Lots of fun at the FunPark for Chamber’s latest Business After Hours mixer

When the location of your networking mixer has “fun” in the name, it’s bound to be a good time.

That was certainly the case when the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber’s Young Professionals Group (YPG) held the latest Business After Hours at Staten Island FunPark. In addition to networking with other businesses and sharing ideas in a relaxed setting, participants had the opportunity to hit the batting cages, putt around the miniature golf course or race around the track in go karts.

Doug Youla is the director of operations for Ride Entertainment and said he was excited to flaunt the changes the Castleton Corners facility has undergone since his company took over operations at Staten Island FunPark about 16 months ago.

“We’ve redone the landscaping, upgraded the go karts, upgraded the batting cages, and the once old indoor hockey rink has been completely revitalized, reborn and made into a multi-use facility,” he said. “Right now, we just want people to know we’re here and we’re going to make it better and better every year.

“We plan to bring some new exciting rides and some new excitement with the sportsplex,” he said. “This is only step one of many steps to come.”

One of the many advantages for businesses to join the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce is the ability to announce any news or changes to a wider audience. The Business After Hours served as a prime example of this benefit as attendees were able to take a tour and view the completion of the former roller hockey rink.

The remodeled 17,600-square foot sportsplex can now accommodate basketball, soccer, flag football, lacrosse, and roller hockey. The indoor facility can host birthday parties and special events and features programs for adults and kids.

“It was great timing to have everybody come here. I’m sure they passed it 1,000 times on the expressway or Manor Road and now they get a chance to see what it’s all about,” said Keith Miller, director of operations of the Sportsplex at Staten Island FunPark, MetrosoccerNY, and the charitable organization Play Study Win Inc. “The building hasn’t been utilized in 18 months, so this is the first time that we’re really showing it off to the public.”

While Staten Island FunPark and a DJ supplied the entertainment, Chamber member Catering by Framboise supplied the drinks and food.

“This event was a little more laid back and held in a fun, casual setting which is definitely important,” said Staten Island Chamber of Commerce YPG Leadership Council Member Rob Myers.

If you still want to visit the facility, there’s still time. Staten Island FunPark opens annually around Palm Sunday and closes near the end of October. But Youla said if the weather is still nice in November, the park can open.

“The impression I got from everyone tonight is they knew it was here, but they haven’t been here in a few years. They were excited the After Hours was held here so they can see the FunPark,” said Youla.