2010 New York City Marathon Tomorrow Won't Be Seen From The Roosevelt Island Tram - But Local Band Kilowatt Will Be Playing On Route In Greenpoint

The ING 2010 New York City Marathon takes place tomorrow. Unfortunately, because the Roosevelt Island Tram is still out of service, there will be no Tram Riders to see sights like this of Marathon Runners making their way up First Avenue after coming off the Queensboro Bridge.

Image NYC Marathon Runners On 1st Avenue Taken From Roosevelt Island Tram By Pablo 76

How else will Roosevelt Island be effected by the 2010 New York City Marathon? According to this advisory from the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) there will be some disruption in Manhattan Bound Red Bus service.

Please be advised the NYC Marathon is taking place this Sunday, November 7, 2010 and the Manhattan bound Red Bus service will experience some delays.

Your patience is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

Roosevelt Island will be making a musical contribution to the NYC Marathon. Kilowatt is a band made composed of current and former Roosevelt Island residents who will be playing on the Marathon Route in Greenpoint at the 12 -13 mile mark. According to Kilowatt:

We will be performing at the 2010 ING NYC Marathon on November 7th along the route at the intersection of Greenpoint Ave. & Manhattan Ave. in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Here's an interactive map to help you find Roosevelt Island's Kilowatt and other highlights along the 26 mile long marathon route.

Daylight Savings Time Ends 2 AM Sunday Morning - Take The Advice Of The Singing Dads And Rembember To Turn Your Clocks Back Before Going To Bed This Evening

Daylight Savings Time Ends Image From Dots Period

An extra hour of sleep tonight because Daylight Savings Time ends Sunday Morning at 2 AM. Remember to turn your clocks back and reset the time on your electronic and other devices. According to NY 1:

New York City Fire Department officials are telling children it is time to change the batteries in their homes' smoke alarms, with the return of Daylight Standard Time.

Daylight Saving Time ends tomorrow at 2 a.m., which means New Yorkers should turn their clocks back one hour before going to bed tonight.

Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano was joined by other fire officials outside the Hilton Hotel in Times Square on Friday to tell kids to switch the batteries in their alarms when Daylight Saving Time ends this weekend....

Learn more about Daylight Savings/Standard Time from Time and Date blog. Did you know:

... Benjamin Franklin first suggested Daylight Saving Time in 1784, but modern DST was not proposed until 1895 when an entomologist from New Zealand, George Vernon Hudson, presented a proposal for a two-hour daylight saving shift to the Wellington Philosophical Society.

The conception of DST was mainly credited to an English builder, William Willett in 1905, when he presented the idea to advance the clock during the summer months. His proposal was published two years later and introduced to the House of Commons in February 1908. The first Daylight Saving Bill was examined by a select committee but was never made into a law. It wasn't until World War I, in 1916, that DST was adopted and implemented by several countries in Europe who initially rejected the idea....

and here's a funny Turn Back The Clocks Awareness song from the Dads via Neatorama.

You Tube Video of Turn Back Your Clocks Song From The Dads

Roosevelt Island On The Web Links

Roosevelt Island on the Web Links as appearing in the November 6, 2010 Main Street WIRE.

 Roosevelt Islander - Tram Delayed Again Until 3rd/4th Week Of November
Roosevelt Islander - Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade 
NYC10044 - Great RIRA Presidential Debate Video
Roosevelt Island School G&T Blog - Student Government Elections
Roosevelt Island School G&T Blog - November PTA Newsletter -
PS/IS 217 PTA - Community Building
RIOC - President's Column
RIOC - Halloween Safety Day
Roosevelt Island 360 - Swinging Tram Cabins 
NY Times - Voting Confusion On Roosevelt Island -
Streetsblog - Street Parking Sensors For Roosevelt Island -
WSJ - Kalkin Interviewed on Smart Parking Sensors -
NY 1 - 2nd Tram Cabin Attached To Cable -
Gothamist - Waiting For The Tram To Return -
DNA Info - Tram Service Can't Return Soon Enough For RI Residents
The Polis Blog - Trams Around The World
DNA Info - Firehouse Cooking Contest 3rd Place Winner From RI -
Guardian - Cartoonist Garry Trudeau Works With A View Of Roosevelt Island -
Poughkeepsie Journal - Motorgate Garage LED Lighting Vendor
AMNY - Roosevelt Island Resident Talks About Four Loco -
NY Times - Pastiche Opera To Be Performed on Roosevelt Island -
Second Act - Food Truck Serves Roosevelt Island -
Things To Do In NYC - Riverwalk Bar & Grill During Marathon -
Allez Allie - Tour Roosevelt Island During Open House New York - http://tinyurl.com/2c3wwxk
Jefff Cable Photography - Students On Roosevelt Island
You Tube - Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade
You Tube - Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade
You Tube - Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade
You Tube - Roosevelt Island Laptop Apartment Tour
You Tube - Tram Test Ride Over East River
You Tube - Tram Cabin Moving To Station
Nat The Fat Rat - Gorgeous Rainbow Over Roosevelt Island
Roosevelt Island 360 - Subway Escalator Report
Roosevelt Islander - Report Update From RIvercross Building
You Tube - Sunset Over East River From Roosevelt Island
See Click Fix - Roosevelt Island Litter Problem Reported -

Roosevelt Island Cat Adoption Day Saturday, November 6 From 10 AM - 2 PM At The Farmers Market

 Photo of YinYang/Princess by Núria Olivé-Bellés at Island Cats

Tomorrow is Roosevelt Island Cat Adoption Day. If you are interested in adopting a cat, here's the scoop from Island Cats:

Our next adoption day is Saturday Nov. 6 from 10 to 2 at the Farmers' Market near Gristedes.
(Look for us at the street-level south end of Motorgate if the weather is cold. )

Come meet Buster the Magnificent, a big bushy immensely laid-back cat of about 5 to 6 years, as well as little Farina, Farouk and Fortunello and other cats and kittens, all tested negative for FIV and leukemia, with their shots and neutered if old enough.

Because of the large number of cats coming in to us, we are still updating our adoption page but it should be ready by Thursday.

More information available at Island Cats.

Free Roosevelt Island Tennis Lessons For Kids 6 to 18 Weekend Mornings With the New York Junior Tennis League

Image From Wikpedia

Joyce Mincheff reports on free tennis lessons for kids on Roosevelt Island. From Ms. Mincheff:

 The NYJTL FREE Winter Tennis Program gets underway Saturday, 11/6, from 6-8 AM at the Roosevelt Island Racquet Club, for all children aged 6 to 18. No equipment is needed and we serve breakfast in the lounge immediately upon finishing at 8 AM. All breakfast contributions (milk, cereal, fruit, doughnuts, etc) are welcome.

The program will run every Sat and Sun morning (except Xmas and New Year's weekends) from 11/6 to mid March. Equipment is supplied by the League. Children need TIED, rubber-soled athletic shoes. (Just sneakers and a smile!)

Crossing The East River On The Roosevelt Island Tram In Song - A Tram Tribute Video & The Latest News On When It Will Return To Service, Hopefully Before Thanksgiving

 Image From Tatiana Muzica

First the 59th Street Bridge was immortalized in  song with Simon & Garfunkle's Feelin Groovy and now it time to do the same for it's neighbor to the north - the Roosevelt Island Tram. To mark the occasion of the new Roosevelt Island Tram, filmaker Ovidiu Opresco and musician Jonathan Kalb collaborated on this tribute to the joys of Crossing The East River On The Roosevelt Island Tram. Sort of like Roosevelt Island's version of a Jimmy Buffet song about Key West.

You Tube Video Of Crossing The East River On The Roosevelt Island Tram

Here's the latest on the Roosevelt Island Tram from Roosevelt Island Operating Corp. President Leslie Torres:

Rumors to the contrary notwithstanding - the Aerial Tramway Modernization project has not likewise been haunted. As most of us have seen - the beautiful new cabins are now both running on their respective north and south track ropes and all systems seem ready to go. We are hoping to have the New York State Department of Labor complete its testing and review of the entire system before Thanksgiving. Preliminary inspection results thus far have been very positive. While RIOC is confident that we are providing a safe, efficient and comfortable new aerial tramway system - I don't think any one of us wants to short circuit safety precautions. RIOC is planning an opening event as soon as we get the okay from DOL. We continue to appreciate the public's patience and we anticipate our beloved Tram returning to service as soon as possible.

Another photo of the Roosevelt Island Tram undergoing tests from Ms. Muzica.

 Image From Tania Muzica

Opening Reception For New Exhibition Of Poetic Expressions At Roosevelt Island's Gallery RIVAA Saturday 6 - 9 PM - Exhibit Continues Through December 4

 Image From Gallery RIVAA (click to enlarge)

Roosevelt Island's Gallery RIVAA will be hosting an opening reception tomorrow November 6 from 6PM - 9PM for their new exhibition titled Poetic Expressions. The exhibition will continue thru December 4. According to Gallery RIVAA:

POETIC EXPRESSIONS
An Exhibition of Artwork by Toshiko Groner and Georgette Sinclair
Opening Reception Saturday, November 6th, 6-9pm

Come meet your Roosevelt Island neighbors and enjoy the art.

 Image From Gallery RIVAA (click to enlarge)

Gallery RIVAA Hours are:

Wednesdays and Fridays 6 – 9 pm
Saturdays and Sundays 11 – 5 pm

Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Class Of 2010-12 Inaugural Meeting & Report From Two New Members On The Proceedings

Image of 2010-12 RIRA Common Council Delegates

The 2010 Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) elections are completed. The new RIRA Delegates for the class of 2010 -12 were seated during last night's November Common Council Meeting amidst great anticipation and excitement.

The November RIRA Meeting began with an empty Common Council table as the Delegates sat in the back benches

 

 

waiting for their names to be called so that they could join their colleagues at the full Common Council Council Table where the formal business of RIRA is conducted.

Newly elected RIRA President Matthew Katz welcomed the delegates and work began. This first meeting focused on the election of RIRA Officers, scheduling orientation meetings for the new delegates and the annual discussion of allocating $275 in RIRA funds to contribute to a Holiday Lights Pole.

What do the new RIRA Delegates think of their new positions? Here's what Southtown Delegate Dave Evans and Manhattan Park Alternate Delegate Ilonka Salisbury report on their first RIRA meeting.

From Mr. Evans:

I just want to share a first impression in my new capacity with the volunteers that comprise the Roosevelt Island Residents Association.  The RIRA election results were available on Tuesday evening and the work of the "new" Association immediately began on Wednesday evening at the first meeting.  The first one for me and many others as a Common Council member - - how Exciting!

Each Common Council member was ceremoniously called to take a seat at the table and our newly elected President Katz smoothly and calmly began the agenda.  I noted that former President Farance was among those seated and it was obvious the change of office was seamless, as he participated in the session in the same manner as other members.

Given the hard work of Joyce Mincheff and Aaron Hamburger, the ranks of the new group swelled - - so much so that table seating of members was a challenge.  Perhaps a computer-aided design of the meeting room might help generate a more efficient seating plan.  Many of us will soon attend the President's member orientation session as part of getting settled in and this idea is much appreciated.  I am told that future meetings will bear even more excitement - - the prospects of such are truly Exciting!

From Ms. Salisbury:

I, Ilonka M. Salisbury, finally decided to step up and into joining the ranks and voices of the Council Representatives of this amazing little island that could, Roosevelt Island.  I have projected my enthusiasm to everyone I have met and have quietly listen to the more experience voices and I am more then just impressed with the commitment, thoughtfulness, and out and out intellectual talent that lives on this island and the dedication of the volunteers with the Common Council, RIRA!

My first council meeting was last night; this was the initial introduction of all of the new officers and the joy of seeing the return of long-term officers.  I completely enjoyed meeting and chatting with everyone and to see the whole process in session and moving forward…exciting!  Then came the discussion of should we/The Council pay to put lights up on the pole for the Holiday Season…I had no idea the emotion that would surface!  I am only an alternative at this time and yet I am compelled to share my opinion and I am of two minds:

• I applaud the individuals who understand the need for RIRA to walk the fiscal line.  These individuals demonstrate courage to say no to spending and look toward the expenses of only the greatest of needs of the organization.  I am grateful that these fiscally responsible individuals are part of RIRA and may they always stay present! 

• With that being said!!!  There are times or Holidays that tap our human collect consciences where memories, moments, a slice of time tap our inter-being and bring forth the feelings of humanity!  A time where we turn to pause and look at our fellow human being and realize the elation of life! Where we reach back and tap our ancient pagan ways and remember the LIGHT  that was brought forth in the middle of darkness and cold and no matter how we dress up this ritual and what each of us may call this ritual we as humans reach out to each other and feel the warmth of LIGHT.  So may that Pole share with the island that their Council Members know the importance of the Pole and this offering goes further then the importance of money!

There are just times where the soul leads and the wallet must follow!

Thank you to all for allowing me to join the Council and enjoy the benefits of living on Roosevelt Island!  Ilonka

RIRA Elections Committee Chairperson Joyce Mincheff did a fantastic job organizing and running our local community election. Ms Mincheff's election report to the RIRA Common Council follows:

RIRA ELECTION SUMMARY 2010-2012 COMMON COUNCIL

The election for Officers and Common Council Representatives took place at 3 locations: 405 Main Street, 888 Main Street and PS/IS 217, from 6 AM to 9 PM on November 2, 2010. The entire Common Council will consist of 44 members and there will be 8 Alternates. A total of 1,470 votes were cast.

The rest of Ms. Mincheff's report and the final RIRA Election Vote numbers are here.

Bench Installed At Roosevelt Island Bus Shelter - More May Be Coming

Image From Judy Berdy

Roosevelt Island Historical Society President Judy Berdy sends the following message:

For those over a certain age and of tired feet, RIOC has installed a bench in the shelter by the deli. If it is successful the other shelters will get them.

I take credit for nudging Steve Chironis to do this!!!

Image From Judy Berdy

 Seems like a no brainer idea to add benches to the shelters. Good job by Ms. Berdy, Mr. Chironis and RIOC.

However, as reported by Rivercross resident David Bauer, there seems to be some opposition to placing a bench in front of that the Rivercross building. Wonder why?

Recap Of Roosevelt Island Youth Program Soccer League's Week 6 & Current Standings - Championship Playoffs This Weekend At Octagon Soccer Field

Image From the Roosevelt Island Youth Program

Here's a recap for Week 6 of the Roosevelt Island Youth Program Soccer League. The regular season is now over and excitement is building for this weekend's playoffs. From the Roosevelt Island Youth Program.

Roosevelt Island Youth Program Soccer League
Hey everybody it’s Playoff Time
Let’s show support for our youth and get out and catch a game.

Come out and watch some awesome soccer tomorrow Saturday, November 6th and Saturday, November 13th as Champions will be crowned in each division the new Octagon Park Field. Games start at 9:30am

Seniors Division

Light Blue (Tsunami’s) while finishing first with no loses this season with a 5-0-4, four times teams were crossbars away from defeat, secured the first place seed. They are lead by Ivan Vuckovic, Kevin Leon and Shahryar Iqbai offensively. Defensively, they are lead by Danielle Herlihy, Natalie Ferdinand, and Aliyah Taylor. Noelle Ike controls the midfield with Andrew Enock while Jordan Chambers plays stellar goal.

The Second Seed is the Grey team, who started out slow but is finishing strong. Lead by forwards Julian DeBono, Luca Delic, and Gabby Beola, with strong midfield play from Luka Deluka, Matthew Epstein and Matthew Vilardo. Defensively, Grey has Xena Ticona, Emma Ike, Michael Gluskin and Nick Loveless. Romeu Trindade tends the goal.

The Third seed belongs to the Red Team, who had a strong win on Friday night against the Royal team (4-0) after losing 4 one goal games. They are lead by forwards Roman Bogomolny, Jaden Perry and Haytham Aouchette. Midfield is lead by Dwayne Gordon, Kerwin Barrera, Alasdair McLaren and Mohammed Dia. The Defense is lead by Stefanos Kalogrias, Sam Chun, Luke D’Cruz, Laura King and Sunshine Martin. Gustavo Mendes, who stepped in to play goal for injured John King the last three games, has been spectacular.

Junior Division

Royal Blue defeated both Red (Thurs) and Lt Blue (Sat) to lock up first place in the division at an 8- 1 record. They have shown they are the team to beat.

The Red team, who is in second with a 7-2 record, had a tough match vs. Grey on Saturday.

Lt Blue is 3rd at 2-6-1 and Grey is in 4th at  0-8-1.

On Saturday Grey played an awesome game in a 5-4 loss to Red. Playing without Striker Aaron Amino, and Midfielder Mateo Collare, Grey showed they can contend. Taj Young, DJ Smith, Chris Ewing and Kendall Davis stood out for Grey. Blaise Enama, Zephan DCruz, and Yousef Afif had great offensive performance, while Theo Spedalle made awesome saves in goal. The playoffs in this division will feature Royal facing Grey and Red facing Lt Blue.

Minor Division

The Grey team played the best game of their season matched up against the league leading Light Blue team to a 2-2 draw. This will give them a lot of confidence going in to the playoffs since they will they will be pitted against Grey in the opening round of the playoffs. Grey had great performances from Huang Hangong, Jamie Villegas, nd Erika Nazarova. Light Blue had awesome play from Nonso Nwaokolo, Lisa Coullare, Luke Chavez and Manuel Correa.

In the second match, The Royal Blue team defeated Red 3-1. Max Thomie (2) and Eric Leon (1) combined for all the scoring. Nikolas Drougos, William Sakmar and Alex Bertinelli held a strong defensive line. The Red team had great play from Yunari Yamazaki, Derek Muir, Kai Hashimoto and Simon Rickman.

The current Roosevelt Island Youth Program Soccer Standings after Week 6 and most recent game scores below.

Week 6

Minor League
D. Lt Blue - W4- 1L 1T Points 13
B. Royal - 3W-3L Points 9
C. Red - 3W- 3L Points 9
A. Grey - 1W- 4L 1TPoints 4

Week 6 Games Scores Saturday
Grey/Lt Blue 2-2 Draw, Royal/Red 3-1 Red

Juniors
B. Royal - 8W-1L 0T Points 24
C. Red - 7W-2L 0T Points 21
D. Lt Blue - 2W- 6L 1T Points 7
A. Grey - 0W-8L 1T Points 1

Week 6 Games Scores
Thursday Game - Royal/Red 6-2 Royal, Lt Blue/Grey 8-3 Lt Blue
Saturday Game - Royal/Lt Blue 5-1 Royal, Grey/Red 5-4 Red

Seniors
D. Lt Blue 5W-0L-4T Points 19
A. Grey - 3W-4L 2T Points 11
C. Red - 3W-5L-1T Points 10
B. Royal - 3W-5L 1T Points 10

Week 6 Game Scores
Friday Games - Royal/Red 4-0 Red, Grey/Lt Blue 4-2 Lt Blue

Stay tuned for more reports of the Playoff and Championship games from the Roosevelt Island Youth Program Soccer League. The current standings for the Roosevelt Island Youth Program Soccer League are posted on the blog's middle sidebar across from the comment sections together with results from most recent games.

Report From RIOC President Leslie Torres - Halloween Parade, Tram Safety Tests, Roosevelt Island Projects & Upcoming Events

RIOC President Leslie Torres (in Witch Costume) With Roosevelt Isand Historical President Judy Berdy

RIOC President Lesie Torres sends the following report to Roosevelt Island residents.

Date: November 3, 2010
Roosevelt Island was haunted by a merry band of goblins, ghosts, princesses, Sponge Bobs and their assorted friends this past weekend. I was happy to personally experience the annual Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade, sponsored by Urban America - manager of Roosevelt Landings, and by the Roosevelt Island Youth Center. The parade's reputation preceded it and it exceeded all expectations.

Rumors to the contrary notwithstanding - the Aerial Tramway Modernization project has not likewise been haunted. As most of us have seen - the beautiful new cabins are now both running on their respective north and south track ropes and all systems seem ready to go. We are hoping to have the New York State Department of Labor complete its testing and review of the entire system before Thanksgiving. Preliminary inspection results thus far have been very positive. While RIOC is confident that we are providing a safe, efficient and comfortable new aerial tramway system - I don't think any one of us wants to short circuit safety precautions. RIOC is planning an opening event as soon as we get the okay from DOL. We continue to appreciate the public's patience and we anticipate our beloved Tram returning to service as soon as possible.

Other Projects Underway:

Southpoint Open Space (Green Rooms Wild Gardens) - opening date is scheduled for spring 2011. A new curb and sidewalk have been installed between the east and west entrances to insure handicap accessibility. Water and electrical service connections to the new comfort station are underway.

Motorgate Roof Waterproofing & Stairwells - Waterproofing of the rooftop and the exterior of the stairwell bulkheads is 80% finished with estimated completion at the end of November. Installation of temporary lighting is continuing.

Good Shepherd HVAC –The installation of the new equipment is in progress and on schedule to be completed by end of November. RIOC regrets the continuing inconvenience to residents using this Community facility and looks forward to a long and healthy useful life for our new HVAC system, once installation is finished.

Good Shepherd Side Door Replacement Stained Glass Repairs - The side entrance door has finally been replace making general access to the building easier and safer. Because Good Shepherd is a landmarked building the design, approval and custom fabrication time for the door was quite a lengthy process. Two chapel stained glass side windows have been removed for repair, which again must comport with landmark considerations.

SportsPark South sidewalk replacement- A section of sidewalk surrounding the ConEd electrical vaults between SportsPark and Goldwater Hospital is being replaced to mitigate storm water intrusion into SportsPark. For those unfamiliar with all the internal upgrades already completed at Sportspark, please visit during hours listed on the RIOC website.

Staff Training - CPR/AED/First-aid training is being provided over a course of three days, in order to certify staff in various RIOC departments. CPR Training and refresher courses are provided annually to RIOC staff.

Projects in the Pipeline:

Good Shepherd Plaza – Plaza restoration work is expected this spring.

Octagon Field Border Landscaping – A contract has been awarded work has begun to replace the trees removed during the soccer field restoration.

Good Shepherd Roof Replacement – Work has begun on the design drawings and specifications for roof replacement. The replacement work will be bid and should begin in the Spring, pending Board approval and relevant landmark reviews.

Blackwell House Interior Renovation and Disabled Accessible Ramp – A contractor has been identified and is undergoing City Vendex review. Value engineering has been completed and project cost has been brought within budget.

Public Safety HVAC roof equipment sound attenuation- An acoustic enclosure has been designed and bids are being solicited for a contractor to address the noise generated by the condensing units installed as part of the Public Safety Command Center renovation. RIOC hopes to be bringing a contract for this work to the RIOC Board for approval soon.

AVAC Underground Piping- During inspection of the system piping the “moles” from ENVAC (Swedish AVAC manufacturer) discovered seriously worn areas in the 20” diameter piping under Gristedes and in the east west run between Roosevelt Landings and Capobianco Field. RIOC has received a proposal from ENVAC to protect the wear areas by welding steel plates working inside the piping. Excavation and pipeline replacement in those areas would be far more expensive and disruptive. RIOC will be making a recommendation to the Board to proceed with the ENVAC proposal.

Events and Recreation:

Sportspark Activities - Expanded Sportspark activities are listed on the RIOC website. Check the website for last minute changes to expanded pool, ping- pong and basketball hours. Check out the exhibit in Sportspark which traces Roosevelt Island’s founding and development. The exhibit, using materials from the RIOC archive, was curated by the Roosevelt Island Historical Society.

Field Rentals – Since its resurfacing, Octagon Soccer Field has provided a safe and enjoyable experience for thousands of New Yorkers. The field will remain open over the winter (so long as it’s not snow-covered). If you’d like to brave the elements and apply for a permit for the winter months, now is the time to do so! For more information please contact Donna Masly at 212 832 4563.

Public Safety Department Events - PSD will be sponsoring 2 events in November. On Thursday, November 11, it will be hosting the 2nd Annual PSD ~ Youth Center ~ Connect Basketball Game at the Sportspark Facility at 6:00PM. This is the second in a series of events between the PSD and the Youth Center designed to build positives relations. The first game was between PSD and Youth Center teens. This game is between PSD and Youth Center parents. On Thursday, November18, at 6:30, PSD will be hosting a Crime Prevention Summit for Seniors at the Senior Center located at 546 Main St. This is the third in a series of summits sponsored by PSD.

Annual Tree Lighting – Celebrate the holiday season with our Annual Tree Lighting event at Blackwell House Plaza on Friday, December 3rd at 7 PM. Bring an appetite for holiday treats and warm up with hot chocolate and cider. Santa may drop in again with special little gifts. Have your children ready for a photo with Santa!

A version of the RIOC President's column will also appears on RIOC's web site and the November 6, 2010 Main Street WIRE.

Burglary At Roosevelt Island's Eastwood/Roosevelt Landings Building & August/September Monthly Public Safety Blotter

 Image From RIOC

From the 11/2 - 11/3 Roosevelt Island Public Safety Report:

Burglary/Possession of Stolen Property- PSD arrested subject.

Roosevelt Island Public Safety Director Keith Guerra adds:

The incident took place at 560 Main St.  The subject was known to the victim.  A NYS Public Benefit card and a black telephone book were found in the subject's possession.

Below is the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Blotter for the months of August and September 2010.
Public Safety Blotter August/September

Gorgeous Rainbow Over Roosevelt Island For New Mom, Baby Huck And The Rest Of Us Too

Image Of Roosevelt Island Rainbow From Nat The Fat Rat

Wow - take a look at that beautiful rainbow over Roosevelt Island. It was taken by blogger Nat The Fat Rat a few hours before checking out of the hospital after giving birth to baby boy Huck last week. The happy new Mom/blogger writes:

... The clouds suddenly parted above the river, and out peeked the most brilliant rainbow. It arched from Roosevelt Island, all the way over our little recovery room at NY Presbyterian Hospital, to some unknown rainbow's end, like a fulfilled promise. Just the day before, as I labored to deliver my own fulfilled promise, my Julie mom texted me to tell me how the Portland skies were filled with rainbows, for my Huckleberry friend and me. And now the rainbows had come to New York....

Read the rest of their story.

More beautiful NYC rainbows pictures from last week via Andrew Sullivan's Daily Dish.

Matthew Katz Is The New President Of The Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) & New RIRA Common Council Delegates

 Image of Mathew Katz Receiving News Of His Victory As RIRA President

Challenger Matthew Katz won the race for the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) President over incumbent Frank Farance. The vote was 887 votes for Mr. Katz to 496 for Mr. Farance.

Ellen Polivy was unopposed and returns to RIRA as Vice President. She received 1033 votes.

The 5 Octagon Common Council Delegates in order of total number of votes received are:
1- Denise Shull
2 - Bill Long
3 - Scott Bradbury
4- Guy (Max) Long
5 - tie between Jeffrey Escobar and Sora Caetana (Since there is a tie for the 5 spot, a decision will need to be made by RIRA as to who is the #5 Common Council Delegate and who is the First Alternate.
7 - Bevin Curry is alternate #2

Steven Heller is the RIRA Delegate From 2 River Road.

Jim Bates is the RIRA Delegate from 4 River Road.

Delores Green and Anthony Moran are the RIRA Delegates from 546 Main Street.

The 3 Island House RIRA Delegates in order of total number of votes received are:
1- Helen Chirvas
2- Frank Farance
3 - Tie Between Mihaela Preradovic and Russell Fields (Since there is a tie for the #3 spot, a decision will need to be made by RIRA who is the #3 Common Council Delegate and who is the First Alternate.)
4- Katarzyna Krause-Edelman is alternate # 2.

The 3 Westview RIRA Delegates in order of total number of votes received are:
1- Erin Feely-Nahem
2- Susan Marcus
3- Sherrie Helstein

The 8 Manhattan Park (10- 40 River Road) Delegates in order of total number of votes received are:
1- Barbara Allen
2- Ava Dawson
3- Lynne Strong Shinozaki
4- Alex Fletcher
5- John Paul
6- Joseph Terranella
7- Neha Kaul
8- Suhail Matoo
9- Marc Jonas Block Alternate #1
10 - Ilonka Salisbury Alternate # 2

The 7 Roosevelt Landings (510-580 Main Street) Delegates in order of total number of votes received are:
1- Joyce Mincheff
2- Cynthia Ahn
3- Lorraine Williams
4- Lisa Knox
5- Linda Maynard-Hall
6- Romano Reid
7- Claudio Cornetti
8- Ahmed Darwish Alternate #1

The 3 Rivercross Delegates in order of total number of votes received are:
1-Marilyn Atkins
2- Don Semeza
3- Ethel Romm
4- Sharon (Nneka) Pope Alternate #1

The 9 Southtown Delegates in order of total number of votes received are:
1- Lorena Fortuna, David Evans and Aaron Hamburger are tied
4- Mona Sen, Alfred Plastino are tied
6- Stephan (Steve) Silverstein
7- Peter Diglio
8- Vinicius (Vini) Fortuna
9- George Ohring
10- Tommy Nodland Alternate # 1

Will have more on the exact numbers as soon as they are available.

There will be a RIRA meeting 8 PM tomorrow at Good Shepherd Community Center.

UPDATE 11:45 PM - Voting numbers available here.

UPDATE 11/4 - Final RIRA Voting numbers are here.

More Scenes From The 2010 Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade

If you were not at last Saturday's afternoon's Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade you missed a wonderful event. Here's a small taste of what it was like from You Tube

You Tube Video Of 2010 Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade

and Roosevelt Island resident/photographer Brian Dorfmann.

Images From Brian Dorfmann

More photos from Mr. Dorfmann are here.

We even had our very own Friendly Witch, RIOC President Leslie Torres, welcoming all the ghouls, goblins and other assorted creatures to Roosevelt Island.

More pictures of the 2010 Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade from this earlier post.

UPDATE  11/10 - Roosevelt Island resident Adib (Bluebeard) Mansour sends in some more Halloween Pictures below from the 2010 Parade.

Who Are You Voting For Prez Of Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) - It's Frank Farance For Me!

 Image of Mathew Katz and Frank Farance At RIRA Great Debate

A Roosevelt Island resident and reader sent me a message yesterday asking:

Well, who you going to vote for for Prez?...

I wrote back responding to several specific points the reader mentioned not intending for it to be a post  but decided to do so this morning:

There is way too much nonsense going back and forth between Frank and Matt. Both sincerely believe in what they are saying about each other but to most residents not involved in the minutia and personal history between the two of them, their dialogue is childish and a waste of time.

Bottom Line is I am voting for Frank Farance for the reasons I've spoken to you before. Given the role of RIRA, which has no real power, I think the President needs to stand up and challenge publicly RIOC and the Elected Officials on Roosevelt Island issues - not merely work behind the scenes using personal relationships - which is Matt's area. There are others who can do this - the RIRA President, in my opinion should be more public.

Frank will use the bully pulpit more effectively than Matt, though Frank will make more mistakes and offend some, though I think he may be constraining his outbursts better.

The attrition rate of RIRA members over the past two years is a non issue because the same thing happened  during previous RIRA terms including those when Matt was President. Also, during this term several RIRA Members became RIOC Board Members which resulted in them resigning from RIRA. There was also a RIRA member who died during his term.

One of the reasons for the lengthy RIRA Meetings is Frank started a procedure to start RIRA meetings in which RIOC staff members, the Public Safety Director, various politicians, the PS/IS 217 Principal and others would address the RIRA Council at the beginning of the meeting. This led to longer meetings but much more information was provided to the community than in the past. Does Frank get credit for that or should RIOC under Shane? I think both get the credit.

I don't think Frank's not getting RIOC appointment has anything to do with how he conducts RIRA meetings or how he acts as RIRA President. That is who he is.

A couple of things that trouble me about Matt Katz is that he decided not to seek re-election for his building's RIRA delegate position. Though he has every right not to do so, to me it says I will either be President or not contribute to RIRA - like the talented kid not chosen to be Captain of the Baseball team and then refusing to play and help the team.

From my perspective as writing an online blog, Matt seems to feel that the WIRE is the "official voice" of the Roosevelt Island community and in the past has been reluctant to share or contribute information to the blog until it has been published in the WIRE.

Perhaps that is just my bias but I think the RIRA President should not base decisions on sharing information with the community on the WIRE's production schedule. Maybe if he is elected President that will change - I don't know.

That's the end of my RIRA election rant - hope you find it of use but whoever wins, it will not significantly impact life here on Roosevelt Island.

Also, I think Frank will be more entertaining not unimportant to my mind.

 Another reader commented this morning:

The current state of the RIRA is sad. Most organizations like that would have co-presidents if there are multiple people interested in the job. There is no need to fight over something silly like the RIRA presidency. Make up and work together. Farance and Katz both have good qualities and would make a good team if they could work together and *respect* each other.

 One thing I did leave out but should note is that participation in the RIRA Common Council, particularly as it's President, is not easy work and an enormously time consuming endeavor. Those who fill these positions are volunteers, do not get paid and are doing so to better the Roosevelt Island community in which they live. They should be thanked for their service and I do so. Good Luck to both candidates.

The video of the Great RIRA Debate between Mr. Farance and Mr. Katz is available online here. It was a very civil and informative presentation by both men. Take a look at it and make up your own mind. Also available are prior candidate statements from Mr. Farance and Mr. Katz.

Regardless of who you support, please take the time to vote in the RIRA elections as well as in the General Election. Information on Roosevelt Island polling locations is here.

Roosevelt Island Voting Locations For 2010 General & Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Elections

You Tube Video of New NYC Voting Procedure

Do you know where your Roosevelt Island polling location is for today's elections?

There are two elections taking place today on Roosevelt Island - the General Election for Federal and State officials and the Roosevelt Island Resident Association (RIRA) election for Island wide President and Vice President as well as Building Common Council Delegates. Voting locations for each election are as follows.

According to the New York City Board Of Elections, in the general election residents of the WIRE Buildings (Westview, Island House, Rivercross, Eastwood/ Roosevelt Landings), Manhattan Park as well as Southtown's 465 and 475 Main Street vote at PS/IS 217 (645 Main Street).

Octagon residents vote at the adjacent Coler Hospital.

Residents of Southtown's 405, 415, 425 and 455 Main Street vote at Goldwater Hospital just south of the 59th Street Bridge.

For the RIRA election, Southtown residents vote at the 455 Main Street Lobby, Octagon residents at the Octagon and everybody else from the WIRE Buildings and Manhattan Park vote at PS/IS 217.

Voting times for both elections are from 6 AM - 9 PM.

You can check your building's voting location here.

Statement From Mihaela Preradovic In Support Of Her Candidacy For Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Common Council Delegate From Island House

Image of Mihaela Preradovic, RIRA Delegate Nominee From Island House

I was pleased to see so many new people choosing to get involved in the Roosevelt Island community by running for the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) Common Council for their respective buildings during last week's Roosevelt Island Building Candidate Night's.

One of those new people is Mihaela Preradovic and she sends in the following Candidate Statement. Ms. Preradovic is a Delegate Nominee for the RIRA Common Council from the Island House Building.

My name is Mihaela Preradovic and I’ve called Roosevelt Island home for more than 5 years now. Being a resident of Westview, Island House and Manhattan Park throughout the last five years, I’ve established a close relationship with the Island neighborhoods, the people and its identity. This gave me a great opportunity to recognize community needs and wants and most importantly how best to contribute to its bright future.

I come from financial industry with strong leadership background and versatile resume. I have masters in business administration, and additional qualifications in information technology, finance and global affairs. Currently I am employed with an asset management company in midtown Manhattan as financial analyst. Non-professional leadership experiences include presiding over Rotaract club – Rotary International Student Chapter, for two consecutive terms, serving as president of Society for Human Resources Management as well as working with adolescents, organizing their afterschool activities and acting as a counsel. In addition, I lived and worked in several European countries and have traveled to more than 30 other countries which gave me a broad understanding of different ways of thinking.

Although Resident Association has been doing a great job, there is always room for improvement and further development. In addition to my commitment to this community, I bring ambition, determination and enthusiasm for any challenge this position may bring. I would like to see greater Resident Association authority over community related issues, closer collaboration between Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation and Residents Association, speedier reforms, stronger community and more residents taking charge.

I’ve embraced Roosevelt Island community as my extended family and it would be my honor to be elected for a Common Council Representative position.

If you have any questions, suggestions or inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact me. My e-mail address is: mihaela_pre@yahoo.com.

Thank You.

The list of all Building Delegate Nominees to the RIRA Common Council is here.

It appears that Ms. Preradovics' first name is incorrectly listed as Michael instead of Mihalea.

Watch The Great Presidential Debate Video Between Roosevelt Island Heavyweights Farance and Katz - RIRA Election Tuesday, November 2

Image Of Farance (right)/Katz (left) RIRA Presidential Debate

The Great Debate between current President Frank Farance and challenger Mathew Katz for the Presidency of the Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) which took place last Wednesday evening is now available online for viewing here. The debate takes about one hour and is a very informative discussion about current and future issues of concern to Roosevelt Island residents. In the context of Roosevelt Island, it is also very interesting and I highly recommend clicking here and watching the proceedings.

I think those who favor either of the two candidate will still support that candidate after watching the video though it may help those of you who are still undecided about whom to vote for as President of RIRA.

For me, the most interesting question of the debate occurred at the 23 minute mark of the debate when both candidates were asked what action each wished they would have done differently during the term of their Presidency. (Note that Mr. Katz was RIRA President during 3 different terms prior to Mr. Farance).

Mr. Farance responded that he wished he crafted his language differently when criticizing the Columbia University Transportation Study last year and in some of his RIRA President Columns.  I find that significant since much of the opposition to Mr. Farance has come from his occasional use of overly harsh language at those he disagrees with or thinks are wrong over a particular issue. Perhaps, Mr. Farance is learning to be a bit more diplomatic in his utterances.

Mr. Katz replied that he wished he had done more for Eastwood/Roosevelt Landings Residents during the privatization process of that building and for RIRA, in general, to be more involved in housing privatization issues on Roosevelt Island.

There's still time to decide whom you will vote for RIRA President. Although not eligible to vote in this election, Assembly Member Micah Kellner has decided who he favors for RIRA President and sends in the following statement in support of Matthew Katz as President of RIRA:

I am proud to offer my strong endorsement of Matthew Katz for President of the Roosevelt Island Residents Association. Matt has distinguished himself as a true leader on the Island. I have worked closely with him over the years and I can attest to his passion for and encyclopedic knowledge of Roosevelt Island as a community. Matt is a terrific person to work with and an endless source of good ideas. As a community leader and past RIRA President he has won important battles on behalf of Island residents, helping to begin the process of making RIOC more representative of the community, saving late-night tram service, pushing for a much-needed renovation of the Roosevelt Island Bridge, and showing creativity and flair in strengthening the RIRA Common Council, from fundraising to recruiting. I have found Matt to be an excellent partner in working to make Roosevelt Island a better place, and I look forward to joining forces with him again to solve the many challenges facing the community.

Mr. Farance sends in the following campaign wrap-up statement:

Re-Elect RIRA President FRANK FARANCE Focused on the Future of Roosevelt Island, Standing up for ALL the Residents

I'd like to share some discussion points while meeting many residents.

All: You've felt that RIRA has made a lot of progress. In contrast to my opponent's statements, the RIRA's working relationships are the strongest, and you feel RIRA is worthwhile. In contrast to my opponent's statements, there is increasing participation. The residents have voted with their feet: 53 candidates is a new RIRA record! In contrast to my opponent, I have been actively concerned about the Island's long-term finances, which affect everything from the kinds of parks we will build to the kinds of daily operations and services RIOC will provide. We need to look for other funding sources so your City/State taxes can come back to the Island.

Parents: I am a single parent with 8-year-old twins. I have met regularly with the PS/IS 217 Principal to listen to the school's needs. I've helped fight to keep the Gifted and Talented program. I have volunteered in many of the youth services: Main Street Theatre, Island Kids, RI Youth Program, Beacon Program, etc.. I spend two nights a week teaching Island children about the sciences and robots (we won First Place for Teamwork and won 7th of 24 teams city- wide).

Seniors/Disabled: I am in support of housing for seniors and disabled, and I am in favor of GDP amendments that will secure this.

Organizations: I have supported a competitive and conflict-free process for Public Purpose Grants.

Merchants: I have advocated for community input in the retail space so we can keep desirable merchants.

Southtown: I've advocated for parking on both sides of Main Street (RIOC is investigating). Buildings 7-9 will make/break Island finances in the near future.

Octagon/Manhattan Park: I've advocated for the Red Bus to be the synchronizing clock to build cohesion among all residents: everyone should be a reliable 5-minute, 25-cent ride from each other. These two buildings should each form tenants associations to advocate their own interests (e.g., rationalizing utility bills).

Rivercross, Island House, Westview: I continue to support the privatization efforts of these three buildings as they exit from the Mitchell-Lama program. I've heard that some Rivercross tenants believe I am against their effort and this is not true: what I was against was the RIOC Board, which is comprised of a majority of Rivercross residents, expressing their concerns directly. Their concerns should be expressed via a third party (e.g., real estate advisor) so there are no appearances of impropriety — no different than a CEO having a separate compensation committee determine he/ her salary. Island House residents: please vote for me as RIRA President and also as Island House representative.

Roosevelt Landings (Eastwood): As RIRA President, I have supported your building's needs for rational submetering and energy improvements. As an individual and as your neighbor, I've provided photocopying/printing for your door-drops to support your tenants association.

AN UPDATE FROM THE RIRA DEBATE

Wednesday's debate is on the web. If you only have a moment, watch my opponent's opening remarks vs. mine: http://nyc10044.com/z/y At the debate, I promised to answer questions in detail about RIRA procedures. You can find these comments on the Roosevelt Islander blog. I stand by my statements: my opponent has not followed the procedures. As a former RIRA President I hold him to a higher standard: he should be an exemplar and an advocate for following the rules. He continues to show poor judgment in this area. For example, he was forced to resign from his board in Westview because he kept the ballot box in his apartment overnight while elections were running and he was a candidate. While I don't believe he would tamper with ballots, everyone would agree this a serious lapse in judgment. You would have thought my opponent had learned from these experiences.

I am reminded of the saying, "If we don't have the time to do it right, when will we have the time to do it over?" Good judgment, honesty, ethics, and fairness are principles for representing ALL the Island's residents. PLEASE VOTE FOR FRANK FARANCE ON NOVEMBER 2.

Also, Mr. Farance comments on what he believes to be specific procedure violations that he referenced in Wednesday's debate.

Violations on Meeting Participation and Voting:

Here is how my opponent violated our procedures. Our RIRA Constitution (Article 6, Section 7; Article 9), and Bylaws (Article 2, Section 1) require the use of Roberts Rules, which means: all members have the right to participate in discussions and votes. Over the summer, the Maple Tree Group excluded people from discussions, the discussion of voting, and the voting itself. These were done in secret and Ashton Barfield, chair of the parent committee confirmed these facts in public at the September RIRA meeting. Of course, the other members of the Maple Tree Group were in violation of the procedures, too, but I hold my opponent to a higher standard because he is a former RIRA President, he worked on the 2004 reformulation of the RIRA Constitution and Bylaws, and he should be an exemplar and advocate for following the rules. But the opposite is true: in his opening statement in the debate he says the Vice President should have posted meeting notices on kiosks (it was done sporadically) and, thus, because the Vice President had made mistakes, then why should I expect him to follow procedures? That's not good judgment nor is it good leadership

Violations on Elections Machines: My opponent has been involved in the purchase of election machine services. When Mr. Katz declared his candidacy on September 11, he should have handed over the paperwork to RIOC (who was spending the money and whose CFO is capable of negotiating prices). The RIRA Constitution (Article 5, Section 5) makes it clear: "No candidate for President or Vice President may serve on the Election Committee", which means we cannot do things that the elections committee is responsible for, like getting election machines. It was only after my opponent's actions became public did he then hand over the materials to the RIOC CFO. If my opponent truly believed he was still in the right on procedures, he would have continued his actions when they were made public, but he stopped.

Lack of Judgment: It is this ongoing pattern of lack of judgment that is troubling, whether it is the need to be inclusive of all members and residents, or procedures themselves. As I've mentioned, my opponent resigned from his board in Westview because he kept the ballot box in his apartment overnight while elections were running and he was a candidate. For whatever reason, my opponent still does not learn from these experiences.

Affects All Residents: These aren't minor points of procedure, these are items that directly affect ALL of the residents: (1) Southtown, Octagon, etc. were not able to put forward RIOC Board candidates from their own buildings; (2) the Island was prohibited from un- electing members of the RIOC Board (e.g., had there been an election, present board members would have been motivated to explain their actions on firing the RIOC President); (3) a small, secretive, self- selected group of people put forward legislation that irritated the Governor who vetoed it, and it will have a negative effect on future resident RIOC appointees; (4) the obvious lack of democracy by my opponent and the Maple Tree Group has tarnished the Island's drive for self-governance. [Note: I had no interest in running the proposed RIOC Board election.]

Understanding RIOC Director Terms: Regarding before/after term expiration, all of our city-state- national elections choose candidates before terms expire, not afterward. [Note: For RIOC, the statutes mandate 4-year terms that go with the seat, not the person. As an analogy: when President Kennedy died, Johnson did not get 4 years, he filled out the remaining time and stood for reelection a year later.]

One Large Manipulation: My opponent says he helped get RIOC Board elections in 2008 (6 slots to fill), and 2009 (2 slots to fill), but he advocated against elections in 2010 (1-3 slots to fill). There was enough time, but my opponent and the Maple Tree Group seem more interested in keeping their favored residents on the RIOC Board and not allowing the rest of the Island to participate. Had you been at the September 2010 RIRA Common Council meeting where this was discussed, you could see that some MTG members were angling the procedure for individual directors they liked or disliked: "The solution is to ask that Faye Christian be reappointed and to have someone standing by to take David Kraut’s seat", which is quoted from the approved minutes. This RIRA discussion was not about choosing a clean election process independent of which candidates might run, this was a blatant manipulation so that individual RIOC directors who were favored by MTG members (such as Ms. Christian) would get reappointed without having to run for reelection while RIOC directors who were out of favor (such as Mr. Kraut) would have their position go through an election process. It's right there in the approved minutes, it was said in public: it's clearly about manipulating the RIOC elections process towards MTG's favorites and away from others. It's not about democracy, and my opponent was an advocate of this non-democratic process.

One Point of Agreement: In the debate, my opponent and I agreed on one important point (along with all other prior RIRA Presidents): The RIRA Column in the WIRE is our personal opinion, it is impossible to write a column via committee, and we choose it to shed light on things we think are important.

A statement from Mr. Katz was previously posted as was this earlier statement from Mr. Farance.

More on the 2010 RIRA Elections including Building Delegate Nominees here.

While it is true that RIRA has no real power or authority on any particular issue, RIRA is considered to be the voice of the residents by those who do have such power, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board Of Directors and staff as well as our elected officials, which is why RIRA is important.

Please vote on Tuesday in the RIRA elections as well as the City, State and National elections.

UPDATE 11/1- Mr. Katz responds:

Dear Frank:

          I’ve received your door-dropped flyer under my Westview apartment door.  Your casual relationship with the truth is troubling.  You have accused me of being forced to resign from the Westview Task Force after the 2006 Board elections.  This is untrue.  As you can see in the attached candidates’ list, I was not a candidate in this election, having resigned from the WTI prior to the election.

          In your campaign statement and RIRA Column in The Main Street WIRE, you accused me of violating the RIRA Constitution regarding election conflicts of interest.  You pursued this bogus statement even after I challenged you in the Great Debate to cite a single word in either the Constitution or Bylaws regarding conflicts.  I quoted chapter and verse on your violations of both documents at the debate.  You also made statements about my lack of executive experience that are false, and would be laughable were they not made in the context of an important election.

          I am sorry that you seem to feel it necessary to trash me, personally and professionally, in order to win this election.  I had hoped we could discuss the critical issues of Roosevelt Island instead.  As you have often done over the last two years, you disappoint me.

          Matthew Katz 

Update 6:45 PM - Mr. Farance responds to Matt Katz:
There's More!

Matt-

It is troubling that your leadership is about Trying Not Getting Caught, rather than a focus on What's The Right Thing To Do.

I've already supplied the citations, but I will do it again (see below). Here's a recap some of the main points:

- In the Maple Tree Group for the RIOC 2010-2012 elections, you advocated for a secret meeting that excluded members

- You took a vote (without knowledge of the whole committee) that excluded members

- And you presented this as a decision of the committee

- Ashton Barfield confirmed all the above facts at the September 2010 RIRA meeting

- Ashton Barfield, then under pressure from my questioning, said "Maple Tree Group is open to everyone". Ashton understood that MTG was a closed group (why would she now say it is "open"?).

- Further manipulations/violations are documented below.

MATT, YOU DON'T SEE ANY PROCEDURAL PROBLEMS WITH THAT SECRET, MEMBERS-EXCLUDED VOTING?

In Westview, the story was told to me by you, Deidre Breslin, and other Westview residents: you and Sherie were running for election, but both had to resign. Today, I've received E-mail from Eileen Gardiner (see below) who confirmed and clarified "It was Sherie who was running and who was forced to resign over Matt's handling of the ballot box".

MATT, YOU HAVE A BALLOT BOX IN YOUR APARTMENT OVERNIGHT WHILE ELECTIONS ARE GOING ON -- YOU DON'T HAVE BELLS GOING OFF THAT SOMETHING IS WRONG?

That's what I mean by a serious lapse of judgment. The problem with this dialogue is that you are unwilling to face up to the facts that you have made serious mistakes.

-FF

---------------------------------------------------

[Citations on Violations]

VIOLATIONS ON MEETING PARTICIPATION AND VOTING:

Here is how my opponent violated our procedures. Our RIRA Constitution (Article 6, Section 7; Article 9), and Bylaws (Article 2, Section 1) require the use of Roberts Rules, which means: all members have the right to participate in discussions and votes. Over the summer, the Maple Tree Group excluded people from discussions, the discussion of voting, and the voting itself. These were done in secret and Ashton Barfield, chair of the parent committee confirmed these facts in public at the September RIRA meeting. Of course, the other members of the Maple Tree Group were in violation of the procedures, too, but I hold my opponent to a higher standard because he is a former RIRA President, he worked on the 2004 reformulation of the RIRA Constitution and Bylaws, and he should be an exemplar and advocate for following the rules. But the opposite is true: in his opening statement in the debate he says the Vice President should have posted meeting notices on kiosks (it was done sporadically) and, thus, because the Vice President had made mistakes, then why should I expect him to follow procedures? That's not good judgment nor is it good leadership

VIOLATIONS ON ELECTIONS MACHINES:

My opponent has been involved in the purchase of election machine services. When Mr. Katz declared his candidacy on September 11, he should have handed over the paperwork to RIOC (who was spending the money and whose CFO is capable of negotiating prices). The RIRA Constitution (Article 5, Section 5) makes it clear: "No candidate for President or Vice President may serve on the Election Committee", which means we cannot do things that the elections committee is responsible for, like getting election machines. It was only after my opponent's actions became public did he then hand over the materials to the RIOC CFO. If my opponent truly believed he was still in the right on procedures, he would have continued his actions when they were made public, but he stopped.

AFFECTS ALL RESIDENTS:

These aren't minor points of procedure, these are items that directly affect ALL of the residents: (1) Southtown, Octagon, etc. were not able to put forward RIOC Board candidates from their own buildings; (2) the Island was prohibited from un-electing members of the RIOC Board (e.g., had there been an election, present board members would have been motivated to explain their actions on firing the RIOC President); (3) a small, secretive, self-selected group of people put forward legislation that irritated the Governor who vetoed it, and it will have a negative effect on future resident RIOC appointees; (4) the obvious lack of democracy by my opponent and the Maple Tree Group has tarnished the Island's drive for self-governance. [Note: I had no interest in running the proposed RIOC Board election.]

ONE LARGE MANIPULATION:

My opponent says he helped get RIOC Board elections in 2008 (6 slots to fill), and 2009 (2 slots to fill), but he advocated against elections in 2010 (1-3 slots to fill). There was enough time, but my opponent and the Maple Tree Group seem more interested in keeping their favored residents on the RIOC Board and not allowing the rest of the Island to participate. Had you been at the September 2010 RIRA Common Council meeting where this was discussed, you could see that some MTG members were angling the procedure for individual directors they liked or disliked: "The solution is to ask that Faye Christian be reappointed and to have someone standing by to take David Kraut's seat", which is quoted from the approved minutes. This RIRA discussion was not about choosing a clean election process independent of which candidates might run, this was a blatant manipulation so that individual RIOC directors who were favored by MTG members (such as Ms. Christian) would get re-appointed without having to run for reelection while RIOC directors who were out of favor (such as Mr. Kraut) would have their position go through an election process. It's right there in the approved minutes, it was said in public: it's clearly about manipulating the RIOC elections process towards MTG's favorites and away from others. It's not about democracy, and my opponent was an advocate of this non-democratic process.