Roosevelt Island Concerts Holiday Classical Music Performance Scheduled For Sunday December 19 Postponed Due To Recent Surge Of NYC Covid Cases, Broadway Shows And The Rockettes Cancelled Too

Roosevelt Island Concerts planned their Holiday Concert for tomorrow, December 19

but announced today:

Dear Friends, 

We regret to inform you that we have decided to postpone our upcoming performance scheduled for Sunday, December 19th at 4pm to a later date. We were hoping we would not have to do so, but with the recent surge of covid cases in NYC, we feel this is the responsible thing to do. Your health and safety are most important to us, and rest assured: we will hold this concert when it is safer to gather in public again. 

We will let you know when the concert will happen as soon as it is confirmed, and we hope you will be able to join us then.  We would like to thank our wonderful performers, Yi-heng Yang, Max Zeugner, and Dongmyung Ahn for their patience and understanding. We cannot wait to hear their performance as soon as possible. We would like to wish you health and safety at these trying times, and a joyous holiday season! 

With warm regards from your Roosevelt Island Concerts team

We missed a great concert. Here's Roosevelt Island Concerts performing Schubert:Symphony No.5 last August at the Good Shepherd Chapel.
 

More info on Roosevelt Island Concerts available at their website.

#ICYMI this week @NYCHealthCommr issued a Commissioner’s order on the #OmicronVariant and more on #COVID19.

➡️ https://t.co/3iqLClPIe0
➡️ https://t.co/oIEUHV3fiI

pic.twitter.com/cbOW8T2QCL

— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) December 18, 2021

pic.twitter.com/u4sR9PIl82

— Rockettes (@Rockettes) December 17, 2021

And then there were 8: In addition to the 7 Broadway shows that canceled because of Covid tonight, "Company" stopped when a performer fell ill (non-Covid) during tonight's performance. So one out of four Broadway shows was shuttered tonight. https://t.co/QZj9mO4tHl

— Michael Paulson (@MichaelPaulson) December 18, 2021

Roosevelt Island Youth Center Temporarily Closes Due To Possible Multiple Covid 19 Exposures - Parents Of PS/IS 217 Students Pleading For Roosevelt Island Covid Testing

Earlier today, I asked the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

I'm told that the youth center has multiple positive Covid cases among kids and staff, and RIOC closed down the center until further notice.

Is that true?

Does RIOC have any plans to bring back Covid Testing site to Roosevelt Island....

This evening, RIOC Public Information Officer Amy Smith replied:

For the first time this year, the Roosevelt Island Youth Center (RIYC) has temporarily closed due to evidence of possible COVID-19 exposure. We did not hesitate in halting operations of the RIYC in order to keep our participants and staff safe. Although not ideal, closing is a step we proudly take, particularly as the Omicron variant raises cause for concern. During our closure, we will be working through our multi-layered response and we will update our participants when it has been deemed safe to reopen. We will remain transparent in sharing this information and updates with island partners and encourage families to continue to reach out to us directly with any questions or concerns.

Parents of PS/IS 217 students are pleading for Covid Testing on Roosevelt Island:

Twice a week, but afternoons only.

That way they will have the foot traffic in RI, kids can get tested after school, parents can return home and get tested with their kids (as kids will be pick up from after school programs) Maybe even one Saturday at the Farmers Market.

Especially for kids with IEPs who are missing out because they can't test back into school after 'potential exposure' quarantine. No available slots in our area... Seems like a quarantine situation at school should trigger a pop-up site!

— Melissa B Davis, PhD (@MeliD32) November 30, 2021

Nope.

— Melissa B Davis, PhD (@MeliD32) November 30, 2021

UPDATE 12/1 - A concerned long time Roosevelt Island resident adds:

There’s been no new RIOC Advisory of any type on this particular outbreak, and / or including yesterday’s updated NYC DOHMH recommendations about masking indoors. 

Were kids & adults wearing masks in RIYC at all times? 

What kind of contact tracing is going on? 

How are they coordinating with PS/IS 217 & other places kids go to school or after school programs? 

And why aren’t more folks clamoring for some weekly on-site testing van or service via NYC DOHMH or HHC?

A petition has been started to bring a Covid Test Site to Roosevelt Island. So far, 276 have signed.

Roosevelt island NYC Council Member Ben Kallos reports:

We are working with schools throughout the district on similar requests. We got testing before and we will get testing back to Roosevelt Island.

Sign Petition To Bring Back Roosevelt Island Grow NYC Food Scrap Drop Off Compost Collection Bin Program - Over 134 Thousand Pounds Of Food Scraps Diverted From Landfill By Roosevelt Island Waste Reduction Programs Since 2015

As previously reported, the Roosevelt Island Grow NYC Food Scrap Drop Off Compost Collection Bin program 

has been suspended since last March 28 due to NYC Coronavirus Pandemic budget cuts. According to Grow NYC:

The coronavirus outbreak has suspended many of the zero waste programs New Yorkers have come to rely on, including GrowNYC’s zero waste programs, DSNY’s curbside compost program, and the citywide network of food scrap drop-off sites...

But, NY 1 reported July 7 that some funds were restored for the program:

... Curbside pickups of compostable materials have been suspended for the entire budget year - idling those brown garbage cans meant for food scraps and yard waste. At the last minute, the City Council restored $2.9 million to the NYC Compost project — enabling New Yorkers to drop off compostables at sites across the city. However, all of those locations are currently closed because of the pandemic....

The Roosevelt Island Food Scrap Drop Off Compost Program began in November 2015. At that time, Roosevelt Island Girl Scout Troop Leader Aiesha Eleusizov explained to us how it works.



Supporters of the Roosevelt Island Food Scrap Drop Off Bin ask you to help bring the program back to Roosevelt Island by signing this petition.

Please take a moment to sign & share with Roosevelt islanders - please return the Food Scrap Drop Off to Roosevelt Island - we are floating in the east river, lost without you. #earthlove #compost @Rooseveltisland @RI_Daily @LibRoosevelt https://t.co/aBTirfdrke

— iDig2Learn (@iDig2Learn) July 25, 2020

Here's the full petition - Please sign by Tuesday, July 28:

Letter to GrowNYC to petition for the return of the Roosevelt Island food scrap drop-off site.

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Sports Fields Closed Since March 22 Coronavirus Lockdown Will Open As Soon As Authorized By Governor Cuomo Says RIOC President - RIOC Says Capobianco And Pony Fields Were Open For Walking And Exercise During The Lockdown, Did You Know That?

When will the Roosevelt Island ball fields, closed since March 22 due to the Coronavirus Lockdown,

be open is a question being asked by many residents.

Do you have plans to open the fields back up? Having this space available would make it easier to social distance while outside on @Rooseveltisland.

— さよな🦁 (@HenryWolfAI) June 10, 2020

As previously reported, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) issued this March 22 advisory announcing the closing of the ball fields:

As of now, all permitted spaces, including McManus Field and Firefighters Field, will be closed until further notice. This precautionary measure is being taken as part of the Governor’s order for all New Yorkers to avoid risking exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Residents are encouraged to frequent the other public areas, such as the eastern and western promenades that circle the island as well as Lighthouse Park, Southpoint Park and Four Freedoms State Park. We encourage our residents to remain at least six feet apart from each other at all times.

Prior to the start of June 4 RIOC Board of Directors meeting, RIOC President Susan Rosenthal addressed this question from a resident about the opening of Roosevelt Island ball fields:

When will the Sports fields and tennis courts open up? We have children desperate for space to play on the Island. Asphalt Green in Manhattan has been open during the day for weeks.

Ms Rosenthal answered:

As soon as the Governor authorizes the State Parks to open sports fields, we will be opening them as well....

There are fields that are open, its just the permitted fields that are closed. Pony Field is open, Capobianco is open, it's the two permitted fields that are closed....

We are acting in accordance with instructions from NY State Parks....

 I asked RIOC today:

During June 4 RIOC Board meeting discussion of opening Roosevelt Island ball fields, Susan Rosenthal said that Pony Field and Capobianco Field were open during the Pandemic. See 3.55 minute mark of video.

I do not think they were open. There was yellow tape surrounding both fields during this time.

Was Capobianco and Pony Fields supposed to be open during this time or was Susan incorrect when she stated they were open?

RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:

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Roosevelt Island Community Garden Re-Opens But Only To Garden Club Members For Now - Coronavirus Pandemic Restrictions Still In Place For Public To Visit Community Garden Says RIOC

As I was walking by the Roosevelt Island Community Garden this past weekend, I noticed people inside and was hoping it  would be open for a Coronavirus Pandemic socially distant stroll.

pic.twitter.com/QIcvuARpLP

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 26, 2020

Unfortunately, signage at the front entrance to the Community Garden says it is currently open only to  Roosevelt Island Garden Club (RIGC) Members

The RIGC explains:

We are closed to the public at this time as part of our agreement with RIOC. This can change over time as restrictions are revised throughout the state and we are no exception. Our community garden has narrow paths, and RIOC is moving carefully with limited access only in order to keep everyone safe. Members must work in their own plots maintaining physical distance. Sunday, May 17th was the day we were able to contact members regarding limited access beginning. So this access has been official for a little more than a week.

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Roosevelt Island Farmers Market Re-Opening Saturday May 16, Maintain Your Social Distance And Face Covering Required To Enter - Will Roosevelt Island Firefighters And McManus Field Open Too, No Response From RIOC

The Roosevelt Island Saturday Farmers Market

Image Of Farmers Market at Good Shepherd Plaza From March 21

has been closed since March 28 due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.

Earlier today, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC):

I understand the Farmers Market is opening this coming Saturday.

Is that true?

What procedures are being followed to maintain social distancing. Any other statement from RIOC on opening of Farmers Market?

Will the Firefighters and McManus Field be re-opened too as long as social distancing practices are maintained?

and received this announcement from RIOC:

Farmers Market Returns This Week

The Farmers Market will return to Good Shepherd Plaza this Saturday, May 16th. The first hour of the market will be strictly for Senior Citizens and the disabled. Social Distancing measures will strictly be enforced by PSD officers. We will release further details about this event throughout the week.

Wengerd Farms' Israel Wengerd adds that face coverings are required for everyone to enter the Farmers Market and they will be giving out gloves upon entering. Stay tuned for more info about opening of Roosevelt Island Farmers Market including hours of operation.

So far no response from RIOC about re-opening McManus and Firefighters Fields which are closed due to the Coronavirus Pandemic. But questions have been raised if closing the fields is the right policy? Can the Roosevelt Island playing fields be re-opened with social distancing as is done at the Roosevelt Island Cornell Tech campus?

Roosevelt Island open space at McManus/Firefighters field could be open like @cornell_tech as long as social distancing enforced but @RIOCny staff will not consider it. Resident Board can overrule @BenKallos @NYCMayor @NYGovCuomo @SenatorSerrano @SeawrightForNY @TheHudsonCos pic.twitter.com/Ig8HebzDxK

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) May 3, 2020

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NYC Coronavirus Budget Cuts Cancel Roosevelt Island Beacon Program Summer Camp As Of Now - Join RI Beacon Zoom Virtual Town Hall May 7 To Discuss Summer Camp Advocacy And Learn More, Submit Your Video To Show Suport For Roosevelt Island Beacon Summer Camp

The excellent education news web site Chalkbeat reported April 16:

As New York City students lament the loss of school for the remainder of the year, their options for summer also look grim, with public pools closed and city-funded summer camps and a youth jobs program canceled

Mayor Bill de Blasio’s proposed budget announced Thursday slashes a host of summer programs for low-income students as the city expects a huge financial hit to its coffers. Those cuts include after-school programs that operate summer day camps. The city says these programs might not be safe given the coronavirus crisis, but cutting them could pose significant challenges if New Yorkers are still practicing social distancing and trying to keep families indoors.

The mayor has not said how the city will handle summer school, though the education department is creating “all sorts of scenarios,” including online summer learning....

The Child Center of New York operates the Roosevelt Island Beacon after school program at PS/IS 217 and summer camp. According to the Roosevelt Island Beacon Assistant Director Sakinah Muhammad:

The Roosevelt Island Beacon will be hosting a virtual town meeting regarding the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) loss of funding as of June 30, 2020. This budget cut directly effects our ability to host summer camp. As of now, there will not be a RI Beacon Summer Program.

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Starbucks Re-Opening Wednesday May 6, Take Out And Mobile App Payment Only During Coronavirus Pandemic - Attempted Burglary Of RI Starbucks Last Night Too

The Roosevelt Island Starbucks will re-open for business this Wednesday May 6

after being closed for more than a month due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Service will be takeout only, no indoor or outdoor patio seating and payment by their mobile app.



Last night there was a break-in at the Roosevelt Island Starbucks. According to Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley:

Overnight, there was an attempted burglary at Starbucks where the door was forced open and the cash register was damaged. No cash was removed and no other property was damaged. The NYPD responded and they are in charge of the investigation.

Mayor de Blasio Announces Free Coronavirus Face Coverings To Be Given Out At NYC Parks This Weekend, But Not On Roosevelt Island - RIOC Discussing Possibility Of Distributing Masks, Reserves Right To Close Any Public Space When Social Distancing & Face Covering Guidelines Not Being Met

Reported previously that the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) closed Southpoint Park last Saturday afternoon because RIOC determined social distancing practices were not being maintained within the park and a number of people were not wearing face coverings. RIOC did not provide any metrics regarding the number of people who were not complying with these safety protocols.

According to RIOC:

Maintaining Social Distancing

The weather is getting nicer and the draw of the outdoors is getting stronger as the news about the pandemic slowly grows more encouraging. Although we want everyone to enjoy our public spaces, everyone must do so responsibly. That means you must wear a mask or a cloth covering your mouth and nose in public. You must also maintain a social distance of at least six feet whenever possible to cut down on the possibility of infection.

Unfortunately, we had to close Southpoint Park over the weekend because people were not adhering to social distancing guidelines. It is a drastic step we do not take lightly, but one we will take again if another unsafe situation arises.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced today that free face coverings will be distributed at NYC Parks beginning this weekend.

Will distribution of face coverings be available on Roosevelt Island @RIOCny @BenKallos @NYCMayor https://t.co/vbvNrzgZmS

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) April 30, 2020

But not at any Roosevelt Island parks as shown on this map - the closest is Queensbridge Park across the East River in Long Island City.

I asked RIOC President Susan Rosenthal and RIOC Directors

Mayor de Blasio announced today that NYC will be giving out free face coverings at local parks.

But no park on Roosevelt island is listed as distributing face coverings. Here's link.

Will RIOC distribute face coverings at Roosevelt Island parks to avoid closing Southpoint and Lighthouse Park as was done last Saturday?

Any comment?

RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:

RIOC reserves the right to close any public space when social distancing and guidelines pertaining to masks/face coverings are not being met. We are in the process of discussing the possibility of mask / face covering distribution with the governor’s office and other stakeholders.

Roosevelt Island residents can be creative with their face masks.

My #iPhone FaceID won’t recognize me with my mask on so I tried to “set up an alternative appearance” but the phone won’t do it cause my face is obstructed. 🙄Can’t ya just read my eyes? 😷 pic.twitter.com/3qdjZlAlpX

— NamelyNorm (@NamelyNorm) April 6, 2020

Unlikely that any masks from NYC or RIOC will have such nice smiles.

UPDATE 4:25 PM

Happy that masks are being distributed Citywide!

We are now working with @NYCgov and @NYCMayor to add a location for distribution of free masks on the Eastside of Manhattan with suggestions including Midtown, #UES, @RooseveltIsland, and #ElBarrio#NYC #COVID__19 pic.twitter.com/U8VZMhy8G6

— Ben Kallos, NYC Council Member (@BenKallos) April 30, 2020

I think (if we think masks work and that remains the executive order) this is the eay to go: distribute masks in front of parks, subway stations, tram, grocery stores etc...

— Thierry Rolling (@T19R84) April 30, 2020

People, Wear Your Face Masks And Maintain Social Distance Outside Or Roosevelt Island Parks And Public Spaces Will Close Says RIOC

On a beautiful Saturday afternoon this past weekend, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) closed Southpoint Park because as described by RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley:

Due to the Social Distancing rules, South Point Park will be closed, for the reminder of the day. This will help enforce Social Distancing and stop the spread. Everyone remain safe and wear your face mask.... I’ve asked PSD for details about today’s incident.

I asked Mr McCauley for an update today:

Any more details as to why Southpoint Park was closed Saturday. How many people were there.

Mr McCauley replied:

Not an exact count, but given the number of people who were not adhering to social distancing and face protection guidelines, we had no choice but to close the park. We will continue to close it and other public spaces when social distancing rules are not being observed.

A Roosevelt Island observer shares this photo showing:

... the number of people yesterday (Saturday) who were on the island without masks, including many joggers & bikers who came right alongside me. I took photos of a few people who were in public clearly not wearing masks.

I think it's worth noting that yesterday I also saw one person (without a mask) spit into the air in front of the deli and another woman sneezed into the air near Foodtown. Might be good for people to be aware that things like this still happen in public and no one should be making assumptions that it's safe.

According to NY State Andrew Cuomo's April 15 Executive Order:

Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced he will issue an Executive Order requiring all people in New York to wear a mask or a face covering when out in public and in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained, such as on public transportation. The Executive Order will go into effect on Friday, April 17th....

Read more »

Beautiful Saturday Afternoon On Roosevelt Island Today - RIOC Closes Southpoint Park For Failure To Observe Coronavirus Social Distancing

People were out and about on Roosevelt Island this pleasant sunny Sunday afternoon.

Roosevelt Island is fortunate to have a lot of open space particularly on a nice afternoon like today. People are out, most wearing masks and keeping social distance @cornell_tech campus and outdoor cafe area. pic.twitter.com/nn0f9crwnR

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) April 25, 2020

“Most” wearing masks but many without.

— Gloria Herman (@gloriaetherman) April 25, 2020

Roosevelt Island Cherry Blossoms on East River Promenade across from Cornell Tech Today pic.twitter.com/XnvSiB8aAL

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) April 25, 2020

After 40 days I decided to go out for necessities and enjoy the weather. It's no better than it was 40 days ago, except more people are wearing masks, but not all. Not social distancing being practiced. get it together #NewYork #NYTough #StaySafeStayHealthy #rooseveltisland #nyc

— Jonn Nubian ® (@JonnNubian) April 25, 2020

But apparently people were not observing Social Distancing at Southpoint Park. This evening around 6 PM, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) announced:

Due to the Social Distancing rules, South Point Park will be closed, for the reminder of the day. This will help enforce Social Distancing and stop the spread. Everyone remain safe and wear your face mask.

I asked RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley:

What was happening at Southpoint Park to close it. How many people were there.

Is this just for remaining part of today

Mr McCauley replied:

t is just for the remainder of today, but will will close the park whenever we see social distancing is not being followed. I’ve asked PSD for details about today’s incident.

UPDATE 4/26 - From the Roosevelt Island Twitterverse:

Read more »

Happy Passover & Easter From Roosevelt Island - No In Person Gatherings Due To Coronavirus Social Distancing But Enjoy Virtual Seder, A Little RI Passover History, Maccabeats Singing 4 Questions And Streaming Easter Celebration From East River Catholics And RI Mosaic Church

The Coronavirus Pandemic Social Distancing efforts have closed Jewish and Christian houses of worship during this week's Passover and Easter Holidays including the:

• Roosevelt Island Jewish Congregation, 
• Chabad Of Roosevelt Island,
• St Francis Xavier Cabrini Church, part of the East River Catholics Parish and
• The Roosevelt Island Mosaic Church.

So, in the absence of attending an in person Passover Seder with friends and family, sit down to a virtual Passover Seder:



learn:

A LITTLE JEWISH HISTORY & PASSOVER AT GOLDWATER

from the Roosevelt Island Historical Society archive and take a listen to the Maccabeats sing Passover's 4 Questions



For Easter, East River Catholics web site has their schedule

Read more »

Child Center Of NY Roosevelt Island Beacon Program At PS/IS 217 Offering Virtual Classroom Programs And Social Media Engagement During Coronavirus Closing

The Child Center of New York Roosevelt Island Beacon at PS/IS 217 is offering virtual classroom programs for Kindergarten thru High School students.

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Dog Runs, Ball Fields And Playgrounds Closed Due To Coronavirus - Southpoint Park, Lighthouse Park And FDR Four Freedoms Park Remain Open

While our dog runs are closed until further notice, our parks remain open to dogs and pet owners to get fresh air and exercise; however, dogs must be kept on a leash and dog owners must keep social distance. Off-leash hours are still in effect at designated parks. pic.twitter.com/skFDot6uLN

— NYC Parks (@NYCParks) April 7, 2020

The Roosevelt Island Dog runs are closed too

as are Roosevelt Island ball fields

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NY State Governor Andrew Cuomo Orders NYC Playgrounds Closed Yesterday - Roosevelt Island Parent Asks Why Are RI Playgrounds Open Today?

NY State Governor Andrew Cuomo announced yesterday the closing of all New York City playgrounds.

NEW: Citing inadequate compliance with social distancing rules, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says, "We are going to close down the New York City playgrounds."

Cuomo says less dense open areas of parks will remain open. https://t.co/qWgvqUCfl8 pic.twitter.com/o3yMa0YMyv

— ABC News (@ABC) April 1, 2020

Except not on Roosevelt Island this afternoon. A Concerned Roosevelt Island Parent Tipster reports:

Why are Roosevelt Island playgrounds still open and being used (Today, 4/2, 12:23pm, Blackwell and the other playground next to it)?

Didn’t Gov. Cuomo close all nyc playgrounds?

I believe these areas should be clearly marked as closed (similar to fields, which I actually disagree with those being closed, given they reduce the amount of space for exercise within guidelines!).

I asked the Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) about status of our playgrounds and was told they would look into it.

Petition Drive To Reopen Roosevelt Island Outdoor Playing Fields - Does RIOC Policy To Close McManus And Firefighters Field Increase Or Decrease Social Distancing On Roosevelt Island?

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) announced Sunday May 22:

... As of now, all permitted spaces, including McManus Field and Firefighters Field, will be closed until further notice. This precautionary measure is being taken as part of the Governor’s order for all New Yorkers to avoid risking exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Residents are encouraged to frequent the other public areas, such as the eastern and western promenades that circle the island as well as Lighthouse Park, Southpoint Park and Four Freedoms State Park. We encourage our residents to remain at least six feet apart from each other at all times...

A petition drive has begun to reopen the now closed Firefighters

and McManus Field

According to the online petition:

RIOC has made the decision to close all soccer fields on the Island, thus depriving families with kids of the only safe space for being outside. A big soccer field is the only space where families with kids can play and keep the recommended distance away from other people. If RIOC doesn’t reconsider this decision we will be left with narrow crowded promenades and no space for active time out for kids.

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Saturday Farmers Market Closed Until Further Notice Due To Coronavirus Pandemic Says RIOC Today

The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) announced today:

Farmers Market CANCELLED Until Further Notice

The Roosevelt Island Farmer’s Market has been cancelled until further notice. The decision was made that it would be extremely difficult to create an environment that not only ensures social distancing, but controls possible contamination of produce. Israel Wengerd, the market organizer, said, “I’m so sorry I will not to be there with you this weekend, but my prayers are with you and I can’t wait to be back on Roosevelt Island as soon as possible.” In the meantime, Foodtown, The Wholesome Factory and Bread and Butter continue to get regular deliveries of groceries and other goods. They also make deliveries to your home if needed.

Food Scrap Collection Has Also Been CANCELLED until Further Notice

Please do not leave food scraps on Saturdays.

Mr Wengerd of Wengerd Farms adds:

It was a very difficult decision. But it seemed the best for now with the current situation. I would just like to tell the community that I will be back as soon as situation permits.

UPDATE 3/28 - Roosevelt Island residents have been asking why the Farmers Market has been shut down. Israel Wengerd explains today:

Travel restrictions after leaving NYC was the reason for the final decision to close the Saturday farmers market. We want the Roosevelt Island community to know that we will be back as soon as we have an open door to do so

Roosevelt Island Resident Asks Why Is McManus Field Being Closed By RIOC Public Safety Department As Long As Coronavirus Social Distancing Practices Maintained - RIOC Says All Permitted Fields Closed Per Governor Cuomo's Order, But Is That What He Really Said?

A Roosevelt Island resident ask why is Roosevelt island Operating Corp Public Safety Department (PSD) saying McManus Field (formerly Octagon Park) is closed?

As per @NYCMayorsOffice guidance, law enforcement is supposed to "break up" large groups playing together in parks and fields. If that is what PSD is doing then it is completely understandable.

— Tapan Parikh (@tap2k) March 22, 2020

I asked RIOC President Susan Rosenhtal:

PSD is telling residents that Octagon Park is closed.

Why is that - Is RIOC planning to close other Roosevelt Island parks?

RIOC Public Information Officer Terrence McCauley replied:

All permitted spaces will be closed until further notice. This includes McManus Field and Firefighters Field. This precautionary measure is being taken as part of the Governor’s order for everyone to practice social distancing and remain indoors during the coronavirus outbreak.

I followed up:

Just because it's a permitted space does not mean it's not also an open space park that can be used as long as Social Distancing practices are followed.

Mr McCauley replied:

But people are not using it as an open space park. They are playing organized games where they are violating the social distancing guidelines. The fields are closed until further notice. We encourage residents to enjoy the rest of the island’s outdoor spaces.

Here's transcript excerpt of what Governor Cuomo said during his briefing today about parks and social distancing:

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Saturday Farmers Market Returns Today To Good Shepherd Plaza, Some Customers Observe Social Distancing But Others Do Not - Last Day Of Food Scrap Drop Collection Until Further Notice Due To Coronavirus Emergency

The Roosevelt Island Saturday Farmers Market returned today to it's spring location in the open area of the Good Shepherd Plaza under very different circumstances than past years - the Coronavirus health emergency.

At 9:30 this morning, the Farmers Market was not as crowded as it would be on a normal pre-Coronavirus Saturday, but still busy with residents happy the Market was open. I was pleased to see that customers were maintaining their social distance waiting on the cashiers line.

Roosevelt island Saturday Farmers Market. Busy and people maintaining social distance waiting on line. Good job pic.twitter.com/f8dLcpeCBz

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) March 21, 2020

I’d decided to be overly cautious and not go but your tweet changed my mind so I put on my mask grabbed my Schitts Creek tote and went. For the most part people were mindful of social distancing but of course there were a few🙄 The Market workers were great! Glad I went. 👍🏾

— NamelyNorm (@NamelyNorm) March 21, 2020

But another resident, Janet Falk, reports differently:

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Grow NYC Roosevelt Island Food Scrap Drop Off Collection At Good Shepherd Plaza Saturday Farmers Market Suspended Until Further Notice After Tomorrow Due To Coronavirus Pandemic

Roosevelt Island resident and iDig2Learn Founder Christina Delfico reports:

Regrettably but understandably Department of Sanitation will suspend all GrowNYC Food Scrap Drop Off collection & clothing collection starting Monday, March 23rd.

They WILL collect food scraps one more time on Roosevelt Island this Saturday 3/21 to help rid neighbors of the scraps collected this week. Collection operations will then be halted to protect staff and to minimize public crowds during the height of the virus. No restart date has been determined.

Partners GrowNYC and Big Reuse are saddened to report this news especially because Roosevelt Islanders helped make this program a success.

This weekend please thank (from a distance) Danika our resident food scrap coordinator

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