STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — If it’s summer it must be time for the South Beach Civic Association’s annual Summer Picnic and Barbecue at the Vanderbilt on the South Beach boardwalk.
More than 250 Staten Islanders enjoyed the afternoon inside the main ballroom, where five community partners were recognized.
Honored were Daniel Cassella, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union, Division 726, Eric Bischoff, Uniformed Firefighters Association; Stefano Sena, executive chef, Bocelli Ristorante, John Edward Twomey, Local 3 Electrician, and Jerry Nelson Staten Island University Hospital, lieutenant of security.
Rose Ann and Joseph McAllister present an award to honoree, Danny Cassella, center. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
From the left, Rose Ann McAllister, Eric Bischoff and his wife, and Joseph McAllister. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
Each honoree was presented with a commemorative plaque for their commitment, dedication and trust and respect for the South Beach Civic Association.
Vito Fossella Sr. and Alba Rivera. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
Representatives from several community agencies were on hand to provide information in the areas of health and nutrition, education and available services, as well as members of the NYPD who offered safety and security tips.
Members of the NYPD were on hand to offer safety and security tips. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
Also in attendance were a number of community leaders, business owners, and elected officials who’ve assisted and supported the group since its inception: Congresswomen Nicole Malliotakis, Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, Assemblymen Sam Pirozzolo, Charles Fall and Michael Tannousis.
State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and members of the South Beach Civic Association. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
Heading up the South Beach Civic Association are husband-and-wife team Joseph and Rose Ann McAllister, who serve as president and vice president, respectively.
This year a special Community Service Award was presented to Tom Miller, former commander of the Cespino-Russo American Legion Post in South Beach.
“We are so proud to have such a good friend and member of this elite community,” said Joseph McAllister.
Sitting is Tom Miller, who was recognized by the South Beach Civic Association, surrounded by his wife, Virginia Miller, a friend of the South Beach Civic Association, and Joseph and Rose Ann McAllister. (Courtesy Steve White)Steve White
“Tom helps the community in a number of ways and has a special way of making people laugh,” he added. “He’s always there to help and volunteering with no questions ever asked. He commended Roe and me for working in the neighborhood and getting issues resolved for the betterment of the community and improving the quality of life for all of us. Tom was surprised and ecstatic. He didn’t know he would be receiving the award. His wife Virginia was also delighted. Tom has been a part of our lives and the community for the past 24 years. He’s a veteran and a member and former commander of the Cespino-Russo Lodge. We appreciate and thank all our friends, families, community residents, business owners and volunteers who helped make this annual event so successful and special.”
Rose Ann McAllister offered special thanks to Brittany Felice, manager of the Vanderbilt, and John, the maitre’d.
“The food and refreshments were exceptionally delicious, and the entertainment was superb,” she said. “The many raffle baskets that were won were beautiful and the table scapes created by Linda Sollazzo and basil plants from Stefano Sena added to the ambiance.”
AWARD CEREMONY
“Danny Cassella, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union 726 stepped to the plate for his drivers during the COVID years,” Joseph McAllister noted as part of his introduction.
Honoree, Danny Cassella, center, his wife and members of the Amalgamated Transit Union Division 726. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
“I am so pleased to be honored,” Cassella noted. “And I accept this award on behalf of the 2,500 members of the Amalgamated Transit Union 726.”
Bischoff explained that he was a firefighter in South Beach during a time when, because of financial difficulties, Mayor Bloomberg was interested in shutting the doors to his firehouse. Joe and Roe worked to keep it open. And I could give you examples of people whose lives were saved because the firehouse stayed open thanks to the efforts of the South Beach Civic Association.”
Sena thanked the McAllisters for the years of friendship they shared and for their unwavering support throughout the community.
He went on to acknowledge his his brother-in-law, Gerardo Campitiello, longtime owner of the Monte Bianco and Excelsior Grand and current owner of the Addison Park, for his guidance and expertise over the years.
From the left, honoree, Stefano Sena, Gerardo Campitiello and Rose Ann and Joseph McAllister. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
“Thanks to Joe and Roe and the South Beach Civic Association and to all of you,” said Sena. “What a beautiful event. It’s truly a special day for me. And it’s my 39th wedding anniversary to my wife, Sue. I always believed the more effort you put into the community to benefit everyone, you get back in countless ways.”
From the left, Rose Ann McAllister, Susie and Stefano Sena and Joseph McAllister. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
Twomey thank those in attendance for coming out on such a great day. “But the real people to be honored are these two, Roe and Joe,” he said. “This is really a great honor. Thanks to all.”
John Edward Twomey with Rose Ann and Joseph McAllister and Twomey's grandchildren. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
Nelson, who’s a volunteer for the South Beach Civic Association, is a lieutenant of security at Staten Island University Hospital in Ocean Breeze and in Prince’s Bay and has worked at the health care facility for more than 37 years.
Rose Ann McAllister, Jerry Nelson and Joseph McAllister. (Courtesy of Steve White) Steve White
“Thank you for your tremendous work,” said Joe McAllister in speaking of Nelson’s steady assistance.
Nelson spoke about positive changes he’s seen throughout the years at the health care facility, all of which benefit patients and families.
Stefano Sena, fourth from left, and members of his family. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
A LITTLE ABOUT THE SOUTH BEACH CIVIC ASSOCIATION
The McAllisters founded the South Beach Civic Association 25 years ago after approaching the late Lou Caravone, chairman of Community Board 2, with the idea of forming a local organization.
Members and friends of the South Beach Civic Association. (Courtesy of Steve White)Steve White
The association was formed to enforce quality of life issues. And as a civic association it has been able to triumph over a number of issues — successfully.
The event was sponsored by the Richmond County Savings Foundation, The Dr. Theodore A. Atlas Foundation Inc., Kearny Bank, Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, Assemblyman Michael Tanousis, Rocco P. Paccione, Martin Hughes Funeral Home, Colonial Funeral Home, Cherubini Mcinerney Funeral Home, Villa Monte Pizzeria & Restaurant-Augie & Phil, Terminal One Deli, Key Food- Sand Lane, Bocelli Ristorante, LiGreci’s Staaten, Colonnade Diner, Advance Lock and Key, Clean Touch Car Wash, Cutest Cookies, H20 Auto Spa, Jimmy Max, Lobster House Joe’s, Lorenzo’s Pizza, S.I. Zoo, Staples, and Uniformed Firefighters Association, South Beach Laundry, McClean Laundromat, Transfer City U.S.A. and JL Wegenaar Co. Inc.
Also, Natural Resources Protective Association, Vito Fossella Family, Staten Island University Hospital, CASC, On Your Mark, Eden II, Community Resources, A Very Special PlaceInc., Lowe’s on ForestAvenue, MarjoriePugliesi- FiveFlagsCo., DaNoi Restaurant, Amalgamated Transit Union ATU726, Ronnie’s Sandwich Shoppe, Ronnie’s Corner, Richmond Appliance, Tringa Jewelers, St. George Theatre, Paul Scamardella of Matthew Monuments Flowers & Gifts, Italianissimo Ristorante, Doc Hennigans, Forest Foot Care, Dr. Craig Campbell, D.P.D., Susan Chew, Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 2, Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria & Restaurant , Royal Crown Bakery, A.F. Bennett, and Shortstop Custom Screen Printing & Embroidery.
In addition, a complimentary back to school kit from Staples was available for each family in attendance.