David Stone
Founder & Euro Editor
Navigating Apps with Changes in Memory: Join Our Study
December 2, 2025
Weill Cornell Medicine seeks older adults with mild memory loss for a study on improving navigation apps. Participation is valuable,...
When the Air Changes
Eleanor Rivers’ article highlights the personal impact of construction and environmental changes on residents of Roosevelt Island, focusing on the experience of altered air quality. In contrast, another piece questions the lack of documentation regarding the demolition of the steam plant, exploring missing reports and the implications for the community’s safety narrative.
Howard Polivy Was Always There
Eleanor Rivers’ essay on Howard Polivy depicts a troubling portrait of institutional continuity. Polivy exemplifies a governance strategy where consistency outweighs dissent, allowing systems to maintain power without accountability. This piece serves as a preparatory bridge to future discussions on how committee structures reinforce this dynamic, highlighting the complexities of governance.
About RIOC’s “Living on Roosevelt Island Survey…”
The article critiques RIOC’s limited survey and lack of community engagement, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability while urging new CEO B.J. Jones to host town halls.
A New Chapter for Roosevelt Island: RIOC Welcomes B.J. Jones as President & CEO
By Ericka O’Connell, Roosevelt Island Daily Friends, change is in the air for our little slice of the East River. The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) has announced that B.J. Jones will be stepping in as our new President and Chief Executive…
New Beginnings for RIOC: Office Moves to 426 Main Street
By Ericka O’Connell, Roosevelt Island Daily Friends and neighbors, there’s a new address in town for one of our most essential community anchors. RIOC Settles into a New Home As of Monday, July 14th, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC)…
Cracks in the Island: Public Purpose Funds
The resignation of RIOC board member Ben Fhala spotlighted transparency issues surrounding public purpose funds on Roosevelt Island. Investigative articles revealed favoritism in fund distribution, a lack of accountability, and the troubling influence of groups like RISA. The community’s voice is essential for reforming the funding process and ensuring public oversight.
Is RIVAA Double-Dipping the Public Purpose Funds?
The Public Purpose Fund plays a crucial role in supporting essential services on Roosevelt Island, yet concerns have arisen regarding the distribution of funds, particularly to the Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association (RIVAA). RIVAA received $40,000—more than any other nonprofit—while others, like the Wildlife Freedom Foundation and iDig2Learn, received significantly less or none at all. The lack of transparency in the funding process raises questions about fairness and accountability. Calls for reform include clarifying funding criteria, ensuring equitable distribution among nonprofits, and fostering transparency in applications and awards. The goal is to maintain artistic support while prioritizing community needs.
Why Are RIOC Board Meetings So Tightly Controlled?
The recent board meetings of RIOC have been criticized for resembling a scripted performance rather than a genuine public forum, with limited public comment and no responses from board members. Although RIOC has traditionally maintained silence regarding scrutiny, recent inquiries about the Public Purpose Fund have led to some acknowledgment of questions, marking a potential shift towards increased transparency. Yet, if public meetings are meant to serve the public, why does RIOC run them like scripted theater?
Why Every Government Agency Needs a Real Treasurer
The treasurer role in government agencies is crucial for financial accountability and transparency. If treated merely as symbolic, it undermines public trust. Professor Lydia Tang exemplifies effective oversight, advocating for reform despite challenges. Her efforts highlight the essential need for empowered governance roles to ensure genuine public service and accountability.
2025 Public Purpose Fund Recipients
The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation and the New York Community Trust announced the 2025 Public Purpose Fund grants, totaling $250,000. These grants support various community initiatives, focusing on education, elder services, and the arts. Selected by a resident committee, recipients include Island Kids and the Roosevelt Island Historical Society, among others.
David Stone
Founder & Euro Editor