Staten Island - The Switzerland of NYC?

From Al Ramos, the man who brought you the Tribeca Lab so many years ago, where I once curated a show entitled "Good Clean Fun" back in the days of post-riot grrrl action. (1995, i think that one was.)
Well, this e-mail comes from him to me today, and it's quite lovely. Thanks, Al!
xoox
sara v.
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Dear Ms. Valentine

I am pleased to see you are extolling the charms and virtues of Staten Island.
Although I live on Manhattan Island and have spent most of my time trolling the so called "downtown scene," I frequently drive or take the ferry to Staten Island. I describe it to my friends as "the Switzerland" of New York City. They just stare blankly back at me. With its rolling hills and majestic vistas, New York City's finest music store, the Mandolin Bros. and golf courses a plenty, there are treasures for all ages!

Rave on Little Miss Big Mouth
Al Ramos
Statenislandophile