THE COOPERATORS’ NEWSPAPER
Vol. 59 No. 10
October 2022
SERVING OVER 25,000 COOPERATORS IN THE WORLD’S SECOND LARGEST HOUSING COOPERATIVE
Rochdale Village Board of Directors
2022 Election Winners
Kamal F. Saleem
1,114 Votes
Stacey Francis
1,011 Votes
Althea Hicks
1,004 Votes
Jean Randolph-Castro
1,000 Votes
Nadine Browne
997 Votes
The 2022 Election for Rochdale’s Board of Directors
By Olayemi Okeniyi
T
he people have spoken. Rochdale Village is pleased to welcome back to the Board of Directors, Jean Randolph-Castro, Stacey Francis, and Kamal F. Saleem. A hearty welcome as well to first time board members Nadine Browne and Althea
Hicks. In case you missed it, the Rochdale Village Board elections took place early this month on Wednesday, October 5, 2022. The five newly elected personnel will serve Rochdale Village for the set term of three years and, as always, the expectations are high. In the days leading up to the election, cooperators had the
option of mailing in an absentee ballot. However, most people chose to personally vote at the polls that were set up in specific community rooms for their circle on election day. Each apartment is entitled to one vote and special thanks goes out to the 2,223 households that made their voices heard by voting.
General Manager’s Report - Pg. 4 | Public Safety update - Pg. 6
| Teen Clubs - Pg. 15
According to board election by-laws, a third of Rochdale’s occupied units must vote to achieve a quorum and validate the election. Rochdale boasts 5,860 residential units and, based on occupied units, a minimum of 1,933 votes were needed for the election to count. If less than a third of
(continued on page 3)
| Halloween Photos - Pg. 16 & 17
Page 2 ROCHDALE VILLAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021-2022
The Rochdale Village Board of Directors serves 5,860 middle income families and more than 25,000 people in the world’s second largest housing cooperative, located at 169-65 137th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434; Tel: 718276-5700 extension 3360..
OFFICERS OF THE BOARD
Chairwoman of the Board Althea Hicks President Jean Hall Vice Presidents Maryam Hubbard Kamal Saleem Keysha Beasley Khedda Hayden-Ryan Treasurer Letisha Azizah Assistant Treasurer Althea Hicks Secretary Stacey Francis Assistant Secretary Nadine Browne
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
Letisha Azizah Keysha Beasley Nadine Browne Clifton Stanley Diaz Edward Douglass Stacey Francis Jean Hall Gary Hawkins Khedda Hayden-Ryan Althea Hicks Maryam Hubbard Sheila McKenzie Jean Randolph-Castro Kamal Saleem Derrick Shareef George Simon (State Representative)
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Budget & Finance Althea Hicks Commercial Services Letisha Azizah Community Center Khedda Hayden-Ryan Community Relations Maryam Hubbard Legal & Management Jean Hall Maintenance Keysha Beasley Orientation Letisha Azizah Public Safety Khedda Hayden-Ryan Senior Citizens Jean Hall Youth Planning Nadine Browne Environment, Parks, & Recreation Kamal Saleem Parking Kamal Saleem Media & IT Stacey Francis
MANAGEMENT
Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc. General Manager Jay Williams
Assistant Managers Herbert Freedman Wilfred Rodriguez
October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
President’s Message
- by Jean Hall
Celebrate Transition and Change!
Transition and change are never easy, yet it is necessary to continue growth and renewal. This election cycle shareholders sent a message it is time for change. Therefore, you can expect changes involving development of board business processes, elimination of outdated and controlling board practices, educational forums for shareholders, and improved quality of life initiatives to name a few. Shareholders can also look forward to circle/group meetings where information and exchange of ideas, concerns and solutions will be driving our agenda. The board will be active participants with management staff at these meetings. All issues will be addressed, and follow-ups will take place when necessary. I will be open and transparent, outlining what we found, what we inherited and what we propose. One of the first changes implemented within the last seven days was the elimination of a practice where the board was micromanaging the programs in the community center. This level of control in my view negatively impacted the Community Center Director’s ability to run programs independently. Management advised the board that there was an issue with
several insurance renewals for polices set to expire in less than two weeks. I called an emergency meeting for the board of directors on Friday, October 28, 2002. We held a Zoom call on Sunday evening (10/30/22) where a consensus was formed by the board members. On Monday (10/31/22) an emergency telephone vote was conducted. As we continue to navigate this issue, we will keep you informed. One thing is clear an President, Jean Hall insurance business process will be formulated by November 30, 2022, to ensure the process of Remember, your Vote makes insurance renewals is timely a difference. I encourage everyone to exercise your right and efficient. to VOTE! On Sunday, 10/30/22 the Board of Directors hosted As we are in the early stages of a” Get Out the Vote” Rally transition, know that we cannot for Governor Kathy Hochul. fix everything overnight. We The Board received a request are making a priority list and for this event on Thursday, will seek your input so that 10/27/22. We worked quickly we carefully map out what we to ensure that shareholders and tackle tomorrow, next week and the surrounding community six months from now as your were notified. The event was a new board leadership. success, and it was my honor to give a brief welcome to all I look forward to seeing you at in attendance and introduce the November in-person board Queens Borough President meeting on Monday, November Donovan Richards. Other 28, 2022! elected officials in attendance included but not limited to, “Change can be frightening, Mayor Eric Adams, NY City and the temptation is often to Speaker Adrienne Adams, resist it. But change almost Assemblywoman Vivian Cooke always provides opportunities – and NYC Council member to learn new things, to rethink Selvena Brooks-Powers. Early tired processes, and to improve voting is currently underway in the way we work.” ― Klaus Schwab Rochdale Village Community Center from 10/29 to 11/6.
SAVE TIME PAY ONLINE WITH PAY LEASE 866-729-5327
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
The next meeting of the Rochdale Village Board of Directors will take place on Monday, November 28, 2022 in the Community Center Ballroom. Cooperators are welcome.
October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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The 2022 Election for Rochdale’s Board (continued from page 3) Photo Credit : Mikell Richards.
residents voted, a second election would have been required. To avoid this, in recent years cooperators who vote are given the chance to win a month’s free carrying charge. Once again, Rochdale Village put the Board elections in the hands of Honest Ballots, a company with over a hundred years of experience in running free and fair elections using both new and old technology.
Starting at 6:00 a.m. and running until 9:00 p.m. when polls closed, the voting machines were manned by independent contractors from Honest Ballots, who were watched by Poll watchers, and all were overseen by Public Safety. As with the elections that came before, early voters consisted primarily of residents on their way to work, retirees, or those working remotely. Despite inclement
weather, the end of day saw a surge of people returning from work stopping in to vote. At the end of the day, working on Rochdale’s Board of Directors is a labor of love. This is an unpaid position where individuals are expected to serve alongside Rochdale’s Management team (Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc.) to ensure the smooth running of the Village.
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October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Monthly Report Monthly Report
-- by Jay Marion Williams Scott
General Manager’s Monthly Report for October 2022 LET’S GET TO WORK Rochdale’s election season usually arrives with heightened tensions that always seem to affect the feel of the office. At the end of the day no matter who wins or loses we are all here to do the work necessary to keep the community moving forward. The first step is to bring the newer board members up to speed. Rochdale’s intertwining systems are formidable even for someone who is a seasoned property manager. Orientation is a great way to go through the operation and gain a general understanding of how each department operates. Congratulations to our new and returning members, looking forward to continuing the work.
opening the lines of communication between our staff and management. To combat this, we set up meetings with maintenance, public safety, group managers, group secretaries and office staff for feedback on what tools they need to perform at higher levels. While I have had firsthand experience or hands on experience with many of the positions here in Rochdale it’s fair to say that there are blind spots to needs that they may have. There are also blind spots for them regarding some of the operational decisions that affect the duties they have to carry out. These conversations bring a broader understanding on both ends of the spectrum creating a better work environment. We will continue these meetings bi-annually or quarterly as time permits to keep the communication ongoing. OPERATIONAL ADJUSTMENTS I am working on deficiencies in service for In addition to that, leadership and customer all Departments. A big part of the problem is service trainings are occurring in November.
THE PLAN FOR FUTURE CAPITAL PROJECTS We have completed $89 million in capital improvements in the last 9 years. With that being said, Rochdale is 60 years old and additional capital projects will have to be completed for Rochdale to remain viable in the coming decade. The plan is to create a comprehensive map of all Rochdale’s intertwining systems. This map will outline all systems from the Power Plant to the buildings and every underground system in between. Dates of replacement and renovation/rebuilds along with visual representations of each piece of equipment and a description of its use will be documented. This will serve as a living document updated as future capital work throughout the development is completed.
ROCHDALE VILLAGE, INC. A HOUSING DEVELOPMENT COOPERATIVELY OWNED AND OPERATED
MANAGEMENT OFFICE 169-65 137th AVENUE JAMAICA, NY 11434 TEL.: (718) 276-5700 FAX: (718) 723-0963
PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICE 169-65 137th AVENUE JAMAICA, NY 11434 TEL.: (718) 276-2400
MAINTENANCE OFFICE 169-55 137th AVENUE JAMAICA, NY 11434 TEL.: (718) 276-5610
MEMORANDUM To: From: Date: Subject:
All Cooperators Adolph Osback, Chief of Public Safety October 28, 2022 Public Safety Security Escorts
Please be advised that Public Safety security escorts can be requested by contacting the Officer present in your group or by calling the Public Safety Department at any time. Vehicle escorts are also afforded to cooperators unless extenuating public safety circumstance do not allow for vehicle use at that time. Please note: 1. Our current Public Safety Vehicles are not handicap accessible. 2. Public Safety escorts must take place within the confines of Rochdale Village. For your information.
CC: Jay Williams, General Manager Wilfred Rodriguez, Assistant General Manager
October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
October 2022
Public Safety Report
- by Chief Adolph Osback
Public Safety Monthly Report September 2022
Enclosed is the statistical data relative to the performance of the Rochdale BUILDING VERTICALS, GROUND FLOOR INSPECTIONS AND Village Public Safety Department during the month of September 2022. PARKING LOT CHECKS: 4210 Public Safety maintains 24 hour / 7 days a week coverage. *DIRECTED VERTICALS: 328 TOTAL POST INSPECTIONS: 4538 COMPLAINTS: 1. During the month of September 2022, the Public Safety PUBLIC SAFETY RESPONDED TO: 933 Department has continued to focus attention on loitering, trespassing, CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE AND REFFERED 699 noise complaints and all other quality of life violations. As a result, Public CALLS TO THE MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT 1632 Safety Department officers responded to a total of (57) loitering and (122) TOTAL CALLS RECEIVED FOR ASSISTANCE: noise complaints from Cooperators which were resolved as follows: COOPERATOR ESCORTS: 186 AIDED SICK/ INJURY & ELEVATOR ENTRAPMENTS: 89 a) Founded-Compliant- (41) Loiterers complied with officers’ directives to leave and (32) of the noise complaint sources corrected the volume of the noise. TOTAL INCIDENT REPORTS GENERATED: 148 b) Unfounded Calls- (12) unfounded loitering complaints MAIL VOLUME DELIVERED BY PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS: 564 and (82) unfounded noise complaints (officers responded but ARREST(S): 0 no loiterers were present or no noise could be heard). IN HOUSE DETAINED: 0 c) Founded/Non-Compliant Calls- Loitering individuals & GRAND TOTAL OF ARRESTS: 0 noise complaints - Non-compliant of directives – (4) received VIOLATIONS ISSUED: 49 violations for loitering and (1) received a violation for noise CRIMINAL MISCHIEF/AUTO: 0 complaints. EVICTION(S): 0 For the month of September 2022 there was a grand total of (0) arrest VIOLATIONS 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 15 INVESTIGATIVE INCIDENTS 36 VIOLATIONS ISSUED 00 RELATED ARREST INCIDENTS 00 FIRE INCIDENTS 03 TOTAL INCIDENTS 54 TASK FORCE UNIT ACTIVITIES: • Conducted (207) Directed & Routine Verticals. • Made (0) arrests, issued (0) Trespass Notifications, issued (0) C-Summonses, issued (8) violations to include (0) for loitering and encountered (206) Loiterers during routine & directed patrols. • Responded to assigned calls from Central Dispatch (22). • Conducted (0) Tenant Verification TOWING ACTIVITY The Public Safety Department towed (7) vehicles and issued (161) warning stickers for the violation of various parking rules throughout the complex. Routine & *Directed Vertical Patrols by Rochdale Public Safety Officers and Supervisors: Vertical patrols are conducted daily. 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.
Listed are the classifications of Notice of Violations issued:
October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
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Provided by 113th Precinct Sergeant Kevin Watz, Crime Analysis Division to Public Safety Chief Adolph Osback, Public Safety Chair Khedda Hayden-Ryan
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October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report - by William Young Profit and Loss Financial Statement Narrative For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022(FISCAL 2023)
For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Controllable Income before Interest, Depreciation, Amortization, and Income taxes increased $856,000 to $4,249,000 as compared to $3,393,000 in the Budget Below you will find an explanation of the accounts with significant changes vs. the
Budget:
Controllable Income is defined as income less variable expenses that can be managed by the Company (“A measure of Operation efficiency of the Company). It is commonly known as EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Taxes and Depreciation and Amortization). Operating Revenue and Expense variances are explained below: REVENUE Total revenue - For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Total revenue was relatively inline with the Budget $34,505,000 as compared to $34,518,000 in the Budget. Even though Total revenue was in-line with the Budget, there were variances within the Total Revenue category that are explained below: Apartment revenue - For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Apartment revenue was relatively in-line with the Budget at $30,429,000 as compared to $30,330,000 in the Budget. Commercial rental revenue – For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Commercial rental revenue decreased slightly to $2,258,000 as compared to $2,315,000 in the budget. Community Center revenue - For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Community Center revenue decreased $(52,000) to $168,000 as compared to $220,000 in the Budget. This decrease is principally due to
the Budget reflecting the Community Center returning to normal operations; however, the return to normal operations continues to be delayed due to impact of COVID. NOTE: The Community Center has begun opening up operations and we anticipate that the revenue related to the Community Center will continue to increase over the remainder of FY 2023.
Compactor expense For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Compactor and Compactor & Garbage expenses increased $93,000 to $268,000 as compared to $175,000 in the Budget. This increase is due to the efficiencies projected in the Budget were not as significant as was anticipated.
Landscape Seasonal – For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, landscape expense seasonal decreased $(60,000) to $0.0 as compared to $60,000 in the Budget. There was no expense for this account because the Maintenance Department has been unable to hire any seasonal Groundsmen. It should be noted EXPENSES that most recently, we have been Total expenses For the Five (5) Months End- able to hire a few employees; ed August 31, 2022, total ex- therefore, we expect this trend to penses decreased $(869,000) change in the near future. to $30,255,000 as compared to $31,124,000 in the Budget. This Maintenance and operating decrease is explained in the fol- costs For the Five (5) Months Ended lowing expense accounts: August 31, 2022, Maintenance and Operating costs increased Administrative For the Five (5) Months Ended $791,000 to $5,653,000 as comAugust 31, 2022, Administra- pared to $4,862,000 in the Budtive expenses increased $255,000 get. This increase is due to the to 2,501,000 as compared to following: $2,246,000 in the Budget. This increase is principally due to an Maintenance salaries – For the increase in collection costs relat- Five (5) Months Ended August ed to the courts opening up and an 31, 2022, Maintenance salaincrease in administrative office ries decreased approximately $(178,000) to $1,518,000 as comexpenses. pared to $1,695,000 in the Budget. This decrease is principally Janitorial & Grounds costs For the Five (5) Months Ended due to the Budget reflecting a full August 31, 2022, Janitorial and staff and we were not at Full staff Grounds expenses were relatively in May. in-line at $3,132,000 as compared to $3,187,000 in the Budget. This Repair Material & Supplies slight decrease is due to the fol- For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, these accounts lowing: were relatively in-line with the Budget at $683,000 as comSalaries & Overtime – The decrease of approximately pared to $655,000 in the Budget. $(143,000) is related to a decrease NOTE: In addition, the Budget in salaries due to Budget reflect- is spread out evenly over the ing a full staff and we were not at 12-month period and actual expenses vary based upon cooperaFull staff in May. tors needs. Other revenue & Interest For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Other income & interest (includes the 4 account categories above) was $1,648,000 as compared to $1,652,000 in the Budget.
Contracted Services For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, these accounts increased approximately $936,000 to $3,349,000 as compared to $2,412,000 in the Budget. This increase is principally due to (1) a shortage of supplies which increased the price from $3.15 per sq. ft to $4.20 per sq.ft. (2) an increase in requests for floor tile replacements which is related to the impact of covid delaying work in the prior year due to COVID (3) Inflation has increased to 8.6% as of July 2022. Public Safety For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Public Safety costs decreased $(819,000) to $1,963,000 as compared to $2,783,000 in the Budget. This decrease is principally due to the Budget reflecting a full staff and Public Safety staff is not operating at full staff. Power Plant – For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Total Power Plant expenses decreased $(276,000) to $5,709,000 as compared to $5,985,000 in the Budget. There were both positive and (negative) fluctuations in the expense categories below: 1. FUEL & UTILITIES For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Fuel expenses were relatively in-line with the Budget at $3,182,000 as compared to $3,172,000 in the Budget. Although the total expenses were in-line with the Budget, there were fluctuations within these accounts which were due to the following: Fuel – Oil For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Fuel increased approximately $202,000 to $222,000 as compared to $20,000 in the Budget. This increase is due to the additional fuel costs related to the installation of a new aerator.
October 2022 Fuel Heating and gas For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Fuel Heating and Gas decreased approximately $(232,000) to $2,829,000 as compared to $3,062,000 in the Budget. This decrease is due to lower costs related to National Grid and Engie (our Natural Gas supplier) as describe below: (1) National Grid - The favorable impact of the Change in our Service Rate Classification from a SC4A - High Load Factor Service (($0.2640 per Therm) to a SC21 – Baseload Distributed Generation Sales Service classification ($0.0327 per Therm) from National Grid that management was able to obtain through a 3rd party Energy broker. This rate classification has reduced our National Grid bills from over $300,000 a Month to approximately $120,000 a Month. Annualized, this equates to over $2,000,000 a year!! (2) Natural Gas Prices (Engie) – In September 2020, when the Natural Gas market was at a 25-year low, Management executed a 5.5 year forward contract at $0.392 per Therm (a measurement of natural gas purchases). This locked in the price of Gas prices for 5.5 years. This means that Rochdale Village Inc. is protected from Natural gas price fluctuations till March 2026. (3) Seasonality in the Budget was based on prior % and the actual is trending in a slightly different volume. 2. Water & Sewer Water and Sewer For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Water and Sewer expense increased approximately $219,000 to $2,231,000 as compared to $2,011,000 in the Budget. This increase is due to the Budget projecting a savings from the water conservation project being delayed due to COVID. In addition, more residents continue working from home which results in an increase in water usage. 3. Salaries & Other Power Plant Expenses For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Other – Salaries & other expenses decreased $(358,000) to $1,454,000 as compared to $1,813,000 in the Budget. This
The Rochdale Village Bulletin decrease is principally related to the (1) The Budget reflects a full staff (2) seasonality of the Budget where the salaries are spread out based on a 4 week and 5-week month and (3) Approximately 22% less overtime. Insurance Expense For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Insurance expenses increased $250,000 to $3,124,000 as compared to $2,873,000 in the Budget. The increase is due to the Rochdale insurance policies renewal in November 2021. In the renewal, the most significant policy increase was the General Liability including umbrella. During discussions with our insurance broker, he explained that there have been significant industrywide increases in insurance costs related to COVID. In the November 2022, insurance renewal process, we will be looking at alternative strategies to save on these costs.
tion will result in approximately $300,000 of SRT credits for these years. Once I get the HCR estimates for 2019 and 2020, We will know what the additional SRT credits will be. For the years 2021 and 2022, I expect the calculation by Rochdale of the Final Shelter Rent Tax to result in substantial SRT credits because the HCR estimates were not including the 16.5% allocation of corporate expenses.
Page 9 2. Computer Software solution – This project is currently being evaluated. We are also investigating certain software products to replace our current software. This will upgrade our current computer system to a windowsbased system. We anticipate that this project will be brought to the Board in FY 2023.
3. Overall, Rochdale Village Inc.’s Controllable Income results For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, are positive and trending above the FY Employee Benefits For the Five (5) Months End- 2023 Budget. ed August 31, 2022, Employee Benefits expense decreased OTHER SIGNIFICANT IN$(943,000) to $3,123,000 as com- FOMATION PPP (Payroll Protection pared to $4,066,000 in the Bud- 1. get. The decrease is related to the Program) – In April 2020, we refollowing: (1) A decrease in Lo- ceived a $6,029,300 PPP loan that cal 32 BJ benefits due to the con- was be used to keep all employtract reducing the 32BJ benefits to ees employed. As required by the offset the one-time $3,000 bonus regulations, the funds were used payment to 32BJ employees (2) to pay employees payroll, benefits payroll expenses accrued at year and utility expenses. This loan end for payroll paid in April 2022 was recorded in a separate cash that related to the last week of FY account and set up as a liability 2022. When this was paid in April until the loan is forgiven. All re2021, the accrual was adjusted, quired documents were submitted and the individual payroll ac- to Citibank for forgiveness and counts reflect the payroll expense Citibank approved $6,005,000 of in April. The net impact between the loan for forgiveness. Subseemployee benefits and payroll is quently, Citibank submitted the Loan Forgiveness application to $0. the SBA for approval. The SBA has asked Citibank for additional Bad Debt Expense For the Five (5) Months Ended financial information which was August 31, 2022, Bad debt ex- provided. We are still waiting to pense (a non-cash expense) in- hear back from the SBA. In adcreased $165,000 to $375,000 dition, in August 2022, there was as compared to $210,000 in the additional information sent to the Budget. This increase is due to an SBA and we anticipate a favorincrease in Tenant and Commer- able response from the SBA. cial receivables due to the impact Reserve Funds (Wells COVID. The courts did not open 2. for legal proceedings until recent- Fargo and HCR) - The rely which should have a favorable serve and escrow balance were impact on collections from delin- $37,113,955 as of August 31, 2022. quent cooperators.
Real Estate Taxes (Shelter Rent) For the Five (5) Months Ended August 31, 2022, Real estate tax (Shelter rent) expenses decreased $(153,000) to $1,846,000 as compared to $2,000,000 in the Budget. This decrease is related to the impact of previous Article 78 settlement related to allocation of corporate expenses at 11.8% which saves Rochdale Village approximately $400,000 to $500,000 per year. In December 2021, the NYS Supreme Court ruled in Rochdale’s favor which will increase the allocation of corporate expenses from 11.8% to 16.5% and save the Company an additional approximately $200,000 per year. This will be retroactive to 2020. The total anticipated savings resulting from the allocation of 16.5% of corporate expenses to the Power Plant will save Roch- All Other Expenses were reladale approximately $600,000 to tively in-line with the Budget. $700,000 in Shelter Rent tax every year!!! Looking forward 1. Paperless Solution – This Note: HCR has agreed to let project is currently being evaluatRochdale Village prepare the ed. We are considering investing Shelter Rent calculation. in certain software products that will allow Rochdale Village Inc. April 2022 update - During the to work with our vendors to have last Two Months, Rochdale recal- invoices electronically transmitculated two years of Shelter Rent ted to Rochdale and uploaded to Taxes (SRT) (2017, 2018). Dur- our software. This project was ing the recalculation, it was deter- delayed due to COVID-19. We mined that there were inaccurate anticipate that this project will be calculations. For the years 2017 brought to the Board in FY 2023 and 2018, the inaccurate calcula-
3. Loan Forbearance – Wells Fargo granted Rochdale a loan payment forbearance for 6 Months from May 2020 to October 2020. This payment forbearance amounted to approximately $8,655,000 for the 6-Two Months period. However, Wells Fargo required us to pay the $8,655,000 amount back over a 24-Two Month period at $360,631 per Month beginning in November of 2020 and ending October 2022. NOTE: The Company paid the last payment on October 11, 2022!
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October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. PROFIT & LOSS STATEMENT FY 2022 and FY 2023 vs. Budget
Rochdale Village, Inc. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AGING FY 2023
Rochdale Village, Inc. BALANCE SHEET FY 2020, 2021 FY 2022 and FY 2023
October 2022
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Controller’s Report
- by William Young
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Activity FY 2020, FY 2021 FY 2022 and FY 2023
Rochdale Village Inc. Summary of Accounts Receivable Carrying Charges (ONLY) >$100 in Aging FY 2022 and FY 2023
Rochdale Village Inc. Community Center Profit & Loss Statement FY 2020, 2021 2022 and 2023 Actual vs. Budget
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
October 2022
October 2022
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Delta Airlines brings Security Training to Rochdale Village Photo Credit : Mikell Richards.
Attendees of the Delta Airlines training class pose with their instructor and earned certificates in hand.
By Olayemi Okeniyi
I
t’s an interesting time to be on the job market. In the wake of COVID-19, a surprising number of people are looking to pivot in their chosen profession and the Delta Airlines Branch located at JFK International Airport recently provided an opportunity for many looking to get started or to move upwards or forward in private security. Delta Airlines offered free Security Guard Training for anyone without a state license or Escort Training for those who already have a license and were looking to
expand their training credentials. New York State law requires registration and training of security guards in the state. Classes were held in the Rochdale Village Community Center and as part of that experience the option to attend was first offered to Cooperators before being open to the public. Both training sessions were immersive: the Security Guard Training ran from Tuesday, October 4, 2022, to Thursday, October 6, 2022, and the Escort Training ran from Tuesday, October 11 to Thursday, October 13, 2022, with classes starting at 10:00 a.m. and going until 6:00 p.m. As this was an
all-day event, lunch was provided to ensure momentum. Hosted by Rochdale’s Community Center, the whole affair was orchestrated by the branch of Delta Airlines located at JFK International Airport as part of the airline’s planned expansions. Staff from Rochdale’s Human Resource Department were present at the Job Fair held to conclude the training were attendees who completed the classes were given the opportunity to apply for Security Guard jobs at the airport, which is located a convenient stone’s throw away from Rochdale Village.
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
October 2022
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October 2022
By Julia D. Shaw
I
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The Rochdale Village Bulletin
It Takes a Village to Raise Our Teens
t took a Village to help me raise my two adult daughters. I have gone through the stage of being a parent to teenagers, referred to these days as “teens”, and it was not easy. As my children went out into the world and started their growth and evolution into young adulthood, it was harder to connect as a parent, to guide and support them. Parents of teens today face the same challenges, in addition to the mixed impact of COVID and social media. As the Director of the Rochdale Village Community Center, I am on a quest to create programs and activities that positively influence the lives of everyone living in Rochdale Village. Based on my conver-
sation with one of the Center’s former Summer Camp counselors (and shareholder), we created Rochdale’s Teen Clubs. The Teen Clubs will start from October 2022 to January 2023 with four FREE 12 week programs for youth ages 12 to 17. Digital Minds Teen Club offers the opportunity to learn how to create and safely present original video and short films on their smartphones. Another program, Art for Life Teen Club, Club, instructs teens on a variety of creative art forms, from drawing, digital art, and jewelry-making, to blingedout Crocs and designing sneakers. Other programs include the Tik Tok Hip-Hop Dance Teen Club,, which will infuse various Club dance forms into creating fun active dance routines, and Teen Music Club/Band, Club/Band, where teens
can learn how to play drums sets, brass instruments, violin and keyboards. This music program can introduce teens to an opportunity to get music scholarships at any Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). We have two youth programs in conjunction with the 113th Precinct Queen of All Trades for female young entrepreneurs, and Codeblue Codeblue,, a tech program teaching youth coding and web design. These programs are led by Police Officer Cross, Officer Lombardo and Detective Gagnon. The Girl Scouts are back in the Community Center with troops from K-12. We are excited about our first Our Village Annual Teen Tech Summit on December 3rd. This one-day free tech expo will introduce our youth to robotics, podcast pro-
duction, photography, videography, coding, and virtual reality. There are also city-funded programs in the works. The Rochdale Village Community Center and YOU, our shareholders should engage our Teens and invite them to their Community Center to explore new programs and opportunities just for them. We also welcome adult & teen volunteers, as well as ideas and additional input from our youth to create programs and activities that are important to them. The programs are FREE but registration and parental consent are required to participate. To register scan the QR code on any Teen Club flier. For more information email jshaw@rochdalevillage. com or call 718-278-5700 extension 1085 for details.
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October 2022
Our Rochdale Vil Youth Planning Committee Hosts Halloween 2022
(Photo credits: Larry Love Moore)
October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
llage Community
Youth Planning Committee Hosts Halloween 2022
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LITHIUM BATTERIES: SAFETY TIPS AND HAZARDS
By Cynthia Bernadine n December of 2021, this publication ran an article on the dangers of lithium batteries, even before that frequent flyers will have noted an increase in airline restrictions on devices powered by lithium batteries to avoid dangerous situations. Just last month Rep. Jim Langevin (D- Rhode Island), who is a quadriplegic, was prevented from boarding an international flight to Italy because the airline worried that the congressman’s lithiumion battery-powered wheelchair would overheat and catch on fire. In that same week, New York Presbyterian Hospital of Queens bore witness to two adults who were seriously injured by a fire cause by lithium batteries. The blaze did more than cause injury and property damage, it also left an eight-year-old girl dead. Lithium batteries are contained in almost every frequently used item from cell phones, and laptops, cameras, to wheelchairs etc. We use them at home and/or work and when used and stored properly they are extremely safe. These batteries become a hazard when they short-circuit, overheat, leak or when damaged, causing the batteries to explode and catch fire. In light of resent occurrences, it is prudent the cooperators are reminded of not just the benefits of lithium battery powered products but also of safety precautions that said residents must adhere to when making use such devices. The New York Fire Commissioner continues to urge people to not charge e-bikes overnight or indoors. “This many fires in a year is disturbing to me,” said FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro. “Going back a few years, this did not occur. We all see these electric bikes all around us, so their numbers keep growing in the city. As their numbers grow, the danger will grow, and the only way we can prevent these losses of life is if we use these properly and, like anything else, use them safely.” The Rochdale Village Occupancy Agreement states “If the Apartment or the Building shall be damaged or destroyed by fire or other cause resulting from any negligent act or omission or breach of any provision of this Lease by Cooperator, Cooperator shall be liable to the Company for any damage sustained by the Company as a result thereof and the making of any necessary repairs or rebuilding by the Company shall not constitute a waiver of the claim of the Company or of its insurer by subrogation, against Cooperator for such damages. The Company and Cooperator agree that the agreement contained in this paragraph is an agreement made in place of the provisions of Section 227 of the Real Property Law of the State of New York.” (Section 24. Fire or Casualty). Although, lithium batteries are a part of our everyday lives, and are generally safe if installed, used and stored correctly, knowing the potential hazards and how to prevent them will go a long way towards ensuring your safety and the safety of others here at Rochdale Village. To prevent an apartment fire you can begin with a few simple prevention tips. Do not charge devices under your pillow, do not charge e-bikes in your apartments, and always follow the manufactures instructions on proper battery usage. You can read more safety tips below, or you can visit the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission website at https://www.cpsc. gov/th/Regulations-Laws--Standards/ Voluntary-Standards/Topics/Batteries or the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org and learn more about lithium batteries.
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October 2022
Variety Drugs offers new booster shot Help boost your chances of beating COVID-19
By Cynthia Bernadine he strain of the coronavirus that we call COVID-19 has been around for nearly three years now and in our country for more than two. An ever-changing virus that mutates, making it harder to fight. Vaccine shots were developed to help keep our defenses up and current and then booster shot as the virus continues to evolve. The modified COVID-19 vaccination boosters contain elements of both the Omicron variant and the original viral strain attack variants the developed from with strain. This is called a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine. As the virus changes and immunity naturally decreases, people begin to lose some of that protection, increasing the risk of eventually developing COVID-19 and all the health risks that come with it. The updated bivalent boosters are FDA authorized and designed to give people a broad protection against the disease, including better protection against catching the Omicron variant while protecting against severe illness, hospitalization and death in instances when a person get COVID-19. On Monday, September 12, 2022, Variety Drug Store, located in Rochdale Village small mall, received their first batch of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Bivalent Boosters and are ready to distribute to the community. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent is authorized for use as a single booster dose in individuals 12 years of age and older. Variety Drugs has always been proactive in helping the Rochdale Village community attempt to beat back COVID-19 by providing the community with vaccines, boosters, masks, and more, and distributing these boosters now is just their newest way to help. Variety Drugs offers booster shots to all insured patients only as New York no longer funds uninsured anymore. If you are a senior and you stop by to get your booster on a Thursday, Variety will also give eligible seniors 20% discount on all merchandise except sales items and prescriptions. This program will run till the end of the year.
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - October 24, 2022
R34-22: JOSEPH AGREES TO CONTINUE MALL RENTAL FOR ONE YEAR Moved by: Keysha Beasley Seconded by: Nadine Browne WHEREAS, Joseph & Son Jewelers Corp. (“Joseph”) has agreed to rent five hundred twenty two (522) square feet in suite #5 in the Mall #1 for one year; WHEREAS, Joseph will occupy the location as indicated in the current lease to be utilized for his Personal office space and to conduct meetings with his customers only; and WHEREAS, Joseph terms of the lease are attached. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Joseph is approved by Rochdale Village, Inc. Board of Directors. One year term - 522 square feet. Year Per Sq. Base Common Foot Monthly Area Rent 1. 11/1/22 - 10/31/23 $14.00 $609.00 $58.00 Total Monthly Total Annual $667.00 $8,004.00 FOR Keysha Beasley Nadine Browne Clifton Stanley Diaz Edward Douglass Stacey Francis Jean Hall Gary Hawkins Khedda Hayden-Ryan Althea Hicks Maryam Hubbard Sheila McKenzie Jean Randolph-Castro Kamal Saleem Derrick Shareef AGAINST Letisha Azizah Fourteen for, one against; motion passes. CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD ALTHEA HICKS Moved by: Jean Hall Seconded by: Maryam Hubbard One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. PRESIDENT JEAN HALL Moved by: Khedda Hayden-Ryan Seconded by: Keysha Beasley One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT MARYAM HUBBARD Moved by: Khedda Hayden-Ryan Seconded by: Letisha Azizah One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis.
SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT KAMAL SALEEM Moved by: Maryam Hubbard Seconded by: Althea Hicks One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. THIRD VICE-PRESIDENT KEYSHA BEASLEY Moved by: Kamal Saleem Seconded by: Nadine Brown One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. FOURTH VICE-PRESIDENT KHEDDA HAYDEN-RYAN Moved by: Jean Hall Seconded by: Keysha Beasley One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. SECRETARY STACEY FRANCIS Moved by: Jean Hall Seconded by: Khedda Hayden-Ryan One vote cast by former Assistant Secretary, Jean Hall. ASSISTANT SECRETARY NADINE BROWNE Moved by: Jean Hall Seconded by: Kamal Saleem One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. TREASURER LETISHA AZIZAH Moved by: Khedda Hayden-Ryan Seconded by: Keysha Beasley One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. ASSISTANT TREASURER ALTHEA HICKS Moved by: Keysha Beasley Seconded by: Nadine Browne One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS BUDGET AND FINANCE CHAIRPERSON: ALTHEA HICKS Moved by: Jean Hall Second by: Nadine Browne One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis.
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Rochdale Village Board of Directors Meeting Resolutions - October 24, 2022
COMMERCIAL SERVICES CHAIRPERSON: LETISHA AZIZAH Moved by: Kamal Saleem Second by: Keysha Beasley One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. COMMUNITY CENTER CHAIRPERSON: KHEDDA HAYDEN-RYAN Moved by: Jean Hall Second by: Althea Hicks One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. COMMUNITY RELATIONS CHAIRPERSON: MARYAM HUBBARD Moved by: Jean Hall Second by: Letisha Azizah One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. ENVIRONMENTAL, PARKS, RECREATION & PARKING CHAIRPERSON: KAMAL SALEEM Moved by: Jean Hall Second by: Maryam Hubbard One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. LEGAL AND MANAGEMENT CHAIRPERSON: PRESIDENT JEAN HALL MEDIA and INFORMATIONAL TECHNOLOGY CHAIRPERSON: STACEY FRANCIS Moved by: Jean Hall Second by: Althea Hicks One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. MAINTENANCE CHAIRPERSON: KEYSHA BEASLEY Moved by: Khedda Hayden-Ryan Second by: Kamal Saleem One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. ORIENTATION CHAIRPERSON: LETISHA AZIZAH Moved by: Kamal Saleem Second by: Jean Hall One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. PUBLIC SAFETY CHAIRPERSON: KHEDDA HAYDEN-RYAN Moved by: Nadine Browne Second by: Kamal Saleem One vote cast by Secretary, Stacey Francis. SENIOR CITIZENS JEAN HALL JEAN RANDOLPH-CASTRO Moved by:Maryam Hubbard Moved by: Gary Hawkins Second by:Kamal Saleem Second by: Derrick Shareef FOR FOR Letisha Azizah Edward Douglass Keysha Beasley Gary Hawkins
Nadine Browne Sheila McKenzie Stacey Francis Jean Randolph-Castro Jean Hall Derrick Shareef Khedda Hayden-Ryan Athea Hicks Maryam Hubbard Kamal Saleem ABSTAIN
Clifton Stanley Diaz Nine for Jean Hall, five for Jean Randolph-Castro, one abstention: Jean Hall elected Chairperson of Senior Citizens Commmittee. YOUTH PLANNING NADINE BROWNE GARY HAWKINS Moved by:Khedda Hayden-Ryan Moved by: Gary Hawkins Second by:Maryam Hubbard Second by: Jean Castro FOR FOR Letisha Azizah Edward Douglass Keysha Beasley Gary Hawkins Nadine Browne Jean Randolph-Castro Stacey Francis Derrick Shareef Jean Hall Khedda Hayden-Ryan Athea Hicks Maryam Hubbard Kamal Saleem ABSTAIN Clifton Stanley Diaz Sheila McKenzie Nine for Nadine Browne, four for Gary Hawkins, two abstentions: Nadine Browne elected Chairperson of Youth Planning Committee. BOARD MEMBERS Althea Hicks Chairperson &Assistant Treasurer Jean Hall - President Maryam Hubbard First Vice-President Kamal Saleem Second Vice-President Keysha Beasley Third Vice-President Khedda Hayden-Ryan Fourth Vice President Stacey Francis - Secretary Nadine Browne Assistant Secretary Letisha Azizah - Treasurer Clifton Stanley Diaz Jean Randolph-Castro Edward Douglass Sheila McKenzie Derrick Shareef Gary Hawkins
MSI REAL ESTATE Jay Williams General Manager Wilfred Rodriguez Assistant General Manager Lance Williams Assistant General Manager Robert Bernstein, Esq. Corporate Counsel William Young Controller Kelvin Pantaleon Director of Maintenance David George Assistant Director of Maintenance Adolph Osback Chief Public Safety Corey Jones Director of Power Plant
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~Poetry Corner & Musings...~ BOO MINUTE By Anthony Charles Blake Darkness On The spirits beyond Your Soul to depend Everlasting end Boo The sidewalks move Trick or treat prove Do you run or stand still? Scare at will Mind totally hypnotized The Moon has no shine Totally hidden The night forbidden It’s a very foggy night Lurking fright You wish you could disappear Fear accelerating near Possible victim Halloween vibe Perhaps jive It really doesn’t matter Your teeth are in chatter Hungry treat Tricks up the soul’s sleeves No relieve Moans turn into yells Midnight with the ringing of Death bells Treat or trick It’s safe to sleep Your Soul might not be your keep Eerie in the air A word of caution in beware Halloween freedom The fright has begun Are you among?
HAPPY BIRTHDAY By Ed Miller
WE MISS YOU: A TRIBUTE By Alanda I. Wasserman Edwards
In to the Hall Forgiveness to acquire To the chorus sing Above everything
I miss you I miss your smile
For celebrating Fasting and drinking No restriction For the happy crowd The joyful atmosphere Begin to forget their place Begin to fill fiesta life When they left goodbye
Your laughter your encouragement God had a time for you to leave us You will never be forgotten You were special to all of us And you will always be missed Thank you for being a blessing We thank God for your life And being an important part of Our Community, God Peace be With you forever.
Ed Miller 10/14/1925
HALLOWEEN ECHOE By Anthony Charles Blake Spooky but true Haunted within Dark and Eerie Winds blow with a chill The Moon makes no appearance Soul’s ready to rise Formulations of a surprise Moans with energize Do you recognize? Suddenly the Moon is more full
than usual with being larger beyond compare A night of fright No focus of light Don’t sleep and close your eyes Trick or treat? Happy Halloween
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Projects Report October 2022
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Rochdale Village NORC Calendar - November 2022
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Rochdale Village Senior Center -November 2022
ART EXHIBIT BRIGHTENS COMMUNITY CENTER Photo credit : Mikell Richards.
Senior Center Coordinator Evelyn Wilson and Senior Center Director Sheree Shivers with artist Anthonia Akinbola (seated).
Anthonia explains her thought process to the crowd.
Attendees take a closer look at the unveiled art.
The art piece in question: Culture of the Pandemic.
October 2022
The Rochdale Village Bulletin
Rochdale Village Board of Directors Calendar November 2022
See what’s going on in and around our community... There’s a little something for everyone!
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October 2022
Photo credit : Larry ‘Love’ Moore.
(l. to r.) Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Borough President Donovan Richards, Mayor Eric Adams, Governor Kathy Hochul, District Leader Daneek Miller, Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman, Assemblyman Clyde Vanel.
Kathy Hochul.
Queens Civil Court candidate Karen Lin talks to cooperators.
Governor Kathy Hochul Campaigns in Rochdale
(l. to r.) Board President Jean Hall, Board Chair Althea Hicks, Board Vice President Khedda Hayden-Ryan, Board Treasurer Letisha Azizah, Reverend Calvin Rice, Board Director Clifton Stanley Diaz, Board Vice President Maryam Hubbard, Board Director Gary Hawkins, Board Vice President Keysha Beasley.
On Sunday, October 30, 2022, a day after early voting got underway, Governor Kathy Hochul rallied with city leaders, Mayor Eric Adams, and Speaker Adrienne Adams to address the Southeast Queens community at the Rochdale Village Big Mall. Several cooperators, local politicians and community leaders came out to support the Governor.
Senator Sanders Jr. Brings His Office to The People Photo credit : Cynthia Bernadine
(l. to r.) Senator Sander’s team with Board Vice President Maryam Hubbard, Board Vice President Khedda HaydenRyan, Board President Jean Hall.
Senator James Sanders Jr. wants to hear directly from his constitutes. That’s why he set up Mobile Offices across the 10th Senatorial District in October. The office came to Rochdale Village on Thursday, October 27, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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Message from Jean Randolph-Castro - Former Board President
Greeting Cooperators
there is a majority Board I am committed and dedicated and will always stand and support As the Holiday Season is coming up I wish every cooperator in Rochdale Village and everyone a very great and safe Holiday will continue to work with the Board and my Season. Take time to enjoy yourself, look out community to the best of my ability. for your neighbors and be careful with your surrounding during the Holiday Season. I am also very proud of the projects that With that being said there was an election for were implemented under my leadership. the Board of Directors on October 5th, there The newest area has been an eyesore for were new members elected and now they are over two decades is now a beautiful venue the majority Board. I would like to take the for all cooperators to enjoy. We had a grand opportunity to congratulate the new Board opening of the New Pavilion. The Pavilion President Ms. Jean Hall. Also congratulations will be rented out which will generate to the new members that were elected. I look additional revenue for Rochdale Village. forward to working with the Board and to Every cooperator can take advantage of this continue to give my views and visions for beautiful venue and enjoy the quality of life. improvement and to maintain the quality of life here at Rochdale Village. General Election Note, early voting for the 2022 General During many years on the Board and also Election starts at Rochdale Village on being your Board President I am very proud Saturday, October 29, 2022 and will continue of the projects I have worked with the Board up until Sunday, November 6, 2022. Please to help implement. go out and cast your vote. Every vote counts. Early voting schedule is as follows: I am very proud of my leadership. I am proud • Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. of your support and patience during my • Sunday, Oct. 30, 2022 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. executive leadership. In addition to that while • Monday, Oct. 31, 2022 from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m.
• • • • • •
Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022 from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022 from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, 2022 from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, 2022 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
I am here for you and you can always reach me as your Board member. Peace, Love & Blessings to all. Jean Randolph-Castro Former Board President
The Grand Opening of the Pavilion Photo credit : Larry ‘Love’ Moore.
The Pavilion.
By Olayemi Okeniyi
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he grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony to launch Rochdale’s new Pavilion was held on Saturday October 1, 2022, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Pavilion is a stunning work in custom almond and caramel colored marble. It hosts an aethereal gazebo, an understated water fountain, and a tasteful firepit. Its simple yet elegant design is made complete by the tasteful inclusion of
Rochdale’s Board Members, Management, Cooperators and Assemblywoman Vivian Cook celebrate new Pavilion.
small flower beds and a privacy hedge. It is only a matter of time before it becomes the go-to destination for birthdays, proposals, anniversaries, and other special events. This timeless design will undoubtably serve as the background in photos and videos for Rochdale specific occasions like the upcoming Christmas tree lighting. When compared to the satellite dishes that previously took up that space, the Pavilion is both beautiful to look at and profitable
to the community. Long past their usefulness, the giant circular disks had become an eyesore that served no purpose while taking up valuable real estate. The event was open to all cooperators, and those in attendance were treated to hors d’oeuvres in the redbrick area of the Community Center located right across from newly minted building, due to the possibility of inclement weather.
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