STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Featured in this week’s Staten Island’s Best Dressed are photos from the Richmond County Dental Society’s 112th installation of officers at the Richmond County Country Club in Dongan Hills, which unfolded Jan. 31.
An après-ski theme gave the Saturday night black-tie affair a festive winter feel, with gentlemen arriving in classic tuxedos and ladies in elegant evening gowns accented by playful alpine-inspired details.
The looks were elegant but relaxed as colleagues and friends anew toasted their profession’s new slate of elected leaders.
The ballroom brimmed with laughter and lively conversation as members and their partners celebrated the occasion, beginning with a scrumptious cocktail hour followed by a formal dinner.
Afterwards, partygoers hit the dance floor, vibing to music that carried the celebration into the wee hours of the evening.
Staten Island dentist Dr. Valerie Venterina, president of the Second District Dental Society of the State of New York, served as installing officer for the ceremony.
Dr. Michael Costa (event chair), left, congratulates and presents a plaque to Dr. Bryan Pieroni, immediate past president, and his wife, Jolie Pieroni.
Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino
Welcomed into leadership roles were the newly installed officers for 2026, including Dr. Brian Perrone, president; Dr. Joseph Albanese, president-elect; Dr. Eliana Sarit, treasurer; and Dr. Bernadette Sawa, secretary.
The evening proved to be a memorable celebration of leadership, community and standout style — perfectly fit for both the slopes and the ballroom.
The Richmond County Dental Society is a branch society of the Second District Dental Society of the State of New York, representing nearly 300 dentists who live and practice on Staten Island.
The organization serves as the local link to both the New York State Dental Association and the American Dental Association, providing professional support while promoting high standards of dental care and public oral health education.
Dedicated to strengthening professional relationships and advancing the science of dentistry, the society hosts monthly meetings, study groups and several annual events, including its officer installation dinner dance and a golf outing.
Dr. Valerie Venterina installs (from left) Drs. Bernadette Sawa, Joseph Albanese and Brian Perrone.
Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino
Through community outreach and advocacy, the Richmond County Dental Society remains an important resource for local dentists and a visible voice on issues affecting oral health and the profession on Staten Island.
Scroll below for a glimpse into the evening’s events by viewing the photos.
To be considered for future installments of this column, please send high-resolution photos with a brief description of the event and the names of everyone pictured to gsantos@siadvance.com.
Dr. Bryan Pieroni and his wife Jolie, Dr. Daniel Perrone and his wife Donna, pose with friends at the installation gala.Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino
Newly inducted RCDS president, Dr. Brian Perrone and his family, father Dr. Daniel and mother, Donna, brother Daniel with his wife Kristin and their daughter Eliana. (Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino)(Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino)
Drs. Michael Donato and Phyllis Merlino enjoy the festivities.
Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino
Dr. Brian Perrone gives his first speech as the 112th President of the Richmond County Dental Society.
Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino
Dr. Phyllis Merlino, left, and Christine Terrio, the new Executive Director at the Second District Dental Society of the State of New York, which is comprised of the dentists of Staten Island and Brooklyn.
Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino
Dr. Phyllis Merlino and newly inducted president, Dr. Brian Perrone.
Courtesy Dr. Phyllis Merlino
Scene from the Richmond County Dental Society’s 112th installation of officers at the Richmond County Country Club, Dongan Hills, on Jan. 31, 2026. (Courtesy Dr. Valerie Venturina)(Courtesy Dr. Valerie Venturina)
Scene from the Richmond County Dental Society’s 112th installation of officers at the Richmond County Country Club, Dongan Hills, on Jan. 31, 2026. (Courtesy Dr. Valerie Venturina)(Courtesy Dr. Valerie Venturina)