You paid for it, but you’re not invited to the ribbon-cutting for the FDR Hope Memorial on Saturday. A press release excluded all local news sources. And no RIOC Advisory extended an invitation to the event, just three days away.
By David Stone
You’re not invited
“Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) and the Roosevelt Island Disabled Association (RIDA) announced plans to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with the unveiling of the FDR Hope Memorial,” RIOC said.
But there’s a problem. RIDA did not know that any press release went out and had not approved it. State assembly member Rebecca Seawright, also quoted in the release, was unaware of its exclusive nature.
As we reported yesterday, we stumbled on a story in Yahoo News about the ribbon-cutting. As standard practice, they simply replicate a press release they receive, if they think it’s newsworthy. Others followed.
Although clear that RIOC wanted the news spread, it was in fact equally clear that you’re not invited. Not if you live on Roosevelt Island.
Keep in mind we know about this only because we found it in a Google search. It does not even include a time for the event, and RIOC has not notified the local community.
The ribbon-cutting is just three days away. You’re not invited.
But you might find a couple of items worth a chuckle. A cynical one, probably, but still…
About the ribbon-cutting..
“We are reminded every day, by our island’s name, that we have a legacy to uphold by continuing to represent how inclusion and diversity can prosper in New York.”
RIOC president/CEO Shelton Haynes
This is funny only because it contradicts reality on the ground. Roosevelt Islanders and local news media have no place in this exclusive event. And take a look around. RIOC sports one of the least diverse work forces, at all levels, you will find anywhere.
Haynes recently seized the second floor of historic Blackwell House for his office. The space is not Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant. His salute of support for people with disabilities, in the real world, rings hollow.
“Guest speakers attending the FDR Hope Memorial unveiling will include… Representative Caroline Maloney.” Is she related to our own local “Carolyn Maloney?”
Note: If you have any spare spell check software, consider donating it to RIOC.
Finally: “RIOC is committed to providing services that enhance the island’s residential community,” but you’re not invited.
Also from the Roosevelt Island Daily News
- Police Investigate Fatal Stabbing Outside Jamaica Avenue NightclubPolice investigate fatal stabbing outside Jamaica Avenue nightclub after a 29-year-old man was killed. Detectives seek tips as the community responds.
- Former NYPD Sergeant Pleads Guilty to Impersonating ICE Agent in Brooklyn Federal CourtA former NYPD sergeant pleaded guilty to impersonating an ICE agent in Brooklyn federal court, highlighting issues of authority, public trust, and the legal process ahead.
- Queens Subway and Far Rockaway Stabbings Spur Police InvestigationsQueens subway and Far Rockaway stabbings on September 30 prompted separate police investigations and community response after two fatal incidents disrupted daily routines.
- Fatal Stabbing on J Train at Woodhaven Boulevard Spurs Subway Safety Concerns in QueensA fatal stabbing on J train at Woodhaven Boulevard raises fresh subway safety concerns in Queens, as NYPD investigates and riders reflect on recent incidents.
- J and M Train Weekend Service Changes: What Riders Need to KnowJ and M train weekend service changes will impact riders for five weekends as crews replace elevated track switches. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare for modified schedules across Brooklyn and Queens.
Who Chose Them? The Transparency Gap
Last year, we focused on the outcomes.
