THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
Vol. 52 No. 04
April 2016
SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
This was not a a Drill! Rochdale’s Emergency Alert Systems notifies 1,000’s of Cooperators of recent Power Outage
Blackout tests backup generators at Rochdale’s power plant By Reyel Basea
O
n April 20, the complex experienced its second blackout in two years. One of the four emergency generators located behind Rochdale’s power plant began to smolder. As a safety precaution, all electricity was immediately shut down. The Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter along with representatives from the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and officers from the New York City Police Department. Available board members rushed to the scene to clarify details for perplexed residents and television media that had arrived to cover the scene.
Page 3 President’s Report - Pg. 2
(Continued on page 3) General Manager’s Report - Pg 4
Rochdale hosts community rally for Hillary Clinton Page 13
Board members Talib Bey (l.) and Joyce Williams (r.) flank Rochdale Village cooperator that came out in support of the Hillary Clinton rally in front of the community center. Photo credit: Al Ephraim
Public Safety team saves lives - Pg. 8
RV Committee Reports - Pg. 24
Page 2
April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Rochdale Village Board of Directors serves 5,860 middle income families and more than 25,000 people in the world’s second largest housing cooperative, located at 169-65 137th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434; Tel: 718-276-5700 ext. 336.
OFFICERS OF THE BOARD
Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz President Lisa Stark Vice Presidents Jean Randolph-Castro Mario Turner Talib Bey Joe Evans Treasurer Gary Hawkins Secretary Joyce Williams
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
Talib Bey Yvonne Breiner Clifton Stanley Diaz Joe Evans Stacey Francis Jean Hall David Jeffries Gary Hawkins Tracey Irvin Jean Randolph-Castro Earl Roberts Kamal Saleem Lisa Stark Mario Turner Joyce Williams Gary Casimir (State Representative)
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Budget & Finance Lisa Stark Commercial Services David Jeffries Community Center Jean Randolph-Castro Community Relations Joyce Williams Legal & Management Lisa Stark Maintenance Joe Evans Orientation Clifton Stanley Diaz Public Safety Talib Bey Senior Citizens Gary Hawkins Youth Planning Mario Turner Environmental Conservation Kamal Saleem MANAGEMENT Managing Agent Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc.
General Manager Marion Scott
Assistant Managers
Alex Freedman, MSI and Jay Williams, RVI
President’s Message
- by Lisa Stark
Dear Cooperators,
are part of a $38 Million modernization Rochdale is experiencing over the next 2 Blackout Rochdale Village years. recently experienced the List and very unfortunate event of R.U.O.K. a blackout. One of the four Emergency Procedures emergency generators caught During the blackout, fire because of a defect. These members of the Rochdale generators are being rented Village NORC staff and while upgrades are being Rochdale Village Social done on the Power Plant. Services Board made calls However, this event gave us to all our residents on the the opportunity to test our new R.U.O.K. list. The R.U.O.K back-up generators which list includes physically worked, providing lighting challenged Cooperators in the lobbies and stairways. throughout the community This is huge improvement who needed extra support from the blackout we had two during emergencies. We years ago as we continue to thank the staff and Board learn and improve. Members for all their help The generator upgrades during this emergency and it and future project of is great to see that even during assembling the new boilers is a time when the NORC is a big undertaking involving undergoing some changes, preparation and planning. The they are serving the members boiler project will take close of our community who are to 2 years before completion. most in need. The power plant upgrades Community rooms
Lisa Stark
in the buildings were also opened as waiting areas during the blackout. If you signed up for the Rochdale Village alerts, you received several phone calls, text messages and e-mails to keep you updated throughout the blackout. By 5:00 p.m., 90% of the Village was back online. We encourage all Cooperators who have not signed up for alerts to register at: www. rochdalevillage.com.
Management’s policy on parking lot privileges
NOTICE Please be advised that cooperators that are 30-days or more in payment arrears will lose their parking lot privileges.
Director of Operations Anthony Coleman, MSI
Controller
William Young
Deputy Director of Maintenance Corey Jones
Security Chief John Skinner
Power Plant Director Gilbert Francisco
Human Resource Director Dolores Benner
General Counsel
William R. Greenspan
The next Rochdale Village Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 23, 2016 in Community Center rooms 11/12/13
April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 3
RV community safe in the midst of power outage from backup generator (Continued from page 1)
Chief John Skinner, Director of Public Safety, was on the grounds dispatching officers to where they were needed most and partnered with emergency service agents to safeguard residents in various stages of transit. Maintenance personnel double-checked the Keri Key System to ensure that people were not locked out and that the system was not disabled due to the power outage. Rochdale’s porters also went floor-by-floor checking in on residents and notifying cooperators that may not have been aware of the outage. NORC employees, board members and Rochdale Village Senior Center volunteers made calls to homebound and physically challenged residents. They also checked to see that their regular senior center members had arrived safely to their destinations. Management office personnel fielded floods of calls from cooperators with questions about the blackout and the office
made calls to commercial tenants alerting them of what was going on. While the fire was extinguished rapidly, FDNY had to clear all 121-apartment elevators before service could be safely reinstated. Deputy Director of Maintenance, Corey Jones, alerted Management each time a section of elevators had been manually restarted. All power services were restored without harm to businesses or residents by approximately 8:45pm that evening. Many cooperators received regular updates via Rochdale’s emergency alert system. Cooperators that were registered for the system received a combination of up-tothe-minute calls, emails and texts notifying them about the status of the incident. Those that have not signed up for alerts, please register for an account at www.rochdalevillage.com or call (718) 276-5700 ext. 300 for further assistance on how to subscribe to the alert system.
One of New York’s bravest boards ladder150 to the roof of Rochdale’s power plant to get a better look at the fire caused by a backup generator. The fire prompted an immediate shutdown of power.
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April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report Monthly Report
by Marion Marion Scott Scott -- by
General Manager’s Monthly Report for March 2016 Customer Service and Group Office Renovations Management works to continue to provide better customer service to Cooperators. We hope Cooperators have noticed increased information via the Emergency Alert System, and a better experience with the revamped front desk at Management. The changes to the front desk at Management are now being extended to the Maintenance Department. The Manager’s Office in Group 4 was the first step and pictures are below. The Group Secretaries will now sit up front at a bigger window with seating for Cooperators. The inside of the office has also been upgraded to include a small conference room/ lunch room, and an open area with windows that provides a better environment for all employees. Group 4 was the sample and now that we have a template, we are working to make the same upgrades to the other groups and Maintenance Headquarters. We hope these changes provide a better experience for both the Cooperators and Employees at Rochdale.
is to exterminate an entire building from the top down in one day. For your convenience, we have also included the State mandated apartment inspections and convector filter change. This will enable us to take less of your time while providing necessary maintenance services. Please be advised, for the process to be effective we need full access to each apartment. Even if you have no sign of pests we still to check your apartment as a preventative measure. Rochdale staff will accompany the exterminators to aid in closing potential access points that vermin use to traverse the building. These areas include the convectors throughout your apartment and closet at your apartment entrance. Please inform our staff of any other problem areas that may need attention. The exterminator’s primary focus will be roaches and mice. For specialty extermination (e.g. bedbugs, fleas, gnats) please contact your group office for an appointment.
Fluctuating Hot Water Many Shareholders have experienced unstable water temperatures while using their shower or bath. This can create a very uncomfortable bathing experience and can be caused by a few varying factors. Getting feedback from you, the cooperators, has been very helpful in finding some of the issues, as people help to narrow down the time frames when they experience the occurrences making it easier to identify the cause. Maintenance has recently performed clean out of certain building lines where the problem persists which usually abates the problem. We Mass Cleanout Overview will continue to monitor the problem and make repairs. If you continue The time for the mass clean-out has come once again. to experience fluctuating water For those of us that may have forgotten or did not live at temperatures in your apartment please Rochdale when this was first done 2 years ago, the objective contact your Group Manager.
COOPERATORS! Please do not deposit bulk garbage in the building’s service hallway after 3:30 PM Thank you.
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report Cash Receipts & Disbursements - March 2016 OPENING CASH BALANCE RECEIPTS: Carrying Charges Commercial Rent & Utilities Nursery Schools and Democratic Club Community Center Programs/Rentals Section 8 Rent Rooftop leasing- Wireless Communication Apartment sales and transfers Parking Rent Laundry Parking remotes Application processing fee Ground lease Transfer in (Self Insurance A/C) Other rental income Total Collection NG Checks Funds Available for Operations
OPERATING EXPENSES: Administrative Expenses: Management fee Office expense Equipment leasing Data processing fees Telephone Broadband Communication Advertising Legal Consulting - Architects/Engineers Collection Eviction expense Other professional services Misc Expenses ($1000.00 or less) Total Administrative Expenses MAINTENANCE EXPENSES : Other janitorial expenses Exterminating Expense Compactor Expense Compactor and garbage bags Lawn Sprinkler System Snow Removal supplies Ground Equipment Parking Lots expense Inspections & violations Vehicle Maintenance, gas/oil Equipment and small tools Carpentry supplies Electrical supplies Door repairs Keys and locks Bathroom supplies Floor Tiles HVAC Maintenance & supplies Plumbing supplies Welding Equipment & supplies Paint/Glass & other supplies Other maintenance and operating expenses Contracted Services - Electrical - Standpipe & Domestic Water - Floor Repairs - Bathtub glazing - Apartment repairs - Apartment restoration - Building Roof repairs - Carpert installations & cleaning - Pump and roof fans Misc Expenses ($1000.00 or less) Other Fixd Assets Total Maintenance Expenses
$
676,366
6,059,884 451,636 4,087 8,150 29,891 10,640 196,800 129,602 71,500 2,000 1,565 2,000 690,896 6,430 7,665,081 30,721 8,310,726
53,906 27,054 4,170 4,053 5,312 2,909 2,716 43,105 13,615 74,179 3,568 14,581 804 249,972 3,416 8,819 4,988 10,193 15,231 567,046 12,203 19,190 5,230 2,182 3,673 17,911 4,621 8,498 1,237 3,995 6,055 15,319 4,169 1,263 6,041 1,169 45,322 20,867 12,952 1,475 538,377 51,934 1,872 13,364 1,306 4,667 94,500 1,496,850
PUBLIC SAFETY EXPENSES: NYPD Paid detail officers Office supplies Radio Maintenance Vehicle maintenance,gas,oil Training and Subscription Surveillance system Paid Detail Administrative Misc. Expense ($ 1,000.00 or less) Total Public Safety Expenses
7,598 1,006 1,505 3,547 3,800 1,172 1,033 303 19,963
POWER PLANT EXPENSES: Fuel - Oil Fuel - Heating & Electric Gas Fuel - Cooking Gas Water & sewer - Buildings Material, tools and supplies Chemicals and lubricants Vehicle Maintenance, Gas/Oil Absorbers expense Turbine Generator expense Boiler expense Misc Expenses ($1000.00 or less) Total Power Plant Expenses
113,809 1,145,489 39,754 793,806 10,365 10,901 1,011 1,306 23,208 1,351 1,053 2,142,052
COMMUNITY CENTER EXPENSES: Equipment leasing Ouside labor expense Misc. Expense ($ 1,000.00 or less) Total Community Center Expenses
BOARD EXPENSES Office expenses Contribution- Rochdale Village Social Services Inc Bulletin expense
COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES Meter reading services Sign Maintenance Building repairs and maintenance Gas - Hot Water Tank Misc. Expense ($ 1,000.00 or less)
1,800 462 2,262
7,864 13,334 6,565 27,763
508
508
PAYROLL/ESCROWS/EMPLOYEE BENEFITS: Salaries and Wages Refund of past cooperators equity Replacement reserve Contingency reserve Mortgage Principal and interest Real Estate Tax Escrow Insurance escrow Health & Pension- 32BJ Health & Pension- 94 Health & Pension- SSOBA NYS Sales Tax Health & Dental and Group life insurance Total Payroll/Escrow/Employee Benefits Total Expenses Ending cash balance
1,454,301 26,938 125,000 70,133 721,896 283,495 300,000 302,578 192,807 115,674 7,558 71,589 3,671,968 7,611,338 $699,388
- by William Young Summary of Corporate Funds at March 15, 2016 1) OPERATING FUNDS: Citibank - Checking - Payroll Water and Sewer Escrow Total Operating Funds
696,206 19,782 715,988
2) IN-HOUSE SHELTER FUNDS: Commercial Tenant Security- IMMA Total In-House Shelter Funds
570,111 570,111
3) ESCROW FUNDS: FFI Government Fund - Replacement reserve Capital Improvement Equity Replacement Reserve - Checking Completion Repair Escrow Total Escrow Funds
26,940,454 111,141 17,010 27,026,802 54,095,407
4) MORTGAGE ESCROW: Real Estate Tax Insurance Total Mortgage Escrow TOTAL FUNDS
2,137,089 1,233,957 3,371,046 $58,752,552
The Housing Company must obtain approval from NYS Homes & Community Renewal to disburse funds from the contingency and replacement reserve accounts. The self insurance escrow fund is restricted by Board resolution. Funds can only be used to pay damages and other claims against the corporation during the period it was self insured. The corporation’s cash, investments and escrow balances as of March 15, 2016 was $58,752,552. The amount available to pay operating expenses are $715,988. The following accounts are encumbered:
(a) Self Insurance (b) Contingency and Replacement Reserve (c) Commercial Tenant Security Deposit (d) Capital Improvement Equity (e) Completion Repair Escrow (f) Real Estate Tax Escrow (g) Insurance Escrow
26,957,464 570,111 111,141 27,026,802 2,137,089 1,233,957 58,036,564
It also covers claims below the company liability insurance retention program. The insurance, completion repair and real estate tax escrow accounts were established pursuant to the terms of the mortgage refinancing agreement with Wells Fargo Multifamily Capital, Inc.
Have you signed up to make quick and easy carrying charge payments online yet? Sign up for PayLease at rochdalevillage.com
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April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report - by William Young Accounts Receivable Activity - March 2016
To Advertise in the Rochdale Village Bulletin, Call (718) 276-5700 ext. 359
Balance February 2016
Description of Account Base Rent Vacancy Rent Medical Office Commercial
3,004,760 435,468 140,608
Electric Water Laundry Parking Fuel surcharge Surcharges Late Charges Dispossess Legal fees NG Check Fee Restoration Charges Others
97,100 14,394 71,500 5,293 40,725 945,265 125,663 110,916 17,890 2,810 1,458,326 148,415
Totals
6,619,134
Current Month Activity 3/31/16 Adjustments Payments Balance (See Note 1 below) 5,662,615 (135,270) 5,614,814 2,917,291 (14,812) 4,731 415,925 27,543 27,543 309,489 (23,006) 360,426 66,666 (See Note 2 below) (243) 59,593 37,265 (6,825) 4,074 3,495 71,500 71,500 71,500 128,623 (97) 129,539 4,280 40,725 84,810 (36,365) 60,709 933,001 15,036 22,189 118,510 10,855 12,821 108,950 11,453 5,738 23,605 500 616 2,694 (190,244) 604,107 362,928 1,509,261 218,689 (35,318) 191,779 140,008 (See Note 3 below) 6,306,456 396,583 6,928,999 6,393,174
Billings
Note 1. Base rent was adjusted by the following amounts: a)Vacancy loss (28,408.80) b)Section 8 subsidy (28,819.70) c)SCRIE subsidy (67,796.87) d)DRIE subsidy (10,429.80) e)Bad debt & other adjustments 184.97 (135,270.20) Note 2. Commercial arrears are $66,666 including electricity of $37,265 and water & sewer in the amount of $3,495. Note 3. Included in Other receivables are: Equity Deposits Move in & Move out adjustments Evictions Violations Three Day Notices Total
Tenant Arrears Report Ending March 31, 2016 CURRENT TENANTS In arrears for -
Community Center Report For March 31, 2016
One month
Residential Number 1,656
Two months
419
156,224
19
1,139
Three months
268
103,110
12
33,329
Four months
242
84,118
5
10,996
5-12 months
402
377,869
9
33,740
12+ months
336
376,261
2
100
1,067,239
70
98,377
Sub-Total PAST TENANTS In arrears for -
3,323
Tenants Amount Due (30,343)
Commercial Tenants Number Amount Due 23 19,074
One years
Residential Number 138
Two years
122
527,364
1
63
Three years
109
445,925
2
27,353
Four years
116
555,322
3
39,956
Five years
123
525,478
2
9,158
Five years and more
333
2,480,681
2
21,610
Sub-Total
941
5,129,758
6
98,264
GRAND TOTALS
Tenants Amount Due 594,987
6,196,997
28,579.55 (73,387.87) 73,796.19 92,834.94 18,185.49 140,008.30
Commercial Tenants Number Amount Due 1 125
196,642
REVENUES: Programs Room Rental Vending Machine Total Revenue
$4,075 9,675 109 13,859
EXPENSES: Salaries - Administrative - Porters Outside Labor Expense Recreational & Office Supplies Furnishing & Fixtures Misc. (less than 100.00) Total Expenses Net Income/(Loss)
$5,142 21,513 1,800 225 216 22 28,917 ($15,058)
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Public Safety Report
- by Chief John Skinner
Public Safety Monthly Report March 2016 Enclosed is the statistical data relative to the performance of the Rochdale SPECIAL VERTICAL PATROL BY ROCHDALE PUBLIC Village, Inc., Public Safety Department during the month of March 2016. SAFETY OFFICERS: Public Safety maintains twenty-four hour coverage. Vertical patrols are conducted on a daily basis. Officers patrol the LOITERING: During the month of March 2016, the Public Safety Department has continued to focus attention on loitering conditions. As a result, Public Safety officers responded to a total of Forty-seven (47) complaints of loitering which were resolved as follows: 1. Conditions corrected – Twenty-four (24) loiterers complied with officers’ directives to leave. 2. Unfounded – Ten (10) unfounded loitering complaints (officers responded but no loiterers were present). 3. Responded – Five (5) loiterers found and/or loiterers were advised of RV’s rules and regulations 4. Violations issued – Eight (8) violation for loitering were issued
stairwells, hallways, rooftops and parking lots at different hours to curtail unlawful activities and have been positively reinforced.
VERTICALS: SPECIAL VERTICALS: TOTAL:
1470 856 2326
TOWING: WARNING ISSUED: TOTAL:
16 16 32
ESCORTS:
92
The Rochdale Village Public Safety Department will continue to organize to SECURITY RESPONDED TO THE FOLLOWING CALLS: 3122 better serve the community. During the month of March the following arrests were affected:
MAINTENANCE CALLS: 466 TOTAL CALLS FOR SERVICES: 3588
There were (4) arrests for the month of March 2016.
INCIDENT REPORTS: 117
Arrests for March 2016: March 2, 2016 – Vandalism/Harassment – Due to an ongoing investigation of harassment, RO officers notified the 113th precinct to arrest a male that was throwing eggs and writing graffiti on an apartment door on several occasions.
MAIL VOLUME DELIVERED BY PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER: 867
March 4, 2016 – C-Summons (Trespass) – Seven individuals were found loitering in Building 7C stairwell. A non-resident was apprehended, issued a C-Summons and transported back to school by a 113th Precinct officer. The other six juveniles fled the scene.
ARREST(S): 5 IN HOUSE DETAINED: 0 TOTAL: 5 VIOLATIONS ISSUED: 64 CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/AUTO:
0
March 10, 2016 – C-Summons (Disorderly Conduct) – While conducting EVICTION(S): 10 special verticals in Building 15B, RO observed a male and female loitering in the stairwell. One of the males was detained while a warrant check was done by the 113th precinct. They were issued C-Summons for disorderly conduct, blocking pedestrian traffic.
VIOLATIONS
March 10, 2016 – Criminal Activity – While conducting an investigation of a police chase by Building 20 an individual took off running. He was apprehended by the 113th precinct and charged with possession and criminal activity. March 14, 2016 – C-Summons (Trespass/Control Substance) – Two youths were found in Building 13, “B” stairwell, both non-residents. The 113th precinct was notified and three C-Summons were issued, two for trespassing and one for unlawful possession of a controlled substance.
DVR UNIT ACTIVITY TOTAL INCIDENTS = 26 TOTAL RISK MANAGEMENT =
13
VIOLATIONS = 0 TOWED VEHICLES The Public Safety Department towed Twenty-eight (28) vehicles during the month of March for violation of parking rules on the complex.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Listed are the classifications of Notice of Violations issued: CLASSIFICATION AMOUNT Illegal Move-in 1 Illegal Move-out 3 Negligence 2 Harboring a Pet 3 Loud Noise 14 Disorderly Conduct/Abusive Language 4 Loitering 8 Harassment 3 Damage to Rochdale Property 4 Illegal Occupant 3 Resisting Arrest 1 Failure to Comply 8 Criminal Activities 3 Smoking in unauthorized area 2 Foul Odor 1 Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance 2 Public Intoxication 1 Dispute 1 Total
64
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April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report
- by Robert Woods
Contract Summary/Status — March 2016 LOCAL LAW 11, CYCLE-6, 7 & 8 BUILDING FAÇADE REPAIRS: 1. Façade repairs are completed on Buildings noted below: • DOB accepted as safe Cycles 6-7 five (5) Buildings Numbers: 2, 4, 7, 9 & 19 • DOB accepted as safe Cycles 6-8 nine (9) Buildings Numbers: 1, 3, 5, 6, 8 & 10-16 • Awaiting DOB approval of Cycles 6-8 for three (3) Buildings Numbers: 1, 3 & 6.
LOBBY CEILING REPLACEMENTS: Sigma Maintenance & Restoration Corp. has installed pipe insulation and ceilings in the lobbies of 14 Buildings. Completion status: #1-9, 11, 13-15 (95%); Bldg. #12. Work on Building #12 is in progress. Asbestos abatement in the last two (2) remaining Buildings, Nos. 19 & 20 will be completed on 4/16/16. COMMUNITY CENTER RENOVATION AND ROOF: 1. Community Center interior work, Phase 1 is in progress. 2. Parapet mobilization remains in progress.
2. Inspections complete for Buildings 2, 4, 7, 9 & 17-20. 3. Façade repairs are in progress in Group 5.
RV’s Public Safety team goes extra mile to keep this community safe By Reyel Basea
P
ublic Safety committee chairman, Talib Bey, wants the community to know how much the Public Safety team truly advocates the phrase “If you see something, say something”. Just last month, members from this illustrious team lent their assistance well above and beyond the call of duty. The first incident occurred early one March morning in circle 4 during a regular routine patrol. Sergeant Alvarez was in his car at a traffic light on Bedell Street when he suddenly witnessed a car sliding in front of him while waiting for the light to change. The vehicle slid, flipped, and crashed into two parked cars and remained overturned. The sergeant ran towards the vehicle, reached under the hood and smashed the car’s gas line before it caught fire avoiding further injuries to the passengers and potentially the community. After singlehandedly pulling the two passengers out from
the vehicle, EMS, the NYPD and fire department arrived to assist the two who as it turns out were just visiting Rochdale. Both escaped with just minor injuries. Sergeant Alvarez is a newcomer in the Public Safety division and will make one year in service this coming November. The next incident also happened last month when Public Safety Officer Barbara Nolan noticed a suspicious person in the lobby of Group 3’s building 9. A young man appeared to be in his early twenties, was non-responsive and unable to communicate. Sergeant Padilla arrived on the scene and assessed that the stranger was potentially autistic. Rochdale’s Lt. Lopez was called in. He subsequently notified the 113th precinct on his radio to alert NYPD officers about a possible missing person. He also dispatched a call on his citywide radio and sure enough, officers from the 103rd precinct responded. Apparently they’d received a report of a man missing from the South Ozone Park area with special needs bearing a similar description that darted off
Special thanks goes out to all of our Public Safety Officers for their tireless work including Sergeant Alvarez (l.) and Lieutenant Lopez (r.); Safety Officer Barbara Nolan and Sergeant Padilla.
after being delivered to his home by school bus at approximately 2:40pm that same day. The response time after the report was registered could not have been better. New York City’s emergency service unit had already begun the process of securing a boat
to search area ponds for the missing man’s body. By 7:00pm that evening the family was reunited. In both instances, a happy outcome was achieved thanks to Rochdale’s finest. All’s well that ends well!
If You See Something, Say Something. Call Rochdale Village Public Safety at (718) 276-2400 Thank you.
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
~Poetry Corner~ Purple Peace By Gloria Willliams
Rest in Peace Precious Prince Purple Rain falls from the sky Upon the news of your passing The Doves began to cry You brought so much joy With the gift you had With the loss of your Beautiful Life all the world is Sad you left us with your Legacy the world will not Forget you gave all that you Had of your gift you have no Reason to regret. Fare thee well Blessed Beautiful Prince We Wish a little longer You could stay We all will Sing your Purple Rain when We meet in heaven one Glorious radiant day (RIP) Peace
FWOWER By Ed Miller
As I was walking along the path A mother and her two-year-old Pointing to a yellow dandelion She cried out, a “FWOWER!” “No!” said the dear mother. “FWOWER!” again, said the child “Not! said the mother. There I stood in wonderment Whether I should intercede For me and the child, a flower To the mother it was a weed
Purple Dream
A Prince Rogers Nelson Poetry Tribute By Anthony Blake
The remembrance in heart all will remain Singing and dancing that took its final bow aim It was Heavens moment that would allow One dance and the soul strived up The continuing pouring rain that filled the cup
It’s praises of songs in how we preserver We treasure your talent Here in Heaven, no need to be silent But we welcome you still You are here in Heaven being God’s will
Heavens name with Prince He wasted no time and answered at once Time with a limit A commitment to perform A date with Heaven A Prince that became God’s servant It was the applause The extended hand Welcome Home Prince
A man called Prince The spiral of time Talent with singing vibes Instrumental with the flowing strides Now we don’t do R&B up Creativity all comes to mind Purple showers in counting blessings here
What’s in a name, but from Prince, you are under God’s name Prince, it was you life in music in the move and soothe The rhythm and harmony with the groove To the world, you were a celebrity with talent to prove Your talent captured the Lord But it was all part of the Earthly accord.
The RV Church Corner Why not visit a neighborhood house of worship here in the surrounding Rochdale Village community. Peace.
The church of St. Bonaventure 114-58 170th Street Jamaica, NY 11434 718-526-0040 St. Benedict the moor 171-17 110th Avenue Jamaica, NY 11434 718-526-4018 Reverend Gordon P. Kusi, Pastor Reverend Stephen Jantuah Deacon Pascual Olivas Angela Lewis, DFF Mass Celebrations at each church: Sunday Mornings at 10 am Mt. Pleasant Pentecostal Faith Church (PFC) 144-80 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11434 718-789-0034 Pastor Elaine Monestine Overseer Gabelus Monestine
Service Times: Sunday School: 9:30 am Worship Service: 11:00 am Wednesday night: 7:30 pm
Sheperd’s House Open Bible Church (SHOBC) 134-30 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11434 Sunday school - 9 am Sunday Worship Experience -10am Wednesdays - Bible Study & Prayer 7:30 pm Fridays - Deliverance Service 7:30 pm Christ Pentecostal Temple, Inc. 109-45 157th Street Jamaica, N.Y. 11433 Tel: 718-529-3900 www.christpentecostaltemple.com Suffragan Bishop Derrick Farmer, DD Service Times: Sunday School: 9:30 am Worship Service: 11:00 am Monday & Wednesday Noonday Prayer: 12:00 pm Wednesday Bible Study: 7:30 pm Friday Youth Service: 8:00 pm Saturday Prayer Meeting 8:00 pm Our Lady Of Light Parish St. Catherine of Sienna Church 118-22 Riverton Street
St. Albans, NY 11412 Mass Schedule: Monday to Friday 8:00 am Sunday 8:00am and 12:00 pm St. Pascal Babylon 112-43 198th Street St. Albans, NY 11412 Mass Schedule: Saturday 5:00pm Sunday 10:00am Monday to Saturday 9:00 am St. Mary Magdalene Parish 218-12 136th Ave Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 718-949-4311 Service Times: Weekend: Sunday: 8:45 am 11:00 am Weekday: Mon thru Fri: 8:30 am Sat: 9 am Holy Day and Vigil: 8:30 am 7:30 pm The Greater Rescue Church of Christ, Inc. of the Apostolic Faith 110 - 51 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11433 Phone: 718-739-7165 Fax: 718-739-3880
Website: www.greaterrescue.org E-mail: grcc@verizon.net Rev. Leslie B. Hodelin-Wilks, Pastor Min. Gene Robbins, Assistant Pastor Service Times Sunday School: 9:45 am Sunday Morning Worship: 11:30am Sunday Evening Worship: 6 pm Prayer Service: Tuesdays, 7 pm Kingdom First Living Bible Class Wednesday, 7:30 pm Evangelistic Worship: Fridays, 8:30 pm The Rochdale Village Church Corner lists an array of houses of worship to attend. List your church! Email: rochdalebulletin@gmail.com
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Senior Center Events - May 2016
April 2016
April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
NORC Event Calendar - May 2016
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April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
RV Senior Center recognizes volunteers during National Volunteer Month By Reyel Basea
A
pril was National Volunteer Month. In keeping with the spirit of the season, the Rochdale Village Senior Center held a recognition breakfast on Friday, April 22, to honor volunteers that contribute their time to this community . Volunteerism is vital to any Mary Boza Mary Broadnax Richard Burbridge Margaret Burchett Marthe Camille Marjorie Canion Katherine Carver Sandra Cooper Hazel Dawson Louise Denson Frank Escort Pearl Fountain Richardene Gess Janice Goodson Grace Grannum Virginia Grant Marjorie Graves Leroy Green Lois Griffith Joan Hamilton Valerie Hayes Gwen Henderson Loretta Holmes
NORC provides free shingles vaccine for RV’s growing senior population By Susan Van Brackle
T
owards the end of April, the Rochdale Village NORC program held a Shingles workshop, informing cooperators about the virus, as well as administering free shingles vaccinations. The presentation was held in the Club Lounge of the Community Center and co-sponsored by the New York Foundation for Eldercare and the New York City Department for the Aging. Nurses from the Partners in Care/Visiting Nurse Service of New York were present to administer the vaccine at the successful turnout. Many people were already aware of how costly the vaccination was. It typically ranges in price from $200.00 to $250.00 for those that are not covered by health insurance. Neighborhood drugstores like Walgreens charge approximately $220.00. It is expected that one in three people will get the Shingles virus, especially those with a weakened immune systems. Shingles, also
known as the herpes zoster virus, is very common with senior citizens aged 60 years or older. It is highly recommended that those in that age group get the vaccination to prevent the infection, thereby reducing the risk by about 51%. Individuals that have had the chickenpox before are already infected with the varicella-zoster virus. The varicella-zoster virus lies dormant in the body until a trigger reactivates the virus, which can happen many years later. That is how shingles occurs. The rashes caused from shingles commonly appear on one side of the face or body and typically last anywhere from two to four weeks. Symptoms include pain, burning, and tingling sensations, which can be severe. Fever, headache, chills, and upset stomach are also common symptoms of the infection. A person with shingles cannot pass it onto another person; however, it can be passed onto anyone who isn’t immune to the chicken pox.
neighborhood program, even more so when one considers agendas that support elders that are aging in place. The recognized awardees ranged from contributors to the exercise programs, arts and crafts, gameroom, entertainment, kitchen staff, servers, computer services and those that assist the physically challenged, just to name a few. Following are the names of each celebrant. This ‘thank you’ is for you. Mary Howell Mack Jenkins Valerie Johnson Roslyn Jones Ozzie Judd Al Lemons Hattie Manning Deanna Marrow Rosalind Mayfield Yvonne Oliver Vera Sanders Delores Sigler Shirley Sillekens Dorothy Skipper Pearl Smith Sandra Thomas Doris Tructman Gloria Williams Lloyd Williams Teresa Williams Gloria Young
April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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Hillary Clinton surprises the Rochdale Village community with an impromptu rally and a few old acquaintances Esteemed civil rights activist and Georgia Congressman, John Lewis, among the speakers By Susan Van Brackle
P
rimary season is bound to have notable candidates and their representatives making appearances at various communities. This past month, Rochdale Village happened to be one of them! Congressman Gregory Meeks, the U.S. Representative for New York’s 5th Congressional District, received a call from Hillary Clinton’s campaign headquarters with a special request to hold a rally here. From the moment Congressman Meeks forwarded the request to New York State’s super delegate, Assemblywoman Vivian E. Cook, she immediately alerted Rochdale’s board about the appeal, which was answered with a resounding “Yes!” after the directors performed a vote.
In a matter of days, the Hillary camp, throngs of secret service personnel and chiefs of staffs, managed to create an enjoyable rally at the Community Center’s main entrance thanks to the board’s efforts on Sunday, April 17. Last minute scheduling conflicts delayed Hillary Clinton from appearing at Rochdale however, Bill nd Clinton, the 42 President of the United States from 1993 to 2001, arrived to speak in front of the supportive crowd. Other political guests that addressed the Rochdale audience to stump for Mrs. Clinton included Congressman Gregory Meeks, Assemblywoman Vivian E. Cook of New York State Assembly District 32; Leroy Comrie, member of the New York State Senate from the 14th District; former Southeast Queens resident
turned U.S. Congresswoman for the 18th District of Texas, the honorable Sheila Jackson Lee; Donavan Richards, Council Member for the 31st District of the New York City Council; esteemed civil rights activist and Congressman John Lewis, U.S. Representative for Georgia’s 5th Congressional District. The Clintons are no strangers to the Rochdale Village community. Both visited the complex before in 2002 when they came to stump on behalf of then New York State Comptroller, Carl H. McCall who was running for the governor’s office at that time. During the rally, Hillary’s camp sponsored a day of fun activities for children, lunch and other refreshments for residents. Rochdale’s own DJ Kendo provided
great musical entertainment. Hillary campaign flyers were displayed prominently throughout the event, which many of her supporters proudly waved as they were handed out. Although Democratic hopeful Bernard Sanders was also in town during the New York primaries, no attempt was made by his party delegates to arrange a meeting with Rochdale Village cooperators. It was widely publicized that his attention was focused mainly on the borough of Brooklyn where he’d spent the majority of his time. Hillary Clinton went on to win New York’s primary race by a margin of 58% to Sanders 42%. The November election is fast approaching. Voter registration drives conclude by October 2016. No matter your candidate, please be sure to get out and rock the vote!
Friends and neighbors came out to the surprise rally for Hillary Clinton at Rochdale Village on Sunday, April 17. Chiefs of staff for the Clinton campaign coordinated the event after gaining approval from Rochdale’s board (members featured in front row beginning 3rd fom the left) Talib Bey, Jean Hall, Lisa Stark, Jean Castro, Clifton Stanley Diaz and Joyce Williams. Photo credit: Hughe Williams
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April 2016
RV hosts nationwide ShredFest with AARP and NYS Attorney General
Maintenance Committee Chairman and board member Joe Evans with his co-chair Eugen Evans arrived to welcome the crowds.
Maintenance Committee member Cheryl Phillips and AARP’s Associate State Director, Communiy Outreach, Maggie Castro-Stevens.
Despite the weather, throngs of people arrived to have their excess paper shredded.
Albee Mascall, Chief of Staff for New York State Senator James Sanders, Jr., works with AARP volunteer Jackie Campbell.
Fellow board member Jean Castro comes out to support the efforts of the Maintenance committee at the AARP ShredFest.
Rochdale’s Public Safety team kept the event running smoothly and under control. Photo credit: Nat Valentine
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Hillary Clinton’s Rally at Rochdale Village
Taking in the day at the Hillary Clinton rally, (left to right) Promoter Harold Dow, finance committee member Fredricka Wilson, RV board president, Lisa Stark, her daughter, RVSC board president, John Scott. Photo credit: Hughe Williams
Former President Bill Clinton arrived to speak at Rochdale on behalf of presidential hopeful, candidate Hillary Clinton. Photo credit: Hughe Williams
Photo credit: Al Ephraim
Photo credit: Hughe Williams
Assemblywoman and super delegate, Vivian E. Cook shares a moment with Georgia Congressman John Lewis.
Photo credit: Hughe Williams
NYS Senator Leroy Comrie (D.14) and former Queens Democratic District Leader (D.29) the Honorable Archie Spigner.
Councilman Donovan Richards (D.31), (far right), brought his son and littlest campaigner to the Hillary Clinton rally. Shown here with RV Board members (l.to r.) Joyce Williams and Jean Castro with Attorney Hettie Powell. Photo credit: Hughe Williams
Congressman Gregory Meeks, for New York’s 5th Congressional District, brought many friends to Queens from Capitol Hill.
Former Southeast Queens resident turned Texas Congresswoman, the Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee. Photo Credit: Hughe Williams
Clinton supporters listened intently to the calvalcade of speakers that made presentations at Rochdale Village. Photo credit: Al Ephraim
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
April 2016
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Board of directors’ Maintenance Committee hosts hundreds of participants at nationwide ShredFest By Susan Van Brackle
T
houghts of spring cleaning truly helped to make April’s ShredFest at Rochdale Village an overwhelmingly successful affair. Maintenance Committee chairman and board member Joe Evans along with his committee cochairs, board member Mario Turner and Eugen Evans, were instrumental in arranging this free and useful activity for the community. Based on the success of last summer’s Shred Day, which took place in August 2015, Rochdale was selected as one of two locations in the borough of Queens to participate in the nationwide event for 2016.
This rain or shine fest was sponsored by AARP’s Fraud Watch Network (FWN) and the New York State Attorney General’s office. The overarching theme of ShredFest was to promote proper records disposal in order for citizens to combat identity theft. Advertisements for this nationwide affair could be seen in local print publications and heard over major radio news outlets like 1010 WINS and 107.5 WBLS. The event was even promoted via Google alert blasts and other popular social media channels. By the time the day finally arrived, visitors and residents came out in droves with many lining up as early at 9:30a.m. along Baisley Boulevard leading from Guy R. Brewer Boulevard. At high noon, when the shredding
Maintenance committee chairman and board vice president, Joe Evans (l.) with Maggie Castro-Stevens of AARP.
was supposed to officially begin, the line had already extended down towards Bedell street. Fortunately, the queue moved quickly making space for other interested shredders to dispose of their paperwork. According to AARP representatives, up to 400 attendees were serviced in approximately two hours. Understandably, the committee chairs were concerned that Rochdale’s grounds would not be able to handle the deluge of customers gathering en masse at the complex, and rightfully so. What about crowd control and litter management at our green space? With thorough planning beforehand, the perfect space to host the ShredFest was identified. Public Safety’s Chief John Skinner and Grounds Supervisor, Kenneth Noel, put strategic team
AARP volunteers gave away useful handouts about identity theft an other cool freebies.
members in place to ensure that ShredFest progressed as planned. Although participants were cautioned not to bring more than three bags of documents for disposal, as printed on page 16 of the March issue of the Rochdale Village Bulletin, many showed up with extensive amounts of paper that threatened to fill the trash compactor earlier than expected. In the end, every effort was made to accommodate as many visitors as possible with shredding services by 2:00 p.m. The next round of shredding events in New York City are expected to take place this summer. Attend Maintenance Committee meetings or consult commiittee members for details on whether Rochdale is a selected location.
The Shredder-saurus ramps up again in the Rochdale Village community. A special thank you to AARP volunteers.
The top four benefits of mulch and why we need it on Rochdale’s grass By Reyel Basea
W
e’re not sloppy, we’re resourceful. As it turns out, grass clippings are instrumental to be used as mulch therefore, Rochdale’s grounds crew plans to reuse, recycle, and repurpose any mowing clippings that are left over after landscaping.
The top four benefits of mulch are: Mulch keeps soil loose and receptive to moisture and air, which means we don’t have to water the soil as often. Mulch reduces the growth of weeds, because grass clippings are weed free. This way we won’t have to exhaust vital man-
power on lawn repair.
The grass clippings replace healthy materials with even more healthy materials, not using anything that is foreign. It improves the organisms in the soil by using similar, natural materials.
money on water usage.
The more the grass is mowed, the more grass clippings will be added that will create a beneficial mulch throughout the growing season. Grass clippings quickly decompose, so let’s work together and continue to keep them in place. Please stay off the grass and keep Rochdale Best of all, IT’S FREE and saves beautiful this Spring and always!
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April 2016
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - March 28, 2016
R14-16: WHEREAS, the Rochdale Village Power Plant contains two (2) Westinghouse Turbine Generators which require overhauls every five (5) years entailing a complete disassembly, inspection, cleaning, testing and necessary overhauls; WHEREAS, Turbine number 2 was found to be in serious disrepair when disassembled for the required five (5) year inspection; WHEREAS, proposal for rebuild was received from Leonard Powers, Inc. for $1,710,660 with a ten (10) year warranty which was approved; WHEREAS, HCR has requested a Performance Bond to cover the work to be done by Leonard Powers, Inc.; and WHEREAS, Leonard Powers has submitted a proposal for $51,320 for which Management has reviewed the proposal and recommends the approval of Leonard Powers, Inc. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village Board of Directors approves award of the purchase order to Leonard Powers, Inc. in the amount of $51,320 for a Performance Bond. Moved by: Lisa Stark Seconded by: Mario Turner FOR Talib Bey Yvonne Breiner Clifton Stanley Diaz Stacey Francis Lisa Stark Mario Turner Joyce Williams ABSTAIN Jean Hall Earl Roberts ABSENT Joe Evans Gary Hawkins Tracey Irvin David Jeffries Jean Randolph-Castro Kamal Saleem Seven for, two abstentions, six absent; motion passes. R15-16:
WHEREAS, the Rochdale Village Power Plant contains two (2) Westinghouse Turbine Generators which require overhaul every five (5) years entailing a complete disassembly, inspection, cleaning, testing and necessary rebuild; WHEREAS, Turbine number two was found to be in serious disrepair when disassembled for the required five (5) year inspection; WHEREAS, proposal for replacement were received and it was discovered that the replacement of the turbine would cost approximately $7,000,000, including the cost for back-up generators, while the turbine is being manufactured and shipped; and
WHEREAS, proposals for rebuild were received from General Electric International, Inc. for $3,065,020 with no warranty and Leonard Powers, Inc. for $1,710,660 with a ten (10) year warranty; and WHEREAS, Management has reviewed the proposals and recommends a rebuild by Leonard Powers, Inc. in the amount of $1,710,660. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village Board of Directors approves award of the purchase order to Leonard Powers, Inc. In the amount of $1,710,660. Moved by: Talib Bey Seconded by: Lisa Stark FOR Talib Bey Yvonne Breiner Clifton Stanley Diaz Lisa Stark Mario Turner Joyce Williams ABSTAIN Stacey Francis Jean Hall Earl Roberts ABSENT Joe Evans Gary Hawkins Tracey Irvin David Jeffries Jean Randolph-Castro Kamal Saleem Six for, three abstentions, six absent; motion passes. R16-16:
WHEREAS, the Community Center is undergoing a major restoration and the air handling units which supply heating and cooling for the space are fifty years old and operating beyond their designed life; WHEREAS, Rochdale Village is seeking a contractor to do a direct replacement of the twenty-seven existing air handling units, to include duct tie-ins, controls, valves, electrical components and insulation; WHEREAS, Requests for Proposals were solicited from several contractors producing the following results; COMPANY BASE BID ZOI Contracting $345,000 Independent Temperature Conrol Services, Inc. $380,000 Big City Boiler & Mechanical $400,000 W. Allen Engineering, PLLC $415,000. WHEREAS, Management has reviewed the proposals and recommends an award of a purchase order to ZOI Contracting, Inc. in the amount of $345,000 for TRANE Units. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village Board of Directors approves award of the purchase order to ZOI Contracting, Inc. in
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - March 28, 2016
twenty-seven existing air handling units, to
second phase of the project and expand the two (2)
include duct tie-ins, controls, valves, electrical
playgrounds;
components and insulation;
WHEREAS, proposals were sought from
WHEREAS, Requests for Proposals were solicited from several contractors producing the following results; COMPANY
BASE BID
ZOI Contracting
$345,000
contractors producing the following results: COMPANY Raymond Michael, Ltd.
$99,862
Ulti-play Playgrounds, Inc.
$121,765
TYW Contracting, Inc.
$123,023
Independent Temperature Conrol Services, Inc.
PLAYGROUNDS #1 & 8
WHEREAS, Raymond Michael, Ltd $380,000
Big City Boiler &
provided the lowest responsible bid to install new equipment and install safety surfacing.
Mechanical
$400,000
W. Allen Engineering, PLLC
$415,000.
WHEREAS, Management has reviewed the
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Diretors accepts the Proposal from Raymond Michael, Ltd., based on
proposals and recommends an award of a purchase
costs as outlined above to make the necessary
order to ZOI Contracting, Inc. in the amount of
improvements to Playgrounds 1 and 8.
$345,000 for TRANE Units.
Moved by: Lisa Stark
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the
Seconded by: Joyce Williams
Rochdale Village Board of Directors approves award
FOR
of the purchase order to ZOI Contracting, Inc. in
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
the amount of $345,000 work to commence
Joe Evans
Stacey Francis
immediately.
Gary Hawkins
Earl Roberts
Moved by: Talib Bey
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Seconded by: Lisa Stark
Joyce Williams
FOR
AGAINST
Talib Bey
Yvonne Breiner
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Stacey Francis
Gary Hawkins
Earl Roberts
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams
ABSTAIN Yvonne Breiner
Jean Hall
ABSENT Tracey Irvin
ABSTAIN Jean Hall
Kamal Saleem
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro Kamal Saleem
ABSENT
Nine for, one against, two abstentions, three absent; motion passes.
Joe Evans
Tracey Irvin
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro
Nine for, two abstentions, four absent; motion
R18-16: WHEREAS, the Rochdale Village Youth Planning Committee (“YPC”) sponsors many different
passes.
events for the youth of Rochdale; R17-16:
WHEREAS, a yearly budget was created WHEREAS, Playgrounds 1 and 8 were
replaced in 2013 and 2015, respectively, but there wasn’t sufficient funds to install all the equipment needed for the space; WHEREAS, in order to make the playgrounds more enjoyable for the children in the community, it has been proposed to execute the
as a template for the Youth Planning Committee’s upcoming events for a requested amount of $31,388; WHEREAS, approximately only $10,700 of last years $31,388 approved from the previous budget was spent on youth programming; WHEREAS, there will be no carryover from the previous fiscal year’s budget; and
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April 2016
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - March 28, 2016
WHEREAS, the Youth Planning Committee
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
is requesting the same amount as last year’s
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
budget with the intention of expanding the amount
Gary Hawkins
Earl Roberts
of programming including but not limited to art,
Kamal Saleem
Lisa Stark
dance, football, tennis and fashion.
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that
ABSENT
the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors
Tracey Irvin
accepts the resolution for the Youth Planning
Jean Randolph-Castro
Committee yearly budget.
Twelve for, three absent; motion passes.
David Jeffries
Moved by: Mario Turner Seconded by: Clifton Stanley Diaz
R20-16:
FOR
WHEREAS, the fence along the Long
Talib Bey
Yvonne Breiner
Island Railroad by Bedell Street has been in
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
disrepair for many years and the Board and
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
Management have been seeking to have it repaired
Gary Hawkins
Kamal Saleem
by the Long Island Railroad (“LIRR”);.
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams
WHEREAS, Senator James Sanders acted as a liaison between Rochdale Village and the MTA;
ABSTAIN
WHEREAS, the Long Island Railroad
Earl Roberts
later stated they will replace the fence if ABSENT
Tracey Irvin
Rochdale pays $50,000; David Jeffries
WHEREAS, Rochdale only believes it
Jean Randolph-Castro
makes sense to spend $50,000 on the fence if: (1)
Eleven for, one abstention, three absent; motion
the fence is an MTA Security Grade Fence and not a
passes.
simple chain link fence; and/or (2) the Long Island Railroad gives Rochdale additional land as
R19-16:
part of the agreement to pay for the fence; and WHEREAS, the Community Relations
WHEREAS, for the time being, Rochdale
Committee (“CRC”) sponsors many different events
is going to install a chain link fence along the
for Rochdale Village;
Long Island Railroad side of Lots 3A and 3B
WHEREAS, a yearly budget was created
because the old fence was a safety hazard and
based on past Community Relations Committee events
after years of discussions, Rochdale can no longer
for an approximate total of $8,800;
wait for the Long Island Railroad to complete the
WHEREAS, the Community Relations Committee is requesting Board approval for a
work. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the
yearly budget of $8,800 to cover the costs of all
Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors agrees
Community Relations Committee events for the
to pay the Long Island Railroad $50,000 towards
fiscal year;
the fence if they get a written document stating: NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that
(1) the Long Island Railroad spends at least
the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors
$100,000 on the fence (2) the fence is an MTA
accepts the resolution for the Community Relations
Security Grade Fence and not a simple chain link
Committee yearly budget.
fence; and/or (3) the Long Island Railroad gives
Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz
Rochdale additional land as part of Rochdale’s
Seconded by: Lisa Stark
agreement to pay for the fence.
FOR Talib Bey
Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz Yvonne Breiner
Seconded by: Joe Evans.
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - March 28, 2016
FOR Talib Bey
Yvonne Breiner
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
Gary Hawkins
Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams ABSENT
Tracey Irvin
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro
R22-16: WHEREAS,
Rochdale Village, Inc.
(“Rochdale�) prepared operating and capital budgets for fiscal years ending March 31, 2017 and March 31, 2018 with no carrying charge increases. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Directors approves the budgets for fiscal years 2017 and 2018 pending approval by the New York State Homes and Community Renewal. Moved by: Lisa Stark
Twelve for, three absent; motion passes.
Seconded by: Joyce Williams FOR
R21-16: WHEREAS, Senator James Sanders and the New York State Senate agreed to make a $100,000 capital allocation to Rochdale Village for perimeter fencing; WHEREAS, Senator Sanders later determined he does not want to allocate $100,000 for this purpose and asked what other item the community would like to use the funds for; and WHEREAS, the Board of Directors met with the Senator and stated if the $100,000 is not going to be used for perimeter fencing, they would like to use the funds to create a physical fitness center in the Rochdale Village Community Center. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors agrees to use the $100,000 capital allocation from Senator James Sanders and the New York State Senate to create a physical fitness center in the Rochdale Village Community Center. Moved by: Kamal Saleem Seconded by: Lisa Stark FOR Talib Bey
Yvonne Breiner
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
Gary Hawkins
Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams ABSENT
Tracey Irvin
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro Twelve for, three absent; motion passes.
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
Gary Hawkins
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams AGAINST Yvonne Breiner
Jean Hall
Earl Roberts ABSTAIN Stacey Francis
Kamal Saleem
ABSENT Tracey Irvin
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro Seven for, three against, two abstentions, three absent; motion passes. R23-16: The Rochdale Village Inc. Board of Directors has several responsibilities to this housing corporation and its shareholders as outlined in our bylaws. (Section 2, paragraphs (a), (b), (f), (g) and (h). Primarily, these responsibilites require that we, the Directors, ensure this housing corporation is managed in the most economical and efficient way possible.
In order
to fulfill our fiduciary responsibilites as outlined by our bylaws, we must have a full account of Corporation Operations. Recent discoveries regarding financial impropriety and questionable transactions have shown that we do not have a full account of our finances and our long-standing controls were vulnerable to possible fraudulent behavior.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - March 28, 2016
In light of the ongoing inquiry and
Retainer Agreement shall be renewed automatically
possible exposure, it is a must that we call a
unless either party notifies the other, by
moratorium on all non-essential spending until our
certified mail, at least sixty (60) days prior to
internal reviews are complete.
the expiration of the term hereof or any renewal
A vote in the
affirmative suspends all non-essential spending,
thereof that the party’s intention not to renew,
halts any unratified capital projects and
or unless this Retainer Agreement has been
temporarily suspends the automatic renewal of
previously terminated pursuant to Paragraph 7 of
previously negotiated contracts, inclusive of the
this Agreement,
property managing agent (MSI), until the
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the
completion of a full financial inquiry
Board of Directors directs President Lisa Stark to
(independent forensic audit) which must commence
draft a letter to General Counsel, advising that
no later than forty-five (45) days from the
the contract will not be automatically renewed, no
acceptance of this resolution
later than April 15, 2016.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village Board of Directors suspends all
Moved by: Jean Hall Seconded by: Kamal Saleem
non-essential spending, halts any unratified
FOR
capital projects and temporarily suspends the
Talib Bey
Yvonne Breiner
automatic renewal of previously negotiated
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
contracts, inclusive of the property managing
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
agent (MSI), until the completion of a full
Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
financial inquiry which must commence no later
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
than forty-five (45) days from today’s date, March
Joyce Williams
28, 2016.
ABSENT
Moved by: Kamal Saleem
Gary Hawkins
Tracey Irvin
Seconded by: Stacey Francis
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro
Eleven for, four absent; motion passes.
MOTION TO TABLE
Moved by: Lisa Stark Seconded by: Mario Turner FOR TABLING Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
Gary Hawkins
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams
R25-16: WHEREAS, the contract for General Counsel will not be automatically renewed; WHEREAS, the Board seeks to explore new General Counsel representation; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the
AGAINST TABLING
Board send out proposals to selected law firms for
Yvonne Breiner
Stacey Francis
General Counsel representation.
Jean Hall
Earl Roberts
shall go out no later than April 15, 2016 and all
Kamal Saleem
The proposals
proposals shall be received by May 16, 2016. ABSENT
Tracey Irvin
The
interviews will take place between May 17, 2016 David Jeffries
and June 13, 2016.
The Board shall make a
Jean Randolph-Castro
determination of their General Counsel
Seven for tabling, five against tabling, three
representation by June 27, 2016.
absent; motion is tabled.
Moved by: Jean Hall Seconded by: Yvonne Breiner
R24-16:
MOTION TO TABLE WHEREAS, there is a provision in the
General Counsel’s Retainer which states, this
Moved by: Lisa Stark Seconded by: Mario Turner
April 2016
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - March 28, 2016
FOR TABLING
WHEREAS, the Board needs to
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams AGAINST TABLING
investigate thoroughly all of the above;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that upon
expiration of the current contract extension Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc. be placed on a
Yvonne Breiner
Stacey Francis
month-to-month contract until further notice.
Jean Hall
Earl Roberts
Moved by: Jean Hall
Kamal Saleem
Seconded by: Stacey Francis ABSENT
MOTION TO TABLE
Gary Hawkins
Tracey Irvin
Moved by: Lisa Stark
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro
Seconded by: Mario Turner FOR TABLING
Six for tabling, five against tabling, four absent; motion is tabled. R26-16:
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Joe Evans
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams
WHEREAS, under the current Managing
AGAINST TABLING
Agent’s supervision there exists allegations of
Yvonne Breiner
Stacey Francis
misconduct, allegations of fraudulent commercial
Jean Hall
Earl Roberts
leases, discrepancies in the corporation’s
Kamal Saleem
finances and possible theft of corporate funds via funds transfer; WHEREAS, the Board cannot confirm that the above are limited to former employees; WHEREAS, Marion Scott Real Estate,
ABSENT Gary Hawkins
Tracey Irvin
David Jeffries
Jean Randolph-Castro
Six for tabling, five against tabling, four absent; motion is tabled.
Inc. contract extension expires June 30, 2016;
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Meeting Minutes - March 28, 2016
Meeting began: 7:50 p.m. Board Members: Present Clifton Stanley Diaz - Chairperson Lisa Stark - President Mario Turner - 2nd Vice President Talib Bey - 3rd Vice President Joe Evans - 4th Vice President (Arrived 8:25 p.m.) Joyce Williams - Secretary Gary Hawkins - Treasurer (Arrived 8:15 p.m. left 10:30 p.m.) Yvonne Breiner - Director Stacey Francis - Director Jean Hall - Director Earl Roberts - Director Kamal Saleem - Director (Arrived 8:10 p.m.) Also present MSI Real Estate Alex Freedman - Assistant General Manager Jay Williams - Assistant General Manager William Greenspan, Esq., Corporate Counsel William Young - Controller Corey Jones - Director of Maintenance
Alfred E. Smith - President, House Congress John Skinner - Director of Public Safety Not Present Jean Randolph-Castro - 1st Vice President Tracey Irvin - Director David Jeffries - Director The agenda for the evening: Roll Call Motions Requiring board Action Minutes by Secretary and correspondence Cooperator’s Session (30 min.) Reports New Business Old Business Adjournment The roll call was taken upon opening the meeting. Based on the attendance, a quorum was reached. There were (13) motions requiring board action (see the Board Resolutions).
Motion to adjourn at 11:15 p.m.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Youth Planning Committee Minutes for Meeting Date: 3/4/2016 (CANCELED), 3/11/16 and 3/25/16 Meeting Time: 7:00pm
Mario Turner
AGENDA Discussion on events planned for the Rochdale Village Community and developing a list of activities that promotes education, and Youth Development.
OLD BUSINESS Movie Night- the Youth Planning Committee was proposing to offer Movie Night during the Summer Months. The Youth Planning Committee is proposing to continue to review this activity and schedule a date. As of present date, the date is to be determined. Youth Planning Committee Events- the Youth Planning Committee will be collaborating with organizations to provide services, programs, activities and workshops for the Youth of Rochdale Village. All of the above mentioned activities will be proposed as needed through a resolution to Legal, Management and the Board of Directors by the Chairman, Mr. Turner. Boxing Program- The resolution for the activity was approved. The Youth Planning Committee is proposing to initiate the program on February rz”. 2016. Black Girls Code- the Youth Planning Committee is proposing that Black Girls CODE
and Rochdale Village present a coding workshop for 75+ girls, between the ages of 7 and 17. The Chair, Mr. Turner will submit a resolution for review to the Board of Directors, Legal and Management. The initial proposed date has been changed to allow for advertisement, marketing and a reasonable registration period. Black History Month/Spoken Word- the Youth Planning Committee discussed planning Black History Month activities for the Youth of Rochdale Village. The first activity in collaboration will be with Poetry Open Mic Night. The above mentioned activity is scheduled for February 27th, 2016. Movies & Storytime for The Rochdale Village Nursery Schools in the Community Centerthe Youth Planning Committee discussed partnering with the Rochdale Village Nursery School’s to offer a daytime activity to provide Movie’s and Story time using community children’s Authors in the community. The Chair, Mr. Turner will submit a resolution for review to the Board of Directors, Legal and Management. Footsteps to Follow- The above mentioned activity is approved. The Youth Planning Committee will work in collaboration with Footsteps to Follow to present a series of workshops for youth. Footsteps to Follow will also collaborate to create workshops on Job Readiness, Financial Literacy, Career networking and a host of other programs. As per the above mentioned information, Mr. Turner will discontinue the programs presented by the Queens Public Library.
NEW BUSINESS There was no new business for the month of January. UPCOMING EVENTS: Operation Prom- TBD Mother’s Day Mommy & Me Jewelry Making5/6/16 Youth Entrepreneur Program - 4/16/16 Easter Egg Hunt & Basket Giveaway- 3/26/16 Game Room Grand Opening-3/18/16 Reading Under the Stars- TBA Movie Night- TBA RESOLUTIONS: There were no resolutions for the month of March. PRESENTATIONS: The Chairman, Mr. Turner met with Candace Hutson, Operation Prom Queens Representative. Ms. Hutson proposed a Queens event for Prom Dress Giveaways in the Rochdale Village Community Center. QUESTIONS & ANSWERS, COMMENTS AND OPEN DISCUSSION: There was no Q&A addressed at this time. All Comments, Questions and Answers were addressed during the course of the meeting specifically pertaining to the topics addressed. Meeting Adjourned- 8:30 p.m.
Community Relations Committee Minutes for Wednesday, April 13, 2016 Attendance Sheet forwarded. Time: Called to order: 7:00pm Adjourned: 8:45pm Facilitator: Chairman, Joyce Williams Meeting was opened with a prayer by Chairman, Joyce Williams. Joyce Williams
will advocate for better and respectable services within and around our community. • Chairperson also suggested that we hold a meet and greet evening in each circle. Other cooperators agreed this should be possible when the weather is warmer. • UPS no longer has pickup or drop off services on the Rochdale Campus. • Committee Members in attendance also suggested that we have more keep off grass signs put up and add a bike riding lane.
Action Items/Progress: • Date of Health Fair is June 18, 2016 • It was suggested by a committee member, if we could have a table set up for holistic healing. Chairman would speak with committee advisor to see if that is feasible.
Goals • Our goal is to keep our community clean, friendly and informed.
Date for Karaoke Night • Tentative dates are either July 13th or is”.
Joyce Williams, Chairman Jean Randolph-Castro, Co-Chair& Advisor Mario Turner, Co-Chair Talib Bey, Co-Chair Jasmine Coward, Co-Chair Janna Hernandez, Administrative Assistant
Community Service News • Chairperson discussed at length the importance of being more community minded. This is a Community Relations committee and we
Please Note: Meetings are held the 2nd Wednesday of every month. (Next Meeting: May 11, 2016)
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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Maintenance Committee Minutes for Thursday, April 14, 2016 The meeting started at 7:10pm in the Club Lounge
Joe Evans
Cutting Trees in Group 5 Mr. Jones explained the removal of trees to make room for the playground extension. The other trees along the inner parking lot will remain; the roots and canopies will be monitored to ensure they are safe.
Elevator Cleaning The managers have been conducting routine inspections to address the different issues in the elevators and surroundings areas. These inspections have already resulted in some improvements and unfortunately some disciplinary actions have been necessary. The elevators are only one part of building envelope, Mr. Jones explained; the team is working towards a more inclusive uniform maintenance program. Pruning and Spraying of Trees We are in the process of having a professional come out and help determine which course of action is best for the trees throughout the development. The existing trees have been
pruned over the last three years but professional advice is recommended to ensure future tree maintenance is precise to enhance their longevity. Apartment Inspections: Filter Changes & Mass Extermination The maintenance staff will be conducting Apartment Inspections, Filter Replacement and Extermination at the same time. The process will minimize visits to the units and also help to get a full grasp on the conditions within the apartments. The community was very cooperative with last multi task inspection process and hopefully this year it will continue. Cooperator Issues • The clocks running fast. • Guy R. Brewer traffic coming into group 5. • Laundry room signs. • No trespassing signs. • Loud music outside ofthe buildings. • People smoking marijuana. Meeting Adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Community Calendar May 2016
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