THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
Vol. 57 No. 2
Life Saving PPE in Full Effect at RV
January 2021
SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
New Yorkers told to double mask Comptroller Scott Stringer answers the call - Pages 16-17
Community Leader and President of Rochdale’s Board of Directors Jean Castro stands with Comptroller Stringer. Photo Credit: Larry Love Moore
NYC Comptroller makes generous PPE donation to Rochdale community By Susan Van Brackle
N
ew York City’s Comptroller, Scott Stringer, greeted residents that lined up in front of Rochdale’s community center on one of the coldest Saturdays of the new year to help distribute 15,000 surgical masks donated from his office. “It’s just great to be at Rochdale again with so many community leaders and I
hope the masks will help as we get through the pandemic,” he said. Rochdale Village Board President Jean Castro, Chairman of the Board of Directors Clifton Stanley Diaz and Assistant Secretary of the Board Lisa Stark collaborated with Comptroller Stringer to promote and coordinate the mask giveaway, which began promptly at 11 a.m. and end-
ed at 1:00 p.m. Participants received on average two portions of prepackaged masks that were grouped in lots of 10 for a total of 20 masks. The Comptroller’s Community Affairs team, consisting of Queens Borough Director Elaine Fan and Queens Borough Liaison James Mongeluzo, along with Community Center Director Julia Shaw and the Maintenance team ensured
a speedy setup while Public Safety Captain Ernest Gaither and officers of the Public Safety division managed crowd control. Rochdale was just one of many locations on the Comptroller’s schedule to receive PPE supplies that day. Social distancing, mask wearing and access to the coronavirus vaccine continue to be paramount in order to resume our normal way of life.
President’s Report - Pg. 2 - Pg.| 2 General Manager’s ReportReport - Pg. 4- Pg. |4 Youth Planning’s Art Gallery | In RemembrancePg. 28 President’s Message | General Manager’s | Did you know? - Pg. 15- Pgs. 14| & 17 Projects Report - Pgs. 26-29
January 2021
Page 2
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2020-2021
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: 718276-5700 ext. 3360.
OFFICERS OF THE BOARD Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz President Jean Randolph-Castro Vice Presidents Talib Bey Timothy Mercer Janine Cross Ed Douglass Treasurer Barbara Staples Assistant Treasurer Glynis Urquhart Secretary Joyce Williams Assistant Secretary Lisa Stark
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro Janine Cross Clifton Stanley Diaz Ed Douglass Jean Hall Gary Hawkins Maryam Hubbard Sheila McKenzie Tim Mercer Derrick Shareef 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 Pending Parking Jean Randolph-Castro Information Technology Pending
MANAGEMENT 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,
P.M., at the big mall, outside of the Post Office.
I
Free Mask Giveaways
pray that each and every one of you are having a blessed New Year thus far. The coronavirus is still very much affecting us. It has been reported that new strains of the virus has been identified. These new strains can cause the virus to spread even faster and as a result, more people can get sick. Please take every precautionary measure to stay safe and healthy. Continue to practice social distancing, wash hands your frequently and avoid large crowd.
The Board of Directors office is giving away free masks to Rochdale Village young adults ONLY. The giveaway will be done from Wednesday, February 10, 2021 to Friday, February 12, 2021, between the hours of 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. If you are in need of masks, please come to the Board office. There are limited masks available, first-come, first-served. The Senior Center will be giving masks to the registered seniors. Also the NORC office will Past events be providing masks to the NORC I would like to thank home bound seniors. New York City Comptroller Mr. Scott Stringer for the donation of masks to the Rochdale commu- Covid-19 Vaccine The Covid-19 vaccine is nity. We held a free mask givebeing distributed in the New York away on Saturday, January 30, 2021, distributing a large num- City area and some of our coopber of masks. These masks are erators have travelled to the sites much needed in the community to get vaccinated. I am working as we see a rise in the number of diligently with the Governor’s positive cases. I urge every one office to have a vaccine distribuof you to please be respectful to tion site right here at Rochdale Village. Having vaccinations others and wear a mask. here would be very convenient for Rochdale cooperators and the Covid-19 Testing Councilwoman Adrienne surrounding community. I have also heard that Adams in conjunction with the Rochdale Village Board of Di- there is some apprehension torectors and Community Board 12 ward whether or not the vaccine Public Safety Committee hosted is safe. I too have some concerns two weeks free Covid-19 testing and I am watching the news and in the big mall. There has been reading the stories on the potenan increase in demand to have tial side effects. However, rethe testing extended, and I am gardless of whether I am for or pleased to inform you that free against it, this is a service that testing has been extended from other communities have that we Monday, February 01 to Sunday, should also have for those that February 07, 2021. Testing will want it. Having it here will give be done from 8:00 A.M.to 7:00 us the option of choice. Once
President, Jean Randolph-Castro
confirmation is made, the community will be notified of the dates and times.
Future Projects
I am a big believer in supporting and providing development for the youth. The youth are our future. It is my vision to have a center where the youth of Rochdale Village can have a safe haven to participate in various sporting activities, to learning some sort of trade and to educating them on moving forward to greater things life has to offer. To bring this to reality we are investigating the possibility of building a second story on top of our Community Center. This would double the space we have for community programs to include some that I mentioned above. We are still in the early stages of this potential project and I will keep you all informed on how it’s going. Charity begins at home, we need to provide the right path for the youth, helping them to take ownership of who they are to become successful in life with confidence.
Continue to stay safe. Peace, Love & Blessings. Jean Randolph-Castro
The next virtual meeting of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors will take place Monday, February 22, 2021 - 7:45 p.m.
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 3
Page 4
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report Monthly Report
-- by by Marion Marion Scott Scott
General Manager’s Monthly Report for December 2020 A New Year with New Expectations
For almost three decades, MSI has been a part of the Rochdale Village community albeit as the managing agent. During our tenure, we have worked with various Boards that faced different challenges particular to their time of service and the needs of the development. In the past, we have written numerous articles on the relationships between the Board, Management and the shareholders ranging from our respective responsibilities to how we can improve communications with one another. Often times as we go about the business of ensuring Rochdale remains the Jewel of Jamaica, we neglect the common courtesy of showing gratitude. While we are paid professionals and understand our role as problem solvers, there are times when a cooperator will express their appreciation giving us a sense of fulfillment. At times, these acknowledgements feel more valuable than the paycheck we get. With this in mind, the Board of Directors both past and present have volunteered their time and talents to serve the people and community where they live. We would like to first say thanks for entrusting us with the responsibility of taking care of the place you call home. Without these elected officials’, our Board of Directors, dedication to Rochdale, the improvements to the physical property and quality of life could not be realized. While many directors functioned in their capacity as retirees, many also had (or have) full-time jobs and families to care for yet sacrificed valuable personal time for the sake of Rochdale. We are also thankful to the coopera
Save a trip to • • Rochdale • Management •
tors of this village who also volunteer their time for the betterment of Rochdale e.g., committee members, community room key holders and the like. In addition, while not all are active in the community as much as we may like, we acknowledge those who do the minimum requirements as shareholders by paying their carrying charges timely, particularly in these trying times. As you know, Rochdale operates from the income received mostly from these charges so by paying on time it enables us to take care of the upkeep and avoid late charges from our contractors and vendors. When we all carry out our respective duties in part, it benefits Rochdale. We look forward to making 2021 a productive and prosperous year by working together.
Transparency
The use of the term “transparency” has become an overused phrase by a select few that purport pertinent information is not free flowing to all shareholders. I would submit that those claims are without merit. Our monthly reports are meant to be timely, informative, of some practical value and are published monthly in the Rochdale Bulletin. The Board and Management work diligently to clearly disseminate information with text, graphics and charts, while epitomizing efficacy and transparency using both digital and hard copy materials to keep cooperators informed. Regular and standard methods of communication provide residents with the knowledge and comfort so that they know what is going on in their homes, what potential problems may occur in the future, and how management might be best prepared to handle the situation.
Transparency can eliminate or reduce the backlash that results when Management makes an unpopular decision. Issuing a new proprietary lease or levying small rent increases is never a popular decision. However, real transparency negates misinformation and makes it less likely to have an impact. Honesty is still the best policy; it promotes harmony, efficiency and transparency.
Covid-19 Continues
Since the holiday season the nation has seen an uptick in confirmed Covid-19 cases. While this may be directly related to increased testing, the fact remains that the positivity rate has risen and we must continue to take this virus seriously as no community is immune to its effects. Although vaccinations are available, the distribution is not widespread at the moment. To safeguard our community, we must continue to practice social distancing, where a face covering and stay home if we display any symptoms or feel ill. Rochdale staff continues to sanitize common areas daily and we have installed hand sanitizing stations at every elevator bank in the buildings for cooperators’ convenience. If you recognize any empty hand sanitizing stations, please let your group office know as soon as possible. We understand that it will take a joint effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, so we ask that you encourage your family and friends to continue to adhere to safe practices and report any activity that is in violation of local guidelines. Acknowledging the real effects of “Covid fatigue” and we are all ready for to be done with this disease, though many advances have been made we are not totally out of the woods yet.
Set up monthly carrying charge payments online. Subscribe to rochdalevillage.com. Contact Rochdale Village Bulletin office to register. Email: rochdalebulletin@gmail.com
January 2021
Page 5
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Profit and Loss Financial Statement Narrative For the eight months ended November 30, 2020
For
Eight Months ended November 30, 2020, Controllable Income before Interest, Depreciation, Amortization, and Income taxes increased 1,647,000 to $9,700,000 as compared to $8,054,000 in the Budget. Below the
you will find an explanation of the significant changes in each category:
Controllable Income is defined as income less variable expenses that can be managed by the Company (“A measure of Operation efficiency of the Company). It is commonly known as EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Taxes and Depreciation and Amortization).
Operating income and expense REVENUE Total Revenue decreased $(838,000) to $53,744,000 as compared to $54,582,000 in the Budget. This decrease is explained in the Revenue analysis below: Apartment revenue decreased $(426,000) to $47,461,000 as compared to $47,888,000 in the Budget This decrease is principally due to the Budget reflecting a 2.9% carrying charge in August 2020 and the actual carrying charge increase was delayed till February 2021. Commercial rental revenue decreased $(149,000) to $3,419,000 as compared to $3,568,000 in the Budget. The decrease is due to increase in store vacancies due to impact of COVID-19. Community Center revenue decreased $(307,000) to $84,000 as compared to $392,000 in the Budget. The decrease was principally due to the impact of the Community Center being closed during the COVID-19. Other Income increased $129,000 principally due to a National Grid rebate of $340,000 received in May. EXPENSES Total expenses decreased $(2,485,000) to $44,043,000 as compared to $46,529,000 in the Budget. The decrease is explained in the following expense categories, as well as, the impact of the COVID19 limiting the amount of contract work
The decrease is related to the following: (1) a decrease of approximately Administrative: Management and $(1,669,000) in National Grid costs administrative expenses decreased related to the change in Rochdale’s $(335,000) or 8.9% to $3,435,000 billing classification; (2) offset, in as compared to $3,771,000 in the part, by the increase of approximately Budget. The decrease is due to col- $958,000 in water costs. lection expenses being stopped because the courts are closed during 2. Other Power Plant Expenses the COVID-19 crisis and more re- increased $147,000 to $2,917,000 as cently collection efforts began but compared to $2,769,000 in the Budare limited to cases prior to COV- get. This increase is principally due ID-19. to an increase in Boiler expenses related to repairs not anticipated in the Janitorial & Grounds costs: Budget. Janitorial and Grounds expenses decreased $(234,000) or 5.5% to Insurance Expense : Insur$4,003,000 as compared to $4,238,000 ance expenses increased $766,000 in the Budget. This decrease is princi- to $3,286,000 as compared to pally due to (1) the Budget reflecting a $2,520,000 in the Budget. This infull staff and Janitorial & Grounds ac- crease is principally due to a 39% intual salaries are not at full staff yet (2) crease in General Liability insurance a decrease of $(196,000) in Ground due to the FY 2021 market renewal Maintenance expenses such as Land- rates increasing dramatically. scape expenses due to the impact of COVID-19 (3) an increased focus on Real Estate Taxes (Shelter Rent) managing expenses; offset, in part, by Real estate tax (Shelter rent) expenses an increase in COVID 19 expenses for decreased $(219,000) to $1,936,000 sanitizing, masks, garbage bags, etc.. as compared to $2,156,000 in the Budget. The decrease is principally Maintenance and operating due to impact of change in the calcucosts lation of Shelter Rent to include alloMaintenance and Operating costs de- cable expenses to the calculation. creased $(1,629,000) or 20.0% to $6,500,000 as compared to $8,130,000 Bad Debt Expense – Bad debt exin the Budget. This decrease is princi- pense increased $321,000 to $615,000 pally due to (1) the Budget reflecting a as compared to $379,000 in the Budfull staff and Maintenance & Operating get. The increase is due to an increase actual salaries are not at full staff yet (2) in the accrual to $100,000 per month less Repair Material, Tools and Supplies for anticipated COVID-19 related exand less Contracted Service expenses penses related to rent collections. due to most work halted during the COVID-19 quarantine and a settlement Interest Expense – The decrease in with a vendor which reduced expenses interest expense is principally due to Wells Fargo granting Rochdale Vilby $300,000. lage a 6 month Loan Forbearance. being done during the quarantine:
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 windows-based system. We anticipate this project to resume in January 2021. 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 in July. We anticipate that we will be successful with this litigation to have HCR change the method of Depreciation to GAAP which will save Rochdale approximately $100,000 per year or more in Shelter Rent Depreciation Expense. Overall, Rochdale Village Inc.’s Controllable Income results For the Seven Months ended November 30, 2020 show that Rochdale Village Inc.’s results have exceeded our Budget and is on track to exceed the Controllable Income Budget of $10,642,000 for the year. Balance Sheet Due to the COVID-19 impact, our Balance Sheet is impacted in June as follows:
1. Accounts Receivable – The Accounts Receivable balance increased $1,986,000 since the beginning of COVID. Of which, $1,522,000 relates to cooperators and $464,000 relates to commercial tenants. This increase is related to residents and commerSecurity: Security costs decreased All Other Expenses were relatively cial tenants not paying rent or the $(479,000) or 12.6% to $3,321,000 in-line with the Budget. rents are being paid late. as compared to $3,801,000 in the Budget. This decrease is princi- Looking forward 2. PPP (Payroll Protection Program) pally due to the Budget reflecting 1. Paperless Solution – Due to CO- In April, we received a $6,029,300 a full staff and Security salaries VID-19, this project is on hold. We are PPP loan that will be used to keep all are not at full staff yet. considering investing in certain soft- employees employed. This loan was ware products that will allow Rochdale recorded in a separate cash account Power Plant Village Inc. to work with our vendors to and set up as a liability until the loan is 1. Fuel and Utilities have invoices electronically transmitted forgiven. We are now proceeding with Fuel and utility expenses decreased to Rochdale and uploaded to our soft- the Loan forgiveness process which $(461,000) to $8,881,000 as com- ware. should be completed in 2021. pared to $9,343,000 in the Budget.
Page 6
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. PROFIT & LOSS STATEMENT FY & YTD 2020 and 2021
Rochdale Village, Inc. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AGING FY 2020
Rochdale Village, Inc. BALANCE SHEET FY 2019, 2020 and 2021
January 2021
Page 7
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Activity FY 2019, 2020 and 2021
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Carrying Charges (ONLY) >$100 in Aging FY 2020 and 2021
Rochdale Village Inc. Community Center Profit & Loss Statement FY 2019, 2020 and 2021 Actual vs. Budget
Page 8
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Public Safety Report
- by Chief Adolph Osback
Public Safety Monthly Report December 2020
Enclosed is the statistical data relative to the performance of the Rochdale Village Public Safety Department during the month of December 2020. Public Safety maintains 24 hour /7 days a week coverage.
COMPLAINTS:
1. During the month of December 2020, the Public Safety Department has continued to focus attention on loitering, trespassing, noise complaints and all other quality of life violations. As a result, Public Safety Department officers responded to a total of (93) loitering and (174) noise complaints from Cooperators which were resolved as follows::
a) Founded-Compliant- (42) Loiterers complied with officers’ directives to leave and (68) of the noise complaint sources corrected the volume of the noise. b) Unfounded Calls-(48) unfounded loitering complaints and (96) unfounded noise complaints (officers responded but no loiterers were present or no noise could be heard). c) Founded/Non-Compliant Calls- Loitering individuals and noise complaints - Non-compliant of directives – (3) received violations for loitering and (10) received a violation for noise complaints.
For the month of December 2020 there was a grand total of (3) arrests made on Rochdale Village Grounds. The Public Safety Department will continue to organize in order to better serve the Rochdale Village community.
DVR UNIT ACTIVITY:
RISK MANAGEMENT INCIDENTS INVESTIGATIVE INCIDENTS VIOLATIONS ISSUED RELATED ARREST INCIDENTS FIRE INCIDENTS TOTAL INCIDENTS
PUBLIC SAFETY RESPONDED TO CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE REFERRED CALLS TO THE MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT TOTAL CALLS RECEIVED FOR ASSISTANCE:
14 51 09 03 00 68
Conducted (68) Directed & Routine Verticals. Made (0) arrests, issued (0) Trespass Notifications, issued (0) C-Summonses, issued (5) violations to include (2) for loitering and encountered (15) Loiterers during routine and directed patrols. Responded to assigned calls from Central Dispatch (50). Conducted (0) Tenant Verifications
*There was significant reduction in activity due to the Task Force being redeployed to assist with COVID-19 related activities. These included the following: Meal deliveries to home bound seniors 2 days a week, security coverage during mask giveaways, back filling post vacancies due to staff call outs, etc.
TOWING ACTIVITY
The Public Safety Department towed (10) vehicles and issued (166) 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.
993 687 1680
COOPERATOR ESCORTS AIDED SICK/ INJURY AND ELEVATOR ENTRAPMENTS: TOTAL INCIDENT REPORTS GENERATED:
133 . 89 168
MAIL VOLUME DELIVERED BY PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER:
678
ARREST(S): 03 IN HOUSE DETAINED: 03 GRAND TOTAL OF ARRESTS: 03 VIOLATIONS ISSUED: CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/AUTO: EVICTION(S):
VIOLATIONS
Listed are the classifications of Notice of Violations issued:
TASK FORCE UNIT ACTIVITIES: • • • •
BUILDING VERTICALS, GROUND FLOOR INSPECTIONS AND PARKING LOT CHECKS: 4273 *DIRECTED VERTICALS: 416 TOTAL POST INSPECTIONS: 4689
61 12 00
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 9
Provided by 113th Sergeant Kevin Watz, Crime Analysis Division
Excessive noise remains number one complaint at Rochdale Village
By Susan Van Brackle
W
ithout question, excessive noise is a problem at Rochdale Village. Just take a look at the violations listed on page 8 of the monthly Public Safety report and you’ll see that out of 61 categories, no less than 19.7% of the infractions come from noise complaints. It is no secret that the coronavirus pandemic has cooperators spending
more time at home. While at home, residents expect to have quiet enjoyment in their own space. Next time before letting the front door slam, dropping heavy objects on the floor or putting that entertainment system on full blast, please consider the essential worker just getting in from a long shift who’s unable to rest or the mother that just put their restless baby down only to have it awakened. While these are just a few
uncomfortable situations, there are many more noiserelated scenarios including residents who are home from work sick, injured or elderly and forced to contend with sound problems. As we shelter in place together, the cooperative values residents signed up for when they secured an apartment at Rochdale Village are the same values espoused by the Coordinating Council of Cooperatives of Greater New
York, which state, “Cooperatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality and solidarity...cooperatives believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.” Please have consideration for the neighbors that live all around you by respecting their space, cooperative values and by keeping the noise down.
Page 10
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 11
PayLease financial services rebrands as ZEGO/Powered by Paylease
By Olayemi Okeniyi
R
ochdale Residents who pay their carrying charges online may have noticed that the service provider’s name has changed. PayLease, the technology company that manages online payments on behalf of Rochdale Village, Inc. has rebranded and will henceforth go by the name Zego Powered by PayLease. While the change occurred last February, the
transition was so seamless that it may have gone unnoticed. Although the name has changed, the change does not impact how current users make their carrying charge payments. Under the name Zego the intent is to improve payment engagement and efficiency by automating payments and simplifying the process so that Rochdale Village management as well as residents can focus on
other more important activities. Shareholders that currently pay online will see no difference in the monthly
payment process. Zego (powered by PayLease) can still be reached at their toll free number, which is 866729-5327.
Dept. of Education’s Middle School Registration deadline fast approaching By Olayemi Okeniyi
P
arents and guardians of students in grades 6 through 8 are reminded that in spite of COVID-19, the registration deadline for middle school is coming due. New York City’s Department of Education is accepting applications for students entering middle school
in fall 2021 however the deadline to apply is February 9, 2021. The registration process begins by opening an online account at myschools. nyc. Create or log into your account, process your child’s application and explore their options. One application allows parents to apply for up to 12
programs for their child. To his school of choice, sign up get admissions updates and for a New York City Schools to know whether or not your Account (NYCSA). child has been admitted to
Rochdale Social Services launches fundraising effort via Amazonsmile By Susan Van Brackle
R
ochdale Village Social Services (RVSS) is participating in Amazonsmile. com. Non-profit RVSS is based in the Rochdale Village Community Center and is the housing cooperative's charitable entity that provides services to senior citizens and youth alike. Amazonsmile.com is an offshoot of Amazon.com and is the giant internet company's way of allowing you to have Amazon make a contribution to your favorite charity - like
Rochdale Village Social Services - at no cost to you. RVSS runs the Rochdale Village Senior Center; the Rochdale Village Naturally Occurring Retirement Community (NORC) program; and youth education programs, such as the popular and highly successful Academic Success Tutoring Program. Amazon will give 0.5% of your purchase price to your selected charity. Just select Rochdale Village Social Services. Remember, if you're one of the 197 million people worldwide who uses Amazon.
com to purchase some 12 million items and services just use Amazonsmile.com to ensure Amazon donates part of its profits to RVSS. They say it's better to
give than to receive. But there's a way to both give and to receive at the same time. It's called Amazonsmile.com. Please donate to RVSS today.
Page 12
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
~Poetry Corner & Musings...~ WHAT’S MY NAME A Tribute to Cicely Tyson By Anthony Blake Cicely Tyson who played numerous dramatic roles A Broadway Spotlight calls her behold Dramatics within realization
“If it’s acting you want to achieve, then prepare, and be ready to act. Find tone your approach, and let the spotlight be your shine, and just the applause be your inspiration continuous” Ms. Tyson conquered all racial barriers
Ms. Tyson was God’s creation She took Acting seriously and standing for all civilization
Determined to succeed, and not setting for negative words
She was destined that her acting ability Yet her talent deserves every appreciation would be heard Ms. Tyson encountered discrimination
I hope I can live to a right old age the way Ms. Tyson did Ms. Tyson’s name is written in the stars She achieved and has gone far Thank you Ms. Tyson in showing the world in living the ways of can Wisdom your honor Essence being golden Your Soul was whisked away
But it was all damnation
I remember when Ms. Tyson played the role of Jane Pittman on TV of “The Autobiography of Ms. Jane Pittman”
Ms. Cicely Tyson was a talented Black Inspired Woman
She played the role superbly and her dramatics being an encore in greatness
Until we meet again in the next life
She cannot be denied for that
I can say being a witness
It’s not a fact, but forward back to her acting life, and she stands alone in her craft
Now Ms. Cicely Tyson had been blessed through the years
If Cicely Tyson were alive today, what wisdom would she portray?
She lived to be 96, but now is in Heaven’s threshold
THANKS By Ed Miller
But you said, you won’t say goodbye
What’s my name, Cicely Tyson? Let my gifted talent be a reason for you to achieve in your own life But my words of “If I, you can do too”
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2021 By Alanda I. Wasserman Edwards
Dear Lord, Here I am before A blank sheet of paper or canvas, Preparing to create a world As you did, “In The Beginning!”
Dear Lord, help me to use linear And color perspective and blocking So my pictures will have depth perception And a sailboat on the horizon.
This year brings new beginnings to earth and everyone We wish you all a Happy New Year To prosper in all you do
Dear Lord, help me to bring forth A beautiful work of Art as you brought forth, A beautiful world, with skies of blue. Cobalt, Cerulean, Prussian and Ultramarine.
Dear Lord, thank you for the birds That I may use to cover the many Splatters that accidentally appear In my watercolor sky.
That you keep up the faith walk And do not allow any limitations But put your best foot forward In all that you do
And last, Dear Lord, I thank you For the wisdom and the talent that gives Me the ability to create good works And family and friends who appreciate them.
Know that the Lord is with you And with Him in 2020 that the Battle will and can be won! Victory is yours! Happy healthy and blessed New Year everyone
Amen.
Be encouraged
Dear Lord, thank you for giving me Teachers with knowledge and patience To guide me and help me learn How to put the pigment back in the tube.
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Remembering
Page 13
Martin Luther King Jr. A fighter for your rights, my rights, jobs, voting, fair housing, respect and more... Never Forget. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons
JanuJANUARY 15,
1929 - APRIL 4, 1968
Page 14
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
January 2021
Did you Know?...
Page 15
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors sworn in for 2020-2021 term By Susan Van Brackle
M
onday night, February 1, 2021, was the first community meeting of the newly elected Rochdale Village Board of Directors since the election last November. Councilmember Adrienne Adams offici-
ated the swearing in session members. Social distancing required the meeting to be held virtually by Zoom so community members joined by call-in or video to observe the occasion. Board meetings occur every 4th Monday of the month and annual elections take place early October.
Officers of Rochdale’s 113th Precinct serve at 2021 Presidential Inauguration By Susan Van Brackle
O
n the heels of a seditionist insurrection that took place on January 6, 2021, at our nation’s Capitol in Washington, D.C., the 59th inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris culminated without incident thanks to a strong presence of National Guardsmen and law enforcement borrowed from police stations all over the country. Well over 2,500 officers across the map were sworn in at U.S. Mar-
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons
shals’s headquarters to lend police presence during the inauguration. When the call went out to community precincts to provide assistance, the 113th Precinct was one of them. According to Community Affairs Officer Jermaine Washington, four members from the 113th Precinct attended the inauguration ceremony in D.C. to assist with security during the affair. “They were fairly new officers and they mostly helped out with patrol in D.C. as well monitor the parade route,” said Officer Washington.
Hon. Gregory Meeks of RV’s 5th Congressional District at siege on Capitol Hill By Susan Van Brackle
T
here are no words to describe the horrific scene that played out on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, when Congress and Senate convened to formally confirm Electoral College votes cast during the 2020 contest. Disenfranchised voters stormed the Capitol building in D.C. while
House members like this district’s own United States Congressman Meeks was situated in an office within view of the melee. The seige that resulted in five deaths and countless injuries represented only an interruption of the confirmation process, which resumed successfully by the morning of January 7.
Photo credit: WPIX11
Page 16
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer makes generous donation of PPE. (photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
(l. to r.) New York City Comptroller Stringer, Queens Borough Liaison, Bureau of Public Affairs James Mongeluzo engage cooperator.
Double masks protect against COVID-19 and are recommended.
Comptroller distributes needed PPE to constituents waiting on line early on a Saturday Morning.
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 17
Handing out life saving supplies at Rochdale Village Community Center. (photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
(Standing left to right) Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz, Sheree Shivers Director Rochdale Village Senior Center, Lisa Stark Assistant Secretary of the Board, Evelyn Wilson, Susan Van Brackle, Managing Editor Rochdale Bulletin. (Seated left to right Assemblymember Vivian Cook and Rochdale’s Board President Jean Castro.
Captain Gaither, Board President Jean Castro, Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz and Comptroller Scott Stringer practice social distancing.
Captain Gaither and members of the Public Safety team lend assistance wherever needed.
Resident receives community information from Assistant Secretary Lisa Stark along with needed PPE.
(left to right) Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz, Community Center Director Julia Shaw with Assemblymember Vivian Cook at PPE giveaway donated by Comptroller Stringer.
Page 18
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
From young to old, Rochdalers are gradually receiving COVID-19 vaccine
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio (left) speaks with cooperator Marcia Dilworth of Rochdale’s Group 4 after having been one of the first African American seniors to get a vaccine appointment at Hillcrest Highschool. Inset photo (left to right): Mayor Bill de Blasio, Assemblymember David Weprin, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and Councilmember I. Daneek Miller.
By Susan Van Brackle
G
etting Coronavirus vaccines into arms is the Biden administration’s chief objective. When the opportunity arrived for senior citizens to become the first demographic to receive shots that protect against COVID-19, Group 4’s Marcia Dilworth was open to the chance of receiving the doses cinct when Your aCommunity location opened at
Hillcrest High School in Jamaica Estates. As a senior citizen with limited access to the internet, getting an appointment and navigating the vast high school campus proved challenging were it not for the help of Mrs. Dilworth’s son Kevin. Once the tricky online application was completed and transport to the high school was done, the first dose was administered with a pinch and a quick needle prick,
Mrs. Dilworth was escorted to an observation room after getting the vaccine where she was suddenly greeted by none other that Mayor Bill de Blasio, Queensborough President Donovan Richards, Councilmember I. Daneek Miller (D.27) and New York State Assembly Member David Weprin (D.24). Turns out, Mrs. Dilworth was amongst the first AfricanAmerican senior citizens to get
113 TIMES
vaccinated once sites opened in the city. As an AfricanAmerican her participation was considered important since there’s been much ado about resistance to getting the vaccine amongst people of color. According to Mrs. 01/23/2021 Dilworth, other than a little soreness at the injection site, which has since passed, she is feeling fine and looks forward to receiving her second and final dose of the serum.
113th Precinct
Commanding Officer
Deputy Inspector Brian J. Bohannon Jr. 167-02 Baisley Blvd Jamaica, NY 11434 (718) 712-7733
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 19
Cooperators! Get ready for Ranked-Choice Voting at 2021 local elections Last year’s General Election is proof positive that every vote counts. When cooperators show up at the polls and mark ballots, change happens. Going forward, voting in local New York City’s political races will be handled differently. Effective this year, Instant-Runoff or Ranked-Choice Voting will be introduced at the ballot box. Some may remember that in 2019 the city’s Board of Elections proposed a voting measure that asked New Yorkers whether they’d like the option to vote by ranked choice. As it turns out, 73.5% of New Yorkers voted ‘yes’. Now Gotham will join areas like Maine, San Francisco, California and Santa Fe, New Mexico using this new form of voting.
What is Ranked-Choice Voting?
Ranked-Choice is a system of voting that applies when there are three or more candidates in a race. This year, it is anticipated that there may be up to 30 contenders in the race for Mayor alone and multiple challengers in other local elections. With Ranked-Choice voting, people are only required to select their five favorite candidates by ranking them from first preference to fifth. There’s been a lot of discussion surrounding the RankedChoice voting method. Community leaders are hosting numerous conference calls and town halls to discuss the potential impact of Ranked-Choice voting on communities and are educating constituents on what’s in store for them in the future. In order for us to be proficient at this new process we’ve got to begin familiarizing ourselves NOW. Know that the Board of Elections has instituted RankedChoice Voting for New York City’s upcoming special and primary elections in the following races: • City Council Elections • Mayor • Public Advocate
• Comptroller • Borough Presidents • District Attorneys
How does Ranked-Choice Voting Work?
and it won’t increase the chances of your first choice winning. Also, don’t give multiple candidates the same ranking. They can’t all be #1. For example: Don’t place all candidates in the first choice column. Only one candidate can be ranked #1. If a ballot is marked this way it is called an “Over-Vote”, which means everything after your first choice vote won’t be counted. Voters are asked to rank candidate choices from first choice to fifth choice by using each of the columns provided. Voting choices must be evenly spread out across the ballot otherwise run the risk of disqualifying the vote.
Typical ballots may be arranged in a grid format that lists all the names of the proposed candidates in a column that runs from top to bottom and the ranking numbers that voters assign to their favorite five candidates from left to right. Pick a favorite candidate first, then select, a second, third, fourth and fifth choice, if you like. Limiting voting choices to five candidates out of potentially a dozen or more helps since there can only be one winner and people may only be familiar with a few of the candi- How is a winner chosen? Ranked-Choice Voting has dates but not all of them. According to the Board of a ‘March Madness’ feel to it since Elections’ website, voters “do not the process arrives at a winner ushave to rank all five. You can rank ing a number of ‘rounds’ resulting as many or as few candidates (up in eliminations. For example, if a to five) as you like. If you choose first choice candidate is consistent to vote for only one candidate, just amongst all voters and the candidate also secures a majority vote leave the other columns blank.” It is however important that of 50% or more, then the candivoters familiarize themselves with date wins and the race is over. the candidates that are running so Pencils down. Easy Peasy! However, if a first choice that it is possible to rank them.
votes, the last place candidate is eliminated, your next choice will be counted, and so on.
The process of elimination continues until there is one winner. Not everyone will pick the same person as their first, second or third choice candidates so every contestant has a chance during each round of counting to potentially become the winner, provided they’re not eliminated. Remember, elimination begins for candidates that don’t achieve 50% of the vote therefore, candidates with the least amount of votes will be dropped in each round. Tabulations continue dropping out candidates with the least amount of votes across the ballot until after four rounds of tallies a true winner is revealed. That is
When voters rank each of their candidates according to their preferences 1st through 5th, each of the individual ranking columns must be used. A fun, sample ballot from Freepress.com is outlined below for concept and as an example:
why it is important to place desired candidates in the proper colcandidate receives less than 50% umn so that each vote is counted or more of the voting majority, it correctly and not disqualified. is handled differently. According to the Frequently Asked Questions Have questions? section on the Board of Elections Visit the Board of Elec-
Do’s and Don’ts
Say you really want your first choice candidate to win and decide to vote his name more than once across each of the 1st through 5th choice columns. Don’t do that. Voting this way doesn’t allow for any of your 2nd, 3rd or 4th choice candidates a chance to win
tions website at https://vote.nyc/ page/ranked-choice-voting, for a detailed explanation, YouTube provides demonstration videos that offer further explanations. Town Hall meetings hosted by local leaders are in progress that may provide more insight on Ranked-Choice Voting or readers can call 1-866-Vote-NYC. website, “If no candidate receives TTY users must dial 212-487more than 50% of first-choice 5496. Photo credits: CNBC
Page 20
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Senior Center - February 2021
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.
Page 21
Page 22
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 23
Rochdale Village NORC Calendar - February 2021
PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.
6 Feet
Page 24
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 25
Page 26
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
Projects Report January 2021
SAVE TIME PAY ONLINE WITH PAY LEASE • 866-729-5327
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 27
Page 28
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Slow Down!
Please observe pedestrians walking through crosswalks. Come to a full STOP in campus parking lots and at drive way stop signs. Thank you. Chief Osback.
Page 29
Page 30
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Calendar February 2021
See what’s going on in and around our community... There’s a little something for everyone!
Share What’s Happening in Our Community 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.
ROCHDALE VILLAGE 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
169-65 137 Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434 th
REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS
Anthony Blake, Ed Miller 718-276-5700 X3590 • 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.
January 2021
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Paid Advertisement
Page 31
Page 32
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
January 2021
Paid Advertisement