NY State Senator Liz Krueger Says Eric Adams Can No Longer Continue To To Be A Responsible Mayor During Last Night's Four Freedoms Democratic Club Roosevelt Island Meeting - Calls For Governor Hochul To Remove Mayor Adams Following His Indictment

NY State Senator Liz Krueger was the special guest for last night's Four Freedoms Democratic Club meeting held at Roosevelt Island's Good Shepherd Church. Ms Krueger, who is Chair of the powerful NY State Senate Finance Committee spoke about a variety of issues including the budget process, passing the equal rights amendment to the NY State constitution on this year's ballot, climate change, congestion pricing and a variety of other issues.

Our State Senator @LizKrueger dropped by our Roosevelt Island meeting. She talked about #Prop1 and so much more!#equalrightsamendment #voteyes #prop1 pic.twitter.com/LKgv9NLAk1

— Four Freedoms Dems (@FourFreedomsNYC) September 26, 2024

During the 4 Freedoms Democratic Club Roosevelt Island meeting, Ms Kreuger also called for the removal of NYC Mayor Eric Adams following his indictment yesterday. According to Ms Krueger:

... We're hearing that from all these other companies that are doing business with the City that there will be nobody to sign the contracts, nobody to negotiate with, everybody is even afraid to call City Hall. That's a huge issue. 

I have a feeling that the State Legislature in Albany will be very much more involved in the City government than we expect it to be and just for the record, I contacted the Governor's Office today. 

I said I think you should use your powers to remove Mayor Adams, not because I'm claiming that he's guilty. I don't know and you're innocent until proven guilty in this country and I fundamentally believe that. But I also think he's too busy to be focused on running the City government and everyone in every major positions are also either facing indictment or have already resigned or will be out by tomorrow because who would want to go back to the building. Let's be honest....

... I really don't believe that Mayor Adams is in a position where he will be able to continue to be a responsible Mayor doing what we need done....

Here's what Senator Krueger said.

Here's more

on the indictment of Mayor Adams.

Sponsored Post - Are You Interested In Local Politics? You're Invited To 4 Freedoms Democratic Club Annual Roosevelt Island Meeting Thursday Evening September 26 At Good Shepherd Church, State Senator Liz Krueger Special Guest

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics and wish to meet like minded folks? If yes, the Four Freedoms Democratic Club is hosting its annual Roosevelt Island meeting 7 PM Thursday September 26, at the Good Shepherd Church (543 Main Street). and you're invited.

According to the Four Freedoms Democratic Club:

Join Our September General Meeting

Thursday, September 26 7:00pm

Special Guest: State Senator Liz Krueger.

"Show me your budget, and I’ll tell you what you value."

Liz Krueger lives this old saying. She brings her values to bear as Chair of the Senate Finance Committee.

Hear what she has to say about the development of New York's next budget. Ask her a question. Or two.

Every September the Four Freedoms Democratic Club meets on Roosevelt Island -- which is part of the 76th Assembly District.

Take the Tram, the F train, or the Ferry via the Astoria line.

For people who can't make the meeting in person, join us at our regular Zoom link: join us at our Club Zoom link

After the meeting, join us for an informal get together at Granny Annie's -- a few steps away at 425 Main Street.

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More info on the Four Freedoms Democratic Club at their website and Instagram page.

Sponsored Post - Are You Interested In Local Politics? 4 Freedoms Democratic Club Hosting Annual Roosevelt Island Meeting Wednesday September 20 At The Sanctuary, You're invited

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics and wish to meet like minded folks? If yes, the Four Freedoms Democratic Club is hosting its annual Roosevelt Island meeting 7 PM Wednesday September 20, at The Sanctuary Events Space/Cafe (851 Main Street). and you're invited.

Four Freedoms Dems member Kim Moscaritolo adds:

On January 6th, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt spoke of the four freedoms inherent to all mankind: Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Worship, Freedom from Want, and Freedom from Fear. The Four Freedoms Democratic Club seeks to extend this vision into the 21st Century and is dedicated to providing an active, progressive Democratic organization in the 76th Assembly District, which includes the Upper East Side, Yorkville and Roosevelt Island. We meet monthly for our general meetings, and we hold candidate forums and social events throughout the year.

NYC Council Member Julie Menin spoke at the 2022 Four Freedoms Democratic Club Roosevelt Island meeting and State Senator Jose Serrano spoke at the 2021 meeting.

More info on the Four Freedoms Democratic Club at their website and Twitter (X) page.

Leaked NYC Council Redistricting Map Shows Roosevelt Island Stays In Manhattan Council District 5, Does Not Move To Queens District - Council Member Julie Menin Thrilled With New Map But Says Wait Until Official Map Released Tomorrow To Confirm

As reported last August 10:

Under a preliminary plan for NYC Council redistricting, Roosevelt Island and a sliver of the Upper East Side will be moved from NYC Council District 5 in Manhattan currently represented by Julie Menin to NYC Council District 26 in Queens currently represented by Julie Won....

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During the Four Freedoms Democratic Club September 14 meeting held at the Sanctuary Events/Cafe on Roosevelt Island, NYC Council Member Julie Menin was asked about the status of the NYC Council redistricting plan. Ms Menin said that the new redistricting maps would be released on September 22 and that District 5 would lose some part of the current district. Ms Menin did not know what portion of her district would be lost.

 

 Yesterday, the the NY Times Twitterverse reported:

Do new redistricting maps show Roosevelt Island remains in Manhattan CD 5 with @JulieMenin or move to Queens CD26 @juliej_won

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) September 20, 2022

Today the Gotham Gazette Twitterverse adds:

Looks like Roosevelt Island stays in Manhattan NYC Council District 5 @JulieMenin https://t.co/YExCsLMGh4

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) September 21, 2022

Takeaways of New City Council Map Set to Pass Redistricting Commissionhttps://t.co/UpAL4TEUkz

My latest w. @samarkhurshid, in which we reveal the fate of Hell's Kitchen, southern Brooklyn, the UES, Roosevelt Is., the Kingsbridge Armory, and more in the draft map. @GothamGazette

— Ethan Geringer-Sameth (@GeringerSameth) September 21, 2022

This morning, I asked Council Member Julie Menin if she had any new info on the proposed NYC Council redistricting. Ms Menin replied:

I am going to reserve full comment for when the official maps are released Thursday, but I am thrilled that this leaked map restores Roosevelt Island, Sutton Place, and the Upper East Side to Council District 5. 

I testified in front of the Commission strongly advocating that they restore these areas to a Manhattan-based District and keep communities of interest intact. It is so important that community voices and input be heard in this process and my district came out in full force on this issue to make their voices heard.

We are still are waiting for the map to drop tomorrow to confirm the information from the Gotham Gazette, but as of now we believe Roosevelt Island has been restored. The Council Members have not seen the map yet from the Districting Commission.

Latest info on NYC Council redistricting from Gotham Gazette, Gothamist and NY Times.

According to the NYC Districting Commission: 

The New York Districting Commission votes to release revised maps for the 51 City Council districts at a hybrid in-person/Zoom meeting. Meeting will be available for viewing live on Commission website at nyc.gov/districting.

WHERE 22 Reade Street, first floor, NY, NY 10007

WHEN Thursday, Sept. 22, 11 a.m.

We shall see tomorrow if the new redistricting map shows Roosevelt Island starying in Manhattan Council District 5 or moving to a Queens Council District.

The Districting Commission will publish the second draft of maps Thursday morning, and they undo most of the major changes from July’s first draft ... but expect a third draft. “The chance we accept it wholeheartedly without changes is close to zero.”https://t.co/vb4a663xZL

— Jeff Coltin (@JCColtin) September 21, 2022

Stay Tuned.

During the September 14 Four Freedoms Democratic Club meeting on Roosevelt Island, Ms Menin also talked about:

• NYC Council Universal Child care legislation she introduced, 
• $21 million she brought back into District 5 and 
• the need for affordable housing which may require approving taller building than previously allowed in the Upper East Side district, among other issues.
  

 

UPDATE 9/22 - Roosevelt Island resident and founder of the local Main Street Dems political club Joyce Short organized community efforts to keep Roosevelt Island in a Manhattan City Council District. Ms Short said last evening:

Roosevelt Islanders truly rose to the occasion, producing more comments to the Districting Committee than any other area of NYC. 

A big thanks to Lynne Shinozaki, Ellen Polivy, and everyone else who pitched in on this effort! 

We're not quite out of the woods yet... or should I say "out of Queens yet?" 

City Council will either vote "yay" or "nay" to the new map created by the Districting Commission tomorrow, 9/22. 

But in light of the overwhelming opposition we produced, it's unlikely that the issue will be revisited, even if City Council turns down the new ACCmap. Stay tuned, however. It's not over 'til it's over!

Roosevelt Island in Manhattan CD 5 and not Queens CD 26 in this second draft of @DistrictingNYC map @JulieMenin https://t.co/5dHGiB99gO

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) September 22, 2022

UPDATE 12:15 PM - Back to the drawing board for redistricting maps.

"We will reconvene to discuss our next steps," Districting Commission Chair Dennis Walcott says, noting that the new draft map will not be sent to the City Council as it would have if approved.

— Ben Max (@TweetBenMax) September 22, 2022

UPDATE 9:15 PM:

NEW: Redistricting Commission Votes Down Latest City Council Draft Map - via @samarkhurshid @GothamGazette https://t.co/GpEBMSnT0c

— Ben Max (@TweetBenMax) September 22, 2022

According to the Gotham Gazette:

... The commission will now work on a new map of Council districts, which it must pass to present to the current Council for approval or rejection with notes. If the Council approves the map, it goes into effect for next year’s elections, where all 51 Council seats are on the ballot. If it rejects the maps, the commission must take its feedback into account, hold additional public hearings, and then pass a final map without any outside approval needed. The deadline when the final maps are due is December 7....

Click here for the full Gotham Gazette article.

Are You Interested In Local Politics? 4 Freedoms Democratic Club Hosting Annual Roosevelt Island Meeting Wednesday September 14 At The Sanctuary, You're invited

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics and wish to meet like minded folks? If yes, the Four Freedoms Democratic Club is hosting its annual Roosevelt Island meeting Wednesday September 14, at The Sanctuary Events Space/Cafe (851 Main Street). and you're invited.

According to Kim Moscaritolo, Democratic District Leader from the 76th AD Part B: 

The Four Freedoms Democratic Club is one of the largest and most active Democratic Clubs in Manhattan. We engage with local residents on issues that matter most to them, we campaign for Democratic candidates, both locally and around the country, and we hold regular events that allow members to socialize and meet their local elected officials.

This month our guest will be Council Member Julie Menin, and we will be asking her specifically about the Council redistricting process, which we know is very important to residents of Roosevelt Island.

Proud to participate yet again in the Vote Blue Coalition. The 2020 buses were a blast so definitely sign up for this year too! https://t.co/2LndXcX80k

— Four Freedoms Dems (@FourFreedomsNYC) September 6, 2022

RSVP here.

More info about the Four Freedoms Democratic Club available at their website.

Last year, NY State Senator Jose Serrano spoke at the 4 Freedoms Democratic Club Roosevelt Island meeting.

Due to NY State Senate redistricting, Senator Serrano will not be representing Roosevelt Island next year. Liz Krueger is expected to be then new State Senator representing Roosevelt Island.

Upcoming Roosevelt Island Events This Week - You're Invited To Book & Wine Tastings Club Thursday At Gallery RIVVA, 4 Freedoms Democratic Club Thursday At The Sanctuary And RIDA Hosting Korean Harvest Moon Festival Saturday

Several upcoming Roosevel Island events this week you're invited to attend.

As previously reported:

Roosevelt Island resident Adela Sinclaire is a poet, educator, avid reader of great books and enjoys a good glass of wine. Ms Sinclair and her friend Cristina Afodorcei have combined these interests and formed a new book club entitled Books and Wine Tastings.... 

Ms Sinclair reports:

Join us this Thursday at 4 pm at Gallery RIVAA as we will be hosting our first in person free event. We will read poems, discuss our book and announce the next one. Many delights will be revealed. Location is: 527 Main Street, Roosevelt Island. Let us know if you have any questions by sending us a DM

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Are you interested in Democratic Party politics and wish to meet like minded folks? If yes, come join the Four Freedoms Democratic Club members Thursday September 30 to meet and greet NY State Senator Jose Serrano at The Sanctuary Cafe & Events space on Roosevelt Island

We look forward to seeing you next week for a wonderful night of wine, cheese and politics

— Four Freedoms Dems (@FourFreedomsNYC) September 23, 2021

Roosevelt Island Disabled Association (RIDA) President Wendy Hersch reports: 

This Saturday Oct 2nd. Free event . 

Korea's Harvest Moon Festival, also known as Chuseok or Hangawi, is a major harvest festival and a three-day holiday in both North and South Korea celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar on the full moon. 

It is sometimes called the Korean Thanksgiving. It is one of the biggest traditional holidays. The Roosevelt Island Disabled Association along with Roosevelt Island Operating Cooperation will be honoring Korean Cultural by celebrating this holiday with traditional dance and music on October 2nd at Church Plaza.

You're Invited To 4 Freedoms Democratic Club Outdoor Meeting At The Sanctuary For Annual Roosevelt Island Meeting Thursday September 23 - Discussion Of Local Issues With State Senator Jose Serrano, Wine And Cheese Too

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics and wish to meet like minded folks? If yes, come join the Four Freedoms Democratic Club members Thursday September 23 to meet and greet NY State Senator Jose Serrano at The Sanctuary Cafe & Events space on Roosevelt Island

According to the 4 Freedoms Democratic Club: 

September Meeting and (post) Summer Social Thursday, September 23rd at 7:00 at The Sanctuary on Roosevelt Island (851 Main St) 

Come for our annual Roosevelt Island Meeting! 

State Senator Serrano will be coming to discuss the vital issues facing our district. 

There will also be wine and cheese for our members and the event will be outside! Vaccination will be required to attend the event in person. 

We will also be meeting at our regular zoom link for those who can't make the in person meeting

UPDATE 9/23:

We look forward to seeing you next week for a wonderful night of wine, cheese and politics

— Four Freedoms Dems (@FourFreedomsNYC) September 23, 2021

You're Invited To Four Freedoms Democratic Club Meeting Monday September 9 At Roosevelt Island's Good Shepherd Community Center - Discuss Local Issues, Democratic Party Politics & Meet NY State Senator Jose Serrano

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics, meeting Roosevelt Island's NY State Senator Jose Serrano or learning how to get involved with community issues?

 State Senator Serrano/4 Freedoms Dems C

If yes, you're invited to stop by Roosevelt Island's Good Shepherd Community Center for some political talk and meet some interesting folks from the Four Freedoms Democratic Club.

Join Us for Our Annual Roosevelt Island Meeting
Monday, September 9, 7 to 9 pm

Our Club serves the 76th Assembly District, which includes Roosevelt Island, and every year we hold a meeting in Roosevelt Island to provide easy access to a meeting for our members and neighbors in this neighborhood. State Senator Jose Serrano's Senate district also includes Roosevelt Island and, as he has done in the past, he will join us at this meeting to discuss his plans and hear our concerns for the year ahead.

This meeting takes place in the basement of the Church of the Good Shepherd, located at 543 Main Street on Roosevelt Island, just a short walk from the tram and subway stops.

Senator Serrano addresses the FFDC at our 2018 Roosevelt Island Meeting

Also save the date for October 21st meeting when we return to our regular meeting place -- Draesel Hall, which is next to the Church of the Holy Trinity at 316 East 88th Street. Councilwoman Carlina Rivera will join us for our October meeting.

Our remaining 2019 monthly meetings:

Monday, November 18

Monday, December 9

These meetings will also take place at Draesel Hall, which is next to the Church of the Holy Trinity at 316 East 88th Street.

Here's more info on Four Freedoms Democratic Club.

You're Invited To Four Freedoms Democratic Club Meeting Tuesday September 4 At Roosevelt Island's Gallery RIVAA - Discuss Local Issues, Meet NY State Senator Jose Serrano And Enjoy Some Wine And Cheese

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics, meeting Roosevelt Island's NY State Senator Jose Serrano or learning how to get involved with community issues? If yes, you're invited to stop by Roosevelt Island's Gallery RIVAA for some political talk and meet some interesting folks from the Four Freedoms Democratic Club.

Excited for the annual @FourFreedomsNYC meeting on Roosevelt Island tomorrow night! Join us at the RIVAA gallery. @Rooseveltisland https://t.co/WnbLacAKVa

— Kim Moscaritolo (@kimmosc) September 3, 2018

According to the Four Freedoms Democratic Club:

...Four Freedoms Democratic Club is the most progressive democratic club in the 76th Assembly District's largest, which includes Roosevelt Island. It would be a great event to attend for anyone looking to learn more about how to get involved in the community and in local politics!...

State Senator Serrano/4 Freedoms Dems Canvassing On Roosevelt Island Via 4 Freedoms Dems

And:

Our next general membership meeting takes place at Gallery of the Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association (RIVAA) where Senator Jose Serrano will join us for a wine and cheese reception. In addition to having an opportunity to talk with Senator Serrano about his legislative agenda, we will be planning our Get Out the Vote Efforts for the September Democratic primary. Arrive before the meeting an join us in canvassing on Roosevelt Island and the tram stop and subway station. RSVP here.

The Gallery RIVAA is located at 527 Main Street on Roosevelt Island, a short walk from the F Train or the Tram.

Meet Adam Roberts, NY State Democratic Party Committee Candidate For 76 Assembly District Including Roosevelt Island - Aims To Bring Reform And Accountability To The Dems

Are you interested in NY State Democratic Party politics? This is for you.

Adam Roberts reports:

I’m Adam Roberts, a candidate for Democratic State Committee in the 76th district.

Though only 26 years old, I’ve built up a great amount of public service experience over the past decade. This includes, working for Council Member Ben Kallos, producing a documentary for PBS, working for UJA-Federation, and serving as the Democratic District Leader for Yorkville.

As Democratic State Committee Member, I’d represent Roosevelt Island and the Upper East Side. The Democratic State Committee is the governing body of the New York State Democratic Party. Responsibilities of the Democratic State Committee include determining the party’s platform and positions, which races resources are allocated to, who our Democratic National Committee (DNC) Members are, and who the party endorses in statewide races.

Right now, the New York State Democratic Party needs to undergo major changes. Corruption in Albany is rampant, while the state party is disorganized and ineffective. This is all to the detriment of Roosevelt Island.

We need to make sure the Democratic Party works for Roosevelt Island. A fractured and corrupt party hinders the passage of important legislation regarding those issues most important to Roosevelt Island. Improvements in affordable housing, transportation, and healthcare all get stalled because of widespread corruption and disorganization.

We need the Democratic State Committee to stand up to bad actors and hold them accountable. Myself and Lauren Trapanotto, my running mate, are seeking to reform the New York State Democratic Party. If elected, I’ll fight for the State Committee to:

• Clean up corruption in Albany
• Make the Democratic Party more progressive
• Build up local Democratic organizations
• Stay neutral in Democratic primaries
• Allow for the election of DNC Members
• Investigate corruption and sexual harassment

We need change in Albany for Roosevelt Island to prosper. Most crucially, we need new leadership to make these changes. In the Democratic Primary on Thursday, September 13, please be sure to vote for me, Adam Roberts, and my running mate Lauren Trapanotto.

Here's Mr Roberts, Ms Trapanotto (on right) and their colleagues petitioning during Roosevelt Island Day

Perfect weather for Roosevelt Island Day and an awesome day of petitioning with @adamrobertsnyc and @FourFreedomsNYC. Now time for some ice cream 😎🍦 pic.twitter.com/WtWfZnRmts

— Lauren Trapanotto (@ltraps23) June 16, 2018

and after receiving the endorsement of Four Freedoms Democratic Club, explaining what they hope to accomplish as NY State Democratic Party Committee member.



Mr Roberts is running against the incumbent, Jonathan Piel

Jonathan Piel New State Committee Member 76AD & Madelaine Piel #LenoxHillDems #scotusginsburg 9/21/16 @LenoxHillDC pic.twitter.com/wWKh7ADKLu

— Jonathan Piel NYC (@JP4StateCom76AD) September 22, 2016

and Ms Trapanotto is running against the incumbent, Ruth Halberg.

VOTE FOR Ruth she tells the Truth, My name is Ruth Halberg. I'm a progressive Democrat, and running in the Primary. I am the incumbent NYS Committeewoman for the 76AD, a neighborhood including the Upper East Side, Yorkville & Roosevelt Island. #RuthHalberg

— Ruth C. Halberg (@RuthCHalberg) June 26, 2018

Meet Lauren Trapanotto, NY State Democratic Party Committee Candidate For 76 Assembly District Including Roosevelt Island - Aims To Drive Change And Bring Reform To The Dems

Are you interested in NY State Democratic Party politics? This is for you.

Lauren Trapanotto reports

The Democratic Party is divided into three levels, with elected representatives at the National, State, and County Committees. 

I am a candidate for the New York State Democratic Committee in the 76th Assembly District, which includes Roosevelt Island. The election will be held on Thursday, September 13 on the Democratic Primary ballot.

My name is Lauren Trapanotto

and I am running to represent Roosevelt Island on the Democratic Party's State Committee. I am running because I believe our Party has failed to live up to its values, and that Democratic voters are taken advantage of by politicians who know that progressives have few other options on election day. If elected, I will be the advocate we need, working to break the hold establishment figures have and pushing the Party to take a stronger stance against bad actors in Albany.

The State Committee has the potential to meaningfully shape the political landscape here in New York for the better, but has served mostly as a rubber stamp for incumbent bosses in Albany seeking to maintain control. It is responsible for overseeing campaign spending, writing the Party’s platform, and selecting Democratic National Committee Members. The Committee can also “fast track” its favored candidates onto the September primary ballot - as it did in the governor’s race earlier this year - allowing them to avoid the expensive and time consuming statewide petitioning process.This all affects how the Party operates and when done behind closed doors can end up biasing our elections.

Last year, as part of a grassroots effort to break insiders’ hold on the Democratic Party, I became a member of the Democratic County Committee and helped kick off a broad reform movement to open up the Party and limit the role of lobbyists and consultants in the leadership. We will be voting on the proposed reforms later this summer. If elected to the State Committee I intend to do the same in Albany, fighting to prevent the Party leadership from treating our campaign fund like a piggy bank and ensuring the Party remains neutral in primary elections at all levels until voters have chosen our nominee. You can read the rest of my platform here. I am proud to be supported in the race by the Four Freedoms Democratic Club, which has been at the forefront of the movement to clean up our Party and is engaging progressive activists right here in the 76th AD.

I am running against a 20-plus year incumbent, but I am confident in my chances, because I know what most of you know: that the Democratic Party in New York needs change. I want to be the driver for that change, and I hope I'll have your support.

You may have seen me around the island collecting signatures to get my name on the ballot. If you do see me, I hope you will sign and take a minute to chat about what I am working on. I will be attending the Roosevelt Island Town Hall on Thursday, June 28 at Chapel of the Good Shepherd from 6-8 PM. If you’d like to learn more about my campaign, please check out www.votelauren.nyc and my Facebook page.

Ms Trapanotto (pictures at right) and her colleagues were seen petitioning during Roosevelt Island Day.

Perfect weather for Roosevelt Island Day and an awesome day of petitioning with @adamrobertsnyc and @FourFreedomsNYC. Now time for some ice cream 😎🍦 pic.twitter.com/WtWfZnRmts

— Lauren Trapanotto (@ltraps23) June 16, 2018

Come meet Ms Trapanotto at the Roosevelt Island Town Hall with our elected officials tomorrow, June 28.

Ms Trapanotto is running against the incumbent, Ruth Halberg.

VOTE FOR Ruth she tells the Truth, My name is Ruth Halberg. I'm a progressive Democrat, and running in the Primary. I am the incumbent NYS Committeewoman for the 76AD, a neighborhood including the Upper East Side, Yorkville & Roosevelt Island. #RuthHalberg

— Ruth C. Halberg (@halberg_c) June 26, 2018

You're Invited To Four Freedoms Democratic Club Meeting Tonight At Riverwalk Bar & Grill - Discuss Local Issues & Meet NY State Senator Jose Serrano

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics - or would you just like to meet Roosevelt Island's NY State Senator Jose Serrano. If yes, come down to the Riverwalk Bar & Grill for some political talk and meet some interesting folks from the Four Freedoms Democratic Club.

Come to @FourFreedomsNYC meeting in Roosevelt Island this evening at 7 where we will be joined by @SenatorSerrano https://t.co/oqRkQY8x2u

— Four Freedoms Dems (@FourFreedomsNYC) August 23, 2017

The Four Freedoms Democratic Club adds:

Join the FFDC on Roosevelt Island for a meeting with State Senator José M. Serrano. We'll be discussing local issues, the upcoming primary election, and the club's recent activism efforts. See you there!

Directions: Riverwalk is located one block up Main St from the Tram stop, and right next to the F Train stop.

WHEN

August 23, 2017 at 7pm - 8:30pm

WHERE

Riverwalk Bar and Grill
425 Main Street...

More information about the Four Freedoms Democratic Club here.

Ben Wetzler, Democratic Party District Leader 76 AD Part A Candidate Speaks To Roosevelt Island Residents Association Common Council

According to the Manhattan Democratic Party web site:

A District Leader is an unpaid volunteer elected official. All formal parties in New York State are required to have at least one District Leader (DL) per Assembly District (AD). These positions are subject to primary elections every two years. This ostensibly guarantees that any party with formal status in New York State (e.g. a permanent ballot line) is democratically governed by its members. In essence, the District Leader is the representative of the party members in their district to that political party’s apparatus.

Ben Wetzler

 Image From Vote Ben Wetzler

is a Democratic Party District Leader candidate for the 76 Assembly District Part A which includes Roosevelt Island.  Mr. Wetzler spoke to the June 7 Roosevelt Island Residents Association (RIRA) June 7 Public Session



and reports:

My name is Ben Wetzler and I am a candidate for Democratic Party District Leader looking to bring change to local politics here on Roosevelt Island. I am challenging the sitting party leader in the September primary in order to build a more active, grassroots Democratic Party and end practices that allow communities like ours to be neglected in city hall and Albany. If elected, I hope to organize volunteers to support Democratic candidates in other districts currently held by the breakaway "Independent" Democrats who have hindered progressive priorities in Albany, and plan to establish a stronger line of communication between local block and residents' associations and their Democratic elected officials.

I am running in the 76th Assembly District, Part A, which covers the Island and a portion of the Upper East Side near the river. Though this is my first time running for office, I have an extensive history of public service, working to develop affordable housing strategies and improve enforcement of the rent stabilization law. I am endorsed and supported by the Four Freedoms Democratic Club, which has been successful in opening up the Party to new voices that had previously been shut out of local affairs since it broke from the neighborhood's official Democratic organization in 2014.

I will be at Good Shepherd Plaza this Saturday for Roosevelt Island Day. If you would like to learn more about my campaign, you can stop by, or check out my website www.voteben.nyc and Facebook page.

The incumbent Democratic Party District Leader for 76 Assembly District Part A is John Halebian. Mr Halebian is a member of the Lenox Hill Democratic Club.

If you are interested in Democratic Party politics, come meet Mr. Wetzler during Roosevelt Island Day at Good Shepherd Plaza.

Four Freedoms Democratic Club Hosting Meet And Greet With Roosevelt Island's NY State Senator Jose Serrano Tuesday October 27 - Discuss #NYSpeakUp Again Domestic Violence And Other Issues

Are you interested in Democratic Party politics and wish to meet like minded folks? If yes, come join the Four Freedoms Democratic Club members Tuesday, October 27 to meet and greet NY State Senator Jose Serrano at the Roosevelt Island Riverwalk Bar & Grill (425 Main Street).

Image From Four Freedoms Democratic Club Facebook Page

According to the Four Freedoms Democratic Club:

The Four Freedoms Democratic Club is hosting a Meet And Greet With Roosevelt Island's NY State Senator Jose Serrano Tuesday

On Tuesday, October 27th, at 7pm, the Four Freedoms Democratic Club gets back into its regular last-Tuesday-of-the-month event with a meet and greet with Senator Jose M. Serrano!

Come over and say hi to the Senator, have a discussion about what he has been working on and hear more about what the Senate Democrats have planned over the upcoming year.

There is no cost for this event and the bar will have its regular menu available.

Earlier this month Senator Serrano announced a social media campaign for National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October.

1/4 of women will experience dating/#domesticviolence in their lifetime. Women between 20-24 are at greatest risk. (@dosomething) #NYSpeakUP

— Sen. Jose M. Serrano (@SenatorSerrano) October 20, 2015

A study of #DomesticViolence homicides found that 20% of victims were family members, friends, neighbors or bystanders. (@NCADV) #NYSpeakUp

— Sen. Jose M. Serrano (@SenatorSerrano) October 25, 2015

According to this press release from Senator Serrano:

... Every day in October, Senator Serrano will be posting facts, stories, articles, and resources relating to domestic violence across social media. All of these posts will use the hashtag #NYSpeakUp. The Senator is encouraging everyone who is affected or knows someone affected by domestic violence to add to the conversation online by using the hashtag. These posts will be an effort to spark a conversation and shed light on an issue that too often goes unmentioned.

“We have a responsibility to address the unfortunate reality of domestic violence and assist domestic violence survivors as they move forward with their lives,” Senator Serrano said. “Often times victims of domestic violence are afraid to speak up and feel alone in their struggle. In fact, only an estimated 25% of all female domestic violence assaults are reported to the police. It is my hope that we can harness the power of social media to give a voice to those that are suffering in silence. By speaking up, we can show our friends, family members, and neighbors that they are not alone and that there are resources available to them.”

Domestic Violence accounted for more than 25% of reported physical assault cases in New York State during 2012. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 70% of domestic violence incidents go unreported. Survivors of domestic violence often suffer more than just physical injuries, survivors are often faced with mental and emotional trauma. Children who witness violence in the home, including its aftermath, can suffer severe emotional and developmental challenges that are similar to those who have been abused directly.

“The Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence (OCDV) applauds Senator Serrano’s #NYSpeakUp campaign, which not only helps draw attention to Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but also helps disseminate crucial resources and information to victims of domestic violence, their supporters and advocates. Since the start of Mayor de Blasio’s administration two years ago, intimate-partner homicides have fallen by 25% in New York City. So much of this is due to awareness. We at OCDV thank Senator Serrano for being a strong voice and an active participant in the campaign to end domestic violence in our City. He is a true UpStander,” said Mayor's Office to Combat Domestic Violence (OCDV) Commissioner, Rosemonde Pierre-Louis....

Click here for the full statement by Senator Serrano on Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

More info on the Four Freedoms Democratic Club available at their web site and Facebook page.

Also, Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Member Ben Kallos announced the launch of a domestic violence and family law clinic. According to this October 22 press release:

A domestic violence and family law clinic was announced yesterday by Council Member Ben Kallos to be offered in his district office in partnership with the Urban Justice Center (UJC). Occurring the second Monday of every month, the clinic will offer constituents the opportunity to meet with a staff member from UJC's Domestic Violence Project to discuss issues including child custody, divorce, identity theft, and domestic violence. Council District 5 residents can reserve hour-long, one-on-one appointments through the Council Member's office. The first session will take place on November 9th from 2pm to 6pm....

...Residents of Council District 5 who are experiencing a family law issue or would like to refer someone for assistance can contact Council Member Kallos’ office at 212-860-1950 to schedule an appointment to meet with a UJC representative. The Council Member’s office is a safe place and appointments will remain confidential....

Click here for the full press release.

Attention Roosevelt Island Democrats - Primary Election Day September 10 For Democratic Party District Leaders Part 76 And Judicial Delegates

Tomorrow, September 10, is Primary Election Day. On Roosevelt Island, only the Democratic Party is holding a primary election.

The Democratic Party primary election being held tomorrow for eligible Roosevelt Island voters is to elect Male and Female District 76 Part A Leaders

Image From NYC Board Of Elections 2015 Primary Page

and 76 Assembly Member Judicial Delegates.

Mike Dillon is one of the candidates running for Male District 76 Part A Leader. He sent the following statement and flyer to the Roosevelt Island community.

Have you ever heard of a District Leader?

On Thursday, September 10th, for the first time in decades, you'll be asked to vote for District Leader, and I want you to vote for me, Mike Dillon.

District Leader is an unpaid party position within the local Democratic Party that you might not be familiar with. It's the person you can reach out to if you have questions about local candidates or elections. It's someone who represents Roosevelt Island to the New York County Democratic Party.

I'm an active member in the community and within the Democratic Party. For the last several years, I've been a board member of the East Sixties Neighborhood Association, and last year, I was a member of the Participatory Budgeting Committee for Roosevelt Island. I currently serve as the President of the Four Freedoms Democratic Club, the largest and most active Democratic Club in our assembly district.

I know I will be a great District Leader, but you don't have to take my word for it; In addition to being endorsed by a number of local community and political leaders, I've been endorsed by our Assemblywoman, Rebecca Seawright.

On Thursday, September 10th, I would deeply appreciate your vote. If you have any questions about me, what a District Leader does, the Four Freedoms Democratic Club, or anything else that’s happening in the neighborhood, feel free to give me a call at 646-616-7526 or send me an email at mike@dillon.nyc. I've included a flyer on the other candidates endorsed by the club, I hope you'll consider supporting them as well.

Thank you for your support,

This is not an endorsement but intended for informational purposes only. I have not received information from any of the other candidates.

Roosevelt Island polling locations are at PS/IS 217 (645 Main Street) for all eligible voters except Octagon residents who vote at Coler Hospital (900 Main Street).

UPDATE 10:20 PM - Barbara Rudder is one of the candidates for Female District Leader. During tonight's Roosevelt Island Residents Association Public Session (RIRA), RIRA Common Council member Ellen Polivy thanked Ms. Rudder for her assistance securing an anonymous $150 thousand donation to the FDR Hope Memorial.

Here's what Ms Polivy said.



Ms. Polivy adds:

Dear Neighbor,

On Thursday, September 10, from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 pm, please join us in voting for our friend Barbara Rudder as our Democratic District Leader. This is a volunteer position that serves as a link between our neighborhood and our elected officials.

We are voting for Barbara Rudder because she is a strong advocate and a proven successful worker for our neighborhood, the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island.

Barbara Rudder has been endorsed by our Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright.

Barbara Rudder has served on our Community Board 8 for the last seven years:

Co-chair of the Health, Seniors and Social Services Committee, fighting to keep senior centers open, active and fully funded.

Co-chair of the Parks Committee, fighting for open green space and redevelopment of the East River Esplanade.

Assisted district and community leaders’ efforts in securing the release of vital grant funding for the FDR Hope Memorial Project of the Roosevelt Island Disabled Association.

Active member of the Second Avenue Subway Task Force fighting for a unique Second Avenue corridor.

Organizing a Quality of Life Symposium to ensure responsible development of our community.

Co-chair of the Rockefeller University Task Force ensuring a positive outcome for the East River Esplanade redevelopment.

Barbara Rudder is a founding member of Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney’s East River Esplanade Task Force.

Please join us in voting for our friend Barbara Rudder for Democratic District Leader on Thursday, September 10th.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Lorraine Altman, resident since 1989 -  Dolores Green, resident since 1997

Marilyn Atkins, resident since 1977  -  Judith Quintana, resident since 1975

Nancy Brown, resident since 1976 -  Gloria Narduzzo, resident since 1979

Irene Clark, resident since 1995   - Manuela Ocampo, resident since 1989

Hope Dietsch, resident since 1984  -   Rebecca Ocampo, resident since 1989

Georganna Galateau, resident since 1976  -   Ellen Polivy, resident since 2004

Frank Gibbs, resident since 1975   -   Linda Warren, resident since 1989

UPDATE 9/15 - John Halebian and Jill Eisner won the election for Male and Female Democratic Party District Leaders Part 76 A respectively.

Candidate Barbara Rudder writes:

On Thursday, I lost in an election for Democratic District Leader, although I won on Roosevelt Island. I want to thank all of Roosevelt Island for their friendship and support. It is very apparent to me that your small island, made up of such passionate, knowledgeable residents, has the muscle and fight to affect great change. Although I am disappointed with the results of the election, I plan on working with you to help solve the issues that affect Roosevelt Island and the Upper East Side.

Four Freedoms Democratic Club Roosevelt Island Meeting This Evening - NY State Senator Jose Serrano On Reforming Albany Corruption And Dysfunction, 76 Democratic Assembly Distict Candidate Rebecca Seawright And Republican David Garland Speak Too

 Image From Four Freedoms Democratic Club

Reported earlier today that the Four Freedoms Democratic Club (FFDC) was meeting tonight on Roosevelt Island.

Here's what happened.

FFDC President Kim Moscaritolo described the FFDC's attempt to reach out to Roosevelt Island residents interested in Democratic Party politics and then introduced our NY State Senator Jose Serrano.

Senator Serrano noted the diversity of his 29 Senatorial district, including Roosevelt Island, the South and West Bronx, East Harlem, Yorkville, Upper West Side and Central Park. Senator Serrano discussed the upcoming election season, dysfunction and corruption in Albany, the need for political reform, and the Republican State Senate Coup during previous legislative session.



Following Senator Serrano, NY State Democratic Party candidate for the 76 Assembly District Rebecca Seawright spoke to the FFDC



as did the Republican candidate David Garland.



If you are interested in participating in local Democratic Party politics, consider joining the Four Freedoms Democratic Club. They are making a good attempt to reach Roosevelt Island residents.

You're Invited To Four Freedoms Democratic Club Meeting On Roosevelt Island Tonight - NY State 76 AD Candidate Rebecca Seawright And State Senator Jose Serrano Will Be There Too

Are you interested in local Democratic Party politics? If yes, tonight's 6:30 PM meeting of the Four Freedoms Democratic Club (FFDC) at Roosevelt Island's Good Shepherd Community Center is for you. According to the FFDC:

Join us for our September membership meeting! This will be our first meeting following the Democratic primary, so we will have a lot to talk about! We will be joined by Rebecca Seawright, the Democratic nominee for State Assembly in the 76th district.

This will also be our first regular meeting on Roosevelt Island and we are thrilled to be joined by Senator Jose M. Serrano who represents Roosevelt Island in the State Senate.

Join us for an exciting and informative meeting!

Here is the Meeting Agenda:

I. Welcome

II. Sen. Jose M. Serrano updates the club on issues affecting the district, and on efforts to win the State Senate in November

III. Rebecca Seawright, Democratic nominee for Assembly, talks about her general election campaign as well as her thoughts on various issues facing the district.

IV. Elections Update

V. Treasurer Update

VI. People’s Climate March:

VII. Illegal Hotel Coalition:

VIII. Right to Counsel bill:

IX. Member Time

X. Adjourn

More information on the FFDC available at their web site.