NYPD Officer Assigned To and Patrolling Roosevelt Island Every Day But Not Yet On Permanent Basis - What Happened Last Saturday Night, Was There A Main Street Brawl?

 Image From NY Daily News

Here's the latest on efforts to again have a New York Police Department officer permanently assigned to Roosevelt Island.

Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) President Matt Katz asked 114 Precinct's Deputy Inspector Stephen Cirabisi:

Dear Inspector Cirabisi:

 The RIRA Common Council will meet on Wednesday, June 1 for the last time until we resume after Labor Day on September 7.  Can you tell me whether an officer has been assigned permanently to patrol Roosevelt Island on the four to midnight shift?  I would love to share that good news with my colleagues before we disband for the summer.  Thanks and best wishes,

          Matthew Katz

          President, RIRA

Inspector Cirabisi At Speaking at April RIRA Meeting

Inspector Cirabisi replied:

Hello Mr. Katz, As of now there is not a steady officer assigned but there is one assigned everyday on the 1500x2300 shift. We try to keep the same officer as much as possible. You can be assurred that there will be an officer patroling the island everyday on this shift throughout the summer. If you have any other concerns please let me know.

Comments to post earlier this week on RIRA's June Public Safety Committee Report noted here and here that a brawl involving as many as 20 people may have occurred on Main Street near the Public Safety Office last Saturday at about midnight - after the NYPD officer's tour ended.

Yesterday, in order to verify the accuracy of these reports, I checked the Roosevelt Island Daily Public Safety Reports for the weekend and found nothing to suggest such an incident took place.(The Daily Public Safety Reports are posted on the middle sidebar of blog).

I then sent the following inquiry to Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Vice President of Operations Fernando Martinez and Public Safety Director Keith Guerra:

I received reports, including these two emails below, regarding a brawl/ fighting incident that occurred on Main Street last Saturday night around midnight.

I can find nothing on the Public Safety Reports for the weekend to indicate this occurred.

Was there such a fight and if so, can you provide information on what happened?

Below are the reports I received about the incident.

There was a serious incident on Main Street, just about in front of the Public Safety office, at about midnight Saturday. Looked like about 20 people involved in a fight, at least one taken away in handcuffs, several NYPD cars came screaming down the street.

and

What ever it was, it was loud, big and for a few minutes, very threatening -- I was awakened from sleep by the noise and I am not even on Main Street.
Called RIPSD and phone rang at least 30 times - I figured they already knew. Could see from my apt that many of the folks involved were running away as NYPD approached.
Summer is here and this will not be either the first or last incident that we will need to know more about...

Thank you.

As of this afternoon, I have not received any response to my inquiry so I followed up with this:

 Will there be a comment from RIOC regarding report of a fight involving approximately 20 people in front of Public Safety Department last Saturday night around midnight that was described in email below?

If this fight did occur, was it included in Public Safety Incident Report for that day? I did not see it listed. If not included, why not?

Thank you.

I did receive this announcement today from Mr. Guerra:

As part of our pro-active Community Outreach program, the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department will be hosting it's second Gang Summit on Thursday, June 23rd from 6:30pm-8:30pm.

We will be bringing in renowned gang expert Ron "Cook" Barrett, who will put on a fantastic presentation on Gang Recognition and Awareness.

Please pass the word regarding this summit, as we feel that everyone in attendance will get something out of this very informative program.

Thank you and hope to see you on 6/23.

Mr. Cook has previously conducted a Gang Recognition and Awareness Program on Roosevelt Island. More information on Mr. Cook's program available from earlier posts.

UPDATE 6/9 - At 4:16 PM yesterday, Public Safety Department Director Guerra sent the following message:

... As for the alleged fight, I already sent you an explanation.

I replied:

I never received any explanation regarding the alleged fight.

Can you resend please.

Mr. Guerra responded that he sent the same message to RIOC VP of Operations Fernando Martinez who received the message. When I asked Mr. Guerra to resend his explanation, he did so immediately. Here is his explanation for what happened on Saturday night.

The Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department was called to the front of 540 Main Street for a large crowd.

Apparently, {Name Deleted}  who had been arrested last week, got out of his car to confront a group that was in front of the building. More people came over, and the noise level elevated. By this time PSD & NYPD officers were on the scene. The crowd was dispersed by all of the Officers on the scene. No arrests were made and order was restored.

{Same Name Deleted} then claimed someone had driven his car away from the scene, and wanted to file a report for Grand Larceny Auto. Witnesses, however, stated that the person who drove his car away was, in fact, with {Same Name Deleted}. A report was taken for Grand Larceny Auto anyway, and that was reflected in the 24 Hour Report.

(Note that this Blog's policy is not to publish names of those arrested before their case is adjudicated. That's why the name in Mr. Guerra's statement is deleted. In my view, the name of an arrested suspect does not add to the substance of a story and can harm that person unfairly if subsequently not convicted)

I also received this account from Roosevelt Island resident Arlise describing what she saw last Saturday night.

I returned to the island and had just reached Blackwell House when people began running as if for their lives. One woman yelled as she ran by to not walk down Main Street because a gang of kids are fighting and they might have guns. I've lived on RI for over 35 years and this was the first time ever, ever that I was afraid to walk down Main Street. A kind gentlemen over 6 feet tall walked with me until I reached my building.

Tonight's Letters From The Almshouse Program From the Roosevelt Island Historical Society Cancelled

Received a message from Roosevelt Island Historical Society (RIHS) President Judy Berdy that the Letters From The Almshouse Program scheduled for tonight at the Roosevelt Island Public Library has been cancelled.

Due to circumstances beyond our control, the RIHS program scheduled for the RI branch on Tuesday has been cancellled.

Thank you for your understanding.

Dogs No Longer Allowed On Roosevelt Island's Rivercross Lawn, Will Banning Be Obeyed By Dog Owners/Walkers, and Enforced - Is Riverwalk Commons Dog Ban Next?

I was walking past Roosevelt Island's Rivercross Building last Sunday afternoon and noticed this gentleman walking his dog on the Rivercross lawn.

Image of Rivercross Lawn Dog Ban Being Violated

Apparently, he did not see, or chose to ignore, the new sign posted on the Rivercross Lawn

banning dogs from the lawn.

No Dogs Or Pets Allowed On Grass Or Field Areas

The issue of Dogs on Roosevelt Island was raised during the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) May 2 Public Safety Committee Meeting:

Member brought resident complaints about the amount of dog feces that is not being picked up by walkers, as well as individuals who are walking dogs off the lease {leash}. One member mentioned the possibility of a dog run area specifically for smaller dogs that is in discussion. Public awareness signs suggested, as well as ticket enforcement.

A dog run specifically for smaller dogs was recently added to the Southtown Dog Run pictured below.

Image of Southtown Dog Runs For Large and Small Dogs

Image of Southtown Small Dog Run

Let's see if the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department starts enforcing with tickets when people bring dogs to areas that they are not permitted use.

Now that the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) has banned dogs from the Rivercross Lawn, will RIOC also ban dogs from the Riverwalk Commons between 425 and 455 Main Street as well?

Image of Riverwalk Commons From Above

This previous post reported that dogs were banned from the Riverwalk Lawns between 405, 415 and 425 Main Street last year by the building's management, Related Management:

Re: Dogs on Lawns between 405, 415 and 425 Main Street

Effectively immediately, dogs are no longer permitted on the lawn between 405 and 415 Main Street or the lawn between 415 and 425 Main Street.

This decision was made for the safety of our residents and appearance of our landscaping.

Staff from both buildings will be monitoring this space to ensure that residents are adhering to this newly established policy.

Thank you for your anticipated cooperation.

Is there any reason why dogs should be allowed on RIOC controlled Riverwalk Commons when they are banned from RIOC controlled Rivercross Lawn and Related Management controlled Riverwalk Building Lawns?

Remember, there was a time when Roosevelt Island was a Place Without Dogs as explained in this video.

UPDATE 6/8 - Received this message from RIOC's VP of Operations Fernando Martinez:

It is our intent to prohibit dogs on the Riverwalk Commons lawn. We are waiting for the signs to arrive.

Roosevelt Island Red Bus Bunching At the Subway Station During This Morning's Rush Hour - Community Transportation Town Hall Meeting on Thursday June 16

Two Roosevelt Island northbound Red Buses bunched up at the Subway Station this morning at about 7:20 AM as the bus in the back waited for the front bus to exit and load passengers.

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Leslie Torres most recent report to the community focused on improvements to the Red Bus operations and announced a Transportation Town Hall Meeting for June 17.

You Tube Video of Roosevelt Island Red Bus

Here's RIOC's Red Bus and Tram Schedule.

East River Kayakers Passing Roosevelt Island On Way To Queensboro Bridge and Beyond - Boathouse May Be In Roosevelt Island's Future But Tonight Try Out The LIC Boathouse Monday Sunset Paddle

Late Saturday afternoon, I noticed several East River Kayakers making their way under the Roosevelt Island Bridge, passing the Big Allis power plant in Long Island City

on their way to the Queensboro Bridge

and beyond.

There are no kayak or boat launch facilities that provide access to the East River from Roosevelt Island. The reasons for this, strong currents surrounding Roosevelt Island, are discussed at these previous posts.

However, during the June Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Meeting's Public Session, Child School/Legacy High School Director Sal Ferrara mentioned a possible proposal to create a boat house on Roosevelt Island. (Mr. Ferrara also mentioned possible proposals for a Roosevelt Island equestrian center and arts center as well).

Image of Child School Director Sal Ferrara Addressing June RIRA Monthly Meeting

The NY Times recently reported on the experiences of Roosevelt Island's Child School/Legacy High School students learning how to row

Image From Ozier Muhammad/The New York Times

on the Harlem River. According to the NY Times:

... He was seated in a sleek racing scull, those same hands wrapped tightly around a pair of carbon-fiber oars. He was rowing hard, sending the scull through the water.

He and a dozen other students from the Child School/Legacy High School on Roosevelt Island were at the Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse, an oddly old-fashioned building on the Harlem River, accessible by a gangplank and a string of floating docks.

The students were put to work carrying long racing shells to the water. They gathered around coaches from the New York Rowing Association, a nonprofit group that runs rowing clubs, teams and programs and that is based in the boathouse. This program exposes students from the city’s schools to an activity often associated with Ivy League universities....

The entire article is here.

It would be great if Roosevelt Island residents could access the East River waterfront for kayak and boat launches like below in Red Hook shown in the Vision 2020 NYC Comprehensive Waterfront Plan (page 16).

The Vision 2020 Waterfront Plan is an excellent resource to learn about what is being done and can be done in the future for New York City's waterfront.

In the absence of kayaking and waterfront access from Roosevelt Island, check out the nearby Long Island City Boathouse which is having a Monday Sunset Paddle tonight starting at 6:30 PM:

Take away the stress of "Manic Monday" with a sunset paddle. This is a moderately easy trip, suitable for adults with little or no paddling experience. You must be able to swim. Participants meet at the Boathouse not later than 6:30PM. Wear protective footwear and clothing that can get wet, and a hat, sunblock or other suitable protection from the sun. Sunglasses are a good idea. Bring a light windbreaker or hat (it can get breezy and chilly), and bottle of water or other non-alcoholic beverage. Do not bring minors, bulky items, or anything that cannot go with you in a kayak. Wallets, phones or other electronic devices should be placed in ziplock or dry bags. You may leave things in a locker at the boathouse; please bring your own lock. Cameras are OK but you bear the risk of exposure to salt water or dropping them over the side.

More info on the LIC Monday Sunset Paddle here.

Happy Paddling.

Here's a You Tube Video showing what happens every day on the rivers of New York City.



Also, don't forget the Metropolitan Waterfront Alliance's (MWA) City of Water Day Festival is coming up on July 16.

From the MWA:

From the upper Hudson to Raritan Bay, we are a City of Water—yet too many of us are cut off from this tremendous resource. Help revitalize the waterfront with a festival for the entire family.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS:
Free harbor boat tours for thousands on historic, educational, and working vessels
A spectacular flotilla of rowers, paddlers, and other human-powered boaters
A special children's fair with with dozens of activities just for families, including bike scavenger hunts, puppet shows, sing-a-longs, and craft sessions
the Waterfront Action Fair where you can learn about everything going on around and on the water
Our one-of-a-kind on-water Festival Launch & Press Event
Live music, food by the region's best vendors, and much more!

RIRA Public Safety Committee Reports on Roosevelt Island Traffic Enforcement, Parking, Vertical Patrols, Motorgate, NYPD, Dogs, Resident Complaints & More

Image of June RIRA Common Council Meeting

Below is the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Public Safety Committee Report submitted to the June Meeting of the RIRA Common Council. The report consists of the May 2 and 23 Public Safety Committee meeting minutes as well as a letter from RIRA Public Safety Committee Chair Erin Feely-Nahem to Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Director Keith Guerra thanking the offices of the Public Safety Department for their assistance during the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Issues addressed by RIRA's Public Safety Committee include

• Traffic Enforcement
• Parking
• Vertical Building Patrols
• Motorgate enforcement
• NYPD Presence
• Bicycles
• Resident Complaints
• Dogs and 
• More

Here are the minutes from May 2, 2011 RIRA Public Safety Committee Meeting:

Traffic Enforcement:

Lynne reported on the Annual Cherry Blossom festival. She praised the collaboration with Public Safety Officers who provided traffic control. Committee agreed to write a thank you letter to Director Guerra. Member reported that vehicles were ignoring the Stop signs down by South Town as well as the Yield signs throughout Main Street, Christedes, and at the far end by 40 River Road. Some members feel that the Yield signs should be replaced by Stop signs, Members would like to see better enforcement of cars stopping at the Stop signs that presently exist. Residents need to be mindful as well of not crossing in front of a stopped bus, if they do not walk to the cross walk. Pedestrian awareness signs suggested such as “Use caution while crossing”, “cross at the cross walk”. Suggested these might be useful if placed in the buses as well.

Several committee members stated that they were seeing an effort being made to cover the Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. Coverage was also being provided during the week, but many of those on duty were still not directing traffic. Officers were seen trying to direct traffic positioned outside their cars, but appeared to have limited success. Precarious situations continued to present themselves regardless of the Officers presence.

Parking:

Officers are seen giving out tickets more often throughout the Island. Officers are seen by some residents as not being visual enough, rarely leaving their car around South Town. Member stated that the same culprits, as have been discussed in the past, who live/work around South Town and whose cars are left illegally, are still not getting ticketed. Restrictions on O/N parking near South town are not being closely monitored, and cars remain there all night without tickets, although the machines are up and operating.

Vertical Patrols:

Officers are seen less frequently this month in hall ways or at door station in Westview and Island House. Officers still visible in Roosevelt Landings on 4th and 7th floor, as well as in the senior are building. Members attempted to define what constitutes trespassing. Several residents that live in Roosevelt landings expressed concern that they were unable to walk through the buildings, as they were designed to be. Complaints that this rule perpetuates unfair treatment of teens , who live in one of the buildings, but may be seen walking in another on their way home, and who are then stopped and issued tickets for being in a different building.

Motorgate:

Resident complaints about illegally parked vehicles in Motorgate. RIOC Public Safety has claimed they cannot enforce parking rules in Motorgate. Matthew will explore. Patrols have not been as visible recently as last month. PSO have not been seen in stair wells. Members feel that PSO need to be walking through the stair wells, and conducting vertical patrols on foot as well as in cars.

NYPD Police Meeting:

Police coverage for a 40 hour shift has been provided by the 114th to Roosevelt Island. Presently there are several officers who rotate. A community officer has not been assigned yet. Committee welcomed officer and once an officer is assigned will request a meet and greet where building representatives might voice concerns.

Complaints:

A resident expressed concern that although she has a law suit against a Public Safety Officer for his treatment of her son during an arrest, the same officer is still working a shift where he has regular contact with her child. The resident stated that since she filed the report he continues to harass her child. She states that she has documented these contacts. She expressed feeling uncomfortable with this officer working where he has contact with her son on a regular basis. Committee heard resident’s complaint and discussed problem. The Civilian Complaint Review Board bill that would address State Peace Officers, drafted by Kellner last term was discussed and will be followed up on. Chair had sent an email to Director Guerra and Martinez when first brought to her attention, which was never responded to. Discussion focused on procedures for filing a complaint. Members felt that procedure alone was a deterrent, and the fact that the complainer did not get a carbon copy or receipt was a problem. The committee referred the resident to her lawyer, and suggested that she show documentation of the continued harassment. Committee will explore possibility of a change in the procedures for filing a complaint against Public Safety.

Safety in Breeze ways/ fire lane / service road:

Member brought up resident’s concern over the traffic in the breeze ways and behind the building of Roosevelt Landings. The concern is the speed which cars drive in this area. Members discussed if this was a traffic enforcement issue, or a need for signage. Suggestions ranged from slow down signs, speed bumps, and ticket enforcement of unauthorized cars in back area etc.

Bicycle complaints:

Resident shared concern over the delivery men riding their bicycle in the hall ways of Roosevelt Landing. It was suggested that resident inform building management and restaurant directly. F/U next meeting.

Bicycles on the bridge, riding, instead of dismounting as directed by signage was discussed. Member informed committee about the dangerous conditions of the bridge’s surface for bicycle riding, advocating for riders to be allowed to ride on the walk area, and most felt an educational campaign about sharing the walk way might be a possible solution to reckless riding. Not all members felt that bicycles should have to dismount when crossing and felt that if the bicycles stopped and made way for pedestrians the problems would be solved. Who has legal responsibility for patrolling the bridge, if tickets were to be issued was discussed.

New Business:

Member brought resident complaints about the amount of dog feces that is not being picked up by walkers, as well as individuals who are walking dogs off the lease. One member mentioned the possibility of a dog run area specifically for smaller dogs that is in discussion. Public awareness signs suggested, as well as ticket enforcement.

Next Meeting: 5/23/11@ 7:30pm at the Senior Center

Here are the minutes from May 23, 2011 RIRA Public Safety Committee Meeting:

Traffic Enforcement:

All members stated that they have seen improvement this past month on the traffic enforcement at the bottom of the ramp. Officers are out during the Famer’s Market and during the week as agreed. Officers are no longer standing in front of their car but positioned beneath the ramp, or in the middle of the intersection where they can see and be seen by the traffic in all directions. Complaints by residents down at South Town are focused on cars not stopping at the stop signs.

Vertical Patrols:

Patrols have been seen in Roosevelt Landings. They have not been seen in Westview, and are rarely even seen at the door station signing in and out. Chair will request the statistics to see if there has been a decrease in number.

Parking:

Members report that cars are being ticketed. There still exists the same problem with the “regular” illegally parked vehicles at South Town. Most spaces in front of Westview are being taken up by cars with the handicap placards, and do not have meter slips.

Motorgate:

A resident did receive a message taped to window stating that they would be towed for being inches outside the line in a reserved parking space at Motorgate. The note appeared to be from Central Parking. The dispute over who is responsible for ticketing illegally parked car is in discussion with RIOC and Matthew Katz, RIRA President. Signage in Motorgate informs patrons that illegally parked cars are subject to being towed by Public Safety, who owns 71% of the building. Erica will meet with Fernando Martinez and review the contract. Director Guerra and RIOC have stated in the past that Public Safety is not authorized to ticket in Motorgate.
Member noted that the stairways stink of urine indicating that trespassing is occurring, and it is becoming a quality of life issue again. No one has seen PSO outside of cars patrolling Motorgate, or in the stairwells. Chair will follow up with Chief Guerra concerning patrols.

Safety issues in the Fire lanes / Service Road:

Discussed breezeways / service roads and what can be done to ensure safety of children. Committee members were unclear if cars were even supposed to be this area, unless they were loading / unloading the car. Some members believe that the back road is for emergency vehicles only and regular traffic should exit onto the street from the breezeway. One member stated that a Yahoo map of R. I. listed the road behind Roosevelt Landings as Main Street. Other members felt that the promenade area behind the buildings that encircled the entire Island was designated for pedestrians or emergency vehicles. If it was for emergency vehicles it was determined that speed bumps would not be a solution. Committee felt it necessary to get clarification on the legalities of vehicles in this area. If determined to be legal then speed signs might be necessary, and if not, placing this type of sign would indicate it was legal to utilize this road and members favored signage such as “Slow, children at play” and enforcement of a speed limit.

Bicycles riding in hallways: Crossing the Bridge:

Only place this issue has been noted is in Roosevelt Landings. Actions taken since last meeting was a letter to restaurant, endorsed by the Chambers of Commerce, and notice to building management. Committee suggested sending a standard letter to all businesses then if it still continues contacting Public Safety to issue tickets. If there is a series of complaints, or a request from the management company Public Safety can be asked for assistance.

On Bicycles riding on the path in order to cross the bridge committee member felt that common sense could solve this problem, but considered asking RIOC to do an educational campaign about sharing the space. Not all members felt that bicycles should have to dismount when crossing and felt that if the bicycles stopped and made way for pedestrians the problems would be solved.

Presently new signs are up indicating that riding of bicycles on the walkway is prohibited. Possible educational signage might say “Yield to pedestrians”. Discussion with RIOC on safety issue is being considered regarding unsafe passage for bicycles, and request for a designated area.

NYPD Officers:

We continue to see Officer Didio on patrol for the 114th on Roosevelt Island. . Matthew will follow up with the Deputy Inspector to find out where we are in the process.

New Business:

Resident came to the committee with a grievance against 2 Public Safety officers. She alleges that on 5/17 at around 3:30pm her 16 year old son was cuffed and paraded down Main Street by Public Safety officers. Initially when approached and asked to come into the office by the PS Officers he asked them for what. At that point he was handcuffed and brought to the Office. He was taken to the 114th for questioning regarding a robbery, put in a line up, and later released. When she spoke to the desk Sergeant about where her son was, he was dismissive and rude. She was never called when they took him in and found out by a third party who witnessed the incident, although she is known by them all, having lived here over 20 years. The resident also questioned the roll of the Youth Officer, and the relationship between Public Safety Officers and the kids. Her complaint has to do with the manner in which young black males are treated by Public Safety Officers. She feels that even the newer officers are disrespectful and aggressive. She also spoke about other incidents which involved her other son as well and revolved around being arrested for trespassing in their own building. She wonders why this new force of Officers, under Guerra’s command, do not behave like Peace Officers, who work with the community to ensure quality of life for all residents, instead more like bullies. Client was advised to put in a complaint concerning the incidents in question and if she did not receive a response to cc her complaint to the RIOC Board members.

Next Meeting 6/20/11@7:30pm

Here is the letter from RIRA Public Safety Committee Chair Erin Feely-Nahem to Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Safety Director Keith Guerra thanking the offices of the Public Safety Department for their assistance during the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Director Guerra:

I wanted to express the RIRA Public Safety Committee’s appreciation for the attention your office provided to the safety of the community during the Cherry Blossom Festival. It was because of the collaboration of your department with the organizers of this event that the program could be carried out without any problems.

We would like to acknowledge the attention to detail that your office provided during the planning stages, as well as during the follow through on the day of the event. Attention to your officer’s duties, which included traffic control, crowd control and parking strategies for the musicians and other performers who had traveled long distances, provided the confidence required by all for a totally successful event.

A very special thank you to all the officers who assisted with this event and whose hard work and positive attitudes made our collaboration a success.

Sincerely,

Erin Feely-Nahem Chair

Roosevelt Island Photo Blogger Shares Unique and Close Up Perspective of Farmers Market - Check Out Some Of Olya's Moments

Image from Olya's Urban Journal

Roosevelt Island resident and photographer Olya Turcihin shares an up close and personal view of the offerings at yesterday's Roosevelt Island Farmers Market on her blog,  Olya's Urban Journal.

Image from Olya's Urban Journal

Every day, Ms. Turcihin provides a unique visual perspective of scenes from Roosevelt Island and elsewhere on her blog. Check it out.

Image from Olya's Urban Journal

Roosevelt Island resident and blogger Life of Riley recently profiled Ms. Turcihin. Here's an excerpt:

Meeting Olya changed my life. As a writer, I love spending time with other creative souls, and Olya oozes creativity. But it’s much more than her creativity that catches one’s attention. She’s an observer of life . . . a keen eye focusing on minute and dismissed locations, people, and fixtures. And through Olya’s epic lens, I find myself seeing things around me in new ways and many times seeing these items for the first time. I’ve started to imitate Olya’s style–I call them Olya Moments–taking impromptu pics of tattered old tug boats along the East River, weathered rocks, and the vibrant movement of the city. She does this to you–prodding you to feel wide awake, ready to capture the world around you in a refreshing way. So here’s to a few of your own Olya Moments, and a little reawakening to all that surrounds you.

Life of Riley:  I’ve been browsing Olya’s Urban Journal, and I went back to the very first post from the blog launch. You talk about your sister and father and how much you miss them both. How does your art bring you closer to them?

Read the entire Life of Riley interview with Olya here.

Welcome to the Roosevelt Island Blogosphere Olya and Life of Riley.

Roosevelt Island Tram Running Single Cabin Next Two Weekends For Electrical and Mechanical Improvements To Cable Suspension - Smoother Ride and More Ways To Hold On Coming Soon

Image From RIOC

Previous post this week reported that the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) will  be running a single Roosevelt Island Tram cabin this weekend and next due to electrical and mechanical improvements being made to the cabin suspension.

A reminder from RIOC:

As a reminder, on Saturday, June 4th - Sunday, June 5th, the Tram will be operating a single cabin only due to electrical improvements to the cabin suspension. During this time, the Tram will provide service every 15 minutes. Normal service will resume on Monday, June 6th at 6 AM.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

RIOC Director Jonathan Kalkin adds:

Very excited to announce that we are starting work on the improvements to the Tram residents have asked for and I  have been advocating for on the Operations Committee. People want a smoother ride especially on the towers and RIOC will be testing improved suspension features to provide that. People have also asked for more ways to hold on during the ride and that is coming soon as well.

Mr. Kalkin promised these improvements would soon be coming in an April post and it looks like he was right:

..The other day I had the opportunity to be on the Tram with our VP of Operations Fernando Martinez and RIOC President Leslie Torres. I had mentioned during previous meetings that I had gotten several emails or comments that there were not enough places to hold onto currently. I'm 6 feet tall and the rack on the top was still high over my head. I told Fernando that we should either lower the current poles on the top, add some kind of retractable strap to hold onto that doesn't hit people in the face, add extra vertical poles, or some combination of the three. There may be alternative solutions so I asked that we have an expert look at it again to figure out a fix.

I also have seen, read or experienced myself movement on the Tram while it approaches the towers. The Tram is different from the old Tram in that it uses a fixed cable system and therefore can be used in higher winds because the cables are fixed and don't move. Therefore the Tram cable can't swing on the trip in high winds. It remains fixed. However, when approaching the towers the Tram will center itself which is why you feel that nudge. This is very similar to a speed bump. If the operator moves quickly through it, it is more severe and during high winds, the correction is bigger. I have asked during several operations meetings that we develop a procedure for this during regular operations and high wind situations. If we have to go slower when approaching the tower in order to give a more comfortable ride, I think we should. It just makes sense....

Image of Tram Passengers Holding on to Overhead Bars

One Pint, One Hour, 3 Lives - Sign Up To Be A Donor For The Roosevelt Island Blood Drive At The Farmers Market Tomorrow

You Tube Video of Mayor Bloomberg Donating Blood

The Roosevelt Island Day Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) annual Blood Drive is currently underway. RIRA President Matt Katz reported at the June RIRA meeting that:

After two Saturdays at the Farmers Market, I can report to you that the sign-up for blood donors is going gangbusters. With two weeks to go, and due to the ultra-persuasive volunteers staffing our table, we have fifty-one pledges in hand.

There's still plenty of room for more Roosevelt Island blood donors. It's easy to sign up. Just stop by the RIRA Blood Drive Table at the Farmers Market tomorrow. Speak to the RIRA members

RIRA Members Aaron Hamburger and Mona Sen At RIRA Blood Donor Table Last Week

who will provide you with all the information you need and learn how you can donate blood and save one life or maybe more.

You Tube Video of Save 3 Lives In 1 Hour As A Blood Donor

The blood donations will take place on Roosevelt Island Day, June 11, at the Seniors Center, 546 Main Street from 10 AM - 4 PM. You will be treated very well.

Report From RIOC President Leslie Torres - Roosevelt Island Red Bus Operations, Community Transportation Meeting, Octagon Fuel Cell, Tennis Court Times, BBQ Grills, Roosevelt Island Day & More

Image of March 2011 Morning Red Bus Bunching at the Octagon

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Lesie Torres sends the following report to Roosevelt Island residents.

I hope you enjoyed the Memorial Day weekend and the official summer kick-off.

Summer is a season to have fun at the parks across the Island. I’ve included below information on some Island activities, and you can check our website and Facebook page for more information.

 Image of Transportation Manager Cy Opperman at Red Bus Stop From Jonathan Kalkin at Yfrog

Running the Red Bus: Cyril “Cy” Opperman

Two months ago, recognizing that we needed to improve the management and the service on our red bus line, I hired Cyril “Cy” Opperman, a 31-year veteran of bus operations, to head up our bus operation.

Even before he officially joined the RIOC staff, Cy was riding the Red Buses to get a feel for the customer experience, safety procedures and general bus operations.

Now that he’s on board, Cy comes in at about 5:30 in the morning to provide oversight of the morning rush hour, which starts with the first two buses at 5:45am and three others at 6:45am. In case you are wondering, as I was, Cy wakes up at 3am and goes jogging before coming in to the office (he gets 5 hours of sleep, which he’s been doing for most of the past 31 years).

Cy spends the rest of the morning traveling the route, talking to passengers, and residents, and overseeing the dispatchers, all in an effort to improve operations.

Improving Bus Safety

Safety is Cy’s first priority. To that end, he oversees a daily safety inspection of all main bus components. Cy’s also making sure all our bus operators are properly trained. All drivers will now be required to take a road test, physical, and written exam on an annually basis, twice as frequently as is required by the State.

Ensuring On-Time Bus Arrival

Cy is also working on getting buses on an on-time arrival schedule that best meets residents’ needs.

Over the past few weeks, Cy managed a survey to track ridership and determine how to best dispatch and route buses during the morning rush. He is now conducting a pilot program to assess if routing all morning buses via at The Octagon will improve service. The pilot includes maintaining the current Octagon express bus and two Octagon local buses and adding The Octagon stop for the 2 remaining local buses that currently commence at the Firehouse.

Preliminary pilot results show that the extension of the Firehouse Local to the Octagon provides improved service for The Octagon residents without impacting riders at boarding at Manhattan Park.

Check out our Facebook and website for updates on any changes to the bus schedule. We will also send out information via our email alert system.

Cy plans to tackle the PM rush hour service next.

Community Meeting on Island Transportation

If you are interested in hearing more about the Red Bus operations, or other Island transportation issues, please join us on Thursday, June 16th for a community meeting on island transportation issues. The meeting will be held at the Good Shepherd Community Center at 7pm.

Octagon Officially Powered by Clean, Green Technology

Last week, Becker + Becker, developers of The Octagon, hosted a ceremony to officially launch the cutting-edge fuel cell that now powers the building. The technology comes courtesy of a grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

Roosevelt Island has always been at the forefront of adopting green, clean technology. You can see my remarks from the ribbon cutting on RIOC’s Facebook page.

Tennis Court Time Available

As I was walking to The Octagon ceremony, I passed by our beautiful tennis courts and was reminded how wonderful it is to have these courts on the Island. While tennis season has started, it’s not too late to get your season pass. Passes cost $100 per person and give you access to 6 courts on a first come, first serve basis. For more information.

Island Boot Camp a Hit

Following Health and Fitness day, we held an Island Boot Camp class at Sportspark. Boot Camp fitness classes are a great way to get fit, since they combine several different forms of exercise into one fun group class. Not surprisingly, most of the 18 residents that attended gave the class high marks.

Mike Smith, Director of Parks and Recreation, is working to increase the types of classes offered at Sportspark. Email him suggestions at msmith@rioc.com

BBQ on the Island

I know there will be many Island residents ready for a good cook-out this summer. As you may know, BBQs are available at Lighthouse Park for you to use on a first come, first serve basis. We just ask that you use them safely, keep the park clean, and follow a few other rules posted at the park.

Roosevelt Island Day:

Come out on June 11th and show your Roosevelt Island community pride by helping to keep the Island green and beautiful at this fun FREE event! Activities begin at 9AM with an ongoing tradition of community-wide flower planting. Starting at 12PM there will be more to do and see, including amusements, games and rides for the entire family, and the popular petting zoo. The event concludes at 6PM with a concert on the Good Shepherd Plaza.

Sponsored by Roosevelt Island Youth Program, Urban American, Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation, Island House, Island Kids, PS/IS 217 PTA, Rivercross, RIRA, RISA, RIVAA, Roosevelt Island Living Library, and Westview.

A version of the RIOC President's column also appears on RIOC's web site and the June 4, 2011 Main Street WIRE.

No Pedestrian Safety Barrier For Queens Side of Roosevelt Island Bridge Says NYC Dep't Of Transportation - More Test Openings For Bridge and Often Delayed Rehabilitation Project Scheduled To Be Completed At End of August 2011

Image of Queens Side of the Roosevelt Island Bridge Without Pedestrian Safety Barrier

Previous posts have reported on the desire by some for a pedestrian safety barrier on the Queens side of the Roosevelt Island Bridge Pathway. There is an existing pedestrian safety barrier on the portion of the Bridge closer to the Roosevelt Island side

Image of Roosevelt Island Side of Roosevelt Island Bridge with Safety Barrier

but it does not extend to the Queens side of the Bridge.

Queens Side of Roosevelt Island Bridge without Safety Barrier

Roosevelt Island's NY State Assembly Member Micah Kellner and NYC Council Member Jessica Lappin sent this letter to NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) Manhattan Borough Commissioner Margaret Forgione urging that a pedestrian safety barrier be installed along the Queens side of the Roosevelt Island Bridge and that the Roosevelt Island community be apprised of any progress in the construction of such a safety barrier.

Dear Commissioner Forgione,

We are writing in regards to the status of a pedestrian barrier on the Roosevelt Island Bridge. Currently, pedestrians on the eastern side of the bridge do not have a physical barrier to protect them from traffic. Such a barrier was unfortunately and incomprehensibly not included in the original design of the bridge.

The absence of a barrier on the eastern side has created hazardous conditions for the large disabled community on Roosevelt Island, pedestrians with children, and the many others who understandably feel unsafe crossing the bridge while unprotected from traffic. As the only thoroughfare to and from Roosevelt Island, the bridge is extremely busy at all hours of the day. Wheelchair users who cross the bridge risk falling off the curb’s edge. On the extremely narrow path, this can easily occur when individuals attempt to pass one another

Members of the community, including the Roosevelt Island Residents Association and the Roosevelt Island Disabled Association, have contacted us for assistance in meeting with the Department of Transportation (DOT) to determine the best way to incorporate a barrier into the existing structure. We understand that this problem has been acknowledged by the DOT, and that you have been examining the issue. However, the community has not been kept apprised of any progress that has been made towards the construction of a barrier.

The absence of this barrier is a tragic accident waiting to happen. We ask that you meet with local community leaders to discuss the future plans for the bridge. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Commissioner Forgione responded by saying no to a pedestrian safety barrier on the Queens side of the  Roosevelt Island Bridge because, according to the DOT, the sidewalk is in compliance with required standards.

Click on text above to read the DOT Commissioner's response or read it below.
DOT Roosevelt Island Bridge Pedestrian Safety Barrier Letter

During last night's Roosevelt Island Resident's Association (RIRA) meeting, Kellner's staffer Robert Atterbury told the Council Members that Assembly Member Kellner and Council Member Lappin are working on reversing DOT's decision as well as setting up a meeting between Roosevelt Island community members and DOT officials to further explain the need for a Roosevelt Island Bridge pedestrian safety barrier along the Queens side of the Bridge.

DOT Commissioner Forgione also reports in her letter to Mr. Kellner and Ms. Lappin that the often delayed $86.5 million Roosevelt Island Bridge Rehabilitation Project's new completion date is now the end of August 2011.

This means that there will be more testing on the Roosevelt Island Bridge.

Image of Roosevelt Island Bridge Opening From Jonathan Hoo

According to the DOT:

The New York City Department of Transportation Division of Bridges will again resume testing the newly rehabilitated Roosevelt Island Bridge on Monday, June 6th at 10:00 a.m. The bridge will be fully closed for up to 15 minutes. All traffic in the queue must dissipate before a second 15-minute closure can occur.. Testing will conclude daily by 2:00 p.m. and be completed on June 10th. Electrical and mechanical testing requires intermittent closures of the bridge to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. In the weeks after June 10th, should sporadic testing be necessary, NYCDOT will inform the Roosevelt Island community and the general public.

The work is weather sensitive and inclement weather may cause the work to be rescheduled or delayed. Should this occur, additional notification of the revised schedule will be provided. Variable message boards will inform motorists and pedestrians of the closures. NYPD Traffic Enforcement Agents will assist with traffic control at Vernon Blvd and 36th Avenue. During the bridge testing, NYPD, NYFD and EMS units will be available to Roosevelt Island residents and visitors by dialing 911.

Click On Image to Enlarge

Young Woman Dreams of Living in New York City - Dream Comes True and She is Now Living on Roosevelt Island

Image from NY Times/Suzanne DeChillo

The NY Times profiled a young woman with a dream of living in New York City ever since she was a young girl. She made that dream come true and now lives on Roosevelt Island. From the NY Times:

As a teenager, Kristy Shelberg, stoked by “Seinfeld” and “Friends” and subscriptions to Vogue and Elle, plotted her escape from Creve Coeur, Mo., for New York City and a job in fashion or photography. She graduated in 2010 with a B.A. in marketing from LIM College in Midtown Manhattan, became Kristy Whitwell when she married her hometown sweetheart in July, and was hired last August as the event and party coordinator at the Scholastic Store in SoHo. Ms. Whitwell, 24, lives on Roosevelt Island with her husband, David, a classical trombonist attending the Brooklyn College Conservatory of Music....

The entire article is here.

Welcome to NYC and Roosevelt Island Kristy.

U2 loves New York too.

You Tube Video of U2's New York

Free Mammogram Screenings From Project Renewal Scan Van Available On Roosevelt Island Tomorrow Reports State Senator Jose Serrano

Image of Project Renewal Scan Van Mammogram Room

Roosevelt Island's State Senator Jose Serrano with Project Renewal's Scan Van Program are offering Free Mammogram screenings on Friday June 3 at the Good Shepherd Church Plaza (543 Main Street) from 8:30 AM - 4 PM.

For women 40 years of age and older who have not had a mammogram in the past year.

Free For Uninsured women 40 years of age and Older Medicaid/Medicare/Affinity/Fedelis/GHI/Local 1199/Oxford/Cigna United Health Care and other insurance plans accepted. All co-pays and deductibles are waived.

An appointment is necessary.

Please call 1-800-564-6868.

Image From Senator's Serrano's Office (Click on Image To Enlarge)

More on Project Renewal here and from previous posts.

Roosevelt Island Tram Running Single Cabin For Next Two Weekends - Electrical and Mechanical Improvements Being Made To Cabin Suspension

 Image of Roosevelt Island Tram Cabins From Duc Le

Received the following message from the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

Please be advised that on Saturday, June 4th - Sunday, June 5th, the Tram will be operating a single cabin only due to electrical improvements to the cabin suspension. During this time, the Tram will provide service every 15 minutes. Normal service will resume on Monday, June 6th at 6 AM.

In addition, On Saturday, June 11th- Sunday, June 12th, the Tram will be undergoing mechanical improvements to the cabin suspension. During this time, the Tram will provide service every 15 minutes. Normal service will resume on Monday, June 13th at 6 AM.

Red Bus service will operate on its normal weekend schedule.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may have on your commute and thank you for your patience during these service changes.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

Plan on crowded Tram Cabins for the next two weekends.

Image of Crowded Manhattan Tram Station

Keep Your Bare Feet Off Of The Roosevelt Island Starbucks Tables Please

It's almost summer and hot outside. Many people are wearing sandals and flip flops for comfort, relief from the heat and style. Unfortunately, some people choose to relax in a restaurant or coffee shop by removing their sandals or flip flops and plunking their bare dirty feet right on top of tables or chairs that others use as this person did at the Roosevelt Island Starbucks over the Memorial Day weekend.

Image of Bare Feet On Roosevelt Island Starbucks Table

Not very considerate behavior or sanitary at all.

Yahoo Answers received a question on this topic recently: 

Why do girls put their bare feet on the coffee table at Starbucks?

Don't get me wrong. I think most of the ones who do it are gorgeous, and they have pretty feet. But isn't putting your bare feet on the coffee table at Starbucks a bit awkward and unsanitary? I often see college aged girls purchasing their lattes before walking over to the couch area, slipping off their rainbow flip flops and resting their bare feet on the coffee table like it's a foot stool, while reading a book or studying.

Isn't putting your bare feet on the coffee table as unsanitary as putting your feet on the coffee table with flip flops on because of all the germs involved? I will admit that there's something attractive about a girl who's confident enough about her feet to rest them on a table where everyone can see, but at the same time, I also find it somewhat gross since people eat and drink off that same table.

Most of the answers were similar to this one:

No matter if they're bare or not, it is rude, rude, rude to put your feet up on a table where others may put their food or beverages. Period. The employees should be going around telling them to please remove their feet--they are not in their private homes--and immediately wipe the tables.

That's vulgar, disgusting, and completely low class.

ADDED:

This really started to bug me. LOL! So, I emailed corporate and they asked for the store where this was going on. Apparently, the employees are supposed to stop people from doing this, as they see it the same way I do. Of course I couldn't tell them, but by all means you should go to the Starbucks site and send an email. There may be no explanation for why people so rudely do this in their me-centric little world, but you can call it to the attention of management.

Come Learn What Is Happening on Roosevelt Island With Red Bus, Main Street Stores, Library and More - Residents Association (RIRA) Meeting Tonight 8 PM At Good Shepherd Community Center

Image of April 2011 RIRA Meeting

The Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) monthly June meeting is tonight 8 PM at the Good Shepherd Community Center (543 Main Street). The Agenda for the meeting is below.

As always, prior to the start of each meeting there is a public session in which any resident can come and address the Common Council Delegates on any issue of concern. Scheduled to speak during tonight's Public Session are Miranda Murray of the Roosevelt Island Public Library and Sal Ferrara of the Child School/Legacy High School.

Also, remember that Roosevelt Island's NY State Senator Jose Serrano has Roosevelt Island constituent office hours just prior to the RIRA monthly meeting and on the first Wednesday of every month from 4 - 7 PM at RIOC Headquarters 591 Main Street.

If you have any questions to ask Senator Serrano's staff or are in need of any assistance that may require the help of your elected representative stop by RIOC HQ. Also, bring photocopies of any paperwork related to your situation so that the Serrano staff can effectively and efficiently address the issue.

Below is the Agenda for the June RIRA Meeting,

June 1, 2011 Agenda

the Island Services Committee Report,

RIRA – ISLAND SERVICES COMMITTEE (ISC) REPORT TO THE COMMON COUNCIL MEETING, 6/1/11

Updates on the key issues ISC is working on:

Red Bus – Schedule, Stops, Strollers – The Red Bus now seems to be operating according to the plan worked out with RIRA. There appears to be little or no complaints from passengers. We will continue to monitor the operation.

RIOC is studying the possibility of allowing strollers on the buses during rush hours and we expect to hear from them about this issue in mid-June.

Main St. Stores – ISC has been in contact with RIOC Board member Jonathan Kalkin on this issue and plans to have a meeting with Kalkin in the near future to discuss ways that RIRA can work with RIOC and Hudson-Related in getting the stores that the community feels are needed and desirable for Roosevelt Island. Meanwhile, we are establishing a direct contact with David Kramer, the person in Hudson-Related who will be directing their efforts in attracting and selecting stores for Main St.

Parks – RIOC has now delayed the opening of Southpoint Park to the end of July. We suspect weʼll be lucky if the park opens by Labor Day.

Public Library - Since the New York Public Library has not yet allocated capital money to this project, itʼs clear that there will not be a start on the new Library in 2012. Best we can hope for is 2013 or 2014.

Pedestrian Safety Barrier on RI Bridge - We still havenʼt received an official response to our letter to the NYC Dept. of Transportation (DOT) on this issue. However, we understand that last week both Jessica Lappin & Micah Kellner received letter from DOT rejecting the proposed installation on the Queens side of the bridge. More information to follow. The fight is not over.

and minutes from the May RIRA meeting.
Click Here For More

Roosevelt Island Residents Association Common Council Meeting, 

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Minutes for May 4, 2011 Meeting

1. Public Access – 8:10p.m.
Robert Atterbury – Assemblyman Micah Kellner’s liaison to Roosevelt Island –
Kellner, with Rep. Maloney, is working with the DOT Manhattan Commissioner on safety barriers for the RI Bridge.

The Department of Justice is investigating the Taxi and Limousine Corp (TLC) for violating ADA guidelines for new Nissan taxis, which are not wheelchair accessible. Comptroller John Liu is looking into a potential conflict of interest, as those involved with choosing the vehicle were also involved with the vehicle design.

Micah has proposed legislation making the “Rescue Dog” New York’s State Dog; ditto the Rescue Cat.

A letter has been written and signed requesting that EMS partner with Public Safety for ambulance and emergency services on Roosevelt Island. Within two weeks, EMS will set up a call system so that every time EMS receives a call from a RI resident, EMS will inform Public Safety so that they can get to the emergency site even before EMS arrives and begin helping the caller. Public Safety is trained in the use of, and has defibrillators on hand.

Erin Feely-Nahem asked if the bill to establish a Civilian Complaint Board has been re-submitted. It is being reviewed, and people can contact Kellner’s office to give input.

Meeting called to order at 8:15pm:

2. Roll Call: Quorum achieved, (28 present/17 absent). Caetano removed having missed three consecutive meetings.

3. Approval of Agenda: Request to move SC&E report to head of the Committee reporting list; Helstien added a motion to New Business. Approved with amendments by acclamation

4. Approval of 4/6/11 Minutes: (Moved-Shull/Seconded-Atkins). Approved by acclamation

5. Treasurer’s Report – Report presented: Current Checking balance: $3,858.17; Legal Fund: $1,224.77; MTG Fund: $1,244.73.

6. President’s Report

1. The RIRA First Annual Cherry Blossom Festival required over 150 individuals and organizations to create. Lynne Shinozaki, SC&E Committee Chair will report the details of the event in her committee report. Katz dedicated a bronze plaque, funded by RIOC, to the Japanese people, along with RIOC President, Leslie Torres. RIRA received a Citation from Assembly Member Micah Kellner’s office, who brought a framed page from the Congressional Record citing the Island’f Fesival, courtesy of Rep. Maloney. Councilwoman Jessica Lappin’s office presented two framed Proclamations for the two Japanese Ambassadors to the United States and received by their representative.

2. A “Dear Friend” letter was received from Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, thanking us for the concerns raised regarding hydrofracking. He stated in the letter, that his office has “zero tolerance for public safety or environmental threats against our state’s families and any dangers will be met with the full force of my administration.”

3. Katz mentioned that Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer made good on his vow to follow up on our subway station concerns. He did so with an April 12 letter to MTA Chair, Jay Walder, citing our Manhattan-bound platform flood and the station door that never gets repaired. Katz also reminded Stringer of the unsanitary conditions in the lobby area caused by the netting that was supposed to interdict the pigeon population but, in fact, provides them with additional perching and nesting opportunities. His office has promised to follow up.

4. Katz sgined up Council volunteers to solicit blood donors at the Saturday Farmers Markets noting that he and Secretary Helstien have already signed up to start the ball rolling.

7. Committee Reports –
SC&E: Chair, Shinozaki – Expected numbers at the April 30 Cherry Blossom Festival were 300-400; actual attendance estimated at 1000-1200 people; that day we made $8,368.61! RIRA budgeted up to $150, only $50 used for lockboxes.

Events coming up:
5/14 – SkateRI during RIOC’s Health & Fitness Day, at Child School; RIRA Café fundraiser outside.

5/21 – Networking Breakfasts kickoff in residential buildings; 9am-Noon.

6/11 – RI Day – at RIRA FREE breakfast table, RIRA will be fundraising, partnering with Fresh Direct: with a $20 donation to RIRA, the donor will get a FD coupon; only for new FD members, however. Helstien presented Lynne with a pair of folded crane earrings, and will present a pair to Neha Kaul, who was in charge of personnel for the April 30 Festival.

Planning: Chair, Farance – Oral report: Farance has divided the Committee into sub-Committees which will focus on the following matters:

- GDP improvements sub-committee;
- Long-term financial planning by RIOC sub-committee;
- Blackwell Park sub-committee – to be led by Ilonka Salisbury;
- Transportation issues sub-committee in partnership with Island Services committee;
- SDRC sub-committee headed by Denise Shull: Letter has been sent to Stanford, NYU, and NYEDC. Next meeting will be with RIRA Councilmember and new CB8 Board Member, Jeff Escobar, who understands community benefit agreements, and RIOC Board member Jon Kalkin who has some expertise with NYEDC, to build a community coalition to give residents standing in the looming development of Goldwater Hospital. We hope that NYEDC will tell other prospective groups about RIRA letter. RFP is expected to come sometime over this summer.

- Issue: Better utilization of parking spaces on RI; commercial spaces

Public Safety: Chair, Feely-Nahem – oral report: Letter has been sent to Public Safety Director Guerra, commending his officers for their service at the Cherry Blossom Festival. There have been numerous Motorgate complaints with RIOC VP Martinez questioning whether Central Parking or Public Safety must enforce parking rules. The committee is working the hours of 4pm-midnight every night. Insp. Cirabisi has promised to bring the new full-time Island officer to the Common Council when one is appointed.

Communications: Co-Chairs, Dawson & Fortuna – Oral report: Website is running well; Vini is planning two training sessions to teach committee chairs how to use our calendar. He will send out some dates and times later. Fortuna wants to add RIRA to Wikipedia!

Government Relations: Chair, Mincheff –Oral report: the RI legislation review process with edits should be done by next meeting. Jessica Lappin had a baby boy, Miles. ASPCA will be out at Health & Fitness Day, 5/14, doing FREE micro-chipping for our pets.

Housing: Chair, Chirivas – Written report for February meeting. No recent meeting/no report. Constitution: Chair, Evans – Meetings in April cancelled. To resume in May.

Island Services: Chair, Hamburger - Written report submitted. Parking machines at Southtown location in operation.

8. Old Business – None

9. New Business –
Helstien – Proposed two motions with regard to the purchase and sale of RIRA hats and visors for fundraising:
Motion 1: seconded, Salisbury That the members of the RIRA Common Council approve the SC&E Committee’s request to purchase a gross of hats and visors at one of these amounts: (a) ($6 per hat/visor x 144 =) $864, (b) ($5.50 per hat/visor x 144 =) $792 or (c) ($5 per hat/ visor x 144 =) $720. The hats and visors will be sold at $15 each netting $2160 – $864 = (a) $1296, $2160- 792 =$1368, or 2160-$720 = (b) $1440.
(The cost of the hats was given in various price ranges, as the cost was not solidified at the time of this RIRA meeting; subsequent to this meeting, the price of $5.50 was agreed upon.)
Vote: 25Y, 0N, 0A. Motion carried.

Motion 2 as amended: seconded, Salisbury That the members of the RIRA Common Council agree to participate in the selling of hats and visors at all community events, in order to help build the RIRA Treasury ensuring our ability to do more programs and events that any of the committees might want to pursue.

Vote: 24Y, 2N, 2A. Motion carried.

Meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.