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Volume 27, Issue 2
Serving the residents of North Shore Towers since 1995
Bd. Director Richard Levine
NST Capital Improvements Chairman
February 2022
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Director Richard Levine Capital Improvements Chairman of NST
By Michael Kohn
R
ichard Levine was elected to the North Shore Towers Bd. of Directors in June’s election and was appointed Capital Improvements Chairperson. He brings experience and expertise in real estate, finance, construction and other areas to serve the co-op’s community. How have you found working on the board so far? I was deeply honored to be among the four candidates elected to a board seat. I consider my responsibility to the residents and shareholders of paramount importance. Because of the size and complexity of North Shore Towers and the intersection of a number of key issues at approximately the same time, the board’s responsibilities are compounded. But I hold the opinion that the board, under the energetic and undaunting leadership of President Ed Phelan, is up to the tasks. The board members are dedicated to facing the issues and seeking consensus solutions without reluctance to listen to or offer opposing views. What is it like trying to plan and execute projects during a two-year term? The two-year term to which board directors are elected sometimes poses difficult restraints. Major projects often have long lead times and can require lengthy completion times. Continuity is often an essential ingredient in successfully completing a project on time and within budget. In those instances, a three-year term would be preferable. As the Capital Improvements Chairman, you are an exponent of having a reserve study from an outside firm of upcoming improvements at North Shore Towers. Can you explain why this is important and what it will entail? As a director and vice president of the board of North Shore Towers, my focus is directed to capital improvements. These involve building components and repairs that typically are costly and, therefore, capital intensive. Usually, they can be anticipated using a rational and systematic method of accrual of funds annually to contribute to a community’s reserve fund. The method is known as a
JACK SCHWARZ PHOTO
North Shore Towers Bd. Director Richard Levine. reserve study, and it requires retaining the services of an appropriately qualified engineering company with experience in creating this system. In forecasting the required annual accrual needed, the engineer considers the concepts
TOWER TIMES • February 2022 • 3
“In the near term, the projects requiring attention include removing and replacing inground fuel tanks and upgrading 24 automatic elevators. Extensive work is also needed on the electric generating plant.”
of actual age, effective age, estimated remaining life, and current estimated replacement cost. Factors representing the current interest rate and a projected annual inflation rate are applied. The product of the calculation is the required annual contribution to the reserve fund in anticipation of the future replacement of the particular item. In November 2022, the existing first fee mortgage secured by the NST complex is due. It is an exceedingly low ratio loan to property value allowing its replacement in a greater principal amount. They should provide access funds to be applied to necessary capital improvements. But the questions that remain are which capital improvements must be made, when, and what they are likely to cost. This is why the creation of a reserve study is imperative. Anticipating this need and with the support of some board members, I obtained three bids from qualified engineering firms to be reviewed by the board and General Manager Glen Kotowski of the Charles H. Greenthal company, our managing agent. Therefore, the board will decide whether to seek a reserve study and, if agreed, select the engineering firm with input from Mr. Kotowski. What are some of the main projects you are overseeing right now? I am the board’s liaison with Mr. Kotowski on the remediation project soon to commence in the parking garage under the auspice is of Desman Engineering. Among the issues yet to be resolved is the parking of cars presently located in the garage in order to create workspace. The board, in concert with Mr. Kotowski, is considering several solutions. What are some projects that are planned for the near future? In the near term, the projects requiring attention include removing and replacing inground fuel tanks and upgrading 24 automatic elevators. Extensive work is also needed on the electric generating plant. Other projects include: •Completing work on the parking garage. •Roof replacement. •Redecorating the Arcade and public hallways in the three towers. As a result of the Champlain Towers South building collapse in Surfside, Florida in June, do you see any new requirements being imposed by New York City or the state on North Shore Towers? The Champlain Towers South building collapse was a tragedy that drew major media coverage. Engineers and architects have been busily engaged in the quest to identify the causes and measures that can prevent future similar occurrences. The magnitude of the tragedy and its wide coverage has stimulated governors and governmental bodies around the country to seek legislation and regulations to impose various new requirements that would apply to cooperatives and condominiums. There are rumors that New York State may put in place measures concerning the adequacy of reserves and step up building safety inspections. Continued on Page 4
Director Richard Levine Continued from Page 4 You served two terms as Director/1st Vice President of the HOA board in a 408-unit senior condo community. What did you learn there that you can apply at NST, and how is this co-op different from a board member’s perspective? I served two three-year terms as a vice president and Director of the HOA board at the senior condominium community known as The Seasons at East Meadow. Among the lessons learned during my board service was the importance of staying on top of all business being transacted on behalf of the community. Furthermore, the board was entrusted to represent the shareholders or unit owners, and it must not be intimidated by any other group or body. A director must ask questions and insist upon answers. Can you tell us a little about your real estate career of over 25 years as a senior executive originating and servicing multibillion-dollar mortgage and real estate portfolios for two major banks? How can those experiences be best utilized in your service as a board member? I am the third generation in my family with a lifetime real estate career. My paternal grandfather and father were developers of elevator apartment buildings within New York City. I spent summers and other vacation time on building sites beginning in my early teens. My father suddenly
passed away in my senior year at Columbia College, Columbia University. He had one building project in Manhattan and two in Queens underway. I brought in investors and developers and eventually sold all three properties. I continued my post-graduate education attending Brooklyn law school and taking real estate courses at NYU and Michigan State University. I was subsequently recruited by two banking institutions, ran their national commercial mortgage and real estate operations, and participated in developing large projects in Houston, Texas, and Manassas, Virginia. My banking career covered more than 25 years. Contemporaneously, I served on the New York real estate board’s finance committee and was named to the National Mortgage Bankers Association’s construction loan committee. After leaving the banking world, I founded my own real estate appraisal and consulting firm and prepared appraisals and studies on various commercial and multifamily properties. I also furnish court testimony as an expert real estate witness. After successfully completing their rigorous curriculum and review process, I received a renowned MAI designation from the internationally acclaimed Appraisal Institute. I believe that my long and varied real estate career uniquely qualifies me to bring a new dimension to the NST Board.
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NST 2021: In Review Part II: Ricken Retires, Marketing the Towers, Pet Peeves
AUGUST Golf & BBQ Fundraiser The annual Babes Against Cancer event returned to North Shore Towers on Thursday, July 8th, raising $20,000 for the American Cancer Society. The day included 84 golfers competing for the charity and was followed by a BBQ luncheon. Event Chairperson Teri Oropallo said the day was even “bigger and better” than their pre-pandemic events. “I was thrilled, and I thought it was a wonderful day,” she said. “The weather was the star–cool and sunny for golf, overcast for lunch, and stormy after the events ended. The minute we ended the storm came, so it was a wonderful day.” Ricken Retires From Bd. Bob Ricken announced his retirement from the North Shore Towers Bd. of Directors and did not seek reelection in June shortly after his 90th birthday. He began his tenure on the board in 2006 and served as its president for five years.“I hit 90, and I felt that it was time for someone new to come in,” he said. “If they have any new ideas to share, I would encourage them to take my place at this time.” Looking back on his time on the board, Ricken said he is most proud of his administration’s openness during his time as president. Highlights included: •Open discussion of every resident’s letter at board meetings. •Writing monthly articles for both community newspapers. •Delivering regular reports to residents’ doors to share current information with all shareholders. The Garden at North Shore Towers The NST garden is located in between the pickleball court and the 17th hole of the golf course. During the Co-
BBQ, Current Events After having been rescheduled from the previous week due to the weather, the Men’s Club got to celebrate its second annual barbecue on Tuesday, July 20th. OCTOBER NST 9/11 Memorial Residents of North Shore towers gathered on Saturday, September 11th at the flagpole in the central garden to memorialize the 20th Anniversary of the attack on the Twin Towers. Event organizer and emcee Dr. Stanley J. Goldsmith said, “The intent of the ceremony was to give the North Shore Towers community the opportunity to gather together to remember those whose lives were lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and to pay tribute to the first responders who risked their health and lives during the period that followed to rescue, recover and rebuild. I believe that we accomplished that.” Virtual Bridge Program Last year, when COVID shut down social life at the Towers, resourceful residents bravely ventured into uncharted territory, learning to stream, Zoom, and join social media. Suddenly their world was again populated with the arts, entertainment, family get-togethers, exercise classes, and more–only now in the virtual world. But bridge players were not as lucky to find bridge classes online, and many worried about keeping their skills sharp. Master bridge teacher Peter Steinberg has been teaching full-time for over 45 years and helped bring NST residents online. Chickie Kaufman’s Leadership Chickie Kaufman comes by her strong leadership qualities as a legacy from her background. Growing up in ElContinued on Page 13
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vid pandemic, the Garden Club kept people healthy by providing an outside time, a connection to the land, and, most importantly, exercise and fresh produce. Each of the 60 lots lot is provided to members for a nominal membership fee,and Bob and Helen Bader were some of the club’s original founders. Men’s Club Returns to Normality The Men’s Club took a giant step forward when on Monday, July 5th Gary Darche hosted the first live current events session in well over a year. Darche chose six topics to discuss, ranging from the Mets/Yankees subway series to Bill Cosby’s release from prison. The vaccination issue came up, and it was agreed upon unanimously that only in certain situations should everyone not be vaccinated. What Are They Saying About James Cole? The July speaker for the Women’s Club, Professor James Cole, is an adjunct professor of American and Constitutional History at Hofstra and Nassau Community College. Having the first live meeting since the pandemic, Cole addressed questions such as, “What did the Declaration of Independence actually declare?” SEPTEMBER Marketing the Towers Barry Berman received the most votes from NST shareholders in June’s Bd. of Directors election. Since being appointed the co-op’s chairman of the Long Range Planning and Marketing Committee he has been working with his group to find fresh and innovative ways to promote the Towers to entice potential future residents to move into the community. “The scale of North Shore Towers is immense,” Berman said. Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous NST has been home to many celebrities since it first opened 46 years ago, including legendary media stars and professional athletes, all seduced by the co-op’s luxury lifestyle and proximity to New York City. Neighbors through the years have included such broadcast luminaries as Howard Stern and Merry Mailman Ray Heatherton, as well as stars of baseball, football, basketball, boxing, and horse racing. Perhaps one of the most notorious former residents of the co-op was self-proclaimed “King of All Media” Howard Stern, back when he worked for WNBC-AM radio as their afternoon drive-time shock jock in the 1980s. Television’s “Merry Mailman,” Ray Heatherton, also lived at the Towers and he played piano and entertained at the Garden City Hotel. Hail To The Chief: Gloria Beck Gloria Beck might be one of the busiest people in the Towers. In addition to presidential duties of the Women’s Club, she has been the program planner since the club’s inception six years ago. She plans monthly lectures, various activities, and workshops to keep members busy sharing ideas and talents. Beck manages social aspects of the group as a springboard for other involvement such as volunteerism, mentoring, and charity work.
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Women’s Club ‘Hee Haw’ Holiday Party By Vicki Mazel
T
he Women’s Club held their annual Holiday Party at Towers On The Green on Wednesday, December 15th. Arranged by Gloria Beck and Chickie Kaufman, the Vic Vincent Band provided country western and pop songs from the ‘50s and ‘60s. The holiday show was a musical history of the decades, blending country songs with rock beats. The party-goers danced and pranced, sang and ate in a festive mood, and all had a good time. Table decorations included cowboy hats, and committee members wore hats and sheriff badges. Dinner included salad, pasta, salmon, eggplant rollatini, bar-b-q chicken side dishes, and dessert. The sell-out crowd boasted an age group from the ‘40s on up, with one guest over 100 years old. Bring on International Night, and we’re ready to party again. LOL Are Freshmen! The Ladies of Learning from the Women’s Club started their courses with noted
Constitutional Professor James Cole. The programs, designed to bring some academic highlights onto the Women’s Club roster, address constitutional issues dealing with the foresight of our forefathers, state versus federal government issues, the impact of gerrymandering, and others. Professor Cole’s January topics related to the Supreme Court Justices, with one session dedicated to Antonin Scalia, and the second session covering Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Due to the ongoing threat of Covid, the sessions could not be held live. Continuing the courses, two Zoom sessions are slated for Monday, February 14th and February 28th, 11:00 am-12:30 pm. Women’s Club members can reserve their Zoom attendance by emailing Judy Paris at judyparis@twc.com. These lectures will cover “The National Government versus the State Government– Who Wins?” and “Understanding Gerrymandering, the Census, and What They Mean.” The academic lectures of Professor Cole will continue in July as well, with a series of courses to be announced. One such course will address technology and Continued on Page 11
Gloria Beck and Vicki Mazel at Women’s Club’s country-western themed holiday party.
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Men’s Club Discusses NST Lawsuit By Howard Arkin
H
aving received my open mic agenda via an email before Monday’s meeting, I noticed that one topic to be discussed was the lawsuit filed by the Dimas Corp against North Shore Towers. This would undoubtedly be taking the Men’s Club into a new discussion area. I knew some very strong opinions would be voiced regarding that issue. Mayor-elect Eric Adams appointments of Keechant Sewell as Police Commissioner and Louis Molina as Commissioner of Corrections were viewed as him taking a more aggressive position on the rising crime and violence that is plaguing the city. Molina’s desire to reinstate solitary confinement on Rikers Island resulted in some members in disagreement. Another topic discussed was the Federal Reserve raising the interest rates to help curtail the rise in inflation. My knowledge of economics has never been one of my
strong points, but I think that inflation is taking its toll on me. Last week after inserting my credit card into the slot at the gas pump, I closed my eyes. When I heard the sound that indicated that my tank was full, I opened my eyes but avoided looking at the pump and drove off. This way, I’ll have a few weeks before I know if I was a victim of inflation. My credit card statement will answer that question. On the topic of withholding payments to the states from the 1.9 trillion pandemic relief bill, the overall feeling seemed to be that it would be counterproductive. Other ways could be implemented to get these states to be more aggressive in combating COVID 19. The last topic on the agenda did bring about some disagreement. Did President Biden do a poor job in handling our withdrawal from Afghanistan? Or should we have left at all? One member was quite critical of the president and how we left. A Biden defender countered his argument by suggesting that Biden had said that he would do it, and he accomplished it successfully.
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If any members are interested in future employment, you can contact Toby Horowitz at (718) 279-0082. Open mic at The Coleridge Lounfe, Building Three, Mondays, 10:30 am. Club Breakfasts at 9.00 am at Buffys restaurant every Tuesday and Friday. Bingo Sunday, February 27th at 7.30 pm in the main card room
Women’s Club Hee Haw Continued from Page 9 its impact on the Constitution. It is hoped that Professor Cole can return to the downstairs, large card room and do the courses in person in the future. Cinema Club Slated for February 28 at 4:00 pm, the film review is the Netflix presentation of “Passing.” Based on the 1929 novel of the same name, “Passing” is as relevant today in exploring racial attitudes. Shot in black and white, it shows the threat and realities of life, whether you’re black or white. Set in Harlem in the ‘20s, the story tells of family friendships, marriage, and how racial attitudes on passing for white can affect relationships and create ambiguities.
Gloria Beck will host the TV review on Channel 995. The reviewers Vicki Mazel and Dr. Nurit Israeli will explore these challenges, creating provocative and thoughtful plot lines. The shocking ending is up for grabs, and the film has been nominated by The New York Times as one of the best films of the year. Both leading actresses, Ruth Negga and Tessa Thomson, were nominated for Golden Globes. The film, produced by Forest Whitaker, is considered one of Netflix’s best. Don’t miss it. Special Events and Programs Coming Up The Lunch Bunch co-chairs, Marilyn Goldberg and Eva Kessner are planning Continued on Page 14
MESSAGE FROM WOMEN’S CLUB SOUTH
NST Club South Holds Holiday Party By Bobby Gould The North Shore Towers Women’s Club South held its holiday party at the Polo Club in Boca Raton, Floridan, Thursday, December 16. A lavish and delicious buffet was served, but the penalty was that we all had to get on the scale the next day. Twenty-Five women attended, and many of them were new members who spend the winter in Florida. After the luncheon, after one moved to another, there was plenty of time to mingle, get to know each other, and exchange numbers. It is great for these residents to be able to get together again here in Florida and then continue the relationship when they return to the Towers. Almost all the women who attended also signed up for our second activity, which will take place on Wednesday, February 9, at the Boca Raton Museum of Art. The World Premiere of “Machu
Picchu and the Golden Empire of Peru” exhibit is the world premiere. It is a rare exhibition kicking off its world tour here in South Florida. The local media is calling the exhibit the hottest group event of the season. There are nine galleries with different themes, sounds, and sights. If you are a women’s Club member planning to be on vacation at that time in Florida, come join us. Contact Bobby Gould at gouldri@msn.com or call my cell phone at (561) 445-3029, and I will make all the arrangements for you. We will also be having lunch at Max’s Grille in Meisner Park. The Women’s Club has graciously announced that they will subsidize this by giving each person $5 towards the admission fee. We send love and kisses to all of you and hope 2022 is a happy year for all. Stay safe and be well.
TOWER TIMES • February 2022 • 11
I w a s s c h e d u l e d t o h a v e m y bed. I couldn’t believe how weak I was. defibrillator pacemaker replaced on a I could not move even my little toe. I really thought I was going to Monday. The battery was six die, and I began thinking about years old, and pacemakers the people in heaven I was going usually last about five years. to see again. Unfortunately, life had different Miraculously, they got me things in mind. out of bed and were able to get The Saturday before my me to move. I had two great procedure, I woke up to a Bud Bank therapists. One worked with trigeminal neuralgia attack, an excruciating pain in the face called a me in the morning and had me work on suicide pain. My children came to help, my upper body strength, and another in but it was unmanageable. Nothing they the afternoon who worked on my lower did helped. On Monday morning, I was body. These people were wonderful. taken to one of our local hospitals by I progressed from a wheelchair, to a walker, to a cane. Presently, in my ambulance. Unfortunately for me, they had no apartment, I am walking without the clue what to do. They gave me 10 pills cane. Even, though I’m now home, I’m not a day. They shot me with everything they had. My arms were black and blue. done. I just had the pacemaker replaced. I then started hallucinating. I saw a man New pacemaker, new hospital, new and woman looking at me, and I thought doctor. Wonderful hospital, wonderful I was being kidnapped. I asked them doctor, wonderful staff. And it’s not over. what they wanted. They told me I was Now I have follow-up office visits to the in a hospita, but I did not believe them. doctors. I can’t wait for that to end. I just I told them to take me outside because took an electroencephalogram, which I wanted to see where it says hospital. I is a study of brain wave activity, have was transferred to a rehabilitation facility not gotten the results yet. All I can say is forget about the little stuff and enjoy the next thing I could remember. At the facility, I tried to get out of today! Hope to see you all in the arcade.
This was the second open mic meeting without Gary Darche, our resident host, who is now in Florida. We’ll have to carry on until his return in the spring. But wait. All is not lost. After scouring North Shore Towers, Toby has come up with a gem, Harold Hershman who did a great job with excellent knowledge of all the chosen topics. Hopefully, he will stay on as host.
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NST 2021 Pt. II: In Review
Continued from Page 5 lenville, New York, Kaufman’s family were pillars of the community. Active for the past six years as membership chairperson, and now, in addition, as co-president with Gloria Beck, much of the club’s growth is due to their efforts. NOVEMBER Pet Peeves at Towers Although North Shore Towers has a long-standing strict no pet policy for residents and visitors, the legal loophole that allows service pets and emotional support animals on the property has been significantly abused by its residents, according to the co-op’s management. As a result, the Bd. of Directors decided that residents violating the pet policy would be fined $100 for infractions. “It’s about what we want to have in line with the rules and regulations that North Shore Towers has had in existence for a while,” Bd. President Ed Phelan said in his in-house cable television broadcast. “We’re going to put a little bark to the bite.” General Manager Glen Kotowski sent a pet policy letter to residents on Thursday, October 14th, reminding the community of the co-op’s rules. “While some persons have a legitimate reason to have a Service or Emotional Support Animal, we have been inundated by persons who do not possess a legitimate reason or credible documentation to bring such a pet on the property,” he stated. “In addition, many of our residents and visitors who have provided legitimate documentation to have a Service or Emotional Support Animal have not been compliant with our rules such as where to walk the animal, cleaning up after
the animal, carrying it where possible...” Fall Country Club Update The Country Club was busy even though the VIP Room was not open and was not having normal activities. “What we are doing is planning for the future,” Country Club Chairperson Teri Oropallo said. “...One of the first things we worked on was the country club membership fees.” The General Country Club and resident golf membership will remain the same, except for the 2 percent discount for paying in cash is no longer offered. Women’s Club Update The Pre-Thanksgiving and holiday kick-off for the Lunch Bunch gave that group a new direction and growth in stature. The last Lunch Bunch event drew out a packed tent of about 40 people. DECEMBER NST Salutes Veterans North Shore Towers residents gathered to salute veterans on Thursday, November 11th at Towers on the Green. Board Director Theresa Oropallo led a tribute to the women who served during World War II, working in defense factories, as air wardens, driving buses and trains, and nearly 350,000 in the military. “General Eisenhower stated on several occasions that he felt we could not win the war without the aid of women in uniform,” she said. A Tale of Two Floral Parks North Shore Towers residents reside in Floral Park, Queens, just across the border from their Nassau County neighbors living in the village bearing the same flowery name. The bi-county Floral Parks results in a great deal of confusion for many, especially those whose homes are
partially in each county. Some streets have numbers on one end and names on the other, depending on whether they are part of the Village or Queens, such as the intersection of Langdale Street and Union Turnpike. The Skyline Diner on that corner is officially the last opportunity to dine in Queens before leaving NYC and entering Nassau County. Bingo and Bernstein Men’s Club attendance was on the upswing as the effects of the COV19 seemed to be subsiding, with 51 members attending the most recent meeting. Women’s Club ‘Done Good’ On Wednesday, October 20th in the large card room, musicologist Mel Haber gave an entertaining program on vintage Hollywood from the ‘20s through the ‘50s. The overflow attendees of more than 115 women were able to enjoy the stars of these eras. The tap dancing, singing, and snippets of Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, and Ginger Rogers provided an evening of nostalgia and entertainment. To the strains of “Singin’ In The Rain” and the strumming of “Ukulele Ike,” the collection of songs and dances were the stars of the evening. MGM and Warner Brothers lit up the depression era by helping people forget their troubles. Dr. Haberm, a retired teacher of writers workshops, has been a devoted music lover of popular music and opera He frequently presents music programs at libraries, JCC’s, and adult ed centers. Audiences, including the North Shore Towers Women’s Club, have found him to be highly knowledgable, entertaining, and passionate in his presentation.
Old Bean, if you are one of them, it’s a grand thing By Marian Nemetsky We were having a parade of Fix-It men coming and going into our Florida home because we hadn’t been there for two years
due to Covid. One of them engaged in a conversation with my husband, which eventually included age. Though the guy readily disclosed his age, hubby acted coy.
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and family through Alexa, and update on all sports. During our last conversation, he declared that he was a “lucky man.” He wasn’t homeless, his two children were married, he had one grandchild, and one was on the way. He indeed is an amazing Old Bean. Youth and success are prized in our society. We applaud the accomplishments of 30 under 30, 40 under 40, and now 50 under 50, women who have achieved many things. I propose that we celebrate 70 over 70 Old Beans! I would include all those who continue to paint, sing, take photos, play tennis, pickleball, write, read, indulge in activities that enhance their communities, play games to stimulate their thinking, hike, bike, swim, walk, jog, make new friends and act as mentors to children, grandchildren and all others who will listen. Be proud if you fit into that category. Maybe it’s true that they don’t make Old Beans like that anymore.
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Michael Kohn............................................. Editor and Publisher
“Guess.” When he guessed 14 years younger than hubby’s actual age, he declared, “They didn’t make us like they made you Old Beans.” Old Beans? What exactly did he mean? We learned that it’s a British form of address equivalent to our greeting of “Buddy,” “friend,” or “dude.” On the other hand, the literal definition is a bean that has aged considerably since birth. It’s part of the legume family, is very healthy, and contains fiber and protein. They stay tough and can be stored for a long period of time and then cooked, even though they have dark spots and mottled skin. It made me think of people I know, except for the cooking part, that is. A very dear friend of ours has had Lou Gehrig’s disease for at least four years. His only working parts are his brain, appetite, and ability to enjoy food. He does the latter through the use of a robotic arm. He reads everything, can quote Scripture backward and forwards, watch movies, call friends
Women’s Club Hee Haw Holiday Celebration
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Continued from Page 11 a new series called “Woman to Woman”, which will feature the accomplishments and backgrounds of women who have achieved a certain status in today’s society through education, talent, and perseverance in a sometimes man’s world. In addition, the “Games for Dames” continues to serve members who are looking to join Bridge, Canasta, Mahjongg, and Rummikub games. Call Phyllis Dieber at (516) 448-6676 or email Judy Paris judyparis@twc.com if you’re interested. Calendar: Monday, February 14, 11-12:30, Professor James Cole Zoom (as of now). The National Government vs. The State Government–Who Wins? Monday, February 28, 11-12:30. Professor James Cole. Zoom, Understanding Gerrymandering, The Census, and What They Mean. Wednesday, March 9, Thomas Germano, 36 Most Expensive Works of Art in the World. (Time and venue to be determined). Noted Art Historian and Lecturer. Wednesday, April 13, John Kendrick. Details and venue to be announced. Look for our posters with the yellow
rose on the entrance door of the Towers Restaurant and the mailrooms. Dues News All Zoom participants must be duespaying members of the Women’s Club. If you want to pursue or renew–here’s how: Give a $25 check payable to North Shore Towers Women’s Club to the concierge in Building Three in an envelope addressed to Chickie Kaufman, Apt.1T. Include name, address, apt. number, email address, and home and cell telephone numbers. Your membership will be effective immediately on payment. Regular membership spans July 1 through July 1st. July has been designated to accommodate returning Florida members. VERSE BY VICKI February Sonata Winter’s almost halfway done, Looking forward to spring and fun. Have a big smile – not a frown, And stow away the jackets of down. Valentine Days – no lingering love, Looking for more blue skies above.
We’ll continue with events and more, And guarantee programs that will not bore. Thomas Germano to stimulate your mind, With internal talks from best of his kind. Coming back again to nourish the soul, More classes with Professor James Cole. We try to do our best for you, Working hard on the movie review. Academics and socials we’re amassing, February film is winner called “Passing” Lunch Bunch working
through conjectures, Planning great food and lectures. Chickie and Gloria always so busy, Doing so much it makes us dizzy. Everything we do makes sense, Lunches, brunches, and great events. You keep coming and we’ll keep doing, Parties, talks, and movie viewing. Stay well and active with us. We’ll make plans and hire the bus. In the mix and in the hub. Keep on going with the Women’s Club!
Lee Named Committee Chair New York City Council Member Linda Lee was appointed by Council Speaker Adrienne Adams to serve as the Chairperson of the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addictions. This ninemember committee will have jurisdiction over NYC’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities and on matters related to mental health, developmental disability, and addiction services.
“The mental health, disability, and addiction problems plaguing our city are more dire than they’ve been in decades,” Lee said. “.Pandemic-driven stress, housing insecurity, unemployment, and other issues have exacerbated deep-rooted issues in our city, and if we want to bring NYC back following the pandemic, we must acknowledge that these problems are complex, interrelated, and require multifaceted solutions.”
Pages From Our Past FEBRUARY 2013 The Year Ahead 2013 The Bd. of Directors had a multitude of plans for North Shore Towers in 2013, including replacing the aging generators, concluding the Towers Restaurant and Sponsor parking space settlements, as well as pursuing various country club and other improvements. The biggest item facing the co-op was the multi-million dollar replacement of the generators. The project was in the planning stages for years, money had been allocated, public meetings held, and it was put out for bids. Hurricane Sandy, however, dealt the Towers a financial blow by delivering an unexpected increase in demand for such generators, with an accompanying total price hike of $2 million. “It has had much more of a budget ramification than we thought it would,” Ricken said. “Fortunately, we do have the money in our reserve funds.” Towers Adult Ed. Program Begins The NST Adult Education program’s first week of classes began on Tuesday, January 15th, and its students offered positive reviews. Residents signed up to learn about such diversified subjects as art history, the Holocaust, and acting. Martin Mines, Dr. to the Stars When Sinclair Lewis wrote his prize-winning novel, Arrowsmith, he didn’t know he would alter the life of a 12-year old boy in Lawrence, NY. Young Marty Mines grew up in a middle class family, his father was in the
garment business, and it was expected that Marty would follow him. Presidents Co-op and Condo Council Bd. Presiden Robert Ricken reported that he had just returned from attending a press conference sponsored by the Presidents Co-op and Condo Council at the request of U.S. Representative Steve Israel. Also in attendance were State Senator Tony Avella, City Counsel Member Mark Weprin, and State Assemblyman Ed Braunstein. The meeting was called when Bob Friedrich and Warren Schreiber, Co-Presidents of the PCCC, learned that FEMA refused to compensate Cooperatives for their damages during Hurricane Sandy, even though individual homes owners qualify for damage compensation. Ricken said this was just another example of how cooperatives are mistreated by City, State and now Federal officials. FEBRUARY 2017 The Newest Bd. Director Stanley Goldsmith, M.D. earned a B.A. from Columbia College while supporting himself working in the dormitory cafeteria and as a switchboard operator. He received his M.D. from the Downstate Medical Center in 1962. After a year as an intern, he served as a Captain in the U.S. Army in Germany for two years and then returned to the Kings County Hospital Center as a Resident and Chief Resident in Internal Medicine. Goldsmith then went to Mt. Sinai Hospital, gaining ex-
perience in Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, and to the Bronx VA Hospital, where he worked with radioisotopes. Lucky Tones Perform for Men’s Club The large card room was filled almost to capacity on Thursday, January 12th at the Men’s Club meeting as a most appreciative audience was transported back to its younger days via songs performed by The Lucky Tones and NST’s own Carol Lawrence.
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Discover Resort Living at NORTH SHORE TOWERS Enjoy the Ultimate Luxurious Lifestyle A Community Ahead of It’s Time! THE ONLY GATED GOLF COMMUNITY IN NYC!!
ON THE BORDER OF QUEENS AND NASSAU COUNTY...JUST 16 MILES EAST OF MANHATTAN
EXPERIENCE the MAGIC of NORTH SHORE TOWERS with unlimited and endless opportunities beyond your expectations! Explore NORTH SHORE TOWERS and Country Club, located on 110 acres, with its own lushly manicured private 18-hole, par-72 golf course. This extraordinary award-winning 24-hour gated community, with doormen and concierge services, has a prime location on the border of Queens and Nassau County, just 16 miles east of Manhattan! The TOWERS will afford you a unique luxurious unparalleled residence with incredible views!
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NORTH SHORE TOWERS offers a sought-after first-class residential destination with a spectacular combination of exceptional amenities. PRIVATE 18 HOLE GOLF COURSE, 5 LIT HAR TRU TENNIS COURTS, CARD ROOMS, CLUBS, STATEOF-THE-ART GYM AND HEALTH SPA WITH AEROBICS CLASSES, HOT TUB, SUANA, STEAM ROOMS, INDOOR AND OUTDOOR POOLS, AND CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND.
Enjoy an indoor arcade mall that features a large variety of shops, including restaurants, Chase Bank, movie theatre, pharmacy, supermarket, fruit and vegetable store, and beauty salon. Additionally, enjoy the peace of mind of FULL-TIME GENERATORS–NEVER BE WITHOUT POWER. Only at NORTH SHORE TOWERS can residents have a resort lifestyle with all the comforts of home! Both a courtesy bus to local shopping and an express MTA bus to Manhattan stop at your front door. Be surrounded by amazing amenities and a dedicated professional service-oriented staff! If you seek a unique blend of city and country club living, to discover this hidden gem, please call ANNETTE KROLL, the only resale broker with 35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, SPECIALIZING in apartment sales at NORTH SHORE TOWERS! Your dream lifestyle awaits! A whole new world is only a phone call away, (718) 631-8867 when you call for a personal tour to have ANNETTE help you find the home of your dreams!