greenbelt  Nature Center
How: Registration and pre-payment required.
Cost: $10 Greenbelt Conservancy members; $12 non-members.

Saturday, December 10 - Seasonal Favorites: A Concert by the Staten Island Acoustic Music Society

Join us for a performance of seasonal and holiday songs by various musicians from the Staten Island Acoustic Music Society (SIAMS). They will be sung with musical accompaniment on guitars and other acoustic instruments.
Where: 5 Central Avenue
When: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: St. George Library
How: Come on down!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Sunday, December 11 - Colonial Christmas at the Conference House

Candlelight Christmas Market featuring the Conference House Collection.  Fine crafts, Steve Nutt redware, wooden toys. Free hot apple cider and cookies. Home-baked goods made from 18th century recipes by the Conference House Auxiliary. Visit with Father Christmas & receive a free gift for children. Staten Island Herb Society’s herbs, crafts, and baked goods and Sweetie Pie Preserves unique blends of jellies and jams.Enjoy seasonal music. Raffle drawings at 4 p.m.
Where: 298 Satterlee Street
When: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Conference House Museum
How: Come on Down
Cost: $3 Donation

Sunday, December 11 - Natural Science Club

Programs for curious nature-oriented students ages 8-12. This Club will meet with Clay Wollney on the days listed with different topics relating to natural science. Signs of Life: Winter Survival - Some animals hibernate, some migrate and some rough it out. The ways in which our local wildlife survive through the winter will be explored through observations of evidence the animals that are still active.
Where: 222 Poillion Avenue
When: 2:00 PM
Who: Blue Heron Nature Center
How: Ages 8+
Cost: Free
For more info: 718-967-3542

Sunday, December 11 - Music with Patrick @ the Club at Woodbridge

Grab a little lunch at the club's cafe and listen to Music with Patrick strum a few tunes.
Where: The Club @ Woodbridge, 585 Main Street, Woodbridge NJ
When: 2:00 PM
Who: Music With PAtrick
How: Come on Down!
Cost: Admission is Free, Lunch is for a fee
For more info: Visit Theclub.org to learn more.

Teen Scene:


November 28th through December 4th

Monday, November 28 - Teen Lounge

Leave the velvet ropes behind & come hang out with your friends in a cool, casual environment. Bring snacks to enjoy while you listen to the radio & chat with your friends. Use laptops to do your homework, watch videos, play games, & more.
Where: 56 Giffords Lane (at Margaret St.)
When: 3:30 PM
Who: Great Kills Library
How: Teens/Young Adults (13-18 years)
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Monday, November 28 - Map it with MOMA

Find out how geography and art work together to create an unforgettable experience. Work with a MOMA educator to learn the story behind works of art and then create a masterpiece of your own.
Where: 5 Central Avenue (near Borough Hall)
When: 3:30 PM
Who: St. George Library Center
How: All materials will be provided. For ages 12 to 18 years. old
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Wednesday, November 30 - Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts using a variety of materials.
Where: 75 Bennett Street (at Heberton Ave.)
When: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Port Richmond Library
How: COme on in and bring your creativity!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Wednesday, November 30 - Learn to Knit

Drop 1, purl 2! Make a hat, scarf, potholder, and more. All materials will be provided. For ages 12 to 18 years. old
Where: 56 Giffords Lane (at Margaret St.)
When: 3:30 PM - 4:00 AM
Who: Great Kills Library
How: First Come First Served
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Thursday, December 1 - Teen Wii

Come to the Tottenville Branch after school on Thursdays to challenge your peers to a game of Wii (bowling, tennis and many more.
Where: 7430 Amboy Road
When: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Tottenville Library
How: For ages 13-18
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 984-0945

Friday, December 2 - Leaf Clean-Up

This event repeats every week on Saturday between 11/5/2011 and 12/17/2011. Please volunteer some time on Saturday mornings if you can. There are lots of leaves to pick up. We supply the gloves, tools and coffee and donuts! Should you know of any individuals, schools or other organizations looking to involve themselves in community service, please provide us with their contact information.
Where: Maine, Neal Dow, Springfield and Willard Avenues
When: 9:00 AM
Who: Westerleigh Park
How: (718) 442-1383
Cost: Free

Sunday, December 4 - Herbal Holidays

Join the Greenbelt educators as we prepare for the holidays by making ornaments and beautiful gifts inspired by nature. We will learn about the medicinal, folk, and botanical importance of the herbs used. This program is suitable for adults and teens age 16 and up.
Where: 700 Rockland Avenue
When: 1:00 PM
Who: Greenbelt Nature Center
How: Pre-register
Cost: $8 non-members/$6 Greenbelt Conservancy members

Plan Ahead:


December 10th through December 31st

Saturday, December 10 - The Elf on the Shelf Storytime

Where will the little Elf wind up next? Come and join us at this week's Storytime as we read all about the Elf's adventures!
Where: 2245 Richmond Avenue
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Barnes and Noble
How: Come on in!
Cost: Free
For more info: 718-982-6983

Saturday, December 10 - Make Your Own Holiday Ornament with Susan Hale

Get festive at the library. Make a special ornament for your family, friends, or certain someone to show your holiday wishes. All materials will be provided.
Where: 21-25 Robin Road (at Ocean Ave. & Father Capodanno Blvd.)
When: 4:00 PM
Who: South Beach Library
How: For ages 12 to 18 years. old.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Tuesday, December 13 - Preschool Story Time

Preschoolers from 3 to 5 years and their parents/caregivers can enjoy new and classic picture books, action songs and related activities, and meet other preschoolers in the neighborhood.
Where: 7430 Amboy Road
When: 11:00 AM
Who: Tottenville Library
How: Pre-Registration required
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Thursday, December 15 - Radical Reactions

Can an orange power a clock? We'll find out, and then build our own batteries. Then we will use electrolysis to break apart water molecules. We'll learn about the role of catalysts and make a colorful chemical reaction to take home. Presented by Mad Science of Staten Island.
Where: 309 New Dorp Lane
When: 4:00 PM
Who: New Dorp Library
How: For ages 6 and older. Limited to 20 participants
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Saturday, December 17 - Hanukkah Storytime

It's that special time of year when we celebrate Hanukkah. At this week's Storytime we will share stories about Hanukkah and do a small craft to celebrate.
Where: 2245 Richmond Avenue
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Barnes and Noble
How: Come on in!
Cost: Free
For more info: 718-982-6983

Saturday, December 17 - Elf Enchantment

The forest is an enchanted place filled with magical creatures and wondrous plants. Explore the wonders of the Nature Center trail, looking for elves, hearing stories and creating a magical craft. This is a magical journey for children ages 4 to 8 years old.
Where: 700 Rockland Avenue at Brielle Avenue
When: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Greenbelt Nature Center
How: Registration and pre-payment required.
Cost: $6 non-members/$4 Greenbelt Conservancy members.
For more info: (718) 351-3450

Saturday, December 17 - Gifts of the Season

Stories for Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanza about the true meaning of the holidays - giving from the heart! Presented by Robin Bady. For ages 4 and older.
Where: 5 Central Avenue
When: 2:00 PM
Who: St. George Library Center
How: First come, first served
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Saturday, December 17 - Holiday Sing Along

Come in and join the fun of the Holidays with a musical sing along of favorite seasonal Songs
Where: 200 Clarke Avenue (at Amber St.)
When: 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Richmondtown Library
How: Come On In!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Saturday, December 17 - Westerleigh Park Winter Festival and Tree Lighting

Please come out for our Christmas tree lighting on Saturday, December 17th at 6pm. Music will be provided by the Port Richmond High School Marching Band. Come join us in singing Christmas carols. Santa Claus will be there to see the children. Refreshments will also be available.
Where: Maine, Neal Dow, Springfield and Willard Avenues
When: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Westerleigh Park
How: Come on down! Dress weather appropriate!
Cost: Free

Saturday, December 17 - The Night Sky

The wonders of the universe are ready to be discovered and New York City parks are the perfect place to stargaze and explore the night sky. Our Urban Park Rangers will be your guides to the solar system, discussing the science, history and folklore of the universe. Astronomy programs feature the use of telescopes and binoculars to observe specific astronomical events. Many programs feature astronomy experts and all equipment is provided. Night Sky programs highlight the history and folklore of the solar system, using the naked eye to locate stars and planets. Programs are best enjoyed on clear nights, so please call ahead if weather conditions are not clear.
Where: Cornelia Avenue, Staten Island
When: 6:00 PM
Who: Wolfe's Pond Park Comfort Station
How: Bring a blanket...all equipment is provided!
Cost: Free
For more info: (718) 967-3542

Sunday, December 18 - Brunch with Santa

Have brunch with Santa and his elf and create holiday ornaments for your tree. For children ages 2 - 5. Please bring your camera for photo with Santa.
Where: 501 Brielle Avenue, Staten Island
When: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM (***There are two seatings 10-11:30 and 12-1:30)
Who: Greenbelt Recreation Center
How: Registration is required.
Cost: Free (can you believe it???)
For more info: (718) 667-3545

Sunday, December 18 - Holiday Time with Music w/Patrick and Friends

It's holiday time again, and that means good cheer and great seasonal songs at one of our favorite venues.
Where: Staten Island Children's MUseum, 1000 Richmond Terrace (Snug Harbor)
When: 1:00 PM
Who: Music with Patrick and Friends
How: Celebrate this holiday season with them!
Cost: FREE with museum admission.

Saturday, December 24 - 'Twas the Night Before Christmas Storytime

Everyone's favorite Christmas story, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, is this week's special Storytime. Come in pajamas and listen to this great Christmas story and others.
Where: 2245 Richmond Avenue
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Barnes and Noble
How: Come on in!
Cost: Free
For more info: 718-982-6983

Saturday, December 31 - New Year' Eve Celebration with Music w/Patrick and Friends!

Part concert, part New Year's Eve party, we are starting the celebrations early with an interactive musical event guaranteed to get you in a party mood!
Where: Staten Island Children's Museum, 100 Richmond Terrace
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Music with Patrick and Friends
How: Being your NYE festivities with Music w/Patrick and Friends!!!!
Cost: Free with Museum Admission

Boots, Boots, Boots!


And Everything Else On Your List at Zappos!

There are two kinds of gifts under a tree: the kind you need and the kind you want. And when it comes to kids, the latter tends to be the pleaser. But how are parents supposed to tackle the obstacle of merging the two? That’s where we come in.
With thousands of brands and styles to choose from, Zappos.com is the answer to all of your gifting woes, especially when it comes to kids. And this season, there’s no better way to combine their wants and needs ...

Create Lasting Memories for Your Kids


...Sensory Style

I have a love of sensory activities. It started from the time I was very little. As a preschool teacher, it was one of my favorite centers to sit back and watch the children play in. Naturally, when I had children of my own, I couldn't wait to start doing messy sensory activities with them.  
 
This sensory table contains: 
  • Black Beans ($1.14/bag - I bought 5 for my large table- at Walmart)
  • Magnetic Letters ($1 at Target or Walmart)
  • Magnetic Numbers ($1 at Target or Walmart)
  • Alphabet Charms ...

Gingerbread Adventures, Holiday Trains and Thomas!


this season at the New York Botanical Garden

It's time for a Holiday Road Trip!  Ok, so it is really only to the Bronx to see the Holiday wonders of the New York Botanical Garden, but what wonders they are! 

On January 2nd 2012 my family and I are heading to see the Annual Holiday Train Show.  I can't believe that I have plans already for 2012!  This is the start of the first day of the Thomas the Train and Friends visit.  We are also hoping to catch the hands-on Gingerbread Adventure that day as ...


Saving Daniel.....


Check out their Facebook page--Daniel is still in need

There was no way I couldn't share this one....

 

Daniel is a three year old boy from Oregon. He needs a kidney. Right now his mother gives him kidney dialysis every night from their home. Daniel's bones are getting so weak and brittle from the kidney disease that he will have to be moved into a nursing home.

 

The only way to save Daniel's life is to find him a living kidney donor.  His blood type is B, but anyone with O or B blood type can ...


Topics, Topics, Topics


Do you have something you would like me to write about?

In an effort to make Staten Island North Macaroni Kid a more personalized experience for you, my loyal and cherished subscribers, I ask that you let me know the topics that are near and dear to your heart and would like to see an article about. 

During the Pregnancy through Preschool Expo last weekend, I was speaking with a few mothers who were very interested in finding out more about Gluten Free Diets and where to get a good (yes it exists) piece of Gluten Free bread (it is a ...


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