Co-op City Times 12/14/13

Co-op City’s official newspaper serving the world’s largest cooperative community. © Copyright 2013 Co-op City Times

Co-op City resident struck by bus, killed on Dreiser Loop Vol. 48 No. 50

The funeral arrangements for Gloria Mabry, a 74-year old resident of Darrow Place who was struck and killed by an MTA bus as the driver turned onto Dreiser Loop from Co-op City Blvd. on Friday, Dec. 6, have been announced by the Mabry, Pearson and Dickens families.

The viewing and wake will be held Thursday, Dec. 19 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Benta’s Funeral Home at 630 St Nicholas Ave., New York, NY 10030, (212) 2818851, at 141st Street and St. Nicholas Avenue in Manhattan.

The Homecoming Celebration will be held at Gloria Mabry Grace Baptist Church, Friday, Dec. 20, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. (viewing); 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

(Services); Internment at Fairlawn Cemetery, NJ. Light meal and refreshments upon returning from the cemetery will be served at Grace Baptist Church at One Grace Plaza, 52 South Sixth Avenue, Mount Vernon.

On the evening of the accident, officers from the Co-op City Public Safety Department’s Emergency Service Unit

BY JIM ROBERTS

responded to the scene on the cold, rainy evening and tried valiantly to save the life of the victim, Gloria Mabry, according to Public Safety Chief Frank Apollo.

“The officers performed CPR in the middle of a busy street where it was freezing cold and pouring rain,” Apollo said. “Their actions were absolutely selfless as they never lost focus in trying to possibly revive this woman.”

At approximately 6:44 p.m., officers from the NYPD responded to a report of a vehicle collision at Dreiser Loop and Co-op City Blvd. Upon arrival, officers observed a 74-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive.

After the efforts of the Co-op City Public Safety ESU officers to revive Mabry, an EMS ambulance removed her to Jacobi Hospital where she was pronounced dead, according to an NYPD spokesperson.

NYPD said in a statement that an investigation revealed that an MTA BX38 bus was traveling west bound on (Continued on page 4)

Assemblyman Benedetto seeks statewide ban of tackle football for children 14 and under

Despite drawing the extreme ire and criticism of youth sports leaders and parents in his own district, including many who live here in Co-op City, Assemblyman Mike Benedetto is sponsoring a bill in the New York State Assembly which, if passed, will ban children up to 14 years old from participating in organized tackle football leagues.

Called the Football bill A4529, the proposed legislation, despite it’s backing from one of the nation’s leading neurologists in the field of sports-related head injuries, has received only minimum support from his colleagues in the Assembly and Benedetto said he has yet to find one State Senator willing to co-sponsor the bill.

At a press conference to introduce the bill held in Albany in midNovember, Benedetto had at his side Dr. Robert Cantu, co-Director for the Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy at Boston University’s School of Medicine and author of the

BY BILL STUTTIG

Cablevision bulk cable ballots due Friday, Dec. 20

Saturday, December 14, 2013

recent book, Concussion and our Kids, who, in the book co-authored by Mark Hyman, warns parents and coaches that they must be alert to the signs and dangers of concussion in children and their possible link to long-term neurological disorders in later years.

Benedetto said he decided to draft the bill after consulting with Cantu about the dangers in sports-related head trauma particularly in children whose brains are not fully developed until the age of 14.

“For political reasons, I originally drafted the bill to ban full contact football for children 10 years old and younger, but after consulting with Dr. Cantu about the dangers for children up to the age of 14, I decided that if I am going to do this, I am going to do this right,” Benedetto said.

He added that he is doing what he believes to be the right thing despite the full knowledge that he has angered many in his district, a district that has (Continued on page 4)

25¢

Last chance to vote

Co-op City shareholders have until this upcoming Friday, Dec. 20, to send in their ballots for the bulk cable proposal which offers residents who are Cable-vision subscribers the opportunity to save up to $50.95 on their monthly cable bill; and those who are not, to receive Broadcast Basic with the cost picked up by the Riverbay Corporation.

Regardless of how residents vote, their ballots will be entered in a raffle

by Cablevision to win either a grand prize of a $1,000 American Express gift card, or a runner-up prize for a 50” Magnavox LED HDTV. Last week, Cablevision held three very well-attended forums, one in each community center in Co-op City, to explain the bulk cable proposal to residents and to answer questions and

BY ROZAAN BOONE

address concerns. Cablevision personnel have also attended building association meetings and have been available to meet with residents one-on-one in the Bartow Community Center on weekdays.

“As a local company and a committed Co-op City partner for nearly 14 years, Cablevision is looking forward to continuing to serve Co-op City residents for many years to come with our Optimum TV, phone and internet services,” said Ben Topor, Vice President of Sales and Retention for Cablevision.

“Over the last several weeks, we’ve offered various opportunities to inform residents about the benefits of a longterm Optimum TV agreement with Cablevision, including the significant (Continued on page 2)

Deadline for Basic STAR registration is Dec. 31

Co-op City shareholders who receive Basic STAR (School Tax Relief Exemption) are reminded that the deadline to register with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance in order to receive the credit in 2014 and in subsequent years is December 31, 2013.

Register at the New York State Taxation and Finance Department’s website at www.tax.ny.gov, or by calling the department at (518) 457-2036, Mondays to Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Collecting for those in need… Sergeant Nat Diaz, coordinator of the Co-op City Public Safety Department’s food drive, reported earlier this week that the community has donated 400 lbs. of food to the drive so far. The drive continues through January 10th and the goal is to donate more than 1000 pounds of nonperishable goods to families in need. Sgt. Diaz will be at the Bartow Mall between noon and 4 p.m. today and next Saturday personally collecting nonperishable food items. These items can also be dropped off at three locations around Co-op City through January 10, including the lobby of Einstein Center, the CSO Office of Dreiser Center and Public Safety headquarters in Bartow Center, which is open 24 hours a day. “I want to thank the community for the generosity and support so far and encourage residents to continue to donate to help New York City’s hungry families,” said Sgt. Diaz.

Photo by Bill Stuttig

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Cablevision

savings on monthly rates that residents will experience should they vote ‘yes’ for the proposal. We encourage residents to exercise their right to vote before the deadline.”

The proposed bulk cable agreement would also provide a fourth complimen-tary in-house channel to Riverbay.

Since 1999, Cablevision has sponsored various community events throughout the year in Co-op City, including the annual Co-op City Fair, as well as this year’s Halloween movie night, holiday party and the Melba Moore concert in the Dreiser Auditorium last evening.

Cablevision currently offers Co-op City 3 active in-house channels, including the live camera feed to onsite laundry rooms and a channel dedicated to community announcements; Free Optimum TV service in all Co-op City laundry rooms; and News 12 the Bronx, a service exclusive to Optimum customers and the only 24-hour news channel devoted to the Bronx.

According to the Optimum Preferred bulk offer, Cablevision’s current Optimum Video subscribers in Co-op City would pay $24 a month as opposed to the non-promotional $74.95 for the Optimum Preferred Package, which includes over 320 channels (listed on the back of each ballot), resulting in a savings of $50.95 per month. As long as you are a current Optimum Video subscriber paying regular rates, you will be able to save up to $50.95 a month on your cable bill. Subscribers of the Optimum Value Package would be automatically upgraded to the Optimum Preferred package offered in the bulk agreement and pay only $24 per month, a savings of $40.95. (Please see box on page 4 for savings summary with bulk proposed agreement.)

The second tier of the Cablevision bulk agreement allows for those who are not current Cablevision subscribers to receive Broadcast Basic Cable TV with the cost being picked up by the Riverbay Corporation. These shareholders will be provided with one free cable box and a remote. With Broadcast Basic, these residents will receive more channels and better picture quality than they are currently receiving on the master antenna system.

After hearing the Cablevision presentation last week and getting answers to their questions, many shareholders asked for the opportunity to change their vote on the original white ballots that were delivered to Co-op City households in early November. As a result, yellow change ballots were delivered this week to each Co-op City apartment in response to those requests, and all shareholders, whether they’ve already completed and submitted the white ballot or not, or whether they’d like to change their vote or not, are urged to complete and return the yellow ballot. The deadline for the submission of the yellow ballot, which supersedes the white ballot, is this upcoming Friday, Dec. 20, and they must be returned to your local CSO or Maintenance office, your lobby atten-

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013 (Continued from page 1)

dant or to the Administrative Office in the Bartow Community Center.

If both a white and yellow ballot are received for an apartment, only the yellow ballot will be counted. If a white ballot only is received, the white ballot will be counted.

Residents attending the Cablevisionsponsored Melba Moore concert last evening were able to drop off their completed yellow ballots indicating a “yes” or “no” vote for the agreement.

Blank yellow ballots were also available at the concert for anyone who needed a change ballot.

Each bulk cable ballot asks shareholders to choose one of three options: OPTION 1: If you’re a current Cablevision/Optimum subscriber and would be interested in receiving the Optimum Preferred Package for only $24 a month, including taxes and fees, for the first 2 years, and a 5% annual increase in years 3-5, through the proposed bulk rate offer for Co-op City residents, check this option.

The Optimum Preferred Package is valued at a monthly non-promotional rate of $74.95, and includes over 320 channels.

OPTION 2: If you are currently not an Optimum subscriber, but would be interested in receiving Cablevision’s Broadcast Basic Cable TV at NO charge, thereby receiving more channels and better picture quality than you are currently receiving on the master antenna, check this option.

Cooperators who choose this option will receive one cable box and a remote, free of charge.

OPTION 3: No, I am not interested in this offer.

At the bottom of the ballot, shareholders are asked to print their name, sign their signature and list their building and apartment numbers to ensure that only one ballot is counted per apartment to maintain the integrity of the referendum.

Once all of the ballots have been received by Friday, Dec. 20, they will be secured and a rough count will be conducted by Riverbay staff to ensure that at least 2/3 of the total number of apartments, not counting vacancies, or 10,238, participated in the referendum.

If this is not the case, the exploration ends. If, however, at least 2/3 of the community, or 10,238 ballots are received, the process will continue to the next step – validation of the votes.

Riverbay’s Ombudsman, Joe Boiko, has already reached out to the community’s building association presidents to inquire about their availability to assist in the validation process, which will include sorting the votes by buildings, then by apartment numbers to ensure that only one vote was cast per apartment and, in the event that there is a white and yellow ballot, the yellow ballot, which is the change ballot distributed this week, will be the only ballot counted towards the final tally.

Then, as is the case with the annual Riverbay Board election, the names/signatures on each ballot will be

compared with the corporation’s records to make sure the shareholder of record for each apartment voted.

Once validation has been completed, the raffle drawing for the $1,000 American Express gift card or the 50” HDTV, offered by Cablevision, will be held before the yes and no votes are counted.

Earlier last month, in authorizing Management to explore the bulk cable option, the Riverbay Board indicated that not only 2/3 of the community must respond to the referendum, but that 2/3 of those voting must approve the bulk cable proposal for it to move forward. If this is the case, Management will submit a resolution to the Board for approval.

Management has already discussed

the matter of the bulk sale agreement with the state supervisory agency, the Division of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) and received approval to poll the community with the understanding that if this is something that cooperators want, then HCR would work with Management to approach the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which would also have to approve a bulk sale agreement for cable services since that agency has rules limiting such agreements, although it is believed that these are meant to protect tenants in rentals—not necessarily cooperatives. Additionally, if both agencies approve the Riverbay-Cablevision bulk sale agreement, HCR, the state supervisory agency, would have to issue the necessary surcharge order.

Garage Notice

All renovations in Garage 7 have been suspended effective December 5 due to the winter weather.

Renovation will resume in the spring of 2014.

We ask that you please drive slowly, cautiously and adhere to the posted traffic signage.

Thank you in advance for your attention and cooperation.

—Riverbay Parking Facilities Department

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.

3

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

2nd

Combing ty p Cinext Co-oDrive Blood NCNW Holiday Drive

The Youth Committee is collecting new hats, scarves, gloves and socks in addition to new unwrapped toys (no toy guns) for the children and teens at the Phipps Town and Country Residence Home and local shelters in the Northeast Bronx. We will also collect diapers/Pullups and canned goods. Items can be dropped off at the Dreiser Shopping Center, Room 14 today, Saturday, December 14th, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. For further information, please call 917-399-2643.

Community Feast and Fellowship, Dec. 25

The Co-op City Seventh-Day Adventist Church is inviting the community to join them as they host their first community Feast and Fellowship on Christmas day, Wednesday, Dec. 25, from 12-3 p.m. at 1010 Baychester Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475. Stop by and enjoy a meal prepared with love, pick-up a giveaway, fellowship, and/or simply pick up your meal to take out. This event is free and open to the community.

Invite your family and friends. For further information, please contact the church at (718) 320-0518.

Bereavement Support Group continues in January

Church of the Savior’s Bereavement Support group for Co-op City residents coping with the loss of a loved one or close friend will take a recess this holiday season and pick up its regular weekly meeting schedule on Monday, January 6th.

Members in need of counseling during the recess period are asked to call the Rev. Dr. Robert Smith at 1917-504-4058.

Community support for families in need

The Circle of Christ Church, located at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level, is collecting non-perishable items and supplies in order to provide and support families in need of food. The church also provides counseling and referral services for families in the community. If you need or know someone in need, please call 347-945-1992 and leave a message.

Someone will get back to you.

FRONT PA G E

Use of Co-op City apartments that are grounds for eviction

Shareholders who cease maintaining their Co-op City apartments as their primary residence face eviction in accordance with the terms of their occupancy agreement and state regulations.

According to the occupancy agreement of the Riverbay Corporation, which is signed by every new incoming shareholder, the shareholder agrees: “Not to sell, assign, transfer, mortgage, encumber or create any charge upon this Agreement, nor sublet the leased premises or any part thereof or cause the leased premises or any part thereof or suffer the same to be used for any business, commercial or professional purposes or for any purposes other than as a private dwelling apartment of the primary residence of the Member and his immediate family. The Member further agrees that no boarders or permanent guests shall be permitted.” Section “FOURTH,” Subsection 10.

Furthermore, the New York State Division of Homes and Community Renewal (DHCR), the state supervisory agency for Mitchell-Lama developments such as Co-op City, in Section 1712-5.3 (a) of its regulations, itemizes

BY ROZAAN BOONE

several grounds for termination of a lease by the housing company, one of which is item #12 which states, “Tenant, cooperator, or other individual does not occupy the dwelling unit as his or her primary residence;” and item #13, “The dwelling unit is used for illegal or immoral purposes, including but not limited to the unlawful trade, manufacture, distribution, storage, and/or sale of marijuana or any controlled substance as defined in Public Health Law, Section 3306, and Penal Law, Section 220.00.”

While the state regulations outline several other grounds for the housing company to terminate the lease of a shareholder, this article highlights the use of apartments for illegal or immoral purposes and failure of the shareholder not to maintain the dwelling unit as their primary residence. Increasingly, ads are showing up on Craigslist and other websites advertising apartments either for sale or sublet in Co-op City, as well as apartments being used for illicit business endeavors.

Michael Munns, Riverbay’s Senior Attorney, said shareholders cannot sublet their apartment because it must be used as their primary dwelling.

12-year old stars at Open Mic

Twelve year old Co-op City resident Queen Thompkins appeared at the Riverbay Fund’s Open Mic on Friday, December 6 in the Dreiser Auditorium where she read the following poem which she wrote for the Holiday Season.

Her performance was very well received. Queen submitted the poem to the Co-op City Times and it is being shared below with the community.

The present

By Queen J’Asia Thompkins

What should I buy, there is so much to do I have to hang the lights and put up the mistletoe too I have to bake the cake and make it yummy So it can sit in Santa’s big fat tummy I must clean the house for which we will have visitors, My big brother and 3 lazy sisters, I have to go shopping for the perfect rug, Cause my dear sister Mary always brings her pug.

Should I comb my hair, is it nappy?

Or should I slap a bow on it like my other sister Kathy?

Should I buy video games for my big brother yonder?

Or should I not even try, not even bother?

I have to cook for which they are greedy, Something yummy, something meaty, I have too much to do and this is only the start, Where will it end, my heart is falling apart, I still have one last thing to do, For my little girl, Sue. She wants a doll but I have no time at all, What shall I do for my baby girl Sue? She will be sad if she has no gift, Christmas just got hit with a huge rift, But I am not afraid, I have come this far, I should be in a parade, I will get her a doll and go shopping and all Christmas is no match for me, My family will soon be thanking me.

For the most part, vigilant neighbors report abuses to the occupancy agreement to their CSO Office. They oftentimes report when the shareholder of record has moved out, but is illegally subletting the apartment, or when there’s a lot of traffic in and out of an apartment at all times of the day and night.

Complaints to the CSO office may be made anonymously and should contain as much details as possible. Helpful information, if known, includes, approximate date shareholder moved out, where shareholder moved to, names and family composition of illegal subletters or any other information that may help establish that the shareholder has moved out of the apartment.

Riverbay investigates complaints of possible illegal subletting or an illegal business operating out of an apartment and if reasonably confirmed, legal action is commenced to evict the shareholder. Munns said that if a shareholder is evicted for violating the primary residence provision of the lease, the shareholder faces costs and fees including, attorney fees, court costs, marshal fees, locksmith fees, moving and storage costs and possible adverse credit ratings.

Completing your STAR application

All Co-op City shareholders of record are eligible for either Basic or Enhanced STAR, but this tax reduction must be filed for. Once you have been approved by the New York City Department of Finance to receive STAR benefits, there is no need to reapply each year unless you move. In this case, the shareholder should notify the Department of Finance to cancel STAR at the old address and reapply for it at the new address, if it is their primary residence.

Shareholders who may be eligible for Basic STAR, but have not yet applied for the credit, should first apply by going to the New York City Department of Finance website at www.tax.ny.gov, by calling the city’s Department of Finance at (212) 504-4080, or by contacting the city’s 3-1-1 hotline. The same applies to shareholders who may be eligible for the Enhanced STAR credit.

To complete your STAR application, you will need the following information: • Buildings 1-25, and Adler, Asch, Broun, Cooper, Debs and Defoe Townhouses are all Block: 5141, Lot: 120.

• Buildings 26-35 and the Earhart Townhouses are Block: 5135, Lot: 51.

• To calculate your number of shares, you need to know that there are 18 shares per room. Therefore, if you have a 5 room apartment, your number of shares will be calculated by multiplying the number of rooms by the number of shares per room (5 x 18) which equals 90 shares. If you have a 4.5 room apartment, your number of shares would be (4.5 x 18) 81 shares, and so on.

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Football

many large youth football programs, including the Warriors which serves the Pelham Bay and Thoggs Neck communities and the North Bronx Cowboys, formerly the Co-op City Cowboys, which serves boys from the north Bronx, about half of them living in Co-op City.

Colville Bascom, who founded the Co-op City Cowboys in 2004 and is still running the successful program today, said that he and other youth football organizers are very aware of the Assemblyman’s recently introduced bill and he believes, along with others, that there is no justification for banning the sport for young people based on his experience in youth football Bascom said that in the nine years since the Cowboys football program was started, more than a thousand young boys have played football through the program and he and his coaches have never seen a concussion or head injury.

Talking with the Co-op City Times this week about the legislation and its controversy, Bascom counter claims that football could hurt a child’s intellectual development in future years, saying that he has found the opposite to be true. Bascom said that he has heard from dozens of parents and teachers over the years who have claimed that their child’s or student’s grades and study habits have improved greatly since becoming involved in youth football.

“Involvement in youth sports instills in children a different attitude and better, more-disciplined behavior,” Bascom argued citing one case that he knew of where a child was able to overcome a diagnosed case of Attention Deficit Disorder. Bascom claimed that there have been many instances where former Cowboys have gone on to success in high school and beyond college, some on full or partial scholarships, including one who earned a full scholarship and one a defensive back at Penn State

Mabry

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013 University.

Approximately 150 boys currently participate in the Cowboys football program, half of them from Co-op City, Bascom said, and while the vast majority of them will not go on to success as a professional athlete or even a college level athlete, almost all of them benefit greatly from the self-esteem, discipline, responsibility and working-in-a-team concepts that the program teaches.

Bascom added to take that away from children at an age when those lessons are needed the most, would do a vast amount of harm to the children, much more so than the minimal risk of an isolated injury.

Bascom said that all the Cowboy’s coaches and instructors have been previously trained at recognizing and handling a vast array of possible injuries, including heat stroke and concussion, through the State University of New York’s Youth Sport Institute.

Recently, the Cowboy coaches have worked with the NFL Heads-Up initiative, which teaches local youth football coaches how to teach proper tackling technique to minimize injuries, especially head injuries.

He further defended his and other youth football programs, stating that the Cowboys and other programs are organized according to strict weight limitations in which only young athletes of the same weight play against each other, unlike the NFL or the NCAA where you commonly have a 280-lb. linebacker colliding with a 180lb. running back.

Bascom noted that the issue started at the professional and college levels where the athletes are naturally much stronger and faster and their ability to cause injury is much greater. Now the issue has unfairly reached the local youth level because of political reasons.

The Cowboys founder said that he and other youth football program organizers in the Bronx are upset with Benedetto about sponsoring the legisla-

Co-op City Blvd. when it made a left turn onto Dreiser Loop striking the 74-year-old pedestrian as she crossed Dreiser Loop from the north side to the south. The operator of the bus remained on scene and the investigation is ongoing, the NYPD spokesperson said.

According to a spokesperson for the MTA, no injuries were reported aboard the bus, which was taken out of service. The MTA said their investi-

(Continued from page 1)

tion which, if successfully passed, could end these programs which serve thousands of inner city youth each year and have helped in developing thousands of young men over the past several decades.

Long-time Co-op City resident and former School Board President Rod Saunders, who, along with his wife Shirley, raised their children to always be active in organized sports, is one of those who believes the bill is illadvised. He said this week: “The fact is that all sports have a risk and danger of injury. But I believe that having your children not physically active because of fear of injury is the most dangerous policy a parent can have because the long-term harm of having a child not physically active at all will have far greater harmful effects on him or her later in life than any injury that he or she can potentially suffer. Or worse yet, with an absence of productive organized activity, children will always find other ways to keep busy during their free time and, as we all know, that can very well produce the most harmful effects of all.

Although I know the Assemblyman means well, I fear that a side effect of a bill like this, even if it is not passed, it puts in the mind of a young mother or father the fear of injury, unnecessarily heightening their anxiety to the point where they may very well decide to pull their child from a sport which, in the overwhelming majority of cases, turns out to be extremely beneficial to their development as good people. I believe the Assemblyman’s involvement in this issue would be appropriate if he pushed for mandates on improved safety equipment, better medical supervision, and tighter weight restrictions for all leagues. But proposing an overall ban of the sport for all children throughout the state does much more harm to our children than good.”

Benedetto said this week that he is well aware of the criticism he is receiving throughout his district — including

(Continued from page 1)

gation is ongoing.

Chief Apollo, who was at the scene of the accident, praised his ESU officers for their dedication and empathy.

“They did everything that they could to give her an opportunity to survive,” the Chief said. “It takes a special person to do this kind of work, and our officers certainly displayed their selflessness and caring for others that evening.”

no longer being invited to season-ending awards programs as he has been in past years – but he feels that he can’t deny the medical knowledge that has come to light in recent years pointing out the long-term risks of full contact football, not only on the professional level, but on the youth level as well.

Benedetto is not alone in this. A recent article in the Washington Times cited a survey taken by Robert Morris University which showed that 40.5% of respondents supported a ban on children playing tackle football before high school. The Washington Times article also cited Outside the Lines, ESPN’s investigative sports journalism program, as stating that participation in Pop Warner football, the nation’s largest youth football organization, declined by 9.5 % between 2010 and 2012. In the same article in the Washington Times, Dr. Cantu spoke on the reports in the decline in participation in youth football stating, “I think that’s purely a reaction to parents becoming aware of both post concussion syndrome and later-life consequences.”

President Barack Obama, a selfdescribed sports fan himself, said earlier this year when talking about concussions in football, “If I had a son, I’d have to think long and hard before I let him play football.”

Benedetto said that he also is a football fan who considers Super Bowl Sunday one of his favorite days of the year to get together with close friends.

But he added that in good conscience, he cannot ignore the medical research and knowledge that has come to light in recent years that suggests that children can be permanently harmed by playing tackle football at too young an age.

Benedetto said that leagues for younger children should still exist, but in the form of flag football or touch football until the child’s brain develops fully in the early teenage years as recent medical research has suggested.

In Fond Memory of...

Everett Hunt, Jr., an original resident of Building 29C. It’s been one year (December 18th), but the loss is still heavily felt by family and friends.

Lovingly submitted, —Valerie W. Hunt

Management Report Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Pipe Insulation In April of this year, in compliance with a HUD requirement, we began a program to spray and remove mold from insulated pipes in the public area of the basements and then applying two coats of high performance paint used to encase the insulated pipes. The product used to clean the mold off of the pipe is a green product and is used in hospitals. The project is not an asbestos abatement project, but rather a specialized coating process that goes over the existing pipe and pipe insulation. It is actually a maintenance project to address the presence of mold on the insulation of these pipes. In fact, the insulation in most, if not the entire straight piping in our basements, does not contain asbestos.

The work is being done at the rate of approximately one building per week.

This project started back in April of this year, however, it was postponed once we came into the air conditioning season.

With that behind us now, this work is now continuing again in earnest and the basements in the following buildings have been completed in the following ascending order: Buildings 2, 9, 21 and 23 thru 35. The remaining buildings will be done in the following ascending order: Buildings 1, 3 thru 8, 10 thru 20 and finally Building 22. This work costs the housing company approximately $9,000 per building, which is considerably cheaper than the cost associated with completely removing the existing insulation and purchasing and installing new insulation. In fact, the approximate material cost of new insulation is $8,000 per building alone. In addition, the complete removal of the existing insulation would cause considerable exposure of mold spores throughout the basement and would also take a considerably longer period of time to complete given the fact that the removal would have to be done in small stages or sections at a time in order to control the possibility of air-bourn mold. The product being used to coat our insulated pipes comes with a 10-year warranty.

Plumbing Repair Work at Co-op City We have found that using outside plumbing companies to augment what our in-house staff does has allowed us to operate the plumbing aspect of our Maintenance Department in a very cost effective manner. Recently, Management submitted a request to the Board to enter into a two year contract, for a price not to exceed $250,000 to use an outside licensed plumber, on an as-needed basis to handle jobs that require a licensed plumber to review and sign off on with either the Buildings Department or the Fire Department and to augment the work that is done by our in-house plumbing staff.

Given some of the concerns raised at the meeting, I thought it would be helpful to explain to the community the reasoning behind the use of an outside contractor as opposed to hiring a licensed plumber on staff. First off, we need to identify our inhouse plumbers because most of these men have worked here at Riverbay for many years and are capable of handling almost all of the plumbing work that needs to be done. These are not the men that

Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc.

Management Corner

come to your apartment to change a faucet, washer on your sink or in your shower, a toilet bowl or a wax ring to the toilet. This work is done by the utility men.

Our plumbers will be used for major plumbing jobs like replacing a lead bend under the toilet, repairing leaks on the water branches or waste stack and expansion joints inside the wall. These men work on our sprinkler systems and storm drains and house traps throughout the complex, including the shopping centers, townhouses, garages, etc., on a day-to-day basis and not to complicate matters, this work doesn’t even include the Power Plant related work.

We basically have three plumbing teams, each team is comprised of two men and in fact we created an evening shift so that one of three teams is on duty from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m., from Tuesday thru Saturday. With that being said, there are a number of good reasons for using an outside plumbing company, some of which are as follows: • The licensed contractor has the heavy equipment needed to do major jobs involving large pipe, for example, between 8” and 15” on both sewer and water lines.

• The license contractor has to provide the necessary insurance coverage and bonding for the large jobs, including those that relate to gas and fire suppression. This places the liability on the contractor, not Riverbay for these large, complex jobs requiring a licensed plumber.

• The salary, benefits paid to an inhouse plumber, along with the additional insurance required, would far exceed $125,000 per year or $250,000 for two years as we have contracted for, particularly if you include any overtime for working longer than 40 hours and/or for jobs at night and on the weekend.

We have been able to use our inhouse staff to do certain jobs and have the licensed plumber oversee and approve, on jobs requiring a licensed plumber, which has saved the housing company a lot of money.

• The use of the licensed plumber actually results in having the licensed plumber’s men here doing the work with him overseeing the project. In cases where our plumbers have their hands full doing their own work, the outside men working on a specific problem here serves to augment what we are doing in-house.

I think there may be a misnomer that our in-house plumbers are not skilled because they are not licensed. They are actually journey men and it is important to note that most people that become licensed do so in order to operate their own business and in fact had to be apprentices and then journey men for many years under a licensed plumber before even being eligible to take the exam to be a licensed plumber. In fact, if any of our highly qualified plumbers were to stop working for us today, any number of the

plumbing companies that have worked with us over the years would hire them tomorrow. We believe the aforementioned process helps us to operate in the most cost effective manner as it relates to handling all of our plumbing needs because we only use the licensed plumber as needed which keeps down costs to the housing company.

Lobby Attendants At a Security Committee meeting held this week, there was a discussion held about the need for some of the lobby attendants to be more proactive in terms of being more alert and doing a better job of relaying information to Public Safety supervisors and officers either by way of phone call or when individuals in a supervisory position enter the lobby attendant’s respective building, depending upon the nature of the issue at hand.

To his credit, Chief Frank Apollo will initiate a 30-minute class with all of the lobby attendants and their supervisors that will focus on the importance and significance of staying alert and giving detailed, accurate reports of any conditions that exist or arise during the time that they are stationed in the lobbies. The point made by the committee is well taken. With that being said, as with any and all groups of individuals, some of the lobby attendants are more diligent than others, and, in fact, some of these attendants are very conscientious individuals who consistently display an exceptional level of courtesy and

5 professionalism while on duty.

The goal is to get the entire team of lobby attendants to conduct themselves in the same manner, and there is a great benefit in holding meetings to discuss and focus on specific issues at hand.

The lobby attendants are told that they must report any broken equipment or fixtures, malfunctioning equipment, deficiencies and/or dangerous or hazardous conditions, just to name a few.

However, particularly during this time of the year, there tends to be an increase in criminal activity, as individuals bent on robbing and stealing from people know or assume that people may be carrying more money and other valuables as a result of the holiday season. This is the time of year when pocket book and purse snatching crimes increase dramatically and more individuals are robbed of their personal belongings like cell phones and other expensive electronic devices.

Therefore, we want the lobby attendants to be mindful of these facts and be on the look out for suspicious-acting individuals or individuals loitering around the entrances to the building and/or attempting to illegally gain entry to the building without the use of a key or being buzzed in by a cooperator, after announcing themselves at the intercom. I applaud Public Safety’s efforts and I thank the committee for making a salient point particularly during this time of the year.

6

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Letters to the Editor

“Ancient” Board members are asset to community

To the Editor: I was rather confused that someone would refer to some Board Directors as “ancient relics.” I guess the writer simply doesn’t know what experience Othelia Jones and Helen Akins have and how much they have done to improve Co-op City, especially since there are many Directors today who don’t seem to have a grasp on their responsibilities and are more concerned with running around complaining and insinuating something is always wrong.

The writer’s charges of complacency and entitlement are ridiculous. As a Board member, I worked with several “ancient” Directors like Al Shapiro, Rev. Owens, Khalil Abdul-Wahhab, and also Othelia and Helen, who were always hard working and available to accom-

plish what needed to be done.

In 2003 when five of Co-op City’s eight garages were ordered closed for mandated repairs, it was a mess, with thousands of cars being displaced and not enough public parking spaces in the streets.

At the time, Riverbay didn’t have the money to make the necessary repairs, and was financially treading water, not even paying the mortgage to the state.

We were facing the real possibility of foreclosure back then.

Fortunately, the so-called “ancient relics” were able to obtain a $480 million refinancing from New York Community Bank to repair garages, install new windows in every apartment, build our own cogeneration plant so we are energy self-sufficient today, and we save money to use on other essential

services. Those are real, specific actions leading to true accomplishments.

No, I don’t think those “ancient relics” should retire, as Mr. Hernandez suggests.

In fact, with their experience, and from what I witnessed while I was a Board Director, many times those so-called ancient Presidents knew much more about the history of Co-op City than Management or the General Counsel.

It also seems like Mr. Hernandez has forgotten the historic guaranteed $621M loan with HUD and Wells Fargo Bank, which saves us millions of dollars in interest payments. Also, both HUD and Wells Fargo said the HUD agreement could never have been reached without the tireless work of Herb Freedman of our management.

—Manny Torres

Think, before voting for bulk cable

To the Editor: It is a fact that businesses want to make money and consumers want to save money. When making a proposal, in my opinion, an honest company would explain both the benefits and drawbacks so that consumers can make an informed decision.

Unfortunately, I do not believe this has been the case with Cablevision. I object to what I think are underhanded tactics they have used to try to persuade us to agree to this proposal. They have been blitzing our community with information about how much we will

save with this deal hoping we will jump at the opportunity without any thought to other consequences. These tactics have fueled confusion and contention. I believe they have shown a lack of respect for our community and an insult to our intelligence. Yes, fellow shareholders, you will save money with this deal, but 5 years is a long time.

Fact: If you are a Cablevision subscriber, whether or not you can afford to continue or continue to want Cablevision, you will be stuck paying $24/month x 2 years with a 5% increase in years 3, 4 and 5. This fee will be built

Second Reading - Resolution #13-100 SUBMITTED BY: Rev. Owens SECONDED BY: Khalil AbdulWahhab

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED:December 11th, 2013

WHEREAS, the Contracts Department sent out thirty two (32) requests for proposals for Bid #2864, Window Replacement at Community Rooms & Offices at Bartow, Einstein & Dreiser Loop Shopping Centers; and WHEREAS, we received three (3) proposals which were reviewed in

detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager and Ivan Brice Architect, recommends Tindel Replacement Window, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder (Recommendations attached).

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract 2864 with Tindel Replacement Window, Inc. for a total cost of $500,750.00 be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44

into your monthly maintenance.

Fact: While it does not “preclude” other companies from coming here, the marketing advantage Cablevision already has and the grip they will have on our community if this deal goes through will make it very difficult.

In 5 years time, who knows what options or opportunities will be available to consumers, which we will be locked out of. Shareholders—demand competition instead of contracts!!

Before you cast YOUR vote, THINK ABOUT IT!!

—Denise Gerrald

and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Atkins, Bailey, Gordon, Illis, O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro, Abdul-Wahhab NO: Cylich, Graham, Johnson, Leslie, Turner ABSTAIN: F. Jones ABSENT: Peterson PASSED

(See page 14 for more resolutions)

If you see something, say something!

Call Public Safety at 718-671-3050

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

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 or 347-439-5632 on Saturdays ONLY, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Letters!

Send us your

Important Notice to Shareholders of Building 7

Article SIXTH of your Occupancy Agreement provides, in part, that your lease automatically renews for an additional three (3) year period. You need to do nothing if you want your lease to extend for another three (3) year period. If you will be moving out at the end of your lease, notify Riverbay, in writing, Attention: Sales Support Office, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475, ninety (90) days prior to lease expiration.

Co-op City Times

Building 7

Current Lease Expiration Date

New 3 yr.

Expiration Date

120 DeKruif Place

March 31, 2014

March 31, 2017

s r Edito City Timee.

Co-opBartow Av 5 2049 , NY 1047 Bronx

email: cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

7

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Public Safety Report

CCPD offers travel safety tips for the Holiday Travel Season

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO The Co-op City Department of Public Safety offers these travel safety tips if a trip is part of your seasonal vacation plans. By being aware of and preparing for new travel regulations, you can make your trip safe and stress free. As we approach the Kwanzaa, Christmas and New Year 2014 season, many families may be considering holiday vacation travel.

Travel safety begins when you pack. To help avoid becoming a target, do not dress in expensive looking clothing with expensive jewelry. These items identify you as an affluent tourist and a potential victim. It is better to dress low key and try to blend in with the general population of the area you are visiting. Also try to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of the areas you plan to visit.

It is always best to travel light. You can move more quickly and will be more likely to have a free hand. A rolling bag with 4 wheels is an excellent option, especially if it is not too cumbersome. If you can carry all your bags, you won’t have to set a bag down and leave it unattended. When packing, pick a few favorite items especially suited for travel. Wrinkle resistant garments with zipper pockets, especially designed for travel will be your first choice to wear. Always leave behind anything you would hate to lose.

Check with your airline regarding the cost, weight and number of bags you can check or carry-on. Some airlines charge for every bag and some allow one checked bag for free. Space for carry-on bags is extremely limited on aircrafts and strict size limits are in place. A carry-on bag that is too big for the airline’s bins may need to be checked for a fee. In most cases, any bag heavier than 50 pounds or larger than a certain size may incur a costly surcharge. Traveling light is good for your safety and good for your budget.

Dress appropriately for the airport. Screening techniques require that you remove your shoes, as well as any metal objects. All of this is done while your carryon baggage is being x-rayed. It is a good idea to wear shoes which can easily be slipped on and off. Limit the amount of jewelry you wear, as all of this needs to be removed, placed in a basket and then put back on. This activity makes your items vulnerable to thieves. When traveling alone, you need to be extra vigilant about the whereabouts of your property.

Wearing practical shoes or sneakers is especially important while traveling. Proper footwear makes it easier to speed up at the first sign of danger. While traveling, it is especially important to walk with a purpose and remain aware of your surroundings at all times.

Stiletto heeled shoes might be nice to wear to go out to a party or a wedding, but would be rather impractical in the event of an emergency landing. Speaking on a cell phone, text messaging or wearing headphones with the volume turned up high makes it difficult for you to stay in touch with your surroundings.

Be aware of all regulations for required documents needed for the trip you plan to take. Leaving or reentering the country by plane in all cases requires a valid passport. Travel by auto, train or ship to certain destinations in Canada, Mexico and some Islands allows the use of the new, enhanced driver’s license.

Problems can arise if a change to your itinerary requires a flight added due to unforeseen circumstances. Check with the State Department before making travel plans to be sure your destination is safe for travel. Various conditions may cause recommendations to avoid travel to certain countries at certain times. Safety should always be a priority.

Make two photocopies of your passport identification page, airline tickets, driver’s license and the credit cards you plan to bring. Carry one copy with you sep-

arate from the originals and leave one set home with a trusted friend or family member. Having these copies will be extremely helpful if your original documents are lost or stolen. Also leave a complete itinerary at home with friends or family. Keep them informed if you change your plans.

New airline regulations allow liquid health and beauty products to only be 3 ounces or smaller to be allowed as carry-on baggage. Each passenger is allowed to carry-on only one quart sized Ziploc bag containing these individual liquid containers. Many of these travel safe products are available in drug stores or discount stores. By being aware of these restrictions, you can save yourself inconvenience at the gate and avoid having to discard your items. Expensive lotions and perfumes are not exempt and are regularly confiscated and discarded at airport screening checkpoints. Anything you are not sure about should be

packed in checked baggage.

Be sure to keep all prescription medications in their original bottles with the label containing your name intact. It is also a good idea to carry an extra copy essential prescriptions. Avoid the temptation to purchase or use any types of drugs while traveling abroad.

More than one third of United States citizens incarcerated abroad are being held on drug charges. Some countries have very severe sentences even for possession of a small amount of marijuana or cocaine. If you have any questions regarding foreign drug laws, check with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

It is best to check with the Department of State’s Country Specific Information before you book a trip to any foreign country at www.travel.state.gov. They describe entry requirements, currency regulations, (Continued on page 11)

2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 • 718-320-3300

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY

Tell your friends, relatives and employers about: CONTRACT SUMMARY

Contract 2889, Demolition of Riley Stoker Boiler #2: Demo the Riley Stoker Boiler located in the Cogeneration Plant.

Pre-Bid Meeting: November 26, 2013 at 2:00 p.m.

Bids Due: December 17, 2013 at 2:00 p.m.

Bonding: Bonding is required Insurance: Insurance is required

Contract P562, Purchase of Hollow & Kalamein Doors Pre-Bid Meeting: December 18, 2013 at 2 p.m.

Bids Due: January 7, 2014 Contract P563, High Voltage Room Doors & Frames Pre-Bid Meeting: December 18 at 2 p.m.

Bids Due: January 7, 2014

For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbay corp.com; AND Barbara Penn at Bpenn@riverbaycorp.com. Please note that emails should be sent to both parties.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Open to all staff and outside applicants from December 10, 2013 – December 24, 2013 Originally posted: December 10, 2013 Reference # 13-53

Requests for transfer/promotion must be received by the Employee Services Department by December 27, 2013.

Employees who are promoted will receive the applicable rate increase.

Emergency Desk Supervisor...............Maintenance

Ideal candidate will be responsible for assigning, supervising and inspecting work of dispatchers and utility workers on the Maintenance Emergency Desk.

Candidate will need to respond to and coordinate repairs with other departments as it pertains to plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and other maintenance related repairs. Selected candidate must be able to use independent judgment in making decisions in emergency situations, such as fires, floods, gas leaks, etc.

Responsibilities will include tracking time and materials on work orders, inventory control and ensuring efficient delivery of service. Selected person will be responsible for overseeing dissemination of work to staff, work schedules, discipline of employees as required, and other duties as assigned. Employee may be called upon to respond to emergency calls on a 24-

hour basis and may fill in for other Maintenance supervisors as needed.

Applicant must possess a minimum of two (2) years’ experience in Maintenance or related facilities techniques and procedures with an emphasis on plumbing and electrical repairs required. Strong troubleshooting skills for the repair of various plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems related to hi-rise buildings and other smaller facilities. On-site experience with specific knowledge of Co-op City preferred. Applicant must possess effective written/oral communication with the ability to read and write English, and good interpersonal skills. Computer literacy, with basic understanding of Microsoft Office is required and knowledge of Yardi is a plus. Applicant must have considerable knowledge of OSHA and safety requirements related to maintenance operations. Applicant must have ability to walk for long periods of time, twist, kneel, push, stoop, climb ladders, as well as lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Valid Driver License (NY, NJ, CT, PA) in good standing required – no exceptions.

Days and hours may vary.

Selected candidate must successfully complete interview/selection process, as well as pre-employment screening (driver license review, urinalysis, criminal background check and verification of pre-

Applicants for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES must apply IN PERSON at the Bartow Administrative Office, located at 2049 Bartow Avenue, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. *Riverbay Corporation is an equal opportunity employer*

8 Cablevision has offered Co-op City an opportunity to enter into a “bulk contract” for cable service to the community. What that means is that Riverbay Corporation would make a monthly payment for cable service that connects to all apartments. Because the corporation is buying in bulk (think of buying in bulk at Costco, BJ’s, etc.) the service provider, Cablevision, will significantly reduce the price for service.

A Brief History The previous cable service provider for Co-op City was Community Home Entertainment (CHE). About seven or eight years ago, that company decided that they wanted to get out of the cable business, however, they had a contract with Riverbay to provide service and that contract prevented them from leaving.

CHE made offers for the sale of their business to existing cable companies (including Verizon), however, Cablevision was the one that favorably responded. CHE then came to Riverbay and said that they wanted to sell their business to Cablevision. Riverbay’s question was, “What’s in it for the community?” To that question, Cablevision offered a number of service improvements and benefits, as well as yearly payment (of nearly a half-million dollars) to the corporation for exclusive marketing rights. The service improvements, benefits, and the payments, were a good deal and Riverbay agreed.

Fast Forward to Present Day Some months ago, Cablevision approached Riverbay with an offer of savings to cooperators through a bulk sale of service. Because the offer not only promised significant savings in The Building 32 Association Theatre Goers had a grand and glorious time at the Westchester Dinner Theatre. The food was delicious, the show outstanding, and a good time was had by all. We are planning to see Ragtime at the Dinner Theatre in April; details will follow.

Our next General Meeting will be held

Selling in Bulk (Part 1) Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

monthly cable costs to more than 13,000 current Cablevision subscribers and the opportunity to upgrade service to those cooperators that are not currently cable subscribers, the Board and Management felt obligated to present the offer to the community.

The point that needs to be understood is that the proposed agreement only brings benefit to cooperators: current cable subscribers will appreciate significant savings on their monthly bill, cooperators that are non-subscribers will have an opportunity to upgrade by switching from the master antenna to free Broadcast Basic cable service with a free cable box and a remote (Note that the Broadcast Basic service will deliver more channels with better picture quality than service through the master antenna). The underlying support for these beneficial changes is that the service cost is picked up by Riverbay Corporation through the bulk pricing.

With respect to Verizon, they HAVE NOT BEEN STOPPED from bringing service to the community. By law, if they decided to wire our buildings for FiOS™ service Riverbay could not

stop them. However, bringing cable into our buildings from the street is not a trivial exercise; it would take time and money to accomplish the task. One estimated guess is that it would take between six months to a year to complete the wiring and the cost would approach or exceed $20 million.

Since the current customer base for Cablevision in Co-op City is currently 13,000 plus families, Verizon must make business decisions about whether their ability to make a significant incursion into that existing base would justify the time and expense required to complete the work. Some additional business considerations might be: What pricing offer(s) need to be made to be competitive? What service features need to be included? What are the specific costs in material and labor to run cabling into the buildings, to each floor, and each apartment? Are there other neighborhoods in this area of the Bronx that offer quicker and more definite profit at this time?

‘Show Me the Money’ There has been much talk about the $24 charge for service being added to cooperator’s carrying charge statements. One Director wrote, “…[T]he road gets very, very rough when Riverbay attaches those cable television service charges alongside your monthly carrying charges.”

It seems to me that the road levels out when the cost for service is lowered by $50.95 per month. Yes, there are billing issues that need to be examined (e.g., if the cooperator drops the service, how soon would billing change on the monthly statement?). However,

because the cost of the monthly service will have been significantly reduced, a reason to drop the service may never arise.

That same Director said, “…

Cablevision needs to offer this $24 package directly to every cooperator here without the involvement of Riverbay.” I cannot follow that logic.

How would that happen? The $24/month charge is based upon a ‘bulk’ sale to the corporation. If a contract is signed, the $24/month charge is for service to all 15,372 units of the residency. The payment is for the connection of cable service to the community at large. A $24/month payment will provide incoming cooperators with the Cablevision Premium package.

Cablevision benefits, in part, because they get a guaranteed revenue stream for the length of the contract. All subsequent pricing is in part supported by that provision. If a cooperator currently has Cablevision service, their monthly bill to Cablevision will be reduced by $24 (the full cost for the Premium package). The remainder of their bill – paid to Cablevision – is the cost difference between the Premium package and the package for which the cooperator has subscribed, a savings of approximately $50.95 each month.

(To be continued) If you see something, say something. Share your suggestions, complaints, or special concerns with me.

Address letters to Khalil AbdulWahhab, c/o Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Ave. Bronx, NY 10475, call 718-3320-3300, Ext. 3351, or email kwahhab10475@hotmail.com.

on Tuesday, January 28; at this time, we will be electing new officers. An Election Committee has been formed and details will also follow. Positions available are President, Vice President, First & Second Vice President for Buildings 32A & 32B, Secretary & Treasurer.

Laundry room etiquette is not being

followed. Your dirty laundry is not to be sorted in either the carts or the tables.

You can sort it in your home, as you place your clothes in the washer or on the floor, if you choose to do so. This is a Riverbay ruling and offenders can be subject to a fine. In addition, please watch your little ones as they have been

seen climbing in the washers and dryers.

It takes but a second or two for something to happen to your little ones.

Finally, bikes, skateboards, and the like are not laundry room toys. Bring down a book for your child, or something similar to keep them occupied.

—Lorna Smith

Khalil Abdul-Wahhab

Director’s Viewpoint

First Vice President

Building 32 Association

Building 33 Association

The building association is collecting donations for the porters, the lobby attendant and the mail lady.

There was a time when we collected enough building dues to take care of the porters.

Due to the lack of participation and interest in the number of apartments paying their building dues, we are unable to give them a Christmas gift. With that being said, we decided to collect for them in a separate collection.

Last Saturday, we sat in the lobby to collect, and I want to tell you the response was great. You gave so gracefully. We thank you so much.

Today at 2 p.m., we are asking anyone who likes to decorate to come down to the lobby and help with the Christmas tree, and the lobby.

We are not as young as we used to be, so we really need your help. I am waiting for the day when you, younger mothers and fathers, take over. We tried and tried

over and over to get this diverse building interested in the activities and the building meetings that we work so hard in presenting. I don’t know why you are just not interested in anything. How can you live in a building and have no interest, and we reach out to all nationalities, to come together and make it work.

We are interested in all suggestions to make this building better. The associates of Building 33, along with the Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club,

are having a New Year’s Eve Party on Tuesday, December 31, in the Einstein Community Center, Room 49, 9 p.m.

Tickets are available for everyone, B.Y.O.B.B set up’s are available. Call (718) 320-1861 or (718) 320-2960. For more information, our own DJ Smooth from the Bid, will be playing.

Get well wishes to all who are sick and shut-in; we wish you a speedy recovery.

—Patricia Mayo Bonaparte

The Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic Club will hold its regular scheduled monthly meeting on Thursday, December 19, in the Bartow Center, Room #31, at 7:30 p.m. It is requested that all members attend this very important meeting.

This will be the last meeting of the year, and it will be good to see every-

one before the year ends. We may/can discuss our plans for the upcoming activities for the year 2014 and outline the direction that the club needs to go in the future. Please attend.

This meeting will also serve as our annual Christmas celebration for the upcoming holidays.

The Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic

Club would like to wish all our members and the Co-op City community a very merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, happy Kwanzaa, and a past happy Hanukkah. Be safe.

The club continues to extend get well wishes to those members who have been ill and are recovering. Our prayers are with you for a full healthy

recovery.

Best wishes are also extended to those members who are home-bound and recovering from various medical procedures.

I would like to thank the membership and the community for your continued support.

—George T. Clarke

Eleanor Roosevelt Democratic Club

Happy Holidays to all of our readers!

Co-op Insurance

9

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

The Wright Agency: Serving Co-op City for 33 years!

Riverbay Requires Current Co-op Shareholders to Obtain Coverage!

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Protection to cover your belongings against: • Fire & Smoke • Water damage from plumbing • Vandalism/Riot

We offer:

• Low Premiums

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• 55 & Retired Discounts

• Certain personal liabilities • Guest medical protection • And so much more!

Other Lines of Insurance: • Auto

• Homeowners • Life

The Wright Agency

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We are conveniently located only blocks from Co-op City!

Hours:

Monday: 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

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10

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Broun Place Townhouse Association

It is really looking like the beautiful December holiday one has come to expect in Broun Place. As you stroll through, you can imagine a mini Disneyland or even a mini Rockefeller Center. Thank you, neighbors, for making the holiday bright here. Our next meeting will be a celebration to bring in the New Year, 2014. It will be on January 24th, 2014. Today, December 14th, the Executive Committee will be knocking on your door to ask for support for the annual gift for our grounds team and renewal of your membership.

It is also time to start planning for our welcome to the New Year Party and a committee is needed for that event.

The last meeting saw Chief Apollo and CSO Manager Ms. Aldea discuss the suggested topics and answer some

very important questions. Neighbors who came heard quite a bit of important information. For example, we learned about new available hours and procedures for appointments with our CSO specialists, such as the exterminator, as well as construction plans for camera installation. Thank you again to our guests and neighbors for attending that Thursday evening event. The Broun Place Executive Board hopes for a mighty turnout of our neighbors in January and hopes you will get involved and join with the party. The news of more construction on Gun Hill Road adds great concern over the lack of transportation improvements.

Neighbors have serious worries about local driving problems and plans need investigating.

The new Executive Committee is working for the betterment of Broun Place. Again, your Broun Place Officers are Reverend Grace Emanuel – Secretary, Ms. Lillian Richardson – Treasurer, Mrs. Vivian Burrus - Vice President and Eva Lazaar - President.

Ms. Lana Spaulding and Mr. Jesse Seise are our new support team. The collection of dues is ongoing and not prorated. Should you wish to renew and/or join, you can submit $12 in cash or check to any board member and it will be forwarded to our treasurer. We want to remind neighbors to please report to Public Safety: “If you see something, say something,” call: 718-379-3050.

Additionally, isn’t it great to see the uniformed officers on site? At this holiday season, we have to repeat the warning,

some folks as desperate as they are, prey on others. Do not fall for folks trying to get you to join in some quick ride to financial gain and, of course, never give out your personal information.

Also please remember, the great green garbage cans for street trash and recycle home garbage properly. Let’s help our neighborhood and keep it clean and, if necessary, we have to pick up other folk’s litter, please.

The Broun Place press release is for you; please share your stories and events. Prayers are sent out to all recovering from an illness or injury.

Congratulations to all celebrating a birthday or anniversary. If you wish a celebration acknowledged in your press release, please let us know.

—Eva Lazaar

To show our appreciation for the work done throughout the year, we have been accepting donations for various building staff personnel. The upkeep of a building is not an easy task, especially one with 33 floors and almost 400 apartments. A generous contribution is a great way to say, “Thanks.” If you missed us, but would still like to contribute, see contact information below.

Rivers Run Community Garden Next event will be a Meet and Greet at the Dreiser Center on December 19th at 7:00 p.m. in Room 9. Meet Green Thumb staff and members from other gardens in the city. Applications and additional information will be provided. Light refreshments will be served.

Women Keeping It Real - Our next session of Women Keeping it Real will be on Saturday, December 21, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. in the Association Room. Our guest, CCPD Sgt. Gregory, will teach us self-defense tactics. You must be 18 and over to participate.

Light refreshments. All are welcome.

Holiday Party - Just celebrate with us. The youth party will be on Sunday, December 22, from 12 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Adult Holiday/Pre New Year Event will be held on Saturday, December 28, from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Music will be provided by DJ Val. Dishes and donations are welcome. **Soweto Gospel Choir** – Lehman has invited them back by popular demand! Join US, on February 15, 2014 at 8:00 p.m., at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts for a celebration of song and culture. The 26 singers of South Africa’s Soweto Gospel Choir celebrate the unique and inspirational power of South African gospel music with deep emotion and rich harmonies that lift the soul. Price: $40 adults, $14 for children under twelve (price includes Lehman’s facility charge), orchestra seats. Send checks payable to Bldg. 13 Assoc. by December 21. There are a limited number of tickets so don’t delay.

Floor Captain: If there are problems on your floor or things you notice sur-

rounding the building that need addressing, let your floor captain know. Don’t have one, but want to be one? Contact the Chairperson Nancy Santiago on the building e-mail address. Read the bulletin board to stay informed of the next meeting date. To report quality of life or maintenance, call 718-320-3300. You will be directed to press the appropriate key to speak with the CSO (Cooperator Services Office) or maintenance department.

Time is running out to apply for STAR and receive a credit in 2014. If

you have questions or need assistance, contact us.

Checks for events should be made payable to Building 13 Assoc. Inc. and mailed to Bldg. 13 Assoc., 100 Casals Place #32K, Bronx, NY 10475. All activities are on a first come basis. For information, contact Gail Sharbaan at 718671-3801, Leslie Peterson at 718-3201370, our website: http://www.bldg 13assoc.com or e-mail us at building13 assoc@yahoo.com. Thanks for making our team work. —Leslie Peterson

Building 13 Association

Public Safety Report

unusual health conditions, crime and security situations and other information so that travels can make informed decisions about their trips. Certain countries may have a Travel Warning issued. It is best to know this information before you plan your trip.

When traveling, be sure to familiarize yourself with local numbers for emergency services. 9-1-1 is not always the number for emergencies. It is also a good idea to become familiarize with locations of local hospitals and police precincts in case of an emergency.

To minimize the impact of all crimes involving theft of property from your person, keep your keys, money, identification and cell phone in your front pocket, separate from your non-valuables. Also consider an inside the clothing travel type wallet for your personal items and valuables. A pocket with a zipper, button or Velcro is ideal for this purpose. If carrying valuables and personal documents in your purse, place them inside of a plastic or metal container such as a mint case, which does not look like a wallet. Keep less important items with a token amount of cash in your decoy wallet, this way the criminal will think he scored big. A purse that zips also adds an additional level of security.

Remember, property can always be replaced; your safety is the most important thing. If someone does try to rob you despite your precautions, do not resist, especially if the person is armed with a weapon of any type. Try to remember as many details of the crime, as well as a description of the perpetrator. Notify police immediately if you have been the victim of a crime. If you are the victim of a crime in another country, contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

For more information about crime prevention, contact the National Crime Prevention Council at 1000 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 13th floor, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 466-6267, or on their website www.ncpc.org.

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.

If consuming alcoholic beverages is part of your holiday festivities, be sure to designate a driver who will not drink. Drunk driving enforcement is heightened during the holiday party season. Do not risk being arrested or being in an accident if you plan to consume alcoholic beverages.

Call a taxi, if necessary. Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages. This is especially important while traveling. Penalties vary by jurisdiction. The consequences of drunk driving in other countries are extremely severe. Always buckle your seatbelt; it will save your life in a serious collision. Avoid distractions and excess speed when driving; these are the two leading causes of collisions within New York State.

In New York State, the Expanded “Move Over” law has been in effect since January 1, 2012. This law makes

Cooperators United of Co-op City

Reminder that our next meeting is Tuesday, December 17th, 7:00 p.m., Bartow, Room 31, refreshments will be served. Our invited guest is General Manager Vernon Cooper.

Don’t forget to remind our neighbors to hand in their Optimum Preferred Bulk Rate Offer Forms which will be distributed in a different color and due

by December 20th. It’s important that everyone responds.

Please note: Basic STAR registration is ongoing until December 31, 2013. Don’t forget to sign up by calling 518-457-2036, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or at www.tax.ny.gov. Apply for STAR at NYC Department of Finance, 212-504-4080, or dial New York City Hotline, 3-1-1.

We extend our thoughts and prayers to all who are sick and shut-in and to all of you celebrating a special day this month, enjoy. We can be reached at 718-3797841 or MLSAH@aol.com.

—Sonja Maxwell

11

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013 (Continued from page 7)

it a violation for failure to move over a lane when approaching a service vehicle, such as a tow truck or a stopped emergency vehicle with or without its warning lights on. This violation carries a fine of up to $150 and up to two points on your license. The purpose of this law is to protect emergency responders and other service vehicles.

This year, Co-op City Department of Public Safety has joined City Harvest in its crusade to provide food to the hungry. Collection bins have been set up in all 3 community centers by Public Safety’s Sgt. Nat Diaz. The circular bins are white and gold in color and can be found next to the elevators on the lower level of the Dreiser and Einstein Community Centers, as well as the Public Safety Base next to the Administration Offices at Bartow Avenue.

There is 24-hour access to the last location. Please donate non perishable items which are not expired. While picking up your holiday items, select a few items for those less fortunate. City Harvest picks up the donations and delivers them to those in need. Collection bins will be in place until January 10, 2014.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety is happy to be teaming up with City Harvest, an organization which helps to keep one million at risk New Yorkers from going hungry. If donating cash is easier or you would like more information, contact City Harvest. Call 1-800-77-HARVEST or visit www.cityharvest.org/dnrc. In addition to this food drive, City Harvest also rescues unused food from stores and restaurants and delivers it to those in need.

Donations are needed year-round for this excellent program.

Always remember, if you see something, say something. 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.

Enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. For those of you traveling, have a safe trip. 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.

Grand Opening

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Bring this invitation to get 10% discount!

12 We had an explosive meeting in Dreiser, on December 2, 2013, over the $24 bulk rate cable agreement package from Cablevision. And, lots of our cooperators were really upset over this matter.

Sounding Off Management made a big mistake by underestimating the size of the crowd and by partitioning off the main room in Dreiser. But, lots of our cooperators were angry even before they came to this meeting with Management and Cablevision.

So, our cooperators came out in force and packed out this partitioned area. Then, they packed out the hallway.

"We can't hear you. Talk louder," was the sound from the hallway. But, several of our frustrated cooperators were just getting started.

So, workers removed the partition to the main room. At that moment, tensions rose and people started going off.

“Go home! We don't want Cablevision.

We don't trust Riverbay and the Board.

We want Verizon.”

Then, someone said to me, "Riverbay blocked a union from distributing flyers, so, the union is outside."

But, if you listen to our officials here, they will have you believe that Riverbay will not benefit from this deal. Really?

If that's the case, then why did they stop the Communications Workers of America (CWA) union from distributing flyers on this matter? Were they afraid that the flyers were going to help our cooperators see the truth behind this "five year deal" with Cablevision?

We Want a Verizon Proposal Several people have speculated that Verizon is getting the runaround here.

"Riverbay is blocking them," is what I've heard from many people. However, Management has stated that Verizon can come here whenever they want.

It's Time to Turn the Channel Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Daryl Johnson

Director’s Viewpoint

Therefore, I want to put a complete stop to any nonsense that might be happening between Riverbay and Verizon, if Verizon is having problems.

If so, then I want the officials from Verizon to send a proposal for their services to the entire Board and then to our management company. The proposal should not include any offer of a bulk rate cable package for Riverbay.

Thereafter, I will personally write a resolution for a vote if the proposal is in accordance with what our cooperators want for this community. Thereafter, the cooperators can conduct their own business with Verizon, without any nonsense.

Finally, several workers have told me that Verizon has connected their wires to all of our buildings. And, they said that, "It would take about 6-10 days to install the wires on a 33-story building here." If that's so, then, I say we should move this matter forward.

Current Technology When you look at the latest technological developments, you'll see that cable television is facing tremendous threats from several companies. Cablevision is offering 320 channels for $24 a month for 2 years, and then the rate will increase.

But, Riverbay has to buy service for all of our 15,372 apartment here, including the

vacant units. However, I believe that this low price, with only 13,000 subscribers, is guaranteed to produce financial losses along with higher carrying charge increases for everyone.

But, there are streaming media player devices that are available in stores that allow you to legally have access to hundreds of channels, many in high definition, without a monthly payment for the subscription. These devices are first connected to your television. Thereafter, the channels can be easily streamed from your internet service. And, just like cable, you can purchase additional content if you want. So, my encouragement is that everyone should compare these streaming media players, some with over 1,000 channels, to this Cablevision deal.

Management's Contract has Expired As reported recently, our contract with this management company is over. But, they are still here, with the assistance of the majority of our 15 Board members.

Now, we're over $600M in debt and our expenses are going up. Plus, as confirmed last week, people will face eviction if these cable charges are placed on their monthly carrying charge statement.

But, as mentioned before, it's my belief that the goal is to kick people out of here.

Therefore, it is very important that you elect Board members who will support going out to bid for a new management company. Thereafter, we can get this current management company out of this community.

STAR Credit December 31, 2013 is the deadline.

So, please make sure that you get your application in for your STAR credit.

According to the NYS website, "The New York State School Tax Relief Program (STAR) provides homeowners with partial exemptions from school

property taxes. If you earn less than $500,000 and own and live in your home, you are probably eligible for the STAR exemption."

"I applied to this program last year. So, do I have to apply again?" The answer is yes. Also, again, please look out for your neighbors, if they need assistance.

As mentioned before, there were only 8,714 apartments that received the STAR credit on their April 2013 statement.

The cooperators that were approved for the Basic STAR program received a $99.28 credit from Riverbay.

The cooperators that were 65 or older, and were approved for the Enhanced STAR program, received a $206.04 credit from Riverbay.

Okay, you can call 3-1-1 for more information or go to this NYC website: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dof/html/property/star.shtml. You'll be very happy when you get that nice little credit on your statement next year.

Close Please write letters to the editor and let this Board know that we must get rid of this management company. Additionally, please vote for Board members who will support going out to bid for a new management company. Thank you.

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@optonline.net (Please double-check the spelling of this address.). Also, please call me at 718671-4544 if you don't receive a response from your message.

Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week. And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

13

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Black Forum

Next Defensive driving course The next Black Forum defensive driving course will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2014 in Rm. 1, Dreiser Community Center, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Lower your liability insurance cost by 10% 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. Remember, don’t text and drive.

Community garden If you have a green thumb, or you are willing to learn, call us today to

volunteer, (718) 320-8035.

Notice: All Section 5 food pantry participants 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 pick up your food.

Volunteers needed for Wednesdays and Fridays. For information, please call (718) 320-8035.

Black Forum Lyon’s Mane Track Club Summer’s here. Register your child(ren) 6-18 years of age for the Lyon’s Mane Track Club. Call for information, (718) 320-8035.

Volunteers needed The Black Forum is looking for volunteers to help out 2 days a week at the

food pantry from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

You choose the days. Training will take place on Thursday only. If you are interested, please call (718) 320-8035.

Computer help The Black Forum is looking for an experienced computer savvy individual. If interested, please call (718) 320-8035.

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 driver’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.

We Need You - Join Us Today 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 or visit us, Room 20 in the Dreiser Community Center.

Happy Thanksgiving and happy Chanukah to everyone. Please remember not to drink or text and drive.

—Tony Illis

The Coalition’s next general membership meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2014 at 12 p.m., 177 Dreiser Community Center, Room 15.

The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc. of which your (church/organization) is a member, enthusiastically invites you to attend our 17th Annual Kwanzaa Celebrations on Saturday, December 28, at 3 p.m. in Room 31, 2049 Bartow Community Center, Bronx, NY. Kwanzaa is the seven-day (December 26-January 1) African celebration of family, community and culture as personified in Africa “First Fruits” or harvest celebrations.

Kwanzaa incorporates the spirit, value and practice of Ingathering, Reverence, Commemoration, Recommitment and celebration; and evolves around Seven Principles, one for each day of

Kwanzaa, called the Nguzo Saba. The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa are: Umoja (unity); Kujichagulia (selfdetermination); Ujima (collective work and responsibility); Ujamaa (cooperative economics); Nia (purpose); Kuumba (creativity); and Imani (faith).

The Coalition members attending the Kwanzaa celebration are requested to bring an offering of a large, main dish of food (no pork, please) or dessert, etc. to share with others. Please contact (Ms. Jones) 718-671-5957 or (Mr. Leacock) 718-671-9610 by Dec. 22, to advise of what your food offering will be. Your attendance and participation are required to make this family/community/cultural festivity a success. There will be a Kwanzaa ceremony, vendors, dancers, drummers, and the Kwanzaa feast. This event is free.

Please inform the Coalition of any

suggestions that you may have. Mrs. Joan Murrell is the President of the Coalition. Phone number, (718) 3793494.

The Coalition is a non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and improving the quality of life of cooperators while providing educational and culturally enriching programs for the community. We also act as one voice for all Coalition members where there are issues of common concern and human rights. We also sponsor Friends & Family Day Celebrations, and Kwanzaa free for the community.

Members of the Coalition include the following: African-American Association; Co-op City Baptist Church; Retirees of Dreiser Loop; Harriet Tubman Independent Democratic Club; NAACP, Co-op City Branch; St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church

and Zodiacs Track Club.

Please support our efforts by sending us a tax deductible contribution made payable to Coalition of AfricanAmerican Churches and Community Development of Co-op City, Inc., P.O. Box 619, Bronx, NY 10475. Churches and organizations that desire to join the Coalition may apply for membership by either writing or calling (718) 3793494 or (718) 671-5957 for a membership application, which should be returned with a letter on your church/organization’s letterhead and signed by the Minister/President. Read Coalition’s weekly column for information about events and issues.

Remember the Coalition’s Motto is, “Coming together is the Beginning, Keeping together is Progress and Working together is Success.”

—Harman T. Leacock

The Baychester Library Association has been supported by volunteers for several years.

Most of you know about us through our annual Spring book fair. It has always been a huge success and we have appreciated the response of the community both with donations and purchases.

The money raised is used to help sponsor programs for children, teens and adults. We help fund the after school chess club on Thursday afternoons. We also contribute to Saturday afternoon music programs like opera and Klezmer and the annual children’s Halloween party.

The association meets once a month on the second Thursday of the month from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. There are no requirements for this job except a willingness to help. We can use new people and new ideas. It is our library and we want to keep it vibrant and responsive to our entire community.

We also have a Book Club that meets at 1:30 p.m. just before the Association meeting. Every month, we read an interesting new book and meet to discuss it.

We would love for you to come and join us. You can inquire at the library or call Trudie, the club President, at 718-6716832.

—Helen Topal

Coalition of African American Churches & Community Organizations

Baychester Library Association

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14

Examining our major accomplishments Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Please let us take a few minutes from our busy lives to pray for the members of the Mabry family due to the untimely death of their loved one. Remember, also Nelson Mandela, a man of courage, strength and forgiveness.

It truly amazes me when I read letters of criticism about the Board of Directors and Marion Scott Realty, Inc. If their disapproval is so great and they are cooperators who are not indebted to Riverbay, why not run for the position of a Board Director?

I moved into Co-op City in 1971 and I loved living here as I still do, but in later years was able to see the deterioration of the buildings and garages. This was not from neglect, rather because there was no money to take care of the necessary repairs. It has been under the Management of Marion Scott Realty, Inc. that many

capital projects have been completed.

In August, 2003 our garages had to be closed because they were a safety hazard and in danger of collapse. In 2004, we were able to secure a loan of $475 million from New York Community Bank. $228,500,000 of that money was to be used for much needed capital improvements.

Remember, this was accomplished under the Management of Marion Scott Realty and the same Board of Directors who some refer to as “Ancient Relics.” For your information, this was not the first time that we tried to obtain a loan. Back in

November, 1998, before Marion Scott Realty was Riverbay’s managing agent, the Board realized that there was a need for garage repairs, elevator upgrades, window replacements and balcony and façade work.

Eleven Board members voted on a resolution to proceed with obtaining a loan that never came to fruition. Let us now move ahead to the present.

Co-op City, under the leadership of those same “old” Directors and this “sinister” Management company, successfully obtained an historic 35year HUD guaranteed loan which saves millions in interest payments each year which means we, as cooperators, save. This is the very first time that a loan of this type has been given to a cooperative development such as ours. There were years of responsible negotiations involved,

pushed by our management company, it didn’t just happen.

There has been 133,522 window replacements, garages refurbished, completion of the balcony repairs and façade work and also elevator upgrades.

Co-op City has a Cogeneration Plant that was not a part of the capital improvements in 1998. I could go on and on, but I trust you get the picture.

I am by no means implying that Marion Scott Realty or this Board is perfect, but please give credit where credit is due.

The community is a long way from where it was in 1998 and it is my desire that it will get better.

The Board certainly needs and welcomes your support in this endeavor.

Continue to enjoy this holiday season and above all, be safe and careful.

Happy fall greetings to our Co-op City families, friends, neighbors, and especially our new residents.

Congratulations to all who are celebrating birthdays, new births, wedding anniversaries and other celebrated events during the month of December.

Well wishes for a speedy recovery to all of you who are sick/shut in. Our sincere condolences to those families who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

May they be eternally blessed. And may you and your families also be blessed during your time of bereavement.

All dues-paid members of our building association are invited to come celebrate the holidays with us on Friday, December 20, at 7 p.m. in the rear community room of Building 26B, 2420 Hunter Avenue. Come enjoy our festive celebration for the holidays, but remember, you must be a

paid up member of our association.

Do a good deed today. Check on your elderly, disabled, and/or homebound neighbor to see if they are okay. Some of our neighbors are unable to travel to the store and/or pharmacy. As you do your shopping, it would be nice for you to shop for them. You will be blessed abundantly for your good deeds.

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. Bulk trash and large cartons are to be taken to the basement, and please be vigilant. If you see something, say something by calling 91-1 for emergencies and 3-1-1 for all other non-emergency complaints. The life you save could be your own.

—YuVonne Lewis

120 Benchley Pl., Building 24 (street level), Bronx, N.Y. 10475.

You are invited to attend services on the following days. Sunday School for all age group begins at 10:30 a.m. Worship starts at 11:45 a.m. each Sunday.

Wednesdays: Prayer and fasting service will be held in the morning at 11:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m. Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening Youth service will start at 7:00 p.m.

Focus: Miracles are a normal part of revival that includes physical wonders, salvation, and the establishing

of the people of truth.

And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being cripple from his mother’s womb, who never walked. The same heard Paul speak: who steadfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet, and he leaped and walked. And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia. The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. (Acts 14:8-11).2 The role of signs and wonders in

the confirmation of truth is seen in Hebrews 2:3-4 When the first church council met in Jerusalem about A.D. 50 to consider whether it was necessary for Gentiles to keep the Law of Moses, the argument ended when the multitude kept silent, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.(Acts 15:12) The fact that God worked miracles and wonders among the Gentiles was considered to be proof of God’s approval of the Gentile’s faith. If he

honored their faith with miracles and wonders, they must have been acceptable to Him even though they were not keeping the Law of Moses.

Miracles, signs, and wonders accompanied the ministry of the early Christians and played an important role in the church. Moreover, the days of miracles are not over.

God still works through miracles today and they are still important to the ministry of the church in this world.

For more information, call 718324-0334 or 718-430-4218.

—Rev. R. Sibblies

recommended Girardi Plumbing, Inc. be awarded the contract (Recommendation attached).

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed contract 2878 with Girardi Plumbing, Inc. for the not to exceed total cost of $250,000.00 over a two year period be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #8516 and amended by Board of Directors

Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Atkins, Bailey, Gordon, Illis, O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro, Abdul-Wahhab NO: Cylich, Graham, Johnson, F. Jones, Leslie, Turner ABSENT: Peterson PASSED

tract 2838 with Robert J. Stahl Architect, PC for the not to exceed total cost of $200,000.00 over a two (2) year period be approved as submitted by Management in accordance with Board of Directors Resolution #85-16 and amended by Board of Directors Resolution #95-44 and the President is hereby authorized to execute the contract and Management is authorized to

take all steps necessary to make this action effective.

YES: Atkins, Bailey, Gordon, Illis, F. Jones, O. Jones, Owens, Shapiro, Turner, Abdul-Wahhab NO: Johnson, Leslie ABSTAIN: Cylich, Graham ABSENT: Peterson

Othelia Jones

Director’s Viewpoint Treasurer

Building 26 Association

Pentecostal Tabernacle

Amended Second Reading - Resolution #13-102 SUBMITTED BY: Tony Illis SECONDED BY: Al Shapiro

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: December 10, 2013

WHEREAS, the Contracts Department sent out twenty six (26) requests for proposals for Bid #2878, Emergency Plumbing Repairs as Needed; and WHEREAS, we received five (5) pro-

posals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the contract will be for a two (2) year duration and work will include but not be limited to gas line repair and replacement, domestic water line repairs, dual temp line repairs, water main replacement and repairs, sewer main replacement and repairs, sanitary and storm line repairs; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager has

Second Reading - Resolution #13-103 SUBMITTED BY: Al Shapiro SECONDED BY: Tony Illis

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING, DATED: December 11th, 2013

WHEREAS, the Contracts Department sent out twenty (20) requests for proposals for Bid #2838, Architectural

Services as Needed; and WHEREAS, we received seven (7) proposals which were reviewed in detail by the Project Manager; and WHEREAS, the Project Manager has recommended Robert J. Stahl Architect, PC be awarded the contract (Recommendation attached).

NOW THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED: that the proposed con-

PASSED

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

15

16

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

THANK YOU for your support for the last 2 years!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Open 7 days Mon - Sat: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Call for Appointment

347-427-4441 JR Barbershop

2093 Bartow Ave., Bronx

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

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18

To Be Considered

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

I have recently learned two issues that cooperators might want to consider before they vote in the referendum on Cablevision’s bulk rate proposal.

1 - In a recent email from an HCR representative, I was informed that to determine whether or not to approve a Riverbay/Cablevision bulk rate agreement, the agency will first require receipt of a Board approved contract of such an agreement. The Board’s position, however, is that it will only consider approving such a contract if 2/3 of cooperators participate in a referendum on the Cablevision proposal, and two-thirds of the voters in the referendum approve it. If the HCR should then decide to reject such a contract, it, in effect, will be invalidating the referendum. I think the Board must obtain clarification about this from HCR before the referendum process is completed.

2 - Cablevision’s proposed bulk rate contract with Riverbay offers a discount to their Co-op City subscribers. Riverbay will then pay Cablevision about $316,000 a month and recoup it by including a $24 charge in every subscriber’s monthly carrying bill. It raises the question of what happens if a subscriber is $24 short in their monthly carrying charge? Will Riverbay consider that a default in the cooperator’s carrying charge obligation?

Management’s answer in the Co-op City Times of 12/7/13, was a resounding YES. By agreeing to place the Cablevision proposal before cooperators in a referendum, the Board has, in essence, remained neutral on this issue and will honor the opinion of the cooperators. It is an all too rare instance of cooperators getting the

chance to exercise their democratic right of expressing their opinion on an issue concerning all.

ABOUT COMPETITIVE BIDDING Regulation Section 1729-1.2(b)(2) of the NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) states, “Selection of a qualified managing {or General Manager} shall be subject to approval of the division. It also states, “The housing company shall solicit bids, review bids, select a prospective agent and submit its selection to the division together with all other bids.”

Back in December, of 1998, the Co-op City Times reported on its front page under the headline “Attempt fails to interview more management firms” that the Board rejected a resolution to hear presentations from three management companies — including Marion Scott Real Estate, Inc., and after continuing to interview general-manager candidates, hired Amit Sikdar February of 1999. Sikdar’s 3 year contract contained a clause giving the Board authority to remove him for cause. Six months later in August of 1999, the Board, under a new President, Iris Baez, adopted two emergency resolutions. One vacated the previous restrictions about consider-

ing managing companies. The other proceeded to hire Marion Scott. No evaluation had been made of Amit Sikdar’s work, nor was he removed as general manager. The Marion Scott Company was hired at a cost of $1.45 million annually, about ten times more than we were paying for the General Manager.

There is no record that the Board ever reviewed MSI’s bid as required by DHCR. Yet in September of 1999 the Deputy Commissioner for the agency approved the one year contract that had been made with them.

I brought this to the attention of the Deputy Commissioner of DHCR last year and questioned his actions. He has not responded. However late, there should be a process of competitive bid process for managing Co-op City.

RIVERBAY AND AUDITING Dipping back into history (again), in June of 2005 the Board had an Audit Committee and it submitted a “Review of Contract Compliance Checklists.” They reported that Riverbay’s internal auditors had reviewed audits from 2001 to 2004 of companies that were paid under service agreements — not contracts. Among them were as follows: - Excel Maintenance & Restoration Corp. — for $2,800,000 without a contract - Stadium Painting - for $3,500,000 without a contract - R&R roofing — for $287,700 without a contract - Bernie’s Building Services, Inc. for $1,116,900 without a contract Riverbay spent a total of $7.7 million

for service agreements instead of contracts. According to the auditors, such service agreements without contracts left Riverbay unprotected.

Out of a total of 69 contracts both awarded and not awarded, between 2003 and 2004, they found only 5 instances when “Contract Compliance Checklist” policy rules required by Riverbay and DHCR were employed. They also found “unreliable record keeping and discrepancies” under service agreements for $390,000 worth of wood flooring work.

In its conclusion, the committee noted the “Internal Audit Department has made repeated recommendations for the appropriate contract policy to be followed, which has not been heeded.”

The report of the Board’s Audit Committee was submitted by its Chair, Board member Alonzo Newton, four other Board members and four cooperators. At that time Riverbay’s Internal Auditor was Dale Ferris who was assisted by three auditors.

I do not know of any follow up of that review and of any other audit reviews since. Dale Ferris retired in 2008. He has not been replaced, and that department has been disbanded.

An Internal Audit Department with a qualified auditor and assistants should be re-established.

In the absence of a proper competitive bidding process for a manager, and in the absence of comprehensive internal auditing, I will abstain in any evaluation of MSI performance.

Happy Holidays to all my friends and neighbors.

Membership Meeting & Holiday Celebration on Sunday, December 22nd at 3:00 p.m. All are welcomed.

Our annual Jubilee Day Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, January 4, 2014 and this year's host church is Church of the New Vision.

The 2014 Calendar is ready for distribution. If you did not receive one, please call the office.

Community Outreach Food Drive Collection Box: We are accepting nonperishable food items for Church of the Savior Food Pantry (e.g. canned goods,

oatmeal, cereal, etc. Please check expiration dates on all items). Thank you.

Voter Registration Forms available in English & Spanish: Voter registration is an ongoing activity.

Join us in signing the NAACP's petition to the Department of Justice asking

them to file civil rights charges against George Zimmerman at http://wwwnaacp.org/DOJ-petition. Petitions are also available at the office.

May your season be filled with blessings of good health, love, happiness, peace and joy. —Brenda Brown

Beginning on December 10th, BVA will have an art exhibit at the Baychester Library. BVA members artwork will be on display until January 7, 2014. Come to the library and look at beautiful paintings. There will be catalogues available so you will know the names of each artist and the picture they have painted.

Our 2013-2014 season is in progress with art classes on Tuesdays, in Room 5, Dreiser Community Center. If you

have ever wanted to learn to paint and draw, this is your chance and discover your talent and the satisfaction of creating beautiful artwork. You can choose from the 2 class schedules which are 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The fees are as follows: Annual membership is $35 a year and a session of 10 classes is $60. This is the best bargain in the Bronx – maybe even the city – given the quality of instruction offered.

Mr. Moses Groves, BVA’s own art instructor, is the artistic guide for these classes. Mr. Groves is an accomplished artist who has studied at the Art Students League and NYU. He has exhibited work in the New York and New Jersey area and has won awards for his artwork.

BVA is a non-profit, self-supporting organization that needs your support to continue offering high level art instruction at these bargain prices. So come

join BVA on this fabulous artistic trek, take a class, make a donation, — tax deductible, and feel the satisfaction of being a creator and/or patron of the arts.

All checks should be made out as indicated above.

If you would like more information about classes or members’ artwork, you can call Moses Groves at 201-862-0847.

Science is for the body and art is for the soul.

–Sylvia Lochansky

We wish everyone the best of the holidays to come, may you have a healthy and joyful celebration. Upon the writing of this message, we will be underway with collecting for our porters and lobby attendants. We ask that you give to those who clean our building and keep it safe. Today, Dec. 14th is our last collection day beginning at 11 a.m. and ending at 3 p.m., so please make your way to the lobby. We will also be raffling off a SPA basket to

Bernard Cylich

Director’s Viewpoint

NAACP

Baychester Visual Arts

Building 31 Association

help to defer the cost of decorating the lobbies.

Anyone who wishes to join us at the Christmas celebration on Fri., Dec. 20th at 7 p.m. should come with a dish to share with the group. Please contact Margo Rosario or Sharon Clarke, the coordinators of this event, to prevent duplication of dishes. Their telephone number will be listed on the notices posted in the lobby. We invite all the new cooperators to our building to

please get to know us, we would love to meet you.

Notices will be sent out soon regarding the schedule for replacing our smoke detectors and electrical plugs in the bathroom and kitchen. You can call CSO and speak to our area manager if the dates given will be a hardship and you need to make changes.

This year seems to be going so rapidly, maybe there are things you wanted to do and unfortunately life happened.

Think positive going forward. Think how you can become a better neighbor by looking in on those perhaps you have not seen in a while and may need your help or just a kind word. Send us the information and we can send a card if someone is ill or bereaved. We can be reached online, bldg31assoc@ gmail.com, or contact one of the cabinet members listed within the bulletin board in the lobby.

—Marilyn McDaniel

If you SEE something, SAY SOMETHING!!! 718-671-3050 • Co-op City Public Safety

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

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20

A Prince of Peace - Madiba (Nelson) Mandela Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

The entire world is mourning the passing of Madiba Nelson Mandela (7/18/1918-12/5/2013) at 95 years of age. He has joined the ancestors. In 1993, Mandela won the Nobel Peace Prize along with William de Klerk for their work for the peaceful termination of the apartheid regime and for laying the foundations for a new democratic South Africa. Mandela was best known as an anti-apartheid revolutionary and politician who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. This freedom fighter was the first Black South African to hold the office and the first elected in a fully representative, multiracial election. Mandela leaves a legacy as the Champion of World Peace.

The Choice is Yours for the Bulk Rate Cablevision It is not every day, every month, every year that shareholders get the opportunity to voice their opinions or make community decisions. With this bulk rate Cablevision deal, you have the chance to do so. The Board of

Francine Reva Jones

Director’s Viewpoint

Directors will NOT make the decision for you this time.

This is a community referendum. At least two-thirds of the community must take part in this referendum in order for it to work. You merely need to vote for which package you want. Or vote "NO" that you are not interested at all.

One of my neighbors who really wanted Verizon FIOS, wanted to hear from a Verizon representative that it was Verizon's decision that they cannot service the Co-op City community at this time. She did not want it coming from Management or the Board. Herb Freedman responded that he was unsuccessful in obtaining this information from Verizon in order to dispel this

cooperator’s suspicions. However, there have been statements by other Board Directors and other cooperators who are aware that it was Verizon's decision and no one else’s. Finally realizing that there is no way that Verizon will service our community at this time, I trust that this cooperator has decided to vote.

Another cooperator had a question and I promised to get a response for her from the Cablevision representative located in the Bartow Center. However, the office was closed at 10:30 a.m. and also closed at 4:30 p.m., although the Riverbay personnel informed me that someone would be in shortly.

For those shareholders who have already voted and wish to change their vote, a yellow ballot has been proposed. It is scheduled to be distributed by the time you read this writing. This ballot will supersede the first/former ballot. The tallying process is being organized and should be in place by shortly.

Vacant Land Development

Williamsbridge Club

The Williamsbridge Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. is an organization dedicated to community service in the areas of health, employment, education and economic development.

The Adult Club meets at Dreiser Center on the second Friday of every month. Young women 18-35, who are in or preparing for a business/professional career can become members of the Young Adult Club. There is a national membership drive from October 1 – December 31. If you take advantage of this drive, the initial dues are significantly reduced. Ombudsmen are men of the community interested in decreasing the drop-out rate of our youth. The Ombudsmen, along with Trinity United Methodist Church of Morrisania, are presenting a Men’s Conference as we did in 2012. The title, “Addressing the challenges of Minority Males: Each One Reach One.” The conference will be held in Dreiser Auditorium A, Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 10 a.m. We are reaching out

to organizations in the community who serve the youth as a goal, to participate.

You are invited to present information about your organization and enroll those interested in joining.

If you are interested in community service and in addressing any of the areas mentioned above, please join us.

Call Sylvia Hicks, Membership Director, 917-921-5445. Information and applications for any of the club’s sections may be obtained by calling Mrs. Hicks at the above number.

The Youth Club consists of youth 12 to 18 years of age. The Youth Club is dedicated to community service, higher education, technology and activism. If you fit this description, are interested in expressing yourself, obtaining community service credit, developing new programs and leadership skills, you should contact Sandra Hall, Youth Advisor, 917-972-7732. This is your chance, as a young person, to help plan the year’s activities of the club. Don’t delay obtaining your community service credits in a fun and interesting way.

Anyone wishing to render community

The Drammeh Institute is proud to announce that our new space for operations will be located in Building 6, ground floor. After many years and helpful efforts of fellow cooperators, we are pleased to have a place to call home for cultural programs, exhibitions, films, and technology workshops for youth and adults.

We have been planning for and working toward this opening for a few months and are not yet up and running, but we hope to be soon. During the next few weeks, we will reach out to neighboring community groups to introduce our model of operations, such as services to be offered including, membership levels, volunteer opportunities and internships. In addition, we want to

hear your ideas about what you would like to see happen in this new space.

So, whether you are just now learning about the Drammeh Center or have been following its progress over time, please sign up and join our mailing list so that you can receive information about our scheduling. Finally, please consider donating to our great cause to bring multimedia technology to Co-op City. You may write to us and send your tax-deductible contribution by mail.

Make your check/money order payable to: The Drammeh Institute, Inc. Send to: The Drammeh Institute, P.O. Box 558, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475; Email: Drammehcenter@gmail.com.

—Elise Edwards

Drammeh Institute

service, assist with any of our programs, without joining any of our club areas, may do so. To obtain more information, contact Joetta Brown, First Vice President, 404-803-9869.

Information concerning the National

Management has introduced several developers to the Board to explore the potential development of our vacant land while also satisfying the community's needs. Some of the proposals are for a veteran’s park, senior living facility, medical center and youth facility.

Although the process will continue into the coming weeks, the Board seems to be in agreement that we want to maintain our green spaces and are opposed to high rise buildings.

Building Associations Your building association meetings are important. Be sure to attend the meetings in order to obtain information and updates. If there is no building association, try to gather your neighbors together and start one. If you have a problem, please inform your CSO or discuss it at your Association meeting, if it is not too personal. If they cannot resolve it, I will try to help you. I can be reached at: Francine Jones, Board Director, Riverbay Corporation, 2049 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475; or telephone number, 718-671-5957.

Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. may be found at www.nanbpwc.org or our mailing address: Williamsbridge Club, P.O. Box 6, Co-op City Station, Bronx, New York 10475.

—Sylvia Hicks

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Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

The beginning of a new week brings yet another opportunity to celebrate culture and the arts with a list of special holiday events and activities that the AfricanAmerican Association has scheduled.

The Coalition of African-American Churches & Community Organizations of Co-op City, Inc., of which the Association is a member, enthusiastically invites you to attend its 17th Annual Kwanzaa Celebration on Saturday, December 28, at 3:00 p.m. in Room 31 of the Bartow Community Center, 2049 Bartow Avenue.

There will be a Kwanzaa ceremony, vendors, the Karamu (feast), dancers and drummers to celebrate the seven-day (December 26-January1) African tradition.

With an emphasis on family, community, and culture, Kwanzaa incorporates the spirit, value and practice of Ingathering, Reverence, Commemoration, Recommitment and Celebration.

Everyone is required to bring an offering of a large dish of food to share with others (NO PORK, PLEASE).

African garb is preferred, but not mandatory. We look forward to seeing you. Habara gani!

The Association sponsors the following ongoing programs and encourages your participation:

We’re Moving On Up!!!!

Last Saturday marked the end of the preliminary rounds to accumulate necessary points at the Colgate Women’s Games 2013. Per usual, the Zodiac ladies showed and proved. We have 11 young athletes returning on Saturday, Dec. 22, to compete in the SemiFinals rounds and earn the coveted “Colgate Warm-up Suit” bestowed to Finalists. The following Zodiac ladies have advanced: Elementary A Division (1st - 3rd grades): Adaria Reaves, Stephanie Ogunbiyi, Star Rogers, Desiree King

The RETIREES’ extend their gratitude and appreciation to Rev. Palmore and the Church of New Vision congregation for allowing us to hold our Memorial service for our dear departed members who passed this year at their church. The Memorial will be held on Sunday, Dec. 15th during the 11 a.m. service at 115 Einstein Loop in Co-op City. At that time, we look forward to having our members & friends join us in this memorial observance.

TRAVEL EVENTS: Travel insurance encouraged Wed., Jan. 15, 2014. RESORTS WORLD CASINO at Aqueduct. Price: $30. Seats going fast. Rebates: TBD. Mar. 18-20, 2014. The Atlantic Club Casino Hotel.

Double: $220/pp & singles: $285. Rebates: Atlantic Club casino: $20 slot bonus + $20 food credit + $20 cash bonus. On day of return, will stop at RESORTS Casino – Rebate $25 slot bonus. How exciting!

Contacts: Virginia S/Beverly J, 718-379-0377.

Thurs., MAY 8, 2014, Matinee price: $125. A spring trip to see the Biblical story of “MOSES” at the Sight and Sound Theater, plus luncheon at Good n Plenty’s family style dining. Deposit: $75 to reserve your seat. Contacts: Serita G., 347-564-5722/Beverly J., 718-379-0377.

Sept. 20-27, 2014, (8 days/7 nights) CALIFORNIA COASTAL CRUISE on the CROWN PRINCESS. Day 1, fly into Los Angeles, board the Crown Princess ship, then we are off to begin our incredible cruise to key sunshiny California cities. On day 8, sail back to Los Angeles for departure home. Deposit required: $325 for double pp/$650 pp single occupancy. Contacts: Claudette D., 718-379-4784 /Beverly J., 718-379-0377.

THEATRE COMMITTEE: (prices includes transportation/van will depart 11:45 a.m.** SHARP): Wed., Dec. 18, 2 p.m. “AFTER MIDNIGHT,” Brooks Atkinson Theatre, with special guest star, Fantasia. Price: $105. SOLD OUT! Contact: Eleanor Barlow.

Sat., Jan. 4, 2014, 2:00 p.m.**, ALVIN AILEY Matinee show. Price: $57. SOLD OUT! Wait list available. Contact: Ione for ticket information.

On Thursdays - from 3:00-5:00 p.m., Committee members will be in clubroom 19.

GOOD AND WELFARE: Those of you still under

African-American Association Association Meeting/Holiday Party – Our next meeting will be held Saturday, December 14th at 4 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. 15. We will host our 5th annual Christmas party. There will be entertainment and delicious food. If you are unable to attend, look for our weekly column for upcoming events. Also, if you wish to join or update your membership, please send a check or money order (DO NOT MAIL CASH) of $15 for a single membership or $25 for families to: African-American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Donations are welcomed.

Like us on Facebook: “CoopcityAfrican americanassoc.”

Alvin Ailey Holiday Dance Performance: Sunday, 12/15, 3:00 p.m., City Center in NYC. This is a Scholarship Fundraiser and tickets are $35 for current Association members and $40 for non-members. Call 718-379-5555.

Yoga & Pilates Mat Classes – Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. 2. If your goal is to lose weight, tone and strengthen your muscles with exercises that reduce stress through breathing techniques, then this is for you!

Call 718-671-8364.

Belly Dancing Classes – Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Dreiser

The Zodiacs Track team

(our young 55m hurdles phenom), Kaylyn Lelie, and Tamara Rodriguez.

Elementary B Division (4th-5th grades): Kendra Todd, Jasmyn Phillips, Jada Mora, and Lisha McKenzie.

Middle School Division (6th-8th grades): Jaelah Eargle High School Division (9-12th grades): Sukanya “Suki” Wade This forthcoming Sunday, the entire Zodiac squad will be competing in Toms River, NJ at a Developmental Meet.

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

the weather, we want you to know that you are thought of warmly and we wish you brighter days. (Contact: Elinor Gordon, Chair, at 718-379-8755, regarding illnesses and bereavements.)

Members and friends, we require your telephone numbers when you are signing up for shows and/or trips with deposits to reserve your seat. There could be missed opportunities without a contact number.

Also, your assistance would be deeply appreciated as cash payments will no longer be accepted for security

Center, Rm. 2. A fun and healthy way to stay in shape!

No experience necessary. Call 646-301-9438.

Evening Line Dancing Classes – Thursdays, 7-9 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. 2. Dance to Soul, Latin, and Gospel music. Simple dance steps for easier participation. Come and enjoy! Call 917-903-7073.

Music Appreciation/Singing Classes – Fridays, 7:30 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. 15. Sing along with us to sweet soul oldies, R&B, gospel, and popular classics. All levels of vocal abilities are accepted.

Computer Laptop Classes – Next class: Jan. 14th, 7 p.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. 15. $5 fee. Members get 1 free class. Call 718-379-5555.

Children’s Early Morning Drop-off and After School Programs – School days. Call 718-379-5555.

Education – The Institute for Youth Study Group meets on 2nd Mondays, 7 p.m. and 4th Saturdays, 10 a.m., Dreiser Center, Rm. 15. Call 718-379-5555.

Employment Assistance – Contact us at 718-3795555 for information about employment.

Sending well wishes for a joyous holiday season to all!

—Mercedes A. Terzol

“We realize that in order to truly challenge our athletes and push them to get better, we simply must leave the State of New York to find the stronger competition,” states Head Coach and President, Thomas Francis.

Look to hear more from the Zodiacs as we travel up and down the coast this season and next to let these other cities know that the Zodiacs are the best team in NYC for a reason. We represent the Empire State!!

Interested in letting your child become part of the movement? Email us at zodiacstrack@yahoo.com.

—Arhemia Fidai

reasons effective January 1, 2014. Checks/money orders are payable to RETIREES of Dreiser Loop, RETIREES Clubroom 19, Dreiser Loop, 718-379-0377.

FYI - Committee members will be available Mondays and/or Thursdays after 3:00 p.m.

NOTE: The RETIREES’ next General membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2014.

“Whatever is beautiful, whatever is meaningful, whatever brings you happiness – May it be yours this Holiday season.”

—Claudette Davis

Family Owned and Operated

• Large Chapel on premises

• Pre-need counseling

• Ample Parking on premises

• Out of town services

• Casket Showroom on premises

• Cremations

A dignified funeral every family can afford.

All areas are handicapped accessible

Personalized & Professional Care • 48 Years Serving Our Community Worldwide Shipping including Caribbean, Africa & South America

718-231-7647 Call 24 Hours

Fax: 718-231-7665

NOW WEBCASTING TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS ABROAD

www.mccalls.net • director@mccalls.net 4035 Bronxwood Avenue, Bronx, N.Y.

Serving all cultures & faiths

22

Different Perspectives Shared Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

First of all, I want to extend my deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the Co-op City family who recently lost a loved one reportedly due to a bus accident.

Reportedly, she was a fine woman and all of the community is grieving. Co-op City has lost someone very special.

Cablevision's Optimum Preferred Bulk Offer By this time, most if not all, concerned cooperators have had an opportunity to ask questions. During the week, it was brought to my attention that what is being offered here was turned down at a smaller MitchellLlama Development because the Board was NOT willing to add the charge on the "Carrying Charge" bill. It appears that this is a bone of contention for several cooperators in spite of the proposed saving. Many of you had very important questions that Board members Season’s Greetings to all!

Do you want to get into the Christmas spirit? Cuddle a baby close to you. Let those tiny fingers grab yours. Snuggle the child against you and feel its complete dependence upon you. Experience the fragile vulnerability of that precious little life and you will begin, in a small sense, to understand the incarnation. Your God poured Himself into such a frail life and made it His own. He allowed Himself to be dependent upon His creation, to be at their mercy. Then ask yourself: What would compel a perfect, all powerful being to do such a thing? We can never hope to capture the Christmas spirit and make it our own unless we understand that God is so much greater than we ever thought He was.”— Dan Schaeffer “Greater love hath no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends” John 15:13. Presiding Elder Boyce Landrum, Elder Carol Landrum, and the Greater Love Church family welcome our friends and neighbors to join us for Praise and Worship Service every Sunday afternoon at 3:45 p.m. We are a teaching, preaching, tithing, faith and Bible way ministry; a place where you can praise God openly and freely.

Greater Love is conveniently located on the ground floor level at 900 Co-op City Blvd. (Bldg 2A), Bronx, N.Y., 10475; main entrance - red buzzer.

Weekly Schedule:

Evelyn Turner

Director’s Viewpoint

have not been able to answer because we did not discuss in any detail all the specifics about such a deal. The Board gave Management approval to explore the possibility. Management has since been working closely with representatives from Cablevision by providing space and scheduling meeting.

According to Herbert D. Freedman in a Memo to the Board dated September 3, 2013, "A meeting was held with representatives from Verizon on August 7, 2013. It was clear that

we will be obligated to pay regardless of the new trends in technology.

Again, you have the last word in deciding to buy into this offer.

Unfortunately, many of your questions to this Board member and others cannot be answered at this time as the deal is as new to us as to fellow cooperators.

Since December 14, 2007 Riverbay has had a written agreement with Cablevision Systems for the provision and marketing of broadband communications services. Accordingly, Riverbay allows any provider of service access to Co-op City and this would be the first attempt at a bulk billing arrangement.

You are encouraged to continue reaching out for answers to your questions. Call and we will get answers before it's too late.

Evelyn M. Turner, evelyntinez @aol.com, 917-324-1033.

bring items to the church on Sunday from 2:30 to 3:30 or give us a call/text to arrange a pick up.

Food Pantry: We welcome donations of canned goods and non-perishable items. Please bring items to the church on Sunday from 2:30 to 3:30.

Tutoring Service:

Take advantage of our new tutoring and homework club program. Parents, please stop in to complete a questionnaire that will allow the tutors to assess the student’s needs, or send an email to glcubc@optonline.net.

—Pastor Carol Landrum

Greater Love Cathedral United Baptist Church • Sunday Bible School/Study: 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

• Sunday Praise & Worship: 3:45 p.m.

• Holy Communion – First Sunday • Prayer Service: Tuesday Evenings: 7:15 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.

• Training for Service - A Survey of the Bible: Thursday, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.** • Youth Choir - Open to all youth ages 15+…Rehearsal, Tuesday evenings, 6:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m.

• Youth/Family Nite: Ages 10+ Next date: TBA. *Winter recess begins 12/19 – class resumes 1/9/14.

Save the Date Friday, December 20th at 7:00 p.m.: Greater Love Faithfuls first Youth Christmas Concert and Holiday Celebration.

New Year’s Eve., Tuesday, December 31st at 10:00 p.m.: Watch Night Service - All welcome!

Special Announcements Prayer Requests: Let us pray for you. Submit your requests via email to glcubc@optonline.net or stop in to complete a prayer card, and we will take it to the Lord in prayer.

Christian Book Drive: Please donate your unused or surplus Bibles, Christian books, Bible dictionaries/encyclopedias & inspirational books to the church library. Kindly

Building 30 A&B Association

Now that Optimum has given it’s presentation on bthe bulk sale there are still questions but a vote is needed. Please make your voice heard on the Optimum bundling with the best information you have, after all this affects your money.

Don’t forget that this Saturday is our holiday party in the Association Room in the lobby of Building 30B. The party will start at 7, so let’s get together with your neighbors and enjoy.

By now, the smoke detectors should be

Verizon has not yet made the decision to enter Co-op City." Also stated, "Our existing exclusive marketing agreement with Cablevision, Verizon believes, some obstacle that would hinder Verizon's ability to fully engage Co-op City residents." It was stated that when Verizon's offer is received, we will put them side by side for review before proceeding.

Therefore, cooperators should be getting a review of why we are casting a vote regarding Cablevision's Optimum Preferred Bulk Offer as opposed to Verizon.

Another view brought to this Director's attention is that in the next 5 years, the need for Cablevision may change and people will have other means of accessing information other than watching TV. It was suggested that once we commit to a 5-year agreement,

installed and all the doors painted. If Riverbay has not put new smoke detectors in your apartment, please get in touch with Riverbay Management and inform management when they can come into you home to install the detectors.

For those who lost their loved ones, the association gives its condolences. Those under the weather, get well soon.

Those celebrating births, birthdays and anniversaries this week, have a happy.

—Linda Werner

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

23

Ongoing NYC Health & Nutrition survey includes 60 households from Co-op City

The New York City Health Department and the CUNY School of Public Health have announced that they are conducting the second New York City Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NYC HANES). From now until early next year, adults from 3,000 randomly selected NYC households, including 60 from Co-op City, will be asked to answer survey questions and take a physical exam that will provide a picture of the city’s health almost 10 years after the first NYC HANES. Funded by the de Beaumont Foundation, the survey enables researchers to examine changes in New Yorkers’ health over two points in time and assess the impact of several health policies that have occurred since 2004.

“NYC HANES helps us get a better look at how New Yorkers are doing and determine ways we can improve the city’s health,” said NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley. “For example, ten years ago, blood tests in NYC HANES showed that New Yorkers were breathing in more second-hand smoke than elsewhere in the country. In part because of these results, the city’s parks, beaches and hospital entrances are now smoke-free. An updated NYC HANES will allow us to gain critical insights about overall health in New York City and will directly set directions for public health for the next decade.”

“Unlike many health surveys, which are based entirely on self-report, NYC HANES asks participants to take a brief physical exam and to provide blood, urine and saliva samples for lab tests to

assess for common health conditions.

This allows us to gain critical new insights about overall health in New York City,” said Ayman A.E. El-Mohandes, MD, MPH, the new dean of the CUNY School of Public Health, which is conducting the NYC HANES 2013 survey in partnership with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. “It’s also why the participation of those selected is so critical to the success of NYC HANES. Our rigorous statistical methods have ensured that those selected to participate in this survey represent New York City’s six million adult residents. And by comparing the new findings to those from 2004, we can analyze more objectively how the health of New Yorkers has changed over the past decade.”

Modeled after the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the CDC, NYC HANES gives public health professionals and elected officials the information they need to develop and fund new health programs, introduce new health regulations or laws and educate the public about increasing health risks. The Health Department conducted the first NYC HANES in 2004. Through a detailed health survey and a brief physical exam, NYC HANES collected data from nearly 2,000 New Yorkers.

“The de Beaumont Foundation is pleased to support the second NYC HANES,” said James B. Sprague, MD, Chairman and CEO of the de Beaumont Foundation. “It is our hope that the results of this survey will inform public

health programs and policies in New York City and, ultimately, provide insight into effective practices that can be replicated in other cities.”

“Keeping New Yorkers healthy is fundamental to good quality of life,” said Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney [NY-12]. “Participation in the NYC HANES gives us a better understanding of the chronic health conditions that some City residents face. In the past, NYC HANES has also led to improvements in diabetes management and more smokefree zones. The findings from this health survey help inform policymakers at all levels of government.”

“The team comes to you and pays you to do a check up,” said Morris Park resident Elsie Picciano, one of 150 New Yorkers who already have completed the survey. “The interviewer was absolutely marvelous. They made my experience hassle-free! I can’t imagine anyone not wanting to do it.”

Researchers used data from the first NYC HANES in 2004 to learn more about how many new depression and how well these conditions are controlled. They have also learned about environmental exposures, including second-hand tobacco smoke, lead and mercury. Findings from the study have led to changes in New York City laws and regulations, as well as educational campaigns to improve the health of New Yorkers. As one example, the Health Department was able to discover nearly 40% of all NYC adults were at high risk for heart disease because of

their blood pressure or cholesterol levels, which supported the Health Department’s efforts to eliminate artificial trans fats from restaurants and implement the National Salt Reduction Initiative to reduce the salt content in processed foods.

The Health Department and CUNY selected more than 100 neighborhoods across the five boroughs and will send invitations to 3,000 adults randomly selected based on the address of their households asking them to participate.

Trained staff will follow-up with a visit to these households and randomly select one or two adults to participate. The Health Department and CUNY have solicited support from government officials, the faith community and health organizations to encourage participation.

New Yorkers who agree to participate in NYC HANES will receive $100 for 2-3 hours of their time. They can complete the survey in their own homes or at a Manhattan location.

Appointments can be scheduled at their convenience, including evening and weekend hours. Survey materials are translated into Spanish, Chinese and Russian.

Support for NYC HANES is primarily provided by the de Beaumont Foundation with additional support from Robin Hood, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the New York State Health Foundation and Quest Diagnostics.

For more information about NYC HANES 2013, visit www.nychanes.org.

24

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

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 7:30 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. List of Programs and Events: Adult Sunday School is from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

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.

The Youth Department’s Annual Christmas Sharing Session will be held on Sunday, December 22nd at 9:30 a.m.

All are invited to join the youth.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

Please join us on Tuesday, December 31, at 10 p.m. for our Watch Night Service, as we usher in the New

Year with songs and praises unto our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Come join New Vision’s Partner in Reading and Mathematics Program on most Fridays from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Students in Grades 1 thru 5 are taught by trained professionals. Parents, we encourage you to bring your children to benefit from this free program, taught by trained professionals. Registration is ongoing. You could contact the church at the number listed below.

The Church of the New Vision is located at 115 Einstein, Bronx, NY 10475; Telephone: (718) 671-8746 or (718) 320-0409. Our mailing address is: P.O. Box 753037, Bronx, NY 10475.

Please visit our website at www.churchofnewvision.com.

—Carole Haque

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!

Let’s go into some wise counsel.

Ephesians 4:29-32 says: 29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.

30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.

31 Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.

32 And be kind to one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

Invitations: Our Sweet Hour of Prayer will be today at 3 p.m. Sunday School is tomorrow 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. Please come out and support these services.

If you’re into gospel rap/holy hiphop, go to www.sonicbids.com/vernonlittle and listen to and download music from Vernon Little free of charge. He also has videos on YouTube. You will be blessed, encouraged, and inspired.

We are located at 171 Dreiser Loop in Section 1. Our phone #’s are (347) 276-4925 & (718) 671-3627. Jesus loves you, and so do we.

—Apostle Gladys R. Little

Bishop Nancy Rosario, Pastor, and Overseer Archbishop Angelo Rosario and the members invite you to visit our house of worship, or please visit any of the many houses of worship in the Co-op City community that are teaching God’s Word. Follow God’s voice where He leads you. It is important that your faith increases, and it increases by the hearing of the Word. Church of God’s

Children Worship & Community Services Center cordially extend an invitation to you. Our sanctuary and office location is at 127 Dreiser Loop (to the right of the Montefiore Health Clinic).

Schedule: Sunday Worship-Spanish, 9:30 a.m.; English Worship, 1:15 p.m.; Sunday School, 11:30 a.m. Monday, 9:30-11:30 a.m. - prayer/fasting/reflections; Wed. Prayer, 7-8:30 p.m. Office

hours: Tues./Thurs., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Mon.-Fri.: Credit counseling & credit restoration. Mr. Ronald Zarza of Bronxworks will be at 159 Dreiser Loop every Thursday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and in Rm. 10, Dreiser, from 2 p.m.-7 p.m. to assist individuals and businesses with enrollment. You can call for an appt. at 646-629-3245. Also, Maxine Foster of the Bronxworks Food Stamp program

will be at 159 Dreiser Loop on Thursday, 12/19, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. to assist with all Medicare questions and Food Stamp eligibility. www.rosarioministries.com. Call church office at 718-790-9120. Christmas Cantata will be held on Sunday, Dec. 22 – 1 p.m. – ONE SERVICE ONLY. Christmas Eve Blessing on 12/24, 7 p.m.

—Bishop Dr. Nancy Rosario

At our Sunday, December 8th general meeting, we celebrated Founder’s Day. The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) was founded in New York City, Dec. 5, 1935 by Mary McLeod Bethune. What a glorious day that was! As we pause to observe our 78th anniversary, we must remember Our Legacy, Our Leadership, Our Future.

The Youth Committee will be collect-

ing winter accessories, such as new hats, scarves, gloves and socks, in addition to new, unwrapped toys (no toy guns) for the children and teens at the Town and Country Residence Home and other local shelters in the Northeast Bronx. We will also accept canned goods and diapers. Items can de dropped off at the Dreiser Loop shopping center, Room 14, today, Saturday, December 14, from 9 a.m.-1:00 p.m. For further information,

please call 917-399-2643.

Saturday Educational Program: Children in Grades 3-6 will receive small group instruction in reading and mathematics each Saturday during the school year with certified teachers.

Registration: Began September 21 and is continuing each Saturday as space allows from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Dreiser Community Center, Room 14. Classes start: October 5, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fee for

total year: $225, includes non-refundable registration fee: $25. All fees to be paid by December 31. For further information, call (718) 655-9034 or (718) 671-2555.

Happy Holidays whether they be Chanukah, Christmas or Kwanzaa to each and every family.

Happy birthday to our December members.

—Maxine Sullivan

Please feel free to join us at our general membership meetings, which take place at 8:00 p.m., on the 2nd Thursday of every month in our club room, Room 16 of the Dreiser Community Center.

The Holiday Season is upon us! Join us at our upcoming events at the Dreiser Community Center: Tickets for the club's annual Christmas Party, on Saturday, December 21st, are still

available. Dance the night away to the music of 2 live bands and the stylings of DJ Salsero. Enjoy a wonderful evening for only $30. For tickets or more information, please contact Antoinette Toro at (917) 744-4373 or Delia Anaya at (917) 5877143. Details can also be obtained by dropping by the club room before our monthly meetings or visiting the Flyers page of our website.

On New Year's Eve, ring in 2014 in Auditorium 'C' from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

'Swing y Sabor' will be our live band, with music by DJ Salsero. Tickets are $20.

Bring your party hats and noise-makers and enjoy the evening with family and friends. Contact Jose Lopez at (347) 2027930 for all the details.

The Three Kings will be visiting the young members of our community on

Saturday, January 4th, 2014. The Youth Committee will be sponsoring this holiday wrap-up event from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Room 16. Volunteers will be appreciated.

Additional information for all of our upcoming club events, as well as details concerning the club in general, can be found on our website: http://spanamcccc. synthasite.com. —Carmen Rodriguez

The next Co-op City Post 500 meeting will be held tomorrow, Sunday, December 15th at 10 a.m. at the Town

House Restaurant on Dreiser Loop.

Thanks to all those who participated in the Bronx VA Hospitals nursing

home Hanukkah party. Everyone had a very enjoyable time.

December birthday greetings to Alan

Kalter, Stewart Kogon, Hy Turkin, and Phillip Rauchman. Happy holidays to everyone.

—Marvin Warm

Faith In God Church & Bible Institute

Church of God’s Children

National Council of Negro Women

Spanish-American Community Club

Jewish War Veterans Post 500

25

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

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) 862-9172.

CHURCH SCHEDULE: 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.

The following programs are at the Church’s Annex: 2053 Asch Loop North (Co-op City) Morning Prayer Services - Tuesday, 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.11:00 a.m.

Neighborhood Bible Study -

Thursday at 10:00 a.m.

Extension of Prayer and Worship Service – Every first, second and third Fridays at 7:00 p.m.

SUNDAY SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM FOR OUR CHILDREN AND YOUTH Sunday School for Children and Youth is now in session. Our program begins at 9:00 a.m. with breakfast to follow. 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.

OTHER SCHEDULED EVENTS: The Willing Workers Annual Pecan Sale will be held after service. Stop by their table and pick up a great holiday gift of pecans.

Saturday, December 21st, 3:00-8:00

p.m. Come celebrate the Holiday Season with our Community Protestant Church family at our Annual Christmas Party sponsored by the North Carolina Team, Bartow Community Center, Room 31, Co-op City. Music by DJ Lonnie Youngblood. Donation: Adults $15; Children under 16 years of age free (must be accompanied by parent or guardian). For tickets, call (718) 9943751 or (917) 509-2030.

Sunday, December 22nd, 9:00 a.m. – Our Sunday School Department presents its Annual Christmas Program – “Into the Light: The Story of Christmas.”

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25TH, 9:00 A.M.: CHRISTMAS SERVICE AT COMMUNITY PROTESTANT CHURCH. Before or after opening your Christmas gifts, come out and give God

thanks for the greatest gift of all - His Son Jesus - and enjoy the fellowship of a wonderful Christmas Morn.

INSTEAD OF WATCH NIGHT SERVICE, COMMUNITY PROTESTANT WILL HAVE “AN END OF YEAR CELEBRATION SERVICE” ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31ST FROM 6:00 P.M. TO 7:30 P.M. All are welcome to join in this special service of prayers and thanksgiving for the past year and looking forward with prayerful anticipation to the coming New Year 2014.

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.

—Evan G. Mitchell

CHOICES In the moral conflict raging around us, whoever is on God’s side is on the winning side and cannot lose; whoever is on the other side, is on the losing side and cannot win. There is freedom to choose which side we shall be on, but no freedom to negotiate the results of the choice once it’s made. By the mercy of God, we may repent a wrong choice and alter the consequences by making a new and right choice. Beyond that, we cannot go.

The whole matter of moral choice centers around Jesus Christ. Christ stated it plainly: He that is not with me is against me and no man comets unto the Father but by me. The gospel message

embodies three distinct elements: an announcement, a command, and a call. It announces the good news of redemption accomplished in mercy; it commands all men everywhere to repent and it calls all men to surrender to the terms of grace by believing in Christ as Lord and Savior.

We must all chose whether we will obey the gospel or turn away in unbelief and reject its authority. Our choice is our own, but the consequences of the choice have already been determined by the sovereign will of God and from this there is no appeal. —A.W. Tozer, The Knowledge of the Holy.

MESSAGE FROM THE CO-OP CITY SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

CHURCH, 1010 BAYCHESTER AVENUE, BRONX, NY 10475; www.coopcitysdachurch.org; 718.320.

0518.

Important announcement to Co-op City community The Co-op City Seventh-Day Adventist Church extends the warmest of invitations to the Co-op City community/ friends/families to join us for a Christmas gathering as we host our first Feast and Fellowship, December 25, 12-3 p.m.

Co-op City SDA Church, 1010 Baychester Ave., Bronx, NY 10475.

Help us celebrate heaven’s greatest gift to the world - Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. For more information,

call 718.320.0518.

Our Services are open to everyone.

Bread Ministry: Please stop by on Saturdays from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. — available to anyone in need.

Regular Meetings: Wednesday Prayer Meeting: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday Morning Bible Studies: 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Saturday Worship: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Saturday Afternoon Bible Studies at 3:00 p.m.

Free Adult Exercise Program, Sundays, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

—Pastor Terry Giles

The Circle of Christ Church family extends a warm welcome to you and your family and invites you to come and worship with us at 147 Dreiser Loop, patio level (located in the Dreiser Community Center).

Thought for this week: Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God… Psalm 50:14 As Christmas approaches, giving gifts is in our mind. We plan out our Christmas list. Some of us get up before the sun to find good sales, but as we get

closer to Christmas, there is one gift we can give that is meaningful. We can thank God. Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God who desires an intimate relationship with you. It would shift our heart away from our stressful to-do list to thank Him for the miracles around us.

The meaning of Christmas is the birth of Jesus which gives us life, hope and freedom.

We want to remind you that we are collecting non-perishable items and

supplies in order to provide and support families in need of food. We also are providing counseling and referral services for families in the community. If you need or know someone in need, please call 347-945-1992. Please leave a message and we will gladly call you back.

Come join us at Circle of Christ Church and experience the Love of God. CHURCH SERVICE SCHEDULE Wednesday – 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.,

Prayer & Bible Study Friday – 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Youth Night and Children’s Bible Club Sunday - 11 a.m., Worship and the Word Children’s Church – 5 years old to 12 years old Little Lambs - Potty trained.

SPECIAL EVENT Every first Sunday of the month.

The service is bilingual.

ALL ARE WELCOME. —Rev. Sam Colon

Co-op City Seventh-Day Adventist Church

Circle of Christ Church

THE LAW OFFICE

OF

Christopher W. Edwards, P.C. • Personal Injury • Divorce • Family Law • Landlord & Tenant • Real Estate Closings • Contracts

• Criminal Defense • Probate/Estate • Immigration Law • Employment Law • Entertainment Law • Other Legal Matters

3049 Eastchester Road Bronx, NY 10469

(718) 671-4910

VISION CARE SPECIALIST

DR. DAVID HORN, O.D. FAAO • FELLOW, AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPTOMETRY

• COMPLETE VISION CARE - EYE EXAMINATION

• OCULAR DISEASE TREATMENT

• EYEGLASSES

• GLAUCOMA TREATMENT

• CONTACT LENSES

High Fashion Frames on Premises. “Your Vision Health Is My Concern.”

Much of Learning Is Done Through The Eyes. Insist on a Professional Eye Examination.

120 ALCOTT PLACE

(Bldg. 17 • Sect. 3) • Co-op City

718-379-8029 Medicare and many insurances accepted.

DOCTOR’S HOURS: MONDAY: 1:30 - 7:00 PM • WEDNESDAY: 2:00 - 7:00 PM FRIDAY: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM • SATURDAY: 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT!

26

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Dreiser 10:00am-12:00pm, Rm. 7

2:00 – 4:00 pm

1:30 – 2:30pm, Rm. 7

Dominoes 10 a.m., Rm. 49

Current Events 10 a.m., Rm. 31

Tai Chi 11 a.m., Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., Rm. 7 Alert & Alive Rm. 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Mixed Cultural Dance 10:30-11:30 a.m. Aud. B Mind Teasers 12 – 1 p.m., Rm. 4 Zumba 1-2 p.m., Aud. A Tuesday Movie w/ popcorn 2-4 p.m., Rm. 7

Tues., December 17

Crochet and Knitting

9:30am – 1:00 pm, Rm. 49

Wed., December 18

Library

Word Games 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Rm. 31

Blood Pressure 1st & 3rd Wed 9:00-10:00am, Rm. 31 Word Games, Rm. 31 9:30am - 11:30am Stay Well Exercise 10am-11:00am, Rm. 31 Line Dancing w/Voncile 11am-12pm, Rm. 31 Bingo 1:00 – 3:30pm, Rm. 31 Card Games 2:00-4:00pm, Rm. 31 Dominoes 2:30pm, Rm. 31 Library

Fri., December 20

Einstein

Word Games 9:30 – 11:00 am, Rm. 31 Bingo 9:30 am – 11:30 am, Rm. 31 Library 9:30 am -1:00 pm, Rm. 31 Weight Management Support Group 10:00 - 11:30 am, Rm. 25 ZUMBA Class 10:30 – 11:30 am, Rm. 31 Card Games 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Rm. 31 Dominoes 2:30 pm, Rm. 31

Thurs., December 19

Mon., December 16

Bartow

Bingo 1-3:30 p.m., Rm. 31 Card Games 2-4 p.m., Rm. 31 Dominoes 2:30 p.m., Rm. 31

Dominoes 10:00am, Rm. 45

9:30am -10:30am, Rm. 7

Line Dancing

10:00 – 11:00am, Rm. 2

10:00am-11:00am, Rm. 45

12:00pm – 1:00pm, Rm. 4

Stay Well Exercise

Around The Lunch Table 11:30am, Rm. 49

Bingo 1 p.m., Rm. 49 Matinee Movie w/George 10:00am-12:00pm Rm 45 Dominoes 10:00am, Rm. 45 Spelling Bee 10:00am, Rm. 49 Spanish Practice Class 10:30 am, Computer Lab Bingo 1:00pm, Rm. 49

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session 9:30 – 10:30am, Rm. 7 Sewing w/Raymonde 9:30-11:30 a.m., Rm. 7 Tai Chi 11am-12pm, Rm. 2 Mind Teasers 12 – 1pm, Rm. 4 Art Class 1-3pm, Rm. 7 YOGA w/Bhadra, 2-3pm, Rm. 2 Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session

10:00am, Rm. 45

9:30am-11:30 am, Rm. 31

10:00 -11:00am, Rm. 45

Chat Session

Blood Pressure 1st & 3rd Thursday 10:00 -11:30am, Rm. 8

9:30am-1:00pm, Rm. 31

Spelling Bee

Line Dancing w/Ellie

Bingo

11:00am, Rm. 49

10:00am-11:00am, Aud. A

Mind Teasers

1:00- 3:30pm, Rm. 31

Card Games

Po-ke-no

12:00pm-1:00pm, Rm. 4

2:00pm-4:00pm, Rm. 31

1pm - 2 pm, Rm. 49

Drama Club 1:30 – 4:00, Rm. 7

DATES

1st Mondays:

1st Mondays:

Tuesdays

11:00 am – 12:00pm, Rm. 7

Crochet and Knitting

Dominoes

10:00am-12:00pm, Rm. 7

10:00am, Rm. 45

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session

Art 10:00am, Rm. 45 10:00 -11:00am, Rm. 36

9:30-10:30am, Rm. 7

Meditative Moments

Bingo 1:00pm, Rm. 49

11:00 – 12:00am, Rm. 8

Card Games

12:00pm-1:00pm, Rm. 4

Mind Teasers

2:00pm-4:00pm, Rm. 49

2nd and 4th Friday 10:00 -11:30am, Rm. 49

Stew Leonards Super Wal-Mart

Card Games, Dominoes 2:00pm-4:00pm, Rm. 7

Spanish Class

Blood Pressure

WEEKLY TRIPS

Bowling

Piano Sing Along

Bingo 1 p.m., Rm. 49

WEEKLY TRIPS

1pm – 2pm, Rm. 7

Therapeutic Yoga

1:30pm – 2:30pm, Rm. 8 (Schedule subject to change without notice)

PRICE

PICK-UP TIMES

Bartow Dreiser 9:30 a.m. 9:45 a.m.

8:30 a.m. 8:45 a.m. $2.50 11:00am 11:30am (for transportation)

$5 $15

Mon., Dec. 16

Apple juice Turkey meatballs w/Swedish sauce Noodles Green beans

Chicken parmagiana Whole wheat shells w/sauce Green salad

Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit

Blackberry pork chop Yucca w/onions Honey carrots

Whole wheat bread Canned apricot

Salmon cakes Polenta and green peas w/dill Collard greens

Whole wheat bread Fresh fruit

Stuffed cabbage w/beef Meat sauce Mashed garlic potatoes Spinach

Challah bread Fresh fruit

Holiday celebration Honey pineapple spiral ham Yucca/potato pastillon Salad w/avocado, peppers & onions

Whole wheat bread Flan

Alt: Poached Salmon Orange pineapple juice Shake & Bake chicken Baked potato Braised red cabbage

1:15 - 2:00pm, Rm. 2

9:30-10:30pm, Rm. 7

Men’s Line Dancing w/Voncile 9-10am, Rm. 31 Word Games 9:30 – 11:30am, Rm. 31 Women’s Line Dancing w/ Jenifer 10–11:30am, Rm. 31 Chat Session 10am, Rm. 31 Bingo 10:30am – 12pm, Rm. 25 Sing along w/Charles Carrington 11am-12pm Rm. 31 Card Games 2-4pm, Rm. 31 Dominoes 2:30pm, Rm. 31

Soups, Breads and Desserts

Gentle Yoga w/Anne

Basic Cellphone & iPad Training course

Stay Well Exercise

2:30pm, Rm. 31

Non-Kosher

Mind Teasers

2-3pm, Rm. 2

Walking and Exercise w/Ms.Gaskill

Word Games

Dominos

Kosher

Intermediate Yoga

Dominoes

9:00am-1:00pm, Rm. 31

Library, Exercise Bike, Chat Session

Date:

Einstein 10:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m.

11:15am

To register for trips, please call: (718) 320-2066

New Payment Schedule - Payments for trips @ the Bartow office can be made Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Only) Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, The NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Tues, Dec. 17

Alt: Tuna and vegetable salad Orange juice Beef hamburgers w/onions Potato knish Lettuce and tomato

Wed., Dec. 18

Alt: Grilled Chicken

Thurs., Dec. 19

Apple juice Tilapia Francaise Yellow rice Mixed vegetables Alt: Sliced turkey Holiday celebration

Fri., Dec. 20

Beef brisket Mashed potato Broccoli soufflé

Fee for lunch is $1.50 & $3.50 for guest

*Menu subject to change without notice. Lunch must be ordered a week in advance.

ALL meals served w/margarine and fresh milk

Upcoming Events/Trips

Bartow Center (718) 320-2066, Ext. 2010 Dreiser Center (718) 320-1345 • Einstein Center (718) 671-5161

There will be no refunds for all trips.

All Trips includes roundtrip transportation!

Ongoing STAR and SCRIE Help is available. Please call 718-320-2066 to make an appointment.

Free Screenings for Nutrition Assistance (SNAP, the program formerly known as Food Stamps) Friday, December 13th & December 20th 2049 Bartow Avenue, Room 25 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - First come, first served!

Please bring documents that verify your identity, address, income & expenses (rent, medical, etc.). For more information: 718-320-2066.

Fairway – Monday, December 16th - $3 for 2 hrs. – Pick-ups: Einstein Loop – 9:00 a.m., Bartow – 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser Loop – 9:30 a.m. (10 seats available).

Wal-mart – Tuesday, December 17th - $15 – Pick-ups: Bartow - 8:30 a.m., Dreiser Loop - 8:45 a.m. & Einstein Loop - 9:00 a.m. (10 seats available).

Roosevelt Field Mall - Garden City – Thursday, December 19th – $15 – Pick-ups: Dreiser Loop - 9:00 a.m., Bartow – 9:15 a.m. & Einstein Loop 9:30 a.m. (10 seats available).

Empire Casino – Monday, December 23rd - $5 – Pick-ups: Einstein Loop – 10:00 a.m., Bartow 10:15 a.m. & Dreiser Loop – 10:30 a.m. $5 voucher to play & $5 voucher for a meal.

NY Botanical Garden Holiday

Train Show, Friday. December 27th $23 - Arrival time: 10:15 – Pick-ups: Dreiser Loop – 9:15 a.m., Bartow – 9:30 a.m. & Einstein Loop – 9:45 a.m.

Shoprite – Monday, December 30th - $3 – Pick-ups: Einstein Loop – 9:00 a.m., Bartow - 9:15 a.m. & Dreiser Loop – 9:30 a.m.

Christmas Holiday Party – Friday, December 20th at 135 Einstein Loop – Rm. 45 – 11:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m. $5 in advance & $7 at the door. Pick-ups: Dreiser – 10:00 & Bartow - 10:30 a.m.

Coat Drive @ 177 Dreiser Loop – Rm. 7, December 5, to February 5, 2014. If you have any used coats that are in decent condition, please bring them to the Dreiser Senior Center.

Hypertension Self Management Workshop – Tuesday, Dec. 17th – 10:00 a.m.–12 p.m., 2049 Bartow Ave. – Rm. 31.

Weight Management Support Group – Monday, December 16th 10:00 a.m., 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 25, facilitated by social workers. Learn techniques and information that can help you maintain a Healthy Lifestyle. For information: 718-320-2066.

Caregiver Support Group – Tuesday, January 7th - 1:00 p.m., 2049 Bartow Ave., Room 31. The group offers resources, as well as an atmosphere of understanding and support, whether you care for a loved one from a distance or in your home. Facilitated by a social worker. For information: 718320-2066.

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

AARP Chapter #4997

Here’s wishing all AARP Chapter #4997 members a merry Christmas, happy Kwanzaa and a joyous, healthy and prosperous New Year.

REMINDER: Our meeting is scheduled for MONDAY, JANUARY 13th, 2014, 1:00 p.m. in Dreiser Auditorium “A.” Please arrive early to pay and/or sign up for the below “2014” trips. Looking forward to having you join us in the New Year.

NOTE: 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.

2013 TOUR ACTIVITIES December 30- January 1, 2014 – New Year’s Eve Gala: 1920’s Great Gatsby – trip includes Deluxe Motor Coach transportation; first stop at the Sands Casino in Bethleham (PA); then to the Desmond Hotel (Malvern, PA) w/dinner after check-in; next day AllAmerican buffet breakfast; side trips include a choice of sightseeing; or shopping at King of Prussia Mall; or a 4-hour stay at an Atlantic City Casino; New Year’s Eve entertainment w/surf & turf dinner and an open bar; hats, noise-makers and champagne toast at midnight; buffet breakfast & show

27

before departure for home – BUS DEPARTURE: 8 a.m. SHARP from Asch Loop in front of the library; arrive by 7:30 a.m. to get luggage tags and bus seating…A few seats available with FULL PAYMENT NOW!!!…$535/ person (double); $645 (single); $525/ person (triple); travel insurance (to be included w/payment, if you want it): $28/person (double or triple); $37/single …contact Jean, 718-379-3742.

2014 TOUR ACTIVITIES March 31-April 1, 2014 – Sands Casino w/a $20 free play & lunch voucher; then to the hotel w/dinner and a show; full buffet breakfast and then to see MOSES at the Millennium Theater; traveling on Deluxe Motor Coach transportation…$295/double; $285/triple; $345/single (travel insurance to be determined)…contact Jean, 718-379-3742.

August 28 – September 6, 2014 – Canada & New England Cruise – Sail on the Royal Caribbean, 10 days/9 nights…Double inside cabin: N-$1,108; outside cabin: I-$1,438; Balcony: E-2$1,738; Balcony: E-1-$1,788; Single inside cabin: N-$1,827; Outside cabin: I-$2,487; Balcony E-1-$3,187 — $350 deposit will secure early-bird rates… contact Jean, 718- 379-3742.

—Delores Debnam

Einstein Cancer Fund

Baychester Library Events VISIT THE LIBRARY - A GREAT WEALTH OF INFORMATION WEEKLY EVENTS Wii Gaming - Every Monday, 3:00 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, 3:00 Teen Lounge - Every Friday, 3:00 - 4:30 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 10-6, Viernes 10-5, Sábado 10-5, Domingo Cerrado

718.379.6700 FREE ADMISSION TO ALL

Arrangements are being made for our next trip to the Resorts Casino on January 14th, 2014. Details will follow in the next article.

We are also considering a luncheon at the Hunterdon Hills Playhouse for the hilarious comedy mystery “Busybody,” which will be at the beginning of April.

But we must have a minimum of 35 to 40 people. Please give us a call for more details. A very small deposit will hold your reservation.

“Moses” at the Millennium Theatre, Lancaster, Pa. This will be a 2-day trip, Wednesday, May 14th and Thursday, May 15th, 2014.

Day 1-Lunch at the Hershey Farm Restaurant on your own. After lunch, at 2 p.m., a showing of “Moses.” Room accommodations at the Hawthorne Inn

and dinner at Millers Restaurant.

Day 2-After breakfast, off to the Sands Casino and casino package of the day. Cost per person-double $245; triple-$235; and single-$287. Please send in your deposits to hold your reservations. All balances or full payments must be paid by March 17, 2014.

For the above, please call Loretta at 718-671-2958, Lydia at 718-671-3005 or Mildred at 718-320-0288, Mondays through Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

It is with deep sorrow and we pass condolences to the family of Dorothy Beale who passed away suddenly. She was a great supporter of our organization. She will be sorely missed.

—Lydia Ruas

We are open two days a week, Monday and Thursday. Monday, 9:00 11:00 a.m.; Thursday, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

We are now selling jewelry, many choices of necklaces and earrings and bracelets. Our soft covered books are 25¢ each or 5 for $1, hard covered

books are 50¢ each. There is also a small selection of canes for $5, walkers for $10.

We are located in Dreiser Community Center, 177 Dreiser Loop, Room #13, second floor.

—Arlene Rodriquez

Handicapped Adult Association

Goose Island Seniors

Wednesday, December 13, Bingo game in Room 39. Admission is $2 at 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. Also depending on weather. Call 718-3799513.

Wednesday, April 23—Come and join us for an enjoyable day of music and comedy. They are having “THE RAT PACK.” Price: $69. They are also having MARILYN MONROE singing and including members from the audience. Pick-up time is 9 a.m. at our 3 usual bus stops – Einstein Loop, Asch Loop (back of library) and Dreiser Loop. A small deposit will hold your seat.

Menu: Appetizer, salad, choice of 3 entrées. Price: rib of beef, chicken marsala, stuffed filet of Sole, dessert, cof-

fee, tea and soda, also a complementary glass of wine or beer.

Monday, June 2—Going to Villa Roma. They are having “THE JERSEY BOYS.” Wonderful music from Frankie Valle and the Four Seasons.

Price is $79. Pick-up time is 8 a.m. at our 3 usual bus stops. Also, a small deposit will hold your seat.

Menu: Fruit cup, minestrone soup, half chicken, London broil and Tilapia.

All served with potato and mixed vegetables, dessert, coffee, tea and soda.

For more information, call Ann or Mary at 718-379-9613, Monday – Thursday, from 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or call Mary at 718-379-4899 in the evening.

GOOD HEALTH TO ALL. —Mary Pilla

28

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

Reflections

by Rabbi Solomon I. Berl Spiritual Leader of Young Israel Synagogue

One of the great needs today is patience. Among the most often used current phrases are – “Wait a minute,” – “Hear me out,” – “Please listen,” – “Wait till I finish.” They all indicate our restlessness and our inability to learn by patient listening.

So often do we hear, “If that tragedy happened in my family, I would have handled it differently,” “Well, let me tell you, my friend.

May G-d not try you. Wait until you hear the whole story.”

Or the teenager shouts, “You’re just old-fashioned!” Patience, young

man, someday you will grow up to be a parent too, and I hope you will be old-fashioned enough to insist on responsibility and standards.

Or the parent answers the little tot’s plea of “I can do it” with “No, no - you’re too slow.” Well, parent, if we never give the children understanding and a chance, when and how will they learn to grow up and become men and women?

It is a pity that in today’s world, we seem to have so little time to try to understand, when patience is not just a virtue, but a necessity for happy living.

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 candlelighting time. Saturday morning servic-

es 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) 671-2300 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.

The Co-op City Jewish Community Council wishes to announce its new hours of operation starting Jan. 1, 2014. Due to budget cuts, we will be open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and will be closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please note also that on

Fridays during the winter, we close at 3 p.m. instead of 5.

We are sorry for the inconvenience to our clients, but will strive to continue our services on a shortened schedule!

—Lynn Levine

Hi, neighbors…Well, 2013 is almost over; for us, it was a good year. We feel that number 13 is just that, a number – no bad vibes.

To prove our point, we had two good meetings and our big climax was our two “adventures” as we called them. So, we will give you and join you in a big “shout out” THANK

YOU!!!

Our last meeting for 2013 is scheduled for TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17th at 7:30 p.m. At that time, we will get together – eat, drink and party.

Plan to come down and have some fun with your neighbors. Thanks for making 2013 a year to remember.

—Celestine Withey

Co-op City Jewish Community Council

Building 24 Association

Castle Hill Funeral Directors, Inc.

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.

Note: Office hours are on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Candle lighting on Friday, December 20, is before 4:11 p.m. Shabbat ends today, Saturday, December 14, at 5:12 p.m.

The Chanukah/End of Year Luncheon on Sunday, December 8, was well attended and unanimously enjoyed be all. We were addressed by our guests: Rabbi Solomon Berl and Rabbi Daniel Kronengold in the meaning of Chanukah.

Daniel Sayani rendered some beautiful Chanukah songs which included all who attended this function and sang along. A friend of Rabbi Daniel, Mr. David Druce and his wife, Karen, were in attendance.

Mr. Druce entertained us with stand up comedy. This luncheon would not have been such a wonderful afternoon without the service of our culinary crew. They all did a marvelous job of shopping, warming, plating and serving. Kudos to you all.

Coming Events: Saturday, December 14, at 9:00 a.m. – Please join Rabbi

Kronengold and the congregation in prayer. Be part of the minyon.

Joining Rabbi Kronengold for Shala Seudos and a class will be Mr. Daniel Sayani; scholar in residence. The topics are very informative.

Sunday, December 15 at 1 p.m. The Sisterhood afternoon of Bingo has been CANCELLED due to the impending inclement weather.

Bingo resumes in January, 2014. Jan. 12 - Sisterhood and Jan. 19 for the Synagogue.

Good and Welfare: 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 1-347-427-4526.

We can accommodate you.

If you are feeling under the weather, we wish you all a speedy, painless and complete recovery in double quick time.

We wish a speedy recovery to Nathan Sherman. Our prayers are with you.

December brings happy birthday wishes on the 26th to Jerry Berlofsky and Gary Schwartz. Enjoy the day!

Your help is always appreciated.

Thank you.

Shalom!

—Miriam Evelyn Berlofsky

Our lobby looks great and thanks to Sonia and her Elves (Lillian, George, Loretta, Donald and Ralph) for a beautiful job.

Our Annual Once-A-Year Building Dues envelopes have been distributed and are due by Monday, December 16th to the apartment that is indicated on the envelope. On behalf of the Building 12 Executive Board, we thank you for your continued support. Your once-ayear contribution helps pay for flowers when our neighbors have passed away, participate in Section 2 Summer Fun Day, Halloween, decorations for our lobby, etc.

Please hand in your Cablevision forms to the Lobby Attendant that will be distributed in a different color by December 20th. The forms will be

redistributed in a different color. It’s important that we all respond. If you did not receive a form, please contact the CSO Office by calling 718-3203300 and following the prompt or visit the CSO Office in Dreiser.

Don’t forget to register for the Basic STAR Program. You have until December 31, 2013 to do so. Sign up by calling 518-457-2036, Monday Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or at www.tax.ny.gov. Apply for STAR at the Department of Finance, 212-504-4080, or dial New York City Hotline, 3-1-1.

Greetings to all who are celebrating a special day this month. Our thoughts and prayers to all who are sick and shut-in and to our troops.

We can be reached at 718-379-7841.

—Sonja Maxwell

Building 12 Cooperators Civic Association

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013 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 Co-op City community; A warm welcome awaits you!! A very special invitation to our new neighbors in Co-op City. 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

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. All are welcome.

Weekly Schedule: Sunday service with Holy Communion 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

Church of the Savior

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.

Special Scripture Reading: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and God will give you the desires of your heart.”

Sunday Schedule: Meditation and Adult Bible Study 9:15 -10:15 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.

Advent Sermon Topic: “The Town of Angels and Shepherds” Reading from Holy Scripture: St. Luke 2:8-19.

Thought of the Week: “Unforgiveness keeps us chained to whomever we don’t forgive.”

Weekly Activities – Every person is welcomed.

Bereavement Group - Monday evenings at 6:15 p.m.

Bible Study Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. Please join us for our in depth study of the Gospel of Mark.

Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. - Channel 70, Bronxnet.

Every other Saturday - Food Pantry.

For more information in donating or receiving food, please call 718-9255052. Because of the increase of persons attending our Food Pantry, we are reaching out to the community for assistance. WE NEED NON-PERISH-

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

Wednesday at 7 p.m. Choir rehearsal is on Thursday at 7 p.m.

The (ECW) Episcopal Church Women meet immediately after service on the 1st Sunday of each month.

Membership is open to all women of the church and dues are $2 per month.

We look forward to welcoming everyone at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 15, when we will celebrate The Third Sunday of Advent.

Gregory S. Gang D.D.S., M.S. Complete Family Dental Care Cosmetic Bonding Periodontal (Gum) Treatment Endodontics (Root Canal) Dentures / Crowns / Bridges Participating Dentist UFT • Oxford • CSA • Con Edison Guardian • BC/BS • Aetna Cigna • HIP/Dental • PBA Most other dental plans as full or partial payment

Evening and Saturday Appointments Available

140-1 Casals Place, Co-op City Building 14, Section 2 - Bronx, NY 10475 Visit our website Gr eg or yG an gD DS.com or email us at: smileggdds@aol.com

(718) 671 - 6000

Calendar of Events: a) Lessons & Carols - Sunday, December 22 b) Christmas Eve Service - Tuesday, December 24 (7 p.m.) c) Service with Christmas Pageant by children of our Sunday School - Sunday, December 29.

Outreach Program: We continue to collect non-perishable food for the feeding program at Grace Episcopal Church

29 ABLE FOOD. No soda, potato chips, condiments, etc...Please check expiration date on all items. You can drop off your donations at the church Mondays, 6-8 p.m., Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m. or Sundays, 9-10 a.m. To arrange special drop off, call Ms. Weir at 347-3753837. God bless all our donors.

Do you or members of your family or friends need affordable health insurance?

Go online www.healthinsurance.gov.

Don’t have a computer? Go to the local library; they will assist you for free. You can’t afford not to be insured.

Invitation to the community: Please join us for our early Watchnight Service, Tuesday, December 31, 7 p.m. We will be praying for the sick, bereaved, brothers/sisters healing from broken relationships and caregivers. Our doors and hearts are open to everyone.

—Rev. Dr. Robert A. Smith, Jr.

in West Farms. Please remember to donate.

For additional information on the above, please call the church at 718-3200844, or visit our website: http://www.stjosephsepcbronx.org.

“The Lord gives sight to the blind, the Lord lifts up those who are bowed down, The Lord loves the righteous.” – (Psalm 146:8) —M. Chambers

30

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS

Cleaning Service - Carpet & Upholstery

Co-op City Times • cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Appliances Repair

Avon

AVON Last Minute Christmas Sale.

Order now till Wednesday, December 18.

Call Kyia 646-406-7193

12/14

Help Wanted

Medical front desk receptionist for Co-op City Podiatrist. Must have experience in running a medical office - knowledge of insurances and managerial duties a must! Part-time, immediate. Fax resume to 718-671-0401 or call 718-671-0400.

12/14

Call

Service Charge only $24.95 plus 10% off any repair Senior Citizen Discount

Records Wanted

Get Top Cash for your Jazz, Soul, R&B and Gospel albums from 50s to 70s. Call Howard 12/21 at 212-873-4016 anytime.

Spaces for Rent

1. CHURCH WORSHIP SPACE AVAILABLE: St. Paul's Episcopal /Anglican Church on 489 St. Paul's Place off Washington Avenue, Bronx, wishes to rent out its Worship space on Saturdays and other week days. The Worship space can also be made available for rent on Sundays after 3pm.

The Church can seat over three hundred people.

2. 7,500 SQUARE FOOT SPACE, comprising a two story attached annex building to St. Paul's Episcopal Church available for rent. The space was used as a Pre-School until June 2012.

If interested, call Father Scott on 914-384-2929 for an appointment.

12/28 SERVICES

•

For prompt service call:

(718) 379-8782

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

• Stoves • Washers • Dryers • Refrigerators • Vacuum Cleaners and more

10% DISCOUNT

(except vacuums and lamps)

Fully Insured NYC License #1233497

Call 718.792.2655 10/11/14

12/28

DR. STEVE’S APPLIANCE REPAIR

• 1 Year Guarantee on parts • Over 25 Years Experience • Insured • Seniors Discount • 10% OFF with this Ad Call (718) 671-0700 12/28

GEORGE’S CLEAN WINDOWS Professional Window Cleaning • FAST RELIABLE SERVICE

Vacuums FREE Pick-up and Delivery!

Cell:

11/30

FAMILY BLINDS SERVICE Serving Co-op City for over 25 years

JB RYAN COMPUTER REPAIR & UPGRADE

Repair - Upgrade - Trouble-shooting - Data Recovery Virus Removal - Laptop Overheat - Cracked Screen Broken Power Jack. Call James 646-281-4475 • 718-324-4332

3/1/14

Decorator

Removal & Re-installation of any types of Blinds Quality work! Lowest Prices in Town!

Repair Closet Doors and much more!

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290 11/30

12/14

Call Anytime • Seven Days/Week • “When You See Me, You’ll Know Me!”

Floors

Cleaning Service

M & M FLOORS

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICE Call: A BEE R.A.G. SERVICE, INC. Residential: $60 for 3 man hours, $75 with supplies Commercial: Call to discuss Call us @ 718-798-4259 or email us @ Sales@abrags.org Website: www.abrags.org for a list of services.

12/14 1/11/14

12/21

Hardwood floors installed - Sanding & Refinishing. Polyurethane, Fabulon & Moisture Cure Finishes. Staining in all colors. Free estimates.

10% Co-op City resident discount. Call Mike (718) 792-0024 Hair

Continental Hair Styles 347-316-9318 2128 White Plains Road, Bronx NY 10462

FREE Hair Weave w/purchase of 2 hair bundles We Try our Braidless Hair Extensions sell hair No Glue, No Rubberbands, No Thread!

Family Owned & Operated Since 1954 NYC License #1233497 10% DISCOUNT

closures

We use Peruvian Malaysian Brazilian and Moroccan Hair!

12/21

(except vacuums)

718.792.2655

SPOONERS DOMESTIC SERVICE

2951 Middletown Road, Bronx, NY 10461 (Near Pelham Bay Station)

10/11/14

EMERGENCY SERVICE

L&L APPLIANCE REPAIR Present This Coupon (except vacuums/lamps)

STOVES • WASHERS • REFRIGERATORS • VACUUM CLEANERS and more. LIMIT — One Coupon Per Person.

718.792.2655

Computer Consultant, Sales & Repair

FREE VALANCE & INSTALLATION NEW WINDOWS?

• ALL MAKES & MODELS • Stoves • Washers • Dryers •Lamps • Dishwashers • Refrigerators • Bags • Hoses • Belts • Vacuum Cleaners

Fully Insured NYC License #1233497

12/28

NEW STYLE BLINDS

L & L APPLIANCE REPAIR

$20 OFF

1-203-482-6337

All Colors • Vertical • Minis • Woods • 2 in. Regulars • Wash, Tape, Cord Blinds

EMERGENCY SERVICE

Fully Insured

8/2/14

Cleaning Service - Windows

Blinds

ACE APPLIANCE REPAIR Refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, washers, dryers, dishwashers. Free service call with repairs.

• Washers • Dryers • Stoves • Refrigerators • Dishwashers • Vacuums

1058 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx

SERVICES

Appliances Repair

P&R APPLIANCE SERVICE

if you are tired of paying too much for repairs!

718-829-9090

10/11/14

• • • • •

General Cleaning — $80 + tax Semi-Heavy Cleaning — $90 + tax Super Heavy Cleaning — $120 + tax Bonded • 7 Days Accept Cash, Pay-Pal • 4 Hour Minimum

www.spoonercleaning.com Call

(718) 320-5112

3/22/14

Advertise! Call 718-320-3300, x3384 for affordable rates!

Master Locktician • Locs • Loc Styles • Loc Repair • Loc Extensions • Loc Jewelry

Richardson Avenue Bronx, NY 10470 Btwn 241st & 240th Sts.

718-515-0060 Closed Saturdays

By Appt. Only

12/28

31

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS Painting

Home Improvement

1-800-479-2667

A-1 PAINTING PLUS

JASON LASH

• VERTICAL BLINDS • MINI BLINDS • SINK VANITIES • SPACE SAVERS • MATCHING HAMPERS • BATHTUB ENCLOSURES • CLIP-ON MIRROR FRAMES

Co-op City Times

• RANGE HOODS • LIGHT FIXTURES • KITCHEN CABINETS • CABINET REFACING • COUNTERTOPS • CUSTOM CLOSET MIRROR DOORS • CUSTOM WALL MIRRORS

20492049 BartowBARTOW Ave. • Room 21 • NY21 10475 AVE. • Bronx, ROOM

Bathroom, paint included, Kitchen $110 paint included, Bedroom - paint included • Floors Refinished • Doors Repaired • Wallpaper, Panel, Carpet Removal • Blinds, Doors & Kitchen Cabinets - Moderate Repairs • Closet Doors Repaired (very cheap)

FREE!

ESTIMATE!

718.320.5270 12/28

Grout & Carpet Cleaning e Breath y s a E

1-800-479-2667 Co-op City Resident Specials

Elimin ate Bugs

Slipcovers

(718) 746-8925 TABLE PADS CUSHIONS REFILLED NEW FOAM RUBBER SOFA PLATFORMS LOW, LOW PRICES

We BEAT Any Quote!

12/28

12/28

FAMILY LOCKSMITH

Deadline is MONDAY at 3 P.M., except when there is a holiday, in which case the deadline is moved up one day or as announced. Classifieds advertising the sale of land, homes, or apartments outside Co-op

1. CATEGORY (Required): 2. AD TEXT:__________ ____________ ____________ ______________4 ____________

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NAME _________________________________________________________

ALL STATE DECORATORS

Locksmith

Display Classified: $8 first column inch, $4 ea. add’l. column inch.

Fee is payable in advance. No exceptions. No refunds. Checks or Money Orders ONLY payable to Co-op City Times must accompany ad. We no longer accept cash.

PRINT YOUR AD HERE CLEARLY.

— since 1969 —

• Don’t Pay More At Your Local Hardware Store •

Over 20 words, $6 plus 30¢ for each additional word. $2.40 per line for bold type (3 words max.)

Attach sheet if needed. Use Pen or Typewriter.

PLASTIC SLIPCOVERS

1-800-479-2667

CLASSIFIED AD FORM

Rates: $6 for 20 words or less

City or advertising businesses operating within homes in Co-op City cannot be accepted. No blind ads accepted. No personals.

CO-OP SALES BLINDS! Vertical, Mini, Wood, Pleats

BRONX, NY 10475 • 718.320-3380 1.718.320.3300, ext. 3384

Volunteers

PHONE

________________________________________________________

ADDRESS

______________________________________________________

CITY ________________________STATE________ ZIP __________________ Insert for (#) _________ times. Starting issue date: _____________.

Licensed and Bonded

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS 20% Off Any Lock Job!

Medeco • MultiLock • Wilson

High Quality Labor For a Low Price!

Serving Co-op City for over 25 years.

“When you see me, You’ll know me.”

Call Anytime • Seven Days A Week

Call Mike at: 718-974-1290

12/28

Makeup

Co-op City Times SUBSCRIPTION FORM $52/Year

Laundry Room Etiquette Please be considerate of others when sharing use of the laundry room. While using the machines or waiting for your clothes to finish: • Please refrain from playing loud music; • Keep an eye on young children accompanying you; 12/28

Painting

FATHER & SON Top Quality Work - Painting, Plastering, Wallpapering, 2/1/14 Floor Sanding, Refinishing, Waxing.

Call Wesley 212.996.7347 or

917.325.5334

• Do not leave clothes unattended in washers and dryers for long periods of time; • Do not remove carts from laundry rooms; • Do not use the laundry baskets and/or laundry tables to sort dirty clothes.

(Includes postage and handling)

The Co-op City Times is FREE for all Shareholders.

WHO SHOULD SUBSCRIBE? • Local Businesses • Advertisers • Family Members of Shareholders • Potential Shareholders • Former Shareholders • ANYONE! NAME ___________________________________ ADDRESS ________________________________ CITY ____________________ST____ ZIP_______ PHONE __________________________________ Subscribe for #______ year(s).

Send Check or Money Order for $52/year, made out to Co-op City Times 2049 Bartow Ave., Rm 21, Bronx, NY 10475

718.320.3300, ext. 3384 Papers are mailed Monday after issue date.

32

Co-op City Times / December 14, 2013

NYS DIESEL INSPECTION STATION

AUTO DIAGNOSTIC CENTER

THE ONLY ORIGINAL BEAR IN THE BRONX 2180 WEBSTER AVE. (at 182 St.) W E ’ L L PA Y T H E TA X W I T H M O S T R E PA I R S ! with this ad

TOWING AVAILABLE!

(718) 365-5300

TRANSMISSION OIL CHANGE SPECIAL TUNE-UP Maintain Your Transmission and Prevent Costly Repairs with New Transmission Fluid (Filter and Pan Gasket Additional).

Most American Cars. Most Front Wheel and Rear Wheel Drive Vehicles.

12

$

95

MOST AMERICAN 4 CYL. CARS • WITH AD

Synthetic Oil Change Available

NEW VEHICLE WARRANTY SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE •New Spark Plugs •Air Filter •Adjust Idle & Timing •Oil Change & Filter •Transmission Service •Repack Wheel Bearing

159

$

3495

RADIATOR FLUSH $2995

• Up to 5 quarts of CASTROL Motor Oil • Premium Oil Filter • Lubrication • INCLUDES Road Test and FREE 21 point Vehicle Inspection.

•Basic Tune Up •PCV Valve •Cooling System •Antifreeze & Service •Tire Rotation •Clean & Adjust Brakes

$

INCREASE YOUR CAR’S PERFORMANCE

39

$

99

Parts Included

DISC or DRUM

59

$

Replace pads and/or shoes (semimetallic pads extra). Cut drums or rotors. Repack wheel bearings, inspect hydraulic system. Add fluid if necessary, road test.

95

Front or Rear Brakes Most American Cars

COMPUTERIZED WHEEL ALIGNMENT Service on Limos & Oversized Vehicles Now Available

29

$

95

Most Cars

HID HEADLIGHTS 9995

$

MOST CARS $149.99 INCLUDES INSTALLATION

AXLE SPECIAL

9995

$

COMPLETE CV AXLE INSTALLED MOST CARS

Most Cars

WE ARE AUTHORIZED GE CAPITAL ARI & PHH DEALERS.

WE HONOR MOST EXTENDED WARRANTY PLANS.

ELECTRONIC IGNITION TUNE-UP

2995 $ 3499 $ 99 39 $

4 cyl

6 cyl

8 cyl

• New Spark Plugs • Adjust Timing & Carb when needed • Inspect Emission Control • Inspect Cables & Hoses • Most American Cars • Foreign Plugs Extra

99

Most American Cars (6 cyl. & 8 cyl. Slightly Higher)

BRAKE SPECIAL

MONDAY - FRIDAY: 8 AM - 6 PM SATURDAY: 8 AM - 3 PM

• Replace with up to 1 Gallon Anti-freeze • Check Belts, Hoses, Clamps, Thermostat MOST CARS

FUEL INJECTION CLEANING

NYS INSPECTION STATION

WE DIAGNOSE & REPAIR: • CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS • ELECTRICAL SHORTS

WE NOW SERVICE LARGE VEHICLES: STRETCH LIMOS, TRUCKS, VANS

CAR CARE PACKAGE • • • •

Spark Plug Replacement Oil Change & Filter • 4 Tire Rotation Drain & Fill Radiator w/up to 1 gal. anti-freeze Check Thermostat • Complete Vehicle Inspection 6 CYL. & 8 CYL. SLIGHTLY HIGHER

9

$

95 95 59

Most American Cars

Is Your CHECK ENGINE Light On?

COMPUTERIZED ENGINE DIAGNOSTIC

FREE

*

INCLUDING PRINTOUT *Most U.S. Cars

*with most Related Repairs. $39.95 Diagnostic only.