What Is The Future Of NYC Schools Gifted & Talented Program? Roosevelt Island Invited To District 2 NYC Brilliant Community Meeting November 17 - 200 Students Currently In PS/IS 217 G&T Program

According to the NYC Department of Education:

As announced by the Mayor, the Department of Education will eliminate the Gifted & Talented (G&T) test and phase out the current G&T model. In its place, we will launch “Brilliant NYC,” a blueprint for accelerated learning for all elementary students in New York City.

• Starting with Kindergarten in September 2022, accelerated learning will be offered to 65,000 kindergarteners compared to 2,500 kindergarteners that the current G&T model serves. 
• Students currently in G&T will remain in their programming so there is no disruption to their learning. Brilliant NYC will be phased in for grades one through three. 

For questions about Brilliant NYC, email brilliantnyc@schools.nyc.gov.

Every single one of our @NYCSchools students is gifted. Every single one is talented. #BrilliantNYC will end the outdated days of one-size-fits-all testing and open the doors for all of our children. pic.twitter.com/XHECR6pYus

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) October 16, 2021

Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217 is located NYC School District 2. A PS/IS 217 staffer reports:

District 2 Superintendent Mr. McGuire invites the families to give their feedback regarding the future of the G&T program during the November 17th 6pm virtual "Brilliant NYC Community" Meeting. Register for this zoom meeting https://tinyurl.com/BrilliantNYCD2

 I asked the PS/IS 217 staffer:

Thanks for the info about the District 2 G&T update.

Do you have any more info on how this impacts Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217?

How many students are currently in the 217 G&T program in the various grades?

Is there any other info about the school that you think of interest to the Roosevelt Island community?

 who replied:

It's one class per grade level, we have around 200 G&T students. No decisions have been made, this is a community meeting held by the Superintendent to get the ideas from the stakeholders.

There were 620 students enrolled last year, 2020-21, in PS/IS 217. Info not available on current total enrollment this year.

NYC Department of Education has more on Brilliant NYC program.

CBS New York reports on NYC's plan to replace Gifted & Talented program with Brilliant NYC.

According to the NY Times, Mayor-Elect Eric Adams:

... Asked directly whether he would eliminate the gifted program, Mr. Adams replied, “no I would not, I would expand the opportunities for accelerated learning.”...

Register here for the District 2 Brilliant NYC community meeting to learn more. UPDATE 9 PM:

G&T was an effective way of raising test scores at 217 such that it regained popularity among island families. No longer necessary for that purpose.

— Minnehanonck (@minnehanonck) November 15, 2021

San Francisco Offering Booster Shots To Some Who Received Single Dose Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 Vaccine - NYC Mayor & Health Commissioner Asked About A Booster Shot For Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 Vaccine Here

As previously reported:

... during the weekend of March 13-14, Duane Reade/Walgreens vaccinated almost 1300 people with the Johnson & Johnson single dose Covid 19 vaccine at a pop-up clinic site in the Roosevelt Island Senior Center. ...

On August 3, a reporter asked NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio about possible booster shots for those who, like like the Mayor himself, and many Roosevelt Island residents, received the single dose Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 vaccine.

 ... Question: And I also wanted to ask we saw a report from our sister station actually in San Francisco reporting that San Francisco General Hospital is going to start giving booster shots, mRNA booster shots to people who took the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. I know that you took the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Have you heard anything about that? Is that something that you would do yourself? Would you take a booster shot?    

Mayor: Well, I’ll turn in a moment to my fellow Johnson & Johnson vaccine, Dr. Dave Chokshi, and obviously if Dr. Katz or Dr. Varma want to add. I'm ready to take a booster shot whenever the time is right and whenever the priority is right, because as with everything, if we're introducing any new piece to the equation, we want to make sure that those who need it most get it first. But if at any point it's determined that booster shots are advisable, I'm certainly ready when my turn comes. With that, Dr. Chokshi.   

Commissioner Dave Chokshi, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: Thank you very much, Mr. Mayor. We are following the science very closely on this, particularly in the context of the Delta variant. At this moment, we are not recommending booster shots for any individuals based on our scientific understanding right now. However, there is some evidence, and it is growing, that booster shots may be a recommended or required a little bit further down the road. If that happens, it's most likely to be prioritized for people who are immunocompromised, potentially older individuals as well, but this is an area where we need to ensure that we follow the science as well as the recommendations from the FDA on it. So, this is an area for us to stay tuned, but I want to give that clear message that at this moment, we are not recommending booster shots for anyone, including those who have received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

San Francisco residents who received Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose COVID vaccine will be able to get a booster shot later this week at Zuckerberg S.F. General Hospital.https://t.co/Oy709Sr4uk

— San Francisco Chronicle (@sfchronicle) August 3, 2021

According to NBC News:

The San Francisco Department of Public Health will offer what it is calling a "supplemental" dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine to anyone who received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccination, but city officials said the move does not reflect a policy change and it is not recommending a booster shot....

Here's more info on the Covid 19 booster shot being given to some in San Francisco who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine

The Center For Disease Control has a Q&A on the Johnson & Johnson Covid 19 vaccine and Yale Medicine reviews Covid 19 booster info.

NYC Health & Hospitals Corp Investigation Finds Covid 19 Traveling Nurses Allegations Of Patient Mistreatment At Roosevelt Island Coler Nursing Facility And Roosevelt Medical Center During Pandemic Unsubstantiated

NY Post reported on May 17:

Out-of-state nurses brought to Manhattan to fight the coronavirus say they found hellish conditions at the city-run adult-care center on Roosevelt Island — from patients with horrific bed sores to feces-smeared walls.

“It was just heartbreaking,” said one of the RNs, a mom of four from Wisconsin who spent about 17 days at the Coler Rehabilitation and Nursing Care Center....

After news reports of patients being mistreated at Coler Skilled Nursing Facility and the Roosevelt Medical Center, Mayor de Blasio announced an investigation into the allegations would be conducted.

Interesting: After @NYCHealthSystem told @nypost the accusations of mistreatment at Coler were "simply false" @NYCMayor expresses concern. "If something went wrong in the middle of this crisis I want to get to the bottom of it." Says H+H will investigate.https://t.co/5N14o4Wu6U

— Sally Goldenberg (@SallyGold) May 18, 2020

Earlier this week, I asked Mayor de Blasio's office:

I'm following up on Mayor deBlasio's May 18 statement about conducting an investigation into the problems reported at Roosevelt Island's Coler Long Term Care and Skilled Nursing Facility.

What is the status of the investigation, has it been completed? If yes, what were the results?

A NYC Health & Hospitals Corp (NYC HHC) spokesperson replied today:

After careful review and interviews with patients and staff, NYC Health + Hospitals found the traveling nurse's allegations unsubstantiated. We take pride in the facility's top-ranked clinical services and the supportive environment it provides all its residents. Our staff care for residents with respect and compassion, treating them more like family than patients, and providing their loved ones with peace of mind. The facility remains committed to the health and safety of the resident population it serves - not just during the COVID-19 pandemic, but always.

I followed up:

Was the investigation only for Traveling Nurses allegations at Roosevelt Medical Center?

Did investigation include conditions at Coler Skilled Nursing Facility too?

Do the conclusions also include any NY State investigation at Coler and Roosevelt Medical Center?

Is there a written report of the investigation that you can send to me?

and the NYC HHC spokesperson answered:

The investigation was comprehensive of the entire Coler campus -- RIMC and NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler. There ins't a sharable version of the report at this moment.

At 6 PM today, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer will be asking Coler and NYC HHC administrators submitted questions about treatment of Coler and Roosevelt Medical Center patients during Coronavirus Pandemic at a Zoom Virtual Coler Hospital Town Hall.

There may still be time to submit questions. Please send in questions to colertownhall@manhattanbp.nyc.gov and copy friendsofcoler@gmail.com

Click here to register for the Zoom Virtual Coler Town Hall.

NYC Curfew Tonight Ordered by Governor Cuomo and Mayor de Blasio

There are exemptions. It does not apply to first responders, health care workers, essential workers going to and from work, homeless New Yorkers, people seeking medical treatment or medical supplies and members of the press. https://t.co/DxXZ5k64Vp

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) June 1, 2020

According to Press Release from NY State Governor Andrew Cuomo

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and Mayor de Blasio today announced a citywide curfew in New York City will take effect beginning at 11 PM tonight and will be lifted at 5 AM tomorrow morning.

The Governor and the Mayor also announced that the New York City Police Department will double its police presence to help prevent violence and property damage. The additional officers will be deployed to areas where violence and property damage occurred during last night's protests - specifically in lower Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn.

The Governor and the Mayor also reminded New Yorkers participating in protests to take proper health precautions and wear face coverings while we continue to fight the COVID-19 virus.

"I stand behind the protestors and their message, but unfortunately there are people who are looking to distract and discredit this moment," Governor Cuomo said. "The violence and the looting has been bad for the city, the state and this entire national movement, undermining and distracting from this righteous cause. While we encourage people to protest peacefully and make their voices heard, the safety of the general public is paramount and cannot be compromised. Tonight the Mayor and I are implementing a citywide curfew starting at 11 PM and doubling the NYPD presence across the city."

"I support and protect peaceful protest in this city. The demonstrations we've seen have been generally peaceful. We can't let violence undermine the message of this moment. It is too important and the message must be heard. Tonight, to protect against violence and property damage, the Governor and I have decided to implement a citywide curfew," said Mayor Bill de Blasio. "The Police Commissioner and I have spoken at length about the incidents we've all seen in recent days where officers didn't uphold the values of this city or the NYPD. We agree on the need for swift action. He will speak later today on how officers will be held accountable."

UPDATE 6/2 - Mayor de Blasio announces curfew is from 8 pm to 5 am thru Sunday June 7.

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio Visits Roosevelt Island Nisi Kitchen In Support Of Local Restaurants - You Can Support Our Open Businesses Too, Nisi, Foodtown Supermarket, Island Wine, Piccolo Trattoria, Wholesome Factory Organic Market, Bread & Butter Deli And Cafe @Cornell Tech

As previously reported, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio visited Roosevelt Island last Tuesday to view the additional hospital beds being created at Coler Hospital. Mayor de Blasio made another Roosevelt Island stop that day at Nisi Kitchen to support our local restaurants according to this tweet by Nisi owner Alex Razaghi.

We're thrilled to receive NYC Mayor Bill De Blasio at Nisi Kitchen, who stopped by to give some words of encouragement. Thank you so much for your support! pic.twitter.com/Q5tYafk3BX

— NisiKitchen (@NisiKitchen) March 24, 2020

You can support our open Roosevelt Island businesses too including:

• Nisi Kitchen - (212) 752-1517

Please be aware that Nisi Kitchen is adjusting operation hours from 10am and closing at 11pm throughout the week, please stay tuned for updates! pic.twitter.com/PQlMQfRcgu

— NisiKitchen (@NisiKitchen) March 23, 2020

• Foodtown Supermarket (212) 371-2680. Please prioritize the hours of 7am-8am on Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s for our senior citizens, immunocompromised and disabled neighbors. It will be greatly appreciated.

Read more »

Open Doors Artists Want To Make Sure Roosevelt Island Coler Hospital Residents Protected During Coronavirus Pandemic - Mayor de Blasio Adding 340 Beds For Lower Acuity Patients To Free Up Beds In Other Hospitals For Coronavirus Patients

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio reported yesterday:

... I had the opportunity today to be on Roosevelt Island visiting the Coler hospital facility and there – right this minute – new hospital beds are being created right now so that we will have additional capacity to handle this surge in coronavirus cases and to make sure that everyone else who needs hospital care for other diseases and challenges will have support as well. On Roosevelt Island at Coler, 100 new beds will be available this week, 240 will be available next week....

and the City of NY tweets.

We are making more hospital beds available across New York City. From Roosevelt Island to the Javits Center, we're mobilizing to ensure New Yorkers get the care they need during the COVID-19 crisis.
More: https://t.co/7T1e77liGE pic.twitter.com/FUCpExbChX

— City of New York (@nycgov) March 24, 2020

As previously reported, the additional Coler beds will be used for lower acuity patients freeing up beds at other hospitals for Coronavirus patients.

What are the concerns of our Roosevelt Island neighbors at Coler Hospital about the Coronavirus Pandemic.

Coler resident members of the Open Doors NYC arts program tell us.

According to Media Lab Director Dexter Cirian

As an artist myself, I find that in times of uncertainty, when fear and anxiety can overwhelm us, art is an incredible refuge and source of generative life-giving support. It affords us an opportunity to discern what really matters, and too look into the unknown with courage, compassion and a sense of curiosity. I see that in our members everyday. Even through these trying times, they are showing up. Let us show up as well.

On Monday, March 16, Mayor Bill de Blasio held a press conference in which he mistakenly stated that Coler Hospital is “empty” and planned to bring hundreds of COVID-19 patients here. We wrote a letter to the mayor voicing our concerns and many neighbors tweeted on our behalf. We’ve since heard the plan has changed—We’re happy about this! Now let’s make sure everything possible is being done to protect the Coler community. Join us in voicing your concern by writing directly to the Mayor:

Mr Mayor, what steps are you taking to protect the residents at COLER, home to more than 500 people who are among the most at risk during this pandemic,

And from Open Doors artist Jay Molina:

Read more »

Change Of Mayor de Blasio's Plan For Roosevelt Island Coler Hospital - 350 New Beds Not For Coronavirus Patients But For Current Low Acuity Patients To Free Up Beds For Coronavirus Patients At Other Hospitals Says NYC Council Member Ben Kallos

Reported last Monday:

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio announced today that the NYC Health & Hospital Corp (HHC) Coler Long Term Care Facility on Roosevelt Island will be adding 350 of the 1200 new beds for the treatment of Coronavirus victims...

I asked the Mayor's Office and Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Ben Kallos:

How will the Coronavirus beds effect the existing Coler patients who are among the most vulnerable

Today, Council Member Kallos reports that the 350 new beds at Coler Hospital will not be used for Coronavirus patients:

I am disappointed that at this time @NYCHealthSystem does not plan to treat patients with #Coronavirus at Coler on @RooseveltIsland. I remain committed to working with them, @nycHealthy and @NYCMayor to build more capacity now and moving forward. https://t.co/s5Y1GvFq7H

— Ben Kallos, NYC Council Member (@BenKallos) March 18, 2020

I asked Council Member Kallos:

What does this mean. What are the 350 beds at Roosevelt Island Coler Hospital being used for if not treatment?

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Coler Hospital To Add 350 Beds For Coronavirus Patients Says Mayor Bill de Blasio At Briefing Today - How Will This Effect Vulnerable Residents Currently Living At Coler?

We're radically expanding our health care capacity to meet the coming crisis. We're bringing four facilities online to boost capacity by 1,200 new beds.

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 16, 2020

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio announced today that the NYC Health & Hospital Corp (HHC) Coler Long Term Care Facility on Roosevelt Island will be adding 350 of the 1200 new beds for the treatment of Coronavirus victims.

According to Mayor de Blasio:

The Coler facility on Roosevelt Island. An HHC facility that was empty. It is being immediately brought back on line 350 beds. It will be ready in approximately a week's time....

Roosevelt Island NYC Council Member Ben Kallos reports:

We need every bed we can find to care for those who may come down with coronavirus. These 350 beds at Coler public hospital can really help provide the critical care that our family, friends, and neighbors may need to recover.

Read more »

NYC Coronavirus Update - Mayor Declares State Of Emergency, Governor Bans Gatherings With More Than 500 People, Dr Fauci Says It's Going To Get Worse, NYC Shows How To Help Stop The Spread Of Coronavirus & Handwashing Tips

A Roosevelt Island resident asks this morning:

Covid and RI

Is RIOC or anyone keeping track of when RI gets its first case, or self quarantine on the island? Do we have resources?

I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal:

Roosevelt Island community members are asking if there are any cases of residents or workers who have tested positive for Coronavirus to date.

Part of reason for asking is an attempt to help those who may be in self quarantine to get food and other necessities.

Does RIOC know of any residents or workers testing positive for Coronavirus?

Would RIOC be told by NYC or NY State if there were?

Will report when answer received from RIOC.

 Image From NYC Health Department

Roosevelt Island's Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, Chairperson of the House Oversight Committee, tweets yesterday:

.@RepMaloney: "Is the worst yet to come?"

Dr. Anthony Fauci: "Yes, it is…We will see more cases and things will get worse than they are right now…Bottom line: it's going to get worse."

Watch full #Coronavirus hearing here: https://t.co/qUfpOTAqTq pic.twitter.com/RNBNiPrFN1

— CSPAN (@cspan) March 11, 2020

and today from Dr Fauci.

Read more »

First Reported Case Of Corona Virus In NYC Announced Today, Roosevelt Island Duane Reade Out Of Hand Sanitizers And Face Masks - RIOC Exploring Several Sanitation Options

We are announcing the first positive case of #COVID19 in New York City. We have already identified close contacts of the individual, who may have been exposed, and will take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19: https://t.co/AKpJIDztv1. pic.twitter.com/2GiXPoEAY3

— nycHealthy (@nycHealthy) March 2, 2020

As reported last January 28:

... indication of the concern over news reports about the Novel Coronavirus was seen today at the Roosevelt Island Duane Reade pharmacy counter - Face masks are sold out

and the staff does not know when they will be resupplied.

Today, the Roosevelt Island Twitterverse observed that our local Duane Reade hand sanitizer section was empty

@Rooseveltisland Shelf at Roosevelt Island @DuaneReade where hand sanitizer used to be...#Coronavirusnyc #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/rWx2HunTMN

— FinnYorker (@NYTTYTTYY) March 2, 2020

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio updates New Yorkers today on the first reported case of the Corona virus in NYC:

We know the first reported case of coronavirus has people on edge. Here's what we know about the patient:
▪️She recently traveled to Iran.
▪️She didn't use public transit after returning to NYC.
▪️She had limited contact with others. We're following up with those people.

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 2, 2020

Read more »

Roosevelt Island Duane Reade Pharmacy Sold Out Of Face Masks, Resupply Unknown - New Yorkers Concerned About Spread Of Novel Coronavirus, No Confirmed NY Cases Says Governor Cuomo, But It's Probably Here Says NYC Mayor de Blasio

An indication of the concern over news reports about the Novel Coronavirus was seen today at the Roosevelt Island Duane Reade pharmacy counter - Face masks are sold out

Read more »

Mayor deBlasio Announces Lyft Investing $100 Million For Citi Bike Sharing System 5 Year Expansion Plan To More NYC Neighborhoods - But Roosevelt Island Not Included Without Docking Station Funding From RIOC

.@NYCMayor de Blasio Administration Announces Details of Major @CitiBikeNYC Expansion

City releases boundaries of Citi Bike’s next expansion, which will double the current service area by 35 square miles and triple the number of bikes to 40,000https://t.co/xiHTLNw1xW pic.twitter.com/bqWuJcLhgn

— City of New York (@nycgov) July 16, 2019

According to this excerpt from July 16 Press Release from NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio's office:

The de Blasio Administration joined Lyft to today announce the boundaries of the planned expansion of Citi Bike over the next five years, which will bring the nation's largest bike share system to a larger and more economically diverse range of communities. Last November, the City and Lyft announced an agreement in which Lyft would invest $100 million to grow and strengthen the system, doubling the size of its service area and tripling the number of bikes over the next five years. The third phase of Citi Bike's expansion will bring Citi Bike to all of Manhattan, as well as into the Bronx, and deeper into Brooklyn and Queens....

Except the Citi Bike expansion does not include all of Manhattan - Roosevelt Island is left out of the Citi Bike sharing system.

Yesterday, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Susan Rosenthal:

Mayor deBlasio today announced a major expansion of Citibike but no mention of Roosevelt Island.

What is status of Citibike service to Roosevelt Island?

Ms Rosenthal replied:

We met with them and unlike the earlier business model, they now charge for the stations. I reached out to Hudson Related and Cornell to kick in some $$$ ... we need to follow-up.

When asked who is expected to pay for Roosevelt Island being part of the Citi Bike system, Ms Rosenthal said:

We do.

Meaning, unlike every other NYC neighborhood, Roosevelt Island alone is expected to pay for Citi Bike docking stations located on Roosevelt Island.

Why is that? Again, I asked Ms Rosenthal:

... Does this have anything to do with Roosevelt Island being State land? If yes, doesn't Battery Park City have docking stations? Who pays for that?

Ms Rosenthal replied:

Yes but I don’t know when the economic model changed nor do I know about Battery Park’s agreement.

According to Streetsblog:

... Citi Bike is that rarest of forms of mass transit: It gets no public subsidy. In fact, the Lyft-owned Citi Bike pays the city for the parking spaces its docks occupy...

Except that RIOC is expected to pay for Roosevelt Island docking stations.

Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Member Ben Kallos has been a long time supporter of bringing Citi Bike to Roosevelt Island.

Yesterday, I asked Mr. Kallos:

Any idea what status is of Citibike service to Roosevelt Island?

Even if no Citibike on Roosevelt Island, would it be possible to get Citibike Dock on Roosevelt Island Bridge next to Motorgate and include it in the Long Island City allocation.

Mr. Kallos replied:

Citi bike will be an excellent addition to Roosevelt Island's transportation options, allowing Islanders to easily move about the Island, to connect to the ferry, and to bike over the Red Bridge into Queens.

My office has been working with RIOC, DOT, and Citi bike's parent company Lyft to bring Citi bike to Roosevelt Island despite challenges posed by geography which makes it difficult to keep docks supplied with bikes on the island.

We will continue to push for the necessary players to come together and do their part to make this happen so Roosevelt Islanders can tap into the Citi bike network.

Roosevelt Island has been asking for bike sharing stations as far back as this 2010  demo and in 2014 was the neighborhood with most requests for bike sharing.

In 2017, Citi Bike sharing came to Astoria/Long Island City

Image From Citi Bike

which are the nearest locations to Roosevelt Island.

UPDATE 7/19, 1:45 PM - On July 18, I asked the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT):

... The Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) told me that Citi Bike is requiring RIOC to pay for any Roosevelt Island Citi Bike Docking stations. Is that accurate?

If it is true, why is Citi Bike not paying for Roosevelt Island docking stations as it does for all other neighborhoods? How much money is RIOC being asked to pay for installation of docks?

Are there any other neighborhoods that are required to pay for the docks? if yes, which ones?

When do you anticipate Citi Bike coming to Roosevelt Island?

A DOT spokesperson replied today:

To clarify, Roosevelt Island is included in the expansion and due to the deal with Lyft to expand Citi Bike, Roosevelt Island Operating Corp is not obligated to pay for docking stations.

No mention of when Roosevelt Island will be included in the expansion. I followed up asking when that would happen. Will update when more info received.

UPDATE 7/19, 2:30 PM - RIOC President Susan Rosenthal adds:

I’m very happy to hear about this change in the Citi Bike program. My staff and I look forward to discussing the idea of bringing Citi Bike to Roosevelt Island with NYC DOT in the near future.

You're Invited To Roosevelt Island Seniors Association Black History Month Celebration Saturday, February 24 - Also, Hidden Talents Black History Month Art Exhibition At Octagon Gallery Thru March 25

Roosevelt Island Seniors Association (RISA) President Barbara Parker invites you to the RISA Black History Month Celebration on Saturday, February 24. According to Ms. Parket:

The Roosevelt Island Senior Association Black History Month Event

Celebrating History, Culture and Diversity

Spoken Word, Dance, Song, Art, Poems and History Trivia

Join Us!

Saturday, February 24th - 3:00pm - 5:30pm

546 Main Street Community Center

Refreshments Will be served

For information and to confirm your attendance contact

Email: riseniorsa@gmail.com

website: risaonline.org

facebook.com/rooseveltislandseniorassociation/

Also, Gallery RIVAA is celebrating Black History Month with the Hidden Talents exhibition curated by Roosevelt Island resident Lorraine Williams at the Octagon Gallery (888 Main Street)..

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio and First Lady Chirlane McCray celebrated Black History Month at the Museum Of Natural Celebration by honoring former Attorney General Loretta Lynch.

Black history is in our city’s geography and memory. Join us as we pledge not only to honor it, but to MAKE it! https://t.co/6DVkEkuool

— Chirlane McCray (@NYCFirstLady) February 23, 2018

Only 1 Roosevelt Island Question Asked At NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio & Council Member Ben Kallos District Town Hall, But It's An Important One - Resident Asks What Is Future Of Coler Hospital And Will It Be Closing?

On January 17, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio attended a Town Hall Meeting hosted by NYC Council Member Ben Kallos to answer questions from residents of Roosevelt Island, Yorkville, Lenox Hill, Carnegie Hill, Sutton Place, and El Barrio in East Harlem.

There is nothing better than a town hall in New York City — thank you to Council Member @BenKallos and everyone who came out last night! pic.twitter.com/F2XNGKiFKH

— Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) January 18, 2018

At tonight's town hall, @nycmayor is signing my bill that will lower noise from construction and bars in our residential neighborhoods. This bill is now law! pic.twitter.com/E94cKLwfut

— Ben Kallos (@BenKallos) January 18, 2018

Resident Lynn Strong-Shinozaki asked the only Roosevelt Island question during the 1 1/2 hour Town Hall meeting. Ms Strong Shinozaki asked about the future of

  Image From NYC HHC November 9, 2015 Roosevelt Island Coler Hospital Flood Management Presentation

 NYC Health & Hospital Corp's Coler Hospital, the patients and:

.... it looks like they are moving towards closing that Hospital and where will those people go ....

Mayor de Blasio did not answer the specific question of whether or not Color Hospital is closing. Mayor de Blasio told Ms. Shinozaki:

... We have to figure out what we are going to do with the future of our public health system. Some of our premier facilities, we are going to in many cases re-purpose, but we have alot of different uses for them....

.... Whatever we do in any case, we do protect the interests of the patient. That's the whole reason it's there....

I asked Council Member Kallos today:

During the January 17 Town Hall meeting, Lynn Strong-Shinozaki asked Mayor de Blasio if there were any plans to shut down Coler Hospital on Roosevelt Island.

The Mayor did not give any specific answer to that question.

Are there any plans to shut down Coler Hospital or make any changes to it's current service?

Council Member Kallos replied:

I have ongoing concerns that under utilization of space, a failure to invest in maintaining key infrastructure, laying off of doctors and key staff, and empty wings, is setting Coler Hospital up for failure and a self imposed financial crisis that will result in its closure and sale.

I also asked Mayor de Blasio's office for comment. Have not heard back yet but will update with more info.

Read more »

Roosevelt Island and Manhattan Upper East Side NYC Council Member Ben Kallos Hosting Town Hall Meeting With Mayor Bill de Blasio Tonight 7 PM At East Side Middle School

NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio and Council Member Ben Kallos will participate in a town hall meeting tonight with residents of Roosevelt Island, Yorkville, Lenox Hill, Carnegie Hill, Sutton Place, and El Barrio in East Harlem.

According to Council Member Ben Kallos:

January Town Hall with Mayor Bill de Blasio
Wednesday, January 17, 2018 - 7:00pm
End Time
Wednesday, January 17, 2018 - 9:00pm

East Side Middle School 114
331 East 91st Street
New York, NY 10128
United States

Space is limited - please RSVP by January 16 at 5PM

Co-sponsored by
Congress Member Carolyn Maloney
State Senator Liz Krueger
Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright
Lenox Hill Neighborhood House
Manhattan Community Board 8

Accessibility provided upon request.

Mayor Bill de Blasio Hosting Town Hall Meeting With NYC Council Member Ben Kallos December 7 - Sign Up Now To Comment And Ask Your Roosevelt Island Questions

Do you have any questions to ask NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio about Roosevelt Island or any other NYC issue?

If you do, sign up to attend the December 7 Mayoral Town Hall hosted by our own NYC Council Member Ben Kallos.

Roosevelt Island NYC Council Member Ben Kallos tweets:

📢Mayoral Town Hall 12/7. Make sure you get your RSVP in, space is limited. https://t.co/MnvWXU6S8N pic.twitter.com/hzemL3ENyD

— Ben Kallos (@BenKallos) November 30, 2017

According to the Mayor's Office:

THURSDAY: MAYOR DE BLASIO TO HOST TOWN HALL WITH COUNCIL MEMBER KALLOS

On Thursday, December 7, Mayor Bill de Blasio will host a town hall with Council Member Ben Kallos for residents of the 5th Council District, encompassing the neighborhoods of Yorkville, Lenox Hill, Carnegie Hill, Roosevelt Island, Midtown East, Sutton Place, and El Barrio in East Harlem. The event is hosted in conjunction with U.S. Representative Carolyn B. Maloney, State Senator Liz Krueger and Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright.

Residents of the 5th Council District are asked to RSVP by December 6 at 5 p.m. via email at manhattantownhall@cityhall.nyc.gov or by calling (212) 788-8526. Space is limited.

The town hall is co-sponsored by Lenox Hill Neighborhood Houses and Community Board 8.

WHAT: Council District 5 Town Hall

WHEN: Thursday, December 7, 2017

Doors open at 7:00 P.M.

Program begins at 8:00 P.M.

WHERE: Julia Richmond Education Complex

317 East 67th Street (enter on 68th Street between First and Second Avenues)

New York, NY 10065

What would you say to Mayor de Blasio?

UPDATE 12/7 6:15 PM:

❗️Attention: Tonight’s Mayoral Town Hall with Council Member @BenKallos has been postponed to January 17th at 7PM. 🗓️ We apologize for any inconvenience.

— NYC Mayor's CAU (@mayorsCAU) December 7, 2017

.@NYCMayor, who we have been told has the flu (and before you tattle on him to @DrBassettDOHMH, he apparently did get his flu shot), has canceled his town hall tonight.

— Jillian Jorgensen (@Jill_Jorgensen) December 7, 2017

The @NYCMayorsOffice @mayorsCAU has rescheduled tonight's town hall. New Date is January 17th

— Ben Kallos (@BenKallos) December 7, 2017

Veterans Day 2017 - Thank You To All Members Of The United States Military For Your Service

Today, November 11, is Veteran's Day.

We salute #veterans past & present who have served this great nation. Thank you for your service & for protecting our freedom. #VeteransDay pic.twitter.com/m1j0Non9m7

— U.S. Dept of Defense (@DeptofDefense) November 11, 2017

 According to History.com:

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the First World War, then known as "the Great War." Commemorated as Armistice Day beginning the following year, November 11th became a legal federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day, a holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars...

If you know a Veteran or see one on the street today, please take a brief moment to thank them for their service to our country. Also, don't just thank them today but do it throughout the year and thank our active duty soldiers as well.

Members of the NYPD who serve NYC and America marching up Fifth Avenue in today’s #VeteransDay Parade. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/aFni5Ayd8j

— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) November 11, 2017

Here's info on Roosevelt Island Veterans Association and Roosevelt Island POW/MIA Flag.

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Cornell Tech Celebrates Official Opening Of Roosevelt Island Campus At Dedication Ceremony Today - Here's What Happened

Cornell Tech officially opened today with the holding of a a dedication ceremony this morning for it's Roosevelt Island campus attended by former Mayor Mike Bloomberg, Governor Andrew Cuomo, Mayor Bill deBlasio and leaders of the NY business and tech communities.

Image From Irina Hage

According to this press release excerpt from Cornell Tech:

Cornell Tech today celebrated the official opening of its campus on Roosevelt Island with a dedication event attended by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, former Mayor Mike Bloomberg, Cornell University President Martha Pollack, Technion President Peretz Lavie and Cornell Tech Dean Daniel Huttenlocher. Cornell Tech is the first campus ever built for the digital age, bringing together academia and industry to create pioneering leaders and transformational new research, products, companies and social ventures. Today marks the opening of the first phase of the Roosevelt Island campus, which features some of the most environmentally friendly and energy-efficient buildings in the world....

It's official — We are open! #CornellTech #CornellNYC https://t.co/5OUvHZqLsC pic.twitter.com/3NcEbbN6BZ

— Cornell Tech (@cornell_tech) September 13, 2017

ICYMI: The ribbon-cutting moment in gif form. #CornellTech #CornellNYC pic.twitter.com/Sg7sYAUHCS

— Cornell Tech (@cornell_tech) September 13, 2017

Here's today's Cornell Tech Roosevelt Island campus dedication ceremony.



and video describing the mission and vision



of Cornell Tech.

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First Day Of Roosevelt Island Astoria Route NYC Ferry Service - It Was Fantastic, See For Yourself

Roosevelt Island residents waited and waited and waited some more for NYC East River Ferry service.

It finally came today.

Here are some scenes

from this morning.

The very first ride on the Roosevelt Island ferry at 6:30 this morning #nycferry #rooseveltisland pic.twitter.com/MDuGAa0O9b

— Nick Turner (@NewsyNick) August 29, 2017

About 30 very excited and happy Roosevelt Islanders were looking forward to boarding the ferry.



At 6:40 this morning, NYC Ferry Astoria Route service arrived at Roosevelt Island to pick up passengers for the first time.



Roosevelt Island residents boarded the ferry. But first,

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What To Do About Panhandling On Roosevelt Island Asks Resident - No Legal Way To Get Rid Of Panhandling Says Mayor deBlasio, Are There Any Good Solutions?

Cities back down from panhandling bans after courts find them unconstitutional https://t.co/jJbtOw2Cij via @joe_palazzolo

— Zusha Elinson (@ZushaElinson) August 8, 2017

A Roosevelt Island resident reported on July 27:

I'm curious to know other Islander's point of view and thoughts about one of the panhandlers on the island.

This evening in Duane Reade, the guy who is generally blocking the doors at the F train, rolled in and cut in front of a long line of people to purchase cigarettes. Of course he tells those he's begging from in the station he's buying food. I also witnessed him steal a lighter from the shelves in front of the cashiers. I called him out on it, he called me an ass, and I made sure the employees at Duane Reade knew he took the lighter.

Is public safety doing anything to address this guy in particular? He leaves trash and messes all over, obviously steals from businesses on the island, and becoming more of a nuisance. I understand misfortune and honest asking for help, but this man is not the latter.

For visitors coming to the Island via the train, he's our welcoming committee.

According to the NYC Government web site:

You can report panhandling. If it is in progress, it is considered an emergency situation. If it occurred in the past or occurs repeatedly at the same location, officers from your local police precinct will respond when they are not handling emergency situations.
Call 911 to report the panhandling in progress.

NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio was asked about panhandling issue on the July 7 WNYC Brian Lehrer radio program. According to the transcript from the Mayor's Office:

... Lehrer: Did you say you wish panhandling – just asking people for money – would be illegal?

Mayor: I’m saying that not as a matter of policy, I’m saying that as a human being, bluntly, Brian. To so many people, I think it’s off-putting and again it gets confused understandably for homelessness because you don’t whether someone has a home and is panhandling versus someone who literally has no place to sleep last night. I just wish it didn’t exist.

I know constitutionally, of course, it cannot be banned but I’m just expressing a frustration because I think it hurts the quality of life in many ways.

Lehrer: I’m just trying to clarify. Are you saying that you’re objecting to people making up being homeless when they’re not homeless? Or do you really not like poor people on the street asking others for money?

Mayor: What I’m responding to is, I think it, to many people, it does appear that someone is homeless. And, yeah, they give help to someone thinking that they are homeless. And I think some people are out there panhandling because they are truly in need. And obviously I’d rather address their problem directly not having them be out on the street panhandling. I’d rather help them because we would help them. Anyone in real need, we’re going to help them get a roof over their head. We’re going to help them if they need any kind of service.

We’re going to help them try and find a job. That’s what the City of New York does. But there are also people out there who are just begging for money and it’s not out of dire economic need, and that is frustrating to me.

Again, I know there’s no legal way to get rid of that per say but it is frustrating....

The July 11 Citylab reported on a possible "Smarter Solution To Regulate Panhandling":

... Encourage what we call “successful panhandling,” which brings together willing donors and willing solicitors; and discourage “unsuccessful panhandling,” which targets people who don’t even want to see solicitations, let alone give money to someone asking for help on the sidewalk.

What’s wrong with most anti-panhandling ordinances is that they try to ban or discourage both kinds instead of promoting the former and discouraging the latter.

Panhandling credentials

The policies we think will work best would spread information about panhandlers, particularly through the issuance of credentials. The basic problem now is that potential donors know very little if anything about the panhandlers they encounter. That makes them reluctant to give....

Click here for the full Citylab article on credentials for panhandling.