Council Member Joseph Borelli (R-South Shore) and local business owners are welcoming back Staten Island shoppers to their home community where they can find retail and big box stores, open spaces, recreational activities, and great dining options without paying tolls or navigating jug handles; Staten Island even had its own pumpkin patch this season!

Some of the many upcoming events in our community for children and families include autumnal and Christmas festivals at Mount Loretto in Pleasant Plains, the Grand Illumination and Colonial Christmas at the Conference House in Tottenville, and the annual Annadale Christmas tree lighting.

In the 10309 and 10307 zip codes, there are thousands of acres of park land for hiking, walking, biking, and exploring, including Wolfe’s Pond Park, Long Pond Park, and Clay Pit Pond Park. Additionally, those interested can browse for events like wilderness survival, haunted hikes, the harvest festival at Clay Pit, and more on the New York State Parks website.

“One of the greatest historical motivators drawing Staten Island shoppers to New Jersey has been the siren song of cheap gasoline existing just over the bridge. With the new gas tax levied by our neighbors across the Kill Van Kull, our local merchants on the south shore are working hard to make their presence known to their fellow Islanders,” said Borelli. “On the south shore we have hundreds of miles of parkland, wonderful restaurants, big box stores; we even had pumpkin patches this past season! Wildlife, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and bicycling are just some of the recreational opportunities available here on Staten Island for individuals and families to enjoy.”

“By shopping locally, your hard-earned dollars and resources remain in your community instead of being sent off to faraway corporate headquarters. Supporting small businesses helps to create a vibrant local economy and aids in the development of this wonderful community. So, save yourself time and money by shopping and dining locally here in Richmond Valley! We hope you also enjoy the lights and holiday decorations,” said Pete Marcolini, President of Richmond Valley Merchants Association & Owner of Aunt Butchie’s of Brooklyn.