Staten Island made the news this year thanks to Hurricane Sandy’s devastating effects. However, this summer is all about the borough’s determined rebuilding with a bevy of concerts and events free to all. Borough President James P. Molinaro wants to make sure everyone knows that Staten Island hasn’t given up; in fact, it’s just the opposite with programs to entertain and bring the community together all summer.

Here is July’s list of wonderful happenings in Staten Island. For those of you who have never been to Staten Island, you can begin your exploration with a wonderful (and free) ride across New York Harbour on the Staten Island Ferry, marvelling at the Statue of

Liberty and the Manhattan skyline en route.  When you arrive either walk to the event, or catch an easy bus or train to these free events.

July 18: The Starlight Concerts summer series begins the summer festivities at Silver Lake Park from 7:30-10pm with oldies band The Clusters (some of you might remember their tunes from the late 50s including “Darling Can’t You Tell” and “Pardon My Heart”) and Sweetwater. Silver Lake Park Road, North Shore of Staten Island, Staten Island, 212-639-9675, www.nycgovparks.org/parks/silverlakepark. ‎

July 22: The street festival Van Duzer Days offers up a full day of live music from 1-6pm, headlined by local funk-rock group Friction Division, all-girl post-punk band Yeti, and hip-hop group The Rising Sun Allstars . 381 Van Duzer Street, Stapleton, between Beach and Wright streets. http://vanduzerdays.wordpress.com/about/

July 25: The Metropolitan Opera’s Summer Recital Series in Clove Lakes Park is a program of arias and duets, from 7-8pm, with artists Ying Fang (soprano), Mario Chang (tenor), and Brandon Cedel (bass-baritone), accompanied by Bradley Moore on the piano. Sunnyside, 1150 Clove Rd  Staten Island, (718) 390-8000, http://bit.ly/18jnocb

July 25: For more oldie tunes, The Starlight Concerts series presents The Expressions, along with the Jimmy Buffet Tribute band Parrotbeach from 7:30-10pm at Snug Harbor Cultural Center. Richmond Terrace, Tysen Street, Kissel Avenue, Henderson Avenue, North Shore of Staten Island, http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/sailorssnugharbor.

July 28: A Children’s Day Extravaganza takes place from 2-5pm at the Willowbrook Carousel with Music with Patrick along with arts & crafts, face painting, inflatable rides, games and prizes for all. Northern tip of Staten Island, 1 Eaton Pl (at Victory Blvd), Staten Island, http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/willowbrookpark

July 30-31: A dance and music atmosphere will prevail at Tappen Park from 7-9pm on these two evenings, with concerts led by radio DJ Felix Hernadez’s Rhythm Revue and his distinctive mix of soul, Motown, funk and salsa. The second night features Brooklyn acapella group The Persuasians as well. Stapleton, Canal Street, Water Street, Bay Street, Staten Island,  212-639-9675, http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/tappenpark/