THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
Vol. 53 No. 10
October 2017
SERVING OVER 25,000 SHAREHOLDERS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
Rochdale Village Board of Directors
2017 Election Winners Jean Hall 1,267 Votes
Gary Hawkins 1,069 Votes
Joe Evans 1,067 Votes
Edward Douglass 1,037 Votes
Kamal Saleem 1,020 Votes
Deputy Inspector Jerry O’Sullivan joins 113th Precinct Meets Rochdale Board members and Management team - Pg. 19 (l.to r.) Assistant General Managers Jay Williams and Lance Williams, 4th Vice President of the Board Tim Mercer, Deputy Inspector 113th Precinct Jerry O’Sullivan, Rochdale’s Chairman of the Board and Public Safety Committee Co-Chair Clifton Stanley Diaz, Sergeant Derek Tricoli, Rochdale Village. (seated) Public Safety Lieutenant Padilla, Board President Jean Castro, 1st Vice President of the Board and Public Safety Chairman, Talib Bey.
General Manager’s Report - Pg. 4
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Public Safety Report - Pg. 7
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Photo Highlights - Pg. 16-17
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Board Resolutions - Pg. 21-25
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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 Mario Turner Jean Hall Tim Mercer Treasurer Barbara Staples Assistant Treasurer Lisa Stark Secretary Joyce Williams
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
Talib Bey Jean Randolph-Castro Clifton Stanley Diaz Ed Douglass Joe Evans Jean Hall Gary Hawkins Maryam Hubbard Tim Mercer Kamal Saleem Derrick Shareef Barbara Staples Lisa Stark Mario Turner Joyce Williams Gary Casimir (State Representative)
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Budget & Finance Lisa Stark Commercial Services Tim Mercer Community Center Jean Randolph-Castro Community Relations Maryam Hubbard Legal & Management Jean Randolph-Castro Maintenance Jean Hall Orientation Clifton Stanley Diaz Public Safety Talib Bey Senior Citizens Joyce Williams Youth Planning Mario Turner Environmental Conservation Kamal Saleem Parking Clifton Stanley Diaz 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 Deputy Director of Maintenance Corey Jones Public Safety Chief Victoria Pearson Power Plant Director Gilbert Francisco Human Resource Director Dolores Benner General Counsel William R. Greenspan
- by Jean Randolph-Castro
Greeting Cooperators, We are a cooperative housing company, which means we are all Shareholders. We as a collective can do anything a homeowner does, however we must be prepared to pay for the changes. A crucial discussion is taking place among our Board members. However, because we are a collective I believe it is essential that we ask for your opinion and direction. For that reason, I am proposing an informal survey. OPTION I A. Your Board and Management have tried to keep carrying charges (rent) as low as possible. We currently provide basic operations that include rebuilding infrastructure, providing essential services and at home maintenance. There are extra services that can be provided however please keep in mind that there will be a carrying charge increase. In all reality this option enables us to keep down carrying charges and keep us going as we are. MULTIPLE OPTIONS Is everything else that we B. want or need but for which we must be willing to pay. A one (1%) percent increase in carrying charge provides our housing company with an additional $700,000 per year. 1.
NEW KITCHENS
Question: The question was raised, “Why should we have to pay for new kitchens? We as Cooperators should each get new kitchens. Having to pay for it individually and adding the cost to my equity is not the same as each apartment getting a new kitchen.” Discussion: The Cooperative would love to pay for all new kitchens for everyone but if you view the numbers; 5860 apartments average cost per kitchen is $2,805 for a total of $16,437,300. This is essentially a little over a 23% carrying charge increase. We
could spread over 3 years or so. However we do not think that a large increase for cabinets is in the best interest for the Shareholders. What management did was negotiate a low cost for individuals to purchase a good kitchen and then enable them to have it added to their equity. This seemed like a positive approach versus giving everyone a new kitchen and a 23% carrying charge increase. 2.
RESTORATION of apartments on sale.
Question: When many of us came to Rochdale Village the restored apartments were beautifully finished. Gorgeous wood floors not carpet, new or almost new kitchens everything top notch. In fact, a number of us are planning to inspect the way Management restores apartments today in order to determine what additions we should add in order to make the restored apartment like the old days. Discussion: We presently spend over $2,000,000 a year on restoration. We estimate an upgrade would cost another $700,000 or a carrying charge increase of 1%.
Jean Randolph-Castro
Management is working with a developer to add parking at Guy R Brewer on the 137th avenue vacant lot Rochdale owns but that is not enough. We must build at least a second deck on lots where possible especially lots 3A and 3B. The present parking charge is $39.50 a month. Management has been in contact with the Department of Transportation about angle parking and we are now working with our elected officials toward implementing it.
As we consider what we should do, we should recognize that in the world at large we provide firstrate housing at an exceptionally low cost. Out of 5860 apartments we have less than 10 vacant. In addition, we have a waiting list of over 4 years. In my opinion management is doing a great job and certainly they are moving in the right direction. Incoming cooperators are given a carpet voucher, which they can use to purchase carpet for the bedroom or use it to offset the price for wood flooring. In addition, they get a reduced price on a new kitchen versus a restored kitchen.
Discussion: We have investigated building on our parking areas and have been advised that it is possible. In considering additions needed it has been established that the cost for a multi-level parking garage is between $10,000 and $30,000 per space. However, at the same time consider at $39.50 a month or $474 a year per space it would take 21 years to recover the cost. Management estimated for 200 new spaces at a total cost of $2,000,000 using $10,000 per space as an example or a 3% carrying charge increase. Yes, to angle parking because there will be no cost we just need the city to agree and we have to hear what the developer is offering on 137th Avenue Lot.
3. PARKING
4.
Question: We all agree we have a problem there is not enough parking.
CONVECTORS AND RISERS Question: Our convectors and the risers in each building supplying the heat (Continued on page 8)
The next meeting of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors is scheduled for Monday, November 27, 2017 at 7:45 p.m. in rooms 11/12/13. Please note your calendars.
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Meet the new Rochdale Village Board of Directors for 2017-18 By Susan Van Brackle
T
his year’s co-op elections resulted in successful appointments of five returning officers to the Rochdale Village Board of Directors. The first round of voting that took place on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 came close to reaching a quorum but fell short by approximately 64 ballots. Rochdale’s Election Committee extended voting by an additional week in order to realize the quorum count of 2,192. The minimum number required was 1,946. A voting quorum is reached when representatives from an estimated 33% of the occupied Rochdale Village apartments comes out to vote. According to certified scores provided by Honest Ballot Association, there were:
Clifton Stanley Diaz Chairman of the Board
Talib Bey 1st Vice President
Jean Hall 3rd Vice President
Tim Mercer 4th Vice President
Joyce Williams Secretary
Maryam Hubbard Assistant Secretary
Barbara Staples Treasurer
Lisa Stark Assistant Treasurer
Kamal Saleem Director
Derrick Shareef Director
Joe Evans Director
Gary Hawkins Director
Ed Douglass Director
Mario Turner 2nd Vice President
198 Attendance Proxies 492 Voting proxies and 1,502 in person votes 2,192 Total voters
Jean Randolph-Castro President
Certified true and accurate results, as per Honest Ballot Association, for each of the candidates are: Highest Votes Winning 3-Year Terms 1,267 Jean Hall 1,069 Gary Hawkins 1,067 Joe Evans 1,037 Edward Douglass 1,020 Kamal Saleem Election Results for the Remaining Candidates 814 Glynis Urquhart 735 Myra Reid 648 Alfred Smith 635 Cody Hamblin 316 Joseph Toval 255 Ivan D. Mossop, Jr. In-person voting began at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 and finished in the community rooms of each of Rochdale’s five groups until the polls closed at 9:00 p.m. that same day. By the time the ballots were cast, the community overwhelmingly re-elected candidates with previous years of experience as board members along with one first-time officer. Monday night’s first official board meeting on October 23 opened with title assignments for executive officers and designations of committee responsibilities for the newly elected group, which are as follows: Clifton Stanley Diaz, Chairman of the Board • Orientation Committee Chairperson • Parking Committee Chairperson • Legal and Management Co-Chair • Public Safety Committee Co-Chair Jean Randolph-Castro, President • Community Center Committee Chairperson • Legal & Management Committee Chairperson • Senior Citizens’ Committee Co-Chair Talib Bey, 1st Vice President • Public Safety Committee Chairperson • Budget & Finance Co-Chair • Orientation Committee Co-Chair Mario Turner, 2nd Vice President • Youth Planning Committee Chairperson Jean Hall, 3rd Vice President • Maintenance Committee Chairperson Timothy Mercer, 4th Vice President and • Commercial Services Committee Chairperson
• •
Parking Committee Co-Chair Public Safety Committee Co-Chair
Barbara Staples, Treasurer • Community Relations Committee Co-Chair Lisa Stark, Assistant Treasurer and • Budget & Finance Committee Chairperson Joyce Williams, Secretary and • Senior Citizens Committee Chairperson Maryam Hubbard, Assistant Secretary • Community Relations Committee Chairperson • Information Technology Co-Chair Kamal Saleem, Director and • Environmental Conservation Committee Chairperson • Information Technology Chairperson Joe Evans, Director and • Maintenance Committee Co-Chair Ed Douglass, Director and • Community Center Committee Co-Chair • Commercial Services Co-Chair Gary Hawkins, Director and • Senior Citizens Committee Co-Chair • Youth Planning Committee Co-Chair Here’s wishing congratulations and a successful partnership to this current group of officers in the months ahead.
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report Monthly Report
-- by by Marion Marion Scott Scott
General Manager’s Monthly Report for September 2017
COMMUNICATION The property manager of any property type co-op, condo or straight rental is to make sure the property is running smoothly and achieving the goals and purposes of the owners, clients or the investors. The manager is the overseer of the property and captain of the ship and must know everything about the property such as fiscal, functional, social, operational and governance. We selected Jay Williams and Lance Williams to serve as Assistant General Managers because they are able to function calmly and effectively in adverse circumstances. In order to do their jobs well and serve a cooperative community one needs patience, ability to listen and execute, follow through and more importantly be responsive. We are clear these two professional know how to deal with boards and residents in a calm and professional manner. We have heard the repetitive litany: “Management wasn’t told about this”. “That board wasn’t informed about that”. The residents know nothing about this or that and it is all blamed on a total breakdown in communication, which may lead to a lot of nasty problems. I think if everybody respected their roles: the board as governance and management as day-today operators of the housing company and set common ground for communication some of the misunderstanding could be avoided. At the end of the day, we hired two professional to ensure the residents are well informed and the board is kept
Conceptualized rendering of Mall #1 facade after rehabilitation.
abreast of all matters affecting A well-informed Board can the corporation. better address questions or concerns raised by the TRUST community possibly quelling The relationship between issues before they ever reach the Managers and Board members manager. However questions is built upon a foundation of asked in attempt to embarrass trust. It should be understood a manager or act as an “I got that the betterment of the you” do little to progress the property is a common goal common goal. They often act for both parties even if there as a distraction damaging the are differences in opinion on morale of Board members and how to get there. Ultimately, managers alike. A team based deference should be given to approach where the Board and the professionals with issues Management work together but that occur in day-to-day who have roles that are clearly operations. That way there is defined make for a productive some distance between the atmosphere. Board and the employees. More collaborative efforts between GOVERNANCE Board and management can In New York City and adjacent be explored during projects counties, HCR enforces the that affect the residents. States Rent Regulation Laws Board members providing and protects the rights of management with insight from tenants. Unfortunately, not all a resident’s perspective as of their laws are spelled out well as their opinion based on sufficiently enough in their their respective professional Code of Rules and Regulations experience, is welcomed and to guide management effective. companies, owners and boards It is also important for to comply with the vagaries of the Board to ask pertinent running a housing company. questions about a project or The problem lies with the policy for better understanding. Office of Policy and Strategic
Planning. The office is responsible for formulating housing policy. When we sought help in dealing with some succession issues the staff had no answers or regulatory laws to rely on. We should not be left to our own devices and make decisions in contravention of any laws that may be on the books. All laws rules and regulations should be notoriously publicized [promulgated] for all to see and observe. While the policies and procedures for succession rights, the way in which a would be successor gains approval to use and occupancy remains unchanged, apparently there is case law which permits housing companies to collect current equity from succession applicants. For example, in October 1979, Mrs. Smith moved in and paid an equity of $1,000. She decides to move down south in October 2017 and her son who has been living with her all along applies for succession. Upon approval of his succession application, according to case law, he would be required to pay the current equity for 2017, which is $10,000. If Mrs. Smith’s son does not pay the now equity, his rights to succession would be deemed abandoned. To be clear, while there may be case law (we are currently waiting for HCR to provide said case law) regarding this issue, there is nothing in HCR Rules and Regulations that has been promulgated.
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Community Center Profit & Loss Statement year-to-date
Consolidated Profit & Loss Statement as of August
31, 2017
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village, Inc. Balance Sheet FY 2017 and FY 2018 Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Activity FY 2017 and 2016FY 2018
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Carrying Charges (ONLY) >$100 in Aging 2016 FY 2017
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Public Safety Report
- by Victoria Pearson
Public Safety Monthly Report September 2017 Enclosed is the statistical data relative to the performance of the Rochdale Village, Inc., Public Safety Department during the month of September 2017. Public Safety maintains twenty-four hour coverage.
SECURITY RESPONDED TO THE FOLLOWING CALLS: 2733 MAINTENANCE CALLS: 447 TOTAL CALLS FOR SERVICES: 3210 INCIDENT REPORTS: 146
LOITERING: During the month of September 2017, the Public Safety Department has continued to focus attention on loitering conditions. As a result, Public Safety officers responded to total of (28) complaints of loitering which were resolved as follows:
MAIL VOLUME DELIVERED BY PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER: ARREST(S): 4 IN HOUSE DETAINED: 0 TOTAL: 4
1.
VIOLATIONS ISSUED:
50
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/AUTO:
1
EVICTION(S):
2
2. 3. 4. 5.
Conditions corrected – (14) loiterers complied with officers’ directives to leave. Unfounded – (5) unfounded loitering complaints (officers responded but no loiterers were present) Responded – (8) loiterers found and/or loiterers were advised of RV’s rules and regulations Violations issued – One (1) violation for loitering were issued Non-compliant of directives to leave – Zero (0)
For the month of September 2017 there were (4) arrests. The Rochdale Village Public Safety Department will continue to organize to better serve the community. DVR UNIT ACTIVITY: RISK MANAGEMENT INCIDENTS 44 57 INVESTIGATIVE INCIDENTS VIOLATIONS ISSUED 2 ARREST INCIDENTS 4 FIRE INCIDENTS 0 TOTAL INCIDENTS 107 TOWED VEHICLES The Public Safety Department towed Thirteen (13) vehicles during the month of September for violation of parking rules on the complex. *SPECIAL VERTICAL PATROL BY ROCHDALE PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS: Vertical patrols are conducted on a daily basis. Officers patrol the stairwells, hallways, rooftops and parking lots at different hours to curtail unlawful activities and have been positively reinforced. VERTICALS: SPECIAL VERTICALS: TOTAL:
1717 25 1742
TOWING: 13 WARNING ISSUED: 01 TOTAL: 14 ESCORTS: 76
VIOLATIONS 1
Illegal Move out
5
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33
Illegal Move in Negligence Harboring a Pet Noise Complaint Disorderly Conduct/Abusive Language Loitering Illegal Sublet/Occupant Damage to Rochdale Property Littering Failure to Comply Reckless Endangerment Dispute Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance Criminal Activities Fire Hazard Urinating/Defecation in Public Disturbing the Peace Gas Leak Trespass Odor Harassment Barbecue on Terrace Throwing things out the window Illegal Parking Health Hazzard Resisting Arrest Offensive Apt. Odor Bulk/Improperly Discarded Garbage Refusing to show ID Unauthorized Air Conditioner Theft of Property Vandalism Total
4 4 1 5 3 1 4 4 1 4 1 1 3
3
2 1 1 1 1 50
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report
- by Pius Kwarteng-Danquah
Contract Summary/Status — September 2017 LOCAL LAW 11, CYCLE 6, 7 & 8 - BUILDING FAÇADE REPAIRS: Building Numbers 2, 4, 7, 9, 17- 20 completed end of December, 2016. Minor Façade repairs for Building Numbers 13, 14, 15 & 16 completed end of September. SHOPPING CENTER: 1. Project Schedule: Construction began, October 2016. Completion – October, 2017. 2. Contract Amount: $1,760,000 Bathrooms are scheduled to be completed in the following phases: 1. Phase 1 Men’s bathroom completed mid-March, 2017. 2. Phase 2 Women’s bathroom completed mid-August, 2017. 3. Phase 1 ADA bathroom completed end of August, 2017.
Men and women rest rooms – In progress. Club Lounge- Completed end of August, 2017. Red Brick – Completed end of May, 2017. Senior service Center – Completed end of April, 2017. Servery – Completed end of April Boardroom- Completed mid- January. NORC- Completed mid- January. 2. Project Schedule: Construction began in April of 2016. Completion, September 2017. 3.
Contract Amount: $1,765,000.
COMMUNITY CENTER ROOF: Work on parapet wall completed end of October, 2016 PARKING LOT #3: Project began May 8th, 2017.
Playground 1- Completed end of June. Playground 3- Completed end of June. ROOF LEAK RENOVATION: 1. Building 7A, Apt. 13E (Completed, February, 2017). 2. Community Center – Room 18 (Completed, February, 2017). 3. Community center – Club Lounge & Ladies Rest room (Completed, March 2017) Building 2C, Apt 13C 4. pleted, April 2017).
(Com-
5. Big Mall Entry Canopy Roof (Completed, April 2017). 6. Building 4B, Hallway (Completed, April 2017). 7. Advantage Care (Completed, April 2017).
4. Phase 3 Hallway renovation began February, 2017. Estimated completion, end of October.
Phase 1 - May 8 to May 19 (Completed).
8. Rochdale Outlet Mall ed, April 2017).
Phase 2 - May 22 to June 2 (Completed).
9.
5. Phase 3 Storefront doors Installation- In progress.
Phase 3 - June 5 to June 16 (Completed).
10. Bed, Bath and Beyond( Completed , September 2017).
COMMUNITY CENTER RENOVATION: 1. Community Center Interior Work: Phases 1 & 2 completed end of October, 2016. Phase 3 is in progress. Monumental Storefront – In progress.
WALKWAY REPAIRS: Project started July 24th, 2017- In progress PARKING LOT #6: Project completed end of December, 2016. Repair work completed mid-June, 2017. SPRAY PARK:
(Complet-
Subway(Completed, August 2017).
LAUNDRY ROOM: HVAC unit installation- In Progress ASBESTOS RECORDS (Reorganizing Files): Project completed end of May, 2017.
President’s Message by Jean Randolph-Castro (cont’d from page 2) and air conditioning are old. It all needs to be replaced department with 101 employees at an annual cost of $5,115,000. We must have more Officers and soon. especially Supervisors. Discussion: Management and the Board agrees. At this point, Discussion: we have no option. In order to continue to provide Again, it is a question of what we are willing to the essentials to each apartment they are developing pay and how we can best utilize what we have. a multi-year project hopefully with a minimum I know that management and the department carrying charge increase. As of now, work is done have increased and are increasing the number of on an as needed or unfortunately an emergency Special Patrolman from the present 21 officers basis. They assure me they are busy gathering all to 31. Special Patrolmen presently get 99 hours necessary prices and information and will have a of training. Other expanded training is also underway. To increase staff we can estimate plan to present soon (within 2 months). $41,000 per officer and $55,000 per supervisor on average. 5. PUBLIC SAFETY Question: We are presently budgeted for a Public Safety I could go on but as you can see each idea costs
money and the Board must make choices while we try to keep carrying charges affordable. Just a thought our equity was last increased 6. to $2,400 per room March 1, 2002. We have a four year waiting list. Management tells us the Power Plant boilers, turbines and new gas agreement will save millions. So should we increase equity after 15 years? And if agreed upon by the Board where should we spend the money? I suggest convectors and users of parking? 7. Let us all continue to work together in a fruitful manner to keep our community safe. Blessings Peace and Love. Jean Randolph Castro President
October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
~Poetry Corner & Musings...~ When Each Trial is Through
The Halloween Musical By Anthony Blake
By Ed Miller
By Alanda I. Edwards
Trick or treat before I forget You are our invited guest It would be our honor if you accepted being our request But there is something I want to share The Theme is “Beware” Don’t be surprised who stops for a bite But just don’t take that too light Because it is Halloween Where there are many surprises in between Lights will start going out Within the Darkness there will be screams in shout Doors will be like tomb shut tight Creatures will arrive from everywhere But remember you were warned in beware Don’t forget to dress in costume in whoever you want to be Did I leave anything out, let me see? Get ready to dance This will be your moment at every chance The dance floor will become a creature prance No more to say than “Happy Halloween” Duck, Flying Bats!
Like a Sword
Life’s task may be hard you don’t know what to do… different things on your mind; how will I make it through? Just when you think the one problem is over, there is always something new; You are puzzled what am I about to gain? Or what am I about to lose? No one wants to go through pain, sorrow, or despair-but if you must you want to at least know that someone cares! Well Good News! God! cares for you. And if you only knew. Thoughts of discouragements and your trials will become less as you go through. For there’s no problem too big that He cannot hold in his mighty hands Nor any situation too complex that he cannot understand! So look up to Him and be encouraged too for there is great rewards! When each trial is through.
Mean, cruel, hateful words Are like a sword Once thrust into a body Cannot be withdrawn By an apology, a “Sorry!” So the wound disappears And bleeding stops. Rhetoric, is like a sword Piercingly sharp or Boringly dull, Strong, brilliant words Get to the point Like the thrust of A great swordsman. Like a sword, the statesman Assaults his foe with Insulting names, bravado His followers cheer, applaud, Wise men cower, fearful of Dreadful consequences, Like an atomic Damacles.
Be encouraged.
The RV Church Corner Why not visit a neighborhood house of worship here in the surrounding Rochdale Village community? Peace. The church of St. Bonaventure 114-58 170th Street Jamaica, NY 11434 718-526-0040 10 a.m. Mass Celebration 8:30 a.m. Morning Mass Celebrations: Mon., Wed., Fri. St. Benedict the moor 171-17 110th Avenue Jamaica, NY 11434 718-526-4018 Reverend Gordon P. Kusi, Pastor Reverend Stephen Jantuah Deacon Pascual Olivas Angela Lewis, Dir. Religious Ed. Noon & 5 p.m. Mass Celebrations 8:30 A.M. Morning Mass Celebrations: Tues., Thurs. Christ the King Church 145-39 Farmers Boulevard Springfield Gardens, NY 11434 718-528-6010 Pastor: Jeffry T. Dillon
www.christthekingsg.org Service Times: Saturday Evening 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m. Daily Mass: M-F 8:00 am; Sat. 9:00 a.m. Holy Days: 8:00 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 7:30 p.m. Bible Study: 3rd & 4th Sundays Confession: Sat. 4:00-5:00 p.m. Shepherd’s House Open Bible Church (SHOBC) 134-30 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11434 Sunday school - 9 a.m. Sunday Worship Experience -10 a.m. Wednesdays - Bible Study & Prayer 7:30 pm Fridays - Deliverance Service 7:30p.m. Brooks Memorial United Methodist Church 143-22 109th Avenue Jamaica, NY 11434 Rev. John T. Simmons, Jr., Pastor Telephone: 718-658-8822 Email: brooksmemorial@aol.com
Website:
www.brooksmemorial.org
Church School: Adult: 9:00 a.m. Each Sunday Children & Youth: 10:00 a.m. First, Second & Third Sunday Morning Prayer Service: 9:00 a.m. Worship Service - 10:15 a.m Wednesday Evening Bible Study & Prayer Service - 7:00 p.m. Jazz Communion Vespers: 5:00 p.m. Each Third Saturday of the Month Our Lady Of Light Parish St. Catherine of Sienna Church 118-22 Riverton Street St. Albans, NY 11412 Mass Schedule: Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. Sunday 8:00am and 12:00 p.m. St. Pascal Babylon 112-43 198th Street St. Albans, NY 11412 Mass Schedule: Saturday 5:00 p.m. Sunday 10:00 a.m. Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. Lebanon Seventh-day Adventist
Church 131-72 223rd Street Laurelton, NY 11413 718-525-4630 Website: http://www.lebanonsda.org SERVICE TIMES:
Saturday: Sabbath School: 9:30 a.m. Saturday: Worship Service: 11:00 a.m. Saturday: Bible Study Class: 5:00 p.m. Wednesday: Prayer Meeting Power Hour: 12:00 Noon & 7:30 p.m. Youth REVIVE Service: 4th Weekend of the month: Friday 7:15 p.m. and Saturday 11:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The Rochdale Village Church Corner lists an array of houses of worship to attend. List your church! Email: rochdalebulletin@gmail.com
October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 11
Happenings around Rochdale Village
Teen Lift takes off for 2017-2018 season By Susan Van Brackle
B
oard members of the Rochdale Village Social Services have once again partnered with the Queens Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. to bring the Teen Lift college preparatory program back to this community. What is Teen Lift? It is a six-month long training schedule that culminates with tours of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's) for graduating high school students. The orientation session for parents and high school students participating in the 2017-2018 program occurred on Thursday, October 19, 2017 at St. Benedict the Moor Church, 171-17 110 Avenue in Jamaica, New York. Rochdale Village Social Services Board President Mario Turner and Vice President Kevin Dilworth promoted the event in Weekly Sheets and on social media posts.
The cost of the program’s college tour through Virginia, Washington, D.C., Maryland and Delaware is a total of $625. Five monthly installments of $100 are required with a final payment of $125. The price includes all hotel lodging and meals during the Sunday, April 1 through Friday, April 6, 2018. Parents can expect a portion of the $625 expense to be offset by a grant secured by Rochdale Village Social Services members that is underwritten by the Division of Youth and Community Development. Attendance in the program is on a first come, first served basis. Seven of the 10 slots that were apportioned to the Rochdale Village community have already been filled. Should you have any additional information, contact teenlift@dstquac.com attention co-chairs Ms. Jacqueline BattleJackson or Tanya Williams-Edwards.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
October 2017
Rochdale Village Senior Center - November 2017
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Happenings around Rochdale Village Highlights from October’s job fair for adult learners at the Rochdale Village library By Betty J. Davis
O
n Thursday, October 14, the Rochdale Village library branch hosted a job fair for adult learners at 16909 137 Avenue here in Jamaica. The Employment Resource Fair was coordinated by the library’s Adult Learning Center, which is managed by Ms. Lori Rodriguez. The Adult Learning Center’s Case Manager, Mr. Lawrenzo Lue and staff registered and assisted approximately 89 eager participants that attended the event between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. The purpose of the Employment Resource Fair was to address a number of needs in the community such as job preparedness, job search techniques and of course available job opportunities. In conjunction with the emphasis on jobs, the event also showcased various organizations that offered social service assistance
with health and social needs. Some of the organizations that partnered with the library for the Employment Resource Fair included: Work Force1, Federal Express, Urban League of Westchester, York College, NYC Human Resources Administration, Social Security Administration and New York Presbyterian Hospital of Queens to name a few. The library is no longer a hushed place just to read books. Today, the library is used for reading, computing, expanding education, crafting and entertainment. Ongoing programs at the library include mask making, adult education classes and one-hour musical performances like the one entitled “Music for the Soul” performed by Sean Condron, on acoustic guitar. Residents are encouraged to continue to support the Rochdale Village Library in order to keep valuable activities like these alive.
Board member Derrick Shareef hosts Martial Arts Academy and Tai Chi classes at RV By Susan Van Brackle
B
oard member Derrick Shareef keeps an active schedule here in the Rochdale Village community. Not only does he manage Shareef’s Martial Arts Academy on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays in the Community Center, he is also the acting Sensai for the Rochdale Village Senior Center’s Tai Chi classes. Sensai Shareef has been teaching martial arts classes at
Rochdale since 1988 as part of the Black Men Against Drugs (B-MAD) initiative, which he helped to found. The primary mission of B-MAD is to enhance the overall health of its participants through the dissemination of health-related literature, materials and workshops and by providing physical fitness through martial arts training. B-MAD is still currently headed by Sensei Shareef and is committed to improving the quality of life for children and adults in Rochdale and the greater Southeastern Queens area.
What makes Mr. Shareef qualified to teach martial arts? Sensei Derrick Shareef has been a martial artist for well over 50 years. He has a 5th degree black belt in Karate, a 3rd degree black belt in Aikido and a 2nd degree black belt in Daito-Ryu Aki-Jujutsu and is certified as a Tai Chi instructor. He has also studied other martial arts sciences with prominent martial arts masters in the New York City area and throughout the country. The mission of Sensei Derrick Shareef’s Martial Arts Academy
program is to achieve "Leadership and Excellence in Sports Fitness and Health Education". The program conducts its martial arts and health education training sessions three times a week: Saturdays l0:00 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday’s Tai Chi classes are 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for a small fee and free for seniors 60 years or older. Free Tai Chi classes also take place on Friday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and are hosted by the Rochdale Village Senior Center.
Sensai Derrick Shareef takes his class through warm ups and basic steps of Tai Chi during the Friday morning class.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
October 2017
October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 15
Cancer Awareness Walk around Rochdale Village kicks off 2nd straight year By Betty J. Davis
T
he second annual Rochdale Village Cancer Awareness Walk was met with much anticipation as it kicked off on Saturday morning, September 30. The purpose of the walk was to bring heightened awareness to all cooperators about the importance of being vigilant when it comes to the scourge of cancer. For 2017, the American Cancer Society projects an estimated 1,688,780 new cancer cases nationwide with 107,530 in New York State alone. Word of the march encouraged participation from enthusiastic guests that followed the marching route any
way they could whether by foot, with canes, walkers or wheel chairs. Many people were there to celebrate cancer survivors, honor departed love ones, support those fighting the battle or promoting the cause of cancer awareness. The event was a collaboration between the Rochdale Village Community Center Committee chaired by Board President Jean Castro and the Senior Citizens’ Committee chaired by Board Secretary Joyce Williams. The procession was escorted by officers from Rochdale Village Public Safety with an assist from a contingent of officers from the community’s own 113th Precinct. The Elite Drummers under the direction of Mr. Larry Carthan provided
a concentrated beat for people to walk to. Marchers and drummers alike garnered waves and smiles from bystanders as they made their way throughout Rochdale Village. The walking route snaked from the Flag Pole situated in front of the Community Center, through all five circles of Rochdale, then culminated back at the initial spot. At the completion of the Cancer Walk, participants were given words of appreciation and encouragement by Congressman Gregory Meeks, nominee for Council Member of the Democratic Party Adrienne Adams, Board President and Committee Chair Jean Castro, and other attending Rochdale Village Board Members.
As the march concluded, registered participants were invited into the Community Center atrium for a special buffet luncheon. The space was decorated in pink, which is the color for the cancer awareness initiative. Three guests also unexpectedly won donated raffle prizes. Special thanks goes out to all the committee members, musicians, professional support staff and other volunteers that helped with coordinating this lovely and successful affair. To obtain in depth information about they keys to the cure and ways you can contribute, log on to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer. org. Photo credit: Larry Love Moore
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
October 2017
Halloween Party 2017 hosted by Rochdale’s Youth Planning Committee Photo credits: Larry Love Moore
Mario Turner, 2nd Vice President of the Board of Directors and Chairman of the Youth Planning Committee takes a moment to pose with costumed characters from the Wizard of Oz on Halloween Night.
October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Page 17
Bouncy houses, cartoon characters, face painting, artists and a magician - Oh my! Photo credits: Larry Love Moore
Youth Planning Committee members and friends like Tahjair (center), Moses Turner (right) and Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz (below center), help keep the party running smoothly.
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Happenings around Rochdale Village
Public Parks around RV get needed repairs By Susan Van Brackle
F
or quite a few years now, Rochdale Village Maintenance has been in a tug of war with New York’s Parks Department concerning whose responsibility it is to maintain public parks that are adjacent to the complex. There are approximately three public parks that border the campus between Guy R. Brewer and Baisley Boulevards. There maintenance and upkeep falls under the jurisdiction of the Parks Department, not Rochdale Village. For more than a year now, Chairman of the Board Clifton Stanley Diaz in concert with Rochdale Village Public Safety and our partners from the 113th Precinct have pressed city officials for better oversight of these delinquent spaces. Rochdale Village has repeatedly submitted blueprints to the Parks Department in an effort to prove that the authority rests with them but the auspice always failed to accept responsibility for care of the land. Over time, Rochdale Village Public Safety and Maintenance have continued moderate supervision
of the public parks surrounding the complex otherwise these plots would receive no attention at all. It is no secret that the public parks near the complex have at times become breeding grounds for truants, loitering and unsavory drug activities. However, the Bulletin is happy to report that outstanding repairs to broken lights, crumbling grounds and other improvements were recently completed on rundown public parks around the complex thanks in part to efforts put forth by the Board of Directors during Mayor Bill de Blasio’s appearance at the October 16th Town Hall Meeting hosted by Senator James Sanders Jr., Congress Member Gregory Meeks, Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and New York State Assembly Member Vivian E. Cook at August Martin High School. Persistent interaction between Clifton Stanley Diaz, Rochdale Village Public Safety and the 113th Precinct with Jessica Douglas, Mayor de Blasio’s Community Liaison, resulted in noticeable improvements and repairs subsequently being made within days after the event.
After continued pressure by Board Members, Management and the 113th Precinct, city workers repair broken amenities and street lights in public parks near M.S. 72 behind Group 1.
Northeastern Towers adds affordable housing
Above is a rendering of what Northeastern Towers Annex will eventually look like. The complex sits opposite Group 1 on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard.
By Susan Van Brackle
N
ew York 1 Cable recently captured community concerns that were raised about overcrowding in southeast Queens during the October 16 Town Hall Meeting at August Martin High School. That’s because there are plans to expand the Northeastern Towers housing complex by 147 units of affordable senior citizen residences of which 109 is one bedroom and 37 are studio apartments. Northeastern Towers is the freestanding senior citizen complex that faces Group 1 on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard. The new residences will be named the Northeastern Towers Annex and will also include an on-site senior center, exercise facility, media room social services office, rooftop terrace, gardening area, library and more. During the Town Hall Meeting with Mayor de Blasio, area residents posed questions about affordable housing, congestion and specifically parking in connection with the Northeastern Towers Annex project. As a result of the Town Hall Meeting, Rochdale’s Chairman of the Board of Directors and Parking Committee Chairman, Clifton Stanley Diaz initiated a separate meeting with Northeastern Towers’ building manager, Gail S. Thomas in order to get a better understanding of the potential impact on the community at large. Ms. Thomas explained that a
total of 90 parking spaces would be added on-site with 82 of those spaces dedicated to regular parking and 8 to handicapped parking. The parking spaces will accommodate residence staff, visitors, senior citizens and the disabled. Building manager Gail Thomas added, “This construction is designed to benefit the Community Board 12 population. My office gets upwards of five calls a day for housing. The waiting list is 5 years long. There is no way we’d be able to accommodate these requests without building the Northeastern Towers Annex.” As a result of the meeting, Mr. Diaz assessed that little or no impact will be caused to the Rochdale Village community with the building of the Northeastern Towers Annex. “I agree with the Mayor that this area needs more affordable housing. Furthermore, each of the parking spaces built will be on their land and the affordable apartments will be on space they already have,” said Mr. Diaz. This should not take away available street parking from Rochdale residents.” Ground breaking for the expanded apartment complex is estimated for July 2018 with first move-ins anticipated by late 2020. The construction project is designed by SMA Architecture and managed under a partnership between the Northeastern Conference of Seventhday Adventists (NEC) and the Fifth Avenue Committee (FAC).
Special thanks to the 113th Precinct for providing extra Police Officers on Halloween.
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Arrests made thanks to new Deputy Inspector and police team at RV’s 113th precinct
(l. to r.) Police Officers Mark Lewis, Daniel Connors, Alicia Commisso ,Joseph Paige and Sergeant Edward Scali.
By Susan Van Brackle
W
ithin the last month, there were four incidences of criminal acts on Rochdale Village grounds that could have greatly impacted the community at large. The occurrences included infractions like weapons possession, lewd behavior, checking account fraud and excessive parking violations. In each instance, arrests were quickly made due to speedy police work from officers like Mark Lewis, Daniel Connors, Alicia Commisso, Joseph Paige, Seargeant Edward Scali and NCO officers Edwards and Bradley of the 113th Precinct under the direction of the community’s new Deputy Inspector, Jerry O’Sullivan. Deputy Inspector O’Sullivan is a Bronx native that brings his years of insight and know-how as a policeman in multiple inner city environments. He ascended the ranks after graduating the police academy entering the 52nd precinct in the Bronx, then was later promoted to Sergeant in the 34th Precinct
in Washington Heights in upper Manhattan where he rose to Special Operations Lieutenant spending time between the 52nd and 48th precincts in the Bronx again until he was deployed to a task force for New York City Housing in Manhattan for six years across the 23rd, 32nd, 35th precincts and others. He even spent years doing community policing during the advent of the program before he ascended in his career. While Queens is new to Deputy Inspector O’Sullivan, as he puts it “The basic rules apply in my opinion. You got to respond quickly to emerging situations. You’ve got to have community connections, a dialogue and communications.” Chairman of the Board of Directors, Clifton Stanley Diaz has made every effort to inform the new Deputy Inspector about the needs of Rochdale Village via feedback and ongoing meetings that are held. During those sessions, Mr. Diaz provides information concerning “hot spots” in the area and emerging issues by keeping the lines of communication open between the 113 Precinct, the
Board of Directors and the Public Safety Department. Mr. Diaz’s reach transcends the borough of Queens as he continues relationship building with Mayor de Blasio’s office via his Community Liaison Jessica Douglas and with One Police Plaza in lower Manhattan. Mr. Diaz provided a glowing assessment of Rochdale’s new Deputy Inspector, Jerry O’Sullivan and the noticeable improvements he’s already made to crime prevention in this area in such a short period of time. “Previously, our problems were not adequately addressed before,” said Mr. Diaz. Resources with the police were far less. Now under Mayor de Blasio they have increased. We have a great working relationship with the police. He (Deputy Inspector Sullivan) has assigned officers to the areas of most concern here in the community in response to information that has been provided to him either from the Board of Directors or, the community at large. The community’s recurrent crime prevention challenge has been
related to unsavory activities that stem from Guy R. Brewer Boulevard then spill onto our complex. Group 1 and Group 5 border Guy R. Brewer along with a public park and a middle school making these areas difficult to patrol. Mr. Diaz arranged to have cameras installed on the boulevard and to also have two dedicated police officers on foot patrol. “Excessive loitering and gang member activities are getting cleaned up,” says Diaz. “Whereas before there were shootings with no resolve, now we’re catching people thanks to the cameras that are installed and community interaction that speaks to the adage if you see something say something. People are speaking up verbally and getting involved.” The Neighborhood Community Police Officers (NCO) program is also getting high marks from residents in and around Rochdale Village. NCO officers Bradley and Edwards engage with residents during Rochdale’s special events and they keep loitering and other emerging crime situations down to a minimum.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
October 2017
NORC Weekly Activity Calendar - November 2017
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions -September 25, 2017
TELEPHONE VOTE
and Notice of Annual Meeting and obtain a proposal from an election company to supervise the Board
R42-17: WHEREAS, Rochdale Village has
elections; and WHEREAS, the Election Committee has
approximately 25,000 residents and providing shredding services would benefit the community; WHEREAS, the Maintenance Committee
obtained a proposal from Honest Ballot Association and further adopted the Election Procedures,
has proposed to host shredding events on Friday,
Administration Schedule and Notice of Annual
September 8, 2017 and Saturday, September 9, 2017;
Meeting for 2017 Annual Stockholders Meeting. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that
and WHEREAS, a proposal was obtained from
the Board of Directors of Rochdale Village, Inc.
Data Shredding Services, Inc. at a cost of $430
adopts the Election Procedures, Administrative
and $540 plus applicable taxes for the Friday and
Schedule and Notice of Annual Meeting approved by
Saturday events respectively totaling $970 plus
the Election Committee, as attached hereto, and
applicable taxes.
further does approve the contract of Honest Ballot
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the
Association, also as attached hereto, with a fee
Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors accepts
of $52,095 subject to any exceptional costs
the resolution to host shred events on September
outside the scope of the proposal. FOR
8, 2017 and September 9, 2017 for a total cost of $970 plus applicable taxes for both days. FOR Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Jean Hall
Maryam Hubbard
Tracey Irvin
Timothy Mercer
Jean Randolph-Castro
Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams ABSTAIN
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Maryam Hubbard
Timothy Mercer
Jean Randolph-Castro
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams AGAINST
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
ABSTAIN Earl Roberts
Derrick Shareef
UNABLE TO BE REACHED Tracey Irvin
Kamal Saleem
Barbara Staples
Stacey Francis
Eight for, two against, two abstentions, three
Fourteen for, one abstention: Motion passed by
Board Members unable to be reached; motion passed
telephone vote.
by telephone vote.
TELEPHONE VOTE
R44-17: WHEREAS, the contract for Snow
R43-17: WHEREAS, the Board of Directors
Removal Services is up for renewal.
A Request for
appointed an Election Committee consisting of
Proposal was sent to various companies in hopes of
Talib Bey, Clifton Stanley Diaz and Timothy Mercer
achieving competitive bids;
and tasked the Election Committee to prepare
WHEREAS, bids for a three (3) year
proposed Election Procedures and related documents
contract were due on August 22, 2017.
Three (3)
for the 2017 Annual Meeting and Election of Board
companies provided proposals, of which the
Members, together with an Administrative Schedule
incumbent, All Counties Snow Removal, provided the
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - September 25, 2017
lowest responsible bid; and WHEREAS, All Counties Snow Removal, is fully familiar with the layout of the Rochdale
approximately half of the existing free tenant storage room space in all twenty (20) residential buildings at Rochdale; WHEREAS, under the terms of the
Village Campus, has performed successfully in the past and are holding their prices to the same fees
lease, Bargold will charge $46 a unit with $2
charged in previous years as outlined below:
increases every thirty (30) months and Rochdale
Payloader (8 yard bucket), $285 per hour.
will receive 25% of the revenue as a servicing
Payloader (1 yard bucket), $220 per hour.
fee; and WHEREAS, Bargold will also build the
Dump Truck w/Plow & Spreader, $120 per hour. 40 yard Dump Truck for Hauling, $185 per hour
rooms including new security cameras, lighting,
Straight Salt, $97 per yard
painting and flooring, abate asbestos pipe
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the
insulation, reinsulate piping, remove unwanted
Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors accepts
items and install steel shelving for the remaining
the proposal from All Counties Snow Removal Corp.
free tenant storage under the terms of the prior
at the hourly charges stated above, subject to
fifteen (15) year lease resolved in May of 2013. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that
approval from the New York State Homes & Community Renewal.
the Bargold Storage Systems LLC lease is approved
Moved by: Jean Randolph-Castro
by the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors.
Seconded by: Joyce Williams
Moved by: Lisa Stark Seconded by: Jean Randolph-Castro
FOR
FOR
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Jean Hall
Jean Randolph-Castro
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Kamal Saleem
Derrick Shareef
Jean Hall
Tracey Irvin
Barbara Staples
Lisa Stark
Jean Randolph-Castro
Kamal Saleem
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams AGAINST
Joyce Williams
Earl Roberts
AGAINST
ABSTAIN Stacey Francis
Timothy Mercer
Stacey Francis
Timothy Mercer
ABSTAIN
Mario Turner Earl Roberts
ABSENT Maryam Hubbard
ABSENT
Tracey Irvin
Nine for, one against, three abstentions, two
Maryam Hubbard
absent; motion passes.
Eleven for, two against, one abstention, one absent; motion passes.
R45-17: WHEREAS, cooperators at Rochdale Village, Inc. (“Rochdale”) have existing Bargold
R46-17: WHEREAS, a Violation Order was issued
Storage Systems LLC (“Bargold”)
by the FDNY at the Large Shopping Center which
storage facilities in the development;
requires the installation of a Fire Alarm System
WHEREAS, Bargold has proposed to build additional secure storage facilities using
and a Sprinkler System consistent with New York City Building Codes;
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - September 25, 2017 Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
sought from qualified contractors to provide
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
design and build documents of which three
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
companies responded as follows:
Joyce Williams
WHEREAS, request for proposals were
COMPANY
FIRE ALARM
ABSENT
SPRINKLERS Jean Hall
Thirteen for, two absent; motion passed.
Elmhurst Electric, Corp. Base Bid Add Alternate (Night) TOTAL
$215,000
$480,000
$20,000
$100,000
BASE & ALT
$695,000
Maryam Hubbard
R47-17: WHEREAS, proposals were sought for
$815,000
the installation of light bulbs in various
$120,000
locations throughout the Campus which were not installed in Phase 1;
Noble Mechanical Base Bid
$285,725
$463,293
Add Alternate (Night) $129,140
$200,140
TOTAL
BASE & ALT
$749,018
WHEREAS, three (3) companies provided timely bids ranging in cost from $115,000 to $249,000 of which Elmhurst Electric Corp. provided the lowest responsible bid in the amount of
$1,078,298
$115,000 and
$329,280
WHEREAS, one (1) company provided a late bid in the amount of $56,000 which mentioned
Safe Tech USA Base Bid Add Alternate (Night) TOTAL
$445,000
$533,000
$50,000
$175,000
BASE & ALT
$978,000
$1,203,000
$225,000 WHEREAS, based upon bid analysis and recommendation from Robert J. Stahl, Architect, Elmhurst Electric Corp. provided the lowest and most responsible bid in the amount of $815,000 which includes an add alternate for night work. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the
extras in the proposal, and Project Management, upon conducting due diligence, did not feel confident that AVA Group LLC could perform the job without the expectation of possible change orders. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors accepts the proposal from Elmhurst Electric Corp. in the amount of $115,000 subject to approval from the New York State Homes & Community Renewal. Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz Seconded by: Jean Randolph-Castro
Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors accepts the proposal from Elmhurst Electric Corp. in the amount of $815,000 subject to approval from the New York State Homes & Community Renewal. Moved by: Jean Randolph-Castro Seconded by: Kamal Saleem FOR Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Stacey Francis
Tracey Irvin
Timothy Mercer
Jean Randolph-Castro
FOR Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Stacey Francis
Tracey Irvin
Timothy Mercer
Jean Randolph-Castro
Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams ABSTAIN Jean Hall
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - September 25, 2017
ABSENT
Thirteen for, one against, one absent; motion passed.
Maryam Hubbard Thirteen for, one abstention, one absent; motion
R49-17:
passed.
WHEREAS, for the first time in the history of Rochdale Village, a project has been developed to have digital television monitors
R48-17: WHEREAS, Rochdale Village, Inc. has
installed.
In addition to the monitors, new
3,738 florescent light bulbs in locations such as
elevator wall tiles will also be installed in the
Public Safety, Laundry & Utility Rooms;
elevator banks of each section and building of
WHEREAS, Management and the Board
Rochdale Village; WHEREAS, the benefits of this project
feel that it is more cost effective for Rochdale Village to purchase all L.E.D. bulbs and have a
will not only provide improved aesthetics with the
licensed contractor to do the installation;
new wall tiles but the monitors will deliver vital
WHEREAS, Bids were sought through our
information in real time to each apartment without
online bidding system whereby five (5) companies
anyone having to leave their residence while
submitted bids and
saving on the cost of paper and manpower hours;
WHEREAS, B. Keith submitted a bid in
and WHEREAS, proposals were sought from
the amount of $31,061.42, not including all applicable taxes, making B. Keith the lowest
qualifying contracting companies and ranged in
responsible bidder.
costs from $73,112 to $169,808, of which Sigma
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors accepts
Maintenance & Restoration Corp. provided the lowest responsible bid in the amount of $73,112. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the
the proposal from B. Keith for the materials & supplies for L.E.D. Lighting Upgrade in the amount
Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors accepts
of $31,061.42.
the proposal from Sigma Maintenance & Restoration
Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz
Corp, in the amount of $73,112 to install digital
Seconded by: Jean Randolph-Castro
television monitors and new wall tiles, at the sixty elevator banks in Rochdale Village.
FOR
Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
Timothy Mercer
Jean Randolph-Castro
Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
Stacey Francis
Jean Hall
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Tracey Irvin
Timothy Mercer
Jean Randolph-Castro
Earl Roberts
Kamal Saleem
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams
Joyce Williams AGAINST Tracey Irvin ABSENT Maryam Hubbard
Seconded by: Barbara Staples FOR
ABSENT Maryam Hubbard
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - September 25, 2017 Tracey Irvin
Fourteen for, one absent; motion passed.
ABSENT Maryam Hubbard
R50-17: WHEREAS, on May 22, 2017, Paychex was approved by the Board as the Vendor of Choice to
Jean Randolph-Castro
Ten for, three abstentions, two absent; motion passed.
outsource Rochdale Village Inc.’s payroll processing WHEREAS, after a negotiation process
R51-17: WHEREAS, the present lease for the
with Paychex, we were unable to come to an agreement with Paychex on the terms and language
8,364 square feet of interior space occupied by
in their contract and,
the United States Post Office expires on February
WHEREAS, after resuming discussions with the original vendor bids from May 2017 and receiving a more aggressive bid from ADP reducing their bid to $67,000 from $81,000, we determined that the Vendor of choice to outsource Rochdale
pursuant to a five-year agreement attached and the approval of Paychex as the vendor of choice to Moved by: Talib Bey Seconded by: Barbara Staples FOR
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams
Seconded by: Joyce Williams Talib Bey
Clifton Stanley Diaz
Stacey Francis
Tracey Irvin
Timothy Mercer
Jean Randolph-Castro
Kamal Saleem
Derrick Shareef
Barbara Staples
Lisa Stark
Mario Turner
Joyce Williams ABSTAIN
Jean Hall
Earl Roberts ABSENT
Maryam Hubbard
ABSTAIN Stacey Francis
Moved by: Clifton Stanley Diaz FOR
outsource payroll is withdrawn.
Kamal Saleem
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that
brokerage fee of $21,000.
payroll processing and is approved by the Board
Earl Roberts
real estate broker CBRE Inc.
rent of $210,000 and CBRE Inc. shall be paid a
ADP will be the Vendor of Choice to outsource
Timothy Mercer
a new lease through the post office designate
1, 2018 through February 28, 2023 with an annual
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that
Clifton Stanley Diaz
WHEREAS, management has negotiated
the US Post Office Lease shall extend from March
Village Inc.’s payroll would be ADP., and
Talib Bey
28, 2018 and,
Twelve for, two abstentions, one absent; motion
Jean Hall
passed.
COOPERATORS! Please do not deposit bulk garbage in the building’s service hallway after 3:30 PM Thank you.
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October 2017
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions Requiring Board Action - September 25, 2017
Meeting began: 7:45 p.m.
Corey Jones - Director of Maintenance Victoria Pearson - Director of Public Safety
Board Members: Present Clifton Stanley Diaz - Chairperson Jean Randolph-Castro - President Talib Bey - 1st Vice President Mario Turner - 2nd Vice President Jean Hall - 3rd Vice President Tim Mercer - 4th Vice President Joyce Williams - Secretary Lisa Stark - Treasurer Stacey Francis - Director Tracy Irvin - Director Earl Roberts - Director Kamal Saleem - Director Derrick Shareef - Director Barbara Staples - Director
Not Present Maryam Hubbard - Assistant Treasurer Gil Francisco - Facility Manager The agenda for the evening: 1. Motions 2. Adjournment 3. Cooperator’s Session The roll call was taken upon opening the meeting. Based on the attendance, a quorum was reached. There were (10) motions requiring board action (see the Board Resolutions). Motion to adjourn came at 10:55 p.m.
Also present MSI Real Estate Herb Freedman - General Manager Jay Williams - Assistant General Manager Lance Williams - Assistant General Manager William Greenspan, Esq., Corporate Counsel Raphael Wilkins - Assistant Controller
Senior Citizens Committee Minutes for Wednesday, October 4, 2017 The meeting was called to order by Chairperson, Ms. Joyce Williams at 10:15 am. Prayer led by Evangelist Mary Smith. The Chairperson recognized invited Joyce Williams guests Mr. Jay Williams and Mr. Lance Williams as our first presenters for the morning. • Q & A segment was conducted. The seniors had a number of concerns and questions that were met and answered by Management. • Our devoted Senior Center Directors Ms. Sheri Shivers, spoke on the food
supplement program being offered to the seniors. She also made mention of the 8 week Fall Preventative workshop which will begin in November and also the flu shot for seniors. • Ms. Edith August, Queens Director of NORC office was introduced to the Committee Members. She briefly described the functions of NORC, in support of the seniors as it relates to their health, programs that are being offered for support, wellness, etc. There were several Board Members along with the Board President in attendance. • Ms. Joyce Williams also informed the seniors of the Podiatrist who makes home calls.
• On behalf of the senior committee, condolences were sent out to all members who recently lost loved ones. • Ms. Joyce Williams asked that we remember those affected by the storms, the recent hurricanes and fires; that we to pray for each other. Meeting adjourned at 11:35 a.m. Next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 01, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Respectfully submitted, THE SENIOR CITIZENS COMMITTEE Joyce William, Chairperson Jean Randolph-Castro, Co-Chair
October 2017
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Public Safety Committee Minutes for Friday, October 6, 2017 Meeting attendees: Public Safety Committee Attendance Sheet forwarded
Talib Bey
Visitors: Jonathan Williams from Impact Software and Reporting Systems 113 Precinct: Bradley & Edwards
Public Safety: Padilla, McBride (DVR Monitor) & Bryan Date: Thursday, October 6, 2017 Time: Called to order: 7:07 p.m. Adjourned: 8:15 p.m. Facilitator: Chairman, Talib Bey
don’t hesitate to call Public Safety if you need assistance, when coming home late at night. Mr. Bey then introduced Mr. Williams and allowed him to take the floor. Mr. Williams briefly spoke about his firm, “Impact”, and what they do. Impact has a tracking system that: • Gives historical findings of where and what’s going on • • Uses database that will pull up any issues that may occur; GPS keeps track of walkie talkies; GPS goes on the device itself. • Padilla mention that Officers will be trained off-site at an academy vs. in-house
Chairman Bey welcomed the visitors to the Public Safety Committee. Mr. Bey reiterated that the holidays are drawing near and we need to take precaution in our travels, around the area, in gas stations, stores, etc... Tips on what we should and should not do. Be aware of our surroundings;
There were concerns about the park adjacent to Rochdale Village – Committee Member asked who controls the city-park and what can we do to make it safe. • The park is run by the city. Rochdale is not in charge of city property. 113 Pct. will monitor the park.
• There is a new Commander at the 113 Pct. – “Deputy Inspector O’Sullivan.” • Public Safety in conjunction with 113 Pct. is still investigating the purse snatching situation. • An elderly woman was pushed (Only 2 elderly women this year). • There was a “Resolution” in the Board Meeting, regarding upgrading lights Other Concerns: • Mr. Bey ended the meeting with saying: • Now that we have WiFi Rochdale is working on cameras in the parking lot • Be aware of your surrounds; try not be out after 11 p.m.; and don’t have your head buried in your phone. Next Meeting: 1st Thursday of each month, 7:00 p.m. Talib Bey, Chairperson Tina Young, Secretary
Minutes for Thursday, September 7, 2017 Meeting attendees: Public Safety Committee Attendance Sheet forwarded Attending: Chief Pearson Date: Thursday, September 7, 2017 Time: Called to order: 7:10 p.m. Talib Bey Adjourned: 9:15 pm Facilitator: Co-Chairman, Clifton Diaz Co-Chairman, Clifton Diaz opened in an open forum. • Clifton Diaz had an open conversation on how to protect yourself/avoid from getting robbed
• There were 2 unregistered cars being left on Rochdale’s Grounds •
• • • • •
Diaz went to precinct to get investigation; cars were removed from the premises - Within 4 hours. - Broken glass in building 9 between Section A & B Diaz to investigate Tape on the M-Door Diaz corrected the same issue in Building 20 Sgt. Gerritano spoke on what’s happening in our community Cameras are being placed near the ATM to copy cards – be careful when getting money out of the ATM
• Do not have your car unattended and unlocked when you go into a gas station
• Dog poop was found in building 19 section C. • Too many dogs are walking on the campus Pit Bull situation. Owner has been removed and is now in custody (he will remain incarcerated) Question was asked: What is the Taskforce Duties • Control noise complaints • Move violators • Task force is now suspended • Other Concerns: • Call 911 if you’ve ever been attacked by a dog. Next Meeting: 1st Thursday of each month, 7:00 p.m. Clifton Diaz, Co- Chairperson Tina Young, Secretary
Maintenance Committee Minutes for Thursday, September 14, 2017 The meeting opened at 7:10 This year due to feedback from the workers the menu included hot food as well as sandwiches. P.M. and was chaired by The board approved monies for the event. In Jean Hall (JH). each group a building will host the event as follows: The following items and topics were addressed Buildings 1, 8, 10, 15, and 20. Members of the during the meeting: maintenance committee will assist in serving. (1) Maintenance Jean Hall (2) Evaluation of Shred Fest – The Shred Appreciation Day – the Fest was extremely popular and deemed a final details for the maintenance appreciation success! The shred fest was held on Friday, day which will be held on Friday, September September 8th (Big Mall) and Saturday, 21, 2017 from 12 P.M. – 1 P.M. were made. The September 9th at the back gate (Small Mall). appreciation day is for all maintenance workers.
Chair JH, indicated that a Friday after several issues all turned out well with assistance from Board President, Jean Castro, Chairman of the Board, Clifton Stanley Diaz, Maintenance, Public Safety and the NYPD. Many cooperators expressed that having this event in the spring and fall would be ideal. We will take all ideas under consideration as we plan for future events. (3) Update on Projects: • The work is continuing in the big Mall with an anticipated completion date in early
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Minutes for Thursday, September 14, 2017 (Continued from page 27) November 2017. • The work is continuing in the Community Center date of completion not determined at this time.
a public safety issue. ACTION ITEM
• Building 12 – Gas Leak – According to Maintenance Director, Corey Jones much of work in the building has been completed and maintenance is ready to restore the gas. However, person(s) continue to call 311 with complaints and at this time some of the complaints may be malicious. When calls are made to 311, the City must come to the site to determine if any violations have occurred. When violations are detected, it slows the process down, so when the work order notice was taken down it caused a violation to be issued and increased the time the gas lines are down. Presently, no work is being done due to the calls to 311. It is anticipated the work will begin shortly and there will be another several weeks before the gas can be turned on.
• Complaint specifically raised about building 9 and the lack of consistent hot water since July. Other members in buildings 1, 4, 16, 18 also indicated that the hot water is anything but hot. ACTION ITEM
JH indicated that the key to this situation is communication. There needs to be improved communication to the cooperators in the building, when delays occur and the impact. If placing a table in the lobby and members from management and maintenance are present to answer questions and demonstrate they are on top of the situation and they care is of utmost importance. When we fail to communicate effectively we give way to rumors and misinformation. (4) Feeding the Cats: • Maintenance Director, Corey Jones stated that a major problem is ongoing because cooperators still feed the stray cats. This is a problem because cooperators put down food which also draws other animals. In group 2, there have been possums and hawks cited over the recent weeks. In the meantime, Mr. Jones will confer with the exterminator on how to address this issue. (5) Preparation for Winter • The first salt delivery has been made. There will be another delivery and the development should be fully stocked for the upcoming winter months.
• A tree near building 13 is tilting and about to fall. ACTION ITEM
• The new kitchen cabinets are smaller and do not replace the space completely once the old cabinets have been removed. ACTION ITEM Chair, JH raised concerns regarding the new kitchen cabinets and indicated that she would raise her concerns once again to the board and management. It appears that cooperators are not being involved in the restoration process and not being properly compensated. The kitchen cabinets come with the unit. This is a cooperative and any improvement such as kitchen cabinets should be part of a capital improvement. Also, not to consider increasing a cooperators equity is another shortcoming of this project as it is currently being presented to cooperators. • Parking lot 9A, there is a large hole that needs to be fixed and Lot 7 has a hole that needs to be repaired. ACTION ITEM The current project of paving the • walkways needs to be properly supervised and managed. There has been a great deal of ponding and no one seems to be concerned that this project is done correctly. • Parking lot 1 – cooperators feel more maintenance and cleaning is needed. The gravels or little rocks should also be removed. When maintenance is scheduled to clean the lot, notices should be sent to cooperators so they can move their cars and the lot can be cleaned.
(6) Other Items: • Heat, no specific date has been given for when the heat will be turned on. However, many cooperators have complained that the air may have been turned off too soon as we have begun to experience more days where the temperature has exceeded 80 degrees.
• A question was raised about the emergency shut down that took place in building 16. It was stated that the entire building was blacked out, no emergency lighting was in place. Mr. Jones expressed, this was correct as all fuses were taken out and changed. Therefore, the building was subjected to two (2) hours of total darkness. Mr. Jones in addition indicated that notices were provided to all cooperators of building 16.
• Question was raised regarding parking lot 6, there are several empty spaces and what is the status? Mr. Jones will investigate and get back to the committee. ACTION ITEM
• Building 19, it was stated that three (3) exterior lights are out; elevator floors are not waxed, broken glass in the parking lots. ACTION ITEMS
• Cooperators have stated that people are beginning to punch in codes which allows them access to the buildings without the fob key. This is
• Building 20, By the “M” door cleaning does not take place that addresses the pigeons. Cooperators are fed up with the lack of cleaning
and if maintenance does not address they will notify the department of health. The issue of providing screens in the back hallways is still outstanding, it has been years. Mr. Jones indicated a sample screen would be received next week, if all is ok, a motion will go to the board for approval. ACTION ITEMS The repaving that is taking place by the pathway near building 20 is horrible. This place looks like an urban jungle instead of a jewel was one cooperator’s viewpoint. In addition, using tar is not good for those in this community who have asthma and the senior community. • A cooperator raised the question as to why reflective tape cannot be used in the stairwells. Mr. Jones, responded an attempt at reflective tape was used however it was determined that this was tripping hazard therefore the tape was removed and deemed not viable for Rochdale. However, a cooperator stated if it is done correctly it should not be a problem. • Cooperators raised concerns again regarding packages being taken from their front doors. Management has tried to address this issue with the UPS lockers in the small mall. It was noted, that you should have the package directed to that area. Information regarding this should be posted again for cooperators. ACTION ITEM (7) Group 5 Maintenance Manager – Sydney Adams • Group 5 Manager, Mr. Sydney Adams attended the maintenance committee meeting. He stated that he wants cooperators to bring issues regarding group 5 to him and he is more than willing to address them. He acknowledged that there is work that needs to be done, but it will take time to get all things working well. He is learning and developing processes that should be effective. He is here to do a job and will work with his workers and cooperators to improve conditions in group 5. Mr. Adams again indicated that he has an open-door policy, he needs a full crew to effectively address concerns and he can be reached at sadams@rochdalevillage.com. Chair, JH thanked him for coming and indicated that having group managers attend the maintenance committee meetings is a good idea and should continue. No further business requiring discussion the meeting adjourned
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Rochdale Village Board Calendar November 2017
ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS CALENDAR SCHEDULE NOVEMBER 2017 SUNDAY
5
MONDAY
TUESDAY
7
6
12
19
26
13
7:00 P.M. HOUSE CONGRESS Room 15* (E. Evans)
20
27
7:00 P.M. Environmental Committee Meeting Room 17* (K. Saleem) _________________
14
7:00 P.M. Social Services Committee Meeting Room 15* (M. Turner)
21
7:30 P.M. Legal & Management Meeting Management Office Conference Room (J. Castro)
7:45 P.M. Board of Directors Monthly Meeting Rooms 11/12/13*
28
WEDNESDAY 1 9:45 A.M. New Cooperator Orientation Room 15* (E. Herold ) _________________ 10:00 A.M. Senior Citizens Committee Meeting Rooms 11/12/13* (J. Williams)
8
7:00 P.M. Community Relations Committee Meeting Room 16* (M. Hubbard)
15
THURSDAY
2
9
10 7:00 P.M. Maintenance Committee Meeting Room 6/7* (J. Hall)
7:00 P.M. Community Center Committee Meeting Room 16* (J. Castro)
23
4
SATURDAY
7:00 P.M. Youth Planning Committee Meeting Room 16* (M. Turner)
7:00 P.M. Public Safety Committee Meeting Room 6/7* (T. Bey)
16
22
FRIDAY
3
11
BOARD OFFICE CLOSED
17
7:00 P.M. Youth Planning Committee Meeting Room 16* (M. Turner)
24
18 9:45 A.M. New Cooperator Orientation Club Lounge (C. Diaz) 25
BOARD OFFICE CLOSED ___________________
29
9: 45 A.M. New Cooperator Orientation Room 15* (E. Herold)
30
7:00 P.M. Commercial Services Committee Meeting Rooms 6/7* (T. Mercer)
BOARD OFFICE CLOSED
Notes:
All of the meeting rooms are subject to change due to the Community Center renovations. Please contact the Board Office at (718) 276-5700 Ext. 336 with any questions.
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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.
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