[EPISODE] St. George, Staten Island

Join us on our first episode exploring a Staten Island neighborhood, St. George. My guests will be David Griffin, Founder and CEO of Landmark Branding, and Doreen Cugno, CEO and Co-Founder of the famous St. George Theatre.

Segment 1

David explains how he became interested in architectural history from an early age. David discusses the Revolutionary War history connected to St. George and how the neighborhood got its name. He talks about how the area developed into a more residential area and the history of the Staten Island Ferry. Talks about the Staten Island ferry and its history Jeff and David discuss prominent places and people that resided on Staten Island.  David explains what architecture in early St. George homes looked like.

Segment 2

Jeff and David talk more about the Staten Island Ferry and the greatness of it as an activity in New York and a way to explore St. George. They talk about the Lighthouse museum and the history of it as a landmark. David explains what Snug Harbour is and how it came to into existence, including its history of legal entanglement. Jeff and David discuss the redevelopment going on now in St. George.

Segment 3

Jeff talks about  the St. George Theatre and how it was saved and  grew as a company. Doreen and Vincent talk about their backgrounds in the arts before opening the St. George Theatre. Jeff and Vincent talk about notable performers  in the theater's history. Doreen explains why she thinks other attempts to reopen the theater didn’t work until she and her mother and sister did it. Vincent discusses different programs that are available at the theater.

Segment 4

Vincent talks about how to connect with the theater and it being nominated for a New York Emmy. Doreen talks about the St. George area changing , including the outlets that are opening there. Doreen talks about what she enjoys about the area and why it is a great area. Vincent talks about what surprises him about the St. George Theatre. Doreen and Vincent  talk about things that they struggle with in St. George.