What's happening, Staten Island? All you cool cats ready for spring?
So are we.
And in the spirit of the new season, we've compiled a list just for you Staten Islanders. Well, and anyone interested in rowing out to join the warm-weather festivities.
So let’s celebrate the season. What’s your style? A trip to the theater? A ball in the park? We've got it all, so read on.
And relax! Spring is really, actually here. Well— technically, at least. March weather doesn't belong to either season, but let's not get hung up on that. Daisies and blue skies await. Onward!
1. To the theater
Up for some spring soul searching? Charles Schulz's classic comic comes alive in "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," at the Snug Harbor Music Hall.
Featuring vignettes from Valentine's Day to Beethoven Day, you'll be pulled across the emotional spectrum in the course of a couple hours. It’s running from March 24th to April 2nd, so check it out soon.
Or, if you're in a more comedic mood, check out the unabashed spoof "Graeme of Thrones" from London's West End. It's an original parody about one fan's dream to realize "Game of Thrones" on stage, and what could go possibly go wrong in the process.
This one’s only in town for March 30th, so jump on it! The show is on at 8:00 PM, St. George’s Theatre.
2. Extreme couponing
Kelly Gibbs holds the prestigious title of Master Couponer, certified in six states. You can learn from her, April 4th only, for free, and save hundreds each month on groceries!
Sounds great, right? The page description claims "It will change your world!”
This would normally come off sounding pretty hokey, but if time spent couponing puts a few hundred more in savings, it’s probably a legitimate boast. Find the master and her mountain of coupons at the Hampton Inn & Suites, 1120 South Avenue, for either the 3:30 PM or the 7:00 PM class.
3. Hard physical labor
Do you like running for no particular reason? Whenever I ask runners “what’re you running from?” all I get are blank looks. Can’t say I’m always in the mood for strangers’ jokes when I’m working out, either.
Well, anyway, what we have here is the High Rock Challenge. It's a 10k race along the Kaufmann Campgrounds and Greenbelt Trail System, where they will be "mystery events and physical obstacles to encourage teamwork as well as physical and mental stamina."
That's right, it's a team event— you'll need a partner. So find a friend, or a wise-cracking stranger, and get in shape for spring.
Also, check out the free training sessions sponsored by Monkey Bar Gym, offered at the Kaufmann Campgrounds on Saturdays leading up to the High Rock Challenge. The event itself takes place April 29th from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
4. Wine and design
Terrariums! The Greenbelt Conservancy invites you to an evening of terrarium design and wine tasting with Toni Freda, owner of Piccola Pianta. Take home your very own centerpiece or wall decor, in minuscule garden form!
You know the old saying "a plant in a jar is easy to care for," wasn't invented yesterday, and who couldn't use a little more greenery at home?
Deb McCole of Winegirl Tastings will also be there offering her expertise and wines for guests 21 and over. And as an added bonus— all proceeds from the event will go straight to the Greenbelt Conservancy. You’ll find the group at the Greenbelt Nature Conservatory, 700 Rockland Avenue, from 7:30 to 9:30 PM.
5. Have a ball
That’s right, the Annual Blue Jean Ball is back! It’s located at The Carousel for All Children in Willowbrook Park, but don’t let the name fool you. There will be (at this time vaguely advertised) entertainment, food, and (definitively advertised) unlimited beer and wine!
Additionally, their famed carousel will be spinning throughout the night, so maybe embrace the name and just be a kid again for a little while. Adults 21 and over only, taking place May 18th from 7:00 to 10:00 PM.