Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. © Copyright 2012 Co-op City Times
Vol. 47 No. 43
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Riverbay prepares for expected hurricane; Residents urged to take all necessary precautions BY BILL STUTTIG With a late season hurricane expected to significantly impact the New York metropolitan area by as early as tomorrow evening, Riverbay personnel began preparing for the worst as early as Thursday afternoon with the hopes of having the community as prepared as possible before the first wind gusts beginning blowing. General Manager Vernon Cooper called a meeting of all of Riverbay’s operational department directors both Thursday and yesterday to coordinate efforts to have everybody prepared for the worst possible scenario while hoping for the best possible scenario. First and foremost, Cooper stressed, is to make sure that all residents are aware of the impending storm and that they are taking the necessary precautions in their homes to protect themselves, their family and neighbors. Riverbay’s emergency notification system was put into use beginning Thursday evening, warning residents of the fast moving storm and the need to take precautions, including the absolute requirement to remove all items from the balconies at least one day before the
storm is predicted to hit. In addition, a full list of recommended precautions were printed onto flyers and distributed to each home and building in the community, as well as placed on the Riverbay crawler and on the front page of the Co-op City Times (see below). Public rooms in all three community centers were being prepared to be set up as emergency shelters during the storm should any resident or visitor need temporary shelter due to storm damage to their home or not being able to get back to their home due to the voracity of the fast-moving storm. These shelters will be in the Dreiser auditorium, Room 28 of the Bartow Community Center and Rooms 45 and 49 of the Einstein Community Center. Operational staff and directors also began putting a wide variety of preparations and contingency plans in effect by Friday afternoon, including preparing and placing sand bags in areas where flooding is known to occur in severe weather, readying all sump pumps and the more powerful gas-powered pumps for use, boarding up windows, securing and (Continued on page 2)
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Board approves one-year contract renewal for MSI BY ROZAAN BOONE At this week’s meeting of the Riverbay Board of Directors, an emergency resolution extending a one-year contract renewal with no fee increases to the present management company of Coop City, Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., was approved by a majority of the Directors in attendance. Prior to their vote, the Board considered Emergency Resolution 12-93 which stated: “Whereas, a requirement for the HUD approved loan is for Riverbay to have a one-year management agreement contract that is effective November 1, 2012 and ends October 31, 2013; and “…the Board of Directors agrees to approve a one-year contract with Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., for the period November 1, 2012 through October 31, 2013 and such contract is consistent with the basic terms and conditions approved by DHCR and has no increase in the management fees.” The resolution was submitted at the Board meeting on Wednesday, October 24, by Director Eleanor Bailey and seconded by Riverbay Board Treasurer Raymond Tirado. In addition to Directors Bailey and Tirado, other Board Directors who voted in favor of the MSI contract renewal are Board President Helen Atkins, Directors Bernard Cylich, Leah
Graham, Tony Illis, Francine Jones, Andrea Leslie, Evelyn Santiago, Evelyn Turner and Khalil Abdul-Wahhab. Director Daryl Johnson cast the lone dissenting vote and Directors Othelia Jones, Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens and Al Shapiro were absent from the meeting. Herbert Freedman, principal of Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., said: “Marion Scott and I appreciate the support shown by the Board in approving our contract. We work every day to demonstrate our dedication and that is why over three years ago we began the quest for an advantageous recapitalization based upon the low interest rates then, and now, possible. We believe the savings from the HUD loan versus the NYCB loan of almost $150,000,000 has shown to the Board our commitment and hard work on behalf of Co-op City pays off. It pays off not only in professional management led by Vernon Cooper and Gail BadgerMorgan, but in big ways like the savings on this loan and the money earned by building a 40 megawatt power plant to make Co-op City energy self sufficient.” “Voting to approve a contract with Marion Scott Real Estate was crucial to our efforts to obtain a guaranteed mortgage loan from HUD because it shows a continuity in management at Riverbay (Continued on page 4)
H UR R I C ANE AL E RT I n t he even t of a n emer gen cy d ur in g t he st or m wher e you m u st seek sh elt er a wa y fr om you r h om e, th e followin g loca tion s will b e op en du r ing t he st or m a n d ma nn ed b y Pu b lic Sa fet y. • Dr eiser Au dit or ium s: A-B-C • Ba r t ow C en t er : R oom 28 • E in st ein C en t er : R oom s 45 & 49
• I n em er gen cy, ca ll: P ub lic Sa fet y - 718-671-3050 • NYP D/F DNY - 911 • M a in t en a n ce - 718-320-3300, p r ess 3, t h en 1
H UR R I C ANE HI GH W I NDS AL E RT C oop er a t or s a r e u r ged t o r em ove a n y a nd a ll it ems t h a t m a y be b lown off you r t er r a ces a n d p a t ios a s h igh wind s a r e exp ect ed t his weekend d ue t o Hu r r ica n e Sa n dy.
H UR R I C ANE ADVI SO RY R iver b a y C or por a t ion a d vises t he following: • St a y in d oor s d u r in g t h e st or m . (Sh elt er in pla ce) • St a y a wa y fr om wind ows. Sh ou ld win dows b low out , m ove t o you r build in g’s h a llwa y • C u t ba ck on elect r ica l u sa ge
• Keep sever a l da ys supp ly of househ old st a p les; wa t er, food , fla sh light /ba tt er ies & a por ta ble r a dio • Keep an emer gency ba g ava ila ble should you n eed to leave your home r emember medica tions • P r e-ch a r ge you r cell p h on es
Resolutions to extend Wells Fargo/HUD loan talks ok’ed by Board BY JIM ROBERTS The Riverbay Board of Directors approved four emergency resolutions at its meeting Wednesday, Oct. 24 in order to continue the negotiations now underway aimed at completing a $621.5 million refinancing of Co-op City’s mortgage. The proposed $621.5 million mortgage refinancing loan, to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank and guaranteed by the federal Housing and Urban Development agency (HUD), will pay off the community’s existing $558 million mortgage debt with NewYork Community Bank and also provide $25 million for continuing capital projects work and add $40 million to Riverbay reserve funds and pay for bank fees and expenses. The current NYCB mortgage rate rises to 5.75% this October, goes to 6% next July, increases again to 6.25% in 2016 and tops out at 6.5% in 2021 before requiring refinancing in 2026. The HUD-guaranteed Wells Fargo mortgage at a projected 3% interest rate would save shareholders approximately
more than $15 million over the next 20 months and then between $11 million to $13 million per year through 2026, for a total savings of more than $160 million between now and 2026. Resolution #12-94, approved last Wednesday, extended the time that Wells Fargo bank has to be the exclusive representative in completing the refinancing until Nov. 30. Members voting yes were Board President Helen Atkins, Eleanor Bailey, Bernard Cylich, Leah Graham, Tony Illis, Daryl Johnson, Francine Reva Jones, Andrea Leslie, Evelyn Santiago, Evelyn Turner and 1st Vice President Khalil Abdul-Wahhab. Board members Othelia Jones, Reverend Calvin Owens and Al Shapiro were marked absent on the vote and Raymond Tirado abstained. Resolution #12-95 confirmed the prepayment premium that Riverbay will pay to New York Community Bank, and stated that the Nov. 30 extension has been granted by NYCB at no additional charge. (Continued on page 2)
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Hurricane removing all loose items from roof tops, making sure all drains are clear of debris and ready to handle the heavy rain fall expected over several hours, removing all garbage containers and waste containers from open areas, and testing all emergency call boxes throughout the community. Commercial tenants were advised to prepare in advance for the storm as well, including boarding up pane glass store fronts and taking necessary precautions
HUD Loans Board members all cast the same vote on this resolution as they did on #12-94. By the same vote, the Board also extended the deadline for Riverbay to refinance the NYCB mortgage to Nov. 30, amending previous Resolution #12-78. Resolution #12-97 was also approved, allowing Riverbay to enter into a binding loan agreement for 35 years at the locked interest rate to be determined when a final agreement is reached. Director Daryl Johnson voted no on the resolution, while all others present at the meeting voted in the affirmative. Meanwhile, Riverbay General Counsel Jeffrey Buss clarified two issues about the proposed refinancing in regards to the possibility of some day privatizing Co-op City.
(Continued from page 1)
to prevent flooding inside their businesses which includes placing sandbags around doors. Since the height of the storm is expected to be Monday, and in order to keep seniors in their homes and out of the storm’s fury that day, JASA has been advised to be prepared to cancel programs in all three centers, including the lunch programs, and offer delivery of boxed lunches instead. Public Safety said that their emer(Continued from page 1)
Buss noted that current regulations set by the state Housing and Community Renewal agency requires that a majority of all shareholders, or 7,687 votes, are necessary to approve privatization. HCR rules previously only required a majority of those voting, a much lower threshold to achieve. In addition, Buss points out that privatization could not occur during the first two years of the HUD-backed mortgage. If the community voted to privatize after two years, the Wells Fargo mortgage would have to be refinanced with prepayment penalties starting at 8% of the loan and then dropping by 1% each year. After ten years, the HUD-backed loan could be refinanced with no prepayment penalties.
No Co-op City Times? Call our distributor at 646.261.1761 Saturday: 9 am - 2 pm.
gency phone center is supported by a back-up generator and will be fully operational should a full or partial power failure strike the community or even the region. Emergencies can be called into Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or by calling 9-1-1. Non-emergency maintenance problems can be called into 718320-3300, and then press 3 and 1. Residents will continue to receive updates regarding the on-going status of the storm this weekend through text mes-
sages and e-mails sent through Riverbay’s emergency notification system. Contingency plans are also being made to keep additional operational and Public Safety staff on hand this weekend to handle any storm related problems and emergencies. A final decision on just when and how any additional workers will be deployed will be made as the severity and timing of the storm become more apparent in the next 24 hours.
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
2nd Combing ty p Cinext Blood Co-oDrive Youth/Parent Summit today in Einstein Center The Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club is hosting a Youth/ Parent Summit on Cultivating Success today, Saturday, October 27, in Room 45 of the Einstein Center, 3:30-10 p.m., featuring guest speakers, discussion panel, developmental strategies, group discussions, refreshments and music. Admission is free. Please make every effort to attend.
Wiz of Oz auditions continue Wiz of Oz rehearsals will continue every Saturday during the month of October in Room 1 of the Dreiser Center at 1:30 p.m. SHARP. Three (3) more actors/actresses between the ages of 14-18 ONLY are still needed. Ability to sing and dance preferable. This program is sponsored by the Black Forum of Co-op City.
Ongoing health seminars in Co-op City Riverbay Corporation has partnered with the Co-op City SeventhDay Adventist Church to present a series of fortnightly health seminars which will be held in Room 9 of the Dreiser Community Center, 7-8:30 p.m. The next session will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 30 and the topic of discussion will be high blood pressure, the silent killer. This health series will end on November 27.
BJ’s in Co-op City for memberships on Nov. 5 BJ’s Wholesale Club will be in Co-op City early next month to sign up new members and renew or extend current memberships at discounted prices. This special offer is not available online or in stores. Sign up for $10 off Inner Circle membership ($43.55 w/tax) and $20 off Rewards Memberships ($80 w/tax), plus 3 free months membership (15 months total); free second household membership card and $5 donated to Riverbay Fund for summer programs in the community. Registration will take place on Mon., Nov. 5, Rm. 10, Dreiser, 4-8 p.m.; Wed., Nov. 7, Rm. 31, Bartow, 4-8 p.m. and Mon., Nov. 12, Einstein, 4-8 p.m.
FRONT PA G E
P.S. 160 dedicates new library; Thanks Seabrook for his support BY BILL STUTTIG the school newly refurbished school Larry Seabrook may be gone yards and play equipment two years from the City Council following his ago, a newly refurbished auditoriconviction on federal charges this um, which will soon be completed, summer, but despite this, one Co-op and new air conditioning units for City school’s administrators, teacheach classroom in the school. ers and parents will not forget all the Crouch added that while serving good that he did for the school durunder Seabrook over several years, ing his many years of representing she visited nearly all the schools this community. throughout the district, including all Allison Crouch, a long-time senof them in Co-op City, to assist in ior communications aide to getting funding for requested Councilman Seabrook, was the speimprovements and to attend cerecial guest when P.S. 160 officially monies when those new facilities dedicated its new expanded library were introduced to the communities at brief ceremonies on Wednesday. Allison Crouch, a former senior aide to Larry Seabrook, cuts the served by those schools. “That was Crouch, who continues to provide ribbon on the new expanded library at P.S. 160 with the help one of my favorite parts of the job,” Council district services to the resi- of student government leaders and librarian Lori Bernardo. Crouch said. Photo by Bill Stuttig dents of the 12th Council District, at School Librarian Lori Bernardo least until a new City Council representative said that construction of the brand new completed. is elected on November 6th, accepted a speP.S. 160 Principal Lori Baker pointed out library, which included breaking through the cial thank you from the student government that the new library — which includes walls for expanded space, was started in of P.S. 160 and then was given the honor of expanded space, new furniture, books, lightOctober of 2011 and completed in May of cutting the ribbon on the new library, which ing, new laptop computers, and a new smart 2012. Much of the construction was done at was largely financed through the help of forboard – is just one of several important night and on off days so as not to disturb the mer Councilman Seabrook and his staff. students in the classrooms. During the time improvement projects at the school – large“If Councilman Seabrook were here when the library was not functioning, ly made possible through the assistance of today he would be very impressed and very the former Councilman while he was still in Bernardo said she visited each classroom on happy with the job that was done here,” office. Baker said that the former said Crouch after the brief ceremony was Councilman was also a great help in getting (Continued on page 12)
17th Annual Friends & Family Day On October 21st, the Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. celebrated its 17th Annual Friends & Family Day. Those in attendance expressed that they had a wonderful time.
The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. presents Guest Speaker, NYC Council Member Charles Barron, with a Certificate of Appreciation, which reads: “Certificate of Appreciation, Presented to Charles Barron at the 17th Annual Friends & Family Day Celebration on October 21, 2012, In recognition of your many years of commitment to people of African ancestry. Your wisdom and determination have profoundly contributed to the advancement of African people in America. You have made your mark in this world and we will forever cherish your contribution to our legacy.”
The Bartow Swingers show off their cool moves at the 17th Annual Friends & Family Day affair.
Left to right (above): Jeffrey Mabry of St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church; Evelyn Turner, Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; Virginia Stewart, Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Councilman Charles Barron; Patricia Bonaparte, Harriet Tubman Club and Coalition President; Reva Jones, African-American Association of Co-op City; Joan Murrell, NAACP, Co-op City Branch; and Linwood Wilson, Co-op City Baptist Church.
“Hats by Dolores” -- Designer, Dolores Payne (second from right) featured her fabulous hat collection worn by models: Ebony, Olivia, Jasmine, Nia and Sakinah, at Friends & Family Day.
The exotic Belly Dancers render an amazing performance at the 17th Annual Friends & Family Day affair.
The children are having lots of fun playing games, i.e., Simon Says; Red Light, Green Light; Hot Potato, and winning many prizes at the 17th Annual Friends & Family Day.
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MSI Contract Corporation,” said President Atkins. “Over the years, Marion Scott Real Estate has done a professional job, from handling the crisis when five of our eight garages were ordered closed for repairs some nine years ago, to construction of a new cogeneration plant to save us money and energy, and also overseeing a successful window replacement program, to name a few accomplishments.” “The HUD Commitment Process requires that the corporation have in place a managing agent contracted for a one-year period. No contract and the process would stop,” said FirstVice President Khalil Abdul-Wahhab. “The process to acquire HUD insurance for the loan is nearing completion. Successful completion of the process will allow Co-op City to obtain a low interest +/- 3% loan for the next 35 years. Acquisition of the loan will support continuation of affordable housing for middle-class families into the next generation.” Director Eleanor Bailey, who submitted Emergency Resolution 12-93, stated: “At this time, I’m in agreement with MSI’s performance as it relates to the new loan. Without approving a one-year contract, we would not have been able to proceed with securing this loan which is so important to maintain our affordable homes.” “I voted in favor of the one year renewal because I felt it is imperative that MSI remains on site to manage and carry out the detailed loan conditions,” said Director Tirado. In August, the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), the state supervisory agency of Mitchell-Lama developments, informed President Atkins that the agency had determined that Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., the managing agent of Co-op City, had “performed satisfactorily” during the recently passed 12-month contract period which ended on June 30 of this year.
Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012 (Continued from page 1)
The letter, signed by Robert Damico, Director of HCR’s Housing Management Bureau, went on to state: “Therefore, we would approve an extension of the contract for an additional 12 month period.” Damico also added that the Commissioner of HCR had prescribed an increment of 2.6% in the managing agent base rate fee for the period commencing July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2013, for a maximum monthly compensation of $165,818, noting that the managing agent fee cited is the maximum HCR would approve. “As always, a lesser fee as negotiated by the owner will be permitted,” Damico informed the Riverbay President. At that time, Director Abdul-Wahhab stated that despite HCR’s recommendation for an increase in the Management base fee, the Board still intends on performing their own evaluation of the managing agent, a position he reiterated this week. “I am not disappointed with the job that Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc. has done over the past decade; Some things could have been better but things could also have been much worse,” Director Abdul-Wahhab said. “Putting this contract in place was a requirement of the loan process. It was a step that had to be taken. It does not mean that we will not make an evaluation of MSI. That is a process that needs to be started and repeated on a regularly scheduled basis. Effective evaluations are not to establish ‘Gotchas’! A proper evaluation will assess general proficiency and help both Management and the Board locate areas requiring change or improvement. Evaluations will be a tool to create standard benchmarks for improving overall efficiency and to increase cooperator satisfaction.” “I too would like to see an evaluation done of our management company,” offered Director
Bailey. “We’ve talked about it, but we haven’t proceeded with the process and I would like to see a full Board evaluation of MSI once the Board makes a decision on whether or not to go ahead with the loan.” MSI has been Riverbay’s managing agent since 1999 and during that time has overseen many major capital improvement programs in the development, including, but not limited to, the reconstruction of the community’s parking garages which were ordered closed in the summer of 2003 by the city; repair of all balconies, completion of required Local Law 11 repairs to building facades and terraces; replacement of roofs on a majority of the community’s buildings, an historic window replacement project and building of a 40 megawatt cogeneration plant that is capable of producing all of the community’s electrical needs, while saving shareholders an estimated $14 million in energy costs annually and also producing additional power for sale to the electrical grid. In addition, the Coop City Public Safety Department’s technology was significantly enhanced through a new state of the art digital command center, all lighting in the public areas have were replaced with energy efficient fixtures to save on energy costs, and a central garbage treatment facility was built to handle waste on a daily basis while producing an additional annual income stream of approximately $135,000 for the sale of recyclables. For the last 3 years, MSI, working with Wells Fargo Bank, has been pursuing federal guarantee for a low interest $621M mortgage through the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 223F program which was previously only open to rentals. In August of 2011, after an intensive 18 months of negotiations, MSI and Wells Fargo were able to get approval from HUD to open the program to condos and co-ops thereby paving the way for
an application from Co-op City for the 223F program. Initially, there appeared to be no interest at HUD with the size of Co-op City seemingly prohibitive. Wells Fargo and MSI continued to press HUD, arranging for several onsite visits to familiarize HUD officials with the community and its supervisory and financial structures before HUD finally accepted Co-op City’s application for the loan guarantee. Updating the Board on the HUD guarantee in a memo dated May 30 of this year, Freedman expressed great optimism that the deal, negotiated principally through Wells Fargo, was finally within reach, with closing possible by August or September. “After three long years of fighting and pressing for the HUD loan,” Freedman wrote, “it is now clear to me that we are close to phenomenal success. Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., working with Wells Fargo, began the process to open the 223F program of HUD loans insured by the FHA to cooperatives. New protocols were issued August, 2010 and from then until now, we have worked to obtain a loan which can stabilize Co-op City for the next 35 years.” “As a Board Director and a shareholder, I cannot ignore the tremendous amount of dedicated work our management team, particularly Herb Freedman, has performed and will continue to perform as he oversees Co-op City’s end of this historic and detailed loan agreement,” said Director Tirado. “Herb Freedman, in addition to his managerial acumen, has proven to have a solid background in the legal aspects of real estate law which has been and continues to be an asset during the many different stages of the HUD loan. In my opinion, had we not had Herb Freedman at the helm, we would have incurred substantial, additional legal fees.”
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Bu ild in g b lit z in sp ect ion s su ccessfu l b eca u se of coop er a t or in p u t I want to thank the building association Management Corner cosmetic problem in the presidents and their association members hallway. Many of the buildfor their support by participating in the ing associations have done building blitz inspections. Here is how the a wonderful job of helping program works: Management, through the to follow up on the notices CSO Department, arranges for a represengiven to cooperators who tative from several departments to join the CSO manhave bathrooms in this condition. agers in conducting thorough inspections of the public We initiated this program earlier this year where areas of the building; the inspectors go from the roof, each CSO manager reached out to their respective throughout the stairwells, on every floor and throughbuilding association leaders and invited them to join out the basement of every building, in addition to the the blitz team. These inspections ran right up to the immediate grounds around each building. The departsummer; However, it had to be postponed because durments represented include Buildings and Grounds, ing the summer months, the various departments rouCSO, Maintenance and Restorations. tinely spend a substantial part of their day conducting Basically, the CSO managers are the individuals apartment inspections due to a/c leaks and other conwho will write up all of the conditions noted and have ditions. Well, the summer is behind us now and our work orders created and forwarded to the appropriate blitz teams are back on track and this includes the vardepartments. The benefit of having representatives from each department present is that it allows them to call in any conditions that are viewed as urgent so that the condition is immediately addressed and for those items that can be put on a work order and scheduled to be addressed, the representatives will know first hand the nature of the work and what it will take for their department to correct said condition, and over what period of time. The building association members have joined us during these inspections, which has enabled them to see first hand what conditions are taken into consideration when we inspect and this also gives them an opportunity to raise any concerns they may have about conditions they want to see addressed. In addition, oftentimes during these inspections there are conditions that are caused or created by the cooperators and in some cases there will be a need for follow up inspections inside the apartment in order to correct. The building association members have been very instrumental in helping us reach out to these families in order to gain access. To give an example, in some buildings, you may see peeling paint and plaster along the public hallway walls. Oftentimes, the reason for this condition is due to the fact that there is water penetration from the bathroom of the apartment that runs parallel to that hallway wall. It may be the result of a faulty plumbing fixture inside the bathroom or that the ceramic tiles need to be replaced and/or re-grouted and every time someone takes a shower in that bathroom, the water penetrates the shower wall and the moisture causes the peeling effect that you see in the public hallway. In many cases, it is difficult to get cooperators to stay home so that we can address the problem, particularly if the leak does not appear inside the apartment in question. However, if we are not able to gain access to make the needed repairs, we really can’t correct the
Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc.
NOT I C E O F G E E SE R E P E L L E NT SP R AYI NG I N YOUR AREA Please be advised that application of geese repellent will take place on Thursday, November 1 around Buildings 23, 24 & 25, weather permitting. We use a product called “liquid fence” which was recommended to us by the N.Y.S. Department of Environmental Conservation as it is harmless to humans and animals. This product will not harm the geese in any way; it only makes the grass distasteful forcing the geese to relocate. While there is no negative health conditions related to this product, our contractor is, however, placing notice 24 hours in advance around the outer perimeters where this product is to be applied. At most, there may be a lingering odor from this product for up to 24 hours. Thank you for understanding. —R IVER BAY M ANAGEM ENT
ious building associations as well. In fact, over the last few weeks, the following buildings were done with the help and participation of the respective building associations: Bldg. 13, Leslie Peterson and Gail Sharbaan; Bldg.14, Garcia; Bldg. 27, Nelson Sweeting; Bldg. 28, Brenda Gladden; Bldg. 29, Stu Edwards; Bldg. 32, Eleanor Bailey and Enriquez Cerezo; Bldg. 34, Pauline Warren; Bldg. 35, Bill Gordon. Although the following building leaders did not conduct the inspection, they took the time to discuss the findings with our blitz team after the inspections: Bldg. 20, Johnny Dent and Bldg. 21, Kevin Lambright. Once again, we’d like to sincerely thank these association members for their time and effort in helping to make these joint inspections possible. The CSO managers will prepare reports to keep everyone informed as to how this work is progressing.
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Co-op City Times
Let’s move on! To t he Edit or : The privatization advocates continue their push, even though we got a commitment on a new loan that will save us money. I, to this day, have not heard a secondary plan if the first wave doesn't work. I know they believe that if privatization happens, there will be "for sale" signs on everyone's door. The fact of the matter is: where would people go? How much of their profit will be taxed? Will they come out with profit? Probably! Will it be much? Probably not. Privatization is a word that is feared by those on Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid and those working in the Postal
Service; Look at what the voters think of it. If Co-op City was a private community depending on sales during this ongoing recession, we would be in big trouble. Now, some in the privatization movement say I'm wrong, but the move has been shot down, not because of the facts, but more because we have debt and it must be addressed. Think of the risk that we will be faced with when people they claim will flock to this new place turns out not to be so. They say this will help with our debt and will help us, but they could be the first to fly out of here with small change. Don't they want to be part of the new Co-op City? Don't think
so! $30 million a year in revenue stream means we need a lot of move-outs and this doesn't represent people who want to be part of the new Co-op City, but more of a move to warmer climate. Co-op City was created for affordability, not Trump-like homes. I love it here, but I can't see someone paying $200,000+ for these apartments, along with the fees associated with selling. You might disagree, but I myself have consulted people in real estate who say it won’t work. Let's move on! I see better things going on here, and these so called privatization followers only want this place for greedy reasons. That —David San qu ich e is a fact!
Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. (718) 320-3300, ext. 3375 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com
Derek Alger Director of Communications
Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief
Bill Stuttig Associate Editor
Jim Roberts Business Manager
Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager
Ralph Henriquez Production Manager
Emergency Resolution #12-93 SUBM I T T E D BY: E lea n or Ba iley SE C O NDE D BY: R a y T ir a d o BOAR D O F DI R E C T O R S M E E T I NG : O ct ob er 18, 2012 W H E R E AS, A requirement for the HUD approved loan is for Riverbay to have a one-year management agreement contract that is effective November 1, 2012 and ends October 31, 2013; and W H E R E AS, The Board of Directors agrees to approve a one-year contract
with Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., for the period November 1, 2012 through October 31, 2013 and such contract is consistent with the basic terms and conditions approved by DHCR and has no increase in the management fees. N O W T H E R E F O R E , BE I T R E SO LVE D, that Board of Directors approves a one-year contract with Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., for the management of Co-op City for the period November 1, 2012 through October 31,
Deborah Harris 2013, consistent with the basic terms and conditions approved by DHCR and with no increase in the management fees. BE IT FURTHE R RE SOLVE D, that the President and Management shall take all necessary steps to carry out this resolution. YE S: Atkins, Bailey, Cylich, Graham, Illis, F. Jones, Leslie, Santiago, Tirado, Turner, Abdul-Wahhab NO : Johnson ABSE NT: O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro PASSE D
Emergency Resolution #12-94: Extending Wells Fargo Representation SUBM I TTED BY: Khalil Abdul-Wahha b
SEC ONDE D BY: L ea h Gr aha m BOAR D OF DIR EC TORS M EE TI NG DAT ED: October 24, 2012 W H E R E AS, on June 14, 2011, by Resolution 11-45, Riverbay approved mortgage refinancing with New York Community Bank that also provided Riverbay the option of a replacement HUD loan which could possibly reduce interest charges by millions of dollars and; WHE R EAS, on August 22nd, 2012 by Resolution 12-62, Riverbay approved entering into a thirty-five (35) year loan, in the approximate amount of $621,000,000.00, to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank, with mortgage insurance to be issued by HUD, as
well as top loss provided by SONYMA and HDC, self amortizing, and at a rate of interest not to exceed four (4%) percent, W HE RE AS, Wells Fargo Multifamily Capital (WFMC) has been Riverbay’s exclusive representative for obtaining the loan financing described above; and; W HE RE AS, on August 11, 2011, by Resolution 11-53, Riverbay extended the period of WFMC’s exclusive representation through September 15, 2012; and W HER E AS, on September 12th, by Resolution 12-76, Riverbay extended the period of WFMC’s exclusive representation through October 31st, 2012; and W HE RE AS, WFMC requires a further extension of its exclusivity agreement through November 30th, 2012;
NOW TH ER EF O RE BE IT R E SOLVE D, that Riverbay Corporation agrees to extend the exclusive representation with WFMC through November 30th, 2012 in order for WFMC to secure and close a loan in the approximate amount of $621,500,000 with guarantees from HUD, SONYMA and NYC HDC; AND BE IT F URT HER R ESOLVED, the President, Management and General Counsel are directed to take all necessary action to comply with this Resolution. YES: Atkins, Bailey, Cylich, Graham, Illis, Johnson, F. Jones, Leslie, Santiago, Turner, Abdul-Wahhab ABSE NT: O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro ABSTAIN: Tirado PASSED
Emergency Resolution #12-95: Accepting Second NYCB Extension SUBM I T T E D BY: E velyn M . Tu r n er SE C O NDE D BY: Ton y I llis BOAR D OF DI R E C T OR S M E E T I NG DAT E D: O ct ob er 24, 2012 W H E R E AS, on June 14, 2011, by Resolution 11-45, Riverbay approved mortgage refinancing with New York Community Bank that also provided Riverbay the option of a replacement HUD loan which could possibly reduce interest charges by millions of dollars and; W HE R E AS, on August 22nd, 2012 by Resolution 12-62, Riverbay approved entering into a thirty-five (35) year loan, in the approximate amount of $621,000,000, to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank, with mortgage insurance to be issued by HUD, as well as top loss provided by SONYMA and HDC, self amortizing, and at a rate of interest not to exceed four (4%) percent, provided said loan closing occurred on or before September 15th, 2012; and W H E R E AS, the September 15th, 2012 deadline was imposed in order to ensure
compliance with a reduced prepayment premium offered by Riverbay’s existing lender, New York Community Bank which was scheduled to expire on Sept. 15th, 2012; and W HE R E AS, it was not possible to close said loan by September 15th, 2012, and W H E R E AS, NYCB and Riverbay agreed by Resolution 12-77 to extend the date for refinancing to October 31st, 2012, conditioned upon the payment of an additional one (1%) percent of the outstanding indebtedness, or approximately $5,450,000, said sum to be payable at closing; W H E R E AS, it is not possible to close said loan by October 31st, 2012; and W H E R E AS, NYCB has offered to extend the discounted prepayment premium through November 30th, 2012, at no additional cost to Riverbay other than as previously agreed; N OW T H E R E F O R E B E I T R E SO LVE D, that Riverbay Corporation agrees to accept the offer of NYCB to
extend the discounted prepayment premium through November 30th, 2012; and agrees that at any closing which may occur on or before November 30th, 2012, that Riverbay will pay an additional one percent of the outstanding indebtedness, approximately $5,450,000, to NYCB, in addition to the prepayment premium of approximately $12,700,000 which would otherwise be due and payable under Riverbay’s existing mortgage and note agreement with NYCB; A ND BE IT F U RT H E R R E SOLVE D, the President, Management and General Counsel are directed to take all necessary action to comply with this Resolution. YE S: Atkins, Bailey, Cylich, Graham, Illis, Johnson, F. Jones, Leslie, Santiago, Turner, Abdul-Wahhab ABSE NT: O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro ABSTAI N: Tirado PASSE D
Editorial Assistant The Co-op City Times welcomes issue-oriented letters to the editor to be considered for publication. All letters, in prose, not poetry, must be addressed to the editor, not to third parties. All letters must be handsigned by the writers and include their addresses and phone numbers, which will be kept confidential, so that the editor can verify the authenticity of the authors. Writers will be limited to one letter per topic. And to give everyone a chance, we will limit writers to one published letter every 30 days. Anonymous or unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Letters cannot exceed 350 words. Ideally, they should be typed. All letters must be in the Co-op City Times office in Room 21, Bartow Community Center, by 3 p.m. every Monday to be considered for publication in that week’s edition. Views and opinions expressed in letters and Directors’ Viewpoint are solely the writer’s, and not necessarily shared by the Co-op City Times or Riverbay Corp. Advertisements and classified advertisements in the Co-op City Times do not necessarily reflect an endorsement from Riverbay Corporation of goods and services, but present greater options to cooperators of products and services available. The Riverbay Corporation does not assume any responsibility nor is it a party to any contract or agreement between the cooperator and the vendor. All matter published herein is copyrighted by the Co-op City Times. Permission for reprints of advertising or editorial contents produced by the Co-op City Times must be obtained in writing from Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave., Bronx, New York 10475.
If the Co-op City Times Was Not Delivered: Call 646.261.1761 on Saturdays ONLY, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Send us your
Letters! s r Edito City Timee. Co-opBartow Av 5 2049 , NY 1047 Bronx
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(See more resolutions on page 10)
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Public Safety Report CCPD offers Halloween safety tips BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO Halloween is a fun holiday for kids and adults alike. There are a wide range of potential risks on Halloween that could take all the fun away from the day. By being aware of the hazards and taking steps to avoid them, you can have a fun and safe Halloween. The Department of Public Safety has provided these safety tips to keep you safe this Halloween. Roadways present a serious hazard to trick or treaters. Children may become distracted by all the excitement and run into traffic. Remind children that they should only cross streets at the corners. Motor vehicle drivers should be extra alert to young ghouls and goblins who may dart into traffic. If trick or treating at dusk or darkness, place reflective tape on costumes. Adults should always accompany young children. Care should be used when selecting costumes. Loose costumes or large shoes can present a tripping hazard. Masks can reduce vision. Make-up is much more comfortable and does not obstruct vision. Always remove masks when crossing the street. Consider enlarging eye openings if a mask is worn. Fake swords or other props should be made of a soft material and not contain sharp edges. Fire presents a serious hazard on Halloween. Candles should never be used to light Jack o Lanterns or for any other purpose. Small battery operated L.E.D. lights simulate even the flickering of a real flame with none of the hazard. Flashlights or light sticks can be carried for illumination purposes. These items used to be very expensive, but are now available at discounted prices. Costumes and wigs should be of a flame resistant material. Instruct children to avoid going near flames which could easily ignite costumes. Halloween costumes provide identity concealment for persons intending to commit a crime. Halloween pranks, such as egg throwing and shaving cream spraying, can often turn to violence. Parents of older children and teens should check on the whereabouts and activities of their children. Early curfews should be put in place; Don’t forget kids have school the next day. As the hour grows later, the number of persons with bad intentions using Halloween as a guise increases. Residents are encouraged to call the Public Safety Department at (718) 671-3050 or 9-1-1 if they observe any suspicious activity during the Halloween season. Children should never enter anyone’s house or apartment for any reason. All treats should be received at the door. Younger children should be accompanied by an adult or older child. Make sure an adult is aware of the route children intend to follow. Treats received should be checked by an adult before being eaten. Discard any nonpackaged candy or any candy with a torn wrapper. Saturday, October 27, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., the Haunted House will take place in Bartow Community Center, Room 28. The Haunted House is recommended for children ages 5-12 accompanied by an adult. All Halloween activities are free, sponsored by the Riverbay Fund and offer a safe alternative to trick or treating. The Public Safety Department would like to wish all residents a happy and safe Halloween. Please be reminded that no personal property is to be left or stored in any of the public areas of the buildings, including hallways, stairways, compactor rooms, basements, laundry rooms, etc. This includes bicycles, carriages, strollers, scooters, furniture, toys, etc. Leaving or storing property anywhere other than within your apartment presents a fire hazard. Cooperator may be held responsible for the removal or disposal of any property left in this manner. School is open, DRIVE CAREFULLY. Never pass a stopped school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or
unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Bicycle riders must give pedestrians the same level of respect that they expect from motor vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road safely. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. Never get in a vehicle being driven by someone who has consumed alcoholic beverages. Carry cab fare in case you require a safe ride home. Always buckle your seatbelt; It will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excessive speed when driving; These are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State. Always remember, if you see something, say something. If you see suspicious persons in the garage or lurking near parked vehicles on the street, an auto crime could be taking place, an auto crime could be ready to happen, notify the authorities. Call 9-1-1 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. It is by your actions that the crime rate remains low and a high quality of life is maintained.
Public Safety Blotter: Oct. 14-20, 2012 O ct ob er 22, 140 E inst ein L oop Officers assigned to the CCPD Emergency Services Unit heard gunfire from the area of 140 Einstein Loop (Building 28). Numerous shell casings were recovered at the location. A search and canvass yielded negative results. The NYPD also responded and a joint investigation was initiated. No injuries were reported. O ct ob er 21, 140 E lga r P la ce CCPD officers dispersing a noisy group encountered one individual who began yelling and cursing at officers. When the male was instructed to cease his behavior, he refused compliance and became increasingly belligerent. The male was placed under arrest and charged accordingly.
Co-op City Department of Public Safety
(718) 671-3050 www.ccpd.us If you SEE something, SAY something!
Building 21 Association A P lace in the sun We are moving closer to the holidays and most of us are worried about the economy. Even here in Co-op City, we are feeling the strain. This is one of the reasons why we need to come together for better solutions to our ever increasing financial strains. Your Building Association is trying to create an atmosphere that promotes quality of life and resources that empower us. At our last meeting we had a very inspirational guest author, one of our own Mr. Sloan Williams. His life is a testament that we can do anything as long as we don’t give up on our dreams and believe in a higher power.
Our next meeting on Tuesday, October 30, our guest will be Vanessa Aldea, CSO Manager of Section 4. We will all have an opportunity to meet her, ask questions and learn the ins and outs of what our CSO does and can do for us. This is why it is important that everyone attend this meeting. Way too often, we find ourselves looking for that thing that will change our lives, that person who will lead us to prosperity, maybe the answer was at our last meeting. Maybe you missed it. Maybe it will be at our next meeting on Tuesday, October 30, at 7 p.m. in the back of Building 21B. —Kevin La mbr ight
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It! Every Director wants to deliver benefits that resolve cooperator concerns and issues. Choosing which issue to resolve, especially when faced with multiple concerns, is not easy. In a community of our size, there are daily challenges to deal with: regulatory, structural, budgetary, and administrative issues and, of course, security concerns. The difficulty comes in choosing the one for immediate focus and handling. Director Evelyn Turner has taken sharp focus on a long-standing concern requiring attention – supplying the community’s youth with the proper tools to cope with the requirements of the modern world. In order to thrive in the new technological environment, our children must be able to compete at the highest level. As parents, our nurturing process must include steps to help our children to become strong, knowledgeable competitors. College or technical training has become a must and preparation for advanced learning must start at an early age. Director Turner is assembling a College & Career Fair to be held on Saturday, November 17th. The event is the first of its kind in our community. The goal is to establish and build a culture in Co-op City that promotes college and career opportunities for our youth. The Fair is open to parents and children from grammar school (grades 3–6) through high school. Representatives will be there to provide information about educational opportunities, grants, and scholarships. Information on tutoring and counseling will also be provided.
Director’s Viewpoint
Khalil Abdul-Wahhab First Vice President
Som et imes t he “Wor ka r ound” Wor ks Bet ter It is well known that politicians only assist communities that vote. Voting power is the driving force that gets attention and services from elected officials. However, sometimes – when needed goods and services haven’t been delivered – a community develops work-around methods for the problem. Occasionally, the “workaround” brings unexpected benefits. For example, garbage pickup service by the NYC Department of Sanitation for Co-op City was sub-par. Riverbay built the Peartree facility and established procedures that not only solved the problem, it currently supplies an approximate revenue stream of $135,000 per year through recycling. That figure will increase when we add bundled cardboard. Another example is with NYPD patrol coverage. NYPD had issues supplying sufficient patrols in our community. Our Public Safety Department has improved to a level of professionalism and courtesy that is a benchmark standard for other security departments citywide, while our crime statistics are among the lowest in the
DR. LEWIS WOLSTEIN Podiatrist — Foot Specialist • Practicing in Co-op City since 1975 • Board Certified in Foot Surgery • ALL conditions of the foot treated • We
accept most health insurance plans
• Participating in the Medicare Diabetic Shoe Program • Evening and Saturday appointments
Dr. Lewis Wolstein
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Building 8 • Ground Floor Section 1 • Co-op City • Bronx, NY 10475
borough. But there are other external issues outside of our control that cannot be circumvented. Escalating water and sewer taxes and asbestos abatement are two such items. For these and other issues, we need pressure to be applied by elected officials. To get their assistance, we must vote as a community. If I t Ain’t Br oke, Don ’t F ix I t ! In the October 13th edition of the Coop City Times, there was a front-page article that compared the 3% carrying charge increase that we received on October 1st to other increases around New York City and the nation. Apartment rents in the city rose approximately 6.8% for the year. The article also mentioned, quoting statistics assembled by Reis Inc., a real estate information firm that in the third quarter of 2012 New York had the second fastest increasing rents in the nation, that the 3% increase here was low by comparison. A lot of things are moving in the right direction. Management, with Board input and approval, has pursued loan insurance through HUD (the Federal Housing and Urban Development agency) for three years. We have received a “DRAFT” Commitment Document from that agency. Subsequent to review and approval by all parties, Co-op City will obtain a 35-year fixed-rate loan at (approximately) 3% interest that will be paid off at its end. The cogeneration plant is providing a steady stream of revenue through energy savings. Additional revenue from the sale of power is expected to increase and
positively offset expenditures in our operating budget. Do these positive actions mean that we can “rest on our laurels?” Of course not! In a community as large as ours, every action needs to be carefully considered. Cutting budgets, without taking into account what affect the cut will have on service provision is not a well calculated way to make improvements. There are a myriad of issues that occur every day in this community of 60,000 residents. Every action taken must be measured for benefit versus liability, and calculated for cost versus comfort. The aim is to establish a proper balance between providing a steady level of comfort and quality of life for cooperators and retaining affordability. I believe that Management and this Board is doing a reasonably good job, but I leave it to cooperators to validate that statement. VOT E !!! Fellow, cooperators, please remember that we cannot demand the attention and services that we require and want if we are not a voting community. In order to be heard, we must vote. If you think that your vote doesn’t count, ask yourself – why are some people trying to take it away? VOTE LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT – BECAUSE IT DOES. If you see something, say something. Share your suggestions, complaints, or special concerns with me. Send letters to Khalil Abdul-Wahhab, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or address e-mail to kwahhab10475@hotmail.com.
Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
HUD Loan Negotiations Move Forward Late last week, Board Directors were provided with the HUD commitment letter for their review and discussion. The closing date has again been extended from September 15th to October 31st and presently, it is November 30th. Riverbay was required to pay New York Community Bank $5,450,000 for the extension on this $621.5 million mortgage refinancing loan to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank and guaranteed by HUD. However, the latest extension is without charge. The commitment letter is a significant document and everyone involved is extremely pleased that the document was received and that we can now proceed with the loan, which will save shareholders millions of dollars. Wor king Toget her On October 18, 2012, Management, Board Directors and several community leaders were invited to meet with William (Bill) Thompson, the former City Comptroller. Vernon Cooper, General Manager, spoke about the asbestos abatement matter; recycle material (sanitation); Public Safety; Bay Plaza Mall traffic; Human Rights Commission; Mall
Director’s Viewpoint
Francine Reva Jones Secretary
Elevator; DOT to repitch street; water reuse project; and other miscellaneous problems/issues. Mr. Thompson, who plans on running for the position of Mayor of the City of New York next year, listened with intent and then conveyed his own projections. I commend Assemblyman Michael Benedetto for organizing this meeting, and the recent meeting with Speaker Chris Quinn. New P ublic Sa fet y Officer s Due to illness, I was unable to attend the graduation of the new Public Safety Officers last Friday. Therefore, I sent my congratulatory comments to Chief Frank Apollo asking him to forward them to the graduates. The new graduates have made enormous accomplishments in having trained and qualified for this challenging
career as Public Safety Officers. They are now prepared to serve the Co-op City community and the community is ready to receive them. I trust that they will serve our community with dedication and professionalism. May God bless them and keep them safe. F r iends & Fam ily Da y Thanks to all who attended the 17th Annual Friends & Family Day affair last Sunday. Tremendous appreciation is extended to Director Daryl Johnson for serving as Master of Ceremonies. Other Board Directors in attendance were Andrea Leslie, Tony Illis and Evelyn Turner. NYC Council candidates, Andy King and Neville Mitchell, stopped by to greet us. An inspiring presentation was rendered by the keynote speaker, New York City Council Member, Charles Barron. Coalition members awarded him with a plaque which read: “In recognition of your many years of commitment to people of African ancestry. Your wisdom and determination have profoundly contributed to the advancement of African people in America. You have made your mark in this world and we will forever
cherish your contribution to our legacy.” The Bartow Swingers, the exotic belly dancers, designer “Hats by Dolores” hat show and the models, as well as the Knight Riders Band, all gave fabulous performances. The children had lots of fun playing the games and winning prizes. The vendors sold some beautiful merchandise. First, second and third prizes of $50, $100 and $200 were awarded to the raffle drawing winners, and several consolation prizes were given. All enjoyed the dinner, dessert and beverages that were served. Thanks to all the Coalition members and friends who volunteered their time and energy to make this event possible. Pa r t icipa te Remember to attend your building association meetings. Please discuss any problems with your CSO or at your building association meeting. If they cannot resolve them for you, contact me and I will attempt to help you: Francine Jones, Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 or call me at 718-6715957. Thank you.
Emergency Resolution #12-96: Extending Time to Close HUD Refinancing SUBM I T T E D BY: E velyn Sa n t ia go & E lea n or Ba iley SE C O NDE D BY: Ton y I llis BOAR D OF DI R E C TO R S M E E T ING DAT E D: Oct ober 24, 2012 W H E R E AS, on June 14, 2011, by Resolution 11-45, Riverbay approved mortgage refinancing with New York Community Bank that also provided Riverbay the option of a replacement HUD loan which could possibly reduce interest charges by millions of dollars and; W H E R E AS, on August 22nd, 2012 by Resolution 12-62, Riverbay approved entering into a thirty-five (35) year loan, in the approximate amount of $621,000,000.00, to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank, with mortgage insurance to be issued by HUD, as well as top loss provided by SONYMA and HDC,
self amortizing, and at a rate of interest not to exceed four (4%) percent, provided said loan closing occurred on or before September 15th, 2012; and W H E R E AS, the September 15th, 2012 deadline was imposed in order to ensure compliance with a reduced prepayment premium offered by Riverbay’s existing lender, New York Community Bank which was scheduled to expire on September 15th, 2012; and W H E R E AS, Wells Fargo and HUD advised Riverbay that it was not possible to close the contemplated refinancing by September 15th, 2012; and W H E R E AS, NYCB offered to extend the discounted prepayment premium through October 31st, 2012, conditioned upon the payment of an additional one (1%) percent of the outstanding indebtedness, or approximately $5,450,000.00 dollars, said sum to be payable at closing;
W H E R E AS, by Resolution 12-77 Riverbay agreed to accept NYCB’s offer to extend the prepayment premium through October 31st, 2012 in exchange for the additional payment described above; and W H E R E AS, by Resolution 12-78 Riverbay amended Resolution 12-62 to extend the time to close the contemplated HUD refinancing through October 31st, 2012; W H E R E AS, Wells Fargo and HUD have now advised Riverbay that it is not possible to close the contemplated financing by October 31st, 2012; and W H E R E AS, NYCB has offered to extend the discounted prepayment premium through November 30th, 2012, without any additional cost other than as previously agreed; NOW T H E R E F O R E BE I T R E SO LVE D, that Riverbay Corporation
agrees to amend Resolution 12-78 to extend the time to close a thirty-five (35) year loan, in the approximate amount of $621,500,000.00, to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank, with mortgage insurance to be issued by HUD, as well as top loss provided by SONYMA and HDC, self amortizing, and at a rate of interest not to exceed four (4%) percent, up to and including November 30th, 2012; AN D BE IT F URT H E R R E SO LVE D, the President, Management and General Counsel are directed to take all necessary action to comply with this Resolution. YE S: Atkins, Bailey, Cylich, Graham, Illis, Johnson, F. Jones, Leslie, Santiago, Turner, Abdul-Wahhab ABSE NT: O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro ABSTAI N: Tirado
necessary to bind the Corporation to said loan; and NOW TH ER EF O RE BE IT R E SOLVE D, that the President of the Corporation is authorized to enter into a binding loan commitment, to execute and accept a rate lock for said loan, to pay such fees as may be required for said rate lock from reserves, and to execute and enter into any and all documents required to bind the Corporation to a thirty-five (35) year loan, in the approximate amount of $621,500,000.00, to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank, with mortgage insurance to be issued by HUD, SONYMA and HDC,
self-amortizing, and at a rate of interest not to exceed four (4%) percent, provided said loan closes on or before November 30th, 2012; AN D BE IT F URT H E R R E SO LVE D, the President, Management and General Counsel are directed to take all necessary action to comply with this Resolution. YE S: Atkins, Bailey, Cylich, Graham, Illis, F. Jones, Leslie, Santiago, Turner, Abdul-Wahhab NO : Johnson ABSE NT: O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro ABSTAI N: Tirado PASSE D
PASSE D
Emergency Resolution #12-97 SUBM I T T E D BY: Kh a lil Abd ulWa h ha b & E lea nor Ba iley SE C O NDE D BY: L ea h Gr a h a m & F r a ncine R eva J ones BOAR D OF DI R E C TO R S M E E T I NG DAT E D: October 24, 2012 W H E R E AS, on August 22nd, 2012 by Resolution 12-62, Riverbay approved entering into a thirty-five (35) year loan, in the approximate amount of $621,000,000, to be underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank, with mortgage insurance to be issued by HUD, as well as top loss provided by SONYMA and HDC, self amortizing, and
at a rate of interest not to exceed four (4%) percent, provided said loan closing occurred on or before September 15th, 2012; and W H E R E AS, by Resolution 12-78 Riverbay amended Resolution 12-62 to extend the time to close the contemplated HUD refinancing through October 31st, 2012; and W H E R E AS, by Resolution 12-96 Riverbay amended Resolution 12-78 to extend the time to close the contemplated HUD refinancing through November 30th, 2012; and to authorize the President to execute and enter into any and all agreements
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Decision on Trump Village and Co-op City's future The reality of a HUD loan and all its regulations and oversight come closer to realization in Co-op City. Months ago before we ventured into this loan, I brought a resolution to the Board calling for a feasibility study for privatization pending a favorable court decision involving transfer taxes imposed on the conversion of Trump Village, a former Mitchell-Lama cooperative not unlike our own Co-op City, that decided in 2007 to forge their own future free from government oversight and restrictions and become a private cooperative. Almost all of my fellow Board Directors opposed the resolution and cited the transfer tax that we would have to pay if we went the same route as Trump Village even though the resolution read "pending a favorable decision by the court on transfer taxes." Well, last week, the decision was made in favor of Trump Village as pending an appeal, they will NOT have to pay transfer taxes. I bring this up to raise a level of awareness. What are those who oppose privatization really concerned about; affordable housing? We are close to market costs in
Director’s Viewpoint
Raymond Tirado Treasurer
terms of carrying charges versus rent. Look around you. Bay Plaza has begun a massive building project, we now have a real possibility of a Metro North Station that will open our community to employment opportunities at every stop of the Metro North Train. As you see folks, opportunity is knocking but we crack the door open with the chain still on. This HUD $621 million loan will, after satisfying our current loan with Community Bank, net us over $21 million which is earmarked for specific projects and repairs, not including conditions of the loan which are costly. Down the road when we are in need of additional funds for unforeseen reasons, what course do we take? We will not be able or should we borrow additional monies.
Will we be forced to implement an assessment to our carrying charges when we had an opportunity to generate our own revenue? The Publ i c S af e ty D e p a r t m e n t ’s n e w o f f i c e r s I wish to congratulate the Officers who graduated from extensive training to become members of Co-op City's Finest. Officers Efrain Cordero, Jason Daley, Michael Donavan, Samuel McGill, Patricia Phillip, Frank Riley and Malik Warren, you have been entrusted to maintain the safety and security of one of the best communities in the City of New York. The people of Co-op City, its Directors and the Riverbay Corporation stand at your back to keep the peace. I want to share a prayer which I use which has been a source of comfort to members of law enforcement and I hope to all of you. A P o l i ce O ffi c er ' s P r a y er Lord, I ask for courage; Courage to face and conquer my own fears... Courage to take me where others will not go. I ask for strength;
Strength of body to protect others... Strength of spirit to lead others. I ask dedication; Dedication to my job to do it well... Dedication to my community to keep it safe. Give me, Lord, concern; For all those who trust me... And compassion for those who need me And, please, Lord, through it all; be at my side. T r e a s u r e r ’s n e w s We have been spending a considerable amount of our money on trip and fall lawsuits. At this time, Management has been correcting sidewalk issues to hopefully correct and prevent future lawsuits. If you observe a safety issue, please report it promptly. Regis te r a nd vote This is the time to strut our political muscle, but we can't if you don't vote. Let's be heard!!! C o o p e r a t i v e : Working or acting together willingly for a common purpose or benefit. Don't forget it. You may contact me at ccdirector @optonline.net; or by calling 718-3203351. Thank you.
Retirees of Dreiser Loop Get your bags ready! On November 1315, (3 days/2 nights), we are going to the Atlantic Club Casino (formerly the Hilton) on a deluxe coach bus. Price: doubles, $200; singles, $265. Come join in the fun. $10 slot bonus + $10 food credit + $10 casino rebate. Boarding: 9:30 a.m./departure time: 10 a.m. SHARP! Flyers available in Clubroom 19. Contacts: Beverly James & Virginia Stewart, 718-379-0377 after 3 p.m. Mark your calendars! The RETIREES’ HOLIDAY LUNCHEON will be held on Thursday, December 6, at the Marina del
P.S. 160 Library a regular basis with carts full of books so that the students could receive library services as they waited for their new library to be completed. Bernardo explained that with the new library up and running, students can enjoy a much wider range of learning tools, including six laptop computers, permanently available for student use under
Rey from 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., price is $75. The price includes transportation on a first paid, first seated basis. Flyers in Clubroom 19. Get your tickets from Beverly Waller, Ida Morton or Virginia Stewart (718379-0377) in Clubroom 19 on Mondays and Thursdays after 3:00 p.m. All payments: Checks/money orders addressed to Retirees of Dreiser Loop. T HE AT R E C O M M I T T E E : All program prices include transportation. Sat., Nov. 10th - 10 a.m., “Radio City Christmas Show.” Price: $75. Final payment
due now. Departure 8:30 a.m. SHARP! Sat., February 16, 2013 – 7:30 p.m. Price: $86. "Dianne Reeves, widely regarded as the foremost female jazz vocalist in the world today, brings her robust, sultry voice back to the Carnegie Hall stage with several special guests." First paid, first seated. On Thursdays from 3-5 p.m., Committee members will be in clubroom 19. After 7 p.m., questions regarding theatre shows, call 718-324-7847 or 718-671-8637. G O OD A N D W E L FA R E : Our heartfelt sympathies to the family of
Tyrone Rodriguez, husband of Georgianna Rodriguez, who recently passed away. May your memories give you strength. Cheers to William (Bill) Seufert, who is recuperating in Regis Care Center, and cheers to James Hess, a patient, at Workmen’s Circle. May the sun shine in on the both of you, and we hope that you’re feeling better soon. Contact: Elinor Gordon at 718-379-8755 regarding illnesses and bereavements. “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass….it’s learning how to dance in the rain.” — Cl a u d e t t e D av i s
books of interest and then find them on the shelves within the library. Bernardo said that nearly half the students do not have access to a computer at home or are too young to operate one unsupervised. She added that access to computer technology at a young age is essential for learning necessary skills in an ever expanding high tech school environ-
ment. PTA President Elizabeth Penn said that many of the school’s parents, along with children, were involved in volunteering to help organize the new library during the summer months before school officially opened and many volunteer parents still come in and assist in helping with the new library.
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teacher or librarian supervision. In addition, the library now has an additional 20 portable laptops which are used by students during classes held in the library. A new smart board allows teachers to conduct classes on researching books while students follow along on the individual laptops. The new computers are equipped with programs designed to help research
HURRICANE ALERT!!! See page 1 for details
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College and Career Fair We are pleased to report that so far we have confirmed 24 colleges, 18 career opportunities and 8 different resources for parents & children. Save T h e Da t e: Saturday, November 17. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Remember, elementary students and their parents are scheduled to participate from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Middle school & high school students will participate from 1 to 6 p.m. During the past week, visits were made to a local middle school fair to share information about the upcoming College and Career Fair and to our local school, PS 160. The process in selecting a middle school is not an easy one. It was an eye-opening experience to observe the process. Also encouraging was to listen to a parent of a 5th grader who shared that the conversation about college had already begun in their home. They are excited about participating in our event. Parents are to be commended for actively participating. The Saturday event at PS 160 organized by the ParentTeacher Coordinator, Elizabeth Penn, was awesome. She is a motivator and deeply committed to involving the parents in the educational process. She also suggested that instead of Parent Teacher Meetings, they will have Parent-Teacher Parties. Ms. Penn also reminded parents and guests that in schools where parent participation is near 100%, they get all the supplies and other perks they need. Ms. Penn, her daughter and a parent, will be volunteering at the upcoming College & Career Fair. The message was loud and clear, there is strength in numbers. The same goes for this community. Just think of how much we would be respected if we had
Director’s Viewpoint
Evelyn Turner Assistant Secretary
just 90% of eligible voters registered and actually voting. Hopefully, this will not be the case in November or in May, 2013 when the community will vote for Riverbay Board members. Yes, we must vote! Yes, we must protect our children. Our feature this week is a Career Opportunity. We are proud to have confirmed the College of New Rochelle School of Nursing and Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing. This is a profession that is critical to our future given the medical needs in this country and abroad. Our President has passed a new and improved health care law that will offer many opportunities in the field of Nursing. Please pass this information to young adults who are interested in having a oneto-one conversation with a recruiter. Obtain first hand information on what is required to enter this honorable profession. HUD Loan – During the week, I was asked and gave permission for my personal home number to be shared with our State Senator Chuck Schumer. His office was interested in my vote for the loan and if others were voting in the negative. I assured him that I was fully supporting the HUD loan and when the voting takes
place, I would vote “yes.” During the week, I also received a draft of the Commitment to Insure upon Completion Section 207 – To Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. I have read the document and with other Directors will discuss the document at our next meeting. For those cooperators who are antithis loan even before the vote, please know that if we didn’t go through the “process” of a physical inspection, we would have never known about all the critical and non-critical repairs that are needed. Some of the repairs have been mentioned in an article by our President. The repairs range from sidewalk portico concrete, deteriorating piping insulation and the list goes on and on. Waivers are being negotiated and soon the community will be receiving a full report. In my opinion, this is a great document to use when we evaluate our present Management company. Also, it makes sense that when this amount of money is loaned, the physical facility should be in tip-top shape. Hopefully, since we have had this comprehensive inspection, we will be able to keep all the buildings and grounds up to par. This Director’s advocacy for the space where the old Bingo Hall was located continues. Aretha Franklin sings a song called Chain of Fools. During the week, there has been a chain of letters from this Director and to this Director. After requesting the item be put on the Agenda for discussion, Directors were invited to visit a site in Bartow that had reportedly been previously rejected by a not-forprofit youth organization. The site visited evoked memories of my visit to a slave
dungeon in Ghana, West Africa. Needless to say, we have those who are not impressed with my emotional style of advocacy (reminding my fellow Directors about our black ancestors’ advocacy for us) and have implied that additional enriching youth services are not a number one priority. Additionally, it was suggested that we are already offering several things for youth (“A teen center in Section 5, open green spaces with exercise equipment, bicycle and walking runways to utilize at will and many existing organizations to engage a young person’s time”). The entire Board has the final say about the Bingo Hall and it will be decided if we can finally have a location to have an array of enriching indoor activities to assist/mentor young people in the following suggested areas: Technology, Computer Information Systems, Engineering, Science, Mathematics, Presentations Skills, Critical Thinking, Dressing for Success, Manhood Training, Becoming a Young Lady, ESL, Entrepreneur, learning how to purchase Stocks and Bonds, Investment Clubs, etc. We can either walk away from our youth or arm them with additional educational support required to compete globally. Too many are already armed with anger and guns! When the final vote is cast, all the names will be published. In the meantime, I will keep the faith and attempt to follow the proper process. In a letter, Jackie Robinson wrote the President on May, 13, 1958, “We must have patience.” “Oh no! Not again.” Thank you for your anticipated support! Contact me at: Evelyn M. Turner, 718320-8088 or 917-324-1033; evelyntinez @aol.com.
Building 25 Association Our recent Association meeting was called to order by our President Denise Garrad who introduced Mr. Andy King, candidate for the City Council. Mr. King spoke extensively of his background in community affairs, his work with unions and his commitment to the community. He would like a good portion of the jobs generated by the upcoming mall to be allocated to residents of District 12 and has been working hard to achieve that. Also, he is an advocate of training programs for the
youth of Co-op City that lead to good jobs not just certificates. Mr. King then answered questions from the members. The minutes from the last meeting were read by our secretary, Cheryl Petersen, and were accepted with corrections. There were issues raised by cooperators concerning people placing rugs, too much soap, too many clothes and plastic shower curtains in the machines. How often are the machines cleaned? The lack of heat in the laundry room, also the Association Room.
It was reported that several floor buttons in the elevators were not lighting up when pressed. A condition that should be corrected by the time you read this article. A flea market was suggested to raise funds the association. The articles would be donated and the proceeds would go to the association. There is a raffle currently going on for a mountain bike, which will be held at our next Association meeting. The tickets are only $1. We would like to express a warm wel-
come to our new members and a thank you to those members who attended the meeting. Please be advised that there is a box located in the laundry room for suggestions, comments or information. Light refreshments were available. Someone said, “The fist thing to do to get out of a hole is to stop digging.” REMEMBER, IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING. Cooperators, not tenants. —Dock H a r vey
Building 18 Association Hi, neighbors. Welcome back; We trust you all had an enjoyable, safe, happy and healthy summer. At our General Meeting on Tuesday, October 16th new officers were elected. T h e n e w E xecu t ive Boa r d for Building 18 Association is as follows: Gertie Brown-President; Renssalear LeeVice Pres.; Deborah Hughes-Recording Sec.; Liza Ellis-Corresponding Sec.; Lorriane Turner-Treasurer; Gloria Watson-Sergeant at Arms. As president, I look forward to working with you to further better our environ-
ment. We, as a team, will need your support in all we do, e.g. scholarship fundraisers, meeting participation, and other activities. We want to keep our motto, “Together we can make a difference,” alive with action. Our General Meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of every month unless there is a conflict with that date. Our next general meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 13th; We will discuss the upcoming holiday season activities and as always, we will have a 50/50 drawing and refreshments.
Our Annual Halloween Costume Contest is scheduled for Wednesday, October 31st. Please note bulletin board for details. Certificates will be given to four (4) costume winners. We will also hand out Halloween “goodie bags” to the children. Thanks to all who donated candies for the Halloween goodie bags. M ovie M a t in ee: Our next movie is scheduled for Wednesday, November 14th in the association room at 3:30 p.m. Come on down and join us we promise you an enjoyable time; Refreshments will
be served. VOT E , VOT E , VOT E : It is very IMPORTANT that you vote on Tuesday, November 6, so please make some time, come down and VOTE! This is a BIG ELECTION. Your vote counts, let your voice be heard! You can make a difference! Our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and to the sick and homebound, get well quick! P lea se r em a in a ler t : If you see something, say something!! —G er t ie Br own
Building 11 Association Greetings, fellow shareholders. Our next Building Association will be on Monday, November 5, at 7:00 p.m. in our meeting room, rear Bldg. 11B. Please note our meeting will start at 7:05 p.m. sharp to allow for the presentation by our invited guest speaker, Sgt. Gregory from CCPD. Sgt Gregory is a trained
S.H.A.R.P.S (Sexual Harassment And Rape Prevention Specialist) instructor. He will present an exciting and interactive presentation for all of us (men, women and children) on protecting ourselves from harm. This will prove to be a very informative session, especially with the earlier sunset hours and approach-
ing holiday season. Please mark your calendars and support our upcoming Bake Sale on Saturday, November 17, starting at 12 p.m. We are asking for donations of cakes, cookies, flan, pies, brownies, etc. to make this event successful. We also need volunteers to help out on the day of
the event. Please let one of the Executive Committee members know what you will be making. We look forward to your continued support. Welcome to all of our new shareholders; We would like to meet and greet you, please attend our next Association meeting. —Deb or a h D. Henr y
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Building 26 Association Fall greetings to all of our Co-op City families, neighbors, friends, and especially our new residents. Take a walk and enjoy the beauty of our community. We extend our sincere gratitude and thanks to Riverbay Management, Riverbay Board of Directors, Senator Charles Schumer, and Assemblyman Michael Benedetto for all of their arduous efforts in obtaining the $621 million mortgage with Wells Fargo which resulted in the long awaited commitment letter being forwarded to Riverbay by HUD. We are sending greetings and congratulations to all who are celebrating birthdays, new births, wedding anniversaries and other celebrated events during the month of October. Our sincere condo-
lences to those families who have experienced the loss of a loved one. May your loved one be eternally blessed. And may you and your families also be blessed during your time of mourning. Nov. the 6th, Election Day, is quickly approaching. Please vote. Be the difference. Your vote brings dollars back into our community. If you have the day off and/or are retired and available, check on your elderly neighbors and assist them to the polls. The MTA is seeking the public's input regarding the proposed MTA fare increases. Show your concern by attending the public hearing at 5 p.m., on November 13, at Hostos Community College, Center for the Arts & Culture,
Main Theater, located at 450 Grand Concourse. In person registration to speak begins at 4 p.m. and remains open until 8 p.m. Oral testimony is limited to 3 minutes per speaker. You can also register to speak by calling (718) 521-3333, or log on to the MTA website. You also can submit your comments online and obtain information concerning other hearing locations at www.mta.info, then click on transparency and scroll down to public hearings. We cordially invite you to enjoy a day trip of fun to the Sands Casino, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, on November 14. Bus will depart promptly at 9:30 a.m. from in front of Building 26. Tickets are $35 per person, including a $20 gambling voucher
and a $5 food voucher. For reservations and additional information, please call Patty at (914) 525-2221 or Pat at (718) 671-3102. Congratulations to Phil Hartman, parking attendant at Garage 6, on winning the Helping Hands Award. You were and continue to be a devoted attendant since you were assigned to Garage 8. Please help to keep our community clean and green by properly disposing your garbage in the appropriate receptacle. Take out time to recycle your bottles, plastics, and papers. And please be vigilant. If you see something, say something by calling 9-1-1 for emergencies and 3-1-1 for all other non-emergency complaints. The life you save could be your own. —Yu Von n e L ewis
Building 32 Association The Executive Board of Building 32 Association wishes to thank everyone who participated in our casino trip. We especially want to send accolades to Ms. Viola, who made the most marvelous codfish cakes, which were enjoyed by all. Our next event will be a mini flea market on
Saturday, November 3 from 10:00 a.m. until...Come down and find new and slightly used items that can be used for gifts or for yourselves. The flea market will take place in the Association Room. Our next General Membership meeting will be on Tuesday, November 13 at 7:30
p.m. in the Association Room, Building 32B, first floor rear. We are sponsoring a "Cash for Gold" event. Clean out your jewelry boxes for your old gold and silver. Single earrings, broken chains, even gold teeth are accepted. Guests at our last event were pleasantly sur-
prised at the money they received for old, forgotten, unwanted items. Bring your friends and relatives as everyone is always welcome. Additionally, we will be having our turkey raffle for all members of the Building Association. Winners need not be —L or na Sm ith present.
Building 33 Association The association will be in the lobby 3 times a week collecting building dues. The dues are very important in order to continue doing the activities we do for the building. On Wednesday, Oct. 30th, we will give the Children's Halloween Party in the back room from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Children, please come down in costume. We will have a professional clown to entertain your children. We appreciate volunteers to help decorate the room. Please talk to us when
you see us in the lobby. The Harriet Tubman Democratic Club will host a Youth Forum today in the Einstein Community Center, Room 45 at 3 p.m. All young people are invited to attend. There will be plenty of activities and refreshments for you. Please come out. As President of the Coalition of African American Churches and Community Organizations of Co-op City, we had a very nice Friends & Family Day Event last
Sunday in Dreiser Center. This was a free event for the community. Did I see anyone from Building 33? I don't think so. We served dinner, had activities for the young people. This is a nice family event, but you are not interested. No. As President of this building, I will not give up on you. I will pray that you wake up one day and realize all you are missing by not participating in any community events.
I also notice not too many of you read the Co-op Times newspaper, the papers are delivered to your floor, all you have to do is bend down and pick it up and read what is going on in the community. It's so sad. At our next building meeting, we will be nominating new officers. If you are interested in a position, please attend. All positions are open. Get well wishes to the sick and shut in. —P a tr icia Bon a p a r t e
Building 34 Association The members of the building association are back from an extended summer break and raring to go. There are several events planned for the fall and winter months and we look forward to everyone's participation and enjoyment. We begin with the annual Halloween trick or treat in our lobby, October 31, from 4:30 to 7:00. Bring the children out in their costumes for their Halloween goodie bags. Thank you to those who helped decorate our lobby for this event. November 14th is the building's gener-
al meeting. This is our first meeting since June. There have been many changes that have occurred since then in Co-op City, as well as issues in our building. We have had many new cooperators who moved in during the summer months. Check your orientation package to find about the importance of your association. We look forward to you becoming active members and helping to maintain and improve our building. This by no means lets the rest of our long time neighbors off the hook. We need everyone. The meeting, as always, will
take place at 7:30 in the meeting room, speaker to be announced. In December, there are plans for a holiday celebration. January, we would like a town hall meeting and since our first bus trip was such a success, we would like to plan to make this an annual event. These are a few things that are on the agenda for the 2012-2013 season. We are looking forward to your input. There are only two weeks left before our nation's general election. We encourage everyone to make voting a priority on
November 6th. Neighbors, encourage each other, especially our first time voters and young adults, on the importance of voting in general and voting this year in particular. The outcome of this election will affect our lives on so many levels for quite some time. Finally, we would like to thank Building and Grounds for keeping the garden in back of the building so beautiful. The array of flowers and plants are such a welcome sight. We would like to have the front to look just as lovely; That’s for the –L a Ver n e F loyd next article.
American Legion Post 1871 Greetings to all of our Post members who are homebound and recovering from various medical operations. We wish you a speedy recovery. Happy birthday to all of our Post members who have a birthday in the month of October: Joseph Bruer, Sr.; Ruben Cruz, Robert T. Dandridge, William P. Gravin, Francisco Montanez, John O’Neill, William Parker, Alberto Ravello, Jesse H. Johnson, Jessie H. Johnson, Clarence Towns, Wilfredo Rivera, Isaac F. Washington, Llewelyn Waterman, Kevin A. White, Isaac Washington, Kelvin A. White, John O’Neill, Caesar I. Allcea, Clarence V. Townsend, Gladys Brown, Paul E. Graves, Alberto Ravello and William P. Gavin. If I don’t have your
name down for this month, contact me ASAP and it will be in the next issue of the Co-op City Times. Our Post is located in Section 5 Community Center, 135 Einstein Loop, Room 41. Our office number is 718320-8165 and you can also reach us by e-mail at post1871@optimum.net. Post 1871 would like to thank the members who attended the breakfast at the Turner Club on Sunday, October 14th: Post Commander Jerome Rice, Post Adjunct Toba LA Crown, Donald Fuller, Paul Graves, Kenneth Nelson and Richard I. Lawson, Jr. Thanks again for your support. TAPS, for Post member John McMillian. When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in
exchange. He will be missed by his family and friends. All veterans, when you renew your driver’s license, the DMV will indicate on your driver’s license that you are a Veteran so that you will have proof when you go to a store or restaurant to prove that you are a veteran and receive your discounts. Post members, remember to have a safe and happy HALLOWEEN on October 31st. On January 1st, all retired military personnel and all members receiving Social Security will receive a 1.7% increase in your check. This will be the lowest increase in many years, so enjoy it and spend it wisely. The next Executive meeting will take
place on Saturday, November 3rd at 11 a.m. sharp. PLEASE MARK THIS DATE ON YOUR CALENDER! Upon your arrival, sign in and turn off your cell phone. It would be great if you brought a notebook and pen along too. I hope all of our Post members are registered to vote on November 6th. You will have your chance to vote for the next President. Make sure your family and friends are registered and voting on November 6th, too. The Bermuda Triangle got tired of warm weather. It moved to Finland. Now Santa Claus is missing. This information was provided by the Post Information Officer. —R icha r d I . La wson, J r.
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We Received the HUD Draft Commitment Just recently, we received a 10-page draft of a commitment letter from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to insure our new mortgage with Wells Fargo.Also, they sent over exhibits of "critical repairs" that they want us to make. Now, let's review these documents so that we can have a very clear understanding of what's going on. This draft commitment acknowledges that Wells Fargo has agreed to loan Riverbay $621,500,000, at 2.4%, for 420 months or 35 years. Then, it states that we must complete certain repairs before they insure our mortgage. Some of these repairs and issues are outlined on exhibits. E xhibit A Here are some issues on Exhibit A that must be completed: All violations from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB), NYC Environmental Control Board (ECB), NYC Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), and NYC Fire Department (FDNY) must be cleared. Along with these items, we must make some accessibility improvements that are in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Now, there is a long list of other repairs on Exhibit A that is way beyond the scope of this article. However, here are some of the items that must be repaired before we close: pavement damages, sidewalks, trip hazards, and some issues with the garages. Then, within 18 months, we're going to have to install smoke detectors and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) in all of the apartments. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, "The GFCI is designed to protect
Director’s Viewpoint
Daryl Johnson Assistant Treasurer
people from severe or fatal electric shocks." All of the items listed in Exhibit A should total approximately $2,934,510, or about $191 per apartment. E xhib it B Just like Exhibit A, we have a long list of repairs that are listed in Exhibit B that must be corrected. So, here are some of the items: basketball, tennis, and volleyball courts, roofing issues, mold issues, piping issues, power plant issues, etc. Closing Dat e E xt en sion NY Community Bank has extended the closing date from October 31, 2012 to November 30, 2012. So, that will give us more time to review these items. Mor t ga ge Sch edule We're going to have 420 months--35 years--to pay this mortgage off. And, here is the payment schedule: Months 1-27 = $2,342,547.68; months 28-47 = $2,230,583.52; months 48-50 = $2,218,936.91; months 51-59 = $2,205,946.24; months 60-102 = $2,184,779.89; months 103-121 = $2,169,535.70; months 122-420 = $2,162,566.02. C la uses There are many clauses that are stipulated in this letter. For instance, we're going to have to stay in the MitchellLama program as long as this loan is insured by HUD. Then, there's a clause that might be
seen as intrusive to some Board members. The clause states that anyone who runs for the Board must certify that they don't have any outstanding tax liens. Ca r r ying Cha r ge I ncr ea ses There is a clause that states that our carrying charges will increase in conjunction with our expenses, or as otherwise needed. Now, wasn't this matter brought to your attention before? Look, let me ask you something. Do you honestly think that strong efforts will be made to reduce our expenses? In my opinion, the answer is no. Get this straight, this loan prevents us from taking out any more loans. So, what are you going to do when you see your carrying charges go up? Either you pay or well…you get the picture. Therefore, this mortgage is going to force everyone here to eventually get involved in the operations of this corporation. Ta ke it Ba ck So, can you see why I say that we, cooperators, must take this community back and run this corporation in a manner that is beneficial to us? The idea that nothing can be cut is insane. Therefore, I want to get some good and caring cooperators on this Board who will stand up and help the people who live here. We will review the budget, the payroll, and all of the records here and we will make changes as we see fit. Plus, we will demand that all apartments get fixed in a swift and professional manner. Also, we will deal swiftly with various other issues that are plaguing this community. Therefore, I am going to do my best to make sure that we get some strong, no-nonsense leaders on this Board. Thereafter, we are going to review
every aspect of this community. P ublic Sa fet y Cer em ony We had a Public Safety event on Friday, October 19, to welcome seven new officers and to acknowledge the promotion of twelve current officers. And, I was very pleased to see that this event went over very well. Additionally, I was glad to hear about the extensive amount of training, on a wide variety of subjects, that our officers receive when they join our Public Safety Department. This is impressive, and it shows a level of professionalism and dedication that is expected with this department. So, I would like to thank all of our Public Safety employees, and Captain James McGeown and Officer Diana Beato from the 45th Precinct for their willingness to help our community and for making this event happen. Close Please remember to vote in the upcoming elections for people who are going to help us. And, according to a cooperator from Building 14, Casals Place, named Mr. John Greene, “Take someone with you when you go. And, know where you should go to vote. We should have 100 percent voter turnout.” Questions or comments? Please send a message to: Daryl Johnson, Riverbay Board Director, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Or, please send a message to me at darylhjohnson@opton line.net. Please double-check this spelling. Also, please call me at 718-671-4544 if you don't receive a response from me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.
Black Forum Defen sive Dr ivin g r esu m es n ext week Our next defensive driving course will be held on Saturday, November 10, Rm. 1, Dreiser Community Center, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Call today to register, 718-320-8035. Lower your insurance cost by 15% and remove up to 4 points from your driver’s license. Please make your check in the amount of $35, payable to “the Black Forum of Co-op City,” and mail to P.O. Box 563, Bronx, N.Y. 10475 at least 1½ weeks before the class, or you can walk in on the day of the class but you must have $35 in cash to pay for the course. Aq u edu ct C a sin o We’re going to Aqueduct Casino on Saturday, November 17, leaving from Dreiser Rehab at 2 p.m. sharp, back of the Library on Asch Loop at 2:15 p.m. and 135
Einstein Loop at 2;30 p.m. Returning to Co-op City at 8:30 p.m. We need 40 people at $20 a piece. Call today for your seat; Seats are going fast, (718) 320-8035. Wiz of Oz a u dit ion s con t in u e Wiz of Oz rehearsals every Saturday this month in Room 1 of the Dreiser Center at 1:30 p.m. SHARP. The play will be held on Sunday, December 9. Three (3) more actors/actresses between the ages of 14-18 ONLY are needed. Ability to sing and dance a MUST. Come to Room 1 on Saturday. Notice: Sect ion 5 food pant r y pa r t icipa nts
All Section 5 residents must pick up their food packages on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Evangelical Church of Co-op City. You must bring your white cards to be able to pick up your food. For
more information, please call (718) 3208035. Bla ck For u m Aer ob ics in session Aerobics classes are held every Monday and Wednesday, Dreiser, Aud. A, 7:30 p.m. To register, please call (718) 320-8035. Nominal fee for each class. Emergency Food Program We are open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., Room 20 at the Dreiser Community Center. Also, due to budget constraints and shortage of available food, you must live within zip code 10475 to participate in this program. You must also have your card with you and bring two clean plastic shopping bags. In order to receive food, you must present a current photo ID such as a non or dri-
ver’s license or any photo ID card with proof of address. You will then be issued a card in order to pick up food in the future. Volu n t eer s wa nt ed We need volunteers for Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Call (718) 320-8035. We Need You - J oin Us Tod a y Now is the time for us to get involved. Membership is $5 per year/person. Call (718) 320-8035 or write to Black Forum, P.O. Box 563, Bronx, NY 10475; email: coopcityblackforum@gmail.com. Help us keep independent community organizations alive in Co-op City. Everyone is encouraged to join. Call us or visit us in Room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center. —Tony I llis
National Council of Negro Women Our Saturday Educational Program for 2012-2113. Children in Grades 2-8 will receive small group instruction in reading and mathematics each Saturday during the school year with certified teachers in Room 14, Dreiser Community Center. Registration continuing each Saturday as space allows 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. For further information, call (718) 655 9034 or (718) 671-2555. Come see the cherry blossoms in
Washington, DC. Join us for a guided tour of Washington, DC, April 5 – 8, 2013 featuring tours of: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, Iwo Jima Memorial, WW II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Smithsonian Institution, US Capital, Embassy Row, Lincoln Memorial, and the White House. Motor Coach transportation. Cost: doubles, $419; singles, $539. Deposit of $75 is
due by November 15. For more information, contact: Roberta, 718-671-4804; Joyce, 718-655-9034 or Yvonne, 718-3209694. The Book Club’s last meeting of the year will be today, Saturday, October 27, at 3:30 p.m. at Barnes & Noble. We will be discussing “Our Black Year: One Family’s Quest to Buy Black in America’s Racially Divided Economy” by Maggie Anderson. The Theater Club has a few tickets left
for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for Sunday, December 2nd matinee. Ticket price: $42. Call 718-320-2366 for tickets. Exercise your right to vote: Please vote on Tuesday, November 6th. Please contact Sadie Gilmore, 718-6713721, to notify us of any birthdays, illness or bereavement. Happy birthday to our October mem—M a xin e Su lliva n bers.
Building 24 Association Hi, neighbor…I’m still recovering from my unexpected dilemma – broken typewriter blues. Just a few things for this issue: Our membership dues fell short this year. If you have not paid dues
for 2012, please do so as soon as possible. The economy has left us financially in need of funds — this has never happened before… Therefore, we will be collecting your 2012 dues over the next
few weeks. Although October is almost over, here’s wishing you a happy birthday (and many more!). Get well wishes are extended to Association members under the weather. Remember, the next
two months are holiday months, so you need to be ready to enjoy them. Don’t forget – “Let a smile be your umbrella.” —C e lest in e W it h ey
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
African-American Association of Co-op City C it y C ou n cil C a n d id a t es’ For u m – Tuesday, 10/30, 7:00 p.m. Bartow Center, Room 31. The following are some of the ongoing programs which the Association sponsors and encourages your participation: C h ild r en ’s Aft er Sch ool P r ogr a m – Childcare and help with homework 3:006:00 p.m. Call 718-379-5555. Z u m ba F it ness C la sses – Mondays, 6:00 p.m. Dreiser Center, Room #2. Fee: $5; Registration: $15. Call 917-459-4491. E d u ca t ion – The Per Ankh Study Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Mondays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 15. Call 718-379-5555. Yoga & P ila t es M a t C la sses – Tuesdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room #2. Fee: $12-$15; Registration: $15. Call 718-671-8364. C om pu t er /L a p t op C la sses – Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser
Center, Room 15. Class fee $5; members get one free class. Call 718-379-5555. Be lly Da n c i n g C l a s s es – Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 2. Class fee: $15; Registration: $15. Call 646-301-9438. E ven in g L in e Da n cin g C la sses – Thursdays, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room #2. Class fee: $5 per hour; Registration: $15. Call 917-903-7073. J ob s/E n t r epr en eur ia l Wor k sh op s – Every 1st Thursday, 7:00 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 15. Call 718-320-1424. Alvin Ailey Am er ic a n Da n ce T hea t er – Holiday tickets for December 9th and 15th matinees at City Center. Prices: $35 and $40. Call 718-379-5555. C en t r a l P a r k 5 – The struggle for justice will resume for the innocent victims in the Central Park Jogger case. The hearing: Monday, 10/29, 2:30 p.m., Federal Courthouse, 500 Pearl St., 18th Floor,
NYC. Please show support. G en er a l M em b er sh ip M eet in g, 10/13 – The following will summarize: Three new members were welcomed. Ms. Hinds reported that the children’s early morning dropoff program begins at 6:00 a.m. Mr. Toppin reported on the assistance he provides for people seeking jobs. He also discussed that after a tenyear struggle, Judge Nicholas Garaufis signed off on a new FDNY entrance exam, when, in 2009 it was ruled that NYC and FDNY used racially discriminatory hiring practices. The Vulcan Society was relentless in obtaining justice for Black Firefighters. Four Alvin Ailey tickets were sold. Pros and cons discussion regarding the new washing machines. News from the Board included updates on the HUD loan; Section 5 football team and cheerleaders; College Fair 11/17; and community enhancement.
*The Coalition’s Friends & Family Day: 10/21, guest speaker, Councilman Charles Barron. NYC Council Candidates’ Forum, 10/30, 7 p.m., Bartow. Telephone banking, campaign buttons, vote on 11/6. Thanks to Estelle Rollins for donating a gift for our monthly raffle. Refreshments were served. Thanks to Chris Banner and new member, Cora Lee Dixon, for their assistance in setting up. Next Association M eeting: November 10th, 4 p.m., Dreiser Center, Room 15. If you cannot attend, you may send your membership check or money order (Do Not Mail Cash) of $15 for a single membership and $25 for families to: African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Thanks to those who have renewed their membership. We must be doing something —Fr a ncine R . J ones right.
Coalition to Save Affordable Housing At a general meeting of the Coalition to Save Affordable Housing on Monday, October 15th, members and friends reviewed the Coalition’s efforts to urge the Department of Housing and Urban Development to approve a highly beneficial loan to Co-op City. The Coalition’s Executive Committee had written to our elected officials in Washington, including Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, and Representatives Engel and Crowley, as well as to the Obama reelection committee, asking them to help spur HUD action on the proposed loan. A letter from a Coalition member appeared in the Co-op City Times encouraging residents to do
the same. Much lobbying has been done in support of the loan. At the time of this writing, it has advanced to the point of a “commitment letter” from HUD to Riverbay. That letter must now be reviewed by the Riverbay Board. The Coalition meeting proceeded to the annual election of Coalition officers, returning all but two of the current officers. Family needs and a demanding job have prevented longtime Coalition treasurer Yolanda Schumann and current membership director Linda Berk from seeking reelection. Yolanda’s many years of devoted service was noted with grati-
tude and affection, as was Linda’s energy and promise. Both remain committed members of the Coalition – Linda as a continuing at-large member of the Executive Committee. Claudia Sampson was elected treasurer for the coming year. Sheila Sinclair was elected membership director. Sheila will direct a membership recruiting campaign, starting with an extensive mailing of letters to members and friends. Current officers who will continue in those positions for the coming year are: Sebastian Ulanga, Chairperson; Stuart Edwards, co-Chairperson; Dolores
Rankin, Secretary; Mitch Berkowitz, Assistant Secretary; Hattie Overman, Assistant Treasurer; Elected as membersat-large of the Executive Committee: Judy Camacho, Angel Mangual, Hal Satinoff, Linda Berk, Bruce Silberman and Charles Phipps. Upcoming meetings of two citywide housing organizations that the Coalition is affiliated with were announced: the Mitchell-Lama Residents Council and Cooperators United 4 Mitchell-Lama. Both organizations study and take action on issues affecting Mitchell-Lama residents. —Seba st ia n Ula nga
Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic Club Tuesday, November 06, 2012 is General Election Day. I am requesting that all members of the community
come out and cast your vote for the candidate/s you feel will best represent your views for a more stable
government. The next meeting of the Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic Club will be held
on Thursday, November 15, in Room# 28 at 7:30 p.m. Please attend. —G eor ge T. C la r k e
Co-op City Branch of the NAACP Renowned Congressman John Lewis of Georgia said, “The most important tool for nonviolent change is the vote.” Neighbors, the most important point here is vote in this and every election. The second most important thing is bring a friend! For the NAACP, Co-op City Branch, October, 2012 meant emphasizing working for missions the NAACP champions. October, since 1984, honors the mission of “Domestic Violence” awareness. “Domestic Violence” is a crime behind closed doors, against women, men, children, the elderly, even animals. The more social problems there are, for example, unemployment and education, the higher the rate of domestic violence. The NAACP supports programs correcting and eliminating domestic violence. October is also Cancer Awareness Month. All during October, special events were held to support research and benefit families struck by cancer. Now, November is here and it is time to VOTE for the candidates who work towards cures and solutions. In nearby Williamsbridge, Bronx, your writer attended the Williamsbridge Branch of the NAACP’s very informative candidates’ forum introducing all the candidates for New York City Council 12th District and their platforms. They also provided a venue for
candidates: Congressman Eliot Engel, State Senator Ruth Hassell Thompson and Assemblyman Carl E. Heastie. The official candidates for City Council are: Pamela A. Johnson, Andy King, Garth Marchant, Neville Mitchell, Joseph Nwachukwu and Cheryl Simmons Oliver and for Assemblyman, Mark Gjonaj. The NAACP, founded in 1909, sets the bar high as the senior organization fighting for equal and civil rights in the United States. Join now, attend meetings, become part of this non-violent army! All meetings of Branch 2210 are held in Room 36, Einstein Community Center, 135 Einstein Loop. As an election year for the NAACP, at our General Membership Meeting, Thursday, September 27, a nominating committee was established. Tuesday, October 23, 7 p.m., the nominating committee submitted a slate of officers and members for the Executive Committee. All members achieving membership thirty days and over are eligible to run for any office. Additional nominations may also be taken from the floor with three (3) signed petitions. At the Tuesday, November 27th meeting, the voting will take place for four (4) hours, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. All meetings and elections are in Room 36, 135 Einstein
Loop, Einstein Community Center. To share news and to contact us, write the Coop City Branch of the NAACP, P.O. Box 753111, and Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475 or email, evalazaar@gmail.com. Remember when renewing your NAACP membership, enter your membership number clearly. If you have a question, contact the Co-op City Branch of the NAACP as stated.
Congratulations to all who participated and were honored in this year’s Friends and Family Day sponsored by the Coalition of African American Organizations in Co-op City. This press release is submitted with the approval of President of the Co-op City Branch of the NAACP, Jeannette Graves. —E va K ind a ich i
JBFCS/CCFS Community Announcement:
135 Einstein Loop, Room 46 Bronx, NY 10475 718-320-3082 www.jbfcs.org
Everybody should have an official ID. Below are three basic forms of identification, and how to obtain them: • Birth Certificate - You may apply online at www.vitalchek.com/birth-certificates and you must be 18 years of age or older. To apply in person, you can go to the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene only if you were born in the five boroughs of NYC. You must be 16 years of age to apply for your birth certificate in person. If you are not 16 years of age, ask your parent to apply for you. Price: $23.30 total • Social Security Card - You may visit your local Social Security Administration office with either your U.S. drivers Iicense, non-driver state ID, passport, employee ID card, school ID card, health insurance card (not a Medicare card) or US military ID Card. If you have never had a Social Security card and are applying for the first time, you must bring either your birth certificate or passport. Price: Free • Non-Driver State ID - This document is one of the most important forms that every individual should have. You may visit the Department of Motor Vehicles with your birth certificate and Social Security card to apply for your Non-driver State ID. Other important documents are required. Please visit the NYC Department of Motor Vehicles for more information. Price: $9-$10 (4-5 years of age), $13-$14 (8-9 years of age) For additional information, please visit www.nyc.gov/GetYourID
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
In the best interest of Co-op City Fellow cooperators, once again I am Director’s writing before an upcoming Board meeting where I hope we will be moving closer to finalizing a guaranteed loan with HUD saving us millions of dollars in the future in interest costs. The commitment letter has arrived and we, as a Board, are studying it and asking questions, hoping there is no hidden agenda, in preparation for a vote on whether to approve it. As I said last week, and I’ve said before, I first moved to Co-op City some 40 years ago because it offered safe, affordable living and I have never regretted that decision. I strongly believe in passing things on, so I feel a responsibility and commitment to ensure, if I possibly can, that those in the upcoming generation have the same opportunity that I was fortunate enough to have, and therefore, as of now, I foresee no reason not to vote in favor of the guaranteed HUD loan providing us with a new $621 million mortgage, underwritten by Wells Fargo Bank. Whether it’s a minor issue, or a monumental one, I approach issues always thinking of what’s best for the cooperators of Co-op City. I learned a long time ago that many times one must put principles above personalities and not allow petty disagreements or dislikes to influence how one votes. I utilize a simple litmus test, and that centers on one question, is it in the best interests of Co-op City, meaning the cooperators, clear and simple. I know some beat their chests or spout endless strings of negative sentences denouncing this or that, but the future of Co-op City can’t be turned into a political issue. We are all members of the Co-op City community, and politics or personal ambition, or wanting to call the shots, or always thinking one is right, when of course that is
impossible, should play no part in such an important vote as whether to move forward with the guaranteed HUD loan, and so, I hope, while reading this, you will see that the Board voted in favor of moving ahead with this loan, and I am confident that an overwhelming majority of my Board colleagues will do so. Regarding another important issue, I know former Assemblyman Stephen Kaufman has been working on ways to challenge the outrageous unnecessary $4 million per year we are being forced the city’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to pay for unnecessary asbestos abatement work that poses absolutely no threat or danger to the health of residents or workers here. This is an insane bureaucratic punishment being imposed on our community and being selectively enforced when no other community with similar floor tiles in the City of New York is being forced to do such similar work. Simple question, why? Why us? There is no logical, rational, or justifiable explanation or defense for forcing Co-op City to pay the equivalent of a 4% carrying charge increase each year for asbestos abatement work that is not needed. I don’t know what Mr. Kaufman has in mind, but I look forward to hearing what he thinks is our best course of action. I was very impressed with Joseph Miele, a former DEP Commissioner, who is working with Mr. Kaufman on helping us eliminate this onerous, unnecessary cost that is diverting much needed money from us which could be better and more productively spent in other areas, and on other
Viewpoint
Tony Illis
things. We have the facts on our side, including a study with extensive tests where over 70,000 air samples were taken and not one proved positive, but government has the power and never tends to act quickly, especially if it doesn’t receive a shove as a reminder of what it should do. Another concern I have is the instances of gunshots being reported in the community. This is not acceptable at all and an end must be put to it. True, Co-op City has a low crime rate, and in addition to remaining affordable, that is one of the biggest attractions about living here, however, that does not mean all behavior is acceptable. Parents, and I commend the majority who are responsible, but I also implore all parents to take responsibility for their children by setting a good example. Unfortunately, many teens and youngsters don’t think of future consequences, and falling under the influence of a bad crowd, or taking one false step on impulse or without considering what might happen, can lead to dire consequences affecting one for the rest of their lives. Plans for the clothing drive to benefit the village of Abetifi-Kwahu in Ghana are still being worked on. Keep checking back for more details of where you can donate clothing, pens, pencils, paper, t-shirts, slippers, but no winter overcoats, although light sweaters are needed. We’re not asking for anything expensive, but let’s show how big Co-op City’s heart is. I want to thank Umar David for helping me the other day by assisting me in maneuvering through the community center to get upstairs where I needed to go. Give me a call at (718) 320-8035, or email me at: tonyshome10475@gmail.com, no attachments, please.
Jewish War Veterans Post 500 The November meeting of Co-op City Post 500 will be on Monday, Nov. 12 at 10 a.m. at the Seven Seas Restaurant in the Bartow Shopping Center. Here is a schedule of activities being held during Jewish War Veterans Week. All Post members should try to attend as many as possible. On Nov. 4 at 11 a.m., Memorial Services will be held at our JWV Grove Memorial in Van Cortlandt Park; Nov. 9, an
Donizetti Building 4 Association We missed you and you missed an excellent presentation provided by Chief Frank Apollo at our meeting on October 11. We receive pamphlets on issues related to our safety in our community or elsewhere. He encouraged those who live alone, handicapped or just those who feel the need to sign up for the RUOK Program. To get more information or application, call Public Safety. We also learned some of the many responsibilities of our Public Safety officers. Thank you, Chief Apollo. Don’t forget our Halloween party is today for Building 4 A-B-C only, from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Come dressed in your favorite costume. There will be games, prizes and lots of fun. Check the bulletin board in each lobby A, B and C for information concerning our Thanksgiving turkey raffle. Our annual Thanksgiving Senior Luncheon will be November 17. Don’t forget to sign up by calling Yvonne at 718-671-0213 or Mary at 718-671-0425. Congratulations to those celebrating a special occasion and get well wishes to our sick and shut-in. Don’t forget this is our home. If you see something, SAY something. Don’t forget to VOTE! —Y vo n n e Bu r r u s
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Oneg Shabot at West Point Military Academy at 7 p.m.; Nov. 10 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., helping at the 42nd St. USO; Bronx County JWV will hold a Veterans Day, Nov. 11th, Memorial Services at the Bronx VA Hospital, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. On Nov. 13 at 6 p.m., we will visit with the children at the Child Welfare Hospital on Waters Place. The next day, Nov. 14, we will hold a bingo party for the nursing home residents at the Bronx VA Hospital. On Nov. 15, we are sell-
ing poppies at the VA Hospital at 7 a.m., then on Friday, Nov. 16, we will hold a One Shabot at 7 p.m. at the Riverdale Jewish Center in the Bronx, and lastly, Bingo party at Kotay House, Nov. 18 at 11 a.m. Get well wishes are sent to Post 500 Commander, Alex Selikoff, who is recuperating at the Miami, Florida Veterans Hospital. — M a r v i n Wa r m
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Space for youth programs Attention, Co-op City residents. The Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office has shut down the Bartow Bingo Hall. About one month ago, I received the news about that space. My first reaction was to inform Mr. Herb Freedman and Mr. Vernon Cooper to “Stop! Stop! Do not even think about leasing that commercial space.” Mr. Freedman suggested it would be an excellent “flagship store” for commercial vendors for our Bartow Mall. My answer was I will battle for the use of the Bingo Hall because it could be a starting place for a community center. The gentleman reminded me that the Board would have to make the final decision. Management has issued a memo to the Board members to inspect an alternative space for use by our youth. This space is under the Compare Foods Supermarket, same level as the
Director’s Viewpoint
Eleanor Bailey lower offices of Riverbay (Bartow Mall). This space was shown to me about five years ago. It had been utilized as storage for files and papers of Co-op City. The Bronx PAL inspected that space and thought it could be used to bring youth boxing to Co-op City. Management had offered at that time to do some renovations, i.e., creating a new entrance to the main hallway and raising the drainage and waterpipes to the ceiling to accommodate a ring. Problems, the Bronx PAL, folks,
whom we were negotiating with, lost funding and authority to make a deal. Numerous attempts were made to obtain new contacts with the PAL. This became frustrating and futile. Last word we received was PAL became a political entity all over the city. I, Eleanor G. Bailey, Chair, Youth Committee, Riverbay Board of Directors, along with the committee members, am committed to establishing a community center as our number one priority and with an additional (a) paragraph, “a Youth Center.” That space under the supermarket cannot accommodate our youth whose needs are for athletic and non-athletic programs. The Board did vote for “Halloween Spirit” to lease the Bingo Hall for a few months; Nice money. So, all you folks who have been emailing each other about what to do
with this Youth Committee item without attending our last meeting, come to the next meeting on Tuesday, November 20, 7 p.m., Room 26A. I promise, the Bingo Hall shall be on the agenda. Come with some positive ideas on paper of how, when and what we can do concerning the Bingo hall. Think: For the Bingo Hall to be functional, we need an organization or folks who can and will be responsible for the security and function of the center, plans for renovation, a package of programs for the center. Money, money! And/or funds—where and how do we get it? With the community’s help, the Youth Committee pledges a center— no commercial flagship wanted. Remember: Youth Committee meeting, Tuesday, November 20, 7 p.m., Room 26, Bartow Offices, lower level.
Co-op City Duplicate Bridge Club The Co-op City Duplicate Bridge Club has begun its new season and is inviting Co-op City residents and other Bronx citizens to join the club and play bridge. Research by medical institutions and health researchers have documented that Bridge is one of the games that stops or delays the development of Alzheimer’ s Disease. So Bridge is not only a fascinating and enjoyable game but also has health benefits. You do not have to know
how to play bridge to join the club. Ms. Ernestine Myles, President of the club, guarantees that you can learn and that there are veteran members in the club who will teach new or non-players how to play the game and are willing to devote time to help anyone who wants to play. Currently, there is a Bridge class being taught in Room #19 at the Dreiser Community Center on Dreiser Loop where the Montefiore Medical Branch is
located. The class is taught by Mr. Alvin Lisle. He is a resident of Co-op City. Anyone interested in joining the class may call Mr. Lisle at 718-671-8852. However, if the class meets at a time that is inconvenient for interested persons to get there, they can call Ms. Myles at 718671-2525 and she will get one of the club teachers to volunteer to teach a class or individuals at an appropriate time. The Co-op City Duplicate Bridge
Clubs meets once a week on Wednesdays at 3:00 p.m. It meets in Room # 9 on the second floor in the Dreiser Center where the class is held. Visitors are welcome to come and sit in and observe this fascinating game being played. One should note that Bridge is an inexpensive game that is played by billionaires Warren Buffet and Bill Gates. Bridge is for everyone. — Ern es tin e M y les
Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
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Evangelical Church of Co-op City – UMC Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds C om e & Visit Us – We welcome you to God’s House – Your House – One family in Christ. We are a congregation with spirit-filled worship, offering a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and bilingual congregation and all are welcome. Services are at the church at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across the street from Building 30. Parking is available. Visit our website at www.co-opcityumchurch.org. Su n d a y Ser vices – The first Sunday of the month is a bilingual service with communion at 10 a.m. All other Sunday services are as follows: English Service at 9 a.m. and the Spanish Service at
11:30 a.m. There are Bible studies in English and Spanish at 10:30 a.m. We also have a children’s service during the English service. P r a ye r Nigh t : The Lord said, “Whenever two or more are gathered in my name I am in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20. We will be having a prayer night on Tuesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the church building. Come and bring your prayer needs so we can all pray. Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m., there is prayer till 11:15 a.m. in Spanish. C r escen d o C h r ist ia n M u sic Sch ool: Learn piano, guitar, percussion, voice and theory. Contact Maestro Frank Colon at (917) 753-3644. The school
will be open from Monday – Friday, 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. Private and group lessons are available. Earlier lessons can be arranged. All ages are welcome. Registration is free and rates are affordable. M en ’s Fellowsh ip : Every Thursday evening at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Come and share your testimonies, explore your gifts and be blessed in the Word of our Lord. Hope to see you there. F a m ily Nigh t : Friday nights are for the family. We will be having bible studies and other spiritual growth activities for all ages. There will be English & Spanish groups. Bring a friend or two or more. Su n d a y Sch ool For C h ild r en : Every
Sunday at 10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. We just started a new Sunday School for children of all ages. There will be three groups: 3 yrs. – 7 yrs., 8 yrs. – 12 yrs. and teens 13 yrs. and up. The curriculum being used will be The Super Book. F ood P a n t r y: Co-op City people must register at Dreiser Center, Room 20 on Tuesday thru Thursday. Bring a photo ID to register. You will be given a card to be able to receive food. Section 5 residents can pick up food on Wednesday from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. in the church. You must bring your card and two clean shopping bags. If you have any questions regarding the food program, call Tony Illis at 718-320-8035. —R ev. Dr. M ilca C . P la u d
Iglesia Cristiana Marcos 16:15 Pastor Fernando Figueroa and Pastor Thomas Garrett and the congregation of Iglesia Cristiana Marcos extend an invitation for you to come together and celebrate the day that the Lord has made, worshipping his precious and holy name. “...Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and clev-
erly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us...” ~ Hebrews 12: 1 Our Christian life is likened to a race. We need to run with ‘patient endurance.’ It’s not a sprint to the finish, but more like a marathon. Along the way we should encourage each other, for so often we may feel like giving up, but we need to keep pressing on. We need to get rid of anything that will weigh us down. No ath-
lete wears heavy clothing and weights while running their race. Likewise, in the spiritual, we also need to be dressed appropriately for the race, and throw off the things that would hold us back and weigh us down, so that we may be able to finish the race. Another interesting point I get from this verse is that it says to run the appointed course of the race that is set before us. That speaks to me of the race we are running being our race, we are not to run somebody else’s race.
With endurance let us run our race pressing forward with a steady pace C H UR C H HO UR S: Sp a n ish Tuesday: Prayer Service, 8:00 p.m. Friday: Bible Study, 8:00 p.m. Sunday: Sunday School, 10:00 a.m.— Evangelistic Service: 12:00 p.m. C h u r ch H ou r s: E n glish Sunday: Evangelistic Service, 4:00 p.m. All are welcome. We are located in the Section 5 community center, Room 42. —P a st or s F igu er oa /Ga r r et t
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Church of the New Vision Pastor Anne L. Palmore and the congregation of the Church of the New Vision extend a warm and friendly invitation to everyone to worship with us every Sunday at 8:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. We are a church where inspirational messages from the Word of God, the Bible, are delivered every Sunday morning. The church is designed to meet the spiritual needs of our community by offering anointed singing and preaching, and a general atmosphere of Christian love and friendly hospitality. We also invite the youth of our community to attend our Sunday Morning services, which are designed to meet the special needs of our young people. Parents, please send your children to learn of the Lord Jesus. Prayer Service takes place every Wednesday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by Bible Teaching from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Be with us to learn the truth from the Word of God. L ist of P r ogr a m s a n d E ven t s: Adult Sunday School is from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church Fr. Taylor and the congregation of St. Joseph’s cordially invite you to worship with us in Co-op City at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, (718) 320-0844. All are welcome. We ek ly Sc h ed u le: Sunday service and Sunday School are both at 9 a.m. Every 4th Sunday, our children participate in the reading of the lessons and every 5th Sunday, our young adults assist in the service. Bible study is held each Wednesday at 7 p.m. and Choir rehearsal is on Thursday at 7 p.m. We look forward to welcoming everyone at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 28. This will be a special service to celebrate the Ministry of the Sunday School. Confirmation class will continue to meet every Sunday after service until the Confirmation and Reception of new members by Bishop Mark Sisk on Sunday, November 4. Up com ing F un d r a isin g E vent s: Saturday, November 10 - cake sale at the church. Saturday, November 24 - Atlantic City trip to the Trump Plaza. Tickets are $35 per person. For additional information on all of the above, please call the church at 718-320-0844. “For he shall give his angels charge over you, *to keep you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:11) —M . C h a m ber s
From the Warfront to the Homefront Foundation From the Warfront to the Homefront Foundation, Inc., a Co-op City based charitable organization working toward improving the lives of current and past servicemembers of both the Afghanistan and Iraq Wars, as well as their families, is once again sponsoring events during the current Fall and upcoming Winter months. Next month, our organization will hold its 2nd Annual “Winter Coat Drive for Veterans.” Last year, we collected over 200 winter coats from this community and the coats were donated to the James J. Peters VA Medical Facility on Kingsbridge Avenue in the Bronx. We are looking to top that number this time around. Starting this month, we will begin collecting homemade cards to send to remaining troops in Afghanistan, as well as VA Medical Facilities here in New York City. Cards will be collected until December 1st. Lastly, we will also conduct a care-package drive for troops overseas in either November or December of this year. We NEED plenty of volunteers for all of these projects and you can contact me at (646) 359-7723 and/or Mark.Bruh@gmail.com. —M a r k P. Br u h
Youth Sunday School is also from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion is served the first Sunday of the month. Youth Sunday takes place on the second Sunday of the month. Missionary Sunday takes place on the third Sunday of the month Memorial Sunday (Men’s Day) takes place on the fourth Sunday of the month Seniors Sunday takes place on the fifth Sunday of the month. Singles’ Ministry meets every third Tuesday evening of the month at 6:00 p.m. Next Generation Choir & Club meets 1st & 2nd Friday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Seniors’ Ministry meets 1st Wednesday of the month at 11:00 a.m. Mid-day Bible Study meets every Tuesday afternoon from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
Come join New Vision’s “Partners in Reading Program” every Sunday afternoon from 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Students in Grades 1 through 8 discover the joy of reading while exploring and improving their literacy levels through small groups and reading partners. Parents, we encourage you to bring your children to benefit from this free program, taught by trained professional. Registration is going on now. Please come out and enjoy the New Vision Men Fellowship as they celebrate their anniversary on Sunday, October 28 at 3:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be Rev. Aubrey Adams of Breath of Life Ministries, Bronx, New York. Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein Loop, Bronx, NY 10475; Telephone #: (718) 671-4746 or (718) 320-0409. Our mailing address is: Church of the New Vision, P.O. Box 753037, Bronx NY, 10475 Please visit our website at www.churchofnew vision.com. —C a r ole H a q u e
Co-op City Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow for worship service at 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Sunday School is held at 9:15 a.m. for children and adults. We invite you to worship, study, and pray with us. The Co-op City Baptist Church is located at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 50 (lower level). Our telephone number is 718-320-3774. Visit us on the web at www.coopcitybaptistchurch.org. It is with profound sorrow that we announce the death of the founding pastor of the Co-op City Baptist Church, Rev. Julius Sasportas. Rev. Sasportas passed away on October 18, services were held on October 25. Please keep his family and the church family in prayer. Join us for a mid-week spiritual pick-up at our midweek worship service which is held on Wednesdays at 12 p.m. Bible study is held on Wednesdays at 1:00 and 7:30 p.m. Prayer Service is held on Fridays at noon and 7:30
p.m. Men’s prayer service is held monthly at 7:30 p.m., we invite the men of the community to join us on Tuesday, November 13. Our Fall Revival will be held on Wednesday to Friday, November 14, 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. each evening. Please plan to join us to be revived. Rev. Dr. Williams has a radio show on WMCA 570 AM every Friday at 1:30 p.m. Rev. Dr. Williams is the author of Principle Centered Living: 9 Reasons To Maintain Your Values in a Pressure Filled World and founder of SEW Universal, Inc. Visit his websites: www.PrincipleCentered Living.com or www.RevDrSheldonEWilliams.com. The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry. — Ha t t ie L . L u ca s
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Community Protestant Church On behalf of our Pastor, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens, and our church family, welcome to Community Protestant Church, a church of love and understanding, located at 1659 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, NY 10469; telephone: (718) 8629172. C HUR C H SC HE DUL E : *Sunday School - 9:00 a.m. Worship Service - 11:00 a.m. Communion Service - Every first and third Sundays Prayer Meeting and Bible Study – Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. T HE FO LL OWING PROGR AM S AR E AT T HE CH UR CH ’S ANNE X: 2053 ASC H L OO P NORT H (C O-OP CI TY)
Morning Prayer Services - Tuesday,
6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 -11:00 a.m. Neighborhood Bible Study - Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Extension of Prayer and Worship Service – Every first and second Fridays at 7:00 p.m. *Sunday School for Children and Youth is now in session. Our program this year starts at 9:00 a.m. with 25 minutes for breakfast. We welcome new and returning students and look forward to another opportunity to help train our children for a lifetime of faith and Christian growth. P L E ASE J O I N US I N C E L E BR AT I NG O UR PASTO R , R E V. DR . C ALVI N E . OW ENS’ 36t h ANNI VE RSARY
Opening Service - Sunday, November 4th, 3:30 p.m.
The Guest Preacher will be the Reverend Hugh Farrish, Bowen Memorial Baptist Church, Mount Vernon, NY. Anniversary Service – Sunday, November 11th, 11:00 a.m. 3:30 p.m. – A Musical Celebration OT H E R SC H E DUL E D E VE NT S: Today, Sunday, October 28th at 3:30 p.m. - The Missionary and Nurses Ministries will be pleased to have you join them as they celebrate their Joint Anniversary. Theme: “Missionaries and Nurses Holding God’s Hand.” Our Pastor, Rev. Dr. Calvin E. Owens, will bring the message for the afternoon. Sunday, November 18th, The Willing Workers Annual Pecan and Bake Sale will be held after service. Stop by their
table and pick up a great holiday gift of pecans and some scrumptious dessert. Saturday, December 8th, CPC Tours’ Annual Christmas Shopping Spree to Tanger Outlet Center in Riverhead, LI. Stock up on gifts from Banana Republic, Gap, Coach Factory Store, Jones NY, J. Crew, Easy Spirit, Timberland, London Fog. Tickets: $40. For tickets and/or additional information, call CPC Tours at (718) 671-1182. The doors of Community Protestant Church are open to all to worship and fellowship with Christian believers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You are cordially invited to come in, join in and receive your blessing. E va n G. M itchell —E
Church of the Savior Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr., Pastor; Lady Theresa M. Smith, co-founder; Rev. McMillian, Assistant Pastor, and the Church of the Savior family extend an invitation to every person to worship with us. We are a non-denominational, inter-racial, inter-cultural, intergenerational fellowship of believers. We care about you, not your W2. We are not church as usual. Come as you are, we leave the judging to God. The Church of the Savior family extends love and affirmation to the Coop City community; A warm welcome awaits you!! We love you for who you are, not what you have. Please call us at 718-320-0002 or 917-734-4058 for
more information. Do you want a place that allows you to meet the living God? Do you want to be connected to people who care about you, not what you have on or how much money you make? A special seat and friend awaits you. Church of the Savior is located at 120 DeKruif Place – street level, (under Building #7 near Dreiser Loop). Take the 38 to Dreiser Loop and DeKruif Pl. Our mailing address is: P.O. Box 86, Bronx, NY 10475. Su n d a y Sch ed u le: Adult Bible Study - 9:05 -10:00 a.m. Prayer, Meditation and Devotion 10:00 a.m. Divine Worship - 10:30 a.m.
Come and be blessed, we want an opportunity to love you. See you in church. Our children’s Sunday School will teach and nurture your child/children in the word of God. All sessions are during worship service. Dr. Sm it h ’s Ser m on Top ic: “God’s Still Working on You!” R ea d i n g f r o m H o l y S cr i p t u r e: James 1:2-6. Week ly Act ivit ies – Every person is welcomed. Mondays at 5:15 - Bereavement Group. Tuesdays at 6:30 - Special Bible Study. Subject: God’s Grace and Human
Suffering. Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. - Channel 70, Bronxnet. Every other Saturday - Food Pantry. For more information in donating or receiving food, please call Lady Theresa Smith at 718-925-5052. Our Health and Wellness Ministry has all natural products that address your needs. Call Lady Theresa Smith, 718-9255052, to assist you or place your order at www.ardysslife.com/healthyyou25. Here’s to your health! T h ough t of t h e Week: “Sin fascinates you, then assassinates you.” —R ev. Dr. R ob er t A. Sm it h , J r.
Pentecostal Tabernacle The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to join in worship service every Sunday morning at 120 Benchley Pl., Building 24 (street level). Rev. R. Sibblies, Pastor. SUNDAY: Sunday School for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship service starts at 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. W E DNE SDAY: Prayer and fasting service will be held every Wednesday morning beginning at 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Regular prayer meeting will also be held at 7:30 p.m. FR IDAY: Bible study starts at 7:30 p.m. Topic: THE HAND WRITING ON THE WALL (Daniel, chapter five). F O C US: The church is a privileged for people who have been buried and raised in Christ, which enables them to walk in the light of His love, forgiveness
and redemption. As ye therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him. (Colossians 2: 6) What a powerful confession for an individual to recognize the Lordship of our savior Jesus Christ, and to be able to share the privileges pre-destined for those who love Him and walk in His ways. Apostle Paul in his letter to the Colossians wanted to share some important characteristics that distinguish a follower of Christ. What exactly are those characteristics? We would have to examine the scriptures to further authenticate and understand what Paul wanted to nurture them in recognizing. In Colossians 2:7, he states, “Those who live in Christ are “rooted” in him, they are also “built up in him,” meaning it is a continual process where one grows in God’s grace.
They are established and strengthen in faith because faith makes things move. The results of trusting an unseen God benefits the believer greatly in which they abound with thanksgiving, they overflow with thankfulness because God always remains true. The Apostle Paul stressed the importance of avoiding false teaching that could steer the believers to incorporate poor philosophy and ultimately rob them of their joy in Christ. Colossians 2:8 reads, “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.” Now because we are embracing the fullness of Christ, we recognize that God is a reality. Thus now we possess the spiritual completeness all humans are able to obtain, not needing to adapt teachings that are not spirit
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Bartow
Dreiser
Library:
Crochet and Knitting: 10:00am-12:00pm, Rm. 7
Rm. 31
9:30am – 1:00 pm Rm. 49
Bingo:
Dominoes:
Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session:
11:00 am, Room 31
10:00am Rm. 45
9:30am -10:30am, Rm. 7
Dominoes:
Advance Line Dancing:
Stay Well Exercise:
2:00 pm, Room 25
(vacation day)
10:00am – 11:00am, Rm. 2
Word Games:
Around The Lunch Table:
Mind Teasers:
9:30am – 11:00 am, Rm. 31
Card Games:
11:30am, Rm. 49
Gentle Yoga w/Anne:
2:00pm – 4:00 pm, Room 25
Walking and Exercise w/Ms. Gaskill:
2:00pm-3:00, Rm. 2
2:00 – 4:00 pm
2:00pm – 4:00pm, Rm. 7
Library: 9:30am -1:00pm
Mon., Oct. 29
Einstein
Tues., Oct. 30
10am, Rm. 31
Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 49
10:00am, Rm. 31
Tai Chi 11 a.m., Rm. 45
Dominoes 2:30pm, Rm. 25
Bingo-1 p.m., Rm. 49
Word Games 9:30 –11:30am, Rm. 31
Card Games
Matinee Movie w/George 2:00-4:00 p.m., Rm. 45
2:30-4pm, Rm. 25
Stay Well Exercise
Wed., Oct. 31
10 -11 a.m.
Line Dancing 11 a.m.12:30 p.m., Rm. 31 Dominoes 2:30 p.m., Rm. 25 Word Games 9:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m., Rm. 31 Bingo Rm. 25, 2 p.m.
Blood Pressure 1st & 3rd Wed 9-10 a.m., Rm. 31 Card Games 2-4 p.m.
Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 45
Thurs., Nov. 1 Fri., Nov. 2
Movie Madness: 9:30 a.m., Rm. 31 Men’s Line Dancing: 9-10 a.m., Rm. 31 Women’s Line Dancing 10 – 11 a.m., Rm. 31 Spelling Bee: 11 a.m., Rm. 31 Dominoes: 2:30 p.m., Rm. 31 Word Games: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Rm. 31 Bingo: 2 p.m., Rm. 25 Card Games: 2-4 p.m., Rm. 31
Afternoon Movie: Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 – 10:30, Rm. 7 Alert & Alive 10:30am-11:30am, Rm. 7 Mixed Cultural Dance 10:30-11:30am in Aud. B Mind Teasers 12:00pm – 1:00pm, Rm. 4 Zumba w/Eva 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Tuesday Movie w/popcorn 2:00-4:00pm, Rm. 7
Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., Rm. 7
Sewing w/Raymonde 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Rm. 7
Spelling Bee
Tai Chi
10 a.m., Rm. 49
11 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 2
Spanish Practice Class 10:30 a.m., Computer Lab
Bingo 1 p.m., Rm. 49
Rm. 25
Library 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Rm. 31 Chat Session 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Rm. 31 Dominoes 2:30 p.m., Rm. 31 Word Games 9:30-11:30 a.m., Rm. 31 Bingo 2 p.m., Rm. 31 Card Games 2:30-4 p.m., Rm. 31
Dominoes 10 a.m. Rm. 45 Stay Well Exercise 10-11 a.m., Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 11 a.m., Rm. 49 Bingo 1 p.m., Rm. 49
Dominoes: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 Art: 10 a.m., Rm. 45 10 -11 a.m., Rm. 36 Bingo: 1 p.m., Rm. 49 Card Games: 2 -4 p.m., Rm. 49 Blood Pressure: 2nd and 4th Friday, 10-11:30 a.m., Rm. 49
Mind Teasers 12 p.m. – 1 p.m., Rm. 4 Art Class 1 p.m. -3 p.m., Rm. 7 YOGA w/Bhadra 2-3 p.m., Rm. 2
Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m., Rm. 7 Blood Pressure 1st & 3rd Thursday 10-11:30 a.m., Rm. 7 Line Dancing Every Thurs 10-11 a.m., Aud. A Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Drama 1:30 - 4 p.m., Rm. 7 Piano Sing Along 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Rm. 7 Crochet and Knitting 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rm. 7 Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30-10:30 a.m., Rm. 7 Meditative Moments 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Rm 2 Mind Teasers 12-1 p.m., Rm. 4 Therapeutic Yoga 1:302:30 p.m., Rm. 8 Card Games, Dominoes 2-4 p.m., Rm. 7 *Schedule subject to changes without notice*
WEEKLY TRIPS
As scheduled: 1st Mondays:
Stew Leonards Super Wal-Mart
Fridays
Bowling
Non-Kosher
Soups, Breads and Desserts
Mon., Oct. 29
Apple juice, Turkey meat sauce Bolognese Ziti w/garlic & parsley Green beans Alt: Cold egg salad
Flounder Baked potato Peas & carrots
Whole wheat bread Canned apricots
Orange chicken Mexican corn Oriental blend
Whole wheat bread Fresh banana
Taco Rice Tossed salad
Whole wheat bread Fresh orange
Turkey wings Sweet potato Spinach
Whole wheat bread
Chicken stew Egg noodles Broccoli
Fresh Challah Roll
Tues., Oct. 30 Wed., Oct. 31 Thurs., Nov. 1 Fri., Nov. 2
Prune juice Beef stuffed cabbage/ tomato sauce, Green beans Toasted barley Alt: Salmon salad Chicken breast Creamy mushroom dill sauce, Mashed potato Carrots Alt: Cold Tuna Fish Orange pineapple juice Hot baked Salmon w/cold low fat mayo, Dill sauce Winter blend, Kasha varniskes Alt: Cold baked chicken Apple juice ¼ roast chicken Greek style Roasted potato Spinach Alt: Cold vegetarian liver
ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk *Menu subject to change without notice. We ask that the members please call their center in order to register for lunch for the week. Registr a tion for lu n ch a da y in a dva n ce h a s been discon tin u ed.
Bartow Center (718) 320-2066, Ext. 2010 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161
Upcoming Events/Trips Att en tion a ll sen ior s: T her e will be n o r efu n ds for a ll t r ip s. E ffect ive O ct ob er 1: J ASA will n o lon ger b e a b le t o p r ovid e sa nd wich es for t r ip s. E m p ir e C a sino – M on d a y, O ct ob er 29t h - $3 p er per son . Trip includes round trip transportation. Pick-ups: Einstein, 10:00 a.m.; Bartow, 10:15 a.m. and Dreiser, 10:30 a.m. Bus departs at 3 p.m.; Please be on time. R a d io C it y M usic Ha ll C h r istm a s Sp ecta cu la r – Tuesd a y, December 11t h; $67. (54 seat Coach bus) Price: Includes transportation. Seniors will receive a voucher for popcorn & soda. Pick-ups: Asch Loop - 8:30 a.m.; Einstein Loop 8:45 a.m. & Dreiser Loop - 9:00 a.m. Final payment is due by Friday, November 16. SOLD OUT. Note: C h a nge in pick -u p. P a lisa des M a ll – F r ida y, Novem b er 2nd - $10 – includes round trip transportation. Pick-ups: Bartow – 9:00 a.m.; Dreiser - 9:15 a.m. & Einstein - 9:30 a.m. Wa l-M a r t – M ond a y, Novemb er 5th - $12 – Includes roundtrip transportation. Pick-ups: Bartow – 8:30 a.m.; Dreiser 8:45 a.m. & Einstein - 9:00 a.m. (sold out). St e w L e on a r d ’s – M on d a y, Novem b er 5th - $3 – 2 hrs. - Trip includes roundtrip transportation. Pickups: Einstein – 1:00 p.m.; Bartow – 1:15 & Dreiser - 1:30 p.m. (NE W ) C en t r a l Aven u e – M on d a y, Novem b er 12t h - $13 – Trip includes round trip transportation. 2 hours in Burlington Coat Factory and 2 hours in
Amazing Savings. Pick-ups: Bartow – 9:00 a.m.; Dreiser – 9:15 a.m.; Einstein – 9:30 a.m. Wa nt to p ar ticipa te in a focus gr oup a bout r etir ement? We would like to hear about your experience! JASA is holding focus groups for persons age 50 and older. Refreshments will be served. If interested, call the Co-op City Senior Services office: 718-320-2066. Weight Ma na gement Suppor t Gr oup – M onda y, November 5th - 10:00 a.m. Bartow Avenue, Room 25, every Monday. Maintaining a healthy weight is not easy but with knowledge and practice, it can be. Come join the Weight Management Support Group to learn techniques and information that can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. C a r egiver Su p p or t Gr oup - A Caregiver Support Group can offer an atmosphere of understanding and support for caregivers to discuss issues and concerns. Whether you care for a loved one from a distance or in your home, you are most welcome. The gr oup meets ever y other Tuesda y a t: 2049 Ba r tow Ave., Rm. 31 fr om 1-2 p.m. Next meeting is October 30th. The support group is facilitated by a social worker. If you have any questions, please contact JASA at 718-320-2066. DISABIL I TY SUPP ORT /SOC IAL IZ AT ION GROUP – The group meets every 1st Friday of the month. For more information, contact John Sullivan at 718671-2090 (Ext. 3010). Transportation is provided, if available.
Clothing bins
WEEKLY TRIPS DATES
Kosher
12:00pm – 1:00pm, Rm. 4
Current Events Bingo
Date:
PRICE
PICK-UP TIMES
$3 $12
Bartow Dreiser 1:15 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m. 8:45 a.m. 11:00am 11:30am
$2.50 (transportation)
Einstein 1:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 11:15am
To register for trips and classes, please call: (718) 320-2066 Monday – Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.
Shareholders are reminded that the clothing bins placed at the garages are for your convenience to donate used clothing, linens and shoes. Trans-America picks up twice a week to avoid overflow at the drop-off sites. However, it has become noticeable that instead of placing their bags of donated items inside the bins, some residents are leaving the bags on the ground outside of the bins, regardless of whether the bins are full or not. Please place your donated bags inside the donation bins and DO NOT leave them on the ground. When packing, make sure not to overfill your bag(s) to avoid it not being able to pass through the bins’ openings. If you must, place the donated items in several small bags. Thank you very much for your cooperation.
27
Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
AARP Chapter #4997 FYI: 28% of older Americans serve as a “caregiver” for someone – mother, father, grandchildren. 17% of the nation’s student loan debt of $870 billion is owed by adults age 50-plus. R EM INDER : Tickets are available for the Annual Holiday Celebration, scheduled for THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13th, 12-5 p.m. at Villa Barone - donation - $65, includes transportation, if needed. Call the office, 718-320-1946 to get tickets and reserve your seat on the bus. NOT E: To our sick, on the mend and shut-in members, and those bereaved members, please know that you are in our prayers. Contact Frances Wilson, Good & Welfare Coordinator, 718-671-5493. 2012 TOUR AC TI VI TIE S Dec. 30, 2012 – Jan. 1, 2013: New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball at the Desmond – WAITING LIST AVAILABLE…includes a stop at the Sands Casino (on the way) w/$30 slot play & $5 food or leisure time in Bethlehem (PA); next day, after a full breakfast buffet, choice of activities for the day; New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball w/Open Bar & Surf & Turf Dinner; masquerade masks, noise makers, entertainment, music & dancing; New Year’s Day Brunch & show before
leaving for home...FINAL PAYMENT DUE: Nov. 12th — $524/person, double; $634 single; $514/person triple; $28/person travel insurance available. Contact Delores, 718-379-2176. 2013 TOUR ACT IVIT IE S Jan. 10-20, 2013 – The Hawaiian Island Cruise Tour (11 days) – SOLD OUT includes 5 ports of call: Honolulu, Maui, Hilo, Kana & Kauai; on the Norwegian Pride of America; airfare and tours included in the price…inside state room $3,599/person; outside state room $3,899/person; outside balcony $4,669/person (new price); $500/person deposit (plus insurance payment) due at sign-up. Contact Jean, 718-379-3742. Feb. 5, 2013 – Ira & Isabella’s Jewish/Italian Wedding Comedy at the Mansion @ Colonial Terrace (Cortlandt Manor, NY) – includes luncheon and show; Deluxe motor coach transportation. $75/person. Contact Jean, 718-379-3742. April 11, 2013 – Ace in the Hole Presents Joe Coleman’s “Platters Review” – includes lunch, dancing and boutique shopping at the Royal Manor; w/deluxe motor coach transportation… $88/person. Contact Jean, 718-379-3742. —Delor es Debna m
Einstein Cancer Fund
Baychester Library Events VISIT THE LIBRARY - A GREAT WEALTH OF INFORMATION
Tuesday, November 6th, 2012 – General membership meeting in Room 38 at 1:30 p.m.; new members are welcomed. Dues are still $12 per year; refreshments will be served. Thursday, November 8th, Mohegan Sun Casino and Show — “A Salute to our Soldiers.” We are accepting stand-by only. Time of pick-up is at 7:30 a.m., but please be at your usual stops before 7:30 a.m. Don’t forget your photo I.D. and casino card. “Noah’s Ark” on May 15th and 16th at the Millenium Theatre, Lancaster Pa. Day one — “Noah’s Ark,” check in at the
Hawthorne Inn. Dinner at Miller’s Restaurant. Day 2 — after breakfast and check out, on to the Sands Casino, and bonus of the day. Cost per person—double, $245; triple, $235 and single, $287. An initial deposit of $25 for reservations; balances can be paid in any amount that is easier for you. Final payments must be made by March 30th. For the above trips, please call Mildred at 718-320-0288, Lydia at 718-671-3005 and Loretta at 718-671-2958. You can reach us on Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to noon and in the evening after 6:00 p.m. or leave a message. —Lydia Ru as
OCTOBER UPCOMING EVENTS Film - Saturday, October 27, 2 p.m., Little Shop of Horrors CR Program - Spooky Stories - Wednesday, October 31, 3:30 p.m. WEEKLY EVENTS Adult Workshop “Paint and Collage” (reserve only) - Mondays, 1:30 p.m. KIDS Game On Nintendo Wii! - Monday, 10/29, 3:30 p.m. Toddler Time - Every Tuesday, 11 a.m. Teens TAG - Every Tuesday, 4 p.m. Teen Lounge - Every Wednesday, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. Chess Club - Every Thursday, 3 p.m. Teen Lounge - Every Friday, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. Kids Flicks - Every Saturday, 11 a.m. Film - Every Saturday, 2 p.m.
The New York Public Library Baychester Branch • 2049 Asch Loop • Bronx, NY 10475 (Fully Wheelchair Accessible)
HOURS: Monday & Wednesday, 10-7; Tuesday & Thursday, 10-6; Friday & Saturday, 10-5. Libros En Español (Books in Spanish). HORARIO DE LA BIBLIOTECA: Lunes 10-7, Martes 10-6, Miércoles 10-7, Jueves 106, Viernes 10-5, Sábado 10-5, Domingo Cerrado
718.379.6700 FREE ADMISSION TO ALL
Goose Island Seniors Sunday, October 28—Bingo game in Room 39 at 1:30 p.m. Admission is $3. Everyone is welcome. Refreshments and snacks will be served. Wednesday, October 31—NO BINGO. HAPPY HALLOWEEN. October 30—Going to Mt. Airy Casino in the Poconos. Price is $30 (thirty dollars.) Rebate is $25 slot play and $10 (ten dollars) for food. Pick-up time is 8 a.m. at our 3 usual bus stops. Don’t forget to bring you picture I.D. card with you. We have a bus full. Tuesday, November 13—We are trying something new. We are having a POKENO GAME. We need players. Admission is $1
for coffee and cake. Also, bring plenty of pennies to play the game. Time is 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 13—Going to the Fiesta in Woodridge N.J. for International Jamboree. Plenty of music and entertainment and good food. Price is $60 (sixty dollars). We also have a full bus. ALL PAYMENTS MUST BE PAID UP BY THE END OF THIS WEEK. For more information, call Ann or Mary at 718-379-9613 or visit our office at 135 Einstein Loop, Room 39, MondayThursday, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or call Mary at 718-379-4899 or Ann at 347-026-4751. GOOD HEALTH TO ALL. —Ma r y Pilla
Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club You are invited to join us today, Saturday, October 27, at Einstein Community Center for our first Youth & Parent Summit in Einstein Community Center, Room 45, from 3:30 - 10 p.m. Admission is free. This is a non-partisan
community strength event. Refreshments, music and group discussions. Please vote in the upcoming election! Please participate in phone banking! This is one of the most crucial and expensive elections of all times. —Evelyn M. Tur ner
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Reflections by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue
In time to come, a story in the Talmud tells us all the wild animals of the jungle will summon the snake and will deliver to him the following admonition: “Listen, you snake,” they will say, it is true that we are all killers, but we kill because we are hungry and must feed on our victims. Our excuse for this act of evil is self-preservation, but you are the only one in our midst who kills just for the pleasure of killing. Now, we demand an explanation for your queer behaviors.“ In reply, the snake will plead guilty to the first charge, but will take exception to the claim that he is the only one who is guilty. “I have an important partner who exceeds me many times in this
type of behavior. He is more deadly in his acts and is much more dangerous. He is none other than man himself.” Along the path of gossip, there is a trail of blood, tears and calamity. The poison of gossip is very deadly because it is not limited in space or in number of victims. There is no escape from it; one may gossip in New York and hurt people in Florida. We all know that there are among us many who engage in gossip without any benefit to ourselves or to anyone else. Too many of us utilize it as a pastime and a pleasure. Don’t you think it is time we dissolved our partnership with gossip’s jungle counterpart?
Young Israel of Co-op City Young Israel of Co-op City (lower level of the Dreiser Loop shopping center) is a house of worship that opens its doors every morning from 6 until 7 a.m. Anyone who wishes to start the daily routine with prayers during which our spiritual leader, Rabbi Solomon I. Berl, offers a brief Bible teaching is welcome. On Friday evening, Sabbath services begin at 10 minutes after the candle-lighting time. Saturday morning serv-
ices start at 9 a.m. Rabbi Berl delivers his sermon at 10:30 a.m. The Rabbi’s class on the Torah reading of the week begins one hour before sunset every Saturday afternoon. For office hours or any information you may seek, feel free to call (718) 6712300 and leave your name, phone number and a brief message on the synagogue’s answering machine, and your call will be returned as soon as possible.
Co-op City Jewish Center The Co-op City Jewish Center is located at 900 Co-op City Blvd., Bronx, N.Y. 10475. Saturday services are continuing thanks to those people who attend. Please try to attend whenever possible. We would like to remind our members and any Jewish people in Co-op City looking for a conservative synagogue, we are still here, and all are welcome. Try to take
a Saturday and come to services when you can. Formally from Co-op City, Dorothy Weiner has passed away. She and her husband were the originators of the Co-op City Jewish Center. Our condolences to the family. Donations can be mailed to the Co-op —M ar vin Seid man Jewish Center.
Building 15B Association We would like to thank Chief Frank Apollo for attending our meeting on October 18th. It was very informative. Thanks to all those cooperators who attended and we wish more cooperators would attend. The holiday season will be here soon
Castle Hill Funeral Directors, Inc.
and we would like some volunteers to help decorate the lobby for the holidays. If you would like to volunteer, please call me, Sandy, at 718-671-5602. We would like to start right after Thanksgiving. Thank you! —Sa n d y K r a sn ove
SHALOM Jewish George Farr - Funeral Director funeral “The Bronx Jewish Community home, inc. Memorial Chapel” (718) 828-9222 (718) 828-1700 1528 Castle Hill Avenue Bronx, New York 10462 Keeping Tradition Under Rabbinical Supervision Services from Our Chapel, Graveside or Synagogue Parking Facilities • Pre-Arrangements
Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City The Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City, Young Israel of Baychester, Section 5 (new address) at Bldg. 27B at 120 Erdman Place (behind the lobby), welcomes you to pray with them. Tel. for the Shule (same old number), 1-718-3796920. Not e: Office hours are on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Candle lighting on Friday, November 2, is before 5:33 p.m. Shabbat ends today, Saturday, October 27, at 6:40 p.m. S.O.S. Ur gen t ! Calling all Jewish men to make a Minyon. Men, you are needed for a Minyon. A Minyon is the number of men needed to read the Torah. The important number needed is 10. Please be counted as part of the 10 men and make the Minyon. You will be doing a Mitzvah (a good deed). Thank you! The community is always welcome to attend our various functions and enjoy a great day of fun and friendship. C om in g E ven ts: Sunday, November 4 at 1 p.m.—The Synagogue sponsors another afternoon of BINGO. The cost is $3/person. This
includes admission, snacks and refreshments. Join us for a fun afternoon. Sunday, November 18 at 11:00 a.m.-Sisterhood Paid-Up Membership Brunch. Watch for your letter in the mail and respond immediately. G ood a n d Welfa r e: Happy October birthday wishes to: Marcia Abel on the 4th; (correction) to Marilyn Sherman on the 9th and to Bruce Gitelson on the 17th. Happy anniversary to Gary and Debbie Schwartz on the 23 of October. Have many more happy, healthy and joyous occasions. Do you need a tree certificate sent “in Honor of” or “in Memory of” a special occasion or a condolence? You can give a living gift for the cost of $15 per tree. For more information, you can call Mimi at 1347-427-4526. We can accommodate you. If you are feeling under the weather, we wish you all a speedy and painless recovery in double quick time. Please honor your yizkor pledges. Your help is always appreciated. Thank you. Shalom! —M ir ia m E velyn Ber lofsky
Building 30 Association We have an email address. It is: Building30@hotmail.com. This organization cannot work without the participation of the cooperators of Building 30 A&B. I hope that we can help each other. C om in g E ven t s: The next meeting of the Association is Thursday, November 8. Our guest speaker for this meeting is Vernon Cooper and other members of the Board. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the meeting commences promptly at 7:30 p.m. Dues for the Association will be collected at this meeting. We will also have a turkey raffle at this meeting just in time for Thanksgiving. Crochet class resumes on
Wednesday, October 24. The class will start at 1:00 p.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. We meet at the Building 30 Association Room on the “B” side. Halloween candy collection is scheduled in the lobby of the “A” side and the “B” side of the Building 30 on Wednesday, Oct. 24 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thanking you in advance for your participation. G ood & Welfa r e: Speedy get well wishes to all who are under the weather. If you are celebrating a special occasion, an anniversary or a birthday, we hope that you enjoy your day. SEE YOU SOON. —M ir ia m E . Ber lofsky
Help keep Co-op City clean! Please place garbage in the trash cans, not on the building floors or grounds.
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
Church of God’s Children Church of God’s Children and its pastors, Bishops Angelo and Nancy Rosario, invite you to worship with us at 127 Dreiser Loop next to Montefiore Clinic. Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m., Spanish – 1 p.m., English Wednesday – Prayer Hour – 7:30-8:30 p.m. Bible Studies - Thursday at 7 p.m. 12-step program every Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. at 159 Dreiser Loop We are distributing Free discount prescription cards, no registration necessary. Discount card accepted at all major pharmacies. Call church for information. The Health & Immigration Fair held on Thursday, October 4, was a great success. Thank you to all who participated
and attended. BE NOT DISCOURAGED OR DOUBT IN THE PROMISES OF GOD: Once upon a time, Satan was having a garage sale. There, standing in little groups were all of his bright, shiny trinkets. Here were tools that make it easy to tear others down for use as stepping stones. And over there were some lenses for magnifying ones own importance, which, if you looked through them the other way, you could also use to belittle others, or even one’s self. Against the wall was the usual assortment of gardening implements guaranteed to help your pride grow by leaps and bounds: the rake of scorn, the shovel of jealousy for digging a pit for your neighbor, the
tools of gossip and backbiting, of selfishness and apathy. All of these were pleasing to the eye and came complete with fabulous promises and guarantees of prosperity. Prices, of course, were steep; but not to worry! Free credit was extended to one and all. “Take it home, use it, and you won’t have to pay until later!” old Satan cried, as he hawked his wares. The visitor, as he browsed, noticed two well worn, non-descriptive tools standing in one corner. Not being nearly as tempting as the other items, he found it curious that these two tools had price tags higher than any other. When he asked why, Satan just laughed and said, “Well, that’s because I use them so much. If they
weren’t so plain looking, people might see them for what they were.” Satan pointed to the two tools, saying, “You see, that one’s Doubt and that one’s Discouragement — and those will work when nothing else will.” Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” —Bishop Na ncy R osa r io
Faith In God Church & Bible Institute Rev. Dr. Gladys R. Little, Apostle, and Pastor & Evangelist Vernon Little greet everyone in the name of Jesus, that name which is above every name. We want you to know that you are welcome in this house of the Lord! It is His house by ownership: it is our house by stewardship, and it can be your house by membership; so come on in and join with us. May God bless you in this house! What mountains do you face? You can depend on God’s grace to get you through. Pray also that you might reflect His love. The increasing darkness of trials
only makes the lamp of grace shine brighter. Let’s go into scripture to support this. 1 Pet er 4: 12-16 sa ys: 12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may be also glad with exceeding joy. 14 If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their
part, He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. I nvit a t ions: Our Sweet Hour of Prayer will be today at 3 p.m. Sunday School is at 10 a.m. Our Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 11 a.m. Every 3rd Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion.
God gave me my church in order to fellowship with others and meet with Jesus. We love you, and may God forever bless you is our prayer. We don’t worry about anything, but we pray about everything. Thank you, Father! We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone#’s are (347) 2764925 & (718) 671-3627. If you will, check out (Pastor) Vernon Little’s CD ‘A New Beginning’ on iTunes, Amazon, etc. You can also see his videos on YouTube. Jesus loves you, and so do we. —Ap ost le G la d ys R . L it t le
CO-OP CITY FOOT CARE CENTER SECTION 5 • BUILDING 29C 4240 HUTCHINSON RIVER PARKWAY EAST
(718) 671-2233 DR. LOUIS JACOBS, DIRECTOR ALL FOOT CONDITIONS TREATED The in-office surgical correction of BUNIONS • HAMMERTOES • INGROWN TOENAILS PAINFUL CORNS and CALLOUSES The treatment of traumatic foot injuries, heel spurs, bursitis and arthritis of the joints of the feet, toenail and skin infections, as well as other conditions.
Most Union and Insurance Plans Accepted. HIP CMO (Montefiore) Health Plan Accepted. We participate in Postal Workers, Mail Handlers, Letter Carriers, Verizon Workers, 1199, GHI, Blue Shield, Empire Plan, Medicare, Travelers, United Health Care and many other union and major medical plans. Se Habla Español MEDICARE ACCEPTED • HOUSE CALLS BY APPOINTMENT
Diabetic Patients with Medicare may be eligible for shoes.
30
Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
CLASSIFIEDS Co-op City Times • cctimes@riverbaycorp.com
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012 Computer Consultant, Sales & Repair
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Co-op City Times / October 27, 2012
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