Co-op City Times 1/16/2021

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State DOT aims to fix congestion with Bruckner-Hutch improvements Vol. 56 No. 3

Saturday, January 16, 2021

BY TORIEA McCAUSELAND

Members of the New York State Department of Transportation virtually presented their “Bruckner-Hutch Mobility Improvement Project” to Community Board 10’s Municipal Services Committee on Wednesday, Jan. 13.

The project focuses on the northeast Bronx that includes a part of Pelham Bay Park and Co-op City, improving two main areas: Hutchinson River Parkway in Co-op City and I-95 corridor/Pelham Pkwy interchange.

NYSDOT-planned improvements to the areas would eliminate ramps and several merge lanes. Also, on the table is removing bike paths and replacing them with new pedestrian/bike crossings, along with new traffic signals and improving parklands. Bartow Avenue improvements will consist of a new exit ramp and traffic signal for better Co-op City access from the highway. Bronx Victory Memorial Grove will also get a makeover with new trees, improved bicycle paths and new park viewing platforms.

NYSDOT’s Kevin Vishnu said, “The plan is to alleviate traffic in Co-op City as a whole and improving access from northbound Hutch which currently doesn’t have any access to Co-op City.”

According to NYSDOT, this project’s overall goal is to reduce congestion in the area and improve highway access to Co-op City, and also to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists crossing in these areas that are unsignalized. The new route will be “shorter, quicker, and easier” with using the new ramp.

With the proposed changes, Mr. Vishnu said NYSDOT did take into consideration the community and (Continued on page 2)

Cuomo updates vaccine eligibility

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

As New York continues ramping up its COVID-19 vaccine distribution capacity, the eligibility rules for individuals continue to be updated as well.

Governor Cuomo announced on Monday that individuals within priority group 1B can begin scheduling an appointment with individual providers, including pharmacies, local health departments, and hospitals to receive their COVID-19 vaccine.

As a refresher, priority group 1B specifically includes people ages 75 or older in addition to frontline essential workers who cannot physically distance and have frequent in-person contact with others. Currently, groups 1A and 1B are the only priority groups eligible to schedule a vaccination appointment.

“After ten long months, the expansion of eligibility for additional New Yorkers to begin making their COVID-19 vaccination plan is a light at the end of the tunnel,” said Governor Cuomo. “The vaccine is the weapon that will end the war, and as we continue to prioritize healthcare workers as hospital capacity (Continued on page 23)

$1.25

House votes to impeach President Trump for a second time

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

The U.S. House of Representatives voted on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021 to impeach the 45th President of the United States, Donald Trump, for a second time during his four-year tenure.

The President was charged with “incitement of insurrection” over the violent siege of the US Capitol on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021.

After a swift voting process, the House voted 232197 to impeach President Trump, which marked an historic day as no other U.S. President has been impeached twice during their time in office. Ten Republican House members joined their Democratic colleagues in passing the measure.

While misinformation surrounding who was in the mob may have initially painted conflicting pictures, news report confirmed through FBI sources that the mob consisted of supporters of President Trump. The FBI also confirmed that the mob was not composed of Antifa members falsely posing as supporters of President Trump, as the President and his supporters claimed.

Lawmakers scrambled and ran for safety when the mob infiltrated the Capitol building last Wednesday as the confirmation vote for President-Elect Joe Biden was taking place.

Hours later in a video released to the American public after sharp criticism from both Democrat and Republican legislators, the President said, “Mob violence goes against everything I believe in and everything our movement stands for. No true supporter of mine could ever disrespect law enforcement.” Mr. Trump did not condemn the actions taken by his (Continued on page 23)

Riverbay Holiday closing and CCTimes deadline notice

Riverbay Corp. remembers one of its stalwarts – Anthony Rasulo Sr. February 18, 1952 - January 05, 2021

BY ROZAAN BOONE

The Riverbay administrative offices will be closed on Monday, January 18, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Because of the holiday-shortened work week, all material, including directors’ viewpoints, submitted for publication in the upcoming Saturday, January 23rd issue of the Co-op City Times must be submitted before 9 a.m. on Tuesday, January 19.

This editorial deadline will be strictly enforced to ensure the paper meets its production deadline. Material received after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19, will not be considered for publication in the Saturday, Jan. 23 issue of the Co-op City Times.

Material should be emailed to cctimes @riverbaycorp.com.

We wish our readers a memorable and safe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Riverbay Corporation lost one of its longest serving employees on January 5, 2021 when Anthony Rasulo Sr., director of the Construction department, passed away. He was 68.

“Tony” as he was more familiarly known to everyone, oversaw many of the community’s capital projects through the years, and his input and expertise in the industry were of tremendous value to the Co-op City community where he served for almost four decades. A tall man in stature and fortitude, Tony had a big heart and was respected and endeared to all who had the pleasure of working with him. He always made time to listen, to make you laugh, and his kindness was far reaching.

Tony began his 38-year tenure at Riverbay Corporation in 1983 as a Field Inspector. In 1994, he was promoted to Construction Inspector. He was named Anthony Rasulo Sr. director of Construction in 1999 and Director of Facilities in 2008 with additional oversight over the Contracts department.

Though Tony had been ailing for some time, he continued to work either remotely or by making the roughly 1-hour trip in to the Bronx from his home in Mahopac, NY whenever his strength allowed. His determination inspired many and his passing last week has especially touched everyone who depended on him around the corporation and those who worked closely with him on a daily basis.

Riverbay Executive General Manager Bob Klehammer said: “Tony was a great source of institutional knowledge and greatly contributed to the creation and implementation of the capital projects program when (Continued on page 3)

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

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CB10

(Continued from page 1)

possible noise impact. NYSDOT conducted a noise analysis with a traffic noise survey to gauge noise impacts on the community. As stated in their report, the noise analysis found that traffic noise will increase by three decibels or less, “barely perceptualized to the human ear. The project will, therefore, not result in any perceptible change in noise level.”

Congestion on northbound I-95 has continually caused delays in traffic and poor service because of the needed improvements. Mr. Vishnu said, “Ramps between the Bronx and Pelham Parkway and Hutchinson River Parkway are a primary cause of this congestion.” Currently, there’s no direct access to Co-op City from northbound Hutchinson River Pkwy and a long, inconvenient route into Co-op City. Safety concerns for unsignalized crossings for pedestrians and bicyclists are also a significant concern.

During the meeting, Riverbay Corporation and Co-op City shareholders, including First Vice President of the Board Bernard Cylich, expressed their concerns about the overall project. Riverbay General Manager Noel Ellison brought up concerns about the need for removing underground utilities in the proposed ramp area. In contrast, others had issues with the current lack of parking in the area, car exhaust fumes/air quality, and the possibility of using roundabouts. Most importantly, residents highlighted concerns of an already congested Section 5.

Mr. Vishnu acknowledged the “pushback” from Section 5 residents. Still, he reassured them that: “This is a mobility project. We’re only looking to get people where they’re going faster without having to sit on Co-op City streets for an extra five or 10 minutes. This will only improve congestion, not cause congestion.”

NYSDOT has closely coordinated with NYCDOT and Parks & Recreation; Riverbay Corporation about Co-op City’s underground utilities; and NYC Transit to coordinate and discuss any potential impact to bus routes, as well as with other city and state agencies.

EYE DOCTORS

Construction on this project will take place during daytime hours to minimize noise at night for residents of nearby residential buildings. Closed traffic lanes will only happen during off-peak hours and weekends.

The improvements of northbound I-95 congestion, new ramp installations, and added traffic signals is scheduled to begin in summer 2021, with completion by summer 2023.

(Note: The CB# 10 Municipal Services Committee presentation held on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, will be broadcast on the Riverbay Crawler next week. Information will be posted on the Crawler on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Tune in to channel 12 on MATV and channel 591 on Optimum to access the Crawler.)

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

I first came to Co-op City.”

Cary Smith, III, Assistant Executive General Manager, shared: “One of the most vivid memories I have of Tony occurred when I first started at Riverbay with all these plans, forward thinking ideas and other creative thoughts about making the property look better and, at one point, Tony brought me into one particular section of the Construction Trailers, ‘the vault,’ where he has old site maps, documentation, and so forth, and he said, ‘Look, I think what you are doing is great but before you start on any project, reach back out to those of us who have been here for a while to get the information you’d need. There is a lot of history here,’ he said, pointing to the maps of electrical and plumbing systems, etc. Anytime I went to him with ideas, he’d always say, ‘Go to the vault first and then move for-

knowledge before moving ahead with projects, going to that vault of information about Co-op City, a lot of which he had in his head because of his time and role here.”

General Manager Noel Ellison, who knew Tony for more than 25 years, offered: “Over the past two decades, the majority of large capital projects undertaken in Co-op City were handled with the major involvement of Tony Rasulo.

Once the project proposals were approved and the contracts signed, it became Tony’s job to represent and protect Riverbay’s interests by managing and monitoring the project work performance. He had an ‘eagle eye,’ laser-focus ability to demand and garner excellence from architects, engineers and contractors.”

Mr. Ellison pointed out that during Tony’s tenure at Riverbay, he spearheaded the window replacement program, the first smoke detector replacement project, and the balcony restoration program.

“This community and this corporation have benefitted mightily from his service,” affirmed Mr. Ellison. “He was indeed an uncommon man who never lost the common touch. His long battle with illness is over; may he now rest in peace.”

Assistant General Manager Warren Mitchell said: “I knew Tony for 25 years. He was always willing to share his knowledge and offer his perspective on a multitude of topics. He was the type of guy who gives it to you straight. The wisdom and guidance that he shared regarding different aspects of his life/career will be missed.”

“I was fortunate to have worked with Tony for over 30 years and saw what a great person he was,” ward; there’s a lot of projects that were started that said Peter Merola, Riverbay’s Director of Finance. “He just need someone to dust them off and provide the was dedicated to Riverbay and did a lot through the proper guidance.’ Tony was just a great mentor to me. years to keep Co-op City a great place. He will truly He stressed the importance of obtaining the historical be missed.”

Mike Sanders, director of Maintenance, is also a long-time colleague.

“I’ve known Tony since the 1980’s when I first started at Co-op City. At the time, Co-op City was a young community and Tony was a field inspector and one of the most knowledgeable persons on the job,” said Mr. Sanders. “The most important thing to him was his family and friends. He was always willing to help, and even though we were in different departments, if you had a problem, he would always help you. He was much more than a friend and associate, he was someone you could count on. Tony was an essential Riverbay employee and one of Riverbay Corporation’s right hand men based on his long-time knowledge of the development. He was a great person to call if you had an emergency and he was always available night and day.”

During the earlier days of his Riverbay tenure, Tony served as a Local 282 shop steward.

“Tony exemplified a man for others,” said Mike Munns, Riverbay’s Senior Attorney. “As a new shop steward, he pushed the company when he believed his members were not being treated fairly. After being promoted to Construction director, he showed empathy (Continued on next page)

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021 (Continued from page 3)

for residents affected by the disturbances caused by contractors.”

Lenya Garcia, Riverbay’s Contracts & Purchasing Manager, and Anatoliy Budnitskiy, Contract Specialist, both of the Procurement department, worked with Tony when he picked up administration of the Contracts department.

Ms. Garcia said: “I worked under Anthony Rasulo for eight years in the Construction Trailers under contracts administration. He was a great man to work under, had a lot of knowledge in the construction industry. Tony expected everyone in the trailers to do their job but he would find time to talk to his staff about different things. I will miss our conversations on traveling. He traveled with his family and we would talk about the places we have been and would like to go. His presence will be missed.”

Mr. Budnitskiy, who began his Riverbay career as a temp in the Contracts department, added: “There aren’t many like Tony. He was truly one of a kind and a person like no other. He always made people around him that much better. I can honestly say I am a better human being from knowing Tony and I owe a lot of where I am now at Riverbay to him.”

Bernard Cylich, First Vice President of the Riverbay Board of Directors and longtime chair of the Construction Committee, also spoke highly of Tony.

“My sincerest condolences to the Rasulo family on his untimely passing,” Mr. Cylich said. “During my years on the Board and especially as chairperson of the Construction Committee, I found Tony to be a fountain of knowledge and indispensable expertise regarding infinite number of construction issues that Riverbay faced almost daily. He will certainly be missed.”

Rick Schmidt, Riverbay’s Technical director, met Tony in the 1990’s even before Rick began working for Riverbay Corporation. At the time, he was employed by Community Home Entertainment (CHE), Co-op City’s then-cable provider.

“Tony was the cornerstone of the Construction department. When Co-op City’s RicWil project was under construction and I was then at CHE, I coordinated with Tony and the construction company that was doing work here so they wouldn’t knock out TV service and there were times initially when they did, but once Tony got involved and laid the law down, the contractors had to call me first before they did anything. When I came to work for Riverbay, we collaborated on several projects, including installation of the emergency call boxes throughout the development and lobby renovations.

“Tony was always very approachable, he was a funny guy and a pleasure to work with. If he really liked you, he broke your chops. Overall, he got along with everybody.

He was very even handed. He was a good sounding board. I’ve missed his presence this past year with the COVID stay-at-home order, and now his passing creates a void that will not soon be filled. He was a great guy to work with.”

“Riverbay has lost their Godfather,” said Safety Director Anthony Barzelatto. “Tony was a dedicated, hard working staff member who was the go-to guy for all Riverbay concerns and problems. Tony’s knowledge of Riverbay was remarkable and his loss will be felt at Riverbay for years to come.”

Mr. Barzelatto said on a more personal note, he had the honor of calling Tony his good friend. From the first day he met Tony, when he began working at Riverbay in 2017, the two hit it off. “We had many things in common such as us both being Anthonys, both Italian and very proud of our heritage, we both adore our families and truly enjoy food and the Jersey Shore. Guy Frieri from the show ‘Diners, Drive-in and Dives’ should have had Tony as his fill-in because Tony had such a love of food and knew all the quaint back room restaurants that serve outrageous foods, especially Italian and desserts,” he said.

“The one item I will live with and think about every day is whenever Tony and I would meet up or talk on the phone, he would always end by saying, ‘Tony, you need to slow down and not work as hard as you do. You need to stay safe and healthy’. Even as Tony was struggling with his cancer, he would always be more concerned about me than himself.

“I will miss my good friend every day but now I know that when I hear thunder outside, it will tell me that Tony is up in heaven building some project that the Lord wants done. God bless Tony and the entire Rasulo family and friends. Rest in peace, my good friend.”

John Lowe, Riverbay’s Risk Management director, also has strong recollections of his friend’s expertise and dedication to the corporation and community. “I first met Tony when he came to Risk Management’s office to meet with a Riverbay attorney to prepare for a deposition for a case. Tony knew every sidewalk on the Riverbay campus and gave the right answers to plaintiff’s attorney. His contributions steered many cases in favor of Riverbay.

“When the Risk Management and Safety offices moved to the Construction Trailers while our offices in the Bartow Center were being renovated, we got to know each other better and became fast friends. He and I had the same sense of humor and teased each other all the time. I enjoyed hearing all of his construction war stories including working on the original Twin Towers in lower Manhattan. We discussed the history of Co-op City and all the improvements done over the years. He was very modest about his contributions, but I know he took great pride coordinating the installation of the new Tindel windows in all the buildings. In fact, he was passionate about each and every construction project he worked on.

“Tony wanted nothing but the best for Co-op City and never accepted mediocrity.

He thought of the campus as his own backyard. I will miss his early morning jokes, his whimsical smile and, most of all, his friendship. Riverbay Corporation has lost an icon who can never be replaced.”

Mark Warren, Riverbay’s Assistant General Manager of Construction, said: “As a relatively recent hire to the Riverbay Corporation (compared to many of my other colleagues), I grew to appreciate most, the depth of historic knowledge Anthony would openly share with his colleagues. A sage of the construction field, Anthony willingly dedicated his tenure at Riverbay to sustaining the infrastructure of Co-op City’s 320 acres, 35 residential buildings, 7 clusters of townhouses, approximately half a million square feet of commercial space which stand as his legacy. It was always clear that second to his dedication to family, the Riverbay Corporation and Co-op City was Tony’s ‘life blood’. Anthony, R.I.P, with love and appreciation from all of us at the Construction department.”

In addition to Mr. Warren, perhaps the two other people who worked closest with Tony on an every-day basis are his Contracts Administrator Deborah Hunter and Construction Lead Man Dominick Russo.

“There is so much I can say about Tony,” said Ms. Hunter. “He was such a wonderful person to work for. Everyone in the office will miss his ready smile and helpful attitude around the department. He was always giving compliments, making us laugh or lending a helping hand to his staff. He made sure we knew we were appreciated and we are truly going to miss him.”

Ms. Hunter recalled that every day when she walked in to the office, she’d say, “Good morning,” and Tony would ask, “What’s good about it?” and smile.

“When he sat at his desk and put his glasses on, don’t bother him because he was focused on answering his emails or pounding that calculator checking numbers on a contract, or, sometimes, planning his next Vegas trip. When people came in and asked me if he was in a good or bad mood, he’d say, ‘What do you want?’ and laugh.”

Ms. Hunter said Tony kept her laughing for the 18 years she worked with him. “I will especially miss him sitting behind me and calling me asking what are we eating for lunch … He was a holiday person and especially loved Christmas. Every September, right after Labor Day, he’d say let’s plan our Christmas luncheon. I’d say, ‘Tony, can we wait until November at least,’ and he’d say, ‘No, that’s too late’.”

Deborah described Tony’s deep love for his family. “When his first grandchild was born, followed by the birth of the others, and when his kids were moving close to him, he was overjoyed...Tony was caring and giving all the time and did not let his illness affect his personality. He had a great knowledge of construction and I definitely learned a thing or two from him. He was not only my boss, but a father figure and a friend.

Heaven has welcomed a true angel.”

Mr. Russo stated: “Anthony ‘Tony Tone’ Rasulo, the boss of bosses, as I would call him. Having worked for Tony for just over 13 years as his lead man, confidante and friend, we developed a special relationship. We worked together on every project that came our way in the Construction department. I had the pleasure to work under, as well as alongside him, as we sealed terraces as per NYC DOB for Local Law 11, removed old concrete and installed new pavers in Section 5, GFCI and Smoke Detector program, down to cleaning out the old file room in our trailers. There was no job too big or small for Tony, and he always got it done. Although being much younger and only a laborer, Tony never made me feel that way. He saw me as a knowledgeable young man, not only to carry out my daily duties, but he also asked me for my outlook, opinions and ideas regarding work issues. Tony was very down to earth like that; and would never tell someone to do something he wouldn’t do himself. He was always out in the field, and many of those times alongside his in-house crew laborers.

It was normal to see Tony on the jobsite cleaning, sweeping, yelling and joking with us all, not only as the director of the Construction department but a co-worker and a friend. He knew how to keep the perfect balance of love and fear, earning the respect of others through his hard work and strong leadership. These characteristics made our small department of skilled tradesmen disciplined, organized and effective. Aside from being a strong leader and director of Construction, he was a great role model and friend.

Anyone could walk into his office to chat with him about any subject, at any given time, and walk out with a smile or a chuckle.

“A man of Tony’s caliber never dies, but lives forever,” declared Mr. Russo. “He leaves us with great memories in the field, tricks of the trade and, most of all, the strength to lead and push forward, tackling whatever comes our way; whether it’s construction or everyday life. He will forever be remembered and missed. It was the greatest pleasure and I’m deeply grateful for having been his go-to guy these last 13 some years. Thanks, Tony, for everything.”

The late Anthony Rasulo Sr. is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Linda; his five wonderful children whom he loved dearly, Erica and Scott Orofino of Mahopac, NY; Lisa and Christopher “Rudy” Giuliani of Mahopac, NY; Christina and Matthew Kroell of Hopewell Junction, NY; Stephen and Lillian Rasulo of Mahopac, NY and Anthony and his fiancé, Nicole, of Mahopac, NY. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren who he adored: Isabella, Cole, Luca, Leah, Sophie, Anthony, Christopher, Vincent and Macie.

The Rasulo family asks those who wish to honor Tony’s memory to make a donation to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude.

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

Learn more about NYC’s specialized schools during a virtual admissions event

BY BRANDON ORTIZ

Parents of prospective students looking to apply for admission into New York City’s specialized high schools may not get to take their child to an admissions fair in person this year but they can still have their questions and concerns answered.

Join the New York City Department of Education for a virtual admissions event by signing up online at schools.nyc.gov/High.

At these online events, parents can learn about audition requirements for each discipline, how the audition process for this year looks, how to use their MySchools account and the Virtual Audition Submission Tool (VAST). Additionally, parents will have the chance to meet representatives from New York City’s audition schools.

Parents should be aware that schools from different boroughs will showcase their programs on different days. Questions submitted on the online registration form may be answered at the end of the virtual event.

Should a parent still have any remaining questions for schools, they can find the contact information for every high school on the online directory at myschools.nyc.

The high school application officially opens this Monday, January 18, and closes on Tuesday, February 23.

The schedule for upcoming virtual admissions events is the following: * January 21 – Virtual Arts Fair with Manhattan and Bronx Audition Schools. The event begins at 1 p.m. and concludes at 3 p.m. Interpretation will be available in both Mandarin and Spanish. * January 25 – Virtual Arts Fair with Brooklyn and Staten Island Audition Schools. The event begins at 5 p.m. and concludes at 7 p.m. Interpretation will be available in Mandarin, Russian and Spanish. * February 2 – Virtual Arts Fair with Queens Audition Schools. The event begins at 4 p.m. and concludes at 6 p.m. Interpretation will be available in Bangla, Mandarin and Spanish. * February 4 – Virtual Arts Fair with Manhattan and Bronx Audition Schools. The event begins at 6 p.m. and concludes 8 p.m. Interpretation will be available in Bangla, French and Spanish.

Safe Riverbay Avoiding Dryer Fire • Don’t overload the dryer.

• Don’t dry anything containing foam, rubber or plastic. An example of an item not to place in a dryer is a bathroom rug with a rubber backing.

• Don’t dry any item for which manufacturer’s instructions state “dry away from heat.”

• Don’t dry glass fiber materials (unless manufacturer’s instructions allow).

• Don’t dry items that have come in contact with anything flammable like alcohol, cooking oils or gasoline. Dry them outdoors or in a well-ventilated room, away from heat.

–Riverbay Safety Department

Clothes dryer don’ts:

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

Broun Place Townhouse Association

There is much to talk about around Broun Place this week, especially, remember honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. over this weekend. There is no doubt Dr. King, for numerous reasons, would have been against the January 6th aggression on the Capitol. Perhaps his children will give statements on what they think his opinion would be.

Broun Place Townhouse Association wishes everyone a happy new year. Broun Place’s executive board members are Vivian Burrus, Rev. Grace Emanuel, Lillian Richardson and myself, Eva Lazaar. Once again, thank you to our local markets and pharmacies that have accommodated and supported us with necessities during this critical time. A whole year has passed since word of the coming pandemic first spread around.

Some of you have complained about not getting the supermarket weekly inserts. The distributor of those advertising bundles has no contract permitting distribution in Co-op City.

We’re not sure of the status of that company currently. If you can speak to the manager of your supermarket, recommend they contact the Co-op City Times for advertising information.

On Monday, January 11, 2021, we had our fourth test. Living in an area with great medical availabilities and COVID19 testing sites within walking distance is great. The site for information is: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/gettested/covid-19-testing.page, all your questions can be answered there. Channel 12 and Cable 591 were running an infomercial made here on the Dreiser Loop COVID-19 testing site. Everyone needs a COVID 19 test. President-elect Biden

recommends we wear a mask daily for a one-hundred day period of steady mask wearing. The virus needs quarantining!

Review your weapons to fight COVID-19: wear a clean face mask, (over your nose), wear disposable gloves, keep 6 feet between each other and a soap ‘n water handwash frequently.

The “over age 75 category” is starting here soon.

Last week, we received at least four mailings looking for donations to “Preserve Social Security.” Instead, write your local political official to support senior-related issues. We don’t know who is behind “Preserve Social Security.” Sending money to them reduces your resources and is questionable.

One phone scam is: “Credit card banks are lowering your annual interest rates.” Another, “Emergency, your car warranty has expired.” Another, “We apologize for our error on your electric bill.” These are examples of phone scam lines. Get on the “Do Not Call” list to help block scam phone calls. Listen and read mail carefully before writing a check.

Email “Community Relations” to receive the community newsletter. The “Tunes on Tuesdays” evening shows program is in the Co-op City Times. Don’t miss it! Broun Place neighbors, Saturday mornings, pick up your personally delivered Co-op City Times. If you have a Broun Place issue, let us know. Sincere condolences to all suffering a loss.

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

Building 21 Association

Do you take Access-A-Ride? – This is an urgent notice for your cooperation and participation. to those of you who utilize Paratransit Services on MTA’s Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Building 21 – Happy Access-A-Ride. The MTA has stated that fare collection will New Year, 21’ers! All residents! And all shareholders! Come resume on all vehicles starting Tuesday, January 19. Riders and say Happy Anniversary to Building 21 at the Building are asked to provide the exact fare of $2.75 for each trip. “21” 50th Anniversary Zoom! Meet with special guests, hear Since Covid-19 reached pandemic levels in March of 2020, and share fun facts about Bellamy Loop and come ready for AAR fares were expunged. These free and contactless rides surprises, be ready to share and to toast the New Year! Be must continue until life is safe while engaging in such contact. there, Thursday, January 28, at 7 p.m.

What you should do? – To register a complaint and make No mask, No entry – Remember, no more than four peryour voices heard you should do the following: Call the Acsons to an elevator with a mask properly covering your face cess-A-Ride at 877-337-2017. Choose option 8 and choose and nose. We must think of others, to protect ourselves and 8 again for the comment line. You can also log your complaint each other during this pandemic. The number of new infecat www.mta.info, then scroll down to “MTA Accessibility,” tions continues to rise. Even if you are entering the buildings scroll down again and then you will see “Make an ADAand elevators alone, molecules are airborne that you or somerelated Complaint or Reasonable Modification Request”. one else can breathe in. To protect each other, we all must Building & apartment numbers only on Annual Dues put on our masks properly. Please cover mouth and your envelopes – We have secured a black Drop Box, under 24nose. One or two in our lobby or an elevator without masks hour surveillance in the laundry room. Please place your is too many; can affect and infect many. Think of your neighannual building association dues of $10 into the lockbox in bors and yourself. an envelope with your building and apartment listed on the Homage to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – “In the end, outside of the envelope only. Your name is not necessary. we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the siThis box is up only temporarily. Checks or money orders lence of our friends.” can be made out to Building 21 Association. Cash is also 21 Association contact information: Phone us at: 347acceptable. The box is located on the right side of the tele504-1821 or email us at: 21association@gmail.com. Happy vision. You can see it if you are able to see the laundry room New Year! Be safe and well, you and yours… camera from your TV. It is a secured tamper-proof lockbox Each one of us, multiplied by all of us, equals a force for and will be checked daily. Be sure to put your building and good. apartment number on the envelope. We thank you in advance –Michelle Marbury

Building 13 Association

Happy Birthday to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., born in Atlanta, Georgia on January 15, 1929. Rev. Dr. King was an advocate for justice and equality during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States.

“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant.” –Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Thank you to all who joined our association meeting. If you would like to suggest a guest speaker, please reach out and let us know. In 2020, we suspended collecting building association dues. We will resume collecting shortly. As always, your membership entitles you to have your annual papers notarized when they become due.

STAR: The School Tax Relief (STAR) program offers property tax relief to eligible New York State residents. Coop City shareholders have been eligible to receive this credit given once annually however there are many that have not signed up. There are two types of STAR exemptions. A taxpayer may have either a Basic or Enhanced STAR exemption, not both: (1) a “Basic” exemption is available to virtually all New Yorkers who owns their own one, two, or three-family home, condominium, cooperative apartment or mobile home; and (2) an “Enhanced” exemption available to senior citizens (age 65 and older) with a limited income, increased annually according to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). For information, visit www.tax.ny.gov/star or contact the New York

State Department of Taxation and Finance at (518) 457-2036.

Window Guard Forms: You should have received a form that states on the front of the envelope, “Important Safety Information Enclosed.” In this envelope is Fire Safety information but also your annual Window Guard form. By LAW, you must have window guards if you live in a building that has at least three apartments and a child 10 or younger lives in your apartment. These window guard forms must be returned by Feb. 15, 2021. Each form has a response code that identifies your unit so you can pick up the phone, call and follow the prompts or go online and follow the instructions. You can also mail or fax the document. All of the information is provided in the envelope.

Please make sure to continue complying with the recommended city and state safety guidelines as well as the Coop 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 (4) people and the laundry rooms, by no more than five (5) people.

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” – Coretta Scott King Our website is http://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

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 16, 2021

7

CCPD works to ensure a harassment-free community Co-op City takes pride in being a diverse community in which approximately 50,000 people live and work. The Co-op City Department of Public Safety works to insure that Co-op City is free from any type of harassment. Harassment takes on many forms and violators can face a variety of penalties. There is a wide spectrum of different offenses that fall under the category of Harassment and its related charges. None of these offenses are acceptable within Co-op City and the appropriate action will be taken for each type.

Tensions can run high due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Arguments among family members within the apartments of Coop City have increased during the pandemic. Family members tend to spend more time at home and need to share resources. Working or attending classes from home when other family members are home can lead to an increase in stress levels. Arguments over social distancing and mask wearing in public areas have also been observed. It is important to try to remain calm and refrain from engaging in arguments with family members, friends, acquaintances, neighbors, and strangers. Understand that the current situation can cause an increase in stress and it is best to take a deep breath and walk away, if that is possible.

In New York City, Harassment is a Violation of the Penal Law Section 240.26.

A Violation of the law is punishable by up to 30 days in jail as well as a possible monetary fine. However, in order for an officer, either New York City Police Department or the Co-op City Department of Public Safety to make an arrest or issue a Universal Summons, the officer must personally witness the violation.

If Harassment occurs and it is not witnessed by the officer, the person harassed can respond to Bronx Criminal Court and take out a summons against the person.

The Bronx Criminal Court system has an abundant amount of resources depending on the nature of the situation. Mediation is widely used to remedy Harassment issues. The Public Safety Department as well as the Cooperator Service Office should be notified to prepare a report for an incident which occurs in the community.

The utilization of any type of electronic means such as a telephone or a computer escalates Harassment to Aggravated Harassment. Physical contact such as shoving or kicking also results in Aggravated Harassment. Aggravated Harassment is an A Misdemeanor which carries a jail sentence of up to one year and a possible monetary fine. People need to make sure that any comments or messages transmitted to another person are not offensive or capable of being taken out of context. This applies to phone calls, texts, e-mails, voice messages, social network sites, etc.

Parents should make sure that children are aware of these rules. For school age children, there can also be disciplinary action taken at the school.

Harassment taken to an even further level can turn into Stalking, a crime which at the highest levels can be a Felony. A Felony carries a prison sentence of more than one year and often a hefty fine. We often hear about the end results of the most serious cases of Stalking in the news. Most cases of Stalking begin as Harassment which is taken too far. Be sure to notify 911 and the Department of Public Safety if any of these forms of Harassment are witnessed. January has been recognized as National Stalking Awareness Month since 2011. Please visit the website www.stalkingawarenessmonth.org In the event that a Universal Summons for Harassment is issued or any other

Public Safety Report

BY LIEUTENANT PAM APOLLO

Public Safety Blotter January 3 - January 9, 2021 January 3, 2021 – 2049 Bartow Ave. A male, who was wanted for 14 counts of criminal mischief and theft of service from a Riverbay garage, was arrested and faces additional charges for resisting arrest.

January 5, 2021 – 99 Carver Loop A vehicle crashed the gate and proceeded up four levels before colliding with three parked vehicles. There were no injuries. The driver stated the carpet became wedged under the accelerator. The driver refused additional medical attention.

January 7, 2021 – 100 DeKruif Place Two individuals were discovered inside the location without permission.

Criminal Court Summonses and Community Complaints were issued to both individuals.

January 9, 2021 – 120 Casals Place A vehicle at the location was broken into and items were removed. The incident is under investigation.

January 9, 2021 – 170 Dreiser Loop A female was observed on the roof landing loitering and smoking. The shareholder responsible for the individual was issued multiple Community Complaints.

Anonymous calls to Public Safety

From time to time, cooperators may witness someone violating the housing company’s rules and regulations, however, we understand 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 in-

vestigate, 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

type of arrest is made by either the New York City Police Department or the Co-op City Department of Public Safety, a Community Complaint can be issued. The issuance of a Universal Summons is viewed the same as any other arrest as it pertains to violation of Riverbay Lease. A Co-op City Community Complaint is issued for Anti-Social Conduct for any arrests which occur within the community. A community complaint is issued to the shareholder of record for the apartment for any resident or guest of their apartment. The fines start out at $300 for the first offense and double for each repeat violation. The fees can be automatically added to the monthly carrying charges. This is another tool which is utilized to maintain a high quality of life and a low crime rate within Co-op City.

Some schools are open, DRIVE CAREFULLY. Never pass a stopped school bus with a STOP sign displayed or its red lights flashing. This means children are loading or unloading. Be aware of pedestrians and bike riders when operating a motor vehicle. Bike riders must refrain from riding bicycles near buildings and shopping centers. Everyone needs to share the road safely.

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.

Always remember, if you see something, say something. If you see suspicious persons in the townhouse areas, in or around buildings or garages, notify the authorities. Call 911 and the Department of Public Safety at (718) 671-3050. 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. Your actions can be the first step in the process of making arrests for criminal acts or issuing summonses and community complaints for quality of life violations.

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.

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

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.

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

8 Director’s Viewpoint – Rod

Saunders, Second Vice President

The year is new – The issues at hand are not In my first article of 2021, and from my family to yours, I am wishing everyone a healthy, safe, and very Happy New Year!

The last nine months or so have changed our world in so many ways. We have all had to become more resourceful in the manner in which we go about living our daily lives.

We all have altered our lives to best benefit how we now go about living in what has become our new normal.

My best advice for going forward in the new year is this: Stay focused on staying safe, and by following protocols that will keep us all safer. Please use common sense in protecting your life, and the lives of others.

The Special Election for NYC’s 12 Council District Congratulations are in order for our new NYC Councilman representing the 12th Council district, the Hon. Kevin C. Riley. His margin of victory was overwhelming in that he received just over 68% of the total number of recorded ballots (4,879 out of 7,161). Councilman Riley has accepted the chair of the Sub-Committee on Landmarks, Public Sittings, and Dispositions. In addition, Councilman Riley is a sitting member of the following standing committees: Committee on Education Committee on Land Use Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addictions Committee on Parks and Recreation Committee on Public Housing Committee on Public Safety Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Management Committee on Youth Services Committee on Criminal Justice I believe that Councilman Riley has chosen his committee assignments wisely, in that he will have an ear, and a voice on each of those committees, and he will be influential in voicing concerns regarding important decisions for his entire 12th Council District constituency.

Just a note – This special election was basically about the candidates, with each of them expressing what benefits their being elected to the Council would do for the con-

stituents of the 12th District. In reading an article published online on December 6, 2020 by reporter Andrew Millman, candidate Pamela Hamilton-Johnson was quoted as making the following comments relating to Co-op City: “We have an issue in Co-op City with sanitation. The streets are filthy,” Hamilton-Johnson said, adding that the neighborhood lost service during King’s tenure. “We have to restore the cleanliness back to our neighborhood.” “Filthy streets?” How disrespectful can one be! In my opinion, Coop City’s streets are arguably the cleanest in the borough, and we don’t have garbage on our sidewalks.

The Cable TV issue Back in October, I wrote about the fact that our contractual obligations with Cablevision/Optimum (now Altice) would be fulfilled, and that Co-op City (Riverbay Corp.) would be free to consider every option available. I also reestablished that while we could not offer any cable network company any considerations other than granting them access to our buildings to wire them for their service, that they were free (under NYC regulations) to do so.

Verizon has always been the company that most cooperators have asked about coming in. Verizon has declined to do so, citing various business considerations. I’m certain that some of you have read, or heard about the fact that as a direct result of their recent settlement of a 2017 lawsuit, Verizon has agreed to wire some 500,000 new households.

The basic premise of the settlement is meant to bridge the disparity of households that do not currently have access to the internet with those who have been provided with service for years. Should Verizon decide to wire Co-op City’s 15,372 available units, that would represent a 3% first step in getting to the required 500,000 households.

My viewpoint suggested that we begin to consider all options that could become available after 2024, because it is important that we start a committee to begin to develop a complex understanding of all options currently available for upgrades for our cooperators now, with committee members seeking to better understand what is projected to be the

next digital entertainment platform by the year 2024, as well as the years beyond.

Alternative energy considerations Since 2004, I have written in Letters to the Editor as a shareholder, and subsequently after becoming a Board director in 2015, about alternative energy. In 2004, I visited the offices of City Council members – James (Jimmy) Vacca, Oliver Koppell, and Robert Jackson.

Additionally, I met with State Senators Ruth HassellThompson, and Guy Velella, with every meeting centered on putting solar panels on every City- and Stateowned building in New York. My proposal to each of them was the same, that New York City communities create their own independent energy grid, thus eliminating the possibility of any accident, or contrived act of purposely thrusting our City into darkness all at once.

Only Senators Hassell-Thompson and Velella were supportive of the idea, however, the concept was too early.

In 2009, I had a unique opportunity to have a one-onone with the newly elected Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz Jr., and pitched an idea that got his interest. I suggested that he consider pushing to have a factory built in the Bronx that could manufacture charging stations (devices) for the new electric cars that would soon be coming into production. I told him that I had just read an article about how Israel was partnering with the automotive company Renault, so that vehicle travel to the settlements in the deserts, could be done without using fossil fuel, but solar energy, which, in the desert, is always in abundance. We could do that on our State highways. Again – too early.

In the very near future – all of the above will be coming to Co-op City (not necessarily Renault vehicles).

This past July (2020), the Public Service Commission approved a $700 million program to help build more than 55,000 chargers. Possibly, Co-op City can benefit from this program.

Thank you for reading my viewpoint, and I can be reached at rsaunders@riverbaycorp.com.

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

Newsong Church

9

Spanish-American Community Club

Then they will fast 34 Jesus responded, “Do wedding guests fast while celebrating with the groom? Of course not. 35 But We hope you and your loved ones are doing someday the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.” –Luke 5:34-35 (NLT) well during this difficult time. The Spanish-AmerFasting isn’t something we “have to do,” it’s something we “get to do.” The religious people of Jesus’ day ican Community Club family is always in our forced people to fast, in hopes of earning God’s favor and the approval of others. Fasting doesn’t make God thoughts. We miss you all. All events will continue love us any more than He already does, but it is a rhythm we see Jesus practicing and something He expected to be suspended until it is safe to restart again.

His followers to do when He was gone. Biblical fasting is a deeply spiritual and unique way to experience Please follow social distancing and mask guideGod. The problem is, very few people practice this spiritual discipline, because biblical fasting is hard. It’s lines. They save lives. Stay safe and stay healthy. going without food for a period of time, and spending that time with God. The club has received no information yet about There are many reasons why we see people fasting in the scriptures. Some examples include… when we will be able to use our club room again.

Prayer (Ezra 8:23; Nehemiah 1:4; Daniel 9:3; Acts 13:3) However, as soon as we are able to return, we For Deliverance (2 Chronicles 20:3-4; Ezra 8:21-23; Ester 4:16) will be conducting our long-postponed raffle for To Overcome Temptation: (Matthew 4:1-11) the TV and designer gift bag.

To Seek God’s Guidance (Judges 20:28; Acts 14:23) COVID-19 vaccines will soon be available in To Show Humility before God (Psalm 35:13) our community! Please check the Co-op City To Minister to the Needs of Others (Isaiah 58) Times to keep informed.

These are just some of the great benefits of fasting, but the greatest reason to fast isn’t so that we can get Returning Members: The Board of Directors something from God, it’s so that we can give something to God! has decided to waive next year’s membership Fasting is not YOU getting more of God…Fasting is GOD getting more of you! dues. Since we had no events this year, we will Would it be okay if you had a deeper more intimate relationship with God this year? If your answer is yes, then credit this year’s dues towards next year. In other ask the Holy Spirit to help you with this spiritual discipline. If you need to know where to start, you can get free words, existing members do not need to renew resources about prayer and fasting, or join our Bible reading plans on our website, www.newsongchurchnyc.org – your membership will be extended another In the meantime, here’s some practical suggestions for you to get closer to God… year.

Cut out social media: Studies show that the average person spends 135 minutes a day on social media. That’s Our president, Rosaura Cruz, and our two nearly 16 hours a week. Use the time you would normally be checking Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to read your Board directors warmly wish you and your family Bible and pray. a very safe, happy and healthy New Year!

Join the fast: We will be fasting for the next 21-days. You may not be ready for that kind of commitment, but —Carmen Rodriguez you can start by skipping a meal. On our website, you can choose a plan that is right for you. As you fast, look for what begins to stir in you. When your stomach growls and grumbles, use it as a reminder to pray. Instead of ignoring the cravings, use them as prompts to pray for God to sustain you.

Join our online prayer meetings: Join us online for prayer on Wednesdays Zoom-in with us tomorrow – Our next general membership meeting is schedand Fridays at 7 p.m. You can put in a prayer request, and we will join you in uled for Sunday, Jan. 17, at 3 p.m. It will be in the form of a Zoom Meeting to prayer during our live broadcast. keep us all safe and well. We encourage your participation. If your email has Let’s get into spiritual shape! changed, drop us a line at aaaccpower@gmail.com. The theme will be Dr. King —Pastor Mike Tolone and “your” dream going forward. Meeting ID: 833 2523 0007, Passcode: 622918.

This month, we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – A Baptist minister and activist who became the most visible spokesperson and leader in the civil rights movement from 1955 until he was assassinated in 1968, Dr. King is best known for advancing civil rights through nonviolence and civil disobedience, inspired by his Christian beliefs and the nonviolent activism of Mahatma Gandhi. He organized a number of peaceful protests as head of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, including the March on Washington in 1963.

Each year on the third Monday of January, America honors the birth, life, and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and reflects on the work that still needs to be done for racial equality. This is a federal holiday; schools and libraries will be closed, most federal and state offices will be closed and there will be no mail deliveries on King Day. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is the only national holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. It is a time to remember the injustices that Dr. King fought. A time to remember his fight for the freedom, equality, and dignity of all races and peoples through nonviolence.

Life Sales Experience 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/year for a single membership and $25/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.

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.

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

African American Association

The Wright Agency:

Serving Co-op City for 40 Years!

We’re Hiring Life Insurance Agents Excellent Compensation

Qualifications: • Minimum one year: • Checkable references • Maturity • Integrity • Goals driven

Please call (718) 671-8000 The Wright Agency at Allstate 1435 East Gun Hill Road Bronx, N.Y. 10469

Please only apply if you are capable of earning $75,000 plus

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

10 Director’s Viewpoint – Mary

Pearson, Secretary

Insurrection, Plague, and the People’s Business Don’t call them protesters. The only thing the murderous band of thugs were protesting on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, was reality, the reality that the man who thinks they are “very special” will no longer be in charge. The man who tells them that no matter how deplorable they are, they have “good genes.”

And if anyone tries to tell you these traitors were just exercising their First Amendment rights, just like the Black Lives Matter protesters do, yell (through your COVID-19 mask of responsibility) FALSE EQUIVALENCY!!

BLM advocates march for justice and equality.

These white supremacists, far-right extremists, and (perhaps a few) dupes, rampaged to usher in an authoritarian state in order to hold on to their illusionary “better than” status. They are domestic terrorists, who, along with their enablers – from rogue cops to rogue legislators – need to face justice for their instigating words and insurrectionist deeds. So don’t call them protesters or patriots or victims or very fine people. Call each and every one of them criminals.

One more day of infamy has been added to our communal list: December 7, 1942; November 22, 1963; September 11, 2001; and now January 6, 2021.

And it could have been worse. Much worse.

But it might just wind up being a force for good.

The televised Day of American Insurrection accomplished what the televised murder of George Floyd accomplished, but on a much broader scale.

Egalitarians of all hues witnessed how much damage the political, social and racial divide in our nation can cause. Our awakened beautiful mosaic could take this opportunity to make actual lasting change, correcting hundreds of years – millenniums – of injustices.

All the mayhem of January 6th, which could have been unimaginably worse, was instigated by a single election, an imaginarily stolen election, that the incited mob convinced itself it needed to steal back.

On to election truth, trust, and transparency Of the literally thousands of items that need to be on the Biden/Harris Build Back Better agenda, voting reform truly needs to top the list.

When, in 2013, the Supreme Court took away a clause from the 1964 Voting Rights Act, they did so in the name of (but not the reality of) fairness. The clause prohibited certain, mostly southern, states from changing their voting rules without first getting federal permission to do so. Those rules invariably aimed

to suppress the vote of their Black constituents. The court reasoned that many other states, not just the named ones, were doing likewise, making the law discriminatory and, as such, a matter for Congress.

At the time, in reaction to the decision, Congressman John Lewis – who marched and bled for those rights – said, “They’re saying, in effect, that history cannot repeat itself.”

Of course, history instantly repeated itself. The Congress, roadblocked by the Republican-controlled Senate during the Obama administration’s second term, never wrangled with the issue. Immediately after the decision, predominantly Democratic – aka Black majority – voting districts began witnessing the erosion of their voting rights and conveniences. Those inconveniences, which have long existed pretty much everywhere (and often simply to allow those in power to retain power) went into overdrive, just in time for the fall 2020 election. The country saw disappearing mailboxes, dismantled mail sorting machines, disappearing poll sites, Absentee Ballot drop box removal, and a blanket attack on the concept of absentee balloting itself.

Jarringly, just two days before the Day of American Insurrection, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi introduced HR1, the first piece of legislation presented in the House of Representatives in the 117th Congress. The reintroduced version of the For the People Act of 2021 is too new to be summarized on the congressional website itself but its full title is fairly complete – A BILL To expand Americans’ access to the ballot box, reduce the influence of big money in politics, strengthen ethics rules for public servants, and implement other anti-corruption measures for the purpose of fortifying our democracy, and for other purposes.

These are some bullet points culled from the bill by the progressive group Public Citizen. * Automatic voter registration * A ban on gerrymandering * Public financing of elections * Support for DC statehood * Plans to restore the Voting Rights Act

* A requirement that presidents disclose tax returns So now, all of good will, pick a fight. Pick a fight on any level, from fighting for a more humane way to deal with abandoned cats on the grounds of Co-op City, to fighting to see every January 6th insurrectionist brought to justice, to working to heal the caged children on the border, to…, to…, to…

Business as usual Even here, in progressive NYS and NYC, subtle voter suppression exists. It has, however, been rigorously fought these past few years. We finally got Early Voting in time for the fall 2019 elections. Due to Covid-19, absentee voting restrictions were temporarily (and soon permanently?) loosened in 2020. And coming soon, one of the most dramatic NYC election changes – for Special Elections and Primary Elections only – premieres in 2021. The method is called Rank Choice Voting and it will soon apply in NYC races for City Council, Borough President, Comptroller, Public Advocate, and Mayor.

Again, it’s just for City level positions, not State or Federal, and just for Special Elections and primaries, not the fall general elections.

How does Rank Choice Voting work? Next time.

But in the meantime, here’s a sneak peek. Click to see a sample ballot for the very first NYC Rank Choice Voting election to be held on 2/2/21 for the Queens City Council District 24 special election: https://nyc-static.electionhub.com/sampleballots/385174/13/2021S4V1_A_LANG4_Style_39.pdf? mc_cid=dc47d54692&mc_eid=58e9dd1421.

Stay safe and be hopeful. Changes, vaccinations, and justice are on the horizon.

You can reach me at 718-219-2211 or mpearson@riverbayboard.com.

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021 Greetings, Building 9 family.

I was grievously remiss in that I failed to convey to our members that during the holidays, I was honored to be in contact with both our lobby attendants, Mr. David George and Mrs. Aida Chireno. They both send their best and warmest regards to all of you. Also, I received a card from Mrs. Gail Brown, our former Building 9A USPS mail carrier. She is well and sends her best regards.

Over the past five years, the Building 9 Association executive board has developed and implemented a monthly calendar of scheduled events to keep you engaged. For example, on the last Saturday in January, it had been our Holocaust Remembrance event. We have watched period relevant movies (The Zookeeper’s Daughter, Finale, Schindler’s List) followed by insightful discussion. In 2017, we had an oral presentation of personal experiences by Shirley and Marilyn Ringle.

As you know, they are original shareholders and the wife and daughter of the Building 9 Association’s very first president. Mrs. Ringle has been one of our most enthusiastic supporters. These monthly events were designed to afford our neighbors unique opportunities to get to know one another on a more personal level and to increase our awareness about the experiences of others.

Please ensure you, your family and your visitors wear a mask at all times in public spaces while on

Riverbay premises.

Please observe occupancy guidelines for elevators and laundry rooms. If you send your child to the compactor room with your family trash, please ensure they follow the rules of proper refuse disposal. If you or your family member drops or spills something in our buildings’ public spaces; it is your responsibility to clean up after yourself.

Please continue to wear your mask always, wash your hands often, and social distance whenever possible.

If possible, you may consider investing in good quality N95 or KN95 masks. New variants of the novel corona virus have been detected in New York State. After our many recent text messages, I offer you the following: my understanding of the increased infection rate of the variant strain of Covid-19 is that if the normal number of aerosol droplets dispersed into the air from a cough/sneeze/shout is 100 particles, the spread rate of the UK and/or South Africa variant strains could expel 70% more particles. The increased number of droplets dispersed appears to be due to the aggregate amount of viral lode carried in the throat and naval passages is increased with the variant strains. Please continue to share relevant research material with other members.

We will continue to navigate the new normal together.

“Invisible wounds are the hardest to heal. Their closure requires others, patience and, most of all, time.”

–Jennifer Lee Worth

11

Building 9 Association

Black Forum of Co-op City

Irma Vega un-dressing the 2020 lobby tree

Good health to you.

–Linda Collins

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 Hoping that everybody has a happy and healthy are eligible to pick ASAP 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 New Year. month or more from your last pick up. It is a 30 - 31-day rotation. We will still text if additional items become Thanks to all those who took down the holiday available outside of normal business hours. decorations from the building lobbies.

All guests must present a pantry card to receive food. Remember to bring sturdy and clean shopping bags and The association signed the lease for the building asa shopping cart. Wearing a mask/face covering is required. We also ask that all guests use the markers on the sociation room on Tuesday. ground to help practice physical distancing. New guests are welcome to register for pantry services at this time.

Those who are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries Black Forum guests living in Section 5 should visit Co-op City United Methodist Church at 2350 Palmer and new additions, congratulations. For those who Avenue to pick up groceries. They open on Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. This is only a distribution experienced a loss, we offer our condolences. For point. Guests do not have to be affiliated with a church or religion to pick up food at this location. Registration those under the weather, get well soon.

–Linda Werner 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 nonor 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 2089 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 (Next to Sangria Café) 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 EligiWe at ATC, while practicing strict social distancing, bility Form. This is a mandate from the United States and continually disinfecting our work areas, encourDepartment of Agriculture. The form declares that a age clients to consider having their taxes prepared in household’s income is at or below 200% of the federal a “no touch” environment. We can offer this by using income poverty levels. The form lists the eligibility requirements. regular mail, email, or texts whenever possible.

Black Forum will supply the document to registered guests. We are aware that guests may pick up food We Offer: Email, Mail, Fax & Text Picture from more than one agency in NYC. Each of those Text: 631-871-1487; 914-648-1422 agencies may also ask guests to fill out the form.

Limited to 3 pictures or less.

New clients only.

Contact Us We look forward to hearing from you at coopciIncl. Federal, State and City.

Call: 347-947-4455 tyblackforum@gmail.com. Please stay safe.

Three source documents: Call for a FREE pre-paid mail envelope.

–D. Illis

Building 30A and B Association

It’s Tax Time Again!

We Offer An Introductory Rate of

$99!

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

W-2, 1099R, or SSA 1099.

Mail: 2089 Bartow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10475 Additional documents, credits Drop-off/Walk-in Appointment & schedules slightly higher.

Email: alan.stentiford61@gmail.com OFFER INCLUDES FREE EFILE, gsansone1@optimum.net COPIES, REPRESENTATION AND YEAR-ROUND SERVICE. Fax: 561-431-0830

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

12

insulin injections and accompanies her to her doctors’ appointments. Jerome is 75 years old and visits his 95 year-old mother daily in the nursing home. Beverly is 36 years old, married and lives near her 90 year-old parents. She calls them daily and goes grocery shopping for them monthly.

Whatever the circumstances, caregivers share a universal oneness. There is that connection! As caregivers, we have compassion and empathy for others who have undertaken the role. The joy, fulfillment, and contentment of assuring a loved one is cared for as you would want to be cared for is rewarding. The roles of a family caregiver can be a rewarding, experience, however, family caregivers often face many challenges.

Are you presently a family caregiver, were you recently a family caregiver or foresee yourself taking on the role of a family caregiver in the near future? What stage of the caregivers’ spectrum are you in? Bear in mind, the undertaking of the caregiving role can and will be ever changing.

Please join us for our first monthly “Let’s Talk” informational caregivers support session on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at 7 p.m.

The topic is “Caregiving 101” and is presented

by Senior Whole Health. The session will be 45 min. and registration is open. Register online at comeoutreach.org or leave your name and number at 718-379-3159. Someone will get back to you. Come join us as we connect, laugh, learn, support and encourage one another.

–Diane Cooper

Caregivers Outreach Mentorship Empowerment

The Many Faces of Caregivers A Newsweek poll found that individuals aged 45-65’s greatest concerns were about caring for an aging loved one. People aged 65 and older continue to be among the fastest growing segment of the US population. One in 8 Americans are age 65 or older and their numbers will double between 2000 and 2030. People are living longer, having fewer children and the “Baby Boom” generation will begin to reach age 85 in 2031.

Joan is a 46 year-old single mother with three children (ages 7 to 14) who cares for her 84 year-old mother and 90 year-old father.

Joan’s story is very common. So many middle-aged people have found themselves in the “Sandwich Generation” – a generation of people who care for their aging parents while supporting their own children. They are literally squeezed between two situations that each pose their own specific challenges – attending to senior parents with health or age-related issues, while still raising their own children, too young to care for themselves.

Bob is an only child, 29 years old, married and recently relocated his father from Virginia to live with him and his wife. Jane is 55 years old, single, lives near her mother and has 4 siblings. She, as the only girl, is the primary caregiver for her mother. Gail, 65 years old, has cared for her totally dependent adult daughter with Cerebral Palsy for over 25 years. Carl is 15 years old and resides with his 84 yearold grandmother. He assists with her medications, daily blood glucose finger sticks, and

Retirees of Dreiser Loop Memories

The Retirees share memories of their trip to Niagara Falls, Locust Grove Picnic Area and Queen Victoria Park.

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

13

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

14 Director’s Viewpoint

– Francine Reva Jones, Assistant Secretary

Bright lights illuminate building signage

Upon approaching my building one evening last week, I was pleasantly surprised to see that there were bright lights illuminating the address on my building. The sign could be seen from quite a distance whereas, it was barely visible before. If folks are walking on the sidewalk or riding in their vehicles, they would have no problem reading the address on the building. There are many folks who visit Co-op City and get lost and confused in attempting to reach their location. I have been stopped on numerous occasions and asked how to find a particular building.

The idea for the new lighting was discussed at a recent Board meeting and now it is being implemented.

It has not yet been installed at every building, but, I feel certain that our shareholders will appreciate this addition. I believe it is very instrumental in adding to the curb appeal as the Board and Management attempt to attract new shareholders. I think that anyone visiting Co-op City will have an easier time arriving at their destination.

The importance of voting Congratulations to Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff in winning their runoff elections for the Georgia Senate. Their hard work and the support by a majority of Georgia residents is an example of what can be done if folks organize and work together. These victories will make it easier for the incoming Biden-Harris administration to implement their platform.

In “Voting Rights For Blacks And Poor Whites In The Jim Crow South,” Russell Brooker, PhD has outlined how voting was prohibited. From about 1900 to 1965, most African-Americans were not allowed to vote in the South. Some of these methods also prevented poor white people from voting. They include: 1) Violence: Blacks who tried to vote were threatened, beaten, and killed. Their families were also harmed.

Sometimes their homes were burned down. Often, they lost their jobs or were thrown off their farms.

2) Literacy tests: Today almost all adults can read.

Back then, however, many people – black and white – were illiterate. Most illiterate people were not allowed to vote.

3) Property tests: In the South, back then, many states allowed only property owners to vote. Many

blacks and whites had no property and could not vote. have a vested interest and control of your community.

4) Grandfather clause: People who could not read YOU can choose the leadership of your community.

YOU can even become a Board director. We live in an and owned no property were allowed to vote if their “affordable” housing development. It cannot get much fathers or grandfathers had voted before 1867. better than that. So, what should be done about share5) All-white primary elections: African-Americans holders who don’t vote? were not allowed to vote in the Democratic primary As you know, due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, elections. the 2020 Board election was postponed. The five 6) Purges: From time to time, white officials purged Board directors whose three-year term ended last year, the voting rolls. have stayed on and served for an extra year. I applaud 7) Former prisoners: People who had gone to prison were often not allowed to vote. them for their dedication and loyalty to our community. However, this cannot continue. The 2021 term 8) Poll taxes: In Southern states, people had to pay for five additional Board directors will end this spring a tax to vote. The taxes were about $25 to $50 in toand, global pandemic or not, elections must be held. day’s money. Many people had extremely low inElections continue to be held nationwide. Just last comes and could not afford this tax. month, a Special Election was held in the 12th DisRiverbay Board Elections trict of the Bronx to fill a NYC Council seat. The I have posed the question to our counsel regardGeorgia Senate runoff election was held last week. ing a Special Election that might be needed during Despite the attempted coup at the nation’s Capitol on this Coronavirus Pandemic. The attorney has reJanuary 6, the Electoral College vote count was comsponded that, according to the New York State Business Corporation Law 608, Quorum of Shareholders, pleted. On January 20, President-Elect Joe Biden and we must have a quorum of one-third of the shareVice President-Elect Kamala Harris will be sworn in holders eligible to vote. The Board will meet later to become the official 46th President and Vice Presthis month to discuss and decide on what can be done. ident of the U.S. I sympathize with friends and neighIt is very important for shareholders to vote in the bors who have lost loved ones, but, life must go on. annual Riverbay Board elections. Over the years, the We must strive to live our lives while adhering to the mandates to protect ourselves and our families trend has been a decrease in voting by our shareholders. During the 2019 Board of Directors elections, when from the deadly Coronavirus Pandemic. So, I ask it was revealed that a quorum was not reached, caring everyone to please wear a mask, stay at home if you’re cooperators practically begged shareholders to vote. sick, wash your hands frequently, get tested frequently, Some cooperators claimed that they did not know the practice social distancing, and strengthen your imcandidates. But, how could that be? It’s not possible mune system. Keep your family and friends in prayer. to know all of the candidates personally, but, for purJanuary 15th is the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin poses of the annual Board elections, you should know Luther King, Jr. He is an American hero who fought for the civil rights and equality for all people. what a candidate stands for. There were advertisements in this publication, voting ballots and information mailed, My contact: fjones@riverbaycorp.com. flyers placed at your door, and live and re-broadcast forums. And still, most shareholders did not vote.

It has caused me to wonder if shareholders really care about the community in which they live.

As a shareholder, YOU

Section Four Partnership

Do you take Access-A-Ride? This is an urgent notice to those of you who utilize Paratransit Services on MTA’s Access-A-Ride. The MTA has stated that fare collection will resume on all vehicles starting Tuesday, January 19. Riders are asked to provide the exact fare of $2.75 for each trip. Since Covid-19 reached pandemic levels in March of 2020, AAR fares were expunged. These free and contactless rides must continue until life is safe while engaging in such contact.

What you should do? To register a complaint and make your voices heard, you should do the following: Call the Access-A-Ride at 877-337-2017. Choose option 8 and choose 8 again for the comment line. You can also log your complaint at www.mta.info, then scroll down to “MTA Accessibility,” scroll down again and then you will see “Make an ADA-related Complaint or Reasonable Modification Request.”

Zoom 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.

Please support…Support our Partnership Fundraiser. Pick-up a T-shirt for 10 bucks. 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…

A quote to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

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

—Michelle Marbury

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

National Council of Negro Women

Membership – 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 Coop 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 adult book club met last Saturday to discuss “A Piece of Cake” by Cupcake Brown. The story line of the book elicited very strong opinions about the book which made for a very exciting discussion. The next book that we will read and discuss will be “Caste” by Isabel Wilkerson. The discussion date will be announced. 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.

Topic: Book Club – Mommy and Me “Dancing with Butterflies” Time: Jan. 16, 2021, 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting: https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/86487022258?pwd=S0Nqb0dRVVEz UTJFWFFCMVM2NUhEUT09 Meeting ID: 864 8702 2258; Passcode: 454659 One tap mobile: +16465189805 (New York); +19292056099 (New York) Women Represent! – With the topic of “Justice,” Women Represent! returns via Zoom.

April 17 is the date. 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.

Health Committee – January is National Blood Donor Month. The American Red Cross urges people to share their good health and resolve to give blood regularly. NCNW is supporting this effort on January 16th, today, in Bartow Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please come out and join us. Thank you for your generous support in our “Strides Against Breast Cancer” in December. We can feel proud of our contribution to the medical advances against this disease as we value the many in our community who are surviving it.

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

Building 27 Association

15

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.

COVID-19 has not gone away! What you do as an individual impacts all of us. We are all in this together. Wear a mask, gloves, wash hands and continue to practice social distancing.

Health experts have projected that in order to win the war against COVID-19, between 75 and 85 percent of the population needs to receive the vaccine and as such, New York has made it a top priority to ensure vulnerable and underserved communities are not left behind. But we need information and answers for the NAACP members and the community at-large about the Covid 19 vaccine.

A very important committee at this time is the Health Committee.

If you are an NAACP member interested in becoming the chair of the Health Committee or becoming a member of this committee, please let us know. Chatodd Floyd, Director of Legislative Affairs and Policy from Governor Cuomo’s Office and the NAACP NYS Health Committee Chair are ready to provide information and discussion with the New York Vaccine Equity Task Force initiated in December 2020 by Governor Cuomo. If you are a member of the NAACP and interested, please send an e-mail to keniyah@aol.com with your name and contact information.

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 and Committee Chair’s Meeting is scheduled for January 24th at 2:00 p.m. The Membership Meeting is scheduled for January 24, 2021 at 3:00PM. Membership Dues: For new, renewal or gift membership, go to NAACP.ORG. or send your request for an application to naacpccity2210@gmail.com. Annual dues: Adult, $30; and Youth, $10, by check/money order payable to: NAACP #2210. Mail to: N.A.A.C.P. Co-op City Station, P.O. BOX 75-3111, Bronx, N.Y. 10475. We appreciate your continued support and if you would like to make a financial contribution in any amount we thank you in advance for helping the NAACP advocate for a more just and equal America.

The 52nd NAACP Image Awards is scheduled on BET, February 20th at 8:00 p.m. ET NAACP Empowerment Programs engage primarily in training, education and advocacy.

NAACP Empowerment Programs donations are tax deductible.

For additional information, go to NAACP.ORG. Note: Until further notice, at the request of the NAACP and Riverbay Corporationm we have not and will not have gatherings of any kind (health & safety reasons) in Einstein C.C., room 36.

“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

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 Happy Martin Luther King Day – JASA Bartow/Einstein senior centers present “I HAVE A DREAM” via Zoom on Friday, January 15, 2021, 2-4 p.m. Were you able to view the presentation?

A New Year – Despite the terrible assault on our nation’s Capitol, we will keep hope alive.

A lesson for all. What took place on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021 to our nation will be forever recorded in history. It is all the reason why this “leader” was not reelected. So many leaders were not elected, or reelected, however they moved on. A leader is not someone who is into himself, pride and ego, such as we have had the last four years. Personally, I respect the office of President, but I do not respect this “President.” People died, our national Capitol desecrated, yet there has been no expressed concern from him.

Staying informed/Community Board 10 – I want to commend and thank CB10 District Manager Matthew Cruz; he is the best and as a rule is fair to Co-op City. His statement, I agree with: “The process is to engage the community to determine the safest and most helpful action to take. However, they cannot do anything until they hear from the shareholders.” His respect of this community is what we are entitled to. Thank you, Mr. Cruz.

Our community – We are grateful to grow older in a community that takes care of us. We get daily calls, if requested; food delivered to our door, phone calls to check on us. Who would have imagined such care within a community? So • ABSOLUTE LOWEST FEES • FREE CONSULTATION happy I live here, how about you? Again, we take this time to thank all essential • EVENING APPTS. AVAILABLE • FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS workers, all occupations, employees, elected officials, volunteers, neighbors, • IMMEDIATE FILING Riverbay Corp., Management, everyone who kept our community, city and state running. God bless and keep them all safe and healthy.

“COURTEOUS AND PROMPT SERVICE The Ramp – A virtual meeting via Webex scheduled by CB10 District Mgr. Cruz on Wednesday, Jan. 13, to engage the shareholder in the process, designs AT AN AFFORDABLE FEE” and comments regarding the project. Today’s Co-op City Times should report the outcome or plans. Stay tuned.

633 Lydig Ave • Bronx, NY Happy Birthday to those celebrating this month. Condolences to our Co-op 1 block from Pelham Parkway & White Plains Road City families who lost loved ones. We continue to pray for one another. Contact Accessible by #2 & #5 trains • #12, #22 & #39 buses Lydia Rondon , 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

DIVORCE - BANKRUPTCY

DAVID BRODMAN,Esq.

718.239.7110

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

16 Director’s Viewpoint – Daryl The president went way overboard during a speech he gave in D.C. Intentionally inciting the crowd, he continued with his false claims that the election was stolen from him. Then, filled with anger, lots of his supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol building.

Outrageous Acts of Violence Recently, the president filed about 60 lawsuits over allegations about voter fraud throughout the country.

The lawsuits were presided over by several judges from both the Republican and Democratic parties.

Then, all of those cases had to be dismissed because his lawyers simply could not produce any evidence of widespread voter fraud.

Not satisfied with those legal losses, the president did everything he could to get millions of good ballots tossed out. Then, when that plan failed, the president decided to hold a rally in D.C. Afterwards, crowds of angry protesters marched through the streets and descended on the Capitol building. And, what happened next will go down as one of the most horrific and violent protest in the history of this country.

At the Capitol building, videos show that some rioters violently broke into windows and doors. Other rioters then marched into the building and completely took over the auditorium, offices, and other areas of the building. Members of Congress then had to race for cover and be led out of the auditorium.

These violent rioters then raced into offices, damaged items, and stole property. Then, some rioters were so bold and evil that they took personal photos of themselves inside of some offices.

Building 25 Association

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of January. It celebrates the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., an influential American civil rights leader, because we are living in tense times we should take time out to remember and reflect on the inspiring messages Dr. King lectured, like his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize address, watch the Eyes on the Prize documentary series, the movie “Selma” and, for young children, introduced the book “Enough, 20 Protestors Who Changed America” by Emily Easton.

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 updates 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. Our neighbor, Barbara Irby, asked that we let our neighbors know that she is well, she said “hello” to everyone. For all others 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, February 16, 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 in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: “Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.” –Martin Luther King, Jr. –Wanda Bailey

Johnson

Disgrace in D.C.

Without a care in the world, the president then sent out a message to the violent rioters: “We love you. …

You’re very special. … These are the things and events that happen when a sacred landslide election victory is so unceremoniously and viciously stripped away.”

A 6 p.m. curfew was in place to maintain order and to keep people off of the street. Thereafter, the police tried to get the rioters to go home. Meanwhile, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stated: “We have decided we should proceed tonight.” So, their earlier meeting had resumed around 8 p.m.

And, that’s when several outraged politicians indicated that they had enough of the president and his false allegations. In fact, South Carolina Republican Senator Lindsey Graham gave a speech that shocked a lot of people: “Trump and I have had a h—- of a journey. … Count me out. … Enough is enough. …

They said 66,000 people in Georgia under 18 voted.

How many people believe that? I asked, give me ten.

And, hadn’t had one. They said 8,000 felons in prison in Arizona voted. Give me ten. And, I hadn’t gotten one. … We got to end this.”

Politicians from both parties are also eager to get rid of this president. In fact, there is a call to impeach him—again. If so, he would be the only president in the history of this country to be impeached twice. Currently, questions have also been raised about the president’s mental fitness and if he will act up again. And, there are concerns about the security surrounding the Capitol building.

For instance, there are heavy allegations that the Capitol police chief turned down an offer from the FBI and the National Guard to assist his department.

So, just one day after the riot, the police chief stated that he would resign—on January 16, 2021. Then, other officers might be asked to leave on January 20.

But, think, storeowners boarded up their windows before this turmoil began. So, don’t you think that they had a good idea that there was going to be some violence in their area? Of course. So, a lot of questions have been raised about what actually happened with the police response. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies have received about 4,000 tips about the identities of the rioters. So, aggressive steps

are being taken to arrest them.

Bottom line: A lot of people and I were furious when we saw rioters violently storm the U.S. Capitol building. So, a few questions need to be raised: How could this type of insane violence be enacted on the U.S. Capitol building? Why didn’t the police chief have extra reinforcements—FBI, National Guard, etc.—in place just in case something happened?

Also, lots of people have wondered how the police would have responded if the rioters were black.

So, this entire case is a disgrace. Therefore, the president must be immediately removed from office. And, there needs to be an investigation on the police’s response to this horrific insurrection.

Biden’s New Housing Proposals President-elect Biden will be coming out with several new housing proposals, “Housing should be a right, not a privilege.” So, let’s review just a few proposals. There will be a $15,000 First Down Payment Tax Credit. First-time home buyers could get up to $15,000 to use as a down payment for a home.

Increased funding for the Section 8 Rental Voucher Program is another portion of his proposal. Theoretically, no one on this program would have to pay more than 30 percent of their income for housing. So, Section 8 recipients would be encouraged to move to different areas because the funding would be less in the cheapest zip codes.

Bottom line: Please remember that these ideas are just proposals at this point.

Close January 20, 2021 is right around the corner. So, our current president will have to get out of office. He must go! Then, let’s hope that the Biden team can enact some good plans to help our communities.

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.

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021 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 9:00 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

Community Protestant Church Conference Call at (712) 432-3900, Access code: 343284, #.

Noon Day Prayer at CPC…On Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m., you are cordially invited to call in for an hour of Power, Prayer, Praise and Testimony.

Bible Study on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

The text for Pastor Owens’ message last Sunday came from Genesis 4:3-5: “And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering. But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.” His topic was “The Self-Centered Syndrome.” He stated that the story of Cain and Abel holds the key to violence in our time. Everywhere we turn, there is violence. The world we live in consists of systematic evil from the Garden of Eden to today. What can we do to stem the

17 tide of violence? The Self-Centered Syndrome focuses on the fact that nobody matters but me. Some people thrive on trying to be the most important person in the universe. The antichrist has already arrived. But, God is no respecter of persons. If there is no Godly direction in our lives, we will listen to Satan’s evil prodding.

There is so much violence because we refuse to see ourselves as our brother’s keeper. We must live a life that is pleasing to God. We need to learn from selfish Cain how to be a thankful Abel.

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

Iglesia Evangelica MU de Co-op City If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” –Psalm 91:9-1.1 UMCC is a Bible-centered congregation with spiritfilled worship and we offer a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth, fellowship, and service to God and our community. We are a multi-ethnic, multicultural and bilingual congregation – All are welcome!

We are changing with the times and now offer online service.

We are located at 2350 Palmer Avenue, across from Building 30 (entrance on Boller Ave.) Parking is avail-

Co-op City United Methodist Church Open Doors, Open Hearts and Open Minds able on Palmer Ave. Our pastor is Rev. Arnaldo Sánchez-Orta. For more information about our services, please contact our administrative secretary, Marta Medina, by phone: 917-740-0256, or by email: coopcityevangelical umc@gmail.com.

Remote Schedule for Sundays – Come and receive a blessing: We would love for you to join us on Sundays. We are currently sharing our services online through our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ UMCofCoopCity/. We are also holding services via Zoom. For more information, visit our website at www.coopcityumc.com.

Temple door is currently closed until February.

Zoom Service:

Sunday, 11 a.m., Bilingual Tuesday, 12 p.m. (Spanish) and 7 p.m. (English).

Pray and Reflection Service Friday, 8 p.m. (English), 4.12 Youth Services Sunday School, 8 a.m. (English) Food Pantry: The Food Pantry distribution center at our church serves Section 5. Ongoing registration and distribution of food are on Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Those registering must present one of the following government-issued up-to-date ID’s showing a 10475 zip code: Driver, Non-Driver, or NYC ID. Anyone 18+ of age can register. Only one participant per household may register.

—Marta Medina

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

18 Director’s Viewpoint – Leslie

Peterson

Absolute power corrupts absolutely!

“Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

Quote by Sir John Dalberg-Acton What does this statement mean? Having power can corrupt a person or lessen their morality and consequently the more power they are given, the more corrupted they will become. As a result, those in power often do not have the people’s best interests in mind. This was demonstrated on January 6, 2021 during the certification of the Electoral College votes.

The actions we witnessed were indefensible.

Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community? Is a book written by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Although written in 1967 about American race relations, it couldn’t be more prophetic. Dr. King spoke about his dreams for the future: the need for better jobs, higher wages, decent housing, quality education, and above all, the end to global suffering. King’s dreams are very much our own today. Born in Atlanta, Georgia on January 15, 1929, Happy Birthday, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. STAR: The School Tax Relief (STAR) program offers property tax relief to eligible New York State residents. Co-op City shareholders are eligible to receive this credit, given once annually, however there are many who have not signed up. There are two types of STAR exemptions. You can receive either the Basic or Enhanced STAR exemption, not both. The “Basic” exemption is available to virtually all New Yorkers who own their own one, two, or three family home, condominium, cooperative apartment or mobile home; and the “Enhanced” exemption is available to senior citizens (age 65 and older) with a limited income. For information, visit www.tax.ny.gov/star or contact the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance at (518) 457-2036.

Window Guard Forms: You should have received a form that states on the front of the envelope, Important Safety Information Enclosed. In this envelope is Fire Safety information but also your annual Window Guard form. By LAW, you must have window guards if you live in a building that has at least three apartments and a child 10 or younger lives in your apartment. These window guard forms must be returned by February 15, 2021. Each form has a response code that identifies your unit so you can pick up the phone, call and follow the prompts or go online and follow the instructions. You can also mail or fax the document. All of the information is provided in the envelope.

COVID 19: I have received questions about vaccination locations and whether we will have a location in our community. Whether you will take the vaccine or not is a personal decision or one that you can discuss with your personal physician. That being said, in our NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) we have many seniors and should have easily accessible locations. After speaking with our elected officials, I was glad to hear they are advocating for a location here in Co-op City.

New York has formed a task force to ensure fairness and equity in COVID-19 vaccine distribution. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the “Vaccine Equity Task Force” to “break down barriers to vaccination & ensure a fair distribution.” Zip codes that had high numbers of cases during the pandemic will be of primary concern and serviced as quick as possible.

Optimum: Among the many things the pandemic has highlighted is the need for internet service. With so many working remotely, schooling remotely and keeping in touch remotely dependable service is a must. As mentioned in a prior article, the six year

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 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 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 16, 2021, at 5:47 p.m.

Candle Lighting for Friday, January 22, 2021, 4:42 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

lawsuit by NYC vs. Verizon has been settled. How does this affect us? All of the inaccurate information about Verizon not being allowed to provide us with FIOS will magically disappear. Why, because we never prevented them from coming here. It was their choice.

As cable prices continue to rise, many shareholders are looking at other means for their viewing pleasure.

After reading another director’s e-mail, excellently breaking down Co-op City’s history starting with Community Home Theatre to now, with Altice (the company that purchased Cablevision about 5 years ago), I agree that we need to do our due diligence sooner rather than later. As more and more streaming becomes the norm, those who are technically savvy have been able to use other devices. In order to assist the many shareholders who rely on these services, what should be done? Technology changes swiftly so an ad hoc committee made up of those who have knowledge in this area would be advisable. Our contract expires in 2024 and we need to be informed and ready.

Community Board: 2021 Community Board Member Applications to anyone who may be interested in seeking a membership. The application is available to be downloaded from the Borough President’s website. Applications should be sent directly to the Borough President’s office at the email listed on the application and are due back on February 5, 2021.

“He that beats the drum for the mad man to dance is no better than the mad man himself.” —African Proverb I am pleased to be of service to the community. I am interested in hearing your thoughts. I can be reached by e-mail at lpeterson@riverbayboard.com or by telephone at 718-320-1370.

Goose Island Seniors

We will remember Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, Monday, January 18. Let’s not forget his teachings.

The Senior Citizens Social Club of Goose Island, Inc. has been in existence since June 6, 1972. This club has touched so many lives for 48 years that is why we are still here. I am so thankful for those members and friends who gave a donation to keep our club room through this difficult time. Thank you. We will open again soon, I hope. Our phone has been suspended. To contact us, please call Stephen’s cell phone, (347) 8471941.

Words from the Goose Island Seniors president – “In God We Trust,” the motto of the United States of America. Why God? Why not say: “In Congress We Trust” or “In the President We Trust” or “In the American People We Trust?” We know the answer to that, especially now. They can’t be trusted. God loves all mankind. God will not leave US or forsake US. God will keep US in perfect peace. Only one thing, we have to trust Him. Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon Him while he is near; Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord. That’s the only answer. Very simple. If my people which are call by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Let us pray for our nation.

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 (deceased), 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 (suspended). 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.

19

Tues., Jan. 19

Mon., Jan. 18

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

Bartow

Einstein

Dreiser

(929) 399-1394

(718) 671-5161

(718) 320-1345

No Activities Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Arthritis Exercise class with Damion, every Tues., 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/9828183332 5?pwd=bERyOXIrZXlENWR4V2 RKU0NmdzAwdz09 Meeting ID: 982 8183 3325 Passcode: 582148 Mobile: +1-929-205-6099

Wed., Jan. 20

Health and Wellness, 10 a.m.

-11 a.m., via Zoom or phone Zumba with Ola, 1 p.m. 2 p.m., via Zoom or phone Bereavement Hour 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Fri., Jan. 22

Thu., Jan. 21

Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387

Arts with Laura 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (via Zoom and Phone)

No Activities Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Arts with Laura, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. via Zoom and phone Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387

“Creative Hour with Sister Grace,” 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. How to Make Floral Arrangements.

Dial-in: 929-205-6099 Meeting code: 915-3777-954.

Email Ann for Zoom link, amoncrieffe@jasa.org

No Activities Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Music Therapy, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Zoom call-in #: 1-646-876-9923 Meeting ID: 935-5178-1563 Passcode: 045708 “Zumba w/Ola,” 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99231696108 Meeting ID: 992 3169 6108 Passcode: 503637 Call in number: 1-929-205-6099 Weight Management Support Group w/Gigi, 2nd Wed. of the month, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Conference call: 929-299-1045, Code: 1386

Game Day – Every Wed., 1-2 p.m. w/ Ms. Margaret Kempe and students (Pay it Forward Engineers) at Scarsdale HS. Virtual game day, different games each Smartphone/Tablets Zoom week incl. Bingo. Please call 718-320Meeting w/Ralph, 1:00 p.m. - 1345 to register and receive Zoom info.

2:00 p.m. https://zoom.us/j/2959552471? Computer learning w/Ralph, Wed., pwd=aFl4Y1N5dlpyNy80V3pJN0 11 a.m.-12 p.m. To register, call JASA hUVnVFZz09 To register, please call the JASA office w/your name, email & phone. office with your name, email ad- Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us /j/ 93681329040?pwd=VGlHQWFRYW dress & phone number. d3SHkwOEd6aXRmaFIvZz09; Dial in: Meeting ID: 2959552471 929-205-6609; Meeting ID: 936 Passcode: 259554 Dial in: 1-929-205-6609 8132 9040; Passcode: 259554 Health and Wellness 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (via Zoom or Phone)

Smartphone/Tablet Class w/Ralph 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Call Main Ofc., 718-320-2066, to register. Please give your telephone # & email address Stretch and Tone with Ola, 1 - 2 p.m. (via Zoom or phone). Must call or email to register: 929-399-1387 (NORC) Aerobic Classes every Fri., 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/98682 358691?pwd=dS9ublovZ01mRVVYbEhCYng2SkZHdz09 Mobile: 929.205.6099 Meeting ID: 986 8235 8691 Passcode: 849150

Meditation w/Charles Tyler Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Zoom Meeting link https://zoom.us/j/94868805136 1-646-876-9923 Must call or email to register: Meeting ID: 948 6880 5136 Passcode: 770292 929-399-1387

No Activities

Concerts in Motion, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/ j/82906881632.

Dial in by phone: 646.558.8656 Meeting ID: 829-0688-1632

For information, please call: (718) 320-2066 (Schedule subject to change without notice) Funded by: The NYC Department for the Aging, the NYS Office for the Aging and Riverbay Corporation.

AARP Chapter #4997

From President Mickens: Dear members, here we are looking forward to the year 2021 bringing peace, happiness and changes for all of us. AARP is continuing to work hard to improve the services offered to all seniors. More to follow after the inauguration of our next President on January 20th.

As we move along with this pandemic, please, wear a mask, wash your hands and keep social distancing and follow up on neighbors, friends and family. Also, check where and when vaccines may be available for you.

Our best wishes go out to Mrs. Debnam who is under the weather and we are hoping for better health for her.

Also, our condolences to the family of Annette Harrison

on the passing of her nephew. Our prayers are with the family. If you have any information for our Good and Welfare, please contact Frances Wilson, 718-671-5493, our coordinator. We like to keep our members aware of all our members in good times and sad.

FYI: We are continuing to update our mailing lists while we are on hold. Any changes to be made to your information, please contact Jean: 718-379-3742; Deborah: 718-379-6312. If no answer, leave a message and someone will contact you.

Reminder: Due to Covid-19, our offices are still closed, and all meetings are cancelled until further notice.

–Ann Purnell

Upcoming Events JASA Co-op City NORC Program invites you for the Upcoming Virtual Activities – January 2021 No activities on Monday, January 18, 2021 in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

New 2021 Arthritis Exercise Class w/Damion every Thurs., 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Zoom Meeting ID: 986 0021 6442, Passcode: 573762.

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

Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/95267447198?pwd=MDhCa1U5 d24rMkdpNWZnMXVHejl2dz09 Mobile: 929.205.6099, Meeting ID: 952 6744 7198, Password: 455576.

Zumba classes on Saturdays – 1-2 p.m.

Co-op City Zoom is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/92928109097?pwd=Z1lwMHFN cDNRSGZZZ20vTmlZSmtLQT09 Meeting ID: 929 2810 9097, Passcode: 374977, Mobile: 929.205.6099.

Bodies in Motion w/Ola – Sun., 1-2 p.m. Zoom meeting: https://zoom.us/j/98867100439?pwd=eVhjY3Jzb3 FpNjdDOVRwbjYOUmFWdz09 Dial in number: 929-205-6099, Meeting ID: 988 6710 0439, Passcode: 252733.

Meditation Class – GPC (Grand Parents), 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., third Thurs. of every month in January 2021. Dial in: 929.299.1045, Passcode: 1386.

NEW: Computer Learning Zoom meeting w/Ralph, Wed., 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. To register, please call the JASA office with your name, email address & phone number. https://zoom.us/j/93681329040?pwd=VGlHQWFRYWd3SHkwOEd6aXRmaFIvZz09 Call in: 929-205-6609, Meeting ID: 936 8132 9040, Passcode: 259554.

Sex Education – 1-2 p.m., Jan. 21, 2021 https://zoom.us/j/94340275929?pwd=RjRZTVVlZUh DNjQ3MGVGU05ZUFFtUT09 Meeting ID: 943 4027 5929, Passcode: 192010, Dial in: 929-205-6099.

NEW: Smartphones and Tablets Learning Technology Zoom meeting w/ Ralph – Every Wed., 12 p.m. https://zoom.us/j/2959552471?pwd=aFl4Y1N5dlp yNy80V3pJN0hUVnVFZz09 Meeting ID: 295 955 2471, Passcode: 259554.

“TEA and TALK” with Kelly starting Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021, 1-2 p.m. Moderator Kelly Ardama will lead a discussion related to hot trending topics, discussed over tea. Dial-in at 929-205- 6099. Meeting ID: 945 0739 5832, Passcode: 415390.

Emergency Preparedness presentation w/NYC Emergency Mgt. – Mon., Jan. 25, 11:30 a.m -12:30 p.m. ZOOM INFO: Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://nycem-nyc.zoom.us/j/88005102879? pwd=bVh2RmtlWm5PYzRzQ0ZlZHRVNXN2dz09.

Dial in: 1-646-558-8656, Passcode: 223789, Webinar ID: 880 0510 2879.

30 Minute Gratitude Meditation with Paola, Fri., Jan. 29, 11-11:30 a.m.

Zoom info., https://zoom.us/j/4421366695. Meeting ID: 442 136 6695. Dial-in: 1-929-205-6099.

Light Housekeeping service is available w/Kris Agency. Housekeeping service is for 4 hours at $15 an hour. If interested, call the JASA office, 718-320-2066.

JASA activities – If interested in knowing, we will email the information to you. Call 718-320-2066 and give us your email address.

Einstein Senior Center Black History Month Art Exhibition – Fri., Feb. 12, 6-8 p.m. Virtual log in information: TBA. Bartow and Einstein Valentine’s Day event, Sat., Feb. 13, 3-5 p.m. Prizes and surprises. Must register at amoncrieffe@jasa,org, LIMIT 50 persons.

20

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

Director’s Viewpoint – Michelle

Marbury

Help for Access-A-Ride users…

Access-A-Ride users and families of AAR patrons This is an urgent notice to those of you who utilize Paratransit Services on MTA’s AccessA-Ride. The MTA has stated that fare collection will resume on all vehicles starting Tuesday, January 19.

Riders are asked to provide the exact fare of $2.75 for each trip. Since Covid-19 reached pandemic levels in March of 2020, AAR fares were expunged. These free and contactless rides must continue until life is safe while engaging in such contact.

Transfer of currency is a danger to you…

We know that the current Covid-19 pandemic has escalated in the past few months and continues to worsen. Thousands of Americans are dying every day.

These kinds of statistics beg the question: how can anyone in good faith ask drivers of these vehicles and riders of this service to put themselves in jeopardy of possibly transferring and transmitting germs of the virus on a daily basis through passing currency back and forth 24 hours per day. Access-A-Ride is operational 24 hours, 7 days weekly. The AAR Paratransit ridership consists mainly of the elderly and disabled.

Preexisting conditions are the norm for many of these patrons. MTA has made no provisions to place barrier shields and machines for contactless fare collection.

What you should do?

To register a complaint and make your voices heard, you should do the following: * Call the Access-A-Ride at 877-337-2017. Choose option 8 and choose 8 again for the comment line. You can also log your complaint at www.mta.info, then scroll down to “MTA Accessibility,” scroll down again and then you will see “Make an ADA-related Complaint or Reasonable Modification Request.”

What I am doing…

I have given you tools you can use to halt this unfair decision. I will also send this article to our City Councilman, Kevin Riley, and our Assemblyman, Michael Benedetto, and to our Disabilities Committee here in Co-op City. I am also hoping that “you,” the readers of this article, will pick up your phones, go to your computers, and encourage others the do the same.

Nothing will change for the better if “we” do nothing.

And I am hoping that since we have seen the devastating proof that horrible losses can and will occur when we continue to be silent, that you will do your part to stop this now.

In Memoriam, Prayer and Well Wishes To those who have lost loved ones, we give pause to their memory and pray for the strength of each family as you carry on for those who remain. Those who have loved ones in hospitals or nursing homes during this turbulent time, we join you in prayer and well

Retirees of Dreiser Loop

Beloved, 2021 brings us to a place of new changes and new challenges so in order to maintain our connection with all of you, R.O.D.L. will be going virtual. We ask that as you receive email notification from us, that you confirm; this for the purpose of correcting any email address errors. So please make a note of that. Continue to check the Co-op City Times paper for updates as we move forward.

Pray for one another as we’ve been aware of some who are in the hospital or sick. We are here, one for another. As always, a pleasure to serve all of you. Soon, and very soon, we meet virtually.

Help us ... Spread the word. Always in our thoughts and prayers. Blessings.

–Gladys Baez

wishes that you all remain healthy and strong. Those who are lonely, please know that you are not alone.

Now more than ever…

Shareholder, resident, Co-op City community, it has never been more important to be involved in this community. I am Michelle Marbury, cooperator and shareholder and your business partner. I am humbled to represent you the on behalf of “us;” we are the partners of Riverbay Corporation. Together, we will, we must make 2021 a banner year.

“I cannot do all the good that the world needs, but the world needs all the good that I can do” –Jana Stanfield Join one of the clubs of Co-op City. Volunteer to be

your floor’s Floor Captain, attend your building association gatherings, Zoom Meetings, etc. Wear masks and gloves. Your energy to do the right thing will shape this community for the better. Choose to do what is right. Thank you for reading my viewpoint. I can be reached at mmarbury@riverbayboard.com. Let’s all do our part!

A quote in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.

I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be. This is the interrelated structure of reality.”

Each one of us divided by all of us equals a force for good.

Open Door Ministries

St. Joseph’s Episcopal Anglican Church

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

“Move out of your Comfort Zone” (Full sermon at opendoorministries.net)

Comfort zones should be temporary places of rest as God prepares us for further growth. When we settle in a comfort zone, we turn it into a dead zone where complacency takes over and we cease to mature into greater advancement. Comfort zones make us fat and lazy and unable to decipher the will of God, we become like the culture and become useless for God. Genesis 12:1 The LORD had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. 2 I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. Hebrews 11:8 It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going.

Move away from a comfortable living situation into a land I have chosen for you.

When we settle for what we have, we run the risk of gaining nothing else.

Move away from the people you know to a people that I will create for you.

It is easy for us to become insular and self-focused; we keep people out for fear of rejection.

Move away from human authority that is limited to my authority which is unlimited.

We settle for people’s opinions and thoughts and push away from what God has in mind.

Move away from what you know to a place that I know is better for you.

Our comfort zones can be our dead zones. We gain nothing and learn nothing.

If you do as I say your blessing will overflow and saturate other people’s lives.

When we follow God, blessings pursue us and people around us are also blessed.

Genesis 15:6 Abram believed the LORD, and he credited it to him as righteousness. 8 But Abram said, “Sovereign LORD, how can I know that I will gain possession of it?” 9 So the LORD said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.” 10 Abram brought all these to him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other; the birds, however, he did not cut in half. 11 Then birds of prey came down on the carcasses, but Abram drove them away.

Abram believed the word of God without seeing the hand of God. Because of his belief that God would do as he said his credit score was above excellent. He was not doubting as he questioned God he was asking for further information.

God taught him to bring a sacrifice pleasing to him which demonstrated that he could be faithful while waiting.

Contact Open Door Ministries by phone/text, 917-334-4407.

Blessings in Christ, –Pastor Luis Ramos

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 1:00 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 on Sundays 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 (9-11years 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

21

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

Church of New Vision

From the Pastor’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 had a blessed Merry Christmas, as we as a church family celebrated 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.

–Pastors Kenneth & Deborah Hodge 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 1-646769-9900, 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: “Let Not Your Heart be Troubled, Believe in God.” Scripture: John 14:1-6 “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” –Mark 4:35-41; Acts 16:31; Mark 9:23 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

22

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

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Distribution of unsolicited advertisements in Co-op City

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.

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).

Impeachment

Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021 (Continued from page 1)

supporters, however, and continued to make the same false claims that the election was stolen and the incoming President, Joe Biden, was an illegitimate president. By the time the mayhem was over, five people had lost their lives, including a Capitol Police officer who was beaten with a fire extinguisher; scores more were injured; there was thousands of dollars-worth of damage to the Capitol, items had been stolen from legislators’ offices and at least two pipe bombs were recovered one each at the Democratic National Committee and the Republican National Committee offices. A cooler filled with Molotov cocktails was also found on the grounds of the Capitol.

To date, the FBI reported that more than 170 case files have been opened and 70 people have so far been charged, some with misdemeanor charges as officials continue to look at more “significant felony cases” linked to sedition and conspiracy, according to US attorney for the District of Columbia, Michael Sherwin, While the House voted to impeach the President for the second time, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the earliest he will bring the Senate back to hear the charges against the President is next Tuesday, Jan. 19, the day before

Vaccine

(Continued from page 1)

necessitates, New York is proud to have reached this milestone and we strongly encourage all who are newly eligible to schedule their free vaccination appointment as soon as possible.”

Individuals looking to learn if they are eligible can go online at the new ‘Am I Eligible’ app at am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov. The app also provides a list of nearby providers where vaccination appointments can be scheduled. Additionally, individuals can call 1-888-364-3065 to find vaccination locations, to schedule appointments or for eligibility concerns.

Between priority groups 1A and 1B, roughly 4 million people are now able to schedule an appointment for vaccination, according to the online press release.

However, the current influx of vaccinations from the federal government is approximately 300,000 per week, which means that the individuals should be aware that their vaccine appointment may not be immediate. More specifically, some appointments may even be scheduled for 14 weeks in advance.

The United Federation of Teachers is hoping to help educators and teachers

23

he leaves office. McConnel has asked Congress to spend the next week “completely focused on facilitating a safe inauguration and an orderly transfer of power.”

With McConnell asking Congress to focus on a smooth transition to the Biden administration, the impeachment trial will most likely fall on the shoulders of the subsequent Senate majority and the President will remain in office for the duration of his term.

After McConnell made his intentions known, current Senate Minority Leader, Chuck Schumer, maintained that a trial will take place, when he becomes the body’s Majority Leader on Jan. 20.

“Make no mistake, there will be an impeachment trial in the United States Senate,” Schumer said. “If the President is convicted, there will be a vote on barring him from running again.”

The Constitution requires a two-thirds majority vote to convict a President for impeachment. President Trump was first impeached by the House in 2019 over his involvement in Ukraine, but the Senate voted to acquit in 2020. Should President Trump be convicted, he would be forbidden from holding federal office again. feel safer too as roughly 17,000 teachers and other educators responded in the first 24 hours to the UFT survey asking whether they were interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. UFT President Michael Mulgrew announced over the weekend that the union reached an agreement with major healthcare systems to expand the access of eligible UFT members to the coronavirus vaccine.

“We are creating a pool of members who opt-in, who want the vaccine, and then will match them to providers who have vaccines available,” Mulgrew said.

“Although our agreement with the providers will make it easier for our teachers to get the vaccine, the limits on the state’s supply will mean that not everyone who wants the vaccine will be able to get it immediately.”

According to the UFT website, priority will be given to UFT members who currently have in-person instruction assignments. The UFT website also mentions that there is no deadline to join the program and UFT members who have not signed up yet can still do so.

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Co-op City Times / January 16, 2021

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