Get the best experience and stay connected to your community with our Spectrum News app. Learn More Staten Island may be called the borough of parks residents say they fall short of excitement an unobscured view of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and calm waters There are four city Parks Department beaches on Staten Island but some residents of the city’s least inhabited borough say they are far from perfect “A lot of Staten Islanders go to the Jersey Shore to be honest with you I think the beaches are a little nicer there,” Joe Dibartolo South Beach and Midland Beach are two beaches that share a boardwalk and are the two largest on the island But the sand in parts of South Beach may be more gravel than powdery with only one of them and a restuarant.  The concession Boardwalk Grill on South Beach has been there since the 1980s We’re lucky if the line gets past the line stanchions now He said business has been on the decline since the pandemic and believes it’s partially because there’s not much for beachgoers to do “We should have a hot dog eating contest as well We should have some volleyball courts on the sand Even somebody playing music underneath the gazebo we have our little speaker here that we have ourselves,” Yodice said “As much as I would like to put more money into that area we can’t do it,” Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella said Fossella said he’s willing to work with anyone looking to invest in the experience on Staten Island beaches he indicated that there are structural issues preventing some investments in South Beach and Midland Beach “Part of the issue that’s frustrating is some parts of the boardwalk are in disrepair I know the fields can be improved,” he said major improvement can’t be done until the East Shore Seawall moves forward It’s a plan by the Army Corps of Engineers to make Staten Island’s East Shore more storm resilient after Hurricane Sandy the Army Corp awarded a contract to build large interior drainage ponds and an open channel culvert flap gates inlets for future stormwater inlets and the relocation of existing sanitary sewers Fossella said improving South Beach and Midland Beach can’t happen until the Army Corps of Engineers Project is done “There is a reluctance to put any money into something that I and I understand is not cheap to do work in the city if you’re gonna rip it out in another year or two,” he said Staten Islanders like Joe DiBartolo said they hope something is done soon so people don’t have to go to New Jersey because and that’s what I come for,” DiBartolo said Fossella said there are events in the summer like the “Sounds of Summer” concert series which begins on Wednesday at Midland Beach © 2025 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved (About Us) The material on this site may not be reproduced except with the prior written permission of Advance Local Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site YouTube's privacy policy is available here and YouTube's terms of service is available here Ad Choices STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — On Friday, November 29, over 200 supporters of President-elect Donald Trump assembled at Midland Beach Splaza for a flash mob performing his signature dance to the tune of “YMCA” by The Village People organized by the Staten Island Republican Party encouraged participants to “shake off your Thanksgiving turkey with the dance that’s sweeping the nation.” There was a “Trump Dance Flash Mob in Staten Island today. There were prizes and they were sending the dance “that’s sweeping the nation” to Trump. Shhhhh. Don’t tell them what the words mean pic.twitter.com/eHGoxBtfcp including garbage can trophies and Trump dolls Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella “The dance has taken on a life of itself.” The “Trump Dance,” characterized by arrhythmic hip sways and air punches gained popularity during Trump’s campaign and has been emulated by professional athletes and supporters nationwide The flash mob’s flyer described the dance as a “nationwide sensation,” reflecting its widespread appeal among Trump’s supporters © 2008-2025 - Shore News Media & Marketing Ltd Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon The best of New York straight to your inbox We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy New York without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. New York City Parks Foundation SummerStage has yet again partnered with Rise Up NYC to provide the big city with a slate of free concerts spread across all five boroughs throughout July and August.  RECOMMENDED: The best NYC concerts this July With this being the series’ third appearance it’s becoming quite the NYC summer calendar staple The concerts are designed to bring New Yorkers together to celebrate the diversity of New York This is reflected in the sheer range of musicians included from jazz and hip-hop artists to artists from other genres like pop and even classical Previous years have seen the likes of Maxi Priest These outdoor concerts will be held in some of NYC’s most beloved locations from the Central Park SummerStage to Herbert Von King Park As well as multiple sandy locations like Orchard Beach and Midland Beach getting the audience in the summer spirit.  All of the line-up is yet to be released but here is how it stands currently: August 1 (6pm): Chuck Chillout 40th Radio Anniversary Party at Crotona Park  August 2 (6pm): The Tedsmooth Freestyle Jam at Crotona Park  August 3 (6pm): King Promise at Crotona Park  August 20 (6pm): TBA at Orchard Beach August 21 (6pm): Hosted by La X96.3FM at Orchard Beach August 8 (5pm): TBA at Wingate Park  August 9 (5pm): Hosted by 107.5 WBLS’ Dahved Levy at Wingate Park  July 21 (7pm): Milly Quezda at Central Park SummerStage  August 3 (6pm): Keith Sweat at the Apollo Theater  August 24 (6pm): TBA at Roy Wilkins Park  August 25 (6pm): Hosted by 107.5 WBLS’ Dahved Levy at Roy Wilkins Park  August 11 (5pm): TBA at Stapleton Waterfront Park August 14 & 15(6pm): Staten Island’s Biggest Outdoor Dance Party hosted by KTU 103.5FM at Midland Beach  Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! tiktokfacebooktwitteryoutubeAbout us Contact us Stephen Hart was primarily a sportswriter for the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com for 26-plus years .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Charlie De Biase Jr. | debiase@siadvance.comThose who know Stephen Hart whether they’re a close friend or a casual acquaintance surely can’t help but think talented sportswriter and inspiring teacher movie buff and someone who adored both The Beatles and Elvis Presley What some might not know was Hart’s penchant for making people laugh Former Staten Island Advance sportswriter Dan O’Leary gave a first-hand example of Hart’s comedy stylings from his days at the paper “I worked with Steve for seven years and no one hit a pun harder — or more often,‘’ remembers O’Leary lede puns or any kind of pun or joke you could think of “He went for a laugh in both his writing and verbally from his usual spot in the back corner,‘’ O’Leary remembers tossing out joke grenades looking for a laugh or a groan or anything to get us to turn around.‘’ who was an integral part of the Advance Sports Department for over 2 1/2 decades and a well-respected teacher at St writer and teacher,‘’ said brother Michael He filled many people with happiness in his too-short 60 years “To say he’ll be missed is a huge understatement.‘’ Former Staten Island Advance/SILive.com sportswriter Stephen Hart was an avid fan of the New York Mets He didn't pass up the opportunity to interview Mr (Staten Island Advance/Hilton Flores) Staff-ShotStaff-Shot Hart not only earned the reputation of a consummate professional “Newspaper sports departments tend to be independent So I didn’t know the sports team as well as I knew the news team,‘’ explained Advance executive director Brian Laline You couldn’t help but get to know Steve because of his incredibly charming and outgoing personality we went to the same church in Midland Beach — St I’d see him every Sunday and we’d talk a little after Mass he came in my office and handed me a somewhat-tattered piece of paper from a reporter’s notebook with something scribbled on it Turned out to be Mohammed Ali’s autograph,‘’ Laline continued ”Ali was at a promotional event at the ballpark in St I was so taken by it that I never asked Steve why he thought of me when getting the autograph That was Steve — always thinking of someone else but always considered himself a native of Staten Island Margaret Mary’s parochial school in Midland Beach and was a proud 1982 graduate of Monsignor Farrell High School in Oakwood He then received a bachelor’s degree in English at the College of Staten Island Steve Hart presents Farrell head baseball coach Bobby Mulligan with the Advance Sportman of the Year award 2016 (Staten Island Advance/Hilton Flores) Staff-ShotStaff-Shot Hart joined the Advance sports staff one day before his 25th birthday in 1989 and it didn’t take long to realize he was a skilled and witty journalist he was at the forefront of most of the major high school beats like football held various roles in the sports department In addition to his role as a beat reporter he was a features writer; an editor for national sports copy Hart became the Advance’s high school sports columnist working as a reporter and doing features writing after deciding to leave sports to join news at the Advance Hart took a picture of himself standing in front of a sign on a wall at Hanley Funeral Home in New Dorp that reads but merely changed.‘’ He then made photo copies and inserted the picture in the newsroom mailbox of each member of the sports department he returned to sports in November of 2005 and resumed the majority of the responsibilities he had prior to joining news a 2015 inductee of the Staten Island Advance 25-year Club shares a word with former colleague Mary Lee at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bloomfield in 2015 Regardless of which department he worked in “Whatever he did for us on the newspaper — columnist copy desk — he did it well and he made us better and as one of his editors I always appreciated that,” said Carmine Angioli the Advance’s sports editor from 2000-2014 and currently the paper’s sports print curator “But more important than that was Steve’s spirit He is among the kindest souls I’ve ever come across Hart took a part-time job as a teacher at Sea in 2009 He initially started teaching a special writing lab class for freshmen then eventually started teaching English to freshmen honors students but not before accepting a full-time teaching position at Sea — a position he still held at the time of his death He immensely enjoyed teaching and often kept tabs on the student-athletes of the Huguenot school Hart was known for his generosity and on numerous occasions upon merely hearing about an item a friend liked he’d often purchase it and presented it to the individual as a surprise Steve’s most endearing quality was his heart,‘’ said former Advance sports editor Lou Bergonzi or one that gave as much love to everyone he knew as Steve’s Hart started his own website — Staten Sports — and continued to write feature stories on some of the Island’s sports figures Hart was a pro and college sports aficionado Hart was particularly fond of ex-Mets ace Tom Seaver as well as former Vikings quarterback Fran Tarkenton Former Staten Island Advance sportswriter Stephen Hart When his Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants squared off in the NFC championship in January of 2001 he broke out his 'Viking horns' and went head-to-head with colleague Charlie De Biase Jr. (Staten Island Advance)Staten Island Advance The diehard fan often attended games to root on his favorite teams and also enjoyed meeting friends at Miller’s Ale House in New Springville to watch NFL football on a Sunday afternoon Hart was also a huge fan of fantasy sports and won his league on multiple occasions through the years who was a Greenridge resident at the time of his death was also a movie buff who often viewed films at theaters then shared his opinion of the flick on social media missed an episode of the Oscars and loved debating about the winners afterwards Hart was a big fan of The Beatles and Elvis Presley he’d often ask interesting questions on social media that more often than not ignited conversations Hart never missed an opportunity to spend time with his parents and deeply appreciated everything they’ve done for him throughout his life He also loved animals — particularly dogs — and often scanned the internet and posted what he perceived as adorable pictures on social media Hart’s wake will take place Sunday at Hanley Funeral Home between 2-6 p.m Sea principal Father Michael Reilly will say the mass Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, (updated 8/1/2024) and acknowledgement of our Privacy Policy, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 1/1/2025) Match Expires at Midnight GIVE NOW After Superstorm Sandy devastated a Staten Island community a first-of-its-kind partnership helped residents choose a safer future “When Superstorm Sandy barreled up the coast it came in right over Long Island,” recalls Greg Jacob The Nature Conservancy’s New York Senior Policy Advisor who watched the storm come in from his apartment in Manhattan’s East Village turned right on 23rd Street and headed down 1st and 2nd Avenues The streets turned into rivers and pulled in every car and lamppost in their path.” a diverse community speckled with one-story bungalows one of the highest concentrations of deaths from Sandy the most destructive hurricane to hit the Northeast since 1938 Bluebelts are a natural and effective solution for stormwater management that transform flood-prone residential lots into green spaces protecting and improving quality of life for the local community providing the neighborhood and the city as a whole more access to nature more beauty and a critical natural shield in the face of more frequent and intense storms and rising seas president of the Staten Island Taxpayers Association and a longtime community advocate served on the New York City Department of Environmental Protection’s Bluebelt Committee back in 1996 and reflects on the role she saw those lands play during Superstorm Sandy As Jacob watched Sandy sweep through his neighborhood but he didn’t anticipate it would be working alongside people like Vandenburg to restore wildlife habitat as a solution to flooding he came to TNC in 2016 to advocate for federal policies that protect and sustain nature His work typically involves meeting with legislators and drafting testimony securing permits or even mowing lawns when the project faced delays and expanded timelines “This project was out of my wheelhouse,” Jacob says contractors and subcontractors to solve a complex puzzle: how to support homeowners through a complex return the purchased parcels back to nature programs have used government funding to purchase damaged properties after storms giving families the choice to move to safer ground rather than rebuild—sometimes again and again What was different about this project was that it marked the first time U.S Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) funding has been used in a city This is important because it shows how NRCS funds can be used in cities where buyouts are desperately needed across the country these buyout funds can be used before the next disaster strikes hundreds of millions of dollars for taxpayers TNC’s role in the Midland Beach project was to acquire the properties and maintain them until they were demolished the organization will donate the parcels to New York City to restore and add to the bluebelt TNC helped leverage federal funds to improve community safety and create more open space community advocates like Vandenburg were crucial to keeping the process moving the residents informed and homeowners interested in participating “But now that people see things moving along I always said to get to this point would be ugly and there’s somewhere for stormwater to go.” deciding to leave a cherished home and neighborhood isn’t easy  At the closing of the sale of their homes two women who lived in adjacent duplexes described being rescued by their neighbors as the storm surge came around the corner The friends raised their kids together—a reminder that every house that comes down is more than a structure; each home holds relationships and memories “This approach is sometimes called ‘managed retreat,’ but it is not a retreat at all,” Jacob says “It’s making a courageous choice for a safer These homeowners—many of whom have lived here for decades—were among the first to say: ‘This stops here’ and place their bets on nature.” an excavator and jackhammer dismantled 17 homes and cleared two vacant lots TNC began planting—first with a mix of seeds to return the land to a more natural state curves and swales that will reduce flooding will be created and trees whose roots will hold floodwaters will be put in “You can’t keep building to the edge,” says Vandenburg But if we can stitch this project together with others like it we will see nature’s benefits manifested at a massive scale.”  To do so will require more funding and a faster turnaround public buyout programs can streamline the process and make this option available to interested homeowners living in flood zones Picture Midland Beach a decade from now: asters Families explore tide pools and look for herons in the tall marsh grass oyster reefs and mussel beds stand strong between the open ocean and New Yorkers And the families who made this difficult choice have created a better future—for eight million New Yorkers and for themselves Kate Frazer is an Associate Director of Marketing and Communications for the New York division New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Vincent Sapienza and Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Jamie Torres-Springer today joined Staten Island Borough President James Oddo to tour progress on the $121 million expansion of the Mid-Island’s New Creek Bluebelt is anticipated to be completed on schedule and builds upon the $25 million Phase I The $33 million “Gateway to the Bluebelt” project is creating a public viewing area and introduction to the rehabilitated New Creek wetlands This project received a $4.9 million grant from the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Program The $42 million expansion of the New Creek Bluebelt to the east of Hylan Boulevard which will create the largest wetland area in the entire Bluebelt system received an $11.1 million Hurricane Sandy recovery grant secured by Senator Schumer the expansion of Last Chance Pond and the New Creek Bluebelt to the west of Hylan Boulevard is a $46 million project The work is being funded by DEP and DOT and managed by DDC “With nearly 75 Bluebelts integrated into the drainage system across Staten Island they have proven to be an integral tool for managing stormwater and reducing flooding while also improving nearby property values,” said DEP Commissioner Vincent Sapienza “I’d like to thank Borough President Oddo for his inspiration for the Mid-Island Bluebelt and for his strong support for the program over the years.” which are on time and will be completed in sequence from the end of 2021 up to 2023 represent over $100 million invested in Staten Island’s infrastructure preserving and enhancing open space while providing natural Bluebelt drainage systems for stormwater,” said NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Commissioner Jamie Torres-Springer “Next week we will begin planting tens of thousands of wildflowers shrubs and trees which will beautify the area and also provide natural filtration for stormwater in the area.” “I am so pleased to see the Bluebelt’s progress first-hand because since we initiated this project back in my first days in the City Council I know well how much has gone into this ongoing multi-decade effort and I know the relief and peace of mind it will finally provide to many Staten Islanders Our Bluebelt isn’t just a bucolic setting of streams and ponds It enables the installation of steel and concrete catch basins and sewers to end generations of flooding,” said Staten Island Borough President James Oddo will provide a great deal of stormwater relief for thousands of Staten Islanders in the Midland Beach area that is constantly burdened with issues resulting from poor drainage and lack of infrastructure I thank our partners at DEP and DDC for their collaboration in making this happen for our borough.” The award-winning Bluebelt program preserves natural drainage corridors such as streams and optimizes them to help control and filter stormwater from surrounding neighborhoods Crews working on the Gateway project have cleared brush and trees from the future wetland area located on the south side of Hylan Boulevard will feature a permeable paver walkway that leads to a stone-faced headwall looking out over the new wetland with views extending in the direction of lower New York Harbor which will also feature site-salvaged boulders and interpretive signs that explain how the Bluebelt works including detailed maps of the New Creek watershed and messaging to encourage residents to protect the plants and animals that live in this unique habitat The Gateway project will include the planting of 219 trees 607 shrubs and 23,000 wildflowers and native plants Construction will also include the installation of approximately 940 linear feet of new storm sewers and the replacement of 140 linear feet of sanitary sewers While the roadway is open to construct the sewers almost a half mile (2,588 linear feet) of new more resilient ductile iron water mains will be added to replace older cast iron pipes This will improve water distribution in the area and provide a reliable supply of water for decades to come In order to allow New Creek to pass under Hylan Boulevard The second project encompasses 21 acres and features the largest man-made wetland in the Bluebelt system along with two outfalls a micropool and a weir at Olympia Boulevard to regulate the downstream flow of water as it makes its way toward Raritan Bay more than 85,400 wildflowers and native plants will be added as well as 810 native shrubs and 440 trees construction will include the installation of more than one mile (approximately 5,500 linear feet) of new storm sewers along portions of Laconia Ave. More than 1,200 feet of sanitary sewers will be replaced and 870 feet of new sanitary sewer will be installed 500 feet of new water mains will be installed and 4,800 feet of new water mains will replace older cast iron pipes rooftops and sidewalks in portions of the Dongan Hills Grant City and Todt Hill neighborhoods will drain into new storm sewers and be discharged into Last Chance Pond at the top of the New Creek Bluebelt where it will slowly make its way to lower New York Harbor while being naturally filtered along the way will wind through the already-completed $25 million Phase I the New Creek Bluebelt will total 94 acres and drain a watershed area that is about 2,249 acres in size NYC is a trademark and service mark of the City of New York Privacy Policy. Terms of Use.  By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Get ready for another summer of fun in the sun New York City beaches are opening for swimming and sunbathing starting Memorial Day weekend these beaches in New York are a quick subway If you have a car and want to venture further out, we’ve also included off-the-beaten-track sandy shores that are less than two hours away and you can check out NYC's hidden beaches here RECOMMENDED: Full guide to things to do outside in NYC That depends on what makes a beach worth visiting If you like a more iconic beach experience with a bit of crowding Fort Tilden is still less crowded than other beaches in NYC Photograph: Virginia RollisonNYC’s best-kept secret and lifeguard-free three-mile stretch of clean sand, trees and grassy dunes is so isolated that even on a summer weekend you’ll get a good 50 yards of beach to yourself. Since Fort Tilden Beach is nearly inaccessible via subway or car (unless you have a fancy fishing license), we suggest biking there.  Time Out New YorkThe Ramones-approved sprawl may have gained some hipster cache over the past few years but the draws to Rockaway remain pretty constant: You can’t beat the few-blocks-off proximity to the subway—it’s about an hour trek from downtown to the sand—and the expansive nearly six-mile-long beach means there's plenty of room for your blanket The waves here are also rideable! Hang ten and sign up for surf lessons at the New York Surf School (Beach 69th St; 718-916-5359). The star of the show, though, is the Rockaway Beach Surf Club a mural-lined bohemian joint that is open for the season as of early May Photograph: CC/Flickr/cisc1970This gem ticks off all the criteria for a jealousy-inducing beach day: Its five-mile beachfront is quiet (radios aren’t permitted on Fields 3 and 4) and crowd-free in comparison to its neighbor-to-the-west Jones Beach and its facilities—private outdoor showers grills and picnic tables—are in superb shape If you’re looking for even more solitude head farther east to Field 5 for access to the rest of the scenic Fire Island coast including the over 150-year-old Fire Island Lighthouse where you can climb 192 steps for the best views outside the city Or don’t—it’s the weekend after all Photograph: Jessica LinIn the mood for a soothing, hassle-free beach experience? Head to Staten Island's Midland Beach. Part of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach, Midland Beach is known for its popular fishing pier and bike path. It's also home to handball and shuffleboard courts, the Midland Beach War Memorial and the Sea Turtle Fountain and sprinklers (beloved by youngsters). Photograph: ShutterstockAdjacent to Staten Island's Midland Beach is South Beach, "the Riviera of New York City." Refurbished after Hurricane Sandy, South Beach has all-new fountains and playing fields, and a lovely two-mile long wooden boardwalk. Lie on the sand and listen to the sounds of the Back to the Beach concert festival, or enjoy a meal at the South Fin Grill restaurant. As the Village of Southampton’s main beach, it has all the amenities you’d need for a full day in the sun. Rent a chair and an umbrella and kickback with a treat from the nearby concession stands. Afterward, you won’t even have to worry about dragging sand back to your hotel or rental—the well-kept bathrooms have freshwater showers. Photograph: ShutterstockRegularly topping lists as one of the best beaches in America, the pristine white sand beaches are a favorite among Gotham’s elite. A hefty parking fee ($30 per day) deters some visitors, but the litter-free oasis with its nearby concession stands—and rare chances to spot a celebrity willing to forgo the private beaches to tan near lesser mortals—makes it worth paying the price (bicycling to the sand). Photograph: Dylan JohnsonSearching for a hoppin’ beach town with awesome (and affordable) things to do? Rockaway Beach is the perfect choice! Photograph: Dylan JohnsonDon’t be a beach whale all summer—there are too many cool things to do at Riis Park Beach Bazaar to be idle Photograph: David WilliamsFrom the turn of the century to the Second World War NY was considered the city's playground.  The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced the completion of a $1.3 million project to install a new storm sewer and catch basins along a portion of Mapleton Avenue in Midland Beach The infrastructure upgrade improves drainage in the community and helps to alleviate localized street flooding conditions ahead of a more permanent capital project currently in design for the neighborhood Work was modeled after the recently completed storm sewer and catch basin system installed along a portion of nearby Grimsby Street when combined with recently completed work on Grimsby has brought significant relief to the residents of Midland Beach by increasing drainage capacity and alleviating roadway flooding and standing water,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T “DEP will continue to make infrastructure investments to improve the quality of life in Mid-Island neighborhoods including the ongoing expansion of the New Creek Bluebelt.” “We are pleased that DEP took into consideration our request to extend the Lake Grimsby project down Mapleton Avenue,” said Councilman David Carr “This addition will benefit the Midland Beach community by improving drainage and alleviating street flooding while we await the completion of the capital project that will provide a long-term solution.” “This installation of two dozen new catch basins will provide relief for homeowners who are too often affected by the flooding along Grimsby Street and Mapleton Avenue,” said Staten Island Borough President Vito J “We are grateful to the DEP for their willingness to keep their ears and minds open as we continue to collaboratively address the concerns of Staten Islanders when it comes to flooding We want to thank Councilmember Carr and Assemblymember Tannousis for their consistent advocacy in improving the borough.” “I’m glad to see this infrastructure project coming to fruition Midland Beach residents have long suffered from flooding issues and these catch basins will help tremendously,” said Assemblyman Tannousis “These projects will deliver a better quality of life for our constituents My colleagues and I will continue to work alongside DEP and others to alleviate flooding conditions and ensure completion of the capital project.” Construction included the installation of approximately 1,180 linear feet of new 12-inch storm drain along Mapleton Avenue beginning at the intersection of Grimsby Street and continuing on toward Baden Place the work installed eight new catch basins and converted 20 existing seepage basins into catch basins all of which are now connected to the new storm drain DEP spoke with elected officials and residents of the impacted area to discuss the benefits that the new infrastructure will bring to the neighborhood The drainage upgrade connects to the recently completed storm sewer and catch basin system installed along a portion of Grimsby Street in Midland Beach, which subsequently ties into the completed $25 million first phase of the New Creek Bluebelt That Bluebelt encompasses two new wetlands along with a new This includes a new 4.7-acre freshwater wetland between Nugent Avenue and Freeborn Street and another .7-acre freshwater wetland between Freeborn Street and Olympia Boulevard These wetlands slow the stormwater down after it empties from the sewer system and detains it The water then slowly flows over weirs and into the new west branch of New Creek Culverts have been built to allow the stream to pass under existing streets before the system eventually empties into lower New York Harbor .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a} 2005 Advance photo: A South Beach summer scene and Staten Islanders are flocking to sandy beaches in the New York City area But nothing will ever rival the glory days of Midland Beach in the late 19th and early 20th centuries Staten Island’s East Shore was once the premier go-to destination for sizzling summer months Midland and New Dorp beaches attracted legions of beach-lovers To keep up with the demand along the shoreline dance pavilions and shooting galleries to accommodate the crowds after a day of sunbathing there was also a trolley service to Midland Beach from the South Beach depot of the East Shore Division of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad to transport as many as 40,000 daily visitors from St casinos were built and boats began running to South Beach from Newark Brooklyn and the Whitehall Street slip in Manhattan in 1890 1999 Advance photo: Midland Beach Boardwalk Fast forward to the 1970s and Hurricane Sandy rainstorms on Staten Island sland caused wind or water damage and flooded the bungalows in Midland Beach due to their proximity to the coast and lack of storm sewers The City of New York installed a large new storm sewer system down Greeley Avenue in 1979 which resolved the flooding issues for most of the newer housing stock in the neighborhood the bungalows built as summer homes in the 1920s are now owned or rented by locals for permanent residence Midland Beach was devastated by the storm surge caused by the 75-mph winds of Hurricane Sandy progress has been made in returning back to normal beach-goers can admire the Verrazzano Bridge while they sunbathe Scroll below for vintage photos of our beloved Midland Beach Members of the Taylor and Pearson families in Midland Beach Crowds of sunabthers enjoying Midland Beach during the 1920s From the Charles Hosmer Museum of American Art 1969 Advance photo: Crowds of visitors gather to watch an an air show in Midland Beach Joe Molinelli and his friends used to hang out at Midland Beach and his wife Lorraine is seated second from left Scene of Midland Beach from a 1930s souvenir folder 1998 Advance photo: The Promenade in Midland Beach Midland Beach was once described as "one of the finest summer resorts in the metropolitan area," by Marjorie Johnson in an entry in "The Encyclopedia of New York City." (Yale University Press and New York Historical Society Throngs of visitors enjoying the beach in this photo of Midland Beach Aerial view of Graham Beach from the Ferris Wheel at Midland Beach This photo was taken sometime between 1905 and 1915 Photo courtesy of the New York Public Library Crowds of tourists can be seen enjoying the Midland Beach attractions (Photo courtesy of the New York Public Library) vintage photo during an air show in Midland Beach People enjoy the surf in this vintage Midland Beach photo A 1996 Advance photo of bungalows on Midland Avenue in Midland Beach A long view of a Midland Beach home can be seen in this 2000 Advance photo Bungalows in Midland Beach -- originally built in the 1920s -- were devastated after the Blizzard of 1953 Bungalows in Midland Beach are devastated after the Blizzard of 1953 Another scene of the aftermath of the Blilzzard of 1953 A vintage photo of Midland Beach form the Advance archives 1969 Advance photo: Children row down the street during flooding of the roads in Midland Beach and down the Jersey Shore. But nothing will ever rival the glory days of Midland Beach in the late 19th and early 20th centuries Wolfe's Pond Park in Prince's Bay and Cedar Grove Beach in New Dorp will remain closed until repairs are complete said Borough Parks Commissioner Adena Long at a city Parks Department press conference on Tuesday on the South Beach Boardwalk "At some point this summer these two beaches will be open We are working really hard to get them ready They are a work in progress," said Ms The Parks Department is still working on shore protection since Hurricane Sandy ravaged the borough's beach-front "After Hurricane Sandy struck in October 2012 like the East and South Shores of Staten Island," said NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J "Many Islanders are still recovering from the storm until this day This beach (South Beach) has become a symbol of the resilience We are proud to announce that Staten Island's beaches are again open for business," he said Over the past year the city parks Department has installed 26,000 linear feet of protective berms from South Beach to Conference House Park Volunteers also recently planted 130,000 new beach grass plants at Crescent Beach and Conference House Park "The beach grass will help stabilize and anchor the new berms," he added The Midland Beach Splaza -- a new attraction for kids -- is equipped with a large fountain and water sprays, and sits adjacent to the new Fantasy Shore Amusement Park on Father Capodanno Boulevard near Seaview Avenue in Ocean Breeze will be staffed with lifeguards from 10 a.m to 6 p.m reinforced berms that have been installed will help protect the beach from further storm damage The new "Splaza" and Fantasy Shore Amusement area will likely draw crowds to this beach this summer New sand berms and a popular spot for firework shows and concerts make this beach a favorite for walkers and beach-goers alike It is hoped that new beach grass and berms will shore up the area and protect this quiet enclave from future storms There's a new sand "reinforced" berm that extends from New Dorp Beach to Oakwood Beach All Hurricane Sandy related repairs are complete and a reinforced berm was installed at the street entrance to the park which is part of National Gateway Recreation Area will be open this weekend through Labor Day "Most of the recovery work from Hurricane Sandy is complete, with the exception of Nichols Marina. The marina will open this weekend and the work will resume in the fall," said Daphne Yun a spokeswoman for the National Parks Service The beach will remain closed until all plumbing work is complete on the new modulars. "The repair work is all Sandy-related and is being done by DDC (city Department of Design and Construction) on our behalf," said Ms Wolfe's Pond Park is currently undergoing repairs and Parks officials hope it will open in the coming weeks "We are having some delays at Wolfe's Pond They are all Sandy-related repairs that are electrical in nature DDC is running new conduits underground to connect to the modulars," said Ms Parks recently installed a new retaining wall at Wolfe's Pond "This will help curb erosion and continue to improve the protection of the beach," said Silver \n m_gallery = \"a_look_at_staten_island_beache\";\n m_gallery_id = \"14994732\";\n m_gallery_title = \"A look at Staten Island Beaches\";\n m_gallery_blog_id = \"4499\";\n m_gallery_creation_date = \"Tuesday 2:49 PM\";\n m_gallery_permalink = \"http://photos.silive.com/4499/gallery/a_look_at_staten_island_beache/index.html\";\n m_gallery_json = \"https://blog.silive.com/photogallery/4499/14994732.json\";\n m_gallery_pagetype = \"embed\";\n m_gallery_type = \"photo\";\n <\/script>\n .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Virginia N. Sherry | sherry@siadvance.comSTATEN ISLAND -- Midland Beach was once a thriving summer resort on the borough's East Shore a roller coaster and a pier for excursion boats arriving from Manhattan and New Jersey Here are some historic facts about the neighborhood that you may not know: Read here for information about Mrs back in the day -- or old photographs from its "resort" days -- please share in the Comments section below or give this reporter a call: 718-816-3987 \n m_gallery = \"staten_island_sunday_sights_an_20\";\n m_gallery_id = \"16299150\";\n m_gallery_title = \"Staten Island Sunday: Sights and scenes in Midland Beach\";\n m_gallery_blog_id = \"4499\";\n m_gallery_creation_date = \"Sunday 12:46 PM\";\n m_gallery_permalink = \"http://photos.silive.com/4499/gallery/staten_island_sunday_sights_an_20/index.html\";\n m_gallery_json = \"https://blog.silive.com/photogallery/4499/16299150.json\";\n m_gallery_pagetype = \"embed\";\n m_gallery_type = \"photo\";\n <\/script>\n Gallery: Staten Island Sunday: Sights and scenes in Midland Beach Welcome Mickeymickey@disney.comManage MyDisney AccountLog Out11 firefighters hurt fighting blaze at row of townhouses on Staten IslandByEyewitness News Friday 2023A fast-moving fire the broke out at a row of townhouses at Patterson Avenue and Greeley Avenue in Midland Beach Staten Island (WABC) -- Nearly a dozen firefighters suffered minor injuries while battling a fast-moving fire that broke out at a row of townhouses on Staten Island Thursday The fire burned through a row of six attached townhouses located at 909 Patterson Avenue which spread rapidly through the entirety of the structure About 41 units and 185 firefighter and EMS personnel responded to the scene to contain the fire FDNY officials say 11 firefighters suffered minor injuries Authorities advised residents in the area to avoid inhaling smoke by closing their windows and avoiding outdoor activity The cause of the fire is under investigation * More Staten Island news * Send us a news tip * Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts * Follow us on YouTube Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply. Mickeymickey@disney.comManage MyDisney AccountLog OutDrone hits military chopper over Staten IslandByMarilu Galvez Friday 2017The drone hit the helicopter approximately 500 feet over Midland Beach Thursday night.MIDLAND BEACH Staten Island (WABC) -- An Army Black Hawk helicopter was struck by a drone at approximately 500 feet over a residential neighborhood on Staten Island was in New York City for the United Nations patrol A piece of the drone bounced off the rotor and became lodged in the aircraft PHOTOS: Drone hits military chopper in NYC Army Black Hawk helicopter damaged by a drone over Staten Island.The pilot was able to land the helicopter at Linden Airport in New Jersey The military is investigating the incident Connect with usTwitterFacebook the group ranked Midland Beach the best in New York City began releasing its Report Card on Beaches in 2003 The rating assesses the seven beaches controlled by the parks department comparing them to one another as well as from year to year The group grades beaches on four features: quality of shoreline and condition of pathways Midland Beach was the only beach that received an overall ranking of "Satisfactory." Four other beaches were deemed "Challenged" and the remaining two were "Unsatisfactory." (The other unsatisfactory beach was Coney Island.) Curious about the best and worst beaches in the city -- and how such disparate facilities could be in such close proximity to each other-- Gotham Gazette decided to investigate The first thing we discovered was that the age-old mantra of life being about the journey and not the destination is painfully true when heading to Staten Island's beaches there is simply no easy way to access the beaches Both beaches are at least a 20-minute walk from the nearest express bus stop or the Staten Island Railroad Midland Beach had the highest performance rating of any shoreline and the report noted minimal litter and debris along the beach The Report Card found the pathways a minor challenge facing overgrowth and warping or breaking of the asphalt The bathrooms received a grade of 65 percent due to general disrepair Drinking fountains at Midland Beach ranked best of those at any beach though they still only received a "D" because of poor structure and repairs it was quickly apparent as to why it scored well the beach offers an impressive expanse of well maintained somewhat orange sand leading down to the water Sturdy woven plastic mats stretch across the sands leading to the water making the beach easily accessible by wheelchair Families push strollers down the mats and then lift them onto a nearby spot in the sand A clearly marked bike path and walkway border the beach The promenade features benches and drinking fountains as well as a fountain with a prominent sculpture of a sea turtle where children leap about and dodge the squirting streams of water and there were wrappers and plastic bottles in the sand nearest to the water and most families clustered around their towers The sound of laughter and children shrieking things like "I see a whale!" followed by "No it's a shark!" carried along the light breeze and the sink area had soap and a working hand dryer Drinking fountains were few and far between said that the beach is frequented mostly by families and gets especially busy on the weekends He cited the murkiness of the water as the area's only drawback That murkiness did not seem to concern Mona Lozah and her three children she said that she prefers Midland to the nearby South Beach or Coney Island Beach the other two parks department beaches she has visited "Parking!" and gestured to the massive and almost empty parking lots She also praised the beach for its cleanliness totally absorbed in their construction of a sand castle No laughter rang across Wolfe's Pond Beach there were no sounds on a July day except the wind the waves and a circling police helicopter The entire shore was littered with seaweed The smell of fish was far more than slight We could not find the two informal ramps that the parks department Web site says can be used for wheelchair access While the Report Card noted that the section of shore open to the public at Wolfe's Pond was well maintained as the reason for the shoreline's failing grade The pathways were rated on par with the rest of the beaches but New Yorkers for Parks found the bathrooms were closed and locked There are no drinking fountains on the beach though there are plenty to be found in the adjoining Wolfe's Pond Park Three lifeguards were on duty for the miniscule stretch of beach open for swimming Pointing to the piles of debris covering the sand near the water said that beachgoers needed to wear shoes or water shoes at all times for safety they replied "Unfortunately." On its Web site the parks department mentions the large amount of seaweed at the beach but that seemed to be an understatement as each wave turned over fresh mounds of green leafy plants walking up the worn wooden steps to the park seemed like entering another world Manicured lawns led into playgrounds and picnic areas where families barbecued Teenagers skated around a roller hockey rink or swatted balls at the tennis courts Clean drinking fountains and bathrooms abounded In response to reports on conditions at Wolfe's Pond and other beaches, the parks department cites statistics from its own Parks Inspection Program New York City's beaches are in better shape now than at any other time," a spokesperson said the department acknowledges that "litter on public beaches is a primary concern" and asks the public to help Our visits did show improvement at the Staten Island beaches since last year's Report Card was compiled Midland Beach had been using one bathroom as a storage space for desks New Yorkers for Parkers marked down Wolfe's Pond Beach for not having signs barring swimming in closed areas you could read a sign that said "Swimming Prohibited: No Lifeguard on Duty." © 2025 Citizens Union Foundation 501(c)3, All rights reserved | Citizens Union Foundation Privacy Policy .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By John M. Annese | annese@siadvance.comSTATEN ISLAND N.Y.--  Teenagers took to the streets and to social media to express their grief over the death of Joseph Todisco who died after an apparent dirt bike crash in Midland Beach Sunday night Investigators believe he may have been standing on the seat of the bike as he rode it down Midland Avenue Although police do not believe another vehicle was involved Todisco's dirt bike could not be found at the scene The crash took place just past Egbert Intermediate School in Midland Beach EMS personnel responded to the scene first and rushed Todisco - who had suffered head trauma -- to Staten Island University Hospital about 50 teens gathered outside the emergency room standing quietly in several groups as they awaited news about their friend's condition about a half-mile away from the scene of the crash Several of his friends on social media posted that he left behind an infant son dozens of people on Twitter and Instagram had left posts with the hashtag #ripjojo sharing their photographs and memories of Todisco \n m_gallery = \"friends_mourn_death_of_joseph_\";\n m_gallery_id = \"17623982\";\n m_gallery_title = \"Friends mourn death of Joseph Todisco after apparent dirt bike crash\";\n m_gallery_blog_id = \"4499\";\n m_gallery_creation_date = \"Monday 12:24 AM\";\n m_gallery_permalink = \"http://photos.silive.com/4499/gallery/friends_mourn_death_of_joseph_/index.html\";\n m_gallery_json = \"https://blog.silive.com/photogallery/4499/17623982.json\";\n m_gallery_pagetype = \"embed\";\n m_gallery_type = \"photo\";\n <\/script>\n Gallery: Friends mourn death of Joseph Todisco, 18, after apparent dirt bike crash Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations Chris Levatino's house was surrounded by water "It felt like you were in a boat in the middle of the ocean," he explained yesterday as he hosed off the driveway of his Staten Island home "The waves were hitting my porch." Levatino's wife and children evacuated to a relative's house in Brooklyn when Hurricane Sandy hit but he had stayed behind in Midland Beach and watched as water filled the first floor of his home "I could see my neighbor through the window of his attic and he was signaling SOS to me with his flashlight Midland Beach was one of the hardest hit coastal areas of Staten Island Three days after Sandy struck its streets were littered with downed power lines; cars and mobile homes were turned on their sides their huge clumps of black roots reeking of fresh earth Stuffed animals sat next to propane tanks and Wiffle Ball bats everything seemingly soaked with motor oil who works at Staten Island Hospital and also owns a roofing company said he lost two vehicles during the storm "My brand new pickup truck just floated down the street but it is shot." His roofing van is also ruined which are usually plentiful after a storm like this he acknowledges that he's one of the relatively lucky ones: "Everybody's having a hard time There's nothing to do but just clean it up." who live down the block from Levatino off Graham Boulevard it's not that bad," Stec said as he cleaned his garage The couple's car was soaked in seven feet of water and the dank stench from the floodwaters wafted up into their living quarters but he and his family had safely weathered the storm in Brooklyn "We just bought this house five months ago," Alex notes Alfredo Zapata's home on Hunter Avenue was all but ruined by flood waters that rose to 11 feet and utterly devastated much of his block. "My next door neighbor died. Drowned. She was too old to leave," he said, adding the neighbor was only one of five people who were killed in Midland Beach during the storm. Down the street, two boys drowned after being ripped from their mother's arms by a rush of water spent Monday night at his brother-in-law's house further north on the island with his wife and two sons "I was really scared for what might happen." Zapata said his boss told him to take as much time off as he needed and that much of it will be spent waiting for help "I'm waiting for the insurance company to come but nobody's come." An ATV pulling a wagon full of Homeland Security Urban Rescue Task Force members rolled by Christopher Robbins is a New York City reporter covering transportation, affordable housing, local politics, and criminal justice. His work has also appeared in New York Magazine, The Village Voice and The New York Times. Chris is a graduate of Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, Virginia, and enjoys biking to Fort Tilden in the summertime. New York Attorney General Letitia James announced the upcoming lawsuit during a speech in Harlem on Saturday. The Trump administration is imposing ideological conditions to federal funding. NYC and 7 other cities say that's illegal. Catch up on the most important headlines with a roundup of essential NYC stories, delivered to your inbox daily. Gothamist is a website about New York City news .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Carol Ann Benanti | benanti@siadvance.comSTATEN ISLAND the talented Broadway triple threat who calls Bulls Head home was honored at the Staten Island Takes Steps for Crohn's & Colitis Walk at the Ocean Park Plaza in Midland Beach The actress-singer-dancer was there in support of the Broadway for Bellies organization Many may recall the 17-year-old  -- who sang the national anthem to kick off the walk -- made her Broadway debut in "A Christmas Story: The Musical," and completed an 18 month-run on Broadway in "Matilda: The Musical." who's a Crohn's disease patient and team captain of the walk team Broadway for Bellies was thrilled to be this year's pediatric honoree "I am 17 years old and a senior in high school," said Analise before adding "Since participating in our first walk in 2016 CCFA has become a big part of the lives of me and my family." who recommended a specialist and a subsequent endoscopy and colonoscopy their original diagnosis was that of ulcerative colitis in addition to a case of H Pylori She was prescribed numerous oral medications which included antibiotics and antacids as well as 11 capsules of an aminosalicylate Says Analise: "My response to it was not what the doctor had hoped for My life had become an endless regimen of blood tests During the ordeal Analise was signed by her first talent manager there were days where she couldn't wake up without feeling nauseous and numerous trips to the bathroom.In their quest for a cure the Scarpaci's sought medical assistance at Manhattan's New York Presbyterian Hospital After another colonoscopy and thorough examination Analise was officially diagnosed with Crohn's Disease and began treatment "It took some time for the new treatments to have a positive impact but after a few months of monitoring and balancing my dosage and time between treatments I started to feel like I was improving," Analise went on to explain the benefits of the right meds and following a gluten-free and dairy-free diet Analise's condition began to improve and her energy levels and her strength increased dramatically.And throughout it all Analise ventured into the city for numerous Broadway productions At the age of 12 she was was feeling herself was working diligently and landed her first Broadway role as Esther Jane in "A Christmas Story "I performed eight to 10 shows a week for two months straight while continuing with my treatments I booked the role of the Tall Girl Swing in 'Matilda during my freshman and sophomore years of high school All during this time I attended school daily while being at the theater six nights per week," Analise adds."I cannot begin to tell you how gratetful I am to Dr Without the care of my doctors and the dedication and support of the CCFA I would not be able to do the things I love I have been in remission for the past three and a half years and have eliminated all medications except for biologic treatments every eight weeks," she continues.Last year was Analise's first CCFA Take Steps Walk for Crohn's and Colitis So let's break a leg and walk for a cure!" \n m_gallery = \"broadway_actress_honored_at_cr\";\n m_gallery_id = \"23002845\";\n m_gallery_title = \"Broadway actress honored at Crohn\\'s Walk in Midland Beach\";\n m_gallery_blog_id = \"4499\";\n m_gallery_creation_date = \"Wednesday 1:09 PM\";\n m_gallery_permalink = \"http://photos.silive.com/4499/gallery/broadway_actress_honored_at_cr/index.html\";\n m_gallery_json = \"https://blog.silive.com/photogallery/4499/23002845.json\";\n m_gallery_pagetype = \"embed\";\n m_gallery_type = \"photo\";\n <\/script>\n Gallery: Broadway actress honored at Crohn's Walk in Midland Beach STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - Father Capodanno Boulevard draws an asphalt line between Staten Island's Midland Beach neighborhood and the Atlantic Ocean The street is named after island native Vincent Capodanno a Roman Catholic priest and Vietnam War chaplain who was killed in action in 1967 For his bravery and compassion in the face of death Capodanno was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor My father served as an altar boy at Father Capodanno’s first Mass I spent time with my friends on summer nights in the parking lot next to the boardwalk trying to figure out life on the cusp of adulthood seeing this fondly remembered neighborhood on the brink of extinction is deeply painful On Thursday, President Barack Obama touched down on Staten Island to view the devastation left when Hurricane Sandy slammed down on the New York City borough three weeks ago. The storm turned the island's eastern shore into a funhouse-mirror image of ruin resembling New Jersey's Monmouth County Midland Beach's main commercial artery intersects with Father Capodanno Boulevard a huge debris pile stands twisted and jagged a mute testament to the neighborhood's near annihilation and eight deaths from the hurricane Sandy cut Staten Island to the bone; out of 43 deaths tied to the hurricane in New York City While Obama walked the streets less than a mile away Midland Beach was beginning its resurrection a self-generated process driven more by people on the ground than anything The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and trays of donated Chicken Parmigiana overpowered the smell of rot at the corner of Midland Avenue and Kiswick Street in front of the now-shuttered LaRocca’s Italian Ices and Pizzeria banded together to coordinate local relief efforts after both men were displaced from their homes and jobs Neighborhood Relief on handmade signs and on their Facebook page “We organized this because we had almost nothing from the government The food and clothes we are providing here are all from private donations Everything I got in my life I got by my hands and my head who found time to worry about his family back home in the midst of telling drive-up donators where to leave trays of food and bags of clothes people have good stuff inside of them and it always comes out we grew to a row of tables 200 feet long with 200 volunteers a day helping out.” Several of these grassroots first-responders offered only their first names while they worked to feed and clothe Midland Beach They expressed their frustration about the government’s management of the crisis in light of Obama's visit “If the president walked down Midland Avenue today ‘Where were you two weeks ago?’” said Gail not long after Obama visited the nearby New Dorp neighborhood “You couldn’t even get down these streets then We’re out here day and night because we have to help our community Native Staten Islander and New York State Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D - Mid-Island) who toured the local Sandy-stricken streets with President Obama pointed out that the federal government’s efforts are not dependent on just one person "The President and his administration are at Midland Avenue and other places in Staten Island every day in the form of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Guard," Cusick said "The President said that the federal government will be with us until we rebuild That's very important to the people of Staten Island We're grateful for the encouragement that we've been getting not only from the government but from the people who came from all over the state and the country to help us out with our relief effort." is a pastor at Grace Falls Church in Auburn He came to Staten Island with his younger brother Elliot Look at my life - everything that Christ has done for me but they don’t want to get their hands dirty Elena Arzhanikova is one of the people the Hagans brothers came to help A member of Midland Beach’s growing Russian population the Siberian-born Arzhanikova ventured out of her dark and heatless home towards twilight on Thursday hoping to find hot soup for her mother and brother negotiating with electricians,” said Arzhanikova “I hope that the government helps make the insurance companies pay us money We just found out that we aren’t fully covered when we thought we were it’s not just the exhaustion for the people down here a licensed massage therapist and Staten Island native she brought one of her massage chairs down to Midland Avenue to take care of stressed-out residents and relief workers at a spot she named "Spa Sandy." So this is something that I can really do well to help people,” she said More than three decades after sacrificing his life the Vatican commenced Capodanno’s cause for canonization the Catholic Church has officially named the Staten Island native a Servant of God Looking toward the rubble pile on the boulevard named for the late priest “I remember Father Capodanno from growing up visit the organization's Facebook page More Monmouth County news: NJ.com/monmouth | Twitter | Facebook Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, (updated 8/1/2024) and acknowledgement of our Privacy Policy, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 1/1/2025) © 2025 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved (About Us) Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site Ad Choices A view of the Half-Table Man Disaster Assistance Relief Inc property on Midland Avenue in July 2018 (Staten Island Advance/ Christine DeRosa) -- Aiman Youssef says he is doing God's work The founder of Half-Table Man Disaster Assistance Relief Inc. He then delivers those goods to food pantries and churches to distribute to the less fortunate around the borough Youssef started the organization in the wake of Hurricane Sandy whose fierce winds and deadly storm surge destroyed his home and scores of others on the Island in October 2012 Youssef says he puts in 17-hour days and draws no salary with whom he lives and who helps support him says he will keep at it for as long as he can "It's a blessing from God," he said "It's a blessing to keep doing this." A side view of Half-Table Man's tent on its property contend Youssef's operation is more blight than godsend They wish he would pack up his tent -- literally -- and go the canvas tent anchors Youssef's headquarters -- a fenced-in lot with no permanent structure at 481 Midland Ave. the lot appeared overgrown with weeds and grass blankets and bags filled with clothing that seemed to be wet were strewn about the lot which has a large section cut out to allow access to  the box from the street head of Half-Table Man Disaster Assistance Relief Inc. And they view it as an ungainly eyesore in a community still reeling from Sandy's wrath "It's not nice to live next to," said one person There are rats; he tried to get rid of them with traps .. You can see that with your naked eye." Other neighbors wonder if Half-Table Man's bookkeeping Youssef brushes off such criticism as sour grapes Half-Table Man's property in July 2018 The answer probably depends on whom you ask Online records of the New York Department of State show Half-Table Man Disaster Assistance Relief Inc was incorporated on Staten Island as a not-for-profit on Jan But Youssef said he rolled up his sleeves and got to work right away helping those in need after Sandy pummeled the Island The massive storm claimed 23 victims here in its  wake and left scores homeless "God spoke to me two days later," Youssef said during a recent interview on the street outside his headquarters Half-Table Man's sign on its property's fence Youssef collected almost $2.7 million in program service revenue his 990 forms submitted to the Internal Revenue Service show for those years He said the bulk of the revenue consists of food donations from Trader Joe's Youssef said he distributes those goods around Staten Island including his group's food pantry at 1388 Richmond Terrace He also hands out food at his headquarters on Mondays Youssef said Half-Table Man has served thousands of needy people over the years A spokeswoman at Trader Joe's corporate office in Monrovia confirmed the company donates food to Half-Table Man she couldn't immediately say how long it has been doing so or provide a dollar figure for the items A view of the hole in Half-Table Man's fence to allow people to drop off donations Youssef also said he receives furniture and clothing donations He could not say exactly how much money he's gotten The cash helps fuel and maintain the group's vehicles Half-Table Man has aided disaster victims in Texas and Puerto Rico One watchdog contacted by the Advance said Half-Table Man's 990 forms could raise some red flags the country's largest nonprofit evaluator pointed to the disparity between Half-Table Man's revenue against its reported expenses A view of the front fence at Half-Table Man's Midland Beach property the group's annual program service revenue for 2015 and 2016 is listed as $881,515 and $1.8 million The annual expenses are minuscule in comparison -- $14,497 and $16,444 -- for those years "While it is not uncommon for organizations to earn more than they spend and use the remainder to build out their working capital it is rare to see this small of a percentage of their assets being spent," said Nason She said working capital acts as a safety net to ensure a group can continue operating in the event of an economic downturn Blankets and other items appear to be strewn about on Half-Table Man's property in July 2018 Nason also noted the balance sheets for 2015 and 2016 each list $0 in assets at year's end Youssef explained the lack of year-ending assets by saying he quickly distributes everything he gets -- mainly food -- and leaves little As for the comparatively minimal annual expenses Youssef said it accurately reflects the money Half-Table Mans lays out for its delivery vehicles He said neither he nor anyone else associated with the charity draws any wages The minivan with which Half-Table Man transported goods to Texas in 2015 to aid relief efforts there all charitable organizations operating in New York must register and file financial reports with the state attorney general's office was not registered with the attorney general's Charities Bureau An agency spokeswoman said Youssef was informed by letter that month to submit the necessary paperwork Youssef told the Advance the failure to register was an oversight and he complied after receiving the attorney general's notice Veteran Norman Abbott who Aiman Youssef met and provided assistance to in Texas Online Charities Bureau records show Half-Table Man registered on July 27 for all the good Youssef said he's done fruit and just a mess," lamented one resident Online Buildings Department records show no open violations against the site there was one active complaint alleging the residential property is being used illegally as a business Buildings has apparently not yet investigated the complaint Youssef insists he's tried to be a good neighbor over the years -- Aiman Youssef says he is doing God's work Youssef says he puts in 17-hour days and draws no salary with whom he lives and who helps support him .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Kiawana Rich | rich@siadvance.comSTATEN ISLAND -- A teenaged girl and her younger brother found a dead shark washed ashore on Midland Beach on Thursday were walking the family dog along Midland Beach on Thursday afternoon when they stumbled on the shark's body on the beach "We just found it," said Miss Noriega and we figured it was a tiger shark or something like that "At first we thought it was a large animal but as we got closer we realized it was a shark." Miss Noreiga said while she wasn't sure what kind of shark it was another passerby identified the fish as being a tiger shark Miss Noriega said she had never seen anything like that before; she and her brother walk the beach just about every day Miss Noriega said she and her brother returned to the spot later and the shark was still there "I'm nervous because this is just one shark There could be more sharks out there," she said \n m_gallery = \"dead_shark_found_in_midland_be\";\n m_gallery_id = \"15679931\";\n m_gallery_title = \"Dead Shark found in Midland Beach \";\n m_gallery_blog_id = \"4499\";\n m_gallery_creation_date = \"Friday 6:38 PM\";\n m_gallery_permalink = \"http://photos.silive.com/4499/gallery/dead_shark_found_in_midland_be/index.html\";\n m_gallery_json = \"https://blog.silive.com/photogallery/4499/15679931.json\";\n m_gallery_pagetype = \"embed\";\n m_gallery_type = \"photo\";\n <\/script>\n Gallery: Dead Shark found in Midland Beach 2015Toni Yates is at the scene in Midland Beach where an 18-year old was killed in a bike accident Sunday night.MIDLAND BEACH (WABC) -- An 18-year old was killed in a freak accident on Staten Island Sunday night on what police believe was a dirt bike fell off his bike at the intersection of Midland Avenue and Hylan Boulevard in the Midland Beach section The NYPD says something caused him to fall off the bike and onto the street was pronounced dead at Staten Island University North hospital He loved his girlfriend and his son very much," said a friend He was so funny all the time..it's really sad" Police say the bike was gone by the time they arrived The NYPD Collision Investigation squad is investigating $25 Million Project in Midland Beach Included Removal of 475 Cubic Yards of Trash and Debris and Construction of New Wetlands to Filter Stormwater and Reduce Neighborhood Flooding Contact: Ian Michaels 718-391-1589 Staten Island, NY — Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Vincent Sapienza today joined with the Department of Design and Construction (DDC), Borough President James Oddo and Council Minority Leader Steven Matteo to tour the nearly completed $25 million first phase of the New Creek Bluebelt where roadway flooding often occurs during heavy rainstorms Bluebelt wetlands that will receive and naturally filter the stormwater that falls in the area The project was jointly funded by DEP and an $11 million U.S Department of Agriculture grant secured by Senator Charles Schumer DDC managed the construction of the Bluebelt which is anticipated to be completed on time Also joining on the tour were representatives from the offices of Congressman Dan Donovan and Senator Andrew Lanza “We are very excited to be nearing completion on the first phase of the mid-Island Bluebelt system which will significantly improve the area’s drainage system help to reduce flooding and provide some relief to Midland Beach residents,” said DEP Commissioner Vincent Sapienza “The 67 Bluebelt wetlands we have built and maintain on the Island’s south shore have proven effective at managing stormwater and have even helped to raise nearby property values We look forward to these wetlands doing the same for the mid-Island.” “DDC is proud to work with our partners at the DEP to improve the resilience of the mid-island area and provide Staten Island residents with natural drainage enhancements for years to come,” said DDC Acting Commissioner Ana Barrio “The Bluebelt system is a remarkable example of harnessing natural areas in a way that alleviates the need for costly traditional storm sewers beautifying areas with thousands of new seedlings and creating new open space opportunities for borough residents.” “Climate change will continue to make storms more frequent and flooding more intense across New York City’s five boroughs,” said Daniel Zarrilli NYC’s Senior Director for Climate Policy & Programs and Chief Resilience Officer “By investing in Staten Island’s Blue Belts the City continues to demonstrate the kind of climate leadership that is necessary to make our communities safer from the impacts of climate change Congratulations to DEP for its delivery of this important nature-based solution to address flooding a critical part of the City’s OneNYC commitment to building a more sustainable and resilient city.” “It is truly exciting to witness the near completion of the first phase of the New Creek Bluebelt,” said Staten Island Borough President James Oddo “For almost two decades we have been promising residents of Midland Beach that the Bluebelt is coming and that it will help provide relief from some of the flooding that plagues this community I understand that some residents have been skeptical that it would ever be built It is special to see so many years of your hard work on behalf of your constituents on such an important issue begin to pay off We know from experience the overwhelmingly positive effects of the Bluebelt on the South Shore and we look forward to similar impacts in the Mid-Island.”   “Anyone who has lived along the East Shore has experienced an increased degree and frequency of flooding in their communities,” said Council Member Steven Matteo “The new Bluebelt system will help us manage and mitigate this problem This program is a smart use of Staten Island’s natural resources and the efficient use of taxpayer dollars I am extremely pleased with this investment in our borough and that Phase 1 will be completed on time and on budget.” The award winning Bluebelt program preserves natural drainage corridors such as streams and ponds and optimizes them to help control and filter stormwater two new wetlands were built along with a new The stream has been built to a width of 32 feet and will run southeast through City-owned property that will be developed into freshwater wetlands Culverts have been built to allow the stream to pass under existing streets the new water management system includes culverts under Freeborn Street before meeting the main channel of New Creek near Slater Boulevard the system empties into lower New York Harbor much of this property was covered with Phragmites By removing the Phragmites and adding more diverse wetland plantings the threat of brush fires has been reduced and the area will likely attract more wildlife The work included the installation of 31,550 herbaceous plants DEP has built Bluebelts for approximately one third of Staten Island’s land area In the South Richmond and mid-Island areas the City has purchased approximately 400 acres of wetland property for Bluebelts that provide drainage for 19 watersheds The Bluebelts also provide important open spaces and serve as a habitat for diverse wildlife.  Participants gather at Midland Beach at last year's Health and Information Fair .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Bea Victor | For the Staten Island AdvanceSTATEN ISLAND The annual Boardwalk Bash will take place Thursday It has taken more than the normal extra effort required to organize this great outdoor event since Hurricane Sandy swept by so mark your calendar to come on down and/or remind your group to register to be part of the showing As a reminder to the old timers and to explain to the newcomers The event is a Health and Information Fair for seniors When the weather cooperates (and it usually does) it is like an old-fashioned fair Not only do you have a chance to stroll along one of our lovely beaches but you will probably meet old friends and make some new ones The sponsors are Staten Island University Hospital in cooperation with Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis the city Department of Parks and Recreation city and state agencies will be available to answer questions related to health and services on Staten Island Want your blood pressure checked and get a physical by the Health and Hospital Corporation (HHC) Want an HIV and Hepatitis C screening by the Community Health Action group Maybe it is for a free mammography (if you qualify) that will bring you down to stroll with the crowd The representatives from the mobile FDNY will be on hand sharing valuable information regarding house/fire safety Bring the kids — there will be giveaways — as well as entertainment It will be at Midland Beach (near the Turtle Fountain) Jefferson Avenue and Father Capodanno Boulevard Want to register and share some information about your group’s activities or get more information Please contact: Assemblywoman Malliotakis’ office 718-987-0197 or Carmine Raimondi at coordinator of Geriatric Services at SIUH for sharing this information with me and you You don’t want to spoil a lovely outing by getting sun burned .st1{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#2a2a2a}By Maura Grunlund | mauragrunlund@siadvance.comStaten Island Advance/Irving SilversteinIn a field at Midland Beach women pray during the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration to mark the end of Ramadan.STATEN ISLAND -- Without a protester in site under sunny skies on the fields at Midland Beach about 1,200 Muslims gathered yesterday to celebrate the end of Ramadan with prayers which encountered much rancor last summer when it tried to establish a mosque and community center in a former convent a few blocks away in Midland Beach opened a center in Dongan Hills last month to mostly favorable reaction and is planning to make future Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations interfaith events the only reminders being plastic tarps laid on the soaked ground for the comfort of the faithful Dressed in a mix of traditional and Western garb the Muslims removed their shoes and knelt as they filled the air with prayer The MAS has held the outdoor Eid-ul-Fitr celebration -- which is one of two high holy days -- at Midland Beach for two years in a row in addition to indoor prayer sessions at all the mosques on Staten Island Similar MAS outdoor events also were held in Bensonhurt Park in Brooklyn which last year attracted about 3,000 people president of the society's Staten Island/Brooklyn chapter "I think it's about time for us to be open we hope that this celebration will include not only Muslims but the interfaith community." "We are trying to get people to learn about the culture of Muslim in a celebratory way," said Khaled Lamada who is on the MAS board and is president of the Society of Egyptian Americans for Development The observance of Ramadan assigns special importance to charitable acts as fasting should develop compassion for the poor and needy and inspire the act of giving Muslims were urged to do charitable acts on Staten Island and to support efforts for democracy freedom and justice by Muslims in the Middle East Africa and other parts of the world by Sherif Ahmed an activist and member of MAS who gave the sermon The outdoor celebration was part of an overall effort by the MAS at transparency and to define its own community in positive ways 10 years after 9/11 "We approach 9/11 with very heavy hearts," Ahmed said "The aftermath affected our community in a very negative way We never want to have that sense of fear and isolation again We feel very much for the families of the victims of 9/11 and stand in the trenches with them in solidarity." Midland Beach is a central location for many of the estimated 35,000 Staten Island Muslims Muslims play an integral role in the community as about 10 percent of the medical community on Staten Island are Muslim Devout Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan which changes according to the lunar calendar This story was originally published by Mother Jones and has been republished here with permission from Climate Desk a middle-aged man who moved to Ocean Breeze in 2000 as he walks through the deserted streets of his once tightknit beach community and a few are boarded up waiting to be demolished The homes that do remain are surrounded by empty plots of land where wild turkeys wander Unlike many other New York victims of Sandy those from these neighborhoods knew that rebuilding was not the best option sold their land to the governor’s office so it can be returned to its natural state But some communities and local leaders are starting to realize that this model won’t break the cycle instead of rebuilding on vulnerable flood plains some residents have chosen to leave old neighborhoods behind and let nature take its course In 2012, when Sandy approached New York, then-Mayor Michael Bloomberg ordered evacuations of nearly 375,000 people in low-lying communities ahead of the storm Herrnkind gathered his two dogs and left to stay with a friend in New Jersey Most of his neighbors followed the evacuation orders “An officer told me ‘You can’t go down there,’ ” Herrnkind recalls “It’s still there,” he remembers thinking when he first saw his house “I have something to work with.” The watermark on a lamppost today shows that the storm surge reached far above his head which explains why his furniture and all his personal belongings were gone the two wrote that the number of dropouts “raises serious questions about our City’s ability to mount an efficient and effective recovery operation in the event of a future disaster.” Herrnkind jokingly refers to it as “Build It Wrong.” “and that was where the problems started.” Reluctant to “put someone else in harm’s way,” Herrnkind concluded that he and his neighbors should take advantage of the state buyout program He was able to sell his home to the state at pre-storm value and move elsewhere on the island One of Herrnkind’s former neighbors who stayed behind is an elderly woman who feared her children would put her in a nursing home if she left Some opted out of the program because they didn’t have the proper paperwork required to sell their homes Others didn’t want to give up their homes in a community they loved But staying behind comes with a cost. According to the New York Times, flood insurance premiums could rise up to 25 percent for homes that were damaged by Sandy “and only one or two people stayed.” Just down the street from where Herrnkind used to live more turkeys mill about on empty lots where homes used to be Herrnkind’s former neighbor Frank Moszczynski took the state buyout and moved to another neighborhood on Staten Island He doesn’t have much sympathy for someone who willingly stays in a vulnerable area “Why should … emergency workers have to go out and risk their lives for someone who chose to stay in harm’s way?” he asks pointedly the only thing protecting Ocean Breeze from another storm is a 4-foot hill of sand Across the street from the vacant lot he used to call home Herrnkind stands on the beach looking at the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and Brooklyn’s Coney Island a view he used to be able to see from his bedroom window Mickeymickey@disney.comManage MyDisney AccountLog OutVideo shows couple attacked robbed in their Staten Island drivewayWednesday 2022Shocking surveillance video shows the moment three suspects attacked and robbed a couple on Staten Island.MIDLAND BEACH Staten Island (WABC) -- Shocking surveillance video shows the moment three suspects attacked and robbed a couple on Staten Island It happened in the early morning hours on Saturday after the couple parked their car in their driveway in Midland Beach Police say three men approached the victims while they were still in their car The suspects threw the 37-year-old man to the ground They then grabbed the 34-year-old woman's pocketbook with $2,000 cash Police are asking for the public's help tracking them down Call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). You can also submit tips by visiting the CrimeStoppers website at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org or by messaging on Twitter @NYPDTips ALSO READ | Mayor Adams' subway safety plan begins after several violent incidents in NYC The New York City Health Department has changed beach pollution advisories to beach closure notices for the following locations on Tuesday ·         South Beach in Staten Island ·         Midland Beach in Staten Island ·         Cedar Grove Beach in Staten Island ·         Sea Gate in Brooklyn The most recent water quality samples from the private Sea Gate Beach in Brooklyn have shown elevated levels of bacteria related to the untreated sewer discharges from the North River Wastewater Treatment Plant that occurred last week Elevated bacteria levels have not been found at the three Staten Island beaches where advisories were in place has closed these three beaches as well as Sea Gate in Brooklyn for swimming and bathing until this beach closing notice is lifted Signs are being placed at the beach entrances to alert the public to the closure The four beaches will remain closed for swimming and bathing until the Health Department has made a determination that it is safe to swim The decision to close these beaches is based on review of both water flow through the harbor and evaluation of actual water samples taken in the harbor and at the shoreline remain open and unaffected based on current water quality modeling and sampling Fifty-four outdoor pools are open for swimming as well DEP and the Health Department continue to take samples in the harbor and at permitted beaches that could potentially be impacted. For the most up-to-date information, go to the NYC Health website at www.nyc.gov/health, the DEP website at www.nyc.gov/dep Individuals can also receive proactive alerts by signing up through 311 for Notify NYC the city’s official source for information about emergency events and important city services