Co-op City Times 1/9/2021

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Congress certifies President-Elect Biden’s win Vol. 56 No. 2

Saturday, January 9, 2021

Session resumed after deadly attack on U.S. Capitol

Presidential election electoral college totals Joe Biden – 306 Donald Trump – 232 Congress certified Joe Biden as the next President of the United States, but not without incident, as thousands of pro-Trump protestors stormed the US Capitol during the January 6th process to confirm the Electoral College vote and certify the 2020 Presidential election.

Only 12 votes were counted before the session was interrupted by a large crowd of protesters who made their way towards, and eventually inside, the Capitol. As Congress counted the Electoral College votes, hundreds of pro-Trump protesters breached the barricades, halting the session.

President-Elect Joe Biden It was an armed standoff at the House floor door as the protesters bulldozed their way into the chamber and police told lawmakers to shelter in place for safety. Multiple persons were injured, and one woman was fatally shot by Capitol Police. By the time the siege was over, three other people had lost their lives due to medical emergencies; more than a dozen police officers

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

$1.25

New Year Message from President of the Board President’s Message

Linda Berk President

I know I am not alone when I say “Goodbye” 2020! And as I welcome in 2021, I wish each of you and your families a very healthy and joyous New Year!

Riverbay State-of-Affairs The pandemic of 2020 created difficulties and hardships for everyone, and Riverbay was equally impacted. Unfortunately, our community experienced the loss of many of our neighbors and although we are a large community, we are a tight knit community, and we continue to experience the pain from all our losses. While we bore our weight of challenges from COVID-19, our community faired better than many housing developments.

Management, staff, and the Board of Directors

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DOT’s Bruckner-Hutchinson River Parkway Mobility Improvements add direct access to Co-op City’s Section 5

NYC ramps up capacity for COVID-19 Vaccine distribution

The proposed Bruckner Expressway-Pelham Parkway-Hutchinson River Parkway Mobility Improvement Project includes a new exit ramp leading directly into Section 5 and Co-op City residents are invited to hear all about it on Wednesday, January 13, when Community Board #10’s Municipal Services Committee holds a virtual public meeting on the subject at 7:30 p.m. via Cisco Webex.

The presentation will be facilitated by representatives from the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT). To receive log-in information to join the virtual meeting, email Community Board #10 at bx10@cb.nyc.gov.

BY ROZAAN BOONE

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On Monday, Jan. 4, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced New York City’s plan to dramatically ramp up its capacity to administer COVID-19 vaccinations.

According to the Mayor, there are approximately 125 vaccination sites currently open across the city with an additional 35 opening by this weekend. The goal of the plan is to have 250 vaccination sites open in total by the end of this month, January.

“From manufacturing PPE, to building out a comprehensive testing system, the pandemic has showed us that New York City doesn’t back down in the face of a challenge,” said Mayor de Blasio. “We are moving full steam ahead with our plan to get vaccines out of the freezer and into the arms of more New Yorkers, but we can’t do this alone. To accelerate our pace, we need more support and flexibility

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

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MTA finalizes contactless payment option for buses and trains Commuters who utilize MTA buses and trains for their transportation needs will soon be using only contactless payments for fares.

OMNY, a new contactless fare payment system, is now available at all subway stations and buses across New York City as the MTA officially wrapped up its 18 month rollout and installation of the new system. In total, 15,000 OMNY readers were installed at all 472 subway stations, on all 5,800 buses and at Staten Island Railway stations.

The days of the MetroCard are numbered as the MTA’s announcement earlier this week explaining OMNY’s finalization highlighted that MetroCards will ultimately be phased out completely by 2023. Additionally, Metro North and LIRR commuters will be switching to OMNY for fares and ticketing by 2022.

“The timing on this milestone could not be better,” Mario Péloquin, MTA Chief Operating Officer told the press. “Contactless payment is the future and thanks

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The proposed new ramp from the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway will provide direct access from the parkway to Section Five at Bartow Avenue in the vicinity of “Killer Curve.” A new signalized traffic intersection will control Rendering courtesy of NYS DOT traffic flow and ensure safety in the area.

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We are not out of the woods yet. Continue to wear your mask, practice social distancing and wash your hands frequently. Stay safe!

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Section 5

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

The goal of the project is to reduce traffic congestion on the northbound I-95 from Westchester Avenue to the Hutchinson River Parkway and provide better access to Section 5 in Co-op City, improve “pedestrian and bicycle crossings at the I-95/Pelham Parkway interchange ramps, and address geometric and operational deficiencies associated with the I-95 ramps,” according to the DOT. It is hoped that the project will improve traffic flow, and vehicular and pedestrian safety; address design and operational deficiencies of the current I-95 ramps and, through a new ramp, provide di-

rect highway access to Section 5 from the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway at Bartow Avenue.

In January 2019 when the Co-op City Times first reported on this project, Assemblyman Michael Benedetto said: “I have been working with the city and state DOT for years on this particular matter and part of it was my concern with traffic coming into Co-op City with the mall, and part of it was for my concern with the I-95 bottleneck that’s been going on for as long as I have been alive. I asked them to think outside the box and come up with some ideas and what they came up with was something they showed us about two years ago…with the intent to actually start this whole project off.”

According to the DOT Draft Design Report, the project’s study area stretches along a 0.6-mile segment on the I-95 in the vicinity of Pelham Bay Park and a 0.6-mile segment on the Hutchinson River Parkway southwest of the Hutchinson River. It involves two different locations – the northbound interchange between I-95 and Pelham Parkway and the northbound Hutch between I-95 and Bartow Avenue.

The project’s “Need Study” determined that there is heavy traffic congestion and high crash rates – predominantly rear-end collisions and side swipes – within the study area due to high traffic volumes, congestion and the interweaving of vehicles along the I-95 as drivers jostle and hustle to make their exits, within relatively short distances, along the highway.

The draft report states: “Mobility is limited within the ProjectArea due to traffic congestion during morning and evening peak periods. Congestion occurs during the morning and evening peak periods on northbound I-95, with the morning having the highest congestion. The congestion starts on northbound I-95, exit to Hutchinson River Parkway and sometimes extends 1.5 miles southward to the merge area between I-95 and Throgs Neck Expressway (I-695). The congestion in this section is the result of multiple operational and geometric deficiencies of the interstate highway and ramps entering and exiting I-95.”

Adding to the congestion is the loss of the fourth travel lane at Exit 8B (Pelham Parkway/Orchard Beach/City Island) which has relatively low usage while the bulk of traffic remains along the reduced 3-lane main thoroughfare, “resulting in an unbalanced demand and capacity on the mainline,” the draft report states. “There are four consecutive ramps on northbound I-95 within a distance of 1,400 feet from Exit 8B to Exit 8C. Just north of the lane drop at Exit 8B, there are two weaving segments with less than 500 feet of weaving distance, with a high number of weaving vehicles causing significantly lower speeds than the free flow speed.”

The condition is further exacerbated by traffic entering the northbound I-95 from the eastbound Pelham Parkway and local roadways from a ramp where there is a Stop sign at the end of the ramp, and northbound traffic on the Bruckner have the right of way having entered the I-95 just 150 feet before.

“The volume of traffic from northbound Bruckner Blvd. is also quite high, so oftentimes motorists from Pelham Parkway have to wait for an acceptable gap to enter into the mainline. The high traffic volumes on Bruckner Blvd. are partly due to motorists using it as an alternative to the congested I-95 mainline…” the report explains.

In addition to easing this congestion along the I-95, the project will also provide a new and direct connection to Co-op City’s Section 5. “Currently, there is no connection to Co-op City neighborhood on the Hutchinson River Parkway; the nearest connection is on the I-95. Motorists on the Hutch destined for Co-op City currently need to take an indirect route passing through I-95, which results in longer travel times.

Motorist on northbound Hutchinson River Parkway with destinations in Co-op City must use eastbound Pelham Parkway and northbound I-95 to access either Palmer Ave. (Exit 9) or Bartow Ave. (Exit 11) exits to reach the Co-op City community…” the report points out.

The proposed redesign calls for a series of reconfigurations, replacements or closure of some existing ramps, widening of some lanes and addition of traffic controls.

A DOT spokesman explained in 2019 that the I-95-Bruckner Expressway-Pelham Parkway-Hutchinson Parkway Mobility Improvement Project will reconfigure the Pelham Parkway interchange, add a new travel lane on Interstate 95 between Exit 8B to Exit 9 and make other modifications to reduce congestion and enhance safety in this heavily traveled corridor in the Bronx. At the same time, Co-op City residents would benefit from the creation of a new exit ramp providing direct access from the Hutchinson River Parkway.

The new exit ramp for Co-op City will be constructed from the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway to grant access to Bartow Avenue along “Killer Curve.”

A signalized intersection will also be added to control traffic coming through the curve.

It is expected that the improvements will also help to clear up the bottleneck that occurs northbound leading up to Exit 7 in the Pelham Bay Park area and extends all the way up to Exit 9 to Pelham Parkway and to the Hutchinson River Parkway on the right hand side of the highway and Exit 10 to Gun Hill Road on the left, just before the Co-op City Bartow Avenue exit on the I-95.

“There are so many exits and entrances along that quarter to half mile roadway between Pelham Bay train station and the Gun Hill Road exit that you have weaving cars going in and out trying to make that exit or make that entrance and that’s what slows the traffic,” Assemblyman Benedetto told the Co-op Times previously. “What they are planning to do is close down some of the entrances to the highway.”

In addition to closing some of the entrances to the I-95 along the stretch, some exits from the highway will also be closed. One such exit will be 8B which is a dedicated exit to Orchard Beach and City Island. This will become a thru lane essentially widening the highway to 4 lanes and drivers will no longer have to merge left to stay on the I-95.

Those travelling on the I-95 heading towards Section 5 will be able to use that right (Continued on page 5)

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President’s Report

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Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

(BOD) remain proactive and attentive to the needs of the community.

Management had to scramble with little advance notice to close public spaces, locate personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff, and devise an intricate plan to have some employees work from home. Management needed to formulate a plan for on-site staff to work safely to protect themselves and residents. It was a rough start, but we all were able to fall into a good rhythm. There remains an important responsibility that falls on shareholders by respectfully following the safety protocols of masks in public spaces, limited people on the elevators and in laundry rooms and keeping appropriate social distance. This is critical and necessary to protect each of us from a deadly virus.

Meeting the needs of COVID-19 required labor and material expenses that were not budgeted for in fiscal year 2020. However, we were able to cut cost in other areas due to COVID-19. The bottom line is that we were able to delay the start of the carrying charge increase that was scheduled for July 2020 until January 2021.

The delay was approved by HCR because we were able to show that we could continue to meet our financial obligations of fixed costs, which includes mortgage, water, insurance, and other operational expenses. We were delighted to offer this temporary relief to shareholders. Despite the pandemic, Riverbay’s state-of-affairs are in good condition.

Dreiser Auditorium and community center bathrooms Good news is the completion of the renovation of Dreiser auditorium. Those who vote on Election Day in the auditorium had the opportunity to see the new space before most. It is a gorgeous room and state-of-the-art facility. Along with the auditorium, four of the six bathrooms in Dreiser Center were renovated. Currently, two of the four bathrooms in Bartow are under renovation and Einstein is next to be renovated as well. Our bathrooms are fifty years old and in desperate need of renovation.

Call Center A priority for Management and the Board in 2020 was an immediate improvement of the Call Center, initially developed to improve the experience of calling for maintenance and restoration appointments. We hired an experienced manager for the Call Center with hopes that she would make it all work. However, eventually it was obvious that there was a serious deficiency in the phone system we were using and no one person could solve our problems. We needed to upgrade the phone system, phone equipment, add more staff and reorganized the process. The number of calls we were unable to answer dropped from over 250 a day at the start of 2020 to roughly 25. Management continues to work to make this experience seamless and effortless.

Virtual meetings Many of our jobs have required us to become proficient in Zoom and other virtual meeting platforms. The Board has done the same holding our necessary Board meetings effectively via Cisco Webex. It was not easy at first, but we have become pros at maintaining focus on our fiduciary responsibilities in a new virtual environment. We have been able to adjust well holding all BOD and committee meetings virtually.

The future I look forward to continuing to move our community forward with upcoming projects: the waterfront park, electric charging stations, renovated lobbies, and new community-wide signage. Most importantly, we need to make Co-op City the example of a smart city with new and improved telecommunication options, community-wide internet, solar energy, and green options.

As we are all exhausted from the difficulties of 2020, I hope that 2021 will be a turn for the best. On behalf of the Board of Directors and Management, I wish you and your families good health, prosperity, and blessings!

Deepest sympathy

We are saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Anthony (Tony) Rasulo, Sr., former Director of the Riverbay Construction department.

Final arrangements for Mr. Rasulo, Sr. are as follows: Viewing – Sunday, Jan. 10, 2021, 1-5 p.m.

Cargain Funeral Home, 418 Route 6 (GPS, 418 us-6), Mahopac, NY, 10541; (845) 628-5655, www.cargainfuneralhomes.com Funeral Mass – Monday, Jan. 11, 2021, 10 a.m.

St. John the Evangelist Church, 221 East Lake Blvd., Mahopac, NY Please join us in keeping Mr. Rasulo’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. May he rest in peace.

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Congress

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

were injured, some beaten by the protestors and one died from his injuries; and scores of protestors were arrested, some for carrying firearms. In addition, police recovered two pipe bombs, one each at the Democratic National Committee and Republican National Committee offices. A cooler containing Molotov cocktails was also found on the grounds of the Capitol.

President Trump eventually released a video condemning the rioting while also admitting that he won’t serve a second term. Calls for his removal continue to grow as of press time yesterday for his role in inciting violence and igniting the riots with false claims of a stolen and fixed election during a rally on Wednesday morning, Jan. 6.

Eventually, after a full day of riots at the US Capitol and nearly six hours later, lawmakers resumed joint sessions Wednesday night, determined to certify the election and declare Joe Biden and Kamala Harris the next President and Vice President of the United States, despite objections from some Republican Senators and Congress members. The Senate rejected the challenge by a vote of 93-6 and the House, 303-121.

After all the Electoral College votes were counted, Vice President Mike Pence confirmed Joe Biden is the next President of the United States at approximately 4 a.m. Thursday morning, Jan. 7.

On the morning of Saturday, November 7, 2020, news outlets declared Joe Biden the winner of the 2020 Presidential election with 279 Electoral College votes, thanks to the battleground state of Pennsylvania which pushed the former vice president over the 270 Electoral College votes needed to win the election.

President-elect Joe Biden spent 36 years in the U.S. Senate before advancing to the White House where he served two terms as former President Barack Obama’s Vice President after two unsuccessful runs of his own for President in 1988 and 2008.

Kamala Harris will make U.S. history as President-Elect Biden’s running-mate. She is not only the first woman to be elected to the prestigious post but also the first woman of color to serve in the office.

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will be sworn into office on Inauguration Day, set for January 20, 2021.

Beware of Money Grams and Green Dot MoneyPak scams

The 45th Precinct’s Crime Prevention and Community Affairs Units continue to caution Co-op City residents, especially seniors, to be vigilant and not fall victim to scammers using Green Dot MoneyPak cards and Money Grams.

Wwhile Money Grams and Green Dot MoneyPak cards are legitimate products, scammers are using them to steal money from their intended victims.

The scammers utilize a variety of schemes with some of the most common being the utility company and government agencies scams in which the victim is told that they owe money and the call is to immediately collect what is owed or else service will be shut off, or worse.

Additionally, the scammers may claim that a loved one is being held against their will, or has been involved in an accident and payment is needed to gain their freedom. They may also claim that a grandchild or relative has been locked up in a foreign country and needs bail money.

Victims may be told they won the lottery or some type of sweepstakes and money is needed to claim the winnings or for taxes on the prize. If you have to pay for a prize you won, you didn’t win, the NYPD advises.

The Green Dot MoneyPak scam is a phone scam where the victim is called by someone claiming to work at a utility company, for example, Con Ed or a cable company, or a government agency, such as the Department of Finance, and they are collecting money that is past due. The caller then informs the victim that they can avoid service interruption, arrest or deportation, if they immediately bring their account up to date by paying the past due amount using a Money Gram or Green Dot MoneyPak card that can be purchased at a local store. The caller instructs the victim to purchase a Money Gram or a Green Dot MoneyPak card in a specified amount and call a phone number that the caller gives to the victim once this has been done.

The victim proceeds to purchase the Green Dot card at a local store and then calls the number they were given by the caller to satisfy the debt. The victim is then instructed to scratch off and read the MoneyPak card serial number to the perpetrator. The perpetrator then drains the funds from the Green Dot MoneyPak card.

The NYPD notes that while many schemes still involve victims being asked to wire money to the scammers, MoneyPaks have the added benefit of the scammer not having to show up at an office or bank to claim the funds loaded onto the card.

The cards can only be purchased using cash and consumers never have to disclose their personal or financial information to a retail cashier or to make a payment.

Anyone with the 14-digit number located on the back of the MoneyPak card can drain the funds.

In the IRS scam, the victim is contacted and told that they owe back taxes, fees or fines to the IRS and that if they do not make immediate payment using a Money Gram or Green Dot MoneyPak card, they will be arrested or deported. The scam is perpetrated in the same manner as the utility scam with the results being the same – the victim’s money is stolen.

The NYPD warns residents to be alert and not fall victim to these crimes. Crime Prevention Officers also point out that the scammers can purchase computer apps which disguise their true telephone number and can make it appear as a legitimate number, for example, the 45th Precinct, NYPD, 9-1-1, Con Ed, etc., on your phone’s caller ID. In addition to cautioning the public that the NYPD does not solicit money, and that utility companies and government agencies would not contact you demanding payment for outstanding bills using Money Grams or MoneyPak card, the NYPD is also warning residents not to call any of the phone numbers provided by the scammers since this is another layer to the scam. If you think a call is suspicious, call the number listed on your bill.

The NYPD offers the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of this scam: Be suspicious of any caller who demands immediate payment for any reason.

Remember that anyone who has the number on a Green Dot MoneyPak card has access to the funds on the card.

Never give out personal or financial information to anyone who emails or calls you unsolicited, and Never wire money, provide debit or credit card numbers or Green Dot MoneyPak card numbers to someone you do not know.

Victories in Georgia elections put Dems in control of Senate

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Senate regular election Jon Ossof (Dem.) –50.46% David Perdue (Rep.) –49.54 %

Senate special election Raphael Warnock (Dem.) –50.9% Kelly Loeffler (Rep.) –49.1 % *Georgia senate runoffs results as ofFriday, 1/8/2021 Democrats won big in last week’s Georgia election as results came in on Wednesday, Jan. 6, making Democrats the U.S. Senate majority, controlling the committees, legislation, and nominations brought to the floor.

Two Senate seats were up for grabs in Georgia, and Democrats won both. During the runoff election, former congressional aide and journalist, 33-year-old Jon Ossoff, competed against Republican, 71-yearold David Perdue, a former business executive who has held his Senate since 2015. Mr. Ossoff is now the Senate’s youngest member and the state’s first Jewish senator.

Rev. Raphael Warnock is breaking barriers of his own as he becomes the first African American from Georgia elected to the Senate. Mr. Warnock defeated Republican Kelly Loeffler, who previously served as the senior Senator from Georgia. Ms. Loeffler was one of several Republican lawmakers who planned to vote against certifying Biden’s presidential election on Wednesday but changed her mind after Wednesday’s riot at the US Capitol. Loeffler conceded to Mr. Warnock late Thursday as he was in the lead with over 73,000 votes.

Section 5

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lane to get straight to the new exit ramp being built leading to Bartow Avenue.

“So basically if you are riding along I-95 going north, the right hand lane will be one continuous lane and that thru lane will bring you straight into the exit going to Section Five so people don’t have to move over, you can actually stay in that lane and go up and get into the Hutchinson River Parkway exit and you’ll be able to do that because they are closing the two entrances coming off Pelham Parkway ..., doing some reconfigurations and kind of merging them and bringing them down further,” Assemblyman Benedetto said. “By closing down those two Pelham parkway entrances, and extending the fourth lane, the DOT feels they will be able to move traffic a lot better…”

The Draft Design Report adds: “The proposed exit ramp from the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway to Bartow Avenue will provide a necessary direct access point from the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway to the Co-op City neighborhood and The Bay Plaza Shopping Center, New York City’s largest shopping center. Currently, traffic traveling on the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway wanting to access the referred area needs to exit to Pelham Parkway, via Exit 3E, travel on eastbound Pelham Parkway, then enter the northbound I-95 to exit either at Exit 9 or Exit 11. The traffic study found that the highest levels of local congestion occur at Baychester Avenue and Bartow Avenue, which is immediately to the north of the northbound I95 exit ramp to Baychester Avenue and the southern areas of Co-op City.

Therefore, besides providing a needed access to the Co-op City neighborhood and The Bay Plaza Shopping Center, the proposed exit ramp to Bartow Avenue will improve mobility on the northbound I-95.”

The state DOT ran advertisement in the December 19, 2020 issue of the Co-op City Times informing the public of the availability of the Draft Design Report/Environmental Assessment/Draft 4(f) Statement for review at several locations including at the office of the Bronx Community Board #10, Baychester Public Library on Asch Loop as well as online at www.dot.ny.gov/bhmi. According to the public notice, comments on the project or request for further information can be emailed to bruckner@dot.ny.gov or sent by mail up to February 2, 2021. Mailed comments should be sent to either Mini M. Varghese, P.E., Project Manager, Region 11, NYS Department of Transportation, 47-40 21st Street, Long Island City, NY 11101, or to John Burns, P.E., Project Oversight Manager, Federal Highway Administration, Leo O’Brien Federal Building, 11A Clinton Avenue, Suite 719, Albany, NY 11207.

In addition to reviewing the proposal online and locally at the Baychester Public Library and Community Board #10, Co-op City residents can join the January 13th Community Board meeting and listen to the presentation.

Matthew Cruz, District Manager at CB #10, said: “The process is to engage the

MTA

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Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

community’s temperature on a possible ramp into the Section 5 area. NYS Department of Transportation is working alongside our office, our state officials’ offices and Riverbay to determine the safest and most helpful course of action.

However, we cannot do anything until we hear from the shareholders. Section 5 has long been inaccessible and, too often, suffering from daily traffic congestion.

We are hoping this plan does well to ease the bottleneck congestion in the ‘Killer Curve’ area. The January 13th meeting will be held virtually and we are hoping as many people tune in as possible.”

The Bruckner-Hutchinson Parkway Mobility Improvement Project is projected to cost $37.7M. Construction is expected to begin in Fall 2021 and completion is slated for Fall 2023.

A. Singh, DDS

DENTAL CARE

(Continued from page 1)

to the OMNY team, the MTA will be at the forefront of this trend. Customers returning in 2021 will have all the tools needed to have as seamless a commute as possible.”

Notably, the MTA says that commuters will be able to buy a physical OMNY card at vending machines and stations across the city beginning this year.

Additional fare options will be available later this year when the MTA hopes to roll out reduced fares, student fares and special programs for OMNY users. For more information about how OMNY works, individuals who are interested can visit omny.info. The MTA hopes to launch the official OMNY mobile app later this year.

To create an OMNY account, commuters can go online to omny.info/register.

With an account, users can view their trip history and charge activity in a personalized dashboard as well as change the card attached to their account.

There are options for commuters when they use an OMNY reader at a station or bus.

The first option is a contactless credit or debit card which the user can simply tap at the OMNY reader. Contactless credit or debit cards all have a certain symbol, one that resembles a wifi logo rotated 90 degrees clockwise, to indicate that the card can be used in a contactless transaction. Reloadable prepaid cards that have the contactless symbol can also be used at OMNY readers.

Digital wallets are the second option for OMNY commuters as Google Pay, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay and Fitbit Pay can all be used. Credit or debit cards that only have a chip and are not contactless can still be used but only after being linked to a digital wallet on a smart device.

The MTA also said that purchasing fares with cash will continue to remain an option.

Free transfers will still exist but the commuter will have to tap the same card that they initially used when they board a subsequent local bus. Frequently asked questions about OMNY and its specific payment process are answered at omny.info/faq/how-omny-works. OMNY customer service can also be reached at 877-789-6669 to answer any questions about the system or payment process.

MetroCards were first introduced in 1993 and will continue to be accepted until 2023 when the OMNY system will replace it entirely.

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Vaccine

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

from our partners at every level of government, as well as more supply from manufacturers to map out the road ahead.”

So far, 110,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to the initial individuals who are a part of Phase 1A in the vaccination distribution plan.

For more specifics, below is a list of individuals who qualify for the vaccine as of January 4, according to the Mayor’s Office: * All outpatient and ambulatory frontline, high-risk health care providers who provide in-person patient care or other staff in a position where they have direct contact with patients of any age. This includes hospital and community-based ambulatory care, primary care, and outpatient behavioral health service providers; phlebotomists; physical and occupational therapists; and specialty clinics, including dialysis centers. * All frontline, high-risk public health workers who have direct contact with patients * Health care workers at COVID-19 testing sites * High-risk hospital and Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) staff * Emergency medical service (EMS) personnel * Medical examiners and coroners * Funeral workers who have direct contact with infectious material and bodily fluids * Staff and residents in congregate living facilities run by the NYS Offices for People With Developmental Disabilities, Mental Health, and Addiction Services and Supports * Urgent care providers * Staff administering the COVID-19 vaccine * Dentists and dental staff For a list of vaccination sites, to schedule an appointment to receive a vaccination, or to find out more information, individuals can visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine online or call 1888-364-3065.

Currently, the vaccination distribution plan has two phases with 4 different steps. The order of those phases begins with Phase 1A and ends with Phase 2. Below is how those phases tentatively shape out. Individuals should keep in mind that New York State will be determining which frontline essential workers and what underlying health conditions qualify during each phase: Phase Duration Eligible Groups 1A January 2021 Healthcare workers, people at increased risk of COVID-19 exposure or COVID-19 related illness 1B February 2021 People ages 75 or older, frontline essential workers who cannot physically distance and have frequent in-person contact with others 1C March - April 2021 People ages 65-74, people with certain underlying health complications, remaining essential workers 2 Summer 2021 All other remaining unvaccinated individuals “We’re doing everything we can at the City level with the information we have to ensure we’re preparing with sufficient sites where New Yorkers can go to get the vaccine when the time comes,” Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services, Melanie Hartzog, said to the press on Monday. “This includes developing and deploying new site models as well as adding more vaccination capacity to existing vaccination locations, which we’ll begin to open this week, helping us hit the ground running as soon as we’re permitted to move forward more broadly.”

Remembering Rev. Dr. DeQuincy Hentz The New Rochelle, NY community as well as Co-op City residents, Black Ministers Alliances, state and local elected officials recently celebrated the short life of Rev. Dr. DeQuincy M. Hentz, pastor of Family of God Church in Co-op City and Shiloh Baptist Church in New Rochelle, NY. Pastor Hentz made his transition to be with the Lord on Christmas Day 2020.

Pastor Hentz was a cum laude graduate of Morehouse College and member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He was born in Greenwood, South Carolina on June 28, 1974.

He loved God, the church and people from all walks of life and locations. He started the Family of God Church in Co-op City in 2019, and loved mentoring youth, and he generously supported an annual educational community event when it was brought to his attention.

Rev. Dr. Hentz was also the fifth pastor in the 120th year history of Shiloh Baptist Church in New Rochelle, NY where he tripled the membership and leaves as his legacy a 40-unit affordable Senior Housing Complex located directly behind the church. He was politically savvy as evidenced by the presence of top state and local elected officials honoring him. He loved to sing, Rap, write, preach and teach. He inspired and modeled how to obtain a fair share of tax dollar resources for the community.

A Scholarship Fund is being established in his name so his legacy and loving memories will live on. Kudos to Nathaniel Adams 3rd and other young leaders who organized the awesome outdoor remembrance event in honor of the late Rev. Dr. DeQuincy Hentz.

—Evelyn M. Turner

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

(718) 320-3300, ext. 3375 cctimes@riverbaycorp.com

Rozaan Boone Editor-in-Chief

Toriea McCauseland Junior Associate Editor

Jennifer Piovanetti Operations Manager

Ralph Henriquez Production Manager

John Crow New Media Producer The Co-op City Times welcomes issueoriented 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 signed 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.

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. 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 Corp. 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.

Please Note: Articles for Co-op City building associations, clubs, churches and organizations are due on Monday by 5 p.m.

Email your articles to cctimes@riverbaycorp.com.

If the Co-op City Times Was Not Delivered: Call 347-439-5632 on Saturdays only, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

7

CCPD offers Internet Safety for cooperators of all ages

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

If part of your holiday shopping included a laptop or desktop computer, or a tablet or cell phone capable of accessing the internet, this article is required reading.

You are never too old or too young to brush up on your internet safety. Kids as young as two years old are fluent in the use of electronic devices for different tasks and learning opportunities. This holiday season brought us 6th generation Apple watches, iPhone 12 and new smartphones that are smarter than ever. Advances in technology and competition have kept prices for electronic devices relatively affordable and widely available.

Regardless of how you feel about technology, it is here to stay and becoming more sophisticated every year. All of this technology presents a world of opportunity as well as some new risks. Just compare the size, features and capabilities of today’s internet capable cell phones to those of just a few years ago. By being aware of these risks and taking steps to protect yourself, your child or your older family members surfing on the internet can be safer for all. The Internet can open up a world of possibilities and communication avenues for all generations. Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, WhatsApp, Houseparty and other video conferencing applications make it possible for families to share events over the internet. This has become very relevant with the restrictions placed on social gatherings since the coronavirus.

FACEBOOK, MYSPACE TWITTER, TUMBLR, INSTAGRAM, SNAPCHAT, PINTEREST and TikTok are used to keep in touch. All of these sites offer adults and teens the opportunity to communicate with friends and family. Teens and young adults can exchange photographs, videos and messages via these websites.

Unfortunately, these and other social networking sites have become a popular tool among sex offenders looking for young victims. By simply joining a social networking site, often with false information, sexual predators have access to the profiles of unsuspecting and potential victims.

Sexual predators can pretend to be a similar age and establish communication with adolescents via social networking sites and chat rooms. In many cases, the desired end result of the predator is to establish an in-person meeting with the child. The results of this type of meeting can have catastrophic results. Sting operations have caught 40 something year old men pretending to be 15-year-old boys or girls on the Internet. They work slowly and patiently, knowing just what to say to net their victim.

It is very important that parents speak to their kids about what they are doing while online as well as in real life. Make sure your kids fully understand that messages or pictures they send over the Internet or their cell phones are not truly private or anonymous. Let your children know the consequences and embarrassment of having private images end up in the wrong hands. A good rule of thumb – “Do not text any pictures you would not want your teacher or principal to see. Possession or transmission of certain types of images can be against the law, up to a felony in some cases. What you post online can negatively impact college and career opportunities.

Parents should always know who their kids are communicating with in real life, on the phone and online. Restrict hours of usage for cell phones, computers and other electronic devices. Monitor your child’s activity on social networking websites. Consider having the account stopped if your child will not share their password with you. Encourage your child to be safety savvy and honest with you if they have any problems.

Parents need to be aware of these dangers and discuss the dangers and how to avoid them with their children. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children may be reached at 1 (800) 873-5678; www.missingkids.com has set up the website, www.netsmartz.org, with information for kids and parents alike.

Cartoon characters navigate even the youngest kids through internet dangers. It is never too early to start discussing the risks and results of “Stranger Danger” in

Public Safety Report

Public Safety Blotter December 27, 2020 – January 2, 2021 December 27, 2020 – 120 Alcott Pl. CCPD ESU was dispatched to a report of an elderly female who was disorientated. Officers were able to ascertain enough information to re-unite the female with her daughter.

January 1, 2021 – 131 Einstein Loop One male was arrested by CCPD for shoplifting. During a search of the male, he was found in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The male was processed accordingly.

January 2, 2021 – 2039 Bartow Ave. Several individuals alerted officers to a female taking her pants off. Officers did observe the female urinating in open public view. The female was issued a criminal court summons for public urination.

Anonymous calls to Public Safety

From time to time, cooperators may witness someone violating the housing company’s rules and regulations, however, it has been reported to Management that some people are apprehensive about reporting the situation for fear of their identity being divulged to the violator in question.

Please know that you may request to remain anonymous when you contact the Co-op City Public Safety Department (CCPD) regarding said issues and the Public Safety dispatchers, officers and supervisors have been instructed to accept these

calls and investigate, accordingly.

If, however, you feel forced to surrender your identification in order to lodge your complaint, immediately request to speak with a supervisor.

Rest assured that you should feel comfortable placing these calls to our Public Safety Department, as oftentimes residents are the first to know when an incident has taken place and, in most cases, who the individuals involved are as well.

Thank you for your cooperation.

—Riverbay Management

various formats with your children.

It is important to monitor your child’s use of the Internet at all times. Be sure your child is aware of the dangers of social networking sites and explain the need for parental involvement in setting up restrictions for access. View the safety tips on the website itself and report inappropriate behavior directly to the website.

Restrict your child’s access on social networking sites to people your child knows personally. Parents can block questionable individuals from contacting their children by viewing their child’s profile. Children should be discouraged from posting personal information and contacting people that they meet online without parental approval.

Parents need to monitor their children’s internet activity. Placing the computer that your child uses in a family room will make it easier to monitor their online activity. Be aware if your child suddenly shuts the computer off or reduces the screen when you enter the room. Set your telephone up to block restricted numbers.

Monitor the numbers called by your child’s cell phone. Be alert to any unexpected packages that could be gifts sent by a potential sexual predator.

If you suspect that your child is receiving pornographic materials or being sexually exploited, it can be reported by submitting an online form to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Cyber Tip Line at www.cybertipline.com. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, www.fbi.gov, has fostered relationships with some companies which operate social networking sites to aid law enforcement in the detection of online sexual predators. With the help of parents, a safer online environment can be created.

Children and adults need to be careful not to send any information out which can be found to be offensive or taken out of context. Inappropriate communication can result in disciplinary action at school or criminal charges such as Harassment, Aggravated Harassment or Stalking being charged. (Continued on page 23)

OPPORTUNITIES AT CO-OP CITY For information on CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES ONLY, please contact: Lenya Garcia at Lgarcia@riverbaycorp.com; and Anatoliy Budnitskiy at abudnitskiy@riverbaycorp.com. Please note: emails should be sent to both parties.

Please DO NOT email resumes for EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES to the aforementioned emails. For EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, please see below for specific directions.

CONTRACT OPPORTUNITIES There are no contract opportunities to list this week. Please check back.

For employment opportunities, please search “Riverbay Corporation” at the following sites: www.Indeed.com www.Glassdoor.com EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Candidates may review full position descriptions and apply directly at either site.

Current Riverbay employees should submit a transfer request and resumé directly to the HR department.

Thank you for your interest in working for Riverbay Corporation.

8

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Director’s Viewpoint – Mary A friend, and fellow resident, gave me an assignment. She wants to know everything there is to know about the Covid-19 vaccines before it’s her turn to roll up her sleeve.

Just deciding in what order people will be vaccinated is a job the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has been working on for months. The deliberators had three criteria. 1.) Minimize the number of deaths and serious disease, 2.) Keep society functioning, 3.) Be fair and unbiased.

One more time: 1.) Who are most likely to die or get deathly ill if they contract the disease. 2.) Who are the most essential of the essential workers we count on to keep the wheels turning for the rest of us.

3.) Since poor people of color have already disproportionately died of the disease, take wealth, status, ethnicity, gender, skin color, out of the equation.

They balanced those three factors to decide who should be first in line to receive a vaccination. Their recommendation: Phase 1a should include health care workers and people living in long-term care facilities, Phase 1b should include frontline essential workers and people 75 and older, and Phase 1c should include other essential workers and people aged 6574 or those with underlying medical conditions who are 16 years and over.

An August 2020 Harris Poll survey showed 1,399 respondents mostly agreed that seniors and healthcare workers belonged in Phase 1a.

Based on the reality that there will not be enough doses to inoculate everyone who wants one (for months and months), that became the CDC’s (and Joe Citizen’s) initial recommendation. But it’s just a suggestion. Each state has a final say as to who’s first.

I can guarantee one thing. Whoever is publicly first – outside of the initially universally and undeniably agreed upon truly deserving ones – someone will complain about it.

Governor Cuomo has pushed “those incarcerated in congregate settings” up on the list. (Such complaints!) He’s also said, though he would like his shot immediately, he will wait until every Black and Brown person in his age bracket gets theirs first. (He got no “attaboy” for this promise.)

Congress was offered their shots two weeks ago (aka very soon after it got approved) as part of a “Continuity of Governance” plan, and man-oh-man did

Pearson, Secretary

Covid-19 Vaccine

erna. They have a lot in common.

AOC (Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of 1.) Both are mRNA vaccines. (The “m” stands for CD 14) get an Instagram earful! You step up as a role model to demonstrate the vaccine’s safety to a wary “messenger.”) This vaccine variety is not made from a living virus. They’re made from the spiky part of public and whataya get? Complaints. the virus cell. The mRNA sends a message to the body Meanwhile… Some people are lining up to get teaching it to replicate the cell material. Then the body their “Fauci Ouchie.” CNN reports: “Vaxxies” are the produces the antibodies to recognize and fight the new selfies…taken with a needle in your arm. In the material, right then, and later if/when it confronts the CNN clip, we see Biden, Harris, Pence, and Fauci actual virus. given the vaccine. Still, at last count, only 60 to 70% 2.) Once injected, you’ll be observed for 15 to 30 of Americans are ready and willing to get theirs if and minutes. People should be standing by who know when they get the chance. It’s a whole ‘nother world what to do just in case you have a rare bad reaction. since Elvis, backstage at “The Ed Sullivan Show” in All vaccines stimulate the immune system often caus1956, took a polio shot to successfully ease the pubing normal side-affects such as redness, swelling, lic’s vaccine concerns. and/or pain at the injection site. For a couple of days We have people angling to cut ahead in line and after, you may feel fluish (fever, fatigue, chills, we have others scared to death of vaccine rumors. headache) as the body builds up protection.

Lots of people were initially skeptical about Op3.) You’ll be told which vaccine you’re getting and eration Warp Speed because… well…Trump. But you’ll need a second dose of the same vaccine. You’ll give the devil his due. He threw billions at the virus get the second dose 21 or 28 days after the first, but (for his own self-image and interest, not out of altruyou will not be protected from the virus for about a ism, mind you) and it paid off bigly. week or two after that.

There have been mishaps, but none life-threatening, at least not as life threatening as the disease itI hope this has been helpful. You can find all of self. the above by precisely Googling “CDC Covid-19 In making a logical decision to vaccinate or not, Vaccines your health.” There you’ll find current info one must EXAMINE THE SOURCE of the inforfor regular people, not just for professional healthmation. For me that’s New York Times followed up care workers. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019by the CDC website, and at times, the NIH (National ncov/vaccines/index.html/ Institute of Health), World Health Organization, and It’s still unknown when exactly it’ll be your turn Mayo Clinic websites. Trusting social media – or any (check eligibility at ny.gov/vaccine) or how long the site that ends in .com – for medical advice is asking immunity will last once you are vaccinated. So, stay for trouble. diligent, people, because, unfortunately, it’s not yet There is a ton of information and misinformation time to burn those masks. to sift through but when it’s my turn to take the vacI can be reached by voice or text at 718-219-2211 cine, I’ll take it. My apprehensions have calmed, beor by email at mpearson@riverbayboard.com. cause, as the newly inoculated Floridian, Dr. Tisha Raphael said on tv last week, “At the end of the day, I trust the science.”

And look what science has given us.

There are two highly effective vaccines currently available: one from Pfizer-BioNTech and the other from Mod-

Building 24 Association

Best wishes to all for a happy and healthy 2021. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, we haven’t been meeting and I haven’t been writing any articles updating everyone about what the building association has been doing. Lately, however, cooperators have been asking me about our year’s end “Thank You” gifts to our building workers and mailman. As a precaution, we didn’t collect donations for our building staff as we usually do before the holidays but we did reward the staff for their fine work from our savings account created by prior fundraising events like the Cake Sale and Thanksgiving Raffle. So rest assured, we have shown how much we appreciate all they do to keep our building and grounds beautiful throughout the year.

The face masks I received that were donated to Co-op City by the Mayor’s Office some months ago have all but a very few been given out. There are still just a few left and if anyone needs one, please call me at 718-320-1458. Leave a message if I’m not in and I’ll return your call. I also have some hand sanitizer that was distributed by Riverbay. If you need some, I will be glad to fill up a 5 ounce or less container for you. Just call me and I’ll arrange a time to come to your door, wearing a mask, and fill your container.

Let me close by thanking everyone for staying safe by wearing a face mask, keeping a safe distance from one another and observing the “maximum number of people” rules for the elevators (4) and the laundry room (5). The country is still in the grip of this deadly pandemic which hopefully will be ended when most or all of us have been vaccinated. Until then, let’s continue to stay safe and healthy.

—Bruce Silberman

The deadline for submitting club articles is Mondays at 5 p.m.

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Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

9

ADA elevator installation completed at Gun Hill Rd. Station

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced the completion of elevator installation work at the Gun Hill Road 5 Station in the Bronx this week.

With the completion of the project adding two new elevators in the last week of December, the station became the final of eleven stations to become fully ADA accessible in the last calendar year alone. At least eight additional stations are set to undergo ADA-related improvements this year.

In addition to installing the elevators, crews made a range of other improvements to the Gun Hill Rd. station, including the construction of ADA-compliant platforms and a new ADA-compliant station booth.

“Under Gov. Cuomo, MTA has made it a top priority to increase the accessibility of the subway system to all New Yorkers,” said Janno Lieber, President of MTA Construction & Development.“And despite the pandemic, we worked relentlessly to deliver 11 new accessible stations in 2020 and we’re determined to deliver even more in the year ahead.”

“Expanding accessibility across the system is a defining pillar of our work at New York City Transit,” said New York City Transit Interim President Sarah Feinberg. “Today represents another moment of progress in our ongoing work to make the system more accessible to all. We have done a tremendous amount to achieve that objective over the last year and I am eager to accomplish more in the year ahead.

The pandemic is not over, but I’m excited for customers to experience these improvements when they return to the system in large numbers in the months to come.”

In addition to the installation of the new ADAcompliant elevators, station booth and platforms, crews expanded the control house above the tracks by 26 feet and modified platform canopies to accommodate the new elevator shafts. The project team also upgraded the station’s communications systems and made a range of mechanical and electrical improvements as well. A small amount of remaining work aimed primarily at the station entrance canopy and doors is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

“One of the ways to nurture a robust economy, especially as we try to recover from the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, is focusing on our bor-

ough’s infrastructure system,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “The upgrades made at the Gun Hill Road Station on Dyre Avenue are key, particularly in helping our most vulnerable communities get the same access to public transportation as the rest of us. A thriving city like ours requires upgrades on all forms of transportation, and the ADA improvements made in the Gun Hill Road Station is a step in the right direction.”

“The long awaited upgrades to the Gun Hill Station 5 train line is essential to the residents of district 12,” said Council Member Kevin Riley. “Our district is a transportation desert and a part of the revitalization of our community starts with upgrades that make transportation more accessible to all residents. I would like to thank New York City Transit for their hard work on this project, and I look forward to working with them on more projects in the 12th City Council District.”

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

10 Director’s Viewpoint

– Francine Reva Jones, Assistant Secretary

A new day is coming Greetings to my fellow shareholders, Our shareholders are affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic. Some Board directors have been writing about it and how our elected officials are handling this critical health issue.

While I am not personally a supporter of the President, I agreed with the President on the matter regarding the $2,000.00 stimulus payment that he and the Democrats want distributed to the Americans people. This would stimulate the economy by allowing Americans to purchase what they needed and would support businesses as well.

With the wisdom and direction from Gov. Andrew Cuomo, New Yorkers were directed to “shelter in place,” to “stay at home” during the Covid outbreak.

Nonessential businesses were shutdown in order to avoid unnecessary contact with other people and risking the spread of this deadly virus. It was working in NYC. Other directives were that people should wear a face covering, wash their hands frequently or use hand sanitizers and distance themselves six feet away from others. The Governor’s directives worked in NY State and we were getting control over the virus. The safety of the people was his first priority.

However, the Governor’s jurisdiction was limited to NY State. It was the President’s responsibility to take control and give direction on a national level. But, his focus was mainly on the economy, giving inadequate attention to the dangers of Americans contracting the virus, which affected the economy. What seemed to make the most sense was to get control over the virus, then people would return to work, and the economy would recover.

Initially, the President procrastinated for approximately two months before alerting Americans of this virus; promoted NOT wearing a mask; rejected in-

formation from the Center for Disease Control and proposed his own remedies; and held numerous super-spreader events. According to the Health and Science report, “Researchers looked at 18 Trump rallies held between June 20 and September 22 … the rallies ultimately resulted in more than 30,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 … and also concluded that the rallies likely led to more than 700 deaths ….” The President did more harm than good.

Currently, with more than 20 million cases and upwards of 353,000 deaths from Covid, it was reported that there should be a better distribution of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines in order to reach Americans more quickly. This is a war on the virus and the President should use all the federal resources available to distribute the vaccine and assist the states as much as possible.

Could his failure be due to his focusing more on his obsession with overturning the November 2020 Presidential Election? The President continues to claim that there was election fraud, but this was never proven. He claims that he won the State of Georgia and persists on pressuring election officials to change the records to allow him to win that state; he has invited his supporters, including conspiracy theorists, militia groups and members of extremist groups, to the Electoral College ceremony on January 6th, raising concerns of violent confrontations.

The President has many other issues of concern as described in the “Unauthorized Psychological Analysis of Donald Trump” by Dr. James McIntosh.

He has allegedly assaulted women and two women who have alleged that he sexually assaulted them are suing him. He is facing

Association of Building 14 Cooperators Welcome everyone to 2021! We have a lot of lessons learned to take us through the coming year, and for the foreseeable, many will still be working from remote environments and loving our families from a distance. The challenge for this year – seek to understand and to fulfill your purpose, and seek wisdom to make intentional (deliberate) moves that bring truth, honesty and peace.

Congratulations to Ms. Mosley (right), the winner of our “Bringing in the New Year” gift basket filled with delectable chocolates and popcorn, a family game, face masks, herbal tea, bubbly Sparkling Cider and champagne glasses to toast. Enjoy!

The winning ticket was pulled by our building porters, Felix Corino and Timmy Ng (photographed at left).

Our building association meetings will resume this month using the Zoom format. Meeting dates for the first quarter are scheduled for January 28, February 25 and March 31; please mark your calendars. Cooperators can join the meeting by phone, so no computer is needed. Prior to each meeting, cooperators can request the meeting link and telephone via our email account at assocbldg14@gmail.com.

In February, we will also schedule collection of annual building dues, which we did not collect in 2020. We will likely provide envelopes as a safety measure and schedule drop off dates. Details forthcoming in the newspaper and flyers. We will do our second 2021 mask distribution during the collection.

As we continue to battle COVID-19, loss of human lives continue to devastate families and loved ones. Please do not let your guard down – wear masks, social distance, and remember only four people in the elevator. Our condolences and prayers for peace and understanding are sent your way.

–Josie Ferguson

two NY state inquiries into whether he misled tax authorities, banks or business partners. Some are calling for the revival of a federal campaign finance investigation that appeared to end under U.S. Attorney General William Barr. He took out ads in several NYC newspapers calling for bringing back the death penalty regarding five minor boys of color accused of beating and raping a woman in Central Park in 1989; the boys have since been exonerated. He has allowed for widespread voter suppression and has made it more difficult for persons of color to vote.

It is obvious that Trump would not be someone that I would choose to lead this country. A majority of Americans must think likewise because they did not vote him back into office through the popular vote, nor did he win through the Electoral College. I anxiously await January 20th when a new leadership will be sworn in.

Don’t be fooled by those whose ulterior motive is to become a dictator. Rather, keep your eyes on the prize. Democracy!

We must strive to live our lives as best we can while adhering to the mandates to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the deadly Coronavirus. So, I ask everyone to please wear a mask, stay at home if you are sick, wash your hands frequently, get tested frequently, and practice social distancing. Keep your family and friends in prayer.

Wishing everyone a lovely week ahead. I can be reached at: 718-671-5957 or fjones@riverbaycorp.com.

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

11

Retirees Precious Memories

Broun Place Townhouse Association

It will be a truly happy New Year when the COVID-19 numbers start coming down. Broun Place Townhouse Association wishes everyone, especially our neighbors, a happy new year. Broun Place’s executive board members, Vivian Burrus, Rev. Grace Emanuel, Lillian Richardson and I, Eva Lazaar, send New Year greetings to everyone in the hope that 2021 will be better. We appreciate how local markets and pharmacies have accommodated and kept us supported with necessities throughout this critical time.

Congratulations to Mr. Kevin Riley on being the Councilman-elect from the Special Election of December 22 and we wish him an excellent rapport and tenure with our constituents. Thank you, Andy King, for the many good things done by and initiated by you over the years. Thank you, too, to the Co-op City Times’ staff for the consistent great job reporting and delivering the news of Co-op City and the items of interest and importance to us. Some of you have complained about not getting the supermarket weekly inserts. The distributor of those advertising insert bundles has no legal contract that permits distribution in Co-op City, additionally, not sure if we know the status of that company. If you can speak to the manager of your supermarket, recommend they contact the Co-op City Times for advertising information.

In Broun Place, please don’t forget to acknowledge our excellent Grounds staff.

They have done an astounding job moving the snow. We continue to be grateful being in an area with great medical availabilities and COVID-19 testing sites within walking distance. The site for information is: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/get-tested/covid-19-testing.page; all your questions can be answered there.

Channel 12 and cable 591 are running an infomercial made here on the Dreiser Loop COVID-19 testing site. You should get tested. President-elect Biden recommends a one-hundred-day period of steady mask wearing. The virus must be quarantined! Review your weapons to fight COVID-19: wear a face mask (over your nose), wear disposable gloves, keep 6 feet between each other and soap ‘n water wash hands frequently.

Phone scams are on the rise. The recording says, “Credit card banks are lowering your annual interest rates.” Another, “Emergency, your car warranty has expired, press one to speak with a representative.” Another, “We apologize for our error on your electric bill.” These are examples of phone scams. We suggest getting on the “Do Not Call List” to help block scam calls. Mail is coming from a so-called senior organization claiming to represent an organization protecting Social Security.

This is not the truth, read carefully before writing a check.

Email “Community Relations” to receive the community newsletter. Catch the “Tunes on Tuesdays” evening shows, the program is in the Co-op City Times. Broun Place neighbors, Saturday mornings, pick up your personally delivered Co-op City Times.

You are encouraged to join or renew your Broun Place association membership.

Dues are just $12 annually. Keep dancing and better days are ahead! Wakanda forever!

–Eva Kindaichi-Lazaar

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Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

12

Velocity Track Club

Happy New Year! Goodbye to 2020 and hello to 2021! VTC (Velocity Track Club) have a lot to be thankful for. First and foremost, we must thank God for protecting us from COVID and allowing us to practice and attend track meets.

On Saturday, January 2, we were blessed with 50-degree weather and 90% of our athletes turned out for our first practice for the new year at Pelham Bay Park.

Velocity Track Club at our first practice and track meet of 2021.

On Sunday, January 3, we had our first track meet, the Armory Metro Eagles Invitational #2, at the Armory in Fort Washington, NY. The meet was well organized and all COVID-19 protocols were followed. The following events were contested: 55 meters, 55-meter hurdles, 200, 400, 800, 1600 meters, Long Jump and Shot Put. Medals were awarded to the top three athletes in their event / division.

VTC had 21 athletes participated in this meet and 17 out of the 21 athletes were bless with 27 medals. Over 75% of the athlete that competed, medal. Just as important of earning a medal, we had eight athletes break their PR (personal record).

The following athletes were blessed with medals: Bryce Hickman, Romel Barrett, Dakota Hickman, Brianna Burrell, Olyvia Burrell, Pierce Parker, Kenese IrishBramble, Ryann Joseph, Zuriel Achigbu, Lyon Achigbu, Cameron Joseph, Jahsai Frontis, Ethan Lee, Saagi Hemmings, Xoan Achigbu, Ryann Joseph and Sachin Ramharak! The following athletes broke their PR: Kaylin Strachin in the 55 meters. Olyvia Burrell, Brianna Burrell and Ryann Joseph in the 200 meters. Bryce Hickman, Lyon Achigbu, Hannah Deflorimonte and Zuriel Achigbu in the 55 meters & 200 meters. Congratulations to all who participated, you’re all winners!

Velocity Track Club New York is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit. One hundred percent of your donation will go towards helping our children. Support our youth so they can continue to do great things!

For additional information, please go to our website, Velocitytrack.org, or contact me, Coach Winston Dinkins at 914-441-6196 or email watclt@aol.com.

Thank you.

–Coach Winston Dinkins

Black Forum

Emergency Food Pantry 920 Baychester Ave., Bld. 1A (entrance faces the basketball court). The pantry opens Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. for grocery distribution. Guests who registered and re-certified in 2020 are eligible to pick up food once a month during regular distribution hours. Please look at the last date on your pantry card to determine when you can pick up your monthly package again. You would pick up one month or more from your last pick up. It is a 30to 31-day rotation. We will still text if additional items become available outside of normal business hours. All guests must present a pantry card to receive food.

Remember to bring sturdy and clean shopping bags and a shopping cart. Wearing a mask/face covering is required.

We also ask that all guests use the markers on the ground to help practice physical distancing. Registration for new pantry guests is currently closed at this location. New registration dates will post at a later date.

Black Forum guests living in Section 5 should visit Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. This is only a distribution point. Guests do not have to be affiliated with a church or religion to pick up food at this location. Registration is open at this location for Section 5 residents.

Recertification – Guests currently registered with the food pantry and who pick up food packages at the 920 Baychester Avenue location are required to recertify at the pantry starting January 2021. A valid ID NYC card or a non- or driver’s license must be shown to remain in the emergency food program. Please bring the required ID the first time you pick up food in 2021. Members of a household listed on an application must present themselves at recertification. They must present an ID. Pantry guests visiting the church at 2350 Palmer Avenue must also recertify to continue in the program.

Income eligibility for Emergency Food Support – Guests are now required to sign an Income Eligibility Form. This is a mandate from the federal government if they receive food from the United States Department of Agriculture. The form declares that a household’s income is at or below 200% of the federal income poverty levels. The form lists the eligibility requirements. Black Forum will supply the document to registered guests. We are aware that guests may pick up food from more than one agency in NYC. Each of those agencies may also ask guests to fill out the form.

Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you at coopcityblackforum@gmail.com.

Please stay safe.

–D. Illis

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Building 9 Association

Greetings, Building 9 family. Welcome to 2021.

This year, we anticipate better health, more peace and more compassion. Please continue to wear a face mask always, wash your hands often and maintain social distance whenever possible.

We acknowledge and offer our sentiments for the Building 9 neighbors whom we have lost, and for those who have lost loved ones. Also, several of our neighbors have been sickened or hospitalized by symptoms of the Novel Coronavirus; we wish them continued recovery and good health.

Thank you to Irma Vega, Margarita Mendez and Annie for supplying and decorating the 9-A lobby Christmas tree each year. It is always stunning! Thank you, Ana Nieves, for being our ‘Secret Santa.’

I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Building 9 Association executive board vice presidents, Wanda Randall and Shirley Wells. They are always available, dutiful and insightful on matters of import to our members.

Also, I am grateful for our 2020 Building 9 Association volunteers: Wanda Randall, Shirley Wells, Janet Yarrell, Gabriella Concepcion, Rosemary Bailey, Linda Holley, Jackie Lattie, Dinora Tirado, Evelyn Mavins, Pamela Small, Wanda Rodriguez, Shirley McCann and special thanks and welcome to Liz Manning. Mrs. Manning is our newest volunteer, she is a photographer and is responsible for the great outdoor photography of our nine Back-to-School raffle winners.

The selflessness, energy, and time our volunteers commit make a great difference in our ability to carry out building association activities.

As you know, the Building 9 Association executive board voted to waive collection of 2020 Building Association membership dues. Again, out of an abundance of caution, due to Covid-19 infection concerns.

2020 Recap January: Annual Meeting/Executive Board election; Puerto Rico Earthquake Relief collection

People First Democratic Club Happy New Year, Co-op City We start the year off on a positive note as we countdown the days to the end of an end era. We also see how democracy works! The people have access to change how the government works.

People First Democratic Club will meet every first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. via Zoom, Meeting ID:935 5321 0675, Passcode: 323134.

January 5, 2021, Coat Drive Giveaway: Postponed due to the impact of Covid-19. We sincerely apologize. We will reschedule and will keep you updated on new information.

January 22, 2021, NYC Mayoral Forum: Sponsored by the PFDC. We will be discussing Parenting and Education moderated by Dr. Shawn Best, University Director for the CUNY Black Male Initiative. Please submit your questions to peope1stdc@gmail.com.

Future events will include candidate forums for Bronx Borough President and City Council. We have a busy 2021; in addition to these two races, we have the Public Advocate, Comptroller, and Judicial Delegate races. We will hold a Zoom webinar series covering all positions in government and their duties.

PFDC will be very active in our community, and our pledge to you is to keep you informed about what is going on within the city, state, and the federal government. One way to stay informed is to join us; you can do so by emailing us at peope1stdc@gmail.com to request an application; the annual fees are $25 for individuals and $30 for a family. You must be registered or plan to register as a Democrat and be at least 16 years old.

“Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.” –Anthony J. D’Angelo –Al Quattlebaum

13

February: General Meeting, Black History Month event March: Canceled meeting, canceled Women’s History Month event April: Canceled meeting, canceled Youth Job Readiness event May: Face Mask distribution, canceled meeting June: Canceled meeting, canceled Bake Sale July: Face Mask distribution September: Virtual Back-to-School raffle, outdoor photo shoot/gift card presentation; outdoor, socially Executive board members Shirley Wells, Linda Collins distanced General meeting, Kevin C. Riley, Guest and Wanda Randall Congratulations to Kevin C. Riley, New York City Speaker; Legislative Lobby visit with NYS Assemdistribution Council Member for District 12. blyman Michael Benedetto; Face mask October: Outdoor, socially distanced, General meeting, “Invisible wounds are the hardest to heal. Their cloBuilding 9 hand sanitizer distribution; Section 2 face sure requires others, patience and, most of all, time.” mask and hand sanitizer distribution. Our goal is to be of –Jennifer Lee Worth –Linda Collins service to our members without endangering ourselves.

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

14 Director’s Viewpoint – Daryl

During the last few days of 2020, I could tell that some people that I knew were very sad and depressed. So, let’s see if we can pick up the pieces and do our best to move forward.

2020 – Over Have you ever walked up to someone that you knew and you had a feeling that something wasn’t right? In other words, maybe they were going through something. Sadness? Sickness? Family issues? Unemployment? Housing? Relationship issues?

So, they might be reviewing some of their issues at any moment. And, they might not be feeling so good when they meet other people. Example: So many people on social media have said some really bad things about what went on in 2020. Therefore, their feelings were hurt. And, they couldn’t wait for 2020 to be over.

So, I want to encourage everyone to please be patient with other people. Yes, things might not be quite right with them. However, are we going to throw them away? Are we going to treat them with a negative attitude? No! So, let’s see if we can show some compassion and try to offer some kind and encouraging words to them.

Package Thefts Here is what’s going on with some packages that are being delivered to our community. Without knocking on anyone’s door or ringing anyone’s bell, some irresponsible drivers are quietly leaving packages at our doors. And, in some cases, the cooperators are inside of their apartments waiting for their packages to arrive. That’s it, right? No! Thieves know what these drivers are doing. So, they’re going into the hallways and stealing these packages.

So, I want to encourage everyone to consider having your packages delivered to a locker. For instance, did you know that there’s a locker in the Bartow RiteAid store and other locations around our community?

Therefore, you won’t have to worry about having someone steal your packages.

Limited mobility? Illness? COVID concerns?

Johnson

It’s Time To Pick Up The Pieces Please consider shopping at different stores that use responsible services that will deliver your packages in a proper manner.

Bottom line: Previously, some irresponsible drivers used to unload all of their packages from their vehicle into our lobbies. Then, in some cases, a freefor-all would occur. Now, think, how is this possible?

So, we need to ask ourselves when are we, cooperators, going to put a stop to this nonsense. Now, look, you already know what’s going on here. Therefore, as mentioned before, please consider your circumstances and make some good choices before you go online and place your order.

NYC – Big Money Losses Typically, about 1 million people will pack out Times Square to party and to watch the ball drop on New Year’s Eve. However, just recently, people were encouraged to watch the ball drop and the performances from their homes. So, lots of streets and businesses weren’t packed in that area with tourists.

Therefore, NYC lost a lot of money just during this one celebration. Moreover, we lost a tremendous amount of money during this coronavirus outbreak.

So, let’s look at some numbers and see why we must get this virus under control and hopefully get back to what we call normal.

For instance, published reports for 2019 state that 66.6 million people visited NYC. And, they brought $7 billion into our economy. However, we’ll hit about a third of that number for 2020.

Bottom line: As of June 30, 2020, NYC was in debt for $95.03 billion. Now, has this debt amount increased? Yes. NYC is also facing a $4 billion budget gap for the next fiscal year. So, how will the city handle this shortfall? Will there be cuts? Layoffs? Is it possible that some of our residents might be affected?

Let’s wait and see.

Don’t Be So Quick To Click There are about 2.7 billion active users on Facebook. So, with those numbers, lots of people and companies love to advertise on Facebook. In fact, just last year, Facebook made $69.7 billion just from adver-

Building 22 A & B Association

Happy New Year. This year will be a challenging one. We must still wear our mask, distance ourselves, wash our hands, in order to stay safe until we get the vaccine, and our number of hospitalizations and deaths go down.

Congratulations to Kevin Riley on winning the Special Election for City Council replacing Andy King.

Welcome, all new cooperators.

Christmas tree disposal – Information is listed in the Co-op City Times; please read.

Annual safety notices – Will be mailed to you. Please fill out and follow instructions; it’s for windowguards also.

Laundry room – Five people; please return to collect your clothes on time, others are waiting.

Elevators – Four people at a time; wear mask.

Compactor room – Remember boxes need to be broken down, wash out recyclable bottles and cans, put papers on wooden ledge. All other items must go to the basement ash cart area. Cleanliness is next to godliness.

Metro bus – Some stations’ booths are making reduced-fare MetroCard transactions. They are not making cash transactions. Bronx stations are: 161st-Yankee Stadium, E. 180th St., Pelham Bay Park.

Happy birthday to all. Sympathy to all who lost loved ones. Prayers to the sick and shut-ins. If you see something, say something.

Thank you, —Betty Leak

Section 4 Partnership

Meeting Date Changed Zoom-in to the next gathering of the Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City, Sunday, January 31, at 3 p.m. We’ll do another Zoom Workshop and tackle what’s important to you. Join us…

Get involved… Email: section4partnership@gmail.com. Phone: 347-915-4939. Let’s show up! Virtually! Let’s get it done! Help us continue this positive effort and reap the benefits of a united community.

Section 4 Partnership of Co-op City … Support our Partnership Fundraiser. Call us or email us to get yours!

T-shirts are $10 and all sizes are available while supplies last.

Section 4 Partnership Mission Statement … The Section 4 Partnership’s purpose is to promote a community of more than just neighbors, but as one family of many cultures, that proactively embraces greatness, and promotes neighborhood interaction. The goal of the organization is to offer solutions that will educate, elevate, inspire, and mobilize our community in unity, to sustain affordability and growth in order to remain environmentally sound and vibrant for generations to come.

Each one of us divided by ALL of us equals a force for good…

—Michelle Marbury

tisements. Some of the ads that are posted are legitimate. And, then, well, you’ll see. For instance, please see if you can recall seeing some products on Facebook with prices that seemed to be too good to be true.

Example: A lady used to create and sell very expensive handmade dolls on her own website. Then, allegedly, advertisements with very low prices for her dolls started appearing on Facebook. So, lots of people fell for those ads and ordered those inexpensive dolls. And, that’s when lots of troubles began.

Allegedly, people started receiving fake dolls that they completely disliked. Then, they allegedly went online and left negative reviews about her. So, she had to let everyone know that someone else had allegedly caused these problems.

The real problem is that some organizations buy hundreds of website names. Then, they will copy everything from a legitimate website onto their scam website, with very low prices. And, that’s when they start making lots of money. Problem? You’ll get a message to ship the defective item overseas. Refunds and complaints? They’ll simply shut down that website and create a new website with the same products.

Bottom line: Please check out the websites before you spend your money.

Close A huge glass partition of a bus shelter on Bellamy Loop North was smashed to pieces over the new year’s weekend. Then, a brick was seen on the ground. So, unfortunately, some people might be acting out and bringing their frustrations to the street. Therefore, please call Public Safety at 718-671-3050 if you see someone vandalizing property.

Thank you.

Contact Information Please do not send a letter to me at this time. However, you can send an email to me at: djohnson@riverbayboard.com.

Also, please call me ONLY at 718-671-4544 if you would like to have a brief discussion with me. Okay, that’s it for now. So, please have a wonderful week.

And, may God bless you and your family. Thank you.

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Building 25 Association

Unfortunately, due to social distancing, Covid-19 would not allow us to gather for our annual Holiday Party. Hopefully things will get back to some type of normalcy before year-end and we will be able to gather during Holiday Season 2021.

The community looked so festive during the holiday season, but as we know, all good things must come to an end. Please be reminded to properly dispose of your Christmas trees, use large bags to contain pine needles before bringing trees out of apartments, as the needles can pose trip hazards and possibly cause elevators to malfunction.

If anyone is home quarantining, please let CSO know so that they will not send any employees to your apartment unless it is an emergency.

There are no plans to bring back lobby attendants at this time. We will provide update as we receive it.

Regular daily mail delivery will not be delivered to individual floors, so please make every effort to pick up your large packages in the lobby.

We wish all neighbors born in January a Happy Birthday, and for those who have been under the weather, we hope you get better soon.

Latest update to resuming our building meetings due to COVID-19, Riverbay has not given the official go ahead to resume regular building meetings, but our next conference call will be Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. so be on the lookout for the telephone number and dial-in code posted near the elevators. Remember, residents of Building 25 can always address any comments or concerns by logging onto our building email address at building25ca@gmail.com. If anyone has problems accessing the building email address, please let us know.

Closing with the following: “Try to make at least one person happy every day.

If you cannot do a kind deed, speak a kind word. If you cannot speak a kind word, think a kind thought. Count up, if you can, the treasure of happiness that you would dispense in a week, in a year, in a lifetime.” –Lawrence G. Lovasik —Wanda Bailey

National Council of Negro Women

Membership NCNW Co-op City Section is turning 50 years young in 2021! Our first membership meeting of the year will be tomorrow, Sunday, January 10, 2021 at 3 p.m.

The kickoff for our 50th Anniversary is scheduled to take place at our February General Membership meeting on February 14, 2021. The 50th Anniversary theme will be: “NCNW Co-op City Section Celebrating 50 Years of Service Stronger Than Ever.” Section members are reminded that both section and national dues are past due. National dues ($50) can be paid online by visiting NCNW.org or by mailing a check made payable to National Council of Negro Women, Inc. Receipt of online payment of national dues should be sent via email to 2nd Vice President of Membership Akeisha Neely at NCNWCoopCitySocial@gmail.com. Checks for section dues ($25) should be made payable to NCNW Co-op City Section. Both checks should be mailed to NCNW, Inc. Co-op City Section, P.O. Box 93, Bronx, NY 10475.

NCNW Co-op City has a PayPal link to make payments and donations convenient.

Please feel free to update or pay local membership dues online by logging into PayPal and entering NCNWcoopsecfin@gmail.com to complete your payment.

Book Club The Book Club is excited to announce the new adult book for 2021 will be “A Piece of Cake” by Cupcake Brown. The death of Cupcake’s mother takes her down a spiraling path of life events. Join us today, Saturday, January 9, at 3 p.m. via Zoom to discuss how Cupcake beats the odds. Join our Zoom meeting at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86076561404?pwd=KzZucm1mUWZZYXI5RHhIOG VyamNxQT09 Meeting ID: 860 7656 1404, Passcode: Book One tap mobile: +16465189805,,86076561404#,,,,*076033# US (New York) +19292056099,,86076561404#,,,,*076033# US (New York) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York); +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) Meeting ID: 860 7656 1404; Passcode: 076033 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kjdOK4qPh The third book club chat in our children’s series will be a mommy and me event on Saturday, January 16, at 3 p.m. We will be discussing “Dancing with Butterflies: Discovering Mindfulness Through Breathing” by Adrienne Barr. This beautifully illustrated mommy and me book encourages readers to manage anxiety with an easy-to-read story. Pre-order your hardcover, personalized autographed book, coloring pages and a bookmark. For more information and to register, email NCNWCoopCitySocial@gmail.com.

Women Represent With the topic of “Justice,” Women Represent! returns via Zoom. April is the month. Are you a performance poet? Are you a singer? Do you work in the legal field? If you would like information regarding participating in our program, please contact Camille Worrell, chairperson of Women Represent! 2021 at worrellswords@aol.com. Please write Women Represent in the subject area. Our theme will be announced in January. All are invited to attend.

Social Media Remember you can find us on Facebook: NCNWCoopcityBethune; Twitter: @NCNWCoop City; Instagram: NCNW Co-op City and email: www.ncnwco.opcity@gmail.com.

—Joyce Howard

15

African American Association

A personal invitation…

Our next general membership meeting is scheduled for Sunday, January 17, at 3:00 p.m. It will be in the form of a Zoom Meeting to keep us all safe and well.

We encourage your participation. If your email has changed, drop us a line at aaaccpower@gmail.com. You must receive a personal invitation from us to attend our meetings and webinars.

The African-American Association was organized with the following objectives: To provide a forum for African-American issues of importance that affect our lives; To address problems affecting the African-American community in Co-op City in particular – and the African-American community in general; To provide and make accessible the most up-to-date and accurate information, through educational lectures, educational forums, study groups, etc. – to enable critical analysis and intelligent decisions based on fact; To provide cultural awareness, training classes, programs, educational scholarships, and social activities for our youth.

We extend to you, one and all, a personal invitation to join us…

Be the vision you want your people, your children, your world to see. Membership is $15.00/year for a single membership and $25.00/year for your household. Email: aaaccpower@gmail.com or call: 929-430-3255. The African American Association of Co-op City, P.O. Box 702, Co-op City Station, Bronx, NY 10475. Kindly send a check or money order only.

This month, we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In an endearing quote, he said: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Love yourself and your community enough that you would become a card carrying member of the African-American Association of Co-op City.

The African-American Association sponsors the following programs: Belly Dance Classes with Xonia Wilson – Contact: Xonia, 646-301-9438 Evening Line Dance Classes with Cynthia Dixon – Contact: Cynthia, 917903-7073 Salsa Class with Keith Witherspoon – Contact: Keith, 917-561-6211 Yoga & Pilates Classes with Meena Sharpe-Hicks – Contact: Meena at 917863-1507 Each one of us divided by all of us equals a force for good.

—Michelle Marbury

Building 20 Association

Happy New Year, my fellow cooperators!

I hope everyone had a joyous and blessed Holiday and brought in the New Year safely. The year 2020 has certainly not been easy for anyone with all the difficult events happening in our world. If your Christmas spirit felt crushed, and you were lacking joy and feeling void of hope, remember that life continually changes, and this pandemic too shall pass. Let’s redirect our thoughts to focus on the hope and new ideas we can develop together to get 2021 going.

What’s to come Mission statement and bylaws: I have left messages for the CSO and I will be following up to receive guidance regarding this matter. As mentioned in my previous article, when a draft is devised, I will schedule a general meeting to review and vote on the final version before it becomes official.

Association meeting room: The room needs to be painted and is in need of repair in a few areas. I will be attending the Building and Grounds meeting this month and will discuss this matter to hopefully resolve it.

General meetings: I will discuss scheduling the next meeting with the other members of the board. I am not certain if we should meet immediately or wait for the repairs in the room. Stay tuned for a posting.

—Darlene A. Keesley

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

16 Director’s Viewpoint –Claudia ...And, some consequences can be far reaching and lasting especially when they are unexpected and poorly planned. Recently, we experienced a Special Election to fill the seat vacated

by Councilmember Andy King expelled by a nearly unanimous vote of his colleagues for allegations of improper workplace conduct and misuse of public funds. When the Special Election was called for candidates to seek to fill Andy’s seat that expires December 31, 2021, a well-financed and highly organized roster of who’s who among Democratic leaders quickly coalesced to promote the protégé of the State Assembly Speaker. Clearly, the die was cast as soon as our mailboxes and front doors were overstocked with slick handbills extolling the virtuous and civic bona fides of the soon to be declared winner. Ironically, when perusing the list of endorsers, it occurred to me that they were the usual and predictable influencers using the same playbook that’s become all too familiar to residents of Co-op City. Nevertheless, there were some very equally passionate and highly competent candidates who, lacking the resources and backing of the well-oiled machine, are the true winners in

Sampson

Elections have consequences… my book. Like David, they took on Goliath.

Beware of people making empty promises who quickly move on once the parade has ended. Let’s reclaim our power and use it expeditiously and effectively.

One stark difference between the Special Election on December 22 and the November 3rd General Election was that with the exception of one, all the other candidates who lost behaved civilly and didn’t play the sore loser’s card. No one threatened to foment an insurrection and unleash mayhem on the winning side.

We all want the best for our community because we have heavily invested our precious time and energies, not to mention our hard earned resources, to preserve an enviable model of affordable living in a diverse and inclusive environment. This is very important and befuddles me why we’re so quick to take our eyes off the prize every four, two or special election cycles when we relinquish the reins of our power far too easily by not holding folks feet to the fire and demanding evidence to support specious claims. Coop City is the jewel in the crown! And we need to recognize this and preserve its value now more than ever.

Donate now to those in need Speaking of value, don’t forget to gather up your

well-worn clothes, shoes, bags, coats and other household items to donate to Goodwill and the Salvation Army. There are many people in need of these precious donations. Be sure to obtain receipts for your tax filings.

Lottery Winnings – Hurry up and wait Here’s a new twist to anyone lucky enough to have won anything over $500 recently. Due to COVID-19, the New York State Gaming Commission now requires an appointment to redeem lottery winnings in excess of $500. Even if there’s no line at the redemption window, you won’t be able to claim your prize, unless you’ve scheduled an appointment in advance. A friend of mine discovered when she tried to redeem her prize at the site in Yonkers listed on the website that she needed an appointment to do so. Not only was she turned away since the new rules require scheduling an appointment online, but the earliest date available to her was June 1, 2021! You can call ahead at 518-388-3370 for further information.

Wishing everyone a very safe and prosperous 2021!

I can be reached by email at: csampson@riverbayboard.com. Feel free to share your thoughts and concerns with me.

NAACP #2210 National Association for the Advancement of Colored People #2210

Mission Statement: “Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.” And we’ve been doing it since 1909.

Focus Areas: Federal Advocacy, Education, Economic Opportunity, Criminal Justice, Health, Environmental & Climate Justice.

NAACP 111th Annual Convention Theme: “We Are Done Dying.”

Democracy wins! Democracy must work for all of us.

• BET: 52nd NAACP Image Awards, February 20, at 8 p.m. ET • NAACP UNMASKED Series: Town Hall on Vaccine Safety.

Rivers Run Community Garden

Welcome to our 7th planting season at Rivers Run Community Garden. It is so exciting to look forward to growing something marvelous, meeting new people and being open to all opportunities to learn.

Last year, we were able to provide food to the community, personal protective gear and a place of peace while we dealt with the pandemic and its fallout. We are grateful for the magic that is a garden and look forward to continuing to be a beacon of hope.

Our next meeting is February 19 on Zoom. Details to follow. Please plan to attend as there is so much to discuss and strategize.

Please tell your friends and family about this amazing place where we not only grow fruits and vegetables, but we grow knowledge and friendships. Rivers Run Community Garden is a movement towards improved mental and physical health. We provide all types of workshops including nutrition, meditation, edible and medicinal wilds identification, planting, building, and crafting. We are the outdoor classroom for the local schools, daycares as well as residents and neighbors. We are a place of beauty and peace.

Visit. Stay. Experience us.

Membership requirements: $20 per year fee and 20 hours of work. There is a waiting list for beds. Members who are actively fulfilling the 20 hours of volunteer work requirement are moved up on the waiting list. Volunteers are welcome. Please mail your dues to Gail Sharbaan, 100 Casals Pl #32K, Bronx, NY 10475.

If you’d like to reach out to us, please email us at Rivers_run@yahoo.com or call Denise Shelley at 917-232-2982 or me at 718-671-3801.

Please continue to stay safe.

–Gail Sharbaan

• Donations to NAACP Empowerment Programs are tax deductible and for NAACP statements… Go to NAACP.ORG COVID-19 has not gone away! What you do as an individual impact all of us. We are all in this TOGETHER. Wear a mask, gloves, wash hands, practice social distancing.

Due to COVID-19 and at the request of the NAACP and Riverbay Corporation we have not had gatherings of any kind (health & safety reasons) in Einstein C.C., room 36, since March 13, 2020. Riverbay Corporation has recently informed me that no one should be in the room for any reason until further notice.

The NAACP Branch in Co-op City would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year. Congratulations to all the members of the newly formed Executive Committee. During this brief pause, we are restructuring and preparing for the new term. We are anxious to see everyone and hope you

join us when we resume our meetings on the fourth Sunday of the month. Our next Zoom Executive Committee Meeting is scheduled for Jan. 24, at 2 p.m. The Membership Meeting is scheduled for Jan. 24, 2021 at 3 p.m.

Stay Safe and have a healthy and prosperous New Year.

Membership Dues: New, renewal or gift an annual membership go to NAACP.ORG. or send request for application using post office mailing address. Annual dues: Adult, $30, and Youth, $10. Checks/money order made payable to: NAACP #2210 and mail to: N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City Station 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. If it is your desire to make a financial contribution in any amount, it is most appreciated. Thank you for your continued support and for helping the NAACP advocate for a more just and equal America.

“The civil rights movement didn’t begin in Montgomery and it didn’t end in the 1960’s. It continues on to this very minute.” –Julian Bond –Brenda Brown

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Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Building 27 Association

Hello, neighbors. Happy New Year 2021. We trust all is well, safe, and healthy. We all are complying with the guidelines to wear our mask, to be aware of social distancing at all times. Most people are going about their daily lives, mask and all. I believe that is the attitude to take. To subject ourselves to gloom and doom will not help the situation. So, let’s keep busy, keep moving forward in this New Year, with hope, staying positive, prayerful and keeping hope alive.

Good news – The unemployed should receive their checks for $300.00 weekly and those with income under $75,000, a $600.00 stimulus check. Who knows, another stimulus check may come under our elected President Biden.

Our neighbors, Board members, everyone seem to be on the upbeat, that is a good thing. Bernie Cylich sounding like a politician already, then again, it does not stop one from pursuing and being involved in their homes and communities for the common good.

Staying informed – During this pandemic, Gov. Cuomo kept Mayor de Blasio and us all informed on a daily basis. We learned how the city, state and federal governments are supposed to function. Our Board members encourage the shareholders to become involve in committees, at the same time, learn, offer opinions, concerns regarding our own community. A strong belief: to be a part of the solution and not a part of the problem. Don’t complain, do something about it.

Be encouraged – Take the vaccine, keep the faith, and think positive and in due season, this too shall pass. In the midst, Zoom came on the scene, a blessing in disguise, and we are meeting more people than ever, meetings, entertainment, church services, concerts, etc., you name it. We won’t even have to venture out.

Thank you – Again, we take this time to thank all essential workers, all occupations’ employees, medical/scientist, elected officials, volunteers, neighbors, Riverbay, Management and everyone who through it all kept our community, the city and state running and surviving. God bless them all and keep them safe and healthy.

The ramp – In the December 19, 2020 edition of the Co-op City Times, pg.

9, we have been advised by the NY State Dept of Transportation of I-95 direct access to Co-op City via a new ramp from the Hutchinson River Parkway to Bartow Ave. Copies of the Draft Design Report/Environmental Assessment/Draft 4(f) statement (DDR/EA/D4 (f) is available for review by the public at Baychester Library, 2049 Asch Loop, phone number: 718-379-6700. Available for download dot.ny.gov/bhmi, one may contact Community Board 10, 718-892-1161. The deadline for comments is February 2, 2021. (This information is brought to our attention.)

Happy Birthday to those celebrating this month. Condolences to our Co-op City families who lost a loved one. We continue to pray for one another. Contact Lydia Rondon at 718-583-3040 to share information of illness, someone deceased or in a nursing home.

“Pray for the world and the blessings over the vaccines, for the passing of this pandemic. Be prayerful, kind, thoughtful and thankful. “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” –Theodore Roosevelt.

–H. Overman

Building 21 Association Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Building 21 Happy New Year, 21’ers! All residents! And all shareholders!

Come and say Happy Anniversary to Building 21 at the Building “21” 50th Anniversary Zoom! Meet with special guests, hear and share fun facts about Bellamy Loop and come ready for surprises, be ready to share and to toast the New Year! Be there, Thursday, January 28, at 7 p.m.

Annual Dues, donations and envelopes…

We have secured a black Drop Box, under 24-hour surveillance in the laundry room. Please place your annual building association dues of $10 into the lockbox in an envelope with your building and apartment on the outside of the envelope.

This box is up only temporarily. Checks or money orders can be made out to Building 21 Association. Cash is also acceptable. The box is located on the right side of the television. You can see it if you are able to see the laundry room camera from your TV. It is a secured tamperproof lockbox and will be checked daily. Be sure to put your building and apartment number on the envelope. We thank you in advance for your cooperation and participation.

No mask, No entry Remember, no more than four (4) persons to an elevator with a mask properly covering your face and nose. We must think of others, to protect ourselves and each other during this pandemic. The number of new infections continues to rise.

Even if you are entering the buildings and elevators alone, molecules are airborne that you or someone else can breathe in. To protect each other, we all must put on our masks properly. Please cover mouth and your nose. One or two in our lobby or an elevator without masks is too many; can affect and infect many. Think of your neighbors and yourself.

21 Association contact information Phone us at: 347-504-1821 or email us at: 21association@gmail.com.

Happy New Year! Be safe and well, you and yours.

Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals A FORCE FOR GOOD… –Michelle Marbury

17

Building 13 Association

Building 13 Association Inc. monthly meeting will be on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 7 p.m. We will have a guest joining us so please check the bulletin board in the lobby for additional information. Make sure we have your e-mail address so you can receive the invitation with call in information. If you would like to receive a phone reminder, please make sure we have your telephone number. The “Three Masketeers” will be conferring to set up a date for a January Mask Giveaway.

We have held a mask giveaway monthly and will continue going forward. During this time, we will also begin to collect building association member dues. As always, your membership will entitle you to have your annual papers notarized when they become due. Note: If you or your family needs a mask please do not hesitate to let us know. We will try to accommodate all requests.

I have been asked about the Restoration Department, responsible for inspections and coordinating repairs in occupied apartments for plastering, painting, flooring, among other items. They are also responsible for refurbishing vacant apartments in preparation for new incoming cooperators. We have requested the director join a monthly meeting. Please continue to check the lobby board for updates.

Tower building lobby entrance renovations are scheduled to begin in January.

A preliminary schedule indicates late spring-early summer is when work will begin on Building 13. If there are any changes, you will be advised immediately.

We have newly renovated elevators. The best way to keep them in good condition is to follow Riverbay Corporation guidelines. Many believe that the only time to request a permit to have the elevator cabs covered is when there is a move-in or move out. Be advised that you are required to inform Riverbay when you will be receiving a furniture delivery or when you are disposing of furniture. If you have additional questions or are unsure whether you need a permit, please contact Ms. English, the manager for our building (CSO), for details regarding this matter at lenglish@riverbaycorp.com. The price for not following this directive can be costly.

Please make sure to continue complying with the recommended city and state safety guidelines as well as the Co-op City guidelines. Wear a mask on the premises, socially distance and wash your hands often. Remember elevators should be occupied by no more than four people and the laundry rooms by no more than five people.

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” –Coretta Scott King Our website is www.bldg13assoc.com or e-mail us at building 13assoc@yahoo.com.

Contacts: Leslie Peterson at 718-320-1370, president, at daddpeterson@aol.com or Gail Sharbaan, treasurer, at 718-671-3801. Thank you for supporting our team.

–Leslie Peterson

RIVERBAY ANONYMOUS WHISTLEBLOWER HOTLINE

If you have knowledge or a concern of possible violations of law, accounting irregularities, or other suspected wrongdoing affecting Riverbay, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement, or you may report it through an anonymous hotline by the following methods:

Go to an independent website, www.lighthouse-services/riverbaycorp, to complete an online disclosure form; Call the following independent third party whistleblower hotline at 1-833-290-0009 (English); or 1-800-216-1288 (Spanish); Send an e-mail to reports@lighthouse-services.com (the email must include “Riverbay” in the subject); or Send a fax to (215) 689-3885 (the fax must include “Riverbay” in the subject of the report).

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718.239.7110

18

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

I want to start off wishing the Retirees and family Happy New Year! From Chaplain Baez – This is not the end – but the beginning of something new. May the love of the Father, grace of the Son and communion the Holy Spirit be upon all of you. We love you and miss you all. Get ready!!! Get ready!!! Get ready!!!

Greater things are coming. Have a happy safe and blessed New Year, Retirees of Dreiser Loop. Please see page 11 of this issue for photos of some memories of our times together.

Please contact Josephine Flowers, Good & Welfare coordinator, 718-320-0539, if you have a family member who has passed or one of our members who is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home.

Reminder 2: We are in the process of updating our Membership Roster. If you

have a change of address or new telephone or cell phone number, please send it to Retirees of Dreiser Loop, 177 Dreiser Loop, rm. 19, Bronx, NY 10475, Attention: Delores Debnam. Or, you can email us at dreiserretirees@verizon.net. Down the road, we are planning to be in touch via email.

Attention! The Retirees need experienced part-time, freelance drivers with a CDL license with passenger endorsement with at least 3-years’ experience and a clean driving record. A stipend can be expected for each trip. This position requires transporting members and friends to and from special events within the Bronx as well as to outer boroughs. Please call Dorothy Byrd, 646-842-2458 and leave your name, telephone number and a brief message.

–Gladys Baez

Goose Island Seniors

Emma Keslinger has celebrated her 102nd Birthday last Tuesday. God Bless her. Happy Birthday.

Words from the Goose Island Seniors President – I want to thank those members who gave a donation to Goose Island Seniors. We will not collect dues this year but if you wish to donate $5, $10 or $15 it will help keep our club room for when we re-open. You may send your donation to the club address below. The pandemic has gotten worse so Riverbay has ordered us to remain closed until further notice. We have some of the best people in our club and I love you very much. As we look back over the years we had some wonderful times here in the Senior Citizens Social Club of Goose Island. The club has given us seniors a reason for getting up most days of the week. For some it gave the chance to dress up and go out. We made friends and had good conversations. We shared the joy of birthday parties and holiday gatherings. We laughed and enjoyed each other while playing games and traveling on trips. Best of all, it is right in our neighborhood.

We all are going through a difficult time right now, not being able to gather, but be strong. We will open again as soon as we can. Keep the lovely memories we made and look forward to the time we can continue where we left off. Let’s keep

our hearts together, and most of all, stay safe. If you paid dues for 2020 and did not receive your 2021 membership card, please call my cellphone number below.

To all members: Happy Birthday to our members who celebrate their birthday in the month of January: Novella White, Emma Keslinger, Mary Roach, Yolanda Jones, Othelia Jones, Edythe Rosenberg, Laura Sobelman, Estelle Lebowitz, Saul Weber, Linda Drax-Werner, Sarah Arteaga, Zulma Medina and Toby Landau.

Sick and shut-in – Edna Trujillo is having a surgical procedure this month let’s pray it is successful. Mary Pilla (former Goose Island president), sends her love to all. Mary is in the Paramount at Somers Nursing Center in Somers, NY. She will love to hear from you. You may call her at (718) 753-1816.

Our club is at 135 Einstein Loop, rm. 39, Bronx NY 10475, the Section 5 community center, phone number: (718) 379-9613. Our office is presently closed. You may call or text Stephen’s cell at (347) 847-1941. Our email address is goose.island@optonline.net.

These are unusual times. All our lives are altered. On behalf of my officers and myself, stay safe.

–Stephen Roberts, Sr.

Faith in God Church & Bible Institute

Pastor & Evangelist Vernon Little greets 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!

Scripture carries spiritual vitality. That’s why it doesn’t return void. Wherever it encounters an open heart, it brings refreshment, nourishment, and new life.

Isaiah 55:8-11 supports this. It says: 8 “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord.

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.

10 “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed

to the sower and bread to the eater, 11 so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”

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 third Sunday following the morning worship, we serve Holy Communion.

If you’re into gospel rap/holy hip-hop, go to www.soundcloud.com 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 # is (347) 2764925. Jesus loves you, and so do we.

–Evangelist Vernon Little

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

First things first By this time, you may have made known your New Year’s resolutions. Let’s add a few things to your list. Balance your multiple roles. Stay on top of your medical needs and health. Take on the challenge of increasing your technological skills. As caregivers, you are so business minded and may tend to forget about yourself.

You may forget to keep up with your doctors’ appointments, annual medical exam, lab work, mammogram, GYN, ENT, and other specialist follow ups. Make that call to set up your annual appointments for the year. Place them in a calendar on your digital device or purchase a monthly/day-to-day calendar. If you use your device, do not forget to set up alerts. The alerts can be set up to a day in advance.

If at all possible, preparation is the key to a successful caregivers’ journey. Set up a medical information digital folder or binder to be readily available in an emergency, a move or a change of doctor. Make sure you inform someone on how to gain access to this information. If your health care provider is affiliated with a health care facility that allows you access to your chart, register to do so. Electronic charting will allow you access to your progress notes, lab results, make appointments, and even send the doctor a message with any concerns you may have.

Have you heard about OATS? I am not talking about the oats that you eat in your cereal, or cookies. OATS (Older Adults Technology Services) mission is to help seniors learn and use technology so they could live better in the digital age.

Increase your technology skills right from your home. Register for one of their upcoming sessions and sign up to receive their Newsletter, https://oats.org.

Caregivers take on multiple roles as spouse, mother, child, grandmother, employee, teacher, neighbor, and friend. Sometimes, it may seem almost impossible to take

some “Me time” and more so during this pandemic. Schedule some “Me time” on your calendar. What does a “Me time” look like? It is whatever activity you feel will allow you to take a break from your role as a caregiver. Some examples may include talking with your friends, reading a book, going on a walk, listening to music, praying, writing in a journal, or may just be having a cup of coffee with your legs up and doing absolutely nothing.

First things first. Now that you have your priorities in order, you can envision a sense of balance, organization, health awareness and personal self-fulfillment in 2021.

Please join us for our first monthly “Let’s Talk” informational caregivers support session on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. Caregiving 101 presented by Senior Whole Health. Each session is 45 min. and registration is now opened. Register online at comeoutreach.org or leave your name and number at 718-379-3159. Someone will get back to you with information on how to join via Zoom or phone. Come join us as we connect, laugh, learn, support and encourage one another.

–Diane Cooper

Baychester Library is open for Grab-and-Go service. Please make sure to check out nypl.org for more information and online resources.

19

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

(929) 399-1394

(718) 671-5161

(718) 320-1345 Chair Yoga w/Charles Tyler Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99565341173 1-646-876-9923 US (New York) Meeting ID: 948 6880 5136 Passcode: 855423

Upcoming Events JASA Co-op City NORC Program invites you for the Upcoming Virtual Activities – January 2021

Fri., Jan. 15

Thu., Jan. 14

Wed., Jan. 13

Tues., Jan. 12

Mon., Jan. 11

New 2021 – Arthritis Exercise Class w/Damion every Thurs., 1-2 p.m. Zoom Meeting ID: 986 0021 No Activities 6442, Passcode: 573762.

Tai Chi classes – Every Wed., 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/95267447198?pwd=MDhCa1U5 d24rMkdpNWZnMXVHejl2dz09, Music Therapy, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Arthritis Exercise class with Mobile: 929.205.6099, Meeting ID: 952 6744 7198, Zoom call-in #: 1-646-876-9923 Damion, every Tues., 11 a.m.

Password: 455576. to 12 p.m.

Arts with Laura, 10 a.m. - 12 Meeting ID: 935-5178-1563 Zumba Classes – Saturdays, 1 - 2 p.m. Co-op City Passcode: 045708 Zoom Meeting: p.m. via Zoom and phone Zoom is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting, https://zoom.us/j/9828183332 https://zoom.us/j/92928109097?pwd=Z1lwMHFNcD5?pwd=bERyOXIrZXlENWR4V2 Must call or email to register: “Zumba w/Ola,” 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

NRSGZZZ20vTmlZSmtLQT09 Zoom Meeting: Meeting ID: 929 2810 9097, Passcode: 374977, RKU0NmdzAwdz09 929-399-1387 https://zoom.us/j/99231696108 Mobile: 929.205.6099.

Meeting ID: 982 8183 3325 Meeting ID: 992 3169 6108 Bodies in Motion w/Ola – Sun., 1-2 p.m. Zoom Passcode: 582148 Passcode: 503637 Meeting, Mobile: +1-929-205-6099 Call in number: 1-929-205-6099 https://zoom.us/j/98867100439?pwd=eVhjY3Jzb3 Weight Management Support FpNjdDOVRwbjYOUmFWdz09 “Creative Hour with Sister Group w/Gigi, 2nd Wed. of the Dial in: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 988 6710 0439, Grace,” 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. on Passcode: 252733. month, 1 p.m.

2 p.m.

Conference how to make Floral ArrangeMeditation Class – GPC (Grandparents) 11 a.m. call: 929-299-1045, Code: 1386 ments. Dial-in: 929-205-6099 to 12 p.m.; 3rd Thurs. of every month in 2021. Dial Health and Wellness, 10 a.m. Meeting code: 915-3777-954.

Game Day – Every Wed., 1-2 p.m. w/ in number: 929.299.1045, Passcode: 1386.

-11 a.m., via Zoom or phone Email Ann for Zoom link, Ms. Margaret Kempe and students (Pay NEW: Computer learning w/Ralph, Wed., 11 amoncrieffe@jasa.org it Forward Engineers) at Scarsdale HS. a.m. - 12 p.m. To register, please call the JASA office Zumba with Ola, 1 p.m. Virtual game day, different games each with your name, email address & phone number.

Smartphione/Tablets Zoom week incl. Bingo. Please call 718-3202 p.m., via Zoom or phone Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/93681329040?

Meeting w/Ralph, 1:00 p.m. - 1345 to register and receive Zoom info. p w d = V G l H Q W F RY W d 3 S H k w O E d 6 a X R 2:00 p.m.

Bereavement Hour maFIvZz09 https://zoom.us/j/2959552471? Computer learning w/Ralph, Wed., 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Call in: 929-205-6609, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, pwd=aFl4Y1N5dlpyNy80V3pJN0 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

To register, call JASA Passcode: 259554. hUVnVFZz09 Must call or email to register: To register, please call the JASA office w/your name, email & phone.

Sex Education – 1-2 p.m., Jan. 21, 2021. https:// 929-399-1387 zoom.us/j/94340275929?pwd=RjRZTVVlZUhDoffice with your name, email ad- Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us /j/ NjQ3MGVGU05ZUFFtUT09 93681329040?pwd=VGlHQWFRYW dress & phone number.

Meeting ID: 943 4027 5929, Passcode: 192010, d3SHkwOEd6aXRmaFIvZz09; Dial in: Meeting ID: 2959552471 Dial in: 929-205-6099.

929-205-6609; Meeting ID: 936 Passcode: 259554 NEW: Smartphones and Tablets Learning TechDial in: 1-929-205-6609 8132 9040; Passcode: 259554 nology w/ Ralph – Every Wed., 1 - 2 p.m.

Zoom meeting https://zoom.us/j/2959552471?

Arts with Laura Meditation w/Charles Tyler Health and Wellness pwd=aFl4Y1N5dlpyNy80V3pJN0hUVnVFZz09 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Meeting ID: 295 955 2471, Passcode: 259554. (via Zoom and Phone) Zoom Meeting link (via Zoom or Phone) JASA Bartow and Einstein senior centers present https://zoom.us/j/94868805136 “I Have a Dream,” a MLK Presentation of Readings Smartphone/Tablet Class 1-646-876-9923 and Tributes in memory of Dr. Martin Luther King w/Ralph 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Call Meeting ID: 948 6880 5136 Jr. – Fri., Jan. 15, 2021, 2 - 4 p.m. Join Zoom Meeting: Main Ofc., 718-320-2066, to Must call or email to register: Passcode: 770292 register. Please give your telehttps://zoom.us/j/96621378242? pwd=Q1hrUldLdzBx929-399-1387 phone # & email address UUNGRnlxVXRwcnoyZz09 Meeting ID: 966 2137 8242, Passcode: 668219, Stretch and Tone with Ola, 1 - 2 Dial by phone: 929-205-6099. p.m. (via Zoom or phone). Must call Concerts in Motion 1:00 - 2:00 “TEA and TALK” with Kelly started Tuesday, Jan. or email to register: 929-399-1387 p.m.

5, 2021, 1-2 p.m. Moderator Kelly Ardama will lead (NORC) Aerobic Classes every Fri., Zoom Link: a discussion related to hot trending topics discussed 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

No Activities https://us02web.zoom.us/ Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/98682 over tea. Dial in at 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 945 358691?pwd=dS9ublovZ01mRVVYj/82906881632.

0739 5832, Passcode: 415390. bEhCYng2SkZHdz09 Dial in by phone: 646.558.8656 Emergency Preparedness presentation w/NYC Mobile: 929.205.6099 Meeting ID: 829-0688-1632 Emergency Mgt. – Mon., Jan. 25, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 Meeting ID: 986 8235 8691 p.m. ZOOM info: Please click the link below to join the Passcode: 849150 webinar: https://nycem- nyc.zoom.us/j/88005102879? pwd=bVh2RmtlWm5PYzRzQ0ZlZHRVNXN2dz09, Dial in number: 1-646-558-8656, Passcode: 223789, Webinar ID: 880 0510 2879.

(Schedule subject to change without notice) 30 Minute Gratitude Meditation with Paola – Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, Fri., Jan. 29, 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Zoom info.: https:// zoom.us/j/4421366695, Meeting ID: 442 136 6695, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

Dial in: 1-929-205-6099.

Light Housekeeping service is available w/Kris Agency. Housekeeping service is for 4 hours @ $15.00 an hour. If interested, call the JASA office, From President Mickens: Dear members, I hope member who has passed or one of our members who 718-320-2066. you all had a wonderful Christmas. We are all looking is sick, in the hospital or in a nursing home.

JASA activities – If interested in knowing, we will forward to a Happy New Year. May 2021 bring Peace FYI: We are updating our mailing list. If you have email the information to you. Call 718-320-2066 and and Happiness to you and yours. AARP is working a change of address, home phone number or cell phone give us your email address. on behalf of our seniors. Updates to follow. Stay safe… number, please contact Jean: 718-379-3742; Deborah: New: JASA Co-op City Senior Centers, in colKeep in touch with each other; remember to continue 718-379-6312. laboration with Plant Powered Metro New York, to wash your hands, wear your face mask (including Reminder: Our monthly Membership meeting, will be presenting an 8-week Plant-Based Workshop starting Feb. 4, 2021 to March 25, 2021. Initial in the elevator and on public transportation) and main- scheduled on the second Monday of each month, is Class, Friday, Jan. 22, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Improve tain social distancing. cancelled until further notice. No word from Riverbay your immune health with food. Please email amonPlease contact our Good and Welfare coordinator, re the community center opening. crieffe@jasa.org or Pogando@jasa.org to register.

—Delores Debnam Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, if you have a family

Body in Motion 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Exercise class via Zoom or phone Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 AARP Chapter #4997

20

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Community Protestant Church

The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. During this dark season, Reverend Dr. Calvin E. Owens and the Community Protestant Church family continue to lift up in prayer our community, city, state, nation and the world, especially all those affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Our regular church schedule has been cancelled due to the outbreak of the virus. However, our members and friends are invited to join us via the Telephone Conference Call Line at (712) 432-3900; at the prompt, enter access code 343284, followed by the # sign.

Church Schedule Sunday School is now in session via conference call every Sunday at 9 a.m.

For Youth Sunday School, call (712) 452-3900, access code 953697, followed by the # sign.

For Adult Sunday School, call (712) 432-3900, access code 343284, followed by the # sign Sunday Worship Service begins at 11:00 a.m. via Conference Call at (712) 432-3900, access code: 343284, #.

Noon Day Prayer at CPC: On Wednesdays at 12 p.m., you are cordially invited to call in for Noon Day Prayer at CPC, an hour of Power, Prayer, Praise and Testimony.

Bible Study on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Please join us via the Conference Call number above.

The text for Pastor Owens’ first sermon of the New Year came from Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” His topic was “No Fear in the New year.” He posed the question, “What is your greatest fear for the New Year – failure, defeat, sickness or loss?” He stated that last year many wrestled with many phobias – irrational or powerful fears – such as the Pandemic. What does it mean to have no fear? It means the elimination of general anxiousness and specific apprehensions. As Christians, we should sing the words of David in Psalm 27:1 with great joy. As David overcame his fears by placing his trust in God, so can we. In the face of confusion and doubt, obey God. The point of David’s Psalm is when trouble comes, God will make a way. God is our refuge, a strong place to hide in a storm, a place of shelter in our time of need. Those who trust in God face the unknown without fear. Our Father knows the way. We will get through this dark tunnel and will see the bright light once again.

Reminder: Flu vaccine now available.

Be safe from Covid-19. Practice social distancing and wear your mask when you go out.

Until we meet again, Pastor Owens and our church family pray that God will be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause His face to shine upon us; that His way may be known upon earth, and His saving health among all nations.

–Evan G. Mitchell

Co-op City Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Sheldon E. Williams and the Co-op City Baptist Church family invite you to join us tomorrow at 11 a.m. for worship service on Zoom. You can join us by Zoom Video, https://us04web.zoom.us/j/9623430102, or Zoom Telephone Conference Line, (646) 568-7788, Conference ID: 962 343 0102, Password: 788175#.

Wednesday Bible Study is held at 1 p.m. To join, use the Zoom information shown above.

Thursday Prayer Warriors is held at 12 p.m. You can join using the Conference Call Line, 563 999 2090, PIN # 660065.

Friday Noon Prayer is held at 12 p.m. You can join us using the Conference Call Line shown above.

Friday Evening Prayer is held at 7:30 p.m. You can join us using the Conference Call Line shown above. Please note: Friday Evening Prayer service is not held on the first Friday of the month.

Sunday School for adults is held at 9 a.m. Use Conference Call Line shown above to join in. Sunday School for children and youth are held as follows: Primaries (6-8 years old), 2:30 p.m. FCC: (701) 802-5451, PIN/ACCESS: 2788906.

Juniors (9-11 years old), 3:30 p.m. ZOOM: (516) 259-9274 (no access code required) Young Teens (12-17 years old), 9:30 a.m. FCC: (701) 802-5230, PIN/ACCESS: 3559529.

Flu season is here, don’t forget to get your flu shot. If you have not had Shingles, you should also discuss getting the Shingles vaccine with your physician.

Please keep each other in your prayers and be wise in your decisions. Don’t forget to wear a mask, practice social distancing and stay safe!!!!

GOD will strengthen us as we travel through this storm. GOD is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 The Co-op City Baptist Church exists to glorify God and to establish a living community of people who follow the teachings of Jesus the Christ through worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship. We seek to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the church through ministry.

–Hattie L. Lucas

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

St. Joseph’s is located at 155 Dreiser Loop, lower level, Co-op City, Bronx, NY 10475.

Greetings! Due to the ongoing pandemic, St. Joseph’s Church has suspended services until further notice. However, we continue to worship via teleconference on Sundays, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Father Johnson also conducts daily weekday services at 12 p.m.

You are invited to participate in these services by calling 1-425-436-6344, access code: 509 898, followed by the # sign.

Grace and peace!

–M. Chambers

Open Door Ministries “Renewed Spirit” Full sermon at opendoorminsitries.net

The year 2021 has come with the promise of newness and an ending to a difficult 2020. Many of us will be setting goals, writing resolutions and promising to make changes. All of these things might be good but the reality is that we will only go forward as far as our will and resolve prevails. Soon we will be back to the same old behavior unless we call on God to step in and help us break patterns of sinful attitudes that draw us back into slavery.

Zechariah 3:1 The angel showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. 2 The Lord said to Satan, The Lord rebuke you, Satan! The Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebuke you! Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire? 3 Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel. 4 The angel said to those who were standing before him, Take off his filthy clothes. Then he said to Joshua, See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put fine garments on you.

Through God’s mercy Joshua is provided with clean clothing that he could not find on his own. In the same way God has snatched us from fire and doom and yet we often get close to the edge and God pulls us back to safety. All God wants from us is obedience and trust. When we agree to agree with God and let him clothe us we are renewed spiritually forever.

Romans 8:18 What we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory God will reveal to us later. 19 For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. 20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. 22 For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us.

We are in living in waiting mode, serving God here while looking forward to the fulfillment of his promises. Our new clothing is the salvation that only God could provide. Although often difficult to see, God is working out our salvation and causing all things to come together for our good.

Contact Open Door Ministries by phone/text 917-334-4407 Blessings in Christ, –Pastor Luis Ramos

Turn On Your Headlights when driving in the parking garages

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

Traditional Synagogue of Co-op City

The requirement for wearing a mask and social distancing will be strictly enforced during all synagogue services.

General Information: The Traditional Synagogue located in Section 5, 120 Erdman Place in the rear lobby of 27B. It is on the ground floor of Building 27B, it is handicap accessible, no steps. Phone #: 718-379-6920. Office hours are Thursday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. Please call the office before you attempt to come over. If no one is in the office, please leave a message.

The synagogue has Services on Saturday morning starting at 9:00 a.m. After Services, we always have a kiddush.

The synagogue has a Facebook page, Traditional Synagogue.

The synagogue needs donations. Whatever amount you can donate, big or small, would help. The synagogue needs men to help make a minyan. There are a lot of Jewish men who live in Co-op City who don’t come to services.

Please come by 9:00 a.m. so we can take out the Torah.

The Traditional Synagogue is the only synagogue in Co-op City.

Sabbath ends on Saturday, January 9, 2020, at 5:39 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, January 15, 2020, 4:33 p.m.

Good and Welfare We sell tree certificates in honor or memory of a loved one. The cost is only $15.00 per tree. Mazel Tov to all having simchas. If you’re ill, wishing you good health. If you asked the Rabbi to say prayers for a sick person, you should make your donation to the synagogue.

To all members Happy Birthday to Saul Weber and all other members who will celebrate their birthday in January. For all those members celebrating their birthday/anniversary in January, please send me your names and I will add them to the list.

Fun and games After services and kiddush, your support for the Traditional Synagogue is greatly appreciated. Wishing all our members and friends peace and good health.

–Bruce Gitelson

Pentecostal Tabernacle

The Pentecostal Tabernacle invites everyone to Worship Service on the following days below. Tel. 718-324-0334.

Sunday worship Service starts at 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Prayer and fasting service will be held every Wednesday morning at 11 a.m.

- 12:30 p.m. Bible study and prayer meeting will also be held Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 p.m. Worship service, every Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. All services are held online. To join, please call 720-740-9746, Access code:

8876631.

Focus: God’s blessings are often found where we experience our worst defeat; it is important to take advantage of divine opportunity.

Believers should seek the mind of the Lord instead of relying on their own reasoning and abilities.

Our own lives often reveal the desire to avoid problem and provide human solutions rather than trusting the true source of our strength. In the book of Ruth, we can clearly see that problem cannot be avoided, but must be faced through the guidance and power of the spirit of God. (Ruth 1:1-5) Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, and there was famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem, Judah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he and his wife, and his two sons. And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah.

And they came into the country Moab, and continue there. And Elimelech Naomi’s husband died; and she was left, and her two sons.

And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth, and they dwell there about ten years.

And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the women was left of her two sons and her husband.

When this family decided to move out of their own country and sojourn in the country of Moab to dwell there, they failed to rely upon the Lord or trust His provision in the middle of the famine. The moment we run from our problems or circumstances is the moment we lack trust in God and begin to place our faith in our own ingenuity or ability. Proverbs 3;5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Life in Moab, prove to be filled with heartache and despair for this family.

Naomi experienced feelings of dissolution for the lost of her husband and felt that was the end of her dreams. But she did not want the same fate for her daughters-in-law.

They lost their husband, but as young widows, they had opportunities to remarry and have a full life. Therefore, Naomi decided to give them permission to be freed from any responsibility they felt to care for her and return home to Judah. But Ruth was determined to go with her mother-in-law Naomi, and was bless to marry to Boaz Naomi’s kinsman.

–Rev. R. Sibblies

Church of New Vision

21

From the pastors, Kenneth & Deborah Hodge’s desk: On behalf of the Church of New Vision, we wanted to take a moment to send a note to let you know we are thinking about you during this special time of the year. While many are focused on the pandemic and what might be the politically correct thing to say or do in this wonderful holiday season, we remain focused on the “Christ” of Christmas.

We know that it can be challenging to go through the holiday season without the opportunity to come out to services at the church to fellowship with one another or even visit family. However, we want you to know that God is with you at all times. He will surely be your source of strength and comfort this year as He has in years past. So, with that in mind, we want to take this opportunity to thank God and pray that you and your family have a Blessed Merry Christmas holiday season, as we as a church family celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords. As we look forward into the New Year 2021, our verse of the year is 2 Corinthians 12:9 “And He said unto me, my grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

The Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Love of God, be with you all. Amen.

We welcome you with the love of the Lord to join us on Sunday as we share the word of God at 11:00 a.m. on YouTube, type in Kenneth Hodge. Wednesday prayer service, 7:00 p.m., via telephone conference line by calling 1-646-7699900, then enter access number 3099388. Once prayer has begun, please MUTE your phone so all can hear with clarity.

Sunday, January 3, Worship Service theme: “Staying Positive in a Negative World.”

Scripture: Philippians 4:6-9 “Be careful about nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

[2 Corinthians 1:20 (promises); Proverbs 23:7 (as a man thinks); Romans 8:28] Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all the bereaved families. May the love of God embrace, heal, strengthen, comfort, and give you peace.

Continue to practice social distancing, wash hands, wear a mask and stay safe!

Thanks for your contributions, Malachi 3:10. Mailing address: Church of New Vision, P.O. Box 75-3037, Einstein Station, Bronx, NY 10475.

–Brenda Brown

Newsong Church

It’s time to get into shape!

8 “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” 9 This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it. –1 Timothy 4:7-9 (NLT) It never fails. Every January, the gym is full of people hoping to work off those holiday pounds and get ready for the summer. For the record, there’s nothing wrong with getting into physical shape. I think that it’s important to eat right, exercise, and be physically healthy.

As followers of Jesus, it’s important to remember that we should also be getting into shape spiritually. The Apostle Paul tells us that training for godliness is “much better” than physical training, because it helps us in this life, and in the life to come.

How does one train spiritually? The word of God is full of different spiritual disciplines that help us grow closer to God. When we look at the life of Jesus, we see that He not only taught us these disciplines but He practiced and modeled them for us. The Holy Spirit uses these disciplines to help us grow into the image of Jesus.

Here’s a few disciplines we see Jesus practicing…

Reading, Studying, & Memorizing the Word of God: This helps us get to know who God is. The Word of God. The more we get to know Him, the more we fall in love with Him. Prayer: Prayer connects us to God so that we can have a personal conversation with Him. As we begin to spend time with Him in prayer, we’ll experience Him in a fresh new way!

Fasting: If prayer connects us to God, then fasting actually disconnects us from distractions that keep us from connecting to Him. Silence & Solitude: This helps us to slow down. Often times when we’re praying, we do all the talking, when we take time to slow down and get alone with God, we can listen to what He wants to say to us.

Over the next few weeks, we will be taking a closer look at the different spiritual disciplines practiced by Jesus, and it’s my prayer that in 2021 we will all continue to grow in our Christlikeness. Before you start this spiritual training, a word of caution. Practicing spiritual disciplines does not make you a super Christian.

They won’t earn you a place in Heaven, or make God love you more. We can never earn God’s love salvation or favor. He loves us all, and the only way to be saved is through His Son Jesus. Spiritual disciplines are not rules that we have to follow or else. They’re rhythms that we get to practice. Tools that help us get closer to God. That’s it. Are you ready to get into shape this year? Let’s get it!

To learn more about practicing the way of Jesus, check out our website for teachings and free resources, www.newsongchurchnyc.org.

–Pastor Mike Tolone

22

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS

THIS DAY IN HISTORY January 9, 2007 Steve Jobs debuts the iPhone

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January 9, 1952 President Truman warns of Cold War dangers

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Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City

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PUBLIC SAFETY

Co-op City Department of Public Safety (718) 671-3050 www.ccpd.us If you SEE something, SAY something!

On January 9, 2007, Apple Inc. CEO Steve Jobs unveils the iPhone—a touchscreen mobile phone with an iPod, camera and Web-browsing capabilities, among other features—at the Macworld convention in San Francisco. Jobs, dressed in his customary jeans and black mock turtleneck, called the iPhone a “revolutionary and magical product that is literally five years ahead of any other mobile phone.” When it went on sale in the United States six months later, on June 29, amidst huge hype, thousands of customers lined up at Apple stores across the country to be among the first to purchase an iPhone.

In November 2007—by which point more than 1.4 million iPhones had been sold—Time magazine named the sleek, 4.8-ounce device, originally available in a 4GB, $499 model and an 8GB, $599 model, its invention of the year. The iPhone went on sale in parts of Europe in late 2007, and in parts of Asia in 2008. In July 2008, Apple launched its online App Store, enabling people to download software applications that let them use their iPhones for games, social networking, travel planning and an every growing laundry list of other activities. Apple went on to over 10 updated models of the iPhone.

The iPhone helped turned Apple, which Jobs (1955-2011) co-founded with his friend Stephen Wozniak in California in 1976, into one of the planet’s most valuable corporations. In 2012, five years after the iPhone’s debut, more than 200 million had been sold. The iPhone joined a list of innovative Apple products, including the Macintosh (launched in 1984, it was one of the first personal computers to feature a graphical user interface, which allowed people to navigate by pointing and clicking a mouse rather than typing commands) and the iPod portable music player (launched in 2001), that became part of everyday modern life.

Co-op City is private property and therefore prohibits distribution of unsolicited advertising material to shareholders’ homes and/or property, including cars parked in the development’s eight garages.

If you witness anyone depositing or distributing advertising material on Co-op City property, please call Public Safety at 718-671-3050.

Be prepared to give the location and description of the person(s) leaving the material.

All unwanted, unsolicited advertising material should be disposed of properly and not thrown on the ground causing litter.

Thank you for your cooperation.

In his 1952 State of the Union address, President Harry S. Truman warns Americans that they are “moving through a perilous time,” and calls for vigorous action to meet the communist threat.

Though Truman’s popularity had nose-dived during the previous 18 months because of complaints about the way that he handled the Korean War, his speech received a standing ovation from congressmen and special guest Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Truman spent much of his speech addressing foreign policy concerns. The primary focus was on meeting the communist challenge. The president declared that the United States was confronted with “a terrible threat of aggression.” He also pointed with pride to U.S. action in meeting that threat. In Korea, combined U.S. and United Nations forces “turned back the Chinese Communist invasion;” elsewhere in Asia, U.S. assistance to its allies was helping to “hold back the Communist advance;” and in Europe and the Middle East, the fight against Soviet expansion was also ongoing.

Truman was particularly proud of the Point Four program, which provided U.S. scientific and technical assistance (such as in the field of agriculture) to the underdeveloped world, claiming that it helped “feed the whole world so we would not have to stomach communism.” There could be no slacking of effort, however, since the Soviet Union was “increasing its armed might,” and with the Soviet acquisition of atomic bomb technology, the world was still walking “in the shadow of another world war.”

Truman’s speech was a stirring rebuttal to domestic critics like Senator Joseph McCarthy, who attacked Truman’s “softness” on communism.

Perhaps such criticism contributed to Truman’s decision not to run for re-election. Adlai Stevenson ran as the Democratic candidate, but he lost the election to Dwight Eisenhower.

Public Safety

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021 (Continued from page 7)

Dangers lurk on the internet for people of all ages. Always bear in mind that a social media profile or a game profile may not actually realistically represent the individual behind the profile. People pretending to be wealthy, single and seeking companionship may not be who they are pretending to be. Persons wanting to leave chat spaces on video games and move onto another more private forum almost always have ulterior motives. Handsome, rich, widowed, offshore engineers in their 50’s with a child, looking to meet women may actually be con men looking to engage their next victim. Coincidentally that is the profile I have come across on several occasions. They can’t fool me and they can’t fool you either. After they establish trust with their target by way of conversation, they may eventually ask you to send money or personal information. Different age groups are targeted differently. Never trust anyone you do not personally know. Usually, if it sounds too good to be true, it might be a set-up.

A text, a phone call or an email message telling you one of your accounts has been compromised. Do not click on the message or engage the call. Malware or spyware can be downloaded with a single click. Always think before you act.

Ask a trusted friend or family member if you are not sure if something is genuine. Use strong passwords. Check the requirements and use small and capital letters, numbers and symbols if permitted. It is better not to use the same password for multiple accounts. If you need to write the passwords down, keep them in a secure location and write them in a code only you will understand. Do not use your personal information such as phone number, date of birth or Social Security number in passwords. Do not choose passwords that are easy to guess such as Passw0rd, 12345 or ABCDE. I would like to extend a very special thank you to everyone who donated toys to our Toy Drive. This year’s toy drive was the most successful in the seven-year history, thanks to the generosity of Co-op City residents. Toys were distributed to the Montefiore Children’s Hospital and two area shelters where no child left without receiving a toy. Thank you again for not allowing the pandemic to stop you from helping this worthwhile cause.

As we enter the New Year, be sure to drive safely and obey all traffic rules.

Never operate a motor vehicle if you have consumed alcoholic beverages.

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. Be sure to Move Over for any emergency or service vehicles on the side of the road with their lights flashing.

The holiday season is a good time to think about those with disabilities, especially those disabilities which are not visible. The holidays can be a difficult

23

If You See Something, Say Something!

Working Together To Keep Co-op City Safe!

• Report any unusual or suspicious persons or activity to CCPD. • Do not allow strangers access to your building by holding the door.

• Be aware of work being done in your building and when contractors are allowed to be on the premises.

• Never leave your car or apartment door unlocked.

• Do not leave packages or electronics in your car where they are visible.

• Remember: You can make anonymous calls to CCPD.

Emergency: 718-671-3050 or 9-1-1 • Non-Emergency: 718-320-3330 www.ccpd.us • @CCPDnyc time for persons suffering from physical or mental illness. Those who suffer from depression or those who have had a difficult year may feel like life is perfect for everyone else. The end of the holiday season is an excellent opportunity to reach out to friends, family and neighbors who may need someone to speak to. If you feel as though you need someone to speak to, there is always someone willing to help, (775) 784-8090 or 1 (800) 273-8255 are Crisis Support Hotlines that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You can even TEXT ANSWER to 839863 if texting is how you prefer to communicate. Just speaking to someone can help you put problems into perspective and obtain assistance you may need.

If you are having difficulties related to Covid-19, please contact NY Project Hope online at www.nyprojecthope.org or by phone at (844) 863-9314. Emotional support and referrals are available. The service is confidential, anonymous and free and available from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day. These are challenging times and there is help out there.

Always remember, if you see something, say something. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050 or online at www.ccpd.us. Callers may remain anonymous when giving information.

The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to thank all persons who have called in suspicious activity or sent information via our website. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety would like to wish you a happy, healthy and safe New Year 2021.

24

Co-op City Times / January 9, 2021

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