Former Vice President Dick Cheney on Staten Island

December 12, 2001

Hilton Garden Inn

Former Vice President Dick Cheney  on Staten Island at a borough Republican Party fund-raiser

“We are indeed fortunate to have the vice president and his daughter visit our borough and support our efforts… This will be a unique experience in the history of our local party. Coming on the heels of a visit by Current Speaker Boehner and former Speaker Gingrich, this again illustrates that Republicanism is flourishing on Staten Island” – GOP Chairman Robert Scamardella

Staten Island GOP chairman Robert Scamardella

The legendary Guy Molinari

The guests

Dick Cheney and his daughter Liz

Q & A

Scott LoBaido (left) presents his work to Dick Cheney

Robert Scamardella (left) and Guy Molinari

Jason Galak (right) and Guy Molinari

Who killed the Menorah on Staten Island?

December 4, 2011

Staten Island. Pleasant Plains Plaza. Annual Christmas tree and Menorah Lighting

Nice event. The people are happy.

“For just an hour, it seemed as if “Small Town America” had returned” – Paul Fargo of Eltingville.

Janine and Jason. Christmas tree and Menorah

December 6, 2011

The same location

…But just two days later Janine Materna, president of the civic association, drove passed the site and noticed the Menorah was missing. The string had been cut, and a piece of the stand on wh  ich it was set up was tossed near the sewer.

“This is a hateful act and is especially reprehensible during the holiday season,” said Lanza (R-Staten Island), who purchased an exact replica to replace the stolen Menorah. “This is not what Staten Island is about. Especially around the holidays, neighbors should be able to celebrate their culture, faith and community without interference from a few thugs.”