Vanhal, Mozart & Dvorak Playing Tonight 8 PM At Roosevelt Island's R&R Free Family Concert Series

Image From R&R Concerts

Received this message from the folks who put on the Rosemarie & Robin Russell Family Concert Series on Roosevelt Island, R&R Concerts:

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Vanhal Mozart Dvorák

Ralph Allen, violin
Mioi Takeda, violin
Tawnya Popoff, viola
Iris Jortner, cello
Byron Schenkman, piano

Good Shepherd Center
543 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY

8:00 PM

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Sonata in A Major, K. 526 for violin and piano

Johann Baptist Vanhal
Quartet in E-flat Major, op. 40, no. 1 for piano and strings

Antonín Leopold Dvořák
Quintet in A Major, op.81 for piano and strings

Admission is FREE

More on the Roosevelt Island R&R Family Concert Series from previous posts.

No F Train Service To Roosevelt Island From Manhattan This Memorial Day Weekend - 10 PM Friday Thru 5 AM Tuesday, Tram Will Run Extended Service During This Time

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)

The MTA has advised there will be:

No Queens Bound F-Trains

May 25 – May 29 from 10 PM to 5 AM

Tram and Red Bus Service will run until 5:00 AM during these service disruptions.

More information on subway service disruptions this weekend from the MTA.

F Jamaica-bound trains run via the M from 47-50 Sts to Roosevelt Av

Weekend & Holiday , 10 PM Fri to 5 AM Tue, May 25 - 29

F trains run express from Queens Plaza to Roosevelt Av.

No Jamaica-bound service at 57 St, Lexington Av/63 St, Roosevelt Island and 21 St-Queensbridge.

Roosevelt Island - A Prototype For Enlightened City Planning, At Least It Was In 1978

You Tube Video of Roosevelt Island History

Did you live on Roosevelt Island at that time? What was it like?

Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department Commendation And Promotion Ceremony Held On May 18 - Thank You For Your Service

Image of RI Public Safety Dep't at Commendation Ceremony From RIOC

Received this report from Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department Director Keith Guerra.

On May 18, 2012 the RIOC Public Safety Department held its Fifth Annual Commendation/Promotion Ceremony at the 591 Main Street Plaza. In conjunction with Police Week, it was a time to honor those who go above and beyond the call of duty.

Several of the Public Safety Officers received awards for various acts of bravery and ingenuity. Two of the Public Safety Officers received the Life Saving Award for rescuing a male who jumped into the East River, as well as stopping a woman attempting to jump out of her apartment window nine stories up, both in an attempt of suicide. Other awards were given out to several of our Sergeants, Detectives and Officers for Excellent and Meritorious Service for various incidents such as illegal drug activity with intent to sell, apprehending two subjects wanted for a past robbery, placing a female teacher under arrest for sexual abuse of a minor. All of these are just a sampling of the bravery and commitment of the Public Safety Officers who protect and service the Roosevelt Island Community.

RIOC Parks and Recreation employees, Jamal Perry

Image of Deputy Chief Bryan, Mr. Perry and Chief Guerra From RIOC

and Nelson Soltran, who assisted the Public Safety Officers with the rescue of the male who jumped into the East River in an attempt of suicide, were given certificates of appreciation. We also promoted two Public Safety Officers to the rank of Detective.

Image of Deputy Chief Bryan (left), Captain Suarez (center), Chief Guerra(right) with newly promoted detectives Cabassa and Gilmore (next to Suarez) from RIOC

Several of our Board Members were in attendance, Michael Shinozaki, Faye Christian, Sal Ferrera and Howard Polivy. Two members of the NYPD were in attendance as well as RIOC Executive Staff, President, Leslie Torres, Vice President Operations, Fernando Martinez and Vice President General Counsel, Donald Lewis.

We want to thank the members of the Roosevelt Island Community who came out on such a beautiful day to support the dedication and commitment of all of our Officers.

Roosevelt Island resident Frank Farance has more pictures of the Public Safety Department Commendation and Promotion Ceremony.

Roosevelt Island Photographers Tatiana, Olya And Mirceani Show Roses, Skyline And East River

Roosevelt Island is lucky to have some fine photographers and I am fortunate that they allow me to share some of their work.

For instance, regular contributor Tatiana Muzica notes:

I liked the roses on the way to the tram.

Ms. Muzica shows us these Southtown Roses,

 Image From Tatiana Muzica

a little bit closer up

  Image From Tatiana Muzica

and even closer.

 Image From Tatiana Muzica

Photo blogger, Roosevelt Island resident and regular contributor Olya Turcihin shares this May 22 nighttime view of NYC Skyline and East River waterfront view from Roosevelt Island.

Image From Olya's Urban Journal

Roosevelt Island resident  Mirceau Nicolescu has a new photo blog called Manhattan Faces & Places. He shares these pictures of East River Kayaks

 Image From Mirceani

and barge just off Roosevelt Island.

 Image From Mirceani

Summer Shakespeare In Central Park Has More Competition This Year - Immersive Celebration Of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing All Around You At Roosevelt Island's Eastwood Amphitheater Weekends June 15 - July 1

Image From Island Shakespeare

Summer Shakespeare in Central Park has more New York City competition this year from a new Roosevelt Island Theater Company - Island Shakespeare. According to Island Shakespeare:

THE SHAKESPEARE ALL AROUND YOU

Island Shakespeare presents an immersive celebration of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado.”

You enter a raucous celebration of Italian Unification (circa 1861), invited to drink and dance with the red-shirted soldiers of Garibaldi’s “Expedition of 1000.” Revelers can follow the story, follow a character, or follow their own desire to explore the piazza.

“Tom and I came across the Eastwood Amphitheater on Roosevelt Island

 Eastwood Amphitheater Image From Island Shakespeare

as we were out walking on a warm March day in 2011. We knew we wanted to break out and create our kind of Shakespeare somewhere and it was an ‘ah ha’ moment. We both kind of looked at each other like, this is IT.” says Kristi Artinian, island resident and artistic director of Island Shakespeare.

Director Thomas Kee, an original American cast member of “Sleep No More” now running in Chelsea, brings those sensibilities to “Much Ado.” “People used to think of Tony and Tina’s Wedding or a Ren. Faire when we said interactive theatre. It’s fun like those kinds of shows, but with the added element of a superbly acted play happening all around you.”

The company is made up of a diverse group of classically trained actors and veteran immersive theatre performers such as: Brian Keith MacDonald** (The Merchant of Venice with Al Pacino) as Leonato, shock comic Ashley Strand** (Shakespeare Theatre Co. D.C. veteran) as Dogberry, and Lindsay Tanner (Co-Artistic Director of the Accidental Shakespeare Company) as Margaret.

June 15-July 1 with 7:30pm shows Fridays & Saturdays and 2pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays at the Eastwood Amphitheater. Just one stop out on the F train from 63 & Lex. at 516 Main Street, Roosevelt Island. Or take the Tram like Spiderman. Directions available http://islandshakespeare.com/location

Only a limited number of people are admitted to each performance. Booking is recommended online https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe/9672936 or (866) 811-4111.

**These Actors are appearing courtesy of Actors' Equity Association

Equity Approved Showcase.

More on Island Shakespeare from previous post and

You Tube Video of Roosevelt Island Shakespeare

Open Dialogue Tonight With RIOC Board Directors At 8 PM, Come Join The Conversation and Get Answers To Your Roosevelt Island Questions - RIOC Board Meeting Earlier At 5:30 PM

Do you have any questions or comments regarding how Roosevelt Island is governed? If so, tonight is an opportunity to get answers from some of your neighbors, the resident members of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Board of Directors, to your concerns. According to RIOC:

The Roosevelt Island community is invited to attend a open dialogue session with the RIOC Board of Directors on Thursday, May 24th at 8:00 p.m. at the Manhattan Park Theater Club located at 8 River Road. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the RIOC Board of Directors and present the board with Island related questions and concerns.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Sincerely,

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp Advisories Group

Prior to the open community dialogue with RIOC Directors, a RIOC Board of Directors meeting will take place:

AGENDA

MAY 24, 2012 MEETING OF
THE ROOSEVELT ISLAND OPERATING CORPORATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE MANHATTAN PARK COMMUNITY CENTER,
8 RIVER ROAD, ROOSEVELT ISLAND, NEW YORK
5:30 P.M.¹

 

I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call
III. Approval of Minutes
     1. April 19, 2012 Board Meeting (Board Action Required)
IV. Old Business
V. New Business
     1. Presentation of the FY 2011-2012 QTR 4 Procurement Report
     2. Authorization to Enter into a Contract with Everbridge for Public Notification System (Board Action Required)
     3. Authorization to Enter into a Contract with LaPoma Site Work & Structure Inc. for Restoration of the Meditation
         Steps (Board Action Required)
     4. Authorization to Amend License Agreement with Riverwalk Landing, LLC for Zipcar Parking at Southtown
         (Board Action Required)
     5. Authorization to Issue a Change Order for Shawn Construction, Inc. Contract for Installation of Platform
         Enclosures and Concrete Repairs at Tram Stations (Board Action Required)
     6. President's Report
     7. Committee Reports
         a. Audit Committee
         b. Governance Committee
         c. Operations Advisory Committee
         d. Real Estate Development Advisory Committee
     8. Public Safety Report
VI. Adjournment

The RIOC Board Meeting will commence following a public comment period. The public comment period is not part of the meeting.

Here is a video from previous post last November in which RIOC Directors discuss what they do as Board Members.



The rest of this November 2011 conversation with RIOC Directors is here.

Here's What Happened At Roosevelt Island Cornell NYC Tech Campus Project Public Scoping Meeting Last Night

As previously reported, the NYC Mayor's Office of Environmental Coordination held a Public Scoping meeting on the Roosevelt Island Cornell NYC Tech project last night:

... The purpose of the scoping meeting is to provide the public with the opportunity to comment on the draft scope of work proposed to be used to develop an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed CornellNYC Tech Campus project. Written comments on the draft scope may also be submitted to the address below until 5:00 P.M. Friday, June 8, 2012....

Here's what happened.

Cornell Vice President Cathy Dove presented a review of Cornell's plan for the Roosevelt Island campus,



followed by a review of the NYC Environmental Review process



and then questions



and comments



from the public.



More on the Cornell draft environmental statement, including specific plans for the campus, at this previous post.

In other Cornell NYC Tech news, Verge reports:

... On Wednesday, CornellNYC Tech named its Founding Entreprenurial Officer, Twitter's ex-CTO Greg Pass. Pass knows a few things about building successful start-ups from the ground floor up. Union Square Ventures' Fred Wilson has called Pass "one of the unsung heros of the Twitter success story....

Roosevelt Island Red Bus Service Extended To Southpoint Park Starting May 24 - RIOC Operations Committee Discusses Proposal To Delink Red Bus Schedule From Tram And To Run In Continuous Loop

New Red Bus Route to Southpoint Park From RIOC

Starting tomorrow May 24, the Roosevelt Island Red Bus service will be extended to Southpoint Park. As reported in Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Leslie Torres May 18 Report To The Community:

... RIOC is pleased to announce that on May 24 the Roosevelt Island Red Bus route will begin providing service to Southpoint Park. The route will remain the same north of the tram, but south of the tram it will be extended to Southpoint. The bus will depart the tram stop and proceed southbound on East Drive. The existing route makes a right hand turn and proceeds westbound, south of Sports Park; the extended route will continue southbound and will stop at the south west corner of Goldwater Hospital, adjacent to the Southpoint Park entrance. The bus will then turn right onto West Drive, heading northbound to service stops at Goldwater Hospital and West Tram, then proceeding north to the F-train station.

The Red Bus will stop at Southpoint Park as part of regular local service, seven days a week from the start of service at 5:45 am to the close of service (2:30 am Sun-Thurs, 3:30 am Fri-Sat). Please note, however, that the Octagon Express will not service Southpoint Park.

To connect with the Tram, Red Bus customers will be able to select either the "Tram Station East" stop or the "Tram Station West" stop to board or depart the bus. Two additional stops will be installed with this service change: “Southpoint Park” and “Goldwater Hospital.”...

According to RIOC, the new route to Southpoint Park will not change the Red Bus Schedule timing from the Tram to Octagon in either direction.

However, there may be more changes coming to the Roosevelt Island Red Bus. During the May 21 Operations Committee meeting, RIOC staff announced plans to stop linking the Red Bus to the Tram Schedule and have a continuously looping Red Bus route which RIOC staff asserts will be a more efficient schedule (audio webcast of the meeting available from RIOC and I will have video from the meeting as well in future post). Several RIOC Directors present at the meeting expressed reservations about not having a Red Bus waiting for the Tram to arrive during non rush hours so no decision was made to implement any plan to delink the Red Bus from the Tram Schedule yet.

Also, advocated by several RIOC Directors at the Operations Committee meeting was having the Red Bus route return to it's previous route of stopping at the Tram Station and then going around the water fountain on its way north instead of the current route past the Sportspark and now Southpoint Park before heading north. A subcommittee was formed to investigate this matter further.

Will have more on these issues soon.

Roosevelt Island Cornell Technion NYC Tech Public Scoping Meeting Tonight 6:30 PM - Planned Academic, Incubator, Residential Buildings, Hotel/Conference Center and 250 Parking Spaces In First Phase

Image From You Tube Video

Students at Cornell's Graduate Landscape Architecture, Real Estate and Regional Planning Program came up with this proposal for the Cornell Technion NYC Tech campus on Roosevelt Island Campus.

You Tube Video of Cornell Students Proposed Roosevelt Island Campus

What do you think?

The proposal by the Cornell students will probably not be part of tonight's meeting on the new Roosevelt Island campus. According to the NYC Mayor's Office of Environmental Coordination, a Public Scoping meeting on the Roosevelt Island Cornell NYC Tech project will he held later today:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a public scoping meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2012, at the Manhattan Park Community Center, 8 River Road, Roosevelt Island, New York, at 6:30 P.M. The purpose of the scoping meeting is to provide the public with the opportunity to comment on the draft scope of work proposed to be used to develop an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed CornellNYC Tech Campus project. Written comments on the draft scope may also be submitted to the address below until 5:00 P.M. Friday, June 8, 2012....

Here's what will be discussed according to this summary of the project from the Draft Scope of Work to Prepare a Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the CornellNYC Tech Project (Page 1-2):

... The first phase of the CornellNYC Tech project, which Cornell University (Cornell)  would undertake in collaboration with Technion – Israel  Institute of Technology, is expected to be constructed and begin operations on Roosevelt Island in Summer 2017; 2018 will be the first full year of operation.

Phase 1 would consist of up to a maximum of 790,000 gross square feet (gsf) of development consisting of approximately 200,000 gsf of academic research space, 300,000 gsf of residential space (442 units), 100,000 gsf of partner research and development space, and 170,000 gsf for an academic-oriented hotel with conference facilities. Up to another 20,000 gsf  would be developed as a central energy plant. Phase 2, expected to be completed by 2037, would add a maximum of 1.34 million gsf consisting  of approximately 420,000 gsf of academic research space, 500,000 gsf of residential space (652 units), 400,000 gsf of partner research and development (R&D) space, and another 20,000 gsf central energy plant. In total, the maximum potential CornellNYC Tech project program is assumed to comprise 2.13 million gsf of development consisting of 620,000 gsf of academic research space, 800,000 gsf of residential space (1,094 units), 500,000 gsf of partner R&D space, 170,000 gsf of an academic-oriented hotel with conference facilities, and 40,000  gsf for the central energy plants. Up to approximately 25,000 gsf of campus-oriented retail would be provided within this program....

and (Page 4):

... parking may be provided for the academic-oriented hotel and conference facilities and for the three partner research and development buildings. It is anticipated that approximately 500 spaces would be provided at the project site, with 250 spaces in Phase 1 and another 250 spaces provided in Phase 2....

and (page 5-6):

... The proposed project would be centered on a new outdoor north-south connection or “spine” that would extend at-grade through the project site. A series of publicly-accessible open spaces would extend from the edge of the site inward to this spine. The proposed buildings would be organized around both the spine and the network of open spaces with the main entries to the buildings located along the north-south spine.

Preliminarily, the project buildings are expected to have approximately the following characteristics:
The academic research buildings would be 8 to 14 stories with the tallest of the three buildings reaching 165 to 185 feet in height. 
The residential buildings would be taller, approximately 15 to 30 stories, with the tallest of the four residential buildings reaching 280 to 320 feet in height. 
The hotel and conference facilities would be 15 stories, or up to 180 feet in height. 
The partner R&D buildings would be 8 to 14 stories with the tallest of the three buildings reaching 165 to 185 feet in height. 
The proposed buildings would be oriented on the project site so that a series of publicly accessible open spaces are created (see “Open Space,” below).

OPEN SPACE
The proposed project would provide approximately 7.5 acres of publicly-accessible open spaces on the project site and would include provision of both active and passive uses.

In addition, the project would provide a bicycle path in the ring road around the project site that would provide connections to the parks south of the site as well as to open space and recreation facilities north of the project site.

SITE ACCESS AND CIRCULATION

The existing ring road would be mapped with a 50 foot right-of-way, which would allow for one travel lane and a parking lane, with a sidewalk adjacent to the project site. As in the existing condition, the road would be one-way clockwise with southbound traffic on the east side of the project site and northbound traffic on the west side. The ring road would provide access to the campus’s loading areas, which would be located primarily on the east side of the project site. Drop off and pick up areas may be provided in front of the hotel and potentially at central locations serving the academic buildings.

SUSTAINABILITY MEASURES

The proposed project would incorporate a number of sustainable design measures that would reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions. In addition to meeting all applicable local laws regarding energy, Cornell has agreed to achieve a minimum of LEED® Silver certification for all project buildings. As part of the sustainable design energy measures, to the extent feasible, the proposed project may include the following:

• On-site energy plants that would total approximately 40,000 gsf. The energy plants would supply power, chilled water, and heat to the campus.
• Photovoltaic (PV) panels throughout the site (e.g., on the roofs of the proposed buildings and possibly elsewhere on the site). 
• A system of up to 400 geothermal wells.

Cornell has set a goal to achieve net-zero energy consumption for its Phase 1 academic building. This means that the campus collectively would generate the electricity, heat, and chilled water that would offset the energy use of the Phase 1 academic building on an annual basis.

In addition to energy measures, the proposed project would be planned and designed to achieve
other sustainability targets....

and (Page 3-4):

... PROPOSED ACTIONS

The proposed actions required to facilitate the proposed project are as follows:

• Amendment of the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (NYCHHC) operating agreement with the City by the Corporation Board in order to surrender a portion of the project site.
• Disposition of City-owned property from the City of New York to the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) for a subsequent proposed long-term lease and potential future sale to Cornell.
• Mayoral approval of the lease and sale terms of the disposition parcels pursuant to Section 384(b)(4) of the New York City Charter.
• RIOC approval of a modification of the City’s lease with RIOC.
• Zoning Map amendment to change the project site and surrounding area zoning from R7-2 to C4-5 as shown on Figure 4.
• Zoning Text amendment to create the Special Southern Roosevelt Island District and to establish special bulk, use, parking and waterfront controls for the rezoning area.
• City Map Amendment to map the one-way ring road surrounding the project site as a City street

Other potential approvals, such as approvals from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP) and New  York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), may also be required. It is also possible that an approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) would be required with respect to a geothermal well system that may be part of the project....

So, if you are interested in the future of Roosevelt Island and the new Cornell Technion NYC Tech School, come to the meeting starting 6:30 PM at the Manhattan Park Community Center (8 River Road)

Roosevelt Island Business Networking Group Meeting Tonight 7:30 PM, Local Entrepreneurs Meet, Share Stories and Potential Opportunities - Presentation Last Meeting From Interactive Comic Book Designer, Event Designer and Immersive Journeys Travel Planner - Will You Be Next Presenter?

You Tube Video of May 8 RIBN Meeting Intro

The Roosevelt Island Business Networking Group (RIBN) will be holding their fifth meeting later tonight, May 22, at 7:30 PM.

Networking Plus on the Island. Next Meeting of Roosevelt Island Business Networking Group Tuesday, 5/22 at 7:30 pm

Start with a business card exchange. Season with member presentations. Add a touch of informal business analysis and advice. That's the R I Business Networking Group. Contact Tom Wood at Thomas_Wood@natfin.net for location and details.

Here is a report from the RIBN from their last meeting.

The fifth meeting of the Roosevelt Island Business Networking Group welcomed about 20 professionals, ranging from theater director and theater marketing professional, to eldercare advisor and IT consultant, at Riverwalk Bar & Grill on Tuesday morning, May 8th, for the bi-monthly meeting. As usual, the meeting kicked off with informal conversations and a business card exchange, as familiar faces and new members shared ideas about their respective small businesses and solo practices.

The member presentations included an engaging interactive presentation by Micheline Hess, who is developing an app for the iPad that can best be described as an interactive comic book. It features a girl who, through pluck and resourcefulness, navigates her way through a dangerous universe and learns about food and nutrition on her journey. Here's an excerpt from her presentation ( full presentation is below).



Next, Matthew Myhrum showed photos and drawings of his work as an event designer. Working at first with one of the premier event planners, and now independently, Matthew has prepared drawings for lavish galas around the world. Here's an excerpt from his presentation ( full presentation is below).



Third, Rumit Mehta described how Immersion Journeys plans trips to southern, western and eastern Africa, plus India, that permit travelers to see the sights and experience the local culture and cuisine. His itinerary to Ghana won a prestigious award from National Geographic, one of only 50 tours in the world to be recognized. Here's an excerpt from his presentation ( full presentation is below).



Attendees were reminded to submit a listing of their contact information and services to The WIRE and to the Roosevelt Islander online. Members are encouraged to meet with others in the group and consider what they have to offer and what they might need from a colleague. The Roosevelt Island Business Networking Group on LinkedIn continues to grow.

The next event will be held on Tuesday, May 22nd at 7:30 pm; please contact Tom Wood at Thomas_Wood@natfin.net to give a presentation. Members are welcome to bring Island friends and neighbors who are also small business owners and solo practitioners and expand the networking group.

On Saturday, June 9th, the group will have a table on Roosevelt Island Day, to attract membership and to promote the services of participants. Please contact Tom Wood to volunteer to sit at the table for an hour's shift between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm.

More information on the Roosevelt Island Business Networking Group and how you can join available at Linked In and previous posts.

If you would like to attend, please remember to RSVP to Tom Wood  at Thomas_Wood@natfin.net for location.

Below are the full presentations by your Roosevelt Island neighbors Micheline, Matthew and Rumit.

You Tube Video of Micheline Hess Presentation at RIBN

You Tube Video of Event Designer Mathew Myhrum at RIBN

You Tube Video of Rumit Mehta Presents Immersion Journeys At RIBN

RIOC Issues Southtown Main Street Traffic Advisory For Tuesday May 22 Due To Crane Activity

Image of Crane from EPA

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC)

Please be advised on Tuesday, May 22nd there will be no parking in front of 425 Main Street from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. due to crane activity. In addition, Main Street traffic will be reduced to one lane during that time frame at the same location. Flag man will be assigned to assist with traffic direction, and traffic will resume to normal by 5:00 p.m. Please allow for extra travel time.

Thank you for your cooperation during this time frame.

The crane activity on Roosevelt Island will not be the type of crane shown above.

Video Announcing Cornell Technion NYC Tech School Leasing Space At Google Headquarters - Will Larry and Sergey Come Visit Roosevelt Island Soon And Test The Google Self Driving Cars On Roosevelt Island?

As reported earlier today, NYC Mayor Bloomberg, Google CEO Larry Page and Cornell President David Skorton announced:

... that Google will allocate 22,000 square feet of its New York headquarters to CornellNYC Tech, while the university completes its campus on Roosevelt Island. The space will allow Cornell to build its presence in New York in close proximity to the tech companies and entrepreneurs with whom it will collaborate. This arrangement represents Google, Cornell, Technion and the City of New York’s commitment to educating and developing engineering and tech talent in New York City. Google will initially provide Cornell with 22,000 square feet of office space on July 1, 2012, free of charge for 5 years and 6 months or until the completion of Cornell’s campus on Roosevelt Island—whichever occurs first....

Below is the video of today's announcement including President Skorton's remarks about getting to know Roosevelt Island and its history of innovation



as well as the full announcement with Questions and Answers.

You Tube Video of Cornell Google Announcement

More on the Cornell Technion plans for Roosevelt Island campus at this previous post and don't forget the project's Scope Of Work meeting tomorrow night 5 PM 6:30 PM at the Manhattan Park Community Center.

Info on Google's self driving cars available here.

Cornell Technion NYC Tech Campus Temporary Home To Be At Google Headquarters Before Moving To Permanent Roosevelt Island Campus in 2017 - Scope Of Work Meeting Tomorrow

 Image From Brad Bender Tweet

NYC Mayor's Office just tweeted:

CEO Larry Page announces @CornellTechNYC campus will be based at @google NYC headquarters for next five years #jobs
— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) May 21, 2012

Here's the press release from Mayor Bloomberg's office:

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Google Inc. CEO Larry Page and Cornell President David J. Skorton today announced that Google will allocate 22,000 square feet of its New York headquarters to CornellNYC Tech, while the university completes its campus on Roosevelt Island. The space will allow Cornell to build its presence in New York in close proximity to the tech companies and entrepreneurs with whom it will collaborate. This arrangement represents Google, Cornell, Technion and the City of New York’s commitment to educating and developing engineering and tech talent in New York City. Google will initially provide Cornell with 22,000 square feet of office space on July 1, 2012, free of charge for 5 years and 6 months or until the completion of Cornell’s campus on Roosevelt Island—whichever occurs first. Additionally, Cornell will be able to expand to 58,000 square feet over five years as it builds its presence in New York City. The Mayor made the announcement at Google New York, where he was also joined by Technion’s Director Craig Gotsman, Representative Carolyn Maloney, Representative Jerrold Nadler and Council Member Jessica Lappin.

“We’re about to find out what happens when you marry one of the world’s most innovative companies with one of the most innovative economic development strategies any city has undertaken,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “When we first envisioned the Applied Sciences initiative, we hoped the winning school would establish strong relationships with the tech sector. But this kind of synergy is beyond anything we could have imagined. CornellNYC Tech is well on its way to being fully integrated into New York City’s vibrant tech industry, and Google’s support is another huge vote of confidence for that industry. Just a few years ago, our tech sector was barely on anyone’s radar screen – now, it’s creating jobs and becoming a major player in our diversified economy.”

“I’m passionate about breaking ground in science and engineering because technology has driven many of the advances humankind has made,” said Google CEO Larry Page. “But we still don’t have enough people working in these areas. It’s why I am tremendously pleased that Google is giving Cornell the office space to get their new engineering university up and running in New York City.”

“We are proud to be launching CornellNYC Tech in what is becoming the center of the tech world,” said Cornell President David J. Skorton. “The one missing ingredient has been a pipeline of top-level tech talent, and that is what the tech campus will provide. Building on Mayor Bloomberg’s vision, we are creating a new academic model for this time, this place and this industry. The key is engagement between world class academics, companies and early-stage investors to catalyze innovation. That’s what we’ll be creating on Roosevelt Island, and thanks to Google it’s what will be happening here starting this fall.”

“We are delighted to launch our exciting programs with Cornell University in the Google building,” said Technion President Peretz Lavie. “This space provides the optimal environment for the education and nurturing of technical talent. This is a major step towards the fulfillment of Mayor Bloomberg’s vision to seed the city with entrepreneurs and start-ups. We at Technion are confident that our academic partnership with Cornell University will help build the city’s tech ecosystem and boost this sector of the economy.”

Though classes do not begin until the fall, CornellNYC Tech has already made enormous progress since being chosen as the winner of the City’s Applied Sciences competition in December. Leadership of the new campus has been named, including Dean Dan Huttenlocher and Vice President Cathy Dove. Earlier this month, Cornell chose Pritzker Prize-winning architect Thom Mayne to design the first academic building on the Roosevelt Island campus. A town hall forum was held on Roosevelt Island in April, just one of many opportunities for residents to get to know more about how the campus will benefit the entire Island.

“Mayor Bloomberg’s Applied Sciences initiative centered around the idea of linking academic excellence with economic development and job creation, and the location of CornellNYC at Google during the construction of the Roosevelt Island campus will be a living testament to that idea,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Robert K. Steel. “We appreciate Google’s commitment to New York City through this generous donation of space in the heart of New York’s tech renaissance.”

“In December, the Bloomberg Administration, Cornell University, and the Technion created an historic public-private partnership to transform our economy for generations to come,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky. “With the addition of Google, one of the world’s undisputed leaders in technology, this partnership has risen to even greater heights. The first wave of talented students to arrive in New York will immediately find themselves integrated within our City’s growing tech sector, gaining first-hand knowledge of what is required to create cutting-edge technologies and new businesses. I would like to thank Google, as well as Cornell and the Technion, for their commitment to our City’s future as the global hub of innovation.”

“Google stepping up to the plate and providing CornellNYC Tech with start-up space, while its Roosevelt Campus is built, will make sure that when one googles ‘tech hub,’ New York City is the top hit,” said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. “The already emerging partnership between New York’s tech community and our new engineering school bodes well for creating a more robust technology cluster that will make the Big Apple the country’s leading center for technology. The mayor’s leadership in pushing for the establishment of this school and Google’s willingness to play such a vital role in jump starting it should be commended.”

“No other city is poised to lead in the high-tech economy of the future like New York City,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand. “Thanks to Google’s helping hand and strong partnership with Cornell and Technion, we are one step closer to seeing CornellNYC Tech come to fruition, bringing world-class engineering talent right here in the heart of the Big Apple. I thank Mayor Bloomberg for his efforts in ensuring that we’re growing innovative leaders to compete and win in the global economy.”

“I look forward to the day when CornellNYC Tech opens its doors on Roosevelt Island, but in the meantime, Google’s Manhattan offices will provide a wonderful home for the school during its incubation phase,” said Representative Maloney. “It’s yet another example of Cornell’s determination and commitment to launching this exciting new academic venture – and its ability to make connections with the best of the best. And it’s also a sign of the open arms with which New York’s high-tech community is welcoming New York City’s newest institution of higher education. Today’s announcement signals a win-win for Cornell, Technion, Google – and New York!”

“Today’s announcement is wonderful news,” said Representative Jerrold Nadler. “With the generosity of Google providing space in its building, Cornell and the Technion will now be able to provide New York City with a world-class applied sciences campus. I thank everyone for working together and enabling New York City to become the high-tech capital of the world.”

“Google and Cornell-Technion are a match made in heaven,” said Council Member Lappin. “I want to thank Google for opening its doors while we get the school’s permanent home ready on Roosevelt Island.”

WOW.

More on the Cornell Technion plans for Roosevelt Island campus at this previous post and dont' forget the project's Scope Of Work meeting tomorrow night 5 PM 6:30 PM at the Manhattan Park Community Center.

UPDATE 4:40 PM - Have video of today's Cornell Google announcement.

RIOC Operations Committee Meeting Today - Transportation Presentation, Zip Car License Amendment, Meditation Step Restoration, Con Ed High Pressure Gas, FDR Park, Open Space & More Roosevelt Island Issues To Be Discussed

According to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a meeting of the Operations Advisory Committee of the RIOC Board of Directors will be held on Monday, May 21, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. at the RIOC administrative office, 591 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, New York.
Agenda:
1. Presentation by the RIOC Transportation Department

2. Discussion of the National Urban Fellows Program

3. Discussion of the May 24, 2012 Board Meeting Agenda Items:

a. Everbridge Public Notification System
b. ZipCar License Amendment
c. Shawn Construction Change Order
d. Meditation Steps Restoration Project

4. Discussion of the Four Freedoms Park Project

5. Update on:
a. Con Edison High Pressure Gas Project
b. Façade for South Point Park Comfort Station
c. Uses for Southtown and Octagon Field Open Areas
d. Island Survey/Assessment

6. Any other Committee business that may be brought before the Committee

Image From Outdoor Fitness Equipment (Click Here For Examples)

Here's the April 30 RIOC Operations Committee meeting discussion of a proposal to install a fitness area at Southtown and Octagon Field Open Space areas as well as the future use of DEP site near the Octagon. During the discussion, RIOC VP of Operations Fernando Martinez also announced that Zip Car has added a fourth vehicle to the Southtown Zip Car fleet.

You Tube Video of April 30 RIOC Operations Committee Meeting Open Space Discussion

Roosevelt Island Sports Weekend, Little League Baseball, Zog Touch Football and Cricket Practice - Also Take A Hudson River Trip Around The Statue Of Liberty

It's the end of a beautiful Roosevelt Island weekend.

Some chose playing in or watching Roosevelt Island Little League Baseball at Capobianco Field,

You Tube Video of Roosevelt Island Little League

Zog touch football at the Octagon Field

You Tube Video of Zog Roosevelt Island Touch Football

or cricket practice in Manhattan Park courtyard.

You Tube Video of Roosevelt Island Cricket Practice

I took a boat ride on the Hudson River around the Statue of Liberty.

You Tube Video of Hudson River Boat Ride

Hope you had a good weekend too.