Best Wishes For A Happy and Healthy New Year From Roosevelt Island - Countdown the Seconds With Jim Carey & Party with Southside Johnny And Bruce

You Tube Video of Jim Carrey Celebrating the New Year on David Letterman Show

There's no better way to party out the past year then with a traditional last song from Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes together with Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band .

We're havin' a party
Everybody's swinging
Dancing to the music
On the radio
So listen, Mr. DJ
Keep those records playing
'Cause I'm having such a good time
Dancing with my baby

You Tube Video of Southside Johnny and Bruce Springsteen Having a Party in 1978 - Lyrics are by Sam Cooke.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Roosevelt Island Public Safety Reports For December 23 Thru 30 - Burglary, Larceny, Trespass and Theft of Tram Service

Image of burglar stealing television from apartment wiz

RIOC is posting the most current Daily and November Monthly Roosevelt Island Public Safety Incident reports on their web site. Also, available on the RIOC web site is a breakdown of Roosevelt Island Public Safety incidents by location and category for the month of October. Below are the Roosevelt Island Daily Public Safety Reports for December 23 - December 30 2008. Incidents included:

• Burglary - money and jewelry stolen, forced entry (12/23,24)
• Larceny - money missing from apartment (12/24,25)
• Theft of Tram service - adult male using student pass
• Disorderly conduct/Drunken Driving (12/27)
• Three people stuck in subway elevator (12/28)
• Youths throwing rocks at cab (12/28)
• Property Damage to Southpoint MTA substation gate (12/29) and
• Trespass - 6 juveniles and 6 adults in Eastwood/Roosevelt Landings (12/30)
  

12/23/08-7:00 AM to 12/24/08-7:00 AM

Smoke alarm- Burnt food in apt. No injuries or damage. UA notified.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Aided- Child struck with a snow ball by another. Other child fled. EMS refused by mother. Search for child subject yielded negative results.

Criminal Mischief- Hole in the wall. Search for the subject yielded negative results. UA notified.

Alcohol Open Container- Subject arrested by PSD.

Trespassing- In building. 5 subjects and one with illegal substance and all arrested.

Burglary- Signs of forced entry in apt door. Jewelry and money taken. Search for the subject yielded negative results. NYPD responded and report filed.

12/24/08-7:00 AM to 12/25/08-7:00 AM

TRESPASS- PSD AND NYPD RESPONDED FOR SUBJECTS TRESPASSING IN THE BUILDING. PSD ARRESTED FOUR SUBJECTS
FOR TRESPASSING. NYPD ARRESTED SUBJECT FOR POSSESSION OF Marijuana.

BURGLARY- TENANT returned from work and noticed items were missing from apt. Door showed signs of forced entry NYPD AND PSD responded.

AIDED- PORTER cut himself while doing his work. aided was transported to hospital by another coworker.

WATER LEAK- PSD officer responded to apt for water leak. Super corrected the condition.

AIDED- PERSON fell out of a wheelchair. PSD officers responded and assisted aided back in his chair. Refused medical attention.

FOUND PROPERTY- PSD officer found keys in mail box. KEY returned to owner.

WATER LEAK- TENANT reported to psd water leak in apt. SERVICE responded and corrected the condition.

LARCENY- TENANT returned from work and stated he was missing money from his apt . NYPD and PSD responded. No signs of force entry.

12/25/08-7:00 AM to 12/26/08-7:00 AM

Larceny - Tenant reports left apartment secured, upon returning next day unknown subject took money off his desk. NYPD on scene, took report. No sign of force entry.


Aided - PSD Observed EMS in front of building. Female tenant having a possible stroke. EMS transported to the hospital.

Aided - PSD responded for male having a seizure in the hallway. EMS transported to the hospital.

Found Property - Anonymous male walked into PSD with a set of vehicle keys. NYPD on scene did a computer check. Owner was notified and picked up the keys.

Graffiti - Male tenant reports graffiti writing on the 7th floor of Eastwood. PSD Officers responded and observed several doors had graffiti on the doors. PSD Conducted a search for possible subjects with negative results.

12/26/08-7:00 AM to 12/27/08-7:00 AM

Aided- PSD and EMS responded to tenant apartment. Tenant called 911 complaining of severe leg pain. EMS transported to hospital.

Criminal Mischief- PSD receive complaint of graffiti on the 7th floor. Three apartment doors had writing on them, super notified. Search made with negative results.

Theft of Service- PSD officer observed male subject 43yrs old entering tram with a student pass summoned and released.

Arrest- PSD officer observed two male subjects with open containers, subjects became irate and belligerent by flailing his arms. Escorted to PSD summoned and released.

12/27/08-7:00 AM to 12/28/08-7:00 AM

Alcohol/Open Container/Minor/Disorderly Conduct-2 Subjects arrested by PSD.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Disorderly Conduct/ Resisting Arrest/ Unlicenced Operator DWI/Driving Wrong Direction-Subject drove vehicle wrong way and was stopped by PSD. Odor of Alcohol and a beer visable. Subject incoherent and odor of alcohol on breath./ Investigation revealed suspended license. Subject arrested by PSD.

Unsecured Vehicle- In the Garage. No record of the owner per Central Parking. PSD checked the vehicle periodically.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Assault Subject bite male victim. EMS refused. Subject arrested by PSD.

12/28/08-7:00 AM to 12/29/08-7:00 AM

Unsecured Vehicle- In Motorgate garage. No record of the owner. PSD conducted periodic checks of the vehicle.

Property Damage- Blackwell Playground a toddler swing seat on the ground. It was secured in PS D. RIOC notified.

Vehicle Damage- A vehicle parked in the Motorgate garage had damages. Owner believed it was caused by vehicle parked next to it. NYPD refused.

Aided- 3 people stuck in the Subway elevator. FDNY responded and removed them. No injuries and EMS refused.

Found Property- Black purse. It was secured in PSD. Owner notified and retrieved it.

Smoke Alarm- Burnt food in apt. UA notified and porter opened windows in the hallway to air out the smoke. No injuries and no property damage.

Criminal Mischief- Hole in the wall. search for the subject yielded negative results. UA notified.

Retrieved Property- Tenant brought in a Fed Ex package left in the building. owner was notified and retrieved it.

Hazardous Condition- Numerous lights out in Motorgate Garage. Central Parking notified. PSD conducted periodic checks of these areas Levels "6C" and "6D".

Aided- Child fell in apt and sustain pain to hand. EMS transporter her to the Hospital.

Investigation- 3 youths who ran from an area where rocks were thrown to a cab were escorted to PSD. Parents notified and retrieved youths.

Unlawful Poss. of Marijuana- Subject arrested by PSD.

Aided- Adult male accidently cut his foot. EMS responded and he refused transport
to the Hospital.

12/29/08-7:00 AM to 12/30/08-7:00 AM

Vehicle Accident - A parked vehicle has scratches another vehicle parked next to it may have caused it. NYPD notified. Both owners will work it out on their own.

Property Damage - At South Point Park the gate that leads into the MTA substation damaged on the left side. RIOC notified. Unknown what caused it.

Aided - An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Smoke Alarm - Burnt food in apt. No injuries and no property damaged. UA notified.

Investigation- Possible insect problem in apt. Tenant sprayed insecticide causing heavy odor. UA notified and will follow up.

Graffiti - At South Point Park on the circuit Breaker Box. Search for the subject yielded negative results. RIOC notified.

12/30/08-7:00 AM to 12/31/08-7:00 AM

Aided- Female fell and sustained a laceration to left knee. EMS refused. PSD escorted female home.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Unsecured Vehicle- In Motorgate Garage. Owner was notified and secured the vehicle.

Trespass- 6 juveniles and 6 Adult subjects in Eastwood. All subjects arrested by PSD. Juveniles were released to their parents.

Report From The Roosevelt Island Obama Health Care Forum - Prioritize Affordable Home Health Care Instead of Hospitalization and Nursing Homes

Roosevelt Island Obama Health Care Forum at the Good Shepherd Community Center

Tom Daschle attended one of last night's Obama Health Care Forums designed to help develop fresh new ideas for improving America's health care system in Dublin Indiana and not the one held last night here on Roosevelt Island. According to the NY Times:

Former Senator Tom Daschle, whom President-elect Barack Obama has called the “lead architect” of the new administration’s efforts to expand health insurance and rein in medical costs, attended a community meeting Monday where he got an earful about expenses that were too high and coverage that was too little....

Had Mr. Daschle attended last night's Roosevelt Island Obama Health Care Forum conducted by Doctor Jack Resnick (one of the rare NYC doctors who still makes neighborhood house calls) he would have seen an extremely informative and well attended meeting that focused primarily on providing affordable home health care as an alternative to hospital and nursing home care for elderly and disabled persons. Dr. Resnick's presentation can be summarized from the video below and his web site, The Roosevelt Doctor.

Independence at Home:
Saving Lives and Resources Through Health Care in the Home

Our health care system is broken. It costs too much and provides low quality care.

It's not enough to fix the financing of the system. We need to make health care better, safer, and more cost-effective.

By moving care out of hospitals and nursing facilities and into the
home, we can improve the quality of care by

• eliminating hospital-acquired infections
• reducing hospital errors
• providing personalized care from one doctor, not a faceless rotation of specialists
  

What do we need to make home care work?

• Physicians with:
  -24/7 availability
  -Intimate, comprehensive knowledge of the patient
  -Immediate access to the patient's database
• Home Health Aides
  -competent, well-paid
  -multi-functional
  -long-term
  
• Exercise/Physical Therapy -- continuous
  
• Providing hospital services at home, such as IVs
  
• Early Family/Caregiver Care Planning
  
• Live Audio/Video connection between doctors and patients

How will the system pay for it? It's cheaper.

• Hospitalization is the largest portion of healthcare cost
• Insurers could easily pay for all of the above services and still save money
• States are going broke paying for nursing home care through Medicaid
  -- we can save money by moving these patients into their own homes

Link:

CBS News reports that:

Through its Web site, the Obama transition team invited Americans to host health-care forums over the holidays. It provided "kits" that included a sample agenda, tips for a moderator and a plea for "particularly poignant stories to illustrate the need for health care reform."

A videographer documented Daschle's trip -- complete with footage of him walking through Indianapolis International Airport -- to post on the transition Web site. Other groups were encouraged to send photos, videos and reports.

I think Dr. Resnick and Roosevelt Island have plenty of "poignant stories to illustrate the need for health care reform" and hope that the Obama Health Care Transition team pays attention.

Deadline for Roosevelt Island Groups to Apply for Public Purpose Funds is January 30, 2009 - Get Those Applications Done!

Pile of Money Image from KR Connect

RIOC's Community Relations Specialist Erica Wilder sends the following message to Roosevelt Island organizations regarding the allocation of Public Purpose Funds.

To all Non-Profit Organizations and Groups on Roosevelt Island:
Please be advised that the next deadline to apply for Public Purpose Funding for the 2009 fiscal year is fast approaching. If you are interested in applying for additional seed money for your current program, please note that the deadline to apply for the Public Purpose Grant will be Friday, January 30th 2009 at 5:00 PM. To obtain a copy of the application, please visit http://www.rioc.com/grants.htm

The application can be downloaded or completed online. Please submit completed application and necessary attachments to the RIOC office located 591 Main Street. If you are an island based program or organization and do not have non-profit status and wish to apply for funding, please contact me at your earliest convenience.

Any questions or concerns regarding completing the application can be directed to me by email or by calling 212-832-4540 EXT# 349.
Best of luck!

UPDATE - 1/13: Ms. Wilder provides some more information on Roosevelt Island Public Purpose Funds:

To answer your question regarding RIRA's involvement:

After I vet the applications for completeness, I then pass completed applications to RIRA's Public Purpose Grant Committee. The committee meets several times to discuss each applicant and raise questions pertaining to their involvement, efforts, needs in the community. Based on discussions pertaining to applicants overall application, budget and amount requested, the committee then votes on which applicants should receive funding that would help with needed expenses.

Can Roosevelt Island Become a Model For Health Care Reform Under the Obama Administation? Come to Tonight's Obama Health Care Forum and Find Out?

Tom Daschle describing Community Health Care Forums

Dr. Jack Resnick has been living and practicing medicine on Roosevelt Island for many years. He now hopes that Roosevelt Island can become a model for President- Elect Obama's incoming administration to reform the American health care system by reducing costs and improving patient services. Dr. Resnick will be holding a Health Care Forum later tonight at the Good Shepherd Community Center. According to the Main Street WIRE (PDF File):

...Resnick will conduct an “Obama Health Care Forum” Monday, December 29, at 7:30, in the Good Shepherd Community Center. The event was organized in response to a call from Senator Tom Daschle, the President-Elect’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services. In a YouTube video, Daschle described this period as “a transformational moment.” Resnick wants Roosevelt Island to be central in that transformational moment.

Here is a participants guide and survey for Obama Health Care Community Discussions and an article by Dr. Resnick from the December 15 2007 Main Street WIRE (PDF File Page 1) on affordable home health care that the Obama health care team should examine.

More information on U.S. health care costs is available from NY Times 6 part Economix series via Yglesias.

New York Cares Winter Coat Drive Drop Off at Roosevelt Island Historical Society Kiosk & Public Safety Office

You Tube Video of New York Care's Coat Drive

Judy Berdy of the Roosevelt Island Historical Society sends the following message advising that the New York Cares Winter Coat program has been extended through January 9.

Dear Friends,

NY Cares desperately needs more coats to give to the homeless this winter. They have extended the deadline. Please donate your old coats at the RIHS kiosk this weekend Dec. 27 & 28 and next weekend January 3&4. The hours are 12 noon to 5 p.m. (If you miss the kiosk, bring your coats to the Public Safety Office).

Thank you,

Judy Berdy and the RIHS

WARM WINTER COATS AND JACKETS

STILL NEEDED!!!

WEEKEND COAT DRIVE AT THE

KIOSK

NEW YORK CARES COAT DRIVE

EXTENDED

UNTIL JANUARY 9^TH*

LEAVE YOUR USED COATS AT

RIHS VISITOR CENTER KIOSK

TRAM PLAZA, RI. SIDE

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

DEC. 27 AND 28, 2008*

JAN. 3 & 4, 2009*

12 NOON TO 5 P.M.

SPECIAL NOTE: Coat Drive Extension Through January 9, 2009
New York Cares will extend this year's Coat Drive through January 9th, 2009 to meet increased coat requests from nonprofit agencies this year. Donations are down due to economic conditions, so we encourage everyone to give a coat if they can.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!

Merry Christmas!
Here's the Christmas Song sung by the fabulous Nat King Cole. Enjoy!

You Tube Video of Nat King Cole's The Christmas Song

Have Some Chinese Food On Christmas With A Heaping Portion of Peace, Love & Understanding

Something for those who eat Chinese food on Christmas and go to the movie theater too. A funny satirical video.

You Tube Video of Chinese Food on Christmas

For everybody this Holiday Season, let us remember these immortal words from Elvis Costello:

What's so funny about Peace, Love and Understanding?

You Tube video of Elvis Costello's Peace, Love & Understanding

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town - On The Roosevelt Island Tram!

Roosevelt Island Reindeer Card

Santa Claus has been spotted near the 59th Street Bridge by Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band.

Have you all been good this year? Well, according to the Big Man Clarence Clemmons as well as the other Big Man Santa:

you've better been good for goodness sakes!!

You Tube video taken from London concert on December 19, 2007.

Here is Classic Bruce Springsteen & E Street Band from 1978 at the Capital Theater in Passaic, New Jersey doing Santa Claus is Coming to Town.

You Tube video is here.

More information on the Roosevelt Island Tram Reindeer card is available here.

Merry Christmas!

Roosevelt Island Public Bathrooms A Catastrophe Says Movie Director - So Teamster Drives Him To Manhattan To Potty

Image of Roosevelt Island Tram Bathroom

How bad are the Roosevelt Island public bathrooms and how far would you go to avoid using them when nature calls? Well, if you are the director of the movie City of Lights which shot scenes on Roosevelt Island last August, the answer is that you will go very far to find an acceptable toilet. The director described his Roosevelt Island bathroom ordeal at his blog Movies 'til Dawn:

...A funny thing happened on the evening of this shoot. I had to go to the bathroom. Now, I wouldn't normally blog an event of this low order but I'll make an exception in this case since this proves the power of the position of the director. I didn't have a trailer, you see. And the public bathrooms at Roosevelt Island were, to put it nicely, a catastrophe. So I waited for an interval when a new lighting set-up would be started -- in this case it was the tram station scene posted below--and asked my DP Vanja Cernjul how long it would take. "Close to an hour" was the answer. "Make it an hour fifteen", I replied. He was surprised. Usually the director is looking to spend less time lighting, not more. Then I found my Teamster--the driver who took me to set every morning and home every night--and told him that I had to be driven to my apartment in Manhattan, that we had just over an hour to get there and get back with a "short wait for something I have to do once we're there" factored into things. He didn't blink. Like the fine Teamster he is, he just said "Let's move".

And so I had the singular experience of commandeering a Teamster to take me to the bathroom in my apartment, which was a hell of a lot nicer than the wretched accommodations at Roosevelt Island....

No word on what Andy Garcia thought of the Roosevelt Island public bathrooms. City of Lights was not the production which is the subject of earlier post regarding RIOC President Shane threatening to arrest former RIRA President Katz for seeking a donation from a film crew for the residents association.

Perhaps RIOC members will not be threatened with arrest if they provide clean bathroom facilities in their apartments for movie crews in exchange for donations to RIRA.

Below is You Tube video clip of Roosevelt Island Tram scene reluctantly deleted from City Of Light starring Andy Garcia.

Roosevelt Island Daily Public Safety Reports For December 12 Thru 22 - Con Ed Transformer Explosion, Food Delivery Robbery & Red Bus Service Delays

Soho Transformer Explosion after snowstorm last winter from Gothamist

RIOC has started to post the most current Daily and Monthly Roosevelt Island Public Safety Incident reports on their web site. Below are the Roosevelt Island Daily Public Safety Reports for December 12 - December 22 2008. Incidents included:

• Loud explosion and smoke from undergound Con Ed transformers - no injury or damage reported (12/22)
  
• Food delivery man robbed (12/12)
• Gristedes shopolifting (12/13)
• Reckless driving (12/13)
• Investigation of missing wedding dress (12/16)
• Computer and Ipod stolen from apartment (12/16) and
  
• Investigation of delay in Red Bus Service (12/18, 19)
  

12/12/08 0700hrs - 12/13/08 0700hrs

Robbery- Delivery man reports he was robbed and injured by three males in Eastwood. A search was made with negative results. NYPD on scene, EMS transported to hospital.

Aided- Female not feeling well, was transported to Lenox Hill Hospital.

Investigation- Tenant entered PSD to reports a male tried to enter her apartment, PSD check and advised with negative results.

Aided- Female fell on bus, suffered a broken wrist, transported to New York Presbyterian.

12/13/08-7:00 AM to 12/14/08-7:00 AM

Disorderly Conduct- Subject arrested by PSD.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Found Property- Brown bag with a cell phone in it. It was secured in PSD.

Vehicle Accident- In the Motorgate garage a vehicle struck the railing. No injuries. EMS refused. NYPD notified.

Shoplifting- Subject took a 6 pack of beer and juice and fled the Grestides Supermarket. PSD responded and conducted a search for the subject with negative results. NYPD refused.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Verbal Dispute- Over the cost of dry cleaning rugs. Customer left store. The rugs remain in the premises. NYPD refused.

Property Damage-Damage to rear bumper of vehicle parked in the Motorgate Garage. Another vehicle had a trail of antifreeze that lead from one vehicle to the other. NYPD notified.

Lost property- a cell phone in an apt. NYPD refused.

Reckless Driving/Unlicensed Operator- Subject disregarded 2 stop signs and pulled over by PSD. Motorist had an expired drivers license and vehicle was un registered and uninsured. Summonses issued. Ownership documentation produced. Vehicle was towed.

Unlawful Possession of Marihuana- 2 subjects arrested by PSD.

12/14/08 0700hrs - 12/15/08 0700hrs

Investigation/Possible Fire Hazard-In apt a meter box was warm and tenant was concerned it could be a hazard. PSD and UA Super responded and Super made arrangements for an electrician to check it 12/15/08.

Aided-A male fell and sustained small laceration on shin. He refused EMS.

Domestic Dispute- Between Husband and Wife over a lost key. No injuries. NYPD refused. They will seek counseling with their pastor.

12/15/08-7:00 AM to 12/16/08-7:00 AM

Verbal Dispute- Between a R.I. resident and a porter over work being done in an adjacent apt. Porter was working in bathroom for a water leak which was effecting various tenants. NYPD refused. UA Super responded.

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Vehicle accident- No injuries. A moving truck backed into a parked vehicle. NYPD refused. Parties involved will handle the matter on their own.

Aided- Male fell and sustained pain to left arm. EMS responded and transport was refused. He will see his own private doctor.

12/16/08-7:00 AM to 12/17/08-7:00 AM

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Found Property- An IPOD Shuffle. It was secured in PSD.

Unsecured Premise - Circuit panel not working and door was open. PSD and RIOC personnel responded and corrected condition.

Aided- Youth left apt after refusing to go to school. Hours later he returned.

Unattended Property- Female left 2 grocery bags unattended. A male picked up the bags and she told him the bags were hers. He did not keep the bags. He stated he thought that belonged to a friend.

Past Burglary- In a storage room. NYPD responded and PSD.

Investigation- R.I. Resident complained that a RIOC Bus did not lower the ramp with a puddle near by and that the driver stopped and let a passenger off at a non designated area. Bus garage notified.

Grand larceny- Computer and IPOD was taken from a room in an apt. PSD responded and no signs of forced entry. NYPD notified.

Investigation- Female left a black plastic bag with a wedding dress in it. Another woman described the dress and stated it belonged to a friend and took the dress. Search for the subject yielded negative results.

Aided- A female fell in apt sustained a laceration to her arm. EMS transported her to the Hospital.

Trespass/Alcohol/Open Container- 2 subjects arrested by PSD.

Open Container Alcohol- Subject arrested by PSD.

12/18/08-7:00 AM to 12/19/08-7:00 AM

Dispute - Between pedestrian and cab driver. PSD responded and spoke to both parties. Both parties left without further incident.

Aided - Not feeling well called EMS. PSD responded with EMS to apt. Aided refused transport and stated he will go to his doctor on his own.

Petit Larceny - Owner reported to PSD gas credit card missing from his vehicle. No forced entry or damages to vehicle. PSD made search with negative results. Owner will go to 114 pct. on his own.

Criminal Mischief - Owner reported to PSD that unknown subject went through glove compartment, but did not take anything. No forced entry or damages to vehicle. Subject broke two CD's. PSD made search with negative results. Owner refused NYPD report.

Harassment - Resident reported to PSD officer that she was being harassed by youth who lives in her building. Reporter stated this is chronic occurrence. Reporter was also referred to management.

Missing Property - Owner reported to PSD that his car was possibly broken into. Owner reported several items were missing from car. No forced entry or damages to car. Owner will go to 114 pct. on his own. Owner not sure if he locked door.

Criminal Mischief - PSD officer observed a wall broken inside stairwell. Search was made with negative results. Housing management notified.

Fire Alarm - Fire alarm going off in AVAC and sprinkler went off. Super turned off water and cleaned up flood. No damages to property or injuries.

Investigation - Delay in service was reported by residents. Matter was referred to bus garage.

Unsecured Premises - RIOC bus garage gate opened and stuck. Officer responded to monitor area until personnel showed up.

Lost Property - Resident brought property into PSD. Property was returned to owner.

0700 12/19/08- 0700 12/20/08

Criminal Mischief- PSD officer observed damage to wall, super notified. Search made with negative results.

Fire Alarm- PSD officer responded to 7th floor AVAC for sprinkler alarm went off on PSD panel. No Damage to property super turned off water and vacuum floor area.

Unsecured Premises- PSD officer observed gate at bus garage open ad stuck. Garage supervisor notified. PSD monitoring area.

Lost Property- Resident brought check into PSD, PSD officer returned property back to owner

Aided- Home attendant stop PSD officer because tenant has not answer door. Super and Porter notified on scene, drilled locks. Tenant arrived locks replaced.

Trespass- PSD officer observed two male subjects in unauthorized location. Summons issued and released for trespass and appearance in public under the influence.

Trespass- PSD officers responded to 540 rear lobby observed one male subject remained while other have left area. Summons issued and released.

Investigation/ No bus service- Tram manager notify PSD officer that he received complaints by five individuals waiting for the RIOC red bus. PSD Lt. reports bus #4 inside garage lot. Bus supervisor notified

12/20/08-7:00 AM to 12/21/08-7:00 AM

Domestic Dispute- Between Husband and Wife. No injuries and NYPD refused. Husband was escorted out of the apt.

Aided- Male fell and refused EMS. No injuries.

Criminal Mischief- Broken light bulb. Juvenile Subject escorted to PSD and father retrieved son. Juvenile report filed.

Aided- Male stuck in the elevator. Central Parking personnel responded with master key and opened elevator. EMS refused and no injuries.

Investigation- Anonymous caller stated that there was a fire in a building. PSD responded and conducted a search of the building. No fire or smoke condition. All in order.

12/21/08-7:00 AM to 12/22/08-7:00 AM

Aided- An ill person was taken to the Hospital by EMS.

Investigation- PSD responded for unknown condition. PSD responded and it was a faulty alarm. UA notified.

Trespass- Subject in building 19th floor was arrested by PSD.

Lost Property- A bicycle. It was secured it in PSD.

Disorderly Conduct- PSD responded to a building for dispute between 2 females. One became irate and was yelling. Subject was arrested by PSD.

12/22/08-7:AM TO 12/23/08- 7:00 AM

SMOKE CONDITION- PSD responded to a loud explosion and smoke caused by transformers under ground in front of 599 main st. FDNY responded and CON EDISON and RIOC personnel notified. No injuries or property damage reported.

AIDED- AN ill person walked into PSD and stated she was feeling dizzy. Transported to hospital by EMS.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF- TENANT reports unknown person burned decorations on front door.
PSD and FDNY responded no injuries reported.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF- TENANT reports unknown persons entered her yard. PSD responded made a search with negative results NYPD refused.

AIDED- PERSON fell on ice causing injury to both legs taken to the hospital by EMS.

PROPERTY DAMAGE- ACCESS a RIDE bus driver hit a sign on main st. no injuries reported.

RIOC President Threatens RIRA Delegate With Arrest For Soliciting Funds From Roosevelt Island Film Shoot

Image of man behind Jail Bars from legal juice

Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) officers, on behalf of RIRA, have often asked for small voluntary contributions from film crews shooting movies on Roosevelt Island. Some producers react positively and others don't. Similar donations are sought by neighborhood groups from movie productions throughout New York City. For example, the Greenwich Village Block Association (GVBA) keeps a Movie Crew Scorecard that rates the impact of movie, television and commercial productions in their neighborhood. According to GVBA:

Greenwich Village serves as location for countless movie, television, and commercial film shoots. While these shoots are sometimes annoying (lights, vehicles, noise etc.), many companies are minimally disruptive & contribute to block associations which are primaraily responsible for preserving the ambiance that lures visitors & film makers to our community.

Why is this relevant to Roosevelt Island? The reason is that RIOC President Steve Shane threatened to arrest or summons former RIRA President Matt Katz if Mr. Katz continues to seek contributions for RIRA from movie companies shooting on Roosevelt Island. Below is an email message sent from Mr. Shane threatening to arrest or summons Mr. Katz if he continues to seek such donations to RIRA.

I was dismayed to learn that earlier this week, during a film shoot on
Main Street that had been issued a permit by RIOC, you were reported to have been panhandling from the producers. Even assuming that you were attempting your efforts on behalf of the noble cause of RIRA, such activity is not to be condoned or tolerated. I know that I spoke to you directly on this subject about a year ago when a similar incident occurred.

I quote the applicable section of the administrative code below:

New York City Administrative Code -

§ 21-111 Soliciting of contributions in public.
a. It shall be unlawful for any person, organization, society,
association or corporation or their agents or representatives to solicit
money, donations of money or property, or financial assistance of any
kind upon the streets, in office or business buildings, by house to
house canvass, or in public places in the city, except upon a license
issued by the commissioner and an identification card issued by the
chairperson or district chairperson of any charitable drive and any such
regulations as hereinafter provided.

Please be advised that if there is a further repetition of this odious
behavior, our PSD is instructed to issue summonses and/or make arrests.

I am sure that you would agree that we, collectively, do not want to
discourage commerce, tourism and other such activities on the Island.
The proceeds of permits go into the general fund of RIOC which is used,
in its entirety, subject to public audit, for Roosevelt Island. Public
Purpose funds are the subject of direct application by various community groups. RIRA is directly supported by RIOC because of its role in allocating the Public Purpose funds.

I think this is just an outrageous example of bullying tactics by a non-elected public official under the purported guise of complying with NYC Administrative Code. Threatening to arrest a RIRA official for seeking donations to the Residents Association and equating such behavior with "panhandling" as well as characterizing it as "odious" is beyond ridiculous and comes close to an abuse of discretionary power by a person in the position of President of a NY State Public Benefit Corporation.

Below are examples from GVBA of movie productions during 2008 that made contributions to the local neighborhood block associations as a sign of appreciation to the community in which they shot their movie which is exactly what Mr. Katz was doing for RIRA.

• The Unorthodox Project - Pretty good shoot. Took up parking on both sides of the street but accommodated at least one resident who asked permission to park. No noise, no complaints that I know of. Staff very efficient & easy to work with. Generous contribution to block association
• Everybody's Fine - Robert DeNiro Film. Brief filming, no incidents, contribution to GVBA and GO Project
• Biscuit Commercial - BBC reports— it went smoothly ... made a generous contribution for our ongoing beautification programs.
• The Rebound - Catherine Zeta Jones flick...generous contribution to GVBA, WB11 Neighbors and Perry St. BAs, St. John's in the Village, Rattlestick Theater, & PS 41 PTA for sports support.St. Luke's BA says " They tied up parking from Sun through Tues because they got rained out on Mon. But when I contacted Matt Flanders, Asst. Locations Director, he was responsive and I now have a check for the BA.
  the report on AF Productions is: good, cooperative & generous."
• WASP 2008 - New Woody Allen film and as always plot is hush-hush. Contribution to GVBA includes donation for Washington Square Music Festival. BBC reports "An interior shoot on Bedford They were cooperative and took few parking spaces. They made a generous contribution to the block association for our ongoing beautification programs."
• Duplicity - Julia Roberts & Clive Owen flick. Grove St. BA had no problems with the shoot & received a generous contribution. The word from Bedford, Barrow Commerce BA is different. Residents had complaints about rude crew & failure of locations to communicate.
• New York, I Love You - 12 filmmakers direct a short film (5 minutes) about encountering love in NYC. Includedom cast: Robin Wright Penn, Natalie Portman, Kevin Bacon, Dustin Hoffman with Village native Scarlett Johansson in her directorial debut. Generous contribution to local block associations.

Should these people from GVBA be arrested as well for doing the same thing that Mr. Katz was doing for Roosevelt Island on behalf of RIRA?

When asked to comment on this matter Mr. Shane replied:

My discussion with Mr. Katz was and is between Mr. Katz and myself. If he chooses to divulge it, that's up to him. I did furnish him with the citation of applicable law. Characterizing it as "a threat" is inappropriate. I presume that all citizens intend to be law abiding. I would hope to encourage all citizens to be aware of the law and to avoid a transgression thereof.

Roosevelt Island Volunteer Opportunities With Angelica Patients Assistance Program During the Holiday Season or Any Other Time Of The Year

Image of AMEX Volunteers creating a Garden at Coler-Goldwater from Angelica Patients Assistance Program

Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity on Roosevelt Island during the Holiday Season or any other time of the year? If so, the Angelica Patients Assistance Program may be for you. I met several of Angelica's representatives last week and learned of the services they provide to the patients at Coler-Goldwater Hospital for which The New York State Therapeutic Recreation Association (NYSTRA) selected Angelica as their Organization of the Year for 2008.

More information is available at Angelica's web site:

Our mission is to enhance the lives of economically disadvantaged patients in need of long-term medical care and to support long-term medical care facilities. We are presently focused on improving the lives of residents at Coler-Goldwater Specialty Hospital and Nursing Facility (CGSHNF) on Roosevelt Island in New York City.

...Angelica is focused on improving the overall quality of life of patients/residents and empowering the patients/residents to have more input into their activities. Events have included an annual “Sweetheart Ball” and performing arts provided by local arts groups and high schools. Our Duet Bicycle Program allows the patients to enjoy a bicycle ride, steered and pedaled by a recreational therapist. The Hip Hop Program teaches patients how to compose lyrics and express themselves through music, providing a positive outlet and culminating in the production of a Hip Hop album.

Other programs include a Healthy Starts Cooking Program, Horticultural Therapy and funding for the Coler Art Studio. These activities and programs have led to improvement in cognition, social skills, mood, sense of self, physical functioning and opportunities for creative expression.

Last summer, a group of volunteers from American Express assisted in creating a garden for Coler-Goldwater patients. If you would like to volunteer your services, time or money to Angelica, they and the patients at Coler-Goldwater would be appreciative.

Roosevelt Island Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony Today At 5 PM - Rain or Shine & The Dreidel Song Texas Swing Styly

You Tube Video of Dreidel Song Texas Swing Style

Despite the bad weather today, I am advised that the Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony will still take place at 5 PM in front of Blackwell House.

Sunday, Dec. 21 at 5:00 pm – RAIN OR SHINE – tent available for protection against the elements
Annual Public Menorah Lighting at Blackwell House – Hot Lotkes, Hot Drinks, Dreidel’s and Chanukah Gelt and Gifts for everyone.

For Roosevelt Islanders in Texas or a Texas State of Mind - enjoy the Dreidel song

Things To Do This Weekend in New York City and Roosevelt Island - Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, Winter Solstice Celebration, Bach & Menorah Lighting

You Tube Video of Dyker Heights Christmas Lights

Looking for fun things to do on Roosevelt Island or in some other part of New York City this weekend before Christmas and Chanukah? Here are some suggestions.

On Friday night take a trip to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn to see how neighborhood residents try to one up each other with fabulous Christmas light decorations. Gothamist says of this spectacular:

Every Christmas residents of the predominantly Italian-American community of Dyker Heights in Brooklyn try to outdo each other for the most epic light display. And they're certainly not about to let a little economic meltdown spoil the festivities; this year's displays are as spectacular as they were in the year 2000, when the hilarious documentary Dyker Lights was filmed. (It airs again on PBS Thursday night!)

Here's a map of the neighborhood, and if you don't feel like schlepping out via subway, Brooklyn's own Tony Muia operates a tour bus from Union Square to Dyker Heights...

Once in Dyker Heights, the bus—which broadcasts excerpts from the Dyker Lights film during the ride—stops again and Tony leads passengers around to the most impressive displays in the neighborhood. Finally, the tour culminates with a stop at Mona Lisa Bakery for dessert before heading back to Manhattan.

In addition to Tony's Slice of Brooklyn Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Bus Tour a walking tour of the area is given by Justinsnewyork.

On Saturday night (as well as Friday and Sunday) , the Cathedral Church of St. John the Devine is hosting Paul Winter's 29th Annual Winter Solstice Celebration with The Paul Winter Consort & Special Guests:

Gospel singer Theresa Thomason
Brazilian singer/guitarist Renato Braz
Woodwind Master Paul McCandless

Also:

A highlight of this year's Solstice events will be the return to the full space of The Cathedral, after the past several years of having only part of it available for the consort's various presentations. The stunning, fully-renovated interior of The Cathedral will be featured in these celebrations, as well as the newly restored Great Aeolian-Skinner Pipe Organ, being played for the first time since the fire in The Cathedral seven years ago.

On Sunday Celebrating With Bach, a free afternoon classical music concert will be performed at Roosevelt Island's Good Shepherd Community Center which is part of the Rosemarie and Robin Russell Family Concert Series. Comments from previous concerts include:

• "This event is comparable to a performance at Carnegie Hall or Lincoln Center! Thank you for sharing such a wonderful concert with our community." and
• "The Chapel of the Good Shepherd is a better place to hear (rather 'experience') chamber music than Carnegie Hall. It is close to ideal. More chamber music, please.".

Also on Roosevelt Island this weekend, the Farmers Market will be open Saturday as is Gallery RIVAA, the Roosevelt Island Visual Arts Association which is featuring the Winter of Change group show and RIOC has produced a great self guided tour map (PDF File) of Roosevelt Island for any visitor or resident looking to stroll the Island and learn something more about it. Roosevelt Island 360 reports that there will a Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony in front of Blackwell House on Sunday at 5 PM with music, latkes, hot drinks and gelt.

Image from Roosevelt Island 360

Good weekend transportation news. The MTA is reporting normal Roosevelt Island F Train subway service in both directions and RIOC is not reporting any Tram service advisories either.

Check out some other ideas on what to do in New York City this weekend from the NY Times Urban Eye, NY Post Weekend Calendar and Newyorkology.

Roosevelt Island Red Bus GPS Tracking System For Octagon Residents But Not Anyone Else - At Least For Now

Waiting for bus image by Amy Kim Ganter

Very few issues on Roosevelt Island raise the ire of residents more than those involving the Red Bus. Whether it is the perceived special service for Octagon residents, unreliability, bunching together, conduct of the drivers or tethering to the Tram Schedule - anything involving the Roosevelt Island Red Bus is sure to be of great importance to residents. Here's the latest.

At the December 4 RIOC Board of Directors Meeting (web cast available here at the 24 1/2 minute mark), RIOC President Steve Shane reported that the building owners of the Octagon requested the right to install a Global Positioning Tracking System (GPS) Antenna on top of the Roosevelt Island Red Buses that go to the Octagon so that Octagon residents can have up to date information on the arrival time of the Red Bus at the Octagon and perhaps at the Tram and Subway stations as well. This is a very good idea except that such a tracking system would not be available to residents of any Roosevelt Island building other than the Octagon.

Mr. Shane also disclosed that about eight months ago RIOC management considered and rejected the same GPS tracking system for all of Roosevelt Island. Mr. Shane said that at the time RIOC management could not justify the expense because, for other than the Octagon, the Red Bus route is "a fairly short run" and residents can "look up and down Main Street".

According to Mr. Shane, the cost of the system would be approximately $15-18,000 in initial capital cost and $4-5,000 in monthly expenses to RIOC. Upon prodding by RIOC Director Kraut, Mr. Shane agreed to revisit the issue of a GPS tracking service for Red Bus service to all of Roosevelt Island, advised the RIOC Board that they could choose to pay for such a system and indicated that he could ask the other building owners to contribute to the cost of the system. On the last point, RIOC Director Stewart advised that he knew the owners of Westview and Island House had previously rejected spending any money on such a system.

The RIOC Board approved the Octagon' request.

Here's a diagram of how the GPS bus tracking service works from Nextbus.


And a video of how it works in San Francisco.

Help Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217 Parents Raise Funds For Tutoring By Purchasing 2009 Holiday Calendar

Click on Calendar to view bigger picture

A parent of a PS/IS 217 child sends in the following message.

We are selling these calendars for the public school as a fundraising for 2009 tutoring programs. The calendars are well done and pretty, and features the school's kids art work. They are only $10.00 each. They can be bought at the school at dropping and pick up time until the 23 December, also at the green market and possibly at Gristedes.

Rosemarie & Robin Russell Family Concert Series - Holiday Celebration With Bach, Come Join The Fun Sunday Afternoon December 21!

Image from R & R Concerts

I received the following message from the good folks at the Rosemarie & Robin Russell Family Concert Series. They will be holding a free afternoon of classical music - Celebrating with Bach - on Sunday December 21 here on Roosevelt Island at the Good Shepherd Community Center. Their previous Roosevelt Island concerts have been excellent and well attended.

R&R Concerts

The Rosemarie & Robin Russell Family Concert Series on Roosevelt Island presents:

Celebrating With Bach
3pm Sunday, December 21, 2008
Good Shepherd Center
543 Main Street
Roosevelt Island, NY

Admission is FREE

Please join us for this wonderful holiday concert presenting an all Bach program:

Concerto for Two Violins in D minor, BWV 1043
Brandenburg Concerto No. 6 in Bb Major, BWV 1051
Selection from the Art of the Fugue for String Quartet, BWV 1080
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G Major, BWV 1048

Ralph Allen
Songa Cho
Salley Koo
Amie Weiss
violins

Milan Milisavljevic
Tawnya Popoff
violas

Iris Jortner
Laura Metcalf
Ella Toovy
cellos

Troy Rinker
bass

Byron Schenkman
harpsichord

This concert is presented free of charge as a gift to the community.

Sponsors
The New York City Council
New York City Department of Youth and Community Development
The Office of New York State Senator José M. Serrano
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation

Supporters
Roosevelt Island Residents Association
The Main Street WIRE
Roosevelt Island Historical Society
Roosevelt Island Visual Artists Association
Coler • Goldwater Specialty Hospital & Nursing Facility

Aerial Tram Tower Collapses -Ice Jacking Incident Not On Roosevelt Island But At Canada's Whistler Ski Resort

Whistler Gondola accident from CNN

Given the importance of the Roosevelt Island Tram to all who live here, the recent Tram Modernization controversy and prior Tram incidents, residents pay attention any time there is an accident involving another tram anywhere in the world. Unfortunately, such an incident occurred yesterday on the Dopplemayr manufactured Whistler Mountain Excalibur Gondola at a ski resort near Vancouver Canada. According to the Globe and Mail:

A tower in the resort's Excalibur Gondola snapped halfway up where the two halves of the pole were bolted together, said Doug Forseth, the senior vice-president of Whistler-Blackcomb.

He said it was too soon to know what caused the partial collapse, but that the gondola, built in 1994, was "easily" within its lifespan and had passed its annual safety check by the B.C. Safety Authority "within the past six months."

A subsequent report indicates that the cause of the Tram tower collapse is being attributed to extreme cold weather as reported by the Globe and Mail.

Ice build-up after an extreme cold snap caused a gondola tower at the Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort to collapse, sending at least one cable car careening into a chalet rooftop, injuring 13 passengers, and trapping other skiers for hours in dangling cars.

Water had seeped into the tower where two of its parts are spliced together, the resort operator said in a statement Wednesday. The cold snap had caused the ice to build up and rupture the splice, an "extremely unusual situation referred to as ice-jacking," it said.

Of the 53 trapped tram passengers,

... The RCMP say 13 people suffered minor injuries after being jolted when the tow line stopped abruptly.

Rescued skier Graeme Bell said he was riding the gondola when he felt a sickening lurch and the car dropped and bounced. He escaped with a broken finger and some bruises. Other people in the car with him were also injured....

Dopplemayr is the manufacturer and operator or the current Roosevelt Island Tram. The recent Roosevelt Island Tram modernization project was awarded to a competitor - POMAgalski. Although cold temperatures in New York do not get as low as in British Columbia, I hope the new Roosevelt Island Tram system will take into account the possibility of "ice jacking".

UPDATE - 1:15 PM - Here's how aerial tramway rescue drills are conducted on Roosevelt Island and Portland Oregon.

Appropriate Response or Overreaction To Hammer Holding Roosevelt Island Resident By Public Safety Department Officers - Another Resident Says Thanks

Women With A Hammer Image by Charles Thomson from Heyoka Magazine

A reader of this post sends in the following message regarding her interaction with the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department yesterday morning.

I 100% agree with you! This morning, I went next door to check where a very loud noise had come from. I had a hammer in my hand as I had started fixing a gate that came lose, barrier from the living-room to the stair area as I have a 14 month old child. I am a 5'4 aprox. 100lbs female btw. As I knocked in the neighbor's home and he opened the door I saw the usual repair person and asked him what the loud noise was. I was frustrated as it was 8 am and my whole apartment was shaking from the driling including my son's bed. The repair guy called public safety as he supposedly felt threatened by my hammer (I did not even realize I have it in my hand) and while I turned away, got back to my apartment and was about to close the door 4 officers forced their way in while other random people walked in to enjoy spectatorship, taking over the staircase and interrogating me while accusing me of threatening the worker with the hammer. They attitude was extremely abusive and yelled at me to give them an id. I refused and said I did not wish to cooperate as I was being accused for I did not do. I have never in my life went through such shocking and abusive experience as I have never created any problems around me. The Public Safety Officers treated me as if I was a criminal. All I wanted was a quiet morning and instead I had 4 officers in my apartment threatening to handcuff me and drag me to the police station. All this in front of my 14 month old son. Absolutely outrageous. I am taking further action, will file complaint and have them apologize to me publicly.

And:

Meanwhile, the whole hallway smells like marijuana at all time and nothing is being done about it.

Asked to comment on this incident, Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department Director Keith Guerra replies:

I was made aware of this situation as soon as I arrived for work this morning, as it is the second incident where a resident goes to another apartment because of loud noise, carrying something in their hand. The prior incident involved a resident who stated she wasn't threatening the worker with the bat that was in her hand. (Coincidentally, an officer was hurt in that incident.) This time it was a hammer and again the person was not intending to appear threatening. If residents don't want to appear threatening, maybe they should leave the bats and hammers at home.

The resident further stated she was using a hammer in her own apartment, yet wrote in the blog that she wanted a quiet morning. She stated that the worker felt threatened and called Public Safety and that she went back to her apartment. Before she could close her door, 4 Public Safety Officers were there. That appears to be an incredible response time. She was asked for identification and openly admits she refused to cooperate. So, I ask you...what are the Public Safety Officers to do when they are called by someone feeling threatened by another person holding a hammer? They arrive on the scene and the person holding the hammer refuses to cooperate.

Mr. Guerra also forwarded this letter he received from another Roosevelt Island resident.

Clear DayThank You Public Safety
As a disabled person on RI, I am thankful for the assistance I received On Wednesday morning Dec.10th. My van (handicap accessible) did not start, I asked a Public Safety Officer for assistance and she immediately went into action and gave me her undivided attention.
My car battery needed a boost to get started.The battery booster I had did not work and the officer called for a back up battery starter and in a few minutes, a car pulled up and another officer had the proper equipment and I was underway to my destination thanking God for the courtesy and help shown me by the officers of Public Safety.
For all my Roosevelt Island Friends the next time you get a chance thank a Public Safety officer for helping old uncle Jim.

Here's How To Get Your Roosevelt Island Tram Reindeer Cards and other RI Holiday Gifts

Roosevelt Island Tram Reindeer Cards can be ordered from Marty Atkins

A reader asks:

Last year I bought Roosevelt Island Christmas/Holiday Cards from a man who lived on the island. Does anyone know if he is selling them again this year?

I spoke with the creator of the reindeer driven Roosevelt Island Tram Holiday Cards yesterday who explained that he has been ill recently and not able to sell his cards at the Motorgate Atrium as in previous years. However, the cards are available to be purchased. Just send an email to Marty Atkins to order and for more information-  - 20 cards with envelopes for $15. He delivers on Roosevelt Island. Sounds like a good deal to me!

Holiday Gifts are also available at the Roosevelt Island Historical Society Kiosk.

Special Evening HolidayShopping

At the RIHS Visitor Center Kiosk

Tram Plaza, Roosevelt Island

Thursday

December 18th

5 to 9 P.M.

Jewelry, Calendars, Toys, Cards & More!

GREAT GIFTS FOR FAMILY& FRIENDS

Refreshments Served

Roosevelt Island Tree Lighting Ceremony Tonight at 7PM In Front of Blackwell House

Remember that the Roosevelt Island Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place tonight at 7 PM in front of Blackwell House. From RIOC:

Roosevelt Island Tree Lighting Ceremony
When : Thursday December 11th at 7 PM (Due to the inclement weather, the Tree Lighting Ceremony has been rescheduled to Monday, December 15th at 7PM. )
Where: Blackwell Plaza
Featuring Live Performances, Food, Hot Cider, Gifts for the kids & Photos w/ Santa
Sponsored by RIOC, Amalgamated Bank, Starbucks & Nonno's Focacceria

Roosevelt Island Delivery Persons At Risk For Being Robbed - Is This A Job for Roosevelt Island Undercover Public Safety Officers?

Delivery Bike image from Workcycles for illustrative purposes only

The December 12 Roosevelt Island Daily Public Safety Incident Report indicates that a delivery person was robbed and injured in Eastwood (Roosevelt Landings). According to the report:

Robbery- Delivery man reports he was robbed and injured by three males in Eastwood. A search was made with negative results. NYPD on scene, EMS transported to hospital.

No information yet as to whether the victim was delivering take out food or some other item. There have been several other troublesome incidents over the past 6 weeks of Roosevelt Island food delivery persons being threatened or robbed.

• On October 26, food was stolen from a delivery man
• On November 10 food delivery man was threatened
• On November 19. a food delivery person was robbed
  

Perhaps a good time to use the Roosevelt Island Undercover officers to investigate these robberies.

Warriors, Wanderers and Baldies Are Gone But Roosevelt Island Gang Summit Scheduled For January 12, 2009

You Tube Video of Warriors Come Out To Play Scene

The Warriors, Wanderers and Baldies may not be around any longer but on January 12, 2009 Roosevelt Island Public Safety Director Keith Guerra will be holding a Gang Summit on the theme of:

How to keep your kids off the Gang Radar Screen

Mr. Guerra explains:

In an interest to keep kids safe, Keith Guerra, the Director of Roosevelt Island's Public Safety Department, has begun staging several Informational Summits. The first was the Youth Summit held on September 10, 2008. "Our aim is to help keep kids on the right track. We'd rather expend the time and energy to keep them safe and productive, than deal with the aftermath of bad choices they may make down the road. We're hoping that by speaking with parents regarding some of the dangers that exist in today's society, they'll be savvy about the decisions their children are grappling with."

For this reason, the Public Safety Department is hosting a Gang Summit on Monday, January 12th. Besides Gang Awareness, the purpose will be two fold:
- To recognize whether your child or neighbor is in, or being recruited by a gang; and
- To conduct a frank discussion regarding the status of gang activity on Roosevelt Island and what we can do about it.

Director Guerra has enlisted the aid of Ron "Cook" Barrett. Cook is a well renowned Gang Expert, who speaks across the country to Law Enforcement Officers as well as Parents and Teachers in Communities. He is also responsible for starting a model Community Center for troubled youths in Albany, NY. Cook has assisted many youths with getting away from the Gang-life they had chosen. These young men and women are now productive citizens in their respective communities.

The Summit will be held in the Good Shepherd Church. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 PM. The "Must See" presentation will begin sharply at 7:00 PM. This Summit is for parents and adults who have an interest in learning more about an important topic our youth could be facing. No children please, as the presentation is for adults only.

Below is the opening scene from the Wanderers with the Baldies.

You Tube Video of the Wanderers