Yesterday morning, we published our report on the desecrated flag shredded and stuck between trees outside Blackwell House. RIOC’s response was swift, and the flag was freed by afternoon.
by David Stone
The Roosevelt Island Daily News

New York State law requires that government buildings follow a strict rule for when and how the American flag is flown. That says that flags should be held to a sunrise to sunset routine. RIOC got into trouble because it failed to follow that guideline for months. During that time, strong winds, rain and snow shredded the flag, ripping it into pieces which got stuck in opposite directions.

This condition lasted until a resident pointed it out to The Daily. Our report followed. RIOC noticed, finally. We know, also, that at least one other resident reported it into the state agency’s ticketing system.
Bottom line: the desecrated flag is down and RIOC learned a lesson about showing respect for our country’s best known symbol.
More from the Roosevelt Island Daily News
- MTA Launches Six-Year Signal and Track Overhaul on A and C Subway LinesThe MTA launches a six-year signal and track overhaul on A and C subway lines, bringing CBTC and major infrastructure upgrades to the Fulton and Liberty Avenue corridors through 2032.
- Long Island City Rent Overcharge Lawsuit Seeks $50 Million Against DeveloperA Long Island City rent overcharge lawsuit seeks about $50 million from Rockrose Development, raising questions about billing practices, tenant protections, and legal oversight in NYC’s fast-changing rental market.
- Astoria E-Scooter Rider Dies After Northern Boulevard Crash in Long Island CityA 22-year-old Astoria e-scooter rider died after a Northern Boulevard crash in Long Island City. Details remain under investigation, highlighting micromobility risks on busy city streets.
- Hate Crime Charges Filed After Vandalism at Fresh Meadows Kosher Bagel ShopHate crime charges have been filed after vandalism at a kosher bagel shop in Fresh Meadows, with prosecutors alleging bias-motivated acts. Hearings are set in New York’s legal process.
- Midtown Subway Shooting Leaves 26-Year-Old Dead; Queens Incidents SeparateA shooting inside a Manhattan subway station left a 26-year-old dead. Police investigate the Midtown incident and separate shootings in Queens as commuters seek safety.
Ten Years, or Another Temporary Fix?
Roosevelt Island was built through public investment, then expected to support itself through development. The ten-year lease extension gives RIOC a rare chance to replace short-term deals with a financial system designed to outlast the people approving them.











The only flag Shelton Haynes cares about is that domestic terrorist flag Black Lives Matter flag
I’m not agreeing with that, but you are welcome to your opinion.