A New Borough President

On January 5th, our new Borough President, James Oddo, hosted an Open House at Borough Hall to meet and greet the people of Staten Island. Although I have met Mr. Oddo several times before, I felt that it was important to greet him in his official “home” as he started his year.

The snow was pretty much cleared from our snow storm the week before, but the sidewalks were slippery with ice. To be safe, Alexa and I put on our boots and bravely ventured off - making quite a fashion statement I might add!

Once we arrived, we quickly put on our heels (to the amusement of several bystanders who thought it was pretty funny watching two girls with crowns balancing on one foot) and made our way inside. There was already a crowd gathered, so after we signed in we stopped to take pictures and chat. The security guard Keith, whom I had met on a previous visit, graciously offered to hold our coats for us. Thanks Keith!

We entered Mr. Oddo’s office where we spoke with him, offered our future support and posed for pictures. As we exited his office, we met a little girl who was very interested in our crowns. Alexa and I stopped to explain the Star Princess Program to her and her mom. Judging from her excitement, I think it’s safe to say that she is most definitely a future Star Princess!

We saw several familiar faces including Assemblyman Mike Cusick, Former Commissioner Fred Cerullo (a long time friend of my mom), Vito Fossella and of course, the Executive Director of the Miss Staten Island Pageant, Jim Smith.

We came across Charista Mroczek (Miss Richmond County’s Outstanding Teen) and her mom who had just arrived after a swim-meet. We posed for some fun pictures and before we knew it, the event came to a close. We forfeited the boots on the way out and braved the ice in our heels because, after all, we titleholders are pretty fearless! ; ]

I wish Borough President James Oddo a wonderful a successful term serving the Staten Island Community. His kind, genuine, and caring nature is just what our borough needs. I know that he will do great things, just as he has in the past. Thank you, Mr. Oddo, for welcoming us with your Open House!