Vol. 56 No. 06
THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
May 2020
SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
KayliÁ Butler
Kristian Lunnon
Jade Farr
Meet Rochdale’s Star Graduates 2020
Adrian Bryant
See the full lineup on Pages
14-15
Jose R. Silva, III President’s Report - Pg.- 2Pg. 2| President’s Message
Jade Dogan
Khasan mack
Xavier Gilmore
Zaine Thompson
General Manager’s ReportReport - Pg. 4 - Pg.| 4 Youth| Planning’s ArtAcademy Gallery -- Pgs. | General Manager’s Rochdale Pg. 1314 & 17| |
In RemembrancePg. 28- Pg. 29 Health & Wellness Online
May 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,
I
pray this message finds you in good health and a lifted spirit. During the past three months we have all been affected by the Coronavirus and continue to navigate unprecedented challenges that we had never once thought we would now be faced with. On behalf of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors I would like to say thank you to every Cooperator for your understanding and support during this challenging time. We have asked of you to adapt to a number of changes to keep yourself and the community safe. I am forever grateful for your understanding and compliance to the guidelines that we set forth to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone. The Management team has quickly transitioned the corporation’s workforce to continue to serve our Cooperators, helping to achieve our top priority of keeping our Cooperators safe and continuing to provide service in an effective manner. Management has done an excellent job navigating through this pandemic. It is times like these that we all work together, striving to do our very best for the interest of the Rochdale Village Community. I am forever thankful and grateful to my fellow Board colleagues for their continued support. The Board and I are forever thankful for our elected officials and community leaders who donated masks, those who brought the antibody testing to the community, the different organizations and local restaurants that provided hundreds of meals to our seniors at a time of need and 113th Precinct for doing a fantastic job delivering meals door-to-door, including all our volunteers. I say thank you on behalf of Rochdale Village. Again I want to mention the merchants in the community that provided food, masks and groceries for the vulnerable seniors. Thank you to Key Food supermarket, OB’s Bakery, the Door restaurant, Dr. Maria Hubbard, H&N Insurance. Thank you State Assemblywoman Viv-
ian Cook, Councilwoman Adrienne Adams, State Senator James Sanders/ Fresh Direct, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Councilman Donovan Richards and the 100 Black Men organization for your generous donations. Thanks to Board Member Grand Master Talib Bey and The Most Worshipful New York Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, for donating over a 1,000 masks including N95 masks to the Rochdale community. I would like to extend my gratitude to three agencies that have been very generous to the vulnerable seniors at Rochdale Village. These organizations have donated groceries, healthy meals also monetary assistance to the whole area of South East Queens. Thank you Mr. Rudy Guzman, Manager of Key Food Supermarket, for donating groceries to Reverend Phil Craig, Pastor of Greater Springfield Community, to assist with and provide for those in need within the community. Thanks for also donating groceries and monetary donation to Ms. Mecca Jones (Community Outreach/Advocate), CEO of Divas Returns With Life INC., to help with providing fresh healthy meals to the vulnerable population at Rochdale Village and the community at large. Thanks to Kevin Livingston CEO of the “100 Suits For 100 Men” organization for the meals that your organization have donated throughout the community. The thoughtfulness and generosity from these organizations will always be remembered. A special thank you to Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz, Senior Center Director Ms. Sheree Shivers and photographer Mr. Larry “Love” Moore, for their untiring support and commitment throughout this journey. Thank you all for being patient during the closing of the management office. We have to follow the guidelines set forth by the Government, ensuring we do not put our employees and their families at risk. Hopefully very soon, everything will be back in operation
President, Jean Randolph-Castro
ready to serve our Cooperators. I am grateful that we have met the curve that is because of us caring about each other, following guidelines and taking the necessary precautionary measures to protect ourselves and others. Know that due to the crisis and this unpredictable virus, I regret to inform you that we will not be able to partake and celebrate any of our annual summer events. With the Board and I working together, we will if it is feasible have a social distancing drive-in to watch the Fourth of July fireworks on a big screen in Mall 1 parking lot. Most of us have been home quarantined for the past three months, we all know how frustrating it can be sometimes. We would like to bring in some sort of family gathering to lift everyone’s spirits and encourage one another that we will get through this crisis. There is much more work left for us to do, but I will always have faith that we are up for this challenge. By supporting each other and working together, we will definitely come out of this a more united and stronger community. Remember we are in this together. Please continue to practice social distancing, wear a mask or some sort of face covering to protect yourself and others in the community. Continue to stay safe. Love, Peace, & Blessings to all. Jean Randolph-Castro
DUE TO IMPACTS OF THE CORONAVIRUS, MONTHLY MEETINGS OF THE ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER ARE CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
May 2020
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Board Vice President Talib Bey, along with Masonic Lodge, offers PPE supplies to Rochdale
Vice President of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors and Public Safety Committee Chairman, Talib Bey with Brothers and Sisters of The Most Worshipful New York Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. (Photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
By Susan Van Brackle
W
hen member Talib Bey is not actively serving double duty as Vice President of the Board of Directors and Chairman of Rochdale’s Public Safety Committee, he makes time to engage with community driven organizations.
Through his interactions as the Illustrious Brother Talib Bey 33º/97º Grand Master of Masons for The Most Worshipful New York Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons,he recently collaborated with fellow board members and brothers and sisters of his lodge to distribute almost 2,000 protective face masks
and gloves at Mall #2, in the rain, on Friday, March 29. According to Mr. Bey, “Myself and the Board of Directors work continuously and arduously to supply the needs of cooperators in our community.” In speaking about his fellow lodge members, “We do initiatives that look at communities as a
whole. We [the brothers and sisters] are also doing giveaways in other neighborhoods that we know.” The mask and gloves giveaway hosted by the Lodge was only expected to last as long as supplies were available. Fortunately there were abundant supplies that allowed for distributions to all that attended.
Board of Elections attempts early voting again for June 2020 Primary
Face masks get distributed to the community by Masonic brothers, Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz and Board Vice President Talib Bey.
Brothers of The Most Worshipful New York Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masonswith Rochdale Village Board Vice President and Public Safety Committee Chairman Talib Bey (standing center).
Noted below are early voting days and hours leading up to the June 23, 2020 Primary. Early voting will be held in Rochdale’s Community Center Room 11/12/13.
Primary Election
Saturday, June 13, 2020 Sunday, June 14, 2020 Monday, June 15, 2020 Tuesday, June 16, 2020 Wednesday, June 17, 2020 Thursday, June 18, 2020 Friday, June 19, 2020 Saturday, June 20, 2020 Sunday, June 21, 2020
(l. to r.) Board Vice President Talib Bey, Board President Jean Castro and Masonic brother from The Most Worshipful New York Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.
Residents of the community lined up for free face masks and gloves that were handed out by Board Chairman and Public Safety CoChair Clifton Stanley Diaz (seated right).
10 AM to 4 PM 10 AM to 4 PM 7 AM to 3 PM 12 PM to 8 PM 12 PM to 8 PM 10 AM to 6 PM 7 AM to 3 PM 10 AM to 4 PM 10 AM to 4 PM
Voters are required to wear a mask/ face covering and maintain 6 feet of distance when entering any Board of Elections facility.
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May 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report Monthly Report
-- by by Marion Marion Scott Scott
General Manager’s Monthly Report for April 2020 WHILE WE HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY OFFICIAL WORD OR DATE FOR THE RE-OPENING OF THE CITY, WE BELIEVE IT PRUDENT TO PRESENT A PLAN ON WHAT RE-OPENING ROCHDALE WILL LOOK LIKE. THE PRESENT PLAN IS FOR THE OFFICES TO REMAIN CLOSED THROUGH MID JUNE.
than staff will be allowed beyond the reception area. While in the reception area we will ask that all cooperators and guests continue to follow social distancing protocols. Markers will be setup to signify the “6-foot distance rule”. We understand that some concerns require privacy, so those issues will be addressed either by phone or email with the respective department. The following areas will operate on a staggered shift with half of the employees working in office Reopening Plan while the rest work remotely. Due In order to protect the to the layout and size of these arhealth and well-being of the staff eas it is necessary in order to have and the community, we would still a safe working environment. Somepreserve some semblance of social one will always be available on site distancing early on. Facemasks or to address cooperator concerns coverings will be required when during normal business hours. visiting any of the offices site wide. The days and hours of operation • Accounting would remain the same as they • Accounts Receivable (Cashiers) always have been however, we • Receptionists would modify scheduling in areas • Purchasing to maintain safe practices. In some cases, we will operate on staggered The following areas will reshifts with staff members alternat- turn to full staff and schedule: ing the days they would come into • Allocations (Apartment Sales/ the office and working remotely Transfers) Please note that inall other times. In all departments, person interviews will be suslunch hours and breaks will be stagpended indefinitely. All inquigered to prevent overcrowding in ries will be handled via phone the locker rooms and eating areas. or email. Applications and supAll employees’ temperature porting documentation can will be taken daily with a no contact be dropped off or emailed for infrared forehead thermometer. review and processing. ApartIf the reading is 100.4 degrees or ment tours can be done virtuhigher or if they express having any ally or in-person. All in-person symptoms related to Covid-19 they tours will require all parties to will be asked to go to their health wear face mask or covering. care provider immediately. Although it is already procedure it is • Bulletin important to reinforce that employ- • Complaints (Ombudsman) ees will be sent home if they arrive • Commercial to work ill even if unrelated to Co- • Human Resources vid-19. All staff will be required to • Restoration wear a facemask or covering during • Projects their scheduled shift. • Legal
Management Office
Please note that all managUpon reopening, the hours ers and supervisors will return to for the management office will be their pre-pandemic schedules. Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In keeping with safe practices, no person other Maintenance Department The Maintenance De-
partment will return to full staff and schedule for all administrative and maintenance workers. The office hours will be Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All building maintenance workers will continue to wear the proper personal protective equipment. The common areas will continue to be sanitized daily.
Board Office
The Board office will operate between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Board office employees will operate on a staggered schedule to maintain social distancing cues. Employees will work from home on off days during the week.
Public Safety Department
we will work on the logistics of using the Ballroom as an option for seniors to have meals.
Mall 1
For Mall 1 to reopen we will be taking remedial steps to allow for social distancing of six feet or more, including limiting the number of employees and customers in the mall at one time. Seating areas will be cordoned off to avoid congregating. There will be social distancing markers throughout the mall and in bathrooms, every other sink and urinal will be taped off. All merchants will be advised in writing to follow state and local government guidelines.
Laundry Rooms
The laundry rooms would operate under the current schedule of 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. No more than five people can use the facility at a time. Facemask or covering must be worn to maintain social distancing rules. Last wash will be at 12:00 a.m. and the doors will Power Plant be locked promptly at 1:00 a.m. There is no change in sched- Any clothes left after that time will uling for Power Plant as they have have to be picked up in the mornremained at full staff. It will con- ing. All laundry rooms are under tinue to operate 24 hours a day, 7 surveillance. days a week. ____________________________ There is no change in scheduling for Public Safety as they have remained at full staff. It will continue to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Community/Senior Center
The Community Center (RVCC) will return to full staff however with the following guidelines below. • RVCC, Senior and NORC visits will be appointment only. • Access to offices will be limited to Rochdale staff. • The flagpole and red brick area doors by Public Safety will not be used to enter the building. • Anyone entering and exiting the building must sign in and out. • Senior meals will be grab and go for at least the first two weeks of opening. During that time,
We must reiterate that we do not have the go ahead to reopen the offices for non-essential staff from our local and state government; we await their directive. This plan is made to be fluid and will be adjusted as new information becomes available. Rochdale is a densely populated community and as Governor Cuomo has stated on several occasions as it relates to Covid-19, “density is the enemy here” so the idea is to gradually reopen to avoid increasing the probability of infection and an outbreak occurring. We will employ and use every resource available to keep the Rochdale Village community safe.
May 2020
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Profit and Loss Financial Statement Narrative For the six months ended March 2020
F
Year ended March 31, 2020, Controllable Income before Interest, Depreciation, Amortization, and Income taxes increased $2,092,000 to $10,854,000 as compared to $8,762,000 in the Budget. Below you will find an explanaor the
tion of the significant changes in each category:
a decrease in the After-School higher than anticipated contrac- Budget. The decrease in Sheltual expenses than anticipated in ter rent is related to the change revenue.
the Budget. Total expenses For the Year ended March 31, 2020 decreased $(1,268,000) to $70,120,000 as compared to $71,388,000 in the Budget. The decrease is explained in the following expense categories:
Security
For the Year ended March 31, 2020, Security cost decreased $(471,000) or 9.4% to $5,023,000 as compared to $5,495,000 in the Budget. This decrease is principally Management and administradue to the Budget reflecting a tive For the Year ended March 31, full staff and Security salaries 2020, Management and admin- are not at full staff yet.
Controllable Income is defined as income less variable expenses that can be managed by the Company. It is commonly known as EBITDA (Earnings istrative expenses increased before Interest, Taxes and De- $286,000 to $5,785,000 as com- Power Plant preciation and Amortization). pared to $5,499,000 in the Bud- 1. Fuel and Utilities get. The increase was principally For the Year ended March Operating income and ex- related to the $298,000 payment 31, 2020, Fuel and utility exto our Sales tax attorney for re- penses increased $701,000 to pense Total revenue for the year end- covery of an approximately $16,017,000 as compared to ed March 31, 2020 increased $900,000 refund in NY State $15,315,000 in the Budget. $824,112 to $80,975,000 as sales taxes. This was received in The increase in these costs was compared to $80,150,000 in the March 2020. principally related to (1) an inBudget. The increase is princicrease in water expenses due pally due to the settlement of a Janitorial & Grounds costs to increased usage; (2) offset, $900,000 NYS sales tax dispute For the Year ended March 31, in part, by a decrease in Gas which resulted in a refund of the 2020, Janitorial and Grounds expenses decreased $(1,418,000) usage and (3) a 40% increase $900,000. or 20.9% to $6,786,000 as in National Grid prices (transportation of our gas through Apartment revenue For the compared to $8,205,000 in the year ended March 31, 2020 Budget. This decrease is prin- their pipes) that was approved was in-line with the budget at cipally due to (1) the Budget re- by NYS in FY 2019. $70,323,000 as compared to flecting a full staff and Janitorial & Grounds actual salaries are not $70,312,000. . at full staff yet (2) a decrease of $(790,000) in snow expenses due Commercial rental revenue to less snow than anticipated in For the Year ended March 31, the Budget and (3) an increased 2020 was in-line with the Budget at $5,293,000 as compared to focus on managing expenses. $5,268,000 in the Budget.
Maintenance and operating reve- costs
2. Other Power Plant Expenses For the Year ended March 31, 2020, Other Power Plant expenses were relatively in-line with the Budget.
Real Estate Taxes (Shelter Community Center Rent) nue For the year ended March For the Year ended March 31, For the Year ended March 31, 31, 2020 decreased $(53,000) 2020, Maintenance and Operat- 2020, Real estate tax (Shelto $534,000 as compared to ing costs increased $400,000 or ter rent) expenses decreased $588,000 in the Budget. The 3.2% to $12,610,000 as com- $(457,000) to $3,238,000 as decrease was principally due to pared to $12,210,000 in the Budget. This increase was due to compared to $3,696,000 in the
in the calculation of Shelter Rent to include allocable expenses to the calculation. All Other Expenses were relatively in-line with the Budget. Looking forward
1. Shelter Rent Calculation – Shelter rent replaces the Rochdale Village Inc. real estate calculation. During FY 2019, we challenged the way this calculation was prepared, and the result was that we now include allocable expenses to the calculation. This change will save Rochdale approximately $400,000 per year. In addition, we are challenging the depreciation method used in the calculation. If successful, we could save Rochdale another approximately $100,000 per year. 2. Paperless Solution – We are investing in certain software products that will allow Rochdale Village Inc. to work with our vendors to have invoices electronically transmitted to Rochdale and uploaded to our software. 3. Computer Software solution – 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. Overall, Rochdale Village Inc.’s financial results for the Eleven months ended February 29, 2020 show that Rochdale Village Inc.’s results are on track to meet our FY 2020 Budget.
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May 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
May 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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May 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Public Safety Report
- by Chief Adolph Osback
Public Safety Monthly Report April 2020 Enclosed is the statistical data relative to the performance of the Rochdale Village Public Safety Department during the month of April 2020. Public Safety maintains 24 hour /7 days a week coverage.
*DIRECTED VERTICALS: 6 TOTAL POST INSPECTIONS: 3971
PUBLIC SAFETY RESPONDED TO CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE REFERRED CALLS TO THE MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT 1. During the month of April 2020, the Public Safety Department has TOTAL CALLS RECEIVED FOR ASSISTANCE: continued to focus attention on loitering, trespassing, noise complaints and all other quality of life violations. As a result, Public Safety Department COOPERATOR ESCORTS officers responded to a total of (36) loitering and (195) noise complaints AIDED SICK/ INJURY AND ELEVATOR ENTRAPMENTS: from Cooperators which were resolved as follows: TOTAL INCIDENT REPORTS GENERATED:
COMPLAINTS:
a) Founded-Compliant- (19) Loiterers complied with officers’ directives to leave and (90) of the noise complaint sources corrected the volume of the noise. b) Unfounded Calls-(10) unfounded loitering complaints and (102) 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 – (7) received violations for loitering and (3) received a violation for noise complaints.
For the month of April 2020 there was a grand total of (5) 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 04 INVESTIGATIVE INCIDENTS 32 VIOLATIONS ISSUED 00 RELATED ARREST INCIDENTS 02 FIRE INCIDENTS 01 TOTAL INCIDENTS 39
TASK FORCE UNIT ACTIVITIES: • • • •
Conducted (63) Directed & Routine Verticals. Made (0) arrests, issued (0) Trespass Notifications, issued (0) C-Summonses, issued (11) violations to include (6) for loitering and encountered (7) Loiterers during routine and directed patrols. Responded to assigned calls from Central Dispatch (11). Conducted (0) Tenant Verifications
TOWING ACTIVITY
The Public Safety Department towed (10) vehicles and issued (53) 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: 3965
693 363 1056 17 105 150
MAIL VOLUME DELIVERED BY PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER:
73
ARREST(S): IN HOUSE DETAINED: GRAND TOTAL OF ARRESTS:
5 0 5
VIOLATIONS ISSUED: CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/AUTO: EVICTION(S):
21 2 0
VIOLATIONS Listed are the classifications of Notice of Violations issued:
May 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 9
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
May 2020
May 2020
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 11
Cooperator concerns receive answers from RV Board Members and Management
R
full name, phone number, apartment, and building General Maintenance number to have repairs done. Item: When maintenance is coming to an apartment can they send a text message when they are within 30 Management/Board Related minutes? Item: Shareholders have asked whether the community will be told about the numbers of people who have Answer: There is a procedure in place whereas coopbeen confirmed COVID-19 positive in Rochdale? erators are notified when Repair Mechanics are dispatched to their units. We will ensure that this proceAnswer: We will compile and report the number of dure is continuous. confirmed cases. Item: Why doesn't maintenance have a shift at night, Item: What is the limitation of people in the laundry this would help with the garbage at night? room since nothing is posted. Facemasks/Gloves Answer: Currently there is a porter scheduled from 3 Item: Masks, many have been delivered however Answer: As discussed previously the laundry rooms p.m. to 12 a.m. to address bulk garbage and Laundry many seniors have not received any masks. What are limited to five (5) people at a time to practice social rooms. will be done to get the masks out in this commu- distancing. This was posted on the flyers with the exnity? panded hours however we will get notices posted that Item: Disinfectant for elevators should be purchased deal specifically with maximum occupancy. that does not leave a residue on button panels. Answer: In conjunction with the Board of Directors and local/city officials, masks were donated Item: Why hasn't management purchased equipment Answer: None of the chemicals we are presently using and distributed to the community specifically for that you can add disinfectant to steam door, elevator, leaves any residue after usage. Some shareholders are shareholders. We will continue to work with the laundry room? This will save time and money. One for using their own chemicals, which does leave a residue. Board to provide resources as they are made avail- each building. able. Item: Garbage cans should be moved to outside unAnswer: We are currently looking at a variety of prod- der the windows. A concrete platform should be put Mail Delivery Issues ucts just as described to aid in disinfecting all com- outside where the cans can be locked with an awning Item: There is a lot of concern stating the that the mon areas. Some of these items are costly and there is over the cans. This will not leave a smell of garbage sections are not clearly identified in the buildings. limited availability but we are the process of obtaining in hallway. Shareholders feel this presents problems for pack- prices. age delivery and may be a reason packages are beAnswer: This is not feasible because it will encouring left in the lobby area. Item: Everyone is not online and everyone is not re- age rodents, it is unsightly, creates an inconvenience ceiving text messages. What is the communications to the Shareholders and does not fit the ambiance of Answer: Presently we are placing additional tem- plan going forward on how this complex is going to be the campus. porary address signs throughout the campus, we managed through this. are awaiting a delivery of 60 additional signs to Item: Bulk items such as furniture should be moved complement the existing signs. Answer: Notices regarding carrying charge issues by appointment. (including online payments) were distributed door-toItem: The main complaint for many shareholders door via Weekly Sheet and Bulletin newspaper. The Answer: is the large number of packages being left in the notice was also posted on the digital boards, website This is not feasible because shareholder are responlobbies by Fedex and other delivery companies. and social media as wells as through the alert system. sible for the removal of bulk garbage from their units Communications have been sent using these mediums to the service hallway at an already cut off designated Answer: We will reach out to the various delivery for all that is happening in and around the community. time, which is from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. In the event a companies to advise them of what’s happening and We have admittedly done a majority of notifications shareholder disposes bulk garbage after 3:30 p.m. the continue to follow up until resolved. Prior to the digitally however this was in response to many share- porter on duty is responsible for removal. pandemic we began researching possible solutions holders that were unwilling to retrieve the door-towe could provide in addition to what is currently door correspondence for fear of contracting Covid-19. Public Safety in place (ex. UPS and Amazon lockers). We will A reopening plan is submitted in the General Manag- Item: Sometimes Public Safety Officers fail to pracrevisit to see what is makes sense and feasible. er’s report in this issue. Until then we will continue to tice social distancing. Many times two of them are in use all means of communication to get information to these tiny booths. Item: The mailman is leaving keys in the wrong the cooperators. We will look into the issue of staff/ person’s mailbox for packages that are left in the Answer: The Officers have been instructed to practice contractors not wearing identification. lockbox. This is a problem. What should be done social distancing since the onset of the pandemic. Suwith the package? pervisors are informed to reiterate this to the staff and Item: Why haven't we had a virtual town hall? Everyto monitor for compliance during their post inspecone else seems to be able to do this. Answer: Rochdale will notify the postmaster of tions. The policy has always been that there should this situation. In the interim, if a package is incoronly be one Officer in the Booth at a time except durrectly placed we ask that Public Safety be notified Answer: If there is a consensus with the Board to ing meal reliefs and the change of tours. so arrangements can be made to get the package to move forward with a virtual town hall, management will make itself available. the right person. Item: What are the guidelines from management on Public Safety wearing mask and people who stand in Item: We need to post signs that only commercial, de- front of the building with no masks? Intercom Item: There’ve been complaints about intercoms livery trucks can park certain hours Monday thru Sunnot working and sections that are not clearly la- day. This would help as more cooperators are home Answer: Public Safety Officers must wear their masks ordering groceries, medicine, etc. beled. at all times. Regarding congregating in front of buildings with no masks Cooperators are politely reminded Answer: Any shareholders experiencing problems Answer: Signage in the circles is subject to the ap- and advised to wear masks. Non-cooperators are inshould call 718-276-5700 extension 483 or email proval of the Department of Transportation however structed to keep the front of the buildings and walkcomplaints@rochdalevillage.com and provide their we will look into what is allowed and a viable solution. ways clear. ochdale’s Board of Directors and Management hear you. How do you know? Because the following list of questions was collected from cooperators during the COVID-19 quarantine. Many of the questions represent concerns and issues that residents shared about daily operations, maintenance, cooperator communications and more. Please read the items outlined and the respective answers. Encourage your neighbors to read it too. With any hope the answers will remedy concerns you may have. Be well, stay safe and continue to contribute.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
May 2020
Congratulations to RVSS’s Academic Success Tutoring Program Awardees Esther Akinsanya Isaac Akinsanya Renee Alexander Ethan Anderson Andrew Anowai Adrian Anowai Sean Dre Atkinson Jonathan Bamfo Hailey Brown Kaedon Brown Kyle Brown Nicholas Butler Daniel Caesar Kyle Clement Romario Compere Javon Conner Taylor Dunbar Tori Dunbar Deuvols Fresnel Kamil Graham
Thomas Graham Elijah Gregory Alisia Griffin Felisia Griffin Talisia Griffin Caleb Hamblin Presten Hayes Arrianna Hunter Ayomide Israel Damilola Israel Nalisha Jainarin Samuel Johnson IV Jayden Joseph Justin Kawal Harlem Lake Cheyenne Lee Joleyna Massillon Vianna Massillon Shana-Kay McNeil Alyssa Mohammed
Tamara Newell Kingdom Omorogieva Jayden Perez Rhian Perkins Jahsir Price Shane Roberts Sloane Roberts Chelsea Robinson Jaden Samaroo Victoria Shvager Bryanna Simmonds Brandon Smith Aaron Theophile Deborah-Aaliyah Theophile Jordan Theophile RayShawn Tillett Elijah Watson Amare Williams Kyle Williams
Coding Class Participants: Jonathan Bamfo Nicholas Butler Daniel Caesar Romario Compere Javon Connor Alisia Griffin Felisia Griffin Talisia Griffin Ayomide Israel Uzmaa Khan Anthony McClain Jr. Tamara Newell Jaden Samaroo Bryanna Simmonds Brandon Smith Deborah Theophile Jordan Theophile Rayshawn Tillet
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Rochdale Village Presents
May 2020
TheStar Graduate Edition 2020 Kayliร Butler
Saniya Frison
Ciatta Howard
Kristian Lunnon
Jose R. Silva, III
Zaine Thompson
Graduates from Monsignor McClancy HS. He will be furthering is academic and athletic career at The University of Tampa. Thank you for acknowledging our 2020 Graduates! Jackie Rivera and Jose Silva Jr.
Graduates from PS80 Level/5th Grade and has been accepted to the New York City Charter School of the Arts.
Kayliรก Butler is graduating from Shaw Ave Grade 6. Her school of acceptance is Memorial JHS or North High (AP Classes).
Graduated from Brooklyn College with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Television and Radio.
Will graduate from P.S. 288, 8th Grade and has been accepted to John Dewey High School of Law and Justice for Future Success.
Graduates from Thomas A. Edison Career and Technical High School, 12th grade. His school of acceptance is State University of New York (SUNY) at New Paltz.
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Rochdale Village Presents
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TheStar Graduate Edition 2020 Adrian Bryant Is Graduating from Global leaders Middle School 8th Grade and will be going to 9th Grade at the New Design High School.
Khasan Mack Graduates from Thomas Edison High school 12th Grade and will be attending a City University of New York college.
Jade Farr
Detrel Howell
Is graduating 5th Grade from P.S.354 The Jermaine L. Green STEM Institute of Queens and has been accepted to J.H.S. 217 Robert A. Van Wyck.
Graduate from the New York Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree.
Michelle Kim Hunter
Jade Dogan
N YA C K College: Bachelor in Social Work, Accepted: Fordham University Masters in Social Work.
Jade is graduating from John Bowne High School 12th grade, and will be attending the State University of New York University at Buffalo.
ON THE COVER OF PAGE 1:
Xavier Gilmore graduates kindergarten from P.S. 176Q (The Cambria Heights School) and will continue his education at P.S. 176Q The Cambria Heights School.
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May 2020
Mayor’s Queens Borough Community Affairs Unit and New York City Sheriff’s Office join forces... (Photo credits: Larry Love Moore)
Deputy Sheriff Andre Jackson (far left) brought needed supplies to the community where he was formerly a Public Safety Officer. He is shown with Rochdale’s Public Safety Officers.
Kevin Morris of the Queens Borough Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit brought PPE supplies to Rochdale Village on behalf of Mayor Bill DeBlasio.
Public Safety’s Lieutenant Gaither, Assembly Member Vivian Cook, New York City Sheriff with Deputy Sheriff Andre Jackson, Community Affairs Unit representative Kevin Morris, Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz, New York City Sheriff Lieutenant Scott Donaldson, Board Secretary Joyce Williams, Board President Jean Castro and Chief of Staff Jamal Wilkerson.
(l. to r.) Deputy Sheriff Andre Jackson with Board President Jean Castro.
(l. to r.) Board President Jean Castro, Board Secretary Joyce Williams and Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz distribute masks to cooperators.
Board Secretary Joyce Williams and New York City Deputy Sheriff Andre Jackson take a moment to chat during the mask giveaway at Mall #2.
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Donating and distributing needed PPE with Board Members at Rochdale’s Mall #2 (Photo credits: Larry Love Moore)
Jamal Wilkerson, Chief of Staff to Council Member Adrienne Adams with Board President Jean Castro.
New York City Sheriff’s Department Lieutenant Scott Donaldson.
Officers of the 113th Precinct assist Board President Jean Castro with mask distributions at the back gate behind Mall #2.
New York City Sheriffs meet and greet families at Rochdale Village during the mask distribution event at Mall #2.
The mask giveaway from Mayor DeBlasio’s Community Affairs Unit, the New York City Sheriff’s Office and the Board of Directors was very well attended.
(l. to r.) Board Secretary Joyce Williams and Board Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz at mask distribution in Mall #2.
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May 2020
Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and State Senator James Sanders Jr. at Mall #1
Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams (standing right) distributes personal protective masks to residents and children he meets as well as essential workers at Mall #1’s Key Foods grocery store. (Photo credit: Larry Love Moore)
The Brooklyn Borough President received an escort from Lieutenant Ernest Guthrie of Rochdale’s Public Safety and Board Chairman/Public Safety Co-Chairman Clifton Stanley Diaz as they visited businesses like OB’s Bakery.
D
ue to the Coronavirus one can never have too many masks! That’s why Board President Clifton Stanley Diaz joined New York State Senator James Sanders Jr., accompanied by Constituent Liaison Lisa George, to hand out masks to Key Food shoppers at Mall #1. Store Manager Rudy Guzman was there to meet and greet the officials.
Rochdale cooperator Sheila Brimage accepts masks from Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams (photo left) during distribution event where Board President Jean Castro and Council Member Adrienne Adams (photo right) were also in attendance.
(l. to r.) New York State Assembly Member Vivian Cook, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and Rochdale Village Board President Jean Castro.
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May 2020
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Present
Let us take a moment while in the comfort of our homes and thank the Almighty for the many blessings he has bestowed upon us all. Though we are going through this Pandemic, we ought to be thankful for life and much more.
Friday, June 12, 2020 Join us on Facebook live 12:00 P.M. with Pastor Phil Craig from Greater Springfield Community Church https://www.facebook.com/phil.craig.505
& 6:00 P.M. with Bishop CalvinRice from New Jerusalem Worship Center https://www.facebook.com/calvin.rice.564
Those of you who are unable to do Facebook live, can still participate by taking that moment on the designated date and times to say a prayer. Blessings come in numbers. Let us come together, joining our Spiritual strength in time like this.
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May 2020
RVSS to wrap up successful tutoring program with remote awards ceremony via Zoom By Susan Van Brackle A distance-learning ceremony that celebrates students who’ve completed Rochdale Village Social Services Inc.’s (RVSS) Academic Success Tutoring Program is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, June 13, 2020. Certificates of completion will be extended to participating students during the event that is set aside for parents/guardians, staff instructors, teachers and high school student tutors to attend. Special invited guests include City Council Member Adrienne Adams, who provides discre-
tionary funding to run the Academic Success Tutoring Program and three other RVSS youth education efforts. A total of 62 elementary, middle and high school students began the weekly tutoring program between October 11, 2019 and March 7, 2020. By Friday March 13 the onset of the pandemic put study group activities on hold indefinitely and forced traditional classroom sessions to cease. The program quickly pivoted to digital inclusion via distance learning provided by student’s computers, tablets and smart phones using Zoom, Google Classrooms and
other similar computer apps. In a few weeks’ time lead instructor Andrea Johnson retooled the entire program. Distance learning classes began March 31, 2020 focusing on Common Core standardized instruction, continued use of the web-based Study Island academic tutoring program and preparing students for the next academic grade level in the fall. Ultimately 59 of the original 62 registered students signed up to continue via digital study methods. On April 17 the first of 10 distance learning classes began teaching the same 59 students with
programs that focused on providing student instruction on computer coding and animation. The last class is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2020, the day of the 2019-20 Academic Success Tutoring Program virtual awards event. In addition to lead instructor Andrea Johnson, other staff participants that are expected to attend include fellow instructors Cassandra Kennedy, Roxanne Mayers, and paid tutors Fallon Brackley, Alisha Griffin, Uzmaa Khan and Anthony McClain, each of whom is a high school honors student.
Rochdale Board members extend greetings and well wishes via YouTube channel
By Susan Van Brackle
S
ince the Coronavirus pandemic had most people sheltering in place for the last few months, Rochdale’s Board of Directors seized the moment to send residents
virtual greetings and heartfelt hugs via YouTube. Each official created their own ‘stay safe’ message and words of encouragement to broadcast. Board President Jean Castro even presented a special Mother’s Day greeting
for all shut-in’s that could not be with family and friends on the holiday. Over 1,000 views were registered. In addition to being shown on YouTube the messages were aired via Rochdale’s social media and on the internal blog
page of rochdalevillage.com. Those that may have missed the airing can still catch it on YouTube at Rochdale Village TV – RV’s Official Video Channel. Be sure to like and subscribe with us on all of our social media.
Have you filled out the 2020 Census Rochdale? What are you waiting for? It’s fast and easy! Respond online, by phone or by mail before OCTOBER 31. Don’t delay. Do it TODAY! Stand up and be counted.
May 2020
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Projects Report May 2020
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Projects
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Projects
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April 2020
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Rochdale Village Senior Center - June 2020
May 2020
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Rochdale Village Board Calendar June 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 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, 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.
May 2020
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