Vol. 56 No. 09
THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
August 2020
SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
ROCHDALE BANNER
CELEBRATES WORKERS
(Third from left) Assistant Treasurer Glynis Urquhart, (fifth from left) Board Director Jean Hall, Sixed in front from left) Board President Jean Randolph Castro, (Podium) Board Chairman Stanley Diaz, (from left after podium) Board Director Maryam Hubbard, Vice President Ed Douglass, Board Secretary Joyce Williams, Chief Adolph Osback, Council Member Adrienne Adams, Assembly member Vivian Cook.
Rochdale Heroes in the Midst of Adversity
By Cynthia Bernadine On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization announced the coronavirus (COVID-19) as a global pandemic. While a serious declaration at the time, no one could fully understand the ramifications and how this would change our everyday lives for the foreseeable future. We watched as loved ones contracted this deadly virus that some would ultimately succumb to. We saw businesses shut their doors, some permanently. We witnessed a rise in unemployment, and it appeared that every as-
pect of our lives was under attack by an invisible foe. With all of this there remained a group of normally unsung heroes that would put communities on there shoulder to help all of us maintain a semblance of normalcy. They are now and will forever be known as essential. For Rochdale Village our Maintenance, Power Plant and Public Safety staff represent for us a kind of hero that is often overlook. These individuals preserved through perilous times and in most cases fear of the uncertain, with their very ... (Continued on Page 3)
Take Time To Thank Our Heros and Helpers
President’s Report - Pg. 2- Pg.| 2 General Manager’s Report - Report Pg. 4 - Pg. | 4Youth |Planning’s Art Gallery - Pgs. & 17 President’s Message | General Manager’s 113th Precinct Comp Stat-14Pg. 9
| | In Remembrance2823-27 Projects Report -Pg. Pgs.
August 2020
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2019-2020
President’s Message
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 Jean Randolph-Castro Vice Presidents Talib Bey Timothy Mercer Lisa Stark Ed Douglass Treasurer Barbara Staples Assistant Treasurer Glynis Urquhart Secretary Joyce Williams Assistant Secretary Janine Cross
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro Janine Cross Clifton Stanley Diaz Ed Douglass Joe Evans Jean Hall Gary Hawkins Maryam Hubbard Tim Mercer Kamal Saleem Barbara Staples Lisa Stark Glynis Urquhart Joyce Williams Name Pending (State Representative) COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Budget & Finance Barbara Staples Commercial Services Timothy Mercer Community Center Jean Randolph-Castro/Ed Douglass Community Relations Lisa Stark Legal & Management Jean Randolph-Castro Maintenance Janine Cross Orientation Clifton Stanley Diaz Public Safety Talib Bey Senior Citizens Joyce Williams Youth Planning Gary Hawkins Environmental Conservation Kamal Saleem Parking Jean Randolph-Castro Information Technology Kamal Saleem MANAGEMENT Managing Agent Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc. General Manager Marion Scott Assistant Managers Lance Williams, MSI and Jay Williams, RVI Controller William Young Director of Maintenance Kelvin Pantaleon Public Safety Chief Adolph Osback Power Plant Director Corey Jones Human Resource Director Dolores Benner General Counsel Robert Bernstein
- by Jean Randolph-Castro
Greetings Cooperators, First and foremost, the Board and I would like to express our sincere condolences to the family and friends of those we loss within the Rochdale Village community. We have lost many, those we know and those we don’t know. My prayers go out to each and every family member for your loss. At this difficult time I would like to express my empathy to those who had the virus and recovered, blessings to you all. This has been the most challenging beginning of the year for each and every one of us. In spite of the unfortunate circumstances of COVID-19, we the Board and Management were able to withstand the storm and work diligently following the guidelines, keeping you informed and taking responsibility for our community to service all cooperators. I do admit this has been the worst unforeseen time, we have never before seen something like this happened in our history. Despite all this we have never wavered, we stayed consistent keeping the cooperators first and updated on developments. Maintenance, Safety and all essential workers, worked diligently to keep our cooperators safe, ensuring the health and welfare of the Village. I am proud of each and every one of you for all the patience and understanding and being cooperative during this trying times. This challenge has brought us closer, stronger and more understanding of each other, caring more for our neighbor, learning who each other are. Let me reiterate this is something that has never happened before, and I am very proud of all the cooperators looking out for each
other. Our seniors, our youth, have given a hand by feeding each other, knocking on doors, dropping off food and groceries, making sure everything and everyone is okay. This is the greatest community ever. This is something that we should all be proud of and for that I am grateful. This pandemic has taught me so much and I want you to know that I care about you and my first thing is to get very serious moving forward. This disease has somewhat slowed down in New York, but we must be very mindful that it has not gone away. Please take care of your health, make sure you get the flu shot and essentials that you need in your home such as water, medications and things to protect yourself in the future. And most importantly the reality is to get your insurance, put everything in perspective. Do your homework in order to make sure your apartment is taken care off. Make sure your affidavit is done. If you have a family member living with you, please ensure your succession right papers are in order. Moving forward the senior committee will be having a virtual meeting letting everyone know how important getting your succession right is in your family composition. Let me make this perfectly clear, we don’t inherit these apartments. If someone is living with you, they must be on your affidavit. The Board and Management will continue to keep the integrity of Rochdale Village intact. Please continue to stay patient as things continue to open up more as Rochdale Village move forward in keeping you safe. Please
President, Jean Randolph-Castro
make it a priority that you wear your mask, follow the Governor’s directions. We are still working hard to continue the quality of life, we are doing the best for you. It’s that time of year for Rochdale Village Board of Directors election. The Board election will be held in October. Make sure to go out and cast your vote. On Election Day, go downstairs and vote in your building. Direct proxies and attendance proxies will be in the mail. If you are unable to vote in person please vote on your mail proxy, which will count. Your vote is your voice. Secondly we have another huge election, which is our Presidential Election of the United States of America, please vote, and do not let COVID-19 stand in your way. Again your vote is your voice. In spite of COVID-19 this year, the Board of Directors and I are looking forward to a new productive year, we will stand with you, we will listen, we will have virtual meetings, and we will have circle meetings, in the meantime continue to reach out to each other. A change will come; stay in prayer, God will heal the land. (Continued on Page 12)
DUE TO IMPACTS OF THE CORONAVIRUS Please consult regular updates from Rochdale’s Board of Directors about MONTHLY MEETINGS OF THE ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
August 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Scores Big With SSOBA Contract Renewal ble agreement was met. previously could not fill and finally
By Olayemi Okeniyi The Special and Superior Officers Benevolent Association (SSOBA) a union that supports public safety officers have renewed their contract with Rochdale Village. As a result Rochdale Village Public safety officers will experience a boon to their livelihood and Rochdle Village as a result will gain many benefits. Work on this contract began in the Summer of 2019 but hit a snag in negotiations early this year as it pertained to Rochdale’s contribution percentage to the medical package and while that was being discussed the shutdown occurred. Things looked bad but negotiations persisted and eventually an amica-
Vice President and Public Safety Chairman, Talib Bey could not stop raving about how the contract would benefit Rochdale Village and her officers. According to Bey, public safety officers showed diligence and perseverance at the height of the pandemic even before this contract was renewed. He added that it was only right that they be rewarded for their dedication. “This contract will improve the morale of our officers leading to increased output at work because they are getting a long awaited compensation. It will also attract more competent and experienced officers to fill open positions we
it will help our officers to provide for their families,” he said. Bey added currently public safety officers are trained and licensed in Albany but with the issue of pay removed from the equation management can look towards developing a training program for Rochdale Village. Board Chairman and Public Safety co-chair Stanley Diaz added that public safety are the eyes and ears of the community because they keep they safe and have done an outstanding job. He encouraged the e community to take an active role in protecting their own safety by working hand in hand with public safety.
lives and the life of their families potentially at risk by showing up to work to continue to provide the necessary services that shareholders are accustomed. That’s why when the Board of Directors decided to have an event on August 1, 2020 to unveil a banner showing their appreciation for our essential workers, many shareholders, local officials such as Councilwoman Adrienne Adams, Congressman Gregory Meeks and State Assemblywoman Vivian Cook came out to show their support and gratitude along with our Board. The Maintenance supervisory staff and members of the Management team were also in attendance to show their support and gratitude.
The event itself was held at the Community Center entrance redbrick area. A custom banner now hangs between two brick pillars at the entrance which is symbolic of how these are essential workers were in essence pillars in this community. The Board also promised that awards and certificates would be given out at a later date, but it was vital to have this banner unveiling sooner rather than later. Board member Maryam Hubbard who helped spearhead this event puts things into perspective: “I don’t take for granted that over the last 5 1/2 months, we’ve been living in trying times, but through the grace of God we are still here persevering. I would like to also ac-
knowledge all those that we’ve lost to COVID 19, it is my understanding there were many right here in our community!! On behalf of myself and the RV Board of Directors, we want all of our essential workers working for and living in Rochdale to know that all of your efforts to be at your place of employment taking care of others are truly recognized and appreciated. Yes, we deeply care!” The outpouring of love and support was deeply appreciated by the staff and Board President Jean Castro expressed her gratitude which best sums up the sentiments: “On behalf of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors and the Cooperators, I would like to say a
Rochdale Heroes in the Midst of Adversity(Continued from page 1)
Page 3 “If you see something say something, if public safety hosts any function attend and make your voice heard, reports incidents in a timely manner,” he said. Public safety Chief, Adolph Osback declared the contract to be historical. It is a 4 percent increase over a three year period, which amounts to 12 percent increase in total which seems impossible because it happened during COVID-19. He is looking forward to redirecting his efforts to build on community service and relations which public safety stated during the pandemic.
huge thank you to all the essential workers and first responders who put their lives at risk to ensure the safety of everyone in the community. Thank you for all of your hard work and your support during such a difficult, stressful time. Thank you for keeping our buildings well maintained, cleaned and disinfected. Because of your dedication and hard work, our community pulled through in the face of this adversity. We greatly appreciate all of our essential workers and first responders. You will forever be our heroes.” We think its safe to agree that these essential workers will indeed “forever be our heroes”!
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August 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report Monthly Report
-- by by Marion Marion Scott Scott
General Manager’s Monthly Report for July 2020 We Are Here For The Community
The management team lead by Herb, Lance and Jay have applied strategic intelligence and a range of resources in keeping the work flowing by proving timely insight and attention to detail during the pandemic. I do not wish to throw flowers in their garden, but they have a complex job balancing responsibility for management and the safety of the community. Strategic intelligence is built with the unique understanding of empowering general managers by providing them with the exact information they need to make critical decisions when it matters most. Going forward there are some tough decisions to be made regarding rent collection, enforcing social distancing and dramatic changes to our cash flow. The team has been valiant in their effort and they deserve a commendation from the board and the community for maintaining a safe and secure environment. Without a doubt the pandemic has been terrible, along with the reality of the omnipresence of masks. MSI has been diligently providing management services to this homeowner com-
munity since 1991. It is our most fervent hope with the aid of the board and a dedicated community we can withstand the onslaught of COVID-19 maintain and sustain a safe and secure environment. There is an old country saying, “you should ride the horse the way it is going”. Having said that, we have to move forward collectively and set aside political differences and provide environmental support which will lead to self-support. The entire paid staff has also performed valiantly and with their continued dedication Rochdale Village will continue to be health giving and wonderful place to live.
Maintaining Rochdale’s Affordability Aside from the impact that Covid-19 has had on the physical and mental health of us all, many have either been laid-off from their jobs or lost a loved one that provided much needed financial support to their respective households. For this reason, it is imperative and the responsibility of management to do everything within its power to maintain the affordability for Rochdale residents. We achieve this by paying close attention to income and expenses, using
all the resources available and taking advantage of any grants/funding that would benefit the housing company. In the midst of this pandemic, many companies and well-known outfits have either had substantial layoffs or shut their doors permanently. Thanks to the resourcefulness of the current board and management team, Rochdale was able to take advantage of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan. This is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. Administered through the Small Business Administration (SBA), the loan is forgivable if all employee retention criteria are met, and the funds are used for eligible expenses. Rochdale was approved for $6,029,300 of which seventy-five percent (75%) was used for payroll and benefits and twenty-five percent (25%) was used for utilities (gas, water, etc.). By applying and ultimately being approved for this loan we were able to keep all staff employed and save the corporation over $6 million. We are currently in the process of having the loan forgiven.
In addition, as we reported earlier this year, we successfully obtained a rate reclassification from National Grid regarding Rochdale’s gas costs. This change represents a savings of between $1,500,000 and $2,300,000 a year for Rochdale Village perpetually. Couple this with the fact that we continue to see savings of approximately $400,000 per year from the change in the way our shelter rent is calculated and have a pending Article 78 proceeding to include the proper depreciation formula based on generally accepted account ing principles (GAAP) which would yield additional savings of $150,000 per year. Without overstating the obvious these moves are crucial to sustaining the affordability of Rochdale and keeping carrying charges as low as possible. During these difficult times it is critical to continue to be innovative and find ways to soften the financial blow some may experience as a result of this pandemic. as low as possible. During these difficult times it is critical to continue to be innovative and find ways to soften the financial blow some may experience as a result of this pandemic.
SAVE TIME PAY ONLINE WITH PAY LEASE • 866-729-5327
August 2020
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Profit and Loss Financial Statement Narrative
F
For the three months ended June 30 2020 (FISCAL 2021)
or the three months ended june
Income
30, 2020, Controllable before Interest, Deprecia-
to the Budget reflecting a full staff and Inc. to work with our vendors to have
Total expenses For the Three Security salaries are not at full staff invoices electronically transmitted to
Months ended June 30, 2020 tion, Amortization, and Income taxes indecreased $(1,876,000) to creased $1,928,000 TO $4,957,000 AS COM$15,562,000 as compared to PARED TO $3,029,000 IN THE BUDGET. $17,439,000 in the Budget. The deBELOW YOU WILL FIND AN EXPLANA- crease is explained in the following TION OF THE SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN expense categories, as well as, the EACH CATEGORY: impact of the COVID19 limiting the amount of contract work being Controllable Income is defined done during the quarantine: as income less variable expenses that can be managed by the Com- Management and administrapany. It is commonly known as tive EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, For the Three Months ended June Taxes and Depreciation and Amor- 30, 2020 decreased $(1,876,000) tization). to $15,562,000 as compared to $17,439,000 in the Budget. The deOperating income and ex- crease is explained in the following pense expense categories, as well as, the Total revenue For the Three impact of the COVID19 limiting Months ended June 30, 2020 was in- the amount of contract work being line with the Budget at $20,520,000 done during the quarantine: as compared to $20,468,000 in the Budget. Janitorial & Grounds costs For the Three Months ended June Apartment revenue For the 30, 2020, Janitorial and Grounds Three Months ended June 30, expenses decreased $(245,000) or 2020 was in-line with the Bud- 14.0% to $1,516,000 as compared get at $17,938,000 as compared to to $1,762,000 in the Budget. This $17,958,000 decrease is principally due to (1) the Budget reflecting a full staff and Commercial rental revenue Janitorial & Grounds and actual For the Three Months ended June salaries are not at full staff yet (2) 30, 2020 was in-line with the bud- a decrease of $(178,000) in Ground get at $1,356,000 as compared to Maintenance expenses (3) an in$1,338,000 in the Budget. creased focus on managing expenses; offset, in part, by an increase in NOTE: It should be noted that the COVID 19 expenses for sanitizing, Commercial rental revenue repre- masks etc. sents the amount billed to tenants. There will be a difference between Maintenance and operating what was billed and what was col- costs lected due to the impact of COVID For the Three Months ended June 19. 30, 2020, Maintenance and Operating costs decreased $(909,000) Community Center revenue to $2,128,000 as compared to For the Three Months ended June 3,038,000 in the Budget. This 30, 2020 decreased $(142,000) to decrease is principally due to less $5,000 as compared to $147,000 Repair Material, Tools and Supin the Budget. The decrease was plies and less Contracted Service principally due to the impact of the expenses due to most work halted Community Center being closed during the COVID 19 quarantine. during the COVID 19 virus.
Security
Other Income – For the Three For the Three Months ended June Months ended June 30, 2020, increased $260,000 principally due to a National Grid rebate of $340,000 received in May.
30, 2020, Security costs decreased $(305,000) or 21.6% to $1,107,000 as compared to $1,413,000 in the Budget. This decrease is principally due
yet.
Power Plant
1. Fuel and Utilities For the Three Months ended June 30, 2020, Fuel and utility expenses decreased $(95,000) to $3,527,000 as compared to $3,622,000 in the Budget. The decrease in these costs was principally related to finalization of negotiations with National Grid to change Rochdale’s billing classification. The impact of this change will be approximately $200,000 to $250,000 a month in savings and will be approximately a savings of $2,700,000 per year!!!
Rochdale and uploaded to our software.
2. Computer Software solution – Due to COVID 19, this project is on hold. We are also investigating certain software products to replace our current software. This will upgrade our current DOS based system to a windowsbased system. We anticipate this project to resume in October 2020.
3. Article 78 – During the Shelter Rent litigation, NYC did not agree to change the method they are using for Depreciation to GAAP. As a result, we have initiated litigation (called an Article 78) which should be filed 2. Other Power Plant Expenses in July. We anticipate that we will be For the Month ended June 30, 2020, successful with this litigation to have Other Power Plant expenses were rel- HCR change the method of Depreciaatively in-line with the Budget. tion to GAAP which will save Rochdale approximately $100,000 per year Insurance Expense in Shelter Rent Expense. For the Month ended June 30, 2020, Insurance expenses increased Overall, Rochdale Village Inc.’s finan$213,000 to $1,158,000 as compared cial results For the Month ended June to $945,000 in the Budget. This in- 30, 2020 show that Rochdale Village crease is principally due to a 39% Inc.’s results exceeded our Budget. increase in General Liability insurance due to the market renewal rates Balance Sheet increasing dramatically. Due to COVID 19, our Balance Sheet is impacted in June as follows: Real Estate Taxes (Shelter Rent) For the Three Months ended June 30, 2020, Real estate tax (Shelter rent) 1. Accounts Receivable – The Acexpenses decreased $(438,000) to counts Receivable balances increased $485,000 as compared to $924,000 $1,606,000 since the beginning of in the Budget. The decrease is princi- COVID. Of which, $591,000 relates pally due to impact of change in the to cooperators and $695,000 relates to calculation of Shelter Rent to include commercial tenants. This increase is allocable expenses to the calculation. related to residents and commercial See the Article 78 In the looking fortenants not paying rent or the rents are ward section of the report. being paid late.
Interest Expense -There was no expense due to the Wells Fargo 2. PPP (Payroll Protection Program) three month loan deferment pro- – In April, we received a $6,029,300 PPP loan that will be used to keep all gram.
employees employed. This loan was All Other Expenses were relatively recorded in a separate cash account in-line with the Budget. and set up as a liability until the loan is forgiven. We are now proceeding Looking forward with the Loan forgiveness process 1. Paperless Solution – Due to CO- which should be completed in AuVID 19, this project is on hold. We gust or September. are investing in certain software products that will allow Rochdale Village
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August 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. PROFIT & LOSS STATEMENT FY & YTD 2019 and 2020
Rochdale Village, Inc. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AGING FY 2020
Rochdale Village, Inc. BALANCE SHEET FY 2018, 2019 and 2020
August 2020
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Activity FY 2018, 2019 and 2020
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Carrying Charges (ONLY) >$100 in Aging FY 2019 and 2020
Rochdale Village Inc. Community Center Profit & Loss Statement FY 2019 and 2020 Actual vs. Budget
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
August 2020
Public Safety Report
- by Chief Adolph Osback
Public Safety Monthly Report June 2020
Enclosed is the statistical data relative to the performance of the Rochdale Village Public Safety Department during the month of July 2020. Public Safety maintains 24 hour /7 days a week coverage.
*DIRECTED VERTICALS: TOTAL POST INSPECTIONS:
PUBLIC SAFETY RESPONDED TO CALLS FOR ASSISTAANCE AND REFFERED 1. During the month of July 2020, the Public Safety Department has continued CALLS TO THE MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT to focus attention on loitering, trespassing, noise complaints and all other TOTAL CALLS RECEIVED FOR ASSISTANCE: quality of life violations. As a result, Public Safety Department officers responded to a total of (54) loitering and (131) noise complaints from COOPERATOR ESCORTS Cooperators which were resolved as follows: AIDED SICK/ INJURY AND ELEVATOR ENTRAPMENTS: TOTAL INCIDENT REPORTS GENERATED: a) Founded-Compliant- (40) Loiterers complied with officers’ directives to leave and (61) of the noise complaint sources MAIL VOLUME DELIVERED BY PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER: corrected the volume of the noise. b) Unfounded Calls-11) unfounded loitering complaints and (62) ARREST(S): unfounded noise complaints (officers responded but no loiterers IN HOUSE DETAINED: were present or no noise could be heard). GRAND TOTAL OF ARRESTS: c) Founded/Non-Compliant Calls- Loitering individuals and noise complaints - Non-compliant of directives – (3) received violations VIOLATIONS ISSUED: for loitering and (8) received a violation for noise complaints. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/AUTO: EVICTION(S): For the month of July 2020 there was a grand total of (2) arrest made on VIOLATIONS Rochdale Village Grounds. The Public Safety Department will continue to Listed are the classifications of Notice of Violations issued: organize in order to better serve the Rochdale Village community.
COMPLAINTS:
DVR UNIT ACTIVITY:
RISK MANAGEMENT INCIDENTS 21 INVESTIGATIVE INCIDENTS 41 VIOLATIONS ISSUED 01 RELATED ARREST INCIDENTS 02 FIRE INCIDENTS 01 TOTAL INCIDENTS 66
TASK FORCE UNIT ACTIVITIES: • • • •
Conducted (15) Directed & Routine Verticals. Made (1) arrests, issued (0) Trespass Notifications, issued (0) C-Summonses, issued (0) violations to include (0) for loitering and encountered (96) Loiterers during routine and directed patrols. Responded to assigned calls from Central Dispatch (15). Conducted (0) Tenant Verifications
TOWING ACTIVITY
The Public Safety Department towed (12) vehicles and issued (61) warning stickers for the violation of various parking rules throughout the complex.
ROUTINE AND *DIRECTED VERTICAL PATROLS BY ROCHDALE PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS AND SUPERVISORS:
Vertical patrols are conducted on a daily basis. Officers and Supervisors patrol the stairwells, hallways, rooftops and parking lots at different hours in an effort to curtail unlawful activities. *Directed verticals are additional post inspections performed in order to proactively reduce Quality of Life conditions in designated “Hot Spots” as determined by community complaints and the analysis of various patrol reports. BUILDING VERTICALS, GROUND FLOOR INSPECTIONS AND PARKING LOT CHECKS: 4231
95 4326 847 809 0 1656 84 78 163 541 2 0 2 43 7 0
August 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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Disclaimer: The CompStats published below for the southeast Queens area reflects activity captured from the beginning of this month which includes cumulative stats from the month prior. Keep in mind that the stats below for the 113th Precinct reflect the total southeast Queens area including Jamaica along with St. Albans, Hollis, Springfield Gardens, South Ozone Park, South Jamaica, Addisleigh Park, and Locust Manor. The numbers shown do not specifically identify activity in the Rochdale Village community. - Rochdale Village Bulletin
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
August 2020
Clifton Stanley Diaz and the Board Work to Address Public Safety Concerns
(Left to Right) Sgt. Rochener Gilot, Officer Edwards, Public Safety Co-Chair and Board Chairman Stanley Diaz, Neighborhood Coordination Officers (NCO) Supervisor Sgt. Persaud and Officer Bradley.
By Cynthia Bernadine The Concerns about the City park and MS72 school yard area are a big concern for Rochdale Village residents, Board members and Management alike. The park is generally unkempt. The grass is uncut and the untended to grounds are an eyesore compared to Rochdale’s manicured lawns. Furthermore, the basketball court and area next to building 17 adjacent to the tennis court has constant loitering issues. This has led to public drinking, litter and in the worst case, violence, and shootings. To shine additional light on the concerns and come up with solutions Mr. Clifton Stanley Diaz met with the District 28 Council Woman’s Chief of Staff Jamal Wilkerson. The walkthrough highlighted all of the issues mentioned above. The meet was attended by both Assistant General Managers Lance and Jay Williams respectively. They were able to add the challenges the park has posed from Managements perspective. Mr. Diaz also set up a separate meeting in the following weeks with Sgt. Persaud from the 113th Precinct NCO (Neighborhood Coordination Officers) Department
in the Management Office. While this meeting touched upon all issues with the Park as well, it also delved into the process of policing as it coincides with responsibilities of Management. Management was able to explain the legal process when it comes to residents charged with a crime. Typically, an officer’s responsibility ends after an arrest. This conversation helped all parties understand the spectrum of what Management does within the legal system and what the police do. That kind of clarity makes sure everyone is on the same page with no assumptions as to what the others next step is to solve a problem. Beyond that, the 113th precinct also held a Build a Block meeting in the Rochdale Village courtyard. This meeting was specifically to discuss safety in Rochdale Village and the greater South Jamaica area. The 2 shootings in the park and 1 on the grounds were shocking to say the least for our community. As many of us are aware, crime in the City has risen overall and Rochdale was not exempt from its effects. At the meeting, the 113th Precinct explained the shootings here were not good. However, just down the street at Guy R Brewer
Public Safety Co-Chair and Board Chairman Stanley Diaz with Chief of Staff to Council Member Adrienne E. Adams, Jamal Wilkerson visit City Park to review issue.
and Foch the shootings were many times that of Rochdale some of which resulted in deaths. Resources were moved to that area to help reduce the crime. As troubled areas come back into control resources are then reallocated. Ultimately, because of these meetings the park grass was cut and the 113th have adjusted their patrols. Some nights you will see NYPD vehicles and Officers pa-
trolling our grounds. Mr. Diaz also stated that “he has been pushing for our 137th street and Guy R Brewer 113th Precinct post to be restored”. He was informed that it will be reinstated. Together as a community we should continue to meet with and question our public servants to make our concerns heard. Through diligence and persistence Residents, Board and Management can affect change.
August 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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August 2020
President’s Message (continued from page 2) We will soon be back to normalcy. I have another vision to do some virtual prayers in the community and with that being said once the Community Center opens up in the future, I am looking forward to implement a Chapel for all races, religion and creed. Prayer is certainly needed in this community. Until then continue to stay safe, practice social distancing guidelines and wear a mask.
and even though it has slowed us down somewhat. The replacement of all the interior compactors is already underway and the exterior compactors, the new auger to dispose of bulk garbage and the convector riser isolation valves (which must be done prior to the new convectors) should be completed by the end of the fall season. The all new convectors and building community rooms will commence as soon as possible and Projects we are in the planning stages for I want to ensure all of you increased parking included the tier that every project that was voted on level parking at lot 3A-3B on Bedell before COVID-19 is still in progress St. We will be working tirelessly
to make sure these projects are completed. I also want to keep you updated with the stores that we have voted on to come into the community. Many of the newer approved merchants have been financially affected due to the virus. This has held up renovations and changed the commercial financial landscape. However, we still anticipate moving forward meeting with owners to negotiate terms and increased services along with Management. Last month we met with Advantage Care and Citibank on Zoom to discuss their
future here and some big plans for the near future. The former Kelly’s Restaurant space is still slotted to be a soul food spot, the former fish store is planned to be a healthier food option, the former Council Member space will be a juice bar and finally long overdue Hibachi Grill is on track to begin their renovation. Hopefully I have updated you on some of the visions of what is happening in the Village. Be safe and enjoy the holiday. Peace, Love & Blessings. Jean Randolph-Castro
August 2020
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August 2020
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
RE-EXPLORING THE ROCHDALE VILLAGE COMMUNITY CENTER DURING COVID-19
The Crunch Team after a session of Zumba on the grass!
By Julia Shaw Community Center Director In mid-March, our Community Center doors were closed! This was a painful time of uncertainty as the Center Director as for many of us. What we thought would be a two-week closure turned into four months of no programs, activities, events, or room rentals. Nothing could have prepared us for what was to come! The Saturday morning hustle and bustle of children in karate, martial arts, music and dance classes, three rooms full of children being tutored, Crochet class and Senior Arts and Crafts workshop, mixed in with a nutrition presentation and the lively beats of Lizzette’s Zumba class were all paused. Just like the rest of the country we were on a community time out! During the week, the Community Center was also a place of high spirits, high hopes, and liveliness. A safe environment where our older adults could come for a hot meal and socialize with each other in our vibrant Senior Center. Our Board Directors meetings and year around activities have been greatly missed by all as
well.
Rethinking ways to provide services, workshops, programs, and events to shareholders was a challenge, which we gradually overcame. We started in April with virtual offerings on Zoom with an array of workshops and presentations. The Community Center with the support of Community Center Committee and the Youth Planning Committee hosted programs that included Health & Wellness ZOOM Webinars that were broadcasted on Facebook LIVE and then turned the webinars into YouTube videos and podcasts covering topics like, Five Steps to Boost Your Immune System and How Not to Gain Weight While Working from Home. To uplift our spirts during our time of quarantine, we recreated Community Center parties and holiday celebrations in our apartments with Live Music on Facebook and Instagram celebrating, Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday with gospel music, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with R & B dance and classic soul music. Along with Zoom meditation, children’s activities and business workshops, the Center’s goal was to offer something for
everyone……VIRTUALLY! Amidst all the uncertainty, the Senior Center with the support of various community organizations and the Board of Directors kept food on the tables of our Seniors with “Grab & Go” meals and home deliveries. The Community Center and Afterschool Program staff members made daily checkin calls to our Senior shareholders to make sure they were well. Many appreciated the social interaction and a friendly voice. Based on the New York State guidelines on public gatherings at this time we are still not having activities indoors but have hosted several outdoor activities with a limited number of participants practicing social distancing and wearing facemasks or coverings. This Summer we were able to have fun with Zumba on the grass and several outdoor classes hosted by CRUNCH Fitness. They both got us moving and grooving. Art Transforms began giving free art classes again, but in the courtyard where everyone could be creative while maintaining a safe social distance, while Not Limits Youth hosted pop-up chess games outside the Community Center. These are just a few of the community
partnerships that have kept us engaged during COVID-19. There are plans for several additional outdoor activities like Yoga Class and “Grab and Go” Back to School Supply Give-away. Also, more Zoom programs and activities are on the horizon as the winter months approach. The Center plans on featuring Budgeting and Credit Building presentations, along with hands-on workshops on Creating, Building and Marketing your Business on Instagram. Rochdale Village Community Center created social media engagements to keep our shareholders updated on Rochdale programs and various community resources that can enrich their lives. As the Community Center Director, I invite you to connect with the Community Center in the following ways: Facebook : @RochdaleVillageCommunityCenter Instagram : @RochdaleVillage_CommunityCtr Also, feel free to join our email list: RVCC@rochdalevillage.com
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Highlights of August Shred Fest at Rochdale Village Mall #1. (Photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
Maintenance Committee Team from left to right, Board President Jean Castro, Board Chairman Stanley Diaz and Maintenance Committee Chair Janine Cross, Secretary Joyce Williams.
(Second from left) Lieutenant Ernest Gaither, Rochdale President Jean Castro, Board Chairman Stanley Diaz and Maintenance Committee Chair Janine Cross.
Rochdale Village residents observe the state required social distancing rules as the line up to shred their personal documents.
Due to the shutdown there has only been one shred fest in 2020 but cooperators held on to their documents because they knew this annual event would return.
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Hosted by Rochdale’s Board of Directors’ Maintenance Committee (Photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
(Picture left) Maintenance Committee Chair Janine Cross and Board Chairman Stanley Diaz set up stand in anticipation of cooperators.
Lt. Gaither and Board Chairman Stanley Diaz take an active role in the shredding process.
Never a dull moment as people continue to appear.
Residents were given a two bag minimum of personnal doucument and many of them took full advantage by bringing their biggest bags.
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(Left to Right) Volunteers Jorge Chacon, Chelsea Forde, Celine Diagne, Diaraye Barrie, Rendy Desamours, and Fatoumata Diallo.
Youths partner with Community Center to host Back to School Drive By Olayemi Okeniyi
Six volunteers partnered with the Community Center to give away school supplies on Friday, August 21, 2020 in front of the Rochdale Village Flag pole. The event was the brainchild of Jorge Chacon and Tima Diallo who visited communities across New York to provide students with essential school supplies for the 2020 through 2021 academic year. The Back-to-School Drive was conducted over five days in Brooklyn, the Bronx, Harlem, Washington Heights ending on Friday in Queens. According to Chacon, the unnamed group came together specifically in a stand against COVID-19. “The back-to-school season comes with a lot of expenses for parents/guardians and the financial impact of COVID-19 has devastated members of several communities.
This back-to-school drive will help alleviate the financial burden on families when it comes to back to school shopping. Specifically at this time when they may be preoccupied with deaths, job losses and inadequate government relief,� he said. Chacon was able to mobilize a group of like-minded individuals and fund their goal through the power and scope of social media. He said that a plea on GoFundMe raised the $3,839 that was used to buy backpacks, pencils, crayons, glue sticks, snacks and other stationary that was distributed across New York. The event started at 1:00 p.m. and a good number of Rochdale Village residents and people in the surrounding communities showed up to take part. Chacon said he was grateful to the people who contributed, adding that he would not hesitate to organize another drive if needed.
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Local Eatery Donates Delicious Meals Rochdale Village
BOARD PRESIDENT JEAN RANDOLPH CASTRO AND CRAB DU JOUR MANAGER HAND OFF MEAL TO YOUNG RESIDENT WITH HELP FROM ESSENTIAL ROCHDALE STAFF MEMBER.
By Cynthia Bernadine Olayemi Okeniyi The Rochdale Village Community Center Committee and local eatery Crab Du Jour recently collaborated to donate meals to Rochdale Village families. On Thursday, August 6, 2020 from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. members of the Community Center Committee lead by Board President, Jean Randolph-Castro distributed 200 hot grab and go lunches to the community. The hot meals consisted of a choice of fried fish or chicken which came with frenchfries, condiments and a bottle of cold water were given to
individuals who came out. To protect the health and well-being of the community, lunches were distributed from the Community Center courtyard where all individuals adhered to social distancing protocols and face mask guidelines. Rochdale resident, Norma Dean voiced her approval of the food and the restaurant. Crab Du Jour Manager OJ said the restaurant was happy to bring meals to the community and pleased that people showed up to take part in the event.
VOTE! LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT.
ESSENTIAL PUBLIC SAFETY WORKERS ENSURE THAT RESIDENTS MAINTAIN SAFE DISTANCE FROM EACH OTHER
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Projects Report August 2020 EXHIBIT II
Filling out the 2020 Census is fast and easy. Respond online, by phone or by mail before OCTOBER 31. Don’t delay. Do it TODAY! Stand up and be counted.
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Projects
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Rochdale Village Senior Center - September 2020
Greater springfield Community Church
177-06 129th Avenue Jamaica, NY 11434 Pastor: Rev. Dr. Phil Craig greaterspringfieldchurch.org 718.527.0100/worship 11:00 a.m.
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ROCHDALE SENIOR CENTER Sheree Shivers, Director
VIRTUAL ZOOM SEMINAR
TOPIC: COVID-19 & CAREGIVING WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2020 – 1:00 PM Meeting ID #: 941 4402 7798 Password: Rochdale Or Mobile: + 646 558 - 8656 Meeting ID: 941 4402 7798 Password: 38202252
C– 1 PM to 3 P
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Calendar September 2020
See what’s going on in and around our community... There’s a little something for everyone! Share What’s Happening in Our Community ROCHDALE VILLAGE If you are a part of a community organization or have a special event that you would like to be posted, email Rochdalebulletin@gmail.com with the date, time and the subject heading “Community Calendar.” Postings will be at the Editor’s discretion. KEY CL = Club Lounge RM = Room Within the RV Community Center NOTE: This schedule is tentative. Committee Chairpersons, PLEASE CONTACT THE BOARD OFFICE TO CONFIRM OR ADVISE OF ANY CHANGES TO YOUR SCHEDULED MEETING DATES.
THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING MATERIAL TO THE ROCHDALE VILLAGE BULLETIN
IS THE 2nd WEEK OF THE MONTH.
BULLETIN THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
Susan Palmer -Van Brackle
MANAGING EDITOR
Olayemi Okeniyi MEDIA ASSISTANT
169-65 137th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434 REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS
Anthony Blake, Ed Miller, Gloria Williams 718-276-5700 X359 • rochdalebulletin@gmail.com The Rochdale Village Bulletin is published monthly. Articles submitted for consideration should not exceed three typed, double spaced pages. We reserve the right to edit all material submitted for publication. Please note that submission of articles does not guarantee publication. All material is subject to review for approval. All articles, advertising and photographs submitted for consideration must include the name, address and telephone number of the author or photographer. All materials submitted, as well as photographs, become the property of Rochdale Village, Inc.
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